General Committee Meeting - 16 March 2026
Date: Monday, 16 March 2026 at 12:30PM
Location: Noosa Shire Council Chambers , 9 Pelican Street , Tewantin , QLD 4565 , Australia
Organiser: Noosa Shire Council
Duration: 03:21:00
Synopsis: Appointments overhauled and CEO to review groups, Meeting structure from May 2026, Councillors on committees and 12‑month review, Wilkie COI deferred item, Orders tightened, Finances favourable.
Meeting Attendees
Committee Members
Brian Stockwell Karen Finzel Amelia Lorentson Jessica Phillips Tom Wegener Frank Wilkie Nicola Wilson Executive Officers
Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Community Services Kerri Contini Director Corporate Services Margaret Gatt Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Director Strategy And Environment Kim Rawlings Director Infrastructure Services Craig Young AI-Generated Meeting Insight
Key Decisions & Discussions Frank Wilkie: Led mid-term overhaul of councillor appointments to internal/external groups; corrections and swaps were ratified in open session, plus a future review of Tourism Noosa observer at Destination Stewardship Council setup (Item 7.1; 02:53–05:22). Nicola Wilson: Secured Amendment D to initiate a CEO-led review of all working groups and the need for new ones; stripped out a Hastings St reference to keep scope Shire-wide (Item 7.1; 10:24–11:37; 32:02–33:01). Tom Wegener: Lost amendment to explicitly consider a Hastings St external precinct group; intent noted that “place-based” stakeholder integration may be valuable (Item 7.1; 07:27–11:21; vote at 31:44–32:02). Council: Adopted refreshed list of appointments, including Chairs/Observers across disaster, capital works, audit & risk, climate, housing, biosphere trails, and external bodies (Item 7.1; minutes list a–z). Frank Wilkie: Declared a prescribed COI on Peregian Beach Active Street; Council adjourned then unanimously deferred Item 8.1 to Ordinary Meeting 19 Mar 2026 (Item 8.1; 37:57–39:32; 01:04:04–01:04:26). Tom Wegener: Moved overhaul of meeting structure: Option 2 (one General + one Ordinary monthly), all councillors on committees, Deputy Mayor to chair General; commencement brought forward to 1 May 2026 via amendment (Item 8.2; 01:12:54–01:16:28; 01:30:53–01:31:30). Nicola Wilson: Advanced start date from July to May 2026; arguments centered on reducing duplication, ensuring seven days’ public/councillor reading time (Item 8.2; 01:14:02–01:19:49; carried at 01:30:53–01:31:30). Karen Finzel: Tested rotating chairs for the General Committee; after debate and legal clarity concerns, the rotation amendment was withdrawn for potential rework at the Ordinary Meeting (Item 8.2; 01:33:02–02:11:38; withdrawn at 02:20:57–02:21:41). Amelia Lorentson: Won added clause to review the new structure in 12 months against intended benefits (efficiency, transparency, reading time) (Item 8.2; 02:37:54–02:39:45; carried 02:44:35–02:44:49). Council: Adopted Financial Performance Report to 28 Feb 2026; updated 2025–26 Debt Policy Appendix A to reflect revised BR2 borrowings ($3.1m) (Item 8.3; 02:54:47–03:16:15). Finance Officers: Reported favourable YTD variances ($2.9m operating; $4.8m net incl. capital funding), cash $159m, and flagged detailed follow-up on waste and holiday park variances next report (Item 8.3; 02:54:47–03:08:27). Contentious / Transparency Matters Amelia Lorentson: Challenged timing of Wilkie’s COI declaration given prior workshops/pop-ups; pressed for governance advice and secured adjournment before deferral (Item 8.1; 38:52–43:51; 01:04:04–01:04:26). Brian Stockwell: Enforced Standing Orders’ precise wording for procedural motions (“that the meeting stand adjourned”), clarifying process and ensuring orderly handling (Item 8.1; 42:02–45:55). Nicola Wilson: Insisted new group review be equitable and purpose-led, not pre-committed to a single precinct (Item 7.1; 10:24–11:35). Jessica Phillips: Warned against “blurring lanes” in a single Hastings St forum across TMR/QPS/Surf Life Saving/surf management, favouring targeted stakeholder lanes (Item 7.1; 15:21–16:20). Council/CEO: Acknowledged coming Standing Orders revisions and system (Resolve) reconfiguration; balanced urgency with resourcing/leave constraints (Item 8.2; 01:08:44–01:12:09; 01:17:32–01:21:00). Brian Stockwell: Noted general committee recommendations remain subject to ratification at the Ordinary Meeting, flagging potential legal drafting refinements (Item 8.2; 02:15:06–02:19:26). Legal / Risk Frank Wilkie: COI declared under Local Government Act 2009 Ch 5B; nature of benefit (traffic calming near residence) and campaign donation >$2,000 disclosed; exited chamber (Item 8.1; 37:57–38:47). Larry Sengstock (CEO): Advised Empowering Councils reforms (COI process changes) expected to apply from 1 July 2026; Standing Orders will need update accordingly (Item 8.2; 01:21:00–01:22:18). Council/CEO: Will codify seven-day agenda release through schedule/Standing Orders; aligns with transparency and procedural fairness (Item 8.2; 01:10:05–01:12:29). Finance: Emerging external risks flagged: geopolitical cost shocks (fuel, materials, insurance, supply chain); BR3 likely to address escalations (Item 8.3; 03:11:48–03:13:39; 03:18:00–03:19:12). Debt Policy: Revised only to align Appendix A borrowings with BR2; adopted to satisfy QTC requirements; no broader policy change (Item 8.3; 03:15:05–03:15:56). Standing Orders: Legal clarity sought on rotating chair consistency with s36.1 (single chair per standing committee); rotation proposal withdrawn to avoid potential non-compliance pending advice (Item 8.2; 02:09:28–02:14:20). Conflicts of Interest Frank Wilkie: Prescribed COI on Peregian Beach Active Street due to proximity and major donor relationship; left room; Council deferred the item to Ordinary Meeting (Item 8.1; 37:57–38:47; 01:04:04–01:04:26). Amelia Lorentson: Questioned whether late COI notice could undermine process integrity; sought governance advice via adjournment (Item 8.1; 38:52–43:51). Litigation and Planning Appeals Amelia Lorentson: Sought detail on legal expenses (incl. Planning & Environment Court matters); staff to circulate appeal cost tracking via Case Management Working Group and broader update (Item 8.3; 03:08:30–03:09:35). Richard MacGillivray: Confirmed monthly appeals list exists; annual appeals budget steady ~8 years; costs vary by trials/experts/complexity, many settled before full hearing (Item 8.3; 03:09:18–03:13:39). Margaret Gatt: Risk Register likely captures litigation exposure; specifics to be provided; deeper legal cost workshop can be arranged (Item 8.3; 03:11:48–03:12:55). Governance Appointments & Strategic Capacity Council: Confirmed comprehensive mid-term appointments incl. disaster, recovery, capital works, audit & risk, climate, housing, biosphere trails, botanic gardens, and external SEQ bodies (Item 7.1; minutes a–z). Jessica Phillips: Will chair Capital Works Executive; Frank Wilkie chairs LDMG and Business Round Table; Amelia Lorentson chairs Recovery; Karen Finzel chairs RADF/Heritage; Nicola Wilson chairs Climate Group (Item 7.1; minutes a–p). Brian Stockwell: Observer to Tourism Noosa; chairs Biosphere Trails; sits on Capital Works Executive/CEO Performance Review (Item 7.1; minutes f, h, r). Outcome: CEO to review efficacy/purpose of all groups, address gaps, and consider place-based models without pre-selecting Hastings St (Item 7.1; 10:24–11:37; 16:36–18:42).
Official Meeting Minutes
MINUTES General Committee Meeting Monday, 16 March 2026 12:30 PM Council Chambers, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin Committee: Crs Brian Stockwell (Chair), Karen Finzel, Amelia Lorentson, Jessica Phillips, Tom Wegener, Frank Wilkie, Nicola Wilson “Noosa Shire – different by nature” GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 1 DECLARATION OF OPENING The meeting was declared open at 1.30pm 2 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY Noosa Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters of the Noosa area, the Kabi Kabi people, and pays respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging. 3 ATTENDANCE & APOLOGIES COMMITTEE MEMBERS Cr Brian Stockwell (Chair) Cr Karen Finzel Cr Amelia Lorentson Cr Jessica Phillips Cr Tom Wegener Cr Frank Wilkie Cr Nicola Wilson EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Community Services Kerri Contini Acting Director Corporate Services Margaret Gatt Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Director Strategy and Environment Kim Rawlings Acting Director Infrastructure Services Craig Young APOLOGIES Nil. 4 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 4.1 GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING DATED 16 FEBRUARY 2026 Committee Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That the Minutes of the General Committee Meeting held on 16 February 2026 be received and confirmed. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None 5. PRESENTATIONS Nil. GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 6. DEPUTATIONS Nil. 7 ITEMS REFERRED FROM COMMITTEES 7.1. UPDATE TO COUNCILLOR REPRESENTATION ON VARIOUS GROUPS, BOARDS AND EXTERNAL GROUPS 2026 (MID TERM REVIEW) (referred from Services & Organisation Committee meeting 10 March 2026 - Item 7.3) Motion Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson That Council A. Note the report by the Chief Executive Officer to the Services and Organisation Committee Meeting dated 10 March 2026; and B. Appoint the Council representatives to the following groups (noting that these supersede any prior appointments): GROUPS ESTABLISHED BY COUNCIL: a. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Chair and Cr Phillips as Deputy Chair to the Local Disaster Management Group (and note that all Councillors are to be invited to attend as Observers); b. Appoint Cr Phillips as Chair and Cr Lorentson as Deputy Chair to the Local Disaster Recovery Committee, (and note that all Councillors are to be invited to attend as Observers); c. Appoint Cr Wilkie, Cr Wegener and Cr Wilson to the Case Management Working Group; d. Appoint Cr Finzel as Chair of the Regional Arts Development Fund Committee (RADF); e. Appoint Cr Finzel as Chair of the Noosa Heritage Reference Group; f. Appoint Cr Phillips as Chair, Cr Stockwell and Cr Wilkie, to the Capital Works Executive; g. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Chair, Cr Stockwell and Cr Wilson to the CEO Performance Review Committee; h. Appoint Cr Stockwell as Chair, Cr Finzel and Cr Wegener Cr Lorentson to the Noosa Biosphere Trails Reference Group; i. Appoint Cr Wilkie as the Chair of the Business Round Table (and note that all Councillors are to be invited to attend as Observers); j. Appoint Cr Wilson as Chair, and Cr Finzel and Cr Wegener to the Climate Change Response Plan Steering Group; k. Appoint Cr Wilson to the Management Committee, and Cr Finzel (incorrectly listed as Cr Phillips in Services & Organisation agenda meeting dated 10 March 2026), Cr Lorentson as an Observer, to the MOU / Regional Partnership Agreement (RPA) with the Sunshine Coast University (SCU); l. Appoint Cr Wilkie and Cr Wilson to the Audit and Risk Committee; m. Appoint Cr Lorentson as Chair and Cr Stockwell to the Noosa Drive Pathway Project Reference Group; GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 n. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Chair, and Cr Finzel and Cr Wilson to the Housing Stakeholder Reference Group; o. Appoint Cr Wilkie to the Regional Resource Recovery Steering Group (as part of the MOU with Gympie Council); p. Appoint Cr Finzel as Chair, Cr Lorentson and Cr Phillips to the Noosa Botanic Gardens Masterplan Stakeholders Reference Group q. Appoint Cr Phillips Cr Lorentson to the Environment Levy Working Group; EXTERNAL GROUPS (not established by Council): r. Appoint Cr Stockwell as Council’s Observer on the Tourism Noosa Board; s. Appoint Cr Lorentson as Council's Observer on the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation Board; t. Appoint Cr Finzel as member and Cr Phillips as an Observer to the Northern SEQ Regional Roads and Transport Group; u. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Council's Representative, and Cr Stockwell as Proxy, to the Council of Mayors (SEQ) ; v. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Council’s Representative, and Cr Wegener as Proxy, to the Council of Mayors (SEQ) Waste Working Group; w. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Council's Representative, and Cr Stockwell as Proxy to the Council of Mayors (SEQ) SEQ 2032 Legacy Working Group; x. Appoint Cr Lorentson & Cr Wegener on the Noosa World Surfing Reserve Committee; y. Appoint Cr Wilson to the Local Govt Domestic & Family Violence Prevention Champions Network; z. Appoint Cr Phillips to the Sunshine Coast Precinct Transport Security Group. C. That the Tourism Noosa observer role be reviewed at the time of the establishment of the Destination Stewardship Council. Amendment No.1 Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Brian Stockwell That Item D be added to read: D. Request the CEO to begin a review of the status of the existing working groups and the potential need for the establishment of any new groups, including consideration of an external Hastings Street precinct working group. Lost. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Tom Wegener Against: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 Amendment No. 2 Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That Item D be added to read: D. Request the CEO to begin a review of the status of the existing working groups and the potential need for the establishment of any new groups. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson That Council A. Note the report by the Chief Executive Officer to the Services and Organisation Committee Meeting dated 10 March 2026; and B. Appoint the Council representatives to the following groups (noting that these supersede any prior appointments): GROUPS ESTABLISHED BY COUNCIL: a. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Chair and Cr Phillips as Deputy Chair to the Local Disaster Management Group (and note that all Councillors are to be invited to attend as Observers); b. Appoint Cr Phillips as Chair and Cr Lorentson as Deputy Chair to the Local Disaster Recovery Committee, (and note that all Councillors are to be invited to attend as Observers); c. Appoint Cr Wilkie, Cr Wegener and Cr Wilson to the Case Management Working Group; d. Appoint Cr Finzel as Chair of the Regional Arts Development Fund Committee (RADF); e. Appoint Cr Finzel as Chair of the Noosa Heritage Reference Group; f. Appoint Cr Phillips as Chair, Cr Stockwell and Cr Wilkie, to the Capital Works Executive; g. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Chair, Cr Stockwell and Cr Wilson to the CEO Performance Review Committee; h. Appoint Cr Stockwell as Chair, Cr Finzel and Cr Lorentson to the Noosa Biosphere Trails Reference Group; i. Appoint Cr Wilkie as the Chair of the Business Round Table (and note that all Councillors are to be invited to attend as Observers); j. Appoint Cr Wilson as Chair, and Cr Finzel and Cr Wegener to the Climate Change Response Plan Steering Group; k. Appoint Cr Wilson to the Management Committee, Cr Lorentson as an Observer, to the MOU / Regional Partnership Agreement (RPA) with the Sunshine Coast University (SCU); GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 l. Appoint Cr Wilkie and Cr Wilson to the Audit and Risk Committee; m. Appoint Cr Lorentson as Chair and Cr Stockwell to the Noosa Drive Pathway Project Reference Group; n. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Chair, and Cr Finzel and Cr Wilson to the Housing Stakeholder Reference Group; o. Appoint Cr Wilkie to the Regional Resource Recovery Steering Group (as part of the MOU with Gympie Council); p. Appoint Cr Finzel as Chair, Cr Lorentson and Cr Phillips to the Noosa Botanic Gardens Masterplan Stakeholders Reference Group q. Appoint Cr Lorentson to the Environment Levy Working Group; EXTERNAL GROUPS (not established by Council): r. Appoint Cr Stockwell as Council’s Observer on the Tourism Noosa Board; s. Appoint Cr Lorentson as Council's Observer on the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation Board; t. Appoint Cr Finzel as member and Cr Phillips as an Observer to the Northern SEQ Regional Roads and Transport Group; u. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Council's Representative, and Cr Stockwell as Proxy, to the Council of Mayors (SEQ) ; v. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Council’s Representative, and Cr Wegener as Proxy, to the Council of Mayors (SEQ) Waste Working Group; w. Appoint Cr Wilkie as Council's Representative, and Cr Stockwell as Proxy to the Council of Mayors (SEQ) SEQ 2032 Legacy Working Group; x. Appoint Cr Lorentson & Cr Wegener on the Noosa World Surfing Reserve Committee; y. Appoint Cr Wilson to the Local Govt Domestic & Family Violence Prevention Champions Network; z. Appoint Cr Phillips to the Sunshine Coast Precinct Transport Security Group. C. That the Tourism Noosa observer role be reviewed at the time of the establishment of the Destination Stewardship Council. D. Request the CEO to begin a review of the status of the existing working groups and the potential need for the establishment of any new groups. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 8 REPORTS DIRECT TO GENERAL COMMITTEE 8.1 PEREGIAN BEACH ACTIVE STREET - STAGE 1 PROGRESS UPDATE AND NEXT STEPS Frank Wilkie In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009 - I, Cr Frank Wilkie, declare a prescribed conflict of interest for Item 8.1 PEREGIAN BEACH ACTIVE STREET - STAGE 1 PROGRESS UPDATE AND NEXT STEPS, which is not Ordinary Council Business as it proposes to bring benefit in the form of improved safety and amenity to a specific geographical area. Following public consultation, the project now includes consideration of traffic calming in my street. I live near the project site and stand to benefit if the project proceeds and my mother who also lives nearby attended the public information sessions, made comment, and donated above the prescribed threshold amount of $2000 to my election campaign. As a result of my conflict of interest, I will now leave the meeting room while the matter is considered and voted on. Cr Wilkie left the meeting room 1.05pm Procedural Motion Moved: Cr Phillips Seconded: Cr Wilson That the meeting be adjourned. The Procedural Motion was withdrawn. Procedural Motion Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson That meeting stand adjourned. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None The meeting adjourned at 1.17pm The meeting resumed at 1.32pm Procedural Motion Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson That now before the meeting Item 8.1. - PEREGIAN BEACH ACTIVE STREET - STAGE 1 PROGRESS UPDATE AND NEXT STEPS be deferred to the Ordinary Meeting at 10.00am dated 19 March 2026. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 Cr Frank Wilkie returned to the meeting at 1.35pm 8.2 REVIEW OF NOOSA COUNCIL MEETING STRUCTURE Motion Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Council A. Note the report by the Executive Officer to the General Committee dated 16 March 2026 regarding the review of the Noosa Council Meeting Structure; B. Adopt Option 2, as detailed in the Report, as the Council Meeting Structure, with implementation to commence from 1 July 2026; C. Appoint all Councillors as Committee Members and appoint the Deputy Mayor as the Chair of the General Committee from 1 July 2026; and D. Approve the Council Meeting Schedule for July 2026 - December 2026 as provided in Attachment 1 to the Report (noting this supersedes the previously approved meeting schedule for 2026). Amendment No. 1 Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel Amend Items B,C & D to read: B. Adopt Option 2, as detailed in the Report, as the Council Meeting Structure, with implementation to commence from 1 July 1 May 2026 C. Appoint all Councillors as Committee Members and appoint the Deputy Mayor as the Chair of the General Committee from 1 July 1 May 2026; D. Approve the Council Meeting Schedule for July 2026 - December 2026 as provided in Attachment 1 to the Report (noting this supersedes the previously approved meeting schedule for 2026), after amending to include May and June 2026 Carried. For: Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Frank Wilkie Amendment No.2 Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Frank Wilkie That Item C be amended to read: C. Appoint all Councillors as Committee Members and appoint Councillors on a rotating schedule to the Deputy Mayor Chair the General Committee from 1 May 2026. The meeting adjourned at 2.21pm The meeting resumed at 2.37pm Amendment No. 2 was withdrawn GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 Amendment No.3 Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Frank Wilkie That Item C be amended to read: C. Appoint all Councillors as Committee Members and appoint Councillors on a 4 monthly rotating schedule on agreement, with Councillor Stockwell retaining the chair for the first period on the schedule commencing from 1 May 2026. Amendment No. 3 was withdrawn Amendment No. 4 Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Frank Wilkie Item B & C be amended to read: B. Adopt Option 3, as detailed in the Report, as the Council Meeting Structure, with implementation to commence from 1 May 2026; C. Appoint all Councillors as members of all committees commencing 1 May 2026; Lost. For: None Against: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Amendment No. 5 Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Frank Wilkie That item E be added: E. Review the new meeting structure in 12 months to ensure that it is delivering its intended benefits. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Council A. Note the report by the Executive Officer to the General Committee dated 16 March 2026 regarding the review of the Noosa Council Meeting Structure; B. Adopt Option 2, as detailed in the Report, as the Council Meeting Structure, with implementation to commence from 1 May 2026; C. Appoint all Councillors as Committee Members and appoint the Deputy Mayor as the Chair of the General Committee from 1 May 2026; D. Approve the Council Meeting Schedule for July 2026 - December 2026 as provided in Attachment 1 to the Report (noting this supersedes the previously approved meeting schedule for 2026) after amending to include May and June 2026 GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 MARCH 2026 E. Review the new meeting structure in 12 months to ensure that it is delivering its intended benefits. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None 8.3 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT FEBRUARY 2026 Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson That Council: A. Note the report by the Revenue Services Manager and Financial Services Manager (Acting) to the General Committee dated 16 March 2026 regarding Council's financial performance to 28 February 2026; and B. Adopt the revised 2025-26 Debt Policy (Attachment 6) which incorporates the revised borrowings adopted by Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 19 February 2026. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None 9 CONFIDENTIAL SESSION Nil. 10 MEETING CLOSURE The meeting closed at 3.51pm
