One of the most important functions undertaken by a Council's Mayor and Council Members is attending Council meetings and participating in the decision making process.
The Alexandrina Council holds Ordinary Council meetings on the third Monday of each month. All Council meetings are held in the Council Community Chambers ‘Wal Yuntu Warrin’ Goolwa, commencing at 5.30 pm (unless stated otherwise).
Decisions made at a formal council meeting provide the direction and authority for the Council's ongoing operations. These decisions give direction to the Chief Executive Officer and are implemented by Council staff.
Meetings also allow the Mayor and Council Members to decide the Council's policy direction and make decisions on other statutory matters.
Council is a corporate body and can only make decisions by resolution. This means a motion must be put to a properly-convened meeting and can only be passed by a majority vote.
With the exception of the Mayor, who is the Presiding Member of the meeting, all members present at a Council meeting vote on every motion put to the meeting (subject to any applicable legislative provisions). The Mayor has a casting vote only if the voting is tied.
Members of the public are encouraged to attend Council meetings. Meetings are only closed when topics of a confidential nature are being discussed, such as an individual's financial circumstances, a particular staff member or legal matters.
While meetings are open to the public, it is not possible to join in the debate or speak to Council Members during the meeting (except for previously-approved deputations).
An agenda listing the issues and relevant reports for discussion at the meeting is made available to the public in advance so that everyone has the opportunity to be aware of matters before council. Copies are available online several days before the meeting or copies can be viewed at the Council's Administration Centre in Goolwa or the Strathalbyn Council Office.
Agendas for the Council Meetings are available on the Thursday prior to the meeting date.
Deputations/presentations to a Council Meeting
Deputations are an important part of community participation in the decision-making process, providing individuals or groups in the community with an opportunity to present to the meeting. There is more detailed information contained in Council’s Code of Practice for Council Meeting Procedures here.
To assist individuals or groups wishing to make a Deputation to Council, a Deputation Information Sheet and Deputation Request Form are provided below.
Request for Deputation Form (for printing)
Request for Deputation Form (fillable fields)
All requests to make a Deputation must be submitted using the above Request for Deputation Form at least seven (7) clear days prior to the Council meeting. Council meeting dates are shown here.
Petitions being presented to a Council Meeting
A petition is a formal written request, typically signed by many people, appealing to Council in respect of a particular cause. There is more detailed information contained in Council’s Code of Practice for Council Meeting Procedures here.
To assist individuals wishing to submit a Petition to Council, a Petition Information Sheet and Petition Template are provided below.
Petition Template (for printing)
Petition Template (fillable fields)