Agenda of Ordinary Council

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 10

SHIRE OF ESPERANCE

AGENDA

Ordinary Council Meeting
TO BE HELD IN Council Chambers ON 27 May 2014

COMMENCING AT 4.00pm

1. OFFICIAL OPENING

2. ATTENDANCE

Members

Cr M Heasman President Town Ward

Cr V Brown Deputy President Rural Ward

Cr N Bowman Rural Ward

Cr P Griffiths Town Ward

Cr K Hall Town Ward

Cr L McIntyre Town Ward

Cr R Horan Town Ward

Cr B Stewart, JP Town Ward

Cr B Parker Rural Ward

Shire Officers

Mr W M (Matthew) Scott Chief Executive Officer

Mr S Burge Director Corporate Services

Mr G Harris Director Engineering Services

Mr R Hilton Director Community Services

Mr R Hindley Director Development Services

Mrs H Hall Executive Assistant

Ms S Fitzgerald Trainee AdministrationOfficer

Members of the Public & Press

3. APOLOGIES & NOTIFICATION OF GRANTED LEAVE OF ABSENCE

4. APPLICATIONS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE

5. ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE PERSON PRESIDING WITHOUT DISCUSSION

6. DECLARATION OF MEMBERS INTERESTS

6.1 Declarations of Financial Interests – Local Government Act Section 5.60a

6.2 Declarations of Proximity Interests – Local Government Act Section 5.60b

6.3 Declarations of Impartiality Interests – Admin Regulations Section 34c

7. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

8. PUBLIC ADDRESSES / DEPUTATIONS

9. Petitions

Nil

10. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting of the 22 April 2014 be confirmed as a true and correct record.

Voting Requirement Simple Majority

11. DELEGATES’ REPORTS WITHOUT DISCUSSION

12. MATTERS REQUIRING A DETERMINATION OF COUNCIL

12.1 Development Services

Item: 12.1.1

Application for Vesting - Various Sites for Gravel Extraction

Author/s	Richard Hindley	Director Development Services
Authorisor/s	Richard Hindley	Director Development Services

File Ref: F13/314

Applicant

Internal

Location/Address

Various – See Attachment A

Executive Summary

For Council to request the Management Order for a number of sites for the purpose of gravel extraction for road building and maintenance.

Recommendation in Brief

For Council to request that the Department of Lands grants Management Orders to the Shire of Esperance pursuant to Section 46 of the Land Administration Act 1997 over a number of reserves within the Shire.

Background

The Shire received the advice on 1 March 2013 from Ken McCracken (Manager, State Lands South East, Department of Regional Development and Lands) regarding changes to the process regarding legal access to Crown land.

The Department of Regional Development and Lands was under the misapprehension that Section 3.27 of the Local Government Act 1995 granted the Shire authority to enter Crown land to undertake the activities in Schedule 3.2, but has now been advised that under s1.6, the Crown is not bound unless expressly stated. As such it will be necessary for the purpose of a Crown Reserve to be vested as ‘gravel’ and for Council to be granted management of the reserve before Council can enter the reserve to take gravel. This would have required a formal application from Council, land assembly by the Department of Lands and compliance with the “Future Act” provisions of the Native Title Act 1993. All applications from the Shire to access gravel resources from either unallocated Crown land or unmanaged reserves will in future need to comply with this process.

An item was prepared and included in the agenda for the April 2013 Ordinary Council Meeting. This item (seeking vesting for a large number of sites to access gravel and other road base material for the purpose of road building and maintenance) was withdrawn after concerns with the process were raised by the Goldfields Land and Sea Council and the Department of Premier and Cabinet – Native Title Unit.

The following sites were the subject of the initial approach to Council.

