With increasing emphasis being placed on good governance through accountability and probity requirements, Warringah Council has established a new Governance Unit. “Pressure is on all governments to govern well, so it is vital Council has the capacity to undertake new policy projects on good governance,” said Cynthia Newbown, Manager Governance.
Through its policy and project team, the Governance Unit will help ensure that the decision making process meets community expectations. The Unit provides services to the Council and Councillors related to their meetings, committees and statutory obligations.
In its secretariat role, the Unit provides administrative support for both the Councillors and members of public attending Council Meetings. It contributes to correct meeting procedures according to requirements under the Local Government Act and Councils’ Code for the conduct of meetings.
The Unit is also responsible for civic functions and protocol. It also conducts frequent civic receptions and citizenship ceremonies during the year. As well as serving its internal customers, the Governance Unit works with Council’s external customers, through customer service and its communications staff.
Council’s one stop shop counter assistance may soon be further enhanced with a state of the art Call Centre. The first step is the integration this month of switchboard staff with the Customer Service Centre. The Governance Unit is also responsible for joint activities with other Councils. Activities include the jointly managed Rural Fire Service, with 13 Bushfire Brigades across Warringah and Pittwater Councils. The Kimbriki Waste and Recycling Centre is another joint enterprise involving Manly, Mosman and Pittwater Councils.
For further information contact Cynthia Newbown, telephone (02) 9982 0333.
