SPECIAL MEETING 2024/2025 BUDGET ADOPTION
Date: Friday, 28 June 2024 at 9:00AM
Location: Noosa Shire Council Chambers , 9 Pelican Street , Tewantin , QLD 4565 , Australia
Organiser: Noosa Shire Council
Duration: 01:04:12
Synopsis: Budget adopted with surplus, 5m capital and differential rates, Short-stay letting hikes and resourcing, Policies and Operational Plan approved, Waste upgrades, Parking trial, Community housing investment.
Meeting Attendees
Councillors
Frank Wilkie Karen Finzel Amelia Lorentson Jessica Phillips Brian Stockwell Tom Wegener Nicola Wilson Executive Officers
Acting Chief Executive Officer, Larry Sengstock Director Community Services, Kerri Contini Director Corporate Services, Trent Grauf Executive Officer, Internal Audit & Corporate Performance Debra Iezzi Director Strategy And Environment, Kim Rawlings Acting Director Infrastructure Services, Shaun Walsh Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray AI-Generated Meeting Insight
Key Decisions & Discussions Budget adopted for 2024/25 with statements, revenue policy, and $45m capital program; small operating surplus on $138.8m revenue/expenses (29:50; Minutes 2.4, Council Resolution 1). Differential general rates and 36 rating categories adopted, including specific STA and transitory categories (42:58–48:00; Minutes 2.4, Council Resolution 3). Levies and charges adopted: special charges (Hastings St, Noosa Junction, canals/locks), separate rates (Environment, Sustainable Transport, Heritage, Bushfire), utilities, six‑monthly billing (43:55–46:35; Minutes 2.4, Council Resolutions 4–8). Concessions & terms : pensioner/community concessions, 30‑day payment terms, interest on arrears with hardship concessions (47:10–49:20; Minutes 2.4, Council Resolutions 9–11). Delegation to CEO to identify differential rating categories (49:20–50:25; Minutes 2.4, Council Resolution 12). Budget speeches permitted by suspending standing orders, then resumed (12:10–13:40; Minutes 2.4 initial resolutions). Budget policies omnibus adopted incl. updated Procurement Policy (merging Tenderer Financial Capacity), new Rates Financial Hardship Policy, Asset Management, Debt, Investment etc. (00:00–09:40; Minutes 2.1). Estimated 2023/24 position noted; consistent with BR2 and showing surplus (10:06–10:31; Minutes 2.2). NCP reforms : continue Full Cost Pricing for Waste and Code of Competitive Conduct for Holiday Parks; no change for community facilities (11:03–12:10; Minutes 2.3). Operational Plan 2024/25 approved; quarterly reporting to Council; alignment to Corporate Plan (52:23–54:05; Minutes 2.5). Organisational structure adopted; net 6 FTE increase largely conversions; negligible rate impact; several roles funded via waste contract savings or grants (01:00:20–01:02:59; Minutes 2.6). Service level catalogues noted (50:48–51:45; Minutes 2.4, Council Resolution 14). Contentious / Transparency Matters Short‑stay letting (STA) : further rate increases for single‑dwelling STAs to reflect commercial use; licence fees set to avoid cross‑subsidy by general ratepayers (15:40–18:40; Minutes 2.4 Res.2–3). Visitor pays principle flagged to diversify revenue so residents don’t subsidise visitor services (20:21–23:40; Minutes 2.5 references to transport revenue initiatives). Encroachments policy implementation acknowledged as sensitive, resourcing staged (54:10–55:40; Minutes 2.5). Rates rise control : majority PPR increase ~5.5% (~$94/yr) while levies frozen except bushfire levy; justified by cost escalations beyond CPI (13:40–18:30; Minutes 2.4 Res.7 for levy list). Complex motions cross‑referenced via a consolidating resolution for clarity of what forms part of each adoption (50:40–51:35; Minutes 2.4, Council Resolution 13). Public articulation of trade‑offs (cut “pet projects,” finish existing works first) to maintain services within tight operating constraints (20:21–23:20; Minutes 2.5 focus areas). Legal / Risk Statutory compliance : adoptions expressly under LGA 2009 ss 94, 104, 257; LGR 2012 ss 80–122, 133; FES Act s114; mitigates procedural challenge risk (42:58–49:20; Minutes 2.1–2.4). Procurement Policy strengthened with internal controls; prior Tenderer Financial Capacity Assessment Policy rescinded and merged—aligns with QLD contracting principles, reducing probity risk (01:11–04:50; Minutes 2.1 I–J). Financial Hardship Policy enables interest concessions tied to payment arrangements up to two years; avoids unlawful rate remission outside Donations Policy, managing equity and precedent risk (08:29–09:10; Minutes 2.1 K). NCP application limited to Waste (Full Cost Pricing) and Holiday Parks (Code of Competitive Conduct); excluding partial cost‑recovery community facilities reduces over‑regulation risk while maintaining transparency (11:03–12:10; Minutes 2.3). Revenue defensibility : STA differential rating/fees framed to reflect commercial impact and admin costs, supporting Wednesbury‑reasonableness if reviewed (15:40–18:40; Minutes 2.4 Res.2–3, 7). Delegation to CEO on rating categories under LGA s257/LGR s81 ensures administrative certainty and timely categorisation; reduces dispute risk (49:20–50:25; Minutes 2.4 Res.12). Short‑Term Accommodation (STA) & Compliance Frank Wilkie : STA focus continues; higher general rates for single‑dwelling STAs (excl. strata/home‑hosted) and licence fees to cover regulation costs (15:40–18:40; Minutes 2.4 Res.2–3, 7). Nicola Wilson : STA single‑dwelling rates set at twice comparable PPR to reflect commerciality; home‑hosted fees unchanged (27:07–30:56; Minutes 2.4 Res.3, 7). Operational compliance resourcing increased to manage STA impacts on amenity (15:40–18:40; Minutes 2.5 initiatives). Waste Strategy, Environment & Resilience Borrowing $5m for waste works; expanded landfill cell and ERRC upgrades; State waste levy cost pressures passed to charges (01:11–03:30; 15:40–18:20; Minutes 2.1 Debt Policy; 2.4 Res.6). Brian Stockwell : embed ESG in Financial Sustainability Policy; assess full externalities for waste/emissions; pursue innovative reuse/recycling (05:27–07:49; Minutes 2.1 A). Amelia Lorentson : stormwater bioretention upgrade at Coyer St to cut N/P loads to Burgess Creek; coastal canal/waterway rehab (36:15–39:10; Minutes 2.5 water quality initiatives). Resilience : Bushfire levy maintained; disaster recovery capital >$100m ongoing; climate/disaster initiatives in Operational Plan (13:40–18:10; 55:50–01:00:00; Minutes 2.4 Res.7; 2.5). Transport, Parking & Revenue Diversification Parking Management Plan to inform a future paid parking trial; aim to shift visitor cost burden from rates (15:40–18:30; Minutes 2.5 transport initiatives). Visitor contribution tools under development for transport solutions (20:21–23:40; Minutes 2.5 items 2.73, 4.91 referenced in debate). Public jetty feasibility to expand river‑based public transport options (54:55–56:50; Minutes 2.5). Housing, Affordability & Community Services PPR relief : secondary dwelling/granny flat rating relief to encourage supply; hardship policy eases interest for genuine distress (15:40–18:40; 08:29–09:37; Minutes 2.1 K; 2.4 Res.2–3). Community housing : ~$3.3m to progress Lake Macdonald subdivision; intent to partner with housing cooperative and seek State/Fed grants (23:50–27:00; Minutes 2.5 housing actions). Service delivery focus maintained across libraries, leisure, The J, aquatic centres—within tight operating envelope (30:56–34:15; Minutes 2.5).