Lot	Reserve	Parcel	Plan	Location	District
572	14348	5873	Esperl	Doust Street	Gibson
574	14541	6322	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
573	14543	6320	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
686	14554	6318	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
300	23875	12475	45781	South Coast Highway	Dalyup
1463	23880	6412	163027	Shark Lake Road	Monjingup
1462	23930	6062	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Monjingup
1461	23970	6414	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Dalyup
1474	23996	7351	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Monjingup
1592	24796	6066	Esperl	Browning Road	Gibson
1593	24797	6421	Esperl	Browning Road	Dalyup
1594	24798	6423	Esperl	Dalyup Rd	Dalyup
1595	24799	6425	Esperl	Browning Road	Dalyup
1596	24800	6427	Esperl	Boydell Road	Gibson
1597	24801	6429	207133	Boydell Road	Gibson
1599	24803	6433	Esperl	De Grussa Road	Gibson
1602	24806	6439	Esperl	Browning Road	Dalyup
1563	25275	7091	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Coolmalbidgup
1561	25277	6441	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Coolmalbidgup
1560	25278	6443	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Coolmalbidgup
1540	25420	6451	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Coolmalbidgup
627	26047	7093	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
70	26321	6465	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Condingup
71	26322	6467	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Condingup
73	26323	6469	Neridl	Fisheries Rd	Neridup
74	26324	6471	Neridl	Savages Rd	Neridup
77	26325	6473	Neridl	Backman Rd	Neridup
91	26387	6475	Neridl	Ridgelands Rd	Condingup
96	26392	6479	Neridl	Fisheries Rd	Condingup
97	26393	6481	Neridl	Muntz Rd	Condingup
1481	27171	7353	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Dalyup
82	27357	7361	Neridl	Meyer Road	Condingup
83	27358	7363	Neridl	Lane Road	Condingup
84	27359	7365	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Condingup
85	27360	7367	Neridl	Meyer Road	Condingup
86	27361	7369	Neridl	Meyer Road	Condingup
89	27364	9993	Neridl	Meyer Rd	Condingup
215	27381	9939	Neridl	Dempster Rd	Wittenoom Hills
1544	29327	9874	Fitzgl	Ballast Road	Grass Patch
1926	31710	9924	Esperl	Freebairn Road	Gibson
409	32778	9951	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Neridup
424	32781	9956	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Mt Ney
457	32785	9976	Neridl	Henkes Rd	Howick
258	32802	9980	Neridl	Shao-Lu Road	Howick
1288	35633	6100	214251	Grass Patch Road	Grass Patch
1634	35657	6095	214255	Field Road	Lort River
298	35658	6332	Leake	Rollond Road	North Cascade
479	37290	6184	184415	Porter Rd	Wittenoom Hills
1368	37829	9684	Oldfie	West Point Road	North Cascade
1654	38066	9757	Fitzgl	Field Road	North Cascade
1433	38643	9935	N/A	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson

During the assessment of the draft Native Title Consent Determination the above list was provided to the Department of Lands for comment.

Officer’s Comment

The Shire has previously been given approval to access Crown Land for the purpose of extracting gravel and have used this option extensively in the past; however as per advice from the Department of Regional Development and Lands, this is no longer available.

From the original list of reserves the following advice was provided by the Department of Lands with regards to specific parcels.

The following sites are listed as Crown Reserves for the purpose of gravel extraction; however all are currently vested with Main Roads WA. For the Shire to access these reserves it needs to obtain agreement from Main Roads WA to relinquish its Management Order and have it assigned to the Shire of Esperance.

Lot	Reserve	Parcel	Plan	Location	District
686	14554	6318	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
627	26047	7093	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
73	26323	6469	Neridl	Fisheries Rd	Neridup

The following site is no longer a Crown Reserve having been cancelled in 2007 and amalgamated with the adjoining freehold lot.

Lot	Reserve	Parcel	Plan	Location	District
1433	38643	9935	N/A	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson

All of the reserves are within the Esperance Nyungar Native Title determination area. It is considered that Native Title does not exist over Reserves 14554, 26047 and 26323 which are currently under a Management Order to Main Roads Western Australia. The determination also suggests that native title is not considered to exist over Reserves 31710 and 37290.

The determination provides that non-exclusive native title rights apply over the remainder of the Reserves. As such, granting of a Management Order to the Shire of Esperance may be possible based on the non-extinguishment principle under Subdivision J sections 24JA and 24JB of the Native Title Act 1993 (NTA). Essentially this provides that native title is not extinguished but considered to be suppressed for the duration of the Management Order.

