Many may feel that Ventnor Town Council are a bit stuffy and behind the times, but last night they went some way to disproving that.
It must be over a year ago since we originally suggested to the Ventnor Town Council that it would be a good idea to record their bi-monthly meetings. We felt that these recording would be of great benefit to those couldn’t make it along to meetings, enabling them to catch up on the discussions that the councillors had about matters in the town.
We raised the question again at the Annual Town meeting a couple of weeks ago, and the subject was discussed last night, at the Annual meeting of the Ventnor Town Council.
It is with great pleasure that we can inform you that in principal, the councillors agreed to have their meetings recorded and available on VentnorBlog for the public to listen to.
Many for, some against
As soon as the subject was raised, Jonny Fitzgerald Bond stated that he had no problem with it and this was a view echoed by Debby Robinson.
Val Taylor and Brian Lucas wanted to make it very clear that they would vote against this proposal, concerned that recordings would stifle discussion. Many will be unclear as to how recording the conversation would be any different to members of the public sitting in on meetings, as a handful of regulars already do.
Steve Milford also seemed keen on the idea and raised the question of looking into correct protocol with the IW Council, pointing out that they, of course, already record and make available their County Hall meetings.
Maureen Cawley thought that the public would find the recordings a bit boring, but Susan Scoccia supported it and John Farrant said it would be “a good generalised aide for the public”.
A vote for yes
A vote was taken and as the majority voted in favour. John Farrant agreed to look further into the issue with the monitoring officer and Association for Local Councils.
From research that we conducted with the relevant bodies beforehand, we were advised that there should be no problem with the meetings being recorded, so long as those attending the meeting were informed that they were being recorded, which could be placed at the top of the agenda.
So well done Ventnor Town Councillors, by embracing this proposal, you will be one step closer to ensuring a quality council and are trail blazing the rest of the Island, who may well to follow suit.
Image: El Conde