Official Meeting Minutes
MINUTES Special Meeting Friday, 28 June 2024 9:00 AM Council Chambers, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin Crs Frank Wilkie (Chair), Karen Finzel, Amelia Lorentson, Jessica Phillips, Brian Stockwell, Tom Wegener, Nicola Wilson “Noosa Shire – different by nature” SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 1. ATTENDANCE & APOLOGIES COUNCILLORS Cr Frank Wilkie (Chair) Cr Karen Finzel Cr Amelia Lorentson Cr Jessica Phillips Cr Brian Stockwell Cr Tom Wegener Cr Nicola Wilson EXECUTIVE Acting Chief Executive Officer, Larry Sengstock Director Community Services, Kerri Contini Director Corporate Services, Trent Grauf Executive Officer, Internal Audit & Corporate Performance Debra Iezzi Director Strategy and Environment, Kim Rawlings Acting Director Infrastructure Services, Shaun Walsh Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray APOLOGIES Nil. 2. SPECIAL MEETING REPORTS 2.1. ADOPTION OF 2024-2025 BUDGET POLICIES Council Resolution Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council note the report by the Director Corporate Services to the Special Meeting dated 28 June 2024 and; A. Adopt the Financial Sustainability Policy, which is provided as Attachment 1 to the report. B. Pursuant to section 191 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, adopt for the 2024/25 financial year the Investment of Surplus Funds Policy, which is provided as Attachment 2 to the report. C. Pursuant to section 192 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, adopt for the 2024/25 financial year the Debt Policy, which is provided as Attachment 3 to the report. D. Adopt the Management of Restricted Cash Policy, which is provided as Attachment 4 to the report. E. Adopt the General Rate Donations Policy, which is provided as Attachment 5 to the report. F. Adopt the Entertainment and Hospitality Expenditure Policy, which is provided as Attachment 6 to the report. G. Adopt the Non-Current Asset Accounting Policy, which is provided as Attachment 7 to the report. H. Adopt the Asset Management Policy, which is provided as Attachment 8 to the report. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 I. Adopt the Procurement Policy, which is provided as Attachment 9 to this report. J. Rescind the Tenderer Financial Capacity Assessment Policy which has been incorporated into the new Procurement Policy K. Adopt the new Rates Financial Hardship Policy, which is provided as Attachment 10 to this report Carried unanimously. 2.2. STATEMENT OF ESTIMATED FINANCIAL POSITION FOR THE 2023-24 FINANCIAL YEAR Council Resolution Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson That Council note the report by the Financial Services Manager to the Special Meeting dated 28 June 2024 and pursuant to section 205 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 note the Statement of Estimated Financial Position for the 2023/24 Financial Year, provided as Attachment 1 to the report. Carried unanimously. 2.3. APPLICATION OF NATIONAL COMPETITION POLICY REFORM Council Resolution Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener That Council note the report by the Financial Services Manager to the Special Meeting dated 28 June 2024 and: A. Continue to apply the Full Cost Pricing reform option to the Waste Management business activity for the 2024/25 financial year in accordance with section 44(1)(b) of the Local Government Act 2009; and B. Continue to apply the Code of Competitive Conduct to the Holiday Parks business activity for the 2024/25 financial year in accordance with section 47 of the Local Government Act 2009. Carried unanimously. 2.4. 2024-2025 BUDGET ADOPTION Council Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Brian Stockwell That the operation of the Standing Orders or any relevant provision thereof be suspended to allow Council to allow Budget Speeches from Mayor Frank Wilkie and Councillors. Carried unanimously. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 Council Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That Standing Orders be resumed. Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 1 Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That pursuant to section 104 of the Local Government Act 2009 and section 170 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, the budget for the financial year ending 30 June 2025, incorporating statements of income and expenditure, financial position, cash flow, changes in equity, long-term financial forecast, revenue statement and revenue policy, and 2024/25 capital program as contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024), be adopted. Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 2 Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson That pursuant to section 94 of the Local Government Act 2009 and section 80 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves to levy the differential general rates for the 2024/25 financial year as set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024). Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 3 Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener That pursuant to section 81 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves that the rating categories of rateable land in its local government area and a description of each of the rating categories for 2024/25, be as follows: Category Description Identification (Guidance only) 1. Rural & Land used, or intended to be used, for Land with the Agricultural. rural or agricultural or primary following land use production purposes. codes: 44, 60-61, 64-71, 73-89 and 93 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 2. Non-Residential. Land which is used, or intended to be Land with the used, for non-residential purposes following land use codes: 07-20, 22- SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 other than land included in categories 39, 41-50, 52 and 1, 3, 4 and 14 - 20. 91 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 3. Extractive Land used for the purpose of Land with land use Industries. extractive industry for more than code 40 or as 50,000 tonnes per annum of material otherwise from the earth. identified by the CEO. 4. Retirement Land used for the purposes of a Land with the Villages retirement village. following land used code 21 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 5. Residential (PPR) Land, with a rateable value of less Land with the and Other – RV than or equal to $800,000 which is- following land <=$800,000. 1. used as the owner’s principal used codes: 01, place of residence, other than 02, 04, 05 and 06 land in categories 10, 22, 23 or as otherwise and 25 to 36; or identified by the 2. not included in any other CEO. category. 6. Residential (PPR) Land, with a rateable value between Land with the and Other – RV $800,001 and $2,500,000 which is- following land $800,001 - 1. used for as the owner’s used codes: 01, $2,500,000. principal place of residence 02, 04, 05 and 06 other than land in categories 10, or as otherwise 22, 23 and 25 to 36; or identified by the 2. not included in any other CEO. category. 7. Residential (PPR) Land, with a rateable value between Land with the and Other – RV $2,500,001 and $5,000,000 which is- following land $2,500,001 - 1. used as the owner’s principal used codes: 01, $5,000,000. place of residence other than 02, 04, 05 and 06 land in categories 10, 22, 23 or as otherwise and 25 to 36; or identified by the 2. not included in any other CEO. category. 8. Residential (PPR) Land, with a rateable value greater Land with the and Other – RV > than $5,000,000 which is- following land $5,000,000. 1. used as the owner’s principal used codes: 01, place of residence other than 02, 04, 05 and 06 land in categories 10, 22, 23 or as otherwise and 25 to 36; or identified by the 2. not included in any other CEO. category. 9. Residential (Not Land used for residential purposes Land with the PPR) other than as the owner’s principal following land place of residence other than land in used codes: 02 category 11, 21, 24 and 25 to 36. and 05 or as otherwise SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 identified by the CEO. 10. Residential Land used as the owner’s principal Land with the Home Hosted place of residence plus as transitory following land Transitory accommodation - other than land in used codes: 02 Accommodation category 23 and 25 to 36. and 05 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 11. Transitory Land used as transitory Land with the Accommodation. accommodation, other than land in following land category 24 and 25 to 36. used codes: 02 and 05 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 12. Vacant Urban Vacant land with a rateable value Land with the Land – RV > greater than $1,500,000, with an area following land $1,500,000 and area of more than 1,500m2 in the locality of used codes: 01, more than 1,500 m2. Castaways Beach or Cooroy or 04 and 06 or as Marcus Beach or Noosa Heads or otherwise Noosaville or Peregian Beach or identified by the Sunrise Beach or Sunshine Beach or CEO. Tewantin, other than land included in category 13. 13. Subdivided land Vacant land to which Chapter 2, Part Land with the not yet developed 2, Division 5, Subdivision 3 of the Land following land Valuation Act 2010 applies. used code 72 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 14. Shopping Centres Land used for the purposes of a Land with the – gross floor area shopping centre, with a gross floor following land between 1,000 and area between 1,000 and 2,500m2 used codes: 14, 2,500m2 15, 16 or 23 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 15. Shopping Centres Land used for the purposes of a Land with the – gross floor area shopping centre, with a gross floor following land between 2,501 and area between 2,501 and 5,000m2. used codes: 14, 5,000m2 15, 16 or 23 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 16. Shopping Centres Land used for the purposes of a Land with the – gross floor area shopping centre, with a gross floor following land between 5,001 and area between 5,001 and 10,000m . 2 used codes: 14, 10,000m2 15, 16 or 23 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 17. Shopping Centres Land used for the purposes of a Land with the – gross floor area shopping centre, with a gross floor following land area between 10,001 and 20,000m2. used codes: 14, SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 between 10,001 and 15, 16 or 23 or as 20,000m2 otherwise identified by the CEO. 18. Shopping Centres Land used for the purposes of a Land with the – gross floor area shopping centre, with a gross floor following land between 20,001 and area between 20,001 and 30,000 m2. used codes: 14, 30,000m2 15, 16 or 23 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 19. Shopping Centres Land used for the purposes of a Land with the – gross floor area shopping centre, with a gross floor following land between 30,001 and area between 30,001 and 40,000 m2. used codes: 14, 40,000m2 15, 16 or 23 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 20. Shopping Centres Land used for the purposes of a Land with the – gross floor area shopping centre, with a gross floor following land greater than area greater than 40,000 m2. used codes: 14, 40,000m 2 15, 16 or 23 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 21. Strata Units Land which is a strata unit used for Land with the (Not PPR). residential accommodation purposes following land other than as the owner’s principal used codes: 08 or place of residence, other than land in 09 or as otherwise category 24. identified by the CEO. 22. Strata Units Land which is a strata unit used as the Land with the (PPR). owner’s principal place of residence following land other than land in category 23. used codes: 08 or 09 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 23. Strata Units Land which is a strata unit used as the Land with the Home Hosted owner’s principal place of residence following land Transitory and is defined as transitory used codes: 08 or Accommodation. accommodation. 