Minutes of Board Meeting 25 June 2010

Note: A transcript of this meeting is available at http://brussels38.icann.org/meetings/brussels2010/transcript-board-25jun10-en.txt.

A Regular Meeting of the ICANN Board of Directors was held on 25 June 2010 in Brussels, Belgium.

Chairman Peter Dengate Thrush promptly called the meeting to order.

In addition to Chairman Peter Dengate Thrush the following Directors participated in all or part of the meeting: Rod Beckstrom (President and CEO), Dennis Jennings (Vice Chairman), Harald Tveit Alvestrand, Steve Crocker, Gonzalo Navarro, Rita Rodin Johnston, Raymond A. Plzak, Rajasekhar Ramaraj, George Sadowsky, Mike Silber, Jean-Jacques Subrenat, Bruce Tonkin, Katim Touray, and Kuo-Wei Wu.

The following Board Liaisons participated in all or part of the meeting: Heather Dryden, GAC Liaison; Ram Mohan, SSAC Liaison; Thomas Narten, IETF Liaison; Jonne Soininen, TLG Liaison; and Vanda Scartezini, ALAC Liaison.

John Jeffrey, General Counsel and Secretary, and  Dan Halloran, Deputy General Counsel, participated in all or part of the meeting, and many members of ICANN Management and staff were present, along with community members attending live or through remote participation.

1. Consent Agenda

The Chair of the Board introduced the meeting with a discussion of the design of the agenda, and noted that the items on the consent agenda are those, which are relatively noncontentious, with work checked and the Board noting that no discussion is needed on those items.  The Chair noted that every member of the Board may request, without explanation, that an item be removed from the consent agenda and placed on the main agenda.

The Chair then provided a brief overview of the items on the consent agenda for the meeting, including approval of minutes, the review of the Technical Liaison Group, housekeeping matters such as formal disbanding of various committees, and bylaws changes to allow for the seating of a director selected by the At Large. 

The Chair noted that during the consent agenda, there would be thanks to the departing Board Director, Raimundo Baca, and a vote of thanks to the former GAC Liaison, Janis Karklins, as well as thanks to departing volunteers from various committees.  The Chair then welcomed Heather Dryden, the interim chair of the Government Advisory Committee, to her first meeting as the GAC Liaison to the Board, with applause from the Board and meeting attendees.

The Chair queried the Board as to whether there were any items on the consent agenda requiring clarification, and hearing none, Steve Crocker moved and Ray Plzak seconded following resolution:

Resolved (2010.06.25.01), the following resolutions in this Consent Agenda are hereby approved:

1.1. Approval of Minutes of 22 April 2010 Board Meeting

Resolved (2010.06.25.02), the Board hereby approves the minutes of the 22 April 2010 Board Meeting.

1.2. Extension of Time for GNSO Constituencies to Review Charters

Whereas, the Board has determined that existing GNSO Constituencies should regularly re-confirm their status as organizations operating consistent with the ICANN Bylaws principles of transparency, openness, fairness and representativeness.

Whereas, the Board most recently asked existing GNSO Constituencies to seek Board reconfirmation of their charters prior to the Brussels meeting.

Whereas, the GNSO Council Work Team developing recommendations for GNSO Constituencies and Stakeholder Groups has now made its recommendations, but additional time will be necessary for GNSO Council and community evaluation of the recommendations.

Whereas, those evaluation efforts are likely to produce final charters that will be more effective in linking GNSO-structure operations to the ICANN Bylaws principles of transparency, fairness, openness and representativeness.

Resolved (2010.06.25.03), the Board further extends the timetable for GNSO Constituency reconfirmation submissions to be provided in sufficient time for consideration at the ICANN International meeting in Cartagena, Columbia.

1.3. SSAC Appointment Bylaws Amendments

Whereas, Article XI, Section 2, Subsection 2 of the Bylaws governs the Security and Stability Advisory Committee (SSAC).

Whereas, in its final report published 29 January 2010 <http://www.icann.org/en/reviews/ssac/ssac-review-wg-final-report-29jan10-en.pdf>, the Security and Stability Advisory Committee (SSAC) recommended SSAC membership appointments be for a term of three years renewable by the Board at the recommendation of the SSAC Chair indefinitely, and that the terms be staggered to allow for the terms of one-third of the SSAC members to expire at the end of every year.

Whereas, on 12 March 2010, the Board received the SSAC Review Working Group final report and directed the Structural Improvements Committee (SIC) to identify actions necessary to address the recommendations within the report, at <http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/resolutions-12mar10-en.htm#1.6>. 

Whereas, Article XI, Section 2(2)(b) <http://www.icann.org/en/general/bylaws.htm#XI> of the Bylaws states that the SSAC chair and members shall be appointed by the Board, and does not state any term for such appointments.

Whereas, staff supporting the SIC have identified that a Bylaws amendment is required in order to implement the recommended change to the SSAC membership appointments, and the SIC recommends the Board approve that proposed Bylaws amendments to this effect are posted for public comment.

Resolved (2010.06.25.04), the Board directs the CEO to have staff draft proposed Bylaws amendments addressing the recommendations arising out of the SSAC review Working Group and to post the proposed amendments for public comment for a period of no less than 30 days.

1.4. Implementation of Board review Working Group, NomCom review finalization Working Group and SSAC review Working Group Recommendations

Whereas, on 12 March 2010, the Board resolved to receive the Final Reports of the Board review Working Group, Nominating Committee review finalization Working Group and the Security and Stability Advisory Committee review Working Group, and directed the Structural Improvements Committee (SIC) to “present a set of suggested actions for approval at the June 2010 Board meeting, so as to address the conclusions and recommendations formulated in the final reports of these Working Groups”, at <http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/resolutions-12mar10-en.htm#1.6>.

Whereas, ICANN staff members supporting the organizational reviews identified a set of measures to address the recommendations arising out of the Working Groups and provided those to the SIC.

Whereas, the SIC continues to consider those proposed measures, and proposes to conclude on those measures and have staff finalize implementation plans based upon the SIC’s consideration, and to provide those final plans to the Board for receipt and consideration.  

Resolved (2010.06.25.05), the SIC will, in coordination with staff, provide the Board with final implementation plans to conform with the measures recommended by the SIC to address the conclusions and recommendations in the final reports of the Board review Working Group, Nominating Committee review finalization Working Group and Security and Stability Advisory Committee review Working Group.

