Ordinary  Meeting Minutes

Held on Wednesday 22 July 2020

At Via Zoom Commencing at 2:00pm

 


PRESENT

Cr Sharon Tapscott, Mayor

Cr Russell Fitzpatrick, Deputy Mayor

Cr Tony Allen

Cr Robyn Bain

Cr Jo Dodds

Cr Cathy Griff

Cr Kristy McBain

Cr Mitchell Nadin

Cr Liz Seckold

IN ATTENDANCE

General Manager, Ms Leanne Barnes

Director, Assets and Operations, Mr Anthony McMahon

Director,  Community, Environment and Planning, Dr Alice Howe

Director, Business and Governance, Mrs Iliada Bolton

Manager, Communication and Events, Mr Ian Campbell

Project Lead, Recovery, Rebuilding and Resilience, Mr Chris Horsburgh

Minute Secretary, Mrs Bec Jones

 

Statement of Commencement of Live Streaming

The Mayor made an announcement about live streaming requirements:

Council meetings are recorded and live streamed to the Internet for public viewing. 

The recording will be archived and made available on Council’s website www.begavalley.nsw.gov.au.

Acknowledgement of Traditional Custodians of Bega Valley Shire

The Mayor commenced by acknowledging, on behalf of Bega Valley Shire Council, the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters of the Shire, the people of Yuin nation, to show respect to elders past, present and emerging.

Statement by the Mayor – Eden-Monaro By-Election Outcome

The Mayor formally acknowledged Councillor candidates Crs Cathy Griff and Kristy McBain, and congratulated Cr McBain on her election as Federal Member for Eden-Monaro.

1.

Apologies

 

There were no apologies, but the absence of Cr Cathy Griff was noted

 

 

2.

Confirmation of Minutes

146/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Dodds and Allen

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting and Closed session held on 24 June 2020 and the Extraordinary Meeting held on 13 July 2020 as circulated, be taken as read and confirmed.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

Absent:                    Cr Griff

 

 

3.        Declarations

                   Non-Pecuniary Interest

                   Cr Seckold declared a non-pecuniary but less than significant conflict of interest regarding Item      9.1 Acceptance of Building Better Regions Grant and Local Roads and Community Infrastructure      Program on the basis that she is an active volunteer at the Regional Art Gallery and the Tathra       Headland Activation Precinct and is involved with the Tathra Wharf Museum and Landcare.

                   Cr Seckold will remain in the Chamber and take part in debate and voting.

4.             Public Forum

           Report by Mayor of deputations heard prior to the meeting

Item 12.1 Adoption of Revised Delivery Program 2017-2021 and Operational Plan 2020-2021 including Annual Budget, Financial Strategy and Long Term Financial Plan

           •    Mr Lucas Scarpin – via audio visual link (Zoom)

                   Item 16.1 Cr Jo Dodds  Notice of Motion – Protection of Endangered Shorebirds

                   FOR

•  Ms Ann Maree Menager – via written submission

 

                   AGAINST

 

•  Mr David Porter – via audio visual link (Zoom)

 

                   The comments and addresses from these requests were circulated to Councillors and are available            on Council’s website.

      02:04 pm             Cr Griff joined to the meeting.

5.        Petitions

                   There were no petitions.

6.        Mayoral Minutes

 

6.1

Request for support to communities impacted by Victoria/New South Wales Border - request East Gippsland Shire Council

 

 

The Mayoral minute was withdrawn by Cr Tapscott.

 

 

7.          Urgent Business

 

7.1

Movement of Items on the Agenda

147/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Nadin and Bain

That Council bring forward items 13.1, 13.2 and 12.2 for consideration as the first items on the agenda.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

7.2

Council Conduct – The Institution of Council

 

Cr Bain expressed concern that Councillors were advised via a ratepayer at a Public Forum today, that the Long Term Financial Plan figures were incorrect.

A motion was moved by Cr Bain

That Council resolve to return abiding by the Code of Conduct in terms of communication and provision of information to Councillors as the Institution of Council.

The Mayor ruled that the matter raised by Cr Bain was not deemed urgent business and suggested the motion be raised as a Question on Notice.

 

13.1

Making of the Rates and Charges for 2020 - 2021

148/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Fitzpatrick and Seckold

That the Revenue Policy be adopted in the Draft Operational Plan 2020/2021.

That the following rates and charges be applied in accordance with Sections 534 and 535 of the Local Government Act 1993,  

1. General Rates:

•     to make a Base rate of $518.50 on each rateable parcel of land and an ad-valorem rate of 0.003142282 cents in the dollar on the rateable land value for all properties categorised as “residential” in accordance with Section 516 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the LG Act) and;

•     to make a Base rate of $518.50   on each rateable parcel of land and an ad-valorem rate of 0.003142282 cents in the dollar on the rateable land value for all properties categorised as “farmland” in accordance with Section 515 of the LG Act and;

•     to make a Base rate of $518.50 on each rateable parcel of land and an ad-valorem rate of 0.006551461 cents in the dollar on the rateable land value for all properties categorised as “business” in accordance with Section 518 of the LG Act and;

•     to make a Base rate of$518.50 on each rateable parcel of land and an ad-valorem rate of 0.006551461 cents in the dollar on the rateable land value for all properties categorised as “mining” in accordance with Section 517 of the LG Act and;

2. Stormwater Charge:

•     to make a stormwater charge of $25.00 per annum per single residential dwelling that benefits from Council’s stormwater system whether built or natural in accordance with Section 496A of the LG Act and;

•     to make a make a stormwater charge of $12.50 per annum per residential strata dwelling that benefits from Council’s stormwater system whether built or natural in accordance with Section 496A of the LG Act and;

•     to make a stormwater charge of $25.00 per annum per developed commercial property up to 1,200 square metres that benefits from Council’s stormwater system whether built or natural in accordance with Section 496A of the LG Act and;

•     to make a stormwater charge of $100.00 per annum per developed commercial property in excess of 1,200 square metres but not exceeding 3,000 square metres that benefits from Council’s stormwater system whether built or natural in accordance with Section 496A of the LG Act and;

•     to make a stormwater charge of $200.00 per annum per developed commercial property in excess of 3,000 square metres that benefits from Council’s stormwater system whether built or natural in accordance with Section 496A of the LG Act and;

•     to make a minimum stormwater charge of $5.00 per annum per developed commercial strata property that benefits from Council’s stormwater system whether built or natural in accordance with Section 496A of the LG Act.

