ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL
AGENDA
14 JUNE 2017
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item Subject Page No.
Table of Contents ...... 1
1. Meeting Opened ...... 3 2. Leave of Absence ...... 3 3. Condolences/Get Well Wishes ...... 3 3.1 Condolences/Get Well Wishes ...... 3 4. Declaration of any Material personal interests/conflicts of interest by councillors and senior council officers ...... 3 5. Mayoral Minute ...... 4 6. Confirmation of Minutes ...... 4 6.1 Confirmation of Ordinary Meeting Minutes of 24 May 2017 ...... 4 6.2 Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 7. Business Arising from Minutes ...... 5 8. Committee Reports ...... 5 8.1 Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 ...... 5 9. Deputations/Presentations ...... 14 10. Executive Office Reports ...... 14 10.1 Chief Executive Officer Monthly Report - April & May ...... 14 10.2 Council of Mayors South East Queensland (CoMSEQ) - Committee Changes ...... 24 10.3 Councillor Portfolio Update ...... 27 10.4 Council of Mayors South East Queensland (CoMSEQ) - SEQ City Deal ...... 40 10.5 Laidley Spring Festival Change of Parade Commencement ...... 45 11. Organisational Development and Planning Reports ...... 48 11.1 Executive Manager Organisational Development and Planning Monthly Update - April & May 2017 ...... 48 12. Corporate and Community Services Reports ...... 58 12.1 Executive Manager Corporate and Community Services Report - April & May 2017 ...... 58 13. Infrastructure Works and Services Reports ...... 68 13.1 Former Dip Site at 22a Zabel Road, Lockrose ...... 68 13.2 Executive Manager Infrastructure Works & Services Monthly Report - April & May 2017 ...... 74
Page 1 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
14. Items for information...... 86 14.1 Queensland Urban Utilites Progress Report - May 2017 ...... 86 15. Confidential Items ...... 91 15.1 LVRC-17-11 - Evaluation Report on the Expressions of Interest Sought for the Lease and/or Management of the Grantham Butter Factory ...... 91 15.2 LVRC-17-22 - Evaluation Report - Request for Tenders for the Grazing Lease of Various Lots at Grantham ...... 91 15.3 Legal Services Expenditure - 2016/17 Budget ...... 92 16. Meeting Closed ...... 92
Page 2 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
1. MEETING OPENED
2. LEAVE OF ABSENCE
A Leave of Absence has been granted to the Mayor, Cr Milligan, due to her attendance at the Local Government Horticultural Industry Group Meeting.
3. CONDOLENCES/GET WELL WISHES
3.1 Condolences/Get Well Wishes
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: Susan Boland, Council Business Support Officer Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer
Officer's Recommendation: THAT letters of condolence be forwarded to the families of recently deceased persons from within or associated with the Lockyer Valley region.
4. DECLARATION OF ANY MATERIAL PERSONAL INTERESTS/CONFLICTS OF INTEREST BY COUNCILLORS AND SENIOR COUNCIL OFFICERS
4.1 Declaration of Material Personal Interest on any Item of Business Pursuant to Section 172 of the Local Government Act 2009, a councillor who has a material personal interest in an issue to be considered at a meeting of the local government, or any of its committees must – (a) inform the meeting of the councillor’s material personal interest in the matter; and (b) leave the meeting room (including any area set aside for the public), and stay out of the meeting room while the matter is being discussed and voted on.
4.2 Declaration of Conflict of Interest on any Item of Business Pursuant to Section 173 of the Local Government Act 2009, a councillor who has a real or perceived conflict of interest in a matter to be considered at a meeting of the local government, or any of its committees must inform the meeting about the councillor’s personal interest in the matter and if the councillor participates in the meeting in relation to the matter, how the councillor intends to deal with the real or perceived conflict of interest.
Page 3 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
5. MAYORAL MINUTE
No Mayoral Minute
6. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
6.1 Confirmation of Ordinary Meeting Minutes of 24 May 2017
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer
Officer's Recommendation: THAT the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Lockyer Valley Regional Council held on Wednesday, 24 May 2017 be taken as read and confirmed.
Page 4 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
7. BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES
No Business Arising from Minutes
8. COMMITTEE REPORTS
8.1 Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017
Date: 05 June 2017 Author: Myles Fairbairn, Executive Manager Infrastructure Works & Services Responsible Officer: Myles Fairbairn, Executive Manager Infrastructure Works & Services
Officer's Recommendation: THAT the reports of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee Meeting, 30 May 2017, as attached to these minutes, be received and noted as minutes of that meeting.
Attachments 1 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017 8 Pages
Page 5 Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Attachment 1 Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017
Attachment 1 6.2 Page 6
Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Attachment 1 Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017
Attachment 1 6.2 Page 7
Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Attachment 1 Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017
Attachment 1 6.2 Page 8
Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Attachment 1 Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017
Attachment 1 6.2 Page 9
Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Attachment 1 Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017
Attachment 1 6.2 Page 10
Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Attachment 1 Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017
Attachment 1 6.2 Page 11
Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Attachment 1 Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017
Attachment 1 6.2 Page 12
Receival of the Minutes of the Gatton Revitalisation Project Attachment 1 Committee (GRPC) Meeting Minutes, 30 May 2017 GRPC Minutes 30 May 2017
Attachment 1 6.2 Page 13
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
9. DEPUTATIONS/PRESENTATIONS
No Deputations/Presentations
10. EXECUTIVE OFFICE REPORTS
10.1 Chief Executive Officer Monthly Report - April & May
Date: 01 June 2017 Author: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer
Summary:
The purpose of this report is to update Council on: Key issues currently being actioned by Council’s Executive Office Information relevant to Councillors and the organisation
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council receive and note the Chief Executive Officer’s Monthly Report for April and May.
Report
1. Introduction
Refer summary above.
2. Background
This report covers actions and information relevant to Councillors and the Executive Office, including the key areas of Strategic Planning, Governance, Regional Development, Marketing, Communication and Engagement, Special Projects, Executive and Legal Services.
3. Report
Strategic Planning
Community Plan Review The Community Plan was adopted by Council at the 24 May meeting and the document has been published on Council’s website. A copy will be sent to each member of the Community Reference Group with a letter thanking them for their participation in the process, and copies will also be made available at Customer Service Centres and Libraries.
Page 14 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Corporate Plan 2017 – 2022 Development The Corporate Plan was also adopted by Council at the 24 May meeting. The document has been published on Council’s website and copies will be made available at Customer Service Centres and Libraries. A working group has been established to implement the Corporate Plan, Executive Leadership Team (ELT) Priorities and embed the Corporate Values throughout the organisation. This group consists of cross Departmental representatives and will work in conjunction with the Employee Opinion Survey activities.
Business Unit Plans Templates are being developed to commence the roll out of Business Unit Plans in 2017/18.
Annual Report 2016/17 A schedule for developing Council’s 2016/17 Annual Report is currently being prepared.
Governance: Policies/Procedures/Guidelines
Under review/development: Naming of Infrastructure Policy and Guideline – under development Tree & Shrub Management Guideline – under development Advertising Spending Policy – under review Public Interest Policy and Procedure – under review Policy and Guideline re Risk Related to Entering Property to Undertake Compliance Activities – under development
Cemeteries Policies There are a number of policies and guidelines to be developed for the good governance of Council’s cemeteries. This work will form part of the project reviewing Cemetery Management by Council. An update on Cemeteries was provided at the 6 June Councillor Workshop.
Delegations The draft Administrative Delegations will be considered by the ELT in July. These Delegations provide officers with authority to undertake non-statutory, administrative actions. For example, which officers can sign certain types of correspondence, which officers can approve staff appointments to certain levels, and so on. This is an area of Councils Governance processes that has not been well documented in the past.
Integrity Functions Recent correspondence from the Ombudsman’s Office provided an overview of Council’s Public Interest Disclosure (PID) processes. A review is now underway to clearly articulate Council’s PID processes to staff and the public in addition to reviewing other integrity functions such as fraud and administrative action complaints for compliance and usability.
External Funding:
Planning Scheme Funding An amount of $40,000 has been received from the State Government to assist Council in transitioning to operating under the new Planning Legislation from July 2017. In addition, a funding submission has been lodged for $150,000 to the State Innovation and Improvement Fund for assistance with development of the new Planning Scheme. This would help offset
Page 15 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
the costs of developing the new Scheme and requires in kind contribution from Council by way of staff time.
A submission was made to a State Government sponsored survey regarding the administration of State grants to Local Government. Council’s submission suggested improvements in the administrative processes required for State Government Grants as well as extending the focus of future grants to more renewal and upgrade of existing infrastructure rather than new.
Regional Development
Racing Queensland Racing Queensland has invited a request for an expression of interest for a new greyhound and harness racing facility. Regional Development has commenced scoping the document requirements and a meeting was held with the appointed consultants and Racing Queensland. This meeting assisted in gaining a clear understanding of the specifications required to submit an expression of interest. This matter is the subject of a separate report to the Council meeting of 14 June 2017.
Laidley Works Depot Council has invited Expression of Interest for the lease or purchase of the above facility with advertising commencing on 2 June and closing on 28 June 2017. A number of companies have expressed interest in an informal way at this stage, and preliminary work has commenced to re-align lots and lodge a planning application to achieve highest and best use for the remaining lots on site.
Plainland Business Networking The meetings between local business operators are held on a rotational basis. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 20 June and will be hosted by Schulte’s Meat Tavern.
An application has been lodged with the Department of Transport and Main Roads for the “Welcome to Plainland” signage and approval is currently pending.
Grantham Grazing Land lease Expressions of Interest The call for Expressions of Interest for the Grantham Grazing Land closed on 2 June 2017, and evaluations have been completed. This matter is the subject of a separate report to the Council meeting of 14 June 2017.
Neilsen’s Place – Laidley Business Incubator It is anticipated that there will be a reduction in foot traffic in the Incubator space, with the move of Councils Customer Service back to Spicer Street. Discussions have been held with retailers regarding this potential. Neilsen’s Place will continue to open 6 days as a trial, however may return to closing on Tuesdays, depending on patronage. Updates for the digital sign are scheduled to coincide with the moving of Customer Service. It is planned to return the Digital Work Space to the rear of the building, and Nortec will remain in their current position.
Business Awards Sponsorships and partnerships are currently being sought with previous and new potential sponsors. A number of these have been confirmed, with the remainder scheduled to be
Page 16 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
finalised by early July. Nominations for the Awards will open on 1 August, and the Gala Presentation Dinner will be held at the Gatton Shire Hall on Saturday 21 October.
Lockyer Chamber of Commerce & Industry Officers attended the ‘Business After Hours’ hosted by Cube Computers on 17 May, where members were treated to a store tour and heard from the owners how their business has grown. The next networking breakfast is scheduled for 21 June where Graham (Skroo) Turner from Flight Centre will be the guest speaker. The Chamber is also planning a “Local Business Recognition Dinner” to be held on Friday 28 July at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. The Chamber will pay tribute to the work and achievements of local businesses in the Lockyer Valley.
Laidley Business Showcase A showcase has been scheduled at the Old Britannia Hotel on Tuesday 13 June. This is an opportunity to bring Laidley businesses together, see the renovations to the hotel and meet the new owners.
Shop Local During Queensland Week The shop local promotion runs from 3 – 11 June 2017, during Queensland Week, with promotion undertaken in the local press and on radio. Local businesses and lucky shoppers have an opportunity to win tickets to the final State of Origin game at Suncorp Stadium on 12 July.
10 Tips for Tendering Workshop A workshop designed to assist local businesses improve their chances of tendering successfully for State Government work is due to be held, (at the time of writing this report), on 8 June at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. The workshop will be led by an experienced facilitator from the Department of State Development who will aim to clearly explain how to identify tenders and improve tender submissions.
Lockyer BEST – (Bringing Employers and Schools Together) The purpose of the BEST meetings is to build cooperative relationships between local high schools, other educational institutions and industries/business partners. The next meeting of this group is scheduled for Tuesday 13 June. The group is currently planning “Ag Inspirations” for October this year. As part of this, Council Officers have facilitated discussions resulting in collaboration between the Lockyer Growers Group and the local high schools to highlight agricultural careers and opportunities to students.. Initially, Year 10’s will be given insight into some of the innovation utilised in agriculture locally, and how technology is integrated into sustainable farming.
Economic Development/Planning Workshop Michael Campbell from AEC has been engaged to facilitate a half-day workshop with staff from Regional/Economic Development and Planning. The aim of the workshop is to assist Council staff in achieving their roles of promoting investment and good development, while at the same time ensuring compliance with Planning Instruments. The workshop will assist Council staff to find the balance and calibrate the planning process with common sense.
Embracing 2018 Commonwealth Games A meeting was held on Monday 5 June 2017, hosted by State Development in Ipswich to share information in respect to the opportunities arising for local regions from the hosting of the 2018 Commonwealth Games at the Gold Coast.
Page 17 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Single Point of Entry – Business Support The following table highlights areas of enquiry from prospective developers and business operators that have been dealt with by the Regional Development team. The purpose of the Regional Development team being the first point of contact in these instances is to assist potential developers and business operators by “walking them through” Council processes and providing them with a single point of contact rather than multiple staff contacts. No details are provided as they are potentially commercial in confidence, however should any Councillor wish to ascertain more detail please do not hesitate to contact me or the Manager Regional Development.
Industry Sector Level of interest Notes:
Accommodation and Food Services Additional short-term accommodation facilities.
Tourism Potential new tourism experience operation - both enquiries will take time to bring to fruition
Manufacturing Value Added Agricultural product distribution
Transport, Postal, Warehousing New business establishment project development
Arts & Recreational Services Establishment of new business, and relocation of existing business
Wholesale Land Development Support provided to potential and existing land developments
Retail Trade Information in relation to establishing new business
Electricity, Gas, Water & Waste Potential solar power investment
Marketing, Communications & Engagement (MCE)
Queensland Transport Museum (QTM)
Cross Promotion A productive meeting was recently held between the Manager Marketing, Communications and Engagement (MMCE) and the owner of the Queensland Motorsport Museum in Ipswich with favourable outcomes for cross promotional opportunities between the two museums discussed.
An informal agreement has highlighted the possibility of utilising some of the Ipswich Museums exhibits for display in the QTM to cross promote both facilities. To tie in with the transport theme, an advertising campaign is currently under consideration as part of the 2017 Supercar Championship on at the Ipswich Raceway between 28 and 30 July.
Page 18 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Regional Flavours and Ekka A meal and entry deal is being designed for a promotion at the upcoming Regional Flavours food event as well as the 2017 Ekka. The aim is to promote Lockyer Valley produce through a meal at the Staging Post Café combined with entry to the QTM.
Simulator The inclusion of the interactive racing/driving simulator is proving to be extremely positive with people of all ages making use of the simulator, so much so that a proposal for the establishment of a flight simulator is currently being drafted.
Laidley Spring Festival Preparations for the 2017 Laidley Spring Festival remain on track for the event to be delivered on time and on budget.
Cross Promotion with Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) As part of Council’s ongoing commitment to work in partnership with neighbouring Councils, a meeting was recently held between the Manager MCE, Manager Regional Development and members of Toowoomba Regional Council’s Tourism and Events team to look at cross promotional opportunities.
It was agreed that meetings between the two organisations would occur on a regular basis and that in the early stages, attention should focus on cross promotional opportunities within the nature based and sports based tourism sectors.
