At its 23 August meeting, Golden Plains Shire Council adopted its updated Governance Rules.
The adoption of the Governance Rules (the Rules) follows amendments to the Local Government Act 2020 (the Act), with the updates ensuring the Rules comply with new requirements in relation to virtual participation in Council meetings and align to the best practice outlined in the Act.
The Rules were endorsed by Council at its July meeting and placed on public exhibition for a period of three-weeks, with one submission received during that period.
The one submission related to public question time and the ability to attend Council meetings virtually to allow submitted questions to be answered. In response to this submission and to further facilitate public participation in Council meetings, the Governance Rules were amended before adoption to include sub-rule 71.1 (c), which allows the submitter of a public question to elect to have their question read by the Chairperson, where the Council meeting is being held virtually and they don’t wish to appear on the screen.
In addition to the changes made in relation to the submission, additional amendments were made before adoption following an ongoing review by Council officers. These amendments include a requirement that if an officer report has not been provided, any motion must call for an officer report if committing to expenditure of more than $10,000 that hasn’t otherwise been budgeted for; clarity in relation to further motions where a vote is taken on a matter and declared lost; and clarity in relation to the livestreaming of a meeting where the sole item on the agenda is deemed to be confidential.
Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Gavin Gamble says Council is pleased to have adopted the updated Governance Rules.
“It’s important for Council to have clear, transparent and instructive Governance Rules to guide the decision-making process. The adopted changes have made general amendments to the Rules, while also adding explanatory notes to make the Rules more accessible and easier for to engage with for Councillors and community members.
“As Councillors, we’re committed to genuine community consultation and continuous improvement. We’re pleased to amend these Rules and are confident these updated Rules will ensure continued good governance.”