3. Waste and Recycling Collection Charge:

•     in accordance with Section 496 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, that Council make waste management charges for 2020-2021:

 

Function

Note

Code

Description (All charges S496 unless noted)

Mandatory

Amount

Information

Waste Management

Section 501

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Waste Management

Residential

$265.86

Mandatory charge per residential, non-rural, assessment excl Vacant Land.

Rural

Rural Waste Management

Rural

$124.93

Mandatory charge per rural assessment excl vacant land and no other s501 charges are levied.

Commercial

Commercial Waste Management

Commercial

$285.13

Mandatory charge per Commercial, non-rural, assessment excl Vacant Land.

As noted

Waste Service Availability Charge

As Noted

$89.12

Mandatory charge per assessment for land where waste collection service is available and no other s501 charges are levied.

Landfill

Weekly

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Landfill 80L Weekly

 

$124.00

Weekly landfill bin collection services are only available subject to assessment of medical need.

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Landfill 140L Weekly

 

$166.05

Weekly landfill bin collection services are only available subject to assessment of medical need.

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Landfill 240L Weekly

 

$224.01

Weekly landfill bin collection services are only available subject to assessment of medical need.

Rural

Rural Landfill 80L Weekly

Rural

$171.96

Mandatory Minimum Rural.

Rural

Rural Landfill 140L Weekly

 

$223.10

Standard service offering unless smaller size requested.

Rural

Rural Landfill 140L Weekly (Bin Bank)

Bin Bank

$223.10

Mandatory Minimum Bin Bank.

Rural

Rural Landfill 240L Weekly

 

$282.77

 

Commercial

Commercial Landfill 240L Weekly

Commercial

$224.01

Mandatory Minimum Commercial.

Commercial

Commercial Landfill 660L Weekly

 

POA

 

Fortnightly

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Landfill 80L Fortnightly

Residential

$66.06

Mandatory Minimum Residential.

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Landfill 140L Fortnightly

 

$90.91

 

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Landfill 240L Fortnightly

 

$119.89

 

Recycling

Weekly

Commercial

Commercial Recycling 240L Weekly

Commercial

$102.35

Mandatory Minimum Commercial.

Commercial

Commercial Recycling 360L Weekly

 

$129.94

 

Commercial

Commercial Recycling 660L Weekly

 

POA

 

Fortnightly

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Recycling 80L Fortnightly

Residential

$44.39

Mandatory Minimum Residential.

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Recycling 240L Fortnightly

 

$51.17

Standard service offering unless smaller size requested.

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD Recycling 360L Fortnightly

 

$70.26

 

Rural

Rural Recycling 240L Fortnightly

Rural

$100.07

Mandatory Minimum Rural.

Rural

Rural Recycling 240L Fortnightly (Bin Bank)

Bin Bank

$100.07

Mandatory Minimum Bin Bank.

Rural

Rural Recycling 360L Fortnightly

 

$119.16

 

Food Organics, Garden Organics

Weekly

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD FOGO 80L Weekly

Residential

$87.30

Mandatory Minimum Residential.

Residential or MUD

Residential or MUD FOGO 240L Weekly

 

$93.10

Standard service offering unless smaller size requested.

Rural

Rural FOGO 240L Weekly

 

$111.29

Rural compost service is optional and only supplied where available (where truck already passes collection point).

Commercial

Commercial FOGO 140L Weekly

 

$76.65

 

Commercial

Commercial FOGO 240L Weekly

 

$90.65

 

 

4.Water supply services:

•     Make an Annual Charge for Water Usage and Water Availability, in accordance with Section 501 and Section 502, comprising a Water Usage Charge of $3.10 per kilolitre for all water supplied by Council within or outside of its area based on water meter size:

Particulars

Volume factor

Access charge

Charge per Kl

20mm Water Connection

1

$245.73

$3.10

25mm Water Connection

1.56

$383.31

$3.10

32mm Water Connection

2.56

$629.04

$3.10

40mm Water Connection

4

$982.81

$3.10

50mm Water Connection

6.25

$1,535.72

$3.10

65mm Water Connection

10.56

$2,594.75

$3.10

80mm Water Connection

16

$3,931.43

$3.10

100mm Water Connection

25

$6,142.76

$3.10

150mm Water Connection

56.25

$13,821.25

$3.10

200mm Water Connection

100

$24,571.16

$3.10

Strata Title Units (per unit)

1

$245.73

$3.10

Unconnected properties which are able to connect (i.e. vacant land)

1

$245.73

$3.10

 

•     To make an Access Charge of $245.73 for all properties that are unconnected and able to be connected to the water supply of Bega Valley Shire Council.

•     That subject to a medical certificate from the Southern NSW Local Health District, Council provide fifty-three (53) kilolitres per patient per quarter in the case of all registered patients using home dialysis machines or other certified medical treatments free of charge, beyond this allowance all water usage is to be charged at $3.10.

5. Sewerage local fund:

Pursuant to Section 501 of the LG Act Council hereby resolves:

•     to make a flat sewerage service charge of $1,245.97 for all residential and farmland properties except as outlined below, connected to the Council's sewerage service network and categorised as residential or farmland in accordance with Sections 515 and 516 of the LG Act;

•     to make a flat sewerage service charge of $1,245.97 for each residential strata lot connected to the Council's sewerage service network and categorised as residential in accordance with Section 516 of the LG Act and;

•     to make a flat sewerage service charge of $1,245.97 for each residential dwelling on a multi-dwelling lot connected to the Council's sewerage service network categorised as residential in accordance with Section 516 of the LG Act and;

•     to make a flat sewerage service charge $622.99 for all properties categorised as residential or farmland in accordance with Sections 515 and 516 of the LG Act that are not connected and able to connect to the Council's sewerage service network and;

•     to make a sewer usage charge for all properties categorised as business and mining in accordance with Sections 517 and 518 of the LG Act, calculated on the total water usage (by measure) multiplied by the sewerage discharge factor (according to the following schedule) multiplied $4.50 per kilolitre and;

•     to make a sewer access charge for all properties (including strata and non-strata developments) categorised as business and mining in accordance with Sections 517 and 518 of the LG Act, calculated on the combination of a flat charge of $1,245.97  multiplied by the volume factor as noted in the table below, multiplied by the discharge factor as noted in the table below and;

•     to make a flat sewerage service charge $622.99 for all properties categorised as business or mining in accordance with Sections 517 and 518 of the LG Act that are not connected and able to connect to the Council's sewerage service network and;

•     Council notes that the discharge bands have been determined by the NSW Office of Water in its Best Practice Guidelines. The following table outlines these discharge factors and will be applied to the sewer usage charge and sewer availability charge. Council reserves the right to apply any discharge factor between 0%-100% with consultation with a business owner if necessary to accurately reflect an individual business.