Consultation

Shire Officers (Engineering Services and Development Services)

Department of Lands

There is no notification or advertisement process required to achieve the granting of a Management Orders by the Department of Lands or the Shire, although as a courtesy the Department of Lands has informed that they are likely to inform the Esperance Nyungars of this action.

Financial Implications

There are financial implications with possible requirements for assessment by the Goldfields Land and Sea Council.

For example the Goldfield’s Land and Sea Council undertook a Heritage Survey of a 30ha site at Buraminya for a total cost of $26,000.

Previous advice from the former Department of Regional Development and Lands stated that where a site has already got an assigned purposed of Gravel that the process of assigning the Management Order to the Shire will not trigger the Heritage Survey requirements.

If the management Order is granted to the Shire of Esperance based on the non-extinguishment principle under Subdivision J section 24JA of the Native Title Act 1993 the Shire will be liable to pay compensation under Subdivision J section 24JB of the Native Title Act 1993. At this stage the extent of any compensation has not been determined.

Asset Management Implications

Any new reserves would represent an addition to the Shire’s land portfolio.

Securing these reserves for the purpose of gravel extraction will safeguard access to this resource and assist in the maintenance and renewal of the Shire’s rural road network.

Statutory Implications

Environmental Protection Act – as with current gravel pits, sites are subject to applications for permits to clear native vegetation.

Native Title Act – Subdivision J

Land Administration Act

Policy Implications

Nil

Strategic Implications

Strategic Community Plan 2012-2022

Theme 3: Economic

3.2 Ensure essential services and infrastructure are aligned to community needs now and in the future

Corporate Business plan 2013/14 – 2016/17

Action 3.2.7 Renew, upgrade and build new rural infrastructure

Environmental Considerations

sites are to be cleared of native vegetation before extraction can occur. All sites will be rehabilitated on removal of the gravel resource.

Attachments

a View.	Reserve Location Map
b View.	Department of Lands - Advice - Management Orders

Officer’s Recommendation

That Council

Request that the Department of Lands acting on behalf of the Crown grant a Management Order to the Shire of Esperance pursuant to Section 46 of the Land Administration Act 1997 for the parcels (which have a purpose of Gravel) of land in the following table:

Lot	Reserve	Parcel	Plan	Location	District
572	14348	5873	Esperl	Doust Street	Gibson
574	14541	6322	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
573	14543	6320	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
300	23875	12475	45781	South Coast Highway	Dalyup
1463	23880	6412	163027	Shark Lake Road	Monjingup
1462	23930	6062	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Monjingup
1461	23970	6414	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Dalyup
1474	23996	7351	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Monjingup
1592	24796	6066	Esperl	Browning Road	Gibson
1593	24797	6421	Esperl	Browning Road	Dalyup
1594	24798	6423	Esperl	Dalyup Rd	Dalyup
1595	24799	6425	Esperl	Browning Road	Dalyup
1596	24800	6427	Esperl	Boydell Road	Gibson
1597	24801	6429	207133	Boydell Road	Gibson
1599	24803	6433	Esperl	De Grussa Road	Gibson
1602	24806	6439	Esperl	Browning Road	Dalyup
1563	25275	7091	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Coolmalbidgup
1561	25277	6441	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Coolmalbidgup
1560	25278	6443	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Coolmalbidgup
1540	25420	6451	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Coolmalbidgup
70	26321	6465	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Condingup
71	26322	6467	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Condingup
74	26324	6471	Neridl	Savages Rd	Neridup
77	26325	6473	Neridl	Backman Rd	Neridup
91	26387	6475	Neridl	Ridgelands Rd	Condingup
96	26392	6479	Neridl	Fisheries Rd	Condingup
97	26393	6481	Neridl	Muntz Rd	Condingup
1481	27171	7353	Esperl	South Coast Highway	Dalyup
82	27357	7361	Neridl	Meyer Road	Condingup
83	27358	7363	Neridl	Lane Road	Condingup
84	27359	7365	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Condingup
85	27360	7367	Neridl	Meyer Road	Condingup
86	27361	7369	Neridl	Meyer Road	Condingup
89	27364	9993	Neridl	Meyer Rd	Condingup
215	27381	9939	Neridl	Dempster Rd	Wittenoom Hills
1544	29327	9874	Fitzgl	Ballast Road	Grass Patch
1926	31710	9924	Esperl	Freebairn Road	Gibson
409	32778	9951	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Neridup
424	32781	9956	Neridl	Coolinup Rd	Mt Ney
457	32785	9976	Neridl	Henkes Rd	Howick
258	32802	9980	Neridl	Shao-Lu Road	Howick
1288	35633	6100	214251	Grass Patch Road	Grass Patch
1634	35657	6095	214255	Field Road	Lort River
298	35658	6332	Leake	Rollond Road	North Cascade
479	37290	6184	184415	Porter Rd	Wittenoom Hills
1368	37829	9684	Oldfie	West Point Road	North Cascade
1654	38066	9757	Fitzgl	Field Road	North Cascade

