MORNINGTON Peninsula residents are being asked for their opinion on councillors being reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses.
The draft policy on councillor expenses, reimbursement, resources and facilities outlines procedures for thew shire picking up the bill for expenses incurred by councillors and members of delegated committees while on council business.
The document does not cover councillor allowances, which can be up to $32,000 and more than $100,000 for a mayor.
Expenses covered in the draft policy can be incurred for council and committee meetings, formal briefing sessions and civic or ceremonial functions convened by the council, the mayor or the chief executive officer.
Reimbursement can also cover the cost of attending meetings or workshops, functions, site inspections, conferences and training and seminars related to council business.
Under the state government municipal guidelines councillors are entitled to be reimbursed for any necessary out-of-pocket expenses they incur while performing their duties as a councillor.
The draft expenses document also provides guidance on entitlements, provision of resources, facilities and support process for reimbursement, reporting, monitoring, evaluation and review requirements.
To have a say in the draft councillor expenses, reimbursements, resources and facilities policy provide feedback before 5pm Monday 4 July 2022 at mornpen.vic.gov.au/expensespolicy.
The mayor Cr Anthony Marsh said the draft policy ensured accountability and transparency.
“It also seeks to align the payment of councillor expenses with community expectations,” he said.
“We encourage the community to have their say before the consultation period closes.”
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 28 June 2022