Discharger

BVSC proposed

B and B

75

Bakery

95

Boarding House or Hostel

90

Butcher

95

Café/Bistro/Cakes/Patisserie

95

Car Detailing

95

Car Wash - hand wash only

75

Car Wash (robo, clean and go, gerni type)

95

Caravan Park

75

Charcoal Chicken

95

Chicken/Poultry Shop

95

Churches

95

Club (e.g. bowling, golf, racing)

50

Club (e.g. RSL, Surf Club)

95

Commercial Swimming Pool

85

Community Properties (halls)

95

Community Properties (reserves, sporting facilities, etc.)

10

Concrete Batching Plant

10

Craft/Stonemason

95

Day Care Centre’s / Pre-schools

95

Delicatessen, mixed business

95

Dental Surgery

95

Depot (bus, courier, truck, taxi, fuel)

95

Factory/Industry/Warehouse

95

Food Processing

90

Fresh Fish Shop

95

Funeral parlour

95

General Retail / Services

95

Government Department

95

Hairdresser / Beauty Salon

95

Hospital

95

Hotel

100

Joinery

95

Laundry

95

Marina

90

Mechanical Workshop

95

Mechanical Workshop w/ Car Yard

85

Medical Practice (incl. physio, herbal medicine, etc.)

95

Motel

90

Multi-premise Commercial (strata plan, dual occupancy)

95

Nursery

70

Nursing Home

90

Office Building

95

Optical Service

95

Panel Beating/Spray Painting

95

Printer

95

Radiator Repairer

90

Restaurant (including cafes, canteens, bistros)

95

Schools (Primary)

95

Schools (Secondary)

95

Schools (TAFE, University, etc.)

95

Seafood Processing

90

Self-Storage

90

Service Station

90

Shopping Centre

85

Supermarket

95

Take Away Food

95

Veterinary Practice, Kennels or Animal wash

80

Wreckers

90

 

Volume Factor – Sewer         

VOLUME FACTORS

Meter size

Factor

Availability charge per year

20mm

1.00

$1,245.97

25mm

1.56

$1943.72

32mm

2.56

$3189.69

40mm

4.00

$4,983.90

50mm

6.25

$7,787.34

65mm

10.56

$13,157.49

80mm

16.00

$19,935.59

100mm

25.00

$31,149.36

150mm

56.25

$70,086.06

200mm

100.00

$124,597.44

 

Liquid Trade Waste

Pursuant to Section 501 of the LG Act Council hereby resolves:

•     To make a Liquid Trade Waste usage charge of one dollar ($1.39) per kilolitre of water consumption multiplied by the discharge factors as tabled below.

Band

LTW Discharge factor

1

0%

2

0%

3

10%

4

20%

5

30%

6

50%

7

60%

8

80%

9

90%

2S

N/A

 

6. High Consumption Charge:

Pursuant to Section 64 of the LG Act Council hereby resolves:

•     to make a high consumption charge (non-residential) that applies to eligible non-residential properties.

Eligible non-residential properties have an option of maintaining their existing Equivalent Tenement (ET) entitlement and paying the High Consumption Charges in lieu of paying Section 64 Developer Contributions. The non-residential High Consumption Charge is calculated annually by amortizing the Section 64 Developer Charges for water and sewer (presently $9,149 and $12,808 per ET respectively) over 30 years with a discount rate equal to the 30 year Treasury bond rate (currently 3% variable) and then divided by 205kL/y for water and 190kL/y for sewer. The figure of 205kL/y is the average annual water consumption per household (1 ET), and the 190kL/y is the average annual contribution to the sewerage system per household (1 ET).

High Consumption Charges non-residential

Charge per ($/kL)

High Consumption (water) Charge

$2.23

High Consumption (sewer) Charge

$3.38

 

7. Pension Claim:

In accordance with Section 575 of the LG Act, Council acknowledges that it must apply the following Pension concession’s to eligible properties, being owned and used as principle places of residence by eligible pension holders.

General Rates and Domestic Waste Services: $250.00

Water Supply Fund: $87.50

Sewerage Supply Fund: $87.50

8. Interest on Overdue Rates and Charges:

Council hereby resolves that in accordance with the provisions of Section 566(3) of the LG Act the interest rate to apply to all outstanding rates and charges for the period 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 be calculated at 0% per annum.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Cr Bain

 

 

13.2

Adoption of Fees and Charges 2020-2021

149/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Fitzpatrick and Nadin

 

1.    That Council make each fee and charge for 2020-2021 in accordance with the exhibited Draft         Fees and Charges subject to the changes outlined in Attachment 1 to this report.

2.    That the 2020-2021 Fees and Charges once adopted immediately come into effect         commencing 22 July 2020.

3.   That Councillors receive information via a Councillor Workshop to discuss options for        sportsgrounds fees and charges relief, particularly relating to current COVID-19        environment and a report to the Ordinary Council Meeting of 5 August 2020 to consider        those options.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Cr Bain

 

 

12.2

Adoption of Revised Delivery Program 2017- 2021 and Operational Plan 2020-2021 including Annual Budget, Financial Strategy and Long Term Financial Plan

 

 

A motion was moved by Crs Fitzpatrick and Dodds

 

1.   That Council adopt the Bega Valley Shire Delivery Program 2017 – 2021, Operational Plan 2020-2021 including the Annual Budget included at Attachment 2 noting that changes will be made to the document to reflect items identified by Councillors at briefing relating to the newly included Estimate Cash Flow Statements.

2.     That Council note the submissions received and the summary of submissions with Council Officer responses included at Attachment 1.

3.     That Council defer consideration of  the Long Term Financial Plan 2020-2030 to the finance workshop on 29 July  and for reconsideration by Council at the meeting on 5 August 2020 with updated Cash Flow Statements.