1.5. Technical Liaison Group Review

Whereas, on 12 March 2010, the Board authorized the review of the Technical Liaison Group (TLG) to be conducted by a TLG review Working Group (Resolution 2010.03.12.07) and authorized the Structural Improvements Committee (SIC) to establish a TLG review Working Group and adopt all necessary measures to perform the review (Resolution 2010.03.12.08).

Whereas, at its 20 May 2010 meeting, the SIC unanimously agreed that it would be preferable that a working group not be formed, and that an outside consultant would perform the review. The SIC members approved that the staff, reporting to SIC, would provide oversight to the outside consultants.

Whereas, Resolutions 2010.03.12.07 and 2010.03.12.08 require modification to reflect that no working group will be formed for the review of the TLG.

Resolved (2010.06.25.06), that the review of the TLG authorized on 12 March 2010 remains authorized by the Board and the Board reaffirms the aims of the review of the TLG as set forth in Resolution 2010.03.12.06.

Resolved (2010.06.25.07), the review of the TLG is not required to be conducted through the formation of a TLG review Working Group and the Structural Improvements Committee (SIC) is authorized to adopt all necessary measures to perform the review, in consultation with the community, and to report to the Board through the SIC on the final findings and recommendations.

1.6. Disbanding Inactive President's Committees

Whereas, on 27 March 2003, the Board established the President’s Privacy Committee.

Whereas, on 23 July 2004, the Board established the President’s Advisory Committee on Internationalised Domain Names.

Whereas, on 4 December 2005, the Board established the President's IANA Consultation Committee and the President’s Strategy Committee.

Whereas, at the request of the President & CEO Rod Beckstrom, the Board Governance Committee reviewed the list of open President’s Committees to determine if they should remain active and has determined that these committees have served their purposes.

Whereas, the Board Governance Committee has recommended that the Board resolve to disband the President’s Privacy Committee, the President’s Advisory Committee on Internationalised Domain Names, the President’s IANA Consultation Committee, and the President’s Strategy Committee.

Resolved (2010.06.25.08), the ICANN Board hereby disbands the following Committees and thanks all of the community members who served on these Committees: the President’s Privacy Committee, the President’s Advisory Committee on Internationalised Domain Names, the President’s IANA Consultation Committee, and the President’s Strategy Committee.

1.7. Posting of Bylaws Amendments on Selection of Board Director from At Large Community

Whereas, on 27 August 2009, the Board approved in principle the recommendation of the Board review Working Group (BRWG) to add one voting director from the At-Large Community to the ICANN Board of Directors and removing the present ALAC Liaison to the Board. <http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/minutes-27aug09-en.htm>.

Whereas, the BRWG issued its Final Report containing the recommendation with the expectation that "the selection process will be designed, approved and implemented in time for the new Director to be seated at the 2010 Annual General Meeting."

Whereas, on 12 March 2010 the Board directed the Structural Improvements Committee (SIC) to present a set of suggested actions to address the recommendations formulated in the BRWG final report. <http://www.icann.org/en/minutes/resolutions-12mar10-en.htm#1.6>.

Whereas, the ICANN Bylaws must be amended to allow for the seating of a Board Director selected by the At-Large Community and to remove the present ALAC Liaison.

Whereas, the SIC, in consultation with the Board Governance Committee, agreed that the term of the Board Director selected by the At-Large Community should coincide with the terms of the Board Directors selected by the Sponsoring Organizations, so as to allow the Nominating Committee to consider the full composition of the non-Nominating Committee-appointed Board membership when making its appointments.

Whereas, the Office of the General Counsel, in consultation with the SIC and the staff supporting the At-Large, has identified recommended Bylaws amendments necessary to allow the seating of the Director selected by the At-Large Community in line with the Board and committee directives.

Whereas, on 19 June 2010, the SIC considered the proposed Bylaws amendments and recommends that the Board direct the ICANN CEO to post for public comment the proposed Bylaws amendments.

Resolved (2010.06.25.09), the Board directs the ICANN CEO to post for public comment the draft Bylaws amendments necessary to allow for the seating of the Board Director selected by the At-Large Community so that the Board can take action on them no later than at its 28 October 2010 meeting.

1.8. At-Large Improvement Implementation

Whereas, on 26 June 2009, the Board resolved to direct ICANN Staff to assist the At-Large community in developing a proposed implementation plan and timeline for the recommendations in the ALAC Review Final Report (except for the recommendation to provide At-Large with voting seats) and to submit these to the Structural Improvements Committee for review and Board approval. (Resolution 2009.06.26.12).

Whereas, at its 19 June 2010 meeting, the SIC acknowledged receipt from staff and the At-Large community of an implementation plan, with timeline, "ALAC/At‐Large Improvements Implementation Project Plan", dated 7 June 2010, and resolved to recommend it to the ICANN Board for consideration.

Resolved (2010.06.25.10), the Board directs ICANN's CEO to provide the Board with a summary of the "ALAC/At‐Large Improvements Implementation Project Plan" dated 7 June 2010, for consideration at the next Board meeting, if practicable.

1.9. Thanks to Raimundo Beca

Whereas, Raimundo Beca, was appointed by the Address Supporting Organization to serve a three-year term on the Board beginning in May 2004.

Whereas, in May 2007, Raimundo was appointed by the Address Supporting Organization to serve a second three-year term on the Board.

Whereas, Raimundo has concluded his term as a member of the Board of Directors on 30 April 2010.

Whereas, Raimundo has served on the Structural Improvements, Audit, Reconsideration, Executive and IANA Committees, the President’s Strategy Committee, as well as having served as a member and Chair of the Board Finance Committee.

Resolved (2010.06.25.11), that Raimundo has earned the deep appreciation of the Board for his term of service as a Director and the Board wishes Raimundo well in all future endeavours.

1.10. Thanks to Janis Karklins

Whereas, Janis Karklins has served as the Chairman of the Governmental Advisory Committee  and Liaison from the GAC to the ICANN Board of Directors since March 2007.

Whereas, in his role as Chairman of the Governmental Advisory Committee, Janis has served as co-selector of the Accountability & Transparency Review Team.

Whereas, Janis is leaving the Governmental Advisory Committee, effective 25 June 2010, to assume a new position as Assistant Director General of UNESCO for Communication and Information.

Resolved (2010.06.25.12), that Janis Karklins has earned the deep appreciation of the Board for his term of service as Chairman of the Government Advisory Committee & Liaison to the ICANN Board, the Board wishes Janis well in all future endeavours.

1.11. Approval of SSAC Appointments and Thanks to Departing Members

Whereas, Security and Stability Advisory Committee (SSAC) does review its membership and make adjustments from time to time.