Meeting Transcript
Brian Stockwell 00:00.000
Orders in community of Noosa and pass on our respects for their culture, heritage and ongoing custodianship and for their elders past, present and emerging. We then move on to attendance and I note that all councillors are in We have the confirmation of minutes. Would someone like to move the minutes of the last general committee meeting? Yes, Councillor Wilkie seconded, Councillor Lorentson resuming there's no discussion. I'll put the vote and that's carried unanimously. We have no presentations nor do we have any deputations. Moves on to item 7 which is the update to council's representation on various groups, boards and external groups 2026 mid and that's been referred to the services and organisation committee meeting. So Mr CEO are you or is one of the directors doing the overview on that one? Larry Sengstock 01:05.678
I'm happy to do the overview so this is thank you Mr Chair. At the middle of each cycle we we um we oh sorry let me take it back the councillors are appointed to various committees external and internal committees across the across the period of the four-year cycle. At the mid term of that cycle we have on previous occasions looked to review that and look to provide opportunities for councillors to move across into different committees if they so wish to get either further experience or to provide further opportunities for other councils. We've gone through that process it was brought to the committee subcommittee last week but there was a request for some more there was a request for some more information which we've provided. That information really is to give a sense of the amount of work because each committee is different. Some committees meet regularly, some committees don't. Some committees require quite a lot of reading and preparation, some committees require simply to be part of and observe. So what we've done is provided a an attachment or a further report which essentially outlines to the best of our knowledge, some of the committees are a little bit scant, so to the best of our knowledge we've provided that information. So just to give everybody a sense of the, so we can try to get some But also give a sense of the workload that each of those committees requires from councillors being either part of it, or chairing it, or as I say, as an observer. So that information is there for, and I'll take that as read, but that's the information requested and we were provided with. Frank Wilkie 02:53.434
Can I move an updated motion please, Mr Chair? As on the screen currently, it's different, I'll move it. It represents the results of discussions that need to be, that changes need to be acknowledged in public open session and ratified in public open session. I refer to item H which is appoint Councillor Stockwell as Chair, Councillor Finzel and I had Councillor Wegener, that's been crossed out because Councillor graciously stepped aside to allow Councillor Lorentson to take his place on the Noosa Shire Biosphere Trails Reference Group. I refer also to item K, the change there is appoint Councillor Wilson to the Management Committee and Councillor Finzel. It was incorrectly listed as Councillor in the Services and Organisation Committee meeting agenda to the, as an observer to the MOU regional partnership agreement with the Sunshine Coast University and Councillor Finzel has graciously stepped aside to let Councillor Lorentson take the observer position on there. Also, another change down the bottom queue, Councillor, that was not an error, Councillor has decided to step aside to allow Councillor Lorentson to sit on the environmental... the environmental levy working group. So the purpose of bringing that here and showing those in an open session is to ratify them in an open session, and that is the final appointment list as... As it stands at this present time, awaiting ratification of the council. Conclusion of second. Oh, sorry. And there's also additional addition of C, that the Tourism Noosa observer role be reviewed at the time of the establishment of the Destination Stewardship Council, because we may want to review who sits on the Tourism Noosa board at the same time as the establishment of the same time as the establishment of the Destination Stewardship Council. So for consideration of the meeting. Nicola Wilson 05:22.684
Can I ask a question please? You may. For item K, have we established yet whether the University will allow an observer role? Because we didn't previously have that. Larry Sengstock 05:34.344
Through the Chair, no we haven't. We haven't had a chance to do that. I don't see it being a problem, but I just haven't had the opportunity. I haven't got a response back from the University at this point. Amelia Lorentson 05:45.856
Question to the Chair. How many times has the University, that group, actually convened in the last, say, two years? Larry Sengstock 05:57.676
Through the Chair, it's been a regular thing. It's something that there's been a lot of changes within the University, and it's had a bit of a stop start. I've met, I think, twice probably. We've had representations from the University, I think, maybe twice in my time that I've been here. Amelia Lorentson 06:13.558
So that's over a period of three, four years. yeah. Two times. Okay, thank you. So we are looking to reactivate that and speak with the University to see if it's still... We're at Lois. Thank you. Nicola Wilson 06:29.580
So would anyone else... So a question on that with the further information that we've requested. At the moment that says that At the moment that says that the university meets four times per year and it hasn't met at all in the two years that I've... No, that's the response that I got back from my staff and I'll be looking to work through that. But I think it is an important... it is piece because the VMOU that was set up I think is very important for us to activate, it's just that it hasn't been... that it hasn't really been activated I guess is the best way to say it but I think we just need to... we need to put some attention to to that because there is opportunities in terms of we do already have students that come here from university and various relationships that happen but they don't happen necessarily as formally as they potentially could so I think this this needs to be activated further. Tom Wegener 07:27.240
Any other questions? I'd like to make an amendment. Okay I'd like to make an amendment that D request the CEO to begin a review of the status of existing working groups and the potential need for the establishment of any new groups including consideration of an external Hastings Street Precinct Working Group. So I'm happy to second that one. Thank you. We, our jobs is really to be visionaries, to vision the future of Noosa and then to work to create that vision. But in order to do that I believe we need to talk to experts in the field, experts around, all the people in the different groups, people on the ground, and that's in order to get the best information that Way to do that, the best way to do that, and the best way to actually have an organised group with minutes being taken so that we can know what this group has found, who it's spoken to, have a bit of a trail of where we've been, so that when it comes to debating amongst councillors, the vision, the strategic intent, where we're going with Noosa, we have that information. And so I believe that it's really important to do this. I think our groups that we have, some of them have become stagnant, some of them are very useful. But I think we can actually do better. I think we can be better strategic thinkers by talking more intently with the different areas, whether it be that the hinterland And I bring the Hastings Street Precinct up because I think that there's just so much going on down there. There's the lighting in the woods and cameras on Hastings Street. There's the new sub-transit substation, the surf club redevelopment, Lions Club parking, the rock wall renewal, which is a colossal project. There's paid parking, the surf management plan, and many other things that are just all happening around the precinct. And I would love to see a group and I could be on the group or just be an observer, but to get the experts. an observer, but to get the experts in to talk, roundtable it, and create this vision so that we're in charge of this, of moving forward with that precinct, with the Hincheland, whatever, but I think that we really should, we'd do our jobs better if we were better do our jobs better if we were better informed through talking to experts, and these groups are a wonderful way to do that. Nicola Wilson 10:24.361
I'll speak partly in support and partly against. I'm in support of the first half of the sentence. I request the CEO to begin a The status of existing working groups and the potential need for the establishment of any new groups. I believe we do need a review of the purpose of some of these groups and definitely need to identify new groups that we might need to deliver strategies in the future. And I believe at that point we should all be encouraged to make suggestions and so I don't think there's a reason to single out any one particular project or precinct at the moment. It should be part of the process so I think already identifying the need for think already identifying the need for the establishment of any new groups would include considering Hastings Street therefore the rest of the sentence is redundant. I do believe we really need to have a clear purpose for councillors to be involved in these groups and staff as well not to be just duplicating effort and making sure that if councillors are appointed to groups that they they have a role whether they're influencing or advocating or observing we need to be clear what that role is and what councillors can achieve by being on these groups. Brian Stockwell 11:35.800
Councillor Lorentson. Amelia Lorentson 11:37.620
I'm aligned with Councillor Wilson I support the need for review of the status of the existing working groups and we heard that in the previous conversations in terms of the University. There are a lot of groups there to meet rarely if at all and it'd be really interesting to understand which ones should remain fit the purpose which ones are aligned with our current priorities and where there may be gaps in terms of you know whether it's whether it is a Hastings Street Whether it is a Hastings Street Association group, whether it is an integrated Burgess Creek management group, whatever the case may be, but again, in terms of the amendment in front of us, I can't support the second part, including consideration of external Hastings Street precinct working I think that should be considered and is considered and captured under a review of the status of the existing working groups, because there'll be opportunities there to, again, identify any gaps and make suggestions, but I think what we need to first do is better understand what is better understand what's already been managed operationally. There's a lot of the groups that Councillor Wegener mentioned are being managed operationally, councillors are involved in processes. some of those groups so I just really like to unpack unpack that before we single out any potential group but I do think it can be captured just as part of how the first part that amendment so the amendment as it sits I won't support but I would will support a broken-down version of that yeah Thank you. councillor Tom for bringing this to the table I think it's great as councillors if if we're we're always always thinking thinking forward forward visioning visioning how can we do better for our communities if we sit in this role to serve them we currently sit in a time where we have changes pretty much a constant it's how as leaders we facilitate change I love the idea that we're going to outreach into our community you know raise awareness and start new narratives around what the future future could could look look like like and and who who are are those those key key people people that would like to engage in that conversation now and into the future. So yeah, I'm always open to change, new ideas. Let's be creative in that space and be strong leaders and be continually checking out the landscape, what's happening out What's new, where are the new ideas in the community, what new groups are coming up with, you know, ideas or potential growth within our hinterland. Every voice matters. So I will support this addition but I'm with the other conversation around the table. but Limiting it to it to the Hastings Streets precinct I think is very, not broad enough. I think we, I'm happy to support it so that we can look at the establishing new groups without limiting it, especially for the hinterland, you know, all our strategies. And everything like diversification for the hinterland. I really want to see like what's happening out there and can we attract new voices to the table. So I think it needs to be broader for equity across the Shire and reaching out to potentially potentially new voices at the table. So thank you Councillor Tom for bringing it forward. I think it's great debate around the table and a positive step forward at this point of reviewing the groups. So thank you. Jessica Phillips 15:21.870
Thank you. I guess when I looked first part, when I think of including consideration of the external Hastings Street Precinct Working Group, I start getting worried about the lanes being blurred. Like if I think of street lighting and safety, then that would be TMR, QPS. If rock wall design would be other stakeholders, Surf Life Savings, Surf Management, like they're all very unique in their lanes. And so I'm just not sure of how it would work having them all together in one, if they're all, all their needs and their, you know, their lanes are so separate. So I'm just not sure at this point if I could support it, because because it's too broad. But I really like the first part, so unfortunately I can't support the entirety. Brian Stockwell 16:20.802
Now that... Wait till you close. Yeah. Can I ask a question please? You may. How soon could this review take place? Larry Sengstock 16:36.180
Personally, I think it's a very good idea. I think it's well required. Each of those groups, we need to review the existing ones, but the new ones is where I'm really looking at the opportunity. But that would have to come back to council to decide whether we do that in workshops and then bring it forward. So everything takes a bit of time. It's not something that we can do in a week or two weeks or a month, but it is something that... understanding who would be on those, because even with Councillor Wegener's idea of a hosting street precinct working group, everybody immediately goes to who's on it as opposed to what are we really trying to get from it and then how do we give the members... right so there's a lot of consideration it's really you know it's a really good opportunity for us I think we should take the time to actually get it do it properly and look at where the real needs are immediately and then moving it out from there. But at the times of a timeline, it's something, again, I wouldn't want to rush at it. I think we need to, we can review the existing ones, but the new ones, I think we should, we should consider, well, because once you start these, they require, in terms of reference, they require a whole lot of work that goes behind the scenes. That takes time. And if you, you know, you do all that And then it doesn't, doesn't work. You know, we're wasting time. So let's, let's not rush it. That would be my advice. Amelia Lorentson 17:56.824
So question to the CEO is part of a review. Will we have the opportunity to identify these gaps and opportunity to establish potentially new groups? Larry Sengstock 18:09.607
That's exactly it. So that's what I mean. The council is, I'm sure all of you sitting around here have got your own ideas of where the gaps are. Yep. Unpacked. So we need to, we need to help. Provide the opportunity to bring that back and then work out how we best deliver it. Because the risk again is we've got to, if there's a number of gaps, we create a number of bodies and then it requires a number of resources, a number of, whereas if we can look to consolidate maybe in different areas, then it helps us. creates the right, the right model going forward. So I think it just takes a bit of time. We should take, take the time to consider it properly. Frank Wilkie 18:42.437
Question for Councillor Wegener. taking on board the feedback from around the table, would you be prepared to change the amendment to strike out the last clause? Or if it fails, move another amendment, just including the first clause? Tom Wegener 19:04.600
No, I'll close on this. We can vote on this. And if it disappears, then it disappears. It's not biggie. No, so I don't want to change it. Okay. And I'm not prepared for it to fall, but I do want to close. Yeah. Frank Wilkie 19:17.828
Okay. I've taken on board the feedback from around the table. I respect the intent, Councillor Wegener, which is by saying that reviewing the groups includes consideration of an external Hastings Street Police Improvement Working Group. That's perfectly we've just heard, we've all got ideas about what other groups ought to be formed, but I'll vote against this one and I hope that Lugner will consider, if it fails, moving the first part of this amendment because we certainly do need to review the existing working groups and the potential need for the establishment of any new groups. So, I actually like it as it is worded and that's because of the rationale that Councillor Wegener explained in his opening address. The rationale for giving an example, and it's just really an example, including consideration of, it doesn't exclude anything not being considered, is that we have multiple projects in a local area and we haven't, other than the Business Association, got a combined group of stakeholders who can review Now in my working history, I always came back to one thing, the place is the best integrator. If we're going to get a combined understood view, you do it around place. So implicit explicit within that is an part of that review is, is there actually places like hinterland that we do a similar thing. We've got a range of projects where it'd be good for councillors and staff to hear from a range of different perspectives. So to me, it just gives an indication of a new element of these working groups that may be in that review. Amelia Lorentson 21:21.237