4.     That Council note the request for a review of Council’s financial position funded by the State Government and external performance audit work currently being reported through the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) and; the Financial Improvement Plan previously endorsed is being progressed, including the engagement of external consultants to focus on the preparation of the Draft Long Term Financial Plan for the years 2022-2032 commencing within the next three months.

5.     That Council adopt the Financial Strategy 2020-2021 included at Attachment 4     

6.     That Council note the revised Delivery Program 2017-2021 and Operational Plan 2020-2021, and Financial Strategy 2020-2021 will be published on Council’s website by 24 July 2020.

7.     That Council formally acknowledge the ongoing financial contribution to the operations and capital projects of the Council and the significant current and proposed increase in support for the bushfire, flood and Covid-19 response and recovery provided by the Federal and State Governments

8.     That Council officers advise those that made submissions during public exhibition period of         Council’s decision.

 

An addition to the motion was suggested by Cr Bain

 

1.         That Council meet the Council’s financial principle as written on page 747 of the business              papers Attachment 2 of 2 Financial Strategy 2020-21. (A) “Council spending should be              responsible and sustainable aligning general revenue and expenses”.

 

The addition was accepted by Crs Fitzpatrick and Dodds

 

A motion was moved by Crs Fitzpatrick and Dodds

 

1.    That Council meet the Councils financial principle as written on page 747 of the business papers Attachment 2 of 2 Financial Strategy 2020-21. (A) “Council spending should be responsible and sustainable aligning general revenue and expenses”.

2.    That Council adopt the Bega Valley Shire Delivery Program 2017 – 2021, Operational Plan 2020-2021 including the Annual Budget included at Attachment 2 noting that changes will be made to the document to reflect items identified by Councillors at briefing relating to the newly included Estimate Cash Flow Statements.

3.     That Council note the submissions received and the summary of submissions with Council Officer responses included at Attachment 1.

4.     That Council defer consideration of  the Long Term Financial Plan 2020-2030 to the finance workshop on 29 July  and for reconsideration by Council at the meeting on 5 August 2020 with updated Cash Flow Statements.

5.     That Council note the request for a review of Council’s financial position funded by the State Government and external performance audit work currently being reported through the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) and; the Financial Improvement Plan previously endorsed is being progressed, including the engagement of external consultants to focus on the preparation of the Draft Long Term Financial Plan for the years 2022-2032 commencing within the next three months.

6.     That Council adopt the Financial Strategy 2020-2021 included at Attachment 4     

7.     That Council note the revised Delivery Program 2017-2021 and Operational Plan 2020-2021, and Financial Strategy 2020-2021 will be published on Council’s website by 24 July 2020.

8.     That Council formally acknowledge the ongoing financial contribution to the operations and capital projects of the Council and the significant current and proposed increase in support for the bushfire, flood and Covid-19 response and recovery provided by the Federal and State Governments

9.     That Council officers advise those that made submissions during public exhibition period of         Council’s decision.

The motion was put to the vote and it was CARRIED

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott and Dodds

Against:                  Crs Bain, Nadin and Allen

 

 

A motion was foreshadowed by Cr Bain

 

1.         That Council not adopt the Bega Valley Shire Delivery Program 2017-2021, Operational              Plan 2020-2021, including the Annual Budget included in Attachment 2.

 

2.         That Council note the submissions received and the summary of submissions with Council              Officer responses included in Attachment 1.

 

3.         That Council not adopt the Long Term Financial Plan 2020-2030 included in Attachment 3              and Financial Strategy 2020-21 included in Attachment 4.

 

4.         That Council rework the Delivery Plan, Operational Plan 2020-21, Long Term Financial Plan              2020-30 and Financial Strategy 2020-21 to meet the Councils financial principle as written              on page 747 of the business papers Attachment 2 of 2 Financial Strategy 2020-21. (A)              “Council spending should be responsible and sustainable aligning general revenue and              expenses”.

 

5.         That Council formally acknowledge the ongoing financial contributions to the operations              and capital projects of the Council and the significant current and proposed increase in              support for the bushfire, flood and Covid-19 response and recovery provided by the              Federal and State Governments.

 

6.         That Council officers advise those that made submissions during public exhibition period of              Council’s decision.

 

A point of order was called by Cr Dodds regarding the possibility of a short break.

The Mayor ruled in favour of the point of order, with a break to be taken following the vote of this item.

 

 

 

 

150/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Fitzpatrick and Dodds

1.    That Council meet the Council’s financial principle as written on page 747 of the business papers Attachment 2 of 2 Financial Strategy 2020-21. (A) “Council spending should be responsible and sustainable aligning general revenue and expenses”.

2.    That Council adopt the Bega Valley Shire Delivery Program 2017 – 2021, Operational Plan 2020-2021 including the Annual Budget included at Attachment 2 noting that changes will be made to the document to reflect items identified by Councillors at briefing relating to the newly included Estimate Cash Flow Statements.

3.     That Council note the submissions received and the summary of submissions with Council Officer responses included at Attachment 1.

4.     That Council defer consideration of  the Long Term Financial Plan 2020-2030 to the finance workshop on 29 July  and for reconsideration by Council at the meeting on 5 August 2020 with updated Cash Flow Statements.

5.     That Council note the request for a review of Council’s financial position funded by the State Government and external performance audit work currently being reported through the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) and; the Financial Improvement Plan previously endorsed is being progressed, including the engagement of external consultants to focus on the preparation of the Draft Long Term Financial Plan for the years 2022-2032 commencing within the next three months.

6.     That Council adopt the Financial Strategy 2020-2021 included at Attachment 4     

7.     That Council note the revised Delivery Program 2017-2021 and Operational Plan 2020-2021, and Financial Strategy 2020-2021 will be published on Council’s website by 24 July 2020.

8.     That Council formally acknowledge the ongoing financial contribution to the operations and capital projects of the Council and the significant current and proposed increase in support for the bushfire, flood and Covid-19 response and recovery provided by the Federal and State Governments

9.     That Council officers advise those that made submissions during public exhibition period of         Council’s decision.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott and Dodds

Against:                  Crs Bain, Nadin and Allen

 

 

3:50 pm       The meeting was adjourned for 10 minutes for the purposes of a short break.

4:00 pm       The ordinary meeting was reconvened.

