Beaufort County Council Chair Alice Howard (District 4) announced the appointment of Council Member David Bartholomew (District 2) as County Council Parliamentarian effective immediately, marking a strategic step by Council to take fuller responsibility for the conduct and integrity of its own meetings.

"I'm proud to announce Council Member Bartholomew's appointment to this position," said Chair Howard. "David's background, temperament and depth and breadth of knowledge on procedural issues is invaluable to County Council."

By appointing a parliamentarian from within its own ranks, Council is reaffirming its commitment to self-governance and procedural transparency. Merriam Webster defines a parliamentarian as an expert in the rules and usages of a deliberative assembly (like County Council). According to the National Association of Parliamentarians (NAP), parliamentary procedure refers to the rules of democracy—that is, the commonly accepted way a group of people come together, present, discuss possible courses of action, and make decisions.

Parliamentary procedure ensures effective use of time, equal voice for all members, fair and orderly conduct of business, and clear decision making with real results. When applied properly, parliamentary procedure can make long, confrontational meetings short and painless, all while protecting the rights of members. Learn more about NAP here.

"I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as parliamentarian," said Council Member Bartholomew. "My commitment is to uphold the integrity of our proceedings so that every voice, whether on Council or in the community, is heard with fairness and respect."

For more information about the position of parliamentarian, click here.

For more information on Robert's Rules of Order, click here.