Union City Municipal Code Art. IV Rules of Debate

The Mayor may move, second and debate from the chair, subject only to such limitations of debate as are by these rules imposed on all members, and shall not be deprived of any of the rights and privileges of a Councilmember by reason of his or her acting as the presiding officer.

(Ord. 93-72 § 24, 1972)

Every member desiring to speak shall address the chair; and, upon recognition by the presiding officer, shall confine themselves to the question under debate, avoiding all personalities and indecorous language. During Council discussion and debate, Councilmembers shall stay focused on the agenda item or issue at hand. The presiding officer shall insist on compliance with this policy. During the discussion or debate, Councilmembers shall refrain from directly addressing each other and shall direct their comments through the presiding officer.

(Ord. 93-72 § 25, 1972; Ord. 478-96 § 1, 1996)

A member, once recognized, shall not be interrupted when speaking unless it is to call him/her to order, or as otherwise provided in this chapter. If a member, while speaking, is called to order, he/she shall cease speaking until the question of order has been determined, and, if in order, shall be permitted to proceed.

(Ord. 93-72 § 26, 1972)

Councilmembers shall conduct themselves consistent with the rules of debate provided for including those requiring that every member desiring to speak shall address the chair and upon the recognition by the presiding officer shall confine himself/herself to the question or issue under debate avoiding all personalities and indecorous language and shall not be interrupted when speaking unless it is to call him/her to order.

(Ord. 478-96 § 3, 1996)

A motion to reconsider any action taken by the Council may be made only on the day such action was taken. It may be either immediately during the same session or at a recessed or adjourned session thereof. Such motion must be made by one of the prevailing side, but may be seconded by any member, and may be made at any time and have precedence over all other motions. Such motion shall be debatable. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent any member of the Council from making or remaking the same or any other motion at a subsequent meeting of the Council.

(Ord. 93-72 § 28, 1972)

Rules of debate are for the guidance of the presiding officer to ensure the orderly conduct of business before the City Council. Conduct of a Councilmember is not a violation unless it also violates Section 2.04.270.

(Ord. 478-96 § 4, 1996)