minutes - mount alexander shire council

Unconfirmed Minutes for the Ordinary Meeting of Council – Mount Alexander Shire Council – 28 February 2012 Pg 1

MINUTES

OF THE ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL HELD ON TUESDAY, 28 FEBRUARY 2012, COMMENCING AT 7.30PM AT THE

METCALFE HALL, KYNETON-METCALFE ROAD, METCALFE.


TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. PRESENT 3

2. APOLOGIES 3

3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST / CONFLICTS OF INTEREST 3

4. MINUTES 3

4.1. ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL – 14 FEBRUARY 2012 3

5. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 4

6. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS 6

7. COMMITTEE REPORTS 6

8. ASSEMBLIES OF COUNCILLORS 6

8.1. ASSEMBLIES - 7 FEBRUARY 2012, 10 FEBRUARY 2012 AND 14 FEBRUARY 2012 6

9. OFFICER REPORTS 13

9.1 STRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITY (COM) 13

COM 06 WELCOME OF NEW CALDER WARD COUNCILLOR 13

9.2 PARTNERING FOR BETTER SERVICES (PAR) 15

9.3 ENSURING A PROSPEROUS AND DIVERSE LOCAL ECONOMY (ECO) 16

9.4 CREATING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE (FUT) 17

FUT 015 BARINGHUP: WATER FOR THE FUTURE STUDY 17

FUT 016 SCHOOL OF MINES REFURBISHMENT 22

FUT 017 LOCAL GOVERNMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM – REGIONAL GROWTH FUND 27

FUT 018 NAMING OF LOCAL ROAD UNDER SECTION 206 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT – DUNDAS STREET, NEWSTEAD 30

FUT 019 NAMING OF LOCAL ROAD UNDER SECTION 206 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT – UNNAMED ROAD OFF WHITE GUM ROAD, BARKERS CREEK 33

9. DELEGATES REPORTS 36

10.1 GOLDFIELDS LIBRARY CORPORATION - COUNCILLOR REDDEN 36

10. NOTICE OF MOTION 36

11. URGENT SPECIAL BUSINESS 37

COM 07 UPDATE ON INFORMATION PROGRAM REGARDING CHANGES TO COMMERCIAL WASTE COLLECTION SERVICES 37

12. MEETING CLOSE AT 8:50PM. 39


ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

To start the official proceedings I would like to acknowledge that we are meeting on Jaara country

of which the members and elders of the Jaara Jaara community and their forebears have been custodians for many centuries

and have performed age old ceremonies of celebration, initiation and renewal. We acknowledge their living culture and their unique role in the life of this region.

1. PRESENT

Councillors: Tim Barber, Janet Cropley, Tracey Cross, Bronwen Machin, and Michael Redden. Officers: Chief Executive Officer (Phil Rowland), Director Environment and Infrastructure (Johan

Louw), Director Corporate Support (Lucy Roffey) and Manager Governance (Melanie Rogers).

2. APOLOGIES

Councillors: Christine Henderson and Garry Rewell.

3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST / CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

Nil.

4. MINUTES

4.1. ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL – 14 FEBRUARY 2012

The unconfirmed minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Mount Alexander Shire Council held at 7.30pm on 14 February 2012 at the Castlemaine Town Hall have been circulated to Councillors. The unconfirmed minutes have also been posted on the Mount Alexander Shire Council website, pending confirmation at this meeting.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Mount Alexander Shire Council held on 14 February 2012 be confirmed. MOVED COUNCILLOR REDDEN That the recommendation be adopted. SECONDED COUNCILLOR MACHIN CARRIED


5. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

MOVED COUNCILLOR REDDEN That standing orders be suspended. SECONDED COUNCILLOR MACHIN CARRIED (7.36 pm) a. Ms Irene Yerman

Ms Yerman questioned whether Council‟s Roads Register identifies how many roads are classified as unmaintained and asked how a road is classified as an unmaintained road.

The CEO replied that Council‟s Road Register only contains roads which are of a satisfactory standard. It is not recommended that roads that are not of a satisfactory standard be on the register as Council does not have the resources to maintain and develop them. He invited Ms Yerman to contact Council‟s about specific roads which may be concerning her.

b. Michael Michael questioned when the Gibbons Road Bridge will be repaired and when Coliban Park Road will be graded.

The Director of Environment & Infrastructure replied that a tender for the bridge had been awarded and work should commence within the next month. An assessment will be done of the work required for Coliban Park Road should it be used as an alternative route during bridge works.

c. Mr Peter Firth from Coliban Park Road

Mr Firth suggested detour directions around bitumen roads rather than Coliban Park Road during works on Gibbons Road Bridge.

d. Mr Robin Taylor, Castlemaine Action Group

Mr Taylor tabled a petition with 377 signatures opposing the proposal to build an Indoor Aquatic and Leisure Centre on Western Reserve.

e. Mr Graeme Ford, Maldon trader

Mr Ford requested whether a report will be tabled tonight regarding the commercial waste collection service. He questioned the distribution of letters about the consultation on the service and the process used to visit all businesses and whether these were sufficiently thorough. Mr Ford considered the time frame for alternative arrangements prior to 1 April to be too tight. He also asked if Council will do any further consultation on the changes to the commercial waste collection service.

The Mayor responded that the Council resolution was to provide information sessions, not consultation. There has been more than one round of visits and further information sessions are still to be held.


f. Mr Ian Hanson, Maldon

Mr Hanson highlighted that the Waste Management Strategy called for extensive consultation, however only 30% of business operators have been contacted.

g. Glenn, Chewton

Glenn observed that Western Oval flooded the previous night, and questioned whether Council still intended to progress with Indoor Aquatic and Leisure Centre on that site.

The Mayor responded that Councillors are still collecting information and will make a decision when they have all information to hand.

h. Ms Jacqueline Brodie-Hanns, Mount Alexander Volunteer Network.

Ms Brodie-Hanns welcomed Cr Barber, and congratulated the Mayor on her recent public statements about blending long term and newer residents. Ms Brodie-Hanns highlighted volunteering as a great way of community participation for newer residents. She publicised National Volunteer Week in May and requested that Council consider including an allocation in its current budget processes to support volunteering in the Shire.

i. Mr Peter Frith

Mr Frith asked how many square metres of usable space is available in the School of Mines.

