Robert’s Rules in Freeport: A Roadmap Already Written—But Rarely Followed

April 23, 2025 - Freeport, IL

When Freeport adopted Robert’s Rules of Order as its official meeting procedure, it took a strong step toward transparent and accountable local government. These tried-and-true guidelines were intended to serve as a roadmap—ensuring that every council meeting was orderly, fair, and productive. But like any roadmap, it only works if you follow it.

As our city continues to struggle, and with a part-time mayor and professional city manager at the helm, now is the time to revisit how faithfully we’re sticking to the rules we’ve already agreed on.

What Are Robert’s Rules?

First published in 1876 by U.S. Army officer Henry Martyn Robert, Robert’s Rules of Order were created to bring order and consistency to democratic meetings. They’re designed to ensure that discussions are fair, decisions are deliberate, and every voice—majority and minority alike—is heard.

Today, these rules are used nationwide by school boards, city councils, church committees, and more. They aren’t just about formality—they’re about fairness and clarity.

Freeport’s Challenge: A Tool Not Being Used to Its Full Potential

In Freeport, Robert’s Rules are already on the books. Our city council has formally adopted them. But in practice, meetings often drift from the structure those rules are meant to provide. Motions are made informally. Debate rules are inconsistently applied. Public comment can feel disorganized or cut short. And at times, decisions seem rushed—without the careful deliberation the public expects.

Under a council-manager system with a part-time mayor, these rules aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. They create consistency from meeting to meeting, and ensure that the part-time nature of our elected officials doesn’t mean part-time accountability.

The Benefits—When Followed

When properly used, Robert’s Rules provide:

  • Structured Debate: Preventing interruptions, dominating personalities, and scattered discussion.

  • Equal Opportunity: Ensuring every council member and public participant gets a fair turn.

  • Clear Outcomes: With properly stated motions, votes, and recorded decisions.

  • Public Confidence: Residents can follow along and trust the process when meetings are run with discipline and transparency.

The Drawbacks—And Misconceptions

Critics sometimes argue that Robert’s Rules are “too formal” or hard for the average resident to follow. But in truth, the challenge isn’t the rules—it’s the lack of consistent, respectful enforcement and community education. Without training and commitment from leadership, even the best rulebook becomes just another dusty manual on the shelf.

Moving Forward: Enforce What We’ve Already Promised

Freeport doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel—it just needs to use it. That means:

  • Training for council members, city staff, and committee chairs.

  • Consistency in how meetings are run—no exceptions, no shortcuts.

  • Education for the public, so residents understand how to engage and what to expect.

With strong, common-sense leadership that values order, respect, and transparency, Freeport can fulfill the promise it made when it adopted Robert’s Rules in the first place.

Because good governance isn’t about fancy language—it’s about keeping our word and following the rules we set for ourselves.