Minutes Ordinary Meeting of Council Council Office Tuesday 5 May 2020

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

MINUTES FOR THE ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL HELD AT TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL TALLANGATTA OFFICE ON TUESDAY 5 MAY 2020 COMMENCING AT 10.30 AM.

Commonly used acronyms

ABBREVIATION TITLE Council Officers CAE Civil Asset Engineer CEO Chief Executive Officer DIE Director Infrastructure and Environment DCP Director Community and Planning DRR Director Relief and Recovery DCOD Director Corporate and Organisational Development COCEO Coordinator, Office of the CEO MF Manager Finance Government/Organisation ACSUM Alliance of Councils and Shires of the Upper Murray CHS Health Service (formerly Upper Murray Health and Community Services) DJPR Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions DOT Department of Transport DELWP Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning GMW Goulburn Murray Water HRGLN Hume Region Local Government Network MAV Municipal Association of NECMA North East Catchment Management Authority NEW North East Water NEWRRG North East Waste and Resource Recovery Group RCV Rural Councils Victoria RDA Regional Development RDV Regional Development Victoria THS Tallangatta Health Service VGC Victorian Grants Commission

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Opening Prayer ...... 4 2 Councillor and Officer Presence at the Meeting ...... 4 3 Apologies and Granting of Leave of Absence ...... 4 4 Declaration of Pecuniary Interest and/or Conflict ...... 4 5 Confirmation of Minutes ...... 5 6 Petitions, Joint Letters and Declarations ...... 5 7 Assembly of Councillors ...... 5 8 Open Forum ...... 5 9 Organisational Improvement ...... 6 9.1 Finance Report as at 31 March 2020 (06/02/0021-DCOD) ...... 6 9.2 Action Sheet Report (06/05/0010-DCOD) ...... 21 9.3 Council Plan Priorities (07/05/0022-DCOD) ...... 21 9.4 Performance Reporting Graphs (DCOD) ...... 22 10 Bushfire Relief and Recovery ...... 22 10.1 Bushfire Recovery Update (02/02/0013-ADRR) ...... 22 10.2 Exemptions for Bushfire Affected Residents – Temporary Accommodation (02/02/0013-DIE) ...... 31 10.3 Bushfire Rate Relief Report (02/02/0013-DCOD) ...... 34 11 Community Wellbeing ...... 41 11.1 Community Services Report (04/07/0055-ADCP) ...... 41 12 Asset Management ...... 47 12.1 Asset Management Report (01/07/0004-DIE) ...... 47 13 Land-use Planning ...... 48 14 Environmental Sustainability ...... 48 14.1 Environmental Sustainability Report (01/07/0004-DIE)...... 48 15 Economic and Tourism Development ...... 51 15.1 Economic Development Report (05/01/0001-ADCP) ...... 51 16 Councillor Reports ...... 58 17 Urgent Business ...... 58 18 Committee Minutes ...... 58 18.1 Murray Arts 2019 Annual General Meeting Minutes (Cr Star) ...... 58 19 Occupational Health and Safety ...... 58 20 Council Policies (10/01/0007-CEO) ...... 59 20.1 Policies for Review and Adoption ...... 59 21 Sealing of documents ...... 60 21.1 Section 173 Agreement – Towong Shire Council, Elizabeth Jane Fagence and North East Regional Water Corporation (208350-ADCP) ...... 60 22 Confidential ...... 61

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

The Mayor opened the meeting at 10.30am.

1 Opening Prayer

“Almighty God, we ask that you be present at this meeting to assist us in our service to the Community through Local Government.

We pray that our decisions will be wise and taken with goodwill and clear conscience.

Amen.”

2 Councillor and Officer Presence at the Meeting

Present: Crs Wortmann, Whitehead, Scales, Star and Tolsher.

In Attendance: Title: Ms Phelps Chief Executive Officer Ms Gadd Director Infrastructure and Environment Mr McFarlane Director Corporate and Organisational Development Ms Williamson Acting Director Community and Planning

3 Apologies and Granting of Leave of Absence

Nil.

4 Declaration of Pecuniary Interest and/or Conflict

For the purpose of this section, Councillors must disclose the nature of the conflict of interest in accordance with S.79(2) of the Local Government Act.

Nil.

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

5 Confirmation of Minutes

Ordinary Meeting 7 April 2020.

CR TOLSHER CR WHITEHEAD

THAT THE MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY MEETING HELD ON 7 APRIL 2020 AS CIRCULATED BE CONFIRMED. CARRIED

6 Petitions, Joint Letters and Declarations

Nil.

7 Assembly of Councillors

A written record of the Assemblies of Councillors from 24 March 2020 to 21 April 2020 is included at Appendix 1.

CR STAR CR SCALES

THAT THE INFORMATION BE NOTED. CARRIED

8 Open Forum

Name Topic Ms Roe Paton Tallangatta Museum Tallangatta South

Mr Peter Watkins Paintball

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

9 Organisational Improvement 9.1 Finance Report as at 31 March 2020 (06/02/0021-DCOD)

Disclosure of Interests (S.80C):

This report was prepared by Mr Blair Phillips, Manager Finance.

At the time of preparation of the report, the officer did not have a direct or indirect interest in any matter to which the report or advice relates.

OPERATING RESULT Note Mar-20 Mar-20 YTD YTD YTD YTD 2019/20 2019/20 Full Year Full Year (Actual) (Budget) (Actual) (Budget) (Variance) (Variance) (Budget) (Achieved) $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 % $'000 % Income 1 638 256 19,209 15,237 3,972 26% 18,718 103% Expenditure 2 2,464 1,047 11,669 10,132 (1,537) -15% 17,787 66% Surplus/ (Deficit) (1,826) (791) 7,540 5,105 2,435 48% 931 810% Table 1: Operating Result

Note 1: Council’s YTD income at 31 March 2020 is $19.209 million against a budget of $15.237 million. The major items contributing to the $3.972 million favourable variance includes:

• Revenue recognised that was not budgeted for in 2019/20: o $2.200 million for bushfire support from Bushfire Recovery Victoria – Recovery Hub; o $1.275 million for bushfire support from the Commonwealth Government; o $132,000 for contribution to road reconstruction; o $90,000 in grant funding for upgrading the Netball Courts; o $78,000 for providing the secretariat function for Rural Councils Victoria; and o $55,000 for reimbursement of flood remediation works.

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

• Revenue budgeted but received last financial year: o $300,000 in State Government grant funding for the Upper Murray Events Centre. This funding was budgeted to be received in July 2019 per the funding agreement, however was recognised in June 2019 (previous financial year).

• Revenue received over budgeted levels: o $197,000 in grant funding for Financial Assistance Grants; o $107,000 in grant funding for kindergartens; and o $39,000 in grant funding for the two E-waste infrastructure upgrades at the Corryong and Tallangatta resource recovery centres.

• Revenue budgeted that has not yet been received: o $266,000 Destination Tallangatta funding.

Note 2: Council’s YTD expenditure at 31 March 2020 is $11.669 million against a budget of $10.132 million. The major items contributing to the $1.537 million unfavourable variance includes: • Expenses incurred relating to the bushfires: * o $552,000 for contractors to provide executive, emergency and recovery support; o $347,000 in other expenses including counselling, recovery hub setup, fencing and plant hire; and o $272,000 for staff costs including initial response and recovery team. *Note: these expenses will be offset by revenues received from insurance as well as Commonwealth and State Bushfire Emergency and Recovery funding.

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

• Expenses incurred earlier than budgeted: o $527,000 on the Upper Murray Events Centre project; and o $113,000 on the Energy Audit project

• Expenses that will be incurred later than anticipated: o $129,000 for kerbside collection; o $90,000 for plant and vehicles operating expenses; o $86,000 for tree maintenance; and o $51,000 for the New Spin for Eskdale Cricket project.

• Expenses incurred over budgeted levels: o $305,000 on the Upper Murray Events Centre. There was $500,000 budgeted in 2018/19 with only $111,000 spent leaving $389,000 unspent from the 2018/19 budget for this project; and o $50,000 on recruitment expenses for the new organisation structure including three Directors.

Council is operating with 81.3 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff at 31 March 2020 against an annual budget of 83.8 FTE. Council has a number of vacancies.

The vacant positions at the end of March include:

• Director Relief and Recovery; • Manager Infrastructure Recovery; • Manager Community Resilience and Recovery; • Manager Economic Recovery; and • Coordinator Organisational Development.

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Grant Income

Note Mar-20 YTD YTD YTD YTD 2019/20 2019/20 Full Year Full Year (Actual) (Actual) (Budget) (Variance) (Variance) (Budget) (Achieved) $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 % $’000 % Recurrent 1 52 2,462 2,159 303 14% 5,128 48% Non-Recurrent 2 362 5,713 2,489 3,224 130% 1,129 506% Total 414 8,175 4,648 3,527 76% 6,257 131% Table 2: Grant Income

Note 1: Council’s YTD recurrent grant income at 31 March 2020 is $2.462 million against a budget of $2.159 million. The major items contributing to the $303,000 favourable variance are the Financial Assistance Grants allocation for 2019/20 and kindergarten grants being above budgeted levels.