A question to the Chair, or to the CEO, actually. Just a question. There's, Councillor Wegener mentioned a couple of the groups, including the surf management plan, the redevelopment. And can you confirm, question to you, is each of these groups have stakeholder groups, which involved Seawall Noosa Council staff, key stakeholders, stakeholders, Hastings Street Association, local residents, surf club, etc. My understanding... There are within each project proper reference groups and stakeholder groups, is that correct? Larry Sengstock 22:02.080
Think it's a bit of a mix and match. There's some that are internal, there's some that are external, and exclusively external, but we didn't have so many observers on them, but they're really observers. I think this is just looking as an example. For Hastings Street, and we could do it for other places, so don't hold me to that, but I think it's just a way of bringing all of them around the table, it's almost like a round table so everybody understands exactly what's happening, but do it on a regular basis and provide that opportunity for feedback and direction. So I think that led by council is probably the... think that's where my head would be at. But again, it's up to us to then sit down and work out the terms of reference. It's a bit of a horse's course as well. create something that's suitable for the particular project or this particular area. So I just think the idea is bringing everybody together so that they understand what's going on in a particular precinct because they all interact and they all have influence on each other in terms of the outcomes. Jessica Phillips 23:13.120
Good question then, because I haven't been part of the establishment of a group. I think when we were elected the groups were established, so maybe just to help. How will it work? behind the scenes establishing it? Do we get the same issues or what? Absolutely, that's the idea is to say we think we need a group for this particular reason, then it's a matter of this is just... Then it's a matter of, this is just sort of off the top of my head I guess, but we need a group for a particular reason. Who should be on that group? Who needs to be part of that group? Again, the risk is you go so broad that you don't get anything. It's like, who are the key stakeholders? Potentially for that particular group to make sure that we do get the right feedback, but we also provide that cross flow of information so they understand why something's happening. And that's a big part of it. People understand why, they're more willing to accept it. So it's really just getting willing to accept it. So it's really just getting that cross flow. It's the way I see it right now. Councillor Tom might have a slightly different view, but that's the way I see it. We would set the terms of reference, we would set who's on it, and then what the outcomes outcomes or expected outcomes are of that group. Okay, so we would set it, but in relation to the staff that would be responsible, or the department, if all of them are slightly different departments. How will that work? Larry Sengstock 24:37.753
Well, they're already doing that work. Okay. So it's a matter of then how do we integrate that and make sure that it's not an overburden on them, you know, another layer, if you like. But I think in some respects respects, that other layer might be more important and more useful anyway to make sure that we are totally integrated. We're already doing it for a number, but they're internal and they're staff driven for various projects that we know are happening, so this is just broadening it out. Karen Finzel 25:08.320
Question through the Chair to the CEO. I note you've said terms of reference will be council led. In terms of our recent expenditure that led to vast community engagement around town planning, planning. You know, there was a recommendation that, you know, teams could come together through town teams and then it was going to be community-led in terms of reference back to council. Do you see there will be opportunity for, you know, community groups...actually reach into council and have, you know, recommend their group somehow gets reviewed? Larry Sengstock 25:48.201
Potentially, absolutely. And that's for you as a councillor with your connections to those groups to bring that to the table and then decide whether they should be or should not be on that group. Karen Finzel 25:58.741
Thank you. Just seeking clarification. Sure. Larry Sengstock 26:01.421
That's how I see it, councillor. But again, when we get around the Not change, but you have your influence and you have your... And we set the direction in. And again, that's what Terms of Reference is all about, is to understand what we're trying to achieve rather than just have a meeting for a meeting's sake. It's what we're trying to achieve from that group. Amelia Lorentson 26:18.186
So part of the review through the CEO would be to actually just gain some clarity as to the purpose of establishing groups. Absolutely. And we need to do that part first before proceeding need to do that part first before proceeding to establishing new groups. Larry Sengstock 26:31.558
Thank you. So just I guess one example we did was that, it's waned a bit but we got the funding we needed to progress it, but the Noosa drive, the walkway over the hill was really led by council. was our funding. We got what we thought were the appropriate stakeholders together so that we can help to drive the planning and the design of that project. That's a small example of it, but really just saying here's the project, who do we need to have involved, how do we drive that from a council point of view and led by councillors so that we get the outcome that we're looking That was one that was already put in place. Further question? Karen Finzel 27:09.363
Yes, thank you, through the Chair to Mr CEO. Before my time, like these groups were already in place, this was normally just an internal review of like who's in which group. How did arrive? Was that like did council staff invite this or I mean, what was the process? I mean, to me it should be like an internal review with a bit of rigor around where we're at. So just trying to understand the background. I these groups. Larry Sengstock 27:38.644
Agree, Councillor. That's really it's just now's the time to review them. That's what this is all about. what this is all about. What we did is this is What we did is, this is a rollover, remember, these were already in place before my time as well. They've evolved from different, whether we've put them in place or somebody else has put them in place, but they have evolved and we've said we need to be part of that or that's something we're driving, as you can see by the mix and matching there. So now's the time to review and look at them, but this is what we did do. I know that our administrators here, they looked at it and said which ones are still happening and that's what this list is. To the best of our knowledge, these are the ones that are still operating. There's been some that we took off that list if you remember. So that's really where we're at, so now's the time to say all we're doing is just changing the membership of it, now's the time to actually look at it and say are these actually relevant. So that will become feedback from yourselves as terms of the Hastings Street Association, how often does council meet with the association and what information is fed to the group in terms of what's happening around the precinct? Brian Stockwell 28:49.734
So I won't allow that question that's going off into a specific that's not part of the council appointment or working group or review in terms of the amendment before us. So Councillor Wegener would you like to close on your amendment. Tom Wegener 29:07.560
Yeah I see this as well I see the first half as being you know a whole lot important but a whole lot of nothing. It actually doesn't say anything and nothing's going to change probably. So that's why I wanted to include the Hastings Street as a consideration. the Hastings Street as a consideration, as an actual, we need to get this done. Maybe Hastings Street will be off the table, maybe we'll be talking about the arts and the hinterland, maybe organic farming, these different groups. But I know that we are, I believe, lacking strategy. I think some of us around the table have noted us councillors are lacking strategy and this is a way of bringing good information. I think that Hastings Street, by putting there, it actually gives some meaning to the first sentence. So what I found going around Hastings Street talking to different people is that there's still silos. That our groups they're still silos, that our groups don't talk to each other nearly as much as they should be. Lighting, you know, all of a sudden when I talk to the Hastings Goods Association, they have a plan for lighting that is spectacular, I feel. Very different from big lights going down, but rather small lights on the ground going up, so it kind of mirrors the pathway. Okay, I want to tell the story. Brian Stockwell 30:28.058
You're closing, so you can only address the matters that have been raised by other councillors. Tom Wegener 30:35.238
Okay, during COVID, whether these things work, the roundtable was amazing. That group was very good, the business roundtable during COVID. That was fantastic. The housing group did its job. It's gone now. We need to have that same sort of forward thinking as the housing. In my thinking as the housing, in my opinion, the DMP would have been better served with a DMP working group looking at a lot of different groups and looking at it from a much more strategic level shared by the councillors. these matters have not been raised before. Righto. So, I think that there'd be a smoother transition from our thinking through, through making the plans, through a strategy arising from us, plans, public consultation, to, to voting on it. I there'd be a smoother transition if we had a better strategic mindset around the table, and that's what the goal of adding the Hastings Street. Whether, whether that becomes one or not, it doesn't matter, but I think it actually defines more what the first sentence is about. Brian Stockwell 31:44.503
Thank you. I put the amendment. Those in favour? That's Councillor Wegener and Councillor Stockwell. Those opposed? That's Wilson, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Wilkie, Councillor, Councillor Lorentson and Councillor Finzel. Do we have another amendment? Councillor Wilson. Nicola Wilson 32:02.192
I'd like to put the same amendment but without the second part of it. Amelia Lorentson 32:07.792
I'm happy to second, thank you. Brian Stockwell 32:23.520
It's coming. And just turn the final comma into a full stop and we'll be fine. And that was moved by Councillor Wilson and seconded by Councillor Lorentson and Councillor Wilson. Nicola Wilson 32:35.760
I don't think we need to say too much more on this one. I think we were all in consensus that we that we need to have a review and we want to identify the potential need for the establishment of any new groups but we need to do that through the proper process of identifying groups and having equity around all of the different groups and discussing terms of reference before singling out any particular area. Brian Stockwell 32:57.871
Others wish to discuss the matter? Councillor Phillips. Jessica Phillips 33:01.031
I'll speak really quickly in support of it and hope that it happens fairly soon just even a workshop to start the conversation because I agree with the fact that it's where we're all sitting and I agree with you that like to commend Councillor Wegener for bringing the amendment in the first place. It's a good idea and I look forward to discussing the need for any sort of hosting street voting group as well. The council is quite right, there is a lot Wegener. Tom Wegener 33:33.005
Councillor Wilson, thank you for this amendment. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 33:42.045
I support this. I think what Councillor Wegener has done, and I know he's talking to Councillor Finzel as part of the conversation leading to this amendment, is it's made us think about leading to this amendment is it's made us think about how do we organise ourselves to get the best information we can to make decisions and what's been triggered rather than just an appointment of a carryover is a bit of thinking around an engagement framework. I think there have been different models over time. Before amalgamation we had the sector boards. Before we had sector boards it was actually recommended by staff to have place based boards. I know when I first came in I did a lot of thinking about whether we do a similar sort of thing. And one of the key things we have to think about is what the CEO has been saying over and over. Is there a purpose for the group in the first place? And being really clear on we don't just do it just to have a group. clear on we don't just do it just to have a group. We do it because there's a specific purpose that we need that sort of engagement. So hopefully the amendment, if agreed to, will lead to that sort of a thinking and process. Anyone else? Amelia Lorentson 34:49.180
Councillor Wilson. Just to support Tom, but support you with this amendment, Tom. In terms of strategic thinking, everything we do should be aligned with our strategic vision. And I think the review will allow us to work out, you know, do us to work out you know do these groups align with current and future strategic priorities. Very important base what's happening now and with that future lens I think we need to be forward-thinking so thank for bringing the amendment and again Hastings Street Precinct Group, whether it's Peregian Beach Precinct, Cooroy, Kin Kin, I think you've opened a really great conversation. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 35:44.080
Councillor Wilson, would you like to close? Nicola Wilson 35:45.480
Yeah, again, Councillor Wegener, thank you for bringing this forward and thanks for the discussion around the table. I think we can all go away and think about this now and really have some good ideas about new groups that we'd like to see established and really think about the groups that we're on and the influence that we're having on those groups or the need for them in the future. Brian Stockwell 36:06.580
Okay, I put the motion, the that's unanimous so it becomes part of the original motion. I believe only Councillor Wilkie has talked to you. Nicola Wilson 36:27.960
I'll ask it too quickly. Even though I've made comments about review these groups, I do want to acknowledge that we have all these groups and I'm really pleased to be appointed to them. I've had a few changes in my portfolio and also just to say thank you to the councillors for their respectful conversations we've had in recent weeks to negotiate between us all of who should be in which group. So that's been a really a really positive process. Any minutes? Brian Stockwell 37:01.900
I'll speak, I'd just like to put on the record it's going to be a historic moment. Quick calculation, 13 years as a councillor, it'll be the first time I've been on any committee with the word works in it. Frank Wilkie 37:18.140
Capital works, you'll love it. Brian Stockwell 37:22.120
Don't take offence engineers, I'm a planner. engineers, I'm a planner. Amelia Lorentson 37:25.913
One of my favourite committees boys. Love it. Brian Stockwell 37:33.660
Anyone else? Councillor Wilkie, would you like to close? Frank Wilkie 37:38.760
No, thank you, Mr Brian Stockwell 37:39.240
Chair. I put the motion. Those in favour? unanimous. Okay, we move then on to reports direct to General Committee and the first one is Peregian Beach Active Street Stage 1 Progress Update and Next Steps. Frank Wilkie 37:57.520
Mr Chair, I need to declare a conflict In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009, I, Councillor Frank Wilkie, declare a prescribed conflict of interest for item 8.1, Peregian Beach Active Street Stage 1 Progress and Next Steps which is not ordinary council business. which is not ordinary council business, as it proposes to bring benefit in the form of improved safety and amenity to a specific geographical area. Following public consultation, the project now also includes consideration of traffic calming in my street. I live near the project site and stand if the project proceeds, and my mother, who also lives nearby, attended the public information sessions, made comment, and donated above the prescribed threshold amount of $2,000 to my election campaign. As a result of my conflict of interest, I'll now leave the meeting room while the matter is considered and... voted on. Brian Stockwell 38:47.592
Thank you. Can we just get started? Amelia Lorentson 38:52.892
Sorry, I'm just reading this for the first time. Can you just give me a couple of seconds? I'm just wondering whether we should be moving a procedural motion? motion? For what reason? Nicola Wilson 39:09.031
It's never been raised. Amelia Lorentson 39:10.271
I just want to ask whether a material conflict of interest, why this has been raised now and not previously given the the number of workshops, community pop-ups, public engagements, I think I want to move a procedural motion to just get some more information from governance before we proceed with this. Brian Stockwell 39:32.257
So there's no valid procedural motion there, Councillor? Amelia Lorentson 39:35.577
Can I adjourn the meeting to get some more information in terms of governance? At what stage does the material conflict of interest need to be raised? And given that we've done much workshops and community engagements and it's been declared now. Is there a risk that the integrity of the process might be undermined by this late declaration? Like I said, I'm just reading this for the first time and it's... going to move a procedural motion or you're not. I am moving a procedural motion. I will be moving. Brian Stockwell 40:10.830
So what's the motion? Amelia Lorentson 40:12.090
Move a procedural motion to request information or advice from governance. Brian Stockwell 40:17.330
That's the procedural motion. That's too late on the topic. Amelia Lorentson 40:20.069
So... I would like to move a procedural motion to get some more information. I would like to move a... No, not a procedural motion, Councillor. Brian Stockwell 40:28.449
So we'll move on. So staff, if we can have you to the... Yes, through the chair. Through the chair. Can I please ask the CEO for some advice? terms of what process is available to me, given that this is potentially a material conflict of interest and the Local Government Act actually stipulates that you have to declare it at the time that you become aware of the conflict. conflict living Living next next to to the street and like I said this has just taken me a little bit by surprise so advice question to the chair what processes are available to me to adjourn the meeting to allow us to get some advice from governments in terms of whether we should this report at all so that the procedural motion would be that the meeting be adjourned that's what I actually see I have to wait for the motion I actually that was the first words that I used through the chair to adjourn the meeting so that we can seek advice in terms of the whether the integrity of the process is going to be compromised given that this is a material conflict of interest that's been just declared for the first time. So Councillor, a procedural motion has to be short and succinct and as outlined in the Standing Orders. Jessica Phillips 42:02.068
I make a procedural motion to adjourn the meeting. Do we have a seconder? Amelia Lorentson 42:06.828
Yes, thank you. Brian Stockwell 42:07.788
Councillor Wilson. All those in favour? That's Councillor Wilson, Phillips, Wegener, Lorentson. Amelia Lorentson 42:18.560
Excuse me, I moved the procedural motion, thank you. No, Councillor. Brian Stockwell 42:25.609
Phillips moved to motion. Jessica Phillips 42:30.749
It's for the length, can I explain it? Brian Stockwell 42:34.089
I'll explain it. You talked about you wanting to adjourn, you didn't move the specific procedural motion understanding orders. It's a set format, very precise. Sorry, Amelia Lorentson 42:43.438
