AGENDA - Derwent Valley Council...AGENDA DERWENT VALLEY COUNCIL Council Meeting Thursday, 15 May...

AGENDA

DERWENT VALLEY COUNCIL

Council Meeting

Thursday, 15 May 2014

6.30pm

Courthouse New Norfolk

QUALIFIED PERSONS CERTIFICATION

I hereby certify that any advice, information or recommendations contained in this

Agenda that requires the advice of a qualified person has been obtained and taken into

account in providing general advice to the Council.

STEPHEN MACKEY

GENERAL MANAGER

15 May 2014

Derwent Valley Council

Council Meeting Agenda

15 May 2014

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15 May 2014

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CONTENTS

1. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES ....................................................................... 4

2. BRIEFING TO COUNCIL ................................................................................... 4

3. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME................................................................................. 4

4. MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS ...................................................................... 4

5. NOTIFICATION OF COUNCIL WORKSHOPS ................................................ 5

6. DECLARATION OF PECUNIARY INTEREST ................................................ 5

7. COUNCIL ACTING AS A PLANNING AUTHORITY ..................................... 6

8. CONSIDERATION OF SUPPLEMENTARY ITEMS TO THE AGENDA ....... 6

9. MOTIONS ON NOTICE ...................................................................................... 6

10. REPORTS OF OFFICERS ................................................................................... 7

10.1 FINANCIAL REPORT ......................................................................................... 7

10.2 PLANNING APPLICATIONS DEALT WITH BY DELEGATION .... 10

10.3 LGAT MEMBERSHIP ........................................................................... 13

10.4 STCA MEMBERSHIP ........................................................................... 22

10.5 DERWENT VALLEY COUNCIL SCHOLARSHIP TRUST FUND

(TERMS OF REFERENCE) .................................................................. 28

11 COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE ................................................ 32

12 COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE ........................................ 32

13 LEAVE OF ABSENCE ...................................................................................... 32

14 CLOSED COUNCIL MEETING ....................................................................... 32

15 CLOSE ................................................................................................................ 32



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AGENDA

APOLOGIES

1. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

That the minutes of the Council meeting and Closed Council meeitng held on 17 April

2014 as circulated be confirmed.

Decision:

Date: 15/5/14

2. BRIEFING TO COUNCIL

Sgt Adrian Leary to brief Council on Policing issues in the municipality.

3. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

Date: 15/5/14

File: 201

4. MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS



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5. NOTIFICATION OF COUNCIL WORKSHOPS

In accordance with the requirements of the Local Government (Meeting Procedures)

Regulations 2005, it is reported that the following Council Workshops have been

conducted since the last ordinary meeting of Council:

Date Purpose of Workshop

1 May 2014 Discussion was held in regard to a Tour of Willow Court with

Brett Noble, attendance at a Council Workshop by the Lord

Mayor and CEO of the STCA Board, staging (or not) Targa

Tasmania at Molesworth, response in regard to Banjos site, the

development of a Tip policy and Forestry Rates.

The Mayor also advised Councillors in regards to Volunteers

Week, a letter he has received in regards to the Safe Cities and

CCT Cameras conference to be held in Queensland. The

Mayor also advised that he has spoken to the new Police

Sargent and he will invite him to the next meeting of Council

and Councillors questions.

Cr Lathey asked if signage could be installed on Lawitta and

Back River Roads in regard to the Betty King gravesite and

Church. Cr Lathey and Cr Bester asked if the speed limit signs

in the Lawitta area could be replaced. Cr Bromfield advised of

the passing of a previous Councillor, Mr Dennis Beattie.

8 May 2014 Workshop with the STCA Chief Executive Officer (Brenton

West) and the Chairperson (Lord Mayor Damon Thomas BA

LLB LLM) to discuss issues in regard to the STCA.

6. DECLARATION OF PECUNIARY INTEREST

Date: 15/5/14

File: 198

Declarations of pecuniary interest in accordance with the Local Government (Meeting

Procedures) Regulations 2005.



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7. COUNCIL ACTING AS A PLANNING AUTHORITY

In accordance with the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005,

notice is given that Council intends to act as a planning authority under the Land Use

Planning and Approvals Act 1993 to consider the following items:

8. CONSIDERATION OF SUPPLEMENTARY ITEMS TO THE AGENDA

In accordance with the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005,

the Council, by absolute majority, may approve the consideration of a matter not

appearing on the agenda, when the General Manager has reported:

(a) the reason it was not possible to include the matter on the agenda, and

(b) that the matter is urgent, and

(c) that advice has been provided under Section 65 of the Local Government Act

1993.