Laidley Library Opening Plans are currently underway for the official grand opening of the new Laidley Library and Customer Service Centre on Saturday 17 June 2017. An official invitation list has been developed for discussion with the Mayor. Face painting and a jumping castle will be available for the children along with a free sausage sizzle. Advertising of the closure dates of the temporary Library as well as the Customer Service Centre in Laidley has been ongoing in Valley Voice.
Tidy Towns Submission A submission is currently being prepared to the Tidy Towns Committee nominating Forest Hill for an award.
Recycling Campaign As part of Council’s ongoing commitment to waste and recycling education, a proportion of money raised through the collection of waste services is used for general community education. Council recently ran an advertisement on Channel 7 and at this stage, all indications are that it is having an impact and people are paying attention to its key messaging. Plans are underway for the next commercial, which will focus on contamination and look at the entire recycling process from kerbside pickup to the creation of new products from that material.
Queens Baton Relay Plans are currently underway for the community event to be held as part of the celebrations of the Queen’s Baton Relay and will be publicly revealed closer to the event itself. The MMCE is also working in close partnership with Infrastructure Works and Services to ensure adequate and thorough community consultation is carried out as part of the road closure application to the Department of Transport and Main Roads for the relay route.
Page 19 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Laidley Pioneer Village Following close consultation with the Pioneer Village Committee in the wake of a number of resignations, the Pioneer Village Committee is back on track. The newly formed Committee is invigorated and already making positive changes for the organisation. At this stage they continue to proactively improve their governance processes, have complied with Council’s recent safety audit and are even looking at leasing out the old chapel as a wedding venue as an additional revenue stream.
Potential Lockyer Valley Flexi-School Council hosted a meeting attended by 29 representatives from education, health, employment, child safety, and specialist youth services to explore the need and feasibility for a flexi-school in the Lockyer Valley. A flexi-school provides an alternate off-campus structured learning environment for students who want to learn but have disengaged from traditional schooling. The next steps are for schools to clarify their needs and report back, and for youth services to prepare a support directory so that schools know who to call upon for assistance.
Consultations In the past month Community Engagement staff have closed four consultations: the Rabbit Survey; Laidley businesses regarding the proposed change in the Laidley Spring Festival Parade time; Gatton businesses regarding upcoming night works on Railway Street, and Council investment in exclusive or primary use community facilities. Analysis will now be undertaken and reports prepared for presentation to project sponsors and Council.
The Community Facilities Survey received 138 responses, which is our third strongest response ever, and was supported with five pop-up and shopping centre consultations across the region.
The Community Engagement Team continues to provide as required advice and support to Work Groups across Council as projects emerge.
Executive Business Support
Strategic Document Coordination (Policy, Legislation, Motions, Green/White Papers etc) The 5 May 2017 Board Meeting of the Council of Mayors South East Queensland, (COMSEQ), resolved to change the Committee Structure and the way COMSEQ operates. The Committees for Infrastructure & Planning and Waterways and Environment have been dissolved and a renewed focus on advocacy and working groups is being implemented. A separate report on this topic is included in this Agenda.
COMSEQ are strongly advocating for an SEQ City Deal. Given the region’s strong history of collaboration and the capability that exists within SEQ Councils, COMSEQ believes a regional SEQ City Deal is the solution to delivering the economic growth and infrastructure pipeline needed to support the region’s growth. To that end they are establishing 3 Groups with Council representation to progress the City Deal. Essentially these relate to Economics, Finance and Prioritisation. Further detail on this will be provided to Council as it progresses.
The Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly is meeting in Canberra in June. Proposed motions have been submitted by LVRC on Flying Fox Management and the way in which the Australian Bureau of Statistics collects and collates
Page 20 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
agricultural data. These motions have been included in the Business Papers for the Assembly.
Enhance Council Governance and Decision Making Councillors have participated in the additional workshops programmed to develop our Budget for 2017/18. Similarly, additional Workshops have been programmed for work associated with the development of the new Planning Scheme. These workshops have been programmed regularly between now and the end of the year to enable our planning staff and the Consultants to engage with Councillors on this very significant body of work . Councillors will have noticed the additional information provided to Councillors in recent Agendas regarding Committee Meetings and other significant meetings either chaired or attended by Councillors and Staff. This is to provide additional information to Councillors in their deliberations.
Insurance The 17/18 insurance schedules have been prepared and submitted to Local Government Mutual (LGM). These have been enhanced with better asset information on a site basis to better assess Council risk. LGM has also advised that the LGM Board of Management has confirmed the indemnity to Council for the Type 1 Bio-Cycle Installation Claims and will reimburse to Council $307,492.65 based on invoices provided.
Legal Services
Grantham Butter Factory – Expression of Interest This matter is the subject of a separate report to the Council meeting of 14 June 2017.
Grantham Grazing Land – Tender for Lease or Sale This matter is the subject of a separate report to the Council meeting of 14 June 2017.
Laidley Pool – Tender for Lease A tender is being prepared for release in June 2017 for lease of the pool to cover the 2017/18 – 2019/20 swimming seasons. Officers are aware of potential interest from one party.
Lights on the Hill (LOTH) LOTH have advised that they will be holding their 2017 event at the Gatton Showgrounds and will not be returning to the Lockyer Race Club.
Legal Services External Firms Expenditure A confidential report is included in the agenda for the Council meeting of 14 June 2017. This report articulates expenditure on legal fees for the 2016/17 financial year to date, including key outcomes achieved and current status of the legal matter.
Ugarin Pty Ltd – Objection to Rating Category – Plainland Shopping Centre In 2015 Ugarin Pty Ltd commenced two proceedings against Council as they objected to their rating categorization for the 2015/2016 budget year, as follows:
o Supreme Court judicial review proceedings o Land Court objection to rating category
Page 21 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
The judicial review proceedings were heard on 9 February 2017 and we are awaiting judgment to be handed down – this should be imminent. Council is confident that the Judgment will be favourable. The Land Court proceedings are on hold pending receipt of the Judgment – it will then be for Ugarin to decide whether they wish to pursue their objection.
Special Projects
Inland Rail Council Staff prepared draft submissions on the Environmental Impact Statement draft Terms of Reference for the Gowrie to Helidon and Helidon to Calvert Inland Rail Projects. Over 20 officers who specialise in different fields shared their knowledge and contributed to the submissions. Council’s draft submissions were made available to the public and community groups who have been invited to use them as a reference point when preparing their own submissions.
Council also requested extensions of time for submissions to be lodged on the draft Terms of Reference for each separate Project. The Coordinator General granted an extension of time for the receipt of submissions in general until 26 June for the Helidon to Calvert Project, as well as granting an extension specifically for Council to lodge a submission until 19 June for the Gowrie to Helidon Project.
As part of Councils desire to achieve positive outcomes for the community, Council requested public access to 3D imaging for the proposed Gowrie to Calvert corridor. ARTC have agreed to provide this imaging to the public on Wednesday 14 June over four separate sessions at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. Council will continue to work with ARTC to achieve the best outcomes possible for the region.
Councillors also met with the Federal member for Wright Mr. Scott Buchholz MP, and Local State Member for Lockyer Mr. Ian Rickuss MP, to articulate Councillors concerns over the potential negative impacts of the Inland Rail on residents of the Lockyer Valley.
National Water Infrastructure Development Fund (NWIDF) The NWIDF Project is progressing and the second milestone of the project has been reached with a draft report being sent to the State Governments administrating body, the Department of Energy and Water Supply, (DEWS). The next phase requires community consultation during which we will be informing and consulting the community on the project details. A draft community engagement plan has been prepared and is being finalised before making bookings and informing the public of the dates and venues.
Lockyer Valley Industry Forum The Lockyer Valley Industry Forum is now planned to be held on 3 August 2017 at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. This is an initiative which Council will be working on with the Department of State Development and further details will be released at a later date
Horticultural Mayor’s Round Table The second meeting of the Horticultural Mayors Round Table is due to be held on Wednesday 14 June 2017, hosted by the Local Government Association of Queensland. The Round Table is the initiative of the LVRC Mayor and brings together the Mayors of 16 Councils with significant Horticultural Industries within their boundaries, to discuss matters specific to those Councils
Page 22 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Proposed Truck Stop Development Adjacent to GWIZ Site Warrego Highway The Commercial Arm of the Department of Transport and Main Roads plans to release a public Invitation to Offer in mid-June 2017, to determine interest in developing a service centre on the site of the existing truck stop adjacent to Council’s GWIZ site.
Trade and Investment Queensland Trade and Investment Queensland, (TIQ), is launching the opening of its new office on 15 June 2017 in Ipswich and Councils Deputy Mayor will be in attendance. An officer has been appointed to the role of Principal Trade and Investment Officer, Julie Mark, who has already made contact with Councils and will be working in the regions of Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim and Somerset.
Trade Delegation A group of Japanese buyers (Supermarkets and Importers) will be visiting the Lockyer Valley to meet and connect with local producers. This visit is planned for the middle of July.
Bio-waste Council officers are meeting with researchers from Griffith University and a United States University, who are keen to discuss and learn what the Lockyer region does with bio-waste, and to discuss how a Nutrient Cap and Trade Scheme might work. Council officers will maintain a watching brief to determine whether opportunities may arise from this collaboration.
Water Allocations The Department of Natural Resources and Mines (DNRM) and the Lockyer Water Users Forum Group recently met to discuss the details of DNRM’s plans for water allocations for the Central Lockyer. Discussions continue to progress and further updates will be provided.
Page 23 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
10.2 Council of Mayors South East Queensland (CoMSEQ) - Committee Changes
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: Stephen Hart, Manager Executive Business Services Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer
Summary:
The Board of the Council of Mayors South East Queensland (COMSEQ) recently considered changes to the Committee structure that supports the organisation. This report advises Council of the basis for the changes and provides an update on the new Committee structure. The changes are intended to provide improved focus for COMSEQ.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council receive and note the changes to the Committee Structure of the Council of Mayors South East Queensland.
Report
1. Introduction
Lockyer Valley Regional Council is an active member of Council of Mayors South East Queensland (COMSEQ) and this report is intended to provide Council with a brief overview of the functions and role of Council of Mayors as well as the revised committee and taskforce structure that was considered at the COMSEQ Board Meeting on 5 May 2017.
2. Background
COMSEQ was established in September 2005 as an independent political advocacy organisation to represent the interests of one of the nation’s fastest growing regions – South East Queensland.
COMSEQ is Australia’s largest regional local government advocacy organisation, representing one in seven Australians who call SEQ home. The membership of COMSEQ consists of the 11 Mayors representing the Councils of SEQ: Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan, Redland, and Gold Coast City Councils as well as Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim, Somerset, Toowoomba, Moreton Bay and Sunshine Coast Regional Councils.
The COMSEQ mission is to consistently deliver better regional funding, policy and collaborative outcomes for the mayors, councils and communities of South East Queensland. Their role is to: Advocate for a better resourced SEQ region with world standard infrastructure to support economic development; Influence other levels of government to ensure that their policy and legislative positions support SEQ regional growth; and to Collaborate in effective and innovative cooperative programs across the SEQ region.
Page 24 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
COMSEQ is governed by a Board, which is comprised of the respective Councils Mayors as Directors. Cr Milligan is the LVRC Board Member and Cr Cook is the Alternate Director. Previously the COMSEQ Board has been supported by a number of Standing Committees as shown below (with the LVRC Councillor Members and Alternate members shown):
Economic Development (Cr Wilson/Cr McLean) Infrastructure and Planning (Cr Holstein/Cr McLean) Waterways and Environment (Cr McDonald/Cr Hagan)
COMSEQ also has a Rural Communities Special Interest Group that is made up of both elected members and officers. Cr Milligan is the designated Member on that Group with Cr Hagan as the Proxy.
COMSEQ is also an active participant in the Resilient Rivers Initiative that is a partnership between the Queensland Government, COMSEQ, water utilities, catchment organisations and the community seeking to better manage our waterway catchments. Cr Milligan is the designated Member on that Taskforce with Cr McDonald as the Proxy.
This Council representation on the Committees was resolved by Council on 25 May 2016. The Committee structure was reviewed at the recent COMSEQ Board Meeting.
3. Report
A COMSEQ Board Meeting was held on 5 May 2017. The Committee structure was due for review in 2017 and this matter was considered at the Board Meeting.
The Acting Executive Director of COMSEQ advised the Board that a number of the Committees had considered the Committee structure and their effectiveness. In summary he suggested that the Committee Members were positive but felt issues such as representation and Meeting content and format could be reviewed.
Some concerns were raised regarding the links between the strategic plan and the outcomes of the Committees and as the organisation has limited resources there was concern about overlaps between Committees.
The Board determined to make changes to: Retain the Economic Development Committee with a review of membership End the other Committees in their current form Create an Advocacy Group chaired by Mayor Smith Establish Working Groups to deal with key projects as they arise with their scope to be determined by the Board and to be disbanded on completion Provide, via the Executive Director COMSEQ, regular updates to Councils.
It is understood that the work of the Resilient Rivers Taskforce and the Rural Communities Special Interest Group will continue. Further advice is to be circulated by COMSEQ to Councils when available.
Page 25 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
4. Policy and Legal Implications
COMSEQ is established as the Council of Mayors (SEQ) Pty Ltd and has a Board comprised of Director representatives of each Member Local Government.
5. Financial and Resource Implications
Lockyer Valley Regional Council has committed to COMSEQ and has been an active participant in COMSEQ’s activities. It is recognised that LVRC is a smaller regional player. However our Region is a fundamental part of the region and can influence the “no borders” approach of this significant entity.
Funding of the COMSEQ from Member Councils is based on relative populations. LVRC contribution to funding COMSEQ is approx. $29 000 pa.
Internal LVRC staff costs associated with this activity are not insignificant in terms of staff time. However these costs are considered core business.
6. Delegations/Authorisations
No additional delegations are required as this can be managed through existing delegations and standing orders.
7. Communication and Engagement
There are no communications arising from this report other than to liaise with COMSEQ regarding the proposed make-up and structure of the new Advocacy Group and confirmation of representation on the Economic Development Committee.
8. Conclusion
The revised COMSEQ Committee structure and taskforce activities for Council of Mayors South East Queensland are noted. Council representation on Committees and other COMSEQ Groups will be utilised effectively to promote the regions interests and influence outcomes for the benefit of the local government area and broader region.
9. Action/s
Seek further advice from COMSEQ on the future arrangements for the Advocacy Committee.
Page 26 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
10.3 Councillor Portfolio Update
Date: 05 June 2017 Author: Erin Carkeet, Administration Officer Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer
Summary:
This report informs Council of the key portfolio focus areas identified during these meetings.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council receive and note the Councillor Portfolio Update report.
Report
1. Introduction
This report is to provide an update from Portfolio Councillors.
2. Background
Council determined the portfolio responsibility areas in order for Councillors to focus on their particular areas.
3. Report
Portfolio:
Mayor Cr Milligan: Communication; Promotion and Advocacy; Intergovernmental and Media Relations; Economic Development; Agribusiness; Tourism and Events; Community; Engagement and Disaster Management.
