(1) The public officer--• may deal with requests from the public concerning the council's affairs• has the responsibility of assisting people to gain access to public documents of the council• may receive submissions made to the council• may accept service of documents on behalf of the council• may represent the council in any legal or other proceedings• has such other functions as may be conferred or imposed on the public officer by the general manager or by or under this Act.
(2) The public officer is subject to the direction of the general manager.