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STONNINGTON

CouncillorCodeofConduct

OurCommitmentto Stonnington

As the Councillors for theStonnington municipality wearecommittedto achieving:

Community–Acitywhereallpeople canbe happy,healthy, safe and feel partofandcontribute tothecommunity;

Environment -Acleaner,safer and better environmentforfuturegenerationstoenjoy;

Liveability-The mostdesirable place tolive,work andvisit

Prosperity-Aprosperouscommunity,recognisedasacreativecity, apremiervisitor andretaildestination

This commitmentisreflectedinCouncil’sVisionthatStonningtonwill bea connectedcommunitythatfostersthe hopes,wellbeing andaspirationsofallpeople.

This commitmentwill beachievedbyCouncilproviding anenvironmentthatallowsthe organizationto achieveits bestandto protectand enhancethe wellbeing oftheCommunity.To deliver onthispurpose,Councilwillstriveforexcellence,ensuringthat ithasthecapacitytodeliver timelyandefficientservices to meetcommunityneedsandtocontinuallyimprovestandardsofservicedelivery.

As Councillorswedeclarethatwewillabideby,observeand performour duties asaCouncillor ofStonningtonCityCouncilinaccordancewiththisCodeofConduct,theLocal GovernmentAct1989andCouncil’sGeneralLocalLaw2008(No.1)

STONNltlGTONCouncillor Code of Conduct

ThisCodeofConductandCouncillorsCommitment totheCityofStonningtontoabide bytheCode1wasadoptedbytheStonnington CityCouncilwithindividualdeclarationsmade,signedandwitnessedbytheChiefExecutiveOfficeronMonday27June2016,asfollows:

EastWard

CrErinDavie CrJimAthanasopoulosNorthWard

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CrJohnChandlerCrMatthewKoce

Befor.Me:

TABLEOFCONTENTSPARTONE

1.Introduction6

1.1Purposeofthe CouncillorCodeofConduct6

2.RoleofMayorandCouncillors7

2.1Mayor’sRole7

2.2Roleofa Councillor7

3.Functionsofthe ChiefExecutive Officer (CEO)8

4.Our ValuesandBehaviours9

4.1Behaviours9

4.2CourtesyandRespect9

4.3HonestyandIntegrity10

4.4UseofCouncilResources11

4.5CouncilInformation11

5.Councillor/StaffRelationships12

6..DisclosureofInterests12

7..Assembly ofCouncillors13

8.ConfidentialInformation14

8.1CouncillorBriefings14

9.WardIssues15

10.CommunityEngagement16

11.ProhibitedConduct16

11.1MisuseofPosition17

11.2Improper DirectionandImproper Influence17

11.3ConfidentialInformation17

11.4Conflict ofInterest18

11.5OtherLegislativeRequirements18

12.DisputeResolution18

12.1InternalResolutionProcess19

12.1.1StepOne–Direct Negotiation19

12.1.2StepTwo – ExternalMediation20

12.1.3StepThree–InternalResolutionProcedure-Arbiter21

12.1.4RoleoftheArbiter22

12.1.5Findings23

12.2CouncillorConductPanel24

12.3VictorianCivilandAdministrativeTribunal(VCAT)25

13AccessToCouncilBuildings25

14.ProtectedDisclosure25

15.EqualOpportunity25

16.Statement ofHumanRights26

17.ElectionPeriodPolicy26

18.CouncillorPoliticalActivity26

18.1Stateor FederalElectionCandidates26

19.References27

20.Review27

21.ScheduleofChanges28

DEFINITIONS28

APPENDICES

One / CouncillorBriefingSessionsCharter / 30
Two / LegislationReferences / 31
Three / StatutoryDeclarationof Eligibility / 46
Four / NewCouncillorCodeofConductFramework–Flow-Chart / 47

1.INTRODUCTION

TheCouncillors’CodeofConduct (“theCode”) wasoriginallyadoptedbyCouncilin2001andsubsequentlyamended tomeet therequirements ofSection76Cofthe LocalGovernmentAct1989(“theAct”) withfurther reviewsundertakenasrequiredunderthe Actand torespondtoanylegislativechanges.

A Councilmust, within 4 monthsafter ageneralelection:-

a.call a specialmeetingsolely forthepurposeof reviewingthe CouncillorCodeofConduct; and

b.atthat specialmeeting, approveanyamendmentstobemadetotheCouncillorCodeofConductdeterminedby the Council tobenecessaryfollowingthereviewoftheCouncillorCodeofConduct.

A copy ofthe Code ofConduct (asamendedfrom timetotime) mustbe:

  • given to eachCouncillor
  • available forinspectionatthe Councilofficeand any districtoffices
  • publishedon theCouncil’sinternetwebsite

1.1Purposeof theCouncillorCodeof Conduct

Thepurpose oflocalgovernmentistoprovide a systemunderwhichCouncilsperform thefunctionsandexercisethepowersconferredbyor under theActandanyother Actfor thepeace,order andgoodgovernmentof their municipaldistricts.Goodgovernanceisfundamentalto aCouncilbeingabletoperform itspurpose.GoodgovernancereliesongoodworkingrelationsbetweenCouncillors.

ThisCode:

  • setsoutthestandards ofconduct expectedof electedrepresentatives;
  • endeavourstofostergoodworkingrelationsbetweenCouncillorstoenableCouncillorsto workconstructivelytogetherinthebestinterestsofthe localcommunity;and
  • mandates Councillorsconductdesignedtobuildpublicconfidenceinthe integrity oflocalgovernment.

From the2016Councilelections,apersonelected tobe aCouncillorisnotcapableof actingasa Councilloruntil thepersonhasreadthe CouncillorCodeofConductandmadeadeclarationstatingthat theywillabidebythe CouncillorCodeofConduct. ItisthepersonalresponsibilityofCouncillorsto ensurethat theyareconversant with,andcomplywith, theprovisionsofthisCode.

ThisCode ofConduct recognisesthat the establishment andstrengtheningofgood workingrelationshipsbetweenCouncillorsandalsowith Officersisthe basisforasolidandeffectiveteam, torepresent thecommunityandprovideleadershipandguidanceforthefuture ofthemunicipality.

TheCodecomplements the CouncilPlanandtheEmployeeCodeofConductwithothersupportingpolicies(listedfurther).

