A motion is a formal proposal put before council for debate and voting. Motions are the mechanism through which councils make decisions, from routine matters like approving minutes to major policy changes. A councillor introduces a motion, another must second it, council debates, and then votes. Motions may be amended during debate. Passed motions become council decisions directing municipal action. Different types include main motions (substantive proposals), amendments (modifications to main motions), and procedural motions (controlling how business proceeds). Understanding motion procedures helps citizens follow council meetings and participate effectively in local democracy by knowing how decisions are formally made.