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Council Meeting Minutes 20 March 2012 - West Tamar Council
Council Meeting Minutes 20 March 2012 - West Tamar Council
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Minutes <strong>of</strong> the Ordinary Meeting <strong>of</strong> West Tamar Council<br />
held on Tuesday 20 March 2012<br />
Details<br />
<strong>Table</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Contents</strong><br />
Page<br />
26/12 MINUTES ........................................................................................................................2<br />
27/12 COUNCIL WORKSHOPS ...............................................................................................2<br />
28/12 DECLARATIONS OF PECUNIARY INTEREST .............................................................2<br />
COMMUNITY INPUT TIME ............................................................................................3<br />
29/12 GEN MAN 1 GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT: NOMINATION FOR POSITION OF PRESIDENT,<br />
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION OF TASMANIA (LGAT) .................................7<br />
30/12 GEN MAN 2 GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT: WATER AND SEWERAGE REFORM ..................9<br />
31/12 CORP 1 SENIOR ACCOUNTANT’S REPORT: FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL PLAN 2012/13 TO<br />
2016/17 ........................................................................................................................ 12<br />
32/12 COM 1 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER’S REPORT: REQUEST FOR COUNCIL’S<br />
SUPPORT FOR THE CYCLING CODE OF CONDUCT BROCHURE ....................... 34<br />
33/12 COM 2 RECREATION OFFICER’S REPORT: THE ADOPTION OF A PRICING POLICY FOR<br />
WEST TAMAR COUNCIL RECREATIONAL FACILITIES .......................................... 38<br />
34/12 COM 3 COMMUNITY SERVICES MANAGER’S REPORT: SPECIAL EVENTS – AUSTRALIA<br />
DAY FUNCTION 2013 ................................................................................................. 41<br />
35/12 INFRA 1 INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES MANAGER’S REPORT: TENDERS FOR<br />
BROOKLYN ST, BEACONSFIELD, KERBING & WIDENING CONTRACT WTC<br />
2012/05 ........................................................................................................................ 44<br />
36/12 CNCL 1 NOTICE OF MOTION - CR JOY ALLEN: BEACONSFIELD IMPROVEMENT<br />
COMMITTEE TOWNSCAPE PLAN ............................................................................ 47<br />
37/12 CNCL 2 NOTICE OF MOTION – CR EASTHER: CUTS TO CHILD HEALTH NURSES ......... 50<br />
38/12 MEETING CLOSURE .................................................................................................. 53<br />
Items from the closed section <strong>of</strong> the meeting<br />
C03/12 MINUTES ..................................................................................................................... 54<br />
C04/12 CON 1 SENIOR STATUTORY PLANNER’S REPORT: COUNCIL AS LANDOWNER TO<br />
AGREE TO AN APPLICATION BEING MADE ON COUNCIL OWNED LAND,<br />
WINDSOR PARK ......................................................................................................... 54
20 March 2012<br />
Minutes <strong>of</strong> the Ordinary Meeting <strong>of</strong> the West Tamar Council held at the Council Offices, 1 Windsor<br />
Drive, Riverside on Tuesday 20 March 2012 at 1.30 pm.<br />
PRESENT:<br />
Mayor Barry Easther OAM, Deputy Mayor Christina Holmdahl and<br />
Councillors Joy Allen, Carol Bracken, Peter Kaye, Peter Kearney, Rick<br />
Shegog, John Watson and Tim Woinarski.<br />
APOLOGIES:<br />
Nil.<br />
IN ATTENDANCE:<br />
Ian Pearce (General Manager), Graeme Stagg (Corporate Services<br />
Manager), David Gibbins (Works Manager), Rolph Vos (Development<br />
Services Manager), Jannie Turner (Community Services Manager), Ian<br />
Howard (Infrastructure Services Manager) and Diane Sheppard (Personal<br />
Assistant).<br />
26/12 MINUTES<br />
Moved Cr Holmdahl seconded Cr Allen that the minutes <strong>of</strong> the meeting held<br />
on 21 February 2012 be received and confirmed.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
27/12 COUNCIL WORKSHOPS<br />
9.00am<br />
9.30am<br />
10.00am<br />
10.30am<br />
11.00am<br />
11.30am<br />
- Water & Sewerage (Ian Pearce)<br />
- “Acknowledgement <strong>of</strong> Country” at Civic Events (Jannie Turner)<br />
- BCD Mine Closure Update (Jannie Turner)<br />
- Australian Research Council Linkage Grant Scheme -<br />
Community Garden Project (Stuart Auckland UTAS)<br />
- Greens Beach Development Update (Michael Purves)<br />
- General Business<br />
28/12 DECLARATIONS OF PECUNIARY INTEREST<br />
Cr Barry Easther:<br />
• GEN MAN 1: Nomination for position <strong>of</strong> President, Local Government<br />
Association <strong>of</strong> Tasmania (LGAT)<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
COMMUNITY INPUT TIME<br />
1. Mr Ken Gourlay, Riverside - Bicycle/walkway Tailrace to Walcorm<br />
Court, Riverside<br />
Mr Gourlay advised he is one <strong>of</strong> 97,000 people in Tasmania that Bikes<br />
Tasmania encourages to “go for a ride at least once a week”. Council<br />
is very active in bike tracks with the new track from Beaconsfield<br />
through to Beauty Point.<br />
Mr Gourlay submitted plans drawn up for council’s review, one section<br />
4.4 kilometres the other section is 2.5 kilometres. We have an<br />
opportunity which is also one hundred percent owned by the Council,<br />
Government, Tas Ports or some form or another to have a first class<br />
bicycle track. There is another route closer to the highway which is a<br />
route which is possibly being considered by council.<br />
Bicycle tracks take two forms one is for people going to work a shorter<br />
route they can safely ride the other is fitness style <strong>of</strong> track. I propose<br />
the fitness style <strong>of</strong> track that goes out around the river and it’s not<br />
uniquely for bikes it is an open track for riding, walking, running,<br />
walking dogs, prams etc. The area is 4.4 kilometres from Tailrace<br />
through to Cormiston Creek.<br />
Mr Gourlay believes the State Government has grant funds available<br />
for bicycle tracks. If we can ascertain a grant it would be very valuable<br />
to the community for fitness or enjoying our beautiful river.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mr Gourlay for his comments and advised council<br />
has been looking very seriously at walking tracks and dual purpose<br />
tracks and going around the river’s edge is an area council’s<br />
Recreation Officer is investigating.<br />
2. Mrs Janice Barker, Rosevears - Chairperson, Rosevears Oval<br />
Community Group<br />
Mrs Barker advised she is the Chairperson for the newly formed group<br />
called Rosevears Oval Community Group.<br />
On 20 February 2012 over 50 individuals gathered at the Rosevears<br />
oval, local residents, ratepayers, recreational users <strong>of</strong> the Rosevears<br />
oval and the Diggers Cricket Club have formed a group called the<br />
Rosevears Oval Community Group. This group respectively requests<br />
council to ensure that the public amenities at the Rosevears oval are<br />
retained and to work with council for future planning <strong>of</strong> the oval.<br />
Without basic facilities the oval is not being used to its full potential.<br />
With Council’s vision statement “an active and effective community<br />
enhancing West Tamar as the desired placed to live, work and visit”<br />
and the finding <strong>of</strong> the West Tamar Community Health and Wellbeing<br />
Mapping Project in 2011 which clearly demonstrates community issues<br />
that the development and expansion <strong>of</strong> public recreational spaces.<br />
The group suggests that the development <strong>of</strong> the Rosevears oval<br />
council to replace the toilet facilities in the next capital budget.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mrs Barker for her comments.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
The Community Services Manager advised the Recreational<br />
Development Unit has discussed with matter in line with possible future<br />
plans for the ground and aware <strong>of</strong> this group’s meeting. Council’s<br />
Recreation Officer will contact the group to discuss.<br />
3. Mr Tony Webb, Rosevears – Rosevears Oval<br />
Mr Webb provided a brief history <strong>of</strong> the oval. The current ground is the<br />
second ground located in Rosevears. The current site was given or<br />
sold to the Beaconsfield Council by Edward Luck for one pound. A<br />
condition was the ground would be used for recreational purposes.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mr Webb for his comments.<br />
4. Mrs Robin MacDonald, Rosevears – Rosevears Oval<br />
Mrs MacDonald is a representative <strong>of</strong> the Rosevears Garden Club and<br />
supports the continued use <strong>of</strong> the Rosevears oval for local residents as<br />
part <strong>of</strong> our health and wellbeing. Please place toilet amenities on the<br />
budget with construction by Christmas.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mrs MacDonald for her comments.<br />
5. Mr David Orr, Rosevears – Rosevears Oval<br />
Mr Orr’s has lived in Rosevears for eleven years and his property<br />
overlooks the oval. He was very disappointing when the toilets were<br />
closed as many recreational cyclists called in on their way past,<br />
tourists, mobile homes, stopping for a cup <strong>of</strong> tea and use <strong>of</strong> the toilet<br />
amenities. I request Council to seek funding from community grants<br />
Federal and local to assist in the construction <strong>of</strong> unisex toilet facilities<br />
for everyone to use.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mr Orr for his comments regarding the<br />
development <strong>of</strong> facilities at the oval.<br />
6. Ms Alison Priest, Badger Head - Co-ordinator <strong>of</strong> the Beaconsfield<br />
Online Access Centre, Beaconsfield<br />
Ms Priest raised the policy that council is proposing to start paying<br />
rents on council properties.<br />
The Beaconsfield Online Access Centre has been in the Old<br />
Courthouse for eleven years at the time when the centre went into the<br />
building her understanding is that it was in bad disrepair and work for<br />
the dole projects over the last ten years that has maintained the<br />
building somewhat. Council has had a small budget <strong>of</strong> $5,000 for<br />
maintenance and up until last year when a considerable amount was<br />
spent on the outside <strong>of</strong> the building and painting there has not been a<br />
lot <strong>of</strong> money allocated.<br />
We were not aware that council was even considering charging rents<br />
until receiving an email from the Recreation Officer last week. At the<br />
end <strong>of</strong> the financial year last year the centre had $105 left in the bank<br />
account. If council start charging rent the centre will not be there.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
The Mayor thanked Ms Priest for her comments. Council is adopting a<br />
policy for all council owned buildings and not putting dollar figures at<br />
this point in time, when we get to that stage council will talk individually<br />
to groups and take into consideration the concerns that you have and<br />
the ability you may or may not have to make a contribution towards the<br />
upkeep <strong>of</strong> facilities that council does provide. It is not uncommon for<br />
local government to have a policy in this particular area and something<br />
council feel needs to be put in place. Council will not be unreasonable<br />
in any area but it is fair that council have a policy on all council<br />
buildings.<br />
7. Mr Philip Ridyard, Rosevears – Rosevears Oval<br />
Mr Ridyard supports the Rosevears Oval Community Group and<br />
participates in cricket matches at the oval over the last three years.<br />
Ladies use toilet facilities at a house nearby with the men having no<br />
facilities available. Why the toilets were originally locked, probably<br />
because they were falling to pieces - well why they were not replaced?<br />
In addition to the casual use <strong>of</strong> the oval which includes the Diggers<br />
Cricket Club, many cyclists travel from Launceston along Rosevears<br />
Drive, who relieve themselves along Rosevears Drive. Along with the<br />
long standing issue at Rosevears with the safety <strong>of</strong> pedestrians and<br />
requests for additional street lighting. The oval could potentially be a<br />
safe recreational area for the community with those people who are<br />
currently walking along the drive could actually walk around the oval.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mr Ridyard for his comments. The mayor advised<br />
the cost <strong>of</strong> public toilets even a unisex toilet will cost in the vicinity <strong>of</strong><br />
over $100,000. Council will review the matter and report back to the<br />
group.<br />
8. Mr Rob Meldrum, Riverside - President Riverside Tennis Club<br />
Mr Meldrum advises his Club understands council need to develop a<br />
regional charging policy framework and hope council will take on board<br />
the history, facilities where the land has been donated and constructed<br />
by members <strong>of</strong> the club and dutifully maintained over a long period <strong>of</strong><br />
time and not adopt the one size fits all approach.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mr Meldrum and advised council will discuss with<br />
all groups and any issues will be discussed and worked out.<br />
9. Miss Jo Ford, Legana<br />
Why doesn’t Legana not have a Community Centre? As there are a<br />
number <strong>of</strong> elderly people at Legana with no option to transport. Need<br />
to think about the younger and older generations, Beaconsfield has a<br />
skate park we need something for Legana.<br />
The Mayor thanked Miss Ford and advised her there is a Community<br />
Centre at Legana at the Memorial Hall. With the development occurring<br />
in Legana a lot <strong>of</strong> work has been undertaken by council with quality<br />
facilities for our residents. Council will be making provision for the<br />
community for both sporting and recreational pursuits. The Mayor<br />
further advised the Windsor Community Precinct is available for<br />
Legana residents and only 10 minutes away. The Mayor looks forward<br />
to the day when council can provide something suitable for all ages at<br />
Legana.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
10. Mr Dominic Gould - Rosevears Oval Group<br />
Mr Gould is a member <strong>of</strong> the Diggers Club supporting the Rosevears<br />
Oval Group. Outgrown the ground at the Windsor Community Precinct,<br />
so it would be great to have two grounds instead <strong>of</strong> one.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mr Gould for his comments.<br />
11. Mr Kerry Finch, MLC Member for Rosevears – Rosevears Oval<br />
Group<br />
Mr Finch’s electoral area covers West Tamar area. Mr Finch supports<br />
the group and has been working with the Diggers Cricket Club for two<br />
years to help solve their problem <strong>of</strong> a ground to play on. Council’s<br />
Works Manager, David Gibbins has been working with the club to<br />
support them.<br />
The club’s dream is to go back to Rosevears which was the Diggers<br />
Cricket Club. A lot <strong>of</strong> groups would make use <strong>of</strong> a centre developed<br />
with toilets, children’s play area with the Diggers located back there<br />
could be an opportunity to reinstall a community hall so the<br />
development could be a fantastic community facility for the West<br />
Tamar.<br />
The Mayor thanked Mr Finch for his comments.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
Mayor, Barry Easther declared a pecuniary interest and left the meeting at 2.08pm.<br />
The Deputy Mayor, Christina Holmdahl took the Chair.<br />
Cr Watson left the meeting at 2.08pm.<br />
29/12 GEN MAN 1 GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT: NOMINATION FOR POSITION OF<br />
PRESIDENT, LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION OF TASMANIA<br />
(LGAT)<br />
1) Introduction<br />
The purpose <strong>of</strong> this report is for council to consider the nomination <strong>of</strong> Mayor<br />
Barry Easther for the position <strong>of</strong> President, Local Government Association <strong>of</strong><br />
Tasmania.<br />
2) Background<br />
Correspondence was received from the Tasmanian Electoral Office<br />
requesting nominations for the position <strong>of</strong> President <strong>of</strong> LGAT and also<br />
membership <strong>of</strong> the General Management Committee for a two year period<br />
from July 2012. Mayor Barry Easther currently holds the position <strong>of</strong><br />
President and has expressed interest in nominating for the again. As the<br />
nominator, council must authorise the nominations.<br />
Nominations must be received by the Tasmanian Electoral Office by 5.00 pm<br />
on Wednesday 18 April 2012, therefore requiring council to authorise the<br />
nomination at the 20 March meeting.<br />
3) Strategic/Annual Plan/Council Policy<br />
Not applicable.<br />
4) Statutory Requirements<br />
Not applicable.<br />
5) Government Departments<br />
The Tasmanian Electoral Office is responsible for holding the election.<br />
6) Community Consultation<br />
Not applicable.<br />
7) Alternative Options<br />
Council may authorise or not authorise the nomination.<br />
8) Financial Impact<br />
Not applicable.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
9) Officer’s Comments<br />
Mayor Easther is currently the President <strong>of</strong> LGAT and automatically sits as a<br />
director on the Board <strong>of</strong> the Australian Local Government Association and it<br />
seems appropriate that he continues in this role.<br />
Ian Pearce<br />
GENERAL MANAGER<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Kearney seconded Cr Shegog that council authorise the<br />
nomination <strong>of</strong> Mayor Barry Easther for the position <strong>of</strong> President <strong>of</strong> the Local<br />
Government Association <strong>of</strong> Tasmania.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 7/0<br />
Mayor, Barry Easther returned to the meeting at 2.10pm and resumed the<br />
chair. Cr Watson returned to the meeting at 2.10pm.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
30/12 GEN MAN 2 GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT: WATER AND SEWERAGE REFORM<br />
1) Introduction<br />
The purpose <strong>of</strong> this report is to determine a formal council position on a<br />
proposal to form a single water and sewerage corporation for the State.<br />
2) Background<br />
In September 2011 Mr Hampton advised all councils, at the LGAT general<br />
meeting, that he was reviewing the setting up <strong>of</strong> the regional water and<br />
sewerage corporations as a single statewide corporation. He had presented<br />
a scenario that allowed all councils (owners) to be better <strong>of</strong>f financially than<br />
staying as regional corporations. Mr Hampton had engaged accounting firm<br />
Deloitte to review the merger material and report on:<br />
• The reasonableness <strong>of</strong> the savings forecast, and<br />
• The reasonableness <strong>of</strong> the proposed equity split;<br />
At the LGAT General Meeting on 16 November 2011, standing orders were<br />
suspended so the merits <strong>of</strong> establishing a single water and sewerage<br />
corporation could be debated. Mr Garcia advised the meeting that Mr<br />
Hampton had conceded that the 1 July 2012 timeline would be very difficult<br />
to achieve and that the Deloitte report would be available the next week. The<br />
meeting passed the following resolution unanimously:<br />
“that the matter be deferred pending the provision <strong>of</strong> an independent due<br />
diligence report.”<br />
Council received the Deloitte report on 22 November 2011 and the report<br />
confirmed the reasonableness <strong>of</strong> the savings assumptions, and suggested<br />
that savings could be greater than the $ 5m forecast.<br />
After the release <strong>of</strong> the Deloitte report many councils approached the LGAT<br />
requesting regional forums, seeking advice and a more detailed governance<br />
document. The Water and Sewerage Working Group established at the<br />
August General Meeting reconvened in December 2011 to develop a more<br />
detailed document to assist council. This document was forwarded to council<br />
in December 2011.<br />
A LGAT regional forum was held at Windsor Community Precinct, Riverside<br />
on 2 February 2012 and was attended by representatives <strong>of</strong> all eight<br />
northern councils. Allan Garcia provided an overview <strong>of</strong> the December<br />
document and the progress to date in the other two regions.<br />
Council has discussed the matter <strong>of</strong> water and sewerage reform at<br />
workshops held in November 2011 and January 2012.<br />
3) Strategic/Annual Plan/Council Policy<br />
Not applicable.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
4) Statutory Requirements<br />
The Water and Sewerage Industry Act 2008 is the legislation that governs<br />
the operation <strong>of</strong> water and sewerage service delivery in the State. The<br />
changes being debated would require significant amendments to the Act.<br />
5) Government Departments<br />
Not applicable.<br />
6) Community Consultation<br />
Not applicable however there is growing support for water and sewerage<br />
reform which is being led by the political parties, the press and local<br />
communities.<br />
7) Alternative Options<br />
Council may authorise, not authorise or amend the recommendation.<br />
8) Financial Impact<br />
Financial savings that are perceived as a result <strong>of</strong> the setting up <strong>of</strong> a single<br />
statewide corporation could see increased dividends paid to the owner<br />
councils, reduced increases in water and sewerage charges to users <strong>of</strong> the<br />
system or a combination <strong>of</strong> both.<br />
9) Officer’s Comments<br />
Both State political parties still support the creation <strong>of</strong> one Water and<br />
Sewerage Corporation with the only difference being the Labor Party has left<br />
the issue to Local Government to resolve, while the Liberal Party will make<br />
the changes.<br />
There are problems with the current legislation and operation <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Corporations and these have been acknowledged by the Board and owner<br />
councils. Such matters include:<br />
• The relationship and communications between the corporation and the<br />
councils through the Owners Representatives has not worked;<br />
• The role <strong>of</strong> the State Government in the selection <strong>of</strong> the Board members<br />
is seen as interference with no input by councils;<br />
• Lack <strong>of</strong> council input into the corporations regarding future planning and<br />
works;<br />
• The requirement for the corporations to appear before Budget Estimates<br />
Committee;<br />
• The operation <strong>of</strong> Onstream which has now been absorbed into the three<br />
corporations.<br />
Local government needs to avoid the matter becoming a political issue at the<br />
next election and need to manage the outcome rather than having it<br />
imposed.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
The matter is to be discussed and voted on at the next general meeting <strong>of</strong><br />
LGAT to be held on 28 March 2012.<br />
Ian Pearce<br />
GENERAL MANAGER<br />
RECOMMENDATION<br />
That council supports moving to a single statewide water and sewerage<br />
corporation subject to the agreed resolution <strong>of</strong> matters regarding the Board<br />
selection, one vote per owner council, maintenance <strong>of</strong> employee numbers in<br />
each region, priority dividend distribution being maintained until at least 13<br />
November 2013 on a regional basis and future dividend (post priority<br />
dividend distribution) distribution based on Miles Hampton equity distribution.<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Allen seconded Cr Woinarski that council supports moving to a<br />
single statewide water and sewerage corporation subject to the agreed<br />
resolution <strong>of</strong> matters regarding the Board selection, one vote per owner<br />
council, maintenance <strong>of</strong> ratio <strong>of</strong> employee numbers in each region, priority<br />
dividend distribution being maintained until at least 13 November 2013 on a<br />
regional basis and future dividend (post priority dividend distribution)<br />
distribution based on Miles Hampton equity distribution.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
31/12 CORP 1 SENIOR ACCOUNTANT’S REPORT: FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL PLAN<br />
2012/13 TO 2016/17<br />
1) Introduction<br />
The purpose <strong>of</strong> this report is to consider the adoption <strong>of</strong> council’s Financial<br />
Plan 2012/13 to 2016/17 (2013-2017).<br />
2) Background<br />
The Financial Plan (as attached) for 2013-2017 forms part <strong>of</strong> the<br />
management <strong>of</strong> council’s finances. The Plan is adopted on a rolling basis, in<br />
that it is reviewed on an annual basis. The Financial Plan 2013-2017 will<br />
supersede the Financial Plan 2012-2016 completed in 2011.<br />
3) Strategic/Annual Plan/Council Policy<br />
One <strong>of</strong> the program objectives <strong>of</strong> The Strategic Plan 2009-2014 is to ‘provide<br />
sustainable and responsible financial management <strong>of</strong> the community’s<br />
resources. The Financial Plan forms part <strong>of</strong> the strategy to achieve these<br />
outcomes.<br />
4) Statutory Requirements<br />
The Local Government Act 1993 requires the preparation <strong>of</strong> a strategic plan.<br />
Council’s adopted strategic plan includes the preparation <strong>of</strong> a five-year<br />
financial plan.<br />
5) Government Departments<br />
Not applicable.<br />
6) Community Consultation<br />
The strategic plan was put out to community consultation, and includes a<br />
strategy <strong>of</strong> reviewing the rolling five-year financial plan.<br />
7) Alternative Options<br />
Council may adopt the Financial Plan as is, or further amend the plan as<br />
required.<br />
8) Financial Impact<br />
The main financial impacts:<br />
• The completion <strong>of</strong> Ben Lomond Water priority dividends will see a<br />
reduction in projected dividends leading to upward rating pressures to<br />
maintain underlying operational surpluses.<br />
• Elimination <strong>of</strong> debt by the end <strong>of</strong> the planning period.<br />
• The plan supports ongoing financial sustainability and long-term funding<br />
for the renewal <strong>of</strong> council infrastructure.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
9) Officer’s Comments<br />
The Financial Plan has been reviewed by the Finance & Economic<br />
Development Unit and presented to a council workshop. The Finance &<br />
Economic Development Unit recommends the Plan for adoption.<br />
Jason Barker<br />
SENIOR ACCOUNTANT<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Watson seconded Cr Kaye that council adopts the Financial Plan<br />
2013-2017.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
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32/12 COM 1 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER’S REPORT: REQUEST FOR<br />
COUNCIL’S SUPPORT FOR THE CYCLING CODE OF CONDUCT<br />
BROCHURE<br />
1) Introduction<br />
The purpose <strong>of</strong> this report is for council to consider the merits <strong>of</strong> endorsing a<br />
Cycling Code <strong>of</strong> Conduct created by Cycling Tasmania (refer Attachment A).<br />
2) Background<br />
The West Tamar Community Road Safety Partnership (WTCRSP) Action<br />
Plan 2012 has identified “Sharing the Road” as one <strong>of</strong> its key priorities. The<br />
target group for this priority are cyclists, drivers, older drivers and<br />
pedestrians. Membership <strong>of</strong> WTCRSP includes representation from TBUG<br />
(Tasmanian Bicycle Users Group). TBUG in conjunction with Cycling<br />
Tasmania have developed a “Code <strong>of</strong> Conduct for Cyclists.” The aim <strong>of</strong> the<br />
code is to clarify road rules for both bunch and individual riders and to create<br />
some peer pressure to make sure riders, particularly bunches, do not get<br />
into conflict with drivers and residents.<br />
The following points should also be noted:<br />
• Project is funded by RACT and Dept <strong>of</strong> Sport & Recreation.<br />
• Code will be endorsed by DIER (Dept <strong>of</strong> Infrastructure Energy &<br />
Resources) and Tasmania Police.<br />
• Louise Padgett (nee Yaxley) will endorse the code as an ambassador<br />
for the Amy Gillett Foundation.<br />
• Distribution: Statewide<br />
3) Strategic/Annual Plan/Council Policy<br />
According to council’s strategic plan 2009 - 2014 one <strong>of</strong> the key areas is<br />
community and its goal is: An engaged community where partnerships are<br />
established, needs identified and council assists in achieving sustainable<br />
outcomes.<br />
With regard to this goal two objectives relate to improving road users’ and<br />
specifically cycling safety:<br />
1.3 Enhance the health, safety and wellbeing <strong>of</strong> the community.<br />
1.4 To enhance and increase opportunities for recreational activities<br />
and encourage participation.<br />
4) Statutory Requirements<br />
Traffic (Road Rules) Regulations 1999.<br />
5) Government Departments<br />
The following State Government departments have an interest in cycling<br />
issues.<br />
• DIER (Dept <strong>of</strong> Infrastructure, Energy & Resources)<br />
• Dept <strong>of</strong> Sport & Recreation<br />
• Tasmania Police<br />
34
6) Community Consultation<br />
20 March 2012<br />
WTCRSP is a community committee and its membership is supportive <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Cycling Code <strong>of</strong> Conduct.<br />
7) Financial Impact<br />
Not applicable.<br />
8) Alternative Options<br />
Council may or may not agree to endorse the Cycling Code <strong>of</strong> Conduct<br />
brochure.<br />
9) Risk Assessment<br />
Risk: Inaccuracy <strong>of</strong> information presented in the brochure. Likelihood: low.<br />
Consequence: low.<br />
10) Asset Management<br />
Not applicable.<br />
11) Officer’s Comments<br />
This matter was considered by council’s Community Development & Human<br />
Issues Unit which recommends that council endorse Cycling Tasmania’s<br />
Code <strong>of</strong> Conduct for Cyclists by providing council logo for inclusion on the<br />
code’s brochure.<br />
Ixa de Haan<br />
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Shegog seconded Cr Holmdahl that council endorse Cycling<br />
Tasmania’s Code <strong>of</strong> Conduct for Cyclists and provides the council logo for<br />
inclusion on the Code’s brochure.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
35
20 March 2012<br />
Attachment – Com 1<br />
36
37<br />
20 March 2012
20 March 2012<br />
33/12 COM 2 RECREATION OFFICER’S REPORT: THE ADOPTION OF A PRICING<br />
POLICY FOR WEST TAMAR COUNCIL RECREATIONAL FACILITIES<br />
1) Introduction<br />
The purpose <strong>of</strong> this report is for council to consider that a pricing policy<br />
needs to be adopted providing for equity and transparency in permanent<br />
recreational facility hiring procedures.<br />
2) Background<br />
A cost-based pricing policy allows council, in conjunction with a licensing<br />
document, to provide facilities for permanent user groups while clearly<br />
defining the roles and responsibilities <strong>of</strong> both parties entering such<br />
agreements. At present council does not possess a pricing policy that<br />
ensures equity and fairness in charges across facilities and to all permanent<br />
user groups. As a result there is a wide range <strong>of</strong> fees that are currently paid<br />
by clubs/groups that occupy buildings located on council controlled land.<br />
Why should there be a pricing policy? Council needs to demonstrate to<br />
the community that it prioritises the values <strong>of</strong> fairness and equity. The<br />
adoption <strong>of</strong> a pricing policy sets in place the framework for all user groups to<br />
be treated fairly and in a manner similar to all other groups within this<br />
municipality. The policy provides clear direction and allows for current and<br />
future decisions regarding council business to yield consistent results.<br />
Council does not currently have a policy that ensures groups are charged<br />
equally based upon the facility provided and usage needs.<br />
A cost-based pricing policy derives its fees from some or all components<br />
<strong>of</strong> the cost <strong>of</strong> provision. Depending on the level <strong>of</strong> agreement, groups would<br />
be charged a proportioned annual fee based upon maintenance costs<br />
excluding building depreciation and capital works. This format empowers the<br />
user as they can reduce their annual fee by investing further in the<br />
maintenance process. As the level <strong>of</strong> maintenance service provision by<br />
groups/clubs increases there is a resultant decrease in the cost recovery<br />
undertaken by council.<br />
Facility Banding: A cost-based policy aims to recover part <strong>of</strong> the annual<br />
expenditure required to maintain recreational facilities. Through establishing<br />
the total annual costs (to council) for each building it is possible to categorise<br />
each facility into cost structure bands. These bands would contain other<br />
facilities that possess similar cost pr<strong>of</strong>iles and thus the user groups would be<br />
charged the same fees for the same type building. As the level <strong>of</strong><br />
maintenance responsibility changes over time for any given recreational<br />
building there is a resultant movement up or down a band hierarchy. Council<br />
would then be able to reassess its pricing structure simply by examining the<br />
fees that are applied to each band rather than to each individual building or<br />
group/club involved.<br />
3) Strategic/Annual Plan/Council Policy<br />
This proposal complies with several areas <strong>of</strong> Council’s Strategic Plan<br />
2009-2014. Specifically, it addresses Objective 1.4 as it enhances the<br />
quality <strong>of</strong> recreational activities through increased facility standards.<br />
Strategic attainment <strong>of</strong> this objective is derived through prioritising projects<br />
and by developing a shared approach to building utilisation. Similarly, it<br />
satisfies Objective 4.1 as the ongoing maintenance <strong>of</strong> quality infrastructure<br />
is a result <strong>of</strong> this policies adoption through involved user investment.<br />
38
20 March 2012<br />
A pricing policy would assist council in achieving several outcomes <strong>of</strong> its<br />
Recreational Plan (2002) including Primary Outcome 3 (evaluating<br />
expenditure and key priorities) and Secondary Outcome 4 (Improved<br />
management & programming <strong>of</strong> current facilities).<br />
The West Tamar Council 5 Year Financial Plan also states that Council<br />
continues to implement a user pay system which acknowledges that certain<br />
services may or may not be consumed by ratepayers or residents. Currently,<br />
there are user groups that do not pay directly for the utilisation <strong>of</strong> recreational<br />
facilities within the municipality.<br />
The construction <strong>of</strong> this policy would be done in consultation with community<br />
groups but does not sit within an Act. The principles <strong>of</strong> fairness, equity, and<br />
transparency will dictate council’s actions moving forward.<br />
4) Statutory Requirements<br />
Not applicable.<br />
5) Government Departments<br />
Not Applicable.<br />
6) Community Consultation<br />
All concerned sports clubs, groups, and community organisations have been<br />
notified in writing <strong>of</strong> council’s intent to consider the adoption <strong>of</strong> a new pricing<br />
policy. As this is just the first step in the formulation <strong>of</strong> this policy community<br />
involvement has been low. However, if this process moves forward<br />
consultation will be undertaken before any fees schedule is set. A pricing<br />
policy will only be successful if it is established through collaboration<br />
between council and the community.<br />
7) Financial Impact<br />
It is probable that the adoption <strong>of</strong> a cost based policy will impact clubs both<br />
negatively and positively depending on the exact formulae applied and the<br />
current agreement in place. The implementation <strong>of</strong> a pricing strategy could<br />
increase yearly rental revenue to council as there are currently groups/clubs<br />
that underpay for the recreational facilities they occupy when compared to<br />
other users within the municipality. This proposed policy will link the total<br />
annual maintenance cost <strong>of</strong> these buildings with user group responsibility<br />
providing for a partnered approach to facility condition.<br />
8) Alternative Options<br />
I. A cost based policy with exclusions - Council may decide to adopt a<br />
cost-based policy that is not applied uniformly but rather contains a<br />
subset that operates outside <strong>of</strong> the policy. A clearly defined criteria<br />
would need to be applied to determine group suitability for this subset.<br />
II. An alternate model pricing policy - It may be decided to explore a<br />
different policy that utilises one <strong>of</strong> the other three popular models (no or<br />
nominal fees, going rate, or equity fairness and ability to pay).<br />
III. Remain using the current system - There are some historical<br />
understandings that exist within the municipality dictating fees applied<br />
to permanent recreational facility hirers. While there appears to be no<br />
clear criteria for establishing these fees it may be decided to just apply<br />
the existing schedule <strong>of</strong> fees to the incoming licence agreements.<br />
39
9) Risk Assessment<br />
20 March 2012<br />
Incontrovertibly, change provides for anxiety with consultation deemed as<br />
crucial to new policy acceptance. Any change in financial circumstances<br />
can be deemed risky for small clubs and not for pr<strong>of</strong>it organisations. While it<br />
is apparent that a cost-based policy could actually see annual fees decrease<br />
for some users it should also be considered that fees may concurrently<br />
increase for others. There exists some risk that recreational facility<br />
utilisation may be effected by changes to the pricing structure and that<br />
clubs/groups may seek out less expensive alternatives.<br />
10) Asset Management<br />
The adoption <strong>of</strong> a pricing policy is part <strong>of</strong> the new lease/licensing process<br />
that will see council and permanent hirers <strong>of</strong> council recreational facilities<br />
enter into long term legal agreements. Formal agreements such as these<br />
will solve any misunderstanding that surrounds the ownership <strong>of</strong> these<br />
facilities while clearly delineating the roles and responsibilities <strong>of</strong> all partied<br />
involved. Council currently participates in maintenance on all <strong>of</strong> these<br />
structures although to a wide ranging extent. The suggestion in a cost-based<br />
policy is that council’s involvement in maintenance <strong>of</strong> these facilities will be<br />
reflected in the annual fees charged to user groups. Council will still maintain<br />
the same interest in facility condition that it does presently with regard to<br />
preserving building standards and identified OH&S issues.<br />
11) Officer’s Comments<br />
The matter <strong>of</strong> a cost-based pricing policy has been tabled with the West<br />
Tamar Council’s Recreational Development Unit and received in-principle<br />
support.<br />
It is understood that there exists the possibility that some clubs may be<br />
impacted financially through the adoption <strong>of</strong> such a policy. However, the<br />
point <strong>of</strong> equity needs to be carefully considered before determining that any<br />
such impact is unfair. Presently there is no system that ensures all groups<br />
receive equal treatment when it comes to permanent hire <strong>of</strong> council<br />
recreational facilities. Given the current financial climate it is seems timely to<br />
review historical understandings between clubs/users and council thus<br />
determining their relevance.<br />
While the exact fees that result from a pricing policy could be determined<br />
after consultation with those groups involved it seems imperative that all<br />
groups/clubs should be treated fairly and equally.<br />
Kendall Rixon<br />
RECREATION OFFICER<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Bracken seconded Cr Woinarski that council adopts a cost-based<br />
pricing policy to be applied uniformly to all permanent hirers <strong>of</strong> West Tamar<br />
Council facilities and proceed to develop a cost/fee matrix.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
40
20 March 2012<br />
34/12 COM 3 COMMUNITY SERVICES MANAGER’S REPORT: SPECIAL EVENTS –<br />
AUSTRALIA DAY FUNCTION 2013<br />
1) Introduction<br />
The purpose <strong>of</strong> this report is for council to consider the format <strong>of</strong> its Australia<br />
Day event/s in 2013. As the Australia Day event is classified as a Special<br />
Event the matter must be resolved by council.<br />
2) Background<br />
At its meeting held on 19 July 2011 council resolved to:<br />
1. Hold its 2012 Australia Day event at the Windsor Community<br />
Precinct Health & Wellbeing Centre, Riverside in the form <strong>of</strong> a formal<br />
ceremony with morning tea; and<br />
2. Transport be <strong>of</strong>fered to guests travelling from the north<br />
3. Funding be <strong>of</strong>fered to community groups wishing to conduct their<br />
own Australia Day events.<br />
4. Review the matter in March 2012<br />
Australia Day in the West Tamar – 26 January 2012<br />
Council was fortunate in obtaining a grant <strong>of</strong> $2750 (incl GST) from the<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Premier & Cabinet’s Australia Day Program. This allowed<br />
council to hold its civic function and <strong>of</strong>fer grants <strong>of</strong> up to $2,500 to<br />
community groups to hold an Australia Day event in the West Tamar.<br />
This resulted in:<br />
• Riverside Lions Club holding an outdoor community breakfast at the<br />
Windsor Community Precinct. This was attended by 300 people and was<br />
well received.<br />
• West Tamar Lions Club held a Family Fun Day at Greens Beach. They<br />
catered for approximately 700 people enjoyed the free sausage sizzle<br />
plus drinks with many more participating in the beach activities.<br />
• The civic function at the Windsor Community Precinct Health &<br />
Wellbeing Centre included the citizenship ceremony, Australia Day<br />
awards, a guest speaker and entertainment. It was a poignant event that<br />
went very smoothly and was appreciated by all that attended.<br />
Given the feedback from the community and the Lions Clubs, council can<br />
consider that the combination <strong>of</strong> the 3 elements resulted in a successful<br />
Australia Day. Of course good weather was a contributor to the success <strong>of</strong><br />
the day.<br />
Both the Riverside Lions Club and the West Tamar Lions Club are keen to<br />
hold similar events in 2013.<br />
41
20 March 2012<br />
3) Strategic/Annual Plan/Council Policy<br />
Council’s Strategic Plan states that it should:<br />
Foster and support the development <strong>of</strong> a community with a strong<br />
sense <strong>of</strong> ownership <strong>of</strong> its area.<br />
Council’s Policy Manual states:<br />
1.08 SPECIAL EVENTS<br />
The location <strong>of</strong> the following special events are endorsed by council:<br />
ANZAC Day<br />
Australia Day<br />
Australian Three Peaks Race<br />
Beaconsfield<br />
Venue determined by council each year<br />
Beauty Point<br />
4) Statutory Requirements<br />
Not applicable.<br />
5) Government Departments<br />
Australia Day Council.<br />
6) Community Consultation<br />
The community has not been formally consulted on this matter.<br />
7) Financial Impact<br />
Council’s net expenditure for the 2012 Australia Day events was<br />
approximately $5,500. This includes the DPAC grant <strong>of</strong> $2,500 which may or<br />
may not be available next year.<br />
8) Alternative Options<br />
Council has various options open to it.<br />
Civic Function<br />
• Hold its civic function the Windsor Community Precinct Health &<br />
Wellbeing Centre<br />
Or<br />
• Hold the civic function at another venue in the West Tamar<br />
Other Australia Day events<br />
• Offer funding to community groups to hold an Australia Day event<br />
OR<br />
• Offer the Riverside Lions Club and the West Tamar Lions Club<br />
funding to hold an Australia Day event at Riverside and Greens<br />
Beach respectively<br />
OR<br />
• Not <strong>of</strong>fer funding to community groups<br />
42
9) Risk Assessment<br />
20 March 2012<br />
All council events are assessed for risk.<br />
10) Asset Management<br />
Not applicable.<br />
11) Officer’s Comments<br />
The Community Development & Human Issues Unit reported that it was<br />
pleased with this year’s events.<br />
The Mayor was also pleased with the events and suggested that the format<br />
for 2013 be the same as this year.<br />
Jannie Turner<br />
COMMUNITY SERVICES MANAGER<br />
RECOMMENDATION<br />
For council decision.<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Shegog seconded Cr Holmdahl that council:<br />
1. Hold its 2013 Australia Day event at the Windsor Community Precinct<br />
Health & Wellbeing Centre, Riverside in the form <strong>of</strong> a formal ceremony<br />
with morning tea; and<br />
2. Transport be <strong>of</strong>fered to guests travelling from the north<br />
3. Funding be <strong>of</strong>fered to community groups wishing to conduct their own<br />
Australia Day events on behalf <strong>of</strong> council<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
43
20 March 2012<br />
35/12 INFRA 1 INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES MANAGER’S REPORT: TENDERS FOR<br />
BROOKLYN ST, BEACONSFIELD, KERBING & WIDENING CONTRACT<br />
WTC 2012/05<br />
1) Introduction<br />
The purpose <strong>of</strong> this report is to consider the tenders received for the kerbing,<br />
widening and drainage <strong>of</strong> Brooklyn Street between Payne Lane and Trent<br />
Street, Beaconsfield.<br />
2) Background<br />
Brooklyn Street is an existing unsealed gravel road that provides access to 7<br />
houses on one side. The existing width <strong>of</strong> the road varies from as narrow as<br />
3.0 m up to around 5.0 m. The proposed works will widen the road to 5.0 m<br />
with a sealed pavement.<br />
There have been complaints in the past from residents regarding stormwater<br />
running <strong>of</strong>f the road onto their property. Kerbing will be provided on one side<br />
<strong>of</strong> the road to collect overland stormwater for piping into an extended<br />
system.<br />
Tenders were advertised for this project; 6 contractors submitted tenders<br />
and are as listed below, all prices GST inclusive.<br />
• J & JM Williams $119,804 conforming<br />
• BPS Engineering $125,027 conforming<br />
• Crossroads Civil Contracting $126,557 conforming<br />
• Hardings Hotmix $130,207 conforming<br />
• Smartsite $131,975 conforming<br />
• Broxburn $131,975 conforming<br />
• Smartsite $145,975 alternative<br />
3) Strategic/Annual Plan<br />
The proposed upgrade works are part <strong>of</strong> the approved Capital Works<br />
Program for the 2010/11 financial year.<br />
4) Statutory Requirements<br />
Tenders have been invited as required by section 333A <strong>of</strong> the Local<br />
Government Act, and in accordance with Statutory Rule 64 <strong>of</strong> 2005. As bids<br />
exceed $100,000 the decision to award is brought to council.<br />
5) Government Departments<br />
Not applicable.<br />
6) Community Consultation<br />
Not applicable.<br />
44
20 March 2012<br />
7) Financial Impact<br />
An amount <strong>of</strong> $127,000 for urban roads and $38,000 for stormwater was set<br />
aside in this financial year’s capital works budget, providing a total <strong>of</strong><br />
$165,000 to undertake the works. This is more than sufficient to cover the<br />
construction cost plus survey, design and supervision.<br />
8) Alternative Options<br />
Council is not bound to accept the lowest priced tender and may accept any<br />
tender which it considers to be the most advantageous.<br />
Alternative options are:<br />
• Award the contract to the lowest price tenderer.<br />
• Accept one <strong>of</strong> the higher priced tenders.<br />
• Not accept a tender.<br />
9) Risk Management<br />
There are two main areas <strong>of</strong> risk to council:<br />
1) Risk to road users.<br />
The risk to road users will be reduced by the proposed works due to:<br />
- Increased road width and sealed surface<br />
- Piping <strong>of</strong> the open drain.<br />
2) Contract risk to council.<br />
The risk to council from action <strong>of</strong> the Contractor or failure <strong>of</strong> the<br />
contract has been minimised by the following actions:<br />
- The contractor is an established civil contractor who has<br />
successfully completed many similar projects for Council.<br />
- The suppliers listed in the tender submission are recognised<br />
businesses who have supplied similar products to council<br />
contractors in the past.<br />
- The contractor is required to provide full insurance details prior to<br />
starting work on the contract.<br />
- The contractor is required to install traffic management installed<br />
in accordance with the DIER Code <strong>of</strong> Practice for Traffic<br />
Management as specified in the Contract Documents.<br />
10) Asset Management<br />
The upgrade <strong>of</strong> the stormwater network will control the extensive amount <strong>of</strong><br />
overflow that is current running down the road surface and flooding out some<br />
<strong>of</strong> the private property in the street. The widening and sealing will improve<br />
the level <strong>of</strong> service and reduce maintenance requirements.<br />
11) Officer’s Comments<br />
The three lowest tenderers are known to council and are civil contractors<br />
experienced in this type <strong>of</strong> work.<br />
The lowest priced tender received was submitted by J & JM Williams, a<br />
contractor who has satisfactorily completed similar construction projects for<br />
Council. Williams proposes to commence construction in May 2012 with a<br />
construction period <strong>of</strong> 4 weeks.<br />
45
20 March 2012<br />
The next lowest price is from BPS with the only advantage being an earlier<br />
proposed start date which is not considered sufficient advantage to warrant<br />
the extra cost.<br />
There is no financial, quality <strong>of</strong> work or timing advantage in accepting any <strong>of</strong><br />
the other higher priced tenders.<br />
Mario Ehlich<br />
ENGINEERING ASSISTANT<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Holmdahl seconded Cr Woinarski that council accept the tender<br />
submitted by J & JM Williams for the sum <strong>of</strong> $119,804.50 (inclusive <strong>of</strong> GST)<br />
for the kerbing, widening and drainage <strong>of</strong> Brooklyn Street, Beaconsfield as<br />
detailed in Contract WTC 2012/05.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
46
20 March 2012<br />
36/12 CNCL 1 NOTICE OF MOTION - CR JOY ALLEN: BEACONSFIELD IMPROVEMENT<br />
COMMITTEE TOWNSCAPE PLAN<br />
1) Motion<br />
That council gives permission for the Beaconsfield Improvement Committee<br />
to move Stage 4 <strong>of</strong> the Beaconsfield townscape plan to Stage 1, to advertise<br />
tenders for the project and provide the relevant funds in the 2012/2013<br />
budget.<br />
2) Background<br />
Stage 4 <strong>of</strong> the plan is the development <strong>of</strong> a paved courtyard area in Jubilee<br />
Park which includes planting, paving, an imitation waterwheel and a<br />
backdrop depicting the Grubb Shaft building. The committee would like this<br />
stage <strong>of</strong> the plan brought forward for two reasons. One is that council has<br />
removed the large tree in Jubilee Park which provides a good opportunity to<br />
develop this area. The second is that committee members are currently<br />
pursuing a quote from Aurora to look at changing the overhead power in<br />
West St to underground power. If viable, this needs to be done before other<br />
works can be achieved along the main street. If this is an option for the<br />
committee it needs to be done now as when the Beaconsfield Gold Mine<br />
closes there is the opportunity to look at the underground power cable<br />
running along Weld St towards the Batman Bridge turn<strong>of</strong>f.<br />
The Beaconsfield Improvement Committee is an external committee <strong>of</strong><br />
council and Crs Holmdahl and I are council representative on this<br />
committee, I am currently the chair <strong>of</strong> this committee.<br />
The Beaconsfield Improvement Committee was formed in April 2006<br />
following the Beaconsfield Mine Rockfall incident. The West Tamar<br />
Community Recovery Sub-committee identified that the Beaconsfield<br />
community would benefit by substantial improvements to Beaconsfield.<br />
These improvements were to assist in the community recovery process and<br />
improve the experience for visitors by encouraging people to stop and spend<br />
time in Beaconsfield.<br />
The committee was formed in September 2006. The purpose <strong>of</strong> the<br />
committee is to provide direction and a whole <strong>of</strong> community approach to the<br />
improvement <strong>of</strong> Beaconsfield. Its mission is Renewing Beaconsfield into the<br />
future.<br />
The committees’ outcomes are:<br />
• To inspire and empower the local community to develop a shared<br />
vision for Beaconsfield;<br />
• To develop a main street program that aligns with civic pride and<br />
heritage values;<br />
• Through identified improvements encourage investment and job<br />
creation in Beaconsfield and environs;<br />
• Enhance the town/precinct to become a catalyst for tourism and<br />
economic growth.<br />
The committee’s strategic plan was ratified by council in 2007.<br />
47
20 March 2012<br />
Since its formation the committee had a concept plan drawn up by Kirby<br />
Brown funded through grants. In 2009 it was decided that this concept plan<br />
could not be implemented as it was not suitable for Beaconsfield -<br />
implementation <strong>of</strong> this plan was difficult as it was identified that utilities ran<br />
along the main street (Weld Street) under the nature strip and made it<br />
difficult implementing the plantings as suggested in the plan. It was also<br />
identified that other aspects <strong>of</strong> the plan did not meet the approval <strong>of</strong> DIER.<br />
Late last year a new plan was drawn up by Michael Hicks. This plan was<br />
developed engaging council staff and the committee.<br />
This committee has no funds and works under the Community Development<br />
Unit. As stated this committee was formed in 2006 and during that time has<br />
had numerous meeting and had a wide variety <strong>of</strong> community representatives<br />
sit on the committee. During the five years <strong>of</strong> formation little has been done<br />
to meet the objectives <strong>of</strong> the committee. This has caused many <strong>of</strong> the<br />
community representatives to leave the committee due to its lack <strong>of</strong> meeting<br />
its objectives.<br />
In the past twelve months the committee has developed a workable<br />
landscape/townscape plan; placed planter boxes and seating in the main<br />
street and held a successful community Christmas party. These projects,<br />
although only small, have renewed the interest <strong>of</strong> the community. Projects<br />
have been funded from council’s town development and events budget.<br />
3) Strategic/Annual Plan<br />
A goal from council’s strategic plan is: an engaged community where<br />
partnerships are established, needs are identified and Council assists in<br />
achieving sustainable outcomes.<br />
The objective being: To foster and support the development <strong>of</strong> a community<br />
with a strong sense <strong>of</strong> ownership <strong>of</strong> its areas.<br />
An objective <strong>of</strong> council’s annual plan is to provide development in the West<br />
Tamar by supporting township plans as required.<br />
4) Statutory requirements<br />
Not applicable<br />
5) Government Departments<br />
Works in the main street requires consultation with DIER.<br />
require a quote from Aurora.<br />
Power lines<br />
6) Community Consultation<br />
The committee was formed by the community after a public meeting and<br />
workshop.<br />
The newly developed landscape plan was advertised and put on display for<br />
community comment and is still on display in Council’s Beaconsfield Office.<br />
Residents <strong>of</strong> Beaconsfield are now excited to see a plan developed and<br />
beautification work starting in the community.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
The BIC consists <strong>of</strong> 9 community members <strong>of</strong> whom 3 have business<br />
interests in the town plus our 2 council representatives and the Community<br />
Development Officer.<br />
7) Alternative Options<br />
Council may agree or disagree to the request.<br />
8) Financial Impact<br />
This project would require funding from the 2012/2013 budget.<br />
9) Officer’s Comments<br />
The cost <strong>of</strong> stage 4 <strong>of</strong> the Beaconsfield Townscape Plan is unknown at this<br />
time and also council has previously made decisions not to pre-commit<br />
future budget expenditures. However, once the quotation is received from<br />
Aurora by the committee the councillors on the committee could include this<br />
item in the preliminary capital works suggestions to the Senior Accountant<br />
(Wish List).<br />
Council would then review the item as part <strong>of</strong> the 2012/2013 budget<br />
deliberations.<br />
Ian Pearce<br />
GENERAL MANAGER<br />
RECOMMENDATION<br />
For council decision.<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Allen seconded Cr Holmdahl that council agrees to move Stage 4<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Beaconsfield townscape plan to Stage 1 and seek costings to be<br />
considered for inclusion in the 2012/2013 budget.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
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The Deputy Mayor, Christina Holmdahl took the chair at 2.45pm.<br />
20 March 2012<br />
37/12 CNCL 2 NOTICE OF MOTION – CR EASTHER: CUTS TO CHILD HEALTH<br />
NURSES<br />
1) Motion<br />
That council write to the Minister for Health, the Honourable Michelle<br />
O'Bryne MP requesting her to reassure the Tasmanian community and<br />
council that the Tasmanian Child Health and Parenting Services will remain<br />
unchanged as a universal service, accessible to all Tasmanian parents with<br />
children between the ages <strong>of</strong> zero and five, regardless <strong>of</strong> their socio<br />
economic status or location.<br />
2) Background<br />
The following email was received asking council to request a reassurance<br />
from the Minister for Health that the Tasmanian Child Health and Parenting<br />
Services be maintained throughout the State.<br />
From: Eve and David [mailto:dave.and.evieg@gmail.com]<br />
Sent: Thursday, 8 March 2012 4:42 PM<br />
To: barry.easther1@bigpond.com<br />
Subject: Cuts to Child Health Nurses<br />
Dear Councillor Barry Easther, Mayor <strong>of</strong> West Tamar Council,<br />
I write today as a member <strong>of</strong> your community and a mother. My husband<br />
David and I gave birth to a little girl 'Amy" on the 14 December 2011.<br />
You would be aware as a parent that when you become parent the<br />
government currently provides parents access to the Child Health Parenting<br />
Service. As outlined on the DHHS website the service <strong>of</strong>fers the below...<br />
Child Health and Parenting Service provides opportunities for new families to<br />
network with other services within the community.<br />
Local Child and Family Health Nurses <strong>of</strong>fer child health and development<br />
checks at the following recommended ages: 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 4<br />
months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, 3 1/2 years. There is also a<br />
medical check at 6 weeks and a vision and hearing check in the Prep year <strong>of</strong><br />
school.<br />
These checks appear in the 'blue book' which is given to new parents at the<br />
birth <strong>of</strong> their child.<br />
The checks are important as babies grow rapidly and minor difficulties can<br />
become serious health or developmental problems if left.<br />
Child and Family Health Nurses <strong>of</strong>fer parent information on many topics<br />
including: child health and development, practical parenting tips, nutrition,<br />
breastfeeding, sleep and settling, communication, play and safety, nutrition,<br />
oral health, post natal depression, fathering, balancing work and family life,<br />
play, injury prevention, SIDS and immunisation.<br />
I write to you with serious concern, as part <strong>of</strong> the review <strong>of</strong> the Tasmanian<br />
Health Budget, the State Government is proposing to reduce these services<br />
and only <strong>of</strong>fer this service to vulnerable and marginalised families. All other<br />
parents within the community will need to go to their GP.<br />
I can't describe in words how devastated I would be if this service becomes<br />
unavailable to me and other parents. This service has been a major factor in<br />
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51<br />
20 March 2012<br />
me being about to survive the arrival <strong>of</strong> a newborn. No reading or advice can<br />
prepare you for the birth <strong>of</strong> baby, and without the support <strong>of</strong> the clinic nurses<br />
I would not have a healthy thriving baby like I do. They have provided me<br />
with not only advice on the development <strong>of</strong> my baby but provided me with<br />
advice on how to cope with a newborn. This service has been provided to<br />
mother's for the past 95 years, even my mother and grandmother<br />
remembers visiting a child health nurse<br />
.<br />
There are many reasons why this service should stay, these are just a few:<br />
• It is not just the vulnerable and marginalised families that need support,<br />
advice and help - every parent needs access to this service.<br />
• There will be significant increases in Post Natal Depression as without<br />
these nurses to spot the early signs there will be mum's in serious<br />
trouble <strong>of</strong> developing this condition. This will place a significant burden<br />
on our already under pressure health system.<br />
• GP's are not equipped with the necessary equipment to provide<br />
assessments or may not chose to provide this service to mothers. There<br />
is currently a shortage <strong>of</strong> GP in Tasmania, re-directing parents to GPs<br />
will put added pressure <strong>of</strong> the health system with many parents then<br />
taking children to the LGH.<br />
• There will be many babies that don't go to GP clinics, which could result<br />
in a number <strong>of</strong> illnesses/problems that will be missed. Early detection <strong>of</strong><br />
some illnesses can easily be managed, if missed they will then place the<br />
burden on our already under pressure hospitals.<br />
• There will be a significant increase in bottle fed babies and not breast<br />
feed babies, as these clinic nurses promote breastfeeding and provide<br />
advice to help mother's successfully feed their babies. Some mothers<br />
would give up easily, without the support from these nurses."<br />
• In a recent survey <strong>of</strong> more than 1000 Australian Women surveyed, 87<br />
per cent said rearing kids made them feel isolated. It is not just the<br />
vulnerable and marginalised that can feel isolated when a newborn<br />
arrives. Sleep deprivation, feeding issues and an unsettled baby can be<br />
isolating issues for all parents.<br />
I could continue to go on with many other reasons to why this service should<br />
stay. It is a hard issue for parents to lobby about, as they are a group <strong>of</strong><br />
people that have little time available to dedicate to fighting for this cause.<br />
I understand that the State Government needs to make cuts to the budgets,<br />
but not to this service. This is a front line service that is extremely valuable to<br />
the community. The Minister for Health is a mother herself and would have<br />
used this service and would know how valuable this is to parent's and<br />
babies.<br />
I feel very strongly about this issue and have written to Minister Michelle<br />
O'Bryne (unfortunately no response to date), I have spoken with the Shadow<br />
Minister for Health, Jeremy Rockliff and also Liberal MP Peter Gutwein. I<br />
liaised with Alison Andrews from the Examiner who was able to run a front<br />
page story about the issue. I have written letters to the Editor and am<br />
assisting the Child Health Association <strong>of</strong> Tasmania to gather signatures for<br />
their petition they will be presenting to parliament in April.<br />
As a representative <strong>of</strong> our community and a parent, I highly encourage you<br />
to bring a motion to Council stating:
20 March 2012<br />
West Tamar Council requests the Minister for Health, the Honourable<br />
Michelle O'Bryne MP to reassure Council that the Tasmanian Child Health<br />
and Parenting Services will remain unchanged as a universal service,<br />
accessible to all Tasmanian parents with children between the ages <strong>of</strong> zero<br />
and five, regardless <strong>of</strong> their socio economic status or location.<br />
The West Tamar Council within your new developed Windsor Park Precinct<br />
houses a Community Health Nurse along with locations at Beaconsfield<br />
and Exeter. Reducing this service to your community members will be<br />
detrimental to the health and development <strong>of</strong> children with the West Tamar<br />
Community and will be a loss <strong>of</strong> a valuable service that Council can be<br />
associated with.<br />
I would be more than happy to come to Council and speak to this motion.<br />
Thank you Mayor for your time, I look forward to hearing from you and if you<br />
will be able to assist.<br />
Warm regards,<br />
Eve Gibbons<br />
18 Glencoe Avenue<br />
Trevallyn, TAS<br />
The above email is self explanatory and provides reasons on why the<br />
service should continue to be provided by the State.<br />
Barry Easther<br />
COUNCILLOR<br />
Officer’s Comments<br />
The Tasmanian Child Health and Parenting Services located at the Windsor<br />
Community Precinct is currently well patronised.<br />
Ian Pearce<br />
GENERAL MANAGER<br />
RECOMMENDATION<br />
For council decision.<br />
DECISION<br />
Moved Cr Easther seconded Cr Allen that council write to the Minister for<br />
Health, the Honourable Michelle O'Bryne MP requesting her to reassure the<br />
Tasmanian community and council that the Tasmanian Child Health and<br />
Parenting Services will remain unchanged as a universal service, accessible<br />
to all Tasmanian parents with children between the ages <strong>of</strong> zero and five,<br />
regardless <strong>of</strong> their socio economic status or location.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
Mayor, Barry Easther resumed the chair at 2.55pm.<br />
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20 March 2012<br />
Cr Allen left the meeting at 3.00pm and returned at 3.03pm.<br />
38/12 MEETING CLOSURE<br />
Moved Cr Woinarski seconded Cr Allen that, pursuant to Section 15(1) <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005, council close<br />
the meeting to the public.<br />
This motion requires an absolute majority.<br />
For: Crs Allen, Bracken, Easther, Holmdahl, Kaye, Kearney, Shegog,<br />
Watson & Woinarski.<br />
Against: Nil.<br />
CARRIED 9/0<br />
ITEMS FOR THE CLOSED SECTION OF THE MEETING:<br />
Confidential Minutes – 21 February 2012<br />
Con 1 -<br />
Council as landowner to agree to an application<br />
being made on council owned land<br />
Meeting closed at 3.16pm.<br />
Cr Barry Easther OAM<br />
MAYOR<br />
53