Central Coast Councillor Jane Smith has expressed her disappointment that a Motion calling for greater transparency from the Mayor and the CEO’s office was voted down at Council’s April 29 meeting.
Smith said the Motion asked the Mayor to provide a monthly diary disclosure, similar to those provided by State Ministers, but was voted down by the Liberal and Team Central Coast councillor block.
“The Mayor has a privileged position within the Council but is regarded as the first amongst equals – not a law unto himself,” Smith said.
“Previous mayors have regularly circulated to councillors and senior staff a record of meetings and events they have attended.
“For example, the Mayor of Hornsby Council tables Mayor’s Notes at their monthly Council meetings.
“NSW Ministers publish monthly diary disclosures to ensure transparency and accountability.
“There is no reason that this should be a secret from our community – especially when the Mayor is being paid an allowance from our residents and ratepayers.”
Smith said no reason was given by councillors who voted the Motion down.
The Motion requested that the Mayor provide a report to each Ordinary Meeting of Council on meetings and activities of the Mayor’s office, events and activities attended by the Mayor and details of when councillors have represented the Mayor.
It also called for the CEO to provide a report to each Ordinary Meeting of Council on meetings and activities.
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