Since the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic started Dorset Council has been working to hold all public meetings virtually.
Five weeks ago, the national Government passed legislation that this meant it is possible to carry out democratic decision making in this way. Previously all such meetings had to be held in a physical space, where members of the public could attend.
Now all 82 councillors have the appropriate connectivity, software and kit to take part in these committees.
A new web page details all the meetings being held in this way. There is a link to the agenda and how you can access the meeting live. Also, you can find information about how to submit questions to these meetings. The recorded meeting will also be available on this page shortly after the meeting has ended.
A number of meetings have already been held including Cabinet, area planning committees and Audit and Governance. There will also be an opportunity in early June for the overview scrutiny committee to scrutinise the council’s response to the pandemic
The Full Council, which is the council’s Annual Meeting, is normally held in May. It will now be held 3 September. Details of how the full council will be held is being worked through. It may be entirely virtual or there may by some attendance in the council chamber.
Cllr Spencer Flower, Leader of Dorset Council, said:
“I have worked with the leaders of all our political groups to agree a schedule of meetings that ensures our democratic business goes ahead. It is very important that members of the public are able to view our process, submit questions and be part of the process.
“I am very proud of members and officers who have worked hard to make sure we can continue our work in a virtual way. Democracy is alive and well in Dorset Council.”
Other meetings such as licensing hearings and school appeals are also continuing as well as three of the Executive Advisory Panels dealing with Climate and Ecological Change, the Dorset Local Plan and Digital/ICT. These are important working groups, vital to the wellbeing of Dorset going forward.
I visit the upper Kimmeridge to safely walk with my partly disabled Grandson and my Dog
As I am an older person this is a safe place to walk. Whilst going there we notice every day for over a week a Swift Campervan reg VX62CGV staying overnight. As myself and my family with whom I live are obeying the rules how come a visitor from out of town is allowed to camp there risking infection to our people. There has been a lot of fuss about a senior person staying away from home when our authorities in this area are not stopping this. Thank you for listening L Kert