The Commission seeks to develop
consensus-based policy decisions and recommendations. General consensus is a
participatory process whereby, on matters of substance, the members strive for
agreements which all of the members can accept, support, live with or agree not
to oppose. In instances where, after
vigorously exploring possible ways to enhance the members’ support for a final
decision on an issue and the Commission finds that 100% acceptance or support
is not achievable, final decisions will require at least 75% favorable vote of
all members present and voting. This
super majority decision rule underscores the importance of actively developing
consensus throughout the process on substantive issues with the participation
of all members and which all can live with.
In instances where the Commission finds that even 75% acceptance or
support is not achievable, publication of recommendations will include documentation
of the differences and the options that were considered for which there is more
than 50% support from the Commission.
The Commission develops its
decisions and recommendations using consensus-building techniques with the
assistance of the facilitator.
Techniques such as brainstorming, ranking and prioritizing approaches
are utilized.
The
Commission’s consensus process is conducted as an open process consistent with
applicable law. Commission members,
staff, and facilitator are the only participants seated at the table. Only
Commission members may participate in discussions and vote on proposals and
recommendations. The facilitator, or a Commission member through the Chair, may
request specific clarification from a member of the public in order to assist
the Commission in understanding an issue. Observers/members of the public are welcome to speak during
the public comment period provided at each meeting, and all comments submitted
on the blue public comment forms provided at each meeting are included in the
facilitator’ summary reports. In addition, an opportunity are provided for
members of the public to provide input on each of the Commission’s substantive
discussion issues.
(See Public Input on Commission Discussion Process)
To enhance the possibility of constructive discussions as members educate themselves on the issues and engage in consensus-building, members agree to refrain from public statements that may prejudge the outcome of the Commission’s consensus process. In discussing the Commission process with the media, members agree to be careful to present only their own views and not the views or statements of other participants. In addition, in order to provide balance to the Commission process, members agree to represent and consult with their stakeholder interest groups to the extent feasible.
Proponent of an action states the action requested and provides rationale for proposal.
Chair or Facilitator asks Commission members only for clarifying questions (a clarifying question addresses a specific point that is not understood, and should not indicate support or opposition to the proposal).
After questions, the Chair or Facilitator opens the issue up for discussion. All Commission members wishing to speak must raise their hand and be acknowledged by the Chair/Facilitator prior to speaking.
Commission approved meeting guidelines will be in effect at all times.
Following Commission member’s preliminary discussion, the Chair or Facilitator asks if any members of the public wishes to address the Commission on the current issue under Commission consideration. The Facilitator serves as the moderator for public input. The Facilitator asks for those who wish to speak in favor of the proposal or topic under discussion to offer brief comments, others who wish to speak in favor are asked to offer new points or simply state agreement with previous speakers. The same opportunity and requirements are offered for those who wish to speak in opposition to the proposal or topic under discussion. The Facilitator ensures that all views are expressed and similar views are not repeated. Members may, through the Chair, ask clarifying questions to members of the public offering comments. This process is used for substantive issues and not for procedural matters before the Commission.
After discussion and public comment, a Commission member may
make a motion to approve the issue. If there is a second to the motion the
Chair/Facilitator calls for discussion. Once a motion is made and seconded, the
discussion is restricted to only Commission members unless the
Chair/Facilitator requests specific clarification from a member of the public.
In addition, Commission members may request specific clarification from a
member of the public through the Chair/Facilitator. A member may wish to second
a motion for the purpose of Commission discussion and not necessarily as a show
of support for the motion.
Only motions to approve are considered. If there is no motion after discussion the requested action is not approved, and “dies” for a lack of a second.