Mount Alexander Shire Council is seeking community feedback on proposed updates to internal processes that impact Council meetings.
The updates are directed by Local Government Victoria and aim to make sure Council meeting processes are clear and fair for the benefit of both the community and Councillors.
The proposed updates relate to three clauses in the existing Governance Rules. This includes:
• Provisions to allow for the Chair of a Council meeting to enter into the debate on a particular matter. Previously, the Chair was not permitted to participate in debate.
• Increased flexibility during public question time to enable members of the public to not only ask questions of Council, but to submit statements for consideration.
• Provisions to allow Councillors to attend virtual and/or hybrid Council meetings when necessary and provided Councillors meet eligibility criteria.
Council is also proposing to update the Local Law Meeting Procedure to remove clauses that are now addressed under the updated Governance Rules.
Council is encouraging community members who have concerns about what’s being proposed to prepare a written submission.
Submissions can be made using the online survey at www.shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au, via email to governance@mountalexander.vic.gov.au, or by post to: Manager Governance and Risk, PO Box 185, Castlemaine, 3450, VIC.
Submissions close Friday 3 February 2023.
Community feedback provided will be considered by Councillors at the February meeting of Council.
For more information, contact Augustine Sheppard, Principal Governance Officer at Mount Alexander Shire Council on 5471 1700 or email governance@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.
More latest news...