Resolved (2010.06.25.13), the Board hereby appoints the individuals identified below to the SSAC:

James Galvin;

Sarmad Hussain;

Xiaodong Lee; and

Vanda Scartezini.

Whereas, Steve Conte and Robert Guerra were appointed to the ICANN Security and Stability Advisory Committee on 26 June 2009.

Whereas, ICANN wishes to acknowledge and thank Steve Conte and Robert Guerra for their service to the community by their membership on the Security and Stability Advisory Committee.

Resolved (2010.06.25.14), Steve Conte and Robert Guerra have earned the deep appreciation of the Board for their service to ICANN by their membership on the Security and Stability Advisory Committee, and the Board wishes Steve Conte and Robert Guerra well in all future endeavours.

1.12. Thanks to Departing At-Large Volunteers

Whereas, ICANN wishes to acknowledge the considerable energy and skills which members of the stakeholder community bring to the ICANN process.

Whereas, in recognition of these contributions, ICANN wishes to acknowledge and thank members of the community when their terms of service end.

Whereas, two members of the At-Large community are leaving their positions at or before the Brussels meeting:

  • Karaitiana Taiuru, Chair of APRALO (February 2008 - May 2010)
  • Dragoslava Greve, Secretary of EURALO (March 2009-June 2010)

Resolved (2010.06.25.15), Karaitiana Taiuru and Dragoslava Greve have earned the deep appreciation of the Board for their terms of service, and the Board wishes them well in all future endeavours.

1.13. Thanks to Sponsors

The Board wishes to thank the following sponsors:

Afilias Limited, Neustar, .CO, VeriSign, Inc., SIDN, dns.be, China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC), CENTR, InterNetX, Public Interest Registry, GMO Registry, Inc., EPAG Domainservices GmbH, Ascio, Iron Mountain, CORE Internet Council of Registrars, AusRegistry International, IP Mirror, RU-CENTER, pointquebec, PartnerGate GmbH, Internet Systems Consortium, Valideus, Dot Irish, China Organizational Name Administration Center (CONAC), CentralNic, .PRO, .Music, UrbanBrain, ICM Registry, Inc., AFNIC, Knipp Medien und Kommunikation GmbH, LogicBoxes, Skenzo, RegistryASP, and DotConnectAfrica.

1.14. Thanks to Scribes, Interpreters, Staff, Event and Hotel Teams

The Board expresses its appreciation to the scribes, the interpreters, technical teams, and to the entire ICANN staff for their efforts in facilitating the smooth operation of the meeting.

The Board would also like to thank the Square Brussels Meeting Centre and all the event staff for their support. Special thanks are given to Marie Tuteleers, Project Manager, David Dubois, Operations Manager, Julie Nysten, Event Coordinator, Nicolas Scheffers, Operations Manager, and Veronique Dallemagne, Freelance Event Producer.

1.15. Thanks to Local Hosts

The Board wishes to extend its thanks to the local host organizer, The European Registry of Internet Domain Names (EURid) for their support. Special thanks are given to Marc Van Wesemael, CEO, and the entire EURid Board and Staff.

Special thanks are given to Giovanni Seppia, External Relations Manager, and Daniela Medda, Marketing Coordinator, EURid, for their support over the past year to ensure the success of this meeting.

The Board also extends thanks to the following esteemed guests for their support and participation:

  • Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council
  • Neelie Kroes, Vice President of the European Commission and European Digital Agenda Commissioner
  • Dr Silvana Koch-Mehrin, Vice President of the European Parliament

1.16. Thanks to Meeting Participants

Whereas, the success of ICANN depends on the contributions of participants at the meetings.

Whereas, the participants engaged in fruitful and productive dialog at this meeting.

Resolved, the Board thanks the participants for their contributions.

Resolutions 2010.06.25.01, 2010.06.25.02, 2010.06.25.03, 2010.06.25.04, 2010.06.25.05, 2010.06.25.06, 2010.06.25.07, 2010.06.25.08, 2010.06.25.09, 2010.06.25.10, 2010.06.25.11, 2010.06.25.12, 2010.06.25.13, 2010.06.25.14, and 2010.06.25.15 were approved unanimously, 15-0, in a single vote approving the consent agenda items.

Main Board Meeting

2. Delegation of the 中国 and 中國 Top-Level Domains to China Internet Network Information Center

The Chair acknowledged the considerable amount of work performed in relation to IDN ccTLD delegations, and called on Harald Alvestrand to present the first of three IDN ccTLD-related resolutions.

Harald read the proposed resolution into the record.

Kuo-Wei Wu noted his affiliation to TWNIC and the CDNC and stated for the record that he would not be voting on this resolution. Kuo-Wei also provided pronunciation assistance for the Chinese words.

Harald then moved and George Sadowsky seconded the proposed resolution, and the Chair opened the floor for discussion.

Jean-Jacques Subrenat commented on the import of all three IDN ccTLD resolutions before the Board, and cited to the UNESCO convention of 2005 on the diversity of cultural expression. Jean-Jacques highlighted the principles affirming cultural diversity as an inherent characteristic of humanity and that it thrives in a framework of democracy and tolerance. Jean-Jacques noted that languages are part of culture, and belong to populations and individuals.

Ram Mohan noted his pleasure in seeing this set of resolutions come to the Board, as has been working with IDNs for some time, and his involvement in the nuances behind the technology. Ram noted that nearly 1.8 billion Internet users speak the Chinese language, with China itself having nearly 400 million Internet users, and this is a historic landmark. Ram noted his pride in being part of the IETF, which has been at the forefront of making the technology behind IDNs compatible with the DNS, and that other communities, such as linguists, were involved as well, and the success of the working model. Finally Ram in both Chinese and English, stated “We welcome Chinese into the root server,” and was joined with applause.

The CEO remarked on this historic moment reached in the meeting, and the incredible engineering, policy and linguistic work, as well as the work by the operators of the proposed IDN ccTLD and the ICANN Board, staff and community. The CEO noted his excitement in seeing the “root truly embrace the world.

The Chair then called for a vote, and the Board took the following action:

Whereas, ICANN has received a request for delegation of 中国, encoded as "xn--fiqz9s"; and 中國, encoded as "xn--fiqs8s"; to China Internet Network Information Center as country-code top-level domains.

Whereas, 中国 and 中國 are two strings that were deemed to have successfully completed the string evaluation portion of the IDN ccTLD Fast Track process by the ICANN Board of Directors in Resolution 2010.04.22.11.