I sought advice from the CEO to help me with the wording. I don't understand why it's not being moved by me. I've moved a procedural motion. Through the CEO, can you please provide advice? Thank you. Jessica Phillips 43:02.680
After it fell and the Chair didn't move it, I've just made it simple to adjourn the meeting. Procedural motion because the Chair has explained that the standing orders have to be succinct around just simple wording. But I sought advice from the CEO in terms of how to move the process. That hadn't been sorted out. I would like to move the procedural motion, thank you, through the Chair. Brian Stockwell 43:35.000
So, Councillor, under the standing orders, there's a process. Amelia Lorentson 43:40.440
Yes. Brian Stockwell 43:41.160
The 31-1, the procedural motion that you would have needed to move had these words at the meeting stand adjourned: Phillips said we adjourned the meeting. Amelia Lorentson 43:51.972
Yes. Same thing. Brian Stockwell 43:54.233
When a councillor moves a motion, they have to use a specific wording. You asked... Amelia Lorentson 43:59.652
So, why wasn't this advice given to me when I asked through the Chair and through the CEO? Brian Stockwell 44:04.665
I explained it twice, I thought. I explained it. Twice, I thought. And I can't take back a motion that's been moved by another councillor. So the first councillor to move a motion in the format required by the Standing Orders was Councillor. Amelia Lorentson 44:28.120
When I moved a procedural motion and asked for advice from the CEO and the Chair in terms of wording and what process I need to put forward, no one responded. No one responded and, Chair, you just explained to me what had to be done. You know, I just, I'm disappointed to say the least. Brian Stockwell 44:55.543
So, my understanding was the CEO did explain the situation. Councillor... Considering the strength of Councillor Lorentson's views, are you happy to let yours lapse? Jessica Phillips 45:09.266
I'm happy for just the wording to be succinct, so then it meets the standing order requirements. It doesn't matter to me who moves or seconds it. Brian Stockwell 45:18.625
So the seconder, are you happy? So Councillor Lorentson, the wording would be that the meeting stand adjourned. Amelia Lorentson 45:25.505
Thank you. The question that I asked some time ago, thank you. Brian Stockwell 45:29.325
And do we have a and do we have a seconder? Karen Finzel 45:30.604
No, I just need a question to clarify. Under the standing orders, I thought for it to fall, you have to ask for a show of hands of all councillors. Brian Stockwell 45:38.444
Oh, you're true, correct, yes. Thank you. So is everyone else happy that we let happy that we let that one fall to allow Councillor Lorentson to move the motion. Karen Finzel 45:47.359
And don't we have to be in green? Brian Stockwell 45:49.019
Yeah, we have to be in green. Is anyone? Jessica Phillips 45:51.459
Is everyone clear what we're going to vote for? We're letting that lap Brian Stockwell 45:55.539
So Councillor Lorentson can move a simple wording with with the word 'adjourned' for the standing order of requirements. We can do it by show of hands, it's not a vote. Everyone happy with it? Yep, okay, thank you Councillor Finzel. Thank you. And now we're looking for a seconder, so that the mover of the meeting stands adjourned. mover of the meeting stands adjourned is Councillor Lorentson, and we're looking for a seconder. SPEAKER_13 46:20.749
So the word is the meeting stands adjourned? Brian Stockwell 46:23.189
The meeting. The meeting stands adjourned. SPEAKER_13 46:25.149
Okay, I'm just bringing that up. I'm sorry, that was Councillor Lorentson? Brian Stockwell 46:36.260
Lorentson and seconded. SPEAKER_13 46:59.580
I just think it might be important that we ask the staff to leave. Unknown 01:04:02.300
Okay, we're back on. Brian Stockwell 01:04:04.760
Okay, welcome back. Councillors, would someone like to move a procedural motion? Amelia Lorentson 01:04:10.220
I'd like to move a procedural motion that now before the meeting item 8.1, Peregian Beach Active Street Stage 1 Progress Update Steps be deferred to the ordinary meeting at 10:00am. dated 19th of March 2026. Brian Stockwell 01:04:26.135
We have a seconder? I second. Seconded by Councillor Wilson. I put the motion. Those in favour? That's unanimous. We move on to the review of Noosa Council meeting structure and invite Councillor Wilkie back into the meeting please. We move on unanimous. We move on to the review of Noosa Council meeting structure and invite Councillor Wilkie back into the meeting please. SPEAKER_13 01:05:29.460
Thank you. SPEAKER_02 01:06:04.320
This report presents the findings of the council meeting structure review that has occurred over the past four months. The review was encouraged because the current meeting structure can place significant meeting demands on councillors and staff, provide limited time for report reading. And create duplication between small and general committee meetings. And it can also contribute to community uncertainty when decisions are made. The review considered four meeting structures as outlined in the report in an attempt to address ideally all these issues. Just listed. And after the workshop, it was identified that option two, reducing meetings to one general meeting or committee meeting and one ordinary meeting per month, has been identified to provide the best balance. Because it significantly reduces the number of formal meetings, I think they're sitting at the moment roughly around 50 per year, to pretty much 25, 26 maybe. g per month, has been identified to provide the best balance. Because it significantly reduces the number of formal meetings, I think they're sitting at the moment roughly around 50, 26 maybe. They're not the day of agenda release or the day of when the meeting occurs, they are full days, between those days. It also, I think, improves clarity for the community about when decisions are being made, and it's still 26. C. Appoint all councillors as committee members and appoint the deputy mayor as the chair of the general committee meeting from 1 July 26. And D. Approve the council meeting schedule for July to December 26 as provided in attachment 1 to this report. Frank Wilkie 01:08:23.705
Thank you for the report and the work that's gone into this, Yancey. I note in the recommendation that this new meeting structure is to take place from 1 July 2026. Unless I missed it in the report, could you explain the reasons why for the selection of that date for the commencement of that new structure. SPEAKER_02 01:08:44.248
It was considered to provide appropriate time for us to, in the background, to amend quite a few documents, the governing documents that govern the meeting. There's obviously public participation documents, there's standing orders. And I think the change should also be communicated appropriately to the community, that will require also some time. Any change to the standing orders, for example, would then also, because it's obviously council-adopted procedure or document, it will obviously So there's quite a few items that are required to be actioned and done prior to the implementation. And what are the implications for the Resolve system? system. Frank Wilkie 01:09:33.408
Subtitles SPEAKER_02 01:09:58.221
And determine the result. and determine the result. Thank you. and determine the result. Brian Stockwell 01:10:02.341
Any other questions? Thank you. Any other questions? Thank you. Amelia Lorentson 01:10:05.321
Any other questions? The report highlights improved The report highlights improved The report highlights improved reading time as a benefit of reading time as a benefit of reading time as a benefit of option 2. Should the motion also option 2. Should the motion also option 2. Should the motion also amend the standing orders to The report highlights improved The report highlights improved The report highlights improved reading time as a benefit of reading time as a benefit of reading time as a benefit of option 2. To require the minimum seven day agenda release period at the moment I think it says reasonable time should we in alignment with the report in front of us look at amending our standing orders just to ensure that that time for seven actually guaranteed for councillors and the public. SPEAKER_02 01:10:36.979
I don't think that is necessary considering that this report provides a draft schedule for 2026 and it defines the release dates as well, and the meeting dates, and that would be if adopted, this schedule would be adopted as well, and it clearly defines seven days reading time between the agenda release and the meeting. So that's already covered through that. Okay, so your answer is no. That's correct. okay thank you through this as well so in the in the option it says seven days before and that's the intention and that's the reason why we need to go back and do the standing orders to make sure that that's reflected in the standing order so we can and that's for us to then agree to standing orders and we orders a year ago it took quite a bit of debate and to get things through so that's why we're we're looking to have enough time to be able to do that and that's why July 1 was that was the date that we put forward to do some of those things because we know that there is there is a quite a bit of work that has to know that when we change some of the things Larry Sengstock 01:11:41.864
That there is there is a quite a bit of work that has to happen but in terms of the seven days it's already in the in the option and that's the best that would be then reflected into the into the process and the end of the ongoing process in standing orders. Nicola Wilson 01:11:57.170
Question, clarification please. So councils will get seven days reading time and that's also the those reports will be available to the public at the same time that will continue? Larry Sengstock 01:12:09.250
That's the that's the thing if the rules and regulations we run with the State government, is that when the report goes to you, it has to go as a final report, and that's an important point. As the final report goes to the councillors, it needs to go to the public at the same time, so they would have seven days as well. Nicola Wilson 01:12:29.108
We have an amendment, please? Certainly. SPEAKER_13 01:12:31.828
We have an amendment, please. Oh Brian Stockwell 01:12:33.948
Good. Oh SPEAKER_13 01:12:35.028
Yeah well. Sorry. Can we move for a second? Brian Stockwell 01:12:38.728
Okay, so it's moved, Councillor Finzel. Seconded by Councillor. You might not be able to move, bring your amendment. SPEAKER_13 01:12:44.648
Oh, yeah, I bet, yeah. Can I withdraw that? Tom Wegener 01:12:47.308
Yeah, I'll move it. Brian Stockwell 01:12:54.200
Because the council pulled me up just before. Is everyone in agreement to Councillor Finzel withdrawing her moving of the motion? Yes. Show of hands. Very good. you, Mr Chair. And Councillor Wegener, you've indicated. I don't know how excited. SPEAKER_13 01:13:09.517
I need to move things on. Councillor Brian Stockwell 01:13:13.037
Wegener, you would like to move the motion? Yes. Councillor is seconding. Councillor Wegener, you have the Councillor Wilkie, you have the floor. Tom Wegener 01:13:21.735
Oh, we've gone round and round on this, I don't think I need to say anything. Brian Stockwell 01:13:25.735
Okay. Councillor Wilson, would you like to move an amendment? Yes, please. SPEAKER_13 01:13:37.615
The first part, please, about the timing. Nicola Wilson 01:14:02.300
Yes? April, because people are already working to existing deadlines, but I don't believe that's as much of an issue for May. Basically, we're pretty much in agreement that the current structure isn't working, therefore I don't want to continue doing it for another three months if there's an opportunity to change soon. Brian Stockwell 01:15:48.230
Let's wish it to you. to the amendment council okay look I there were there was some discussion of the workshops about the reason why July 1st was chosen as the date there is a lot of back of house rearranging it has to be done to make sure that we can bed down this new structure meeting very smoothly I understand reprogramming of the resolve meeting schedule needs to be done a long way in advance and there is the work to be done with changing the standing orders as well and there may be other things that may be changed in the standing orders that need to be worked through. Frank Wilkie 01:16:28.856
So it is a big change to the way the council has done it. It's not just since 2014 that this meeting structure has been in place. It goes back about at least another 30 years. I remember being a journalist reporting on Noosa Council back in 1996/97 and they had the committee general and the ordinary then if I remember correctly. It has served us us well to date. The only shortcoming of the current structure in my view, if I heard the councillors correct, is the short lead time to the general committee meeting with reports going direct to the general. Support of the change, but I'm also in support of and respect the staff advice that they need the time to July 1st to get the bed in, the changes, so that they can be done correctly and with as few glitches as possible Amelia Lorentson 01:17:32.317
Can I ask a question through the chair to the CEO in terms of resourcing what Mayor Wilkie just said is the date 1st of July was that because of resourcing implications that was one of the considerations absolutely absolutely we have we have people on leave over this next couple of months as well so trying to match all of that up that's not the absolute but it's certainly a consideration that we needed to put into this. Also I think just with the standing orders there are some there are changes that need to be to be to be made if we went with made one I couldn't guarantee that we have agreed standing orders we can we can certainly make the changes but you need to go through a process to get them agreed at a meeting as well so all of those at a meeting as well. So all of those things I haven't really considered, to be honest, Councillor, in terms of, you know, stepping it through in a timeline because we, I just assumed that July 1 was the correct time to give everybody a time to do it properly and get it up and running. But certainly understand the frustration in wanting to flip the switch as quickly as we possibly can. So, it's amazing how quickly the months roll around. May is, you know, in terms of meeting. We're in the March one now. The April meetings are already planned. Reports April meetings are already planned, reports are being written, so we're on this rolling schedule that makes it difficult for us, and that's one of the reasons why we wanted to change the structure, to be honest. But I worry, 1st of May is a very tight timeline for We may miss something, we may not have the proper procedures in place. We also have other considerations as well with the new bill coming through and what that means in terms of orders with conflicts of interest and particularly conflicts of interest that needs to be fit into the standing orders as well. So again that July period just gave us that time to work that through. Nicola Wilson 01:19:37.975
Can I ask a question please? How will this change? How will this change the standing orders? Which parts need to be addressed? Larry Sengstock 01:19:49.864
I was just looking through it then. There's not a huge amount but it still requires us to, if we want to make, this is a good time to actually look at the standing orders and change if we wanted to do anything different outside of that as well while we're reflecting on the standing orders. there other things that we'd like to change now going forward? I know we've still had the debate about the timing of questions and deputations and things like that, so whether we want to look at those things or not, but that was going to give But that was going to give us, that was my thinking as well, give us a chance to really review the standing orders in more detail, but most of it is about the timing of the meetings, when we'd like to have them. That all needs to then come to a council meeting, so that would need to come to April before we could implement it in May. So that's the thing, it's sort of all, everything comes forward as an extra step. Brian Stockwell 01:20:53.120
Mr Chair. Yes, sorry, I'm just looking at the certificate thing. Karen Finzel 01:20:56.200
Do we have, I was just trying to work it out myself. Brian Stockwell 01:20:59.960
Councillor Finzel. Karen Finzel 01:21:00.800
Just a question. You mentioned this bill through the Chair and Mr CEO. Can you just clarify when we expect that and is that about governance looking through that to have time to, I don't know, absorb that and then apply that or give advice as to how In terms of the bill, the empowering council bill, it's been ratified by the State government but there are some things that are now immediate, but then there's the conflict of interest, we're going back to a different process with conflict of interest. That is, from their perspective, not being rolled out or not being implemented until July 1. There's a number of education processes that are coming to talk to us about what it means. So they're not, that's not the expectation is that we don't actually utilise that new process until July 1. So there's a few things in there that we just will then have to be fed back into the into the terms of reference. So again, just in our thinking, this is this is the process we thought it all sort of matches thought it all sort of matches up in terms of timing for July 1 but I also understand that the frustration or the desire to once you make the decision to actually implement this as quickly as possible. Jessica Phillips 01:22:18.488
Consideration to the conversation around the table, I think for me I see them separate even though they feed into our reports and our meetings. To me it's like what we're adopting now is our meeting structure. regardless of if it never changed, we'd still hold out general and ordinary with the standing orders anyway until they change. don't know if I'm explaining it properly. Brian Stockwell 01:22:51.529
Can I answer your question? Because that's what I was just looking for. The standing orders only require the dates to be published and for enough time for councils as for enough time for councillors, as much time as practical. So on the standing order issue, while you know we've mentioned the potential desirability to have seven days notice etc, there would be no... my quick review, there'd be no specific requirement to amend them before it started in terms of a meeting be able to... because all it says is you have to set the dates. Jessica Phillips 01:23:31.240
So that's why I'm supporting this because that will come regardless of whether this would happen. Brian Stockwell 01:23:39.569
So can I ask the mover something? May is tight and if we have staff away, is there any... if we move to middle ground of June, so staff moving one month, you moving one month, is that likely to be off? Unknown 01:24:08.060
It would be better than May. SPEAKER_13 01:24:10.520
The tune is better than May. Amelia Lorentson 01:24:23.296
So question to the CEO, will that give staff enough time? Larry Sengstock 01:24:27.616
Well that's the... they're still going to everybody under pressure, there's no question about that, but we operate under pressure on a daily basis. So if that's the request of the council to do that, then we'll make every effort to meet the team deadline. Frank Wilkie 01:24:44.361
There's new conflict of interest rules that need to be recognised in the standing orders by July 1, will we need to amend the standing orders to accommodate them if we go with an earlier date? Brian Stockwell 01:25:06.020
So I think they can be dealt separately. Frank Wilkie 01:25:08.240
There may be some benefits of amending standing orders but there's no requirement of amending standing orders. So was it a matter of alignment that conflict of interest standing orders changes to accommodate conflict of interest? to accommodate conflict of interest changes to be accommodated in the standing orders to be done by July 1 as per when the laws become enacted and you wanted to align that with any changes that come with that. Larry Sengstock 01:25:32.400
It was really just an opportunity to do it all in in one go, that's right. All our thinking is how to do it based on resourcing as well and time and everything else that we've got going on. Frank Wilkie 01:25:43.907
So it's not just standing orders, it's resourcing and restructuring of the resolve system that you want the time for. Brian Stockwell 01:25:57.620