09 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 24 Strata Units Land which is a strata unit used other Land with the Transitory than as the owner’s principal place of following land Accommodation. residence and is defined as transitory used codes: 08 or accommodation. 09 or as otherwise identified by the CEO. 25. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential - 2 to 4 which there are 2 to 4 self-contained following land residences flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, used code 03 or other than land in category 31. as otherwise identified by the CEO. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 26. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential - 5 to 9 which there are 5 to 9 self-contained following land residences flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, used code 03 or other than land in category 32 as otherwise identified by the CEO. 27. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential - 10 to 14 which there are 10 to 14 self-contained following land residences flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, used code 03 or other than land in category 33. as otherwise identified by the CEO. 28. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential - 15 to 19 which there are 15 to 19 self-contained following land residences flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, used code 03 or other than land in category 34. as otherwise identified by the CEO. 29. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential - 20 to 29 which there are 20 to 29 self-contained following land residences flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, used code 03 or other than land in category 35. as otherwise identified by the CEO. 30. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential - greater which there are 30 or more self- following land than 30 residences contained flats, studios, cabins or used code 03 or dwellings, other than land in category as otherwise 36. identified by the CEO. 31. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential Transitory which there are 2 to 4 self-contained following land Accommodation - 2 to flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, and used code 03 or 4 residences where at least one of the self- as otherwise contained flats, studios, cabins or identified by the dwellings is transitory accommodation. CEO. 32. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential Transitory which there are 5 to 9 self-contained following land Accommodation - 5 to flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, and used code 03 or 9 residences where at least one of the self- as otherwise contained flats, studios, cabins or identified by the dwellings is transitory accommodation. CEO. 33. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential Transitory which there are 10 to 14 self-contained following land Accommodation - 10 flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, and used code 03 or to 14 residences where at least one of the self- as otherwise contained flats, studios, cabins or identified by the dwellings is transitory accommodation. CEO. 34. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential Transitory which there are 15 to 19 self-contained following land Accommodation - 15 flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, and used code 03 or to 19 residences where at least one of the self- as otherwise contained flats, studios, cabins or identified by the dwellings is transitory accommodation. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 CEO. 35. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential Transitory which there are 20 to 29 self-contained following land Accommodation - 20 flats, studios, cabins or dwellings, and used code 03 or to 29 residences where at least one of the self- as otherwise contained flats, studios, cabins or identified by the dwellings is transitory accommodation. CEO. 36. Non-Strata Land, used for residential purposes, on Land with the Residential Transitory which there are 30 or more self- following land Accommodation - contained flats, studios, cabins or used code 03 or greater than 30 dwellings, and where at least one of as otherwise residences the self-contained flats, studios, cabins identified by the or dwellings is transitory CEO. accommodation. Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 4 Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Brian Stockwell That pursuant to section 94 of the Local Government Act 2009 and section 94 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves to levy the special charges for the 2024/25 financial year as set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024). The special charges set out in the Revenue Statement are: Noosa Waters Lock and Weir Maintenance Levy Noosa Waters Canal Maintenance Levy Noosa Junction Levy Hastings Street Precinct Levy Noosa Main Beach Levy Hastings Street Community Safety Program Charge Noosa Junction Streetscape Levy For that purpose the rateable land to which the special charges apply and the overall plans for the services, facilities or activities to which the special charges apply be the rateable land and overall plans specified in the Revenue Statement. Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 5 Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That pursuant to section 94 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves to adopt the overall plans, annual implementation plans and benefitted area maps specified in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024) for the special charges it resolves to levy under resolution 4. Carried unanimously. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 Council Resolution 6 Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That pursuant to section 94 of the Local Government Act 2009 and section 99 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves to levy the utility charges for the 2024/25 financial year as set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024). Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 7 Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That pursuant to section 94 of the Local Government Act 2009 and section 103 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves to levy the separate rates and charges for the 2024/25 financial year as set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024). The separate rates and charges set out in the Revenue Statement are: Environment Levy Sustainable Transport Levy Heritage Levy Bushfire Resilience and Response Levy Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 8 Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That pursuant to section 107 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 and section 114 of the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990, Council resolves that rates and utility charges, and the Queensland Government’s Emergency Management Levy, for the year ending 30 June 2025 will be levied six monthly and as set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024). Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 9 Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener That pursuant to section 122 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves to grant concessions to ratepayers as set out in the Revenue Statement SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 (contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document) and Council’s General Rate Donations Policy. Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 10 Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Brian Stockwell That pursuant to section 118 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves that all rates and charges must be paid within 30 days after the date of issue of the rates notice. Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 11 Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That pursuant to section 133 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves that all overdue rates and charges bear interest as set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024) and where applicable to grant concessions on interest to eligible ratepayers as set out in Council's Rates and Charges Financial Hardship Policy. Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 12 Moved: Cr Tom Wegner Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That pursuant to section 257 of the Local Government Act 2009 Council delegates to the Chief Executive Officer its powers under section 81 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 to identify the differential rating category into which each parcel of rateable land in the Council’s local government area is included by using relevant information from the Council’s land record and any other information which identifies the use of rateable land. Carried unanimously. Council Resolution 13 Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That it be recorded that in each case where a preceding Motion refers to a matter set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 2024/25 Budget document (provided as Attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024), that matter is incorporated by reference into, and forms part of the terms and content of the motion, and will be so incorporated and form part of the terms and content of Council’s resolution to adopt the motion. Carried unanimously. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES 28 JUNE 2024 Council Resolution 14 Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That Council note the revised 2024-2025 Service Level catalogues provided in Attachment 2 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 2024. Carried unanimously. 2.5. OPERATIONAL PLAN 2024-2025 Council Resolution Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Council note the report by the Executive Officer, Internal Audit and Corporate Performance to the Special Meeting dated 28 June 2024 and approve for the 2024-2025 financial year its Operational Plan 2024-2025, provided as a draft in Attachment 1 to the report. Carried unanimously. 2.6. ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE Council Resolution Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council note the report by the People and Culture Manager to the Special Meeting dated 28 June 2024 and adopt the Noosa Council Organisational structure as set out in the Report. Carried unanimously. 3. CONFIDENTIAL SESSION Nil. 4. MEETING CLOSURE The meeting closed at 10.04am.
