Consensus decision making promotes clear communication, patience, and democratic participation. The goal of consensus is to attain an egalitarian mode of politics, focused on giving voice and validation to members in a way that leads to group insight. During the process of consensus, a member will propose a decision to the community. Members may then ask for clarification, discuss and/or make amendments to the decision. This process continues until each member has had their say and the community has made a decision. Consensus works best when members are well informed about and committed to the process. Clarity and good facilitation streamline consensus and enable an efficient mode of decision making. It is the management template followed by most cohousing communities.
Members of the Fernwood Urban Village have created a Formal Agreement of Collaborative Decision Making. This document outlines our consensus decision making process and in available upon request. Our community will aid future members in learning the process.