Attend numerous workshops and Council meetings Attend portfolio meetings Regular briefings with the CEO Attend numerous community meetings with members of the public Attend the Lake Clarendon School Council meeting Chair LDMG meeting for Council and agencies Meet with Lockyer Equestrian representatives regarding their dressage event Meet with officers and landholder regarding drainage issues at Kensington Grove Chair Lockyer Valley Local Working Group for the Queen’s Baton Relay Meeting with officers around the Weed Awareness Program Briefing on COMSEQ Meeting with staff regarding the Lights On The Hill planning for Council involvement Attend COMSEQ Board Meeting Attend COMSEQ Resilient Rivers Taskforce Attend COMSEQ SEQ Regional Recreational Facilities General Meeting
Page 27 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Attend and open the LVRC Child Care Centres Art Exhibition Attend Councillors 12 months in office dinner Attend Gatton Scout Group cheque presentation with Downs Motorsport Attend LGAQ Disaster Management Conference Attend local ladies B and B dinner Attend QualiPac with the visit of Tim Nicholls and Barry O’Sullivan Briefing with officers regarding budget discussion Attend Withcott State School assembly Attend opening of new building at Lady of Good Counsel Attend on site meeting at Mulgowie with community member and officers Attend business networking evening at Cube Computers Officiate at Citizenship Ceremony Guest speaker at Laidley Combined Church Dinner Attend Lockyer Valley Early Education Centre and Pre School birthday celebration Attend ANZ Disaster Management conference Attend ARTC community information evening regarding the Terms of Reference Meeting with Water Users Forum with Minister Bailey / representative regarding Wivenhoe Attend QTM with Councillors and discussion to move forward Meeting with Gatton RSL Meeting with Stanbroke Meeting re cannery Meeting with Laidley / Walloon Quarter Horse Association Discussions regarding the Terms of Reference submission for ARTC Attend Lockyer Valley Backpacker Welcome evening Attend Lockyer Valley Toastmasters evening to hear speech on Mayoral topic Meeting with community members regarding the recently released flood report Attend ladies breakfast Attend and speak at the Lockyer Multicultural Festival Attend community member funeral Meeting regarding Regional Flavours and Ekka Attend Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee Meet with Glenore Grove Cricket Club regarding funding opportunities Attend Industry Breakfast at Lockyer District High School Attend farewell morning tea for Council’s Regional Library Coordinator Meeting regarding Business Awards Teleconference regarding 2011 Flood Recovery and vulnerable communities Attend West Moreton Hospital and Health ‘Shaping Our Future’ forum Visit Masterhire, Gatton Meeting regarding Hope and Reflection Service Attend Christian Life Centre 10 year anniversary for Pastors Rick and Joy
Deputy Mayor Cr Cook: Recreation/Amenity Facilities: Sport and Recreation, Community Facilities, Health and Waste Management, Animal Management.
Attend the Lockyer Chamber of Commerce meeting Attend the LGAQ workshop Attend the Rural Community Special Interest Group meeting at Fernvale
Page 28 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Attend Lockyer Chamber of Commerce Recognition Dinner meeting Tour with the CEO and visiting CEO's from Wujal Wujal and Bulloo Shires on a CEO mentoring program. Meeting with Lockyer Valley Equestrian Centre committee Attended meeting at Qualipac with Opposition Leader Tim Nicholls and Senator Barry O'Sullivan Attend Councillor workshop Attend Laidley Recreation Reserve meeting Attend IWS breakfast Meet with Manager Community Facilities at Cahill Park to look into lighting issues Attend the Lockyer Chamber of Commerce & Industry Meeting Business After Hours Function at Cube Computers Attend Australian Citizenship ceremony at Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre Attended TSRC briefing on interchange works on the Warrego Highway Represent the Mayor at the Fathering Course Graduation ceremony at Gatton Seventh Day Adventist Church. Represent the Mayor at LINC Family Picnic in the Park event at Littleton Park Welcome guests at the Propeller Program at Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. Councillor tour to Caffey and Flagstone Creek Attend ARTC Inland Rail information evening Ordinary Council meeting Staging Post Café Working Group Meeting Attended the Lockyer Valley Toastmasters event at the Senior Citizens Hall Gatton Meeting regarding the Back Packers Resort at Grantham with concerned residents Attended the Lockyer Valley Multicultural Festival at the Gatton Shire Hall
Cr Wilson: Business Systems and Processes; Corporate Plans and Performance; Finance; Information, Communication and Technology (ICT).
2/5 - Council Workshop 3/5 - Lockyer Chamber of Commerce & Industry Meeting 4/5 - Laidley Meals on Wheels 40 Year Anniversary Luncheon 4/5 - Finance & Technology Portfolio Meeting 5/5 - Staging Post Café Working Group Meeting 10/5 - Meeting with Officers & Residents regarding Laidley Flood Mitigation 12/5 - Council of Mayors SEQ Economic Development Meeting 16/5 - Council Workshop 17/5 - Council Staff BBQ Breakfast at the Depot 17/5 - Lockyer Chamber of Commerce & Industry Meeting Business After Hours Function at Cube Computers 18/5 - Represented the Mayor at the Innovation Series Event hosted by Logan City Council 20/5 - Faith Lutheran College open day 23/5 - Council Tour 23/5 - Inland Rail Information Session at Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre 24/5 - Council Meeting 24/5 - Council Workshop
Page 29 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
25/5 - QTM Advisory Committee Meeting (cancelled on arrival due to lack of attendance) 25/5 - Finance & Technology Portfolio Meeting 25/5 - Staging Post Café Working Group Meeting 25/5 - Toastmasters Meeting 26/5 - Interview with ABC Radio regarding the upcoming World Drone Challenge event at UQ Gatton 27/5 - Grantham Backpackers Public Information Forum 28/5 - Lockyer Multicultural Festival 29/5 - Meeting with Laidley Show and Officers regarding Drainage & Flooding Issues 30/5 - Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee 30/5 - Council Workshop
Cr McDonald: Environment: Environmental Management, Weed/Pest Management, Waterways, Natural Resource Management.
4 May - Cr McDonald, Coordinator Environmental Planning and Pest Management Officer attended the Agriculture & Environment Committee Parliamentary Inquiry into the impacts of invasive plants (weeds) and their control in Queensland. The Pest Management Officer organised a bus tour for the group to attend the landholders’ properties where the Councillors, staff and Community members assisted in the removal of fireweed in 2016. The Coordinator Environmental Planning appeared as a witness to the Inquiry. The public hearing at the UQ Gatton campus focussed primarily on fireweed. 9 May - Pest Management and Procurement teams met to discuss the herbicide subsidy process and voucher documentation. A new process to minimise workload on Customer Service Officers and simplify the overall process was agreed. From 1 July 2017, landholders will be able to request subsidy vouchers for an expanded range of weeds and herbicides, and purchase the subsidised herbicide from three outlets across the Lockyer Valley. 15 May o Media launch of the next phase of creek restoration works Mulgowie. The launch was attended by Hon. Steven Miles Minister for Environment & Heritage Protection and Minister for National Parks & the Great Barrier Reef, a representative from the Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd, a representative from Queensland Urban Utilities, a representative from Healthy Land & Water and Cr McDonald. o Coordinator Environmental Planning attended the shed meeting with Cr McDonald. Around 30 local farmers also attended the meeting and listened to the Leader of the Opposition Tim Nicholls and Senator Barry O’Sullivan explain their party’s ideas and policies for agriculture with particular emphasis on water security. 17 May - Pest Management Officer and Weed Control Officer attended SEQPAM (South East Queensland Pest Advisory Meeting) to discuss regional pest management programs. Pest Management Officer reported planned use of manufactured baits and work undertaken with DDMRB on rabbit harbour surveys and destruction. o At the meeting, it was reported that there is a change to the legislation for baiting, which is effective 1 July 2017. These changes affect: Page 30 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
.Who can obtain manufactured baits and 1080 injectors? Biosecurity Queensland, Queensland Health and Council make the final decision regarding who can obtain manufactured baits and 1080 injectors. .The distances pertaining to notifications of baiting activities. These have been decreased to immediate neighbours only. 18 May - Coordinator Environmental Planning visited the Laidley flying-fox roost to determine a date to undertake the planned vegetation modification works; this has now been set for 14 June. The work will be carried out in the evening with many flying-foxes close to the area. The Coordinator Environmental Planning also met with a contractor to obtain a quote for modifying the vegetation at Cochrane Street, Gatton. This is in response to community complaints about the brief influx of flying- foxes in October 2016. 18-19 May - Coordinator Environmental Planning finalised the request for quotes for the Integrated Land Management and Balaam Hills Ten Year projects. The submissions for the next stage of the revegetation at the Laidley flying-fox roost closed on Friday 26 May. The project will be awarded the first week of June. The Coordinator Environmental Planning and the Environment Officer met with the consultant at the Balaam Hills offset site. The meeting was a requirement of the submission process for the ten year contract for completing the objectives of the Offset Management Plan. 19 May o Senior Environmental Planner and Special Projects Officer Mayoral Office accepted from consultants Cardno the draft Options Report for the NWIDF Pre- feasibility study into alternative water supplies for irrigators in the Lockyer Valley. This report meets Milestone 2 requirements for the project and has been submitted to DEWS. The next steps are community engagement (for feedback on the draft options) and feasibility analysis of the options to narrow down the list. o Senior Environmental Planner, with Manager Regional Development, Senior Economic Development Officer, Disaster Management Coordinator, Manager Planning and Manager Executive Business Services, participated via teleconference in the Inland Rail briefing by the Coordinator General’s office. Senior Environmental Planner met with Special Projects Officer Mayoral Office to discuss the outcomes of the briefing and next steps for Council. Following this, the Environmental Planning Team completed its submissions to the drafting of the suggested amendments to the terms of reference for the proposed inland rail route through the Lockyer Valley. 23 May - The Coordinator Environmental Planning met with the Threatened Species Commissioner in Canberra to discuss the development of a National Flying-fox Strategy. This follows letters written to the State and Commonwealth Ministers for the Environment from Council which included the suggestion that support for a national flying-fox strategy would be of great assistance to local governments. In addition, Council resolved to endorse a motion for consideration at the upcoming National General Assembly of Local Governments advocating the coordination and harmonisation of flying-fox management across jurisdictions through a national strategy or framework. 26 May - The Coordinator Environmental Planning was invited to attend a focus group meeting to discuss local government response to climate change in south east Queensland. The focus group was hosted and facilitated by DEHP and Griffith University.
Page 31 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
The community spray loan equipment is now being borrowed on an almost continuous basis, which is a positive outcome for weed control in the Lockyer Valley. The Pest Management Team are in the process of purchasing another community spray trailer and animal traps for loan to the community and are busy reactivating the community pest management groups. The Pest Management Team has ordered an additional vehicle with a dual reel QuikSpray unit to maximise unit efficiency in on-ground works and facilitate additional community engagement. Planning is underway to deliver a baiting round on 13 and 15 June 2017. This round will be trialling manufactured dried baits following a survey of the baiters where many baiters expressed an interest in this approach. Rabbit harbour destruction work with DDMRB continues, with harbour on twelve properties destroyed in May 2017. A total of 118 properties have been treated since the programme commenced. An additional contractor will be engaged to assist with destruction on a further sixteen properties throughout June 2017. Risks associated with fire ants and invasive weeds in feed bales are becoming a recurring issue in parts of the Lockyer Valley. The Pest Management team is working to identify sources and prevent their distribution. Options for stronger enforcement for repeat offenders are being investigated.
Cr Holstein: Roads and Drainage, Parks and Gardens, Transport and Active Transport, Asset Management and Disaster Management.
Council workshop Site meeting with resident at Tabletop Road regarding litter issues LDMG meeting, Gatton Attend Lockyer Valley resident funeral in Toowoomba Meeting with residents of Advance Court Kensington Grove with Mayor, CEO, Executive Manager Infrastructure Works and Services Lockyer Swap meet in Laidley Disaster Management conference in Mackay (2 days)
LGAQ Disaster Management Conference 2017
Glen Beckett - General Manager Assist LGAQ Comprehension on eligible NDRRA applications has been an issue for some Councils and their claims following Cyclone Debbie Flood Commission of Enquiry understanding by local governments has been diminished in recent years which may be due to changes in officers and elected representatives. This needs to be reviewed by Councils as all Councils should be well versed in what the report contains and the expectations on Councils following this report. Emergency Management Assurance Framework is a valuable tool in guidance at the local level.
Iain Mackenzie AGSM, Inspector-General Emergency Management (IGEM) Insights and Outlooks Iain's view of definition is a community who knows where they live, what the hazards are and what to do. What are the community expectations and are they changing?
Page 32 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Crisis of democracy Decline in Trust: In government, in politicians, in the basic institutions of decision- making.
"The judgement of leaders will be not only for what we said, not only for what we did, but more importantly for how we made people feel" (Jansz 2005)
It is not just about the big things like rapid damage assessment, sometimes it is the little things like just dropping in to say hello and see how they are going. What we have found through work and reviews, exercises is we focused on response; we are good at response in Queensland.
Emergency Management Prevention Preparedness Response Recovery
4 principles of effective Emergency Management is Leadership, Partnership, Public Safety, Performance - Community Focussed Outcomes
Legislative change: Water & Dam Safety Act New Policy developed: vulnerable communities Systems in place. Improved flood gauge network Communities informed: collide valley mapping Partnerships formed: DMO network, Councils and research e.g. Fraser Coast Opportunities identified: AR/VR sharing Integrated risk-based planning being processed Use of a common language (or consistent Disaster Management terminology) Improved warning systems and EA polygons developed
Lynn Keep - Journalist Trust is the key issue to portray to the public along with ensuring good communication.
Mark Sleeman - Communications Coordinator, Community and Client Services, Mackay Regional Council Mackay Regional Council removed most of the usual things on their internet home page and replaced with "Everything you need to know about Cyclone Debbie" to make it easy for people to get information; Council invited residents to visit libraries to charge their phones due to the many power outages; Cross Council collaboration could be used when one Council area has no communication due to power outage.
Collin Sivalingum A/State Emergency Services Manager, Australia Red Cross A State of Understanding Community impacts and expectations: Nature of communities? How they are changing? What are the impacts of disasters and communities? What can we do to work together? Nature of communities: Tend to think of them as homogenous;
Page 33 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Diverse no one "community"; Mackay more in common with Newcastle or Geelong than Brisbane; Has significant capacity, often unseen.
The world is changing - climatically, socially, demographically and developmentally
Lyn McLaughlin - Mayor Burdekin Shire Council Council had a long lead time for Cyclone Debbie which gave plenty of time for preparation. The community well prepared. Challenges faced: Decisions being made away from LDMG without the local knowledge; It is important to be open and give the community as much information as Council has; Pressure from State Disaster to open evacuation centre when it wasn't needed.
Peter Kokoda - General Manager Regional Services, Rockhampton Regional Council Challenges faced: Long lead time into the event - fatigue can be an issue; Issues with TMR with traffic diversions onto local roads.
Bruce Gunn - Regional Director Qld Bureau of Meteorology Numerical Weather Prediction and Supercomputing @ BoM; Ensemble modelling (probabilistic prediction) o Forecasting applications o Scientific applications; Communicating uncertainty.
Peter Fleming - APM Acting Assistant Commissioner, Operations Support Command SDCC and State Groups
Supporting disaster response, conversation thus far: Culture; Relationships; Trust; Community Confidence.
Considerations: Thirst for information - at all levels (including media) - building the state wide picture (response and recovery); Prioritising resources.
Operationalisation of State Groups: Role of the QDMC; Role of SDCG; Understanding the recovery road ahead & supporting the Queensland Reconstruction Authority.
