Goulburn Mulwaree Council debates proposed meeting changes

But others, like Sam Rowland, believed the technology should be embraced in line with many other organisations.

The matter sparked spirited discussion at the most recent meeting but ended in approval.

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The state government implemented the audio-visual link provision during coronavirus but has sought feedback on its extension until December 31 and beyond. Some councils want it made permanent and have asked the government to consider a long-term change to the Code of Meeting Practice.

It would not apply to all councillors but those who were ill, had a disability or carer responsibilities, were dealing with a natural disaster or were away on business.

Goulburn Mulwaree Council general manager Warwick Bennett recommended that it be made permanent.

"It has worked extremely well for other other councils," he said.

"...I think this is something we need to embrace."

Noting concerns the system could be abused, Mr Bennett said it was a matter of individual integrity. This year two councillors had been out of the region on business and he believed they should have had this option.

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Mr Bennett said he, the staff and the mayor had "hours and hours of Zoom meetings during coronavirus.

Concillors and solicitor Sam Rowland agreed, saying audio-visual links worked perfectly well in the courts.

"It is about modernising the council," he said.

"...I support it in that it creates an option for councillors as opposed to an expectation."

But Cr Alf Walker saw pitfalls. He maintained some decisions could be challenged.

"If you're sitting at home sick, how much of that impedes your judgement on a development application or a budget?" he said.

"...It opens a can of worms for decisions to be challenged in the Land and Environment Court."

Moreover, if a councillor was unable to attend a meeting, a mechanism to apply for a leave of absence already applied, he said.

Deputy Mayor Peter Walker questioned its efficacy, especially when the internet crashed.

Under the proposed changes, the meeting chair must be personally present and only those councillors qualifying for "exceptional circumstances" will be allowed to tune in remotely.

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Cr Leah Ferrara supported the move.

"I don't think it will open a pandora's box," she said.

"If people want to be at a meeting they'll show up. We need to trust in people's integrity and I don't think anyone here would abuse it."

The council will make a formal submission to the Office of Local Government supporting the change on a permanent basis.

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