Amending meeting minutes is an important yet often misunderstood aspect of board governance. Ensuring that the historical record accurately reflects the decisions and discussions of a board is crucial, but so is maintaining clarity in each set of minutes. When it comes to documenting amendments, a balanced approach is necessary—one that prioritizes both accuracy and brevity.
One common question that arises is whether amendments to previous minutes must be detailed in the minutes of the meeting where those amendments are discussed and approved. The straightforward answer is no; there is no need to clutter the current minutes with a detailed account of the corrections made to past minutes.
Best Practices for Documenting Amendments
When a board approves amendments to a previous set of minutes, the current minutes should simply note that the board approved the minutes “as amended.” This method keeps the record straightforward and avoids unnecessary repetition. The actual content of the amendments should only be detailed in the original set of minutes being corrected, not in the minutes of the current meeting.
This approach is not only efficient but also aligns with recommendations from professional registered parliamentarians, such as those credentialed by the National Association of Parliamentarians. These experts suggest that minutes should focus on recording actions and outcomes rather than the discussions or corrections themselves.
Why Streamlining is Important
By avoiding detailed descriptions of amendments in the current meeting’s minutes, organizations can maintain a clear and concise record. This is particularly important for boards that meet frequently or have extensive discussions, as it ensures that the minutes remain a useful and accessible reference for future meetings.
In addition, this practice supports the integrity of the meeting minutes as a historical record. The primary purpose of minutes is to document decisions and actions taken, not to serve as a transcript of every word or correction made. By limiting the detail included in the record, boards can avoid confusion and maintain a focus on the significant outcomes of each meeting.
Implementing This in Your Organization
To adopt this best practice, it is essential to communicate the procedure clearly to all members involved in the minute-taking and approval process. Ensure that everyone understands that the phrase “as amended” will be used in the current minutes to indicate that corrections were approved without detailing the specific changes.
Furthermore, consider updating your organization’s minute-taking policies to reflect this approach. By formally adopting this streamlined process, your board can consistently produce minutes that are both accurate and concise.
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