Meeting Transcript
Frank Wilkie 00:00.000
And welcome everybody to the Special Meeting to adopt the 2024-25 budget. I declare the meeting open at 9am. I'd like to acknowledge that we're meeting on the traditional lands of the Kabi Kabi People. Pay my respects to their elders past, present and emerging. I note that everyone is in attendance and as mentioned today's Special Meeting is to consider Noosa Council's 24/25 budget. The first item on the agenda is adoption of the 24/25 budget policies including the financial sustainability policy, investment of surplus funds policy, the debt policy, restricted cash policy, General Rate Donations Policy, entertainment and hospitality expenditure policy, the non-current asset accounting policy, asset management policy, the procurement policy to rescind the tender of financial capacity assessment policy and adopt the new rates financial hardship policy. It's an omnibus motion and here to give us an overview is our Acting Director Corporate Services Trent Grauf and manager of financial services Pauline Coles. Welcome. Trent Grauf 01:09.669
Go on Councillors. Under the Local Government Act and its supporting regulation we are required to prepare a number of policies to support the budget adoption. The two mandatory policies in the suite of policies in front of you for consideration are the investment and debt policy. Addition to those manager mandatory policies Council also has number of finance procurement and asset management policies that should be reviewed on a regular basis so to ensure prudent financial governance we also adopt proactive approach and bring those forward as part of the budget process to review and adopt annually. There's ten policies in total for consideration I'll just mention each one of them briefly for their purpose and then I can get for questions. The first and foremost is the financial sustainability policy it outlines the financial governance framework that Council will work within to ensure that Councillors finances remain sustainable in the long term. The only change to this policy for the 24-25 year is to recognise the Corporate Plan objective and likely impending finance industry legislation on ESG reporting. Commitment to follow that process in the coming years. The second policy is our investment of surplus funds policy. That remains current with only some minor disclosure changes. Our debt policy includes an outline of our borrowing proposed for the coming financial year as well as an indicative program of future nine borrowings. Proposes to borrow $5 million in the 24-25 year to fund waste management works. With the management of restricted cash policy, policies, that outlines. Where we set aside and restrict cash for regulatory reasons, levies or key signature future projects to ensure there's sufficient working capital to meet our long-term liquidity. That policy remains current and only monitor this disclosure changes. We have our General Rate Donations Policy, which outlines the eligibility criteria for community organisations to receive a donation that discounts their general rates. Again, that policy remains current but only monitor disclosure changes. The entertainment and hospitality policy. Provides direction on how Council officers and Councillors spend entertainment and hospitality spend. With We have two policies on asset management. One is the non-current asset accounting policy which guides the financial. Disclosure of non assets. There's no change to that policy for this financial year. And our asset management policy which has been updated to reflect a recent internal audit review and increased disclosure on our framework for asset management. The procurement policy is a very procurement policy has been updated this financial year. It ensures the sound application of contracting principles for council's procurement. The detailed review reflected both internal audit findings incorporating more internal controls as well as ensuring efficient business process and that also emerging includes the merging of the financial capacity policy, so that is why you have a rescinding of one of the policies in the agenda. Last but not least is the financial hardship policy. This is a new policy, cap Councillors. To us. Under the Local Government Act, ratepayers are required to pay interest on overdue rates and payable charges. As we know, Council already has proactive measures in place to assist with payment arrangements where ratepayers are able to pay by the due date of their rates. But Council does recognise there are exceptional circumstances where people may not be able to pay during the due date. This policy provides Council with the ability to provide concessions on that interest charge for those that do undertake payment they meet the eligibility criteria for up to two years. Brian Stockwell 05:10.264
Thank you, Councillors. Okay. Stockwell. I'm happy to move the recommendation. Frank Wilkie 05:10.264
Thank you. May I have a seconder, please? Councillor Finzel. The punch, Councillor. That's okay. You're sore foot, I think. I might. Your foot was good. You would have got there. Okay. Right. Would anyone like to speak to the motion? Brian Stockwell 05:27.834
Yes, please. I think there was two important aspects of what was outlined by the Director. The first one is the new policy on financial hardship. And that's probably going to be a particularly valuable policy in the current financial environment for a number of families in our community and households So it really sets out the grounds upon which staff can take in genuine cases of hardship and reduce the burden that will be accrued as result of not being able to meet your rates Bill on time during the discount period. So it's a policy focused on the social wellbeing of our community. Was the other in the financial sustainability and we heard yesterday that policy Noosa Council was the first to bring that in of any Council in Queensland and what we're proposing is to keep it at the front of pack in that we acknowledge in our corporate pan that when you do financial management you should also consider about the full suite of economic costs and benefits that flow from it and to do that you need to consider both the environmental externalities and the benefits as well as the social implications and the governance implications so the reference to ESG is a reference to an accounting system which is adopting methods of bringing in environmental, social and governance. Attributes. Into your financial decisions and that will become more and important to Council for things like when we assess the costs and benefits of our waste management system if we continue just to look at financial costs it's unlikely that we'll come up with a feasible solution that doesn't include large rate gains but if we can invest in the long term for the benefit of the environment we're likely to innovative system that will not only be-effective in terms of how we reuse and recycle but also reduces those emissions that are going into the atmosphere at the moment which is causing all sorts of economic costs including the climate-related disasters that our own Shire has been spending hundreds of millions of dollars on think those two aspects of the suite of policies we're adopting are important ones to highlight. Frank Wilkie 07:49.679
Thank you, Councillor Stockwell. Anyone else wish to speak? Councillor Finzel. Karen Finzel 07:53.099
Yes, thank you. I think the policies before us here today are a true reflection of the hard work of this Council over many years and also the ability to show that we can be flexible and respond to the needs in the community at any given time. I think that the recognition to social understanding and resourcing to meet at the heart of this community given the current economic climate. So thank you everyone for your contribution to these policies that we use to inform our budget moving forward. Frank Wilkie 08:24.975
Anybody wish to speak to the motion? Councillor Lorentson. Amelia Lorentson 08:29.095
I actually just have some questions in terms of the new rates financial hardship policy. Are the payment plans the only options or are we intended to explore waivers in different roles? Trent Grauf 08:46.304
Through the Chair, we obviously have a range of options available for payment but the key element is ensuring that we reach a point where our rate hires who are in a position of financial hardship can progress affordable mechanism to progress towards paying their, ultimately paying their rates and charges. If we were to ultimately be evading or discounting those rates or providing us a situation where they're not paying at all, that would fall under our rates donation policy and so that's why we have a separate policy that outlines those circumstances where a certain property or rate-paying cohort is eligible to receive a discount or a donation on their rates. Intention of the hardship to enable a payment plan that doesn't penalise while we're working through a rate-paying to that outstanding year off. Thank you very much. Pay Frank Wilkie 09:38.050
Councillor Stockwell wish to close. We'll put the motion. Those in favour? That's unanimous. And just for the benefit of those listening, we will be suspending Standing Orders later in the meeting to allow Councillors to give their budget speeches. The next item on the agenda is statement of estimated financial position for the 23-24 financial year. Services manager Pauline Coles is here to give us a summary of this report. Pauline Coles 10:02.496
Thank you Councillors. In accordance with section 205 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, councils are required to present a statement of estimated financial position as part of annual budget adoption process. The provides an estimate of council's position for the 23/24 financial year. The position presented in the document is consistent with the financial position adopted at budget year 2 in January 2024 and shows the surplus position. Frank Wilkie 10:30.520
Okay, Questions before the meeting? We have a mover for the motion please. Moved by Councillor Lorentson, seconded by Councillor Wilson. Also a bit slow on the feet due to an injury. Any discussion? No. Put the motion those in favour? That's carried unanimously. Next item on the agenda is the application of national competition policy reform. Pauline Coles can you give us the summary of this report please. Pauline Coles 10:58.405
Council is required to decide whether to apply national competition policy reforms identified business activities. NCP, or provides a greater transparency over council's businesses and assists with removing any anti-competitive conduct and ensures the best allocation of council's limited resources. Council has adopted NCP reforms with respect to its waste management and holiday park business activities since de-enormation in 2014. Council has undertaken a review of the nature of other services and activities it provides to the public, including its community facilities, including aquatic, leisure, events, arts and respite centres, as well as cemeteries and the Peregian Digital Hub. While these operations generate fees and operate on partial user pay systems, they do not have the necessary full cost recovery and profit-making focus. As such, Council is not seeking to apply NCP principles to these specific businesses. Accordingly, the recommendation is to continue to apply the full cost pricing reform to the operations of waste management and holiday parks for the 24/25 financial year. Frank Wilkie 12:10.108
