Changing the rules for more community input

Community involvement in Council’s decision-making has been made easier with updated Governance Rules endorsed this week. 

Among the new rules is a provision to enable community members to ask questions in person at Council Meetings. 

The new Governance Rules also provides an opportunity for a person submitting a petition or joint letter to speak in support of their submission. 

Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said she hoped that these changes would encourage more active community involvement in Council Meetings. 

“These small but very significant changes to how we run Council Meetings are designed to make it easier for people to have their say on matters that are important to them,” Ms Wilson said.  

More Council Meetings held at venues across the City and community forums taking place before the formal meeting will also be introduced, starting with two scheduled for the second half of 2021. 

“Council is looking forward to having at least four meetings each calendar year held at different venues across the municipality to make it easier for people to attend and therefore share their ideas, feedback and priorities for the future,” Ms Wilson said. 

“We will also hold a less formal community forum where people can speak with myself and my fellow Administrators – Ms Peita Duncan and Mr Chris Eddy – and the Executive Leadership Team led by CEO Mr Craig Lloyd.” 

The following Community Council Meetings and Forums are scheduled for 2021: 

• Tuesday 7 September, Galada Community Centre, Epping  
• Tuesday 7 December, Barry Road Community Activity Centre, Thomastown