Staff – April 22, 2024

On the first Monday in December 2024, the Currituck County Board of Commissioners will hold a significant event in local governance: the swearing-in of new members and the selection of a new chair and vice-chair. With these transitions on the horizon, it becomes paramount for both incoming and incumbent commissioners to grasp the duties and limitations of the chair’s office within the board’s framework.

Presiding Over Meetings: At the heart of the chair’s responsibilities is the duty to preside over all meetings of the board. From maintaining order to ensuring adherence to the agenda, the chair plays a pivotal role in facilitating discussions and decision-making processes during these sessions.

Facilitating Discussions: The chair has the authority to rule motions in or out of order, a power vital for ensuring that deliberations remain focused and productive. Additionally, they are tasked with determining whether speakers adhere to standards of courtesy and addressing objections from fellow members based on this.

Parliamentary Expertise: A thorough understanding of parliamentary law and procedure is essential for the chair, as they are expected to provide guidance on these matters and answer questions as they arise during meetings.

Emergency Authority: In unforeseen emergencies during meetings, the chair has the authority to call for brief recesses or even adjourn the session if necessary. This capability enables the board to respond effectively to urgent situations while maintaining decorum and order.

Ethics Awareness: Regular reminders of ethics and conflict of interest obligations are crucial to the chair’s role. The chair helps ensure that commissioners remain mindful of their ethical responsibilities by reading or designating them to read these reminders at each meeting.

While the chair holds significant authority during board meetings, it’s important to note that their powers are not unlimited. The Currituck County Code of Ordinances specifies the scope of the chair’s responsibilities, focusing primarily on meeting facilitation and procedural matters. Notably, no provision grants the chair authority to direct staff or task county employees unilaterally. This distinction underscores the separation between the chair’s role in governance and the day-to-day operations of county departments, which fall under the purview of the county manager and department heads.

As the board prepares for transitions in leadership and membership, it is imperative for commissioners, both new and seasoned, to recognize the importance of the chair’s role. By understanding the duties and limitations associated with this position, commissioners can work together effectively to uphold the principles of good governance and serve the best interests of Currituck County and its residents.