Note 2: Council’s YTD non-recurrent grant income at 31 March 2020 is $5.713 million against a budget of $2.489 million. The major items contributing to the $3.224 million favourable variance includes:

• Revenue recognised that was not budgeted in 2019/20: o $2.200 million for bushfire support from Bushfire Recovery Victoria; and o $1.275 million for bushfire support from the Commonwealth Government.

• Revenue received earlier than anticipated: o $300,000 in State Government grant funding for the Upper Murray Events Centre. This funding was budgeted to be received in July 2019 per the funding agreement, however was recognised in June 2019 (previous financial year).

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Grants received Year-to-Date (YTD) are listed in the following tables:

$’000 Recurrent Grants Financial Assistance Grants 1,771 Maternal and Child Health 182 Kindergarten - Tallangatta 125 Library 111 Kindergarten - Corryong 109 Municipal Emergency Resourcing Program 60 Kindergarten - Bellbridge 58 School Crossing Supervisor 19 Kindergarten Cluster 16 Kindergarten - Walwa 6 Premier's Reading Challenge 5 Total Recurrent Grants 2,462 Table 3: Recurrent Grant Income received

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

$’000 Non-Recurrent Grants Bushfire Recovery Victoria - Recovery Hub 2,200 Bushfire Financial Support (Commonwealth) 1,275 Fixing Country Roads Program - Hanson Street redevelopment 598 Upper Murray Events Centre (Commonwealth) 400 Destination Tallangatta 266 Upper Murray Events Centre (State) 200 Community Child Care Fund (Sustainability Support - Walwa) 92 Bullioh Netball Courts upgrade 90 E-Waste Infrastructure upgrade - Corryong 70 Great River Road (State) 70 E-Waste Infrastructure upgrade - Tallangatta 68 Neighbourhood House - Tallangatta 62 Flood Recovery 55 Towong Energy Saver 2019-20 43 Weed Project 34 Councillor additional fees relating to bushfire 28 Access and Inclusion 23 Kindergarten Enrolment 22 Supported Parent and Playgroup 20 Master Plan for Active Sportng Future 18 Stronger Communities Program - Attree Park shade structure 14 FReeZA 12 Kindergarten Inclusion 11 Think-Start-Grow 10 Health Admin (Vulnerable persons - HACC) 8 Building economic development capacity in Hume local government 8 Blackspot Funding - Lake Road 6 Kindergarten Early Childhood Teacher Supplement 4 Kindergarten Early Start Program 3 Seniors Week 2 Youth Week 1 Total Non-Recurrent Grants 5,713

Total Grants Received 8,175 Table 4: Non-recurrent grants

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Unexpended Grants

Where Council has received grants that are required to be expended in a specified manner, but the funds have not yet been expended, the grant is recognised as an unexpended grant. This identifies cash holdings that are required to be spent on a specified purpose and are not available for other Council priorities.

The table on the following page provides a listing of current unexpended grants:

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

$'000 Unexpended Grants Bushfire Recovery Victoria - Recovery Hub * 2,200 Fixing Country Roads Program - Hanson Street redevelopment 1,154 Bushfire Financial Support (Commonwealth) * 1,275 Cudgewa Netball Court upgrade 153 Access and Inclusion 136 Improved Connections Hanson Street project 134 Mitta Valley Mountain Bike Park (Pick My Project) 101 Bullioh Netball Courts upgrade 90 Kindergarten Enrolment 89 Boat Ramp 78 Neighbourhood House - Tallangatta 71 Municipal Emergency Resourcing Program 54 New Spin for Eskdale Cricket Club 44 Supported Parent and Playgroup 43 Streetscape 40 FReeZA 35 Community Systems Mapping for Violence Free Living 35 Local Government Business Collaboration 32 Councillor additional fees relating to bushfire 28 Strategic Planning - Tallangatta 27 Country Roads and Bridges 13 Tallangatta Reclaimed Water Reuse 20 Master Plan for Active Sportng Future 18 Bushfire Management Overlay 13 TICC Banking On Our Solar Future 13 Think-Start-Grow 11 Improving Liveability of Older People 10 Health Promotions (Walk to School) 10 Waste Not, Want Not 7 Premier's Reading Challenge 6 Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity grant 5 Beat the Heat - Tree Project 4 Kindergarten Early Childhood Teacher Supplement 4 Maternal and Child Health Enhancement 4 Kindergarten Early Start Program 3 Drug Prevention Services - Ice 3 Community Development and Assistance 3 Respectful Relationships - Kinder 3 Total Unexpended Grants 5,969 Table 5: Unexpended grants * the grant funds received for bushfire recovery are being recognised above in full until finalisation of insurance claims and expenditure reconciliation takes place against the relevant funding channels

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

CASH POSITION

Cash on Hand The cash position moved during the month as detailed below:

Current Month Prior Month Variance Mar-20 Feb-20 $ $ $ % Committed funds Unexpended Grants 5,816,314 5,376,808 439,506 8.2% Other Provisions and Reserves 858,964 858,964 - 0.0% Provision for Employee Entitlements 1,467,645 1,435,227 32,418 2.3% Other Committed Funds 13,874,990 14,346,914 (471,924) (3.3%)

Total committed funds 22,017,913 22,017,913 - 0.0% Other funds 1,488,231 3,848,904 (2,360,673) (61.3%)

Total funds 23,506,144 25,866,817 (2,360,673) (9.1%)

Cash holdings Section 86 Committee Funds 169,557 169,557 - 0.0% Investments/term deposits 23,095,290 25,408,823 (2,313,533) (9.1%) Cash At Bank and On Hand 241,297 288,437 (47,140) (16.3%) Total Cash holdings 23,506,144 25,866,817 (2,360,673) (9.1%)

Average Interest Rate 1.64% 1.59%

$30,000,000

$25,000,000

$20,000,000

$15,000,000

$10,000,000

$5,000,000

$0

Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds Prior Year - 2019 Cash Budget 2019/20

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Investments Investments were made up of the following at the month end:

Date Product Institution Principal Yield Term Rating Maturity

09/07/2019 Term Deposit AMP 1,000,000 2.20% 273 Days A2 07/04/2020 08/10/2019 Term Deposit Westpac 1,000,000 1.56% 183 Days A1 08/04/2020 11/11/2019 Term Deposit WAW 500,000 1.75% 182 Days 11/05/2020 12/02/2020 Term Deposit Auswide Bank 1,000,000 1.60% 90 Days A2 12/05/2020 18/11/2019 Term Deposit Bank of Queensland 1,000,000 1.60% 182 Days A2 18/05/2020 21/11/2019 Term Deposit Bank of Queensland 1,000,000 1.60% 180 Days A2 19/05/2020 20/11/2019 Term Deposit AMP 1,000,000 1.90% 182 Days A2 20/05/20220 11/12/2019 Term Deposit AMP 1,011,967 1.80% 181 Days A2 09/06/2020 17/12/2019 Term Deposit AMP 1,000,000 1.80% 181 Days A2 15/06/2020 18/12/2019 Term Deposit AMP 1,000,000 1.80% 180 Days A2 15/06/02020 09/01/2020 Term Deposit ME Bank 1,000,000 1.55% 186 Days A2 13/07/2020 10/01/2020 Term Deposit Bendigo & Adelaide Bank 1,000,000 1.55% 152 Days A2 10/01/2020 12/02/2020 Term Deposit ME Bank 1,000,000 1.55% 154 Days A2 15/07/2020 12/03/2020 Term Deposit Macquarie Bank Limited 1,000,000 1.55% 125 Days A1 15/07/2020 21/01/2020 Term Deposit AMP 1,000,000 1.80% 181 Days A2 20/07/2020 22/01/2020 Term Deposit Bank of Queensland 1,000,000 1.60% 182 Days A2 22/07/2020 07/02/2020 Term Deposit Bank of Queensland 1,000,000 1.60% 182 Days A2 07/08/2020 10/02/2020 Term Deposit National Australia Bank 1,000,000 1.54% 182 Days A1+ 10/08/2020 17/02/2020 Term Deposit ME Bank 1,000,000 1.60% 182 Days A2 17/08/2020 12/02/2020 Term Deposit Australian Unity Bank 1,000,000 1.70% 301 Days A2 09/12/2020 12/03/2020 Term Deposit Macquarie Bank Limited 1,000,000 1.65% 279 Days A1 16/12/2020 20/02/2020 Term Deposit Bank of Queensland 1,000,000 1.60% 180 Days A2 18/08/2020 N/A Cash Management Westpac 1,583,323 1.15% On Call A1 N/A N/A S86 Committee Various 169,557 1.60% N/A N/A Total Investments 23,264,847 Table 6: Investments at month end

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

RECEIVABLES

Rates, Municipal Charge, Waste Management Charge and Waste Collection Charge

The breakdown of rates received for the year ending 30 June 2020 as well as the rates debtors balance outstanding and a comparison to last financial year is shown below:

Rates, charges and FSPL Debtors Amount Received % Collected Received Collected Balance Mar-20 Mar-20 YTD YTD Outstanding $ $ % $ $ $ Rates and charges levied 2019/20 9,019,031 146,303 1.6% 5,365,017 59.5% 3,654,014 Rates and charges arrears prior to 2019/20 820,140 16,584 2.0% 319,214 38.9% 500,926 FSPL levied 2019/20 1,026,955 11,409 1.1% 678,151 66.0% 348,804 FSPL arrears prior to 2019/20 106,953 665 0.6% 44,420 41.5% 62,533 Total rates and charges including FSPL levied 2019/20 10,045,987 157,712 1.6% 6,043,168 60.2% 4,002,819 Total rates and charges including FSPL arrears prior to 2019/20 927,093 17,250 1.9% 363,634 39.2% 563,459 Total rates and charges including FSPL and arrears 174,962 6,406,802 4,566,278

$12,000,000

$10,000,000

$8,000,000

$6,000,000

$4,000,000

$2,000,000

$0

Debtor Balance (Current) Debtor Balance (Arrears) 2018/19 Notes: 1) Rates and charges for 2019/20 were levied in August 2019. Quarterly instalments are due at the end of September, November, February and May. 2) Third instalment notices due for payment at the end of February were not issued due to the bushfire event.