Council‟s Major Projects Facilitator advised that this is approximately 1000 square metres.

j. Mr Terry Coulthard, owner of Central Carpets, Castlemaine Mr Coulthard reported that Central Carpets have been inundated by water twice in 12 months and asked who is in charge of the land behind his premises. He also questioned whether Council has a gutter maintenance plan and expressed frustration with what he saw as the lack of coordination and cooperation amongst the agencies responsible for public land and waterways management.

The CEO replied that the land is Crown Land and is controlled by Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE). The water course is the responsibility of North Central Catchment Management Authority. DSE has the responsibility for day to day management of this land.

The Mayor explained that Council spends considerable effort in advocating to other agencies and levels of government about managing waterways and about the impacts of the flood events in particular.

The CEO outlined specific actions and discussions which Council officers have had with other authorities.

MOVED COUNCILLOR CROSS That standing orders be resumed. SECONDED COUNCILLOR BARBER CARRIED (8.07 PM)


6. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS

Nil.

7. COMMITTEE REPORTS

Nil.

8. ASSEMBLIES OF COUNCILLORS

8.1. ASSEMBLIES - 7 FEBRUARY 2012, 10 FEBRUARY 2012 AND 14 FEBRUARY 2012

RECOMMENDATION

That the Records for the following Assemblies of Councillors for the meetings held on 7 February 2012, 10 February 2012 and 14 February 2012 be noted (Attachments 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3). MOVED COUNCILLOR REDDEN That the recommendation be adopted. SECONDED COUNCILLOR MACHIN CARRIED


9. OFFICER REPORTS

9.1 STRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITY (COM)

COM 06 WELCOME OF NEW CALDER WARD COUNCILLOR

Responsible Officer: Manager Governance File Number: 09/010/001

1. Purpose

The purpose of this report is to inform Council of the process and progress of swearing in the duly elected Councillor for the Calder Ward.

2. Background

Brook Acklom resigned from the position of Calder Ward Councillor effective from 10 October 2011. Because the non-Castlemaine wards, including Calder, are determined by preferential distribution of votes, a vacancy results in a by-election. Where proportional voting is used, as in the Castlemaine Ward, a vacancy can be determined by a countback of votes The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) was appointed by Council to undertake a by-election for the Calder Ward. Five community members nominated as candidates. The election was conducted as a postal ballot between 7 and 24 February 2012. Votes were counted by authorised VEC officers on 25 February 2012 and a result declared that afternoon.

3. Policy and Statutory Implications

Including consideration of Economic, Social and Environmental impacts. There are no policy implications in this matter. The election was conducted in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989. The results were authorised by the Returning Officer on 25 February 2012.

4. Issues

The declaration of the poll results late on 25 February is only shortly before the Ordinary Council Meeting on the 28 February. In the past Council has sworn in a new Councillor publicly at the next Ordinary Meeting of Council after the declaration of the poll. This results in a new Councillor being unable to participate in up to one Council Meeting and two briefings before being sworn in. Council has been advised that it does not need to wait for an Ordinary Council Meeting to swear in a new Councillor and the swearing-in does not need to be public. The Oath or Affirmation of Office must be taken in the presence of the CEO to meet the requirements of the Local Government Act. So that the new Calder Ward Councillor can participate in the meeting of 28 February 2012, it has been arranged that they be sworn in between the declaration of the poll and the Ordinary Council Meeting of 28 February 2012. This will form part of the minutes of this meeting.

5. Financial and Resource Implications

The successful candidate will be eligible for a Councillor allowance, set at the rate of $4,660 per quarter and a Councillor lap-top, internet connection and mobile phone. These resources are included in the budget for 2011/12 and subsequent years.


6. Consultation

Consultation with the Local Government Inspectorate confirms the correctness of swearing in of a new Councillor in the presence of the CEO prior to an Ordinary Council Meeting.

7. Conclusion

The Victorian Electoral Commission conducted a by-election for the Calder Ward in February 2012. The results were declared on 25 February 2012. In order for the successful candidate to participate in the Council meeting of 28 February, they were to be sworn in, in the presence of the CEO between the declaration of the poll and the meeting of the 28 February 2012.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council note the election of the successful candidate in the by-election to elect a Councillor for the Calder Ward and welcome them to Council. MOVED COUNCILLOR CROSS That the recommendation be adopted. SECONDED COUNCILLOR MACHIN CARRIED


9.2 PARTNERING FOR BETTER SERVICES (PAR)

NO REPORTS


9.3 ENSURING A PROSPEROUS AND DIVERSE LOCAL ECONOMY (ECO)

NO REPORTS


9.4 CREATING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE (FUT)

FUT 015 BARINGHUP: WATER FOR THE FUTURE STUDY

Responsible Officer: Economic Development Officer File Number: 22/010/022

1. Purpose

The purpose of this report is to present to Council the Baringhup: Water for the Future Report, and its findings and recommendations, for adoption. Attachment FUT 015A: Baringhup: Water for the Future Report 2011.

2. Background

Baringhup is located on the Loddon River, approximately 40 kilometres to the north-west of Castlemaine and 50 kilometres south-west from Bendigo. Historically, the town has benefited economically from dry land and irrigated agriculture.

The local agricultural economy was enhanced by the construction, between 1947 and 1956, of the Cairn Curran Reservoir. The intended use of Cairn Curran was primarily as an irrigation reservoir to supply water for irrigation, domestic and stock use to customers along the Loddon River.

In addition to stimulating agricultural production from irrigation, the reservoir when at, or close to, full capacity became central to the area‟s recreation and tourism industry and formed a defining point of identity for residents and visitors. It provided significant social and economic benefits to local and regional communities and provided space for popular water sports including sailing, water skiing and fresh water fishing. Over the last two years, there has been considerable variation in water levels in Cairn Curran. In June 2010, according to Goulburn Murray Water, water storage in Cairn Curran Reservoir was at four percent of capacity. Since June 2010, several significant rain events filled Cairn Curran to overflowing. This resulted in significant flooding events downstream of the spillway at Baringhup, as well as the flooding of towns and farming communities on the Loddon River. Prior to the floods, Council‟s Economic Development and Tourism Unit had applied to the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities‟ Strengthening Basin Communities Program for funding to undertake a study of the impact of the drought on Baringhup. Subsequent to the rain events in late 2010 and early 2011, Council successfully proposed to have the scope of the project varied to address the impact of the changed water levels on the community. Council was successful in securing a grant of $25,000. In July 2011, SED Consulting was contracted to undertake the study. By undertaking the study, Council has sought to understand the social and economic impacts of these dramatic variances in water levels in order to develop strategies to assist Baringhup and the communities around Cairn Curran to be better prepared for future events.