TheprovisionsofthisCodealsoapplyto:

a.Membersofspecialcommittees–whetheror not theyareCouncillors(currentlyonlyInnerMelbourneActionPlanImplementationCommittee–IMAP);

b.MembersoftheAuditCommittee(whichisanAdvisoryCommittee);

c.MembersofCouncil’sAdvisoryCommittees;

d.MayorandCouncillors.

2.ROLEOFMAYORAND COUNCILLORS

2.1MAYOR’SROLE

Section73AAofthe Act outlinesthat the functionsofthe Mayorinclude –

(a)providingguidance toCouncillorsaboutwhatisexpectedofa Councillorincludinginrelation totheroleofa Councillorundersection65,andtheobservationofthe Councillorconductprinciplesand the CouncillorCodeofConductbyCouncillorsundersections76B,76BAand76C; and

(b)actingastheprincipalspokespersonforthe Council;and

(c)supporting good workingrelationsbetweenCouncillors;and

(d)carryingoutthe civicandceremonialduties oftheOffice ofMayor.

2.2ROLEOF ACOUNCILLOR

TheStonningtonCityCouncilconsistsofnineCouncillorswhoaredemocraticallyelectedbythe voters ofthe City of Stonningtoninaccordancewith the Act.

Theroleofa CouncillorhasbeendefinedintheAct(Section65)as follows:

(1)(a)to participatein thedecision-makingoftheCouncil;and

(b)torepresent the localcommunityinthat decision-making; and

(c)contributetothe strategicdirectionof theCouncilthroughthe developmentandreviewofkeystrategicdocumentsoftheCouncil,including the CouncilPlan.

(2)InperformingtheroleofCouncillor, a Councillormust-

(a)consider the diversityof interestsandneedsof thelocalcommunity;and

(b)observethe principlesofgoodgovernanceand actwithintegrity; and

(c)providecivicleadershipinrelationtotheexerciseof thevariousfunctionsandresponsibilitiesof theCouncilunder thisAct andother Acts;and

(d)participatein the responsibleallocationof theresourcesofCouncil throughthe annualbudget; and

(e)facilitateeffectivecommunicationbetweenthe Counciland thecommunity.

(3)Theroleof a Councillordoesnotincludetheperformanceof any functionsthat arespecifiedasfunctionsofthe Chief ExecutiveOfficer under Section94Aof theAct.

TheAct placesobligationsonCouncillorsinrelation tothe way theyshouldact.The ActalsoprohibitscertainconductbyCouncillorsandprescribespenaltiesforCouncillorswhocontravenetheseprovisions. CouncillorsoftheStonningtonCityCouncilundertaketocomplywith the variousprovisionsofthe ActandwiththisCodeofConduct.

Section76Bofthe Act setsoutthe primary principleofCouncillorconduct asfollows:

It isa primaryprincipleof Councillorconduct that, inperformingtheroleofaCouncillor,a Councillor must—

(a)act withintegrity; and

(b)impartiallyexercisehisorher responsibilitiesintheinterestsof thelocalcommunity; and

(c)notimproperlyseektoconfer anadvantageor disadvantageonanyperson.

Section76BAofthe ActsetsoutthegeneralprinciplesofCouncillorconductasfollows:

In additiontoactinginaccordancewiththe primaryprincipleof Councillorconduct specifiedinsection76B, inperformingtheroleofaCouncillor,aCouncillormust—

(a)avoidconflictsbetweenhisorherpublicdutiesasa Councillorandhisorherpersonalinterests andobligations;

(b)acthonestlyandavoidstatements(whetheroralorinwriting)oractionsthat willor are likelytomisleadordeceivea person;

(c)treatallpersonswithrespectandhavedueregard totheopinions,beliefs, rightsandresponsibilitiesofotherCouncillors,Councilstaffandother persons;

(d)exercisereasonablecareanddiligenceandsubmithimselfor herself tothe lawfulscrutinythat isappropriateto hisor her office;

(e)endeavour to ensurethat publicresourcesare usedprudentlyandsolelyin the publicinterest;

(f)actlawfullyandinaccordancewiththetrust placedinhim or her asanelectedrepresentative;

(g)support andpromotetheseprinciplesbyleadershipandexampleandactin awaythat securesandpreservespublicconfidencein theofficeofCouncillor.

Councillorsarerequiredto conduct themselvesinobservanceofthe primaryprincipleandthegeneralprinciples. Councillorsundertaketo dothis.

3.FUNCTIONSOFTHECHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICER(CEO)

The ChiefExecutiveOfficer (CEO) isresponsiblefor:

a.establishingandmaintaininganappropriateorganisationalstructurefor theCouncil;

b.ensuringthat thedecisionsoftheCouncilareimplementedwithoutundue delay;

c.the daytodaymanagementofthe Council’soperationsinaccordancewiththeCouncilPlan;

d.developing,adoptinganddisseminating a Code ofConductfor Councilstaff;

e.providingtimelyadviceto theCouncil;

f.ensuringthat the Councilreceivestimelyandreliableadviceaboutitslegalobligationsunderthe Act andanyotherAct;

g.supporting the Mayorintheperformanceofthe Mayor’sroleasMayor;

h.carryingout theCouncil’sresponsibilitiesasa deemedemployerwithrespect toCouncillors,asdeemedworkers,whichariseunderorwithrespect tothe

AccidentCompensationAct1985or theWorkplaceInjuryRehabilitationandCompensationAct2013; and

i.performinganyotherfunctionor duty ofthe CEO specifiedinthisAct or any otherAct.

TheCEOisresponsiblefor managing theinteractionsbetweenCouncilstaff andCouncillorsincludingbyensuringthatappropriatepolicies,practicesandprotocolsareinplacedefiningappropriatearrangementsforinteractionbetweenCouncilstaff andCouncillors.

Councillorswillundertake torespect thefunctionsofthe ChiefExecutiveOfficer andtocomplywith the policies, practicesandprotocolsdefiningappropriatearrangementsforinteractionbetweenCouncilstaffandCouncillorsthat areput inplacebytheChiefExecutiveOfficer.

4.OURVALUESANDBEHAVIOURS

In undertakingour roleasCouncillorweconfirm thefollowingvaluesandbehaviours.

4.1BEHAVIOURS

A Councillorwillbehave in accordancewiththisCodeat alltimes when:

a.conductingthe businessoftheCouncil;

b.conductingthe businessofthe officeto whichheorshehasbeenelectedorappointed;or

c.actingasarepresentativeoftheCouncil.

