Task force votes to allow decisions by majority of members present; tables 2025 EIP action and forms engagement work group

At its Jan. 9 meeting, the Bond Election Advisory Task Force took several organizational votes and procedural actions.

Approval of minutes: The task force approved the minutes from its Dec. 16 meeting after a motion and second; members voted in favor without additional amendments.

Quorum and voting rule: The task force voted on a motion that "decisions are made based on a majority of members in attendance at a meeting." The motion was seconded (Ben Soderby provided the second), and the chair called the question. Members raised concerns about representation and remote access during discussion. The motion passed.

Tabling action on 2025 Environmental Investment Plan recommendations: The task force considered whether to recommend that Council proceed with November 2025 bond items limited to projects in the Environmental Investment Plan (EIP). After members asked for more information and staff availability for follow‑up, the task force voted to table further action and to request additional staff briefings at a future meeting so members could review documentation before taking a position.

Work session group on community engagement: Members voted to create a work session group focused on community engagement to work with CPIO staff on the outreach plan. The group was formed with initial volunteers and will remain open for additional members; the motion was seconded and approved.

Meeting schedule: The task force formally approved its 2025 meeting schedule as posted on the task force website.

Why it matters: The decisions shape how the task force will function during the accelerated bond calendar. Allowing decisions by a majority of members present (rather than a majority of the full 22‑member body) changes how the task force will reach outcomes on its timeline; tabling the EIP action gives members more time to review staff materials and for staff to provide follow‑up information.