Latrobe City Council advises that in-person Council Meetings will recommence in October.
Following a short period of facilitating the meetings online, following a number of instances of disruptive behaviour by members of the public in attendance, Council have reviewed in-person proceedings and established new changes that aim to improve the experience for all attendees.
We understand that ensuring a safe and respectful environment is paramount and have implemented a range of appropriate measures to ensure the integrity of our meetings and enable orderly conduct and effective decision making.
Community members are welcome to observe Council Meetings in person, however attendance will now require pre-registration through booking online via Eventbrite, www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/CouncilMeetingSeating by midday on the day of the meeting. Bookings for the October Council Meeting will be available from 9.30am on Monday 25 September.
All individuals attending the meeting in-person must provide their current photo ID and copy of their registration ticket on arrival. This can be done via hard copy or on an electronic device.
Council remains committed to transparency and accessibility and will continue live-streaming meetings. This ensures community and stakeholders can stay informed about Council decisions and discussions regardless of their location or ability to attend in person. Council meeting recordings are able to be viewed online when convenient via Latrobe City Council’s YouTube channel.
The size of the meeting gallery is limited to 60, due to the meeting room capacity at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre. In the event that the gallery capacity of 60 is met, community members will be able to view the live-stream of the Council Meeting.
Council’s commitment to an open and inclusive democratic process remains unwavering. We believe that face to face interactions among councillors are essential to fostering a sense of community and constructive dialogue. The return to the public gallery is a positive step.
Council Meetings are an important part of local democracy and is where Council can listen and respond to community submissions and petitions, and where goals and strategies are set to help guide the work Council does for the long-term benefit of the community.
Moving Council Meetings online has allowed time to develop a strategic plan for in-person meetings, to ensure they are efficient and uphold the principles of good governance. With support and cooperation from all those involved, Council Meetings can be a safe place where productive outcomes are achieved, and trust is built.
Members of the public who wish to speak on a specific item, listed on the advertised agenda, can register to speak before midday on the day of the meeting. Council Officers will assist those who have registered to speak to do so either virtually or in-person with registrations accepted via email egovernance@latrobe.vic.gov.au or on 1300 367 700.
Council may need to close part of the meeting to consider confidential items, and attendees will be asked to leave if this is enacted.
For more information about in person Council Meetings and to find out how you can attend, head to our website: www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/councilmeetings