Wherea CouncilloractsasarepresentativeoftheCouncil:

a.onanother relevantauthority,the Councillormust,whenacting for that otherauthority, complywiththatother authority’scode ofconduct;or

b.onanyother body,the Councillormust, whenactingfor that otherbody, complywith theauthority’scode ofconduct,exceptinsofarasit conflictswithanyotherlawfulobligationsto which thebodymaybesubject;

c.must clearlyunderstandthe basis oftheir appointment;

d.provideregular reportstotheCouncilonthe activitiesoftheorganisation; and

e.atanyother meeting, functionor socialoccasiontheCouncillorwillbemindfulthat theyarerepresenting theCity ofStonningtonat alltimesand behavein amanner expectedunder thisCodeofConduct.

4.2COURTESYANDRESPECT

Councillorswilltreatallpeoplewithcourtesyandrespect, recognisingthat therearelegitimatedifferencesinopinions,race,culture, religion,language,genderandabilities. Thisincludes:

a.treatingmembersofthecommunitywithdignityandensuringthatneither offencenorembarrassment iscaused;

b.beingrespectfulofotherpeople’stime;

c.adoptinga positiveattitude toteamworkandtreatingfellowCouncillorswithrespect,evenwhendisagreeingwiththeirviewsordecisions;

d.debatingcontentiousissueswithoutresorting topersonalacrimonyor insult;

e.beingmindfulofthe workandfamilycommitments ofotherCouncillors;

f.ensuringtheirpunctualattendanceat Councilmeetings,briefingsandcommitteemeetings,andthat theyarepreparedinadvancefor anyCouncilmeeting,briefingor otherpublic forum andarefamiliarwithissuesontheagenda;

g.fullyparticipatinginCouncilmeetings,briefings,andotherpublicevents;

h.submitting anapologytothe MayorandChiefExecutiveOfficer inadvanceofanyCouncilmeeting,briefingor otherpublicforumwhenitbecomesknownthatthe Councillorisunabletoattend; and

i.actingwithcourtesytowardsCouncillorsand Councilstaffand avoidingintimidatory behaviouror language.

4.3HONESTYANDINTEGRITY

Councillorsrecognisethat theyhold a position of trustand willnotmisuseorderiveunduebenefitfrom their positions. Councillorswill:

a.avoid conflicts ofinterest andcomplywith the relevantprovisionsofthe ActandthisCodeofConduct relating tointerestsandconflictsofinterest;

b.notexerciseundueinfluenceonother Councillors, members ofCouncilstafformembersofthepublic,Councilcustomers,contractorsor supplierstogain orattempt togain anadvantagefor themselvesor any membersof their family;

c.notacceptgifts,benefitsorhospitalityeitherintheirrolesasCouncillor, oranymemberof theirfamily,orwhereit couldbeperceived to influencethe Councillorexcept:

  • Wherethegiftwouldgenerallyberegardedasonly havinga token valueandcouldnotbeperceived toinfluencethe Councillor’sactionsandinaccordancewithCouncil’sReceivingGifts,BenefitsandHospitalityPolicy
  • Whererefusalofthegift maycauseoffenceorembarrassment,inwhichcase thegift maybeacceptedon behalfoftheCouncilandbecomestheproperty oftheCouncil(seepolicyon“ReceivingGifts, BenefitsandHospitality”)
  • Whenthe Councillorhasanactiveroleat aneventon behalfofCouncil
  • TheReceivingGifts,BenefitsandHospitalityPolicyestablishesguidelinesto helpCouncillorsandOfficerscomplywith theconflictofinterestprovisionsofthe Actwhere theyareofferedgifts, benefitsorhospitality.

d.avoidsituationsthat mightcreateaconflict betweentheir publicandprivaterolesandavoidusingtheir publicposition topromotepersonalinterests/pursuits;

e.behonest intheirdealingswith the community,other CouncillorsandwithCouncil staff;

f.alwaysactimpartiallyand in the bestinterest of thecommunityasa whole;and

g.fromcommencement oftheirelectoralterm,maintain,andfollowingthesubsequent election, submit tothe ChiefExecutiveanaccurateelectioncampaigndonationreturnasrequiredbysection62oftheLocalGovernmentAct1989andclause115of theLocalGovernment (Electoral) Regulations2015.

Council,aspart ofits publictransparency,willmaintain a register ofgifts, benefitsorhospitalityreceivedoverthe valueof$20.00andtheChiefExecutiveOfficershouldbeadvisedofallsuchgiftssotheycanberecordedin theregister.

4.4USEOFCOUNCILRESOURCES

Councillorswillcommit tousingCouncilresourceseffectivelyandeconomically.Councillorswill:

  • maintainadequatesecurity overCouncilproperty,facilitiesandresourcesprovided to assistinperformingtheroleofa CouncillorandwillcomplywithanyCouncilpoliciesapplyingtotheir use;
  • ensureanyexpenseclaimssubmittedareincompliancewith the relevantlegislativeprovisionsandCouncilpolicy;
  • notuseCouncilresources,includingservicesofCouncil staff,forprivatepurposes, unlesslegallyorproperlyauthorisedtodoso, andpaymentsaremadewhereappropriate;
  • whendealingwithCouncilinourprivatecapacity(e.g. asaratepayer,recipientofaCouncilserviceorapplicant fora permit)notexpect nor requestpreferentialtreatmentinrelation toanysuchprivatematter;andwillavoidanyactionthatcouldleadCouncilstaff or membersofthe publicto believethatthey areseekingpreferentialtreatment;
  • notusepublicfundsor resourcesin amannerthatisimproperorunauthorised; and
  • useCouncilprovidedcomputer, ipadandtelephonesinaccordancewithCouncil’s ITAcceptableUsepolicyincludingtheappropriateuseof email,internet andSocialMediausepolicy.

4.5COUNCILINFORMATION

Informationismadeavailabledailyto assistCouncillorsintheir representationanddecisionmaking.Toobtaininformationthat isup-to-dateandofferedintherightcontext,liaisonshould bemade with the CEO,GeneralManagerorManager.

Speakingdirectlytoofficersbelowthe Manager levelwithouttheauthorisationoftherelevantManageror GeneralManager may result inCouncillorsreceivingadvicethathasnot beenformallyendorsedbythemanagement. Exceptionsaremadewithsupport stafforother designatedstaffsuchasmediaadvisersorplanningofficers,who,foroperationalreasons,haveregularcontactwithallCouncillors.

