Draft Determining Applications Lodged by Councillors and Staff Policy

This draft policy provides a framework for how applications are assessed by staff when received by staff and Councillors.

The policy serves as a basis to uphold ethical standards and ensure that decisions regarding applications (from councillors, staff, and their families) are fair, unbiased, and in line with Council's Code of Conduct.

Here are some key points to consider when making a submission.

Code of Conduct: The draft policy reflects Council's Code of Conduct, setting expectations for councillors and staff regarding conflicts of interest, impartiality, and avoiding undue influence.

Who's Affected: The policy, when adopted, will apply to councillors, staff, and their families.

Objectives:

• Provide clear guidelines for handling development applications.
• Establish transparent protocols for various types of applications.
• Ensure compliance with the Code of Conduct to prevent improper conduct during evaluation.

Implementation:

• Individuals must disclose conflicts of interest.
• Different protocols are in place based on the application type and involvement of councillors or staff.
• Applications involving councillors or their families undergo independent review for fairness.

How to have your say

Anyone can submit feedback on this draft policy (you do not have to be a staff member or elected member of Council).

You can provide your feedback on the proposed draft Policy by:

• Completing the survey below,
• Emailing council@pmhc.nsw.gov.au; or
• Posting to:
  Chief Executive Officer
  Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
  PO Box 84
  Port Macquarie NSW 2444

The exhibition period closes on Wednesday 24 April 2024.