Council in 'caretaker' mode

Wyong Shire Council has officially moved into 'caretaker' mode prior to the local government election on Saturday, 13 September 2008.

The caretaker period commenced at the close of the electoral roll on Monday, 4 August and will end on the day the election is declared.

Like Commonwealth and State Governments, councils are expected to assume a "caretaker" role during election periods to ensure that major decisions are not made which would limit the actions of an incoming council.

The Department of Local Government (DLG) has issued a circular to all councils outlining the decision making process prior to the election.

The DLG advises that while routine business should proceed as usual, councils should exercise due caution in making major policy decisions.

The caretaker period is not intended to impede councils from conducting their day-to-day business or expose them to the risk of litigation through delayed decision making where a legislative requirement exists.

However, the DLG advises that decisions should be made in the public interest and have regards to all the circumstances. This includes the urgency of an issue and whether there may be financial or legal repercussions if the matter is deferred.

During the caretaker period the DLG recommends councils should avoid:

• Determining controversial or significant development applications;
• New or potentially controversial permanent appointments of general managers; and
• Entering major contracts or undertakings.

Wyong Shire Council General Manager, Kerry Yates, said the circular had been brought to the attention of staff and Councillors.

"Caretaker conventions promote transparency and accountability in local government," Mr Yates said.

"Over the next six weeks Council will be operating according to the recommendations outlined in the DLG circular.

"These recommendations improve community confidence in Councils' decision making and enable the incoming Council to operate effectively."

A copy of Circular No. 08-37 Council Decision Making Prior to Ordinary Elections can be downloaded here.

Media contact: Steve Norris (02) 4350 5191 or 0434 323 782

Page last updated: 06/08/2008