Theprovisionofinformationandadvice to Councillorsoperatesontheprinciplethatinformationprovided to oneCouncillorshouldgenerallybemadeavailable to allWardCouncillorsandpreferablyallCouncillors.

CouncillorswilltreatCouncilinformationappropriately by:

a.beingaware that informationofaconfidentialnature(asoutlinedinsection8ConfidentialInformation)must not becommunicateduntilitisnolonger treatedasconfidentialandthat theimproperuseor releasecan contravenethe Act;

b.notusinginformationgainedbyvirtueofbeing aCouncillorforany purposeotherthanto exercisetheir roleasaCouncillor;

c.beingaware that theyareonlyentitled toaccessinformationwhichisrelevanttoa matterbeforethe CouncilorSpecialCommitteeorlikelytocomebefore theCouncilorSpecialCommittee;

b.respecting theCouncil’spoliciesinrelation to publiccommentsandcommunicationswith themediaandthepersonsauthorisedtospeakon Council’sbehalf;

c.recognising therequirementsofthePrivacyandDataProtectionAct 2014regarding theaccess,useandreleaseofpersonalinformationalsoapplyto themasindividuals;

d.notpreventinganotherpersonfrom gainingaccesstoinformationto whichthatpersonisentitledby law;and

e.beingprudent inthe useofinformationthat theyacquireintheir roleasaCouncilloror member.

5COUNCILLOR/STAFFRELATIONSHIPS

TheLocalGovernmentActoutlinesthatallCouncilstaffareaccountabletothe ChiefExecutiveOfficer whoisresponsibleforappointing,directingor terminating staff.

Councillorsarenotin aposition toinstruct or direct, or admonishCouncilstaffonanymatterspertaining totheperformance oftheirduties.

TheCouncilappointsandreviewsthe performanceofthe ChiefExecutiveOfficer.

Toachieveitsdesiredoutcome,Councilmustworkasateam with the ChiefExecutiveOfficer andCouncilstaff. For teamworkto besuccessful, Councillorsneedto:

a.accept that their roleisoneofpolicydevelopmentandleadership,notmanagementoradministration;

b.acknowledgethatthe ChiefExecutiveOfficer, inaccordancewith the Act, isresponsibleforstaffandthe administrativemanagement oftheCouncil;

c.acknowledgethattheyarenot responsiblefor implementingCouncilactions;

d.acknowledgethatthey havenocapacitytoindividuallydirectmembers ofstaff toperform or not performparticular functions;

e.refrainfrom usingtheirposition toimproperlyinfluencemembersofstaffintheirdutiesorfunctionstogain advantagefor themselvesorothers;

f.respect therole ofCouncilofficersandstaff andtreat themin a way thatengendersmutualrespectatalltimes;

f.acknowledgethe professionalobligationofficers have togiveadvicebasedontheir knowledgeandexperienceandtowritereportsandrecommendationsin aprofessional, objectiveandunbiasedway;

g.actwithcourtesy towardsCouncilstaff andavoidintimidatorybehaviour; and

h.refrainfrompublicly criticisingCouncilOfficersina way thatcastaspersionsontheirprofessionalcompetencyor credibility.CouncillorsshouldadvisetheCEOin a timelyfashionofanyconcernsthat theymay havewithanyCouncilofficer.

Note: Improper directionof Council staff bya Councillor (section76E)is anoffenceundertheActandcarries amaximum penaltycurrentlyof120penaltyunits.

6.DISCLOSUREOFINTERESTS

Councillors,committeemembersincludingadvisorycommitteesandmembers oftheAuditCommitteewillcomplywith theprovisionsoftheActinregardtoconflicts ofinterest, whetherofadirect or indirect nature.Thisalsoappliestosection223hearings.

It isa Councillor’s responsibilityto identifyanddiscloseanyconflicts ofinterest whenrequiredto doso,even aperceivedconflict,andCouncillorswill:

  • giveearlyconsiderationtoeachmatterto beconsideredbythe Council,anyspecialcommitteetowhichthey belong, or Assembly ofCouncillors, toascertainifthey or anyimmediatefamilymember, have a conflictofinterest
  • recognisethat thelegalonustodeterminewhetheraconflict ofinterest existsrestsentirelywitheachindividualCouncillorandthat Councilofficerscannotofferany adviceinrelation topotentialconflicts
  • ifa Councillorconsiders orcannotconfidentlysaythey or anyimmediatefamilymember donot haveadirectorindirectinterest in a matterbeforethe Council,a SpecialCommittee of CounciloranAssemblyofCouncillorsthe Councillorwilldeclarethey have aconflictofinterest
  • ensuretheydisclose theclassandnature ofthe interestand leave theroominwhich themeetingor assemblyisbeingheldimmediately beforeanydiscussion,debateandvoteonthematter andnot returnuntil thematter hasbeen dealtwith
  • ifa Councillorconsidersthat their personalinterestor that ofanyimmediatefamilymember maybeinconflict withtheirpublicduty to actimpartiallyandinthe interest ofthe wholecommunity,the Councillorwilldeclare a conflictingpersonalinterestandapply to theCouncilorSpecialCommitteeto beexemptedfromvotingonthematter. The Councillorwillleave theChamberas outlinedabove.

Guidanceontheconflictofinterest provisionsoftheAct canbefoundin“Conflictof Interest

–AGuideforCouncillors–October 2012” and“ConflictofInterest – A guidefor membersofCouncilcommittees–October 2012” ontheDELW&Pwebsite.

Councillorsarealsorequired tolodgeanOrdinaryReturntwiceyearlyforaslongastheCouncillorholdsthe relevantoffice;specifically

  • between30Juneand9August; and
  • between31Decemberand 9 February

Returnsmustbelodgedwith the ChiefExecutiveOfficer or hisdelegate.Disclosuresonthereturnmust relatetotheentireperiodfrom the last returnandfull detailsoftheserequirementsareoutlinedin thedocumentation.

StonningtonCouncilhasalsoresolvedthat annually (mid-year)Councillors willsubmitaStatutoryDeclaration(Attachment Three)that declaresthat theCouncillorisstilleligibleandcapableofcontinuingasaCouncillor.

