The City of Mandurah has been forced to hold an Electors' Special Meeting to consider a COVID-19 vaccination and pro-choice motion after more than 100 residents signed a petition.
As per the Western Australian Local Government Act 1995, a signed request made by more than 100 electors requires the City to schedule an Electors’ Special Meeting within 35 days.
The meeting, to discuss the ‘COVID-19 Vaccination Pro-Choice Statement’ will be held at 5.30pm on March 8 at the Meadow Springs Sports Facility.
"The Electors’ Special Meeting is not a decision-making forum for the Council," a City of Mandurah spokesperson said.
"At the meeting, electors will be able to vote by a show of hands on whether they agree with the motion presented by the electors.
"If the motion is passed, it will be presented to Mandurah Council for consideration at the next Ordinary Council Meeting or as soon as reasonably practicable."
Mayor Rhys Williams said it was important to note that Council is required to hold the Electors meeting under the Act and holding the meeting is in no way an indication of Council’s position on the matters being raised.
“Like several other local governments around Western Australia, Council has been presented with this request of more than 100 electors to hold this meeting and therefore, as per the Local Government Act, we have scheduled the meeting accordingly," said Mayor Williams said.
“If the motion being put forward is supported by a majority of electors at the meeting, it will be formally considered by Council at the next Ordinary Council Meeting.
"It is important to note however that Council has no authority to override or create laws that conflict with State or Federal Government legislation or
health orders.”
To vote at an Electors’ Special Meeting, you must be an elector of the City of Mandurah.
An elector means a person who is eligible to be enrolled to vote at elections for the City of Mandurah and includes ratepayers.
Attendees will need to register their address at the event and comply with COVID-19 restrictions and requirements at the time.
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