I think judicious use of tables is what is required.

In your example under Proclamations, a table is the most efficient way to do this. You could use a frame for the right side text but in my opinion that is more complicated than a table.

In your example under Minutes I would have to say that the left column should NOT be three separate rows. That adds complications for no reason. The right column has no content so potentially that part doesn't need to be a table at all unless you want something in the right column.

If you are using merged cells, tables can be complicated to copy/paste content but they have real advantages for some layouts so getting rid of them completely is not going to make your life easier.

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Andrew Lockton
Chrysalis Design, Melbourne Australia