Essential Mayor’s Weekend
As I write this enews to you, I’m looking out the window in beautiful Kalorama in Yarra Ranges Shire as we join with many Mayors for our annual Essential Mayor’s Weekend. There is palpable energy and passion for the role and independence of Local Government as the new crop of community leaders take up their Mayoral roles with thoughtful enthusiasm.
Conversations have been had, relationships built, issues explored and learnings taken on board which will skill our new Mayors to govern well. Minister Wynne - never one to miss an opportunity to meet and mix with enthusiastic Mayors, again joined us for Dinner and shared some ‘blue-sky thinking’ about the future. Today we will be joined by Shadow Local Government Spokesperson Jeannette Powell. Both visits were important opportunities for new Mayors to start building relationships with their State Government counterparts.
A signature piece now in its 10th year, our Essential Mayor’s Weekend remains a highly valued and relevant part of our suite of learning and development opportunities. I also note that Mayors continue to relate to the VLGA’s unique focus on helping all three governance partners work together effectively – not only elected Councillors and senior Council Officers but also the citizens we are all here for.
Influencing Policy & Leading Debate
Following my last enews, we’ve already received Expressions of Interest from our councillor and community group members who are keen to contribute to our internal Working Groups and External Committees or Advisory Groups. Just a reminder that EOIs need to be sent to us by 5pm Friday 13th February and the full list of vacancies can be found on our website.
State Government’s Proposal On Municipal Valuations
The VLGA recently advised the State Government that we support their proposal to hand the role of land valuations to the Valuer General, on the proviso that appeal rights and processes for ratepayers are protected.
Over the last few years we’ve been focusing our effort on proposals that affect democratic governance. When the answer is yes, we will seek to add value. But when the answer is that issues essentially concern corporate governance, we will increasingly support the MAV perform their lead role.
As I approach the end of my term as President, I am struck by how many of you have told me that the VLGA and MAV need to be supported to do what we each do best, rather than competing. So, I have advised the MAV Board and CEO of our position on land valuations as I consider this to be a healthy example of concentrating on what the VLGA (democratic governance) and MAV (corporate governance) do best.
VLGA Board Elections
Again just a quick reminder that nominations close next Tuesday 27th. Check our website for more information.
Warm Regards
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