FAQs
How often does the elected Council currently meet?
The City of Coffs Harbour has traditionally scheduled Council meetings on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from February to December each year. This is adjusted each year to avoid conflict with public holidays. From time to time, the elected Council also meets for an extraordinary Council meeting. Looking back over the past four years, this works out to be between 16 to 20 ordinary meetings each year.
How does this compare to other councils in NSW?
Most councils in our region meet once a month. When compared to 10 other regional councils in the same Office of Local Government group as the City (with groups based on broad demographic variables), six councils meet monthly, three meet fortnightly and one meets every three weeks.
What is the minimum requirement for how many times the elected Council must meet each year?
Local councils in NSW must meet at least 10 times a year in different months. This is prescribed by section 365 of the Local Government Act 1993.
How many times will the elected Council meet if it changes to monthly meetings?
The elected Council would schedule at least 11 meetings per year from February to December, with additional meetings held, if required.
Why is the City thinking about changing the meeting schedule?
In recent years, there has been a move towards monthly meetings within local councils across NSW. There are a number of reasons for this shift. This includes improving the efficiency of council operations as well as allowing more time for council staff to implement decisions and prepare reports.
The proposed change aims to streamline decision-making processes without reducing community access or involvement. The City would still meet the minimum requirements in the legislation.
Will there be any change to how the public can attend or speak at a Council meeting?
No – whilst there will be fewer Council meetings each year, community access to the Council meetings will remain the same. This includes attending the Chamber and speaking on items in the business paper at the public forum.
Can I still watch Council meetings online?
Yes – you will still be able to watch the live stream and recordings of Council meetings.
What will change in terms of how I can be involved in the City’s decisions?
Nothing – except the Council meeting frequency will be less. The City will still seek feedback from the community on its policies and decisions consistent with its Community Participation and Engagement Plan.
When would the new meeting schedule start?
The elected Council will consider community feedback and decide in June 2025 whether to change the meeting schedule. If passed, the new meeting schedule will take effect from July 2025.
Would the change be permanent?
Council will decide on the meeting schedule for the remainder of 2025 in June. The meeting schedule for 2026 will be decided by Council towards the end of the year.