The Conversation... Currency of Leadership is 'Attention'; Focus and retain focus on: 'So What';
Page 34 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Maintain energy and that of your team.
State Disaster Management Plan is currently being recrafted.
Tropical Cyclone Debbie Lessons and Learnings Cr Andrew Wilcox, Whitsunday Regional Council Cr Greg Williamson, Mayor Regional Council Cr Anne Baker, Isaac Regional Council Communication is the big issue particularly when the power goes out. What is the backup plan for extended power outages particularly in the nbn areas where there is no power no phone?
Sarah Buckler - General Manager Advocacy, LGAQ A State of Influence: Directions for disaster policy.
What's the upfront model likely to include? Where Councils can demonstrate value for money over contractors: Day labour; Plant and equipment; Betterment provisions; Efficiencies in the system can be reinstated.
So what can Councils do to get prepared? How will your council plan for this to change? How will your council account for the assets you have and be prepared to prove their condition?
Joshua O'Keefe Intergovernmental Relations, Team Leader The Three Big Wins Inclusion of plant & equipment/day labour; Community resilience fund for mitigation programs; Reinstatement on Queensland Disaster Management Committee.
The commission recommends that the federal government fund $200,000 of mitigation per year.
A State of the Nation: Federal perspectives on Disaster Management, Emergency Management Australia, Australian Institute of Disaster Management - John Bates AIDR's mission is to: lead the development, promotion and utilisation of Australia's Disaster Resilience Body of Knowledge to inform what we do and to challenge and improve how we think, providing a foundation for excellence in decision-making. AIDR works with: Government, community, research, education partners and the private sector to enhance Disaster resilience through innovation through leadership, professional development and knowledge sharing. AIDR is supported by: Its founding partners, the Attorney-General's Department, AFAC, Australian Red Cross and the Bushfire & Natural Hazards CRC.
Page 35 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
AIDR's purpose is to: Help enhance resilience and reduce suffering by ensuring effective decisions are being made that minimise the impact of disasters on people and communities.
National Strategy for Disaster Resilience The NSDR Is a long term strategy; and Relies on shared responsibility.
The NSDR will only succeed if: We have sustainable behavioural change; We understand that we all need to own and manage our risks; We understand and minimise the complexity of networks we have, and continue to create; and We share, debate and use the information that we have.
Cameron Scott, National Emergency Response Manager nbnCo Australia's broadband network and resilient communities
QRA - Rachel Nibbs, General Manager Resilience and Recovery A State of a Rebuilding - The job ahead for local government: Recovery and resilience of our local communities is a shared responsibility; The community looks to LGA's to lead local recovery and resilience efforts; QRA is committed to supporting and working collaboratively with LGA's to get the job done.
QRA support - we want to hear from you: QRA is delivering on our vision to build a more resilient Queensland; We are continually evaluating the support we provide that best enables you to get on with the job of leading local recovery efforts; How can we facilitate, advocate and collaborate more effectively in the future? o Improving local recovery models and governance? o Increasing recovery exercising? o Operating as a continuum?
It was very evident during the conference that there is an issue with BOM and their predictions for weather events and how this affects Councils ability to correctly inform their residents. There was also a very clear issue with communication between the State Disaster Coordination Centre and Councils.
Attend farmers forum at Qualipac Council workshop Lockyer Ladies B&B event IWS BBQ at depot Site meeting at Mulgowie Hall with resident, Mayor, CEO and Executive Manager Corporate and Community Services regarding flood issues Spring Bluff committee meeting Briefing on Toowoomba Second Range Crossing with Nexus/TMR in Toowoomba. It was highlighted there would be disruption to traffic in the vicinity of Helidon Spa when works commence on the overhead bridge across the highway for a period of six
Page 36 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
months. Traffic would be contraflow during works and short delays could be expected with speed limit reduced to 60km. The works are expected to commence late June. Cook BBQ at Crime Stoppers Bowls night fundraiser in Laidley Attend Inland Rail Intergovernmental meeting in Brisbane with CEO, Cr Hagan and Special Projects Officer Attend Australia & New Zealand Disaster Management forum at Gold Coast Attend ARTC community consultation meeting in Gatton Council meeting Queensland Transport Museum meeting at QTM Meet with resident regarding proposed Inland Rail Portfolio meeting with Executive Manager Infrastructure Works and Services Meet with Stanbroke representatives, Planning Department officers, Mayor, CEO regarding property issues Meeting at Grantham regarding backpacker development Attend Multicultural Festival Meet with Mayor, Manager Regional Development and contractor regarding Regional Flavours Gatton Revitalisation meeting Budget workshop Attend farewell morning tea for the Regional Library Coordinator Meeting with Forest Hill community group, CEO, Executive Manager Corporate and Community Services and Disaster Management Project Officer regarding disaster management issues in Forest Hill
Cr McLean: Planning and Building Services, Planning Scheme, Townships and Villages, Cultural Heritage and Streetscape, Regional Planning.
Councillor Workshop Glenore Grove CWA Biggest Morning Tea Laidley Meals on Wheels 40 year Celebration Luncheon Councillor one year anniversary dinner Planning Portfolio Meeting Pioneer Village meeting Gatton Historical Society meeting Councillor Workshop IWS Morning BBQ and updates Das Neumann Haus meeting Spring Bluff Committee meeting Briefing on TSRC Interchange Planning Portfolio catch-up ARTC Inland Rail Presentation Lockyer Valley Tourism meeting ARTC Inland Rail Presentation QTM Advisory committee meeting Toastmasters evening with the Mayoral Speech topic Meeting with the Grantham community about the backpackers facility Sweethearts of song Lockyer Multicultural Festival
Page 37 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee meeting Councillor Workshop Meeting regarding Lockyer Dirt Track Club concerns
Cr Hagan: Community Development: Arts and Culture, Youth and Disability/Multicultural, Public Safety, Customer Service and Community Services.
Youth and Disability / Multicultural
I attended the Laidley Meals on Wheels 40 Year Celebration Luncheon. I represented the Mayor at the Hopeland Hall Opening at Tabeel Retirement Village - Laidley. I attended the ‘Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow’ ideas expo at the Gatton State School. I attended the Lockyer Valley Service Provider’s Interagency Meeting at Laidley Sports Complex. I attended the Backpackers BBQ in Centenary Park. I attended the Australian Citizenship Ceremony at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. I attended a meeting with Councils Community Development and Engagement Officers and a representative from the LAC Community Development Ipswich regarding the roll- out of the NDIS. I attended the QPS Multi-Faith Dinner at USQ Toowoomba with Council’s Settlement Officer. I attended the Multicultural Festival at the Gatton Shire Hall. This event was again well attended with many of our new community members excited to part of the Lockyer Community. I represented the Mayor at a NDIS Roundtable meeting in Ipswich. The focus of the NDIS is to be a more targeted and community driven scheme, focusing on community partnerships to deliver better outcomes. With the Mayor I attended the West Moreton Hospital and Health Service – Shaping Our Future- Community Forum in Ipswich. We again put our case forward for a focus on better health services in our Region including future plans for a Regional Hospital. We had a good hearing with the promise of further meetings
Arts and Culture I attended the Exhibition of artwork by the children of LVRC Child Care Centres at the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery.
Organisations and Committees Representation:
Attended Forest Hill Community Development Association meeting. Dinner with the Councillors and Partners to celebrate the first anniversary of this Council term – at the Staging Post cafe. Attended the QTM Advisory Committee meeting at the Transport Museum. Spent a day with the LAFC visiting all rural fire sheds in the Lockyer area, with regard to 17/18 budget preparation. I attended the Lockyer Chamber of Commerce and Industry meeting. Attended a meeting of the Helidon Heritage Fair – Helidon RSL. Attended ARTC Boardroom Lunch meeting in Toowoomba. Attended the BEST meeting.
Page 38 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Lunch with Tim Nicholls MP and Senator Barry O’Sullivan at Lockyer Hotel, Forest Hill, to discuss issues important to the Lockyer Valley. Visit to Qualipac with Growers, Water user groups, Tim Nicholls MP and Senator Barry O’Sullivan. Attended the IWS Morning BBQ and updates at the Gatton Depot. Attended the Lockyer Chamber of Commerce and Industry ‘after five function’ at Cube Computer in Gatton. Attended the briefing on the TSRC interchange works for the LVRC and TRC areas – highway traffic impacts, held in Toowoomba. Attended the Crime Stoppers fundraiser at the Laidley Bowls Club. Travelled to Brisbane with Cr Holstein, the CEO and the Special Projects officer for the ARTC – Combined draft terms of reference advisory briefing. Attended the Combined Churches Chaplaincy fundraising dinner - Laidley Cultural Centre. Attended the Lockyer Valley Shed Men Meeting at the Winpack Shed. Attended the Lockyer Valley Tourism committee meeting at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. I attended the ARTC terms of reference sessions for the Community at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. I attended the Lockyer Valley Toastmasters evening to hear speeches on the topic – ‘What is the vision of young people for the future of the Lockyer Valley’. With the Mayor, Councillors and Officers, I attended the Grantham Community meeting with regard to the Backpacker Resort. – Grantham Butter Factory. I travelled to Toowoomba to attend the Rotary Clubs ‘Ride the Range’ celebratory event. The organizers and participants wanted to pass on their gratitude to the Lockyer Community for its support, and the great scenery. Attended the Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee Meeting. Attended the Chaplaincy fundraising breakfast at the Gatton High School. Attended the farewell morning tea for the Regional Library Coordinator at the Gatton Library. I attended the 2018 Queens Baton Relay’s Project Team meeting with Lockyer Valley Regional Council, business and community members. Council Meetings, Tours and Workshops.
Page 39 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
10.4 Council of Mayors South East Queensland (CoMSEQ) - SEQ City Deal
Date: 08 June 2017 Author: Stephen Hart, Manager Executive Business Services Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer
Summary:
A key project being championed by the Council of Mayors South East Queensland is the proposed SEQ City Deal. This project is seeking to address the current shortfall of critical infrastructure planning and delivery in the broader region. A SEQ City Deal would involve the three tiers of government in the planning, funding and delivery of an agreed long-term program of infrastructure targeting economic growth.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council receive and note the Council of Mayors South East Queensland SEQ City Deal Project report; Further; THAT Council authorise the Chief Executive Officer to work with the Council of Mayors South East Queensland (COMSEQ) and the Commonwealth and State governments in the next phase of the SEQ City Deal Project.
Report
1. Introduction
Lockyer Valley Regional Council is a member of Council of Mayors South East Queensland (COMSEQ). This report is intended to provide Council with an overview of the SEQ City Deal Project, an update on status, and information on the next steps.
2. Background
COMSEQ was established in September 2005 as an independent political advocacy organisation to represent the interests of one of the nation’s fastest growing regions – South East Queensland.
The COMSEQ mission is to consistently deliver better regional funding, policy and collaborative outcomes for the mayors, councils and communities of South East Queensland. Their role is to: Advocate for a better resourced SEQ region with world standard infrastructure to support economic development; Influence other levels of government to ensure that their policy and legislative positions support SEQ regional growth; and to Collaborate in effective and innovative cooperative programs across the SEQ region.
Page 40 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Given this role, it is clear that a project that entails the long term planning and delivery of critical regional infrastructure would be of key interest to COMSEQ.
COMSEQ previously engaged KPMG to undertake a project to consider the feasibility of a SEQ City Deal. A City Deal is a model for alternate funding of a program of infrastructure based on a number of such deals formulated in the United Kingdom.
The basis for COMSEQ’s initial interest in the concept was that it was worth considering the viability of such a concept given the current shortfall in infrastructure funding and the Commonwealth Government’s interest in City Planning through the Smart Cities Plan.
Key elements of a City Deal are that it: is a deal between an economic region and other levels of government (Commonwealth and State); has a 10 year plus time frame; is an agreed program of infrastructure; contains projects within a program targeting economic growth with benefits that are captured and reinvested.
The Executive Director of COMSEQ and the Head of the State Government’s Cities Transformation Taskforce recently presented to Councillors on the SEQ City Deal project to provide additional background.
3. Report
The SEQ City Deal is being developed through a gateway process in four distinct stages. To date COMSEQ have reached Gateway 1 (of 4 Gateways) which considered the types of investment, objectives, funding sources and approach. This was endorsed by the COMSEQ Board in 2016.
The intention is for the gateway approach to provide all stakeholders a clear series of decision points that will inform a regional agreement. The Gateways will be broadly structured to deliver:
Gateway 2: an agreed regional economic narrative that will inform a framework for project prioritisation Gateway 3: a draft program of investment agreed to and funded by all three tiers of government Gateway 4: agreed governance and joint working arrangements to implement the endorsed City Deal.
It is intended that the conclusion of Gateway 4 will incorporate the signing of the SEQ City Deal by all three tiers of government to enable the commencement of implementation from 1 July 2018.
A key aspect will be the level of commitment from the Commonwealth Government. The recent federal budget delivered on 9 May 2017 mentioned a SEQ City Deal but no detail was provided at that time.
Page 41 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
During the Gateway 1 phase, classes of infrastructure were considered and transport, water supply, sewerage, recycled water and digital infrastructure were identified as within scope. However, it would be premature to be discussing individual projects at this time.
There are benefits and costs in a SEQ City Deal project. It is good for regional, borderless planning and there are benefits to be achieved if a new funding/financing stream can be identified. Direct and indirect costs and benefits will need to be assessed during the next phases of the project.
The SEQ City Deal project will draw together a range of government and industry stakeholders. The governance arrangements that have been proposed are indicated below.
The Leadership Group will provide a forum for political leaders to oversight the program and approve the final output. The Executive Board, comprising members from the Commonwealth Government, State Government and COMSEQ will coordinate the development of the deal on a day to day basis informing the Leadership Group and providing input to the Technical Reference Groups. The Technical Reference Groups and industry will provide insights to the Executive Board to assist in development of the Deal.
The State and COMSEQ are seeking representation on each of the Technical Reference Groups from all SEQ Councils.
The Economic Narrative Reference Group will provide the economic backdrop for each area entailing local industry supply chains, key employers, location of jobs, economic barriers and economic growth strategies. This will inform later program development.
Page 42 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
The Prioritisation Reference Group will have an understanding of infrastructure assets under consideration including, transport, water supply, sewerage and recycled water, digital infrastructure etc and develop a prioritisation framework and options for program development.
The Finance and Funding Reference Group will develop funding and financing principles. The Group will also consider funding/financing options for the program as well as applicable borrowing limits and risk appetites.
From a Lockyer Valley Regional Council perspective, coordination of the SEQ City Deal requirements will continue to be managed by Manager Executive Business Services. Officer representation on the Technical Reference Groups has been proposed as follows:
Economic Narrative Reference Group – Manager Regional Development Prioritisation Reference Group – Executive Manager (IWS) Finance and Funding Reference Group- Executive Manager (CCS)
4. Policy and Legal Implications
The SEQ City Deal is the first genuine City Deal proposed in Australia. As such, it is new territory for local governments. There are real benefits in a partnership approach between the three tiers of government.
Having a long term program of planned and funded infrastructure would be a substantial benefit for the region and its economic growth. However, from a policy perspective Council will need to carefully evaluate the net benefits before agreeing to such a deal. At this stage, no governance or legal impediments have been identified.