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Debt Collection

The graph below compares the arrears balances as at the end of each month for the current financial year (2019/20) and the arrears balances at the equivalent time in the previous financial year (2018/19).

Please note the graph below does not include any unpaid instalments from 2019/20, e.g. if a ratepayer has not paid Instalment 1 in 2019/20, it is not reflected in the below figures.

The following graph displays the number of debtors with an arrears balance greater than $200 for the current year compared to the previous financial year.

At 31 March 2020 there were 193 rates debtors with an outstanding balance greater than $200. All outstanding rates debtors at 30 June 2019 became arrears on 1 July 2019.

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Sundry Debtors

The Sundry Debtors outstanding at month end, and the movement from the prior month is shown below:

Sundry Debtors Future Due Date Current 30 Days 60 Days 90+ Days Total $ $ $ $ $ $ March 2020 208,091 210,807 5,956 12,641 135,654 573,149 February 2020 181,655 47,694 29,457 13,916 134,289 407,010 Movement 26,436 163,113 (23,501) (1,275) 1,365 166,139

$1,200,000$700,000

$600,000 $1,000,000 $500,000 $800,000 $400,000

$300,000$600,000

$400,000$200,000

$100,000 $200,000 $0 $0

Future Due Date 30+ Days 60+ Days 90+ Days Future Due Date Current 30+ Days 60+ Days 90+ Days

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Significant debtors (>$1,000) with ageing of greater than 90 days are as follows:

Debtor Amount Description RO Notes Invoice was resent to the debtor in November 2019 with Contribution to communication received back from 21504 $132,407 road remediation DIE the debtor regarding the works. works Further investigation will need to be undertaken to determine if recoverable. Table 7: Significant debtors > 90 days

CAPITAL WORKS

The table below reports capital expenditure incurred for all capital projects with a project value greater than $100,000 for the current financial year.

Capital Works - 2019/20 Note YTD Actual YTD Budget Variance 2019/20 Budget Fixing Country Roads (Hanson Street Development) 1 $34,539 $1,111,000 $1,076,462 2,240,790 Colac Colac Caravan Park (Amenities block upgrade) 2 $67,603 $40,000 ($27,603) 800,000 Plant replacement 3 $540,367 $500,000 ($40,367) 727,000 Tallangatta Holiday Park 4 $592,300 $649,768 $57,468 649,768 Digouts/major patching 5 $256,228 $350,000 $93,772 600,000 Reseal program 6 $183,617 $550,000 $366,383 600,000 Georges Creek Road (Stage 6) $21,000 $170,000 $149,000 500,000 Walwa streetscape (2017/18) 7 $209,562 $500,000 $290,438 500,000 Infrastructure project (NEBFCN) $0 $0 $0 300,000 Reseal - Towong Street (DT) 8 $18,004 $282,093 $264,089 282,093 Corryong Infrastructure (Connecting Corryong) $4,800 $0 ($4,800) 273,000 Pavement construction - Hardys Road (Tallangatta) $68,254 $120,000 $51,746 243,382 Town entrances (2017/18) $0 $0 $0 233,000 Fleet replacement 9 $201,392 $159,000 ($42,392) 204,000 Blackspot program - Lake Road (Bellbridge) $6,025 $60,000 $53,975 200,000 Landfill cell #3 $31,902 $150,000 $118,098 200,000 Pavement construction - Wises Creek Road (Talgarno) $0 $130,000 $130,000 180,000 Resheeting $20,469 $40,000 $19,531 180,000 Bridge deck renewal (Callaghans Creek Bridge) 10 $20,270 $171,000 $150,730 171,000 Finance System $0 $0 $0 162,500 Bethanga streetscape - Bethanga Bay Reserve 11 $0 $75,000 $75,000 150,000 Corryong Airport $19,126 $0 ($19,126) 150,000 Solar panels and air conditioning treatments 12 $0 $110,000 $110,000 150,000 Towong Street shopfronts/verandahs 13 $113,793 $150,000 $36,207 150,000 Upper Murray 2030 projects (2016/17) $0 $0 $0 150,000 Tallangatta swimming pool $0 $0 $0 125,000 Mitchells Bridge (Guys Forest Road) $16,850 $70,000 $53,150 110,000 Shelley-Walwa Rd 14 $0 $100,000 $100,000 100,000

2,426,100 5,487,861 3,061,761 10,331,533 Table 8: Capital Works year ending 30 June 2020

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Note 1: There have been delays due to a change in design scope and design approval with VicRoads. The bushfires and COVID-19 have also impacted timing due to resourcing.

Note 2: Delays have been experienced due to the January bushfires and current COVID-19 restrictions.

Note 3: Machine currently on order, invoice not yet received.

Note 4: Construction is now complete however not all invoices have been received for works carried out (timing variance).

Note 5: There have been delays to the original schedule due to the bushfires. An amount of $75,000 from the digouts budget has been re-allocated to Wises Creek Road and Hardys Road projects. Not all invoices have been received for completed works.

Note 6: The reseal works commenced in early November. Delays were experienced due to the bushfires. An amount of $75,000 from the reseal budget has been re- allocated to Wises Creek Road and Hardys Road projects.

Note 7: Works are nearing completion with invoices still to be received (timing variance). Project expenditure is expected to be less than budget.

Note 8: Reseal works on Towong Street are complete with the balance remaining to be spent as part of the Destination Tallangatta Project in the Triangles.

Note 9: Fleet replacement is progressing, together with additional new vehicles being purchased for the Upper Murray Community Recovery Hub (not included in the budget).

Note 10: The bridge construction tender was delayed due to bushfires and design changes. Construction is programmed to begin in May 2020 pending contractor availability regarding COVID-19.

Note 11: The Bethanga landscaping plan is currently under development. Tree planting is programmed for June 2020.

Note 12: This project is nearing completion with all solar panels now installed.

Note 13: The shopfronts project is progressing with some delay due to mural designs. 20 S:\Organisational Improvement\Executive Services\Council Meetings\Minutes\2020\05 May\5 May 2020 - Tallangatta.doc

TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

Note 14: The contribution to the Shelley-Walwa Road was made in June 2019 after finalising the 2019/20 Budget.

OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS

There are no other financial matters to report.

CR STAR CR SCALES

THAT THE FINANCE REPORT BE NOTED. CARRIED

9.2 Action Sheet Report (06/05/0010-DCOD)

Items requiring action from the 7 April 2020 Council Meeting is attached at Appendix 2.

CR TOLSHER CR WHITEHEAD

THAT THE REPORT BE NOTED. CARRIED

9.3 Council Plan Priorities (07/05/0022-DCOD)

The quarterly update on the 2017-2021 Council Plan priorities is attached at Appendix 3 for information.

CR SCALES CR WHITEHEAD

THAT THE REPORT BE NOTED. CARRIED

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TOWONG SHIRE COUNCIL ORDINARY MEETING 5 MAY 2020

9.4 Performance Reporting Graphs (DCOD)

The Performance Reporting Graphs are attached at Appendix 4 for information.

CR STAR CR TOLSHER

THAT THE REPORT BE NOTED. CARRIED

10 Bushfire Relief and Recovery 10.1 Bushfire Recovery Update (02/02/0013-ADRR)

Disclosure of Interests (S.80C):

This report was prepared by Ms Amanda Pagan, Acting Director Relief and Recovery.

At the time of preparation of the report the officer did not have a direct or indirect interest in ant matter to which the report or advice relates.

Background/History:

The Upper Murray bushfire started in on 29 December 2019, near Walwa. The bushfire developed quickly and could not be contained at first attack. Under deteriorating weather conditions, the fire rapidly expande. The fire spotted into Victoria on 30 December 2019 and continued to grow rapidly.

Emergency warnings were issued for Burrowye, Cudgewa, Cudgewa North, Guys Forest, Mount Alfred, Pine Mountain, Tintaldra and Walwa. An evacuation order was issued from 6.00 am on Friday 3 January for the area. A State of Disaster was declared by the Victorian Premier, for areas of Victoria including Towong Shire on 2 January 2020 and extended through to midnight on Saturday 11 January 2020.

