Brimbank residents may continue to see a police presence at future council meetings as council seeks to stamp out disruptive behaviour.
Police were present at the most recent council meeting on July 18, in what council described as a “precautionary measure” given recent behaviour which disrupted the June 20 council meeting.
That meeting was adjourned for 15 minutes to allow security to escort residents out of the chamber after residents continued to shout over the meeting.
As councillors considered the draft Brimbank LGBTQIA+ Action Plan, residents shouted words of “grooming”, “evil” and “paedophiles” across the chamber.
On multiple occasions, Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire asked members seated in the gallery to remain quiet before security was eventually called for.
Cr Lancashire said council will continue to work closely with police and put in place measures to ensure the safety of everyone attending council meetings.
“We welcome community attendance in the public gallery at council meetings and kindly remind and expect members of the public to observe council’s meeting protocols and to behave respectfully at all times,” he said.
“Councillors and council officers have a right to be safe and treated with respect and council will not tolerate any behaviour that threatens the safety of anyone present in the chamber, or which disrupts the ability of council to conduct its business on behalf of the community.”
In a series of tweets posted by Brimbank council on July 19, residents were reminded not to engage with councillors or council officers during the course of the meeting.
“Any inappropriate, disruptive, or rude behaviour will not be tolerated, and individuals may be asked to leave. Ensuring the safety and uninterrupted proceedings is paramount in fulfilling our responsibilities to the community,” read one of the tweets.
The next council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 15.
Hannah Hammoud