7ASSEMBLYOFCOUNCILLORS

AnAssembly ofCouncillorsisdefinedundertheActandmeansameetingofanadvisorycommittee oftheCouncil (including a CouncillorBriefing), ifat least oneCouncillorispresentoraplannedor scheduledmeetingofatleast halfoftheCouncillorsandonemember ofCouncilstaffwhichconsidersmattersthat areintendedor likelyto be:

a.the subjectofadecision oftheCouncil; or

b.bya member ofCouncilstaffunderdelegation.

butdoesnot include a Councilmeeting, a SpecialCommittee oftheCouncil,AuditCommitteeor club,association,peakbody,politicalparty orother organisation.

AnAssembly ofCouncillorsRecordwillalsobecompletedandsubmittedfor anyPlanningConsultativemeetingwhere a Councillorattends.

Ifa Councilloror memberhasa conflictofinterest (asoutlinedinsection 6DisclosureofInterests),theymustdisclose the interest, but donothave togivedetailsofthe interestandleave the meetingwhile the matterisdiscussed.

A writtenrecord ofeachAssembly ofCouncilismadewhichincludesthenames ofallCouncillorsandmembersofstaffattending; themattersconsidered;any conflictofinterestdisclosuresmadeandtimethepersonleftandreturnedtothemeeting.TheAssembly ofCouncillorsform isrequiredto bereportedtothenextCouncilmeetingbythe CEOandincorporatedintothe Councilminutes.

8.CONFIDENTIALINFORMATION

A Councillormustnotdiscloseinformationthatheor sheknows,or shouldreasonablyknow,isconfidentialinformation.

A Councillormaydiscloseinformationthatheor she knowsisconfidentialinformationinthefollowingcircumstances:

a.forthepurpose ofanylegalproceedingsarisingoutofthe Act;

b.to acourtor tribunalinthecourse oflegalproceedings;

c.pursuant toanorder ofacourtor tribunal;

d.tothe ChiefMunicipalInspector tothe extent reasonablyrequiredbytheChiefMunicipalInspector;

e.to a CouncillorConductPanelin the course ofahearingandforthepurposesofthehearing;

f.to amunicipalmonitor totheextent reasonablyrequiredbythemunicipalmonitor;and

g.totheextent reasonablyrequiredforanylawenforcementpurposes.

Informationisconfidentialif:

a.the informationwasprovided totheCouncilor specialcommitteeinrelation toa matterconsideredinameetingclosed tomembersofthe public, inaccordancewithsection89(2)oftheAct,andtheCouncilorspecialcommitteehasnot passedaresolutionthat the informationisnot confidential;or

b.the informationhasbeendesignatedasconfidentialinformationbyaresolutionoftheCouncilorspecialcommittee whichspecifiesthe relevantgroundsapplyingundersection89(2) oftheAct and theCouncilhasnotpassed aresolutionthat theinformationisnot confidential;or

c.the informationhasbeendesignatedinwritingasconfidentialinformationby theChiefExecutiveOfficerundersection77specifying thegroundorgroundsapplyingand theCouncilhasnot passed aresolutionthat the informationisnot confidential.1

8.1.COUNCILLORBRIEFINGS

TheroleofCouncillorBriefingSessionsistoadviseandinformCouncillorsofnewmatters orthe progress ofexistingmatters.

Theseinformaland,attimes, confidentialBriefingSessionsprovide the opportunityforCouncillorsto beinformed, to discuss, challenge, questionandclarifymattersofCouncilbusinessandup-comingmeetingagendas.Theyalsoprovide the opportunityforCouncillorsto discusspolicyformulationanddirection.

Thebriefingsessionsdonotinvolvedecision-making. Decisionsaremadeby CouncilattheformalCouncilmeetings.

FrequentlyinformationisprovidedatCouncillorBriefingSessionswhichisconfidential.

Attendeesat CouncillorBriefingSessionsmustnotdiscloseto any personother thanstaffdirectly involvedanymattersdeemedasconfidentialat suchsessions, whether in theformofinformationoradviceprovided,discussionsheld,or opinionsor viewsgiven.Seecommentsundersection4.5CouncilInformation.

The CouncillorBriefingSessionsCharter adoptedby Councilon24May 2010isincludedasAttachmentOne.

Note:Adisclosureof confidential informationbya Councillorbya Councillor (section77(1))is anoffenceundertheActandcarriesa maximumpenaltycurrentlyof120penaltyunits.

9.WARDISSUES

TheElectoralStructure ofthe Councilcomprisesthreewardsof three Councillors. For theoperationalrequirements ofCouncil,thefollowingprocedures willoccur:

a.Copiesofcorrespondencereceivedby Councilwillbedistributedto allwardCouncillorsirrespectiveofwhetheritisindividuallyaddressed.

b.It istheresponsibilityof eachCouncillortoensurethat their co-wardCouncillorsarekeptinformedofanyactionsor mattersrelating totheWardthat theyareactioning.

c.Protocolsfortheconduct andthe organisingofConsultativemeetings willbe:

  • Thepreferredmethod of communicationwith the“requesting” CouncillorandotherCouncillorsisto be viaemailwith a 24-48hour responseexpectation.
  • arranging the detailsassociatedwith themeeting(dates, time,venue,etc) is tobeorganisedbythe PlanningOfficeandadvisedbyemail to allwardCouncillorsandbesubject tothesameresponsetimefrom Councillorsasoutlinedabove.
  • In caseswherethe“callup”ismadebya nonwardCouncillor, theCouncillorsforthe wardaretobeadvisedofthecallupatthetimeit isbeingcalledup. ThiswillbeundertakenbythePlanningOffice.
  • TheChairofthemeetingistobethe“requesting”Councillor,unlessotherwisearrangedbetween theCouncillors.

d.Wardmeetingswillbearrangedbythe CivicSupport Unitatadatethat meetstherequirements oftheWard Councillors. At least oneWardmeetingwillbeheldannually,howevertherewillbenoWardmeetingsheldinthefour monthsprecedingaGeneralelection.

e.Inaccordancewiththe Act,Discretionaryor Wardfundsareprohibited.

10.COMMUNITYENGAGEMENT

TheCouncilPlanstatesthat the City ofStonningtoniscommittedtoengagingandconsultingwith thecommunityandconsidersthisto beanimportant partofCouncil’sbusiness.

Councilbelievesthatgainingcommunityinputonimportantlocalissuesensuresthat Councilservicesandfacilitiesbest meet communityneeds.

Councillorsaretherepresentativesofthecommunityandassuchneedtoberesponsive tocommunity viewsandprovidefeedbackonthe Council’spositionanddecisionsonvariousmatters. Thismaybethroughvariousconsultationor wardmeetingsorfromCouncilmeetings.