Overall Damage Data as at 1 May 2020

Properties Impacted 657 Primary Residences Destroyed or Non-habitable 42 Primary Residences Damaged and Habitable 18 Other Dwellings Destroyed or Damaged 59 22 S:\Organisational Improvement\Executive Services\Council Meetings\Minutes\2020\05 May\5 May 2020 - Tallangatta.doc

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Sheds Destroyed or Damaged 293 Other Structures Destroyed 21 Other Structures Damaged 8 Stock Destroyed 5,047 Fodder Destroyed 19,000 t Pasture Destroyed 35,000 ha Plantation Destroyed 3,000 ha Fencing Damaged/Destroyed 3,287 km

The agricultural impacts in the Upper Murray as at 27 January, include field crops (926 ha), hay and silage (19,827t), pasture (34,83 ha), softwood plantation (6,393ha), primary residences (22), secondary residences (33), wool sheds (23), dairy sheds (2), machinery sheds (88), hay sheds (128) and irrigation pumps (15). Current indications are that stock losses are approximately 5,833 in the North East Upper Murray fire zone.

A map of the affected area is provided below:

Public Infrastructure Damage

The level of public asset damage has been moderate in comparison to the damage on private property. Roadsides vegetation, culverts, signs and road markers make up the majority of impacted infrastructure. The table below lists known Council infrastructure damaged or lost as a result of the fires. 23 S:\Organisational Improvement\Executive Services\Council Meetings\Minutes\2020\05 May\5 May 2020 - Tallangatta.doc

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Public Infrastructure Owner Summary of Damage

Corryong Landfill Council Storage Shed Tip Liner Loader Guys Forrest Tennis Courts Council Toilets Shed Corryong Saleyards Council Fencing Corryong Aerodrome Council Fencing Cudgewa Playground Council Destroyed Corryong Recreation Reserve Committee of Buildings Management (Council Insurance)

Cudgewa Football Club Committee of Grass on Oval and Management Fencing (Council Insurance) Farrens Lookout Council Tourist Signs x 2 Decking on Boardwalk Landscaping Works Newmans Lookout Council Tourist Road Signs x 2 Lookout Entrance Sign x 1 Landscaping Works Touzels Bridge Council Damage to Decking

Corryong Mens’ Shed Committee of Shed Material Loss Management (Council Insurance) Price Hill Lane Bridge Council Flood Damage Roads Council Guide Posts Roads Signs

Housing and rebuilding

Temporary housing for those who cannot remain in their homes post bushfire is being coordinated through Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV). At present there are 51 people in temporary housing, three people are currently residing in caravans provided by BRV. A further 15 are likely to need some other temporary housing as they progress with the rebuilding progress. 33 people have made permanent

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arrangements. At present there are ten families who have relocated out of the region and two families have no intention to return to the region.

A dedicated planning function has been put in place to solely support the rebuilding process for affected properties. At present the team has received 54 requests, mostly received in relation to sheds with the majority being eligible for a permit exemption.

Community Led Response

An interim Upper Murray Community Recovery Committee has been in operation since late January. This committee has provided on going advice to Council on the direction of the bushfire response.

In late April Council ran an expression of interest for the permanent establishment of the community recovery groups. This process is due to close on 8 May 2020. The proposed groups include:

• Local Action Groups – Focus on community recovery priorities at the local level; • Community Recovery & Resilience Committees (CRRCs) – Drawing on local priorities CRRCs focus on broader recovery priorities for the Shire; and • Working Groups – work on particular areas of recovery across the Shire.

Local Action Groups will comprise local residents, affected business owners and primary producers, as well as local community leaders.

Local Action Groups will be asked to:

• Consult with their communities to identify local recovery priorities; • Be a point of contact for community members on recovery; • Provide input to CRRCs and Council on recovery planning at the local level; and • Monitor recovery activities at the local level and provide feedback to CRRCs and Council to ensure they are meeting local needs and recovery is not being impeded.

To ensure the views of all locations across Towong Shire are heard in our recovery planning, we are hoping to have Local Action Groups established in each of the following locations:

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Upper Murray Local Action Groups:

• Tintaldra/Cross Border • Corryong • Cudgewa • Mount Alfred/Burrowye • Lucyvale/ • • Towong • Thowgla • Colac Colac/Nariel Valley/Tom Groggin • Pine Mountain/Guys Forest/Walwa

Mitta Valley Local Action Group:

• Mitta Valley

Tallangatta and Surrounds Action Groups:

• Tallangatta and Tallangatta Valley • The “Peninsula” • Shelley/

The role of a Community Recovery and Resilience Committee (CRRCs) is to focus on broader recovery priorities for the Shire. CRRCs will have representative from Local Action Groups, as well as key leaders and community representatives from across the region like business leaders, community organisation leaders, young people and bushfire affected community members who may not be a member of a Local Action Group.

CRRCs will be asked to:

• Consult with communities and represent community views regarding recovery. • Identify community recovery priorities for input into the Towong Shire Municipal Recovery Plan. • Provide input and feedback regarding recovery activities to Towong Shire and Government. • Help the community to understand recovery planning, recovery activities and what support is available to them. • Advocate on behalf of the community to ensure recovery meets the needs of communities and is not impeded. • Review and evaluate recovery activities and the work of the CRRC and other government stakeholders.

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We will be establishing three Community Recovery and Resilience Committees with responsibility for particular regions: Upper Murray, Mitta Valley and Tallangatta and surrounds.

We have established five Working Groups to focus on specific areas of recovery:

• Economic recovery • Agricultural recovery • Built environment recovery • Social recovery (both public and private) • Environmental recovery

Working Groups comprise representatives from Council and Bushfire Recovery Victoria who have responsibility for delivering activities across the five areas listed above.

The role of Working Groups is to:

• Contribute to the Municipal Recovery Plan; • Coordinate the activities of government departments and agencies at the municipal level; • Prioritise resources; and • Monitor delivery of actions and escalate issues as required.

Recovery Principles

Council is committed to creating opportunities to improve local conditions post the bushfires by enhancing social and natural environments, infrastructure and economies. This plan and the structures that are developed and will evolve are designed to create a coordinated and well managed recovery that has community at its core. While the disaster is a tragic event and impacts every part of the community it also presents an opportunity to create a resilient and vibrant community.

The recovery process will be guided by the National Principles for Disaster Recovery which are:

1. Understanding the community context; 2. Recognising the complex and dynamic nature of emergencies and communities; 3. Using community-led approaches that are responsive, flexible, engaging communities and empowering them to move forward; 4. A planned, coordinated and adaptive approach based on continuing assessment of impacts and needs; 27 S:\Organisational Improvement\Executive Services\Council Meetings\Minutes\2020\05 May\5 May 2020 - Tallangatta.doc

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5. Effective communication with affected communities and other stakeholders; and 6. Recognising, supporting and building on community, individual and organisational capacity. It should also be understood that the recovery process will take many years (as illustrated by the graphic below). Each individual, family, community group, township and business will be impacted differently and will be on their own journey of recovery. It must be understood that recovery will take longer for some people and support services and recovery activities must be flexible enough to allow for people reaching various stages of their recovery over extended timelines.

Municipal Recovery Plan A draft Municipal Recovery Plan (Plan) has been developed. The Plan covers the key aspects of recovery outlined in the State Government’s Disaster Recovery Management toolkit:

• The built environment – such as, housing, parks and facilities, public and commercial buildings, roads, paths, essential services (power, water, communications) and other infrastructure; • The social environment – such as, informal networks and support, arts, culture and historic influences, health and social services, and general participation in the life of the community; • The economic environment – such as, work, job creation and distribution of wealth;

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• The natural environment – such as, land management, air quality, natural heritage and ecological conservation; and • The agricultural environment – such as, animal welfare, primary producers and agricultural enterprise.

The working groups that support the development of these areas are reviewing the draft Plan activities. The intention is to have a final Plan in place by the end of May for a final review by the CRCCs.

Impact on Council Policy:

Nil.

State Government Policy Impacts:

Nil.

Budget Impact:

Nil.

Risk Assessment:

Nil.

Community Consultation/Responses:

Nil.

Discussion/Officers View:

There are a number of key ongoing issues at present that Councillors should be aware of in relation to recovery, as summarised below.

Secondary Impacts: The impact of the bushfires has left many areas, particularly in the valley, vulnerable to secondary impacts such as flooding and landslides. These events are not considered to be part of the bushfire incident, and there is limited or no support to assist with clean-up and costs incurred in relation to these events.

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Impact of COVID-19: Social connectedness is key to recovery and this has been challenging to maintain in a COVID-19 environment. The inability to hold community information meetings and/or allow community members to come together may significantly hamper future recovery work and/or lengthen the recovery period.

Potable Water: A significant number of families in the area rely on water ways for potable water and/or do not have rooflines connected to their water tanks. With ongoing flooding and landslides impacting the waterways there has been higher than expected demand for potable water deliveries. The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) have funded a program that Council administers of up to $100,000 until 30 June 2020. It is possible the demand will continue beyond this date. At this stage DELWP are not able to advise if ongoing funding is available.

Fencing Collection: Fencing drop off sites have been established in Walwa and Corryong, however there has been minimal use of these sites. The community has indicated that it needs a fencing wire collection service. We currently have a tender open to seek interest for this service. It is expected that approximately 140 properties are likely to require this service.

