THE absence of five Aldermen from Wednesday’s City of Launceston council meeting was neither “good governance nor a good look”, according to Property Council of Australia Tasmania executive director Brian Wightman.
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Mr Wightman said having “barely a quorum” at a council meeting was not ideal, particularly when planning decisions were often complex.
“Launceston requires our civic leaders to step-up, particularly while we are experiencing challenging economic circumstances which are not replicated as significantly in other parts of the state,” he said.
“The Alderman are the planning approval body for the city and meetings are scheduled twelve months in advance. This should be respected.”
The meeting was paused at one stage when Alderman Karina Stojansek briefly left the room, which left less than a quorum in attendance.
Alderman Ted Sands said he had missed the meeting due to a shoulder reconstruction, while Alderman Emma Williams said her absence was due to public holidays pushing meetings to days she was required to work.
Deputy Mayor Rob Soward was absent due to longstanding interstate travel arrangements.
Alderman Simon Wood said he had planned to attend Wednesday’s meeting, but had ultimately been required to care for his ill son.
Alderman Darren Alexander was unable to attend the meeting due to preparations required ahead of an urgent business trip to Norway.
