Ordinary Meeting, 21 November 2024
Date: Thursday, 21 November 2024 at 5:00PM
Location: Noosa Shire Council Chambers , 9 Pelican Street , Tewantin , QLD 4565 , Australia
Organiser: Noosa Shire Council
Duration: 01:47:19
Synopsis: Foreshore plan refocused to CEO report, Outsourcing framework removed post-debate, Financials and Annual Report adopted, Planning appeal defended, Traffic study advancing, Grants approved, Slipway lease declined.
Meeting Attendees
Councillors
Frank Wilkie Karen Finzel Amelia Lorentson Jessica Phillips Brian Stockwell Tom Wegener Nicola Wilson Executive Officers
Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Community Services Kerri Contini Director Corporate Services Trent Grauf Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Director Strategy And Environment Kim Rawlings Acting Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh Deputations
Debra Walz Linda Martin Bernid Haenga Andie Grant AI-Generated Meeting Insight
Key Decisions & Discussions Frank Wilkie confirmed adoption of prior minutes and chaired through to closure (00:36; Minutes 4.1–4.2, 15). Council narrowed the Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Management Plan motion to require a CEO report on procurement/process/risks/resources and lessons learned; industry benchmarking flagged (28:46–1:19:54; Item 10.1). Amendment carried to remove a broader outsourcing-effectiveness framework from the motion (1:06:23–1:07:05; Item 10.1). Audit & Risk recommendations adopted; 2023/24 Financial Statements approved for signature; QAO 2024 Closing Report noted; Draft Annual Report noted (1:19:54–1:20:45; Item 11.1). Annual Report 2023–24 formally adopted; CEO authorised for minor edits (1:25:21–1:26:20; Item 11.4, 6.2). Planning appeal : Council will defend P&E Court Appeal 2611/2024 re MCU23/0105 at 2 Bottlebrush Ave, Noosa Heads (1:20:45–1:21:26; Item 11.2, 5.1). 2025 Meeting Schedule approved; commitment to holding Ordinary Meetings in the community noted (1:21:26–1:22:47; Item 11.3, 5.1). Strategic Land Activation Policy adopted (Item 11.3, 5.3). Noosaville Slipway : offer for a new State term lease at 3 Mill St declined; CEO to advise Department (confidential noted; Item 11.3, 7.1). Industrial land EOI : Invite EOIs to lease 25–29 Jarrah St, Cooroy under s228(3)(a),(b) LGR 2012, with public-interest reasons; CEO to report shortlist (confidential noted; Item 11.3, 7.2). Peregian Beach SLSC support : Consider $46,000 p.a. + CPI for two years from 2025–26 for Saturday SLSQ lifeguards, subject to detailed conditions incl. plans and reporting; bin area and drainage investigations authorised (1:22:47–1:25:21; Item 11.4, 5.1). Grants : Community Project Grants (Events, Programs/Projects, Infrastructure, Equipment) approved; total $192,744 (1:26:28–1:45:34; Items 12.1–12.5). Traffic study : Noosa Traffic Study update in progress; completion by June 2025; to guide crossings incl. Eumundi–Noosa Rd (19:33–25:47; Minutes 8.1–8.3). Contentious / Transparency Matters Amelia Lorentson pressed for outsourcing-effectiveness framework to ensure value for money, transparency, and reduce reliance on consultants; majority removed Part B citing operational overreach/duplication and resourcing strain (28:46–1:07:20; Item 10.1). Brian Stockwell argued reviews are standard operational practice; warned against burdening staff and motion redundancy (1:02:52–1:05:47; Item 10.1). Nicola Wilson supported Part A but sought internal workshopping before any new framework; successfully moved amendment deleting Part B (1:06:19–1:07:05; Item 10.1). Public pressure evident on Noosaville foreshore planning costs and pedestrian safety; CEO and directors committed to reporting and consultation within existing processes (30:31–54:03; 12:51–26:38; Items 10.1, 8.1–8.4). Legal / Risk P&E Court Appeal 2611/2024 : Council to defend MCU refusal/conditions at 2 Bottlebrush Ave; ensures planning scheme integrity but entails litigation risk/cost (1:20:45; Item 11.2, 5.1). EOI process (Jarrah St) : Proceeding under Local Government Regulation 2012 s228(3)(a),(b); documented public interest grounds reduce procurement challenge risk (Item 11.3, 7.2). Noosaville Slipway : Declining a new State lease limits liability and asset exposure pending future strategic use, but may impact maritime industry stakeholders (Item 11.3, 7.1). Dog registrations law : Deputation cited Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 s50 allowing LGs to set up to 3-year registration periods; potential legal latitude exists to shift from annual to multi-year, requiring local law/fee resolution changes and systems updates (01:40–12:15; Minutes 7.1). Traffic safety : Crash stats tabled (2018–23) for Eumundi–Noosa Rd and Beckmans Rd; actions to Traffic Advisory Committee; aligns with duty of care and evidence-based interventions (22:07–23:23; Minutes 8.2, 8.4). Conflicts of Interest Karen Finzel : Declarable COI due to Peregian SLSC President’s prior volunteer role in her 2020 campaign; Council resolved she may participate and vote (1:22:47–1:23:27; Item 11.4, 5.1). Amelia Lorentson : Declarable COI; two children are casual SLSQ lifeguards; Council resolved she may participate and vote (1:24:00–1:24:46; Item 11.4, 5.1). Tom Wegener : Declarable COI as committee member of Noosa International Surfilm Festival; left room for Events Grants item (1:26:28–1:29:39; Item 12.1). Jessica Phillips : Declarable COI re Noosa Netball Association via close family friend on building sub-committee; Council resolved she may participate and vote (1:36:14–1:37:36; Item 12.3). Transport & Pedestrian Safety (Eumundi–Noosa Rd/Beckmans Rd) Linda Martin urged an underpass or signals due to daily hazards for students and mobility users; requested data, engineering plan, and TMR meeting (12:51–18:56; Minutes 7.2, 8.3). Shaun Walsh confirmed Traffic Study completion by June 2025; Walking & Cycling Strategy already identifies need for safer crossings; budget and grants to be pursued; community consultation assured (19:33–25:47; Minutes 8.1–8.3). Accident data : 22 crashes on Eumundi–Noosa Rd (2018–23) with 4 hospitalisations; 15 on Beckmans Rd with 10 hospitalisations; one pedestrian crash near Eenie Creek roundabout (22:07–23:23; Minutes 8.2). Interim measures : Speed/signage on Beckmans Rd to Traffic Advisory Committee in January; long-term Tewantin Bypass planning has $8.5m TMR funding for future stages; Council to advocate for crossings integration (25:47–28:29; Minutes 8.3–8.4). Community Funding Outcomes Events : Ocean Heroes (autism surf), Festuri, ANZAC Day, Noosa International Surfilm Festival supported; local delivery conditions applied (1:27:03–1:33:24; Item 12.1). Programs/Projects : Pomona District Community House, auspiced arts program, Salvation Army men’s outreach funded (1:33:42–1:35:54; Item 12.2). Infrastructure : Noosa Netball demolition support, Women’s Shed fencing, Peregian/Tewantin tennis upgrades, AFL lighting, Cooroy Park seating, Tewantin-Noosa Cricket sight screens (1:37:49–1:41:50; Item 12.3). Equipment : Noosa Community Gardens beds, halls’ PA/chairs, Cooroy Chamber shared event kit, Kin Kin hall items (partial), Cooroy United FC maintenance gear (1:41:50–1:43:46; Item 12.4). Summary : 31 applications; $192,744 approved; strong leverage with external co-funding and in-kind (1:43:46–1:45:34; Item 12.5).
Official Meeting Minutes
MINUTES Ordinary Meeting Thursday, 21 November 2024 5:00 PM Peregian Beach Community House, 5-7 Rufous Street, Peregian Beach Cr Frank Wilkie (Chair), Karen Finzel, Amelia Lorentson, Jessica Phillips, Brian Stockwell, Tom Wegener, Nicola Wilson “Noosa Shire – different by nature” ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 1. DECLARATION OF OPENING The meeting opened at 5.00pm. 2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY Noosa Council acknowledges that we are meeting on the traditional lands of the Kabi Kabi people and pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging. 3. 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 (via Microsoft Teams) EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Community Services Kerri Contini Director Corporate Services Trent Grauf Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Director Strategy and Environment Kim Rawlings Acting Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh APOLOGIES Nil. 4. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 4.1. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES DATED 17 OCTOBER 2024 Council Resolution Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel The Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 17 October 2024 be received and confirmed. Carried unanimously. 4.2. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES DATED 6 NOVEMBER 2024 Council Resolution Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Brian Stockwell The Minutes of the Special Meeting held on 6 November 2024 be received and confirmed. Carried unanimously. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 5. PETITIONS Nil. 6. PRESENTATIONS Nil. 7. DEPUTATIONS 7.1. DEPUTATION - DOG REGISTRATIONS APPLICANT: DEBRA WALZ SPEAKERS: DEBRA WALZ 7.2. DEPUTATION - REQUEST FOR PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON EUMUNDI NOOSA ROAD APPLICANT: LINDA MARTIN SPEAKERS: LINDA MARTIN, BERNID HAENGA, ANDIE GRANT 8. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 8.1. ANDIE GRANT Question 1 Can data please be provided or collected to analyse how many families and children reside in the Beckman's Road, St Teresa's Catholic College, Lake Entrance Boulevard to Good Shepherd Lutheran College surrounding areas? Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thank you for this question. Firstly, Council acknowledges the challenges of crossing these busy sections of road. Council has currently not compiled this demographic data about families and children in these school catchments but can arrange for it to be collected alongside data currently being collected for the Noosa Traffic Study. Council is currently undertaking an update to the Noosa Traffic Study using contemporary traffic data and is expected to be completed by June 2025. This study is a critical technical document that will guide infrastructure planning for the next 30 years. Council will analyse the data to determine the need for various traffic improvement projects, including safer pedestrian crossings. Question 2 Has a civil engineer consultation on a safe pedestrian crossing been done yet or when will it be scheduled to be done in relation to the design of a safe pedestrian crossing on Eumundi-Noosa Road? Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thank you again for this question. Firstly, Council acknowledges the challenges of crossing these busy sections of road. Council’s Walking and Cycling Strategy has identified the need for safer, more convenient pedestrian crossings on Eumundi-Noosa Road. This document was prepared by engineers in Council. In addition, the Noosa Traffic Study update is currently occurring, also overseen by engineers. This study is a critical technical document that will guide infrastructure ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 planning for the next 30 years. Council will analyse the data to determine the need for various traffic improvement projects, including safer pedestrian crossings. Any proposed traffic improvements projects, such as new crossings, will be subject to Council’s budget deliberations in coming years. Council can also use the Traffic Study to support grant applications. Council will certainly undertake public consultation program as part of any approved projects. 8.2. BERNIE HAENGA Question 1 Can Council arrange accident data be provided/collected over the last 6 years on Beckmans Road and Eumundi-Noosa Road, Noosaville in relation to a safe pedestrian crossing? Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thank you for this question. Council does have accident data collected with the assistance of the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Queensland Police Service. In the past five years (2018–2023), 22 vehicle crashes were reported on Eumundi-Noosa Road between Headland Drive and Beckmans Road. These included 4 hospitalisations, 9 requiring medical treatment, and 9 minor injuries. Only one crash involved a pedestrian near the Eenie Creek Road roundabout requiring medical treatment. On Beckmans Road, from EumundiNoosa Road to Cooroy-Noosa Road, 15 vehicle crashes were reported. These included 10 hospitalisations, 2 requiring medical treatment, and 3 minor injuries. No pedestrian-involved crashes were reported on Beckmans Road during this period; however, there was one prior incident involving a pedestrian occurred on Beckmans Road near Sea Eagle Drive in 2017. Question 2 Can Council arrange traffic volume road tube data be provided or collected in relation to a safe pedestrian crossing on Eumundi-Noosa Road? Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thank you again for the question. Council does collect traffic volume data on Eumundi-Noosa Road and traffic counts for Eumundi-Noosa Road can be provided. Council is currently undertaking an update to the Noosa Traffic Study using contemporary traffic data and is expected to be completed by June 2025. This study is a critical technical document that will guide infrastructure planning for the next 30 years. Council will analyse the data to determine the need for various traffic improvement projects, including safer pedestrian crossings. Council will use this data to substantiate traffic improvements including enhanced pedestrian crossing facilities. Council can also collect pedestrian data to substantiate improvements. 8.3. LINDA MARTIN Question 1 When will the Noosa Council's Noosa Traffic Study Update be completed and findings be released specifically in relation to a safe pedestrian crossing on Eumundi- Noosa Road in the vicinity between Beckmans and Rene Street Roundabout? Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thank you for the question. Firstly, Council acknowledges the challenges of crossing these busy sections of road. Council has approved the update to the Noosa Traffic Study as part of the 2024/25 budget. The study is currently in progress and is expected to be completed by June 2025. This study is a critical technical document that will guide infrastructure planning for the next 30 years. Council will analyse the data to determine the need for various traffic improvement ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 projects, including safer pedestrian crossings. It is also noted that Council’s Walking and Cycling Strategy has also identified the need for safer, more convenient pedestrian crossings on Eumundi-Noosa Road. Any proposed traffic improvements projects will be subject to Council’s budget deliberations. Council can also use the Traffic Study to support grant applications. Council will certainly undertake public consultation program as part of any approved projects. Question 2 How exactly is safe access to the new footpath being constructed as part of the Tewantin Bypass on Eumundi Noosa Road to be gained with the current non connecting paths and lack of a safe pedestrian crossing issue in the vicinity? Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thanks again for the question. The intersections of Beckmans Road, EumundiNoosa Road is part of Council managed road infrastructure, but the proposed upgrades, including the Beckmans Road duplication, also known as the Tewantin Bypass, are subject to Department of Transport and Main Roads funding under a long-standing commitment by the Queensland Government. The Department of Transport and Main Roads have currently committed $8.5million for planning future stages of the Tewantin Bypass. Only preliminary concepts have been prepared, and design is yet to commence. Council acknowledges the challenges of crossing this busy section of road and has identified the need for safer, more convenient pedestrian crossings in this locality and will be advocating for this outcome as part of negotiations with the Department of Transport and Main Roads. 