9. MOTIONS ON NOTICE

Date: 15/5/14

File: 197



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10. REPORTS OF OFFICERS

10.1 FINANCIAL REPORT

Report To: Council

Author: Accountant

Qualified Officer: Accountant

Introduction and Purpose

The Financial Report for the month ended 30 April 2014 is attached separately.

Strategic Plan

F4 To improve community understanding of Council’s financial management and

finances.

Discussion

Council’s Summary of Operations is attached separately for consideration and details

the operating results of Council for the 10 month period ended 30 April 2014.

The Summary of Operations reflects all of Council’s activities as budgeted for in the

2013/2014 year. It therefore includes both recurrent income and expenditure, together

with Council’s Capital Works and Plant Replacement Program. The statement

compares our annual budget targets with our year-to-date actual performance.

The expected year-to-date activity is 83.33% of total annual budget. As at 30 April

2014, Council’s overall net operating position is in line with budget expectations.

Program variations in income received or expenditure incurred to date will arise due

to factors such as seasonal timing and the programming of major works.

Variations from budget in each of Council’s activities are monitored and where

necessary, corrective action takes place to ensure that as far as possible, Council’s

operations remain within overall budget parameters for the year.



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Additional information included in this and subsequent reports is as follows:

Summary of Cash Position for the year ended 30 June 2013.

This summary details Council's bank balance as at month's end for the financial

year 2012/2013.

Summary of Cash Position for the period ended 30 April 2014.

This summary details Council's cash position as at 30 April 2014. Details of

Council's cash position as at 30 April 2013 is also included for comparison

purposes.

Comparison of Cash Positions for 2012/2013 and 2013/2014.

This summary details Council's cash position to the corresponding period of the

previous year.

Summary of Rates Collection for the period ended 30 April 2014.

This summary details Council's summary of rates collections for the period ended

30 April 2014. Details of Council's rates collections as at 30 April 2013 are also

included for comparison purposes.

Comparison of Rates Collections for 2012/2013 and 2013/2014.

This summary details Council's rates collections to the corresponding period of

the previous year.

Summary of Loan Borrowings for the period ended 30 April 2014.

This summary details Council's loan indebtedness as at 30 April 2014. Details of

Council's loan indebtedness in comparison to rates revenue for the previous 12

years are also included for comparison purposes.

Consultations That Have Taken Place

(a) The Community

Not Applicable

(b) Experts

Not Applicable

(c) Stakeholders

Not Applicable



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Proposed Community Consultation, Public Relations and Media Issues

Not Applicable

Budget/Financial Issues

In accordance with Councils Rating Estimates 2013/2014.

Policy Implications

Not Applicable

Recommendation

That the Financial Report for the period 1 July 2013 to 30 April 2014 be noted and

received.

Decision:

Date: 15/5/14

File: 737



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10.2 PLANNING APPLICATIONS DEALT WITH BY DELEGATION

Report To: Council

Author: Planning Officer

Qualified Officer: Planning Officer


Applications for planning approval are received and dealt with by the Planning

Officer in accordance with Council’s delegation. The following report summarises

the planning permits issued under delegation during the previous month.

Strategic Plan

IS2 To maintain high standards in the provision of all Council services in line with

community needs, Council’s policies and regulatory requirements

Discussion

The following applications for planning approval have been determined under

delegation by the Planning Officer during the previous month:

LOCALITY DA PROPOSAL DECISION

41 Gaul Lane, Lachlan 20/2014 Change of use from

office to Single

Dwelling

Approved

117 Menzies Road, Lachlan 15/2014 Change of use from

outbuilding to Single

Dwelling

Approved

295 Back River Road, Magra 18/2014 1 lot subdivision Approved

21 Wyre Forest Road,

Molesworth

7/2014 Internal alterations and

carport

Approved

2391 Gordon River Road,

National Park

22/2014 Single dwelling Approved



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49 Weir Road, National Park 21/2014 Wood Shed Approved

39 Hobart Road, New Norfolk 33/2014 Demolition of existing

shed and new garage

and carport

Approved

305 & 271 Lyell Highway,

Granton

24/2014 Subdivision Approved

36 Benjamin Terrace, New

Norfolk

27/2014 Tree Removal Approved

195 Hydehurst Road, Lachlan 41/2014 Shed, garage and

carport

Approved

839 Collins Cap Road,

Molesworth

25/2014 Carport Approved

665 Lachlan Road, Lachlan 45/2014 Shed Approved

3031 Lyell Highway & 21

Cawthorns Lane, Rosegarland

32/2014 Boundary Adjustment Approved

150 Hamilton Road, New

Norfolk

36/2014 Subdivision Approved

In addition, the following applications for planning approval were dealt with by

Council at its last meeting.