Attimesa Councillor maydisagreewith themajoritydecisionofCouncilandwantsthecommunitytoknowthat. Councillorsareentitledtopresent their ownviews,butindoingso,acknowledgethat:

  • they willrespect theright ofotherCouncillorsto have a different opinion tothemselvesandwillrespect thedecision-makingprocess oftheCouncilwhichisbasedon adecisionofamajority ofthe Council;
  • theywillrecognisethe need toachieve a balancein themattersthatarecommunicatedandendeavourto presentthe Councilaseffectiveandcohesive
  • should themediaorother membersofthepubliccite confidentialinformationfromCouncilthat theymakenopubliccommentonit
  • the Mayor,CEO or otherdesignatedpersonisauthorisedtospeaktothemediaonCouncil’sbehalftoconvey Council’sofficial positiononmatters/issues beforeCouncil,inaccordancewithCouncil’sMediaPolicy2012orSocialMediaPolicy2012.

11.PROHIBITEDCONDUCT

TheLocalGovernmentAct1989hasspecificprovisionsthat prohibit Councillorsfrom certainconduct.Thisconduct relatesto:

  • misuseofposition
  • improper directionandinfluence
  • confidentialinformation
  • conflictofinterest
  • electoralconduct

Thesemattersareset outbelowinorder toprovide a completepicture of theobligationsonCouncillors.Whilethesemattersarenotofa natureto beaddressedasacontraventionofthe CouncillorCodeofConduct,Councillorsundertaketocomplywith theprohibitionsonCouncillorconduct set outbelow. Thesemattersshouldmoreproperlybe thesubject ofanapplication to a CouncillorConductPanelforafindingofseriousmisconductoracomplainttothe LocalGovernment Inspectorateor theIndependentBroad-basedAnti-corruptionCommission(IBAC) dependingonthenature oftheallegation.

[Note:Seriousmisconduct bya Councillormeans:

(a)thefailureofaCouncillortoattend aCouncillorConductPanelhearingformedtomakeafindinginrespect ofthatCouncillor;or

(b)thefailureofaCouncillortogive a CouncillorConductPanelany informationthe CouncillorConductPanelhasrequestedtheCouncillortogive;or

(c)thefailureofaCouncillortocomplywith a directionofa CouncillorConductPanel;or

(d)continuedor repeatedmisconduct bya Councillorafter afindingofmisconduct hasalreadybeenmadeinrespect ofthe CouncillorbyaCouncillorConductPanel;or

(e)bullyingofanotherCouncilloror memberofCouncilstaffbyaCouncillor;or

(f)conductbyaCouncillorinrespectofamemberof Councilstaffincontraventionofsection76E;or

(g)thereleaseofconfidentialinformationbya Councillor.]

11.1Misuseof Position

A Councillormustnot misusehisorherposition:

a.togainorattempt togain,directlyorindirectly,anadvantagefor themselvesorforanyotherperson;or

b.to cause, or attempt tocause,detriment tothe Counciloranother person.

Circumstancesinvolvingthemisuseofpositionbya Councillorinclude:

a.makingimproper use ofinformationacquiredasaresult ofthepositionheorsheheldorholds;or

b.disclosinginformationthatisconfidentialinformationwithin the meaningof section77(2);or

c.directing, or improperlyinfluencing,orseeking todirectorimproperly influence,amemberofCouncilstaffincontraventionofsection76E; or

d.exercisingor performing, or purporting to exerciseor perform, a power, dutyorfunctionthatheor sheisnot authorisedto exerciseor perform; or

e.usingpublicfundsor resourcesinamanner thatisimproper or unauthorised;or

f.failing to disclose aconflictofinterestunder thisDivision.

11.2ImproperDirectionandImproper Influence

A Councillormustnotdirect, or seektodirect, amemberofCouncilstaff:

a.in the exerciseofa delegatedpower,ortheperformanceofadelegateddutyorfunctionoftheCouncil;or

b.in the exerciseofa powerorthe performance ofadutyorfunctionexercisedorperformedbythe memberasanauthorisedofficerunder thisAct oranyother Act;or

c.in the exerciseofa powerorthe performance ofadutyorfunctionthememberexercisesorperformsinanofficeor positionthememberholdsunder another Act;or

d.inrelationto adviceprovided totheCouncilor a SpecialCommittee, includingadvicein a report totheCouncilor SpecialCommittee.

11.3Confidential Information(seealsosections4.5and8)

A Councillormustnotdiscloseinformationthatheor sheknows,or shouldreasonablyknow,isconfidentialinformation.

A Councillormaydiscloseinformationthatheor she knowsisconfidentialinformationinthefollowingcircumstances:

a.forthepurposesofanylegalproceedingsarisingoutof thisAct;

b.to acourtor tribunalinthecourse oflegalproceedings;

c.pursuant toanorder ofacourtor tribunal;

d.tothe ChiefMunicipalInspector tothe extent reasonablyrequiredbytheChiefMunicipalInspector;

e.to a CouncillorConductPanelin the course ofahearingandforthepurposesofthehearing;

f.to amunicipalmonitor totheextent reasonablyrequiredbythemunicipalmonitor;

g.tothe extent reasonablyrequiredfor anyotherlawenforcementpurposes.

11.4Conflictof Interest (seealsosection 6 DisclosureofInterests)

Ifa Councillorhasa conflictofinterestinamatter whichisto beconsideredor discussedata meetingofthe CouncilorSpecialCommittee, anAssembly ofCouncillors,anAuditCommitteeoraSection223Committee, the Councillormust,ifheor sheisattendingthemeeting, disclosetheconflictofinterest inaccordancewith the provisionsofthe Act (unlessanyoftheexemptions apply).

A Councillorhasadirectinterest in amatterif thereisareasonablelikelihoodthat thebenefits, obligations, opportunitiesor circumstancesofthe Councillorwouldbedirectlyalteredifthematter isdecidedin a particular way. Thisincludes wherethereisareasonablelikelihoodthat thepersonwillreceive a direct benefitorlossthat canbemeasuredin financialtermsandwhere theCouncillor,or togetherwith amemberor members oftheperson’sfamilyhasacontrollinginterestina company orotherbodythat hasa direct interest inthematter.