Blaze-aid Withdrawal and Fencing: Blaze-aid have closed down their camps in the region, leaving 142 registered properties without Blaze-aid support. Blaze-aid have expressed interest in returning when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Blaze-aid have pledged to provide fencing materials and equipment to the region, however the amount of materials and equipment is unknown at this stage.

CR WHITEHEAD CR STAR

THAT THE REPORT BE NOTED. CARRIED

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10.2 Exemptions for Bushfire Affected Residents – Temporary Accommodation (02/02/0013-DIE)

Disclosure of Interests (S.80C):

This report was prepared by Ms Rachael Gadd, Director Infrastructure and Environment.

At the time of preparation of the report the officer did not have a direct or indirect interest in any matter to which the report or advice relates.

Background/History:

This report sets out the framework to assist bushfire affected residents to remain living on their properties for an extended period of time. Some residents who have lost their houses during the recent bushfire have sourced temporary dwelling solutions including caravans which will enable them to remain living on their properties whilst they rebuild. This activity triggers regulation requirements under Council’s Local Law No. 2 and the Towong Shire Planning Scheme, with respect to the temporary habitation time period and the need for a planning permit for camping in the farming zone and rural living zones. Under the Planning Scheme a dwelling is also required to satisfy a number of requirements for safe habitation including emergency access, sewage management, potable water supply and electricity supply arrangements.

Impact on Council Policy:

Council’s Local Law No. 2, Section 5.1.1 states:

“A person must not use a caravan, mobile home or other temporary or makeshift structure for the purpose of habitation for any period greater than four weeks unless a permit has been obtained or camping is permitted under the Planning Scheme.”

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State Government Policy Impacts:

The Towong Shire Planning Scheme requires a planning permit for camping in both the farming zone and the rural activity zone.

The planning scheme also states the following condition needs to be met for a dwelling to meet regulations:

• Access to the dwelling must be provided via an all-weather road with dimensions adequate to accommodate emergency vehicles; • The dwelling must be connected to a reticulated sewerage system or if not available, the waste water must be treated and retained on-site in accordance with the State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) under the Environment Protection Act 1970; • The dwelling must be connected to a reticulated potable water supply or have an alternative potable water supply with adequate storage for domestic use as well as for firefighting purposes; and • The dwelling must be connected to a reticulated electricity supply or have an alternative energy source.

Budget Impact:

For residents affected by bushfire it is proposed that all permit fees relating to the application for temporary accommodation on their property are exempt from Council’s standard fees.

Risk Assessment:

Nil.

Community Consultation/Responses:

Nil.

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Discussion/Officers View:

This report proposes that Council make an exception to regulations within Council’s Local Law No. 2 to extend the four week temporary habitation limit to a maximum of three years for bushfire affected residents. It is also proposed to implement an exemption to camping within the farming and rural living zones under the Towong Shire Planning Scheme.

This would be implemented through a Local Laws permit application with the following conditions applied:

• Access to the dwelling must be provided via an all-weather road with dimensions adequate to accommodate emergency vehicles; • The dwelling must be connected to a reticulated sewerage system or if not available, the waste water must be treated and retained on-site in accordance with the State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) under the Environment Protection Act 1970; • The dwelling must be connected to a reticulated potable water supply or have an alternative potable water supply with adequate storage for domestic use as well as for firefighting purposes; and • The dwelling must be connected to a reticulated electricity supply or have an alternative energy source.

CR TOLSHER CR WHITEHEAD

THAT:

1. COUNCIL GRANT LOCAL LAW PERMITS FOR THE USE OF TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION ON BUSHFIRE AFFECTED PROPERTIES WHERE THE PRIMARY RESIDENCE HAS BEEN DEEMED UNSAFE OR DESTROYED DUE TO BUSHFIRE WITHIN THE FARMING ZONE, RURAL ACTIVITY ZONE AND RURAL LIVING ZONE FOR A MAXIMUM TIME PERIOD OF 3 YEARS;

2. LOCAL LAW PERMITS ONLY BE GRANTED WHERE RESIDENTS CAN DEMONSTRATE THAT TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION SATISFIES THE CONDITIONS FOR A DWELLING STATED IN THIS REPORT WITH REGARD TO EMERGENCY ACCESS, SEWAGE MANAGEMENT, POTABLE WATER SUPPLY AND ELECTRICITY SUPPLY;

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3. COUNCIL EXEMPT THE REQUIREMENT FOR A PLANNING PERMIT FOR CAMPING FOR THOSE RESIDENTS WHO WISH TO USE TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION ON BUSHFIRE AFFECTED PROPERTIES WHERE THE PRIMARY RESIDENCE HAS BEEN DEEMED UNSAFE OR DESTROYED DUE TO BUSHFIRE;

4. COUNCIL WAIVE ALL FEES ASSOCIATED WITH THE LOCAL LAWS PERMIT PROCESS FOR THESE TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION PERMITS. CARRIED

10.3 Bushfire Rate Relief Report (02/02/0013-DCOD)

Disclosure of Interests (S.80C):

This report was prepared by Mr Vincent McFarlane, Director Corporate and Organisational Development.

At the time of preparation of the report the officer did not have a direct or indirect interest in any matter to which the report or advice relates.

Background/History:

Council advocated for funds from the Victorian Government in order to provide financial assistance to ratepayers and business operators within Towong Shire who have been affected by the Upper Murray bushfire event.

Council was granted and has received $3.2m for this purpose from Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV).

Council officers have modelled the allocation of funds based upon, in the main, three sets of data:

• Mapping of the Fire Impact Zone - data provided by DELWP; • Supplementary Valuations Certified (Post Bushfire) – data provided by Valuer- General Victoria; and • Secondary Impact Assessments – from data provided by Relief and Recovery officers.

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These datasets provided information in relation to fire affected regions and affected properties within the Shire which was then overlaid by and matched to the Council’s Property and Rating System and Business Registration databases.

Impact on Council Policy:

Nil.

State Government Policy Impacts:

Nil.

Budget Impact:

Overall, as the funds have been received by Council there is no significant effect on either the current or future budgets. Due to the timing of the receipt of funds there will be a small positive revenue impact in respect to interest received along with marginal extra costs in applying the financial relief across affected properties and businesses and the communicating to ratepayers and business owners.

Foregoing a rate increase in 2020-21 has an incremental effect each year from 2021- 22 onwards depending upon the percentage you apply. If you applied the existing rate cap of 5.55% the effect over 10 years from 2021-22 onwards is approximately $270,000.

Risk Assessment:

There is inherent risk in the quality of the data used upon which the modelling is based.

There was some variability within the datasets from the Valuer-General and the Secondary Assessments, however in developing the allocation model a conservative approach has been taken which includes all properties from both sets of data that were identified as fire affected.

A small contingency amount has been retained which can serve, in part, as a buffer in the event some fire affected properties were not identified in either sets of data.

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Community Consultation/Responses:

No specific community consultation was undertaken.

Options developed are as a result of general community consultation undertaken by the Relief and Recovery staff along with direct feedback given to both Councillors and Council officers by members of the Upper Murray community.

Discussion/Officers View:

Council requested funding from BRV to support Towong ratepayers and businesses in the following categories:

Relief Funding from Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV)

Provide Rate Relief $2,500,000

Rate Increase Relief (5.55%) in 2020/21 $430,000

Waiver Building, Planning and $270,000 Environmental Health and Business Registration Total $3,200,000

Council officers have modelled the available funds, in the above categories, against affected properties and businesses, both within and outside the fire zone. A map of the fire zone is attached at Appendix 5.

The proposed allocation of funds, which provides a mix of rate and fee relief for businesses and property holders that were directly affected within the fire zone and for the broader Shire, is shown in the following table:

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No of Total Properties Income: Rate Relief Grant Income $3,200,000

Proposed Rate Relief Provision:

Tier 1 Affected Properties*: 125 2019/20 – Instalments 3 and 4 ($188,000) 2020/21 – Instalments 1 and 2 ($188,000) Subtotal Tier 1: ($376,000)

Tier 2 Affected Properties*: 813 2019/20 – Instalments 3 and 4 ($1,000,000) 2020/21 – Instalments 1 ($ 500,000) Subtotal Tier 2: ($1,500,000)

Tier 3 Affected Properties*: 1,175 $350/property ($411,250)

Tier 4*: 4,400 approx Rate Increase Relief – Whole Shire (5.55%) ($430,000) 244 Business Rates: 2019/20 – Instalments 3 and 4 ($ 90,000) 2020/21 – Instalments 1 and 2 ($ 90,000) Subtotal Business Rates: ($180,000) 80+ Business Registrations: (Food, Accommodation and Health Act Premises) 2020/21 ($30,000) Subtotal Business Registration: ($30,000)

Support for Rebuilding and Development: Building, Planning and EHO Permits ($230,000)

Contingency ($42,750)

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*Definitions: Tier 1: Severe Direct Impact – Loss of Residence and/or Infrastructure (burnt); Tier 2: Direct Impact – Properties within the Fire Zone (burnt); Tier 3: Indirectly Impacted - The Upper Murray (above the “Koetong Line”) adjusted for the properties already in Levels 1 and 2; and Tier 4: Indirectly Impacted – Towong Shire

A small contingency amount has been held back to allow for the provision of rate/fee relief for genuinely affected ratepayers/businesses that do not fit into any of the categories above, and also to allow for any data gaps that may have inadvertently led to an under estimate of provisional amounts.

