Commentary on Sections Part 5 - Other changes to local government Section 51 – Presiding member of principal council
69.This section amends the Local Government Act 1972 so as to allow principal councils to appoint a “presiding member”. A presiding member would be able to carry out any of the functions of a council chairman so decided by the council. In particular this provision will enable councils who wish to separate the ceremonial and civic functions associated with the council chairman or mayor from those of presiding over meetings of the council.
70.No member of the council’s executive may be the presiding member. The term of appointment is a matter for the principal council subject to the limitation that it cannot extend past the next council election.
71.A council may also appoint a deputy presiding member who, again, must not be a member of the executive.