Today's Moorabbin Glen Eira Leader - Page 3.
"In a victory for free speech Glen Eira Mayor Steven Tang and independent councillor Henry Buch, crossed the floor to vote with councillors Nick Staikos, Jacquie Robilliard and Robert Spaulding against Cr Michael Lipshutz's motion to amend the Councillor's Code of Conduct.
At the September 2 council meeting, Cr. Michael Lipshutz's motion intended to prevent other councillors from disclosing discussions in briefing meetings.
The original motion was moved by Cr Lipshutz and seconded by Cr Helen Whiteside.
The motion was debated by councillors but, moments before it was to be put, Cr Lipshutz signalled he would withdraw it.
Cr Staikos said it was a win 'for accountability and demcoracy'.
Cr Lipshutz's proposal attracted five formal submissions from the public, with four opposed to his idea.
Cr. Staikos said because council was not a parliament, there was no need for cabinet secrecy and solidarity.
"Councillors should be prepared to be held responsible for what they say', he said.
Cr. Lipshutz argued that he pushed the mnotion because he wanted private opinions to remain private.
'The only opinions that matter are those expressed at formal council meetings,' he said. (Sally Spaulding journalist)
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