• A member of the public may be permitted to address Council via audio video link provided that the member of the public:
- has available the necessary technology to join the meeting;
- does not allow others to log onto the audio visual link;
- ensures there will be minimal background noise or interruption.
• Approved speakers are to register with the Council any written, visual or audio material to be presented in support of their address to the Council and to identify any equipment needs by 3pm on the business day preceding the meeting. The general manager or their delegate may refuse to allow such materials to be presented.
Important Notes
1. Under Council's Code of Meeting Practice the following provision of the number of speakers applied:
a) A limit of six speakers for any one item, with three speakers in support of the recommendation to the Council and three speakers in opposition. If more speakers apply to speak 'for' or 'against' any items of business, the Mayor or, or in the Mayor's absence, the Deputy Mayor or meeting Chairperson, may increase the number of speakers permitted to speak on an item of business.
b) A limit of three minutes for any one speaker - this time can be extended by a resolution of Council.
c) All requests by persons to address the Council or Committee meetings are to be referred to the Mayor or, in the Mayor's absence, the Deputy Mayor or meeting Chairperson for determination and the applicants advised accordingly prior to the meeting, with reasons given in writing if the request is refused.
d) Upon the Mayor's agreement to hear a member of the public's address, the address may be read aloud at meetings by Council staff. The three minute's limit for any one speaker will continue to apply.
2) Permission to speak may be withdrawn at any time, should inappropriate comments be made and potentially offensive or defamatory remarks will render a speaker open to legal action.
3) The recording of a meeting is to be made publicly available on the Council’s website for at least four years after the meeting and as far as possible, be available on application beyond that time.
4) For Ordinary Council Meetings this form must be submitted to Council no later than 12:00 noon on the DAY of the relevant meeting. Applications received after this time will not be accepted.