 

8.          Staff Reports – Planning and Environment

 

8.1

Rezoning for Water and Sewer Infrastructure

151/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Fitzpatrick and Allen

That Council:

1.    Supports a planning proposal to rezone land for water and sewer infrastructure.

2.    Authorises Council officers to submit the planning proposal (Attachment 1) and supporting information to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment requesting a Gateway Determination under Section 3.34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

3.    Authorises Council officers, subject to the conditions of the Gateway Determination and providing no substantial changes to the planning proposal are required, to progress the planning proposal to finalisation and gazettal without a further report to Council.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

 

8.2

Submission on NSW Housing Strategy Discussion Paper

152/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs McBain and Fitzpatrick

That Council make a submission (Attachment 1) to the NSW Government’s Housing Strategy Discussion Paper, incorporating the proposals made by Crs Bain, McBain and Seckold

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

 

 

8.3

Outcomes of Exhibition of Draft Climate Resilience Strategy

 

 

A motion was moved by Crs Bain and Allen

 

1.    That Council resolves to note  the Bega Valley Shire Climate Resilience Strategy 2050 (Attachment 1), with amendments to the exhibited draft document as outlined in this report.

2.    That Council consider resilience  methods in relation to the recent disaster events.

3.    That Council officers advise those that made submissions during public exhibition of Council’s decision.

 

The motion was put the vote and it was LOST

 

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin and Allen

Against:                  Crs, Tapscott, McBain, Seckold, Dodds and Griff

 

A motion was foreshadowed by Crs Griff and Seckold

 

1. That Council resolves to adopt the Bega Valley Shire Climate Resilience Strategy 2050

(Attachment 1), with the following amendments:

 

a.       Replace the first two sentences of Executive Summary Paragraph 1 on page 1 with:

The climate of the Bega Valley Shire is expected to become hotter and rainfall more erratic. We can expect increases in the number of fire days and severe storms; reductions in the capacity of soil and vegetation to retain moisture: as well as increases in mean sea level and ocean acidity.

 

b.       Replace the first sentence of Executive Summary Paragraph 2 on page 1 with:

Bega Valley Shire Council has formally recognised that we are facing a climate emergency and has resolved to increase its focus on mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change. This includes a net zero emissions target by 2050 and an interim 100% renewable electricity target by 2030.

 

c.        Replace Background Paragraph 1 on page 6 with: 

The United Nations has identified climate change as a defining issue of our time:

The UN definition (under the Framework Convention on Climate Change) is: “A change in climate which is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters the composition of the global atmosphere and which is in addition to natural climate variability observed over comparable periods of time”.

 

d.       Add after the first sentence of Background Paragraph 2 on page 6:

Many of these vulnerabilities were exposed during the Black Summer bushfires and coronavirus pandemic, which have had unprecedented impacts on the Bega Valley community, environment and economy.

 

e.       Correct minor typographic errors throughout the document.

 

 

2.    That Council officers advise those that made submissions during public exhibition of Council’s         decision.

 

 An additional dot point to the recommendation was suggested by Cr McBain

 That this strategy be reviewed following the release of the outcomes of the Bushfire Royal Commission and NSW inquiry

 

The amendment was accepted by Crs Griff and Seckold

 

1. That Council resolves to adopt the Bega Valley Shire Climate Resilience Strategy 2050

(Attachment 1), with the following amendments:

 

a.       Replace the first two sentences of Executive Summary Paragraph 1 on page 1 with:

The climate of the Bega Valley Shire is expected to become hotter and rainfall more erratic. We can expect increases in the number of fire days and severe storms; reductions in the capacity of soil and vegetation to retain moisture: as well as increases in mean sea level and ocean acidity.

 

b.       Replace the first sentence of Executive Summary Paragraph 2 on page 1 with:

Bega Valley Shire Council has formally recognised that we are facing a climate emergency and has resolved to increase its focus on mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change. This includes a net zero emissions target by 2050 and an interim 100% renewable electricity target by 2030.

 

c.        Replace Background Paragraph 1 on page 6 with: 

The United Nations has identified climate change as a defining issue of our time:

The UN definition (under the Framework Convention on Climate Change) is: “A change in climate which is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters the composition of the global atmosphere and which is in addition to natural climate variability observed over comparable periods of time”.

 

d.       Add after the first sentence of Background Paragraph 2 on page 6:

Many of these vulnerabilities were exposed during the Black Summer bushfires and coronavirus pandemic, which have had unprecedented impacts on the Bega Valley community, environment and economy.

 

e.       Correct minor typographic errors throughout the document.

 

2.    That this strategy be reviewed following the release of the outcomes of the Bushfire         Royal Commission and NSW inquiry.

3.    That Council officers advise those that made submissions during public exhibition of Council’s         decision.

 

The motion was put to the vote and it was CARRIED

 

In favour:             Crs Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott and Dodds

 

Against:                  Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin and Allen

 

153/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Griff and Seckold

 

1. That Council resolves to adopt the Bega Valley Shire Climate Resilience Strategy 2050

(Attachment 1), with the following amendments:

 

a.       Replace the first two sentences of Executive Summary Paragraph 1 on page 1 with:

The climate of the Bega Valley Shire is expected to become hotter and rainfall more erratic. We can expect increases in the number of fire days and severe storms; reductions in the capacity of soil and vegetation to retain moisture: as well as increases in mean sea level and ocean acidity.

 

b.       Replace the first sentence of Executive Summary Paragraph 2 on page 1 with:

Bega Valley Shire Council has formally recognised that we are facing a climate emergency and has resolved to increase its focus on mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change. This includes a net zero emissions target by 2050 and an interim 100% renewable electricity target by 2030.

 

c.        Replace Background Paragraph 1 on page 6 with: 

The United Nations has identified climate change as a defining issue of our time:

The UN definition (under the Framework Convention on Climate Change) is: “A change in climate which is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters the composition of the global atmosphere and which is in addition to natural climate variability observed over comparable periods of time”.

 

d.       Add after the first sentence of Background Paragraph 2 on page 6:

Many of these vulnerabilities were exposed during the Black Summer bushfires and coronavirus pandemic, which have had unprecedented impacts on the Bega Valley community, environment and economy.

 

e.       Correct minor typographic errors throughout the document.

 

2.    That this strategy be reviewed following the release of the outcomes of the Bushfire         Royal Commission and NSW inquiry.

