Community input sought on Council's draft Governance Rules
Published on 29 July 2022
Council is reviewing its Governance Rules, a policy that supports good governance and decision making for the best outcomes for the community and invites public feedback.
As a result of legislative changes to the Local Government Act 2020, Council must review and amend its Governance Rules to permit Councillors to attend Council Meetings virtually.
Alongside these changes, Council has proposed several additions relating to the procedure of Council Meetings and the participation of the Mayor, Councillors, Council staff, and members of the community.
The amendments to the draft Governance Rules include:
- Allowing members of the public to participate virtually.
- Allowing Councillors to attend virtually.
- Adding time frames for responses to General Business and Notice of Motions.
- The Chief Executive Officer, at the request of the Chair, may clarify a statement made by a Councillor during a debate.
- Changes to the procedure in nominating and electing the Mayor and Deputy Mayor.
To ensure the Governance Rules maintain public transparency and serve to achieve the best outcomes for the municipality, the community is invited to review the proposed changes and provide their feedback on the policy.
Interested community members will be able to review and comment on the policy until Friday 19 August 2022.
Quote attributable to Mayor Cr Michael Leaney
“The Governance Rules are an important policy that sets out procedures for Council Meetings. They provide direction for Councillors, as well as members of the public who are keen to get involved with Council Meeting proceedings.
We have included various additions to policy, including the opportunity to participate in Council meetings virtually. After over two years of the pandemic, working and meeting virtually has become standard and an expectation. These additions align with current community values and ensures we are moving with the times.
Community feedback on this policy is vital in ensuring good governance and decision making for the best interest of our residents. I encourage our community to review the document on the website and share their thoughts on this important policy.”