8.4. SHARON CHORENGEL Question 1 In what timeframe will Noosa Shire Council find a resolution to the amount of traffic accidents along Beckmans Road? In the last few years there have been 7 accidents directly in front of our home - some had police presence and some people required hospitalisation, for others it was vehicle damage. For my sister she is left with permanent injuries and her vehicle was written off. On a weekly basis there is abuse to ourselves, visitors, tradespeople etc. while accessing our driveway. This occurs accessing our driveway from both directions. Response provided by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director Infrastructure Services Thank you for the question. Firstly, I have asked the matter of speed and accidents on Beckmans Road to be tabled at the next Traffic Advisory Meeting. This meeting includes representatives from Noosa Council, Queensland Police Service and the Department of Transport and Main Roads and can consider various and immediate safety initiatives which may include speed reduction and better signage. The next meeting is scheduled for January, and I would be pleased to provide an update after the meeting. In regard to the longer term solution, the Beckmans Road duplication, also known as the Tewantin Bypass, are subject to Department of Transport and Main Roads funding under a long standing commitment by the Queensland Government. The Department of Transport and Main Roads have currently committed $8.5 million for planning future stages of the Tewantin Bypass. Council, along with our state member, are advocating strongly to advance this project as soon as possible with the newly elected State Government, as it is a critical part of Noosa’s traffic network and current arrangements are unsatisfactory due to congestion and safety incidents. Question 2 Nil. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 9. MAYORAL MINUTES Nil. 10. NOTIFIED MOTIONS 10.1. NOOSAVILLE FORESHORE INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND OUTSOURCING EFFECTIVENESS REVIEW Motion Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council: A. Request the CEO to provide a report on the process followed for the Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Management Plan, which includes an overview of the procurement process, identification of risks, reasons for any scope changes or variations, and details on resources utilized (staff, consultants, contractors). The report should also cover industry benchmarking and key lessons learned, demonstrating the effectiveness of the approach taken in developing the masterplan. B. As part of the 2025/26 Budget development, Council receives a report in 2025 on the feasibility, scope, and resourcing required to establish a framework for reviewing the effectiveness of outsourcing arrangements (contractors, consultancies, etc.). This framework should assess key contracts and consultancies across areas such as value for money, service levels, procurement and contracting practices, and internal versus external resourcing. The framework should align with the Council’s Long Term Financial Plan, the upcoming Revenue Diversification and Optimisation Plan, and the principles outlined in the Financial Sustainability Policy. Amendment Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Item B be removed. For: Crs Wilson, Phillips, Wegener, Wilkie, Stockwell and Finzel Against: Cr Lorentson Carried. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council: A. Request the CEO to provide a report on the process followed for the Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Management Plan, which includes an overview of the procurement process, identification of risks, reasons for any scope changes or variations, and details on resources utilized (staff, consultants, contractors). The report should also cover industry benchmarking and key lessons learned, demonstrating the effectiveness of the approach taken in developing the masterplan. For: Crs Lorentson, Wilkie, Finzel, Phillips and Wilson Against: Crs Wegener and Stockwell Carried. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 11. CONSIDERATION OF COMMITTEE REPORTS 11.1. AUDIT & RISK COMMITTEE REPORT - 25 OCTOBER 2024 ATTENDANCE & APOLOGIES COMMITTEE MEMBERS Cr Tom Wegener Cr Nicola Wilson Timothy Cronin (Chair) Ian Rushworth NON COMMITTEE MEMBERS Chief Executive Officer, Larry Sengstock Director Corporate Services, Trent Grauf Financial Services Manager, Pauline Coles Governance Advisor, Alexandra Nolan Governance Advisor, Aisling Morton-Adair Workplace Health & Safety Coordinator, Craig Hodgson KPMG, Thomas Cook KPMG, Erin Neville-Stanley QAO, Chantelle Hanna APOLOGIES Executive Officer, Internal Audit & Corporate Performance Debra Iezzi Governance Manager Diana Stewart COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL 1. QAO EA REPORTS That Council Note the Queensland Audit Office 2024 Closing Report provided by the Queensland Audit Office (QAO) to the Audit & Risk Committee dated 25 October 20204. 2. 2023-2024 ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS That Council note the report by the Financial Services Manager to the Audit and Risk Committee dated 25 October 2024 and approve the 2023/24 Annual Financial Statements for signature by the Mayor and Chief Executive Officer. 3. NOOSA SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2023 - 2024 That Council note the report by the Governance Manager to the Audit & Risk Committee Meeting dated 25 October 2024 regarding corporate reporting and: A. Note Council’s draft Annual Report for 2023-24 financial year. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That the report of the Audit & Risk Committee dated 25 October 2024 be received and the recommendations therein be adopted. Carried unanimously. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 11.2. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE REPORT - 12 NOVEMBER 2024 ATTENDANCE & APOLOGIES COMMITTEE MEMBERS Cr Amelia Lorentson (Chair) Cr Brian Stockwell Cr Tom Wegener Cr Frank Wilkie NON COMMITTEE MEMBERS Nil. EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Strategy & Environment, Kim Rawlings Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Acting Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh APOLOGIES Nil. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL 5.1. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COURT APPEAL NO 2611 OF 2024 - MCU23/0105 APPLICATION FOR A MATERIAL CHANGE OF USE FOR MULTIPLE DWELLING (6 SMALL DWELLINGS), FOOD AND DRINK OUTLET AND OFFICE AT 2 BOTTLEBRUSH AVENUE, NOOSA HEADS CLOSURE OF THE MEETING TO THE PUBLIC That Council note the report by the Manager Development Assessment to the Planning and Environment Committee Meeting dated 12 November 2024 regarding Planning & Environment Court Appeal 2611 of 2024 and agree to defend the appeal. 6.1. PLANNING APPLICATIONS DECIDED BY DELEGATED AUTHORITY - SEPTEMBER 2024 That Council note the report by the Development Assessment Manager to the Planning & Environment Committee Meeting 12 November 2024 regarding applications that have been decided by delegated authority for September 2024 as per Attachment 1 to the Report. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Brian Stockwell That the report of the Planning and Environment Committee meeting dated 12 November 2024 be received and the recommendations therein be adopted. Carried unanimously. Cr Wilson left the meeting. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 11.3. SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE REPORT - 12 NOVEMBER 2024 ATTENDANCE & APOLOGIES COMMITTEE MEMBERS Cr Nicola Wilson (Chair) Cr Karen Finzel (via Microsoft Teams) Cr Jessica Phillips NON COMMITTEE MEMBERS Cr Amelia Lorentson Cr Tom Wegener EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Director Corporate Services Trent Grauf Acting Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh APOLOGIES Cr Frank Wilkie COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL 5.1. COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE – 2025 That Council note the report by the Chief Executive Officer to the Services & Organisation Committee Meeting dated 12 November 2024 and A. Approve the Council Meeting schedule for January-December 2025 as set out in Attachment 1 to the Report; and B. Note Council's commitment to community engagement, and in particular holding Ordinary Meetings in the community. Times and venue of ordinary meetings may be changed by council resolution in order to facilitate this. 5.2. PEREGIAN BEACH SURF LIFESAVING CLUB - FUNDING REQUEST AND UPDATE ON OPERATIONS In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009, Cr Finzel provided the following declaration to the meeting of a declarable conflict of interest in this matter: I, Cr Finzel, inform the meeting that I have a declarable conflict of interest in relation to the Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Club Community Grant Application, as Leigh McCready, who worked as a volunteer in my 2020 “Future Noosa” election campaign is the current President of the Peregian Beach Surf Lifesaving Club. As Mrs McCready is not a close associate or related party and has never given me a gift or a loan, I believe a reasonable person would agree that I able to make an impartial decision on the matter. Therefore, I will choose to remain in the meeting room. However, I will respect the decision of the meeting on whether I can remain and participate in the decision. That Services & Organisation Committee Agenda Item 5.2 be referred to the General Committee for further consideration. 5.3. ADOPTION OF NOOSA COUNCIL STRATEGIC LAND ACTIVATION POLICY That Council note the report by the Director Corporate Services to the Services and Organisation Committee dated 12 November 2024 and adopt the Strategic Land Activation Policy, provided at Attachment 1 to the report. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 6.1. CAPITAL PROGRAM 2024/25 DELIVERY STATUS That Council note the report by the Infrastructure Planning Design and Delivery Manager to the Services & Organisation Committee Meeting, 12 November 2024, providing an update on the delivery of the 2024/25 Capital Works Program as at 30 September 2024. 7.1. CONFIDENTIAL - NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE - RENEWAL OF STATE LEASE FOR NOOSAVILLE SLIPWAY AT 3 MILL STREET, NOOSAVILLE That Council A. Note the report by the Property Advisor to the Services & Organisation Committee dated 12 November 2024 regarding renewal of the State Lease for the Noosaville Slipway at 3 Mill St., Noosaville; B. Agree to decline the Department of Resource's offer to enter a new term lease for the site. C. Authorise the CEO to write to the Department advising it of Council's decision. 7.2. CONFIDENTIAL - NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE - EXPRESSION OF INTEREST IN COUNCIL-OWNED INDUSTRIAL LAND That Council note the report by the Director Corporate Services to the Services & Organisation Committee Meeting dated 12 November 2024 and; A. Invite Expressions of Interest (EOI) pursuant to section 228(3)(a) and (b) Local Government Regulation 2012 (Qld), to dispose (via lease) of 25-29 Jarrah Street, Cooroy (including Lots 6, 7 and 8 of SP262436). B. Note that it is in the public interest to invite expressions of interest before inviting written tenders for the following reasons: 1. It will allow all interested parties to express their interest in utilising the Land. 2. It enables Council to consider proposals that may be submitted by respondents with a demonstrated plan and capability to achieve Council’s desired outcomes for the Land before progressing to a select tender phase from a shortlist of EOI respondents. 3. For respondents it reduces the time and expense associated with preparing a full tender submission, as only those shortlisted from EOI will be invited to do so. 4. It maximises Council’s resources in the tender process by reducing the number of full tender submissions needing evaluations. C. Request that the CEO report to a future Council meeting detailing the outcomes of the EOI, including the recommendation of a shortlist from which to invite written tenders, for Council’s further consideration. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That the report of the Services & Organisation Committee meeting dated 12 November 2024 be received and the recommendations therein be adopted except where dealt with by separate resolution. Carried unanimously. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 11.4. GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING REPORT - 18 NOVEMBER 2024 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 Acting Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh (via Microsoft Teams) Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Director Strategy & Environment Kim Rawlings Director Corporate Services Trent Grauf APOLOGIES Nil. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL 5.1. PEREGIAN BEACH SURF LIFESAVING CLUB - FUNDING REQUEST AND UPDATE ON OPERATIONS (REFERRED FROM SERVICES & ORGANISATION DATED 12 NOVEMBER 2024) In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009, Cr Finzel provided the following declaration to the meeting of a declarable conflict of interest in this matter: I, Cr Finzel, inform the meeting that I have a declarable conflict of interest in relation to the Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Club, as Leigh McCready, who worked as a volunteer in my 2020 “Future Noosa” election campaign is the President of the Peregian Beach Surf Lifesaving Club. As Mrs McCready is not a close associate or related party and has never given me a gift or a loan, I believe a reasonable person would agree that I able to make an impartial decision on the matter. Therefore, I will choose to remain in the meeting room. However, I will respect the decision of the meeting on whether I can remain and participate in the decision. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Brian Stockwell That Council note the declarable conflict of interest by Cr Finzel and determine that Cr Finzel participates and votes on this matter because Council believes that a reasonable person would trust that the final decision is made in the public interest. Carried unanimously. Crs Finzel and Lorentson did not vote on the above motion. In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009, Cr Lorentson provided the following declaration to the meeting of a declarable conflict of interest in this matter: ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 I, Cr Lorentson, inform the meeting that I have a declarable conflict of interest in this matter as my daughter Giorgia Lorentson and son Ben Lorentson are employed by Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) as casual lifeguards. It could be viewed that I have a have a conflict of interest, however I do not believe a reasonable person could have a perception of bias as my daughter and son’s employment is of a casual nature and not exclusively bound to SLSQ. Therefore, there is no benefit or loss specific to my daughter and son, from the outcome of this application. Therefore, I will choose to remain in the meeting room. However, I will respect the decision of the meeting on whether I can remain and participate in the decision. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Council note the declarable conflict of interest by Cr Lorentson and determine that Cr Lorentson participates and votes on this matter because Council believes that Cr Lorentson would be able to make an impartial decision in the community interest. Carried unanimously. Crs Lorentson and Finzel did not vote on the above motion. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That Council note the report by the Property Manager, Development and Regulation to the Services and Organisation Committee dated 12 November 2024 and: A. Agree to consider as part of the 2025-2026 budget deliberations the allocation of $46,000 per annum plus CPI for a total of two years commencing 2025-2026 to fund SLSQ contract lifeguard services on Saturdays only in the September to May surf lifesaving patrol season for the purposes of providing lifesaving service continuity at Peregian Beach subject to the Lessee: 1. Providing annual reporting of progress toward establishment of the new Peregian Beach SLSC for a further two years of operations; 2. Submitting an updated 3 year Strategic Plan endorsed by Surf Lifesaving Queensland prior to 30 June 2025; 3. Submitting a Building Works Plan Schedule prior to 30 June 2025 detailing proposed club building works including major maintenance, renovation and extension works for the remainder of the current lease period, noting that Council officers will assist with the development of the club’s Building Works Schedule as appropriate; 4. Agreeing that opportunities for ratepayer financial support will be by application through Council’s community grants program and no commitment is provided by Council for direct ratepayer financial support 5. Agreeing that building maintenance will be at Council’s discretion subject to Council’s independent assessment and asset maintenance planning. B. Note that any future PBSLSC proposal to assume responsibility for all patrolling days in the September to May lifesaving season will be subject to approval by Surf Lifesaving Queensland; C. Note Peregian Beach Surf Lifesaving Club’s request to increase Junior Activities (Nippers) enrolments subject to Surf Lifesaving Queensland approval; D. Authorise the CEO to: 1. Monitor operation of the bin storage area located adjacent to Peregian Beach SLSC and investigate short and long term options to manage the impacts of the area to improve club amenity; ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 2. Examine stormwater and drainage issues currently impacting club operations; and E. Agree that requests for funding resulting from the bin storage and drainage and stormwater investigations will be referred to future budget deliberations as appropriate. Carried unanimously. 6.1. FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT – OCT 2024 That Council note the report by the Financial Services Manager to the General Committee Meeting dated 18 November 2024 outlining the October 2024 year to date financial performance against budget, including changes to the financial performance report with the inclusion of key financial sustainability indicators. 6.2. NOOSA SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2023 - 2024 That Council note the report by the Governance Manager to the General Committee meeting dated 18 November 2024 regarding corporate reporting and: A. Adopt the Noosa Shire Council 2023-2024 Annual Report incorporating the audited Financial Statements for 2023-2024 financial year as provided at Attachment 1. B. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to make any required minor amendments to the document prior to publication. 6.3. OPERATIONAL PLAN 2024-25 Q1 QUARTERLY REPORTING That Council note the report by the Chief Executive Officer to the General Committee dated 18 November 2024 regarding the 2024-25 Operational Plan and: A. Note the progress report for Q1 2024-25 Operational Plan to 30 September 2024 provided as Attachment 1; B. Note the comments on the progress of all initiatives identified provided as Attachment 2; and C. Note the status of Council's Key Performance Indicators as provided as Attachment 3. 6.4. 2024 LGAQ CONFERENCE - NOOSA COUNCIL MOTIONS CARRIED That Council note the report by the Chief Executive Officer to the General Committee Meeting dated 18 November 2024 detailing the final seven (7) motions by Noosa Council which were carried at the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Annual Conference 2024. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That the report of the General Committee meeting dated 18 November 2024 be received and the recommendations therein be adopted except where dealt with by separate resolution. Carried unanimously. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 12. ORDINARY MEETING REPORTS 12.1. 2024-2025 COMMUNITY PROGRAM FUNDING - COMMUNITY PROJECT GRANTS (ROUND TWO) - EVENTS In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009, Cr Wegener provided the following declaration to the meeting of a declarable conflict of interest in this matter: I, Cr Wegener, inform the meeting that I have a declarable conflict of interest in this matter in relation to the Events Grants funding request from Noosa International Surfilm Festival. I am a member of the Noosa International Surfilm Festival Committee. As a result of my conflict of interest I will now leave the meeting room while the matter is considered and voted on. Cr Wegener left the meeting. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council note the report by the Community Connection Manager to the Ordinary Meeting dated 21 November 2024 and approve Round Two 2024-2025 Community Project Grants - Events provided in Attachment 1 to this report. Carried unanimously. Cr Wegener returned to the meeting. 12.2. 2024-2025 COMMUNITY PROGRAM FUNDING – COMMUNITY PROJECT GRANTS (ROUND TWO) – PROGRAM/PROJECTS Council Resolution Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council note the report by the Community Connection Manager to the Ordinary Meeting dated 21 November 2024 and approve Round Two 2024-25 Community Project Grants – Program/Projects provided in Attachment 1 to this report. Carried unanimously. 12.3. 2024-2025 COMMUNITY PROGRAM FUNDING - COMMUNITY PROJECT GRANTS (ROUND TWO) - INFRASTRUCTURE In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009, Cr Phillips provided the following declaration to the meeting of a declarable conflict of interest in this matter: I, Cr Jessica Phillips, declare I have a declarable conflict of interest in relation to the Infrastructure grant funding application by the Noosa Netball Association Inc as my close family friend, Fran Sadlier, is on the building sub-committee and a long-term member of the Tewantin Netball Courts. Although I have a declarable conflict of interest, I do not believe a reasonable person could have a perception ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 of bias because the position she holds is not a decision maker, nor is she an executive committee member: neither I nor my family friend stand to gain a personal or material benefit from the decision over and above what other club members would gain. Therefore, I will choose to remain in the meeting room, however I will respect the decision of the meeting on whether I can remain and participate in the decision. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That Council note the declarable conflict of interest by Cr Phillips and determine that Cr Phillips participates and votes on this matter because Council believes that Cr Phillips would be able to make an impartial decision in the community interest. Carried unanimously. Cr Phillips did not vote on the above motion. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Brian Stockwell That Council note the report by the Community Connection Manager to the Ordinary Meeting dated 21 November 2024 and approve Round Two 2024-2025 Community Project Grants - Infrastructure as provided in Attachment 1 to this report. Carried unanimously. 12.4. 2024-2025 COMMUNITY PROGRAM FUNDING - COMMUNITY PROJECT GRANTS (ROUND TWO) - EQUIPMENT Council Resolution Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council note the report by the Community Connection Manager to the Ordinary Meeting dated 21 November 2024 and approve Round Two 2024-25 Community Project Grants – Equipment provided in Attachment 1 to this report. Carried unanimously. 12.5. 2024-2025 COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM - COMMUNITY PROJECT GRANTS (ROUND TWO) - SUMMARY Council Resolution Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener Council note the report by the Community Connection Manager to the Ordinary Meeting dated 21 November 2024 and approve the 2024-25 Round Two Community Project Grants to the total value of $192,744. Carried unanimously. 13. CONFIDENTIAL SESSION Nil. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 21 NOVEMBER 2024 14. NEXT MEETING The next Ordinary Meeting will be held at Council Chambers, 9 Pelican St, Tewantin on Thursday 19 December 2024 at 10.00am. 15. MEETING CLOSURE The meeting closed at 6.47pm.
Meeting Transcript
Frank Wilkie 00:00.040
Thank you everyone for coming and joining us here today and showing your interest. I begin by acknowledging that we're meeting on the traditional lands of the Kabi Kabi People and pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging and also reiterate their constant invitation for them as joint custodians, respecting and caring for this beautiful place that we all love, respecting and caring for each other. I note that all councils are in attendance. We have Councillor Nicola Wilson online. Can you hear us Nicola? I am, Nicola Wilson 00:32.920
Thank you. Apologies for not being there in person, but I am here. Frank Wilkie 00:36.661
Thank you Nicola. Thank you. Confirmation of minutes. Can I have a mover and a seconder for the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on the 17th of October. By Councillor Lorentson, seconded by Councillor Finzel. All in favour? That's unanimous. Can I have a mover and a seconder for the Special Meeting held on the 6th of November. Move Councillor Wegener to I have a seconder? Councillor Stockwell. All in favour? That's unanimous. Next are petitions. Are there any petitions? No. There are no presentations. We have two deputations. First deputation is dog registrations from Debra Walz. Miss walz, would you like to come to the lectern and present your deputation please? Welcome. Debra Walz 01:35.565
Can you hear me? Is that okay? Thank you. Good evening everybody. My name is Debra Walz and I'm a resident of Noosa just draw it. At council's September Ordinary Meeting there was a question on dog renewal registration. The question was will Council consider introducing lifelong dog registration fees for residents? And the response to that question was dog registration is a requirement under the Queensland animal management cat and dogs act of 2008 and this act does not allow for long time registration for dogs. And I just want to make a point Monday, General Committee there was a general a gentleman meeting there who was also talking about dogs. And I'd just like to say that I sympathise with the issues that were raised with Council on Monday by Geoff and fully support his suggestions. Generally speaking, dog owners are willing to support Council in providing. Financial support for the provision of waste bags, maintenance of off-leash areas and other dog-related endeavours in return for a fair and reasonable registration fee. Despite a higher socio-economic cohort, Noosa residents. Yusa are feeling the fallout of the current cost of living prices. Noosa is well known for its quality of life and for many, that includes owning and caring for a pet. There are approximately 10,759 registered dogs the leicestershire. This relates to one in every five residents owning a registered dog. According to council's website, the fine for not renewing a dog registration is $309. The cost of registering a de-sexed dog this in Noosa is $48.50. An entire dog costs $193.50 and for pensioners it is free if you own a de-sexed dog. The population cohort in Noosa has undergone noticeable changes in heritage group demographics between 20 and 18. And 2021. There was an increase in 65 years plus, which related to an increase of 7.5%. And in the 35-44 year age group there was a decrease of 5%. And in the 18 to 34 age group, there was a decrease of 4.2%. And my source is the Noosa customer satisfaction survey dated 2021, which I assume would be taken from the ABS data. It's a well-known observation that many residents in the older age groups are also pet owners. However, we can't assume they are all pensioners and eligible for free dog registration. And just an observation, which is probably timely to undertake another Noosa customer satisfaction survey. In regulating animal welfare services appendix C of the auditor general's report 2021-2022, it clearly states that Council need to review its processes, enforcement options, outcomes community feedback to ensure its practices are in line with legislation, with best practice and community expectations. In addition, effective regulation of local laws, including infringement to ensure minimum notices, local councils need prescribed standards of pet, but also consider risk-based and intelligence led information for enforcement. For example, taking into account the community benefits of pet ownership and cost of living imperative. Because in caroling because the overriding legislation for animal management sits with the Queensland government, I consulted with the local state community's office to verify that responsibility. The act identifies the following, in section 50, duration of registration. Number one, registration of the dog is for the period of years fixed by resolution of the relevant local government for the dog. Number two, however, the period must not be more than three years. Registration period and an annual period. Renewal requirement. Section 52 of the act, registration fee must be fixed to give the desexing incentive. So number one, this section applies to a relevant local government of fixing the registration fee for a dog usually kept for or proposed to be kept in the local government's area. And number two, the local government must fix the fee to give the owner for the dog incentive to desex it. For example, fixing a lower registration fee for a dog adult FD6 units. So nixie do provide substantial incentives in this area. In the legislation, the designated local government areas are prescriptive and include Brisbane Council, Brisbane City Council, central highlands regional Council, Gladstone regional Council, Gold Coast Council, ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan city, Moreton Bay, Redland City, Scenic Rim Regional somerset regional Council, Sunshine Coast regional Council, Toowoomba regional Council. No other councils are mentioned in this legislation, including any repealed legislation. This is current as of August 23rd, 2004. May be aware you may be aware that there are other councils in Queensland who offer lifetime registration to residents who own jobs. In discussion with the State government representatives, it appears the current legislation does not capture all councils, including Noosa Council. The legislation has no reference to penalties or fines for late renewal fees, which I understand is covered by Noosa Council local laws. I'm interested in establishing how much revenue was raised from infringement notices relating to non or late renewal of dog registrations in the last financial year. Despite requesting information some weeks ago, my first request was on the 24th of October, and my second request was on the 18th of November, the relevant personnel and Council have not provided me with a video or even a reply to my requests. As it may despite disappear year, overdue renewal registration has sat at about 350 for the last couple of years, so 350 have registered. The council's local laws and environment health management are set by payment was legally a accepted. Legal requirement and helped keep dogs and the community safe. Currently, he says, there are over 1,000 dogs now in Noosa Shire with unpaid registration. The infringement fine on Debra Walz is $309. Plus the annual registration fee. The council's animal management section also confirmed it is about to begin looking at possible reasons for the increase in overdue registrations. It would be good to know if this is still a priority. All local laws can be amended or repealed. At the very least, they need to be reviewed. Into account the current community sentiment and cost of living crisis. I like the look. A local, not so local, paper, the Yahoo News Australia, recently published a statement, and I quote, "While rules vary from state to across Australia, state laws require that all dogs must be registered with their local Council." Noosa takes the rule a step further and requires pet owners to renew their registration annually. A local Noosa resident who recently received an infringement notice without warning, who quoted by Yahoo News Australia, said, "There are a lot of people doing it tough." Can this? Council take another at look the registration requirements and consider three-year registration to replace one-year registration? With the other description. In addition, can Council ensure that all owners of pets have current details of the recording, particularly when renewal notices are sent out, and ensure these renewal notices are sent out in a timely manner? It is important to ensure Council records correctly reflect pet owners' details. There have been system failures whereby owners have made online amendments to their details which have subsequently not been reflected on Council records. This can be very disturbing and upsetting when a resident receives an overdue renewal infringement notice after informing Council that their dog has passed away. Clearly there is scope within the legislation and council's responsibilities to manage dog registrations and dog registration renewal fees in a more for the Moore community. Focused manner, which gives consideration to cost of living, imperatives, demographics of residents, community expectations, and best practice. Frank Wilkie 12:15.633