Whereas, ICANN has determined that the proposal is on behalf of a country or territory that is currently listed in the ISO 3166-1 standard, and therefore eligible to be delegated country-code top-level domains under current policy.

Whereas, the strings applied for delegation are proposed to be used by the applicant in a manner consistent with the country or territory for which they were approved in the string evaluation process.

Whereas, the applicant has undertaken to operate the two top-level domains in a manner which does not cause confusion to the Internet user community, as documented in their implementation plan published online at <http://www.cnnic.cn/html/Dir/2010/06/12/5852.htm>.

Whereas, ICANN has reviewed the delegation request, and has determined that the proposal would be in the interests of the local and global Internet communities.

Resolved (2010.06.25.16), that the proposed delegation of the .中国 and .中國 top-level domains to China Internet Network Information Center is approved.

Fourteen Board members voted in favor of this resolution. Kuo-Wei Wu abstained from voting on this resolution due to his previously stated affiliations. No Board members voted in opposition to this resolution. The resolution carried.

The Board and meeting attendees applauded the carrying of this resolution with a standing ovation.

3. Delegation of the 香港 Top-Level Domain to Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Limited

The Chair called on Jean-Jacques Subrenat to present the next resolution.

Jean-Jacques read the proposed resolution into the record, and noted that the enthusiasm, applause and consideration for the first of the three IDN ccTLD resolutions applies to all three resolutions, as it is the recognition of a cultural community not restricted to any single country.

The Chair confirmed that the acclamation applies to all three of the IDN ccTLD resolution.

Jean-Jacques moved, and Ray Plzak seconded the following resolution:

Whereas, ICANN has received a request for delegation of 香港, encoded as "xn--j6w193g", to Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Limited as a country-code top-level domain.

Whereas, 香港 is a string that has successfully completed the string evaluation portion of the IDN ccTLD Fast Track process.

Whereas, ICANN has determined that the proposal is on behalf of a country or territory that is currently listed in the ISO 3166-1 standard, and therefore eligible to be delegated country-code top-level domains under current policy.

Whereas, the string applied for delegation is proposed to be used by the applicant in a manner consistent with the country or territory for which they were approved in the string evaluation process.

Whereas, ICANN has reviewed the delegation request, and has determined that the proposal would be in the interests of the local and global Internet communities.

Resolved (2010.06.25.17), that the proposed delegation of the .香港 to Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Limited is approved.

Fourteen Board members voted in favor of this resolution. Kuo-Wei Wu abstained from voting on this resolution due to his previously stated affiliations. No Board members voted in opposition to this resolution. The resolution carried.

The Board and meeting attendees applauded the carrying of this resolution.

4. Delegation of the 台灣 and 台湾 Top-Level Domains to Taiwan Network Information Center

The Chair called on Ram Mohan to present the next resolution.

Ram Mohan read, and Ramaraj seconded the following resolution:

Whereas, ICANN has received a request for delegation of 台灣, encoded as "xn--kpry57d"; and 台湾, encoded as "xn--kprw13d"; to Taiwan Network Information Center as country-code top-level domains.

Whereas, 台灣 and 台湾 are two strings that were deemed to have successfully completed the string evaluation portion of the IDN ccTLD Fast Track process by the ICANN Board of Directors in Resolution 2010.04.22.11.

Whereas, ICANN has determined that the proposal is on behalf of a country or territory that is currently listed in the ISO 3166-1 standard, and therefore eligible to be delegated country-code top-level domains under current policy.

Whereas, the strings applied for delegation are proposed to be used by the applicant in a manner consistent with the country or territory for which they were approved in the string evaluation process.

Whereas, the applicant has undertaken to operate the two top-level domains in a manner which does not cause confusion to the Internet user community, as documented in their implementation plan published online at <http://www.twnic.net/english/dn/dn_07a.htm>.

Whereas, ICANN has reviewed the delegation request, and has determined that the proposal would be in the interests of the local and global Internet communities.

Resolved (2010.06.25.18), that the proposed delegation of the .台灣 and .台湾 top-level domains to Taiwan Network Information Center is approved.

Fourteen Board members voted in favor of this resolution. Kuo-Wei Wu abstained from voting on this resolution due to his previously stated affiliations. No Board members voted in opposition to this resolution. The resolution carried.

The Board and meeting attendees applauded the carrying of this resolution with a standing ovation.

The Chair noted his congratulations to everyone involved.

5. Consideration of Independent Review Panel’s Declaration on ICANN’s decision regarding ICM Registry’s sTLD Application

The Chair provided background information on the Independent Review Process leading to the Panel Declaration under consideration by the Board, and the steps the Board had already undertaken since the issuance of the panel decision. He noted that this arises from the sTLD application round, and that the Board, after many discussions and contract negotiations, resolved in a split vote to decline the application. ICM, the applicant, then pursued the Independent Review Process to seek a review of that declination. ICM and ICANN attended a hearing in front of the Independent Review Panel, presenting their cases, and the Panelists reached a split decision finding that the ICANN Board did not act in conformity with the ICANN Bylaws, among other findings. The Board is now considering that finding and is considering the course of conduct for ICANN to follow. ICANN took the unprecedented step of publishing a decision tree of available options on how to respond to the panel decision, and received an unprecedented amount of public comment on the decision tree. The Chair noted the work done by staff to digest the public comment and report to the Board and the community.

The Chair then presented the resolution, and Dennis Jennings seconded the resolution.

The Chair opened the matter for discussion.

Harald Alvestrand noted his discomfort with the situation, stating his belief that the process has been followed, the Board has received advice on the reasonable path forward, and that he is effectively forced to conclude that the proposed resolution is in the best interest of the organization and that it is best for the furtherance of the organization’s goals to act as if something is true that he believes is not. Harald stated that he can see no better way forward.

The Chair thanked Harald for his explanation of the position that many Board members find themselves in.

Rita Rodin Johnston noted her agreement with Harald. Rita recalled that when she was on the Board in 2007, she had to reevaluate what happened in 2005 in relation to ICM’s application. Rita notes that she still questions whether there is a real sponsored community, but that question does not matter. ICANN has a process, and the process outcome was a finding that the sponsorship criteria were met. and the board has the courage to follow that finding.

Bruce Tonkin commented on the timing implications of the resolution. Bruce noted that the due diligence timing was in the control of the ICANN staff and the applicant. After that due diligence, the draft contract will be reviewed and negotiated. Then the Board has to review the proposed agreement and decide if it is in compliance with the GAC advice, and if it is not, the Board must enter into consultation with the GAC. If consultation is needed, Bruce estimated that it wouldn’t happen until at least the meeting in Cartagena, Colombia, as the GAC as a whole does not meet intersessionally.

