Thanks for modern technology a member of Bluffton council will continue to serve in office while being unable to physically attend meetings this fall and winter.

On Monday council passed an emergency resolution regarding Sean Burrell, who has undergone surgery. That surgery prevents him from leaving his home during his convalescence.

The resolution allows Burrell to retain his council seat this fall and winter during his convalescence. It enables him to participate in council meetings and committee meetings. (The resolution is attached at the bottom of this story.)

Stephen Chamberlain, village solicitor, said that Burrell may not vote, pass or second motions, or be counted as present if a council needs to establish a quorum.

The resolution states Burrell may attend meetings via electronic means “due to extraordinary circumstances.”

That participation might involve use of Skype or other internet-based video conference services.

Chamberlain said that the public must be able to hear Burrell at all times during meetings.

Burrell became a council member in March 2013 when he was appointed to fill the seat left vacant by Dennis Gallant when Gallant resigned to become mayor.