The Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries has announced it is to allow Council meetings to operate with a reduced quorum during the
Minister for Local Government, David Templeman said that as the level of Government closest to the community, Local Governments were feeling the impacts of the pandemic.
“There are increased challenges for Local Governments, especially in relation to holding meetings while dealing with social distancing and possible individual self-isolation,” Mr Templeman said.
“These new Regulations will allow Council meetings to continue electronically during a public health emergency or state of emergency.”
He said meetings could now be held via teleconference, video conference or other electronic means.
“If a meeting is held electronically, Local Governments will need to allocate time for raising questions by members of the public and provide a means for questions to be submitted prior to the meeting,” Mr Templeman said.
He said the Department had also introduced a fast-tracked process for Local Governments to seek approval for a reduced quorum at meetings.
“The Department has established a working group with the Western Australian Local Government Association, and is continually working to provide guidance to the sector during the pandemic,” Mr Templeman said.
“Local Governments have an important role to play, and the State Government is doing everything it can to provide the necessary tools and support during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
He urged Local Governments to post agendas and minutes on their websites as early as possible to maintain engagement with their communities.
