City wants more time to consider Local Government Bill

THE City of Greater Geelong wants an extension of time to provide feedback on the proposed Local Government Bill 2019, arguing it needs more information.

The proposed bill will create extensive reforms of councils across Victoria.

Perhaps its most contentious change will be the elimination of council wards with multiple members – such as the City of Greater Geelong – and to only allow single-member wards or unsubdivided councils.

The Commission of Inquiry’s report into the city (which led to the state government sacking the council) was highly critical of Geelong’s previous single-ward model, stating it had not served Geelong well as it had “the effect of undermining good governance, compromising decision-making by trading off decisions for the common good in favour of ward interests, and distorting resource allocation and rational priorities”.

A consultation paper about the bill released by the state government states single member wards “enable residents to more effectively receive direct representation”.

“Councillors will be more accountable to local communities, fostering true ‘local’ government. Consistent application of this model also ensures that all councillors are elected under the same system with equal vote shares within their council.”

The existing deadline for feedback is July 17, but a notice of motion successfully moved by Cr Stephanie Asher at the council’s meeting last week resolved the council to seek a revised deadline of no earlier than August 30.

City chief executive officer Martin Cutter will write to Minister for Local Government Adem Somyurek to request the extension.

Cr Asher’s notice of motion stated it was important that the community, the administration and councillors were given a reasonable opportunity to understand the changes and provide considered feedback.

“We have received limited information about the details of this bill so far, meaning it’s impossible to provide good quality feedback within the timeframe we’ve been given,” Cr Asher said.

“We hope we are granted the extension and look forward to providing a detailed and carefully considered response to the state government that takes the community’s views into account.

“I encourage everyone interested to log onto the council’s website (geelongaustralia.com.au/ yoursay) and have your say.”