So does anyone else wish to talk to this amendment? Amelia Lorentson 01:26:00.840
I'll talk to the amendment. I'm hoping Councillor Wilson will change the date to June and I think that's a really good middle ground and respects the resourcing implications, potential resourcing implications, but I totally support the intent and the amendment. amendment in front of us. Nicola Wilson 01:26:35.000
I accept the staff advice that May is probably pushing too hard for the the benefit benefit of of one one or or two months, I don't think I could support this. I probably could support the middle ground in June and then just treat those standing orders. amendments is a separate process. Karen Finzel 01:27:15.800
Yeah, look, I think in terms of the CEO's questions around the table, you know, I do have concerns around we always talk about, you know, productivity. We talk about, you know, psychosocial hazard in the workplace. You know, we want to protect want to protect a workforce that is already, we're extended. We've got new things that have come up even this week around extra training, around different things that's been mandatory for councillors as well. I'm just very mindful to make sure that we're not putting extra pressure on staff and given, you know, I think it's really important that we get these meetings right. Yeah, so perhaps maybe I could support a middle ground, but I think taking it to May and putting it, you know, I don't know, I don't deal with the staff, but given the response from the CEO, you think it's worth consideration to make sure that if there's, you know, pressures on the workforce that that is a very, should be prioritised. So I can't support this in full for May. Brian Stockwell 01:28:31.740
Okay, anyone else wish to talk? You wish to close? Nicola Wilson 01:28:35.860
Yes, I'm gonna continue to talk about May. We'll still consider. There's no need to change standing orders for this to be implemented. already have a schedule made up for July to December that can be replicated for May and June. I don't believe that to be a significant workload. We haven't been given really a clear view on resolve, but I can't see that a system like resolve would too difficult to change in the period of six weeks. And we could certainly get assistance from them to do that. Councils are put under time pressure all the time with reports time with reports coming two days before a meeting and that's what I'm actually trying to address here is that we stop that, that we stop having things skip the S &O and the P &E and we do what we've agreed to do and have everything come with with a week's notice to the general committee meetings. So just taking a couple of meetings out of a schedule, moving the general that's already there, I really don't see why it's that big of an impulse when we're already planning Whether we're already planning it to do it in July anyway. I just don't see this as such a huge task. I've been working in corporate environments all my life and these things happen. Brian Stockwell 01:30:00.082
A question through the chair if I can. have questions between the close and the vote. Amelia Lorentson 01:30:05.718
Oh excuse me, sorry. Nicola Wilson 01:30:10.438
So I don't want the current situation to keep continuing and just pushing this forward all the time. We agree things need And I think we need to get on with it as soon as possible and not have this whole process of things coming to an end. such as special meetings because that doesn't help without having special meetings with SPEAKER_13 01:30:37.213
Chair's notice and I'd like to look at some other things but that can be done later. And if we have to adopt more changes because of a bill that's coming we would do it before we have to anyway but this doesn't actually trigger any Brian Stockwell 01:30:51.853
Okay, I'll put the motion. Amelia Lorentson 01:30:53.673
It's an amendment, no I can't take it until the amendment's been voted on. So I put the amendment, those in favour? That's Councillor Wilson, Phillips, Wegener and Lorentson. The amendment is carried, it becomes part of the motion. And against? Oh yes, it's important to ask for that. Kindle and Stockwell. Brian Stockwell 01:31:30.200
So we only have had Councillor Wegener speak to his motion which has now been amended. Does anyone else wish to speak to the motion? Amelia Lorentson 01:31:40.492
I have a question through the chair. Thanks. My question in terms of a general meeting, the agenda is going to become significantly larger. So my question is how are we going to ensure that the complex planning or environmental Planning or environmental matters that we actually deal with that properly. you know, environmental matter. Is there a view to streamline or make the agendas more efficient in terms of noting reports, strategy? complex matters, et cetera, because I think long days may compromise, but we need to be all over the reports that come to us. TG Larry Sengstock 01:32:29.939
Chair, that's certainly the intention, is to streamline and get the reports so that there's reports that we know will require discussion or debate further, as opposed to those that are currently there for, as a status update report, for noting. We need to be more, we need to just need to be more disciplined, almost, in terms of our reporting, in terms of what they are requesting. Brian Stockwell 01:32:59.900
Okay, Councillor Finzel. Karen Finzel 01:33:02.020
Can I test a change to item C? Brian Stockwell 01:33:07.920
You can move the amendment. Karen Finzel 01:33:10.060
Thank you Mr Chair. Amelia Lorentson 01:33:18.620
So basically, I just want to Karen Finzel 01:33:26.980
Yeah I'd like to test some different wording for item C. SPEAKER_13 01:33:47.220
Alright, so that, um, so... Karen Finzel 01:33:54.080
8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 20, Larry Sengstock 01:34:09.060
9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, Karen Finzel 01:34:10.580
21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, Just while we're waiting, one of the reasons I'd like to test this around debate is I saw real value in the committee meetings and the value that I saw in that was in the role of chair because it provides us lots more opportunities as councillors to be a chair. I think the gap in I think the gap in the current meeting process was the fact that I don't raise it. Brian Stockwell 01:34:53.773
I can't see you can't really do you Karen Finzel 01:35:25.040
Okay, appoint all councillors as committee members and appoint the deputy chair. Oh no, and appoint councillors. Brian Stockwell 01:35:55.834
What Karen Finzel 01:35:56.654
I'm trying to achieve is I would like to debate that we provide opportunity for all councillors via a schedule that equity and fairness to allow a rotation of the chair. SPEAKER_13 01:36:22.800
Yep. Karen Finzel 01:36:26.600
So after appoint councillors and appoint councillors, no. sorry. After appoint? Yeah, that's right. We can work out a word because I'm just trying to get a point across. Brian Stockwell 01:36:51.102
Yeah, On a rotating schedule. something like that. Yeah yeah. On a rotating schedule to be chair of. SPEAKER_13 01:36:59.002
Yes, thank you. Amelia Lorentson 01:37:00.422
One, two, three. Chair, the general committee from 1St of May 2026. Karen Finzel 01:37:20.472
Schedule 1. Or it could even be faces, rotating faces. Scheduled. Brian Stockwell 01:37:33.240
I'll second it for the purpose of time. Karen Finzel 01:37:35.940
Thank you. Brian Stockwell 01:37:39.385
Now we don't know why you're doing this because you haven't talked to the motion yet. Karen Finzel 01:37:46.145
The reason why I would really like to bring this to debate, and hopefully we get some robust debate around the table, is I see value in opportunity to chair meetings at all levels, like in the chamber and in the community. I think it provides also diversity and develop skills and education for councillors. The reason I personally think that we've had challenges around the committee meeting and deferring is because the gap in is because the gap, in my opinion, existed because it wasn't mandatory for all councillors to be at both the committee meetings. I am trying to address that gap of opportunities also for chair through this amendment. So, I'm putting it to the table to see what people think about equity and shared opportunity to chair the meetings aside from just the deputy mayor. Tom Wegener 01:39:09.840
I think it's a good idea, being the chair of the meeting absolutely puts an extra responsibility on the You've got to read the notes. You've got to be so much more astute as a chair to kind of bring this extra level of engagement as the chair in appreciating. So I think this is a great idea. Thank you. Frank Wilkie 01:39:35.976
I would like to put it in a different perspective. I applaud the principle behind this, Councillor Finzel. I would recommend that we at least see how the all-day new General Committee meetings flow and go for a period of time before we move to a rotating schedule, because one, that General Committee meeting will be all items coming with the capacity to make decisions on all those items in that forum. It's an extra workload. It's an extra workload on all councils. It will involve more reading for all councillors as a start, and more preparation for all councillors as a start, and more pressure on all councillors as a starting point. My feeling is, as you've probably seen over the last two years, the chair of the general, or the ordinary, wherever any robust debate takes place, you need experienced place. You need experienced councillor a lot and you really need to be across the standing orders and have had experience in managing robust debate. There is an opportunity for councillors. we bent down this general committee to get experienced as chairs of the external and internal working groups. Part of the changes we can make there is councillors to chair them more frequently rather be committee members. I applaud the idea, the principle behind it, but there is a big, as you've probably noticed, there's a big difference between the informality of a portfolio committee meeting where only only half the councillors sit, and also the general committee, like today, and also the formality of the ordinary meeting. So I'd recommend we hold off. My suggestion, and I happen to be guided by the group, would be to hold off, see how we all go when we move to day general committee meeting with all councillors having to be prepared and make final, almost final decisions on every item that comes across their desk at the general committee meeting, which is likely to run, if not half the day. Jessica Phillips 01:42:10.740
I'll speak to it. Brian Stockwell 01:42:12.520
To support the amendment against Councillor Finzel. I think that opportunity to learn comes through doing. Not necessarily through watching the sum. I actually didn't really mind whether or not I do or don't chair general meetings, so this isn't about me, it's about giving opportunity to those that would want to sit and learn. would want to sit and learn the skills I think another way to make sure that we are across standing orders is to put us in a position where we have to step up and lead and some may or may not want to do that again but it certainly gives the opportunity for those that want to a great place and I think it also encourages respectful conversation and debate at this very table. and debate at this very table, when there is someone that is in the chair, if they haven't got any experience, then I would hope that we can all assist in developing those skills with their hand up to it, or through a rotating schedule. Thank you. Nicola Wilson 01:43:35.720
I'm a bit in two minds on this one, so I'll listen to the rest of the debate, but I have enjoyed having the odd experience to chair the SNO meeting, and I agree I agree that we need experienced people in these roles, but you don't gain experience without having to go. At the same time, I think continuity is important, knowing who the chair is. all the different things that have to be resolved potentially with the chair before the meeting, that's going to get quite confusing if it changes every month potentially. And I also learned a lot from Brian, sorry, Councillor Stockwell, as the chair. So, yeah, I'm still not quite sure. I can see the reason for doing it, and in fact, I considered putting this amendment forward myself, but then when I really thought about it, I think I was keener on having continuity of everyone knowing who the chair is. So, I'm still not quite decided Amelia Lorentson 01:44:36.099
Can I ask a question to the Chair, to Councillor Finzel. So the wording as it's stated implies mandatory that we're all on a rotating schedule. Would you consider maybe optional, allow councillors to, what's the intent behind your wording? Is it to mandate that we all chair or does it give us opportunity to say yes or no? Karen Finzel 01:45:06.865
Well, I've only thought about it at this meeting, so I take your point. Yeah, I see where you're heading, so that people could choose to opt on or off if they don't want to chair. Perhaps we could appoint the councillors with an opportunity to opt off. Amelia Lorentson 01:45:30.620
So, portal councillors as committee members. Brian Stockwell 01:45:40.960
So, can I, I'll speak to it, because I was going to wait for everyone. I hadn't spoken yet. Yeah, it was going to be difficult, but it was 3-3, and then I'll be mating on myself. I'll start with by saying that when my key... thing I wanted out of this particular item is for council and councillors to be far more efficient and effective and to stop what has been a significant loss of productivity in this organisation. So then looking at the... So then looking at the amendment I actually went to the mayor and said I think you could do both. That's an alternative is that we're having two meetings is it really appropriate for the mayor. I accept the notion notion that learning how to chair the meeting is important and to, because it is silent on the terms of the schedule, I would, when I saw this, I would think that, you know, that we... schedule wasn't rotating every month, it might be a six-monthly, so in this term there might only be three more or four more people to do it. And I also... I also agree that when you do get with controversial matters, it can be an interesting task, but I'm... Personally, I'm not going to say I Personally, I'm not going to say I should be the Chair, because I think I can see the arguments around the table. Amelia Lorentson 01:47:16.502
I'll speak to it. I'm, I like the idea it. And I like the idea, you know, gosh, use these phrases quite a lot that leaders should allow others to lead. So I'm, I love the idea I love the idea of allowing councillors on a rotating schedule to chair the general meeting and I think that you know if if we wait till we're ready and again I I think I spoke to Councillor Tom Wegener, I spoke to a school just recently about this. If we wait till we're ready, we miss opportunities. So the best way for us to learn is maybe get thrown in at the deep end. And I think also never underestimate one, two, three, four women around a table and Tom, the councillors, because we actually thrive under pressure and it allows us to hone our skills. It allows us to really get all over the us to really get all over the standing orders rather than being, you know, quiet participants. So I am going to support this. I would like if we all agreed to maybe consider in the wording just those councillors who agreed to be on the rotating schedule. Some councillors may not. I don't know how we're going to do that but I am totally totally supportive. I just think I just think on a personal level, I would love the opportunity. This is how I best learn. Nicola Wilson 01:49:00.781
To be carried, would we be able to have some training for councillors? Larry Sengstock 01:49:10.171
I think if that's required, if that's something that the councillors request, then absolutely. Phillips? Jessica Phillips 01:49:17.522
That's right. I was just going to say, is it possible to make one wording change on an opt-in rotating schedule? Yes. If it's up to the councillor himself. Karen Finzel 01:49:32.883
Yeah, I'm happy to consider it. From where I've worked before, it's the opt-off works better in terms of administration because it's just the process moves forward and then you can just send an email and say I opt-off that. I'm open to what we think. But I'm open to... Also a question to the Chair, to the CEO. We talk about not being too prescriptive in these amendments. Do you think that's sufficient for us the intent to proceed forward? It's not. We need more detail. Larry Sengstock 01:50:07.314
I think the point that the Chair made is, is this six-monthly? Is it monthly? Is it three-monthly? That debate, and that can come into the Standing Orders as well, is, Is you know, know whether I think that needs to be discussed or agreed now otherwise we'll get to a point of further debate yes yes and we'd have to have a schedule coming today so you might want to think think that that Council Councillor Stockwell Stockwell stays stays until until the the schedule schedule has has been adopted might be a good addition to this. Or even the first few months. Karen Finzel 01:50:48.945
Or could we add on a... Brian Stockwell 01:50:55.525
So it is 2:20 so we're nearly at the two hour mark when we normally I will adjourn the meeting for all the things we normally adjourn for and we can have private conversations during that break. We'll make it a 15 minute adjournment which is 2:36. Karen Finzel 01:51:18.663
MS EASTMAN: Okay, thank you, Mr Chair. Brian Stockwell 02:06:44.120
Okay, welcome back. Councillor Finzel, you have the floor. Karen Finzel 02:06:48.458
Yes, thank you, Mr Chair. I'm prepared to let this drop if there's a blame around the table for the standing orders and then I've got some wording prepared to bring it on the version to the table for debate. Brian Stockwell 02:07:05.336
Is everyone happy for this one to be withdrawn? Okay, so the amendment was withdrawn, if you can just note that, with the agreement of councillors. Frank Wilkie 02:07:19.640
I'll second this one. Brian Stockwell 02:07:22.080
So, it might be because it's new, Councillor Finzel, would you like to read it out? Karen Finzel 02:07:25.840
Certainly, thank you, Mr Chair. Item C, amended to read, appoint all councillors as committee members and appoint councillors on a four-monthly rotating schedule. agreement with Councillor Stockwell, retaining the Chair for the first period on the schedule. Brian Stockwell 02:07:42.817
Seconded by Councillor Wilkie, would you like to talk further? Amelia Lorentson 02:07:46.397
Sorry, just through the Chair, does that make sense? On agreement with Councillor Stockwell? Are we missing with Councillor Stockwell? Brian Stockwell 02:07:53.954
Missing a couple of triple S? It should be a comma or a colon. After agreement? Nicola Wilson 02:08:01.234
Oh yeah. I'm just thinking. Thank you for that. Brian Stockwell 02:08:06.435
Agreement with me. Karen Finzel 02:08:07.815
Everything should be! Good pick up. Picked it up straight away. That's alright. I think the retaining of Councillor Stockwell it comes back to the Mayor's comment that we are you know changing so I think you know to be prudent and give us that opportunity to test out the new meeting. schedules what's that going to look like I think that gives us the confidence with an experienced chairperson there as we make that transition the four monthly rotating schedule four monthly rotating schedule is in response to the CEO's request for further detailed information as opposed to as it's set so hopefully that makes that requirement and I think for equity around the table we counted out the number of months until the next election and four months gives election and four months gives that equity around the table but also the assurance to other councillors that if they don't wish to participate in that role that then they can opt off. So I think the new wording meets all the concerns. meets all the concerns that were raised at the table. Thank you, Mr Chair. Nicola Wilson 02:09:28.815
Can I have a question please, Chair? I'm just wondering if our standing orders actually allow for this to happen. So 36.1 will choose the chairperson for a standing committee meeting. This chairperson will preside over meetings of the standing committee. So that suggests one person presides over all meetings. Would we have to keep having a new motion? have to keep having a new motion every four months to change the chairperson? Brian Stockwell 02:09:56.373
