Zoom into community council meeting

A community council wants anyone in the town with an interest in what’s going on to join their meetings via Zoom.

Erskine Community Council has issued a list of do’s and don’ts to avoid a repeat of the spectacular row that erupted at a parish council in Cheshire.

Millions of people ended up watching the notorious‘Jackie Weaver’clip from the unruly goings-on at Handford Parish Council.

Erskine’s next meeting is this Thursday and the new way of working should help them power through the agenda.

Acting secretary Jim O’Neil is extending an invite to people to view the proceedings.

He said:“Visitors are always welcome. “Why not come along and be a part of your local community?”

A‘meeting etiquette’has been shaped and Jim added: “We should all follow this to make meetings more meaningful, to reduce unnecessary chatter and storytelling, and to avoid constant repetition.

“Please stick to the rules on the night. “The chair reserves the right to stop anyone who finds this difficult.“

Community council meetings across Scotland can often last for hours as some members go round in circles and fire off at tangents.

But if the new guidelines are followed at Erskine, it could be as smooth as silk.

Members wanting an item on the agenda should contact the secretary“at the earliest opportunity”.

If issues are to be raised at the meeting then people should come prepared with notes and dates of events.

And it adds:“During the meeting, please refrain from general conversation or joining in a debate without regard to the chairperson.

“If you wish to speak during the meeting please raise your hand and wait for the chairperson to nominate you to speak.

“Please be brief and succinct.

“Do not ramble or tell stories. If you have a question, ask it and wait for the answer. If you have a point to make, state your case clearly and briefly.”

The chairman has the authority to impose time limits or bring debate on items to an end.

Contact Erskine Community Council via their Facebook page.

The June meeting gets underway at 7pm tomorrow night.