Including consideration of Economic, Social and Environmental impacts. Issues relating to the impact of the varying water levels of Cairn Curran are relevant to Section 4.4 of the 2009 -2013 Council Plan, Creating a Sustainable Future, which includes the strategy “To support the overall prosperity of our small towns and communities”.


4. Issues

The varying water levels in Cairn Curran have had a significant impact on the local community over many years. Council has sought to understand this impact and how to best assist the community in being better prepared to cope with these variations, particularly during times of drought and flood. Council engaged SED Consulting to undertake a study which considered five key areas:

Agricultural impacts;

Economic impacts;

Demographic impacts;

Social impacts; and

Emergency management. In preparing the report, SED consulted widely with the community. This included two very well attended public meetings and more than twenty individual interviews with a variety of representatives from the community. Consultation included the recreation groups that use the Reservoir, businesses and local farmers, in order to get a wide snapshot of the impacts that have been felt. SED also interviewed a range of Council staff, including those from the Environment, Infrastructure, Emergency Management, Tourism and Economic Development Units. Findings of the Report The report contains a number of key findings on pages 14 and 21 of the report. These include:

The impacts of climate change and extreme weather events are occurring across Victoria and Australia. This is presenting significant challenges for all levels of Government.

The persistence of drought and the cumulative effects it had upon the environment, population, agriculture and investment were significant and, for a time, there appeared to be no possibility of improvement.

Over the last decade, communities in Victoria have faced a variety of almost overwhelming natural events including drought, fires, floods and severe storms. Despite this, memories can be short term and there is a significant challenge in getting communities to consider the longer term implications and likelihood of reoccurrence of such events.

Local tourism, hospitality and retail businesses have been impacted by the varying water levels in Cairn Curran. Impacts of the drought were felt by the local caravan parks and the Cairn Curran Sailing Club. The return of water to Cairn Curran has enabled a significant return to „business as usual‟ for the Sailing Club; however the caravan parks continue to experience a downturn in permanent residents and casual site occupancy.

Baringhup views itself as being a welcoming community. There appears to be a good level of participation in various community initiatives and activities.

The importance of the agricultural sector should not be underestimated. The impact of climate change on this sector in terms of financial and well being are well known, however a challenge exists in connecting with and supporting farming families.

There is strong support from the community to investigate opportunities for improving and enhancing facilities and recreation activities ON the Cairn Curran foreshore. This would need to be driven by Goulburn Murray Water as the owner and manager of Cairn Curran and surrounding reserve, in partnership with Council.


Recommendations of the Report The report identifies a range of recommendations for the various stakeholders. An important point to note is that Council is neither the land owner, nor the land manager, and can therefore only undertake a facilitation role in many of the recommendations contained in the report. The capability, and therefore the responsibility, for driving many of the recommendations in the report primarily lie with the land owner and manager, Goulburn Murray Water. Goulburn Murray Water has acknowledged this responsibility with their intention to carry out a „Land and on Water‟ study to address the recreation and other facilities provided within the lake precinct. The Report includes an Implementation Plan which clearly identifies Council‟s role as an advocate, facilitator and supporter for many of the actions contained in the Implementation Plan. Each of the nine recommendations contained in the Implementation Plan identifies tasks, dates, outcomes, outputs and stakeholders responsible for their completion.

The nine recommendations of the Report are:

1. Council‟s Transport Connections Officer to work with the regional Transport Connections network to pursue opportunities for improved transport services for Baringhup and surrounds under the Transport Connections Project.

2. Council to provide appropriate assistance (within their area of responsibility and remit) to

both Loddon House and Welshman‟s Reef Caravan Park to assist with achieving accreditation under the Country Fire Authority Caravan Park Safety Guidelines.

3. Council to partner with the Baringhup community and Goulburn Murray Water on the

development of a lake precinct activities plan with a focus on the area around the Cairn Curran Sailing Club. The plan may consider opportunities for improved infrastructure and assets for community and visitors including, jetties, interpretation and directional signage, barbeques, seasonal leases (food, boating etc) bird hides, improved walking, cycling and riding tracks and trails and other appropriate activities.

4. Opportunities for multi-purpose activities at Cairn Curran Sailing Club or within the precinct

adjacent to the Club should also be explored with the Club and the community representatives. This could be part of the Goulburn Murray Water Cairn Curran planning project or as a separate project. Benefits for and impacts on other community assets and activities need to be carefully considered as part of this process.

5. Council to work with key stakeholders to improve the marketing and promotion of Cairn

Curran and environs to regional communities and visitors. This should include improved information in tourism brochures and resources including visitor websites, external road signage at key sites around the Cairn Curran foreshore and environs.

6. Council to consider developing profiles of communities across the Shire and listing on their

website and other resources to promote the distinctive lifestyles, environments, services and other features of each community to support the attraction of new residents and to help to maintain existing and new services and investment.

7. Should drought conditions return and water levels start to fall at Cairn Curran, Council, the

Baringhup community, Goulburn Murray Water and other key stakeholders should hold timely discussions on the possible impacts for the community and region and identify potential mitigation strategies for the short, medium and longer term.


8. During periods of drought, other extreme events and community hardship, Council should commit to a program of community liaison and communication using either Council personnel or valued agencies and organisations external to Council and to take a longer term view of recovery programs and activities. As well as the residents in Baringhup, there should be a particular focus on the wider farming community.

9. Goulburn Murray Water to be encouraged to communicate more proactively with the

Baringhup community on management and policy issues and to build on the improved relationship that has apparently been developed with Council.

Council can play a direct role in the actions related to improving the marketing and promotion of Cairn Curran to regional communities and visitors, providing assistance to caravan‟s parks accreditation processes and developing specific community profiles to increase the promotion of smaller communities in the Shire. The Economic Development Officer will oversee Council‟s commitment to the Implementation Plan ensuring actions that are Council‟s responsibility are included in the relevant Business Unit‟s 2012/13 Business Plans and included in Council‟s corporate reporting processes.


