Changes to question-time process

Northern Grampians Shire residents can now submit questions prior to council meetings following a change to public question-time guidelines.

Council amended its guidelines after a community call for an easier and more efficient questioning processes.

Mayor Kevin Erwin said people would now be able to pose questions through an online platform on the council’s website or fill out a hard-copy version at Stawell or St Arnaud customer service centres.

He said this change would lead to a more informed response, as council staff and councillors would be able to prepare answers in advance of an ordinary meeting.

“We are always looking for ways to make public question time a smoother and more efficient process for everyone,” Cr Erwin said.

“The changes will also allow us to be more detailed in our responses.”

Cr Erwin said for questions to be addressed in a council meeting the person asking the question must be present.

Questions without notice must be submitted by noon one week before an ordinary council meeting.

“Questions without notice can be submitted on a form to give to the chair before the start of each ordinary council meeting,” Cr Erwin said.

Copies of the form will be available at the meeting.

People can find the Questions With Notice online form at https://www.ngshire.vic. gov.au/your-council/councilmeetings.