Katim Touray commented that, like others, he is in an uncomfortable position. This is a difficult decision that has to be made in the interests of ICANN, due process and the involvement of the community. Katim echoed Bruce’s comment that there are still a number of steps to proceed, and stated that it’s best to follow the process.

The Board then took the following action:

Whereas, on 19 February 2010, an Independent Review Panel ("Panel") issued an advisory Declaration in the Independent Review proceedings filed by ICM Registry challenging ICANN's denial of ICM's application for the .XXX sTLD.

Whereas, the Board understands and appreciates the inaugural utilization of the Independent Review process and the value of such an accountability mechanism.

Whereas, although the Board has not made a determination as to whether or not it agrees with the findings of the Panel’s Majority (2-1 decision), the Board has determined to accept and act in accordance with some of the Panel’s findings.

Whereas, in accordance with Article IV, section 3.15 of ICANN's Bylaws, the Board considered the Panel’s Declaration throughout the week in Nairobi from 7-12 March 2010 and reviewed various paths toward conclusion.

Whereas, in the absence of a process for approving an sTLD six years following the receipt of ICM’s original Application, the Board chose to create a transparent set of process options and resolved to post those options for public comment.

Whereas, the process options were posted for public comment, and over 13,700 comments received have been reviewed and analyzed.

Whereas, the Board has reviewed public comments received, and further discussed and debated the process options for further consideration of the Panel Declaration.

Resolved (2010.06.25.19), the Board accepts and shall act in accordance with the following findings of the Independent Review Process Majority: (i) “the Board of ICANN in adopting its resolutions of June 1, 2005, found that the application of ICM Registry for the .XXX sTLD met the required sponsorship criteria;” and (ii) “the Board’s reconsideration of that finding was not consistent with the application of neutral, objective and fair documented policy.”

Resolved (2010.06.25.20), the Board directs staff to conduct expedited due diligence to ensure that: (1) the ICM Application is still current; and (2) there have been no changes in ICM's qualifications.

Resolved (2010.06.25.21), if the expedited due diligence results are successful, then the Board directs ICANN staff to proceed into draft contract negotiations with ICM, taking into account the GAC advice received to date.

Resolved (2010.06.25.22), upon staff's finalizing of a draft contract with ICM, the Board will determine whether the proposed contract is consistent with GAC advice, and if not, will enter into GAC consultation in accordance with the Bylaws.

Resolved (2010.06.25.23), after the GAC consultation is completed, the Board will decide whether to approve the contract, and will declare whether its action is in accordance with GAC advice or not.

Thirteen Board members voted in favor of these resolutions. Rod Beckstrom and Jean-Jacques Subrenat abstained from voting on these resolutions. No Board members voted in opposition. The resolution carried.

Jean-Jacques provided the following statement to explain his abstention: “My position is established on an informed basis with all due care, in good faith, in the honest belief that it is in the interests of the corporation of which I am a member of the Board. I believe that my abstention in this vote is consistent with the dispositions of Article 6, Section 23 of the ICANN Bylaws.”

The CEO explained that his abstention was based on a concern about the determination by two of the three panelists that the ICANN Board should not use business judgment in the conduct of its affairs. He noted that the Board must be able to use business judgment in order to protect the global public interest in the coordination of the DNS. The CEO also commented that the accepts the contribution to ICANN’s accountability and transparency provided through the use of the Independent Review Process.

6. Recognition of Raimundo Beca

The Chair invited Raimundo Beca to the stage, and recalled the resolution in the consent agenda thanking Raimundo for his service. The Chair presented Raimundo with a certificate commemorating Raimundo’s service on the Board and a token of appreciation. The Chair stated: “You have been an extraordinary board member and have served as chair of the Finance Committee and on many other committees, and I think one of the longer serving board members. Thank you very, very much for the extraordinary service you have rendered ICANN.”

Ray Plzak then provided Raimundo with well wishes, recalling their years of interaction prior to service on the Board, and noting the value of Raimundo’s contributions and opinions. Ray concluded: ”I, for one, will miss your presence on this board. So from the deepest of my heart, I wish to thank you very much for everything you've done to help promote the development of the Internet in Latin America and your contributions to the development of the Internet as a whole. Thank you very much.”

Vanda Scartezini thanked Raimundo for his kindness and devotion to ICANN, commented on his remarkable institutional memory, and expressed her hope that Raimundo will continue to remain involved in ICANN.

Jean-Jacques Subrenat, addressing Raimundo in French, commented on the level of care Raimundo devoted to each issue he tackled, and Raimundo’s professionalism and ability to bring the Board back to the right path in their discussions. Jean-Jacques commented that Raimundo’s departure will be a loss to ICANN, and hopes that some of Raimundo’s memory and wisdom will remain with ICANN.

Gonzalo Navarro, addressing Raimundo in Spanish, noted that Raimundo has been very important to ICANN in his excellent representation of the Latin American communities. Gonzalo recalled Raimundo’s generosity in assisting Gonzalo in navigating his way through ICANN, and noted how grateful he was for that assistance. Gonzalo noted that Raimundo will be missed, though “it is not a good-bye, it is just a see you later.”

Raimundo then addressed the Board and the meeting attendees, stating:

“Thank you very much, everybody. I will speak first in Spanish, then in French and finally in English. In Spanish first.

“I'm so touched that it's difficult for me to express my feelings. Of course, I need my mother tongue to do that. Thank you, thank you so much to all of you. It's been six years, very interesting for me. It has been a huge experience. I really learned a lot. I have a bunch of extraordinary friends, and it's one of the best treasures I can keep.

“Now I speak in French. As Jean-Jacques said, France is a second home country to me. I spent 19 years of my life in France, 16 years were compulsory and three because I wanted to. So when I have to express feelings, French comes naturally. And now I will switch to English.

“In my life I have always had a very difficult time to get away from places. When I came out of the secondary school to the university, I didn't like that moment. I wanted to rest in the school. When I left the university to go to study in France, I didn't like to go. I wanted to rest in the university. And the sole moment in my life where I have which I didn't have the same emotion was the moment when I was not accepted to come back to my country for 16 years. So in this moment, the emotion which I feel is that I am not leaving ICANN because nobody has asked me to go out.

[Applause]

“And I always would have liked to be in the moment like the one we just had now with the IDNs which is filled with emotion, and history. So I live now this historic moment of the IDNs. And, of course, this is my memory. I would have liked also to be there for another moment which will be -- we are going to live in one year more, which is the moment when the last five blocks of IANA will be evenly distributed to the five regions. I worked a lot for that to happen, and I would have liked to have been in the Board when that happened. For sure I will be present when that will happen.

