City of Gosnells chief executive Ian Cowie said the City supports accountability in local government.
Camera IconCity of Gosnells chief executive Ian Cowie said the City supports accountability in local government. Credit: Supplied/Marcelo Palacios

Chief backs strong measures

Francis CurroComment News

The Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) knocked back a motion for reforms that would increase local government transparency and accountability at a general meeting on August 5.

City of Vincent mayor John Carey put forward the motion, which was overwhelmingly defeated in a secret ballot.

Mr Cowie said strong accountability measures already existed and were applied vigorously by the City.

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"Should there be a desire to increase the already stringent transparency and accountability measures across local government, the City would be happy to participate in the development of meaningful and realistic requirements," he said.

As the vote was secret Mr Cowie said he could not reveal how the City of Gosnells delegates voted.

However, he said local government should have accountabilities because they dealt with ratepayers and public money.

"Local governments collect public monies and make critical decisions for the public good," he said.

"Therefore it is imperative that the operations of local government and the actions of those in charge of local government are accountable and transparent."

Mr Cowie said local governments had public meetings and councillors could not receive gifts valued at more than $300.