Community Forums

Community Forum Meetings are a valuable opportunity for local residents to raise issues and gain feedback from their local Councillors.

The Meetings are also valuable to Council because direct and personalised information on current and topical matters can be conveyed to attending residents face to face, with sufficient explanation so complex issues are thoroughly explained.

2019 Community Forums

2018 Community Forums

Chairing/Moderating the Meeting

In order to ensure Meetings run to time, that all members of the community who are present have an equal opportunity to speak and to ensure opportunity is given for a range of topics to be discussed, Council will engage a professional facilitator to chair the Meetings.

Independent facilitation also assists in ensuring the discussions remain focused, relevant and objective.

Attendance

Based on previous experience, it is appropriate that a minimum attendance number be determined so that each Meeting only proceeds if there is sufficient interest from the community.  In the advertisement of the proposed Meetings, residents are advised to respond to Council by a specific date to indicate their attendance at the Meeting. A Community Forum Meeting may be cancelled if there was insufficient interest.  A minimum attendance number of 15 is appropriate.

To advise of interest in attending an upcoming Community Forum

Email communityforums@hornsby.nsw.gov.au or telephone Theresa on 9847 6836

Locations

The main logistics considered in hosting Community Forum Meetings include a decision about the best location/s in each Ward for the Meetings; the capacity of the chosen venues; the adequacy of parking at those venues and/or their proximity to public transport; access for those with a disability; facilities and equipment available on site e.g. chairs, tables, power outlets, lighting, kitchen, catering utensils, etc.

Note taking

Community Forums are not decision making meetings, and therefore the notes taken are a record of the outcomes and recommended way forward.  Attendees who provide an email address will be emailed a copy of the meeting outcomes.  A copy will also be available on Hornsby Shire Council’s website.