[sakai-pmc] Governance: emeritus status / removal provisions : wording/process change proposed

[Anthony Whyte]

We have a clumsily worded sentence in the emeritus section of the governing
rules which specifies that a majority vote is required to change a member's
status from active to inactive (and vice versa).  This provision makes no
sense in cases where a PMC member voluntarily chooses to move to emeritus
status--the idea of holding a vote in order to permit a member to go
inactive is a tad silly.

I also suggest that the PMC revise its removal language specifying that
removals for cause be approved by a vote of the Apereo Board.  This mirrors
Apache practice and provides legal cover should members believe that
removing a member is warranted.  My hope is that this provision is never
triggered but if it is I recommend that its adjudication require Board
action.

*Current*
1.4 PMC member (emeritus)

PMC members who fail to participate actively in the work of the PMC over a
12 month period or who are unable to participate in PMC work due to other
responsibilities will be accorded "emeritus" (inactive) status and their
binding vote will be suspended.

Changes in status from active to emeritus and from emeritus to active will
be determined by a simple majority of active PMC members. Status changes
can be initiated by request of the PMC member concerned at any time.
1.5 Removal of PMC chair and vice-chair

A PMC member, whether active or emeritus, may resign at any time for any
reason.

A PMC chair or vice-chair can be removed at any time, with or without
cause, by a vote of no confidence comprising a simple majority of active
PMC members.


*Suggested revisions*

*1.4 Emeritus status*

A PMC member may voluntarily resign from the PMC at any time.  A member who
resigns will be accorded "emeritus" status and their binding vote and other
privileges will be suspended.  Former members accorded emeritus status are
always welcome to contact the chair and request reinstatement.
Reinstatement requires majority approval by a vote of active PMC members.

*1.5 Removal*

A PMC chair or vice-chair can be removed at any time, with or without
cause, by a majority vote of active PMC members.

Removal of a member from the PMC requires the approval of the Apereo Board.
 If the PMC seeks to remove a member, a formal request should be made to
the Board stating the reasons for removal.  If the Board approves the
request, members so removed will not be accorded emeritus status.


Cheers,

Anth
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