There will be no public forum or attendance at the Central Coast Council meeting on March 23 in view of the coronavirus situation.
Mayor, Lisa Matthews, has called an Extraordinary Meeting to replace the scheduled ordinary meeting 6.30pm, at Wyong Council Chambers.
“Despite the current environment, there is business of Council that must progress, and we want to ensure this occurs with the safety of our staff and community being a priority,” Cr Matthews said.
She said the decision aligned with a NSW Health direction regarding social distancing and a shortened agenda would “minimise the risk to councillors and staff”.
“Given the current climate, it is in the best interest of councillors, staff and members of the public to not progress with a public forum or public attendance, as attendance may put health at risk,” Cr Matthews said.
“Members of the public can view the meeting on webcast, and I encourage them to do so.
“Whilst it is important to hear from our community on the matters being discussed, the health and safety of our community is paramount.”
Cr Matthews said a longer-term plan for future Council meetings was being discussed.
“We are currently experiencing a situation that we have not encountered before and as leaders of the community, we believe that taking measures to protect our community and ourselves against the spread of COVID-19 is vital,” she said.
Cr Matthews said: “COVID-19 is having an increasing impact on the NSW community and the medical advice is rapidly evolving.
Cr Matthews said the council was taking a “precautionary approach” and working collaboratively with the Local Health District to implement strategies to minimise COVID-19 transmission throughout the community.
“Council has placed signage in our Gosford and Wyong offices to assist staff and visitors of the necessary precautions to take in reducing the risk of transmission and exposure,” she said.
“We will also make hand sanitiser available at all Council hosted events, including citizenship ceremonies.
Meanwhile, Council has suspended the delivery of all library programs, events and outreach services until at least April 30.
This includes the home library service, Bookmobile and school holiday program.
Gwandalan Library Link will also be temporarily closed but all other branches will continue to operate for now.
Source:
Media releases, Mar 13, 16 and 17
Central Coast Council