3.    That Council officers advise those that made submissions during public exhibition of Council’s         decision.

 In favour:            Crs Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott and Dodds

Against:                  Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin and Allen

9.          Staff Reports – Community, Culture and Leisure

 

9.1

Acceptance of Building Better Regions Grant and Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program

 

 

Cr Seckold declared a non-pecuniary but less than significant conflict of interest regarding Item 9.1 Acceptance of Building Better Regions Grant and Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program on the basis that she is an active volunteer at the Regional Art Gallery and the Tathra Headland Activation Precinct and is involved with the Tathra Museum and Landcare.

Cr Seckold remained in the  Chamber and took part in debate and voting.

 

A  motion was moved by Crs Fitzpatrick and Allen

 

That Council

 

1.    Accept grant funds of $2,470,363 awarded under the Building Better Regions Fund and $1,221,983 awarded under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program

2.    Advocate to the NSW Government for funds to match the Bega Valley Regional Gallery Redevelopment component of the Building Better Regions Fund.

3.    Allocate Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program funding to deliver Tathra Kiosk upgrade, Berrambool Footbridge upgrade and sealing of Plumb Motors car park.

4.    Note Council’s application for $1,000,000 under the Streets as Shared Spaces Fund for the Tathra Headland Activation Precinct project.

An additional dot point to the motion was proposed by Cr Bain

 

5.    That should Council be unsuccessful in its application to the NSW Government for matching         funding for the Bega Valley Regional Gallery , that a report be bought to Council outlining all         other options before progressing

 

The amendment was accepted by Crs Fitzpatrick and Allen

 

An amendment to the motion was proposed by Cr Dodds

 

5.    That should the outcome of the next grant application to support the BBRF project not be successful,  a further report be presented to Council to outline Council funding options or scope review options.

 

The amendment was accepted  by Crs Fitzpatrick and Allen

 

A  motion was moved by Crs Fitzpatrick and Allen

That Council:

1.    Accept grant funds of $2,470,363 awarded under the Building Better Regions Fund and $1,221,983 awarded under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program

2.    Advocate to the NSW Government for funds to match the Bega Valley Regional Gallery Redevelopment component of the Building Better Regions Fund.

3.    Allocate Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program funding to deliver Tathra Kiosk upgrade, Berrambool Footbridge upgrade and sealing of Plumb Motors car park.

4.    Note Council’s application for $1,000,000 under the Streets as Shared Spaces Fund for the Tathra Headland Activation Precinct project.

5.    That should the outcome of the next grant application to support the BBRF project not be successful,  a further report be presented to Council to outline Council funding options or scope review options.

 

The motion was put to the vote and it was CARRIED

 

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

A motion was foreshadowed by Cr Dodds

 

1.    Accept grant funds of $2,470,363 awarded under the Building Better Regions Fund and $1,221,983 awarded under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program

2.    Advocate to the NSW Government for funds to match the Bega Valley Regional Gallery Redevelopment component of the Building Better Regions Fund.

3.    Allocate Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program funding to deliver Tathra Kiosk upgrade, Berrambool Footbridge upgrade and sealing of Plumb Motors car park.

4.    Note Council’s application for $1,000,000 under the Streets as Shared Spaces Fund for the Tathra Headland Activation Precinct project.

 

154/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Fitzpatrick and Allen

That Council:

1.    Accept grant funds of $2,470,363 awarded under the Building Better Regions Fund and $1,221,983 awarded under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program

2.    Advocate to the NSW Government for funds to match the Bega Valley Regional Gallery Redevelopment component of the Building Better Regions Fund.

3.    Allocate Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program funding to deliver Tathra Kiosk upgrade, Berrambool Footbridge upgrade and sealing of Plumb Motors car park.

4.    Note Council’s application for $1,000,000 under the Streets as Shared Spaces Fund for the Tathra Headland Activation Precinct project.

5.    That should the outcome of the next grant application to support the BBRF project not be successful,  a further report be presented to Council to outline Council funding options or scope review options.

 

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

10.        Staff Reports – Economic Development and Business Growth

 

10.1

Bega Valley Innovation Hub Update and Incubator Support Funding

155/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Dodds and McBain

1.    That Council note the outcomes of the Bega Valley Innovation Hub (BVIH) for the local         business community over the past two years.

2.   That Council note and approve the intent to support a Council grant application to the         Australian Government’s Incubator Support Program to continue the delivery of business         innovation and growth programs in the Bega Valley Shire.

3.    That Council note the partnership and investment to date with the University of         Wollongong and if successful in the grant application due to extenuating circumstances,         Council enact Section 55 (3)(i) of the Local Government Act as a satisfactory result would not         be achieved by inviting tenders.

4.    That authority is delegated to the General Manager to execute all necessary         documentation.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

5:35pm         The ordinary meeting was adjourned for the purposes of a break.

5:40pm         The ordinary meeting was reconvened.

11.        Staff Reports – Infrastructure Waste and Water

 

11.1

Tathra Beach Kiosk

156/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Seckold and Allen

1.    That Council receive and note the report.

2.    That Council, as Crown Land Manager of the Tathra Beach Reserve (R79310), call for expressions of interest for the occupation of the Tathra Beach Kiosk building based on a financial return to Council and the results be presented back to Council for consideration.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

 

11.2

Bega Valley Local Traffic Committee

157/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Allen and Seckold

That Council adopt the recommendations of the Bega Valley Local Traffic Committee email dated 16 June 2020 to be tabled at the 22 July 2020 Council meeting.

2020 Commemoration march and service – Bega

A submission has been received from the RSL Bega for a Commemoration march from Church Street to the Memorial Bega.

Assemble 10.45am at Church Street Bega – At approx. 11.00am march down Carp Street to Bega Memorial, there will be a short service until 12.00 midday.

There will be approx. 100 people, 10 vehicles, 1 band and 4 horses.

It is Recommended:

1.    That the proposed traffic arrangements for the Bega RSL Sub Branch Commemoration march be approved and deemed a Class 2 Special Event.

2.    That sections of Council Roads at Church Street and Carp Street in Bega be temporarily closed on Sunday, 16 August 2020 for the Bega RSL Sub Branch Commemoration march, as per the Traffic Control Plans.