“Because I worked a lot of that, I would have like to have been there when the first new gTLDs of the round would happen. As a memory of that or in participation of that, I will wear this. [Putting on a “.RAY” T-Shirt.]”

The Board and meeting attendees applauded Raimundo with a standing ovation for his dedicated service.

7. Recognition of Local Hosts

The Chair called representatives of the local meeting hosts to the stage, where they were greeted with a standing ovation. The Chair noted that the community applause states more than he could say. The Chair recalled from his experience on an organizing committee for a prior ICANN meeting, the extraordinary effort required to host a meeting, and requested that Marc van Wesemael carry thanks back to his entire team. The Chair commented that the meeting went very smoothly.

Marc van Wesemael thanked his team for the work, and thanked the participants for coming to Brussels.

Katim Touray noted the extraordinary efforts made by the hosts to assist in obtaining a visa for his travel.

The Board and meeting attendees again applauded the local hosts.

8. Board Committee Assignments

The Chair called on Ray Plzak to present the resolution.

Ray then read and moved the proposed resolution, seconded by Dennis Jennings.

The Board took the following action:

Whereas, Kuo-Wei Wu has joined the ICANN Board, and Raimundo Beca’s term as an ICANN Director has concluded.

Whereas, in light of the changes to Board membership, the Board Governance Committee (BGC) has made recommendations for revisions to the membership of certain Board committees.

Whereas, the Board agrees with the BGC’s recommendations.

Resolved (2010.06.25.24), Kuo-Wei Wu shall become a member of the Public Participation and IANA Board Committees.

Resolved (2010.06.25.25), Rajasekhar Ramaraj shall become a member of the Board Executive Committee.

Thirteen Board members voted in favor of the resolution. Ramaraj, Jean-Jacques Subrenat and Kuo-Wei Wu abstained from voting on the resolution. No Board members opposed the resolution. The resolution carried.

Jean-Jacques provided an explanation for his abstention, clarifying that he holds the two colleagues appointed to committees in high esteem, is overjoyed about the particular appointments, and that his abstention is process related. Jean-Jacques commended Dennis and members of the Board Governance Committee for the work they have been doing, though the particular process of appointment of Board members to Board committees can and should be improved, and the ongoing Affirmations reviews impose a greater duty to improve internal governance. Jean-Jacques noted that he has sent some suggestions for improvements to the Board.

The Chair noted that Ramaraj and Kuo-Wei’s abstentions were based upon their being the subjects of the resolutions.

9. Posting of Proposed Bylaw Changes relating to Chair Remuneration for Public Comment

Prior to any discussion on this resolution, the Chair recued himself from the discussion.

The Vice-Chair, Dennis Jennings, assumed the responsibilities of the Chair, and presented and moved the resolution. Ray Plzak seconded the resolution.

The Vice-Chair called for discussion, and hearing none, put the resolution to a vote.

The Board then took the following action:

Whereas, the Board has determined that it is appropriate to consider reasonable compensation for the Chair of the Board of ICANN.

Whereas, as a nonprofit California public benefit corporation that is exempt from United States Federal income taxes because it is an organization described in §501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, ICANN may not pay more than "reasonable compensation" for services rendered to ICANN.

Whereas, the Compensation Committee was tasked with obtaining, reviewing, and considering comparable compensation data before making recommendations relating to Board Chair remuneration, taking into account organization size, geographic considerations, international presence, and other relevant factors.

Whereas, the Compensation Committee is authorized to engage and to seek advice from independent professionals with appropriate expertise in compensation arrangements for Board members of U.S.-based, nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations possessing a global employee base.

Whereas, in connection with consideration of compensation for the ICANN Board Chair, the Board Governance Committee, in furtherance of the Compensation Committee’s remit, requested staff to engage the services of Towers Watson, an international consulting firm, to assist the Compensation Committee in compiling and analyzing appropriate compensation data as to comparability with respect to the Chair of ICANN’s Board.

Whereas, in making recommendations to the full Board regarding the level of compensation to consider for ICANN’s Chair of the Board, the Compensation Committee followed the process set forth in United States Treasury Regulation § 53.4958-6 which is intended to enable the Board to establish the presumption that the compensation to be paid to the Board Chair is reasonable for Federal income tax purposes.

Whereas, upon due inquiry of its members, the Compensation Committee concluded that no member participating in the deliberations and voting on the level of compensation recommended to the Board for the Board Chair compensation was conflicted.

Whereas, because the Board Chair, who is also the Chair of the Compensation Committee, is conflicted, the Board Chair did not participate in the deliberations or voting on the recommendations as to whether the Board should consider compensating the Board Chair, or the level of compensation considered.

Whereas, after consideration of the information the Compensation Committee received, including the comparability data provided by Towers Watson and the advice and counsel of Towers Watson, the non-conflicted voting members of the Compensation Committee agreed that it is in the best interests of ICANN to recommend that the Board consider compensating the ICANN Chair of the Board.

Whereas, after consideration of the information the Compensation Committee received, including the comparability data provided by Towers Watson and the advice and counsel of Towers Watson, the non-conflicted voting members of the Compensation Committee agreed that, taking into account organization size, geographic considerations, international presence, the role and responsibilities of the Board Chair and other relevant factors, determined that reasonable compensation for the Board Chair would be USD $75,000 per year.

Whereas, upon due inquiry of its members, the Board has concluded that no member of the Board participating in the deliberations and voting on the issue of compensating the Board Chair was conflicted.

Whereas, because the Board Chair is conflicted, the Board Chair did not participate in the deliberations or voting on the issue of compensating the Board Chair.

Whereas, the Board considered the information that was gathered pursuant to the Compensation Committee remit, including the comparable compensation data compiled and reported by Towers Watson.

Whereas, there has been full a discussion among non-conflicted Board members regarding the reasonableness of compensating the Board Chair and the reasonableness of compensating the Board Chair in the amount of USD $75,000 per year for services to ICANN, taking into account organization size, geographic considerations, international presence, the role and responsibilities of the Board Chair and other relevant factors.

Whereas, in reviewing the recommendations of the Compensation Committee regarding the level of compensation best suited for ICANN’s Chair of the Board, the Board followed the process set forth in Treasury Regulation § 53.4958-6 which is intended to enable the Board to establish the presumption that the compensation recommended to be paid to the Board Chairman is reasonable for Federal income tax purposes.

