Labor candidates sign accountability pledge
Accountability, transparency and access to information are essential principles that
underpin local democracy, according to lead Labor candidate for the Gosford West Ward Ms Belinda Neal.
Each member of the Central Coast Labor Team for Council has made a pledge to provide open and accountable local government and to increase public participation in Council decision-making, she said.
"The candidates are concerned that, since elected councillors were replaced by anadministrator, there has not been enough accountability to the community.
"Residents and ratepayers have not been able to genuinely participate in decision making."
"Decision-making should be transparent and open so that ratepayers are able to understand and participate in the decisions of council," Ms Neal said.
The pledge states that Council decision-making should be transparent and decision-makers must be accountable for both decisions and omissions.
"It is important that all potential councillors recognise the central role of the community and residents.
"We call on all other candidates to sign the pledge and commit themselves to an
accountable and transparent council," Ms Neal said.
SOURCE:
Media release, 25 Aug 2024
Belinda Neal, Local Labor Team