2019-20 Instalments 3 and 4:

Instalment 3 reminders were due out at the end of January for payment at the end of February, as Council is aware these reminders were not sent due to the bushfire situation, and no arrears follow up has been undertaken for these instalments.

Instalment 4 reminders are due this week for payment by the end of May. Pending this proposal we have not commenced to arrange Instalment 4 notices, and it is likely that in applying rate credits along the lines of this proposal will mean that notices will not go out until the week of the 22 May 2020.

It is proposed that the due dates for payment of Instalments 3 and 4 be deferred until 30 June 2020 to enable both the allocation of rate credits as proposed herein and the communication of new due dates to all ratepayers.

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CR SCALES CR WHITEHEAD

THAT COUNCIL:

1. APPROVE THE ALLOCATION OF THE $3.2M FROM THE VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE FUND FOR RATE RELIEF AND FEE WAIVER AS FOLLOWS:

No of Total Properties Income: Rate Relief Grant Income $3,200,000

Proposed Rate Relief Provision:

Tier 1 Affected Properties*: 125 2019/20 – Instalments 3 and 4 ($188,000) 2020/21 – Instalments 1 and 2 ($188,000) Subtotal Tier 1: ($376,000)

Tier 2 Affected Properties*: 813 2019/20 – Instalments 3 and 4 ($1,000,000) 2020/21 – Instalments 1 ($ 500,000) Subtotal Tier 2: ($1,500,000)

Tier 3 Affected Properties*: 1,175 $350/property ($411,250)

Tier 4: 4,400 approx Rate Increase Relief – Whole Shire (5.55%) ($430,000)

Business Rates: 244 2019/20 – Instalments 3 and 4 ($ 90,000) 2020/21 – Instalments 1 and 2 ($ 90,000) Subtotal Business Rates: ($180,000)

Business Registrations: 80+ (Food, Accommodation and Health Act Premises) 2020/21 ($30,000) Subtotal Business Registration: ($30,000)

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Support for Rebuilding and Development: ($230,000) Building, Planning and EHO Permits

Contingency ($42,750)

Total Allocation: $3,200,000

2. EXPRESS ITS APPRECIATION TO THE VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT FOR ASSISTING TOWONG SHIRE RATEPAYERS WITH THEIR RECOVERY FROM THE UPPER MURRAY BUSHFIRES; AND

3. DEFER THE DUE DATE FOR 2019-20 INSTALMENTS 3 AND 4 TO 30 JUNE 2020. CARRIED

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11 Community Wellbeing 11.1 Community Services Report (04/07/0055-ADCP)

Disclosure of Interests (S.80C):

This report was prepared by Ms Jenelle Williamson, Acting Director Community and Planning.

At the time of preparation of the report the officer did not have a direct or indirect interest in any matter to which the report or advice relates.

Background/History:

This report is a quarterly report on the Community Services activities throughout the Shire and presents an update for the period from January to March 2020.

Department Activity:

The Upper Murray Bushfire resourcing needs, resulted in the Director Community and Planning transferring into the role of Acting Director Relief and Recovery in January 2020. Ms Jenelle Williamson commenced in the Director Community and Planning role, in an acting capacity, in January 2020.

Additionally the COVID-19 regulations and restrictions have significantly impacted on the approach and delivery of business across the Community Services Department.

Maternal and Child Health Services

Council staff, under industry and government advice, have implemented strategies to support public safety in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses continue to support new and existing clients with onsite appointments and wherever possible, are conducting phone and video appointments. Maternal and Child Health Nurse offices are being thoroughly cleaned between each client to ensure the safety of our community.

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Early Years Services

Our operational approach for the 2020 educational year is based upon Council values and key terms such as innovation and technology. The services are working closely with the Coordinator Family Services to adapt the curriculums and communication stream with families through a new electronic application (app) and processes. This will enhance the capacity of Educators and Council’s community engagement.

Furthermore, the implementation of the digital communication streams with families has resulted in very positive feedback and enhancement in the Early Childhood’s services capacity to deliver their programs.

During March, the recruitment process began for a Team Leader at the Bellbridge Long Day Care and Kindergarten service. The new team leader is scheduled to commence employment in April 2020.

At all of Council’s Early Childhood Centres, the attendance numbers have increased greater than anticipated due to the positive reputation of the centres along with a greater community awareness. The majority of new enrolments are children aged between 8 months and 3 years, which is favourable for enrolments into the future.

Due to the recent devastation and trauma caused by the Upper Murray Bushfire, the Department of Education announced they will provide funding to cover the cost of all families who have a child/children attending the 4 year old kindergarten program. In addition to this, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the implementation of greater restrictions and safety measures being implemented across the Centres in line with State and Federal Government requirements. Early years services have been identified as an essential need and therefore continue to operate.

In March 2020, the Federal Government announced that child care services would be provided free of charge to essential workers, however this has resulted in a reduction in the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) payment to Council by 50%. This is negatively impacting on the income of the centres offering Long Day Care services. Council officers are seeking additional funding to offset the reduction in the CCS payment with Federal and State Governments.

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Planning has progressed for the delivery of the Tallangatta and Corryong Outdoor Inclusive Play Spaces. Further consultation has been undertaken with the Friends of Bellbridge Parents Committee for the delivery of the ‘Water is the Key of Life’ project, which includes a water pump and a dry creek bed.

Educational Services Enrolment Snapshot

Group Tallangatta Corryong Bellbridge Long Day Care 35 N/A 20 3 Year Old 9 N/A 7 4 Year Old 18 27 11 After School 9 N/A 2 Care Before school N/A N/A 4 care

Access and Inclusion

Access and Inclusion Plan

Council staff are in the process of developing an Access and Inclusion Action Plan. Projectura was appointed as the external contractor to undertake these works in August 2019.

Situational analysis was completed and initial community and key stakeholder engagement was delivered from October to December 2019. The second round of engagement, planned for late January, was placed on hold due to the Upper Murray Bushfires. A delivery program and new project timelines are currently being finalised taking into account the COVID-19 pandemic and Upper Murray Bushfire impacts. The contract is anticipated to be delivered by June 2020.

Youth Services

Youth Services Networks (Corryong and Tallangatta)

Council staff have coordinated the redevelopment of the Corryong and Tallangatta Youth Services Network. The aim of the network is to build effective and collaborative partnerships within and across the community to support young people.

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Each school term, there will be one meeting held in both Corryong and Tallangatta which will enable networking with Corryong College, CNC youth worker, Gateway Health, NECAMHS and Head Space and ensure a coordinated approach and support for young people during the recovery period.

Pool Party

Pool parties for Corryong and Tallangatta Swimming Pools were rescheduled for 3 and 4 March 2020.

Tallangatta Pool Party (3 March) was a free family event delivered in partnership with TAFE. A complimentary BBQ, canteen vouchers, games/prizes and face painting were all included in the party.

The Corryong Pool Party scheduled for 4 March was cancelled due to rain. It was rescheduled for 1 April but due to COVID-19 restrictions being in force, had to be cancelled again.

Victorian Youth Week

Council received $2,000 funding for Victorian Youth Week activities, but due to COVID-19 restrictions this event has been postponed. The funding was aimed to undertake a Nextwave film festival and film making workshops. Council staff are now exploring options for the delivery of online modules to young people and schools.

Art Therapy Project

The Mental Health Nurse based at Corryong Health Service is currently working with Council staff exploring options of visual art therapy for young people impacted by the recent local suicide.

April School Holiday Program

With the recent impact of COVID-19, the scheduled April school holiday programs were cancelled. To replace face to face interaction, Council staff developed online activities/competitions to engage with young people at home. These have included Extreme Cake Making- 26 entries, Chalk Art - 8 entries and Art work creations.

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Tallangatta Neighbourhood House

All programs scheduled to be held at Tallangatta Neighbourhood House have been cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions. The main event cancelled was the Vic Health This Girl Can program. It involved seven days of activities including bushwalking, paddles and community bike rides.

The Neighbourhood House has continued to connect with community members via a weekly e-mail message. This message provides links and ideas for activities and learning that can be conducted at home. Feedback from the community members has been positive.

Additional assistance has been provided to community members through phone calls teaching people how to use video conference calling to support connection with family and friends. Phone calls and individual e-mails to members of the community who are known to be vulnerable, and possibly struggling with the isolation, have also been conducted. People have been appreciative for the opportunity to have a chat.

Recreation

Swimming Pools

The Tallangatta Swimming Pool Season closed on 8 March. The extended Corryong Swimming Pool Season was implemented until 5 April, however, the facility closed on 23 March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Council staff completed the closure of the pools successfully and are now undertaking an operational review in preparation for the 2020/21 pool season.

Funding Opportunities

Council staff have submitted applications under the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund. These applications include the Tallangatta Swimming Pool Revitalisation Project, Talgarno Tennis Court Redevelopment and the development of the Towong Recreation Strategy. Outcomes of the submissions are expected in mid-2020.

Tennis Facilities

Staff have also been engaging with Tennis Victoria and Tennis Australia to understand the needs and directions for programing and facilities across the Shire.

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Impact on Council Policy:

Nil.

