By Mike Steely
Senior Writer
steelym@knoxfocus.com
When may a Knox County Commissioner speak on a matter that isn’t on the agenda?
That was a situation discussed by the commission’s Rules Committee in a meeting where two commissioners, Shane Jackson and Gina Oster, sat in with the regular members last week.
Second District Commissioner Courtney Durrett said that presentations unrelated to agenda topics are a violation of Robert’s Rules of Order. District 4 Commissioner Shane Jackson asked how strictly the commission abides by those rules and noted that the body can suspend rules by a vote.
Chairwoman Gina Oster commented that presentations by commissioners may be allowed under the “Other Business” topic on each agenda.
That discussion came on the heels of presentations made at regular meetings by commissioners on topics having nothing to do with the adopted agendas, often speaking their personal positions on national and local policies.
The Rules Committee also briefly discussed the procedure for when a conflict of interest arises with a commissioner who is employed or associated with an agenda topic.
District 6 Commissioner Terry Hill asked if the Knox County Mayor has the power to veto a resolution defeated by the commission. Deputy Law Director Mike Moyers said the mayor cannot veto a failed resolution. He said if a mayor vetoes a passed resolution, the commission may override that veto with a “majority plus one” vote.
The attorney added, “The mayor has no absolute power.”