Council received a grant from the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities for $25,000 to undertake the Baringhup: Water for the Future Study. Council was required to contribute $5,000 to the project, which is allocated in the 2011/12 Budget, and an in-kind contribution of officer‟s time approximating $5,000. Council‟s facilitation roles within the Implementation Plan will require staff time and resources. Any project involvement that may arise would either need to be resourced through operating budgets or nominated through the usual budget bid processes.

6. Consultation

During the project, SED Consulting and Council officers have consulted widely within the community. This has included two community meetings in Baringhup and over twenty interviews with stakeholder groups and individuals, including Council staff.

7. Conclusion

Baringhup and other communities surrounding Cairn Curran have been significantly impacted by the varying water levels in the Cairn Curran Reservoir over recent years. The study, conducted by SED Consulting, allows Council and the community to better understand these impacts and strategies that can be developed to assist these communities in being better prepared in the future. The Implementation Plan in the report provides clear actions to address the issues identified. Given that Council is neither the owner nor manager of the Cairn Curran precinct, Council‟s role in the delivery of the Implementation Plan is largely as an advocate and facilitator in working with Goulburn Murray Water to deliver the outcomes outlined in the Implementation Plan.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council

1. adopt the Baringhup Water for the Future Study; and,

2. support Council officers in taking an advocacy and liaison role in working with Goulburn Murray Water to deliver positive social and economic outcomes for the Baringhup and surrounding communities as they respond to the varying water levels in Cairn Curran.


MOVED COUNCILLOR REDDEN That the recommendation be adopted. SECONDED COUNCILLOR CROSS CARRIED


FUT 016 SCHOOL OF MINES REFURBISHMENT

Responsible Officer: Director Corporate Support File Number: 25/1260/003

1. Purpose

The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the project to refurbish the former School of Mines Building in Castlemaine to meet Council‟s civic and administrative accommodation needs over the long term.

2. Background

Since the restructuring of Local Government and the formation of Mount Alexander Shire Council in 1995, Council has not had adequate accommodation to enable its civic and administrative functions to operate effectively. It has been a long held aspiration of Council to develop a sustainable arrangement for this. Some background to the issue is useful in considering current actions and progress in delivering on Council‟s aspiration.

Council considered a range of options for collocating Newstead and Castlemaine based staff following Council amalgamations, including, retention of Castlemaine and Newstead offices, the former Castlemaine School of Mines, PIENWA building (Templeton Street), relocatables on the vacant Templeton Street land owned by Council, various combinations of portables and purchase of land and purpose built accommodation on the vacant Templeton Street site. Council records show several successive proposals including a staged plan to establish portables on the grassed area of the Halford Street site with a second stage building on Council land in Templeton Street. In the Council report of March 2001, the estimated cost of a single story building on this site was $3,364,625, inclusive of car parking and project management fees. Council subsequently entered into a lease to provide office accommodation at the old hospital site in Halford Street in January 2002 as an interim solution. The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) notified Council in June 2005 that it would be disposing of the former Castlemaine School of Mines and Council resolved at its Ordinary Meeting on 28 June 2005 to write to DSE to state its interest in purchasing the building. Council further resolved on 9 May 2006 to commission a feasibility and costing report on the ability, capacity and potential conversion of the School of Mines Building to meet Council‟s future requirements. After receiving this report members of the community were invited to visit the School of Mines Building, review the report and provide comment on the proposal. The feasibility report was prepared by Architects Terence J. Damien Summers, titled School of Mines Office Space Assessment. The report estimated the cost of refurbishment at $977,000. The building had just undergone a $500,000 State Government funded refurbishment at the time. Council resolved on 26 September 2006 to accept the offer to purchase the School of Mines Building “in principle”. Subsequently Council resolved at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 27 April 2010 to purchase the building for $650,000 and to “undertake the refurbishment of the building in a manner which seeks to achieve the highest standards of environmental building performance and energy efficiency outcomes by identifying what would be required to achieve a 6-star energy efficiency rating” In the 2011/2012 Budget Council funded the refurbishment of the School of Mines Building and a detailed project plan has been developed to pursue the project, based on earlier cost projections and scope of works.



Including consideration of Economic, Social and Environmental impacts. In the Council Plan 2009-2013 Council identified the need to improve service to the community and to be an employer of choice. Council adopted a Customer Service Action Plan in January 2011 which outlined its vision for improved access to services including providing a centrally located customer service centre, where residents could access all of Council‟s services at a one stop shop. The School of Mines refurbishment project will bring together for the first time in one location Planning, Building, Environmental Health, Rates, and Home and Community Care functions. Council‟s commitment in the Council Plan to being an employer of choice included completing a review of office accommodation needs. Council has an obligation to provide a healthy and safe work environment for staff. The current working conditions at the Halford Street site do not meet contemporary workplace standards. As it has been anticipated that the School of Mines development would proceed imminently since 2006, both staff and their Union representatives have been especially patient in tolerating clearly sub-standard working conditions at both the Town Hall and Halford Street. In addition to these benefits, the School of Mines refurbishment will provide the following:

improved civic facilities, including Council meeting space, with adequate room for the public to attend meetings;

space for the public to wait inside the building prior to the commencement of meetings;

retains in public ownership a significant heritage building situated in Castlemaine‟s civic precinct;

results in a demonstration example of the re-awakening and improved environmental performance of a heritage building;

space for Councillors to meet with members of the community and conduct Council business; and

frees up space in the Town Hall creating another meeting space for use by community groups.

4. Issues

Gregory Burgess Architects Pty Ltd were appointed in September 2011 to undertake the design and contract documentation for the School of Mines refurbishment project. Draft plans showing the proposed function and layout of the building will be tabled at the Council meeting. The work undertaken to date in Stage 1 – Design Concepts is as follows:

finalised the design brief with Council;

consultation with staff;

concept plans comprising floor plan, site plan and elevations;

a preliminary building cost assessment;

a report on services infrastructure, fit out, services requirements and associated costs;

designs for presentation to Council;

identification of ESD options for consideration; and

a risk assessment (as per Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004). A cost plan based on the Stage 1 design has been provided and is discussed further under financial and resource implications. The School of Mines Building is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register as being of cultural heritage significance to the State of Victoria. Therefore, any modifications and works to the building require a


permit from Heritage Victoria. The refurbishment works will be subject to the normal Town Planning approval processes in which matters such as traffic and parking will be considered. The heritage significance of the building has been considered in the concept design proposal. A draft history of the School of Mines has been undertaken by Heritage Consultants – Helen Lardner Conservation and Design. Helen Lardner prepared a Heritage Impact Statement that accompanied the Heritage Victoria Permit Application lodged in late January 2012. Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) Options A detailed report undertaken by Connor Pincus Engineers on Building Services and ESD Opportunities (November 2011) describes a number of environmentally sustainable design opportunities. Environmentally sustainable design measures have been proposed to minimise energy use, greenhouse gas emissions and keep operating costs down. A summary of these measures is as follows:

Sunscreens on east and west facade to control solar heat gain.

