HOW-TO classes for councillors are hoped to identify gaps in professional capabilities ahead of the next election.
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Tamworth Regional Council approved its mayoral and councillor induction and professional development policy last week that sets out expectations and legislative boundaries even before a nominee signs up.
Councillor Glenn Inglis said while the plan is in accordance with state government guidelines, there's more that needs to be done.
"I think there's a fundamental flaw around the 70/20/10 principle, it's a distortion of reality," he said.
"For one to believe 70 per cent of councillor development is giong to come from experience is equivalent to a climate change conspiracy theory.
"They would need closer to 50 per cent, not 10 per cent of structured learning."
Changes were made to the Local Government Act that set out part of a councillor's responsibilities are to learn the skills to perform in civic office.
Tamworth's new policy will see recruits go through three steps; pre-election candidate sessions to make sure nominees have a thorough understanding of the role before they nominate; an induction program and a professional development program.
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Cr Inglis said it's not easy to be an effective councillor and those who want to step up shouldn't underestimate what's required.
"Complex legislative environment, the workload, the effort and a dedication of your personal time and energy," he said.
"You must fully understand and respect your legal role and responsibilities, develop skills to build effective working relationships and be ever mindful of many local government realities.
"Blending bureaucracy and democracy will always make civic life unpredictable and at times frustrating; remain patient, it is what it is."
Council elections were postponed to September 2021 due to the pandemic. Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock last week ruled out a postal vote election.