Ordinary Council Meeting

Of all the meetings the Shire's Councillors attend, Ordinary Council Meetings are arguably the most important. Meeting procedure is based on a majority rules, Westminster style system developed over hundreds of years by parliaments around the world to provide for debate and decision making without conflict. Decisions of a council can only be made by the adoption of a motion by a majority of the members present at a properly convened meeting. The rules allow for only one person to speak at a time.

When the Shire's Councillors meet, they will make decisions on behalf of the community they represent. When making these decisions, Council's intention is to always act within the best interests of the community. Shire staff provide technical advice and support to Council when making their decisions but ultimately, the choice lies with Council as to what decisions they will make. 

Ordinary Council Meetings are formal meetings of the elected Council members and are required to be open to the public (although under certain conditions, Council Meetings can be closed under provisions of the Local Government Act 1995 [the Act]). Annually a Council is required under the Act to hold Ordinary Meetings and it may hold Special Meetings if required.

Ordinary meetings are to be held not more than 3 months apart under the Act so as a general rule, many Councils (such as the Shire of Gingin) tend to meet on a monthly basis annually. 

The Agenda for the Council Meeting will generally be made available to the public by 4.30pm on the Friday prior to the Council Meeting (usually held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month). 

Information about Petitions, Deputations and Public Question Time can be found by clicking here.