The Washington County Board of Supervisors debated an amendment to its proposed rules for 2025 that changes how a committee quorum is formed when the chair or vice chair are used to constitute a quorum. After extended discussion and a motion to strike language limiting when the chairman could vote, the board adopted the amended rules in a roll call vote.

The item began as Resolution No. 5, to amend and adopt the rules of the Board of Supervisors for 2025. Supervisor Campbell moved the resolution; discussion focused on wording regarding whether the vice chairman or chairman may be counted to make a quorum and under what conditions either may cast a vote. Supervisor O'Brien and others questioned the phrasing and sought clarity on whether the chairman would be allowed to cast a vote only in the event of a tie or more broadly when filling a quorum role.

An amendment was placed on the floor to strike the phrase that would have limited the chairman’s vote to tie situations; the board approved that amendment by voice. The board then considered a package of additional amendments presented on the packet. During discussion supervisors clarified that the practical effect sought was: first the vice chairman is used to help form a quorum if needed; if the vice chairman is not available or a quorum still is not attained, the chairman may be used to reach a quorum. Several supervisors observed that without that wording a committee could lack the votes necessary to transact business if members are absent.

Because the change affects the board rules, the matter required a roll call and a two-thirds threshold for adoption. During roll call Supervisor Shaw voted "no," and the remaining supervisors recorded "yes." The clerk announced the resolution was adopted.

Board members debated several ancillary points during the discussion, including whether absences or abstentions are treated the same as negative votes in committee and the practical experience during COVID that motivated the clarification. The transcript records that the board intends the vice chairman to be used first to constitute a quorum and the chairman secondarily if needed.

The adopted change will be reflected in the board’s 2025 rules; the resolution packet and the clerk’s files are the official record of the final wording.