My view was that if you adopted a schedule that would meet that requirement. Larry Sengstock 02:10:00.913
That was my take on it as well, I'm reading the same time, the more I read it, the more it says Council will choose, and that would be if you adopt the schedule, then Council will be choosing. And that person would then preside And that person will then preside over the meetings of the Standing Committee and consider it just a standard statement. Thank you. Karen Finzel 02:10:23.663
Can I just get a clarification which number that was on the Standing Orders? Larry Sengstock 02:10:28.083
36.1 Or 36, Presiding Officer for the Standing Committee. Not for Ordinary Committee, so 36.1 and 36.2. Karen Finzel 02:10:36.503
Thank Brian Stockwell 02:10:39.300
Does anyone else wish to talk to the amendment? SPEAKER_13 02:10:44.100
Excuse me Chair, just as per Councillor Wilson's original amendment which we're changing it to, do you want the 1st of May put in there? As of the 1st of May? Yes. Brian Stockwell 02:10:58.160
At the end? Yes, yes. So that's just to align it, that's what was there before. SPEAKER_13 02:11:12.700
As of or as? Brian Stockwell 02:11:15.020
Commencing. SPEAKER_13 02:11:16.200
Commencing? Yeah. Brian Stockwell 02:11:17.820
Or from? So that's Karen Finzel 02:11:21.760
Just... Oh, I don't know if we should put a date in because we've debated that. Brian Stockwell 02:11:25.280
Yeah? Yeah. So that's now part of the motion. Oh, right. Okay. Yep. Sorry. SPEAKER_13 02:11:28.200
I lost track of that. Okay. Brian Stockwell 02:11:31.300
Okay. Thank you for figuring that out. Anyone else wish to... Councillor Lorentson? Amelia Lorentson 02:11:38.440
Can I please seek clarity? Section 36.1. My understanding, as I read it, is that there's one chair and doesn't mention anything about taking turns or mention anything about taking turns or rotation. I would like clarity before we resolve this. My gut, and I have a legal background, is that it's maybe a breach of standing orders. So can we seek clarity? Brian Stockwell 02:12:07.840
Is there something we can clarify by the ordinary meeting? Amelia Lorentson 02:12:10.800
Yes, can we just move a procedural motion just to get some governance or legal advice with our in-house lawyers in terms of whether we're breaching section 36.1 by introducing rotating councillors. As it reads, it's one. chair per general meeting. One check per committee. Larry Sengstock 02:12:32.852
Can I also say that as part of our other discussions, because we're looking to start this on May 1, we need to actually review the standing orders prior this could be incorporated into the new standing orders prior to our starting anyway. So we shouldn't be ratifying something until that process is done. Can we just seek advice before the ordinary meeting please? Jessica Phillips 02:13:00.793
Question, in the interim would it just be a motion to put the chair in until the standing orders? Is that how that would work? Amelia Lorentson 02:13:08.021
So we just have to change the wording? Brian Stockwell 02:13:12.061
You could add to this one and their standing orders be amended accordingly. Amelia Lorentson 02:13:17.021
I just think can we seek advice and then play with the wording at the ordinary meeting? Brian Stockwell 02:13:26.600
So there's no impediment for adopting it as yet but if it's something we need to change that can occur at the ordinary meeting. Amelia Lorentson 02:13:38.720
I wouldn't be I wouldn't feel comfortable on voting on something without the information that I need to make an informed decision so I would like to move a procedural motion that we just seek some advice and move this to the ordinary meeting for a decision. Brian Stockwell 02:13:56.747
So the Larry Sengstock 02:14:02.700
That can I suggest you could you could let this form and bring it back to the table at the ordinary meeting. That's a great idea. Would you be happy with that, Councillor Finzel? Karen Finzel 02:14:20.480
Given, you know, good governance, I personally was satisfied with the CEO's response, but if we wish to allay fears around the table to make sure that we're fully aligned, I'm happy to do that. We can bring it back to the table after we've sought further advice. Brian Stockwell 02:14:39.140
So that would be a that's a the That would be by the agreement of the whole council or there's a deferral motion? Karen Finzel 02:14:50.040
No, I think it would have to be by agreement, wouldn't it? Tom Wegener 02:14:55.260
Can we vote on the original motion? No, we can't. You can vote on the original motion if this one lapses, if this one's withdrawn. if this one lapses, if this one's withdrawn. Karen Finzel 02:15:03.593
Well, I might move another motion. Larry Sengstock 02:15:06.293
Yeah, you can. You can on Thursday. You can move another amendment today. SPEAKER_13 02:15:11.173
I'm not giving up on the chair one. Frank Wilkie 02:15:12.633
Just a bit of clarification, clarifying a question. There is no impairment to us ratifying this motion, this amendment today, seeking further information before Thursday and making changes if we need to. Karen Finzel 02:15:27.034
Oh, can we add that? Larry Sengstock 02:15:28.314
No. So what Councillor Lorentson is requesting is that we don't ratify this today. Because we still need to seek legal advice. So what I'm suggesting is we could let this fall, seek legal advice, and then if you want to, move it on. That wasn't my question. My question was, there is no impediment, legal impediment to us approving this amendment and approving this motion. Frank Wilkie 02:15:51.899
And approving this motion today and seeking legal advice by Thursday and making any changes it needs to be by Thursday as well. You can but you want to make, I think you just need to make sure that it's documented that we are seeking legal advice otherwise we're... potentially putting ourselves, if that's the case. If you know what I mean, we're actually adopting it but then seeking legal advice if the legal advice comes in as negative then we put ourselves in a position. That's the only way I see it. Karen Finzel 02:16:25.572
There's a question through the Just to clarify the point Councillor Frank was saying. Can we additionally add the wording pending legal advice just to add that onto there and then we can pull it out I'm happy to do that. I don't see the reason. My advice would be to take it out and put it back in on Thursday if that's what you want to do. Nicola Wilson 02:16:56.985
Still vote on the substantive motion? You mean take the whole thing out? Larry Sengstock 02:17:01.265
Vote on the substantive motion because you can always remember at the ordinary meeting, this is not ratified until the ordinary meeting, so you're entitled to bring this whole motion back out. It's up to all of us. If one person wants to continue, then we continue. Karen Finzel 02:17:23.490
So you're asking me then to lay it on the table, with the shell pans, with the green? Brian Stockwell 02:17:28.710
It's up to you. Karen Finzel 02:17:30.090
And what's the alternative to that? Brian Stockwell 02:17:32.030
We either have a deferral motion or we vote on the amendment as put. Karen Finzel 02:17:38.275
Still bring it to the meeting at the ordinary? Yep yes. Yep, okay. So we could potentially take it to the vote now. We get support around the table. So we could then pull it out the ordinary and put this back on out the ordinary and put this back on for debate and by then we have clarity. Brian Stockwell 02:17:57.779
That's the option, yes. Jessica Phillips 02:17:59.999
I thought there was issues at some point, just re-tracking my memory, that you couldn't put another amendment if it fell That was similar wording on Thursday. Frank Wilkie 02:18:10.680
That's true. Jessica Phillips 02:18:11.300
Yeah, we can change the move. No, but if it's got the same meaning, they can't, because we've tried that before. The same meaning is certainly an issue. Larry Sengstock 02:18:20.420
Yeah. Yeah, I was thinking you could still do it. It's better to pull it out. Nicola Wilson 02:18:24.181
We weren't allowed to re-prosecute anything on the planning scheme amendments when it moved. Yeah, the same amendments can't be moved. If an amendment has been lost, it can't be moved again. Brian Stockwell 02:18:34.601
Yeah, I'm in the same same meeting. There's a difference between now and... Jessica Phillips 02:18:39.885
There wasn't... Frank Wilkie 02:18:40.925
Well, with the planning scheme it wasn't adjourned at the same meeting. Brian Stockwell 02:18:45.325
Yes, that's right. It's only at the same meeting. Certainly things can change. Nothing... You can find something in the Standing Orders to that effect, but... And I know it's a general principle. Yeah. It's only a recommendation, basically. Frank Wilkie 02:19:06.540
The motions today become a recommendation. So the CEO is suggesting it's cleaner if we let that just... If that's withdrawn and we approve... withdrawn and we approve the substantive motion and then revisit it on Thursday. Yes, that's right. That would be my privilege. Brian Stockwell 02:19:26.857
And I suppose looking at the risk of that approach is if that councillor, if there was more than three councillors who wouldn't support it without this being in there. We don't know what's going to happen. The legal advice may be an impediment. Karen Finzel 02:19:43.105
Or it may not be. We've had two different views at the table around the interpretation of that. Amelia Lorentson 02:19:50.205
So we need clarity to make an informed decision. We need actual facts. Brian Stockwell 02:19:56.478
So we've had enough of the discussion that we're not supposed to have. See, this is why you need a new chairman. So, Councillor Finzel, i'll put it to you in the first instance. Karen Finzel 02:20:11.198
Yeah, I'll go back to Given we want to make sure that we're aligned with good governance, happy to lay it on the table if there's agreement around the table today, and have a look at it again... Brian Stockwell 02:20:27.023
Okay. So, laying on the table is different to withdrawing? Karen Finzel 02:20:31.003
Oh, sorry. Withdrawal. Brian Stockwell 02:20:32.683
Oh, I could do a procedural motion and I'll lay it on the table. If we lay it on the table then we don't do the rest. Karen Finzel 02:20:38.219
Oh, we're finished with that. Brian Stockwell 02:20:40.539
No, we don't do that. SPEAKER_13 02:20:41.519
The rest of the motion. So withdrawal is the option that allows us to make a substantive decision and then look at this as an amendment on Thursday. Oh, gee, I'm not going to do the vote on that one. Karen Finzel 02:20:53.419
Yeah, I'm happy to do it. Brian Stockwell 02:20:57.799
And so is everyone else happy to withdraw? For the amendment being withdrawn? Okay, so we're back to the substantive motion which is the staff recommendation with the amendment that was moved by Councillor Wilson and currently only Councillor Wegener has talked to it. I want to propose an amendment. I'd like to bring to the table a debate around option 3. I'll tell you what amendment it is, Councillor. Karen Finzel 02:21:41.640
Let me have a look. Yes, so in item B just change it to read "adopt option 3". Frank Wilkie 02:22:15.260
I'll second it. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 02:22:17.440
Before you do, I couldn't accept it because it's in with C because there would be no general committee meeting. Karen Finzel 02:22:28.961
Oh, then we'd have to debate that one as well. Oh, we're going to be here for a while. Frank Wilkie 02:22:33.141
So the amendment would need to encompass... Brian Stockwell 02:22:36.201
We'd have to combine Karen Finzel 02:22:40.441
B and C. It's going to change the whole system. Brian Stockwell 02:22:50.440
You'd have to read, appoint all councillors to both committees as committee members on both standing committees. Yep. And then leave out the chairing things and that could be resolved on later. SPEAKER_13 02:23:02.500
Then we'd have to raise it or put it... to raise it or put it. Brian Stockwell 02:23:04.475
Well we're going to raise it on Thursday anyway, so for the purposes of testing it, you would just say adopt option 3 and then appoint all councillors as members of both committees. Well, we're going to raise it on Thursday. Yeah, on SPEAKER_13 02:23:26.090
1St of May. Yeah, 1st of May. Karen Finzel 02:23:31.070
Sneak in July then. And everyone would withdraw that based on when we're done. Brian Stockwell 02:23:38.550
No, just silent No, just silent on the chairing of it. SPEAKER_13 02:23:44.653
But I don't know. Brian Stockwell 02:23:46.353
And A would be May 2. SPEAKER_13 02:23:50.173
So that is actually B and C as well. Brian Stockwell 02:23:54.393
Yeah, that's okay. You've got a B and C. So Councillor Wilkie, are you happy to second with those changes? Are you happy to move like that? Karen Finzel 02:24:05.377
Yeah, I think that we can just bring it to the table. And then there will need to be a further amendment about the chairs of those committees as well. SPEAKER_13 02:24:13.877
Could they still be rotating? Yeah. but we'll have to wait on where they'll pass. Brian Stockwell 02:24:22.276
So it's been moved by Councillor Finzel, seconded by Councillor Wilkie, and Councillor Finzel, you have the floor. Karen Finzel 02:24:27.436
Yeah, for the same reasons I've raised, I think the committees are a value to contribute. think the committees are a valued contribution to how council conducts itself for the meetings. When you look at the benchmark and you notice, you know, we wouldn't be the only council, we wouldn't have standing committees. I think the, you know, the two committees provide that opportunity for the chairs. It still gives us opportunity to be able to have those discussions around the table, provides still the opportunity for staff or councillors to go away and seek further information. If we look at the small committee meetings, like Toowoomba Regional Council, they're running six with one ordinary meeting, Rockhampton Regional Council, they're running two with two ordinary meetings, and then I know the majority of them aren't doing that, but I just think, Noosa are different by nature, and I think that that serves us well to have the two committees, that's my personal opinion, so I'm happy to bring this today to the table for debate. Brian Stockwell 02:25:38.448
Thank you. Does anyone else like to talk to this amendment? Nicola Wilson 02:25:41.988
I'll talk to it. I'll speak against it. While a few other councils do have the separate committee meetings, and I think we're the only one that has the general committee meeting, I still think that's a more efficient way to Especially with things like finance reports that tend to come to general committee meetings, they would have to go straight to ordinary, which then takes away that level of transparency and that seven day period again for reports. would they come to ordinary anyway? Because of the timing, so it wouldn't come together. But I think if we're looking for efficiencies, we've got an option to drop two meetings or to drop one, and I'd prefer that option too. Frank Wilkie 02:26:32.312
Just a question, and Councillor Wilson-Rose has a good point. the other structure, would the finance reports be going direct to ordinary anyway? With the other structure, would the... Brian Stockwell 02:26:43.540
Yes. Frank Wilkie 02:26:46.040
I'm going to support option mainly because it halves the workload for councillors. Rather than councillors sitting in a full day meeting where they have to get across the S &O and P &E items in one than councillors sitting in a full day meeting where they have to get across the S &O and P &E items in one long patch. long session. Breaks it up into potentially two half days. Half as much reading and preparation for the meeting date. And I think better decision making can flow from that through less fatigue. It breaks it up and there's still adequate time prior to those meetings to receive the reports and get across the material and get answers you need from staff. workload, I think it's well worth considering. Nicola Wilson 02:27:33.916
Can I ask a question? Just for clarification, the two meetings would be on consecutive days, is that right? Larry Sengstock 02:27:41.416
That's correct. That was the intention, yes. Nicola Wilson 02:27:55.880
Chair? Brian Stockwell 02:27:56.960
Yes, I'm just looking at the schedule, yes, you're right. I'm just looking at whether we get our seven days in, probably not. Frank Wilkie 02:28:04.980
Six, six and a half. Tom Wegener 02:28:07.920
Councillor Wegener? Well, it sounds like it would like it might be more efficient for the staff because they would be, you know, they're even a wider scope if it's just one general meeting for them to kind of be on deck for hours and hours and hours where perhaps I would think that staff would not I would think that staff would not be sitting around waiting to be called up, you know, with you, with this method. Does that make sense to you guys? Brian Stockwell 02:28:34.859
So I'll ask the CEO a question. The staff have actually recommended the two meetings. Did you consider the points that Councillor Wegener raises? Did you consider the two meetings. Did you consider the points that Councillor Wegener raises? That's it. SPEAKER_02 02:28:47.213
For the Chair, my view of that would be is that you know the agenda of each meeting and then prepare accordingly to the time that we are required to be there. That means you would usually, staff would usually not sit through the whole length of a meeting. Tom Wegener 02:29:05.900
There's a lot of staff sitting around a lot of times. Sure but Larry Sengstock 02:29:09.880
I think that would be the case for both. Frank Wilkie 02:29:13.900
Question, Councillor Finzel was it your intention that this meeting schedule would give more opportunities for more councillors to chair even if it's on a rotation? Yeah that was part of that. But I also think when you look at like psychosocial hazards, fatigue around big decisions, we already can do like big meetings. you know they can go up to five to seven hours. I think that is unreasonable and I think the committee process allows us that break. And I think that's really important to raise. We like it's not much time in terms of the reading time in terms of that. I think trying to look after counsellors and our mental health-being. I feel the committee process better serves that opportunity to have that break. I mean with P &E I always make a point to get out to the site, do a walk over, like I don't know, I'm happy to hear everyone's arguments around the table, but for me personally, I like the committee options. That's why I brought it to the debate, to hear what other people think. Karen Finzel 02:30:35.032
What they want to consider. Brian Stockwell 02:30:38.660
For the Chair, one impact that may have is that public participation. Usually the public participates only through deputation and so forth, through meetings where all councillors are present. means if they would be unlikely to go to the smaller committee meetings, this is... This is for all councillors? Frank Wilkie 02:31:02.460
All councillors at night. Yeah, that's OK. So, Councillor Brian Stockwell 02:31:09.140
Wegener was next. Tom Wegener 02:31:12.160
It seems to It seems to me that the concern with councillors being chairs, this is a lot better way to go because you know you know the SNO and the PAD is still for the councillors to break up their chair responsibilities. responsibility And then councillor Finzel. Karen Finzel 02:31:30.332
Yeah I think the other thing this does is. Brian Stockwell 02:31:32.672
So councillor, you can't talk to him, you can ask a question if you. Okay. I have a question then. Yes. Karen Finzel 02:31:39.932
Okay, through the CEO, do think that this addresses the gap that caused the impact on re-prosecuting things that were referred on from the committees through the general? The committees with all councillors attending as mandatory would actually minimise the risk on the productivity of your staff and when prosecuting or filing further information and hitting repeat, I feel that Larry Sengstock 02:32:14.776
Well, I'm asking your opinion on i'm asking your opinion. Karen Finzel 02:32:16.636
Addressing that gap, which I think is a bigger risk. Larry Sengstock 02:32:22.936
Well, essentially, I take your point in terms of psychosocial safety for the councillors and the timing of meetings, but I also take the point that if we do two meetings, then it's two sets of preparation for meetings and papers and reports and timing and putting things out so it actually increases or it's a heavier workload on our administrative staff in terms of having three meetings versus two meetings. So that's where I come from in terms of what we looked at. We went through these, remember, workshops and our preferred and I think our staff preferred is the two options but it's for you to debate. Jessica Phillips 02:33:02.320