State Government Policy Impacts:

These activities align with key criteria of the following policies: • Victorian Early Years Policy; • Victorian Health Policy; • Victorian Mental Health Policy; and the • Active Victoria Strategy.

Budget Impact:

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Risk Assessment:

Nil.

Community Consultation/Responses:

The delivery of community engagement across the Community Services department has been impacted due to the COVID 19 pandemic and Upper Murray bushfire. This has resulted in minimal events and programs being directly delivered, and an increase of communication with community members via letter, email, phone and video conferencing.

Discussion/Officers View:

Whilst the delivery of services has been heavily impacted by the Upper Murray Bushfire and COVID-19 pandemic, the team is seeking to implement new and flexible strategies to engage and support the needs and requirements of the community.

The Community Services team continues to have a strong focus on the delivery and achievement of the objectives outlined in the 2017 – 2021 Council Plan.

The Director Corporate and Organisational Development left the Chamber, the time being 11.44am.

The Director Corporate and Organisational Development returned to the Chamber, the time being 11.46am.

CR STAR CR TOLSHER

THAT THE REPORT BE NOTED CARRIED

12 Asset Management 12.1 Asset Management Report (01/07/0004-DIE)

The Asset Management report is presented bi-monthly. The next report is due in June 2020.

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13 Land-use Planning

There are no Land-use Planning Reports.

14 Environmental Sustainability 14.1 Environmental Sustainability Report (01/07/0004-DIE)

Disclosure of Interests (S.80C):

This report was prepared by Mr. Andrew O’Connell, Technical Officer.

At the time of preparation of the report the officer did not have a direct or indirect interest in any matter to which the report or advice relates.

Background/History:

This report is a quarterly report on Environmental Sustainability activities throughout the Shire.

E-waste

Public e-waste disposal bins are in place at the Corryong and Tallangatta libraries. Residents can use these bins to dispose of small e-waste items including household batteries, mobile phones and computer accessories.

E-waste shed construction is now complete at the Corryong and Tallangatta Resource Recovery Centres. Signage and stillage’s are yet to be completed at both sites.

These facilities were funded by Sustainability Victoria to provide safe e-waste disposal points and ensure compliance with new regulatory requirements stipulating how e-waste must be managed. This includes avoiding breakage, protecting e-waste from the elements and storing it on an impermeable and bunded surface to avoid environmental contamination.

Council has an external contractor who regularly collects and transports the e-waste to an approved e-waste processing facility.

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Corryong Landfill Cells

The Corryong Landfill Cell 2 (CRRC) was damaged during the 2019/20 Upper Murray bushfires. All waste has been transported to the Waste Management Centre since this time. Council officers have been liaising with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to develop and implement suitable management solutions for waste management at the site going forward.

Council officers have received advice from the EPA to engage a suitably qualified consultant to undertake an integrity assessment of the liner of Cell 2. The consultant’s assessment will advise Council of the actions required to restore the cell to the EPA’s specifications. For this to occur the waste that was in the cell prior to the bushfire will need to be removed and transported to Albury Waste Management Centre. A tender has recently been released for this purpose.

Gravel Production

A recent crush at Hall’s Pit has produced 4000 m3 of gravel intended for use in road construction and maintenance across the Shire. Investigations are pending into a change of extraction method at this quarry with a Department of Earth Resources case manager now appointed to manage Council’s application. Community consultation will be undertaken in the near future to assist with the application.

Concrete Crushing

A concrete crushing contract for Corryong and Tallangatta Resource Recovery Centre’s, Old Walwa Landfill and the Sandy Creek stacksite was awarded to Walsh’s Wodonga and is now complete. The 40mm minus crushed concrete will be used in roads and drainage construction throughout the Shire.

Tree Replacement Strategy

The implementation of tree replacement strategy is ongoing with street tree planting scheduled for Bethanga and this Autumn.

Budget Impact

Nil.

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Impact on Council Policy:

Nil.

State Government Policy Impacts:

Nil.

Risk Assessment:

Nil

Community Consultation/Responses:

Nil.

Discussion/Officers View:

The Environmental Sustainability area is making good progress in relation to the Council Plan.

CR TOLSHER CR SCALES

THAT THE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY REPORT BE NOTED. CARRIED

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15 Economic and Tourism Development 15.1 Economic Development Report (05/01/0001-ADCP)

Disclosure of Interests (S.80C):

This report was prepared by Ms Laura Carman, Coordinator Economic Development.

At the time of preparation of the report, the officer did not have a direct or indirect interest in any matter to which the report or advice relates.

Background/History:

This report is a quarterly report on Economic Development activities throughout the Shire for the period of January to March 2020.

Great River Road

To encourage the return of visitors to the Great River Road area of the Shire, Council staff are seeking funding from State and Commonwealth Government Bushfire funds for marketing and promotion activities.

Upper Murray Branding

Council staff continue to contribute content to the recently rebranded Upper Murray 2030, and Upper Murray Tourism Facebook pages.

Staff have also assisted in the delivery of the Marketing Upper Murray program as per the Memorandum of Understanding.

Dairy Industry

A joint effort is underway between Council staff and Alpine Valleys Dairy (AVD) on the Sustainable Dairy Community project. The consultant brief has been drafted by AgBizAssist and has been approved by the project committee.

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Staff are also continuing to assist AVD implement their communication activities.

Bushfire recovery meetings are being held for dairy producers in the Upper Murray to discuss opportunities for development and recovery.

An Agricultural Recovery Working Group has also been established in the Upper Murray and members of the Dairy Recovery Committee are closely involved.

Council staff continue to assist and liaise with the dairy industry in this region of the Shire.

Tourism North East (TNE)

Due to the Upper Murray fires in January 2020, all digital workshops were postponed. The workshops were designed to assist Towong business owners and managers in improving their social media skills and website operation ability.

Tourism North East (TNE) officers have since held the postponed events on 17 and 18 March in Tallangatta. A great deal of interest was shown in the workshops and they were well attended. TNE also conducted one on one sessions in Tallangatta to assist businesses establish and improve their online presence.

Council staff continue to work with TNE to produce and deliver the Ride High Country Campaign. The resulting campaign creative has resulted in simple, impactful executions with strong imagery and a single identifiable caption across all disciplines; ‘Australia’s Premier Cycling Destination’. Based on consumer research, separate messaging for segments has been consolidated into the single tagline.

The Ride High Country brand mark is featured prominently ensuring brand awareness as the campaign matures, and destinations have been given greater exposure and focus with the inclusion of the destination tag, along with regional representation by a map graphic. The campaign is consistently demonstrating high cut-through with target markets. Social media channels (reported separately) show high levels of engagement and growth.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in Australia, TNE have been offering digital workshops via webinars. TNE has advised the webinars are proving popular and Towong Shire Businesses are among the attendees.

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TNE and Council staff continue to work together in an effort to help the recovery and development of the tourism industry. TNE has conducted business audits that were discussed in late 2019. Theses audits occurred throughout the Shire to establish the current positions of businesses and skill shortages. Council staff are working with TNE to establish a plan to continue to improve and support businesses in Towong Shire.

In addition to this, another joint effort between Council staff and TNE is the High Country marketing and projects. Staff have applied for two ‘Stream 1 Events’ (up to $30,000) and one ‘Stream 2 Event’ from the Regional Bushfire Recovery Fund.

Stream 1

• Mitta Valley Gravel Grinder Event – scheduled to be held the last weekend of October 2020. ‘Gravel Grinding’ is a fast expanding sector of the cycling industry and the local cycle trails will show off our natural assets. This event has been mentioned in previous Council reports within the Economic Development sections. • Host a major Victorian Road Race, one race in a series. Albury-Wodonga Cycling Club to deliver the logistics of the event.

Stream 2 (only available to municipalities directly impacted from bushfire)

• High Country Rail Trail Master Planning.

Pick My Project – Mitta Valley Mountain Bike Park

Mitta Valley residents are working with Council staff to deliver the Mitta Mountain Bike Park project. Funded by the Victorian Government through the Pick My Project program, the project will deliver a trailhead and masterplan for the development of a Mountain Bike Park in the Mitta Valley. The potential park development will leverage off the region's natural assets and the strong contingent of mountain bikers in North East Victoria.

The project is running to time and budget. Milestone reports are up to date.

Terrain Trail Construction has finalised the Mitta Mountain Bike Park Masterplan. The Plan identifies a social enterprise model as a means to offset the ongoing expenses associated with the potential park. The plan identifies The Mill picnic area as the most suitable location for the Trailhead development. In December 2019, Council resolved to be appointed the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Committee of Management for 53 S:\Organisational Improvement\Executive Services\Council Meetings\Minutes\2020\05 May\5 May 2020 - Tallangatta.doc

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The Mill trailhead site, subject to Council entering into a 12B licence with an acceptable organisation. The 12B licence will include conditions regarding the maintenance of infrastructure and grounds of the site.

The Economic Development team continue to advocate for funding for completion of the park.

Tallangatta Shopfront Revitalisation Project

The Tallangatta Shopfront Revitalisation Project (TSRP) is being delivered as a component of Destination Tallangatta.

The TSRP has assisted businesses and commercial building owners in the Tallangatta CBD to upgrade property facades. Upgrades have included refurbishment of verandahs, repairs to roof drainage, window improvements and signwriting.

