Latrobe City Council advises that the upcoming July Council Meeting will be conducted online.
The decision to move the Council Meeting to an online format has been taken after careful consideration of the circumstances and has been made to ensure the orderly conduct of Council proceedings, and to provide an environment that fosters respectful dialogue and effective decision-making.
Over past months there have been instances of disruptive behaviour by members of the public attending Council meetings. While Council encourages community engagement and values public participation, it is essential to maintain a conducive and respectful environment for all attendees, including Councillors, Council officers, and community.
The online meeting will allow Council business to proceed efficiently, while upholding the principles of good governance.
This decision is supported by the Local Government Act 2020 (Act) which provides for a meeting to be open to the public by broadcasting the meeting live on the Internet site of the Council.
Latrobe City Council remains committed to transparency and accessibility. Live streaming of a Council Meeting is in accordance with Council’s obligations under the Act and Council’s Governance Rules and ensures community and stakeholders can stay informed about Council decisions and discussions.
Council’s governance rules allow for individuals to participate in Council meetings virtually for those members of the public who wish to speak on a specific agenda item.
Council is committed to engaging with our community in respectful way by creating an inclusive and harmonious environment where everyone's voice is heard. The decision to reopen the public gallery will be reviewed in the coming months, following assessment of appropriate measures to enable respectful dialogue and effective decision-making.
Details regarding the livestream and access to the online meeting will be provided on the Council's website www.latrobecity.com.au and social media www.facebook.com/LatrobeCity