THE Port Stephens Council meeting last week (July 28, 2015) was an unusual one because it was witnessed by 100-odd members of the public, who had been alerted by their community groups that matters directly affecting them were on the agenda for decision.
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The reaction from a number of "first timers" that I spoke to was pretty universal.
"More people should attend these meetings and be aware of what their elected representatives are doing in their name."
"Why were some people arbitrarily refused the opportunity to address the council in 'public access' at the whim of the mayor?"
"What do you mean the proceedings are not recorded anywhere?"
Only the resolutions in the minutes are recorded and a lot of the time they do not even record who voted for what, unless a division is called.
There are signs everywhere, even projected onto the large screens when you enter, forbidding the recording of proceedings on iPhones or iPads.
There is a large cabinet at the end of the chamber full of audio recording equipment that was disconnected years ago.
The $20,000 webcam system which allowed ratepayers to watch from home or download for later scrutiny was ripped out in one of the first decisions of this council after election.
Nobody is accountable for what is said in the chamber, the passionate advocacy is ignored and the wise words evaporate as soon as they are uttered.
The mayor threatens the gallery with expulsion for any reaction.
When one considers some of the decisions that were made to the advantage of "mates", contrary to recommendations from officials, staff and logical advocacy, and without any declaration of pecuniary interest, it is not hard to see why these people don't want it recorded for prosperity.
Dick Appleby
Nelson Bay