Whereas, if the Board decides to compensate the Board Chair doing so will require a Bylaws change.

Resolved (2010.06.25.26), the Board has determined that it is appropriate to consider reasonable compensation for the ICANN Chair.

Resolved (2010.06.25.27), the Board directs staff to post for public comment for a period of at least 30 days revised Bylaws that would allow for compensation of the ICANN Chair of the Board, and after taking public comments into account, the Board will reconsider the matter.

Twelve Board members voted in favor of the resolution. Rod Beckstrom, Steve Crocker, and Peter Dengate Thrush abstained from voting on this resolution. No Board members opposed the resolution. The resolution carried.

Peter Dengate Thrush noted that his abstention was based on an obvious conflict of interest.

Rod Beckstrom noted that his abstention was based on a potential perceived conflict of interest in voting on compensation to the Chair of the Compensation Committee, which is responsible for determining Rod’s compensation.

Steve Crocker noted that his abstention was based on his judgment of a potential conflict of interest.

Once the consideration of this item was concluded, the Chair resumed his responsibilities in the oversight of the meeting.

10. Adoption of Fiscal Year 2011 Budget

The Chair called upon Ramaraj to present the resolution.

Ramaraj then read and moved the proposed resolution, which was seconded by Bruce Tonkin.

The Chair then called for discussion on the resolution.

Ramaraj noted that there has been a lot of feedback received online and at the meeting about the budget, and discussed some improvements in the process going forward. In terms of constituency support, the CFO is requested to give greater detail than is available in the report, with greater granularity. From that input, the CFO is also requested to see if there are any changes or modifications that could be incorporated at this time.

Ramaraj also commented that the supporting and advisory organizations will be worked with much earlier in the process, maybe as early as August or September, to get involved with the project process and provide inputs.

The Chair noted the import of acknowledging the community input and responding to it.

Bruce Tonkin addressed the recurring issue at the meeting regarding compliance and the hope for stronger compliance initiatives around vertical integration in the new gTLDs, and the need to insure that ICANN can manage compliance to whatever structure is ultimately proposed. Arising from the Registrar constituency, there was a focus on compliance, the Intellectual Property Constituency called for compliance around Whois, as did law enforcement, etc. Bruce confirmed that ICANN will spend more on compliance than it did last year – an increase of 7.7% over the prior year, representing about 6% of ICANN’s total budget. Bruce stated that general comments about the level of compliance budget are not as constructive as moving to identification of specific compliance actions for staff to undertake, which can then be viewed against other elements in the budget.

Bruce then discussed three potential models for compliance – performing checks at the time a name is registered or a registrar is accredited, and then re-checking those at regular intervals. If this was required for all registrations, it would be very expensive. Second is an audit approach to check a few items, have a basis from which to trigger a deeper review. Third are complaint-based systems, where there is follow-up on complaints. Particularly with Whois, the current compliance system is complaints based, and ICANN has spent a lot in recent years to improve that system. Each of these three systems have different costs, and the community needs to assess them. After Ramaraj presented the resolution, the Board discussed issues relating to community input into the budget process and responding to community requests for greater detail in the budget, as well as compliance-related budgeting issues.

Mike Silber noted that there was a slight lack of foresight in planning, as the Board was voting on the resolution on the same day the public comment forum was closing, particularly where some of the comments were requests for additional information. Mike urged a focus on a process improvement to allow for comments to be made and integrated prior to Board adoption.

The Chair then put the matter to a vote and the Board took the following action:

Whereas, on 19 February 2010, ICANN’s Board approved an update to the Strategic Plan: <http://www.icann.org/en/planning/>.

Whereas, the Framework for the FY11 Operating Plan and Budget was posted in February 2010 for community consultation and was presented at the Nairobi ICANN International public meeting.

Whereas, community consultations were held to discuss and obtain feedback on the initial Framework.

Whereas, the draft FY11 Operating Plan and Budget was posted for public comment in accordance with the Bylaws on 17 May 2010 based upon the Framework for the FY11 Operating Plan and Budget, community consultation, and consultations with the Board Finance Committee <http://www.icann.org/en/public-comment/#draft-budget>.

Whereas, ICANN has actively solicited further community feedback and consultation with the ICANN community through online fora, conference calls, meetings in Brussels, and in the open forum in Brussels.

Whereas, the ICANN Board Finance Committee has discussed, and guided staff on, the development of the FY11 Operating Plan and Budget at each of its regularly scheduled monthly meetings.

Whereas, the ICANN Board Finance Committee met in Brussels on 20 June 2010 to discuss the FY11 Operating Plan and Budget, and recommended that the Board adopt the FY11 Operating Plan and Budget.

Whereas, the Board has heard comments from the community during the meetings in Brussels, and with the comment period ending today, the Board will make adjustments to the budget where appropriate in order to address the community's concerns.

Resolved (2010.06.25.28), the Board adopts the FY11 Operating Plan and Budget <http://www.icann.org/en/announcements/announcement-2-17may10-en.htm>.

The resolution was approved unanimously, in a 15-0 vote.

11. New gTLD Budget

Mike Silber noted that the organization is in a process of continual improvement on budget matters. Mike noted that the Board greatly appreciated the public input, including the input received at the public forum, and confirmed that the input received would be taken into consideration as ICANN continues processes to lead to the final launch of the new gTLD application process.

12. Internal Audit Function

The Chair called on George Sadowsky to present the next resolution.

George then read and moved the proposed resolution, and Ramaraj seconded the resolution.

With no comments, the Chair called for a vote and the Board took the following action:

Whereas, the Board Audit Committee (BAC) has been carefully considering the institution of an internal audit function within ICANN as a best practice for financial controls and accountability within the organization.

Whereas, the BAC, through staff, identified an initial scope and firm to perform the internal audit function and report the results of such function directly to the BAC.

Whereas, the BAC had an initial discussion with the internal audit firm while in Brussels, and provided a brief presentation to the Board on the initiation of the internal audit function.

Resolved (2010.06.25.29), the Board appreciates the Board Audit Committee’s institution of this important step in continued best practices for audit committees and increased accountability for the organization.

Fourteen Board members approved of the resolution. Rita Rodin Johnston abstained from voting on the resolution. No Board members opposed the resolution. The resolution carried.

The Chair noted Rita’s abstention due to her position as chair of the Audit Committee.

13. New gTLDs Board Retreat on New gTLDs in September 2010

The Chair called on Bruce Tonkin to present the resolution.