Turners Road, Granton 80/2011 8 lot Subdivision Approved

SUMMARY

Number of permits issued by delegation in April 14

Total number of permits issued in April 15

COMPARISON

Number of permits issued by delegation in previous month 5

Total number of permits issued in previous month 5



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APPLICATIONS CURRENTLY WITH THE TRIBUNAL:

Nil


(a) The Community

Not applicable

(b) Experts

Not applicable

(c) Stakeholders

Not applicable

Proposed Community Consultation, Public Relations and Media Issues Not applicable


Not applicable

Policy Implications

Not applicable

Recommendation

That Council receives and notes the information on planning permits issued by

delegation during the previous month.

Decision:

Date: 15/5/14

File: 0851



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10.3 LGAT MEMBERSHIP

Report To: Council

Author: General Manager

Qualified Officer: General Manager


The purpose of this report is for council to consider its ongoing membership to the

Local Government Association of Tasmania.

Strategic Plan

IS5 To develop partnerships with relevant stakeholders on the development,

management and maintenance of services in the municipality.

Ec3 To develop partnerships with State Government, industry and regional

bodies to promote economic and employment development.

F2 To effectively manage Council’s debt.

Discussion

Derwent valley Council is a long standing member of LGAT whose objects are to:

1. promote the efficient administration and operation of Local Government in the

State of Tasmania;

2. represent and protect the interests, rights and privileges of members of the

Association;

3. foster and promote relationships between Local Government in the State of

Tasmania with both the Government of Tasmania and the Government of the

Commonwealth of Australia;

4. Provide support services to members of the Association.

Council’s primary reason for announcing its intention to withdraw from LGAT was to

have the option from of saving the approximately $36,000 per year annual

subscription in light of the major negative financial impacts on the Council from the

State Government’s water and sewerage reforms.



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Member councils wishing to withdraw from LGAT are required to give a year’s

notice.

Issues of concern raised by Councillors at Workshops and Council Meetings included:

• Dissatisfaction with the level of support for Council during the water and

sewerage reform process and the outcomes that were achieved for Derwent

Valley.

• LGAT seems to lack teeth and may not be assertive enough in pursuing local

government agendas

• LGAT should be more consultative and representatives should visit the Council

more often

It is always open to individual councils to comment separately on State Government

legislation and initiatives, and Derwent Valley’s membership of the Southern

Tasmanian Councils Authority (STCA) provides an opportunity to participate in

regional responses, as does the membership of Council officers in other industry

organisations such as Local Government Managers Australia. From a national

perspective, the newly created Australian Council of Local Government (ACLG) also

provides an alternative opportunity for Derwent Valley to participate in discussion on

Federal issues.

Nevertheless LGAT provides the primary mechanism by which the State Government

consults with local government on legislative and other initiatives that affect local

government and it may be difficult for Council to even know that an issue is coming

up unless the State Government agrees to consult directly with Derwent Valley in

addition to LGAT.

LGAT is also the primary mechanism for placing issues on the national agenda via the

Australian Local Government Association. Withdrawal from LGAT will place

Derwent Valley Council at a disadvantage in those areas. It is by no means certain

that we would be notified of all issues that arise that could impact on local

government and we may have to apply additional resources if we are to comment

meaningfully on all local government related issues that arise.

It would be possible for Council to remain a member of LGAT while announcing its

intention to withdraw in 2013/14. This would enable Council to review its position.

On the other hand, if Council decides to withdraw from LGAT there is nothing to

prevent it from re-joining in the future.

KEY REASONS TO REMAIN A MEMBER OF LGAT

• There is strength in solidarity.



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• The capacity to speak as one voice and represent the needs of the entire sector is

a powerful weapon in achieving concessions, funding and outcomes that benefit

Local Government and individual councils.

• The Association does not treat the contributions made by councils to its

operations lightly. We see it as an extension of council activity with us value

adding to your efforts for your community and providing a specialist service to

council. We do not take membership or the funding associated with it for

granted and seek to be judged on performance and the effort put in on behalf of

councils.

• The Association provides a dedicated resource focusing on the pursuit of better

outcomes for Local Government. This occurs through negotiations on inter-

governmental issues, interpretation and negotiation of legislative amendments,

the development and prosecution of policy positions that benefit Local

Government, lobbying for and against matters that create duress, hardship or

cost to councils. Significant whole of sector funding has been achieved through

this process.

• This is a specialist role and one which would require significant

resourcing/duplication at an individual council level to be effective and relevant.

• It is unlikely that the State Government or other bodies will seek out individual

councils on matters impacting on the broader Local Government sector. Non-

membership of the Association could result in missed opportunities for inputs or

flow on benefits from such interaction.