Solar thermal roof collectors for gas hot water boosting.

Refurbish and reactivate the existing hydronic heating system.

Central ducted AC system for extreme temperature days (warm and cold).

Rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing.

Repairs to openable windows for natural ventilation.

Ventilator stack for night purging (removing hot , stuffy air) and ventilators.

Skylight for natural day lighting over central corridor into ground floor.

Ceiling insulation.


On 23 January 2007 Council resolved to “engage Toon Architects, Bendigo to undertake an assessment of four (4) identified site options and to submit a report which considers their feasibility and costings” This report provided the following options:

refurbishment of the School of Mines ($1.3 million);

a new development on 10a Templeton Street, ($4.3 million);

extension and improvement to the Pienwa Building in Templeton Street ($4.6 million); and

a new building on a greenfields site. ($4.1 million). The refurbishment of the School of Mines was pursued by Council as the most cost effective option. Adjusting the above cost estimate for escalation in building costs since 2007 results in a revised estimate of $1.7 million. The Building Code of Australia 2011 became effective from 1 May 2011 and included significant changes such as 6 Star, Section J and the Access Code which has imposed significant increases in cost to building construction and refurbishments. It is estimated that this has resulted in additional costs to the project of $330,000. The original cost estimate also did not include consulting fees for architects and engineers, and underestimated the electrical requirements to support fully networked communications, IT and other equipment, therefore a further provision of $500,000 should be allowed for these items. This results in a revised estimate to approximately $2.5 million for works undertaken in 2012. The costing report based on the current design is in line with this revised estimate at $2.6 million. As noted in the background section of this report, Council resolved to “undertake the refurbishment of the building in a manner which seeks to achieve the highest standards of environmental building performance and energy efficiency outcomes by identifying what would be required to achieve a 6-star energy efficiency rating” The cost estimate for environmentally sustainable design (ESD) options is $450,000.


The Federal Government has recently launched its Community Energy Efficiency Grants Program which provides grants to Local Government to support Council projects to retrofit Council buildings to achieve energy efficiency or reduction in energy use such as heritage buildings that are being retrofitted. The School of Mines ESD options would qualify for this grants program and be eligible for 50% of the cost. In addition, a low interest loan through Low Carbon Australia could be applied for to finance the balance of these ESD measures.

Council currently has a budget allocation of $1.4 million for the School of Mines refurbishment. Therefore an allocation of $750,000 in the 2012/2013 Capital Works Program would be required in addition to a combination of grants or low interest loans of $450,000 to achieve Council‟s ESD objectives. Grant funding from the Community Energy Efficiency Program for ESD initiatives which can also be partly funded by a low interest loan from Low Carbon Australia can be pursued for this purpose. If the revised budget is adopted, the corresponding consulting fees for the appointed architects and sub consultants will increase in line with the increased scope of the project and consequently require a Council resolution to approve their revised fee. The revised fee is estimated at $237,200 including GST. Council has the financial capability to fund this project due to its improved financial circumstances that have arisen both from prudent financial management outlined in the Long Term Financial Plan and also as a result of the receipt of grant funding for a number of capital projects that had been projected to be fully funded by Council. One example of this is the $2.04 million of funding that will be received in 2012/2013 for key projects in the Walking and Cycling Strategy. While Council has significant works to complete in relation to flood damage ($15 million), these works will be fully funded through the Natural Disaster Fund. Council will also receive an additional $1.0 million per annum for four years from the Infrastructure Renewal Fund. These grants will contribute $21.04 million to Council‟s capital works program over the next three years.

6. Consultation

The School of Mines Building was open to the public on Thursday 31 August 2006 from 10.00 to 12.00 and on Saturday 2 August 2006 from 12.30 to 2.30. The Architects‟ Report and Council Report of the 22 August 2006 were placed on Council‟s website on Friday 25 August 2006. 27 submissions were received. The majority of submissions were in relation to concern around the relocation of the Yoga Studio and a petition in relation to this was also received. There were a number of submissions in support of the purchase and refurbishment and some that raised issues such as cost, car parking, location etc.

7. Conclusion

The history in relation to the purchase and refurbishment of the School of Mines dates back to Local Government amalgamations in the 1990s when consideration was given to options to collocate the previous Newstead Shire and City of Castlemaine offices. An interim solution was adopted in 2002, being the lease of accommodation at Halford Street. The first detailed feasibility study in relation to the School of Mines purchase and refurbishment was undertaken in 2005/2006 and a provision made in the 2006/2007 Budget based on a cost estimate prepared by Toon Architects. A further provision was made in the 2010/11 Budget to allow for some cost escalation. The increase in the current cost estimate is mainly due to the underestimation of electrical works in the original costings, the omission of any provision for consulting fees and changes to the Building Code in 2011, this has resulted in a revised cost estimate of $2.5 million. In addition, when the project was first proposed the building had just undergone an extensive refurbishment and this is now some time ago as the purchase of the building from the State Government has taken much longer than anticipated to conclude. The project also reflects Council‟s objectives for ESD as foreshadowed in the Greenhouse Action Plan and Environment Strategy.


The current plans for refurbishment of the School of Mines Building represent a modest but professional approach to providing accommodation for Council‟s civic and administrative functions and which is consistent with Council‟s stated environmental objectives. It is recommended that the works be undertaken to a sufficient standard to enable the building to function over the medium to long term (30 years) without the need for any additional major expenditure (other than minor maintenance, painting of public areas, etc). Council has not met its obligations for staff accommodation since the formation of Mount Alexander Shire Council in the mid 1990s and the current proposal will enable all staff to be situated in the centre of the township in the centre of the municipality and to function as a “one stop shop”, resulting in significantly improved customer service for residents.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Endorse the tabled draft plans prepared by Gregory Burgess Architects Pty Ltd for the refurbishment of the former Castlemaine School of Mines to meet Council’s accommodation needs for administration and civic activities.

