Quorum is most likely addressed in your bylaws. For example most of our PTA bylaws will state a "majority of the board plus members present, constitutes a quorum" but we have a specific number of executive board (2/3) required at State. Quorum as it pertains to PTA bylaws, generally don't reflect the wording in Robert's Rules with the exception of the convention delegates. Robert's Rules are broad as they would pertain to any group gathering with members.
I also want to commend you on following the procedures to dissolve as they pertain to your current PTA bylaws. Not many groups do and I'm certain that no matter what decision your members finally make, it will be recognized that you presented it fairly.
[ 04-08-2005, 02:22 AM: Message edited by: Michelle B ]
A quorum is minimum number of members that must be present to legally transact business.
nonmember's right - it should be defined in your bylaws. And the wording is very important. "Members" is different that "members present".
In case it's not - I dug out Robert's Rules for you. (Article XI, Sect. 64):
The quorum of a mass meeting is the number present at the time, as they constitute the membership at that time.
The quorum of a body of delegates, unless the by-laws provide for a smaller quorum, is a majority of the number enrolled as attending the convention, not those appointed.
It goes on to say.
In the case, however, of a society, like many religious ones, where there are no annual dues, and where membership is for life (unless it is transferred or the names are struck from the roll by a vote of the society) the register of members is not reliable as a list of the bona fide members of the society, and in many such societies it would be impossible to have present at a business meeting a majority of those enrolled as members. Where such societies have no by-law establishing a quorum, the quorum consists of those who attend the meeting, provided it is either a stated meeting or one that has been properly called.