5. Financial and Resource Implications
Any financial commitment from local governments will not be required until future Gateway Stages. The program is likely to be significant and costly. Local governments will need to consider their capacity to contribute in the next budgetary cycle. It is recognised that LVRC would be a small financial contributor, in relative terms, to a SEQ City Deal. This is in comparison to larger local governments and Commonwealth and State governments. It is also recognised that some Councils have limited borrowing capacity and may not be in a position to contribute significantly and enter into the City Deal.
Clearly, Council will need to be assured of the long term net benefits for ratepayers if it were to agree to such a City Deal. It is also recognised that engagement in this project will entail a significant commitment from Council staff. However, there are real benefits from engaging in a project that may be of fundamental importance to the local government area and the wider region.
6. Delegations/Authorisations
No additional delegations are required as this can be managed through existing delegations and standing orders.
Page 43 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
7. Communication and Engagement
At this stage, there are no communication and engagement outputs. However, the Manager Marketing, Communications and Engagement will be the contact point for the Media and communications Group identified above.
8. Conclusion
The proposed SEQ City Deal is a project that entails the long term planning and delivery of critical regional infrastructure.
There are benefits and costs in a SEQ City Deal project that have not yet been quantified. The project will be good for regional, borderless planning and there are benefits to be achieved if a new funding/financing stream can be identified. Direct and indirect costs and benefits will need to be assessed during the next phases of the project.
Clearly, Council will need to be assured of the long term net benefits for ratepayers if it were to agree to such a City Deal. Engagement with the process at this stage is important to both provide our regional input and context as well as to contribute the Lockyer Valley Region’s perspective on critical planning and infrastructure requirements. It is recognised that engagement in this project will entail a significant commitment from Council staff. However, there are real benefits from engaging in a project that could be of fundamental importance to the local government area and the wider region.
9. Action/s
Nominate respective officers to the Technical Reference Groups to engage in the next phase of the SEQ City Deal Project.
Page 44 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
10.5 Laidley Spring Festival Change of Parade Commencement
Date: 08 June 2017 Author: Colleen Daniel, Event & Marketing Officer Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer
Summary:
At the December planning meeting for the 2017 Laidley Spring Festival it was suggested the street parade be brought forward to commence at 9.30am, thereby bringing visitors and residents to Laidley earlier, allowing time for them to take advantage of all the festival has to offer and visit Laidley businesses. Following the extensive consultation that was conducted by Council officers, it is clear the majority of business owners and parade participants backed the proposal to trial the parade at 9.30am for this year’s event. It is therefore requested Councillors support this proposal.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council approve the adjustment of the Laidley Spring Festival Street Parade time from a 1pm start to a 9.30am start as a trial for the 2017 event. Further; THAT Council delegate authority to the Chief Executive Officer to communicate thorough Council’s media channels the change to the Laidley Spring Festival parade time.
Report
1. Introduction
The Laidley Spring Festival is a regionally significant event bringing visitors to Laidley from Queensland and New South Wales as well as further afield. The street parade is an integral part of the festival and for the past four years, has been held at the close of the Saturday program, commencing at 1pm. As a result, visitors arrive before lunch often specifically for the parade and leave just before 2pm.
The suggested change of time for the parade was to entice visitors to Laidley earlier in the day and stay to enjoy all the festival components and visit Laidley businesses.
The festival is marketed across south-east Queensland and the street parade is a key feature to attract visitors to not only the event, but the region too.
2. Background
Over the last five years, the parade time has changed from 11am to 1pm to keep visitors in Laidley for longer. Feedback from participants has been to bring the parade time earlier to:
Avoid having parade participants out in the heat of the day Reduce the risk of an early afternoon storm
Page 45 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Allow parade entrants to visit the festival venues and participate in activities/entertainment after the conclusion of the parade
3. Report
The suggestion to bring the street parade start time earlier was raised at a festival planning meeting in December. It was agreed to go to the participants and businesses with the suggestion prior to taking the request to Council.
Past parade participants overwhelming agreed to the earlier time slot, noting that it would allow them to enjoy the festival once the parade concluded.
The reason for considering the earlier time slot is to try to bring visitors to the festival earlier in the day then stay to participate in the activities on offer, spend money in the town and ‘experience’ the festival. An earlier start will also remove the concerns with children being out in the heat of the day just for the parade.
The impact on local businesses is that carparks in Patrick Street will close from 8am and the roads will close from 9am – 11am (at the latest). In previous years to prepare for a 1pm street parade, carparks closed from 10am and roads closed at 12.30pm.
In April, Council officers from the Marketing, Communication and Engagement team visited all businesses in Patrick Street, including Laidley Mall, seeking their thoughts on the change of time for the street parade to 9.30am. A total of 53 businesses were visited. The outcomes were overwhelming support, with the following responses:
all business except one were supportive; three businesses were too busy to chat or not open 10 businesses do not open on Saturday; two businesses queried if the earlier start time would allow people time to travel from Brisbane; one business advised they would close due to loss of income; one business was keen to discuss sponsorship one business was keen to promote the festival heavily via their social media and run promotions instore one business offered use of the carpark area for activities/entertainment two were keen to enter a float
Based on this outcome, it is requested that the street parade time be changed to a 9.30am start for the 2017 festival as a trial.
4. Policy and Legal Implications
This report does not impact on existing policies and has no legal implications.
5. Financial and Resource Implications
The proposed change will not impact on existing budgets for the event.
Page 46 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
6. Delegations/Authorisations
This change will be managed within existing delegations and authorisations.
7. Communication and Engagement
The change of time for the street parade will be communicated as follows: entrants – with distribution of the parade entry form and via marketing to encourage new entrants businesses – via promotional flyers, newsletter and committee meetings spectators – via promotional material, print media, radio campaigns, luvyalockyer website, external online event calendars and television campaigns if possible media releases social media
8. Conclusion
Following the extensive consultation that was conducted by Council officers, it is clear the majority of business owners backed the proposal to trial the parade at 9.30am for this year’s event. It is therefore requested Councillors support this proposal.
9. Action/s
The proposed change of time for the Laidley Spring Festival street parade is for the 2017 festival only at this stage. The request has come from planning committee members and parade entrants, and has overwhelming support from Laidley businesses.
The recommendation is that the parade time is changed to 9.30am for this year with feedback to be sought from entrants, spectators and businesses prior to setting the time for future years.
Page 47 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
11. ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND PLANNING REPORTS
11.1 Executive Manager Organisational Development and Planning Monthly Update - April & May 2017
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: Dan McPherson, Executive Manager Organisational Development & Planning Responsible Officer: Dan McPherson, Executive Manager Organisational Development & Planning
Summary:
This report is to update Council on key issues currently being actioned within the Organisational Development and Planning group.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council receive and note the Executive Manager Organisational Development & Planning’s Monthly Report for April & May 2017.
Report
1. Introduction
This report provides an update on key matters arising and being addressed since the last report.
2. Background
The previous reports provide the background information to date and only progress is being reported during April and May 2017.
3. Report
ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Workforce
Council’s establishment FTE number was 303 in April 2017 and 306 in May 2017. This figure also reflects casual hours calculated as FTE’s.
Learning & Development
Council’s Organisation and People Development (OPD) team represented Council at the Lockyer District High School’s Post-Secondary Pathways Expo. The OPD team provided career information to a range of students from a number of participating high schools aged from years 10-12.
Page 48 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
In conjunction with representatives from Council’s Information Services team, the OPD team have been involved in discussions with TechnologyOne to become the Queensland HR Partner Site. The input OPD provide will form the platform TechnologyOne will use when rolling the completed software out to other Council’s.
The OPD team facilitated a visit from representatives of Moreton Bay Regional Council to view what has already been achieved in the CiA rollout from a Human Resources (HR) and Payroll perspective.
Council is participating in the Work Experience Program and has gained 5 students from Lockyer District High School, 1 student from Faith Lutheran College and 1 student from University of Queensland to assist areas of Council over a period of time.
Courses Held Since the Last Report
Corporate Induction (Work Health & Safety / Drug & Alcohol Training Inclusive) CSQ Funded Certificate IV in Civil Construction (Ongoing) Verification of Competencies Bite Prevention Workshop Advanced Safe Dog Handling, Apprehension & Bite Prevention Workshop Bridge Inspections Training
Upcoming Training
Corporate Induction (Work Health & Safety / Drug & Alcohol Training Inclusive) Code of Conduct (Catch Up) Asbestos Awareness Training Dealing with Hostile & Violent People Training (9 sessions scheduled between 11 July and 21 September 2017)
Work Health & Safety
Injuries/Incidents
There have been six (6) injuries reported during this period: 04/04/2017 – Employee sustained a knee strain injury when lifting building materials. 12/4/2017 – Employee sustained a rib injury whilst working on a vehicle. 22/4/2017 – An incident involving a pedestrian and a Council vehicle occurred resulting in the pedestrian sustaining an injury. 26/04/2017 – An employee sustained a back strain injury when they slipped and fell. 09/05/2017 – Employee sustained a minor leg injury when a trucks hydraulic line ruptured causing the hose to move striking the employee on the leg. 25/5/2017 – Employee sustained a minor grazing injury to their elbow and leg when tripping up the stairs.
Plant Vehicle incidents
There have been six (6) plant vehicle / property damage incidents reported during this period:
Page 49 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
17/04/2017 – A Council vehicle sustained minor damage when the vehicle collided with a post. 18/04/2017 – A road roller impacted a tree branch causing damage to the roof and side mirror. 18/04/2017 – A stone thrown from a whipper snipper damaging the rear window of a private vehicle. 15/05/2017 – Potholing activities struck and damaged a Telstra cable. 17/05/2017 – A Flocon truck reversed into a fence post damaging the shute. 24/05/2017 – Damage to a water service occurred whilst conducting drain cleaning activities.
Near Miss Incidents
There have been two (2) near miss incidents reported during this period: 11/04/2017 – A contractor was subject to threatening behaviour from a member of the public whilst conducting activities on behalf of Council.
Workers Compensation Claims / Injury Management LTI
There are four (4) approved, active workers compensation claims. There is one (1) rejected workers compensation claim subject to review by the regulator on appeal.
SPORTS, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY GRANTS
Sports Ambassador Funding has been provided to six participants attending the following events: 3x Queensland Table Tennis Championships 1x Australian Indoor Cricket Championships 1x World BMX Championships 1x National Dressage Championships
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT
Development Assessment
Refer to the attached table which indicates all development applications and requests as at 31 May 2017.
Environmental Planning
Senior Environmental Planner attended the third LGMA Propeller Workshop, hosted by Rockhampton Regional Council. The workshop topic centred around what makes a Council ‘regional’ with presentations given by the Mayor, CEO and other Council officers. A bus tour to various projects was also provided, to showcase new, planned and in-construction projects in the city. LVRC hosted the second Propeller Workshop at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre. Subsequently, the Senior Environmental Planner, with three other Propeller Programme participants, ran a workshop on Community Engagement at the cultural centre for the other programme participants. The workshop was a great success, with
Page 50 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
presentations from Cr Jason Cook, CEO Ian Church, Elizabeth Jones, Neil Williamson, Brett Qualischefski and Brendan Sippel.
ABC TV reported on the Lockyer Valley rabbit survey work. Cr Holstein, Dr Dave Berman from Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board and Lockyer Valley farmer Pat Salter were interviewed. The following summarises the outcomes of the project: o Visited 1361 properties so far with 484 more to go. o 1169 properties (91% of properties inspected) were found to be clear of rabbits. o 237 rabbit breeding places with sign of long term rabbit occupation or current rabbit activity were found. o A total of 74 breeding places have been destroyed mainly by burning log piles or ripping during the survey so far (16 were destroyed by landholder action alone). o While the 8 weeks allocated for the survey has been completed it is important to visit the remaining 484 properties and treat the remaining breeding places already known and those that will be found.
The Pest Management Team have included additional products available through the Herbicide Subsidy Scheme, they are in the process of purchasing another spray trailer and animal traps for loan to the community and are busy reactivating the community pest management groups.
A baiting round is scheduled for 13 and 15 June 2017. This round will be trialling manufactured dried baits following a survey of the community whom expressed an interest in this approach.
The Coordinator Environmental Planning appeared as a witness to the Agriculture & Environment Committee Parliamentary Inquiry into the impacts of invasive plants (weeds) and their control in Queensland together with Cr McDonald. The public hearing at the UQ Gatton campus focused primarily on fireweed.
The Coordinator Environmental Planning and Senior Environmental Planner attended the media launch of the next phase of creek restoration works at Mulgowie. The launch was attended by Hon. Steven Miles, Minister for Environment & Heritage Protection and Minister for National Parks & the Great Barrier Reef, Roy Cummins (Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd), Paul Belz (Queensland Urban Utilities), Julie McLellan (Healthy Land & Water) and Cr Jim McDonald.
The Coordinator Environmental Planning attended the shed meeting with Cr Jim McDonald. Around 30 local farmers also attended the meeting and listened to the Leader of the Opposition Tim Nicholls and Senator Barry O’Sullivan explain their party’s ideas and policies for agriculture with particular emphasis on water security.
The Coordinator Environmental Planning met with the Threatened Species Commissioner in Canberra to discuss the development of a National Flying-fox Strategy. This follows letters written to the State and Commonwealth Ministers for the Environment from Council which included the suggestion that support for a national flying-fox strategy would be of great assistance to Local Governments. In addition Council resolved to endorse a motion for consideration at the upcoming National General Assembly of Local Government advocating the coordination and harmonisation of flying-fox management across jurisdictions through a national strategy or framework.
Page 51 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
The Coordinator Environmental Planning visited the Laidley flying-fox roost to determine a date to undertake the planned vegetation modification works; this has now been set for 14 June. The work will be carried out in the evening with many flying-foxes close to the area. The Coordinator Environmental Planning also met with a contractor to obtain a quote for modifying the vegetation at Cochrane Street, Gatton. This is in response to community complaints about the brief influx of flying-foxes in October 2016.
The Coordinator Environmental Planning finalised the request for quotes for the Integrated Land Management and Balaam Hills Ten Year projects. The submissions for the next stage of the revegetation at the Laidley flying-fox roost close on 26 May.
Senior Environmental Planner, with Manager Regional Development, Senior Economic Development Officer, Disaster Management Coordinator, Manager Planning and Manager Executive Business Services, participated via teleconference in the Inland Rail briefing by the Coordinator General’s office. Senior Environmental Planner met with Special Projects Officer Mayoral Office to discuss the outcomes of the briefing and next steps for Council. Following this the Environmental Planning Team completed its submissions to the drafting of the suggested amendments to the terms of reference for the proposed inland rail route through the Lockyer Valley.
The Coordinator Environmental Planning was invited to attend a focus group meeting to discuss Local Government response to climate change in South East Queensland. The focus group was hosted and facilitated by DEHP and Griffith University.
PLUMBING AND BUILDING SERVICES
Refer to the attached table indicating statistics from January 2017 to May 2017.