Quantilating thank you for your time thank you Deb. Even though we could hear Deb here, could everyone else hear the speaker clear enough through the speakers? Is amplification occurring? Just need to be closer to the microphone. Okay, next up we have a deputation request for pedestrian crossing on Eumundi-Noosa Road. And the deputation is from Linda Martin. Welcome Linda. If you could try speaking a little closer to the microphone please. Linda Martin 12:51.921
On behalf of the families and children of Noosaville, I raise the issue of a safe pedestrian crossing at Eumundi-Noosa Road, Noosaville. For many of us, simply crossing the road every day has become a terrifying ordeal. How do you feel about that? Our community is in constant danger on Eumundi-Noosa Road, specifically between Beckmans Road roundabout and bigger street roundabout. Every day, children and adults alike risk their lives. Some of the stories are confronting. An elderly man I've confronted on his mobility scooter terrified to go out to do his shopping. A boy who is forced to ride 2km out of his way for a safe crossing on his already 10km ride to and from high school. Begging to walk or ride to their schools but parents who are afraid to let them and then there is people that do break the crossing. Many, more hair-raising close call stories. This issue has been raised repeatedly over the years but has been disregarded every time due to cost. The question that haunts us all is, what is the cost of human life? Since at least 2018, residents have requested a safe pedestrian crossing or an underpass to cross Eumundi-Noosa Road. There has been numerous submissions made by residents and records show this has been raised in Council on multiple occasions in years past. With earlier requests it was inferred that it may be a state matter. In recent years, it has been established that it is a local matter. The community have reverted to Council repeatedly with zero results. It is action we seek, not reworded platitudes on potential future studies. Or discussions. There is an evident and urgent need to include a safe pedestrian crossing, specifically an underpass. This will benefit children travelling to and from the local schools such as Noosaville state, theresa's, New South Wales, St Teresa's, Sunshine Beach high school, Good Shepherd and of course the entire Noosaville business precinct. What is perhaps not being realised is that this is a common junction point where anyone travelling to and from the entire Beckmans Road backmans through to the entire Noosaville business precinct encompassing four major schools and the Noosa Civic shopping centre are to cross. They are forced to cross an extremely busy four lane road that currently makes no provision for a safe crossing. The current designated crossing points are ineffectual and I would go so far as to say dangerous positions. Directly on either side of the traffic entering and exiting one of the busiest roundabouts in our Shire. Studies confirm that underpasses can reduce potential pedestrian vehicle collisions by almost 90%. If not an underpass, then traffic. Lights. Let the civil engineer decide, but just make a decision and put it in the budget. This is more than a plea for convenience, this is an urgent demand for safety. Let us not wait until a life is tragically lost to realise the value of pedestrian safety. The time to act is now. Prioritise our safety. Lives depend on it. Disappointingly, is very it has been confirmed a pedestrian underpass is not included as part of the TMR's planning for the remaining stages of the Tewantin bypass. Council and residents are aware of the in crossing this busy section of road. It has been stated by Council that the need for safer and more convenient crossings on the Monday Noosa Road has been identified as part of the recent update to the Walking and Cycling Strategy. Apparently, Council intends to investigate options to improve pedestrian movements, including signalised crossings as part of the Noosa study update. This would assess the suitability of such crossings. The Council is yet to provide a definitive response or assurance that this issue is being with the urgency it deserves. We request a detailed plan on how this matter will be resolved. Additionally, residents seek a meeting with TMR and the Council to prioritise this issue. We request the time bracket that the Noosa study traffic update will be conducted. Data on the findings of the Noosa traffic study update. We request data of accidents along Beckmans Road and Eumundi-Noosa Road over the past six years and demographic changes such as a number of children and families now residing in lake boulevard and surrounding areas near st Teresa and Good Shepherd Lutheran College. We also request a civil engineer's plan to be drawn for a resolution. We seek assurance that these concerns will be taken seriously. I do also have a petition which will be submitted in the near future. It's currently sitting at 319 signatures, but it is expected to gather a lot more momentum as it moves through our community. Thank you for Linda your time. Frank Wilkie 18:57.644
Up we have four submissions for public question time. The first is an application with two questions from Andie Grant. Miss grant are you here? Hello. Miss grant come up to the lectern please and ask your questions which will be answered by Shaun Walsh who is the Acting Director of Infrastructure. Andie Grant 19:18.438
Thank you. First question is can data please be provided or collected to analyse how many families and children reside in the Evans road? St Teresa's catholic college, Lake Entrance Boulevard, Tewantin shepherd community college and surrounding areas. Shaun Walsh 19:34.446
You've got me to talk here, is that okay? Yeah sure man, please catch it there. Can everyone hear me, is that okay? So my name is Shaun Walsh, the Acting Director Infrastructure Services. Thank you for this question. Firstly, Council acknowledges the challenges of crossing these busy sections of road. Council has currently not complied this demographic data about families and children in these school catchments, but can arrange for it to be collected alongside data currently collected for the updated Noosa traffic study. Council is currently undertaking an update to the Noosa study using contemporary traffic data and we're expected to complete that by June 2025. This study is a critical technical document to guide our infrastructure planning and we'll use the data to determine the need for and support for various traffic improvements including safer pedestrian crossings. Andie Grant 20:25.794
Second question: has a civil engineer consultation on a safe pedestrian crossing been done yet, or when will it be scheduled to be done in relation to the design of a safe pedestrian crossing on this road? Shaun Walsh 20:39.586
Thank you again for this question. Firstly, you know, we acknowledge the dangers of crossing this busy section of road. Council's Walking and Cycling Strategy has identified the need for safer, more convenient pedestrian crossings on Eumundi-Noosa Road. This document was prepared by engineers and Council. Addition, the Noosa traffic study update is currently occurring, also overseen by engineers, which will assist us in planning for the next 30 years and determining the need for various traffic improvements. Any proposed traffic improvements such as new crossings will be subject to council's budget deliberations in the coming years. Council can also use the traffic study to support grant applications from particularly the Department of Transport and Main Roads. Council will certainly undertake public consultation program as part of any approved projects thank you Andy. Frank Wilkie 21:34.416
The second application of two questions is from Bernie haenga. Welcome Bernie. Bernid Haenga 21:43.848
Morning good afternoon members. I have two questions. The first one: can Council arrange accident data to be acquired or collected over the last six years on deckmans right. Road and humanities surveillance? Is relation to the State site pedestrian that has crossing. Been caused. Frank Wilkie 22:04.206
And your question will only be answered again by Shaun Walsh. Thank you for this question. Shaun Walsh 22:09.271
Council does have accident data collected with the assistance of Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Queensland Police Service. In the past five years from 2018 to 2020, to 2023, 22 vehicle crashes were reported on Eumundi-Noosa Road between Headland Drive and Beckmans Road. These included four hospitalisations, nine requiring medical treatment and nine minor injuries. One only crash one crash involved a pedestrian nearly any the Eenie Creek Road roundabout requiring medical treatment. On Beckmans Road from Eumundi-Noosa Road to Cooroy-Noosa Road, 15 vehicle crashes were reported. These included 10 hospitalisations, two requiring medical treatment and three minor injuries. No pedestrian-involved crashes were reported on Beckmans Road during this period. However, there was one prior incident involving a pedestrian on Beckmans Road near Sea Eagle Drive in 2017. This data will be part of the Minutes, but I'll give you a hard copy of this after the meeting. Second question. Can Council arrange traffic on boling road to data be divided or collected in relation to the sacred issue of crossing on Eumundi-Noosa Road? Thank you again for the question. Our Council does collect traffic volume data on Eumundi-Noosa Road and traffic counts for Eumundi-Noosa Road can be provided. Council is currently undertaking an update of the Noosa traffic study which is expected to be completed by June and we'll use that data to support the need for various traffic improvements including pedestrian crossings. This substantiation of the traffic improvements we can also enhance it with additional pedestrian data which we haven't collected at the moment. I think it's a good suggestion. And we can use that pedestrian data to substantiate improvements for larger requests. Frank Wilkie 24:03.334
Thank you, Mr hanger. The next two questions Ms Linda Martin. Ms Martin, would you like to come up and ask your questions and they'll also be answered by Shaun Walsh, Acting Director of Infrastructure. Linda Martin 24:15.861
Thank you again. The first question, when will Noosa Council's traffic study update be completed and findings be released specifically in relation to a safe pedestrian crossing on Eumundi-Noosa Road in the vicinity between beckmans and Rene Street roundabout? Shaun Walsh 24:38.396
Thank you for the question. Again, we acknowledge the challenges of crossing this busy section of road. Council approved the update to the Noosa traffic study as part of the 24-25 year budget. The study is currently in progress and is expected to be completed by June 2025. This critical technical document will guide our traffic planning for the next 30 years and use the data to determine the need for various traffic improvements, including safer pedestrian crossings. It is noted that council's Walking and Cycling Strategy has also identified the need for safer, more convenient pedestrian crossings on Eumundi-Noosa Road. Proposed traffic improvements will be subject to Council budget deliberations and will certainly undertake public consultation as part of any approved projects. Linda Martin 25:21.940
Thank you. I'd like to ask how exactly is safe access to the new footpath as part of the Tewantin bypass on Eumundi-Noosa Road to be gained with the current non-connecting paths and lack of a safe pedestrian crossing in the vicinity? Shaun Walsh 25:48.170
Thank you again for the question. The intersections of Beckmans Road, Eumundi-Noosa Road is part of Council managed road infrastructure to be clear but the proposed upgrades including the Beckmans Road duplication also known as the Tewantin bypass are subject to Department of Transport and Main Roads funding under a long-standing commitment by the Queensland government. The Department of Transport and Main Roads have currently committed eight point five million dollars for planning future stages of the Tewantin bypass. Only preliminary concepts have been prepared and detailed design is yet to be finalised. Council acknowledges the challenges of crossing this busy section of road and has identified the need for safer more convenient pedestrian crossings in this locality and will be advocating for this outcome as part of negotiations with the Department of Transport and Main Roads over our Council road infrastructure. Linda Martin 26:37.003
That's excellent, Frank Wilkie 26:38.405
Thank you. Ms Martin. Our last application with only one question is from Ms Sharon Chorengel. Sharon are you here? Sharon Chorengel 26:54.375
thank you. The question is about the time frame that Noosa Shire Council would do something about the amount of accidents. We live there and we lost and in the last five years there's been seven accidents at our driveway. People are turning in. We're abused. Boy and the tiny man were weekly. Crossing. There's a single solid white line. People think that it is illegal to drive across that to enter your driveway. And it's also the speed limit. It's way too fast for a residential zone. Frank Wilkie 27:29.512
Again, Shaun. Thank you for your question. Shaun Walsh 27:32.997
Firstly, I've asked the matter of speed and accidents on Beckmans Road to be tabled at the next Traffic Advisory Meeting. This includes representatives from Noosa Council, Queensland Police Service and the Department of Transport and Main Roads and can consider and implement various and immediate safety initiatives which may include speed reduction and better signage. The next meeting is scheduled for January and I would be pleased to provide an update after that meeting to you directly. In regard to the longer term Beckmans Road duplication also known as the Tewantin bypass are subject to Department of Transport and Main Roads funding under a long-standing commitment by the Queensland government. They've currently committed 8.5 million dollars for planning future stages. Council along with our state are advocating strongly to advance this project as soon as possible with the newly elected state government as it is a critical part of noosa's traffic network and current arrangements are unsatisfactory due to congestion and safety incidents. Frank Wilkie 28:29.669
Thank you Mr Chair. You Ms sherringham. There are no Mayoral minutes. We have one notified motion tonight which is a Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Master Plan and outsourcing effectiveness review. Councillor Lorentson would you like to move your motion? Amelia Lorentson 28:47.468
