Future Melbourne virtually reunited

The City of Melbourne had a “historic” Future Melbourne Committee (FMC) meeting on May 5, taking advantage for the first time of new legislation allowing for virtual council meetings.

It was the first time councillors Jackie Watts and Susan Riley were able to take part in a Council Meeting since lockdown and social distancing measures came into practice. 

The council had made a policy decision to cease attendance of at-risk councillors to in-person meetings. 

On May 1 the Victorian Government’s COVID-19 Omnibus (Emergency Measures) Act 2020 introduced new mechanisms to allow for virtual council meetings – to ensure local government decision-making can continue during the coronavirus pandemic. 

These new measures will be in force until November 1.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said it was a very special meeting.

“We are absolutely delighted that councillors Watts and Riley are legally attending the first virtual Future Melbourne Committee of the City of Melbourne following the passing of the legislation last week,” the Lord Mayor said.

“It’s absolutely fantastic, we’ve missed you and your involvement in the forums that we have had but how fantastic that we can now have you formally and legally involved in these proceedings.”

“It is historical for the City of Melbourne and many other municipalities since the legislation was passed last week, and thanks very much to the team for making this happen.” •