Thank you. Question to the CEO. Was there consideration with this option? Thursdays is our workshop day. Sometimes that can be a really long day. if we're here Tuesday, Wednesday, then would there be a thought around what our diary would look like on the Thursday after? Or just roll the dice on that one? Larry Sengstock 02:33:19.724
Well, we haven't considered that. The thing is, it's a day. Wherever it is, there's still workshops to be conducted. So that timeline or timeframe is still required at this point. Amelia Lorentson 02:33:33.088
I'll speak to the amendment. I won't be supporting. I think that what's been proposed and what's it's been workshopped now over a period is the way forward. To me the secret will be in rewriting the agenda items, rewriting the reports and finding efficiencies. I think at the moment our reporting system think at the moment our reporting system can be better in terms of noting reports, importing strategic items. I think we can get some serious gains by changing the format. So I'm happy to try this. I also have an amendment that I'm going to throw into the mix which is going to be basically asking for a review of this structure. ensure that it actually achieves its intended benefits. So I think that may allow us give us the opportunity to potentially debrief and see if it's working and whether a different option is the way to go forward but I'm happy with the recommendation that we've come to as a group over some time. Brian Stockwell 02:34:53.620
I will speak against the amendment as well. I've been in favour of two meetings a month for well over three years and it's clear that different by nature. Less than 10% of councils have standing committees and only one of those is our size, the rest are all larger. When we went around the table in workshop with staff there was unanimous support that the existing structure has significant productivity impacts and this doesn't address them as well as the It's clear that we're duplicating organisation minutes and while it's better than what we're currently doing, I think the only difference for councils is of having a meeting that may, on some occasions, go after lunches, we'll be sure that we rep two days rather than one each month and that's one of the things with our councils, we have far more meeting days per month than new We look at informal workshops as well. So, to me, it's really important that we start from here on to be effective and part of being effective. councillors is to ensure that we're running and facilitating an efficient organisation. I think the most efficient option is what staff have put up. I think it's important that we use ratepayers' dollars wisely. Certainly if there is the odd occasion where a General Committee meeting is getting to the point where we think our decision-making is affected by the length of time, there is always the option to adjourn and come the option to adjourn and come back the following day, rather than making it the standard. I think that's everyone's talk now. Councillor Finzel, you can close. Karen Finzel 02:37:05.826
Thank you everyone for your your viewpoints around the table. I think it's always good to tease it out to make sure we're heading to the best outcomes for the councillors, our community and the staff. I take on the duplication duplication of the minutes. The proof will be in the pudding. You know, in four months' time we can assess it and review it and see where we all sit. So, yep, happy to have a say and bring it to the plate. Thank you. Amelia Lorentson 02:37:54.640
I'd like to move an amendment too please, that council review option or which option? Option two. So E, that council review, I'm just doing this at the moment Vicki, I haven't sent it to you, I'm just talking. SPEAKER_13 02:38:22.412
To read, this is a little bit of a work on the one that you previously sent me, Councillor Lorentson. Amelia Lorentson 02:38:28.652
No, I have not sent this to you. SPEAKER_13 02:38:30.592
No, I'm just writing this as we speak. Amelia Lorentson 02:38:37.952
So E, that council review option two. two, in 12 months, to ensure it's delivering its intended benefits. SPEAKER_13 02:38:54.096
No, it's a review option two. Amelia Lorentson 02:38:57.716
In 12 months, to ensure it's delivering its Review the new meeting structure in 12 months to ensure that it's delivering its intended benefits. The new meeting structure. I'll second it. Brian Stockwell 02:39:45.139
Seconded Councillor Wilkie. Councillor Lorentson, you have the floor. Amelia Lorentson 02:39:48.598
Quite a lot today, the general meeting, this is a significant governance change, so I think it's just really just good governance that in 12 months' time we sit and review how it's working and whether other- I won't speak too much, I think we've talked Other options are better and just get some feedback given the conversation and the amendment that was just put forward by Councillor Finzel this gives us a review gives us at the moment the opportunity to pause and reflect so I just think it's So I just think it's just a good, something we should do all the time, particularly when we have significant, like I said, governance changes. Karen Finzel 02:40:34.624
Question through the Chair to the CEO. What are we going to measure it against and review? Do you think that is sufficient? Is it prescriptive enough to actually state what how is that going to happen? Larry Sengstock 02:40:52.062
Through the Chair, I think it is. What we do in the ensuring period is develop the criteria on what I guess if we tried to do that now, I think we'd be here for a long time, and we still wouldn't probably get it right. So I think it's probably best that we make the commitment to review it, but we also make the commitment to review it, but we also make the commitment to work out what are the intended benefits. Amelia Lorentson 02:41:20.052
And can I also just raise that the report itself actually speaks of the intended benefits so we don't need to rewrite the rules. So it speaks of that it best balances efficiency, transparency report review time and informed decision-making while reducing overall meeting demand. That's our KPI. And we've got to then consider KRIs, the risk, you know, key risk implications as well...risk implications as well as KPIs. But the report speaks of the benefits. Yeah. Brian Stockwell 02:41:55.118
Pretty cool. Okay. Anyone else wish to talk? Councillor Wegener. Tom Wegener 02:41:59.458
Are we committing ourselves, like, if everything's working, you know, swimming along, are we committing ourselves to, like, what is it, a report that doesn't need to be done? Brian Stockwell 02:42:16.784
Are you talking to the motioner, or is this a question? I'm talking to the motioner. Review the new meeting structure in 12 months. If everything's going along, do we really need that? Is that an extensive piece of work for staff? Amelia Lorentson 02:42:35.899
I don't think it's a massive piece of work. I think if it is working well, you'd know it and you'd be able to, it's really just to do a sense check of it, I think, is probably more sense check of it, I think, is probably more the point. And if it is not working really well, we'd know it and we'd be wanting to make some change anyway, I think. Brian Stockwell 02:42:55.534
Yeah, so I'll speak to the amendment. I actually support it. It is good practice to do monitoring and evaluation and as Councillor Lorentson have given the reasons why we think it needs to change and we'd like to see those, so in 12 months the easiest thing will be the staff saying my time was 30 hours a week doing this stuff, now it's 20. that's what I'd like to see. That's what I'd like to see. And then I suppose the informed decision making will be something for us to make a subjective assessment on. Anyone else wish to talk to the amendment? Councillor Lorentson? Yeah, thank you Councillor Lorentson. I think it is good practice to add a review in, you know, when we're around the table and we're seeking data and, you know, measuring, you know, why we do what we do, what are we measuring it against, is it efficient, is it staff, is it helping our community, so yeah I think it's a good idea to have that review, like the CEO said, we don't have to spend a lot of time on it, hopefully we can, you know, run that against the KPIs and efficiently determine do we need further changes. we're happy to proceed forward. So yeah, I think it is good practice and I'm happy to support it. Thank you, Councillor. Okay. Anyone else? Councillor Lorentson wish to close? I put the amendment. Those in favour? It's unanimous. It becomes part of the motion. part of the motion. And I still think only Councillor Wegener talked to the motion. SPEAKER_13 02:44:34.604
Don't worry. Would Brian Stockwell 02:44:35.284
Would anyone else like to talk to the motion? anyone else like to talk to motion? Nicola Wilson 02:44:49.340
All right, as I mentioned earlier, I've been asking for a review of the current structure for some time, as it's currently inefficient. My key concerns have been duplication of debate and deferring items from the P &E and S &O meetings to the General Committee meeting, rendering the smaller committees somewhat redundant. In addition, and probably more of a concern for me, is that items have been allowed to bypass the smaller committees and go straight to General, meaning councillors have had one business day and a weekend to review the reports. When items go full cycle, the information is available to councillors and the public for over a week, as we're now suggesting or proposing. This proposal, option two, means that the agenda for the General Committee meeting will be released to councillors and the public a week before the meeting. There are some potential consequences are some potential consequences that the General Committee meeting may be long but I think this is actually unlikely to be a big risk as the P &E and S &O meetings currently rarely last even an hour so it's half an hour to an hour and then debate and questions are duplicated in the General Committee meetings anyway. In addition my analysis In addition my analysis of the lengthier general meetings showed that this was more often due to having significant items in the agenda that had bypassed the smaller committees so with only one business day to prepare councillors had had little time to ask questions of staff or consult effective parties before the meeting. Having the reports for seven days before the meeting gives councillors more time to resolve questions and aids transparency for the public. This should then lead to a more efficient debate on the floor therefore hopefully shorter meetings with less need to seek clarity on the recommendations in reports. It's also in line with other councils. It's also in line with other in reports. For a small council we spend significantly more time in formal meetings and workshops than other councils which largely just have one ordinary meeting per month. This proposed change gives staff more time to to deliver on projects versus preparing for meetings and councillors more time to spend in the community versus in chambers as I mentioned my analysis shows that longer meetings involving multiple questions directed to staff and longer debate were where reports went staff and longer debate were where reports went straight to general or ordinary meetings or special meetings which currently only require two days notice. Examples include planning scheme amendments special meeting December 24, Lake Macdonald Drive subdivision general committee meeting Jan 25, large DAs for Jan 25. Large DAs for Gympie Terrace and Royal Mail, straight to General Committee Meeting, March 25. Tourism Noosa One Year Funding Agreement, straight to Special Meeting, May 25. Lake Macdonald Drive Contract Award, straight to General Committee Meeting, in July 25. Adoption of DMP, Adoption of Tourism Noosa Three Year Roadmap, straight to Ordinary Meeting, December 25. Peregian Beach Active Street, straight to General Meeting, March 26. I do still have a concern that Special Meetings will continue to take us away from what we're trying to achieve here, where we're having had 11 special meetings in the last two years, but we will be able to address that in our upcoming review of standing orders. But overall, I really look forward to having this structure implemented with the two meetings in the future, from May. Thank you. Amelia Lorentson 02:48:25.080
I'm going to speak from a governance perspective. I'm currently studying the AICD course, so everything at the moment I'm looking through a governance lens. So to me that, you know, efficient meeting structures gives us the opportunity to focus on the strategic oversights and performance monitoring. When we start changing the structure and making it more efficient, and again I'm and hoping that our agenda will be more strategic based. Noting reports become just that, less conversation. It allows us to focus on the big picture stuff and scrutinise the big picture stuff. So I'm actually quietly confident. actually quietly confident that this is going to achieve, you know, efficiencies, transparencies, and most importantly, informed decision making. I think the structure, the current structure. the current structure isn't conducive to proper decision making. I just think we can do better and we have a commitment as a council for continuous improvement and that means in terms of governance and meeting structures so this is part of that commitment let's see if this is better if it's not let's look at something else but to do nothing nothing changes. Frank Wilkie 02:50:01.520
I think Councillor Wilson has made some excellent points. The amount of reports that go to Director-General has forced this change. The previous structure the current structure when it it works as intended, that doesn't happen. And the current structure has been in place for not just since 2014, perhaps 30 years, and its intention was to ensure that councils had the time and the opportunity to get across all the reports. opportunity to get across all the reports at three opportunities in the meeting cycle to make sure that when it comes to the ordinary meeting, the decision they make is the best they can make with all the available information and the best long-term interests of the Shire. And I have to say it has interests of the Shire and I have to say it has served the Shire very very well. There is only one decision that I'm aware of that has been legally contested successfully in all that time. At one time council had tens of millions of dollars of contingent liabilities it and they've all melted away because the decision making was sound. But it's a sign of the times that the council is increasingly busy, there's more work to be done and the amount of major work coming the amount of major work coming direct to general is a sign that staff are working very, very hard to strict timeframes and this new structure will allow them the time to get reports to councillors. councillors with adequate reading time and I think this new structure will be more efficient, more effective. We will be required to work harder as councillors but I think good decisions in the I think good decisions in the best long-term interest of the Shire will still be possible under this new structure. Karen Finzel 02:52:04.080
I think it's been a good debate and welcomed around the table. I think any time we'll get an opportunity to reflect and review about how we behave in the chambers. our community and in the organisation is welcomed. I think the conversation today about if we get more efficient around the table also in my mind brings to attention that we work towards attracting good leadership to local council and that includes trying And that includes trying to work towards bridging the gender gap that currently exists between women at the table that have been elected through local government and then how they balance all their priorities around care and other options. So I think this is really good in terms of governance and efficiency around the process to hopefully get more women interested in a broader view around politics at the local level. Because we know women play a pivotal role in the leadership of communities but often this work is not formally recognised so I think for good governance and meeting process hopefully we won't be here all day, hopefully we get the outcomes that it's going to be tick tick, we get a good review and it's all really efficient. So yeah I look moving forward to see how we measure this and provide opportunity for staff, councillors and promote good governance so that people feel that they're getting value for money, they're getting good leadership around the table and efficiencies and productivity from our local council. Brian Stockwell 02:53:58.820
Anyone else? It goes back to Councillor Wegener to close. Tom Wegener 02:54:05.460
I just would like to thank Nicola Wilson because her speech was really good and I think she was kind of a driver for this and I think it's going to work out well. I'll put the motion. Those in favour? unanimous. We then move on to the next item of business which is the financial performance report for February 2026 and we welcome Acting Director Gatt and Acting Manager of Finance Zach. And Zach you're going to give us a brief overview. SPEAKER_06 02:54:47.293
Thank you and through the chair so we'll take the report as read and I'll provide some just additional commentary and an overview of the report itself. The February report provides us eight months of the current financial year or roughly 67 cent of the financial year started. As at the 28th of February 2026 and noting the impacts of higher than anticipated operational revenue and the timing of delivery of the capital capital works program there are no identified financial risks that will impact Council's forecasted financial position at 30th of June 2026. Please note that the February 2026 report reflects our budget review 2 position for the 25 financial year which was adopted at Council on the 19th of February 2026. Further to this and following adoption of BR2 at Council's orinary meeting, Council is required to update its amended update and amended debt policy. This is included as a attachment six to the report today and reflects total borrowings of 3.1 million for the financial year. The balance of the policy itself remains unchanged. It's simply just the PNXA and the amount that's referred to as loan borrowings that has been updated, which simply reflects our BR2 position. There are no other substantial changes to the policy. The need to update the policy came our submission to QTC for our potential loan borrowings to the end of the year and the debt policy being required as part of this submission process. As noted in the report, council has recorded a favourable operating $2.9 million and a net result variance of $4.8 million when you take into account $1.9 million for funding from capital sources. I would like to draw some express attention to elements of the report. So on the bottom there is a table that refers to waste management in holiday parks. In regards to some of the variances noted in that table, the revenue line item of a negative $111,000 variance is driven by materials and services related to general waste and sales of recyclables. Being slightly lower than budget had anticipated and it is partially offset by additional rates and annual charges. We are currently doing an exercise behind the scenes to bring back a more detailed analysis of that in the next finance report. So I'm just earmarking that is the case and we will expect a table table more detailed results to explain those variances in a subsequent report. This is also paired with the expenditure line items which are currently showing as a $920,000 overspend. We are again currently undertaking an effort with both the financial business partner and the waste team just to both the financial business partner and the waste team just to provide further clarification and details on those amounts and intend to provide them in the next subsequent financial report. In regards to the holiday parks, revenue performance is higher than budget. This is primarily driven by the Noosa River Holiday driven by the Noosa River Holiday Park of $210,000 and the Boreen Point Holiday Park of $82,000. It does also exhibit a $269,000 overspend to budget of the expenses. Again, we will bring a more detailed back to council in the next finance report. There's been considerable work undertaken behind the scenes to look at credits