Thank you and I hope everyone can hear me, otherwise. I'll use the microphone. The recommendation in front of us is that Council A request the CEO to provide a report on the process followed for the Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Master Plan which includes an overview of the procurement process, identification of risk, reasons for any scope changes or and variations and details of risk, reasons for any scope changes or variations and details on resources utilised, staff, consultants and contractors. The report should also cover industry benchmarking and key lessons learnt, demonstrating the effectiveness of the approach taken in developing the master plan. B the recommendation that Council as part of the 2025 and 2026 budget development, Council receives a report in 2025 on the feasibility, scope and resourcing required to establish a framework for reviewing the effectiveness of outsourcing arrangements such as contractors and consultancies. This framework should assess key contracts and consultancies across areas such as value for money, service levels, procurement and contracting practices and internal versus resources. Resourcing. The framework should align with the council's long-term financial plan, the upcoming revenue diversification and optimisation plan and the principles in the financial sustainability policy. May we have a seconder for this, please? Seconded, Councillor Finzel, councilor Councillor Lorentson. Just some comments. Recent projects, including major master plans, have incurred significant consultancy expenses. This motion simply aims to provide detailed information on the costs and the processes for the Noosa noor infrastructure management plan, aiming at promoting transparency, accountability, and importantly, public trust. Additionally, the motion proposes investigating and outsourcing effectiveness review framework. This will assess key consultant contracts and consultancies to ensure optimal outcomes in value for money, service levels, procurement practices, and internal versus external resourcing. Over the last two years, I've consistently called for greater transparency, accountability, and assurance for value for money in Council spending on consultants and contractors. My concerns I've raised with the CEO on several occasions. And the questions that I've asked are these: are we achieving measurable value for money from consultancies and contractor expenditures? How are outcomes and return on investments being evaluated. Are we over relying on external consultants and potentially sidelining staff? And could investing in additional staff deliver more cost effective results? I've spoken about formal reporting frameworks in the past, a as a means to provide accessible records of consultancy engagements, costs and outcomes, to help residents and also to help us as Councillors understand the rationale behind outsourcing. It would allow Councillors to make informed decisions during our budget deliberations and it's at that point when we decide how as Councillors which master plans and strategies brought to us by staff are to be approved. While consultants bring valuable expertise, what I think we must be careful about is that they complex and not replace our staff's work. We must be able to measure their value and ensure the strategic use of our resources, that is our money. The Noosaville Foreshore Master Plan has presented a timely opportunity to reopen this conversation and for us to ask these questions. Specifically, was the spend for the Noosaville foreshore management plan justified and properly spent? What tangible results will it achieve? Are these plans aligned with community priorities and Council strategies? And are we over planning or over complicating matters with levels of details. With excessive levels of the motion in front of us proposes two actions to address these concerns. Firstly a detailed review of the new civil project to examine procurement processes, outcomes and whether alternative approaches or scoping could have achieved better results at a lower cost. Secondly the report proposes a report assessing the feasibility on developing this framework to evaluate when outsourcing is appropriate again for the purposes of ensuring value for money while balancing internal and external resources. Thirdly effectively the motion aligns with our commitment as Councillors to uphold transparency, accountability and responsible spending, ensuring that public money is used efficiently and does align with community values, expectations and strategic goals. It also aligns with council's long-term financial plan, the upcoming revenue diversification and optimisation plan, and we spoke of this just a couple of days ago at our general. Our workforce capability plan. It's also been workshopped and discussed with both the CEO and our CFO. I've worked with both of them in writing the motion. As elected representatives it's our responsibility to advocate for better governance. Consultants and contractors can and do bring valuable expertise but it's just crucial that we assess whether their engagement is truly delivering value for money and truly delivering the best outcomes for the community. I hope you support this motion. Thank you Councillor Lorentson. Brian Stockwell 35:22.104
A minor point of order. I note in the agenda it's correct but on the screen, and there's been reference made it to, it's not a recommendation, it is a notified motion. It needs to be corrected if we can for a minute please. That's actually just part of the system. Part of the I appreciate it Frank Wilkie 35:38.143
Thank you Stockwell. Councillor Wilson, did you have an amendment? Brian Stockwell 36:11.508
Try taking your headphones off. It works for me. Nicola Wilson 36:21.000
I'll we can take this. We can hear you now. Okay, thank you. Sorry. Was on. I was going to move in a moment, but I think I prefer to deal with it through questions first, if that's okay? I've got a few questions, because I agree with what this motion is trying to achieve, and I agree with what I think Councillor Lorentson just said. So my first question is on queen's point A. Which mentions industry benchmarking. So given this is a report on an internal process followed, in terms of scope and process and various other things, I'm just not sure what criteria would be seeking to benchmark and how that information would be readily available. So whether that should be included, but also to see a greater understanding of what we're actually aiming for there. Amelia Lorentson 37:14.683
Clarkson. I'm happy to answer that. I'm not sure if Trent, our CEO, is here. Oh, he is. Hey, Trent. I'll start by answering that the idea of benchmarking is, to me, critical when we talk about continuous improvement. Part of that process is that we not only measure our practices, we research best practices and then we compare our performance against similar councils, just to understand what the areas of improvement are. So the inclusion of industry benchmarking, I don't think it's onerous, it's basically to understand how other councils, what sort of spends do they have in terms of consultancy and contracting. And I might ask Trent if he can I might make some comments. Make some commentary, but I do want to finish with a quote that I use a lot, and I think, you know, I change the words every now and then, but what gets measured gets improved. We need baseline measurement. We don't know how we think we fare unless we compare it with best practices. Frank Wilkie 38:36.962
Thank you. Councillor Wilson. Thank you, Councillor Lorentson. Shaun Walsh 38:41.168
And I've just conferred with Trent, and he was comfortable with me answering the question. The Noosaville foreshore infrastructure master plan was led by landscape architecture company. So I'm a fellow with the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects. We would be able to seek industry benchmarking by reaching out to practices across Queensland and ask them questions about, you know, what type of consultancy fees do they charge for master plan projects linked to construction value, and what is the percentage, you know, in relation to sub-consultants. So with a discrete approach, I think we could achieve industry benchmark for the report. Unidentified Speaker 39:14.919
Thank you. Very much. Did you want to add anything? Frank Wilkie 39:18.107
Further questions? Councillor Wilson? Nicola Wilson 39:20.116
Yes, please. So part of the, I think, I'm just seeking priority really, what we're actually seeking for this report to do, is it's a feasibility, seeking to do a feasibility study on establishing a framework and then kind of talks about what that framework should be before we've actually done the feasibility study. And I'm also just not sure whether it's seeking to be forward-looking or backward so whether it's assessing key contracts and consultancies and therefore value for money after the contract is complete and then therefore why would it include procurement? Or is it as part of the procurement process where I know we already assess tenders based on various assessed weighting criteria. So I'm just kind of looking at again is this something that we're already doing is there a reason to double step onto something if we already have a framework in place or what gap are we up to trying to address here? Amelia Lorentson 40:20.469
Professor Morrison. Um, sorry. So A and B are both interrelated. Both steps in my opinion are not just necessary. I think they're actually overdue. So the idea of having the- it's basically just a report, an exploratory report. It's going to be cost implications, resource implications. This is a big body of work, but I think it's really critical that we start looking at it. I think what's- my concern is, and I think I mentioned it before, is that as Councillors, during budget deliberations, we're presented with a number of master plans. With a number of strategies. And I just think a framework would give us the clarity and allow us to make informed decisions. About what we're actually approving. So the framework is not just for residents, it's Councillors. So that we can just understand that when we approve, for instance, we approved, we actually approved the Noosaville Foreshore Master Plan, our master plan as Council. So at the time I think it was,000 and then there was a revision which cost over 200,000. But the decision was made by full Council. So part of the framework is next time we get into budget deliberation, we as Councillors councillors understand, does this present that does this present value for money? Is the detail transparent and open? And can residents also access this information? I think it's just a step again towards better governance, continuous improvement, but more importantly public trust. What's happened over the Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Masterplan is the community is asking questions and I think this is an opportunity to just rebuild not but just to give community confidence and us confidence when we are presented with these master plans. So the first, second part is not onerous, how much scoping, it's going to do, it's actually part of the report. It's worded as an exploratory process just to come back to Council with what is the feasibility and what is the scoping of this sort of framework. Thank you, Councillor. Frank Wilkie 43:12.039
Lawrence. Any other questions, Councillor Wilson? Nicola Wilson 43:17.108
Yeah, that I see the didn't really answer my question. Would the CEO or the directors be able Trent Grauf 43:33.461
Through the Chair, Council Councillors. Members? As we do a paper back to you on the matter, as is in the motion here, the approach I would take would be to do it two-fold. I guess the starting point is. You want to evaluate value for money in what you're procuring and what you're investing, whether that's consultants, whether it's contractors, whether it's outsourcing, the First Point is to look at where you've been spending historically. And not just the last 12 months, it might be two, three, four, five years historically. Um the reason you want to do that is because the reason you're outsourcing might be different for reasons. It could be for despecialised advice, it could be for particular work that needs to be expedited, it could be that we don't have the capability or need specialisation to do this work, be because there are vacancies and it's hard to find certain types of professions in our workforce, let alone in the region. And unpacking that over a period of time will understand what we need to evaluate at pressure points. Also consider that it's not just the consulting side for us as an organisation. Where there's value is also where we're potentially outsourcing and having the informed evaluation as to whether we should be outsourcing or insourcing our services as they come up for tender. We do this work inherently as our service planning as we come up for review of our contracts. You'll see that happen with things from lifeguard services through to our waste contracts etc. So we do that work. What I envisage is being asked for here is an evaluation of a process that puts a very clear framework behind that moving forward. But way we spend this time. I would suggest you would need to look at the we spend historically first and procure historically first to see how that works. So it is a big piece of work. I'd suggest it's looking backwards and then giving you a framework that helps you evaluate value for money moving forward. And that all forms part of ultimately what we had envisaged for our new organisational structure with the realignment of the former CEO in terms of that commercial and effectiveness branch within torque services. So I hope that helps. Really in the 12th century, so I'll have up soon. You. Nicola Wilson 45:54.033
Think that's not really what the motion's saying, but that's what everyone should understand it is, and I think that's okay. Frank Wilkie 46:02.992
Okay. Anyone else wish to speak to the motion? I have a question. Councillor Wegener. Unidentified Speaker 46:10.413
Yes, Councillor so is this Tom Wegener 46:13.790
Motion what you're asking for? Or what you're is this gonna go to the budget and go through the budget process? Or it sounds to me like we're asking for staff to do this report and fund it and pay for it before the budget. So which is it, before or after? Is this a budget initiative, so to speak? Amelia Lorentson 46:41.195
My understanding is that part of the report that's coming back to Council that there will be an estimate in cost and scoping and then that will come to Council as an initiative for decision by Council whether we want to progress or not? So Tom Wegener 47:03.904
This will this is some is something that we're going to be working on until the budget process starting in March basically and then we'll vote on it through the budget process. At the time. Okay any other questions? Frank Wilkie 47:18.181
Councillor Finzel. Karen Finzel 47:20.504
Yes thank you for the motion. It's good to get it to the table so we can have this discussion. I'm just seeking some clarification then. If the budget cost to bring the report, just to follow up from your question, is the funds already allocated to bring this report? And what is the cost given that there's been a discussion around notice of motion not exceeding $10,000, what is the cost of this report that is on the table and to come before us for budget? To consider this and my second question is it's an effectiveness review so are we looking to and this is a question to Council Lorentson are you looking to look at the foreshore infrastructure management plan community engagement and the process around that are you looking to gain effectiveness of that as a standalone Amelia Lorentson 48:28.793
Mostly in terms of cost $10,000 I think that's what part of the next step is to ascertain what the actual cost of scoping and developing this framework so can't answer that so I think preliminary it's a resourcing cost it's just seeking estimates so I don't think that's onerous but in terms of how much this framework is going to cost that's what's coming back to us in a report and then that will be the decision that will be made during budget deliberations and that's why I made a note and again to reiterate I did work with the CFO and CEO on this motion and with the wording it does align with our priorities we have an upcoming I think it's the Revenue Diversification and Optimisation Plan we've got a workforce CAPE capability plan it aligns with Council strategies more importantly it aligns with community expectations and I just think that we can't lose sight why this motion it's not something Brian Stockwell 49:49.318
