On second thought – tips for seconding resolutions
AUMA’s Resolution Policy requires municipalities to find a supporting municipality to either second or co-sponsor a resolution before it can be submitted (by the June 30 deadline) for consideration at AUMA’s Convention in November.
The purpose for seconding resolutions is to provide the opportunity for peer review. Municipalities who are approached to second a resolution are encouraged to provide honest feedback on whether the resolution:
- Addresses a priority issue or opportunity of interest to municipalities throughout Alberta;
- Includes a clear request for action; and
- Includes background material that persuasively and succinctly describes the issue and how the proposed action will address it.
AUMA has developed a Resolutions Writing Guide and Template to help municipalities draft resolutions. This guide is also a helpful resource for seconding municipalities to use when providing feedback on resolutions.
While it can be uncomfortable to turn down a request to second a resolution or to provide constructive feedback, everyone benefits when resolutions are strong and well written.
If you have questions about the resolutions process, don’t hesitate to reach out to resolutions [at] auma.ca (resolutions[at]auma[dot]ca) for support.