Attachments 1View Development Applications May 2017 2 Pages 2View Plumbing and Building Services Statistics 3 Pages
Page 52 Executive Manager Organisational Development and Attachment 1 Planning Monthly Update - April & May 2017 Development Applications May 2017
Attachment 1 11.1 Page 53
Executive Manager Organisational Development and Attachment 1 Planning Monthly Update - April & May 2017 Development Applications May 2017
Attachment 1 11.1 Page 54
Executive Manager Organisational Development and Attachment 2 Planning Monthly Update - April & May 2017 Plumbing and Building Services Statistics
Attachment 2 11.1 Page 55
Executive Manager Organisational Development and Attachment 2 Planning Monthly Update - April & May 2017 Plumbing and Building Services Statistics
Attachment 2 11.1 Page 56
Executive Manager Organisational Development and Attachment 2 Planning Monthly Update - April & May 2017 Plumbing and Building Services Statistics
Attachment 2 11.1 Page 57
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
12. CORPORATE AND COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORTS
12.1 Executive Manager Corporate and Community Services Report - April & May 2017
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: David Lewis, Executive Manager Corporate & Community Services Responsible Officer: David Lewis, Executive Manager Corporate & Community Services
Summary:
This report provides Council with a brief summary of key operational activities undertaken by Corporate and Community Services during April and May 2017.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council receive and note the Executive Manager Corporate and Community Services’ Monthly Report for April & May 2017; Further; THAT the Mayor be authorised to send correspondence to the Queensland Police Service – Laidley Branch request additional patrols be undertaken at the Laidley Rec Reserve in order to reduce the occurrences of vandalism in this location.
Report
1. Introduction
This report provides Council with a brief summary of key operational activities undertaken by Corporate and Community Services during April and May 2017.
2. Background
Council should be aware of group activities to guide future decision making.
3. Report
A brief summary of the key outcomes for Corporate and Community Services during April and May by functional grouping follows.
FINANCE AND CUSTOMER SERVICES
Finance
Rates modelling has been undertaken for the 2017/18 budget and presented to Council for consideration. Reminder letters for overdue rates have been sent out and a review of eligibility for pension concessions has been completed prior to the end of the financial year.
The budget process is nearly complete with the final Council workshop held on 6 June. Planning for end of year is well advanced and the external auditors will be on site during the
Page 58 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
first week of June. The budget review completed at the end of April has been updated in the financial system.
The Procurement Team has been working with the Staging Post Café to identify opportunities to reduce costs and secure consistent supply. Free training for suppliers on the “Top 10 Tips for Tendering with Government” has been arranged for 8 June with the presentation by state government procurement officers including information on LVRC processes. It is hoped that there will be further sessions arranged for later in the year on topics of interest.
Customer Services
This section of the report breaks down April and May 2017 activity within the Customer Services Branch by service type.
Service Requests Details of April customer service requests and recent trends in relation to same are detailed in the two attachments to this report.
Councillor requests During April there were 23 new Councillor requests with 78 Councillor requests remaining open at 30 April 2017.
During May there were 25 new Councillor requests with 73 Councillor requests remaining open at 31 May 2017.
Telephones 2,240 telephone calls attempted to connect with Council’s telephone exchange in April 2017 and 2,815 telephone calls attempted to connect with Council’s telephone exchange in May 2017. During the months, Council’s service level had a small increase to 76.16% in April and a further increase to 80.2% in May against a service level target of 80%.
During the months, Council’s “call back” function decreased, with 80 calls logged in April and a further drop to 56 in May; there was 27 live chats performed during the month of April, with an increase in May to 45.
QGAP
There were 520 QGAP transactions processed by Council during April with an increase to 646 for May.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Vandalism has occurred at the Laidley Sports Complex again. Damage was sustained to the exterior wall cladding, bollard lighting and graffiti to the nearby ‘can bar’. The ladies public toilet at the Laidley Recreation Grounds was also damaged; the toilet appears to have been extensively damaged by fire. Police reports have been submitted. The Regional Library Coordinator submitted her resignation to take up a position with Logan Libraries. In the past 15 years the officer has managed the merger of the Gatton & Laidley Libraries, oversaw the design and relocation of the Gatton Library and managed the many moves of the Laidley Library. Her last day was Friday 2 June 2017. We all wish her well in her future endeavours. Page 59 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Facilities
Laidley Recreation Reserve Lighting Replacement
Retrofit of lights has been completed to the athletics, soccer and netball courts withy retrofit of lights to the rugby fields occurring from 22 May with completion due by 9 June. Laidley Library and Customer Service Centre
Parks and Gardens are currently finalizing the park adjacent to the centre. The design for external signage has been completed with installation to occur on or before 16 June.
RV Park
Infrastructure Works and Services will commence works on 1 June. Works are scheduled for completion before the end of the financial year.
Laidley Pool Disabled Toilet & Shade Structures
LVRC staff to remove old shade shelters and concrete slabs by 31 May. Plans and certificates submitted to Building Certifier for building approval. Facilities staff arranging site preparation of slab area for the toilet building.
Gatton Administration Building Smoke Detector System
Inspection by Ferm Engineering on 22 May. Ferm Engineering to submit an inspection report by 8 June.
Gatton Shire Hall Basement Exit
Inspection by Ferm Engineering on 22 May. Ferm Engineering to submit an inspection report by 8 June.
Libraries
During April, 183 new members joined our service with 10,653 items being issued.
During May, 258 new members joined our service with 14,170 items being issued.
Childcare
Average occupancy rates for the month of April were Gatton 67% and Kensington Grove 55.5%.
Average occupancy rates for the month of May were Gatton 74.7% and Kensington Grove 55.3%.
HEALTH, WASTE & REGULATORY SERVICES
Page 60 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Regulatory
A total of 476 Health, Waste &Regulatory Services customer requests were within the period 23 April - 31 May 2017 (with 123 of these still current)
During the period 15 dog attacks were reported to Council with 3 attacks on a person and 12 attacks on animals.
Within the period there were 4 proposed regulated dog notices, 20 warning notices and 14 Infringement Notices issued to animal owners.
Dog Registration Renewals for the 2017-2018 Period have now been issued with the due date for payment being 23 June 2017.
A PetPEP Presentation was undertaken at Ropeley State School.
Queensland Dog Breeder Register – QBDR - (QLD Puppy Breeder Legislation) commenced on 25 May 2017. Council Local Laws Officers now have access to the Register. In relation to this issue, Council should note that: 1) Council has already has its first compliance issue referral under the Legislation. It has been actioned and completed (Dog Breeder is a registered dog owner with Council and is a Dogs QLD member, it was identified that they had failed to return a document to Dogs QLD enabling their details to be referred to the Queensland Dog Breeder Register, this document has since been provided to Dogs QLD for processing). 2) Another was matter was referred to Council by DAF as a result of their search of puppy sales advertising in the LVRC area. That seller was subsequently identified as an LVRC Kennel Licence Holder / Registered Dog Owner who was yet to apply for a QBDR Supply Number. They have been spoken to and will now apply for a QBDR Supply Number although they were not required to have such a number at this this time due to age of pups advertised.
Environmental health
Annual food licence inspections are on track to meet corporate objectives. Approximately with 50 premises will be inspected in June 2017.
Waste
EHP has audited the old Gatton Environmental Licence. Gatton Landfill and Waste Transfer Stations were audited. At this stage some minor operational issues were identified; however, additional documentation to demonstrate compliance has been sought by the Department. A formal letter is expected in June 2017.
Site based management plans (SBMP) have been prepared for Waste Transfer Stations. An updated SBMP for the Gatton Landfill is being peer reviewed by a consultant for completeness.
Two break-ins to waste management site offices occurred in the period, with these being Lockrose and Lockyer Waters Transfer Stations. Some damage to the offices was sustained
Page 61 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
and money was stolen. These matters have been referred to the Queensland Police Service (QPS) with video footage.
QPS have advised they were successful in apprehending a person who committed previous break-ins to these sites. The Court has (through State Penalties Enforcement Register) awarded some costs to Council.
The new Gatton Landfill Cell is now receiving waste and Cell 3 has been temporarily closed until further disposal is required.
Council officers were successful in the Planning and Environment Court against a ratepayer. The defendant is required to clear his property of “junk”/ waste materials and has been ordered to pay costs to Council.
The Health Waste and Regulatory Manager has attended meetings in Brisbane as a representative on the LGAQ advisory group for Environmental Health matters including Section 7 of the Waste Reduction and Recycling Regulation, Clandestine Laboratories and the Puppy Breeder legislation. The Manager has also attended separate meetings on the upcoming Container Refund Scheme which is to be introduced across Queensland on 1 July 2017. As this is an industry based scheme Anuha Services is likely to play a significant role in implementing the scheme locally along with other community groups e.g. Scouts. Planning issues are also being considered.
INFORMATION SERVICES
CCTV
It has been discovered that the Forest Hill CCTV is not retaining footage for a minimum of 30 days as per our policy. This will be rectified in the near future. Repairs have been made to water damaged CCTV & security equipment at Laidley Sports Centre. The CCTV cabinet has also been repaired and re-keyed. Poor quality cameras and links at the Depot have been replaced The McNulty Park camera is now operational again.
Skype For Business (SFB)
Working through reconfiguration of groups due to identified requirements as part of the PhoneFox project.
Gatton Server Room
LVRC server equipment has been moved to new racks. Cabling previously strung above ground between the Depot Store and Workshop has been moved to the new underground conduit.
Page 62 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Technology One
CRM Review – Continuing work on minor workflows. Work still needs to be done to move existing CRMS into the new configuration. Mobile Crew Management and eTimesheets – this project has been pushed back to 4th quarter of this year due to higher priorities and to allow recent changes within IWS to be implemented which will result in improved adoption of the technology.
ECM Upgrade
Go Live date has been pushed back to September.
Security
Door readers have been upgraded at Gatton Administration Building and Gatton Depot. New tags have been issued to staff to replace older fobs and white HID cards. Cards have also been issued to hirers and contractors to allow relevant access to upgraded buildings. An audit of IT master keys has revealed several keys that are unaccounted for. A quote has been received for re-keying affected locks. The Laidley Sports CCTV cabinet and Laidley Library data and CCTV cabinet have been moved to the new master key system.
Internet Service & Data Links
The service through UQSchoolsNet is currently scheduled to be terminated at the end of June. As NBN Link is not available at this time, a new fibre link has been ordered with a commission date of 30 June. A decision has been made to hold off on any major additional links until the current Telstra Whole Of Business contract expires in May 2018. At this time Council will go to market for telecommunications services including data links as separate items. GIS Application Replacement
Solution Design and Implementation Plan has been provided by TechOne for Intramaps. Work has commenced on the build of Intramaps. Go Live date is expected to be 3 July.
DISASTER MANAGEMENT
The integration of the Flood CCTV camera system into one front end dashboard is now complete. Some cameras still need minor adjustments.
Disaster Management Regional Capability Building Project
DILGP has approved the requested project scope change as submitted by Disaster Management. The project will now consist of: Commissioning of portable communications kits Building of hydrology models to support the waterride system
Page 63 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Installation of rain events prior to 2012 into the waterride system Development of an intelligence overlay for Grantham and Gatton to Glenore Grove areas. Planning meeting held with Scenic Drive, Silver Ridge residents to discuss unsuitability of access easement as an emergency egress
Meeting with Forest Hill Local Disaster Community Coordination Committee held on 31 May 2017 to discuss their concerns in relation to the recent flood event.
The unit has started working on the Counter Disaster Operations (CDO), NDRRA claim. Submissions are to be lodged as soon as possible after event, but no later than three months after the end of financial year in which the expenditure was incurred.
The SES was activated by QAS on 29 March to secure the landing zone for the medical retrieval helicopters and the transportation of medical crews to the incident. The group then provided QPS with assistance for manning and securing a refuelling point for POLAIR and Medical helicopters. The group has subsequently been involved in searches of the area.
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENTS
The Operational Plan remains on target for adoption by Council with the 2017/18 Budget
The next meeting of the Audit and Risk Committee is scheduled for 21 June 2017.
Attachments 1View Statistics - Whole of Council - 201705 1 Page 2View Statistics - CCS - 201705 1 Page 3View Statistics - CCS - Top Ten - 201705 1 Page
Page 64 Executive Manager Corporate and Community Services Attachment 1 Report - April & May 2017 Statistics - Whole of Council - 201705
Attachment 1 12.1 Page 65
Executive Manager Corporate and Community Services Attachment 2 Report - April & May 2017 Statistics - CCS - 201705
Attachment 2 12.1 Page 66
Executive Manager Corporate and Community Services Attachment 3 Report - April & May 2017 Statistics - CCS - Top Ten - 201705
Attachment 3 12.1 Page 67
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
13. INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS AND SERVICES REPORTS
13.1 Former Dip Site at 22a Zabel Road, Lockrose
Date: 29 May 2017 Author: Brendan Sippel, Parks Regional Advisor Responsible Officer: Myles Fairbairn, Executive Manager Infrastructure Works & Services
Summary:
The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s endorsement for remediation works on 22a Zabel Road, Lockrose.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council resolve to carry out remediation works to address chemical contamination of 22a Zabel Rd Lockrose caused by a former dip operating on the site.
Report
1. Introduction
This report outlines the soil contamination issues at the former livestock dip site at 22a Zabel Road, Lockrose. The property is owned by Lockyer Valley Regional Council.
2. Background
In 2007 the former Laidley Shire Council resumed land on Lot 1 RP31186 located at 22a Zabel Road. The land was previously used by a local trust as an operating dip. It was determined that the dip operated before the use of arsenic was banned, and lead arsenate was used as a chemical for tick treatment of cattle for local farmers within the Lockrose area.
In 2015 after requests from the local neighbourhood watch group to turn the site in to a playground area, Lockyer Valley Regional Council engaged Enviro Ag to carry out soil sampling of 22a Zabel Rd, Lockrose to determine if there were arsenic or other chemicals present in the soil.
3. Report
In September 2015 Enviro Ag carried out soil sampling of 22a Zabel Rd Lockrose to determine if there where arsenic or other chemical present in the soil. Enviro Ag carried out hand and rip auger soil sampling in the vicinity of were the dip was formerly located onsite. Soil sampling depths where between 0.1m to 4.0m.
Page 68 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Figure 1: Image of location of former dip site 22a Zabel Rd Lockrose
Figure 2: Image of Soil sampling locations on site
Page 69 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Limits of contamination
Results of the soil sampling in September 2015 indicated that there were levels of arsenic above recommended Health Investigation Levels and Ecological Investigation Levels were found south of the assumed dip area and in the open storm water drain to the east of the site. The conclusion from the site investigation of 22a Zabel Rd Lockrose was:
Arsenic concentrations above Health Investigation Levels were identified in eight sample areas, which were all south-southeast of the former dip Arsenic concentrations above Ecological Investigation Levels were identified in four sample areas which were all south to southeast of the dip
Figure 3: Image of sample areas with arsenic concentration above health investigation levels
Due to the levels of arsenic concentrations being above health investigation levels, through advice from Enviro Ag, Council sent correspondence to the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection notifying the Department of the results of soils sampling on 22a Zabel Road at Lockrose.
After reviewing the findings, Enviro Ag recommended carrying out soil sampling of the neighbouring properties to determine if any arsenic had migrated off site after analysing the locations of elevated arsenic readings on 22a Zabel Road.
On the 22nd December 2016 after extensive engagement with affected residents Enviro Ag and Council officers carried out soil sampling on private properties Lot 58 and 59 RP216232,
Page 70 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Lot 60 RP229155 and Lot 33 RP 808040 to determine if arsenic contamination from 22a Zabel Road had spread to the neighbouring properties.
Figure 4: Image of properties that had soils sampling carried out around 22a Zabel Rd
Results of Soil Sampling
A total of 24 soil samples were collected from 10 handheld auger holes across the four private properties which were submitted to the analytical laboratory for analysis of lead and arsenic.
