Monday, October 26, 2009

SYR responds on question time







Above is a copy of a letter from the shire regarding the changes to "Question Time" at council mmetings.  Double click on it to get a readable version.





As part of the review we have explored how we can revise Council meeting procedures, to make sure that we strike the right balance between accessibility and transparency on the one hand and professional meeting procedures on the other.

In my opinion, they have got this wrong!  Transparency has gone!

The revised procedures adopted are consistent with those of many other local authorities.

We do not follow other councils on everything so why this one?

It is important to note that Council welcomes questions from the public at any time and there are many ways in which individuals and groups can have questions addressed by Council - they can call, write or email either their local Councillor or Council officers at any time. Our commitments to prompt response times are outlined in our service charters.
 Looks like we will need to explore other ovenues in asking questions and GETTING answers.
My main concern is that answers will be lost in limbo.  I believe that all qustions and answers should become part of the minutes if requested by the person asing the question.














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