The new Councillor Advisor position description has portrayed the advisors as the public’s initial point of contact responsible for ‘writing articles and speeches’, ‘managing the division email inbox’, and ‘screening phone calls’ for Logan City Councillors.
At the most recent Logan City Council meeting, Councillors voted unanimously for ratepayers to fork out an extra $200,000 for 12 new council advisors.
The council document detailing the Councillor Advisor position is available online and states:
“Councillor Advisors are appropriately qualified persons appointed to assist the Councillor in performing their responsibilities under the Local Government Act 2009”.
The notable duties and responsibilities of the new Councillor Advisors, on behalf of the Councillor they report to, will be:
- Being the initial point of contact for resident enquiries
- Researching issues and reviewing policy
- Liaising with the State and Commonwealth representatives
- Analysing strategic proposals and researching
- Reporting on media issues
- Identifying media opportunities, preparing media statements, and writing articles and speeches
- Initiating and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, community representatives, media personnel and council staff
- Managing the divisional inbox
- Managing their Councillor’s calendar and appointments
- Screening telephone calls
- Preparing and drafting correspondence for residents
- Meeting with residents from their Councillor’s division
- Preparing and distributing Christmas cards
- Providing social media support
