Ordinances & Resolutions

Ordinances Versus Resolutions - What Is the Difference?

Ordinance

An ordinance prescribes a permanent rule for the conducting of Vandalia government. Once enacted, an ordinance takes the effect of law. An ordinance is introduced in writing by the city attorney and is given two separate readings. After Council's approval of the first reading, a legislative summary of the ordinance is posted in a conspicuous location at the City of Vandalia Municipal Building, at the Vandalia Recreation Center, at the Vandalia Senior Center and on the City of Vandalia website and includes the date and time Council will conduct its second reading. 

Council's second reading includes a public hearing which gives citizens the opportunity to speak on the proposed legislation. An affirmative vote of at least four members of Council is necessary for the final passage of any ordinance. Once approved, a legislative summary of the ordinance is posted in a conspicuous location at the City of Vandalia Municipal Building, at the Vandalia Recreation Center, at the Vandalia Senior Center and on the City of Vandalia website. The effective date of any ordinance shall be thirty days after adoption except as otherwise provided in the City Charter or by the Constitution of the State of Ohio. The affirmative vote of at least five council members is required for the passage of emergency ordinances - measures needing immediate attention. Emergency ordinances require only one reading and become effective immediately.

Resolution

A resolution is Council legislation of a special or temporary nature. It is also introduced in writing, requires one reading and can be enacted on a formal motion by a majority vote of council members. Resolutions take effect immediately and a legislative summary of the resolution is posted in a conspicuous location at the City of Vandalia Municipal Building, at the Vandalia Recreation Center, at the Vandalia Senior Center and on the City of Vandalia website.