Shire seeks input on new rules

IN compliance with the updated Local Government Act 2020 passed by the Victorian Parliament in March, the Golden Plains Shire has adjusted its governance rules and public policies.

Now those documents are out for public feedback following the okay from council at its last meeting.

The tweaked policies include changes to the conduct of council meetings, rules of behaviour for those present at meetings, guidelines around election of mayor and deputy mayor, public participation in council meetings, election period policy and community engagement.

“This is implementation that has to be done by September and we are on schedule for it,” said Cr Nathan Hansford.

The new governance rules aim to not only comply with the Local Government Act 2020, but also provide processes for decision making, set procedures and rules for behaviour for the conduct of meetings and promote community engagement in local government.

The revised public transparency policy will seeks to provide clarity of information and decision making where possible and ensure these processes are understandable and accessible to the community.

To review a copies of the revised draft governance rules and public transparency policy, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au or a council customer service centre.

Feedback on all four documents is welcome until Wednesday, 12 August and you can submit a response online, via email [email protected] or mail to PO Box 111, Bannockburn 3331.

Depending on the volume of responses, the council may hold a virtual meeting to hear submissions.

Council will consider the final drafts of the documents at its August ordinary meeting with a new policy to be adopted by September this year.