• Member councils presently enjoy access to a range of services for elected

members and employees of councils, including:

Training and professional development is provided to both alderman and

staff of council with practical, affordable and relevant programs and

delivery.

Networking opportunities and information sharing opportunities through

participation in cross council training and conferences

Best practice exposure via events, recognition and demonstration.

Access for staff to cheap loans and funeral grants via LGAT ASSIST

Pending access for staff and aldermen to low cost medical insurance

Up to date and relevant communication via newsletters, magazines and

bulletins

Specialist advice and consultancy services funded by the Association on

key policy, legal and intergovernmental issues

• Derwent Valley council currently has a Councillor as proxy on the

Association’s General Management Committee.

• All councils presently have access to the Association’s Standards Panel in

relation to resolving conflicts arising from breaches of council codes of conduct.

While councils meet the direct costs associated with hearings emanating from

complaints from their council, the administrative support and registrar service is



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provided by LGAT. In the event that a council was not a member, an additional

fee structure would apply when accessing this service.

• All member councils enjoy the benefit of a group purchasing contract for human

resources and industrial relations services coordinated via the Association. In

the event that a council was not a member of the Association, access to

discounted advice and services would no longer be available.

• The Association also provides the platform for member councils to participate

in an insurance mutual for public liability insurance via Civic Mutual Plus.

While it would not be intended to seek to block participation in the scheme by

virtue of non-membership of the Association, Council should acknowledge that

the capacity to access coverage outside of this arrangement may pose some

challenges.

• The Association provides the capacity for council staff members to participate

in critical working groups and committees that impact on council activities.

• At the national level the Association is a member of ALGA. Working with other

State Associations and the ALGA Secretariat, policy positions are developed

and fed into the national agenda. Many of the matters under scrutiny are

discussed, considered and contributed to by individual councils within the

LGAT membership with those inputs feeding into the policy process.

• The significant funding wins that have been gained via ALGA for Roads to

Recovery and the Infrastructure Fund, in particular, demonstrate the benefits of

a strong and solid voice at the national level. It is desirable that councils

benefiting from these outcomes are part of the process in gaining these wins.

• The recent announcement of funding under the Local Government Reform Fund

will provide significant resources to pursue asset management and financial

planning efforts. It would be unfortunate if all councils were not able to be a

part of that process.

• Significant concessions won by the Association on behalf of member councils:

Water and Sewerage

The structure requested by councils for water and sewerage reform

(regional and owned by councils)

Employment safeguards for employees transferring to corporations

Retention of reserves, dividends and guarantee fees by councils, a

Initial $5 million funding for transitioning of reform

Funding

$5 million provided in response to representations relating to damage

to infrastructure from recent wet winter

Seed funding provided for sector wide measurement of greenhouse gas

emissions

$100,000 received to undertake scoping analysis for asset management

and financial planning frameworks



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A further $1 million is pending for implementation of above across all

councils with an announcement imminent

Planning

Funding and process for development of regional planning strategies

Association developed planning short course for elected members in

partnership with University of Tasmania

Commitment from State Government that Nation Building Legislation

would only be for term of this funding program and that would not

provide developers with a backdoor for previously unacceptable

solutions. Also advocated successfully for a stronger relationship with

council planners.

Funding to trial electronic development assessment in Tasmania.

Valuation and rating

Secured funding for independent review of valuation and rating

Local Government Sustainability

Conduct of Access Economics Study

Development of Asset Management and Financial Planning framework

with council capability audit

Secured funding for implementation of framework

Council Careers

Development of a careers brand “Think Big. Work Local”

Production of television commercial

Development of careers website

Fair Work Australia

The Association has worked collaboratively with other State/Territory

Local Government Associations in relation to the Australian

Governments award modernisation process. The work has implications

for all councils.

Legislation

Water and sewerage CSO funding

Intergovernmental Relations

LGAT is the link between the Australian and State Governments on matters of policy,

finance, legislation, regulation and roles and functions.

In fulfilling this role, LGAT consults with councils and coordinates communication

between these levels of government.

LGAT strives to equally and fairly represent councils on matters of common interest.



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Access to Ministers and Heads of Agency is granted to the Association generally

upon request. The ability to argue cases and positions on behalf of the entire sector

provides significant weight to arguments and credibility for the sector as a whole.

Policy & Legislation

LGAT presents local government policy in deliberations with other spheres of

government and to interest groups such as industry and the community.

Local Government policy is developed through a range of mechanisms including the

LGAT General Management Committee and General Meetings, working groups,

General Managers and Mayors workshops and committees.

LGAT seeks to ensure that local government policy objectives are presented during

the development of legislation and that potential impacts on councils and their

operations are fully considered.

