Let me say at the outset, I agree, rules are there for a reason.
But just because it’s a rule sometimes you have to question whether it’s there for the right reasons.
Example: I, as an elected councillor, am often asked by residents and ratepayers to seek answers to questions from the council.
The briefing session referred to in the article is the place to seek these answers and staff are invariably compliant.
The problem is these briefing sessions are confidential.
So, I can get answers, but I am not allowed to convey the information back to the ratepayers of the Murray River Council.
That is why I ask questions in open council; and that’s why I get into trouble.
This is why I have never been in favour of briefing sessions.
I have always said, “If the questions are relevant and put forward in a respectful manner, why would the council not want to provide an answer?”.
There are too many questions that need to be answered and I have found that interjecting at open council meetings is the only way I can get a response.
Answers to questions about the purchase of a $1.2 million property by council.
Another question: Who owns the land for the proposed Barham abattoir?
The mayor suggests my style of carrying out my duties as a councillor does not suit this council.
I thought this is why I was here — to ask questions and get the best outcome for the people who elected me.
Our council meetings usually last two and a half to three hours, so time is not an issue.
The public not having all the relevant information creates an atmosphere of secrecy.
Councils should be open, honest and transparent.
I have been elected to two councils (Murray Shire and Murray River Council), and I can tell you — in my opinion — there has never been so much secrecy surrounding information to the public.
As for reading documents, I admit I struggle to find the time.
Until now it hasn’t been a problem and I have often just used common sense.
I consider my common sense an asset which has served me well over the years.
I am not a “YES” man.
— Cr Tom Weyrich, Murray River Council
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