Time limits proposed for council meetings

A time limit on debate is being proposed for Central Coast Council meetings in a bid to avoid the need for extra meetings.

Mayor Cr Jane Smith said meetings were regularly exceeding the set finishing time and the need for extra meetings was putting a strain on resources and community members participating in meetings.

"We have a huge job to do as one of the largest Councils in the State and there are lots of decisions we need to make to ensure we can meet the needs of our community now and in the future," Cr Smith said.

It is also proposed to hold public forums of 30 minutes before Council meetings with a limit on speakers.

"There are a range of channels for community members to engage with Council, including advisory groups, which are often more effective than speaking at Council Meetings.

"We are absolutely committed to open and transparent decision-making in the best interests of our community.

"We need to find the right balance between the community and councillors having their say while ensuring meetings are efficient and timely.

"The community will still get a say on issues in a forum to be held before the meeting, leaving the actual meeting to be able to focus on the decision-making needed to move our Council and our region forward."

The proposed changes will be publicly exhibited for 28 days and will be able on yourvoiceourcoast.com shortly.

SOURCE:

Media release, 26 Jun 2018

Jane Smith, Central Coast Council