The Association reaches positions on such matters through regular consultation with

councils via correspondence, briefings, meetings or dedicated working group

arrangements. The suite of views and differing arrangements across councils inform

the policy process fully and ensure that details associated with the implementation of

legislation, in particular, are well understood in advance.

Local Government Representation

Council members, council officers and LGAT employees represent local government

interests on a wide range of statutory authorities and government and non-government

committees.

Such participation provides both elected members and officers with professional

development opportunities and the ability to contribute to debate in particular areas of

interest. Expressions of interest for such positions are generally sought via the

Association with the General Management Committee responsible for nominations.

Advice

LGAT provides advice to councils on intergovernmental relations, policy and

legislation. This advice is provided through publications, general correspondence,

executive development programs and seminars.

The resources available to the Association via experience and issues arising via

member councils or other State Associations are quite far reaching and allow for the

sharing of information and issuing of alerts on matters that could have significant

impacts on council strategies or operations.



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Access to this suite of information is a valuable to councils and avoids the need to

research and find information relevant to their activities.

Recognition and Reward

LGAT, at the request of councils, awards service certificates to recognise the

contribution of elected members and officers to Local Government in Tasmania.

LGAT coordinates the annual Tasmanian Local Government Awards for Excellence

to recognise councils that add value to local government through best practice,

exemplary policy and service.

Communication

Keeping councils informed of current developments is achieved through regular

correspondence and publications produced by LGAT. The Quarterly magazine,

fortnightly newsletter, LGAT website and constant alerts to GM’s and Mayors on

topical issues provides councils with access to a range of materials that would not be

otherwise available.

Professional Development

The Association provides a series of structured and informative seminars for new and

experienced elected members to assist them with their role. Weekend seminars

provide the opportunity to access best practice in the sector, open the minds of

participants to new ideas and provide networking opportunities and exchanges of

ideas and practices with fellow elected members from around the state.

A newly developed short course for planning has been well received and will assist

councillors in improving their understanding and application of the planning system

and their role as part of the planning authority. The initial offering was well received

with a full intake of participants.

The Local Government Conference provides participants with access to current issues

and thinking around the sector and the capacity to learn from others and contribute to

debate via workshops and plenary sessions. Interaction with sponsors provides insight

into alternative mechanisms available to councils to perform their operations and to

learn about innovative ways of doing business. The Conference provides a significant

networking opportunity for all participants and is highlighted as one of the key

reasons for many participants attending.

The Association developed the Councillor Resource Kit which contains practical

information to assist new councillors to become familiar with their roles and

responsibilities in Local Government. Last year a guide for prospective councillors

was also released “Becoming a Councillor”. The Association was also involved in the



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2009 ‘Women Can’ election campaign to increase the number of women nominating

for councils.

The Association provides opportunity for elected members and councillors to come

together on priority topics. For example, the Local Government Climate Change

Conference (and regional workshops to be delivered this month), the residential

workshops on community recovery (which also led to the development of Community

Recovery toolkit for councils), and the Roads Forum (which had interstate speakers

and strong participation from DIER including the Secretary and Minister).

The Derwent valley Council has in the past two years developed numerous motions

which have been tabled for discussion at the General Meeting and Annual General

Meeting at the Conference held in July.

If the motion to withdraw from the LGAT the motions we have provided for this

year’s conference may lapse as we will not be present. There is the possibility that

another council may see merit in our motions and move them on our behalf.

Another issue that we may not be able to utilise if we are not a member of this

association we will not be able to avail ourselves with the Extranet service that has

just come on-line. This site is only available to Local Government as it will provide

confidential information.


(a) The Community

Not applicable

(b) Experts

Not applicable

(c) Stakeholders

Councillors


Withdrawal from LGAT may be perceived as Council limiting its capacity to

influence the outcomes of Federal and State legislation and initiatives, although there

are other opportunities either as an individual council or through the STCA or ACLG.

Derwent Valley’s withdrawal from LGAT is likely to increase the funding

contributions that other councils are asked to commit to LGAT in the future, assuming

the same overall level of service is to continue to be provided to the other members.

This may be unpopular with some councils.



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If Council maintains its membership of LGAT there will be an ongoing commitment

to pay annual subscriptions, of the order of $33,273.

LGAT in consultation with the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) has in place

a joint purchasing arrangement for all of Local Government. This opportunity may be

lost if Council is not a member of LGAT.

Policy Implications

Not applicable

Recommendation

1. Continue its membership of LGAT for 2014/15; and

2. Provide written notice to the Chief Executive Officer of LGAT before 30th June

2014 of its intention to resign from LGAT from 1st July 2015 for budgetary

reasons.

Decision:

Date: 15/5/14

File: 394



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10.4 STCA MEMBERSHIP

Report To: Council




The purpose of this report is for council to consider its ongoing membership to the

Southern Tasmanian Council Authority (Think South).