2. Approve the revised budget estimate of $2.6 million for the refurbishment of the School of Mines Building in order to achieve a long term sustainable accommodation solution and consistent with Council’s stated environmental objectives.

3. Allocate $750,000 to the 2012/2013 Capital Works Budget and seek $450,000 in low interest loans and/or grants for the ESD works proposed.

4. Approve the revised fee estimate for Gregory Burgess Architects Pty Ltd to $237,200, inclusive of GST.

MOVED COUNCILLOR MACHIN That the recommendation be adopted. SECONDED COUNCILLOR REDDEN CARRIED Councillor Cross called for a Division Councillors who voted for the recommendation:

Machin, Redden, Cropley. Councillors who voted against the motion:

Cross, Barber.


FUT 017 LOCAL GOVERNMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM – REGIONAL GROWTH FUND

Responsible Officer: Director Environment and Infrastructure File Number: 14/200/005

1. Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek Council‟s endorsement to proceed with the nomination of projects for the Regional Growth Fund allocated to Mount Alexander Shire Council.

2. Background

The State Government has established a Regional Growth Fund which involves spending $1.0 billion to strengthen the regions. The Local Government Infrastructure Program forms part of the Local Government stream and involves expenditure of $100 million over four years. The Local Government Infrastructure Program is provided by direct allocation to Councils. Mount Alexander Shire Council‟s allocation over four years is $2.042 million..


Including consideration of Economic, Social and Environmental impacts. Council adopted the Walking and Cycling Strategy in April 2010. The Strategy sets out a strategic approach to improve and increase walking and cycling in the Shire. The Strategy identifies the most important routes on each network as primary routes and those routes that provides connections but do not carry a high volume of traffic as secondary routes. The Strategy provides priorities for the Shire‟s footpath, bike lane and trail network.

4. Issues

The estimated costs to upgrade the remaining primary footpath sections as identified in the Walking and Cycling Strategy are $185,000.

Location Street Address Cost $

Castlemaine Wheeler Street, Greenhill to Yeats McGrath Street, Duke Street to Recreation Reserve

55,000 20,000

Guildford Midland Hwy, extend both ends from Short Street to Parker Street

15,000

Maldon High Street, Adair to Franklin Street High Street, Castlemaine- Maldon Road to Grey Street

40,000 35,000

Newstead Pyrenees Hwy, Panmure Street to Layard Street 20,000

TOTAL 185,000

In addition to the above primary footpaths it is also proposed to construct the section of the footpath identified as a secondary footpath in Campbells Creek, along Main/Johnstone Street from Silver Street to Elizabeth Street. The cost of constructing this footpath is $170,000. This will provide an off-road path linkage to Castlemaine town centre. Multiple requests have also been received from Maldon residents to construct a footpath on the eastern side of the Maldon-Newstead Road from the Castlemaine Road south to Popeks Road. This footpath section has been identified in part as a secondary footpath in the Strategy. The estimated cost to construct this section of footpath is $65,000. The total estimated cost of upgrading/constructing the primary footpath network as described above, the section of the secondary footpath in Campbells Creek along Main/Johnstone Street from Silver Street to Elizabeth Street and the section of the footpath on the eastern side of the Maldon-Newstead Road from the Castlemaine Road south to Popeks Road is $420,000.


In addition, there is also the potential to develop the inter-town trails identified in the Strategy:

the trail alongside the Castlemaine to Maldon rail line;

the trail alongside the Castlemaine to Newstead rail line; and

the trail along the Coliban water race, Taradale to Great Dividing Trail, North-East of Harcourt. The trail along the Castlemaine to Maldon rail line is identified as a high priority in the Strategy and Council has already allocated funding in the 2011/12 budget to investigate the feasibility of this trail. Based on an average cost for the construction of similar trails, the estimated cost for this 18 kilometres of trail is $730,000 for an unsealed trail. The trail along the Castlemaine to Newstead rail line is identified as a medium priority in the Strategy. The preliminary estimated cost of constructing this 23 kilometres of trail is $1.0 million (unsealed). The Victorian Government has allocated $2.0 million to examine the long-term feasibility of returning passenger trains between Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo. The study will investigate reactivation of the line between Maryborough and Castlemaine. It has been requested that the Department of Transport include passive provision for this trail in their design.


The Local Government Infrastructure Program has allocated $2.042 million to Mount Alexander Shire Council over four years for projects nominated from its Forward Capital Works Plan. Council can seek to allocate this funding either wholly or in part over this period e.g. Council may seek to access the funding in full up front or allocated incrementally over successive years. Council‟s Long Term Financial plan allows for the implementation of the Walking and Cycling Strategy over the medium term and anticipated limited external financial assistance. The Local Government Infrastructure Program funding provides Council with the ability to deliver a significant component of its footpath rehabilitation program and Walking and Cycling Strategy much earlier that would have been the case and at the State Government‟s expense. The table below show the proposed expenditure of the Local Government Infrastructure Program funding.

Project Estimated Cost $ 2012/13 $ 2013/14 $

Footpath Construction 420,000 420,000

Castlemaine – Maldon Trail 800,000 400,000 400,000

Castlemaine – Newstead Trail 822,000* 411,000 411,000

TOTAL 2,042,000 1,231,000 811,000 *Detailed costing subject to further review

The CEO is required to advise DPCD in writing of the nominated works.

6. Consultation

Council officers consulted with the Department of Planning and Community Development officers on the Local Government Infrastructure Program and with the Department of Transport on the development of the proposed Castlemaine to Newstead trail.

7. Conclusion

Mount Alexander Shire Council‟s allocation of the Local Government Infrastructure Program over four years is $2.042 million. It is proposed to seek the full funding allocation for the implementation of capital works identified in Council‟s Walking and Cycling Strategy. This funding arrangement will allow these works to be undertaken much earlier than otherwise would have been the case and at the State Government‟s expense.


RECOMMENDATION That Council:

1. write to the Department of Planning and Community Development advising that the nominated works to be carried out under the Local Government Infrastructure Program will be for footpaths and trails as identified in Council’s Walking and Cycling Strategy;

2. allow for $1.231 million in the 2012/13 Capital Works Budget for projects as nominated; and,

3. allow for $811,000 in the 2013/14 Capital Works Budget for projects as nominated.



