An Ordinance is introduced at one Council meeting but must receive a second reading and passage at a second meeting. The Ordinance is then published and becomes effective 30 days after final passage. An Ordinance can be repealed or amended only by a subsequent Ordinance. A Resolution may be passed expressing the policy of the City Council or directing certain types of procedural or administrative actions. It requires only one reading and may be changed by a subsequent Resolution.
Motions ordinarily indicate majority approval for a procedural or administrative action.
Motions are usually for disposition of business items on the agenda. When the Council is not prepared to take definite action or when further study or information is needed, the Council may refer the matter to an individual or group for study. The Council may request that a return report be made at a future Council meeting.