2. Request agreement from Main Roads Western Australia to relinquish its Management Order and have it assigned to the Shire of Esperance pursuant to Section 46 of the Land Administration Act 1997 for the parcels of land in the following table:

Lot	Reserve	Parcel	Plan	Location	District
686	14554	6318	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
627	26047	7093	Esperl	Coolgardie-Esperance Highway	Gibson
73	26323	6469	Neridl	Fisheries Rd	Neridup

3. Agree to provide the Department of Lands a Management Plan for the reserves listed in recommendation 1 and 2 pursuant to Section 49 of the Land Administration Act 1997.

Voting Requirement Simple Majority

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 23

Item: 12.1.2

Draft Goldfields–Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

Author/s	Peter Stanley	Manager Planning Services
Authorisor/s	Richard Hindley	Director Development Services

File Ref: F12/94

Applicant

Department of Planning

Location/Address

Shire of Esperance

Executive Summary

The Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) has released a draft Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework for the Goldfields-Esperance planning region (the Framework) for public comment.

Officers have reviewed the Framework and have identified a number of matters that Council may wish to make comment on.

Recommendation in Brief

That Council makes a submission to the Department of Planning (DoP) on the draft Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework.

Background

The Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) has released draft Regional Planning and Infrastructure Frameworks for the state’s planning regions for public comment.

The Frameworks examine the drivers for growth and potential economic, environmental and community outcomes for the regions. They establish the planning priorities for each region and when finalised will form a basis for the WAPC and local government decision-making.

The relationship between the Framework prepared by the WAPC/DoP, and the Regional Investment Blueprints (Blueprints) prepared by the Department of Regional Development/Regional Development Commissions is described in ‘Aligned and Integrated Delivery of Services to Regional Western Australia’ Department of Planning, Western Australian Planning Commission, Department of Regional Development, Department of Local Government and Communities, August 2013.

The ‘State Planning and Development Framework’ diagram included in Aligned and Integrated Delivery of Services to Regional Western Australia and on page 6 of the Framework outlines the State’s planning and development process schematically, showing how planning, local government and regional development initiatives work together with the ultimate aim of providing State and local governments with the capacity to make better decisions faster.

Frameworks are described as:

“Defines a strategic vision and direction for the regions, providing an overview of regional planning issues, priorities and initiatives to promote economic development opportunities and associated infrastructure priorities.”

In the foreword to the Framework, Eric Lumsden, the Chairman of the WAPC states”

“Prepared by the Department of Planning under the guidance of the Western Australian Planning Commission, the Goldfields–Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework affords leadership through providing a shared vision and a common way forward to deal with the regional issues that are being faced by the Goldfields–Esperance region.

The Commission will use the Framework to guide regional strategic planning in the Goldfields–Esperance region to assist the delivery of coordinated policy and planning solutions. Fundamentally, it will be instrumental in guiding growth in the region according to its specific strengths and constraints and, importantly, the needs of the people that live there.”

Not stated in the draft Framework, but stated in other Frameworks (e.g. the South West Framework) is that the Framework will be endorsed by the WAPC as a regional strategy under section B2 of the State Planning Framework (State Planning Policy 1).

Blueprints are described as:

“A strategy that outlines regional growth and development aspirations, priority implementation actions and investment opportunities and provides a framework for an integrated and comprehensive approach to regional development.”