FUT 018 NAMING OF LOCAL ROAD UNDER SECTION 206 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT – DUNDAS STREET, NEWSTEAD


1. Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek Council‟s approval to rename a section of road in Newstead known as Dundas Street. Refer Attachment FUT 018A for a map of the area.

2. Background

Road naming is conducted under Council‟s Road Naming Policy, where names are based on geographical features, notable events or people and indigenous names, where appropriate. The formalisation of naming creates a sense of place and identity for local members of the community but also clarifies and provides orientation for a considerable number of other parties and important services such as emergency services and utility providers.


Council has the power to name or rename roads in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) and must follow the procedures of Section 206 and Schedule 10 of the Act. Section 206 indicates the powers of a Council in relation to roads in its municipal district and Schedule 10 sets out those powers specifically under Clause 5 giving Council power to name roads, erect signs and require premises to be numbered. Road naming is conducted in compliance with Council‟s Asset Naming Policy and the Guidelines for Geographical Names 2010.


The financial implications are minimal with the cost of the erection of street signs being met within Council‟s operating budget for this type of expense.

5. Issues

It has been brought to Council‟s attention that Dundas Street, Newstead is separated in two places; firstly by the railway line and in a second location by the Loddon River (please refer to attached map at Attachment FUT 018A). As the naming authority, Council has a responsibility to minimise confusion for emergency services and proposes to rename the section of Dundas Street between Layard and Hilliard Street. The Newstead Historical Society was asked to provide some suggestions to rename the section of Dundas Street and abutting residents were surveyed to determine their preference. Three names were offered to residents abutting the section of road, namely:

Recreation Avenue;

Deans Street; or,

Nightingale Street.

A section of Dundas Street has previously been referred to as Recreation Avenue although the Newstead Historical Society found no records of this name.


The Historical Society provided information on naming roads in the district. Before the establishment of the Newstead Shire, a Roads Board was established in 1863 which determined road names in Newstead. All roads were named after people involved with the Crimean War. For consistency, the historical society offered two names. The first of these was Deans Street – after James Whitely Deans Dundas, who was a vice admiral during the Crimean War. The second was Nightingale Street – after Florence Nightingale who nursed soldiers during the Crimean War. Survey results of local residents of the relevant section of Dundas Street indicated the unanimous choice of Recreation Avenue.

6. Consultation

In keeping with the Guidelines for Geographic Names 2010, the Newstead Historical Society was consulted and nearby residents between Layard and Hilliard Streets were offered the opportunity to provide input into the naming of the road.

7. Conclusion

Council has the power to name or rename roads in accordance with Section 206 and Schedule 10 of the Local Government Act 1989.

Consultation with abutting landowners has provided a clear preference for the section of road to be renamed Recreation Avenue.

The allocation of a street name will clarify locality details for emergency services and provide residents with a clear and appropriate address reference.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council 1. name the section of road located between Hilliard and Layard Streets, Newstead previously

known as Dundas Street as Recreation Avenue;

2. advise the Registrar of Geographic Names, Rural Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police, Country Fire Authority of Victoria, State Emergency Services, Land Victoria, Vic Roads, utility providers, Department of Planning and Community Development, Victorian Electoral Commission, Australian Electoral Commission, Newstead Historical Society, and abutting landowners of Council’s decision;

3. advertise Council’s decision in the local newspaper circulating in the vicinity of the road’s location; and,

4. erect street signs indicating the road’s name as Recreation Avenue.



FUT 019 NAMING OF LOCAL ROAD UNDER SECTION 206 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT – UNNAMED ROAD OFF WHITE GUM ROAD, BARKERS CREEK


1. Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek Council‟s approval to name an unnamed road off White Gum Road, Barkers Creek. Refer to Attachment FUT 019A for a map of the area.

2. Background

Road naming is conducted under Council‟s Asset Naming Policy where names are based on geographical features, notable events or people and indigenous names, where appropriate. The formalisation of naming creates a sense of place and identity for local members of the community but also clarifies and provides orientation for a considerable number of other parties and important services such as emergency services and utility providers.


Council has the power to name or rename roads in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) and must follow the procedures of Section 206 and Schedule 10 of the Act. Section 206 outlines the powers of a Council in relation to roads in its municipal district and Schedule 10 sets out those powers specifically under Clause 5, giving Council power to name roads, erect signs and require premises to be numbered. Road naming is conducted in compliance with Council‟s Asset Naming Policy and the Guidelines for Geographical Names 2010 (the Guidelines).

4. Issues

A request has been made to name an unnamed road off White Gum Road, Barkers Creek. Initial consultation was undertaken with the Maldon Historical Society and a suggestion was put forward to name the road Robins Road after George Robins, who owned land in the area. During the consultation process, direct descendants of Mr Robins made it clear that they did not wish the road to be named after George Robins. Following further consultation with the Maldon Historical Society, the name of Jung Road was proposed and suggested to nearby residents. Otto Jung resided in the area in the 1860s and 1870s. Mr Jung was a leading winemaker and local Councillor. In later years, he was the guardian and mentor of the seven sons of John Laver. The Laver brothers went on to make a significant contribution to the arts, sport and commerce. Nearby residents were consulted and those that responded approved of the name of Jung Road. Two other suggestions were put forward. The suggestion of Trail Bikers Paradise Road was suggested as a comment upon the popular use of the road. This name does not comply with the Guidelines. Another suggestion proposed an indigenous name be included. Consultation with the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans has not drawn a response.

5. Finance and Resource Implications

The financial implications are minimal with the cost of the erection of street signs being met within the Council‟s operating budget for this type of expense.


6. Consultation

In keeping with the Guidelines, steps were taken to consult with the Maldon Historical Society and nearby residents in the vicinity of the unnamed road were offered the opportunity to provide input into the naming of the road.

7. Conclusion

A request has been made to name an unnamed road off White Gum Road, Barkers Creek.

Consultation with abutting landowners has provided a clear preference for the road to be named Jung Road.

The allocation of a street name will clarify locality details for emergency and other services and provide residents with a clear and appropriate address reference.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council: 1. name the unnamed section of road off White Gum Road, Jung Road;

2. advise the Registrar of Geographic Names, Rural Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police, Country

Fire Authority of Victoria, State Emergency Services, Land Victoria, Vic Roads, utility providers, Department of Planning and Community Development, Victorian Electoral Commission, Australian Electoral Commission, Maldon Historical Society, and abutting landowners of Council’s decision;

3. advertise Council’s decision in the local newspaper circulating in the vicinity of the road’s

location; and

4. erect street signs indicating the road’s name as Jung Road.

