Council back down to business ahead of March Local Government elections
18 January 2024
Ipswich City Council has released its meeting schedule for the remainder of this term ahead of the 16 March Queensland Local Government elections.
Ipswich City Council Governance and Transparency Committee Chairperson Councillor Jacob Madsen said the first ordinary meeting for the new year has been set down for 25 January, just ahead of council entering the caretaker period for the upcoming elections.
“As set down in the Queensland State Government legislation the Caretaker Conventions place certain restrictions on all councils across the state in the lead-up to elections,” Cr Madsen said.
“The caretaker period starts on 29 January and will ensure Ipswich City Council does not make any major policy or financial decisions that could lock the new council into honouring which they did not have the opportunity to debate and decide upon.
“This rule applies only to major policy decisions and council’s normal operational matters, community services and activities will continue as usual.
“Council will continue to function as normal, and we will remain open for business for all your needs.”
Cr Madsen said council regular meetings will continue to be held in the lead up to the election as will a round of committee meetings in February.
The ordinary meetings are scheduled for 25 January, 15 February and 1 March.
“Meeting dates following the election will be released once the new council is sworn in. These meetings are an important part of the democratic process and provide an opportunity for the community to see council at work,” Cr Madsen said.
“As usual all Ipswich City Council meetings are held in council chambers at in the administration centre at 1 Nicholas Street and are open for all the community to attend.
“For those who can’t make the meeting in person council provides residents with the opportunity to watch via live-stream or on replay via council’s YouTube channel at YouTube.com/IpswichCityCouncilTV.”