Certainly we need to be talking to the motion rather than answer your question Amelia Lorentson 49:53.124
In terms of the second question Councillor Finzel can you just repeat question in terms of effectiveness of community engagement I think it was the question that you asked so the effectiveness of so part a when we're looking when at the details, we part of the motion is about lessons learnt and what I'm envisaging is a deep dive in scoping and also variations. Whether there was opportunities during that, whether a different brief or different scoping may have provided opportunities for. Spending savings the effectiveness of a framework with value for money yet Mike my I anticipate details anticipate looking at community engagement you know cost of delivery these master plans pop-ups media radio face-to walking through yeah that's part of the framework to understand the rationale for the spending and then having some sort of framework to measure the outcomes the deliverables. Thank you. Frank Wilkie 51:21.197
Thank you Councillor Lorentson. Look I'll move, I'd like to move this along. I'm going to support this motion in both parts. The first one is the material contained in the part A is something we would expect to see when the results of the report on the results of the next phase of the foreshore management plan comes back to us anyway. I'd expect that sort of detail to be in there. And part B is asking for a report on the resourcing required to establish this framework so it would have the costings outlined. There's no commitment to that cost. It would be something we would consider as it'll part of the budget process so council's not committing to expenditure of large amounts of money, it's what they're committing to here is if we support this motion, it's getting the information that's contained in part A, which I would expect the report coming back about phase 2, I'm going back, I'm repeating myself here, and also a report on what the costs are likely to be for establishing the framework, and that'll be, once we get that report, there might be, there'll be a dollar figure, and then it's up to us whether we decide to commit ratepayers' resources to that, when we're deciding how we allocate resources as part of the '25 / '26 budget process. So I'm, supporting the motion. Anyone else wish to speak to the motion? Councillor Wegener. Karen Finzel 52:44.270
I just need to clarify. So we've got, request the CEO to provide a report on the process followed for the Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Master Plan. I'm just, a question to the CEO, given we're at full staff capabilities and capacity, have you the staff available to do this work, and what is the cost to do this work? Frank Wilkie 53:20.665
I can cancel that. Thank you, Councillor. Shaun Walsh 53:23.243
I think taking the mayor's point about having this review report undertaken as part of the presentation of the final master plan to Council makes a lot of sense. So that, you know, so that would be undertaken within existing staff resources. And having a debrief or a lessons learned as part of a standard project is fairly standard. And I think that gives us some scope to explore. So my understanding of this motion is that this report would come up to Council at the same time as we come up to Council with the next stage of the Noosaville cultural master plan within existing staff resources. Any and has been for in the budget resources. Frank Wilkie 54:03.709
Do any other Councillors who wish to speak to the motion? Tom Wegener 54:10.453
I'm not going to support the motion. The first part is requesting the CEO to give a report on what we do. Our job is actually, if you can read that, as Noosa Councillors, is to include an overview of the procurement process. Well, we were there for every step of the way for the procurement process. Identification of risks, reasons for any scope changes or variations, details, and on details, resource utilised, staff, consultants, contractors, so forth. That is that's what we do as Councillors. That's actually what we're paid to do. And this the first report is asking the CEO to bring a report on us because these this is our job to make these decisions in the first place. So I don't I that's don't see that we are asking oh I think this is asking the CEO to do our job for us that we should have been doing all along and we actually are doing. The second part I just find it irregular that we are asking for a report to come to us that's going to end up going to the budget because it's actually an initiative and it's kind of jumping the queue on the whole initiative process. It's a notified motion to get ahead of the queue in the initiatives and I don't really see it's necessary at all. Furthermore, our staff is very very limited at this and it's going to be a whole heck of a lot more limited very soon when our chief financial officer is going to be on take 12 months off and so we are going to be wildly understaffed next year we need to find somebody to fill this position and I can just see the irony of part B is that we'll definitely need to hire a consultant to give us this report on consultants and that is just it's over the top take 12 I don't think this is necessary so saying thank you Karen Finzel 56:10.700
Just another what question yeah I am concerned about the budget and how we making this decision to move this forward I think we've to be very mindful of these decisions given the current climate financially and capacity of Council staff question to the CEO with regards to shaun's response that the money was in the existing budget was that the extra money that was allocated through the Capital Works Executive Larry Sengstock 56:55.661
Thank you Councillor um let me clarify this one the first part a is really just bringing back a report against the um as part of the Noosaville so as Mayor Frank said that um as part of when we come back with the Noosaville master plan there'll be an analysis of how it came about and how the money was expended and whether it was expended well so that's something from what Sean said is within our capacity to deliver okay so comfortable I'm comfortable with that the second piece in our notices of motion and our Standing Orders now if anything is going to cost the Council more than ten thousand dollars or a serious amount of resource to deliver a motion it has to come back to Council as a report so that's what Councillor Lorentson is asking for is for us to go away scope it understand what it's going to cost to actually do the report so that's really what because we think our understanding and that's what with Trent and myself working with Councillor Lorentson and is to say that we think this is going to cost more than ten thousand dollars so therefore it has to go to a further process so it has to be then brought back to Council whether that's through the budget process or another process but generally this one will come through the budget process and then we decide whether we want to spend that money or not for this particular additional report that's where it stands so all this is asking at the moment is for us to scope it out see what we think it's going to cost put a number against it and then you can decide whether you want to move forward with that. Does that answer your question? Karen Finzel 58:30.400
Sarcasm, while I'm standing I did ask was the funding yeah the exact question was did the funding come Larry Sengstock 59:18.682
The process we followed so that would just that be accommodated within our own staff to do that because that's a report writing exercise for us it's not nothing to do with the necessarily with the consultants it's for us to analyse that and bring that back to Council so I'm comfortable we that we can do it deliver that within our own resources thank you Jessica Phillips 59:39.643
My question thank you my question I guess I'm quite supportive of section like a I'm listening to everybody's different views across the table and a makes sense is and my question to castle Lawrence and then maybe is be potentially something B, potentially more we, would be unpacking in a workshop rather than a report to vote on I guess is my question I'm just be it sounds like we're all a bit maybe querying being and what I'll see at the end of it rather than maybe what we would see in a workshop where we can unpack. The process and have those conversations Unidentified Speaker 01:00:29.738
Have you answered to that Larry Amelia Lorentson 01:00:32.336
I'm happy to answer that question again the two are interrelated we've got an opportunity to aid- Bye. Not just only provide the detail requested by community and you know to cliche it's not cliche we work for community so my question is number two it's it shouldn't it's not that it's truly workshop the two uh the two need be but you need to be put together today because it's the frame so like keep going back to my concern is that in good conscience don't want to do a workshop. Well that's part of being so be is an exploratory process to understand what the cost is involved in presenting this report and the detail but the decision will be made during workshop and during deliberations but again the matter before us is about public trust okay Frank Wilkie 01:02:21.338
Anything like to add about where the report would be presented I have a question the report would then have the resourcing required that would then become a budget initiative and then the Councillors would be free to either vote for it as part of the budget or not. Is that correct? Any other questions or people wishing to speak to the motion? Councillor Stockwell. Brian Stockwell 01:02:51.064
Yes. I think after what we've already heard the motion is redundant. I'm going to start with B. It was really clearly stated by the Director that operationally those reviews are currently part of the process. My initial feeling about B was it was overreach. It Councillor trying to play an operational role these are what we have expert staff to our role is to set the budget and yes there will be cost overruns on budgets whether they're planning or whether they're physical works we have an organisation that is overburdened organisation and every Council meeting there another little things added on we are going to be a Council that doesn't achieve much so I can't support me I believe we want value for money and we have expert staff who endeavour to do it and they do it in many ways one of them is to employ contractors and consultants and one of them is at budget time to review our staffing needs every budget we balance up whether it's going to be in the long-term cost-effective nature for residents in the ratepayers to actually employ someone to do it or whether it's going to be more cost effective to have a one-off cost it's standard budget procedure fee is completely free redundant it is not something that Councillors could have had much value to other perhaps than those who have got expert skills in that area and then like the mayor's admission part A is standard practice, computer the comparing against industry benchmark why do we need a motion to say at the end of the project we're going to review it now there's been a lot of thinking about this is what our community wants I know the community is surprised at the cost of the Noosa River foreshore management plan I'd be surprised if they weren't surprised however we just heard for a similar stretch of road the estimate is 8.5 million for planning the Noosaville Foreshore has not only park and recreation planning it's got transport planning and traffic for consultants and it's got flooding modelling and climate change consultants it's a very complex about four kilometres so yes it is a lot of money and yes it's cost more back and we've reviewed with eight Council workshops complete with a lot of staff and a lot of consultants to get a project and a product that we put back out of the Council we know what the procurement process is we know what's changed from beginning and what's changed from the second, because it's been stepped through in eight different workshops so if it is something that's happening why do we need a motion? I don't think we do so therefore I wouldn't be supporting the Noosa motion. Frank Wilkie 01:05:48.109
Thank you Councillor Stockwell. Councillor Wilson you have a question, do you have your hand up? Nicola Wilson 01:05:53.314
I'm happy to support part A although I agree that we need to be argumentative on the motion because it should be happening as a matter of course. Having said that I do think it should be prioritised so I'm happy to support that. I think there's a bit of confusion over part and since there are two separate reports I see value in actually separating the two processes and maybe putting some more thought into the wording of part B. So is it too late to move an amendment? Frank Wilkie 01:06:20.148
It is not. You can move an amendment at any time. Nicola Wilson 01:06:23.963
So my move would be to remove part B. Frank Wilkie 01:06:28.482
Okay. Seconder, Councillor Phillips. Councillor Finzel you were already seconded the first motion. I'll second it. No we've got Councillor Phillips who's seconded it. I didn't. Okay. Councillor Wilson you have Councillor Wilson uh you have the floor. Nicola Wilson 01:06:44.181
I think I've already said it, but I think there's just a bit of confusion about what this report. What we'd actually be expecting to see in this report and the value of it. I think I'd prefer first to have a bit of an internal conversation about. Have existing policies and procedures and whether there is in fact a need to go out and build a new framework. Frank Wilkie 01:07:05.586
Thank you, Councillor Wilson. Anyone else wish to speak to the amendment? Councillor Wilson has said everything that needs to be said. Thank you. Councillor Councillor Lorentson, would you like to speak? Amelia Lorentson 01:07:21.052
I will just to say that part B was just a step of good faith. It was us telling community that we're listening, we're committed to good governance, and we're committed to pushing for better. My concerns are without part B, we risk eroding public trust, we risk also. We risk us as Councillors from having, I don't know, informed. We come into budget meetings and we don't have this level of detail despite of what Councillor Wegener said. We don't have the. We don't have that level of detail. So I just think A and B is not just for the residents, it's for us. It's a commitment to good governance it's a commitment for better transparency it's a commitment for clarity and it's a commitment from the whole Council that we are listening to the community and that we want to be better and we want residents to have the confidence in us they've made it very very very clear that every single dollar of ratepayers' money must be spent wisely and I'm not saying that it hasn't been spent wisely with the Noosaville foreshore infrastructure plan but the level of detail that's required in A plus B which is a promise that we are not just going to give them the detail that's required the detail they've requested that we're going one step further we're now going to have a look at a framework that will assess the effect this of outsourcing whether it can be done internally whether it can be done externally it's a promise for continuous improvement and it's something again that I've been discussing with the CEO and CFO for now two years and I feel and what I've understood with both of them is that very comfortable with the wording and with what's been asked by this so I'm a little bit stunned when community who are our bosses we work for community work when they ask us for more transparency more accountability more clarity detail and they push us to honour our commitments for better engagement better communication better value for money now so no I'm not going to support this because it waters down the intent of the motion Frank Wilkie 01:10:32.521
Any other Councillors wish to speak to their motion their amendment Brian Stockwell 01:10:35.320
Just a debate more accountability more governance if we go back to look at the part that was deleted there was nothing in there about accountability or transparency it was about establishing a framework to make financial decisions so while that might have been a motivation the motion has put certainly didn't as give any guarantees and I'm pretty sure that because it was raised in this way that there's a range of views about what it actually does mean amongst the Councillors who are meant to be voting for it. Amelia Lorentson 01:11:14.898
Can I ask a question please. Question. Can I ask the question unless I've read differently the wording part B is that this internal versus external resourcing. Do you understand that as being a workforce capability issue, a governance issue, and a commitment to continuous improvement? Unidentified Speaker 01:12:01.147
Question. Can I okay. Trent Grauf 01:12:11.063
Let's read the Chair, all right? Decision-making framework regarding value for money, finance, procurement, and service level. I've interpreted it as a decision-making framework regarding value for money, finance, procurement, and service level. Such as doing a service review before you're walking into a tender or a contracting arrangement to ensure value for money in that arrangement and service level meets the requirements and the arrangement meets expectations. Frank Wilkie 01:12:46.461
You know, now the council's wish to speak to the amendment I'll speak to it Councillor Phillips Jessica Phillips 01:12:50.620
I just want to say that everything Councillor has just spoke about is really exactly how I feel about community and wanting transparency and everything so thank you for bringing the motions I just want to then show support to Councillor Nicola wilson's amendment give that what I hear from community a lot is that they want some actions they want to see tangible outcomes rather than us continually talking about things we're going to do and so because of that I feel that there's too much confusion around B and I'd like to show support to Councillor Wilson on her amendment. Frank Wilkie 01:13:53.869
Thank you Councillor Phillips Councillor um Wilson, do you wish to close? Nicola Wilson 01:14:05.741
Um I think again I'm also with Councillor Wilson on the um transparency to the community but I see nothing in this wording that could actually achieve that so I don't think it's just something that we need to think through before um as you know so to get some more detail okay Frank Wilkie 01:14:25.915
I'll put the amendment those in favour of the amendment that's Councillor Wilkie, Stockwell, Finzel, Wegener and Phillips against Councillor Lorentson the amendments carried we go back to the original motion uh to which everyone uh Councillor Lorentson, Wilkie, Wegener and Stockwell have spoken uh Council of Councillor Finzel uh do you wish to speak to the motion now which is part a yeah okay Councillor Finzel yeah thank you uh Karen Finzel 01:15:03.282
Thank you I'd like to take this opportunity to thank both Councillor Lorentson and Councillor um Nicola for um trying to work together tonight to get a resolution it has been challenging um I think just for clarification um a little bit I don't think we're going to reach that tonight so I do support um the amendment to be brought back to part a I support everything that Council Lorentson has said and I support this Council that does work hard in my time during Council if I've ever requested a report something to help inform my decision making around the budget process or anything else I must say in my experience the staff has delivered that to the best of their ability and the CEO always has his door open it is always about supporting my community putting community first and engendering trust with our community so that we are outward facing and that we can have people trust what we're trying to do and work together to bring these outcomes and often they are complex they're not straightforward as you can see tonight just simple wording to how do we all understand this community has voted well you've got all our Councillors sitting up here and each one of us brings a different perspective and you've seen that in action tonight it's part of our democratic process and we're working together for our community to deliver the outcomes that our community expects and tells us that they want so yeah I just support this Council and what they're doing Councillors and staff and we appreciate what the community brings to us to we work hard to deliver including your deputations the time you take to send questions the time you take to email us so I think for continuous improvement service to our community please be assured that we are working to the best of our capabilities to deliver that thank you thank Finzel you Frank Wilkie 01:17:08.003
Councillor Finzel. Question to staff part B also could take the form of a budget initiative if there was appetite that could still be part of the budget process is that correct? Is that correct? Yes. Thank you. Councillor Phillips, if Phillips did you wish to speak before Councillor Lorentson Lawrence in the next assembly? To exercise her right to close? No, thank you. Councillor Lorentson do you wish to close? Amelia Lorentson 01:17:38.379
Firstly, I respect the of. The majority, so this is what we're with and I respect and accept this decision. I will be, as I have for the last two years, persist. With my request for a framework a formal reporting system, a consultancy register, I will persist with that, because we need to do things better. We need to understand workplace. Workforce capability. We need to understand where our talent gap is. We need to understand the cost of these decisions. What goes without when we okay these consultancies? Could it have been done in internally, externally? We need to be able to measure outcomes. And we need to, you know, not just measure outcomes, we need to understand community expectations and values. We need to understand is this what the community wants? A plan for a plan? Again, are we overcomplicating? Are we providing too much level of detail without adequate delivery? These are the conversations, this is the information that we can unpack with the proper framework. Again, accept what's before us but I will be putting forward the initiative to explore consultancy register or a formal reporting consultancy and contractor reporting framework that both the community and Councillors have easy access to determine value for money, return on investments and whether or not what we spend out your money what we spend your money aligns with your values and your expectations Frank Wilkie 01:19:52.817
The motion those in favour this Councillor Wilkie see Lorentson Finzel and Phillips kansas Stockwell and against councillor Councillor Wegener the motions carried brings us to consideration of committee reports audit and risk report number one QAO EA reports number two 2023-24 annual financial number three Noosa Shire Council annual report they have a mover and seconder for the alternate risk committee recommendations to be adopted please move Councillor Wegener Councillor Finzel any discussion-Zill, any discussion? Favour that's carried unanimously now move on to the Planning & Environment Committee reports Planning & Environment Court appeal number two six one of 2024 MCU 230105 application for Material Change of Use multiple dwelling at six small dwellings food and drink outlet and office at two Bottlebrush Avenue Noosa Heads 6.1 planning applications decided by delegated authority September 2024 can I have a move and seconder of the Planning & Environment Committee recommendations to be adopted please move Councillor Lorentson seconded lawrencet Councillor Stockwell all in favour that's carried unanimously ladies and gentlemen these are yeah sorry Nicola are you just saying aye or putting your hand up I Nicola Wilson 01:21:20.821
Was going to add it to the vote but I also unfortunately really need to leave the meeting now I'm afraid the stage beckons right oh Frank Wilkie 01:21:27.713
Thank you break a leg chuggers Thank you. These are all recommend recommendations forwarded from the Planning & Environment Committee and Services & Organisation Committee and General Committee recommendations that they've done in bulk at this stage eleven point three is the Services & Organisation Committee report five point one Council meeting schedule 2025 that was referred to the general five 5.2 was referred to the General Committee five point three is adoption of Noosa Council's strategic land activation policy six point one is a capital program 24 25 delivery status seven point one was a confidential report on the renewal of state lease the Noosaville slipway at 3 Mill Street Noosaville seven point two was another confidential report it was an Expression of Interest in Council owned industrial land can I have a mover and seconder for the Services & Organisation Committee Recommendations be adopted Councillor Phillips seconded, Councillor Finzel. Any discussion all in favour that's carried unanimously the reports to the General Committee include the Peregian Beach Surf Lifesaving Club funding request and update on operations referred from Services & Organisation dated 12 November 2024 Councillor Finzel Karen Finzel 01:22:48.389
I, Councillor Finzel, informed the meeting that I have a declarable conflict of interest in relation to the Peregian beach Surf Lifesaving Club as Leigh McCready, who worked as a volunteer in my 2020 Future Noosa election campaign, is the president of the Peregian beach Surf Lifesaving Club. As Mrs. McCready is not a close associate or related party and has never given me a gift or a loan, I believe a reasonable person would agree that I am able to make an impartial decision on the matter, therefore I will choose to remain in the meeting room. However, I will respect the decision of the meeting on whether I can remain and participate in the decision. Frank Wilkie 01:23:27.535
I'd like to move that Council note the declarable conflict of interest by Councillor Finzel and determine that Councillor Finzel participates in votes on this matter because Council believes that a reasonable person would trust that the final decision is made in the public interest. Second. By Councillor Stockwell. Any discussion? None. I'll put it to the vote. Those in favour? That's Councillor Phillips, Wegener, Stockwell Wilkie. And Wilkie noting that Councillor Lorentson and Councillor Finzel did not vote. Lorentson you have a cla Amelia Lorentson 01:24:00.677
Um I do I Council Lorentson and form the meeting that I have a declarable conflict of interest in the matter as my daughter Georgia Lorentson and my son Ben Lorentson are employed by Surf Lifesaving Queensland as casual lifeguards. It could be viewed that I have a conflict of interest however I do not believe a reasonable person could have a perception of bias as my daughter and son. Vice some employment is category employment is of a casual nature and not exclusively bound to SLSQ therefore there is no benefit or loss specific to my daughter and son from the outcome of the application therefore I will choose to remain in the meeting room. However, I will respect the decision of the meeting on whether I can remain and participate in the decision. Frank Wilkie 01:24:46.530
I'd like to move that Councillor, oh sorry, that Council note the declarable conflict of interest by Councillor Lorentson and determine that Councillor participates Lorentson participates in and votes on in this matter because Council believes that Councillor Lorentson would be able to make an impartial decision in the community interest. Seconded by Councillor Phillips. Thank you, Councillor Phillips. Any discussion? All in favour? That's Councillor Phillips, Wegener, Stockwell and Wilkie, Councillor Lorentson and Councillor Finzel to make Brian Stockwell 01:25:17.821
A vote. I'm happy to move the motion that came from the general Frank Wilkie 01:25:21.365
Committee. Move Councillor Stockwell. We have a seconder please. Councillor Lorentson. All in favour? That's carried unanimously. We now have the financial, 6.1 is the financial report from October 2024.6.2 Noosa Shire Council annual report 23-24.6.3 operational plan 24-25 quarterly one quarter one quarterly reporting. 6.4, 2024 LGAQ conference Noosa Council motions that were carried. We have a mover and a seconder from the General Committee recommendations to be adopted, except we're dealt with seven. That's Councillor Wegener. We have a seconder please. Councillor Phillips. All in favour? That's carried unanimously. We now have five Ordinary Meeting reports. The first being the 2024-25 community grant program funding community project grants round two, 2 events. Vince? Give me the microphone. Ellie? Ali, you need the microphone. Yeah. And Council. And Councillor Wegener. Tom Wegener 01:26:28.163
I, Councillor Wegener, inform the meeting that I have a declarable conflict of interest in this matter in relation to the events grants funding request from Noosa International Surfilm Festival. I am a member of the international surf film festival committee. As a result of my conflict of interest, I will now leave the meeting run while the matter is considered and voted on. Frank Wilkie 01:26:48.403
Thank you, Councillor Wegener. We have our community connections manager, Alison Hamblin, here for this report. Alison, could you please give us a summary of the report? Alison Hamblin 01:27:04.040
Yes, sure. This is the first report that I've represented today, so this relates to our community grants program. One of those categories is events. So grants program was opened up on the 6th of August and closed the 17th of September. All grants go through a thorough assessment process and then are brought to Council for decision making. Today we'll be looking at the community events. For the first report we've got four events that have actually applied and we're recommending all four events as recommended grants. Thank you. Do guys need to go through the events? I can take you through the events if you like, yes. So the first event we've got is the ocean heroes. So ocean heroes will be providing CERT programs for. People with autism people with autism or on the spectrum. We're actually requiring those events to be held here in the Noosa Shire. So that's one of the special conditions that we're putting on that particular one as such. Would you like me to let you know the grant amount we're recommending? Frank Wilkie 01:28:05.540
Are we able to project that graphic? The attachment? Which make it explanatory for the members of the gallery. Unidentified Speaker 01:28:17.246
It's in the agenda that we're going to put it. Unidentified Speaker 01:28:19.706
That's fair, I appreciate it. Thank you. Alison Hamblin 01:28:28.388
Keep talking to it or waiting for we're waiting for that to come. The second one we're looking at is Festuri, which is a multicultural celebration in the community. We're recommending that one for funding as well. The third one is the returned services league of Australia, so the Tewantin Noosa RSL, Sub-Branch, recommending for their commemorative ANZAC day celebrations, and the fourth one is the Noosa International Surfilm Festival. Frank Wilkie 01:28:56.252
And you mentioned the amounts, Alison? Alison Hamblin 01:28:58.193
Yes, I can. Sorry, I thought we'd have the mark on this in attachment. Yeah. So ocean heroes, the lighting's not very good here for me as well. Yeah. Ocean heroes, we're recommending $5,000 towards it. Festuri, $5,000. The ANZAC at Tewantin is another $5,000, Festuri my lighting real is not very good, $9,900 I Frank Wilkie 01:29:28.833
Think. Okay. Any questions of, I'm sorry, we're in formal debate, so anyone care to move the resolution? I'll move. Councillor Phillips. Karen Finzel 01:29:39.306
I'm happy to second. Frank Wilkie 01:29:40.652
By Councillor Finzel. Who wish to speak to the motion? Councillor Phillips? No. No. Any questions? Yes, I just have-- Councillor Finzel? Karen Finzel 01:29:49.396