We'll any questions for Pauline? For the motion please. Moved by Councillor Phillips, seconded please by Councillor Wegener. Anybody wish to speak to the motion? Put the motion to the vote, all in favour? That's unanimous. Before we get to item 2.4 which is the adoption of the /25 budget, I would like to move that the operation of the Standing Orders or any relevant provision thereof be suspended to allow Council to receive budget speeches from Councillors. Do I have a seconder please? Seconded by Councillor Stockwell. All in favour? That's carried. I'll go first if I may. '25 Response. This responsible and compassionate budget, the first for this new Council, consolidates the shire's sustainable financial foundation after record high cost increases in recent years and enables Council to provide the services our community expects needs as committed to in the Corporate Plan, while acknowledging cost of living pressures many face. With many key transformational projects underway, such as the Destination Management Plan, Placemaking Program and Waste Strategy, this budget aims to finish the significant work already started. Council, like all businesses and households, is under pressure from rising costs to maintain the shire's assets and run the facilities and services our community expects. In particular the cost of asphalt, concrete and other construction materials continue to rise at a rate beyond household CPI. This budget has been set with the prime goal of accommodating these escalating cost pressures while maintaining levels of service for the community and being mindful of resident households' costs financial sustainability lies at the heart of this budget and any council's capacity to deliver the services their communities need and expect. The sobering context is that Noosa will be only one of 20 councils out of 77 in Queensland will be returning a surplus. Despite the high cost increases, the rate rise overall for the majority of residential properties owner occupied has been kept to the same as last year at 5.% which equates to an increase of $94 a year or $1.82 per week. To help achieve that, Councillors have placed a freeze on all levies except for the Bushfire Resilience and Response Levy which is required to ensure critical investment in managing Council reserves and fire trails ahead of the dry season. Charges have been increased to absorb the increased the increasing state government imposed waste levy and to support the cost of managing our resource recovery facilities. The $184 million budget incorporating operating expenditure of $139 million and a capital works program of $45 million will achieve a small surplus to maintain community's equity and stay afloat. Sustainable. In the black. In support of Noosa Housing Strategy and to help encourage smaller secondary dwellings that provide essential housing for dependents, family workers and those in need, Council has cut rates for granny flats and secondary dwellings. Councillors have also introduced rates hardship policy removing interest charges on overdue rates to ensure those facing difficult financial or personal circumstances are not burdened with interest if they are unable to afford to pay their rates upfront. Noosa Shire continues to be the only Council regionally to provide a rates early payment discount which is to set at 5%. Rebound. Rebate and discounts for pensioners and eligible community groups continue to apply. Through the introduction of short-term accommodation transitory rating categories and Queensland's first STA local law, Noosa Council led the way across the industry in taking measures to manage the impact of short stays on our community. Most recently we have seen many councils including Brisbane follow. The 24/25 ' budget sees a continued focus and commitment to managing STA's impact on community and amenity, excluding strata title and home hosted. General rates for single STA dwellings have increased further to reflect their commercial use. In addition, STA annual licence fees have been set to ensure the rest of the shire's ratepayers are not subsidising the costs of administering the Short Stay Local Law. With the adoption of the Waste Strategy significant investment in an expanded landfill landscape and further investment in the Eumundi Road resource recovery centre upgrade works over the coming year will ensure we manage our waste in a safe and responsible manner. The State government's introduction of a higher state waste levy imposed on domestic as well as commercial properties has seen increased costs passed on to bin collection charges and to waste facility customers. The operational plan outlines the significant number charges of initiatives underway. Include finalising the Dog Beach works for the Noosa Spit shoreline erosion management plan and to protect Implement the encroachments policy and operational procedure. Continue to implement and further review the short stay letting local to manage the impacts of short-term letting including increased resources towards compliance. Continue to implement key actions of the Noosa Housing Strategy. Continuation of the living well low cost community exercise programs. Finalising the Noosa Botanic Gardens master developing the Noosa parking management plan which will inform a future paid parking trial. Complete the Regional Art Gallery Feasibility Project and there's investment in technology to support greater efficiency of delivering services to the community on a daily basis as well as dealing with the ever increasing cyber security threat. Council to demonstrate prudent fiscal management with the 24/25 budget not only by ensuring a marginal surplus but also by meeting all its statutory financial sustainability indicators as set out by the State government. This year's 45 million capital works program includes: $250,000 to improve local beach access points, $62,000 for beach shower renewals, $500,000 to upgrade to sports field lighting at selbonnel oval and Cooroy Sports Complex, $100,000 to renew Noosaville's pirate playground, $520,000 towards the ongoing renewal of the shire's bus stops to improve accessibility, $1.53 million for the heavy road patching program, $100,000 plus to expand the Wallace Park Precinct CCTV system, 820,000, for Wahpunga trail 4 and woodland trail 3 renewal, and $1.6 million for upgrading the Cooroy Gymnastics and Multi-Use Centre. In addition to this, there's over $100 million in disaster recovery capital works from the March 2022 weather event to be completed. Compiling this budget has been a collaborative effort. And rigorous process in a compressed time frame involving diligence, patience and discipline by Councillor colleagues, Stockwell, Lorentson, Wegener, Councillors Finzel, Wilson and Phillips. Executive directors and managers, plus long hours from highly skilled and financially astute staff, especially corporate services Director Trent Grauf and financial services manager Pauline Coles. Each and everyone here deserves thanks and credit for their input on this compassionate and responsible budget. Which has caring for the needs of our community at its heart and I commend it to you. Wish to speak about the budget? I'll follow up. Brian Stockwell 20:18.013
Two basic parts of the operating. There's the capital works which once again this year is at significantly higher levels than we saw as an average since Noosa Council was reformed and there's the operating budget and operating budget is think this year has been the most rigorous but also the most difficult process. Unlike other levels of government we can't whip out the credit card to pay for how to operate our Council. We can't use borrowed funds to run programs that are ongoing. Which don't involve capital. So that means that we have had to be quite strict and rigorous in what gets approved and while the Mayor mentioned about us all around this table actually I think some of the hardest work was done very early by the staff who really looked very hard at what they actually needed and there was quite a significant efficiency gain resulting from that first review by directors and managers about what they can cut out of their operating budget. One of the big messages I think we need to put into the community's mind is that how rates will continue to go up unless we look at other sources of revenue and we'll see later on in the operating plan that we're starting to do those investigations to work out how we spread the operation or costs of providing things that just don't provide amenity and utility to our residents but also to the visitors and so how we get every visitor contributing to the services they use whether they're staying here overnight or whether they're driving up for the day is one of the key budget challenges and the Mayor mentioned that you know labour and material costs over recent years have skyrocketed and that's put really significant pressure on the operating budget and you know what we have managed to do while many of us had to forego our pet projects this time around and we've managed to keep that rise to less than a two dollar coin each week. I thought I'd spend the rest of my time looking at it from where I live because I'm living in Cooroy building in Boreen Point and what is it for the hinterland community and one the things that we've you'll see in this budget is we've been very successful in attracting state and Federal grants and that is a good news story but also means we have to draw on many of those cases drawing our own funds to match them. So what is the hinterland from so we've already heard there's over two million dollars spent probably on the upgrade at the Cooroy sports complex both a new undercover Multipurpose facility that will be able to be used when it's raining for a number of clubs that are already at that facility. We're looking at an improvement and upgrade of the gymnastics facility and new LED lighting around the somewhat aged and decrepit wooden posts are going to be replaced with old showground arena. Mayor mentioned about the biosphere trail and a that's little a $1.4 million grant over three years totalling $2.8 million of upgrade and in this year we're starting with $820,000 of that in the renewal of the Kin Kin, Wahpunga and Wundum trails and for the old people that's trails three and four. Now, that's a lot of money for a trail through the bush but we know from the benefits it gives us from health the enjoyment it gets for the locals but also the fact that it's becoming more and of a attraction for people who want to visit Noosa to get out into the hinterland and we've seen a huge growth in the number of people participating in mountain biking and marathons and silly people who long run excessive distances through those trails. Yes you should smile Mr Mayor. So what else have we got in there? The Cooroy Botanic Gardens. So it's growing. We're doing a