A conflict ofinterest alsoexistswhere a Councillorhasany ofthe sixtypes ofindirectinterest.Theseindirect interestsare:

  • Closeassociation –anindirectinterestbecauseofacloseassociationwith afamilymember, relativeor memberofthe householdwhohasa directinterest;
  • Indirectfinancialinterest–anindirect financialinterest,includingholdingsharesabove a certain valuein a companywith a direct interest;
  • Conflictingduty–aconflictingdutyarisingfromhavingparticular responsibilitiesto apersonororganisationwith a direct interest;
  • Applicable gift–recipient ofanapplicablegiftorgiftsfroma personor organisationwith a directinterest;
  • Interestedparty–apartytothematterby having becomeinvolvedincivilproceedingsinrelationto thematter;
  • Residentialamenity– thisoccurswhere thereisareasonablelikelihoodthat theperson’sresidentialamenitywillbealteredifthematter isdecidedina particularway.

11.5Other LegislativeRequirements

TheAct includesrequirementsinrelation to Councilloreligibility,electoralconductandtheElectionPeriod(caretakerperiod)(refer to Council’sElectoralPeriodPolicy).Allegedcontraventionsof theseprovisionsarenot tobedealtwithbythe Council using the internalresolutionprocedureinthisCodeofConduct. Allegationsinrelationto contraventionoftheseprovisionsshouldbedirectedtothe VictorianElectoralCommission(VEC) or theLocalGovernment Inspectorate, dependingonthenatureofthe allegation, for investigationandanyconsequent action.

Councillorsundertaketocomplywith the variousprovisionsrelating tothesematters.

12.DISPUTERESOLUTION(SEE ATTACHMENTFOUR FLOWCHART)

Havingdifferentor sometimesopposingpoints of viewisa normalfunctionofthedemocraticprocess. Informedandconsidereddebatecomesfromthesharingofvariouspoints ofview.WhileCouncillorsrecognisethat debatecanbelivelywithin the context ofa Councilorothermeetingseveryeffort willbemadeto ensurethattheCodeofConduct, particularlyasitrelatestothemannerinwhichCouncillorsdealwitheachother, isfollowed.

It isrecognisedthat at timestheremaybedisputesorgrievancesbetweenCouncillors.Sometimesthesedisputes giverise totheneedfor further resolutionoutside thepublicarenaoftheCouncilChamber.

Beforecommencinganyformaldisputeresolutionprocess, theCouncillorswhoarepartiesto adisputeareexpected tousetheir best endeavourstoresolve thematterin acourteousandrespectfulmannerbetweenthemselves.Where, after theseendeavourshavebeenexhausted, thematter stillremainsunresolved,thepartiesmayresort to any oralloftheCouncil’sthreephasedisputeresolutionprocess.

12.1InternalResolutionProcess

TheAct requiresthe CouncillorCodeofConduct tocontainaninternalresolutionprocessfordealingwithanyallegedcontraventionof thisCode.

TheCouncil’sthreestepdisputeresolutionprocessinvolves:

  • Stepone– directnegotiationbetween thepartiesindisputewiththeMayorinattendancetoprovideguidance
  • Steptwo – externalmediationbyanindependentmediator engagedbytheCEO; and
  • Stepthree– aninternalresolutionprocedureinvolvinganindependent arbiter.

Anapplicationcannot bemadeforaninternalresolutionprocedureduring theelectionperiodforageneralelection. Anyinternalresolutionprocedurethat isinprogressistobesuspendedduring theelectionperiodforageneralelection.

Iftherespondent toanapplication for aninternalresolutionprocedureisnot returnedtoofficeasaCouncillorintheelection, theapplicationlapses.Ifthe respondentis returnedtoofficeintheelection, theapplicationmayresumeif:

  • the applicationwasmadebythe CouncilandtheCouncil so resolves;or
  • the applicationwasmadebyagroup ofCouncillorsandanyone(or more) ofthoseCouncillorswhohasbeenreturnedtoofficewishestoproceedwith theapplication;or
  • the applicant (individualCouncillor)isreturnedtoofficeand wishesto proceedwiththe application.

12.1.1StepOne- DirectNegotiation

WhereCouncillorswhoareindisputehavenot beenable to resolve the disputebetweenthem,either (or both) party(parties) mayrequest theMayortoconvene ameetingof theparties.

A disputereferredfordirectnegotiationmayrelateto:

  • aninterpersonalconflict betweenCouncillorswherethe conflictisor islikelyto affect the operationsofthe Council;or
  • anallegedcontraventionofthe CouncillorCodeofConduct.

i.Thepartyrequesting thedirectnegotiationmeetingistoprovide the Mayorwiththenameofthe other Councillorand thedetailsofthedisputeinwriting.Thewrittenrequest isto indicatethat itisfora“directnegotiation”disputeresolutionprocess.

ii.Wheretherequest relatestoanallegedcontraventionofthe CouncillorCodeofConduct, therequest must:

  • specifythe name oftheCouncilloralleged to havecontravened theCode;
  • specifythe provision/softheCodethat allegedlyhasbeencontravened
  • includeevidenceinsupport oftheallegation
  • nametheCouncillorappointed tobetheir representativewhere therequesthasbeenmadebyagroupofCouncillors;and
  • besignedanddatedbytherequestor or therequestor’srepresentative.

iii.Therequestor will notifytheotherparty oftherequestandprovidehim orherwith acopyofthewrittenrequestatthesametimeas whenprovided totheMayor, or assoonaspracticablethereafter.

iv.The Mayoristo ascertainwhetheror notthe otherpartyispreparedto attend a ‘directnegotiation’meeting.

v.Iftheotherpartyisnotprepared to attendameeting, the Mayoristo advisetherequestorimmediately.Nofurtheractionisrequiredofthe Mayor.Declining toparticipatein ameetingdoesnot constituteacontraventionof thisCode.

vi.Iftheotherpartyconsentstoameeting, the Mayoristoconvene ameetingofthepartiesattheearliest availableopportunity.Unlessoneorbothpartiesareunavailable,thisshouldbewithinfive(5)workingdaysofreceiving the consentof theother party.

vii.The Mayormaypresent thepartieswithguidelines,inadvanceofthe meetingor atthemeeting,to helpfacilitatethemeeting.

viii.Theroleofthe Mayorat themeetingistoprovideguidance toCouncillorsaboutwhatisexpectedofa Councillorincludinginrelation totheroleofa Councillorundersection65 oftheAct andtheobservationofthe Councillorconduct principlesandtheCouncillorCodeofConduct.

ix.The Mayoristo documentanyagreement reachedat the meeting. Copies oftheagreementareto be provided to bothparties.Where onepartydoesnot comply withthe agreement, theother partyhasrecoursetoexternalmediationorthe internalresolutionprocedure where thematter relatestoanallegedcontraventionoftheCouncillorCodeofConduct.

x.Ifthepartiescannot resolve the disputeatthemeeting afurther meetingmaybeconvenedwith theconsentofbothparties.

xi.Wherethedisputeremainsunresolved,either orbothofthe parties haverecoursetoexternalmediationortheinternalresolutionprocedurewhere thematter relatestoanallegedcontraventionofthe CouncillorCodeofConduct.

xii.Wherethe Mayorisa partytothedisputetherequestistobemadetotheimmediatepastMayorwhowillperform thefunctionsasoutlinedasifheor shewere the Mayor.