The results showed that there were no concentrations of lead and arsenic above the Ecological Investigation Levels detected in the soil samples collected from Lot 58 and Lot 59 RP216232, Lot 60 RP229155 or Lot 33 RP808040.
No concentrations of lead or arsenic above Health Investigation Levels detected in soil samples collected from Lot 58 and Lot 59 RP216232, Lot 60 RP 229 155 or Lot 33 RP808040.
During the 2015 investigation of the former dip site itself, background soil samples were collected from depths of 0.1m and 0.5m to use as a baseline soil characterisation data. The baseline soil samples reported concentrations of 4.9mg/kg (0.1m) and 3.6mg/kg (0.5m) for arsenic and 8.7mg/kg (0.1m) and 8.1mg/kg (0.5m) for lead (Enviro Ag report 2015).
Arsenic concentrations considered significantly higher than background levels were detected in six (6) out the 24 soil samples collected.
Lot 59 RP216232 HA2- 0.1m and 0.5m HA3- 0.1m and 0.5m HA4-0.1m
Page 71 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Lot 33 RP808040 HA9-0.1m
Figure 5: Image of soil sampling test holes on neighbouring properties
Through Briefing Notes created by Enviro Ag, Council has sent correspondence to owners and residents whose properties had soil sampling carried out to inform the results of the soil sampling.
Council has engaged Enviro Ag to prepare a remediation proposal to remediate 22a Zabel Road with Council officers to submit a budget bid for the Capital budget program 2017-18.
4. Policy and Legal Implications
The findings detailed in Section 3 of this Report arising from the spoil sampling on surrounding properties in late 2016 indicates that remediation works are only required on the Council- owned property at 22a Zabel Road. To undertake the investigatory work and subsequently identify the appropriate remedial measures would seem to be the right thing to do from both a moral and legal perspective.
5. Financial and Resource Implications
There is no current 2016-17 budget to carry out remediation works, with a budget bid being submitted for the 2017-18 Capital budget program to undertake remediation works at 22a Zabel Road.
6. Delegations/Authorisations
No additional delegations or authorisations are required.
Page 72 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
7. Communication and Engagement
Council’s engagement team to engage with residents near 22a Zabel Rd to inform them of remediation works.
8. Conclusion
Council land on 22a Zabel Rd Lockrose requires remediation to remove contaminants from the site and provide options for future use of the land.
Note that this report does not explore the potential use or ownership models for the site once it is remediated.
9. Action/s
1. Remediate 22a Zabel Road, Lockrose
Page 73 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
13.2 Executive Manager Infrastructure Works & Services Monthly Report - April & May 2017
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: Myles Fairbairn, Executive Manager Infrastructure Works & Services Responsible Officer: Myles Fairbairn, Executive Manager Infrastructure Works & Services
Summary:
This report is to update Council on the emerging matters arising since Council last met in regards to the Infrastructure Works and Services Group.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council receive and note the Executive Manager Infrastructure Works and Services’ Monthly Report for April & May 2017.
Report
1. Introduction
This report is to provide an update to Council on activities and issues for the Infrastructure Works and Services Group since Council’s meeting of 12 April 2017.
2. Background
The previous Infrastructure Works and Services report to Council as described above. Activities undertaken and issues arising are described in the body of this report.
3. Report
2017 NATURAL DISASTER RELIEF AND RECOVERY ARRANGEMENTS
As a result of the damaged caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie, the Queensland Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services activated the Commonwealth/State Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) on 01 April 2017.
This activation applies to the impacts arising from the rainfall and flooding between 28 and 31 March 2017.
Immediately after the flood event, Council crews undertook debris removal (playgrounds, parks, roads, bridges) and did temporary road repairs to enable access. This work was done as part of what is described as Counter Disaster Operations and/or Emergent works.
The permanent Restoration of Essential Public Assets (REPA) may take some time due to the need to accurately scope the damage (at each relevant location), then design and construct the works in an appropriate fashion in accordance with the NDRRA guidelines. The REPA inspections have commenced with damage assessments undertaken in the Junction View and Tenthill Creek areas in the last 2 weeks. The team will continue to inspect Council’s road and
Page 74 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
drainage assets in impacted areas over the next month in order to prepare the form 4 for submission to QRA. Initial inspections at Junction View show limited damage to structures constructed post 2013 with the majority of restoration work identified thus far being to fully restore capacity and reinstate protection of roads and floodways.
Note that costs associated with cleaning and restoring playgrounds, parks, memorials, sporting assets, etc., are NDRRA ineligible, i.e., costs are fully borne by Council.
BLACK SPOT PROGRAM
Australian Government’s Black Spot Road Safety Programme 2016-17
In April 2016, Lockyer Valley Regional Council was awarded funding for eleven (11) projects through the Federal Government’s Black Spot Road Safety programme for 2016-17. The status of the projects is as follows.
100% complete Gehrke Road, 1.5km section near Carol Anne Court, REGENCY DOWNS – Shoulder widening. Installation of new traffic signs $470,000 Old Laidley-Forest Hill Road, between Harvey Road and Forest Hill-Fernvale Road, LAIDLEY NORTH – Road widening and shoulder installation. Installation of signage and drainage works $552,000 William Street / Orton Street intersection, LAIDLEY – Intersection upgrade. Traffic island, signage and marking improvements $77,500
>95% complete (operating, but minor works to be completed) Australia II Drive, between Thallon Road and Bond Court, KENSINGTON GROVE – Shoulder widening, guardrails and hazard markers $615,500 Tenthill Creek Road / Winwill Connection Road, LOWER TENTHILL – Intersection upgrade. Improvements to shoulders, street lighting and advance warning signs, line marking, guideposts $149,500 Markai Road / Nangara Road intersection, LOCKYER WATERS – Intersection upgrade. Shoulder widening, delineation improvements, signage and lighting $71,000
Under construction Lake Clarendon Way / Main Greenswamp Road intersection, LAKE CLARENDON – Intersection upgrade. Upgrade existing line marking, signs and implementation of further varied warning signs $414,000 Thallon Road, between Funk Road and Niemeyer Road, KENSINGTON GROVE – Shoulder widening and signage improvements at bends/curve and intersection. Review speed limit and associated signage $954,000
Design phase – construction soon to commence East Street / Crescent Street, GATTON – Intersection upgrade $140,200 North Street / William Street intersection, GATTON – Intersection upgrade $178,500 Railway Street intersection, near Winston Street, LAIDLEY – Delineation, signage and intersection improvements $91,000
Page 75 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Several of the above-mentioned projects are under construction or soon to commence, and we are in the process of finalising ‘extensions of time’ through TMR for those particular projects.
Australian Government’s Black Spot Road Safety Programme 2017-18
Council has received very disappointing advice regarding the recently announced Australian Government Black Spot Road Safety Programme for 2017-18, with funding being forthcoming for just three (3) small road projects (total = $164,000). Council received around $3.7 million for 2016-17.
The funded projects are:
(a) Harm Drive / Lake Clarendon Road intersection upgrade, CROWLEY VALE o Change intersection priority in favour of Harm Drive, upgrade intersection delineation, install street lighting to improve visibility and upgrade pavement on Lake Clarendon Road $56,500 (b) Litfin Bridge (Robinsons Road crossing of Tenthill Creek), GATTON o Improve signage and delineation on approaches to bridge and replace damaged guardrail $41,500 (c) Summerholm Road (Warrego Highway to Knopkes Crossing (south of Harch Road)) safety improvements, SUMMERHOLM o Review and install signage for roads and bridges, upgrade line marking, raised reflective pavement markers, chevron alignment markers and guideposts and resurface sections of pavement $66,000
The funding for 2017-18 by the Australian Government for Queensland is around than 35% of that set aside for 2016-17. For both the 2015-16 and 2016-17 programs, there was greater support in the program for projects in regional councils and those focused on proactive crash prevention (rather than simply historic crash numbers). Proactive interventions are now less favoured in the current system (as was formerly the case in 2014-15 and beforehand). The list of Black Spot Projects identified is provided below. The ones marked the a # were approved.
Intersection upgrades 1. Brightview Road / Village Road intersection upgrade, Regency Downs; 2. Railway Street / Summer Street intersection upgrade, Laidley; 3. Robinsons Road / Hoods Road intersection upgrade, Gatton; 4. Drayton Street / Rosewood-Laidley Road intersection upgrade, Laidley; 5. Lake Clarendon Road / Lake Clarendon Way intersection upgrade, Lake Clarendon; 6. Lake Clarendon Road / Harm Drive intersection upgrade, Crowley Vale; # 7. Walhuben Road / Lake Clarendon Way / Forest Hill-Fernvale Road intersection upgrade, Glenore Grove; 8. University of Queensland, Gatton Campus access / Gatton-Laidley Road intersection upgrade, College View; 9. Fords Road / Redbank Creek Road / Adare Road intersection upgrade, Adare; 10. Woodlands Road / Rangeview Drive intersection upgrade, Gatton; 11. Mountain Road / Range Crescent intersection upgrade, Laidley; 12. Summerholm Road / Mountain Road intersection upgrade, Summerholm.
Page 76 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Midblock projects
1. Litfin Bridge (Robinsons Road crossing of Tenthill Creek), Gatton; # 2. Summerholm Road (Warrego Highway to Knopkes Crossing), Summerholm; # 3. Summerholm Road (Knopkes Crossing to Gehrke Hill Road), Summerholm; 4. Woodlands Road (Rangeview Crescent to Manteuffel Drive), Woodlands; 5. Otto Road along frontage of 21 Otto Road (Lot 5 SP157308), Glenore Grove; 6. Otto Road from 15 Otto Road (Lot 1 SP232938) to 19 Otto Road (Lot 3 RP815645), Glenore Grove.
TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT SCHEME (TIDS)
The following table provides an update on TIDS Program for 2016-17: Project Description Total Project % of Works Comments Costs completed to date Hatton Vale State School – crossing and $60,000 100% Project completed footpath road safety works Airforce Road – widen shoulders and $280,000 100% Project completed sealing Crowley Vale Road – road rehabilitation $500,892 99% Project completed. Line and culvert replacement marking pending. Lake Clarendon State School parking $75,000 95% Project completed. Minor upgrades works pending. Woodlands Road – widen shoulders and $273,836 100% Project completed. sealing Lake Clarendon Way – road rehabilitation $220,000 99% Project completed. Line marking pending.
FUNDING APPLICATIONS
An update on funding applications is provided below:
Building Better Regions (Australian Govt) application for Amos Road Upgrade, Withcott was submitted on 28th February 2017. This would upgrade the eastern road access into Jubilee Park. Awaiting funding decision. Building Our Regions (State Govt) for Forest Hill Stage 2 flood mitigation works. RMA progressing with concept design flood modelling. Detailed funding application submitted 07 April 2017. Awaiting funding decision. 2017-18 Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program. Awaiting funding decision. Two applications were submitted 27 January 2017. o Construction of Spencer Street upgrade of shared pathway, Gatton o Planning and design for Lake Apex Drive (Denis Minson Drive to Hawck Street) on- road cycle facility, Gatton Black Spot road safety submissions for design and construction in 2017-18 o 18 projects were submitted June 2016. Three projects funded (as described elsewhere in this report). Laidley Flood Mitigation Project (Community Resilience Fund (State Government, DILGP)).
Page 77 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
o Community consultation took place on 17 January 2017 as well as further stakeholder meetings with Department of Transport and Main Roads and Queensland Rail. o Operational Works application has been submitted – currently being assessed o Contract documents for construction being finalised o Construction now forecast to commence in August/September 2017 Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning 2016-17 Grants and Subsidies Programs o Stormwater Catchment Modelling, Planning and Design for Gatton Sub- catchments. . 60% DILGP subsidy of $150,000 approved to complement $100,000 from LVRC . Initial payment of $45,000 for the project received . Tenders have been received from external consultants and being assessed UQ to Gatton CBD Active Transport Link (Queensland Tourism Demand Driver Infrastructure Fund 2017-18) o Application submitted on 05 December 2016 seeking $300,000 funding from Australian Government for the $900,000 project. Awaiting funding decision. Bridges Renewal Programme (Australian Govt) – two applications were submitted o Mahon Bridge, Grantham for works on the pile-to-headstock connection $70,000 o Steinkes Bridge strengthening $490,000 Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services o An age-friendly community grants program o Funding application to be submitted early June 2017 for Allan St (Princess St to Old College Rd) footpath, Gatton
PARKS, GARDENS AND CEMETERIES (PGC) UNIT
The Parks, Gardens and Cemeteries Unit has undertaken the following activities during May 2017:
Capital Works Strategy / Activity Update Next step / Project / Program Koala Park Turf has been laid over eroded area to Continue watering of turf and Drainage reduce sediment flow in Lake Apex and Lake monitoring of other eroded areas Freeman Gatton Cemetery Land clearing of extra land completed, Continue planning of the expansion master planning of the Gatton cemetery cemetery ready for the financial continuing contributions William Kemp Replacement of existing bollards. Bollards Installation of bollards Bollards ordered Laidley Library Turf has been laid, plants installed and seat Washing of footpaths and green space installed continued watering of turf and plants
Maintenance Works
Mowing o Withcott, Gatton and Laidley Cemetery Page 78 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
o Laidley Recreation Reserve
Playgrounds o Quarterly playground audit completed o Soft fall top ups at Progress Park
Furniture Maintenance o Painting of decks at Cunningham Crest Lookout
Landscaping o Tree removal at Lake Apex o Grantham gardens weeding and mulching
Event Assistance o Sign change over at Warrego Highway
Cemeteries maintenance o Nil
General Maintenance/Business o CRM resolution across the region o Rubbish run continuing across the region o RV Park Gatton – providing assistance
ROADS AND DRAINAGE UNIT
Capital Works
In addition to the Black Spot and TIDS programs list above, the Roads and Drainage Unit has undertaken the following activities during May 2017:
Strategy / Activity Update Next step / Project / Program Lakeview Minor works pending due to sewer works still On-going. Waiting on Sewer Accommodation in progress works to be completed Reseals Asphalt repairs programmed for the Main St On-going. Availability of asphalt in Gatton contractors is an issue and probably be in July
Maintenance Works
Gravel road grading works being done at: o Blenheim o Murphys Creek o Thornton o Blanchview o Junction View o Laidley o Woodbine
Page 79 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Roadside spraying o Ringwood o Helidon o Laidley
Road pavement repairs o Forest Hill o Mount Whitestone
Vegetation control and slashing o Caffey o Helidon o Junction View o Mulgowie o Laidley Heights o Mt Sylvia
Drainage works o Withcott o Adare o Laidley
Road patching works Summerholm Fordsdale Grantham Lockyer Waters Murphys Creek
Traffic signs and linemarking work College View Kensington Grove Lake Clarendon Regency Downs Mount Whitestone
Road and drainage defects
A graph of road and drainage asset defects dating back to October 2015 is shown as Attachment A to this report.
The Infrastructure Works and Services Group has developed a ‘risk rating’ score to rank the recorded defects. This allows comparison between defects such as a missing guide post to a broken drainage pipe to a pothole. Each identified defect is given a Maintenance Priority Level (MPL) score, with the higher the MPL value indicating a greater risk being posed to the road user or the preservation of the asset.
