What does the minutes record in a council meeting?

The minutes of a council meeting serve as an official record of the meeting's proceedings, providing a summary of the key discussions and decisions made. They are not intended to capture a verbatim account of everything said; instead, they distill the essential points and outcomes into a format that is clear and accessible to those who were not present. By highlighting the main topics discussed and the resolutions passed, the minutes allow for a review of the meeting's objectives and can guide future actions within the council. This approach helps maintain clarity and conciseness, ensuring that the minutes serve their purpose as a reference without becoming overly detailed or cumbersome.