At the 28 March Council meeting, Golden Plains Shire Council adopted its updated Governance Rules.
Changes to the Governance Rules include revised wording to improve the clarity of processes, including Mayoral elections and Public Question Time, and to make it easier for Councillors to attend Council meetings virtually.
The Rules were endorsed by Council at its February meeting and placed on public exhibition for a period of three-weeks, with no submissions received during that period.
Pursuant to section 60 of the Local Government Act 2020 (‘the Act’) councils must have clear, instructive, and transparent Governance Rules. The Act aims to strengthen democracy, accountability and equity in local government, delivering a higher degree of transparency and integrity for the public.
Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham says Council is pleased to have adopted the updated Governance Rules.
The Adopted changes to the Governance Rules will improve the operation and increase the accessibility of Council meetings.
As only 30 minutes is allocated for public questions in Council meetings, these changes will ensure efficient use of this time to allow for the maximum number of questions to be asked by the community.
Council is committed to reviewing our Governance Rules regularly and ensuring the Rules are clear, instructive and transparent to guide the decision-making process at Council meetings and ensure continued good governance.
To view the updated Governance Rules, visit https://www.goldenplains.vic.gov.au/consultations/governance-rules-adopted