Form with which the board of directors of a corporation records the contents of its first meeting.
Form with which the board of directors of a corporation records the contents of its first meeting.
Who Should Take Minutes at a Board Meeting? Any board member can take board meeting minutes, although it is typically the responsibility of the board secretary.
In reality, though, one of the most essential things any board will do with minutes is approve them. The approval of meeting minutes certifies that the minutes are a complete and accurate reflection of the discussions, actions and decisions that occurred during a board meeting.
Board meeting minutes are an objective record of what took place during a board meeting. The minutes are typically used for internal purposes like record-keeping and for posterity. Minutes can serve to inform future meetings and recall what was discussed, agreed upon or dismissed by a company's board members.
To take notes for board meeting minutes, focus on summarizing the most important points. Begin by noting the meeting start time and attendees. As the meeting progresses, document key discussions, decisions, and action items. Avoid writing verbatim; instead, summarize reports and motions.
What information do board meeting minutes contain? Meeting date, time and location. Type of meeting. Names and titles of attendees and guests. Any absent board directors. Quorum. Notes about directors who left early or re-entered the meeting. Board approvals, resolutions and acceptance of reports. Overview of discussions.
In most cases, the meeting secretary will sign the approved copy of the minutes, while some boards require all present board members to sign the approved minutes.
Board minutes often contain information that is subject to the attorney-client privilege and that directors may prefer to keep confidential. However, most jurisdictions allow stockholders to inspect corporate books and records, including board minutes.
There is no general requirement that board minutes be public – though some countries have laws that they must be available to members.
There is no general requirement that board minutes be public – though some countries have laws that they must be available to members. However, not-for-profit organisations earn trust by being open about how they handle the public trust that has been granted to them.
Boards turn to meeting minutes as an official record of the discussions, decisions and actions agreed upon during a meeting. Likewise, minutes are essential in defending the board during legal action or regulatory scrutiny.