Leslie Asks:
What are your thoughts on accountability and transparency and Council decisions made behind closed doors?
Far too often it appears that decisions are taken 'in camera' because the Community Charter ALLOWS the topic to be taken behind closed doors, not because the discussion/decision HAS to be taken behind closed doors.
(The Community Charter is clear on which topics must be discussed in private and which may be discussed in private, leaving a lot of leeway for lack of transparency.)
I believe we need more transparency to have more accountability in our government. I think that many people feel disconnected to their local government because of the lack of transparency and accountability, and this is a reason I feel that might explain voter apathy. I support more public discussion. I have begun to re-read the Community Charter to make sure I know my role, procedures, and I will make sure I pay close attention to the "in camera" portion. Thank you for your question.