Strategic Plan

IS5 To develop partnerships with relevant stakeholders on the development,

management and maintenance of services in the municipality.

Ec3 To develop partnerships with State Government, industry and regional

bodies to promote economic and employment development.

F2 To effectively manage Council’s debt.

Discussion

Concerns were raised at a recent Council meeting in regard to the STCA, more

specifically on the issue of committees and the apparent lack of meetings by the

Economic and Tourism Development Committee.

There was also concern raised that the Quarterly Report for the period ended 31st

December 2013 detailed matters which related to items that were actioned in January

and February 2014, and therefore not relevant to the previous Quarterly Report, and

also the lack of communication with stakeholders in regard to the name change to

Think South.

Council requested a letter be forwarded to the STCA, advising of concerns. The

following letter was forwarded:



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“Mr Brenton West

Chief Executive Officer

Think South

G P O Box 503E

Hobart TASMANIA 7001

Dear Brenton

Think South Quarterly Report

At the last meeting of Council the quarterly report for the period ended

31st December 2013 was abled and a number of issues discussed.

Council expressed the view that it was generally dissatisfied with the

performance of Think South.

It was somewhat disappointing in the first instance to see that the

Economic and Tourism Development Committee again being recorded as

not having had a meeting during the quarter.

If it is the view that this is not seen as an important committee for Think

South it is possibly time that it the committee system was reviewed to

more closely reflect those parts of the Strategic Plan are to be addressed

and align the committee to effectively achieve these priorities.

The quarterly report addressed many issues that are to be undertaken in

the period after the 31st December 2013, and therefore being somewhat

cynical one could think that this may have been done to pad out the

document.

In addition it was raised that there is a lack of consultation in the

organisation and that this is highlighted by the name change for which

there seemed to be very little consultation with members prior to the

action being taken.

It is our view that if there is little interest in Economic and Tourism

Development for the region, as is indicated by the lack of performance of

that committee, it is now time for us to consider if we should continue to

place financial support in this organisation.

Your considered response to this correspondence would be greatly

appreciated.”

The following response was received to our letter:

Thank you very much for your letter of the 8th April 2014 and following

on from our conversation on the phone.



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As I indicated, I would like to respond to the letter formally, but would

also welcome an opportunity in the future to meet with the Council to

discuss their concerns.

I am disappointed to hear that Council is dissatisfied with the

performance of Think South. Since taking over the role of CEO of Think

South nine months ago, the organisation has undertaken a corporate

brand review and implemented recommendations designed to increase

the Authority’s profile and influence. These actions are progressing well

and I look forward to the organisation strengthening its profile within the

community and influence within government.

Think South regards economic development and tourism development as

vitally important to the future growth and liveability of Southern

Tasmania. In particular, these elements are contained as a key part of

our five year strategic plan and our annual plan.

I am pleased to report that the Economic Development and Tourism

Committee met in February and had an extremely positive and

productive meeting. Through this committee and the Board, we are

currently pursuing the issue of Chinese charter flights and the potential

to develop a regional relationship with a Chinese region to facilitate

greater economic development opportunities.

The committee is also looking at the economic development opportunities

across southern Tasmania and how we can best support future economic

development opportunities and enhance those that are presently proving

successful.

Regarding the committee structure, currently, Think South has three

committees, Governance and Audit, Infrastructure and Economic

Development and Tourism, however this year the Authority is required to

complete a new five-year strategic plan, which gives the Authority an

excellent opportunity to review the current structure of the organisation

and examine what is the most effective structure moving forward.

The new strategic plan is an important document that will set the

Authority’s vision for the next five years. As art of the process to develop

the new strategic plan, Council’s will have the opportunity to provide

input into the development of the draft document, feedback on the draft

strategic plan, before it is put to a Think South Board meeting for

endorsement.

Think South and its council partners have played a major role in helping

to re-establish the southern regional tourism organisation, Destination

Southern Tasmania (DST). Think South regards this body as extremely

important in helping to facilitate tourism activity across the southern

Tasmanian region.



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Councils are well represented on the DST Board with myself, Alderman

Stuart Slade from Glenorchy City Council and Councillor Alex Green

from Southern Midlands Council. Some of the most significant work

undertaken by the DST Board is developing strategies and opportunities

that promote regional dispersal of tourist’s right across the southern

Tasmanian region.

As the CEO of Think South I conduct monthly meetings with staff from

the Tasmanian Department of Economic Development, I also meet

regularly with Regional Development Australia (RDA) Tasmania. There

have also been meetings with the previous Minister for Economic

Development and upcoming meetings with the new Minister for State

Growth. These meetings are particularly important as they provide an

ideal opportunity to discuss specific economic development priorities

across southern Tasmania. I have been appointed to the Tasmanian State

Government Southern Regional Reference Group, which helped develop,

and review the regional economic development plan for the south and

provides feedback to government on economic development opportunities

across southern Tasmania.

