FRANKSTON Council is not planning to move its meetings behind closed doors, the mayor Nathan Conroy says.
Councils across Victoria have been facing increased abuse from members of the public at meetings in the last year. Earlier this month the Municipal Association of Victoria met to discuss the issue of “disruptive behaviour” at Victorian council meetings.
Yarra Ranges Council went to the length of banning the public from its meetings earlier this year. Frankston mayor Nathan Conroy has confirmed that Frankston Council is not planning to follow suit.
“Frankston City Council has always been committed to safe public participation and good governance in our decision-making processes. There’s no change to the way council meetings are run,” Conroy said. “Periodically, we see more members of the public attend council meetings and this demonstrates an interest in council and community matters. There is, of course, opportunity for the community to be part of the conversation. Residents are able to make submissions to speak on the items being considered by council and in turn we are able to consider their views.
“Every council operates in a unique and changing environment, and each will manage its governance processes in its own way. At Frankston City Council, we encourage residents to observe the rules and attend meetings or watch our livestream, and respectfully watch our democratic process in action.”
Frankston Council officers were in attendance at the MAV meeting.
First published in the Frankston Times – 29th May 2023