MOVED COUNCILLOR CROSS That the recommendation be adopted. SECONDED COUNCILLOR MACHIN CARRIED


ATTACHMENT FUT 019A


9. DELEGATES REPORTS

10.1 GOLDFIELDS LIBRARY CORPORATION - COUNCILLOR REDDEN

Councillor Redden reported that the Corporation has made a decision to extend library hours on Thursdays to 8.00pm and an additional two hours on a Saturday for a trial period for six months.

The Corporation is also discussing the resumption of mobile library services to Mount Alexander Shire. He foreshadowed that the Corporation will be undertaking a re-development of the Bendigo Library.

10. NOTICE OF MOTION

Nil


11. URGENT SPECIAL BUSINESS

The Mayor introduced the item of Urgent Special Business and sought leave from Council to accept the item. MOVED COUNCILLOR MACHIN That item COM 07 Update on Information Program Regarding Changes to Commercial Waste Collection Services be accepted as an item of Urgent Special Business. SECONDED COUNCILLOR REDDEN CARRIED

COM 07 UPDATE ON INFORMATION PROGRAM REGARDING CHANGES TO COMMERCIAL WASTE

COLLECTION SERVICES

Responsible Officer: Manager Healthy Environments File Number: 13/020/0075

1. Purpose

The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the outcomes of the community information program on the withdrawal of commercial waste collection services.

2. Background

Council resolved to cease this service on 13 December 2011. It has an action recommended in the Waste Management Strategy that was adopted by Council in 2010. In considering a report concerning commercial waste services, Council at its Ordinary Meeting held on 13 December 2011, resolved as follows: 1. Endorse the withdrawal of kerbside garbage and recycling collection services to all commercial

premises in the Shire as of 1 April 2012,

2. Endorse the development of a community information program to assist business owners make alternative waste management arrangements before the withdrawal of Council’s service; and

3. Receive a report on the progress of the community information program by the end of February

2012.

In deciding to take this course of action, Council considered the following factors:

Local Government is limited in its capacity to offer tailored services in response to specific needs, given the constraints of the Local Government Act on the levying of fees and charges and the need to be consistent and equitable in delivering services.

The current service offered by Council does not meet the needs of a large number of businesses who subsequently engage a private waste contractor and essentially pay for a Council service that is not wanted and not used.


Discontinuation of the Council provided waste collection service will provide greater flexibility and potential cost savings to businesses in securing their own tailored waste collection services.

There are many private waste contractors currently operating within Mount Alexander which offers business owners a choice of service providers.

The EPA requires that Council have clearly documented evidence on the split between municipal and industrial wastes received at landfill. Council has not been adequately meeting this requirement.

Many Councils no longer provide a commercial waste collection service, or only offer a limited service in response to the growing obligations by the EPA and other State Government agencies and also the presence of a competitive market for the service.

Following Council‟s decision on 13 December 2011, a program of community information has been undertaken including the following:

All businesses with waste collection services were sent a letter on 20 December 2011 informing them of the change.

A handout detailing the process and rationale for the removal of services and the invitation to the community information sessions was developed and circulated through Council‟s business email list, published on the website and made available at Halford Street and Town Hall receptions the week starting 16 January 2012.

This handout was sent with a second letter to all businesses with waste collection services on 8 February 2012. This was accompanied with a media release at the time.

Throughout the first half of February Council‟s Waste Management Officer hand-delivered the handouts to available business owners in Maldon and some in Castlemaine. This involved lengthy discussions in many instances.

Two community information sessions were held on 14 February in Castlemaine and 20 February in Maldon. Approximately 32 people were in attendance at the Castlemaine information session representing 29 businesses, five of which have private waste services already and one that won‟t be affected by the changes. Approximately 12 people were in attendance at the Maldon meeting representing six businesses. A further information sheet was developed for this meeting (Frequently Asked Questions). This sheet is also available on Council‟s website.


Including consideration of Economic, Social and Environmental impacts. Council‟s Waste Management Strategy 2010 – 1015 recommends:

Removal of all commercial and industrial kerbside waste collection services from Council kerbside collection runs.

To not compete with commercial waste collection operators.

4. Issues

A range of issues were raised by those who attended the information sessions. The following comments were made and question raised at the information sessions:

Why can‟t Council estimate the volume of commercial waste collected?

Council needs to clarify the EPA guidelines.

Why wasn‟t business consulted in the development of the Waste Strategy?


There will be trucks picking up bins 7 days a week.

Why couldn‟t Council negotiate a separate contract for businesses?

Extra rubbish will be left in street litter bins.

The cost to businesses will be very high.

Why aren‟t other Councils faced with the same problem?

Rubbish collection is an essential service to business.

Access for storing bins is a problem.

Council is ignoring the needs of business.

Access for bins and storage is a problem in Maldon.

Will Council be withdrawing litter bin collection?

The community information program is continuing with two more information sessions scheduled. These will be held in Castlemaine on 13 March 2012 and Maldon on 19 March 2012. A new Frequently Asked Questions document, specifically addressing matters raised to date, is being prepared and will be distributed to businesses. Council is currently negotiating with the EPA to have a representative attend the next round of information sessions. The hand delivery of information in Castlemaine resumed the week starting 27 February 2012. Recently Council awarded the municipal waste collection contract to a new provider, Wheelie Waste. This new contract will commence on 1 April 2012 and does not include a commercial waste service. Recognising the requirements of the Waste Management Strategy, Council has determined the change-over of contractors to be an appropriate time to discontinue its involvement in commercial waste collection.


This consultation program is being delivered within existing staffing resources. There is an existing budget for the development of associated communication tools and materials.

6. Consultation

The consultation program to date has been developed by the Healthy Environments team with strong collaboration from other areas.

7. Conclusion

The consultation program for the removal of commercial waste collection services is being implemented. There is a broad range of responses from community members.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council note the update on the consultation program to date for the removal of commercial waste collection services and requests officers ensure that they contact all affected businesses. MOVED COUNCILLOR MACHIN That the recommendation be adopted. SECONDED COUNCILLOR REDDEN CARRIED

12. MEETING CLOSE AT 8:50PM.

minutes - mount alexander shire council

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