Bruce read and moved the proposed resolution, and George Sadowsky seconded the proposed resolution.

Jean-Jacques Subrenat commented that New gTLDs have been a constant agenda item since he has been on the Board, and he continues to listen carefully to everything stated by the public at the public forum. Jean-Jacques commended the chair on proposing a set-aside of a special retreat for this topic, and the stakeholders are owed a result and timeline.

The Chair thanked Jean-Jacques for his comments, and noted that there are costs of delay and uncertainty, and that one of the intentions of this retreat is to start getting some traction on this. The Chair also noted that the Board would likely need to convene another retreat to deal with the more traditional Board issues.

The Board then took the following action:

Whereas, the public comment period for the Draft Applicant Guidebook 4 (for ASCII and IDN gTLDs) will close on 21 July 2010.

Whereas, the Board intends to work expeditiously to resolve any outstanding issues prior to the issuing of the Applicant Guidebook, noting however that some issues might be outside of the control of the Board.

Whereas, the Board noted a number of issues raised during the public forum in Brussels on which further consideration will be required.

Resolved (2010.06.25.30), the Board will use its retreat currently scheduled for 24-25 September 2010 for the consideration of all the outstanding issues relating to the implementation of the New gTLD program.

The resolution was approved unanimously, in a 15-0 vote.

14. Publication of Board Briefing Materials for 22 April 2010

The Chair called on Katim Touray to present the next resolution.

Katim Touray read and moved the proposed resolution.

The Board took the following action:

Whereas, the Board has for some time wanted to share the briefing papers it receives with the community in the interests of transparency and accountability, and the community has also requested the publication of these materials.

Whereas, as a proof of concept, staff has prepared a version of the Board briefing materials for the Board meeting of 22 April 2010 for publication, with confidential material redacted.

Whereas, the Board Governance Committee will assess results of the proof of concept publication and recommend further guidance to the Board on the practice of sharing Board briefing materials.

Resolved (2010.06.25.31), the Board directs staff to publish the non-confidential portions of the Board briefing materials for the Board meeting of 22 April 2010.

The resolution was approved unanimously, in a 15-0 vote.

15. Nominating Committee Member to Represent Academic and Similar Organizations

The Chair noted that after a period of time where the Board was appointing the delegate on the Nominating Committee intended to be filled by the academic and technical research community, the Board has decided to change that practice. The Chair then called on Kuo-Wei Wu to present the resolution.

Kuo-Wei read and moved the proposed resolution, and Ray Plzak seconded the recommendation.

The Chair then called for a vote, and the Board took the following action:

Whereas, in accordance with the Article VII of section 2.8.c., of the Bylaws, one voting delegate on the Nominating Committee (NomCom) shall be selected by "[a]n entity designated by the Board to represent academic and similar organizations" ("NomCom Academia member").

Whereas, in prior years, the Board did not develop a process for identifying the appropriate entity to select the NomCom Academia member.

Whereas, in lieu of identifying a selecting entity, the Board previously via recommendations from the BGC selected an individual to serve as the NomCom Academia member.

Whereas, it has been determined that the Board shall no longer select the NomCom Academia member and that an entity shall do so.

Resolved (2010.06.25.32), the Board directs staff to develop an entity selection process and evaluation procedure to comply with the Bylaws, for BGC and Board consideration, with a view toward identifying an entity in sufficient time to select the NomCom Academia member for the 2011-2012 NomCom.

Resolved (2010.06.25.33), the Board will not appoint a NomCom Academia member of the 2010-2011 NomCom.

The resolution was approved unanimously, in a 15-0 vote.

16. Approval of Bylaws Revision Pursuant to Recommendation on Reconsideration Request 10-1

The Chair called on Rita Rodin Johnston to present the resolution.

Rita read and moved the proposed resolution, and Katim Touray seconded the resolution.

The Chair then called for a vote, and the Board took the following action:

Whereas, the Board Governance Committee (BGC) fully considered Reconsideration Request 10-1 and adopted a Recommendation in response, calling for revisions to the Bylaws with respect to the timing for posting of the adopted resolutions and the preliminary report after a Board meeting.

Whereas, the Board adopted the BGC’s Recommendation on Reconsideration Request 10-1.

Whereas, the BGC has reviewed and considered the public comments received and recommended that the Board approve the Bylaws revisions as posted at <http://icann.org/en/general/bylaws-iii-5-proposed-amendment-19apr10-en.pdf>.

Resolved (2010.06.25.34), the Board approves the Bylaws revisions as posted for public comment in furtherance of the BGC’s Recommendation on Reconsideration Request 10-1./

The resolution was approved unanimously, in a 15-0 vote.

17. Any Other Business

The Chair noted that work was underway to review how the Board interacts with various constituencies and groups at the International Public Meetings and revisiting the institutionalized timing of some of those interactions, in order to increase the efficiency of the Board/community interaction. The Chair also noted the change in the Board’s schedule at the meetings, which allowed the Board to provide presentation of the Board’s current thinking on matters during the public forum. The Chair noted the Board’s sense that this was a better way of engaging with the community, and appreciates community feedback about this.

The CEO provided an update on Human Resource matters, focusing on the fact that ICANN’s first Chief Operating Officer, Doug Brent, would be stepping down and that ICANN has opened up a search for that position using Egon Zehnder International, as well as for candidates for the Vice President of Global Partnerships position, and encouraged community members to help in identifying suitable candidates. The CEO confirmed that ICANN would take the time it needed to find the right candidates.

Bruce Tonkin noted that the community can access ICANN’s career links from home page of the ICANN website.

The CEO then invited Doug to the stage for recognition of his service to the organization. While this is normally a recognition reserved for departing Board members and CEOs, Doug’s service has been an exceptional contribution. The CEO commented that the decision to create the COO role was an excellent moved, made even better by selecting Doug to serve in the position. The CEO commented:

“You are one of the most exceptional managers and leaders that I've seen in an organization. And what you have done here in the last 3 1/2 years is to build not only a foundation for this house but walls and structure in the retrofit and remodel that has really boosted the capacity of the organization, the professionalism and the strengthening of processes. And you have done that with the utmost attention to the quality of your relationship with staff members and also the community. And you provide an outstanding model in that sense.

“So we're all going to miss you hugely. And our loss is, indeed, Silicon Valley's gain. But we are just very, very sorry to see you go.”

The Board and meeting attendees applauded Doug with a standing ovation.

Doug commented, “It has really been an honor to work with everybody here and the staff, and I’ll miss you all. Thank you very much.”

The Chair declared the meeting closed and thanked the Board.