12.1.2StepTwo –External Mediation

A Councillororagroup ofCouncillorsmaymakeanapplicationforadisputeto bereferredfor externalmediation,whether or not thedisputehasbeenthesubjectofanapplicationfor‘directnegotiation’.

Anapplicationmadefora disputetobereferredforexternalmediationmayrelateto:

  • aninterpersonalconflict betweenCouncillorswherethe conflictisor islikelyto affect the operationsofthe Council;or
  • anallegedcontraventionoftheCouncillorCodeofConduct.

i.TheapplicantistosubmitawrittenapplicationtotheCouncil’sPrincipalConductOfficer (PCO) settingout thename ofthe Councillorandthedetailsofthedispute.Anapplicationmayalsobemadebyagroup ofCouncillors. The applicationistoindicatethat thedispute/issuebereferredfor‘externalmediation’.

ii.Wheretherequest relatestoanallegedcontraventionofthe CouncillorCodeofConduct, therequest must:

  • specifythe name oftheCouncilloralleged to havecontravened theCode;
  • specifythe provision/softheCodethat allegedlyhasbeencontravened;
  • includeevidenceinsupport oftheallegation;
  • nametheCouncillorappointed tobetheir representativewhere therequesthasbeenmadebyagroupofCouncillors;and
  • besignedanddatedbytherequestor or therequestor’srepresentative.

iii.Theapplicantwill notifytheotherparty oftherequestandprovidehim orherwith acopyoftheapplicationatthesametime aswhensubmittedtothePCO, or assoonaspracticablethereafter.

iv.ThePCOistoascertain(inwriting) whetherornottheother partyispreparedtoattendanexternalmediation.Iftheother partydeclinesto participateinanexternalmediation, heorsheistoprovide(inwriting) theirreasonsfor doing sotothePCO.Thesereasonsmaybetakenintoaccount ifthematter is, subsequently,thesubjectofanapplicationfora CouncillorConductPanel.Decliningtoparticipateinanexternalmediationdoes notconstitute acontraventionofthisCode.

v.Iftheotherpartyagreesto participateinanexternalmediation, thePCOwilladvisethe applicant,MayorandCEOimmediately.

vi.Anindependent, externalmediatorwillbeappointedbythe CEOto conduct themediationatthe earliest opportunity.

vii.TheMediatoristodocument anyagreement reachedat themeeting. Copiesoftheagreementareto be provided to bothparties.Where onepartydoesnot comply withthe agreement, theother partyhasrecoursetotheinternalresolutionprocedurewhere thematter relatesto anallegedcontraventionoftheCouncillorCodeofConduct.

viii.Ifthepartiescannot resolve the disputeatthemeeting,afurther meetingmaybeconvenedwith theconsentofbothparties.Where thedisputeremainsunresolved,the applicant hasrecourse totheinternalresolutionprocedurewhere thematterrelatesto anallegedcontraventionofthe CouncillorCodeofConduct.

12.1.3StepThree –Internal ResolutionProcedure- Arbiter

i.A Councilloror groupof Councillorsmaymake anapplication tothePCOfortheappointmentofanArbiter toresolve a disputewhichinvolvesanthata CouncillorhascontravenedtheCouncillorCodeofConduct.

ii.Therequest must:

  • specify the name oftheCouncilloralleged to havecontravened theCode;
  • specifythe provision/softheCodethat allegedlyhasbeencontravened
  • includeevidenceinsupport oftheallegation
  • nametheCouncillorappointed tobetheir representativewhere the requesthasbeenmadebyagroupofCouncillors;and
  • besignedanddatedbytherequestor or therequestor’srepresentative.

iii.Anapplicant maywithdrawanapplicationfor aninternalresolutionprocedure.Onceanapplicationhasbeenwithdrawn,thesameor similarapplicationrelating tothesameinstanceinrelationtotherespondentCouncillorcannotberesubmittedbytheapplicant.

iv.Onreceivinganapplication, the PCOwill:

  • advise the MayorandCEOofthe applicationwithoutunduedelay;
  • provide a copy ofthe application tothe Councillorwhoisthesubject of theallegationatthe earliest practicalopportunity but notlater thantwoworkingdaysfrom receipt oftheapplication;
  • identifyanindependent,suitablyqualified,Arbiter tohear theapplication;
  • obtainwrittenadvicefrom theArbiter that they havenoconflict ofinterest inrelation totheCouncillorsinvolved;
  • notifythepartiesofthenameofthe proposed Arbiterandprovidethemwiththeopportunity(2workingdays)to objecttothepersonproposedtobetheArbiter;
  • consider thegroundsof any objectionand appointthe proposedArbiter oridentifyanotherArbiter;
  • provide a copy ofthe application tothe Arbiterassoonaspracticableafter theopportunityforthepartiestoobject toanArbiter hasexpired;
  • afterconsultationwiththeArbiter,advisethe applicantand therespondent ofthetime andplaceforthehearing;and
  • attendthehearing/sandassist the Arbiter inthe administrationoftheprocess.

12.1.4RoleofArbiter

Theroleofthe Arbiter isto:

  • considerapplicationsallegingacontraventionoftheCouncillorCodeofConductbya Councillor;
  • makefindingsinrelationto anyapplicationalleging a contraventionof theCouncillorCodeofConduct;
  • give a writtenstatement ofreasonssupportingthefindingstothe Councilat thesametimeasit givesitsfindingstotheCouncil;
  • recommendanappropriatesanctionorsanctions where the arbiterhasfoundthat a Councillorhascontravened theCouncillor CodeofConduct.

In consideringanapplicationalleginga contraventionofthe CouncillorCodeofConduct,anArbiter will: