COUNCIL MEETING NOTICE & AGENDA
21st APRIL 2020 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
49 Stockyard Street Cunnamulla Qld 4490 www.paroo.qld.gov.au
Agenda General Meeting of Council Notice is hereby given that the Ordinary Meeting of Council is to be held on Tuesday, 21st April 2020 at the Cunnamulla Shire Hall, Jane Street Cunnamulla, commencing at 9.00am
1 OPENING OF MEETING
2 ATTENDANCES AND APOLOGIES
3 MOTION OF SYMPATHY
4 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES Recommendation: That Council adopt the minutes of the General Meeting of Council held Tuesday, 17th March 2020 as a true and correct record of that meeting.
5 DECLARATION OF INTEREST BEING 5.1 Material Personal Interest 5.2 Conflict Of Interest
6 MAYOR
7 OFFICER REPORTS 7.1 CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER 7.1.1 Operations Report 3 7.1.2 Project Management Report 6
7.2 CHIEF CORPORATE OFFICER 7.2.1 Corporate and Community Report 12 7.2.2 Six Monthly Project Report October 2019 to April 2020 – Regional 21 Partnership Project 7.2.3 Project Management Report Status Report for Regional Partnerships Demonstration Project – Readiness Assessment for Migrant Family 31 Placement 7.2.4 Tourism Report 41
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7.3 CHIEF FINANCE OFFICER 7.3.1 Financial Position Update 43
7.4 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 7.4.1 Action Item Register 55 7.4.2 Office of the Chief Executive Officer’s Report 60 7.4.3 Grants Report 64 7.4.4 Local Government Remuneration Commission – Annual Report 2020 67
8 CLOSED SESSION – CONFIDENTIAL
9 CORRESPONDENCE
10 LATE REPORTS
11 CLOSURE OF MEETING
Mr Sean Rice Acting Chief Executive Officer 21 April 2020
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7.1.1 Operations Report Council Meeting: 21st April 2020 Department: Operations Author: Rob Hinckfuss
Purpose The purpose of this report is to outline the status of the Operations Department to end March 2020.
Recommendation That Council receive and note the report.
1. General Shire Works, TIDS, R2R and DRFA Flood Restoration Program
• Grader crews are continuing with the February 2020 emergent works and this is likely to continue for another month. QRA rulings for DRFA allows us 90 days to complete emergent repairs following an event. This has impacted on council’s scheduled Roads Maintenance Program. The Roads Program is currently being updated to reflect this. Proterra are continuing to pick up the emergent works in Recover software system and are approximately 90% complete. • The shire grid assessment spreadsheet is approximately 30% complete and now that we have an additional resource in Anthony Liu from Proterra this will speed up completion. Anthony joined Councils DRFA Team this month to backfill Rob Hinckfuss who is acting COO. • Trevor Jones has been inspecting the RMPC Road Network every fortnight for new defects. Many older defects have been cleared from the database at the request of TMR. • PSC has been assisting TMR with COVID-19 sign border signage • RMPC vegetation spraying is being carried out from Wyandra to Barringun. This will continue into next month from Bollon to Eulo. • The RMPC shoulder work on Cunnamulla-Bollon Road and Bollon-Charleville Road, has been completed. The next scheduled RMPC maintenance work will be the medium formation and re-sheeting of Hungerford Rd. • DRFA Flood Restoration work from the April 2019 flood has been completed on Koonawarra Road, Linden Nebine Road and Moama Road. • TIDS Eulo Toompine widening work is scheduled to start after Easter. During March the works were pegged and gravel and camp accommodation was sourced. • The airstrip at Eulo has been regraded and cleared of vegetation as part of the PSC Maintenance Program. Some larger trees on the edges will need to be removed at a later date before they interfere with the transitional plane. The levy bank at Eulo was also regraded and longitudinal cracks repaired. • The Yowah R2R and W4Q Resealing job was cancelled until further notice due to the increased risk of COVID-19 in Yowah. One load of aggregate was delivered to site which has now been covered. • Currently investigating mobile camp accommodation options and costs for work which is further than 120km from Cunnamulla.
2. Plant and Workshop – Ken Fortescue (Acting Workshop Supervisor)
Workshop update has been provided by Ken Fortescue who is still currently Acting Workshop Supervisor.
Below is a detailed list of works completed in the past month.
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• The advertised role of Workshop Supervisor has not been filled at this stage. Mr Ken Fortescue is currently backfilling that role until it can be re-advertised and this will be a temporary arrangement (say 4-6 months). A local mechanic, Kye Powyer, has been contracted to backfill Ken’s original role as well and assist Ken with various duties including administration work. He starts in mid April. • COI’s have been carried out on tippers and water trucks for continuing registration of that plant and some minor repairs have been complete on these machines. • COI’s have been received for our medium trucks which will be carried out in town by our Local Mechanic next month. • Routine servicing was carried out on 5 vehicles. • Works completed on servicing pumps and generators during recent flood and storm events.
3. Water Supply and Sewerage Operations – Paul Doyle
Water
• Water. • Bores. Only Numbers 2 and 4 running and keeping up with demand. No: 3 bore still waiting on electrical part for switchboard. • Water consumption for March. 34.5 ML. • Water Breaks: There were five mains breaks in March. Two leaks repaired at Yowah two leaks repaired in Wyandra, • Eulo water consumption 2.8Ml. The UV sensor is on back order and will be replaced as soon as it arrives.
Sewerage
• Pumps: All pump stations operating normally. New wear rings an seals have been ordered for pumps in 3,4,5 pump station. • Hours run: (1). 52.9. (2). 26.9. (3).91.8. (4). 12.8. (5). 16,2. • Blockages: there were two blockages cleared for March, all being house lines with no mains blockages reported.
Customer Requests
• There were twenty C/R attended for March. One water, two sewerage, thirteen for Qbuild, and four for Council assets.
Flooding
• Flood gates were closed and pumps placed in the floodgate manholes to pump out storm water for the duration of the flood event, apart from a few problems this went well.
4. Sewer Upgrade Works
Abergeldie is near completion of the Sewer Reticulation Rehabilitation and Relining Contract with progress as follows:
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• Cleaning 100% Complete • Relining 100% Complete • Junction Seals 100% Complete • Manhole Sealing 100% Complete. • Overall Project 98% Complete
The outfall pipe at the Sewage Treatment Plant area has been cleared and track is complete. Cleaning and CCTV work has been complete.
The Sewerage Treatment Plant Upgrade- Pensar has been awarded the contract. Pre-start meeting was complete in February. Pensar have submit there 80% Design Report which is currently under evaluation. Pensar will be on site work expected to begin May.
Media Update was released prior to care taker period commencing.
5. Parks & Gardens – Tim Higgins
The Parks and Gardens team have carried out the following activities during March :
• Finished mowing the old cemetery and tidied up the new cemetery • Cleaned up levy bank on north side back to bridge. • Tree pruning and poisoning at Centenary Park. • Trenching for electrical connection to bushlands area. • Funeral preparation – service Hearses, service casket lifting frame and crew protocols.
6. Waste Management
The waste collection arrangements for Wyandra are currently being reviewed. It appears that we are collecting waste for Wyandra residents but that they are not rated for that service. Eulo and Yowah residents do not have a waste collection service.
The Cunnamulla refuse facility is currently being reviewed for basic improvements as part of the Illegal Dumping Hotspot grant funded project.
Tyres will be collected from illegal dumping sites for delivery at Cunnamulla Refuse Facility as part of the same project. The collected tyres will add to the existing stockpile at the Cunnamulla Refuse Facility which can then begin to be cleared with funding received from the Regional Recycling Transport Assistance Package (RRTAP) program.
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7.1.2 Project Management Report Council Meeting: 21 April 2020 Department: Asset Management Author: Chris Safonoff
Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide Council with an update on the activities undertaken by the Project Management Department.
Recommendation That Council receive and note the Asset Management report for April 2020.
Project Update
1. CCEC Design & Construct Tender Process
The D&C tender for the new CCEC building closed on the 30th March 2020.
Four conforming submissions were received and the assessment of these submissions is currently being undertaken in great detail to allow a recommendation to be submitted to Council recommending the appointment of the preferred contractor.
The results indicate that the submissions are within the agreed budgets, and project timing subject to a June commencement on site will see a completion in the first quarter of 2021.
Pricing submissions were received from Hutchinson Builders, McNabb, DJ Buckley and New State.
2. JKP Design and Budget Review
The new bar and permanent attached cool room has been delivered to JKP and along with the canteen have been positioned into their final locations under the shade structure.
Works are progressing on the reconnection of services that are required as well as some minor building works to finalise the installation. It is hoped all of these works can be finalised during April.
The pricing submission from DJ Buckley builders for the build on site change room facility has been received and is currently being assessed.
3. W4Q Project Budgeting and Scoping Review
Eulo Hall - The Eulo Hall works have been awarded to the successful contractor Brock Short and his carpenter Chris Thomas. Works have commenced and are due for completion late May.
The final scope was confirmed with the Eulo community representatives and discussions have been held to agree a process with the RFDS for the continuation of their fortnightly visits during the works period.
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Wyandra BBQ Areas - Pricing is being sourced to repurpose 2 electric BBQ’s to be located in the main park and adjacent to the hall.
Yowah TV transmitter upgrade - The Yowah TV new larger replacement satellite dish for the ABC/SBS network has been delivered to Cunnamulla.
The slab works were due to be completed during March but the COVID issues have delayed the contractor visiting the town.
Yowah Road Reseal - The Yowah reseal to all roads within the town was due to be completed in late March but due to COVID concerns this has been delayed until access to the town for contractors is available again.
Information Billboards - Council are currently installing the support posts for three of the four proposed large 18 metre tourist information billboard locations. Once these are completed Warrego signs will install the sign faces and the solar lighting which is ready and waiting.
Cunnamulla Bushlands - The electrical works for connection of power and lighting to the shade structure and nursery are underway with Thompson electrical.
Procurement of plants and building materials is underway additional to this and a joint venture with RESQ/RAPAD has been established to train a number of people while undertaking upgrade works at the bushlands.
Star Gazing Area – The star gazing signage will now be positioned on the bluff in Yowah.
4. Digital Connectivity Project - Field Solutions
Latest discussions with Field Solutions have confirmed they are finalising the construction methodology for the towers between Cunnamulla and Yowah and these will be ordered in April and have an 8 week lead time. They need a finalised location confirmed by council for the Cunnamulla and Eulo locations so this will need to be finalised along with any agreements and approvals associated with these proposed sites.
They also need to finalise land holder agreements with the respective private land owners.
They will conduct soils testing and foundation design on the sites once finalised and will aim to have foundations completed prior to tower delivery.
They are still on target for a go live date of September 2020.
The stage 2 funding package has been submitted and is awaiting a response.
5. Deep Creek Bridge
Following the tender from RoadTek being received above the current budget, a revised design was prepared incorporating a Wagner carbon fibre composite deck and RoadTek have been able to achieve this revised design approach within budget.
Final design is now approved for construction by Osborn engineers and a contract will be resolved with RoadTek and a programme for the works can be established.
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The planning and pricing of the associated side track to the south of Deep Creek Bridge has also commenced and this work is planned to be undertaken by local contractors and be completed prior to the bridge being decommissioned for the works to occur.
6. Airport Upgrade Works
Advanced Airport Lighting have completed all of their works including the 2 new wind socks. They still have to demobilise their equipment which has been delayed due to the weather.
Colas have completed the re sealing works at the airport along with the temporary line marking works. The final line marking will be completed in 6 weeks when the bitumen has stopped bleeding.
7. CCTV/Town Lighting Upgrade
The town CCTV camera program was won by Field Solutions Group and includes Eulo and Wyandra. Additional CCTV signage will be installed on the entrances of those towns so that they meet council’s legal and privacy requirements and these signs have been ordered.
The cameras and associated recording equipment for Cunnamulla, Eulo and Wyandra should all arrive in approximately 10 weeks pending procurement delays from China. All posts have been agreed between QPS & Council, and checked by Ergon for suitability and asset recording purposes.
Council have been in discussions with QPS to confirm the locations around Cunnamulla for some additional lighting to address current low light areas with a view of improving safety.
8. Sewer Treatment Plant
The Sewer Treatment Plant was awarded to Pensar, and the design process is continuing well, with the 80% design milestone having now been achieved.
Pensar are now able to order the larger equipment which was approved in the 80% design which comprise the longest lead time items. They are now focussed on completing the final 20% of the design for approval.
Site commencement is currently still targeted as the middle of May with a completion date of November 2020.
The STP outfall pipe relining has been completed as an early works project.
9. Flood Gauges
The two new flood gauges located at Humeburn and Alroy’s Crossing have commenced.
The installation of the foundations and the steel framing will be completed in April and then the commissioning of these can be undertaken by others.
10. Wyandra SES toilet facility
Works have commenced on the construction of a new external toilet at the Wyandra SES facility. These works are due for completion in April.
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Budget Indicator CAPITAL PROJECTS 2019-20
Within Budget √
Overspent ×
Wednesday, 8th of April, 2020
Actual + % Spent and Remaining Budget based on Budget Funding % Planning & % Job No Description Original Budget Construction Comments / Progress / Next Actions Committed Committed Actual + Committed Indicator Program Design Complete Complete Information Technology Field Solutions have been awarded the contract and 50% BoR are processing well with land owner agreements. 1140-0010 Digital Connectivity Project $500,000.00 $38,502.32 8% $461,497.68 / 50% 50% √ The B.O.R application has been submitted for Private additional funding and are still awaiting a response. Upgrade of CCTV and Lighting in Cunnamulla, as well as adding additional cameras to Wyandra. Wi-Fi (digital connectivity project) to be utilised for cameras. After an extensive evaluation of submissions, the successful contractor has been awarded to Field Solutions. Field Solutions have been 1140-0020 Safer Communities Fund $500,000.00 $461,635.24 92% $38,364.76 SCF 90% √ progressing well on the project and a completion date is set for the end of May. Ergon Energy has given approval to work on all premises and EWR’s are to completed for each sight. The QPS are now required to provide Council with locations where security spotlights are needed. Report Group Total: $1,000,000.00 $500,137.56 $499,862.44 Disaster Management This is a project combined with the Merwah Shire. This project is currently being finalised with the 2370-0010-0005 Flood Gauges Upgrade $104,000.00 $23,160.85 22% $80,839.15 100% 75% √ Project Coordinator. The slab and pipework have been completed at Humeburn and Alroy Crossing. Report Group Total: $104,000.00 $23,160.85 $80,839.15 Council Buildings A scope for works has been put in place to make amendments for essential works to be carried at the TBA Building Renewals $281,616.65 - 0% $281,616.65 50% √ Pensioner Units. Currently awaiting quotes for flooring works and guttering. The Tender for the CCEC Projected closed on 30/03/2020. Four submissions were received and are 2390-0100-0006 CCEC Detailed Design - MIPPP2 $227,272.73 $192,486.60 85% $34,786.13 MIPPP2 80% √ currently being analysed against the evaluation criteria to establish a recommended contractor. The SES block has been proposed, a scope and source quotes are being prepared. Nick Land has been 2390-0100-2001 Wyandra Amenities Block $28,317.00 $16,684.50 59% $11,632.50 SESSGF 90% √ awarded the works commencing this month. The plumbing works are to commence Easter. 2390-0120 CCEC - LGGSP 2019-21 $1,325,000.00 $257,703.58 19% $1,067,296.42 10% Refer above to CCEC. √ All works have been completed. 2390-0300 WIP -LGGSP Evac Centre $392,236.43 $513,813.65 131% ($121,577.22) × LGGSP 100% 100% Report Group Total: $2,254,442.81 $1,002,134.60 $1,252,308.21
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Airport Cunnamulla Aerodrome Upg - All works have been completed. 2410-0020 $554,485.00 $871,894.57 157% $317,409.57 RAU 100% 95% RAU √ Waiting on final line making to be done. Report Group Total: $554,485.00 $411,876.83 $142,608.17 Parks & Gardens Proposed upgrade of facilities as part of Master Plan include: dressing rooms, field lighting, toilets and landscaping. 2440-0030 John Kerr Park Upgrade - GPPS $330,000.00 $146,769.30 44% $183,230.70 GPPS 80% New Canteen and Bar are on site and are in position. √ DJ Buckley has submitted a tender for the dressing rooms, and is currently being reviewed.
Report Group Total: $330,000.00 $146,769.30 $183,230.70
Plant Operations Program being finalised to establish fleet 2460-0020-0001 Various Fleet Replacements $1,000,000.00 $252,402.16 25% $747,597.84 √ replacements. Report Group Total: $1,000,000.00 $252,402.16 $747,597.84
Road Construction - Shire Roads Program Job Completed. 2500-2000 Jobs Gate Rd - TIDS 2019-20 $700,000.00 $702,807.15 100% $2807.15 √ TIDS 100% 100% 2500-1000 Murra Murra Rd - TIDS 2019-20 $475,000.00 $383,874.90 81% $91,125.10 √ TIDS 100% 100% Job Completed. 2500-0728 Black Gate Road Floodways’ Proj $14,086.65 0% $14,086.65 QDRF 75% The floodways’ are currently being priced. × Final design and associated pricing has been received 2500-8000 Deep Creek Bridge Replacement $1,958,332.35 $106,993.14 5% $1,851,339.21 TIDS/BRP 100% √ from Road Tek. Awaiting Purchase Order to continue. Report Group Total: $3,133,332.35 $1,207,761.84 $1,925,570.51
Water Supply Network 2600-0015-0005 Bore 1 Headworks/Pump motor $30,000.00 - 0% $30,000.00 √ 2600-0015-0006 Bore 3 - Pump and motor $30,000.00 - 0% $30,000.00 √ Trial Meters have been installed and are being monitored for the performance. Additional meters 2600-0500 New Water Meters $150,000.00 $106,076.41 71% $43,923.59 100% 10% have been ordered, waiting for the delivery of goods √ for them to be installed.
Report Group Total: $210,000.00 $106,076.41 $103,923.59
Wastewater Network Pensar Water has been awarded the contract and work has commenced. Pensar have submitted an 80% design plan which has been approved. The current 2700-0030 WIP - Sewerage Treatment Plant $2,904,651.93 $4,325,630.18 149% $1,420,978.25 SPF 80% √ start date is the 18th of May, due to be completed on the 10th of November.
Project has been completed. 2700-0040 WIP - Sewer Pipe Network Reline $6,107,705.67 $3,539,217.41 58% $2,568,488.26 √ SPF 100% 95% 2700-0200 B.O.R. -Outfall $271,864.32 0% ($271,864.32) 100% 100% Works complete. ×
Report Group Total: $9,012,357.60 $7,864,847.59 $1,147,510.01
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W4Q2 Works completed. 1550-0007-0002 Building & Housing Structural $66,274.28 0% ($66,274.28) W4Q2 100% 100% ×
Works completed. 1550-0007-0004 Township Public Inf. Upgrade $70,000.00 $58,517.67 84% $11,482.33 √ W4Q2 100% 100% Report Group Total: $70,000.00 $124,791.95 ($54,791.95)
W4Q3 2440-0040 John Kerr Park - W4Q3 $400,000.00 $1,011.97 0% $398,988.03 W4Q3 Refer above to JKP. √ Works were due to commence this month but were cancelled due to COVID19. 2480-7000 Resealing Yowah Streets W4Q3 $100,000.00 $244,474.38 244% $144,474.38 √ W4Q3 100% 40%
TBA Cunnamulla Aerodrome $50,000.00 0% $50,000.00 W4Q3 Refer above to Cunnamulla Aerodrome Upgrade. √ Works to be completed at the end of April. 2390-0110-0100 Eulo Hall Upgrade $176,500.00 $121,556.23 69% $54,943.77 √ W4Q3 100% 10% Small additional works to be completed. Awaiting 2390-0110-0200 Wyandra Hall Upgrade $176,500.00 $47,916.14 27% $128,583.86 W4Q3 85% 80% √ quotes for two BBQ’s to be installed. 1300-0020 Information Signs Highway-W4Q3 $100,000.00 $48,746.67 49% $51,253.33 √ W4Q3 100% 80% Signposts are to be installed in the next week. Signage to be installed. 2440-0050 Star Gazing Parking Area- W4Q3 $10,000.00 $444.06 4% $9,555.94 √ W4Q3 100% 40% Yowah TV Transmitter Upgr- Satellite Dish has arrived, yet works are delayed due 2380-0010-0003 $70,000.00 $38,753.72 55% $31,246.28 W4Q3 90% 5% W4Q3 √ to COVID19. Additional lighting to be included, and land scaping in 2440-0010-0005 Bushland Upgrades - W4Q3 $25,000.00 $3,584.50 14% $21,415.00 W4Q3 70% √ accordance with RESQ is soon to commence. Quotes have been sourced for the fuel bowser covers Fuel Bowser Upgrade at and lighting. 2410-0030 $20,000 $6,546.68 0% $13,453.32 W4Q3 Cunnamulla Airport √ Shade cover has been ordered and awaiting arrival to install. Report Group Total: $1,180,000.00 $513,034.35 $564,965.65
Grand Total $19,822,017.76 $12,719,819.50 $7,000,198.26
Fuel upgrade – to go over
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7.2.1 Corporate and Community Services Council Meeting: 21st April 2020 Department: Corporate and Community Services, Libraries, Local Laws, EHO Author: Tony Koch – Chief Corporate Officer
Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide Council with an update on the activities undertaken by the Corporate and Community Services Department.
Recommendation That Council receive and note the Corporate and Community Services Report as presented.
Discussion
1.1 Liveable Community
1.1.1 Community Support
Service Program Outcomes
Service Users this Month Number of service users Service users who received a service this month 10 Improved ability to access appropriate services 5 Service users who received improved social connectedness 0 Occasions where information, advice and referral services were provided 0 15
Services Provided this Month % of Time Allocated Access/Enquiries (information, advice, referrals and assessments) 29 Support (community/community center based development, coordination and 50 support) Program Reporting (daily, monthly and OASIS quarterly) 1 Meetings Channels (interagency, community reference group etc) 20 Development (study, leadership programs, information stalls etc Community Education (workshops, programs, information stalls etc) Council Community Programs/Events (NAIDOC, Qld Week, Cunnamulla Fella Festival etc)
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1.1.2 Youth Support
Service Program Outcomes
Clients for Month January February March Total number of registered Users 8 8 8 New registered clients 0 0 0 Clients who received one on one service 3 2 2 Active Case management plans 3 2 2 Closed Case management plans 1 0 0 Improved client outcomes 3 2 2 Case management Clients reassessed 3 0 0 Service users closed 3 0 0
Description of Services Service Program Hours Monthly Achieved Total Access/Enquiries (information, advice, referrals and assessments) 27 23 Support / Client Management (case management /plans/ 90 83 outcomes/ assessments, referrals and YSCIS reporting, includes reporting, emails and phone calls) Program Reporting (daily, monthly and OASIS quarterly) 1 Channels (Drop in centre, life line) 0 Development (Study, Leadership programs, training etc.) 0 Workshops (Youth Education, mentoring etc) 0 213 Council Community Programs/Events (NAIDOC, Qld Week. 0 Cunnamulla Fella Festival etc)
1.2 Team Leader Community Services
Project Actions/Reports Status John Kerr Park Funding Building Development- Completed contingency plan In Progress Redevelopment Completed Final pre- construction qualification PHN- Funding Service agreement sent to Programs on hold due to the Department for execution current COVID-19 Plan for Community
TRAIC Grant Program Planning Programs on hold due to the current COVID-19 Delivering the program QLD Day 2020 Planning and advertisement Postponed until 2021 MOU Day Care Negotiating Solutions In Progress Paroo Shire Facility Hire use Developing a policy for use of Awaiting for policy to be Policy Council’s facilities workshopped with Council
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Blue Tree Project Preparations, Planning and Programs on hold due to the advertisement current COVID-19 Red Chair Project Preparations, Planning and Completed advertisement CMQ Regional Partnerships Preparations, Planning and In Progress Projects Meetings
1.3 COVID- 19 Continuity Planning
Community Services team are completing a Continuity plan during the COVID-19 Pandemic, working with other Organisations within the Paroo Shire to deliver essential needs to Community through a support tier for Vulnerable Clients and Community during COVID-19; Step one Identify those that are at risk or are vulnerable, complete this through current known Clients and Community through working with QLD health, RFDS, and Blue Care. Intake process of Community and Clients Approval for multiple organisations to work with them during the COVID-19 pandemic. Register for Preferred point of contact and emergency information e.g. next of Kin Step Two Action a chain of flow for Clients/Community that are; High risk needing medical support currently being supported by Blue Care or other organisations That will need assistance picking up and dropping off of groceries, medications and other essentials On the phone support for social and emotional impacts of self isolation Step Three Move to actioning Organisations to delegate officers into case management style 10 people per person to meet their needs during this time. Average person will need 1- 2 hours contact depending on needs. Begin with; Delegate first point of call organisations with the high risk Clients and Community, Filter those that are currently being cared for by other organisations Allocate Organisations with outreach clients in other towns of Yowah, Eulo and Wyandra Allocate Clients/Community that need phone and basic support
First Point of Call;- 2 Teams of 5 Officers to available to assist with contact high risk Clients and Communtiy members, via phone, at home support and for essential needs to Communtiy Point of call for overflow; Able to deliver essential items to Members in isolation, able to travel inter town. Community members that are in isolation within the Cunnamulla Area .
First Point of Call; Attends and has contact with their clientsvia phone, at home support and Point of call for overflow; Able to Give support to clients via for essential needs. phone support
Second Point of Call; 2 Teams of 4 Members available to assist with contact, via phone, at home Point of call for overflow; Able to assist with additional support for support and for essential needs to Communtiy Members in isolation, able to travel inter town. home visits and wefare check in
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1.4 Adaptation of Services due to Covid19 The team is currently tidying up jobs that have been needed to be completed for some time. Term 2, we will be assisting the school in delivering educational packages, providing support with social and emotional wellbeing, referrals and support to those families. Currently on standby to assist with essential needs for those at risk of COVID-19 to do grocery and medications pickup, providing support with social and emotional wellbeing, referrals and support to older/vulnerable people.
Youth Support • Connecting with Youth through one on one services o Via phone o Exploring messenger for youth the access o Outreach to parents around services availability to the youth via flyer drop • Care packages to clientele and potential clients • modernising intake forms, information gathering and reporting process to eliminate paper and face-to-face contact. Community Support • Connecting with Community through • Continuation of Paroo in Pink • App updating • Collating information around each organisation’s COVID-19 process, delivering information through the networks. • Restructuring events and programs to be undertaken later in the year • Defining processes and structures for annual events and programs Indigenous Community Sport and Recreation • Sport and Rec programs • Inventory of all sporting equipment • modernising forms, information gathering and reporting process • Defining processes and structures for programs Team Leader Community Services • Reporting for Service Agreements • Communicating with the various Departments around service delivery restrictions etc. • Putting in process for the continuation of services and staff during this time • Liaising with various organisations in town to undertake service delivery • HSQF updating • Business and community planning
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2. Libraries 2.1 Cunnamulla Library
2.1.1 Grant Success
We are very excited to announce that we have been successful with all three SLQ grants we have applied for this year. • First5Forever grant (which we are eagerly awaiting the early learning resources) • Strategic Priorities Micro Grant for some more IPads. These will also be utilised to operate some of our other robotics that require IPads. • First5Forever grant which was to run and Easter Family Fun Fair for Under 5’s partnering with CACH and KEYS. However State Library has just said we can still run it once we are back to normal (maybe June/July holidays or hopefully September). A musical literacy group from Brisbane were to perform, with CACH donating their jumping castle and the sausage sizzle, while KEYS (Keeping Early Years in the Spotlight) donating hot cross buns and Easter eggs for an Easter egg hunt. It is still nice to know that our community will have something to look forward to after the COVID19 crisis is over.
2.1.2 New Library assistant:
We were very sad to say goodbye to Julie Hawker who has worked at the library for many years. Sadly the family are relocating to New South Wales after buying a farm at Inverell. Julie has been a wonderful, hard working and valuable team member. However on a happier note we have Letisha Lucas join our team. I believe Letisha will be an asset to our team. I am confident she will be able to attract other young mums to our First5Forever programs while also playing a huge part in mentoring teenagers, young adults and children.
2.1.3 COVID-19:
With the library having to close so suddenly due to COVID19, we are happy to be able to report we were able to satisfy all of our reading/audio book patrons by a delivery service for the very elderly, and a non contact takeaway (return and loan items were left outside the front door for patrons to collect at times designated by them). Enough books were given to the patrons to last them 4 – 6 weeks. Even during the closure of the library we have been very busy. We have been able to do the jobs we never get time to do when we have patrons/programs on such as; cleaning out the Store Room and shipping container, pulling all the books off our shelves and cleaning them down, going through our library kitchen cupboards, doing a stocktake etc. Also State Library of Qld has sent us a link where we are able to do a lot of webinars and online training. We are very excited to finally have a chance to do this because due to the large number of programs we run and serving our patrons this is just not possible normally. No photos of Cunnamulla Library
2.2 Wyandra Library
The library was only open for three days this month due to our forced closure due to COVID-19. Prior to our closure Wyandra State School were regular weekly visitors. During the closure we will update our databases, participate in some State Library of QLD online training/webinars, stocktake and give the library a good clean. So in short we will still be kept busy. No photos of Wyandra Library
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2.3 Yowah Library Yowah Library has only been open three Wednesdays due to COVID-19. Although closed to the public we are continuing to process our Daily Report, which is basically sending out items requested by other libraries. We are going to take advantage of the situation to; clean our shelves, update our database, do our stock take etc. some online training and webinars State Library have forwarded us in link. So all in all we have plenty to keep us occupied. No photos of Yowah Library
2.4 Statistical Data MARCH 2020 Cunnamulla Yowah Wyandra Open Days 13 3 3 Items Loaned 1005 45 19 Average loans per day 77 15 6 Visitor Statistics 1304 27 Average Visitors Per Day 100 9 Adult Membership 424 156 54 Junior Membership 140 3 16 New Members 3 0 0 Requests made 94 13 0 Internet Hour Usage (hr.) 4.4 1.5 0
2.5 Highlights for April 2020
• Arrival of our First5Forever grant resources
3. Health and Buildings
3.1. Notifiable Diseases Nil Reported
3.2. Food Recalls; FSANZ 2020/39 received on 30/03/2020. Emailed to local food outlets & advised to remove from stock.
3.3. Food Hygiene Inspections: Tony Goldsworthy contract EHO officer has attended follow up food hygiene inspections from August 2019 for food outlets in Paroo Shire Council, follow up inspections have been attended in March 2020 by Tony. Tony has inspected Yowah, Cunnamulla & Wyandra food businesses; he did not do Eulo or other country food businesses this trip. He has either emailed or written to those inspected with improvement recommendations to be attended to. Tony will review in August 2020 if council requires.
3.4. Building: *18-19-04 Building application x 1, awaiting Notification from Private Certifier for Approval received in October 2018. Form 56 received on 8th October 2019 Ken Murray from AAA Building Consultants has been appointed as private certifier for property in Arthur St. Cunnamulla for New Construction / New Dwelling. Licence No: A533673. No approval Received.
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*19-20-02 Building Application for repairs an alterations to a garage in John St. Cunnamulla received, advised to find private certifier for approval. Customer has been notified of visiting building consultant on 09/09/2019.
*Building Searches for March: Nil
3.5 General:
• The Passive House Standard conference flyer received emailed to Chris Tickner on 9th March.
• Don’t stockpile high fat foods received from Tony Goldsworthy on 17/03/2020 Re-Six Tips for low-carb COVID-19 preparedness. Emailed to local food outlets & Gary Newman WH&S Officer.
• Flyers & brochures received from MATES in Construction to be displayed throughout council building, received on 30/03/2020 for Planning & Development Officer. MATES in construction are an independent charity working to improve mental health & reduce suicide within the Queensland Construction, Mining & Energy Industries.
3.6 Enquiries Received by Chris Tickner:
• Customer is looking at purchasing a property in Emma St, they want to know if there are any planning restrictions, an email received 23/03/2020, forwarded to Chris Tickner
• Chris has responded to customer request regarding bush camping sites via email on 23/03/2020 with advice & requirements.
• Bernadette Plummer from Department of State Development, Manufacturing, and Infrastructure & Planning emailed Chris Tickner requiring data around DA’s currently on Public Notification & those expected to be in the next 12 weeks. Chris responded on 26/03/2020 confirming that Paroo Shire Council currently has no DA’s on public notification & is not in receipt of any applications requiring public notification.
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4. Local Laws March Monthly Report 2020
Requests Received Results
Dead Dog Picked Up 23 Dead (9 parvo suspects) and roaming dogs Dog attacks 1 Attack on a woman in Wyandra Dogs captured 5 Roaming Dogs Dogs surrendered 1 Dog barking 7 A resident was warned for his noisy working dogs Kangaroo Untidy Yard 5 Over grown allotments from recent rain. Water Sheep Goat Meat Ants 1 Riverside Caravan Park sprayed for ants Horse wandering Horses euthanized Snake Emu Cats 9 Feral cats destroyed No of Animals Impounded 10 1 horse - 9 dogs Dangerous dogs 1 Euthanized Dogs rehomed 3 Surrendered dogs rehomed. No of animals euthanized 13 1 dangerous dog destroyed, 3 dogs with parvo and 9 cats
Priority Status Update Local Laws Council is seeking another Local Laws Officer. The selected person will assist Vacancy with animal management, overgrown A Advertised allotments, admin duties and requests from the community regarding Local Laws work. Stock Routes A position for a new Stock Routes Officer Officer has been made available. Local Laws Vacancy B and Stock Route Officers at times support Advertised each other on certain tasks for safety or conflict management.
19 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Parvo An approval from the Acting CEO and the Control Chief Corporate Officer has given the
green light for Local Laws to vaccinate
dogs for parvo. This will have a positive
impact in the community to alleviate the
occurrence of parvovirus. The vaccine will
be $30 and be paid to council by dog C owners to safeguard their pets from the
deadly disease. Local Laws officer is
authorized to administer the vaccine.
There has been good response from the
community with a number of payments for
vaccines already made.
Social Media posts conducted. Dog Attack A serious dog attack on a lady who was travelling with her husband and was staying at the free camping site in Wyandra. There were three dogs involved; one Bull Mastiff bit the lady on D Wyandra her knee and ankle. She was treated by the Charleville ambulance. Joe Lewis Troy Nelson and 2 Police Officers went to Wyandra and seized the three dogs. The dog that bit the lady was euthanized. Cat Problem Cunnamulla has a problem with feral cats. A de-sexing program to help cut down the breeding of feral cats is being De-sex E planned. Potentially, inviting qualified vets Program to come and de-sex domestic cats & dogs for a third of the price for the Local residents. Funding is required. Wyandra Two new businesses in Wyandra are in development. Potentially, a café and a F Progress camping facility with additional tourism features. Illegal Dumping Troy Drake is overseeing Council’s illegal dumping project. Local Laws is working with Troy in the assessment and to note G Active hotspots where illegal dumping has been consistently occurring. Surveillance cameras will be erected to hotspot areas. Allotments As recent rains have created good growth for grass and weeds in Cunnamulla Local Laws are working to get the maintenance of allotments back to acceptable standards. Mowing contractors are run off H Overgrown their feet trying to keep up. They are struggling to take on new clients that have left many allotments overgrown. Local Laws have sent friendly notices for residents to be responsible and keep their yards in order.
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7.2.2 Six Monthly Project Report October 2019 to April 2020 – Regional Partnership Project Council Meeting: 21st April 2020 Department: Corporate and Community Services Author: Toni Pender - Community Services
Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide Council with an update on the progress of projects and key activities delivered during October 2019 - April 2020 period.
Recommendation That Council receive and note the Six Monthly Project Report as presented.
Discussion
See Attached Report.
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Celebrating Multicultural Queensland program
Six-Monthly Project Report Template
Regional Partnerships Projects – Paroo Shire
Building a United, Harmonious, and Inclusive Queensland
Funding for projects to be delivered from 1 October 2019 to 30 September 2022
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Six-Monthly Project Report: Year 2020 - Reporting period: Oct 2019 – April 2020 This report provides a six‐monthly update to the Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs, on the progress of project and key activities delivered during this reporting period. If you have any queries, please email [email protected].
Council Name Bulloo Shire
Key Activities Benefits Participation Learnings & Feedback List the key activities delivered. Indicate the benefits/outcomes from this Indicate who participated, how they Describe any learnings from delivering this activity in relation to those For activities that were not delivered activity, who it benefited and how. participated, and what was the benefit involved or from the community. within expected timeframes, please of their participation. Include indicate learnings where relevant. partnerships as well as beneficiaries. Engage with partnering Community organisations will Discussions with individual Be mindful of the current commitments of those needed to organisations in the delivery have much to gain by becoming Steering Committee members deliver the project outcomes. of the project. involved in this project – who are involved with council. Need to work out what the project is before being able to specifically in terms of recruiting Once better grasp of the issues determine who the delivery partners will be – this will be and maintaining staff, but also and how the Steering based on the Issues Identified and strategies developed to helping to keep a critical mass of Committee envisages dealing combat these issues. population needing to access with them, we will approach 2 Selecting delivery partners without agenda could be their services. organisations who would be difficult. suitable partners to gague their interest. Establish a steering committee Stakeholder engagement and Some steering committee Reluctance by some parties to become involved in the to ensure input from the commitment by individuals members more engaged than Steering Committee – too busy, distance involved in community, business and holding positions of leadership others. coming to meetings, concern about the amount of time services is considered in the within the community, and 1. Project Sponsor – Sean Rice ‐ required to fulfil their role. delivery of the project. expertise in particular aspect of CEO/Tony Koch‐ Chief Instability in elected council and council staff needs to be life in Paroo Shire. Corporate managed. 2. Mayor ‐ Chair Because of the small population – key stakeholders are 3. Toni Bender – Paroo Shire almost all represented on the steering committee, or very Community Services closely connected. 4. Project Manager‐ Noni Need assistance from as many stakeholders as possible but McCarthy need to be able to accept help from those who are willing
CMQ Regional Partnerships Projects 2019-21 – Six-Monthly Project Report template Page 2 of 9
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5. Agriculture/Wider to give it in any form. Community ‐ Lindsay Godfrey Steering Committee members need to be fully behind the 6. Agriculture project to make it work – they are our communication link Representative/Health – Trish to the rest of the community so they must be clear McKenzie communicators. 7. Chamber of Commerce Representative – Bec King 8. Accommodation/Tourism Representative – Fiona/Doug – Cunnamulla Hotel 9. Migrant Representative – Aishling Murphy and Pieter Engage a dedicated worker to Able to focus exclusively on the Initially looked within shire for a Slow to engage Project Manager so catching up now coordinate the delivery of the project without having conflicting suitable person for the role with difficult – relationships hard to make over phone, as face demonstration project. priorities – able to keep others none willing to undertake the to face is best for community based projects – but no‐one focused as well, but also take up role. Mayor and previous CEO is able to face to face anyway… the slack when others need to be contacted Project Manager attending to other important after discussions with Bulloo issues. Not involved with Shire. community politics – both benefit and to detriment. Engage with Welcoming Cities Able to distil multiple ideas into a Paroo Chief Corporate and Evaluation Plan workshop needed to be undertaken much to develop an Evaluation Plan simple strategy and Community Services Managers earlier in the project. Would have made early to refine and embed project measurement strategy. (Steering Committee) and communications and stakeholder engagement simpler and evaluation and to capture Project Manager in the first more consistent across the 3 shires. individual/community‐level instance. Review of intentions outcomes and learnings by full steering committee throughout the project. before detail of the plan incorporated into the Project Management Plan for adoption. Develop and implement Strong communications across Project manager, Steering Media releases are problematic when they need to be engagement strategies to the entire shire with consistent Committee, councilors, business passed through multiple levels of approval authority in a inform the community, messaging, reaching all owners and other stakeholders timely manner. educate and promote stakeholders in a meaningful way. have discussed the Regularity of communications difficult when not much is welcoming communities. communication needs and happening. developed a full plan
CMQ Regional Partnerships Projects 2019-21 – Activity Plan Page 3 of 9
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Assess and review community Understanding of the issues that Interviews with Steering Have developed an Issues Register to record thoughts on resources e.g. employment, impact those moving to town – Committee and community factors that have an impact on successful settlement. housing, education, health not just migrants members, both formally and Broadly divided into: and community activities and informally to understand the ‐ Knowledge of Possibilities in the Shire their capacity to support services they provide, issues ‐ Employment welcome and inclusion. and opportunities. Steering ‐ Accommodation Committee has a migrant for ‐ Education specific perspective of needs, ‐ Perceptions of Migrants and businesses who have ‐ Community Issues employed migrants in the past ‐ Transport or currently ‐ Healthcare ‐ Safety ‐ English Capacity of Family Develop and implement a Understanding the issues that Still being undertaken Some issues are unable to be resolved easily. Some of welcoming strategy/plan for impact successful relocation to these are deal breakers, some aren’t and we need to the local area. the community and what services accept what cannot be resolved and ensure the people we are available allows the “recruit” to the town are able to enjoy their “good life” development of an “Induction without these services. Process” for all new residents – We need to accept that the shire possibly is not suited to again, not just migrants to ensure “forever” migration and make the shire the best it can be they have all the specific services for those who are willing to commit to a medium‐term and information they need in a stay. If they have a good experience, they may recruit the replicable way next person who moves into their position. Conduct an evaluation of the outcomes and learnings from activities. Prepare and provide a draft workplan for year 2 and year 3 for Departmental consideration.
CMQ Regional Partnerships Projects 2019-21 – Activity Plan Page 4 of 9
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THE FOLLOWING SECTION IS TO BE COMPLETED IN PROGRESS REPORTS ‐ 12 MONTHS AND BEYOND Expected outcomes (per Council’s Evaluation Plan) Progress Achievements / Learnings Future opportunities Businesses and services understand the benefits of a diverse workforce, learn and adopt inclusive practices to support new migrants and refugees
Local community welcome and support new residents, migrants and refugees
Prospective migrants and refugees have access to information they need to decide to relocate i.e. about the region, social and economic opportunities
New migrants and refugees have access to employment, services, support and friendship
CMQ Regional Partnerships Projects 2019-21 – Activity Plan Page 5 of 9
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General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Stakeholder participation
Key stakeholders Interest Engagement Steering Committee Introductory flier to explain the project objective members and potential workload Potential Steering Committee members – Feb on site Steering Committee phone consultations – March individual teleconferences. The following stakeholder engagement has been undertaken in the form of individual conversations with key representatives of the following organisations over the period Dec 2019 to Feb 2020. The context of each of the conversations has focused on the services that each organisation or business currently provides in the Shire, how these services could be modified or extended to suit any specific needs of migrants. Other conversations explored current business owners’ experiences with employment and recruiting and factors they think migrants need to be aware of before they make the decision to move out to the region. Paroo Shire Council Are all very understanding of Some council staff and councillors more engaged staff, mayor and the need to invigorate the shire than others. Council staff are generally very excited councillors and develop options for long about the project. term sustainability Qld Health ‐ Impacts of staffing and delivery Information regarding health service delivery Cunnamulla of health services in the capacity and necessary processes. Potential access community to translation services. Concerns with being able to get staff with suitable experience and independence to manage in this environment. Qld Education – Impacts of staffing and delivery Information regarding education service delivery Cunnamulla State of education services in the capacity and necessary processes. Potential access School community to both students to translation services. Eulos State School – and ESL parents Discussions relating to options for ESL parents, via SC Member especially spouse of employees in the shire with very limited English. CSS Unlikely to use migrant teachers as literacy of school requires very strong literacy skills of teachers. ESS pushed into it by resignation of staff member, but working well. Early Childhood Impacts of staffing and delivery Information regarding education service delivery of education services in the capacity and necessary processes. Potential access community to both students to translation services. and ESL parents Discussions relating to options for ESL parents, especially spouse of employees in the shire with very limited English Currently have a number of migrant childcare workers in the centre. Landholders From the employer perspective. Discussions relating to employment functions and issues for backpacker employment – risks, advantages, traps for the unwary Business owners ‐ Potential impacts on staffing, Economic and employment opportunities. Couple of local demand, services required employers now actively seeking to recruit migrant into their business – put on hold due to Corona Business owners – Were asked to be involved – Will be a part of our webinar series for local external who have nothing to gain themselves businesses. employed migrants
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Migration agents Potential service providers for Connecting employees with employers. Assistance in businesses seeking specialised education of employers who may consider staff employing a migrant. Will be a part of our webinar series. Migrants – in Shire Strong understanding of the Building information to understand which issues are difficulties and challenges important and what opportunities there are for new people to the area. Understanding the migrant journey and what the drivers are. Teacher from Eulo and her partner – farmhand (Irish and South African) are actively involved in the Steering Committee and providing direct feedback to PM regarding their experiences. Need to connect directly with non‐English speaking migrants in person going forward. BSMQ Advice on Skilled Migration Conversations regarding requirements for State Program nomination and potential flexibility where BSMQ requirements is different to Federal legislation. RDA‐ DDSW Additional content for Employer Discussions regarding Employer workshops and workshops potential collaboration
Additional Information
Provide any other information relevant to the project, including factors that have affected the delivery of the project (positive and negative), and how these may affect the on-going delivery of activities. Drought, floods and Corona virus have all impacted the project in the context of competing priorities for steering committee members and community participants. As the project manager is based outside the shire, focus is exclusively on moving the project forward which has counteracted to some degree the distraction of shire residents.
Some of the activities – such as employer workshops that were expected to occur in May will now need to be pushed back to at least August. Other activities that were scheduled to be a part of the second year works have been bought forward – the “Live Outback” concept for website and its’ content have been started, with the understanding that some of the content may change/expand as a result of future stakeholder engagement.
Due to drought, floods and now Corona, many businesses have put their recruiting conversations on hold. While very few opportunities are being advertised at present, there are some possibilities that will develop over the next few years when environmental and economic conditions return to some normality – agriculture‐based positions, a few hospitality based positions, nanny’s/ au pairs.
Provide information on any media/promotion associated with this project during this reporting period. Rural Queensland Today with Ben Dobbin ‐ John Ferguson ‐ Migrant Resettlement in Bulloo Shire and Rural QLD (17th August)
Western towns given $900K injection to boost population ...www.thechronicle.com.au › news Sep 17, 2019 ‐ MIGRANT families will be welcomed in the Balonne region to fill skill shortages ... Paroo and Bulloo shire councils will also receive funds, with a ...
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Dec 2019/Feb 2020 – Introductory Flier for Steering Committee
Indicate how the project is embedding new knowledge and approaches within Council and community. Still to formalise – but a lot of discussions of what needs to be done to address some key issues – eg accommodation and employment opportunities. Council and PM are actively investigating enterprises that have the potential to employ both Australians and migrants that could be viable in the shire.
Council staff are enthusiastic and beginning to look and assess how current practices could be easily modified to include migrants, specifically non‐English speakers more easily.
Steering Committee members have the potential to lead the way and show the community success with employment of migrants within their businesses.
Outline any resources or partnerships which have been helpful to the delivery of the project? Highlight anticipated future support needs, where relevant.
Will need to assist council, as the largest employer in town to develop their capacity and understanding of options to employ migrant staff.
Will be requiring financial assistance at some time in the future when the strategies have been completed for accommodation and employment plans.
Council Contact Contact for this Project Report First Last Title Name Name Position Email Title Telephone Mobile
Declaration
Declaration by the Chief Executive Officer, or relevant Delegated Authority (please tick the following boxes) I am duly authorised to submit this Six‐Monthly Project Report. The Six‐Monthly Project Report is submitted in accordance with the Funding Deed of Agreement. I declare the information and attachments within this Six‐Monthly Project Report are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, and that Council will contact the Department of Local
Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs immediately if any information in this report is found to be incorrect.
NAME OF PERSON SUBMITTING THIS SIX‐MONHTLY PROJECT REPORT
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Name Position Email Date
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7.2.3 Status Report for Regional Partnerships Demonstration Project – Readiness Assessment for Migrant Family Placement Council Meeting: 21st April 2020 Department: Corporate and Community Services Author: Toni Pender - Community Services
Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide Council with the Status Report for the Regional Partnership Demonstration Project – Readiness Assessment for Migrant Family Placement.
Recommendation That Council receive and note the Status Report as presented.
Discussion
See Attached Report.
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Regional Partnerships Demonstration Project – Readiness assessment for migrant family placement
Status Report No.2 07/04/2020
Sixty by Twenty on behalf of Paroo Shire Council32
General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Version No: 1.0 07/04/2020
Copy: uncontrolled
REPORT FOR: Regional Partnerships Demonstration Project – Readiness assessment for migrant family placement Steering Committee PROJECT MANAGER: Noni McCarthy
The objective(s) of the Regional Partnerships Demonstration PROJECT OBJECTIVE: Project – Readiness assessment for migrant family placement are:
1. To identify and understand the issues that must be considered and addressed to ensure a smooth transition of migrant residents, especially families relocating to the Paroo Shire 2. To foster sustainable settlement of migrants into the Paroo Shire as a partnership between government agencies, corporate and not-for-profit organisations and community-based organisations 3. Develop a framework for very small and remote communities to improve their diversity
1 Project Progress Summary:
Since the last Status Update (02/03/2020), severe flooding and the worldwide Covid 19 Pandemic has seen a couple of major disruptions to the means of completing the project. That said, work has continued using multiple platforms and a sense of humour.
The scheduled Steering Committee Meeting was held via a group phone conversation with council staff and individual conversations with most other Steering Committee members (22 March – 1 April)
As a consensus, governance documents have been accepted with changes to how meetings will be conducted remotely and with individual conversations being acceptable, and notes from these meetings being circulated among the Steering Committee members. (Steering Committee Terms of Reference).
A number of issues to be addressed as a part of the Welcoming Plan were discussed for investigation by the Project Manager, with some suggested options or information to be presented for further discussion for the next Steering Committee meeting in April.
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Local Government Elections and the recent resignation of the CEO have had impacts on the people involved in the Steering Committee. Whilst the SC was set by position, the incumbent Mayor is still to be formally invited to take his place, and the former Mayor is yet to respond to request that he be involved as a community representative. Paroo Shire Council Chief Corporate Officer and the Acting CEO will jointly fill the CEO allocated position, with Chief Corporate taking the lead as he has been in this position for a period, and will continue in this role once the new CEO is appointed.
1.1 Milestones
1.1.1 Project Documents
Draft Project Plan, Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Plan, Steering Committee Terms of Reference have been accepted with some suggested changes to the Steering Committee Terms of Reference to account for required changes in structure and operation of meetings. These changes will be circulated to all Steering Committee Members for approval prior to the end of April.
1.1.2 Welcoming Cities Membership
This was raised at the March Steering Committee discussions with respect to value for money and what council should expect. PM has discussed this further with Welcoming Cities and was informed that the first membership level is free, and higher levels of accreditation and the charges could be subject to negotiation on a case by case basis. On this basis, CEO has signed the Commitment form and it was submitted 6/4/2020
Table 1 - Milestones scheduled for achievement since last report and performance against those milestones:
Milestone Baseline Target Date Achievement Date Decide on and approve scope Feb 2020 Feb 2020 – some March 2020 – scope and tasks – See Appendix A for additions as a creep occurring, but with Breakdown result of Evaluation all work being remote this Plan Workshop. is achievable at present. DRAFT Stakeholder and Feb 2020 March 2020 with a few Engagement Strategies to modifications to SC Steering Committee for adoption Terms of Reference to account for remote meetings
Table 2 - Impact of achievement / non-achievement of milestones for the remaining period of the project:
Milestone Impact Decide on and approve scope and tasks – Scope creep a very real issue – already a couple of See Appendix A for Breakdown additions as a result of Evaluation Plan Workshop.
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Assessment of Current Community Needs to be undertaken in conjunction with Issues Resources and Report of such. register/community survey ASAP to allow enough time to develop solid strategies where gaps exist.
Table 3 - Milestones scheduled for achievement over the next reporting period and changes to those milestones from the previous plan:
Milestone Baseline Date Previous Target Current Target Date Date Enact Approved Stakeholder and June 2020 Ongoing Engagement Strategies as per detailed timelines – See Appendix A for Breakdown Assessment of Current Community June 2020 June 2020 Resources and Report of such. Develop DRAFT Welcoming Strategy June 2020 for Steering Committee Consideration Complete Evaluation Plan for Steering Nov 2020 Nov 2020 Committee DRAFT Workplan for Years 2 and 3 Nov 2020 Nov 2020
1.2 General Information
Employment and Accommodation are the major issues to be addressed and these will be important determinants of the success of this pilot project- we can be as Welcoming as we like, but without suitable opportunities in these two areas very little is able to change. There appears to be some work to do on community understanding the skills that Working Holiday Visa holders bring to the region and planning to utilise these skills better where opportunities exist.
The Welcoming Cities Symposium has been cancelled, though they are undertaking work to deliver the content via an online platform. This will benefit Bulloo Shire as it will enable all interested parties to participate, either live or by watching the presentations at a later date.
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2 Budget: ex GST
Table 4 - Funding Sources
Department of LGRMA – first payment – Oct 2019 $ 50 000 Department of LGRMA – second payment – Nov 2020 (plus) $ 50 000 Total project funding (equals) $ 100 000
Table 5 - Project Budget Overview
Total Project funding $ 100 000 Expenditure for Financial Year 19/20 (minus) $ 51 816 Expenditure for Financial Year 20/21 (minus) $ 43 180 $ 5 000
Table 6 – Budget to 30 June 2020 Date Planned Expenditure Budgeted Outstanding Expenditure Jan 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 Paid Feb 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 Paid March 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 PAid April 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 Invoiced May 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 June 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 TOTAL EXPENDITURE $51 816 $ 51 816
Table 7 – Budget to End Year 1, 30 December 2020
Date Planned Expenditure Budgeted Outstanding Expenditure July 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 August 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 September 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 October 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 November 2020 External Contractor $ 8 636 TOTAL EXPENDITURE $ 43 180 $ 43 180 Contingency Funds $ 5 000 $ 5 000
2.1 Comments:
No budget comments at this stage.
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3 Project Risk Management Register Description of Risk Grade Change Mitigation Actions Responsible for Timeline for (Preventative or Contingency) Mitigation Action Action Unplanned loss of Project Manager A Weekly phone hook-ups between Project Owners to maintain Noni/Carryn Feb 2020 current status knowledge Use of HubSpot CRM to maintain notes relating to the project for ease of accessibility All approved documents held on DropBox Project Management timeline and task lists held on Asana Develop HR Manager understanding of the Skilled Migration process, and the available resources Project payments every month Planned Exit of Project Manager C As above
Loss of Funding for Years 2 and 3 – change C High-quality outputs that meet all criteria to DLGRMA on time, every Noni/Carryn/Steering of government focus time… Committee
Overwhelming resistance from Community C Strong personal stakeholder engagement with all stakeholders, but Noni/Carryn/Steering to project especially those with reservations or alternate agendas Committee Bi-Monthly communications with all stakeholders Identification of Insurmountable Issue C Prompt investigation of workaround or alternate courses of action
No migrants willing to move to the area B Maintain strong connections with Migration Agents who actively Noni, and developing recruit from countries who are identified as more likely to make a Carryn capacity move to the Paroo Shire Changes to migration legislation limiting the C Nothing much we can do about the changes, other than to be aware pool of potential candidates of these. Subscribe to Migration Industry Alliance blog for regular updates. Unforeseen delays to project B Strong stakeholder engagement, particularly with Steering Noni/Carryn/Emil/ Committee and Key Stakeholders Lindsay/Steering Committee
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Risk Grading Key:
Grade: Combined effect of Likelihood/Seriousness Seriousness low medium high EXTREME low N D C A Likelihood medium D C B A high C B A A
3.1 Comments:
Project has been thrown a few challenges in the past month however progress is still being made and activity and reporting requirements being met. Lack of mobility in the area is not unexpected in terms of flood water and other seasonal factors, however Covid 19 and its resulting implications were totally left field.
Progress will continue remotely with as much background work being done as possible, especially in terms of strategies to assist new residents.
4 Issues:
Support from the community has been wide-spread, ranging from fully supportive to a little hesitant. Where PM has been able to communicate directly with community members this has been able to be turned in our favour.
Due to interruptions to plans as a result of Covid 19, work timelines will need to be adjusted, bringing forward the background work for some of the intended activities to ensure they will be ready to launch as soon as possible after their original intended date, if not prior. For example – development of content for the Live Outback website and induction packages for both the Bulloo and Paroo Shires will commence sooner than originally anticipated with the understanding that as work progresses on other aspects – eg the issues register, additional content may be required.
5 Communications:
Weekly phone conversations with Jane Jennison – Welcoming Cities
Monthly Connection with Erica Borrowdale – DLGRMA
Weekly connections with Toni re project progress
6 Recommendations:
That Paroo Shire Council, as the funded body, note the above Status Report.
Regional Partnerships Demonstration Project – Readiness assessment for migrant family placement Status Report Version 1.0 07/04/2020 Page 7 38 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
7 Appendix A: Combined Task List
Specific Task Commence Complete Date Kickoff Meeting 01‐Dec‐19 y Fact Sheet Templates for the Community for regular updates 01‐Dec‐19 y Project Status Reports 01‐Jan‐20 y Establish contacts and determine those who are interested in In Progress playing an active role in this project. 01‐Feb‐20 Understand in detail the demographics of the shire – In Progress understanding of who is already in the community 01‐Feb‐20 In Progress – require feedback Identify Migrants in the Shire– Understand the migrant experience 01‐Feb‐20 from Councillors Awaiting approval Identify Visa pathways applicable to Paroo Shire ‐ flier 01‐Feb‐20 from DLGRMA Identify the Key Messages for the community 01‐Feb‐20 Bi‐Monthly Steering Committee Meetings 01‐Feb‐20 General Project Information – Introduction to the Project ‐ Key y Stakeholders 01‐Feb‐20 General Project Information – Introduction to the Project ‐ Other y Stakeholders 01‐Feb‐20 In Progress – Identify those employers who have experience employing require feedback migrants‐ chat about their experiences 01‐Mar‐20 from Councillors Project Status Reports 01‐Mar‐20 y Speak with as many business owners and employers as possible to In Progress – assess the skills gaps and potential roles that may be available require feedback within the shire, and what skills they would like an employee to from Councillors bring to the table 01‐Mar‐20 Community Surveys 01‐Mar‐20 Commenced March Survey residents to find out if there was one thing they could bring Ongoing from the city to their town, what would that be ‐ ie potential business fits for investors 01‐Mar‐20 Survey to understand what residents believe the benefits are of living in their town…and then work out how to sell this to both the migrant and the employer 01‐Mar‐20 Signed by CEO and Welcoming Cities Membership 01/04/2020 forwarded 6/4 Identify cottage/home‐based micro/small businesses with the potential to generate a full‐time income 01‐Apr‐20 Identify resources available in town that could be utilised for little cost to assist an emerging business. 01‐Apr‐20 Bi‐Monthly Steering Committee Meetings 01‐Apr‐20 General Project Update ‐ Key Stakeholders 01‐Apr‐20
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General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
General Project Update ‐ Other Stakeholders 01‐Apr‐20 Submitted for Endorsement by 6 Monthly report to DLGRMA 01/04/2020 CCO 8/4/2020 Business Surveys 01‐Apr‐20 Understand what services are “migrant ready” or could be with small modifications, as well as crucial services that do not exist currently 01‐May‐20 The information available to potential migrants about living in the Paroo Shire/outback 01‐May‐20 Project Status Reports 01‐May‐20 Migrant Surveys 01‐May‐20 Bi‐Monthly Steering Committee Meetings 01‐Jun‐20 General Project Update ‐ Key Stakeholders 01‐Jun‐20 General Project Update ‐ Other Stakeholders 01‐Jun‐20 Workshops and tools for employers to understand some of the visa options that are available esp. Skilled 01‐Jul‐20 Project Status Reports 01‐Jul‐20 Develop some linkages for the community with suitable migration agents 01‐Aug‐20 Project Status Reports 01‐Aug‐20 Project Status Reports 01‐Sep‐20 Bi‐Monthly Steering Committee Meetings 01‐Oct‐20 General Project Update ‐ Key Stakeholders 01‐Oct‐20 General Project Update ‐ Other Stakeholders 01‐Oct‐20 Outcomes and Future Work Plans 01‐Oct‐20 Employer/ Business Owner Workshop 01‐Oct‐20 Build understanding within the community of the requirements that may be slightly different from a migrants’ perspective – Welcoming Plan 01‐Nov‐20 Bi‐Monthly Steering Committee Meetings 01‐Nov‐20 General Project Update ‐ Key Stakeholders 01‐Nov‐20 General Project Update ‐ Other Stakeholders 01‐Nov‐20 Outcomes Summary Fact Sheet 01‐Nov‐20 Develop a set of case studies about living, and making a home in Commenced the Paroo Shire – starting with current migrants, residents and employers that may be used as marketing materials Yr 2 Develop materials to inform migrants about living in the outback – Commenced facts as well as marketing Yr 2
Regional Partnerships Demonstration Project – Readiness assessment for migrant family placement Status Report 40 Version 1.0 07/04/2020 Page 9
General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
7.2.4 Tourism Report Council Meeting: 21st April 2020 Department: Tourism Author: Barb Mason
Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide Council with an update on the progress of the Tourism Program for March/April 2020
Recommendation That Council receive and note the Tourism Report as presented.
Discussion
• Year of Outback Tourism – Funding The funding council received under the Year of Outback Tourism round 4 to purchase an entertainment stage for the Cunnamulla Fella Festival is still valid, when Council makes a call regarding the 2020 festival we will then have discussions with the Premiers Department regarding the validity of the grant and the change of circumstances due the Covid 19.
The SWRED has requested a variance on the grant we received for the Eventures launch. The launch will be held during December and will highlight 2021 events. No further details have been decided at this time.
• Cunnamulla Fella Festival 2020
For the past 15 Years the Cunnamulla Fella Festival has been a major economic boost to our community. With the arrival of Covid 19 the delivery of the festival is in question. Council has several scenarios for consideration:
1. Make a call at the June Council meeting for the Festival to proceed as per usual, as per most recent plan, same date. This is the option the tourism team favours. With all the uncertainty it is in the tourism team opinion the most tempered approach, given the festival is a major economic stimulus for the region. It will also allow Council to gauge the community feel for the event to run later in the year if needed.
2. Full festival postponed to a later date. If Council choose to run at a later date, this would not have a major impact on the ability of the Tourism Team to deliver the event; it may however have an impact on the availability/willingness of sponsors, which is a major economic factor in the festival.
3. Reduce the festival, condensed program, at a later date. This option has similar factors to option two but with a lesser economic commitment from council but again could have issues with sponsors.
4. Cancel the 2020 festival and focus on 2021. This Option will have minimal impact on council finances and staff in 2020, however Council will need to significantly increase our marketing budget of the future event. If the decision is made by June 30, then there will be no issues with entertainment. If Council choose to cancel 2020, we will need to put out a date claimer and lock in our date with PBR as soon as possible.
41 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Council has had discussions with PBR, they have confirmed their commitment to the Festival, the date in August is still held, there are possible dates in September, and maybe a date in October. All other entertainment is still contracted for the August dates, all entertainment needs to be notified by 30 June of cancelations/changes/postponement.
At the time of writing this report the Mount Isa Rodeo and Birdsville Races are still to make a call regarding the future of their events. Tourism and Events Qld and OQTA are currently accessing events up to the 30th of June. Council has been advised once they have progressed, they will them continue to work forward with the events still standing at the time.
• Adaptation of Services due to Covid19
Some member of the Tourism team are currently working in the cloud based Ehive program, cataloging the museum. They are also completing the cultural awareness training online through Savannah Guides. This work is extensive and will see the team continuing their productivity into the foreseeable future.
Other team members are working on creating posts for social media, building a social media calendar of positive messages and planning, the core message of inspirational planning for 2021.
We have also begun creating a virtual tour of the Natural Science Loop; this involves a 3D camera and online training. This will be utilized in the aspiration marketing.
We are also working on a project focusing on 'The Cunnamulla Fella' with the key feature being community involvement whilst adhering to the current restrictions on social interaction and travel. This is a developing project that will be open to the entire community and then be an important promotional tool at a national level. It is a tourism and community connectedness project.
42 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
7.3.1 Financial Position Update Report Council Meeting: 21 April 2020 Department: Finance Author: Stephen Harbort, Chief Finance Officer
Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide Council with an update on our current financial position.
Recommendation • That Council receive and note this report
Discussion Monthly Financial Report
Attachment List • Monthly Financial Report for the month of March 2020
43 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
March 2020
44 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Contents
1 Executive Summary 1.1 Capital Performance 1.2 Financial Position 1.3 Financial Sustainability Indicators (Annual)
2 Capital Analysis 2.1 Capital Revenue 2.2 Capital Expenditure Analysis
3 Financial Position 3.1 Cash and Investments 3.2 Rates and Charges 3.3 Sundry Debtors 3.4 Borrowings
Appendix A • Statement of Comprehensive Income 2019/20 • Statement of Financial Position 2019/20 • Finance Actions
Indicator Legend: % Variance to Budget No action required 0 – 5% Requires active monitoring 5% - 10% Immediate action required >10%
45 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1 Capital Performance YTD Budget YTD Annual Account Classification YTD Actual $ YTD Variance $ $ Variance % Section Budget $
Capital Grants & Contributions 6,085,960 8,524,922 (2,438,962) -29% 2.1.3 12,791,688 Expenditure 7,605,205 9,941,009 2,335,804 23% 2.2 19,882,018 (1,519,245) (1,416,087) 4,774,766 337% (7,090,330)
1.2 Financial Position Original Budget Account Classification YTD Actual $ Budget $ $ Section Cash and Investments 7,812,513 11,157,968 11,157,968 3.1 Rates Debtors 2,642,353 570,000 570,000 3.2 Sundry & Other Debtors 515,624 644,154 644,154 3.3 Net Current Assets (Working Capital) 10,026,636 10,963,000 10,963,000 Borrowings 1,409,987 1,544,000 1,544,000 3.4 Total Liabilities 2,552,076 3,800,000 3,800,000
1.3 Financial Sustainability Indicators
Reported Annually
2. Capital Analysis
2.1 Capital Revenue
Minimal revenue has occurred in March. Final payment for the Outfall Pipe (B.O.R) was received in March. The next milestone payment for the STP was reached in early April with expected payment of $2.1 million in April. First milestone with the Spa and Riverwalk project has been submitted in early March with payment of $250K to be received in April. Airport seal is completed and payment will be drawn down to cover the work to be received in April.
2.2 Capital Expenditure Analysis Summary of Capital Works Expenditure As at 31 March 2020 YTD Spent and % Spent and Particulars Total Budget % Spent Committed Expenditure Committed Committed
Information Technology 1,000,000.00 393,847.37 9% 106,290.19 500,137.56 50% Disaster Management 104,000.00 2,700.85 3% 20,460.00 23,160.85 22% Council Buildings 2,254,442.81 947,671.42 42% 54,463.18 1,002,134.60 44% Airport 554,485.00 420,415.46 76% 451,479.11 871,894.57 157% Parks and Gardens 330,000.00 106,276.12 32% 40,493.18 146,769.30 44% Plant Operations 1,000,000.00 112,667.07 11% 139,735.09 252,402.16 25% Road Construction - Shire Program 3,133,332.35 1,207,262.56 39% 499.28 1,207,761.84 39% Roads to Recovery 973,400.00 106,008.32 11% 800.00 106,808.32 11% Water 210,000.00 11,115.41 5% 94,961.00 106,076.41 51% Wastewater 9,012,357.60 3,983,455.69 44% 4,153,256.22 8,136,711.91 90% W4Q2 70,000.00 115,701.04 165% 9,090.91 124,791.95 178% W4Q3 1,180,000.00 198,084.17 17% 314,950.18 513,034.35 43% Total 19,822,017.76 7,305,205.48 37% 5,686,478.34 12,991,683.82 66%
46 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020 3.1 Cash and Investments Available Funds: Actual YTD $ Unrestricted: Investment and Cash at Bank and cash on hand $ 7,812,513
Unrestricted cash $ 3,435,664 Internal Restrictions: $ 4,376,849 Reserves Transfer Budget Opening To/From Reserves Balance 1 July Reserves Balance YTD T/f 2018 2018/19 1/07/2019 From YTD T/f to Balance General Reserve $ 362,189 41,141 403,330 - 403,330 Storm Water Reserve $ 9,775 9,775 - 9,775 Plant Reserve $ 167,424 167,424 167,424 Carry Over Projects 2015/16 $ 28,640 - 28,640 - - Carry Over Projects 2016/17 $ 12,501 - 12,501 - 0 - 0 Community Housing $ 113,324 113,324 113,324 udget Approved Reserve Transfer 19/20 $ 0 3,646,324 3,646,324 3,657,466 3,694,139 3,682,997 Community Grant (TRAIC) $ - 72,600 72,600 72,600 - $ ------$ 693,853 $ 3,718,924 4,412,776 3,730,066 3,694,139 4,376,849
Council invests cash with Queensland Treasury Corporation. The council has maintained a cash balance of $7.8 million for March which is marginally better than the forecast $7.5million. The cash balance is projected to be $9.0 million for the month of April with further drawdown for the STP and milestone payment of $2.1 million and next payment for the Spa and River walkway payments invoiced and expected in late April.
47 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020 3.2 Rates and Charges as at March 2020
Rates Outstanding as at 8 April 2020 (reported at the end of Discount)
OUTSTANDING RATES $3,000,000
$2,500,000 Series1 Series2
$2,000,000
$1,500,000
$1,000,000
$500,000
$0 Aug-18 Oct-18 Dec-18 Feb-19 Apr-19 Jun-19 Aug-19 Oct-19 Dec-19 Feb-20
Comparison Mar 20 (Post Discount Period) Summary of Rates in Arreas (General & Services) Balance of Rates Arrears outstanding Yr on Yr Differential Rate Category: Mar-19 Feb-20 Mar-20 Variance Urban - General Rates 70,568 294,592 184,811 114,244 Urban - Services 391,941 1,178,368 824,315 432,374 Rural 261,275 1,129,162 380,485 119,209 Mining Claims 9,570 22,513 9,506 - 64 Mining Leases 17,131 17,718 16,936 - 195 750,485 2,642,353 1,416,054 665,569
Rates in Arrears as a % of Billing Feb 20 2019-20 March 20 % in Differential Rate Category: Billed Arrears Arrears Urban - General Rates 403,518 184,811 45.80% Urban - Services 1,799,811 824,315 45.80% Rural 1,970,451 380,485 19.31% Mining Claims 10,352 9,506 91.83% Mining Leases 39,911 16,936 42.44% 4,224,042 1,416,054
48 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020 Rates Billed for the Financial Year 2019-2020
Current Rates Outstanding Mar 20
Balance brought forward (including interest) - Arrears 555,287
General Rates, municipal and garbage charges 4,055,088
State Government Emergency Management Levy/Env Levy 128,465
Rural Fire Service Levy 3,725
Dingo Barrier State 36,765
Supplementary Assessments (Inc. Excess Water Charges) 13,151
Interest 46,305
Less Pensioner Rebates -31,633
To be collected 4,807,151
Collected -3,228,481
Discount Allowed -157,384
Write Offs -5,233
Percentage collected to date -67.16%
Actual Balance outstanding at 31 March 2020 1,416,054
Forecast balance outstanding at 31 March 2020 750,000
3.3 Sundry Debtors
Summary of Outstanding Debtors as at 31 March 2020 Category: Feb-19 Current $302,680 >30 days -$86 >60 days $7,374 >90 days $31,060 Total $515,624
49 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Debtor profile as at 31 March 2020
OUTSTANDING SUNDRY DEBTORS
$1,200,000.00 Series4
Series3
Series2 $1,000,000.00 Series1
$800,000.00
$600,000.00
$400,000.00
$200,000.00
$0.00 Feb-19 Mar-19 Apr-19 May-19 Jun-19 Jul-19 Aug-19 Sep-19 Oct-19 Nov-19 Dec-19 Jan-20 Feb-20 Mar-20
-$200,000.00
Dog Meat, $3,470 Council / sundry, $8,142 Funeral, Government & Grants, $0 $4,856 Long Service Leave, $11,168
Fuel, $12,218 Avgas/Jet A1, $3,820
Grants Invoices, $50,716
Council Rent , $4,912 Private Works/Gen Sales, $1,714 Main Roads, $240,014
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3.4 Borrowings
Outstanding balances of loans for the period ending 31 March 2020 are as follows:-
QTC Book Interest Rate Value Maturity (inc Loan Description Amount Date Adminstration) Depot Extension 2012 $286,771 15/12/2031 5.7660% Depot Building 06/07 $259,534 15/12/2024 7.0770% Depot Building 05/06 $381,559 15/06/2026 7.2980% Eulo Water $190,780 15/06/2026 7.2980% SCAP Water (Cunnamulla) $164,830 15/06/2025 7.1670% Museum/Art Gallery $123,662 15/06/2025 7.1670% Total $1,407,136
The next repayment of $69,749 will fall due 15 June 2020. QTC loans are paid once per quarter and were last payment was made on 15 March 2020.
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Appendix A
March 20 2019-20 Percentage Actual YTD Budget Complete $ $ % Statement of Comprehensive Income
Income
Revenue
Operating revenue
Net rates, levies and charges 3,900,893 4,035,517 97%
Fees and charges 132,544 261,105 51%
Rental income 130,751 164,743 79%
Interest received 161,896 273,743 59%
Recoverable Works 2,301,943 2,014,516 114%
Other income 22,457 75,166 30%
Grants, subsidies, contributions and donations 2,703,856 6,115,082 44%
Total operating revenue 9,354,340 12,939,872
Capital revenue
Grants, subsidies, contributions and donations 6,085,960 12,791,688 48%
Sale from Plant (20,266) - 0%
Total revenue 15,420,034 25,731,560
Expenses
Operating expenses
Employee benefits 4,350,663 5,446,315 80%
Materials and services 3,912,379 3,407,312 115%
Finance costs 108,294 128,085 85%
Depreciation and amortisation 5,002,359 7,192,302 70%
Total operating expenses 83% 13,373,695 16,174,014
Net result 2,046,339 9,557,546
Operating result
Operating revenue 9,354,340 12,939,872 72% Operating expenses 13,373,695 16,174,014 83% Operating result (4,019,355) (3,234,142)
NB. Expenditure for the QRA flood restoration work for the value of $300K is recognised in the books. The revenue will not be recognised until the associated claims are approved. $686K received from QRA 15/04/20
52 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020 Mar-20 18-19 Actual $ $ Statement of Financial Position
Assets
Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 7,812,513 10,596,000 Trade and other receivables 2,302,731 1,790,000 Inventories 791,587 711,000 Other current assets 5,464 - Total current assets 10,912,295 13,097,000
Non-current assets Property, plant & equipment 227,442,902 231,266,000 Capital Works in Progress 9,457,228 1,986,000 Other non-current assets 290,103 289,000 Total non-current assets 237,190,233 233,541,000
Total assets 248,102,528 246,638,000
Liabilities
Current liabilities Trade and other payables 837,892 1,398,000 Borrowings 47,767 182,000 Provisions 554,000 Total current liabilities 885,659 2,134,000
Non-current liabilities Borrowings 1,362,220 1,362,000 Provisions 304,197 304,000 Total non-current liabilities 1,666,417 1,666,000
Total liabilities 2,552,076 3,800,000
Net community assets 245,550,452 242,838,000
Community equity
Asset revaluation surplus 126,042,340 126,042,000 Retained surplus 115,095,335 116,796,000 Other Reserves 4,412,777 -
Total community equity 245,550,452 242,838,000
53 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Financial Actions In Progress • Revaluation of Road Assets In progress o Base data and roads structure has been updated and assumptions presented to Council on 11/2/2020. Work has been based on the methodology use by Maranoa Shire Council which has passes external audit. Detailed changes now progressing as well as changes to road lengths where they can be identified. Change to depreciation will be adjusted when above changes made. o Sewerage network assets have now been uploaded and are being updated to include the relining • Rates have been issues for February and transmission of overdue rates to debt collector has commenced for ratepayers without arrangements that were outstanding at the August period. • Debtors and Creditors master data is currently being cleansed as a control improvement and fraud prevention method • Data is currently being uploaded to deliver the External Audit off line.
Financial Future Actions • Sentence records beyond storage keep date and destroy – looking at outsourcing • Set up electronic storage of Financial Records to reduce paper retention, commenced in December with the scanning of the current year records. • Develop a finance improvement process – Currently working on Debtors and Creditor clean up with Governance. • Major issues with the Practical System at end of month that required correction by Civica has further highlighted to need to move to a more stable system.
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7.4.1 Action Item Register Council Meeting: 21 April 2020 Department: Chief Executive Officer Author: Sean Rice
Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide Council with an update on items that were previously raised in Council Meetings requesting information, action or follow up. Recommendation That Council receives and note this report as presented. Discussion The Action Item Register (Attachment A) has been updated based on discussion at the previous month’s Council meeting and follow up by the responsible officer.
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Attachment A – Action Item Register Council Date Item Raised Action/Information Required Officer Status Raised Responsible 16 July, 2019 – Council established an interim Steering Committee – Mayor Godfrey, Cr Beresford, Cr Woodcroft, Jock Jones, Barb Mason, CEO and Chris Woodland from Bulloo Shire Council. 11/10/2019 – Second Planning Meeting held. 20/11/2018 Council request that a Business Plan 17/12/2019 – Presentation and discussion at Council Meeting Riverwalk and Spa be developed for the River walk and SPA Project from guest speaker Charles Davidson, Peninsula Hot Springs. 20/11/2018 CCO Business Plan and be presented back to Council for 11/02/2020 – Steering Committee Meeting consideration. 21/02/2020 – Project Funding Schedule executed by A/CEO, agreement forwarded to DLGRMA (the Dept) for their execution. 23/03/2020 - Milestone 1 report submitted to DLGRMA 30/03/2020 - Project Management Plan submitted to DLGRMA HR Manager engaged (casual basis) Recruitment of Assets Manager, Chief Operations COO on hold until new CEO commences 16/07/2019 Assets Manager CEO Officer, Stock Routes Officer and HR manager Assets Manager on hold until new COO commences Stock Routes Officer currently being advertised
56 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Rate review now completed by consultant Mr Michael Chow. 16/07/2019 Plant Hire Rates Review to be done of Plant Hire Rates CFO & COO Final review by CFO and COO underway for implementation into Councils finance system for 1st July 2020 Council to install one culvert access, with Mr Gardiner to Access to Andrew Establish culverts to allow access to Mr Gardiner provide access to the other two blocks he is developing in Eulo. 22/10/2019 Gardiner plots in CEO properties/lots CEO to send letter to Mr Gardiner confirming this. Eulo Town
Charleville Fishing & Restocking Club Inc undertakes the restocking in the central Warrego River area. Their restocking efforts are funded through Donations, Sponsorship and the club’s own Fundraising events. Restocking the Research the restocking of fish/fingerlings in the Some partnering with NRM groups (ex SWNRM) has been 19/11/2019 CCO Warrego Warrego done for key river health efforts such as “Carpbusters”. Restocking by Charleville Club is usually done in January; however none planned for 2020 as a fresh in the river is required for successful fingerling survival. Alison Shaw to research specific grant for fish restocking. Still working on it (as at 31/03/2020), discussing with Biosecurity Qld. However, significant changes expected in proposed legislation (Qld Health, etc) regarding accreditation of 18/02/2020 1080 storage Accreditation of 1080 storage in Council Depots CCO 1080 accreditation for use, distribution and storage. Wild Dog Committee Chair is also rep on QDOG advisory committee to Govt. List of actions currently being developed to address immediate Cunnamulla dump 18/02/2020 Prepare actions report to address risks COO concerns at the Waste Facility. These will be implemented public usage directly by our Operations staff. 19/02/2020 – App developers are aware of the issue with notifications not being issued to app users. Toni Pender is PSC App and Check if the app is working properly and update working with the app developers to resolve it. 18/02/2020 CCO website website with current events 31/03/2020 Notifications - Android is fixed and Apple is currently rebuilding the certificate for our app to allow push notifications. Still working on it (as at 31/03/2020) , got all the docs (including King & Co advice) from back in 2018 … summarizing Stock Route fence 18/02/2020 Provide information on King & Co investigation CCO findings. Roads and Stock Routes transecting the Reserve – Elmina Rd subject to the PTO complicate the matter significantly, particularly if PSC is intending to issue fencing notices.
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The grid assessment spreadsheet is approximately 30% complete. ie. 150 of the 450 approx. grids entered. Work is continuing on this. The only grids that haven’t been inspected 17/03/2020 Grids Report Provide information on Shire’s grids status COO are the ones on Bundaleer South Plains Rd and the bottom end of Jobs Gate Rd due to access problems caused by wet road conditions Cunnamulla Airport Generator is currently in the workshop for maintenance – 17/03/2020 Check if the generator is working Trevor Jones Generator awaiting filters Cunnamulla Hall 31/03/2020 Collaboration ongoing with key agencies and 17/03/2020 Display message about COVID-19 CCO Screen messaging etc is being displayed. Bushland Project An updated plan is currently being prepared showing proposed 17/03/2020 Plan to be presented to Councillors Chris Safonoff Plan works under the W4Q3 funding available and will be presented, A second camera location was discussed and agreed with the 17/03/2020 Wyandra CCTV Add another camera in town Chris Safonoff police and will be included as part of the CCTV safer communities works to be completed in the next 2 months. Check flood marks position on Walton Way. May not Airport Flood 17/03/2020 be displaying accurate water depths due to their COO Flood marks are being investigated marks current locations. Wyandra School Reply to Wyandra school students letter and notify 17/03/2020 CEO A letter has been posted. Alison notified. Students letter Alison Shawn to look for available grants. Interagency Noted. Minutes to be included in Council reports. Next IA 17/03/2020 Circulate Interagency Meeting Minutes to Councillors CCO Meeting Minutes meeting scheduled for late April. Buildings deleted from reserve name. As stated in the meeting there has been no movement in reserves since the audited Check Reserve amount and Caravan Park sale 17/03/2020 Reserve Amount CFO Annual Report and this has been confirmed. CFO has removed amount any details of Reserves from the Project areas to insure there has been no inadvertent use. We are investigating whether this is Council’s issue or other Yowah House 17/03/2020 Check if the demolition has been approved CEO/COO and are also awaiting feedback from our Planning Officer, demolition Chris Tickner. Implement staff policy and procedures for employees Council staff to follow current QLD Health rules for self isolation COVID 19 – staff 17/03/2020 who wish to self isolate and employees who return CEO following overseas travel. Annual leave entitlements available policy from overseas travels for this purpose. Wyandra Common This is scheduled to be done by the Water and Sewerage 17/03/2020 Shift concrete trough from town COO Land Trough team.
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Wyandra water This is scheduled to be done by the Water and Sewerage 17/03/2020 Install fountain COO fountain team. The solution needs more consideration such as general Wyandra Hall 17/03/2020 Build levee banks around the Hall COO improvement of the site stormwater drainage. This is scheduled Levee Banks to be done by the Water and Sewerage team. It is understood an insurance claim has been made to cover the replacement costs of the shade cloth damaged in the storm. Following the recent meeting in town a request was made to 17/03/2020 Wyandra Hall Install cover strips and repair shade cloth Chris Safonoff repair the drainage issues around the hall along with the placement of 2 reused electric BBQ’s in town. These works are progressing currently Wyandra town This is scheduled to be done by the Water and Sewerage 17/03/2020 Check hydrants reach every residences COO hydrants team. Wyandra pub - Most pipes were cleared 2 days after March Council Meeting. 17/03/2020 Assess storm water issue outside pub COO storm water One pipe is blocked and requires more work. No issues with old bore. Will remain in service until such time Inform Wyandra community about the future of the 17/03/2020 Wyandra old bore CEO as issues arise and new bore will then be commissioned into old bore the Wyandra Water Supply. Wyandra public Council town orderly is responsible for cleaning of the public 17/03/2020 Who is responsible for the public toilets cleaning? CEO toilets toilet block in Wyandra.
59 General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
7.4.2 Office of the Chief Executive Report Council Meeting: 21 April 2020 Department: Office of the Chief Executive
Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide Council with an update on activities within the Office of the Chief Executive for the month of March 2020.
Officer Recommendation That Council receive and note this report.
Discussion
1. Asset Management
• The Asset Management Function of Council has now been moved under the responsibility of our Chief of Finance Mr Stephen Harbort. • Council has received the final Plant Rate Review reporting from Mr Michael Chow. Our Finance and Operations staff are now reviewing the data with scheduled implementation for 1st July 2020. • Councils new Assets Officer is settling into her role well, filling the gap left when Cassandra Rayment left Council in March. • No further actions on Asset Management to report this month.
2. Economic Development
2.1. Economic Development
2.1.1. Digital Connectivity (POF4, WC2, WC3, WC4, WC5, GMG3) • The status of Stage 1 (BoR round 4 funding) is that Field Solutions Group (FSG) are currently finalising land holder approvals and the rear of the depot has been approved as the Cunnamulla site. • All towers require a DA and Chris Tickner from Maranoa Regional Council is to be involved and he has been involved with towers in other shires too. • FSG have confirmed they will fence the sites and maintain the areas within those fences. • Once sites are finalised FSG will arrange geotechnical testing at each site so as foundation systems can be progressed. This sis required to be completed prior to ordering the towers so it is critical to complete the site selection and land holder agreements. • At the time of writing this report we haven’t heard back yet regarding the result of Council’s business case for Building Our Regions (BoR) Round 5 (for Stage 2 of the digital connectivity project). We were expecting to find out if we were successful in the first quarter of 2020, however am assuming that this has been delayed due to COVID-19.
2.1.2. Economic Development Strategy (EDS) • EDO talked to Regional Development Australia Darling Downs and South West (RDADDSW) before going on leave but am still waiting on feedback from South West Regional Economic Development’s (SWRED) Project Officer. EDO will follow up again with him.
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2.2. Digital / Media
2.2.1. Facebook (Corporate Plan Priority Areas: POF5, TD1) • March 2020 Key Facebook Statistics: Paroo Shire Council Best performing FB Page post Total impressions (i.e number of times the post was displayed to 93,237 2,372 a user):
Reach: (i.e number of unique 1,273 users to whom each of your posts 2,074 were displayed during the post's (average across all lifetime.): posts) Engagement Rate: (i.e number of times that users engaged with 11.2% your post as a percentage of 30.2% impressions. This indicates how (average across all engaged people are with your posts) content): Number of reactions, 1,960 64 comments and shares: Post link clicks: 307 N/A Other post clicks: (i.e number of times during your posts’s lifetime that users clicked anywhere in your post without opening a web link, 6,956 652 reacting to, commenting on, or sharing your post. This includes clicks to play a video and view a photo):
o Total posts uploaded: 55 (see ATTACHMENT A for more detail if desired) o Best performing post (in terms of engagement rate) was the results of the local government election ballot draw on 04/03/2020 at 4.58pm. o New page likes: 84 (total as of 31/03/2020 = 1,960) o Page unlikes: 9 2.2.2. Social Media Merge (Corporate Plan Priority Areas: POF5, TD1) • Before going on annual leave, EDO tried to merge the pages but wasn’t able to due to a Facebook technical issue. • Notices were “pinned” to the top of the library and community services pages’ feeds to advise viewers of this. • Now that the EDO is back, she will try to resolve the issue and get them merged. 2.2.3. Media • Below media releases have been sent out (NB: EDO was on leave from 20 February – 20 March): o 2 April: Paroo Shire Council here to help during Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic o 27 March: Message from Mayor Lindsay Godfrey - Travellers please sit tight and stay safe
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o 25 March: Community Notice regarding Paroo Shire Council services and closures o 19 March: Paroo Shire Council and CEO part ways
2.2.4. Google My Business Listing • Over the past month (via the Google My Business listing) there has been: o Total views 3,528 . Views on Search: 658 . Views on Maps: 2,870
o Customer Actions . Visits to website: 121 (nearly triple the usual amount) . Request for directions: 44 . Phone calls: 85
2.3. Marketing
2.3.1. Paroo Review • The Autumn 2020 edition was distributed Shire wide from the beginning of March • The total amount of advertising obtained for this edition was $4,355.00 + GST which more than covers the cost of the magazine • The next edition is Winter which is due to be distributed the first week of June. 2.3.2. COVID-19 Response • Since returning from annual leave, a lot of the EDO’s time has been taken up with gathering, reading and distributing important information relating to COVID- 19. • To avoid posting every single update to Facebook the EDO has collated a list of resources on a new webpage – www.paroo.qld.gov.au/covid19 • The EDO is checking these link regularly to make sure they are up to date, although the majority of them are the primary pages on key government websites that are continually updated themselves so this should avoid listed information becoming out of date/incorrect. • A DL flyer has also been created and was distributed in the week commencing 6 April to the entire shire to advise people who don’t have internet access of this resource. 2.3.3. Other • 1 x job ad.
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• Uploaded 2 Road Conditions reports to website and Facebook.
3. Workplace Health and Safety
• Continued to research and identify the most effective Lone Worker Devices for staff working remotely. • Completed 9 inductions into Council for new employees and contractors. • Chaired a meeting of Health and Safety Representatives (HSR’s) and Council Safety Committee. • Comprehensive review of documents relating to Contractor Management as per requirements of Safe Plan. • Called for nominations for chief fire wardens as required by legislation. Only one person volunteered. Training to be arranged at a later date. • Conducted safety assessment of civil construction work around Neebine Creek area. • Continued with rectification actions to bring the swimming pool into compliance. • Disposed of out of date chemicals from swimming pool. • Continued with reviewing and updating where necessary all documents in Safe Plan. This will be an ongoing process. • Conducted an inspection and arrange maintenance to front door after a storm blew water into the library causing a major slip hazard. • Arranged for the Parks and Gardens staff to work from the nursery to reduce the number of staff at the depot due to social distancing. • Attended multiple meetings re COVID-19. • Provided safety advice to the Town Orderly at Wyandra regarding the removal and handling of rubbish from private homes. • Lost Time Injury (LTI) one staff member 45 days WorkCover. Due to return to work next month after another assessment. Being closely monitored and endeavouring to identify other tasks that can be undertaken to enable an earlier return to work. • 23 Take 5’s completed • Desktop review of safety management system of contractors resealing the airport runway • Desktop review of safety management system of contractors to reseal roads at Yowah
4. Risk Management
• Have sourced a copy of Councils current Enterprise Risk Management Policy and Risk Register and completed a basic review of the register, which has not been updated for some time. • Councils Governance Officer Mel Wicks will review the Policy and present it to the May 2020 meeting of Council for adoption. • Councils Executive have held two meetings to discuss risk management, and will schedule another for April/May to develop a firm way forward for the identification and management of Paroo Shire Councils risks.
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7.4.3 Grants Application Report – March 2020 Council Meeting: 21st April 2020 Department: Office of the Chief Executive Officer Author: Alison Shaw
Purpose The purpose of this agenda item is to provide Council with the Grants Application Report as at 3 April 2020 as prepared by Alison Shaw of The Right Grant.
Recommendation That Council receives and notes the report.
Discussion See attached report.
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Grants applications submitted
FUND Department/Provider Project Total Project Council Amount Status Cost Contribution Requested
Building Our Regions State Govt – Digital Connectivity $662,500.00 - $662,500.00 Pending Full business case Department of State Business Case submitted. Development Building Our Regions State Govt – Paroo Regional Waste $108,000.00 $5,000.00 $103,000.00 Pending - Planning Department of State Management Planning Development SES Support Grants State Govt – Eulo – installation of $13,291.00 $3,322.25 $9,968.25 Pending Emergency Services rainwater tank Yowah – air- $ 5320.00 $ 1330.00 $ 3990.00 Pending conditioning of SES shed Community Drought State Govt Financial hardship $244,000.00 $244,000.00 Pending Support Program community grants. Event funding Regional Agricultural Federal Grant Construct stage 1 of $500,000.00 $500,000.00 Pending Council provided Show Society Grants large multi-purpose grant submission as function centre in-kind support Communities Federal Wild Dog fencing $800,000.00 $800,000.00 Pending Combatting Pests and subsidy program Weeds – round 2.
Drought Communities Federal Multiple projects $1,000,000.00 $1,000,000.00 Pending Program across Shire. All projects must be completed by December 2020. Small Business Month State Buy from the Bush $4150.00 $400.00 $3750.00 Pending Grant QLD – Share your (in kind) story event Regional Recycling State SW Tyre Recycling - $230,000.00 Successful Transport Assistance Paroo and Bullo Program Shires
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Current Funding Opportunities:
Queensland Veterans’ Memorial Grants Program:
Submission is being prepared to upgrade the Memorial Fountain and precinct as per heritage guidelines. Up to $40,000 is available under this program. Co-contribution has been reduced to 10%.
Queensland Feral Pest Initiative:
Round 4 of the QFPI closes on 30 April. Funds are for the control of invasive weeds and pest animals through “awareness building and on- ground control programs” within drought declared regions of Queensland. Investment priorities and objectives section states that it is critical that all projects are developed on a regional basis and cross at least one Council boundary with a focus on regionally agreed priorities supported by the local government or NRM regional biosecurity plans. Funding pool is $1 million to be allocated across all drought declared shires.
Bridges Renewal Program:
Closes May 29th. Funding is available to upgrade and replace bridges to enhance access for local communities and facilitate higher productivity vehicle access. Proponents must contribute at least 50 percent of costs – which can comprise state/territory/council and/or private sector funding, including funding from other Australian Government funding programs including Roads to Recovery, and Financial Assistance Grants. Eligible projects include:
• Bridge replacement proposals – proposals that seek to replace an old bridge with a new bridge; • Bridge upgrade proposals – proposals that seek to strengthen, prolong the life of, widen and/or improve safety on the bridge; • New bridges replacing an existing water crossing. including a new bridge to replace a culvert or causeway; • Approach roads (reasonable length) associated with bridges.
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7.4.4 Local Government Remuneration Commission – Annual Report 2020 Council Meeting: 21 April 2020 Department: Office of the Chief Executive Officer Author: Sean Rice
Purpose The purpose of this agenda item is to present the Local Government Remuneration Commission’s Annual Report 2019. It contains the remuneration schedule for Mayors, Deputy Mayors and Councillors to apply from 1 July 2020, as required by section 177(c) of the Local Government Act 2009 and Chapter 8, Division 1 of the Local Government Regulation 2012. It was gazetted in the Queensland Government Gazette on Friday 13 December 2019.
Recommendation To be determined.
Discussion The Local Government Regulation 2012 at Sections 241, 242 & 243 establishes categories for local governments in Queensland. Paroo Shire Council is a Category 1 Council as per Page 12 of the attached report and inline with Sections 244 and 246 the Tribunal has set the maximum remuneration at in their report dated 29 November 2019 as follows. This represents a 2.0% increase over 2019-2020. 1. Mayor $108.222 2. Deputy Mayor $ 62.435 3. Councillors $ 54.110
Section 247 of Local Government Regulation 2012 states with regard to the remuneration payable to councillors: (1) A local government must pay remuneration to each councillor of the local government. (2) The maximum amount of remuneration payable to a councillor under the remuneration schedule must be paid to the councillor, unless the local government, by resolution, decides the maximum amount is not payable to the councillor. (3) In a resolution made under subsection (2), the local government must also decide the amount of remuneration payable to the councillor. (4) The amount of remuneration decided under subsection (3) for each councillor must not be more than the maximum amount of remuneration payable to the councillor under the remuneration schedule. (5) The amount of remuneration for each councillor, other than a mayor or deputy mayor, must be the same. (6) The local government must make a resolution under subsection (2), for the remuneration payable from 1 July of a particular year, before 1 July of that year. (7) Subsections (4) and (5) are subject to section 248.
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The current remuneration structure compared to the remuneration increases reflected in the Commission’s Annual Report 2019 is tabulated below:
Remuneration Increase as Position set from 1 at 1 July $ % July 2019 2020 Increase Increase Mayor $106,100 $108,222 $2,122 2.0% Deputy Mayor $61,211 $62,435 $1,224 2.0% Councillor (Base) $35,366 $36,073 $707 2.0% Councillor (Meetings) $17,683 $18,037 $354 2.0% TOTAL COST $344,141 $351,022 $6,881 2.0%
Current Increase as Position Actual at 1 July $ Percentage Remuneration 2020 Increase Increase Mayor $88,042 $108,222 $20,180 22.9% Deputy Mayor $42,987 $62,435 $19,448 45.2% Councillor (Base) $22,498 $36,073 $13,575 60.3% Councillor (Meetings) $11,249 $18,037 $6,788 60.3% TOTAL COST $243,519 $351,022 $107,503 44.1%
See attached Local Government Remuneration Commission Annual Report 2019.
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© State of Queensland, December 2019. Published by the Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs, 1 William Street, Brisbane Qld 4000, Australia.
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An electronic copy of this report is available on the Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs’ website at www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au.
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Local Government Remuneration Commission
29 November 2019
The Honourable Stirling Hinchliffe MP Minister for Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs 1 William Street Brisbane QLD 4000
Dear Minister
On 29 November 2019, the Local Government Remuneration Commission (Commission) concluded its review of the categories of local governments and the assignment of local governments to categories. In addition, the Commission determined the levels of remuneration for mayors, deputy mayors and councillors of Queensland local governments (excluding Brisbane City Council) as required by section 177(c) of the Local Government Act 2009 and Chapter 8, Division 1 of the Local Government Regulation 2012.
Our determinations on these matters, together with the Remuneration Schedule to apply from 1 July 2020 are included in the enclosed Report, which we commend to you.
Yours sincerely
Robert (Bob) Abbot Andrea Ranson Reimen Hii Chair Commissioner Commissioner Commissioner
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Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs
CHERBOURG ! Gympie ABORIGINAL ! SHIRE GYMPIE TORRES STRAIT Cherbourg REGIONAL NOOSA SHIRE ISLAND REGIONAL TORRES ! Tewantin Thursday SHIRE Island ! SOUTH Bamaga BURNETT ! REGIONAL NORTHERN PENINSULA SUNSHINE AREA REGIONAL ! COAST Maroochydore REGIONAL MAPOON ABORIGINAL SHIRE ! Caloundra Mapoon !
WEIPA TOWN AUTHORITY Lockhart SOMERSET River REGIONAL ! MORETON! Caboolture NAPRANUM LOCKHART RIVER BAY ABORIGINAL SHIRE BRISBANE ABORIGINAL REGIONAL CITY SHIRE Aurukun ! ! ! Esk Redcliffe AURUKUN SHIRE COOK SHIRE TOOWOOMBA REGIONAL PORMPURAAW ABORIGINAL ! Brisbane REDLAND CITY SHIRE HOPE VALE ! Cleveland ABORIGINAL ! Toowoomba ! Gatton Pormpuraaw ! SHIRE ! Ipswich ! LOCKYER Logan KOWANYAMA WUJAL WUJAL ABORIGINAL Hope Vale VALLEY IPSWICH CITY ! ABORIGINAL SHIRE SHIRE Kowanyama REGIONAL ! Cooktown ! LOGAN CITY
Wujal Wujal! GOLD COAST CITY ! Southport DOUGLAS SHIRE ! Beaudesert Port Douglas ! YARRABAH SCENIC RIM SOUTHERN REGIONAL Gununa ! ABORIGINAL DOWNS Cairns SHIRE CARPENTARIA !! REGIONAL MAREEBA Mareeba ! ! Coolangatta MORNINGTON SHIRE SHIRE Yarrabah SHIRE ! Warwick Atherton ! CAIRNS REGIONAL DOOMADGEE ABORIGINAL Normanton ! SHIRE ! Burketown Doomadgee ! Tully ! CASSOWARY COAST CROYDON TABLELANDS ! Croydon Georgetown REGIONAL BURKE SHIRE ! REGIONAL SHIRE
ETHERIDGE Ingham ! Palm Island SHIRE ! HINCHINBROOK PALM ISLAND SHIRE ABORIGINAL SHIRE TOWNSVILLE CITY Townsville ! BURDEKIN ! Ayr SHIRE Charters MOUNT CHARTERS Towers ISA CITY ! RICHMOND TOWERS MCKINLAY SHIRE REGIONAL Proserpine ! SHIRE WHITSUNDAY Julia Creek ! Mount Isa ! Cloncurry ! Richmond ! Hughenden REGIONAL ! MACKAY FLINDERS REGIONAL Mackay ! CLONCURRY SHIRE SHIRE
Moranbah ! ISAAC REGIONAL Winton ! WINTON LIVINGSTONE BOULIA ! SHIRE Dysart SHIRE SHIRE Boulia ! BARCALDINE Yeppoon ! REGIONAL Rockhampton ! ! Longreach ! Barcaldine ! Emerald WOORABINDA ROCKHAMPTON REGIONAL LONGREACH ABORIGINAL ! GLADSTONE REGIONAL SHIRE Gladstone REGIONAL CENTRAL Woorabinda ! HIGHLANDS Bedourie ! ! Blackall! REGIONAL Biloela BUNDABERG BLACKALL REGIONAL DIAMANTINA TAMBO Jundah ! BANANA Monto ! Bundaberg ! SHIRE REGIONAL BARCOO SHIRE FRASER SHIRE NORTH COAST BURNETT REGIONAL Northern Territory Northern REGIONAL ! Maryborough SOUTH GYMPIE BURNETT REGIONAL MURWEH REGIONAL SHIRE QUILPIE WESTERN SHIRE Charleville ! DOWNS Kingaroy ! Quilpie ! MARANOA ! Roma REGIONAL REGIONAL Chinchilla !
Dalby ! Refer Inset South Australia TOOWOOMBA BULLOO Thargomindah REGIONAL ! St George SHIRE Cunnamulla ! PAROO ! SHIRE BALONNE GOONDIWINDI SHIRE REGIONAL Goondiwindi! Stanthorpe ! SOUTHERN DOWNS New South Wales REGIONAL
Legend ° 0 50 100 150 200 250 2019 Local Government ! Population Centres LGA Boundary Kilometres Area Boundaries Map created at: A3 Coordinate System: GCS GDA 1994 Map produced by the Department of State Development, Datum: GDA 1994 Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Units: Degree Spatial Services Unit, 28/02/2019
72 © Copyright the State of Queensland (Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs) 2019. No liability accepted for any loss or damage which may arise from the use or reliance upon this information. Path: S:\Projects\FAQ web maps\MXD\20190228_LGABoundaries_DLGRMA_A3.mxd General Council Meeting Notice & Agenda 21 April 2020
Table of contents
2019 Report at a glance ______6 1. The Commission ______8 Formation and composition ______8 Mr. Robert (Bob) Abbot ______8 Ms. Andrea Ranson ______8 Mr. Reimen Hii ______8 The Former Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal ______10 2. Remuneration determination ______10 Remuneration determination for councillors ______10 Methodology ______10 Matters not included in the remuneration schedule ______10 Pro rata payment ______11 Remuneration schedule to apply from 1 July 2020 ______12 3. Determination of Categories pursuant to s. 177 of the Act ______14 Determination ______14 Matters raised with the Commission during the remuneration review program ______14 Meetings and deputations ______15 Table – Summary of 2019 Submissions ______15 4. Other activities of the Commission ______18 5. Commission’s future priorities ______19
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2019 Report at a glance
The Commission has reviewed the current categories and decided not to make any change in this current review. The Commission will undertake a comprehensive category review within the first 12 months following the quadrennial local government elections in March 2020.
The Commission has decided to increase the maximum remuneration levels for mayors, deputy mayors and councillors by two per cent from 1 July 2020.
In making its determination, the Commission considered the following:
• Increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the financial year ended 30 June 2019 (percentage change from previous financial year)1 • Weighted average of the eight capital cities: +1.6 per cent • Brisbane: +1.6 per cent.
• Increases in CPI for the year ended September 2019 (percentage change from corresponding quarter of previous year)2 • Weighted average of the eight capital cities: +1.7 per cent • Brisbane: +1.9 per cent.
• Increases in the Wage Price Index (WPI) for the financial year ended 30 June 20193 • Australia & Queensland (All Industries): +2.3 per cent • Australia & Queensland (Public Sector): +2.5 per cent.
• The Commission considered Brisbane City Council’s Independent Councillor Remuneration Tribunal (ICRT) remuneration determination a potentially relevant factor, however, the ICRT reviews and resets Brisbane City councillor remuneration arrangements every five (5) years. The last increase was in 2017, at which time the ICRT accorded a two per cent increase to salaries effective 1 July 2018. In its 20 November 2019 Report, the Tribunal did not issue a determination which provided a percentage increase to salaries.
• Decision of the Salaries and Allowances Tribunal of Western Australia determination dated 9 April 2019: • one per cent increase.
• Decision of the New South Wales Local Government Remuneration Tribunal Determination and Annual Report dated 15 April 2019: • 2.5 per cent increase.
1 Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 6401.0 - Consumer Price Index, Australia, Jun 2019; ‘Summary’, ‘Selected Tables – Capital Cities’, ‘2 All Groups CPI, Percentage changes’, ‘Percentage Change (from Previous Financial Year)’ 2 Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 6401.0 - Consumer Price Index, Australia, Sep 2019; ‘Summary’, ‘Selected Tables – Capital Cities’, ‘2 All Groups CPI, Percentage changes’, ‘Percentage Change (from Corresponding Quarter of Previous Year)’ 3 Source: ABS 6345.0 - Wage Price Index, Australia, Jun 2019 - All WPI series: Original (Financial Year Index Numbers for year ended June quarter)
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• Decision of the Victorian Minister for Local Government: • two per cent increase as at 1 December 2018. It is noted the 1 December 2019 Victorian decision was unavailable at the date of determination.
In making its decision the Commission also had regard to anecdotal reports and submissions received about: • financial pressures on councils and sustainability of their communities • recent level of impact of natural disasters • increased requirement for community support • councils’ role in economic development and local infrastructure • needs of resident and non-resident populations • increasing pressure to deliver innovative solutions • unique qualities and complexities of diverse communities • potential impact of government reforms, such as changes to legislation arising from the Crime and Corruption Commission’s report ‘Operation Belcarra: A blueprint for integrity and addressing corruption risk in local government’.
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1. The Commission
Formation and composition
The Local Government Remuneration Commission (Commission) is an independent entity established under the Local Government Act 2009 (Act). On 1 October 2019, His Excellency the Governor, acting by and with the advice of the Executive Council, approved three new appointees to the Commission for a term of four years. This is the first report of the new Commission, and the thirteenth report including the reports of the former Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal and the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal.
The current Chair and Commissioners of the Commission are:
Mr. Robert (Bob) Abbot Chair
Mr. Abbot has extensive experience in the local government sector with 32 years as an elected councillor and mayor. Mr. Abbot has experience working at State and National local government organizations and has held board and panel positions, including Deputy Chair of the South East Queensland Council of Mayors, Director of the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), and Director of the Australian Local Government Association. Mr. Abbot has been a mentor for newly elected mayors on behalf of the LGAQ, with a particular focus on mentoring Queensland Indigenous mayors.
Ms. Andrea Ranson Commissioner
Ms. Ranson has extensive experience in Law and Business, including public and private sector governance and supply chain industry. Ms. Ranson practiced as a senior lawyer and brings substantial experience in civil, commercial and industrial law, equal opportunity, ethics and justice. Ms. Ranson is a Nationally Accredited Mediator currently working with the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), and a Dispute Resolution Panel Member with the Department of Justice. Ms. Ranson is also currently a Director appointed to the Board of North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation and is a member of the Corporate Governance & Planning Committee and Audit & Financial Risk Management Committee of that Board. Ms. Ranson holds a Master of Laws, Bachelor of Laws (Honours), and Bachelor of Arts. She is also a Graduate of the AICD (GAICD) and Fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia (FGIA). Ms. Ranson has significant understanding of regional Queensland, industry sectors and stakeholder engagement. Ms. Ranson brings her business acumen, legal skill, and passion for regional communities to the role.
Mr. Reimen Hii Commissioner
Mr. Hii is a barrister and nationally accredited mediator. He also works as a mediator with QCAT. He holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts Degree and is a practicing lawyer, with extensive knowledge in public administration and community affairs, and a particular interest in civil and commercial law. Mr. Hii is experienced in professional discipline matters, including investigations, public administration, corporate and public governance, public sector ethics and finance. Mr. Hii has a culturally and linguistically diverse background and experience working with diverse communities.
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Mr. Abbot, Ms. Ranson and Mr. Hii are honoured to present this inaugural 2019 report of the newly formed Commission. The Commission is committed to undertaking its duties with diligence, skill, independence and transparency over the next four years.
The Local Government Remuneration Commission From left: Mr Reimen Hii, Ms Andrea Ranson and Mr. Robert (Bob) Abbot
Remuneration Responsibilities Chapter 6, Part 3 of the Act, proclaimed into force on 3 December 2018, established the Local Government Remuneration Commission to assume the remuneration functions of the former Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal which ceased to exist on 3 December 2018.
Section 177 of the Act provides the functions of the Commission are: • to establish the categories of local governments, and • to decide the category to which each local government belongs, and • to decide the maximum amount of remuneration payable to the councillors in each of the categories, and • another function related to the remuneration of councillors if directed, in writing, by the Minister.
Chapter 8, Part 1, Division 1 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 (Regulation) sets out the processes of the Commission in deciding the remuneration that is payable to councillors.
The Regulation requires the Commission to review the categories of local governments once every four years, in the year prior to each quadrennial election, to determine whether the categories and the assignment of local governments to those categories require amendment.
After determining the categories of local governments, the Regulation also requires the Commission to decide annually, before 1 December each year, the maximum amount of remuneration to be paid to mayors, deputy mayors and councillors in each category from 1 July of the following year.
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In addition, section 248 of the Regulation allows a local government to make a submission to the Commission to vary the remuneration for a councillor, or councillors, to a level higher than that stated in the remuneration schedule where the local government considers exceptional circumstances apply. The Commission may, but is not required to, consider any such submission. If the Commission is satisfied that exceptional circumstances exist, the Commission may approve payment of a higher amount of remuneration.
The Former Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal
The Commission acknowledges the substantive contribution of the 2007-2018 former Tribunal/s to develop the local government remuneration schedule and category system.
The key milestones of the 2007 and subsequent Tribunals has been well documented and comprehensive history around decision making and rationale can be found in each of the 2007-2018 Tribunal Reports.
The Commission will, as stated in this report, undertake a comprehensive category review within the first 12 months following the quadrennial local government elections in March 2020. It is expected that during this review, the Commission will reference historic decision making and reasoning in relation to issues as appropriate.
2. Remuneration determination
Remuneration determination for councillors
As required by section 246 of the Regulation the Commission has prepared a remuneration schedule for the 2020-2021 financial year, applicable from 1 July 2020 (the Schedule), which appears below.
Arrangements have been made to publish the Schedule in the Queensland Government Gazette and for this report to be printed and presented to the Minister for Local Government.
Methodology
The Commission had regard to the matters in section 244 and 247 (2), (5) of the Regulation in determining the Schedule. The Commission also noted and had regard to the matters listed on page 2 of this Report to determine the appropriate maximum remuneration in each category of local government.
The Commission notes it did not receive any specific submissions from councils in relation to setting the remuneration schedule for the 2020-2021 financial year and has continued to adopt a conservative approach to setting remuneration levels.
Matters not included in the remuneration schedule
Section 244(3) of the Regulation states that the remuneration cannot include: • any amount for expenses to be paid or facilities to be provided to councillors under a council's expenses reimbursement policy; or • any contribution a local government may make to a voluntary superannuation scheme for councillors.
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During the 2019 consultation period, Barcaldine Regional Council sought clarification of the role of the Commission to direct payment of compulsory superannuation payments to councillors.
The Commission notes section 244(3) of the Regulation states the remuneration decided by the Commission cannot include “voluntary superannuation scheme for councillors”. In this regard, the Commission has determined that it has no power to direct matters relating to the structure, payment or otherwise of voluntary schemes, including salary sacrifice or other salary packaging.
Page 11 of the 2018 Tribunal Report considered the issue of superannuation, commenting:
“Accordingly, the level of superannuation payments made to a councillor is a matter to be determined by each individual council having regard to the relevant Commonwealth legislation and section 226 of the Act, as is the issue of whether a councillor may salary sacrifice such contributions”.
The Commission notes there is precedent where Queensland local governments have paid superannuation to councillors. While this may be the case, the Commission notes the payment of compulsory or voluntary superannuation payments to councillors falls outside of its statutory functions and the Commission is unable to make a determination to direct council in relation to superannuation.
The Commission has informed Barcaldine Regional Council of this determination.
Pro rata payment
Should an elected representative hold a councillor position for only part of a financial year, she or he is only entitled to remuneration to reflect the portion of the year served.
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Remuneration schedule to apply from 1 July 2020
Remuneration determined (from 1 July 2020)
($ per annum; see Note 1) Local governments assigned to Deputy Category Mayor Councillor categories mayor Category 1 Aurukun Shire Council $108,222 $62,435 $54,110 Balonne Shire Council (see Note 2) Banana Shire Council Barcaldine Regional Council Barcoo Shire Council Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Boulia Shire Council Bulloo Shire Council Burdekin Shire Council Burke Shire Council Carpentaria Shire Council Charters Towers Regional Council Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council Cloncurry Shire Council Cook Shire Council Croydon Shire Council Diamantina Shire Council Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council Douglas Shire Council Etheridge Shire Council Flinders Shire Council Goondiwindi Regional Council Hinchinbrook Shire Council Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council Longreach Regional Council Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council McKinlay Shire Council Mornington Shire Council Murweh Shire Council Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council North Burnett Regional Council Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council Paroo Shire Council Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Council Quilpie Shire Council Richmond Shire Council Torres Shire Council Torres Strait Island Regional Council Winton Shire Council Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council
Category 2 Mareeba Shire Council $124,869 $74,923 $62,435 Mount Isa City Council Somerset Regional Council
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Category 3 Cassowary Coast Regional Council $133,196 $83,247 $70,759 Central Highlands Regional Council Gympie Regional Council Isaac Regional Council Livingstone Shire Council Lockyer Valley Regional Council Maranoa Regional Council Noosa Shire Council Scenic Rim Regional Council South Burnett Regional Council Southern Downs Regional Council Tablelands Regional Council Western Downs Regional Council Whitsunday Regional Council
Category 4 Bundaberg Regional Council $158,168 $104,059 $91,571 Fraser Coast Regional Council Gladstone Regional Council Rockhampton Regional Council Category 5 Cairns Regional Council $183,143 $124,869 $108,222 Mackay Regional Council Redland City Council Toowoomba Regional Council Category 6 Ipswich City Council $208,117 $141,520 $124,869 Townsville City Council Category 7 Logan City Council $233,091 $161,499 $141,520 Moreton Bay Regional Council Sunshine Coast Regional Council Category 8 Gold Coast City Council $258,066 $178,981 $154,006
Notes to the remuneration schedule In its 2014 report the then Tribunal explained the rationale behind the adoption of a system of remuneration which comprised a base payment (of two thirds of the annual remuneration) and a monthly payment based upon attendance at, and participation in, the 12 mandated council meetings.
Note 1 The monetary amounts shown are the per annum figures to apply from 1 July 2020. If an elected representative only serves for part of a full year (that is, 1 July to 30 June) they are only entitled to a pro rata payment to reflect the portion of the year served.
Note 2 For councillors in Category 1 councils, a base payment of $36,073.28 is payable for the 12 months commencing on 1 July 2020. A meeting fee of $1,503.06 per calendar month (or fortnightly equivalent) is payable for attendance at, and participation in, scheduled meetings of council subject to certification by the mayor and/or chief executive officer of the council. Mayors and deputy mayors in category 1 councils are to receive the full annual remuneration level shown.
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3. Determination of Categories pursuant to s. 177 of the Act
As noted above, Chapter 8, Part 1, Division 1 of the Regulation sets out the processes which the Commission is required to observe in deciding the remuneration that is payable to councillors.
Section 241 of the Regulation states the Commission must establish categories of local governments to enable the Commission to decide the maximum amounts of remuneration that are payable to mayors and other councillors in each of the categories.
Determination
The Commission has reviewed the current categories and decided not to make any change in this current review. The Commission will undertake a comprehensive category review within the first 12 months following the quadrennial local government elections in March 2020.
In reaching this decision, the Commission has carefully considered all nine (9) submissions received by it (set out below) during the review period.
The former Tribunal also reported two outstanding determinations to be considered by the newly formed Commission in 2019:
1. Isaac Regional Council (page 11-12, 2018 Tribunal Report) – council requested that the former Tribunal consider the current remuneration of mayors of councils in Category 3 to ensure it reflected full time hours for the mayor. The submission proposed that in order to achieve this, existing Category 3 councils be divided into two new categories, namely Category 3A and 3B.
Determination: The Commission notes a further submission was made by council during the 2019 deputation review period which largely reflected the submission made to the former Tribunal. The Commission has determined not to make any changes in this current review. The Commission will undertake a comprehensive review within the first 12 months following the quadrennial local government elections in 2020.
2. Moreton Bay Regional Council (page 12, 2018 Tribunal Report) - oral submission from Moreton Bay Regional Council requesting the Tribunal to establish a process for allowances and expenditure for councillor’s similar to that of Queensland MPs.
Determination: The Commission did not receive any further submission during the 2019 consultation period from Moreton Bay Regional Council (about this or any other matter). The Commission has determined not to make any changes in this current review and has further determined on the basis of the information available to it that the submission falls outside of its statutory remit.
Matters raised with the Commission during the remuneration review program
A summary table of submissions made to the Commission during the review period and the Commission’s determination is provided below.
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Meetings and deputations Local governments were provided with the opportunity to meet with the Commission at the 123rd Annual Conference of the LGAQ at the Cairns Convention Centre on Tuesday 15 October 2019. Commissioners were also available to engage with councils at the LGAQ Conference from Monday 14 October 2019 to Wednesday 16 October 2019 inclusive.
Oral submissions were received by the Commission in the form of deputations during this period. Written submissions were further received by the Commission on or before the due date for submissions on 28 October 2019.
In making its determination, the Commission had regard to the submissions it received, together with the matters on page 2 (summary) of this report.
Key points raised with the Commission during the 2019 review period included increasing demands on council in relation to sustainability, industry and innovation, potential recognition of differential councillor workload, structuring the payment of meeting fees and superannuation.
Table – Summary of 2019 Submissions
1 Date Received Oral – LGAQ Annual Conference 15 October 2019 Written – 1 October 2019
Received from Boulia Shire Council; Mayor Eric (Rick) Britton; Deputy Mayor Rebecka (Beck) Britton
Summary of Currently Category 1 submission The council wished to affect a change in the remuneration to councillors (this does not affect the mayor or deputy mayor). Submitted that there is a need to review Meeting Fees to ensure performance. CEO stated that the submission “while unusual, it is supported by councillors who are happy to adopt the proposal that councillors are only paid if they attend a Meeting and not otherwise”. Council identified disparity in workloads amongst councillors, with some councillors agreeing that they are limited in time/ability to attend all meetings and agreeing they should not be paid.
Determination The Commission considers it cannot approve the request for differential remuneration as submitted by council as s247 (5) of the Regulation provides that the amount of remuneration for each councillor (other than a mayor or deputy mayor) must be the same.
2 Date Received Oral – LGAQ Annual Conference 15 October 2019
Received from Flinders Shire Council; Mayor Jane McNamara; Cr Arthur (Bill) Bode; CEO Daryl Buckingham
Summary of Currently Category 1 submission General discussion regarding financial sustainability and community expectations around maximum remuneration of councillors. Submission that remuneration be reviewed every 4 years instead of annually.
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Determination s. 244(1) of the Regulation requires that the Commission must review and decide on remuneration rates before 1 December each year. 3 Date Received Oral – LGAQ Annual Conference 15 October 2019 Written – 28 October 2019
Received from Central Highlands Council; Deputy Mayor Gail Godwin-Smith; CEO Scott Mason
Summary of Currently Category 3 submission Requested new category be considered between Category 3 and 4 by inserting Category 3(a) and Category 3(b). Council submitted that it does not consider it can justify being within Category 4 but that it can be differentiated from Category 3. The following factors were relied upon in council’s submission: (a) geographic > 50,000 square km’s; (b) population > 30,000 (c) diversity in population centers (d) significant industry diversity and engagement Council identified that similar challenges facing both Central Highlands and Isaac Regional Council supported the creation of two new categories. Key issues raised in support of council’s submission included increased (and significant) demand particularly around the resource and agricultural sectors, infrastructure growth, innovation and regional sustainability. Discussed issues relating to resident and non-resident population demands creating additional workload and whether councillors could properly be considered as ‘part-time’ given increasing community and industry expectations for council regarding regional sustainability.
Determination The Commission has determined not to make any category changes in the current review. This issue will form part of the Commission forthcoming comprehensive review of categories.
4 Date Received Oral – LGAQ Annual Conference 15 October 2019 Written – 24 October 2018 and 28 October 2019
Received from Isaac Regional Council; Deputy Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, Mary-Anne Uren, Senior Advisor Submission stated to relate to increased remuneration for mayor only. Summary of Requested new category be considered between Category 3 and submission 4 by inserting Category 3(a) and Category 3(b). Council submitted that it does not consider it can justify being within Category 4 but that it can be differentiated from Category 3 and identified the following key issues in support of council’s submission: (a) geographic > 50,000 square km’s (b) population > 30,000 (c) diversity in population centers (d) significant industry diversity and engagement.
Council identified similar challenges facing Central Highlands Council. In relation to Isaac Regional Council, council submitted that in the 2018-2019 financial year, the mayor of Isaac attended 496 meetings inside the local government area, and 50 meetings outside of the local government area, travelling a total of 32,651km. Council further submitted that it has 26 operating mines in the local government area with significant (increasing) workload arising from both the resource and agricultural sectors
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including increased expectations around stakeholder engagement and regional sustainability. Council identified increased community expectations regarding procurement and employment, and community expectations for engagement and support across a range of issues including drought.
Determination The Commission has determined not to make any category changes in the current review. This issue will form part of the Commission forthcoming comprehensive review of categories.
5 Date Received Oral – LGAQ Annual Conference 15 October 2019 Written – 29 October 2019
Received from Sunshine Coast Regional Council; Deputy Mayor Tim Dwyer; CEO Michael Whittaker; Chief of Staff Craig Matheson
Summary of Current Category 7 submission Noted that Commission Chair, Mr. Bob Abbot, was a former mayor of the Sunshine Coast Regional Council from 2008-2012. Chair declared that he had no conflict of interest or material personal interest and remained in the room.
Commissioners Ranson and Hii determined that given the declaration from the Chair, and in the absence of any actual or perceived material personal interest of the Chair, that it was appropriate for the Chair to remain to receive the deputation and deliberate.
Council submitted that it was supportive of the current category system and that it wished to remain in Category 7.
Determination The Commission has determined not to make any category changes in the current review. This issue will form part of the Commission forthcoming comprehensive review of categories.
6 Date Received Oral – LGAQ Annual Conference 15 October 2019
Received from Barcaldine Regional Council; Mayor Rob Chandler
Summary of Category 1 submission Submission that the Commission consider superannuation for councillors, particularly the mayor.
The payment of compulsory or voluntary superannuation Determination payments to councillors falls outside the Commission’s statutory functions.
7 Date Received Written – 24 October 2019
Received from Western Downs Regional Council
Summary of Submission that satisfied with current category system and submission wished to remain at Category 3.
The Commission has determined not to make any category Determination changes in the current review. This issue will form part of the Commission forthcoming comprehensive review of categories.
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8 Date Received Written – 25 October 2019
Received from Toowoomba Regional Council
Summary of Submission to elevate council from current Category 5 to submission Category 6. Currently in the same category as Cairns, Mackay, Redland, however, Toowoomba submitted that it is more appropriately benchmarked on a variety of measures, with those in Category 6, specifically Ipswich and Townsville.
The Commission has determined not to make any category Determination changes in the current review. This issue will form part of the Commission forthcoming comprehensive review of categories. 9 Date Received Oral submission Referred from Previous Commission – 2018 Report Received from Moreton Bay Regional Council Summary of submission In its final report, the former Tribunal referred the submission to the newly formed Commission. The submission argued that there was a lack of consistency between the levels of government (Queensland Members of Parliament and local government councillors) which can be seen, for example, in community events where councillors are required to pay to attend events themselves, while state MPs may pay for it out of their allowance.
Determination The Commission did not receive any further submission during the 2019 consultation period and notes that this request is outside of its remit.
4. Other activities of the Commission
Exceptional circumstances carried over from the former Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal:
On 1 November 2018, following the suspension of the then Mayor of Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council, the council sought approval to vary the remuneration of the acting mayor (Councillor Jason Ned) until the end of the elected members term or until the mayor is either removed from office or the suspension concludes. The request was made prior to the formation of the current Commission. The former Tribunal wrote to council seeking clarifying information and carried this matter over for determination by the newly formed Commission.
Following receipt of the confirmed minutes from the council showing the resolution, the Commission considered and approved the request to increase the remuneration and back pay Cr Jason Ned.
The Commission has advised Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council of this decision.
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5. Commission’s future priorities
The Commission will invite further consultation and submissions from councils in the first year of the elected term for councillors following the 2020 local government elections. The purpose will be to ascertain whether any change following a further comprehensive category review may be warranted in that year, rather than waiting until the next quadrennial review due on 1 December 2023.
Further information about the Commission and/or the Councillor Conduct Tribunal can be located at www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au
Local Government Remuneration Commission PO Box 15009 City East Qld 4002
1 William Street Brisbane Qld 4000 email [email protected] phone 07 3452 6735 www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au
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10 LATE REPORTS
11 CLOSURE OF MEETING
MINUTES CERTIFICATE
Confirmation
……………………………………… …………………………………………. Suzette Beresford Sean Rice Mayor Acting Chief Executive Officer
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