With the State Government easing COVID-safety measures, Lismore City Council are, once again, able to welcome the public into the Council Chamber to watch proceedings.

With the first council meeting for 2021 to be held next Tuesday, February 9 at 6pm, the opening up of the meetings is welcome news to many - particularly when the main item on the agenda will be to vote for a Lord Mayor, following the resignation of Isaac Smith.

Towards the end of last year, some people, including Councillor Nancy Casson were strongly advocating for public access. Cr Casson even put forward a Notice of Motion at the December 8 council meeting, for 21 people to be allowed access to each council meeting under the four square metre rule.

The motion received an unanimous vote from all councillors present.

The Covid plan

Now, Lismore City Council have reported that a COVID safety plan is in place for all Council Meetings and Briefings to ensure the safety of the public, staff and Councillors.

Members of the public are asked to be in the Corporate Centre lobby (facing Oliver Avenue) between 5.30 and 6pm.

After a temperature check, you will be required to register using a QR Code (alternative arrangements are in place for those without a smart phone). If you have any cold or flu symptoms, please enjoy our LiveSteam services through our Website and Facebook page. 

Personal information collected will be managed in accordance with Service NSW contact tracing policies. Those unwilling to provide necessary details will be refused entry.

You will then be escorted to the Chamber by a COVID Marshal.

The number of people allowed into the Chamber’s public gallery is capped at eight, with an overflow room (with live-streaming) capped at an additional 22 people.

Those who are registered to speak during Public Access will be given priority seating in the public gallery, with the remainder of the seating allocated on a ‘first in, first served basis’.

Hand sanitiser will be available and people are asked to socially distance where practicable and remain seated. Masks are not mandatory, but their use is encouraged. Surfaces will be disinfected before and after meetings.

COVID marshallers will be present for your safety; and peope are asked to please follow their directions.

Ordinary Monthly Meetings will still be broadcast on our Facebook Page and website at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au.