Page 80 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
At the start of 2015, the overall MPL value was approximately 600,000. Over the last two years, this value has been halved and is now approximately 300,000, which indicates that the road user safety and asset risk have improved through LVRC’s defect identification, prioritisation and correction process.
The high defect count from February 2016 onwards is a reflection of the many low risk defects that are present; as these are low risk there will be instances where the defect won’t be corrected or alternatively it would be programmed into a works package to maximise efficiencies. In many instances these defects will be at a ‘watch and monitor’ level where the defect at some point will need to be repaired, but may not have reached that stage yet. What can be derived from the graph in Attachment A is that at the present maintenance investment levels and current work practices, the overall MPL value should be able to be maintained within a range from 280,000 to 350,000 (current levels of service).
Further gains may well be possible with more advanced levels of planning in the roads and drainage maintenance area or through undertaking programmed packages of maintenance activities, without increasing investment.
PLANNING AND DESIGN UNIT
In addition to the Black Spot and TIDS programs list above, the Planning and Design Unit has undertaking the following work:
TSRC – Nexus interactions Postmans Ridge Road Returned Works Stage 6 package received by Council. Awaiting response to CEO letter following Council decision on non-acceptance of compound curve and design speed – TMR have responded. Update summary on all major work areas or projects is provided below:
Strategy / Activity Update Next step / Project / Program Toowoomba Preferred Consortia “Nexus” has been Postmans Ridge Road Returned second range selected. Works – Gelleon consulting to crossing Ongoing meeting with various teams from review Stage 6 design, as well Nexus. as to review existing road and Monitoring impact on local roads and provide recommendations for community. improved signage/speed to Nexus have commenced condition survey of match in with Returned Works. roads. Quote received and Geleon Jones Road works approved. engaged for this review. Morleys/McNamaras Roads IFA Stage 6 Council report endorsed, with 2 outstanding items to go back to Council. Buaraba St outfall Outfall works on hold and monitoring levels Latest survey results pending monthly. Also monitoring internal drain for further movement. Considering alternative design for outfall which doesn’t involve removing gabions and is easier to construct. Original design sourced, which is in line with alternative proposed design.
Page 81 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Strategy / Activity Update Next step / Project / Program Footpath Projects a) Spencer St a) Deferred – funding on TMR roads b) Western Drive application submitted b) Section from motel to Cleary Street complete. Lake Apex Carpark Scope including lighting and CCTV Complete – handrail installed. determined. Survey complete. Design complete. Advance Court Design complete Part of shotcrete bund wall has been removed Gatton Footpath colour trial – Brick n Pave Works complete – some issues Revitalisation CBD street lighting - GHD with cleaning, to contact supplier again GHD report has been reviewed, briefing note to go to Council workshop Stormwater Funding of $150,000 received for project, Initial payment of $45,000 for Catchment (60/40 funding), to be complete by November the project received. Modelling, 2017 2 tenders received, currently Planning and being reviewed with award by Design for Gatton mid-June. Sub-catchments Laidley Flood Application submitted for Community Response to IR pending. Mitigation Resilience Fund – Laidley Flood Mitigation Meeting held with Council Works – drainage channel and associated assessors on proposed levee construction. responses, all ok. Meeting yet Community consultation has been to be held with State reps undertaken, good feedback received. Further (TMR/QR and DAF) to discuss projects identified from this consultation, and proposed responses to State IR. downstream bat area and creek has been checked as tree clearing and tidying up requested here.
PLANT AND FLEET UNIT
Below is a summary of the Plant and Fleet Unit activities: General o Internal plant hire recoveries are tracking on budget at present. o Overall, fleet maintenance budget is tracking on budget at this stage of the year. o Depot – slightly over budget at this time but should balance out. The following fleet items have been disposed of at auction. o FL000089 – 2002 NPR 300 Isuzu Crew Cab Job Truck. Sold $14,000 gross Inc GST o FL000145 – 2007 Komatsu WB97R-5 Backhoe. Sold $31,000 gross Inc GST The following items are due for delivery later this week. o LVRC 17-14 – Kubota M100GX 4 Wd air-cab tractor o LVRC 17-15 – Heavy duty EHD 210 Howard slasher
Page 82 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
ASSET MANAGEMENT UNIT
Below is a summary of the Asset Management Unit:
General Strategic Service Management Plan for LVRC completed and included in Council report for adoption on 14 June 2017. The following service management plans have been completed and included in Council report for adoption o Transport o Fleet o Parks and Gardens o Buildings and Facilities o Disaster Management o Information and Communication Technology Reviewing the financial valuations for 30 June 2017 from Pickles Valuers. GPS monitoring of plant and vehicles o Budget bid to increase trial to a further 20 units in the 2017-18 financial year Developed mobility solution to do the REPA damage assessment and convert to a Form 4 for submission to QRA, damage assessment currently being undertaken
Fleet Unit
New plant trailer has been commissioned into service New vehicle for Pest Management has been ordered New loader for waste management has been delivered and commissioned Wet down system has been installed on the jet patcher which will allow the dampening of gravel for dust control from the ground level (safety improvement) New vehicle for Plumbing and Building has been delivered
EXECUTIVE MANAGER ACTIVITIES
During the months of April and May 2017, the Executive Manager has attended: Council Workshops, Council meetings and Councillor Tours Regular meeting with IWS Mangers and Management Groups IWS Portfolio meeting with Cr Holstein LVRC Flooding Projects – draft outcomes meeting Lockyer Valley LDMG meeting Meeting with Department of Infrastructure, Local Government & Planning - Kent Wain & Billy Gusset re: funding reports Lockyer Valley Local Working Group meeting for the Queen’s Baton Relay ARTC function at Toowoomba LVRC Leadership Forum LVRC Capability Development Workshop WH&S Committee meeting Hazard inspections of construction sites CRM site visit at Lake Clarendon Workplace / IWS site visits at:
Page 83 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
o Depot o Weirs Road, Ropeley o Thallon Road, Hatton Vale o Laidley Park and Library o Brightview Road, Glenore Grove
The Executive Manager’s office has also supported the Gatton Revitalisation Project Committee Meeting held on 30 May 2017.
The Lockyer Valley Traffic Safety Working Group meeting has been rescheduled from 07 June to 21 June 2017.
CUSTOMER SERVICE REQUESTS – MONTHLY MONITORING
The table below provides a summary of customer service request activity. In the past month, there has been improvement in completed requests following a spike in CSR from the weather event in March 2017.
Attachments 1View Table 1 Page
Page 84 Executive Manager Infrastructure Works & Services Attachment 1 Monthly Report - April & May 2017 Table
Attachment 1 13.2 Page 85
ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
14. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
14.1 Queensland Urban Utilities Progress Report - May 2017
Date: 02 June 2017 Author: Vickie Wieland, EA to Chief Executive Officer Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer
Summary:
Council has received an update from the Queensland Urban Utilities (QUU) Board, which provided highlights from their May Board Meeting.
Officer’s Recommendation: THAT Council receive and note the Queensland Urban Utilities Progress Report – May 2017.
Report
1. Introduction
Lockyer Valley Regional Council maintains an ongoing working relationship with QUU on both operational and strategic aspects of water and sewerage provision. This report is an update on matters of significance with respect to QUU for Council’s information.
2. Background
Queensland Urban Utilities is: A statutory body, created on 1 July 2010 as a result of Queensland Government changes to the way water is managed in South East Queensland. Owned by the Brisbane and Ipswich City Councils, and Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim and Somerset Regional Councils and governed by an independent Board. Tasked to deliver drinking water, recycled water and sewerage services to the cities and townships within the boundaries of these five local government areas. Responsible for delivering water to customers, collecting, transporting and treating sewage, as well as charging and billing for water and waste water services for customers in the Brisbane, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim and Somerset local authority areas.
3. Report
The Queensland Urban Utilities (QUU) Board held its ordinary meeting on 15 May 2017. At the meeting, the Board considered the following matters:
Page 86 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Operational Excellence
Third quarter budget review – capital
As part of their third quarter budget review, the Board approved a slight reduction to QUU’s 2016/17 Capital Investment Program. This reduction accounts for unforeseen project delays, project contingency funds not being required and therefore being released, and schedule changes as a result of projects progressing through their project delivery lifecycle.
As a result of this decision, QUU expects they will have invested approximately $196M in water and sewerage infrastructure this financial year to support economic and population growth across our service region.
2017/18 budget
Following close consideration by the Finance and Pricing Committee, the Board approved the 2017/18 operational budget.
In finalising the budget, the Board and management carefully balanced their need for sustainable shareholder returns with the requirement to invest in network maintenance and the construction of new infrastructure to cater for future growth. In addition, they will continue to finance initiatives that advance their customer experience journey and enable their people to transform their business into a utility of the future.
Pricing
Cognisant of the broader cost of living pressures facing their customers, the Board remains committed to maintaining downward pressure on pricing while, at the same time, continuing to invest in existing and new infrastructure to support the growing needs of their shared communities.
Following a review by the Finance and Pricing Committee, the Board approved utility and sundry charges for 2017/18. The set charges for 2017/18 will commence the important process of harmonising prices across their service territories.
The office of their Chief Executive Officer will communicate the adopted 2017/18 prices with our office prior to public release.
Internal Audit Program
Following consideration and endorsement by the Audit and Risk Committee, the Board approved the 2017/18 Internal Audit Program.
This program, which is carried out by KPMG, provides an independent view to the Board and management that QUU has an appropriate risk and control environment in place. It also acts as a catalyst for a strong risk and compliance culture within the organisation.
Page 87 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Blockchain technology
This month, the Board held a discussion with their Chief Information Officer on the emergence of blockchain technology, which, overtime, will transform how governments, businesses and individuals transact.
While in its infancy, a number of large global corporations are investing in projects that adopt this technology as a means to protect the integrity and robustness of their financial ledgers.
The Board considered the potential application of blockchain technology within their business, particularly with respect to how information is managed and transmitted from and to their asset, financial and SCADA platforms.
Pro forma financial statements
The Board considered and provided feedback to management on the 2016/17 pro forma financial statements. These statements reflect the prescribed accounting standards and meet the disclosure requirements of the Queensland Audit Office.
The Board will formally consider the 2016/17 financial statements in August.
Energy Roadmap
The Board received an update on the various projects being implemented across QUU as part of our Energy Strategy. This strategy sets out an aspirational goal for QUU to reduce energy consumption by 25% and electricity by 50% by 2030, respectively.
In an environment where their business faces exponential increases in energy costs, and where electricity is one of their core production inputs, these rises have led to QUU investing in proven co-generation technologies to reduce their reliance on the grid.
To date, they have deployed solar and CAMBI technology at a number of their sewage treatment plants and depots. Over the coming years, QUU will strategically invest in opportunities to scale these installations to increase onsite electricity production. At the same time, they are also exploring new and emerging technologies through their research and development program, such as turbines, heat capture and algae as means to generate electricity, both directly and indirectly.
Fitzgibbon Stormwater Harvesting Scheme
The Board noted an update on the Fitzgibbon Stormwater Harvesting Scheme (FiSH Scheme). This scheme, which was implemented by Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) in 2009, provides harvested stormwater to be treated and used as a source of non- drinking water at a local level. The scheme supplies household toilets and outdoor water taps.
QUU has been working with Seqwater and EDQ on the ongoing ownership operating model for the FiSH scheme.
Page 88 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
Shareholders and Strategic Stakeholders
Participation return
The Board considered and approved the annual participation return to shareholders.
QUU will notify shareholders of the return in accordance with the requirements of the Central SEQ Distributor-Retailer Participation Agreement.
Strategic direction 2017-22
The Board considered and endorsed QUU’s strategic direction for the period of 2017-22.
The strategy reaffirms their four strategic pillars: Customers and Communities, Shareholders and Strategic Stakeholders, Operational Excellence, and People.
The strategy sets a vision that QUU will be recognised as an environmental leader that works with our shareholders, developers and the community to deliver innovative environmental solutions that improve the liveability of their shared communities.
It maintains a strong focus on their customers, specifically around how their predictive analytics capabilities will enable them to offer products and services that provide positive experiences and enrich their quality of life.
It also reinforces that they aspire to have a relationship with their large commercial customers that is based on shared value creation and mutually beneficial outcomes.
The office of their Chief Executive Officer will be working with shareholders over the next month to have this plan considered by Council in accordance with the requirements of the Central SEQ Distributor-Retailer Participation Agreement.
Customer and Community
Customer-focused economic regulatory framework
This month, the Board provided feedback on the proposed regulatory customer-centric economic regulatory framework.
QUU has been taking a leadership position in the South-East Queensland (SEQ) water sector in preparing this framework, which has been designed in consultation with the Queensland Competition Authority and other SEQ water service providers.
People
Enterprise bargaining update
As mentioned in their previous correspondence, they are committed to keeping Council abreast of their Enterprise Agreement negotiations.
Page 89 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
This month, the Board was advised of the result of the first of three Enterprise Agreements – one that covers our Scientific Analytical Services Laboratory. The Board noted that, with a 90% participation rate, 87% of voters agreed with the proposed Enterprise Agreement.
This outcome is the result of their SAS Laboratory employees engaging in an interest-based approach to bargaining, and consequently, they have taken the significant and important step of creating a single agreement for them. This new agreement, which was built in a constructive and collaborative manner, provides specific terms and conditions and competitive wage increases for their SAS Laboratory employees. It will position SAS to become a laboratory of the future in support of their overall Utility of the Future vision.
Page 90 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
15. CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS
15.1 LVRC-17-11 - Evaluation Report on the Expressions of Interest Sought for the Lease and/or Management of the Grantham Butter Factory
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: Caitlan Natalier, Solicitor/Legal Services Coordinator; Jason Harm, Manager Regional Development; Elizabeth Jones, Community Development and Engagement Officer Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer That the above item be considered in Closed Session to the exclusion of the press and public in accordance with Section 275 (1) (e) of the Local Government Regulation, 2012, as the matter involves contracts proposed to be made by it.
Summary:
The purpose of this Report is to finalise the Expression of Interest process for the lease and/or management of the Grantham Butter Factory and present the recommendation of the Evaluation Panel to Council for consideration.
15.2 LVRC-17-22 - Evaluation Report - Request for Tenders for the Grazing Lease of Various Lots at Grantham
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: Caitlan Natalier, Solicitor/Legal Services Coordinator; Jason Harm, Manager Regional Development; Sarah Lees, Procurement Coordinator Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer That the above item be considered in Closed Session to the exclusion of the press and public in accordance with Section 275 (1) (e) of the Local Government Regulation, 2012, as the matter involves contracts proposed to be made by it.
Summary:
The purpose of this Report is to finalise the Tender process for the grazing lease of various lots on Tryhorn Street and Bowtells Road, Grantham and present the recommendation of the Evaluation Panel to Council for consideration.
Page 91 ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL AGENDA 14 JUNE 2017
15.3 Legal Services Expenditure - 2016/17 Budget
Date: 07 June 2017 Author: Caitlan Natalier, Solicitor/Legal Services Coordinator Responsible Officer: Ian Church, Chief Executive Officer That the above item be considered in Closed Session to the exclusion of the press and public in accordance with Section 275 (1) (h) of the Local Government Regulation, 2012, as the matter involves other business for which a public discussion would be likely to prejudice the interests of the local government or someone else, or enable a person to gain a financial advantage.
Summary:
The purpose of this Report is to comply with operational reporting requirements for the Legal Services team and is for information only.
16. MEETING CLOSED
Page 92