At the moment, in conjunction with RDA Tasmania, we are planning a

southern economic development forum for councils to come together to

hear first-hand from the new Minister for State Growth, Mathew Groom

MP and the Federal Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional

Development Jamie Briggs MP on what programs and assistance is

available from the government for regional economic development.

As you would be aware, the 12 southern councils through the Southern

Tasmanian Councils Authority (STCA) have engaged in the regional

planning project. This project as for the first time developed a Southern

Tasmanian Regional Land Use Strategy, an industrial Land Use

Strategy, and the southern regional model planning scheme to support

the 12 individual interim planning schemes. Think South has been

instrumental in helping to move towards an online portal that will

contain the planning schemes and allow users easier access to them.

Think South is confident that these new planning reforms will make it

easier for developers and encourage economic development.

More broadly as the CEO of Think South I have begun to engage with a

wide range of government departments, politicians, peak bodies,

community groups and organisations on the key priorities for the region.

As part of the process I have been added to the Hobart International

Airport to the Hobart International Airport Coordination Forum, which

is a high level group that meets regularly to discuss issues relating to the

airport.

I can assure Council that Think south regards economic development

and tourism as extremely important. I hope the letter outlines some of the

activities we are undertaking in this area and as I stated I would



15 May 2014

26

welcome the opportunity to discuss these issues further at your next

meeting.

It should be pointed out that over the years we have been involved with this

organisation we have had staff involved with several steering committees including

the Southern Integrated Transport Plan and on the Governance and Service Delivery

Project. The Mayor is also currently Chair of the Economic and Tourism

Development Committee.

Through our involvement we also managed to have the Bridgewater Bridge supported

as a priority project, and our involvement helped to move the priority for the

roundabout at Granton up the list. This project has been extremely beneficial for our

community.

This organisation is and continues to support our efforts to have a link road upgraded

between the Derwent Valley and Huon Valley.

At the most recent meeting the Mayor requested support from all member councils in

our endeavours to attract funds from the State and Federal Governments for Willow

Court.

I can also advise that in recent discussions at the last board meeting comment was

made by one member that they saw more benefit in their council supporting the STCA

than they did with LGAT.

Another Council which had supported our view of not continuing as a member of the

STCA has advised that their view had now substantially changed.

The Lord Mayor and the Chief Executive Officer of the STCA attended a Council

Workshop on Thursday 8 May 2014 at which time issues of concern by Council were

discussed in detail.

They advised after several questions from Council that they will now conduct an

Annual General Meeting that all Councillors can attend and at the Annual General

Meeting will hold an open forum. They also advised that the Chief Executive Officer

will visit Council three times per annum and that the Chairperson of the STCA will

also attend Council twice per year.

The STCA are undertaking a review of their Strategic Plan which will give all

Councillors the opportunity to have their say. The Chief Executive Office also

advised that they are currently going through a process to raise the profile of the

STCA and the southern region.



15 May 2014

27


(a) The Community

Not applicable

(b) Experts

Not applicable

(c) Stakeholders

Councillors and STCA Board


That the Mayor communicate the decision of council to our community by providing

the Gazette with a press release.


If the proposal is supported by Council, there will be no savings achieved in the

2014/15 financial year as we are required to give 12 months-notice of our decision to

withdraw.

The budget allocation for the 2013/2014 financial year shows a subscription level of

$9,519 for the STCA.

Policy Implications

Not applicable

Recommendation

1. Continue its membership of STCA (Think South) for 2014/15; and

2. Provide written notice to the Chief Executive Officer of STCA (Think South)

before 30th June 2014 of its intention to resign from STCA (Think South) from

1st July 2015 for budgetary reasons.

Decision:

Date: 15/5/14

File: 309



15 May 2014

28

10.5 DERWENT VALLEY COUNCIL SCHOLARSHIP TRUST FUND (TERMS OF REFERENCE)

Report To: Council




The purpose of this report is to seek the support of Council for Draft Terms of

Reference for the Derwent Valley Scholarship Trust Fund.

Strategic Plan

S1 To make our people feel worthwhile by building greater self-reliance and self

worth in our community.

S2 To recognise the worth of all people, regardless of age, gender and race in

providing opportunities to be part of a vibrant community.

S3 To encourage the development of local sporting, cultural and artistic

activities.

Discussion

At the last meeting of Council it was resolved to set up a working group to develop

the terms of reference for the Derwent Valley Scholarship Trust Fund.