The majority of works to the shopfronts has now been completed.

In addition to these refurbishments, Council committed to fully funding the refurbishment of the veranda posts and shop highlight windows. These works are now 50% complete.

In conjunction with Murray Arts and the project managers, Council staff produced an artist brief and contract for the delivery of two murals. A third Business Community Workshop was held to acquire content for the artist’s brief. The proposed scope of works evolved from two murals to four. The first mural was released to the community in March.

Council staff released the mural image on Facebook, as well as the Tallangatta Library, and positive and negative feedback has been received. Due to this staff have postponed the work temporarily. The remaining three mural designs were prepared to take all the project concepts to the community for feedback in April.

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Tintaldra Boat Ramp

Through the State Government’s Boating Safety and Facilities Program, Council successfully secured $119,505 to install a boat ramp at Tintaldra.

The purpose-built boat ramp will overcome many of the safety risks associated with the current ‘launch site’ and complement the Great River Road project.

Due to unexpected cross border planning challenges, staff sought and received a variation to extend the start and completion date.

A revised planning permit has been submitted to Snowy Valleys Council and staff are awaiting a response.

Corryong Airport Precinct Development Completion Report

An online system that captures qualitative and quantitative data of arrivals at the Corryong Airport has been developed. Pilots are requested to complete the short form via an iPad that will be installed at the airport exit. The overall system includes a motion-activated camera that captures the registration of all traffic to the airport.

A prospectus for the Corryong Airport has been completed. Hamilton SierraCon Social and Economic Consulting will utilise the prospectus to seek tenancy.

Corryong Airport – Regional Airports Program

An application to the Regional Airports Program was submitted to fund 24 hour self- service fuel tanks for private aircraft. The current fuel storage tanks are available for DEWLP aircraft only. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the outcome of the grant has been delayed until the end of April 2020.

Talgarno Recreation Reserve

A grant application for the upgrade of Tennis facilities utilised by the school and local community at the Talgarno Recreation Reserve has been submitted. It is currently with the Department of Sport and Recreation Victoria.

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Old Tallangatta Interpretive Boards

A series of interpretive boards are proposed to be installed at the Old Tallangatta Lookout. The boards will work in unison with interpretive information banners being prepared for the Tallangatta Library.

Research is now being conducted by Council staff for the content and imagery.

Davis Cottage Interpretive Information Board

The Man from Snowy River Museum and Council staff are working together to produce an interpretive board for Davis Cottage. Wordsmithing has commenced and quotations are being sought.

Regional Digital Fund

An application has been submitted to the Ovens Murray Regional Partnership. If successful, the proposed project will facilitate in the growth of farmgate businesses across the Shire.

The project is designed to help local producers take their businesses to the next level - providing an on-line platform for the sale of their produce.

Business Recovery

Small Business Mentoring Services (SBMS) were engaged by Small Business Victoria to offer assistance in Towong Shire after the bushfire emergency. SBMS were located in Tallangatta and Corryong for four weeks until 13 March 2020. During this time Council staff assisted local businesses, including businesses in the Mitta Valley, connect with SBMS who offered advice and assistance.

AgbizAssist held a ‘Small Business Information Session’ in Corryong and Council staff assisted with the arrangements. This information session advised attendees of available grants and relief initiatives that were available to small business operators in the fire affected regions. The session was well attended with over 17 participants who all operate small businesses, including primary producers.

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Corryong Visitor Information Centre (VIC)

In March, the Corryong Visitor Information Centre (VIC) closed temporarily due to COVID-19 restrictions. Council staff have maintained contact with VIC volunteers.

Staff continue to work remotely, completing required work and a message bank has been established to receive enquiries over weekends.

Corryong VIC have been invited to host the 2020 Volunteer Summit in October which has been tentatively accepted. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, a decision will not be made until closer to the due date.

Impact on Council Policy:

Nil.

State Government Policy Impacts:

Nil.

Budget Impact:

Nil.

Risk Assessment:

Nil.

Community Consultation/Responses:

• Upper Murray Inc. is leading the delivery of the Upper Murray Brand projects. • Terrain Trail Construction, contracted to deliver the Mitta Mountain Bike Park Masterplan, has conducted community consultation on the proposed development. Feedback has been predominantly positive. • Mixed feedback has been received from the community on the first mural proposed for Tallangatta. Further community consultation will be undertaken with regard to the project.

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• A variety of stakeholders have been approached regarding the proposed interpretive signage at the Old Tallangatta Lookout and Davis Cottage. • The Talgarno Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and associated stakeholders have been consulted on the tennis courts redevelopment project.

Discussion/Officers View:

The Economic Development team, in spite of the Upper Murray bushfire and COVID- 19 restrictions, is making good progress in relation to the Council Plan priorities.

CR TOLSHER CR WHITEHEAD

THAT THE REPORT BE NOTED. CARRIED

16 Councillor Reports

No written reports received.

17 Urgent Business

18 Committee Minutes 18.1 Murray Arts 2019 Annual General Meeting Minutes (Cr Star)

The unconfirmed Minutes of the meeting held on 4 April 2020 have been supplied to Councillors under separate cover.

19 Occupational Health and Safety

There was no Occupational Health and Safety Committee meeting held during April 2020.

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20 Council Policies (10/01/0007-CEO) 20.1 Policies for Review and Adoption

The following policies are tabled for review at Appendix 6. Comments should be provided to the nominated Council officer by 2 June 2020.

• Access to Waste Disposal and Recycling Outlets (outside normal operating hours) (DIE) • Healthy Eating (DCOD) • Tree Policy (DIE) • Young Person Award (COCEO)

The following policies were tabled for review at the 7 April 2020 Council Meeting and are presented at Appendix 7 for adoption. Please note the recommended changes are in coloured text.

• Asset Management (DIE) • Road Construction (DIE) • Credit Card (DCOD)

CR WHITEHEAD CR SCALES

THAT THE FOLLOWING POLICIES AS AMENDED AND PRESENTED BE ADOPTED:

• ASSET MANAGEMENT (DIE) • ROAD CONSTRUCTION (DIE) • CREDIT CARD (DCOD) CARRIED

Cr Tolsher left the Chamber, the time being 12.06pm.

Cr Tolsher returned to the Chamber, the time being 12.07pm.

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21 Sealing of documents 21.1 Section 173 Agreement – Towong Shire Council, Elizabeth Jane Fagence and North East Regional Water Corporation (208350- ADCP)

Planning Permit 2019/035, issued on 15 October 2019, allowed for development of the land for the purpose of a two (2) lot subdivision, use and development of the land for the purpose of a single dwelling and ending of Agreement AG718103P. The subject land for the permit is described as Lot 2 on Plan of Subdivision 622822M, also known as 306 Kurrajong Gap Road, Bethanga, VIC 3691.

Condition 16 of the permit requires:

‘Prior to the issue of the Statement of Compliance of the subdivision, North East Water and the Owner of the land must enter into an agreement pursuant to Section 173 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, to ensure (a) That the lots created by this permit are not further subdivided; and (b) That on the lots created by this permit no further dwelling development or use can occur other than shown on the endorsed plans of this permit.

This agreement may be ended wholly or in part or as to any part of the land by the Responsible Authority and all persons who are bound by any covenant in the agreement. The agreement must run with the land so that all successors in title are bound by the agreement. This agreement will be prepared at the applicant’s cost and to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority, and must be registered on title in accordance with Section 181 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.’

The Agreement has been prepared accordingly and requires sealing.

CR WHITEHEAD CR SCALES

THAT THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BE AUTHORISED TO SIGN AND SEAL THE SECTION 173 AGREEMENT, RELATING TO THE LAND DESCRIBED AS LOT 2 ON PLAN OF SUBDIVISION 622822M, THAT HAS BEEN DRAFTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF PLANNING PERMIT 2019/035. CARRIED

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22 Confidential

In accordance with Section 77(2) information is ‘Confidential Information’ if:

(a) The information was provided to the Council or a special committee in relation to a matter considered by the Council or special committee at a meeting closed to members of the public and the Council or special committee has not passed a resolution that the information is not confidential; or

(b) The information has been designated as confidential information by a resolution of the Council or a special committee which specifies the relevant ground or grounds applying under section 89(2) and the Council or special committee has not passed a resolution that the information is not confidential; or

(c) Subject to sub-section (3), the information has been designated in writing as confidential information by the Chief Executive Officer specifying the relevant ground or grounds applying under section 89(2) and the Council has not passed a resolution that the information is not confidential.

In accordance with Section 89(2) and 89(3) of the Local Government Act 1989:

(2) A Council or special committee may resolve that the meeting be closed to members of the public if the meeting is discussing any of the following —

(a) personnel matters; (b) the personal hardship of any resident or ratepayer; (c) industrial matters; (d) contractual matters; (e) proposed developments; (f) legal advice; (g) matters affecting the security of Council property; (h) any other matter which the Council or special committee considers would prejudice the Council or any person; (i) a resolution to close the meeting to members of the public.

(3) If a Council or special committee resolves to close a meeting to members of the public the reason must be recorded in the minutes of the meeting.

No Confidential reports.

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There being no further business the meeting closed at 12.08pm.

Minutes confirmed this 2nd day of June 2020.

______Mayor

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