Gannawarra Shire Council has announced that all councillor briefing sessions and council meetings will be held virtually, rather than in-person until at least May. Neighbouring local government areas have all returned to face-to-face meetings, making use of COVID-19 safe plans.
In a recent statement, Victorian Health Minister, Martin Foley, said there were no government orders ‘compelling’ workers to work from home.
“There are no work-from-home orders in place,” he said.
“There are no pandemic orders restricting workplace arrangements.”
On January 27, GSC councillors were informed by email that all councillor meetings in February, March and April would be held virtually instead of in-person.
Speaking on the matter, Cr Garner Smith said, “I am extremely disappointed that the decision was made to force councillors to meet via Zoom with no consultation with councillors at all. I just received an email informing of the arrangements and was expected to accept it.
“I am extremely concerned that the opinions of councillors were not relevant in the decision-making process. It is an undemocratic way of operating. Good governance suffers when affected parties are not considered, and their views are considered irrelevant.
“Zoom meetings serve a purpose but should not replace physical meetings. In-person meetings increase interaction and allows the community to attend. Overall, I would say it’s a far better system to promote accountability and transparency.
“This is especially important with high profile community matters like the aquatic strategy and the closing of pools on the agenda.”
Cr Travis Collier isn’t worried about remaining on Zoom. “To be honest, it doesn’t really worry me too much.
“I’ve got quite used to everything being virtual.
“Of course, I’d like to meet everyone face to face, but if that’s the direction we’re going, so be it.
“It actually works quite well for me this month as I’m down in Melbourne working at hotel quarantine. For myself, for this month, it’s quite handy.”
Do Gannawarra residents want the opportunity to sit face-to-face with those acting on their behalf? Should residents be able to ask pre-screened question at council meetings? Let us know your thoughts admin@thebridgenews.com.au
This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 3 February 2022.
