Motion. Motions are proposals for action by the board and can only be made by directors. Motions have a variety of objectives, and each motion has characteristics that make it unique. Directors, including the president, may make a motion by saying, "I move..." , and then stating the motion. Motions should always be specific.

Second. Most motions require a second. A second does not mean the seconder agrees with the motion, but that he/she believes the motion is worthy of consideration. A director can make a second simply by saying "Second" after a motion is made, without having to obtain the floor.

Discussion. The motion is discussed by members of the board, after which the motion is put to a vote. Homeowners in the audience do not have a right to participate in the discussion. However, the board can, if it chooses, invite comment from owners.

Vote. A voice vote is the most common type of voting. The chair (usually the president) will ask those in favor of a question to say "aye" and those opposed to say "nay." Or, the president can ask for a show of hands. The chair then announces the result of the vote.

Informal Procedures. Boards can allow motions without a second and hold informal discussions while no motion is pending. (Robert's Rules, 11th ed., pp. 487-488.) Unless an association's governing documents require otherwise, the chair of the meeting can decide how to conduct the meeting since there is no requirement in the Davis-Stirling Act that any particular form of parliamentary procedure be followed in board meetings. In the event boards choose to follow Robert's Rules, see summary of motions prepared by parliamentarian Jim Slaughter.