The working group met on the 24th April 2014 and after much discussion developed

the following Draft Terms of Reference:

Terms of Reference

Derwent Valley Council Scholarship Trust Fund

1. Purpose and Scope

The scholarship Trust Fund Committee is responsible for the overseeing and

administration of the Scholarship Fund, and governs the operation including

functions, membership and meetings.



15 May 2014

29

2. Duties and responsibilities

2.1 The responsibilities of the Committee are:

To select and recommend to Council the recipients of the Derwent

Valley Council Scholarship Trust Fund.

To coordinate and monitor the selection, placement and assessment

in line with the objectives of the Program.

To develop or modify the direction of the Scholarship in line with

the financial considerations of Council.

To develop and promote strategies to increase awareness of the

Scholarship and their objectives.

To develop, monitor and, where necessary, modify, the conditions

that govern the Scholarship and make appropriate modifications as

deemed necessary by the committee.

To ensure the Scholarship’s business activities are cost neutral to

Council.

3. Composition

Membership of the Committee comprises:

The Chairperson to be a Councillor nominated by the Derwent Valley

Council

One member from Derwent Valley Community Arts.

One member from the Derwent Valley Learning Precinct.

One member from a local sporting club.

One member from New Norfolk Business Alliance

One member from Lions Club

One member from Rotary Club

4. Term of Office

All members of the committee including the Chair should be appointed for a

two year term. The Chair may be re-elected for an additional term as

recommended by Council.

5. Frequency of Meetings

The committee is to meet a minimum of two times per year, (or as required) and

are to hold an Annual general Meeting in August.

6. Governance and Reporting

The committee is accountable to the Derwent Valley Council, and the

committee’s proceedings shall be recorded in minutes and report to Council as

determined by Council.

Administrative support to the Scholarship Trust Fund Committee is to be

provided by the Derwent valley Council.



15 May 2014

30


(a) The Community

Not applicable

(b) Experts

Not applicable

(c) Stakeholders

Working group of councillors and council staff


That if supported by Council the Mayor provide the Gazette with a media release.


Cost associated with the administration of the committee can be carried out under the

budget set for the 2013/14 financial year.

Policy Implications

The Special Committee section of the policy document will need to include this

committee and the terms of reference.

Recommendation

That Council adopt the following terms of reference for the Derwent Valley

Scholarship Trust Fund Special Committee.

Terms of Reference



15 May 2014

31

Derwent Valley Council Scholarship Trust Fund

1. Purpose and Scope

The scholarship Trust Fund Committee is responsible for the overseeing and

administration of the Scholarship Fund, and governs the operation including

functions, membership and meetings.

2. Duties and responsibilities

2.1 The responsibilities of the Committee are:

To select and recommend to Council the recipients of the Derwent

Valley Council Scholarship Trust Fund.

To coordinate and monitor the selection, placement and assessment

in line with the objectives of the Program.

To develop or modify the direction of the Scholarship in line with

the financial considerations of Council.

To develop and promote strategies to increase awareness of the

Scholarship and their objectives.

To develop, monitor and, where necessary, modify, the conditions

that govern the Scholarship and make appropriate modifications as

deemed necessary by the committee.

To ensure the Scholarship’s business activities are cost neutral to

Council.

3. Composition

Membership of the Committee comprises:

The Chairperson to be a Councillor nominated by the Derwent Valley

Council

One member from Derwent Valley Community Arts.

One member from the Derwent Valley Learning Precinct.

One member from a local sporting club.

One member from New Norfolk Business Alliance

One member from Lions Club

One member from Rotary Club

4. Term of Office

All members of the committee including the Chair should be appointed for a

two year term. The Chair may be re-elected for an additional term as

recommended by Council.

5. Frequency of Meetings

The committee is to meet a minimum of two times per year, (or as required)

and are to hold an Annual general Meeting in August.



15 May 2014

32

6. Governance and Reporting

The committee is accountable to the Derwent Valley Council, and the

committee’s proceedings shall be recorded in minutes and report to Council as

determined by Council.

Administrative support to the Scholarship Trust Fund Committee is to be

provided by the Derwent valley Council.

Decision:

Date: 15/5/14

File: 046

11 COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE

Date: 15/5/14

File: 199

12 COUNCILLOR QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Date: 15/5/14

File: 200

13 LEAVE OF ABSENCE Date: 15/5/14

File: 196

14 CLOSED COUNCIL MEETING

That pursuant to the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005, the

meeting be closed to the public in order to discuss the following:

1.1 LASKEYS CAR PARK UPGRADE – PIONEER AVENUE, NEW NORFOLK

Decision:

Date: 15/5/14

File: Laskeys Carpark, Pioneer Avenue

15 CLOSE

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