and unearned revenue, so I hope to consolidate this in a simple manner in the next finance report. The operating revenue and operating expenditure variance tables have been modified to assist the community understanding the report. There is some complexity of reporting debits as debits and credits and as credits in terms of the underlying accounting ledger, but to ensure we illustrate the whether is it a positive or a negative variance, there's been green shading or colouring added to those tables, so where a revenue item is higher than budget or expenditure line item is lower than budget, it is demonstrated by an green colour to exhibit that. It's probably an oversimplified way of conveying that because there are explanations possibly if the expenditure is under, but it's true in the simplest way kind of conveyed to the public where we're tracking. To use a specific example, To use a specific example to that, there's two I would like to discuss. The rates, levies and charges currently are showing as a $414,000 collection over budget. When you look at that against the overall the overall budget it's actually a 0.4% variance, so well below a benchmark or threshold that you would typically discuss. This leads to the existing questions around rates or whether we are over collecting rates and that's a primary driver. Our operating surplus, so of the $400,000 revenue to date over budget, most of that is actually driven by waste utility charges. Only 0.1 of a million dollars or $100,000 is actually attributed to our $106 million budget. Employee benefits is another one that regularly comes up in the finance report, which is currently exhibiting a $905,000 underspend today, which in dollar terms is material, but actually represents less than of the overall budget to date of employee benefits. I'd just like to convey that this is a continual rolling program of improvements that we're trying to do. We take feedback on board from councillors from the community, also just alignment with best practice, and and we should hopefully see minor updates as we move ahead. With the capital revenue and expenditure, these have been updated to obviously reflect our BR2 position. The table on page 5 provides an overview of our major capital and grant subsidies. In regards to capital subsidies, in regards to capital expenditure, when adjusted for asset write-offs, loan redemption payments and contributed assets, $19.6 million has been spent, or 25% of the overall capital works budget today, noting there is the ongoing work with the infrastructure team as a much more detailed analysis of capital works program is provided to the capital works executive group and we are again working on that behind the scenes. We will hope to have an update in due course as we work through that. From cash management and investment performance position. management and investment performance position, so total cash on hand at February 2026 was $159 million, of which $6.7 million is in trust. These are higher than anticipated through our standard budget, which is primarily driven by the re-profiling of our capital works program through Budget Review 2. As noted in the report, investments continue to perform well against our benchmarks, with a summary of our investment performance provided on the table on page 6. Wording above that table refers to January 2026 and it is a February 2026 report, so my apologies for the typo. In regards to rate arrears, page 7 of the report provides additional detail on our rates arrears to February 2026. Our rate arrears have gone 12.8% from 5.8% in January. This is primarily driven by the fact that January, the January 2026 rates period has now, payment has now lapsed if you haven't paid your rates today, and so that is now showing up as part of the arrears balances. And it's worth noting that it gets raised balances and it's worth noting that gets raised that a March 2026 report or next month's report we will provide a more detailed analysis of rate of arrears which is a regular question which is part of our quarterly rolling program that will actually look at the ageing and categorization of those arrears including the January rates levy. February results are consistent as my normal dialogue in these meetings talk about the semi-annual pattern or six-monthly pattern with rates with following the July and January levy we find the arrears balances increase. It is worth noting that rates issuances or reminder notices will be sent in a mail later this week to rate payers who are currently in arrears and following the reminder notices going out we actually will begin to operationalize our rates and charges debt management and recovery policy. It is worth noting this question has come up a few times just to provide commentary that while rates arrears are secured over the land and present limited risk of non-collection to council there's a pragmatic step for council actually to move through the arrears process and we're actually pragmatically looking to see how we can encourage ratepayers to engage with the revenue services team to actually look at what payment methods or payment profiles might be available to actually start to begin some of those arrear balances that may be seen as negative or hard to deal with but we would prefer in the first instance to actually work with ratepayers before we have to go through The policy itself will escalate through the policy and regards to the measures of financial sustainability there are no significant emerging risks to council's performance metrics. It is worth noting in the report that the asset sustainability ratio ratio is currently below the 80% target. This is just as a result of the re-profiling through BR2. We expect by the end of the year and the adoption of the new budget for next year, as we re-profile the capital works into the future year, this will resolve itself and we will become... we will come in over the 80% threshold. As part of a continuing process of process improvement, we will look in the future to provide a recommendation to Council of actually providing the the financial sustainability on a quarterly basis as there's some volatility to the ratios being provided on a monthly basis and they can actually provide noise that's actually unhelpful in terms of conveying our financial information. In previous month's reports we have included a section on questions taken on notice. There were some questions taken on notice in the previous finance report and we'll provide verbal updates to them today. My apologies not standard practice we were actually just an undertaking further investigation at the time of writing the report so we'll provide verbal those today. Although it was briefly covered in the previous financial report a question from Councillor Wilson was raised around the balance sheet as an attachment to a statement of financial position and just clarifying why some of the line balances have updated while others have remained the same. Again some of these questions may not The same again some of these questions may not be verbatim but hopefully they captured the intent of the question. So to provide some further commentary, the 2025-26 budget was prepared in June using the balance sheets available at that time. Throughout the year as you understand we do a reconciliation in terms of our financial statements. We subsequently have BR1 and BR2 movements which capture updated positions and at the end of the year we actually go through a full reconciliation and ensure our balance sheet is ready for audit and our financial statement preparation. that's why some of the aspects are periodic, i.e. So that's why some of the aspects are... cash updates every month because we take or receive cash, while the aspects are done on a monthly, quarterly or yearly basis in terms of reconciliation. So that's why some of them will exhibit movements while some won't. Question was taken from Mayor Wilkie as to the variance of property, plant and equipment in the statement of financial position. Question was taken So to provide some context, there was a $3.3 million variance to property, plant and equipment from the 2024-25 financial statements and actuals to January 2026. this in writing if that's helpful afterwards as well. The primary driver behind that is our accumulated depreciation, our work in progress movements and asset disposals during the year, as well as commissioned assets. Effectively, the property plan equipment is kind of a work in progress as we move throughout the year and assets are commissioned. So the biggest driver in that is and I the primary driver behind that is our accumulated depreciation, our work in progress movements and asset disposals during the year, as well as commissioned assets. Effectively, the property plan equipment is kind of a work in progress as we move throughout the year and assets are commissioned. 11 million dollars of accumulated depreciation or depreciation for the current year and that's why the balance today is actually showing a 3.3 million dollar variance. As we move closer to the end of the financial year, we will expect to bring more assets online. online is the commission offset by disposal of some of those assets. It's effectively a net account so you've got the accumulated depreciation disposals which are tracked and as you can see from our capital project list there's an intention of capital projects to be delivered by the end of the year and they will be then effectively added to that balance. And just one last question which was Councillor's question around can you provide the three most significant strategic or financial risk to the community just in response to that question we have noted that and put that on our action register is the word I'm looking for sorry and we will look to incorporate that in future reports the reason we haven't today is there's some broader dependencies with the ongoing work with our budget audit and risk and it's a complex matter to work through so we are hoping to have that as soon as possible in future reports it has been noted summary council remains in a strong financial position with variances largely driven by timing differences or approved budget adjustments through budget reviews but performance will continue to be monitored through our established reporting and detailed reviews in the background thank you I'm happy to take questions. Brian Stockwell 03:08:27.196
Do we have questions? Amelia Lorentson 03:08:30.956
I have a couple thank you. My first one I'm looking at legal expenses on page four just can clarify where the legal expenses including the planning and environment court appeal matters whether they're captured within the operating expenditure categories? grace. so I'm referencing just a high-profile one that has been in the paper a landing rise just wondering where do we capture those expenses I would probably be happy to take that on notice, just to clarify, I don't have the details of the specific one you're referencing, so I could take that on notice and report back to Council. That would be great, thank you. Brian Stockwell 03:09:16.099
With the Director of development Control. Richard MacGillivray 03:09:18.359
Through the Chair, yes, so we have a list of all of our appeals that so we have a list of all of our appeals that we circulate through the case management working group every month, regarding the cost of each of those, so I'm happy to circulate those more broadly to the Council group, which itemises particular appeals relating to each matter. Amelia Lorentson 03:09:35.767
That would be great. And it does come through the operational budget. Just a further question in terms of emerging external risk. Given the current geopolitical environment and environment and just in terms of emerging risks to Council's operating costs, how are these being monitored? and And I'm sort of referencing, I've jotted down here, fuel costs, construction materials. materials, potential interest rates, insurance supply chain pressures. Are these external cost pressures, where are they sort of captured in our modelling? And if they're not, will they be incorporated? Through the Chair. Thank you, Councillor Lorentson. They're not reflected in the current report, but they are certainly part of our discussions and modelling for the 26-27 year budget. But in addition to that, for the remainder of the financial year, we are very conscious of escalating costs, such as the ones that you were speaking about, in terms of fuel construction costs, et cetera. I have mentioned previously that there may be a need for a BR3. I would say, without having confirmed this with the CEO or the ET, it's not May, there will likely definitely be a Budget Review 3 that will reflect any of those escalating costs that are coming through to Council's businesses. I would say without... And my last question in terms of our risk register is, does our risk register, and I'll go back to legal costs, does our risk register include exposure to litigation costs and potential adverse planning and environment outcomes? Margaret Gatt 03:11:48.182
Through the Chair, Lorentson, I don't have the risk register right in front of me. It is quite a lengthy and it's quite a robust document that's quite detailed in nature. From the top of, off the top of my head, certain there would be some reference to exactly that risk that you're describing. I can ensure that we come back to you with some specifics on that. If I could take that question I'll notice as I don't have a definitive answer. Amelia Lorentson 03:12:21.078
Sure if this is relevant to the financial report but I'll ask the question in terms of doing a deep dive in terms of legal costs and just again given some high-profile appeal cases is that something that I can ask you to And Can ask you to bring forward or is that something separate that I ask through the CEO in terms of maybe getting a workshop together just to understand what are the actual costs and whether we've budgeted it and what SPEAKER_13 03:12:55.261
I'm happy to take that question. So our budget has been relatively steady for appeals actually over the past about eight years. It hasn't actually changed in terms of the amount we set aside every year for funding appeals. This year's tracking to be around on budget, maybe slightly above. We've obviously, it does vary from year to year depending on the cases and those matters that proceed to trial. A lot of our matters are are settled outside of court, so don't actually require a full hearing, but sometimes particular matters do receive a full hearing and that will impact on the cost. It's also the number of experts appointed, given the complexity of the issues, that can have a big variation on what the cost is as well. Richard MacGillivray 03:13:39.813
And also, yeah, guess of the breach and also the appellants who are seeking to challenge the decision made by council. So there's a range of factors to be considered, but in terms of overall budget, we're tracking around about what was planned for our appeals budget. We do report Brian Stockwell 03:14:28.233
We're dealing with the financial report? Okay, proceed with your question or are you going to talk to the financial report? Tom Wegener 03:14:35.433
I'll take this offline. Thank you, Councillor. Brian Stockwell 03:14:41.833
Anyone else? Other questions? My last question in terms of the revised debt policy. So we're required to adopt a revised debt policy. Can you talk to that? What specific changes have been made compared to the previously adopted version? So, Councillor, I thought that was contained in your initial discussion and in the report. and in the report. Amelia Lorentson 03:15:05.681
Yes. It was. Brian Stockwell 03:15:08.321
So through the chair. Can I ask for a few more details. I'm so happy to bring that out. No details were given. The DEAR policy is adopted annually through our annual budgets. We adopted at the start of the year. As part of BR2 we had an updated capital project list that loans which were attached to that. So the only thing that is updated in the policy is appendix A of that. It refers to Yes. SPEAKER_06 03:15:14.101
The DEAR policy is adopted annually through our annual budgets. As part of BR2 we had an updated capital project list that loans which were attached to that. So the only thing that is updated in the policy is appendix A of that. borrowings in the current year. That was updated to match BR2. There are no other updates to any of the borrowings and subsequently or anything substantial in the policy. It was actually just the current year borrowings. The reason it became necessary is we provided debt policy to QTC as a part of our submission process for potential borrowings that we will take by the end of the year and the debt policy needs to reflect our most recent ledger review position. Brian Stockwell 03:15:56.340
Thank you. Would someone like to move the staff recommendation? Councillor Wegener and the seconder, Councillor Wilson. Councillor Wegener, would you like to talk to the motion? No, it's a clear report. Thank you. Anyone else? Nicola Wilson 03:16:15.277
Same, very before, thank you. Question, Frank Wilkie 03:16:18.097
Mr Chair. The financial ratios would be, I'm often challenged to remember the formula for each of them. Would it be possible to have an appendix with the formula for each of the ratios? I do have one question. It looks like everything is going swimmingly, but is there anything that really makes you toss and turn at night about our plans? SPEAKER_13 03:16:53.542
Through the Chair, at a high level. Margaret Gatt 03:16:57.942
What sort of issues generally? That's a very question. Nicola Wilson 03:17:02.771
It's a very, it's a deep question. Margaret Gatt 03:17:06.091
Point of order. Point of order. The report is a backward looking report. It's historical, year-to-date. Okay. Frank Wilkie 03:17:12.131
Is there anything, anything year-to-date? Brian Stockwell 03:17:18.640
Yes, it is, it isn't relating to the February financial report, so I won't accept the question. Frank Wilkie 03:17:23.600
Can I rephrase the question? rephrase the question? Brian Stockwell 03:17:26.240
You can... You can do so if it relates to the February financial report. Frank Wilkie 03:17:29.882
No, what I'm trying to get at, Mr Chair, is... No, alright, I'll withdraw the question. Please. Year-to-date to February, and it looks like we're well-placed to meet our budget targets, what is the greatest risk to us achieving our budget targets? Margaret Gatt 03:18:00.240
Well, there's two that come to mind. One is the impact of the geopolitical situation that's happening and increasing costs that we all in this country and around the...suffered or were impacted by the 30 to 40% increase in cost of living post-COVID just as recently as the weekend in reading lots of different articles through different media sources, credible ones. different media sources, credible ones, I may add, is that there is, you know, I don't want to be alarmist, but that that will be at least what the increase will be again. Maybe not immediately, but if things don't de-escalate. So that's a concern. And the other concern is for me, just at a, not me, I think, on behalf of the organisation is, no, I'd say it was just that one. That one's probably the high level. Yes, the global conflict. That's all. Brian Stockwell 03:19:12.672
I'll talk to the motion. Thank you for doing it. I like the fact that you're reviewing elements of the report and saying which is right. And I agree that the sustainability ratios are better on a quarterly basis. I look forward to the challenge now. We've got the last rates notices and it's gone up to 12%. I really look forward to the end of year position there being what you said was a reasonable target and being acting I'm sure you'll be interested in making sure that happens. And I do think that all organisations will have to consider will have to consider particularly maybe not this budget but next budget the implications of the way the world is at the moment and what that means and how we go forward and our reliance on fossil fuels Anyone else? Tom Wegener 03:20:13.680
Councillor Wegener. Well I'm glad we are talking about global issues and wars and finances and the price of oil going up and of course I think food isn't going to be a big one we're going to see it in another massive increase in food prices so I'm glad that the DMP is promoting regenerative farming locally. Thank you very much for your report. Brian Stockwell 03:20:38.842
I'll put the motion. Those in favour? And that, I believe, is the end of the meeting. So thank you ladies and gentlemen. We've cleared the meeting of votes at 3:51pm. Related Noosa Council Meetings
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