Records need to be kept such that anyone with the CC&R's can have easy access to them. If an electronic copy, the link would be clickable. If a paper copy, the URL is clearly printed and easy to read. A likely place would be first this forum, then placed on the HOA website.
The announcement for the consideration of an exception or amendment needs to be sent to all members. This can be done in the newsletter, but may require special attention, such as subject line stating "Amendment being considered" for example.
An amount of time to respond needs to be specified.
Members not responding in the specified time will be considered as abstaining.
A discussion period needs to be specified
Members need to be able to object to the proposal both before and after approval
Perhaps the exception or amendment can only pass if the resulting vote is unanimous among those not abstaining.