Yes, thank you. It's a great report. It's great to see the money going back to the community. I just have a question around ocean heroes limited. When I was reading the report, I did a bit of research on that and found out that they are from WA. So just to question bringing this great event for people with autism to our community, can you just talk to us a little bit about how the program will be linked to our community groups and living well know selves. Noosa? Yes. For the Chair, is a great question, Alison Hamblin 01:30:26.401
Thank you Councillor Finzel. This particular program, yes they are based out of state as such, however they do events across the nation. They're looking to do a Noosa specific event, so that's one of our conditions to ensure that they do that, the money that we contribute to this particular event goes to the Noosa residents only. We do have our Noosa Living Well program, which looks at low cost to affordable activities within the Noosa and one of the conditions we're also putting on this particular funding program, funding as well, is for this particular event to be included in that Living Well program. So I'll ensure our officers work with this organisation to make that happen. Thank you. Frank Wilkie 01:31:05.610
Okay. Councillor Lorentson. Amelia Lorentson 01:31:05.610
I have a question, but can I also add, in terms of ocean heroes, this will be their second event here in Noosa, and I invite the Councillors, if they're around this Saturday, the event will be held on Saturday. It's an excellent program that really promotes inclusivity, and it's highly well attended, and they-- it's an excellent program, and I'd like to thank Noosa Council for supporting it. My question is, does the community receive a calendar of events and their locations in advance to help with planning and participation? Is that advertised on our website? Alison Hamblin 01:31:52.623
In terms of our living well program, Councillor? Amelia Lorentson 01:31:55.465
Yeah, in terms of our living well program and any sort of events such as, say, the ocean so, Alison Hamblin 01:32:03.449
If it's part of our living well program, yes, it's widely advertised on our Council website and through socials. We do also have a calendar of events people can subscribe to as well and look at what events are actually available. Noosa Shire. It's up to the organisation however to provide those details into that calendar of events. Thank you very much. Frank Wilkie 01:32:21.663
Thank you. Anyone else wish to speak to the motion? Councillor Stockwell. Brian Stockwell 01:32:27.011
I will support and it's always good to give money to the community to do events that further our social strategy and other strategies. I do note that it is unusual for Council to be requested to provide funds for ANZAC Day. It is one I support because I think the sub-branch. I think the sub-branch. Is indeed a support that I want to put on record that by this time next year I trust that there is no need for ratepayer funding considering the logical source where that should be funded from. Frank Wilkie 01:33:01.913
Councillor Stockwell. Councillor Phillips, do you wish to close? Sub-branch Jessica Phillips 01:33:12.160
Very quickly thank you for the detailed report and yeah I like every Council I really enjoy seeing us support all these local events and what it does for our community so thank you. Frank Wilkie 01:33:24.853
Thank you. I'll put the motion. Those in favour? That's unanimous. May Councillor so wiggum can come back in the room now please. Brian Stockwell 01:33:34.788
Next up we have the. Just wait a minute, I think Councillor Wegener is doing a radical re-entry. Stop that. Frank Wilkie 01:33:44.641
Community program funding, community project grants, round two, programs and projects. Alison Hamblin 01:33:49.581
Uh that was some hamper again. Yes, this is me again. At the same time we invite not-for-profit community organisations to apply for this particular category. So we're servicing a need in our community so they can apply for a program to service that need in our community. So for this particular one we had three applications coming that were recommended with the total value of $34,894. I can go individually on the screen I there or we can record. We can refer to the screen of those applications that have come forward. Frank Wilkie 01:34:24.032
If you could just read them out, thanks. Alison Hamblin 01:34:25.327
Yeah, sure. My lights, I don't have a Frank Wilkie 01:34:28.165
Bright light. Can you read the screen, Alison? Alison Hamblin 01:34:30.007
Sure. The first one's Pomona district community house. So they're showcasing young local talent and also inclusive, empowering community events. We're recommending 12,995 towards that particular one. The second one is Judy hammett. Havage, also been auspiced. So for self, she's not eligible. So organisations can auspice or individuals can be auspiced by an organisation. So she's been auspiced by the north Coast aboriginal corporation. So this particular is a creation of 20 contemporary sculptures through the weekly 4 four-hour ceramics workshop. We're recommending $4,000 on that. We have got special conditions noted on that particular one as Frank Wilkie 01:35:08.780
Well. Who's got $5,000? Sorry, did I say $4,000? Sorry, $5,000, sorry. Alison Hamblin 01:35:16.005
The third one is the trustee of the Salvation Army. This is a lovely project where we're recruiting and training our male volunteers to reach out to adult males in the Noosa Shire who are affected by trauma, poverty, loneliness. And home workplace abuse. This particular one we're recommending is $16,899. Frank Wilkie 01:35:36.651
Thank you. Does someone care to move the motion? Unidentified Speaker 01:35:38.572
I'm happy to move it. Frank Wilkie 01:35:39.548
Councillor Stockwell seconded. Councillor Finzel? Councillor Finzel? I second. Councillor Stockwell? Brian Stockwell 01:35:44.611
Councillor Stockwell? I need to note that there's an unusually good diversity of projects in there that will further some social justice issues in our community. Frank Wilkie 01:35:55.067
Thank you. Anyone else wish to speak or have any questions on these grants. I'll put it to the vote. That's unanimous. Next up we have the community program funding, community project grants, infrastructure, Councillor Phillips. Phillips. Jessica Phillips 01:36:15.254
I, Councillor Jessica Phillips, declare that I have a declarable conflict of interest in relation to the infrastructure grant funding application by the Noosa netball association incorporation as my close family friend, Fran suddenly sudlier, are is on the sudley subcommittee and lot building subcommittee and a long-term member of the Tewantin netball courts. Although I have a declarable conflict of interest, I do not believe a reasonable person could have a perception of bias because the position she holds is not a decision-maker nor is she an executive committee member. Neither I nor my family stand to gain a personal or material benefit from the decision over and above what other club members would gain. Therefore I will choose to remain in the meeting room, I will respect the decision of the meeting on whether I can remain and participate in the decision. Frank Wilkie 01:37:10.794
Okay, Councillor Finzel. Karen Finzel 01:37:14.870
Yeah, happy to move. Are you moving? Oh, that Councillor, I note the declarable conflict of interest by Councillor Phillips and determine that Councillor Phillips participates and votes on this matter because Council believes that Councillor Phillips be able to make an impartial decision in the community interest. Frank Wilkie 01:37:36.396
Thank you and seconded by Councillor Lorentson. Thank you. All in favour? That's unanimous except for Councillor Phillips who did not vote on the matter. Okay, Thank you. Alison. Alison Hamblin 01:37:49.855
Thank you. So again this invitation was made to not-for-profit community organisations to apply for this particular category which comes under infrastructure. With applicants must put in 50% of their own contribution. So their own contribution could be their in-kind cash or another external source. We received a number of applications and we're recommending seven of those applications for funding. So I will go through that list of the items that were. Would you like. Me to read them out? That's fine. So the first one we've got Noosa Netball. Thank you. Noosa Netball Association. So Noosa Netball was actually successful in a state government grant to build a new building. All they're requiring from Council is assistance. For the demolish of their existing building. We're recommending $5,000 towards that. Noosa Women's Shed. They're looking at improving their safety and security by fencing the Noosa Women's Shed site. So they're now relocating to the Unitywater site next to the Noosa Men's Shed. We're recommending $30,000 a that, which is the maximum grant that can be received under this program. The third one, which is in our backyard right here, which is the Peregian Tennis Club. They've also got money externally as well. We're supporting the shade structure for court 3, resurfacing of all the courts, and adjusting the court 3 lighting. We're recommending $15,000 towards that project. The fourth one is nursing. Noosa tennis club. They're supplying and replacing current lighting in the car park with energy efficient LED lights that meet safety standards. This particular one we're recommending $3,320 towards that. Moded Cooroy and they're installing luminaires on the upgraded lighting poles. We're recommending $20,000 towards this. Second last is the Cooroy Park Bushcare group. They're looking at installation of hardwood seating around a large an sorry. Installation of a hardwood seating around a large red gum stump in the Cooroy Park and signage. We're recommending $3,108 towards that one. And the last one there is the Tewantin-Noosa Cricket Club. Their construction installing of new sight screens at both ends of the cricket club at Read Park. We're recommending $22,327 towards that. Frank Wilkie 01:40:18.827
Great. Now, anyone wish to speak to the motion or have any questions? Okay. We've moved by Councillor Finzel and seconded by Councillor I think it was seconded Lorentson, I believe. Oh, big apartment. Okay, do we have someone to move this. Particular motion? Councillor Lorentson, thank you. I'll second. And Councillor Stockwell. Councillor Lorentson, do you wish to speak to the motion? Um, no. Thank you very much. Anyone else? No. Councillor Stockwell? No, I. Okay, I'll put it to the vote. Those in favour? That's unanimous. Now the next one is the community program funding, community project grants equipment. Alison? Alison Hamblin 01:41:07.965
This is the last category of our community grants. This so this is for the purchase of equipment that responds to a specific opportunity or need in our community. We've had six applications that we're going to recommend for funding with a total value of $34,195. So those applications consist of the Noosa community gardens. So they're looking at installing 10 new raised corrugated metal and timber garden beds, and timber garden beds, including the filling, irrigation and laying gravel between the beds. We're recommending $3,500 towards that. The timber hall committee, so purchasing 100 lightweight, strong and durable chairs, recommending $6,500. The Federal hall, they're looking at installing a public address system, including the speakers, microphones, amplifiers and bluetooth capability, so $3,200 towards that. The Cooroy chamber of commerce, the purchase of the seating, tables and lighting. We're putting a special condition around that particular one, because their application was towards more of the Christmas and Cooroy event, so we're asking for that particular purchase to be made available to other community groups in the area as well. So we're recommending $6,200 towards the Kin Kin community group. They're wanting to look at the AV equipment, stage curtains, wall furniture, crockery, cooking heat. Cook equipment, cooling, heating, again, we're doing a part funding, so some special conditions around that. We're only recommending towards the Chair and the stage curtains only, which is $13,407. Seven,407. Keep in mind, we have Kin Kin community group, which is not so long ago. Cooroy united football club, which is the soccer club up in Cooroy, which is the purchase of equipment to maintain their playing fields and around the clubhouse. That equipment that they were looking at doing, we're recommending the brush cutter and the blower only. So $1 thousand three hundred and eighty- dollars with a total value then of $34,195. Frank Wilkie 01:43:17.187
Thank you, Alison. We have someone to move this, please. I'll move it. Moved by Councillor Stockwell, seconded by Councillor Finzel. Seconded Finzel. Any discussion? Put it to the vote. Those in favour? That's carried unanimously. And finally we have the community grant summary. Thank you Alison. Ms. Thank you. Alison Hamblin 01:43:47.060
So this is a summary report where we've just presented the four categories being equipment, events, and projects and programs. But the total grant value that Council will be presenting is $192,744, which is a great outcome for our community. We had 31 applications received. Unfortunately, three of those applications were ineligible. And they had a request of a total project delivery, which is really wonderful to hear. It was $485,000, so a lot of money that we're actually contributing towards. So I think it's a great community outcome to be able to give these grants out to these groups. Frank Wilkie 01:44:27.666
Thank you, Allison. Alison. Does someone care to move this report? Councillor Phillips, do I have a seconder, please? Councillor Wegener, any discussion? Jessica Phillips 01:44:36.641
I'm just going to very quickly speak. This is actually a good news story. Like, I think the community grants program is something to celebrate tonight and probably end the night on a really lovely note. I grew up in Noosa and I have been a volunteer in different communities. Community groups and what an exceptional reflection of our community that we have these such a variety of different groups that provides such a diverse you know feedback to our most vulnerable our kids it just even looking at that list was just a really great thing to read and see so thank you for all the work that you do and yeah I just wanted to say how wonderful it is to see this. Thank you. Frank Wilkie 01:45:31.652
Any Councillors wish to speak? Yeah, look, I'd also like to thank you Alison and the community development team you work very closely with I understand it's about 300 not-for-profits in the Shire. This community grant program is one way that you we show physical tangible support for them and the work that they do. I understand that all the grant programs that Noosa Council runs delivers about 1.5 million in funding spent externally in the Noosa community. It's a good return of ratepayers' money. For the people who are doing, volunteers who are doing work in the community, making it a great place to live. And I know you and your staff, you know who needs the money and you have a rigorous process in deciding. Gets the grants, those that are unsuccessful, you have a process where you work with the unsuccessful applicant and help support them through towards a more successful grant application next time or a more appropriate funding source, other grant sources. So thank you for the work that you and your team do. I'll put it to the vote, those in favour? That's carried unanimously. We have no confidential items. That brings us to the end of tonight's agenda. Thank you everyone for taking the time to come along and witness council's agenda. The Council Ordinary Meeting in motion. The next Ordinary Meeting will be at the Noosa Council chambers on Thursday 19th December at 10am and I declare the meeting closed at 6:47pm. Thank you very much everybody. We'll be around if you want to talk further on issues. Related Noosa Council Meetings
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