In line with state government regulations, Leeton Shire Council has had to adopt a new Code of Meeting Practice.

What has not been included in the code is the opportunity for a "public forum" in the formal processes of a council meeting.

Councillor Maytom has said in the past this limits the ability of a resident to speak at a council meeting on issues of concern.

The new code has also removed "councillor statements" from the agenda.

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This was where a councillor was given the opportunity to raise a question or issue towards the end of a meeting on behalf of the community or themselves.

Council has now authorised general manager Jackie Kruger to review the code, as well as consider how a public forum can be included within it.

"My view is an important role of a councillor is communicating with our residents and, where possible, representing their views as we undertake our role in making decisions on behalf of the community," councillor Maytom said.

"An important part of this interaction is the opportunity for councillors to provide feedback to the whole council in full session about such community members.

"I am strongly of the view this opportunity should be available to me as mayor and also to all other councillors.

"I believe this opportunity to inform other councillors, staff and the community more broadly about these important matters should not be lost."

There have been times during some councillor statements where an issue is brought up by a councillor that council staff have not been made aware of.

The mayor believes the right to voice these issues or thoughts is an important part of the local government democracy process.

The general manager is currently working on a plan to see how these processes can remain during the monthly meetings.

Mrs Kruger is due to report back to council with her findings at this month's meeting which will be held on July 24.

The current code only allows for matters by councillors to be raised in the business paper as written notices of motions.

"My view is this is an unwieldy way to go about what is essentially a simple matter," the mayor said.

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