3.    Abide to COVID19 restrictions and rules at the time of the event.

4.    Approval subject to current Traffic Control Plan (TCP).

Tathra Mountain Bike Enduro 12 September 2020 (Cancelled)

It is recommended that Council note the 12 September 2020 Tathra Mountain Bike Enduro has been cancelled.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

 

12.        Staff Reports – Governance and Strategy

 

12.1

Classification of land dedicated to Council

158/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs McBain and Allen

That Council give notice of its intention to classify Lot 121 DP 1252360 at 8 Wildewoods Court, Merimbula as operational land under section 34 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW).

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

Item – 12.2 Adoption of Revised Delivery Program 2017-2021 and Operational Plan 2020-2021 including Annual Budget, Financial Strategy and Long Term Financial Plan - was moved to before Item 8.1

 

 

12.3

Delegations for the acceptance of Recovery, Resilience and Rebuilding tenders

159/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Bain and McBain

1.    That Council note the report.

2.    That Council resolve to delegate to the General Manager authority to accept tenders for Recovery, Resilience and Rebuilding (RRR) related projects for the period the rebuilding works only.

3.    The Leadership Executive Group consider all tenders related to Recovery, Resilience and Rebuilding projects and minute the General Manager’s determination.

4.    All tenders approved under this delegation are reported to Council quarterly, in line with         existing financial reporting requirements required, under Regulation 203(1) of the Local         Government (General) Regulation 2005.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

 

13.        Staff Reports – Finance

 

Item - 13.1 Making of Rates and Charges for 2020 - 2021 was moved to before Item 8.1

 

Item - 13.2 Adoption of Fees and Charges 2020-2021 was moved to before item 8.1.

 

13.3

Certificate of Investment - May 2020

160/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Bain and Allen

1.    That Council receive and note the attached reports indicating Council’s investment position as at 31 May 2020.

2.    That Council note the certification of the Responsible Accounting Officer.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

 

13.4

Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal - 2021 Financial Year - Mayoral and Councillor Fees

 

 

A motion was foreshadowed by Cr Dodds

 

1.    That Council resolve the annual fee payable to Councillors, paid monthly in arrears, from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 will be $20,280.

2.    That Council resolve the annual fee payable to the Mayor, paid monthly in arrears, from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 will be $44,250.

 

161/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Fitzpatrick and Allen

1.    That Council resolve the annual fee payable to Councillors, paid monthly in arrears, from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 remain at the current level.

2.    That Council resolve the annual fee payable to the Mayor, paid monthly in arrears, from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 remain at the current level.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott and Allen

Against:                  Cr Dodds

 

14.      Councillor Reports

 

14.1

CRJO Board meeting 30 June 2020

 

The report was noted.

15.      Rescission/alteration Motions

There were no Rescission/alternation Motions.

16.      Notices of Motion

 

16.1

Protection of endangered shorebirds – Cr Jo Dodds

162/20

A motion was moved by Crs Dodds and Seckold

That Council:

1.    Engage with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to identify options to further protect endangered migratory shorebirds within Bega Valley Shire, including amendments to Council’s adopted Companion Animals Control Areas Procedure.

2.    Request that staff bring back to Council a report recommending actions to address threats to these species, including an amended Draft Companion Animals Control Areas Procedure for public exhibition.

The motion was put to the vote and it was LOST

In favour:             Crs Griff, Seckold, Tapscott and Dodds

Against:                  Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, McBain and Allen

 

 

 

Extension of Meeting Time

163/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs McBain and Dodds

That Council extend the duration of the Ordinary Council Meeting by 30 minutes.

In favour:             Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott, Dodds and Allen

Against:                  Nil

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16.2

Support for Regional Media and the ABC – Cr Cathy Griff

 

A motion was moved by Crs Griff and Dodds

 

That Council

1.    Note the important role regional media plays in covering our local stories. This includes         coverage of council matters, local courts, health, education, planning matters, local sport,         arts and culture is crucial to keeping our citizens connected and engaged. Regional media         plays a crucial role in keeping citizens engaged in local affairs and connected to their         communities.

 2.   Note that across Australia this has resulted in the closure of over 150 local newspapers.

 3.   Express strong support for the importance of a strong and sustainable regional media to         ensure regional stories continue to be told and regional communities continue to have         media outlets that value local stories and provide the important role of promoting         community cohesion and an informed community.

 4.   Support the development of a properly funded regional media strategy by the Federal         Government that builds on the work already undertaken by the ACCC and is designed to         deliver a sustainable model for regional public interest journalism into the future.

 5.   Write to the Federal Minister for Communications, Paul Fletcher, urging the Minister to commence work on the development of a regional media policy to be delivered by the end of 2020

6.    That Council formally support the ABC and question the recent cuts to funding to the         service.

7.    Write to the Hon Minister Paul Fletcher seeking reinstatement, in the 2020 budget, of the         783 million dollars which has been progressively cut from the ABC budget since 1996.

 

An amendment to the motion was suggested by Cr McBain

 

1.    Note the important role regional media plays in covering our local stories. This includes         coverage of council matters, local courts, health, education, planning matters, local sport,         arts and culture is crucial to keeping our citizens connected and engaged. Regional media         plays a crucial role in keeping citizens engaged in local affairs and connected to their         communities.

 2.   Note that across Australia this has resulted in the closure of over 150 local newspapers.

 3.   Express strong support for the importance of a strong and sustainable regional media to         ensure regional stories continue to be told and regional communities continue to have         media outlets that value local stories and provide the important role of promoting         community cohesion and an informed community.

 4.   Support the development of a properly funded regional media strategy by the Federal         Government that builds on the work already undertaken by the ACCC and is designed to         deliver a sustainable model for regional public interest journalism into the future.

 5.   Write to the Federal Minister for Communications, Paul Fletcher, urging the Minister to commence work on the development of a regional media policy to be delivered by the end of 2020 and to seek reinstatement of the 2020-2021 budget of the indexation amount taken from the ABC totaling over $82 million as a priority.

6.    That Council formally support the ABC and question the recent cuts to funding to the         service.

6.    That Council formally support the ABC and our local online and print newspapers

7.    Write to the Hon Minister Paul Fletcher seeking reinstatement, in the 2020 budget, of the         783 million dollars which has been progressively cut from the ABC budget since 1996.