master plan. It's getting better use and we've got a very vibrant volunteer sector. So as those grounds grow, so does the demand to store our plant and equipment to maintain that luxury of garden. And so we've got $160,000 in there for a new shed for plant equipment. And I believe. Relocating that plant, that shed, such that some of the better vistas from the top of the hill and around the oldest and biggest tree, the old hook pine, will be incorporated more into the garden itself. Over recent years, the hinterland community has been very clear. When they completed the liveability survey when they gave us the feedback on the corporate course. Plan and more recently when making suggestions for the Pomona placemaking plan consultation. And generally the most important thing they want to see improvement in is the pathways along our street networks in our hinterland villages. So in this budget we're staying to implement some of those priorities with $253,000 to connect up pathways leading to the high school campus on Summit Road in Pomona and also together with improvements along Factory Street. Also another $80,000 in links to Kauri Street in Cooroy. Now in our Housing Strategy we made a commitment to do what we can to facilitate the building of more community housing. Affordable, low just for people on the public housing register but also for people, perhaps workers for Council, that are finding difficulty getting affordable accommodation. And one of the big steps we're making this year is we're proceeding with a subdivision on land at Lake MacDonald. And there's actually $3 million in for that development. Cost. We're very hopeful that we'll be getting state and/or Federal funding. But the important thing is we've already resolved to agree to enter in a contract to purchase with a housing cooperative who are very keen to proceed and are very hopeful that they'll be getting some support from the State government to start building some of that housing in Cooroy. So we'll be offsetting budget with sales of land and with grants, but it is a really important commitment that we've, you know, put down in black and white in this budget that we intend to implement. Back our word in the Housing Strategy and when we get to the operational plan, we'll show how we're trying to implement a range of strategies. So I commend the budget to all. Frank Wilkie 26:55.794
Thank you Councillor Stockwell. Anybody else? Care Councillor Wilson. Nicola Wilson 27:07.938
I commend the motion to adopt the budget as presented and I know that this budget was based on months of work by the finance and executive team during the caretaker and election period and rigorous debate with. Councillors since April. All involved have been mindful of the balance between the increasing costs imposed on Council and the need to maintain our services with the least possible on ratepayers. This budget addresses the concerns we've heard about in the various consultation processes and the recent election campaign. It's focused on basic services. A commitment to finishing what we've started before taking on new initiatives. And a general acknowledgement of cost of living pressures. So looking first at the operational budget, with revenue of 138.8 and expenses of 138.7 million. A small surplus. Council's main costs are salaries and wages of 52.5 million. And materials and services of 61 million. Wages have increased by 6.2% in line with employee certified agreements and other legislative increases with minimal increase in headcount. Overall, we're predicting about 3 million increase in costs, while some of our revenue sources, such as interest income and grants, will likely decline by about so that's a gap of roughly 6 million. With deliberately low population growth in Noosa, there's increase in revenue through increased volume of ratepayers. Therefore, covering gap means a price increase. So what does that mean for each household? Over half of Noosa Shire households are in the minimum rates threshold, which will increase from $1,727 per year to $1,821, an increase of $94 per year or $1.81 per week. Some households will see a saving compared with last year. Rates on properties with secondary dwellings or granny flats have been reduced, as these assist with much-needed housing supply. We're also putting hardship fund in place, as you've heard, to ease the burden of interest on late payments. And concessions continue to be offered to eligible pensioners and community groups. To fund this, we've increased rates on single dwelling STA properties. Rates on these properties will be twice that. A comparable house used as a principal place of residence. Short stay letting annual renewal fees. Have also increased for detached houses. While fees for home hosted short stay in units remain the same. Most other fees and permit costs. Have also remained the same. Overall revenue changes. Are mostly due to an expected increase. Or decrease in activity in those areas. Rather than prices. The waste levy has increased. To cover increased cost of disposal. Term remediation at the landfill site. And increased fees imposed on Council. By the State government. The capital budget focuses. On completing the disaster recovery works. Investment in roads and bridges. And increasing the life of our waste facility. We will continue to seek state and Federal funding for additional projects. But being mindful of our internal capacity. As a small Council. And finishing what we've started. There have been some tough decisions. Balance the desire for improved services and new ideas with containment of costs. We will continue to monitor cost and performance. To ensure we focus on essentials. And adapt to community feedback and needs. Thank you. Thank you Councillor Wilson. Frank Wilkie 30:58.697
Anybody else care to deliver a budget speech? Okay, just a do it. Quick one. Tom Wegener 31:05.853
My gosh, the budget is complex for all of us. Again, it's my fifth year here and you just cannot believe how much goes into it. Seems this year we've taken a very conservative approach, kind of bracing ourselves for the future and first finishing what we started because there's a lot of projects on the go through the disaster management area but the second you know thinking of what's happened in the past just recently we've had a financial crisis 2008-2009 we've had fires 2019 we've had COVID we've had floods we've really it's this modern society we just lurch from situation to and I feel confident that this budget has been very lean and puts us in very good speed to face what's coming next I think we have a very resilient budget and I really Trent, Pauline for bringing us through this and now all the directors because we know that you've told us that they've started cutting and being very lean from the very bottom all the way up to the top but when we look at the budget there's a lot of ways to look at it and I from a very distant place where I think of the average age in Noosa much higher than the Queensland average and so when that mere fact I think of libraries leaves leisure centres The J the aquatic centre parks and cemeteries because that they are funded by Council and if you're at an age we have a on your hand you're retired well those are the things you really enjoy so that's right I want to focus and especially on Kerri Contini's team and say thank you Kerri for the services that you bring because they are substantial and they are real the outward face of Noosa Council to so many of the people another thing that I looked through the land the budget the lens of we have the most expensive accommodation and housing around but our average household income is lower so we have this really odd just disparaging thought or you know situation it's older all their lower local incomes and again I look at the social services that we provide and I'm just so impressed that we are actually able to carry on with such a small rate increase this year because we have been below CPI for a long time but as the Mayor mentioned the cost of the lions part of the budget is depreciation and roads and big like drainage and that's where your money goes and that's made out of concrete for the most part in an asphalt and that those when prices go up my gosh that really puts a dent into your budget and even considering all that we still have a very nominal rate rise and our services are still right there for that the majority of our population so thank you very much. Frank Wilkie 34:02.631
Thank you Councillor Wegener. If the Council wish to speak before we resume Standing Orders. Okay thank you everyone. I now move the Standing Orders be resumed. Second. Oh sorry. Amelia Lorentson 34:15.491
I wanted to speak. Oh yeah go. Excuse me. I'm a little bit slow on my feet. Thank you everyone for being here today, Councillors and staff. As Tom and Councillor Wegener mentioned, this is also my fifth budget presentation and I reiterate tom's thought, it never gets easier. Year's been particularly tough and challenging and we collectively have worked hard to balance our community's immediate needs with long-term sustainability and we've also worked ensure that every dollar is spent wisely and effectively. We face numerous challenges both old and new challenges. Economic uncertainties, evolving public service demands and the need for sustainable development all which have guided our approach to this year's 184 million dollar budget. Despite these challenges we're happy to deliver a budget that we believe serves the best interests of our community. Specific benefits such as improved infrastructure better services and a more sustainable future. This year's guiding principles and we've got a couple finish what we've started and lay the foundation for the future. We focus on completing ongoing projects addressing high strategic risk, advancing essential initiatives such as the Destination Management Plan, parking and housing, and importantly stabilising our workforce to be ready for future challenges and opportunities. We recognise that there are many challenges and recognise the significant pressures our community faces due to rising living costs that's why we've worked hard to deliver a minimal rate increase while funding essential services. Frank Wilkie 36:12.022
No workers Mr. Acting CEO, do you wish to take that call? Just to remind you, to us all? No, sorry, I was. Do you know how they work? No, I don't. A timer. Amelia Lorentson 36:30.371
