Except for certain issues that are clearly a conflict of interest, I do not see why I (or any other Talkboard member) would or should abstain or not participate in a vote. I think the only 2 ways to vote are "yes" or "no". After all, you are representing all FT members - not just yourself!
I feel it is up to Talkboard members, themselves, to read the specific forums to get a feel of how those involved feel about the change(s) proposed. It should not be up to HOM or anyone else. They were elected by FT members - so it should be seen how FT members feel about it.