Public Forum for Shoalhaven City Council

For the next Council meeting on Tuesday 26 May 2009, I have put forward a proposal to include a public forum in one of Councils bi-monthly ordinary meetings.

Public consultation is the cornerstone of local government and helps to deepen democracy. Councillors have a duty to listen to not just the people with bright ideas, but those who have a problem or an opinion.

In the Shoalhaven we have Community Consultation Bodies (CCB), or groups of residents registered and supported by Council, who meet on a regular basis to discuss issues from A-Z. The minutes of these meetings and any issues are reported back to council in an informal way.

I have participated in these forums now from both perspectives and feel that CCB are a great way to communicate with council on a range of issues. However I do not think they represent all the people of our city.

At present if you want to get in contact with all 13 councillors you need to phone,email or write. The opportunities to meet with all 13 are rare, but if we open up opportunities for people to come along to a council meeting and air whats on their mind- I believe it could be an efficient and effective way to relate to Council.

I have provide the following seven points as a starting point for the debate, I hope that councillors are active in helping craft a position that is logical and workable.

Amendment to the Code of Meeting Practice to Include a Public Forum.


1. Council amend the code of meeting practice to include a Public Forum to take place prior to a monthly Council Meeting.
2. The aim is to provide an opportunity to speak to the gathered Council on any subject NOT in Councils Business Paper for the meeting following.
3. The Public Forum be limited to 15 minutes- allowing three speakers a maximum speaking time of three minutes each and allow for a brief question time to clarify any points.
4. No extension of time for such presentations will be permitted.
5. The subject shall not relate to matters where there are other opportunities for deputation eg. Development matters.
6. No debate on the item will take place.
7. The community member shall provide an overview of what is intended to be presented to the general manager prior to the meeting.

I hope the outcome is a positive one for the people of Shoalhaven.