Sorry, Councillor Lorentson. That's alright, I'll have to start all over again. We recognise the significant pressures our community faces due to rising living costs and that's quite serious. That's why we've worked funding essential services and infrastructure supporting both our community and the environment. We've increased investment the Shire-wide reseal and patching program, the Eumundi Road landfill cell expansion and capping and the replacement of the Doonella Bridge. Inclusivity and remain top priorities for this Council with projects like pathway enhancements across the Shire and the design of a Changing Places facility along the Noosa River to support people with high support needs. Rehabilitating coastal canals and waterways to upgrading key Council facilities, from Council facilities, every investment we have made is aimed to improve the quality of life for all our residents and protect our environment. Personal importance to me is the upgrade of the bio-retention basins on Cooyar Street. The bio-retention assessment from 2022 highlighted that the current basin is undersized and not performing to standards upgrading this basin will significantly improve stormwater quality, entering the Burgess Creek catchment from Noosa Junction, addressing pollutants like nitrogen and phosphorus, which are critical in maintaining the ecology of downstream waters. Finally, I want to take this opportunity to thank our Acting CEO, the branch managers, our directors, the men and fellow Councillors. In particular I'd like to acknowledge thank our finance team, Pauline and Trent and team, for your commitment to improving Noosa. Significant effort has gone into delivering this budget and although we take a little bit of credit, you guys the engine room and have carried the bulk or have done the budget. You delivered a budget that ensures, most importantly, that Noosa Council is not in a deficit. The Mayor mentioned of the 77 councils in Queensland, Noosa is one of only 20 LGAs that continues to deliver a surplus budget. This is a testament to our financial stability and, more importantly, responsible management. Finally, I'd like to take this opportunity to also thank our community for trusting us to lead us during these challenging times. It's your money and I hope we've got it right. Thank you, Councillor Lorentson. Finzel. Karen Finzel 39:28.625
Well, I guess I'd better speak. It's my fifth budget and I won't take up much time because we have all covered the technical aspects of this budget. Firstly, I'd like to acknowledge Kabi Kabi People and their inherent wisdom and value to our community. And I'd like to thank the CEO, the staff, all the executive committee and everyone that's contributed to this, and also to my fellow colleagues and the Mayor. Submit that this is not an aspirational bells and whistles budget that we would deliver in times of prosperity, but I say that rather it's a radical budget in so much that we have listened to our community and we have with heart and conviction looked at the challenges that are faced in these economic times. It's a conservative budget to deliver day-to operations and continue what we've started with a genuine focus on service delivery and goods and services to our community. I think this budget reflects a hope for a better tomorrow with renewed dedication. We have sought a conservative budget with effective governance as our policies reflect with sustainability in times of uncertainty informed by public opinion and we've come off the campaign and we certainly heard what everyone had to say as we were out on the hustings. This budget to me is in between the space of being contented and concerned as we try to address the needs of our most vulnerable right through to those who are prospering and bringing a sensible centre and a balanced approach to our fiscal responsibility and commitment to good governance. We have looked with to deliver economic stabilisation in times of uncertainty the commonality of our familiarity and fragility within the experience of experiencing a sick child, a parent with memory loss, a friend that has experienced a death we are people living within our community and can identify with the struggles and I believe that we have reflected that in our budget before us today and especially reflected in the hardship policy where we have worked to the best of our ability to acknowledge the struggles that some people are experiencing we've taken brave steps in pulling back and cutting everything to the bone to deliver what we've started and give back to our community I just like to finish with a quote because we have to have a quote at the table from Ruth bader ginsburg we will all profit from a diverse inclusive society understanding accommodating even celebrating our differences while pulling together for the common good and I think collectively that's what we've all worked hard for to deliver the common good to our community so thank you to everyone who's involved. Well said Councillor Finzel, Frank Wilkie 43:00.380
Thank you. No other speeches? There being I ask that the standing, I move orders be resumed. May I have a seconder please? Councillor Lorentson quick remark. All in favour? That's carried unanimously. So we're now at item 2.4 of the budget agenda which is 24-25 budget adoption. So we have a range of motions and the first motion one is that pursuant to section 104 of the Local Government Act, section 170 regulation, the budget for the financial year ending 30 June 2025, incorporating statements of income and expenditure, financial position, cash flow, changes in equity, long-term financial forecasts, Revenue Statement and revenue policy, and the 24/25 capital program is contained in the Noosa Council budget document provided as attachment one to the Special Meeting be adopted. May I have a mover for that please? Moved by Councillor Wilson, seconded by Councillor Finzel. Any discussion? All in favour? Carried unanimously. Motion to the pursuant section 94 of the Local Government Act and section 80 regulation, Council resolves to levy the differential general rates for the 24/25 financial year as set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the budget documents provided as attachment 1. May we have a mover for that please. Moved by Councillor Lorentson, seconded by Councillor Wilson. All in favour? That's carried unanimously. Motion 3. That pursuant to section 81 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolves that the rating categories of rateable land in its local government area and description of each of the rating categories for 24/25 be as follows. May we have a mover for that please. Moved by Councillor Phillips, seconded by Councillor Wegener. All in favour? That's carried. Motion for? Motion for. Assurance of section 94 of the Local Government Act and regulation. Council resolves to levy the special charges for the 24/25 financial year as set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa new section. Council budget documents as attachment 1. The special charge is pertaining to the Noosa Waters Lock and Weir Maintenance Levy, canal maintenance levy, Noosa Junction Levy, Hastings Street Noosa precinct levy, Main Beach community safety program charge and the Noosa Junction streetscape levy. May I have a mover for that please? Councillor Lorentson. Thank you Councillor. Seconded by Councillor Stockwell. Discussion? All in favour? Carried unanimously. Motion 5 is that pursuant to section 94 of the Local Government Regulation, Council resolves to adopt the overall plans, annual implementation plans and benefited area maps map specified in the Revenue Statement contained in the budget document and provider's attachment 1. For the special charges it resolves to levy under resolution 4. We have a mover please, Councillor Finzel, seconder, Councillor Phillips. Any discussion? All in favour? That's unanimous, thank you. Motion 6, pursuant to 94 of the Local Government Act, section 99 regulation, Council resolves to levy the utility charges for the 24-25 financial year set out in the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 24-25 budget provided attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 28 June 24. We have a mover, Councillor Wegener. Seconder, Councillor Lorentson. Any discussion? All in favour? That's carried unanimously. Motion 7 is that pursuant the Local Government Act and section 103 1. Of regulation. Council resolves to levy the separate rates and charges. For the 24-25 financial year set out in the Revenue Statement. Contained in the budget document provided as attachment 1. Are. The Environment Levy, Sustainable Transport Levy, heritage and the bushfire. Resilience and response levy. May we have a mover for that plea? Councillor Wilson. Seconded by Councillor Finzel. Any discussion? All in favour? It's carried unanimously. Motion 8. Pursuant to section 107 of the Local Government Regulation. Section 114 of the fire and emergency services act 1990. Council resolves that the rates rights and utility charges and Queensland government's emergency management levy. For the year ending 30 June '25. Will be levied six-monthly as set out in the Revenue Statement. Contained in the budget documents as attachment 1. In the Special Meeting report dated 28 June '24. May we have a mover for that, please? Moved, Councillor Phillips. Seconded, Councillor Finzel. Any discussion? All in favour? That's carried unanimously. All in favour? That's carried unanimously. Motion 10, pursuant to section 11.118 of Local Government Regulation, Council resolves that all rates and charges must be paid within 30 days after the date of issue of the rates notice. May I have a mover of that please? Councillor Lorentson. Seconded? Councillor Stockwell. Discussion? Carried? All in favour? Carried. Motion 11, that pursuant to section 133 of the Local Government Regulation, Council resolves that all overdue rates and charges bear interest as set out in the Revenue Statement. Contained in the Noosa Council 24/25 budget document provided as attachment 1 to the Special Meeting report dated 24 and where applicable to grant concessions on interest to eligible etc. ratepayers as set out in the council's rates and charges hardship policy, financial hardship policy. We have a mover for. That's Councillor Wilson, seconded by Councillor Jess Phillips. Any discussion? All in favour? That's carried unanimously. Motion 12. Pursuant to section 257 of the Local Government Act, Council delegates to the Chief Executive Officer its powers under section 81 regulation to identify the. Differential rating category into which each parcel of rateable land in the council's local government area is included by using relevant information from the council's land record and any other information which identifies the use of rateable land. May I have a mover that please? Councillor Wegener. A seconder please? Councillor Jess Phillips. Any speeches? All in favour? Carried unanimously. Motion 13. That it be recorded that in each case where a preceding motion refers to a matter set out in a the Revenue Statement contained in the Noosa Council 24 25 budget document provided as attachment one to the Special Meeting report dated 28th of June '24, that matter is incorporated by reference into and forms part of the terms and content of the motion, and will be so incorporated and form council's resolution to adopt the motion. Move Councillors to I'm not moving it. You got a question? Brian Stockwell 50:40.968
Yeah. Trent Grauf 50:49.308
Quite a few motions in front of you here. I think this is an effort for Mr Mayor to take a breath between these 15 minutes. Given complexity of the number of motions, each referring back to the Revenue Statement and the budget document contained within, this is a closing resolution to ensure that subsequent resolutions where you have made an adoption whether it's in regards to the timing of when you're issuing the levies or application of interest to ensure that reference is back to the first motion in regards to adopting so that they're considered holistically and not individually. Frank Wilkie 51:32.380
