2019-12-10 Planning & Environment Committee Agenda

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA                                  10 DECEMBER 2019


The accounting standards for not-for-profit organisations over $250k require that grant funding
received is only recognised as income when funds are expended on a project. Until then, Council
funds are recognised in the NBRF balance sheet as an asset (cash) and liability (unexpended
grant) respectively. As funds are expended, they are recognised in the Profit & Loss statement as
income with a matching expense with a corresponding reduction in the balance sheet. The
annual operating funding is not treated in this way as no third party is involved.
In 2018/19 NBRF drew down on the operational funding allocation of $140,000. This was funded
from two different sources with $70,000 from the Environment Levy and $70,000 from general
rates. Note that NBRF draws down operational funding on a quarterly basis.
Risks & Opportunities
Noosa Council adopted the Noosa Environment Strategy in June 2019 and it is important that
projects that may be funded by Council via the grants are aligned with these strategic
environmental goals and objectives, as well as the purposes of the Environment Levy. NBRF are
also now required to apply for grants alongside all other groups. NBRF has reviewed their
strategic plan and now have a focus on developing ‘big ideas’ themselves rather than running
grant rounds. Changes to the way projects are funded, by NBRF applying in a competitive
process, is intended to ensure close alignment with the Noosa Environment Strategy.
There is a financial risk if the NBRF does not deliver good outcomes in accordance with the
purpose of the funding. The Annual report and associated appendices provide details sufficient
to identify that the Foundation’s projects are progressing well towards intended outcomes.
The greatest benefit through the provision of Council funding is the ability of the Foundation to
multiply Council’s investment by attracting funding and in-kind contributions from other sources
due to its charitable fund status. Existing projects continue to attract funding at a ratio of
approximately 3:1.
Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
Liaison with Chairperson of the NBRF.
Internal Consultation
Councillors were provided with a Q1 progress presentation by the NBRF Chairperson on 2
November 2018, and half-year and Q3 presentation on 21 March 2019.
Departments/Sections Consulted:
X   Chief Executive Officer       Community Services                      x   Corporate Services
    Executive Officer             Community Development                       Financial Services
    Executive Support             Community Facilities                        ICT
                                  Libraries & Galleries                       Procurement & Fleet
                                  Local Laws                                  Property
                                  Waste & Environmental Health                Revenue Services

    Executive Services        X   Environment & Sustainable Development       Infrastructure Services
    Community Engagement          Building & Plumbing Services                Asset Management
    Customer Service              Development Assessment                      Buildings and Facilities
    Governance                    Economic Development                        Civil Operations
    People and Culture        X   Environmental Services                      Disaster Management
                                  Strategic Land Use Planning                 Infrastructure Planning,
                                                                              Design and Delivery




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