 

The amendments were accepted by Crs Griff and Dodds

 

An amendment to the motion was proposed by Cr McBain

 5.   Write to the Federal Minister for Communications, Paul Fletcher, urging the Minister to commence work on the development of a regional media policy to be delivered by the end of 2020 and to seek reinstatement of the indexation amount

The amendment was accepted by Crs Griff and Dodds

A motion was moved by Crs Griff and Dodds

That Council:

1.    Note the important role regional media plays in covering our local stories. This includes         coverage of council matters, local courts, health, education, planning matters, local sport,         arts and culture is crucial to keeping our citizens connected and engaged. Regional media         plays a crucial role in keeping citizens engaged in local affairs and connected to their         communities.

 2.   Note that across Australia this has resulted in the closure of over 150 local newspapers.

 3.   Express strong support for the importance of a strong and sustainable regional media to         ensure regional stories continue to be told and regional communities continue to have         media outlets that value local stories and provide the important role of promoting         community cohesion and an informed community.

 4.   Support the development of a properly funded regional media strategy by the Federal         Government that builds on the work already undertaken by the ACCC and is designed to         deliver a sustainable model for regional public interest journalism into the future.

 5.   Write to the Federal Minister for Communications, Paul Fletcher, urging the Minister to commence work on the development of a regional media policy to be delivered by the end of 2020 and to seek reinstatement of the indexation amount.

6.    That Council formally support the ABC and our local online and print newspapers.

 

The motion was put to the vote and it was CARRIED

 

In favour:             Crs Tapscott, McBain, Seckold, Dodds and Griff

Against:                  Cr Fitzpatrick, Allen, Nadin and Bain

 

A motion was foreshadowed by Cr Bain

 

That Council:

1.    Note the important role regional media plays in covering our local stories. This includes   coverage of council matters, local courts, health, education, planning matters, local sport, arts and culture is crucial to keeping our citizens connected and engaged. Regional media       plays a crucial role in keeping citizens engaged in local affairs and connected to their           communities.

 2.   Note that across Australia this has resulted in the closure of over 150 local newspapers.

 3.   Express strong support for the importance of a strong and sustainable regional media to         ensure regional stories continue to be told and regional communities continue to have         media outlets that value local stories and provide the important role of promoting         community cohesion and an informed community.

 4.   Support the development of a properly funded regional media strategy by the Federal         Government that builds on the work already undertaken by the ACCC and is designed to         deliver a sustainable model for regional public interest journalism into the future.

 5.   Write to the Federal Minister for Communications, Paul Fletcher, urging the Minister to commence work on the development of a regional media policy to be delivered by the end of 2020

 

 

164/20

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Griff and Dodds

That Council:

1.    Note the important role regional media plays in covering our local stories. This includes         coverage of council matters, local courts, health, education, planning matters, local sport,         arts and culture is crucial to keeping our citizens connected and engaged. Regional media         plays a crucial role in keeping citizens engaged in local affairs and connected to their         communities.

 2.   Note that across Australia this has resulted in the closure of over 150 local newspapers.

 3.   Express strong support for the importance of a strong and sustainable regional media to         ensure regional stories continue to be told and regional communities continue to have         media outlets that value local stories and provide the important role of promoting         community cohesion and an informed community.

 4.   Support the development of a properly funded regional media strategy by the Federal         Government that builds on the work already undertaken by the ACCC and is designed to         deliver a sustainable model for regional public interest journalism into the future.

 5.   Write to the Federal Minister for Communications, Paul Fletcher, urging the Minister to commence work on the development of a regional media policy to be delivered by the end of 2020 and to seek reinstatement of the indexation amount.

6.    That Council formally support the ABC and our local online and print newspapers.

In favour:             Crs Griff, McBain, Seckold, Tapscott and Dodds

Against:                  Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin and Allen

 

 

16.3

DA ANWE – Cr Cathy Griff

165/20

A motion was moved by Crs Griff and Dodds

That the decision on the ANWE Eden Chipmill Development Application DA No 2020.81  comes to Councillors for decision.

The motion was put to the vote and it was LOST

In favour:             Crs Griff and Dodds

Against:                  Crs Fitzpatrick, Bain, Nadin, McBain, Allen, Tapscott and Seckold

 

 

 

 

 17.    Questions with Notice

 

17.1

Merimbula Top Lake Boardwalk - Renewal

 

A response to this item was provided as a report in the Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda of 22 July 2020.

 

17.2

Skate Park Association Projects

 

A response to this item was provided as a report in the Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda of 22 July 2020.

 

17.3

Speed Limits on Mt Darragh Road

 

A response to this item was provided as a report in the Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda of 22 July 2020.

 

18.    Questions without Notice

 

18.1

Pambula Surf Club – NSW State Titles – Cr Fitzpatrick

 

Cr Fitzpatrick asked for the in principle support for the Pambula Surf Club NSW State Titles to be considered by Council.

The question was taken on notice by the General Manager.

 

 

18.2

Towamba-Burragate Road Tender

 

Cr McBain asked for an update regarding the tender for Towamba-Burragate Road.

The question was taken on notice by the Director Assets and Operations.

 

18.3

Publicly Accessible Dump Point - Eden

 

Cr McBain asked for an update on the Publicly Accessible Dump Point in Eden.

The question was taken on notice by the Director Assets and Operations.

 

18.4

Review of the Code of Meeting Practice to ensure the Institution of Council

 

Cr Bain asked that the Mayor review the code of meeting practice and ensure that all the items are adhered to and that the institution of Council within the Bega Valley Shire is held in the greatest respect across all Councillors and the information is circulated to all and that the Council return to abiding by the Code of Conduct in terms of communication and provision of information to Councillors as the Institution of Council.

The question was taken on notice by the Mayor and General Manager.

 

18.5

Lime Dust in Eden

 

Cr Bain asked for an update on the Lime Dust issue in Eden – particularly for residents of Calle Calle St, Mitchell St, Chandos St and Bass St.

Cr Bain asked for an update on the involvement of Worksafe in this matter.

The Director Assets and Operations noted documentation had been circulated to Councillors regarding and update on the matter, and the question regarding Worksafe was taken on notice.

 

 

19.        Confidential Business

There was no Confidential Business.

20.        Noting of Resolutions from Closed Session

There was no noting of resolutions from Closed Session.

21.        Declassification of reports considered previously in closed session

There was no Declassification of reports considered previously in closed session.

Closure

There being no further business, the Chairperson closed the meeting at 7:11 pm.

 

Confirmed

Chairperson of the meeting of the Bega Valley Shire Council held on Wednesday, 22 July 2020.