Redland City Council has introduced a new representative portfolio system for its Councillors in a move aimed at strengthening service delivery to, and communication with, the community.
Deputy Mayor Julie Talty said the portfolios would operate at the strategic level and focus on areas that will benefit from greater Councillor representation, such as planning matters, community sport, arts, local laws, and economic development.
“Under the portfolio system, Councillors voluntarily commit to take on extra duties within a portfolio and will have responsibility for a specific area of Council,” Cr Talty said.
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“This will ensure the key areas of the organisation and our main community services are receiving the support and attention they require, and the decisions Council makes are reflective of community needs and expectations.”
Cr Talty said nine Councillors had been appointed to portfolios and they would serve in the role for the remainder of the Council term.
“These Councillors will provide their input and advice to Council officers on portfolio matters and will lead the advancement of Council’s key strategic priorities in these areas,” she said.
“They will also report back to their fellow Council members and the community on key information and initiatives undertaken by the organisation.
“While not every area of Council is included in the current structure, we will have discussions going forward as a Council to see where other positions could be introduced in future.”
The initiative follows a Notice of Motion put forward by Cr Talty at the February 2025 General Meeting of Council to consider the system.
Cr Talty said having a portfolio structure in place would allow Councillors to bring their experience and personal expertise to specific areas of the organisation.
“This will help ensure that important matters are managed in a timely and informed manner while improving communication between stakeholders,” she said.
“We have a highly skilled and highly trained Councillor cohort, and this is just another way we can better tap into their knowledge and expertise.
“I’m eager to see how this new approach will benefit the Redlands Coast community and enhance service delivery.”
The portfolio system is used in most neighbouring councils and has been used in Redland in the past. The following Councillor Portfolios have been assigned:
- Economic Development: Cr Peter Mitchell
- Waste and Recycling: Cr Tracey Huges
- Water and Waste Water: Cr Wendy Boglary
- Finance: Cr Wendy Boglary
- Environment and Local Laws: Cr Julie Talty
- Biosecurity and Pest Management: Cr Paul Golle
- Transport and Marine Infrastructure: Cr Shane Rendalls
- Planning and Regulation: Cr Rowanne McKenzie
- Sport and Recreation: Cr Jason Colley
- Arts, Culture and Heritage: Cr Paul Bishop
