(A) Generally. An affirmative vote equal to a majority of all the members of the Council not excused from voting on the question in issue (including the Mayor’s vote in case of an equal division) shall be required to adopt an ordinance, to take any action that has the effect of an ordinance, or to make, ratify, or authorize any contract on behalf of the city. In addition, no ordinance or action that has the effect of an ordinance may be finally adopted on the date on which it is introduced except by an affirmative vote equal to or greater than two-thirds of all the actual membership of the Council, excluding vacant seats, and not including the Mayor unless he or she has the right to vote on all questions before the Council. No ordinance shall be adopted unless it has been reduced to writing before a vote on adoption is taken.
(B) Zoning protest petitions. An affirmative vote equal to three-fourths of all the members of the City Council shall be required for an ordinance making a change in a zoning regulation, restriction, or boundary to become effective, if a valid protest petition is received in accordance with the requirements set out in G.S. § 160A-385(a). This rule shall not apply in those cases excepted by G.S. 160A-385(a).
(Ord. passed 6-8-10)