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ABOUT THE BREWARRINA SHIRE COUNCIL PUBLIC INQUIRY
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On 22nd June 2005 the Minister for Local Government, the Hon Tony Kelly MLC, announced a formal public inquiry into Brewarrina Shire Council.
The Terms of Reference for the Inquiry are:
“To inquire, report and provide recommendations to the Minister for Local Government on the efficiency and effectiveness of the governance of Brewarrina Shire Council.
The Inquiry will have particular regard to:
- Whether the elected representatives fully understand their role and responsibilities and have adequately, appropriately and reasonably carried out their responsibilities in the best interests of all ratepayers and residents.
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Whether the practices and procedures adopted by the Council in the conduct of its meetings comply with the Local Government Act 1993, the Local Government (Meetings) Regulation 1999 and the Council’s adopted Code of Meeting Practice, and whether the Council’s adopted Code of Meeting Practice itself complies with the Act and Regulation.
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Whether the Council’s other policies and codes in relation to its governance adopted under the Local Government Act and Regulations comply with the Local Government Act and Regulations.
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The appropriateness of the procedures and processes adopted by Council in relation to its environmental planning responsibilities, including their application to the Council’s own projects.
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The appropriateness and efficacy of the relationship between elected representatives and Council staff, and between council, the community and other Commonwealth and State Government agencies providing funding or services in the council area.
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Whether there has been adequate annual or longer term planning for the provision of services by Council within its local government area.
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Whether the elected representatives are in a position to adequately direct and control the affairs of council in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, so that council may fulfil the Charter, provisions and intent of the Local Government Act and otherwise fulfil its statutory functions.
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Whether the Council has exercised prudent financial management and control; and
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Any other matter that warrants mention, particularly where it may impact on the effective administration of the area and/or the working relationships between the council, councillors and its administration.
The Commissioner may make other recommendations as he sees fit, including whether all civic offices in relation to the Council should be declared vacant”.
The Minister has approved the appointment of Mr Ross Woodward as Commissioner to undertake the Inquiry. Mr Woodward is a qualified town planner who has held senior public service positions with the Department of Housing and the former NSW Department of Planning. He currently holds the position of Deputy Director General with the Division of Local Government.
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