Thank you. I'll move it then. Seconder please. Councillor Phillips. Any further discussion? All in favour? 14 that Council note the revised 24/25 Service Level catalogues provided as an attachment to the Special Meeting report dated 28th of June '24. We have a mover. We have Nicola Wilson just quick off the feed. Seconded by Councillor Lorentson. Anyone wish to speak to the motion? All in favour? That's carried unanimously. Now the next item on the agenda is the operational plan. Thank you, Pauline and Trent. We're now asked that executive officer of internal audit and corporate performance did yet see welcome Deb. Can you give us a summary, please? Debra Iezzi 52:25.927
Yes, Councillors. So under the Local Government Regulation, Council is required to adopt an operational planning scheme consistent with its budget and to progress the implementation of the Corporate Plan. So has been in place now for over a year, so this is our second operational plan that relates to the Corporate Plan. And in the presentation of the document of the operational plan, which is the attachment to the report, you'll see that the initiatives that have been identified are aligned to each of the themes and objectives of the Corporate Plan. You'll also see that. A number of them are continuations of initiatives that may have started last year and will now appear at mid-year stage two. And there are a number of initiatives that were put on hold, so to speak, with the local government elections allowing the new Council to come on board and actually to influence the outcome of those initiatives. So there's a number of those as well. It is an ambitious operational plan, but all the executive team and managers have input into it. And we will progressively. Report against the operational plan on a quarterly basis to Council, as we have done in the past, so that you can be reassured about the progress of the initiatives, whether they're on track, behind, completed, etc. So the last report for this preceding year of /24 '23, '24 will be presented to the August meeting, and that will be a sum-up of last year's progress, and that's what you will expect going forward as well, as move through this current operational plan. Frank Wilkie 53:59.987
Any questions for Deb? I'll move it. Thank you, Mr. Stockwell, we have a seconder. Councillor Phillips, any discussion. Brian Stockwell 54:10.675
Yeah, I will. In any budget process, we tend to list the capital works as quite easy to see what we are investing in. Terms of the broader organisation, it's really summarised down into the operational plan. And from a councillor's perspective, perhaps the most important bit of information and where we should focus on is on the page on the diagram that's taught entitled performance measurement hierarchy. Because the operational plan is what we get every quarter to assess how we're progressing, not just to this budget, but to the broader things we wish to achieve. So it's really good to see that performance hierarchy. It's an area of continuous improvement for this organisation. We just don't want to know that projects are on time and on budget. We if the on project, and making the impact that we are doing them for. There's no sense having a performance indicator at a service level that's efficient, but if it's not effective. We can plant a thousand trees and meet that criteria, but they die because we don't water them. We haven't been effective in doing it. So that's where look at this operational plan planning and we look at those performance measures. But I thought what's most important is when you look at the operational plan, you do get a flavour of just how broad the beast of local government is. And I thought I'd pick up a few that we haven't talked about. So just to have a think about how any other, you know, in the corporate world, if there'd be a similar type of organisation. So the first particular item in the operations plan is talking about water quality monitoring. And then 1.34 implementing our encroachment policy. Now that's an area of significant interest, particularly to our eastern beaches, Bushcare groups, etc. And that was one of the areas where we had to really struggle with how much we could can invest. A we go and do it whole hog and increase rates or more, do or we continue at the current level and build up gradually? We look at 1.42. We're going to document the iconic story of surfing in Noosa. We look after heritage. It's not just the heritage in our buildings, it's the heritage that makes Noosa what it is. You know, the fact that we even let californians in occasionally. We're looking at investing in doing a Noosa parking management strategy. Now that's probably one that's linked to one of the items. 4.91 which is about revenue diversification and 2.73 new revenue to ensure visitors contribute to the transport solutions we're offering them. You know, if we're trying, if we're putting out free buses and doing systems to let people park and ride, we don't just want to capture some people through property rates. We people who are using those services and to ensure that residents aren't subsidising the visitors on those free bus services. We look at another part of the Transport Strategy being implemented is to continue to investigate the option of a public jetty in the Woods. And that's to allow us to get off the roads altogether and start looking at are there options for public transport on the river. We've got when we look at our 10-year capital works program we see the majority of it's for waste management and in the operational plan we'll start seeing some of those big picture projects that aren't even put into the 10-year capital works yet because we're still investigating them. We've got we're going to doing on 3.73 the feasibility of things like putting solar on the landfill, like doing large-scale composting to make better use and higher value out of our green waste to get into something that Councillor Wegener is, and that's making biochar out of wooden surfboards and to look at like anaerobic digestion to turn waste into energy how we can productively use the methane gas and methane is I think something like two hundred and eighty percent more potent than carbon dioxide as a climate gas so we have that whole big thing around waste which is going to be an increasing part of our focus but we also have recently the fact that we know that kabi Kabi have been acknowledged as the Traditional Custodians of the country in which we stand and which we now share custodianship with and we've got operational plans about to continue to work with them to look at their cultural heritage how we preserve their indigenous values and that makes residents and that's leads into the next one which is one of the big strategies and plans we'll do this term is we've committed to implementing the and completing the Destination Management Plan year. And finally, on a more positive note, you'll see in section 4.8 quite a lot of those initiatives around implementing what we've said we'll do. For climate change at a regional level, at a coastal level, but also to invest in disaster management and building resilience because more and recovering from disasters is not something that occurs occasionally. Something that's ongoing and preparing our community to be less impacted both economically, personally and from a safety perspective from what is happening in the world today and what will continue at an accelerated rate as a result of climate change. So that's just a snapshot of what's in the operational plan but it gives you a claim that the business of local government is quite a diverse one. Frank Wilkie 01:00:00.272
Does the Councillor wish to speak to the motion? I'll put it to the vote. Those in favour? That's carried unanimously. Thank you, Deb. Now for the final item on the agenda which is the organisational structure. We have People & Culture Manager, Jacqui Campbell, here today. She comes. Welcome, Jacqui. Thank you very much. Good morning. Could you give us a summary, please? Jacqui Campbell 01:00:24.300
Yes. So, in brief, the. Organisational structure that we have proposed to you this morning basically sets us up to meet the demands and the needs of the community in terms of providing great service. Just something to point out which is in the paper that the 11.69 FTE, 6.8 of that are actual conversions which is a process that we do for start staff that have been in temporary positions for more than 12 months and with regards to the new positions the majority of them are actually in waste with one being in ICT. So just wanted to point that happened? Out. Brian Stockwell 01:01:19.632
So question for those listening. FTE can do those too. Jacqui Campbell 01:01:25.892
Thank you Councillors so well. So FTE stands for full time equivalent and it's of how you count for one. Stuff. Frank Wilkie 01:01:41.587
Question for probably Trent. The impact on rates of the positions, I understand many are subsidised by grants, other revenue streams. It's about 0.5 FTE. Trent Grauf 01:01:58.735
Through the Chair, as Jacqui mentioned, there's 11.6 additional FTE in the budget this year. The majority of those were temporary positions that have been with us for anywhere between one and five or six years, so they've been converted to permanent. They were to be budgeted for through many previous budgets, so there's no financial impact for those positions. There's a position in there that's grant funded, so there's no additional rate burden from that. In regards to the waste funds, those positions are funded through a change in our contract on one of our key waste recovery sites, and we're using funds that we have saved from contract costs to reinvest we're putting our own workforce on the ground to manage that facility. So the impact on the general rate here is negligible in terms of just half an FTE. Frank Wilkie 01:02:48.795
Thank you. I want Karen to move the motion. I'm going Thank you, Councillor Lorentson. Seconded by Councillor Finzel. Any further questions or discussion? Put the motioners as in favour. That's carried unanimously. There are no confidential items or any other items on this agenda. I'd just specifically like to point out Acting CEO Larry Sengstock. This may be your last meeting with us in the capacity of Acting CEO and I'd just like to acknowledge that over the last year and a half we've carried out our duties admirably. We've done exactly what was asked which was to stabilise the organisation and carry us forward while our new CEO is recruited. That process is underway but I just want to take this time, this moment to acknowledge you. For everything you've done for us over the last year and a half. You've conducted yourself admirably and there's deep respect for what you've done. Thank you, thank you. It's been a privilege. Continues to be a privilege. There are no confidential items or any other items on this agenda so I declare the meeting closed at 10:04. Thank you everyone for your contributions. Related Noosa Council Meetings
← Browse all Noosa Shire Council meeting transcripts