Council has previously considered an exposure draft of the Goldfields–Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint (the Blueprint) prepared by the Esperance Development Commission (GEDC). The Council was generally disappointed in the draft and identified that there appeared to be significant inconsistencies between the Blueprint and the Framework. The Council also questioned how the Blueprint impacted on the forthcoming State Planning Strategy – which drives which?

Officers have recently received advice from the DoP that State Planning Strategy 2050 went before Cabinet on 7 April 2014 for their consideration and has been approved. It is further understood that the Strategy will be launched in mid-May 2014.

The web site of the GEDC advises that “The first draft of the Regional Investment Blueprint, which will guide the strategic direction of the region’s future, was released in February for feedback by strategic stakeholders. A second draft will be released for public comment in May 2014 following the State Budget and the final document is expected to be completed by the end of June 2014”.

The Framework is available for comment until 5 June 2014.

It is apparent from the ‘State Planning and Development Framework’ diagram that State Planning Strategy 2050 will be the overarching document for “Regional Development” – of which the Blueprint forms part of – and “Planning” – of which the Framework forms part of.

It is also important to note that under the State Planning and Development Framework:

1. The Strategic Community Plans, Corporate Business Plans, Annual Budgets, and “Informing Strategies” of local governments will feed up to “Regional Investment Initiatives” (where relevant) under the regional development stream. There is no apparent upward or downward connection between the Blueprints and the integrated planning documents of local government.

2. Regional Planning and Infrastructure Frameworks will ultimately feed down to the Local Planning Strategy and Local Planning Schemes of local governments under the planning stream which in turn will feed up to “Regional Planning Initiatives”.

3. The only direct link envisaged under the State Planning and Development Framework between the regional development stream and the planning stream is between the Shire’s Strategic Community Plan and the Local Planning Strategy. The Blueprint and the Framework are envisaged as being indirectly linked.

In summary, in respect to Councils consideration of the Framework,

1. The State Planning Strategy 2050 will integrate regional development and planning streams.

2. The State Planning Policy Framework (e.g. State Planning Policies) will give direction to Frameworks

3. Frameworks will give direction to Local Planning Strategy and Local Planning Schemes.

Officer’s Comment

Timing

It is conceivable that the second draft of the Blueprint may change considerably from the first draft. It would appear that the second draft of the Blueprint may be released for public comment at the same time that State Planning Strategy 2050 is published. The closing date of 5 June 2014 for comments on the Framework is potentially only 2-3 weeks after the publication of these strongly linked documents. In addition, Council has been required to consider the draft Framework in the absence of these documents. It is recommended that Council express its concern in relation to the timing of the release of these documents due to the relationship between these documents.

It is noted in this context that the WAPC has prepared Frameworks for each of the State’s eight country planning regions, drafts of which were all published in March 2014 and are available for public comment until 5 June 2014 for the Kimberley, Goldfields-Esperance, Wheatbelt, South West, and Great Southern regions.

Part A: Chapter 1 - Introduction

The draft State Planning Strategy (January 2013) envisages that by 2050, Western Australia “will double its population and will have a diverse range of interconnected and vibrant communities and regional centre’s that are resilient, active, multicultural, and respectful of difference”. It defines planning for sustained prosperity in terms of diversity, livability, connectivity, and collaboration.

The proposed Vision (S.1.1, p. 1) for the Framework is stated as:

“The Goldfields–Esperance region will grow as a resilient and vibrant region with livable communities that offer attractive lifestyles, natural environments and diverse economic opportunities. Its development will increase services and connectivity, and value of its natural assets.’

The Vision appears to be well stated; however for consistency with the State Planning Strategy 2050 it should also reference collaboration.

It is noted that the Vision for Esperance and the South East Region from ‘Planning for our Future: Growth Plan for Esperance and the South-East Region 2012’ (the Growth Plan), is stated very differently:

“The South-East is Western Australia’s most desirable regional destination for lifestyle, work, unique experiences and investment. It is recognized for its vibrant, welcoming communities, pristine environment and diverse economy”.

Part A; Chapter 2 - Key Drivers

This chapter describes a number of sectors and suggests opportunities. After review, the following are noted:

1. The opportunities are stated generically at a regional level. There are none that are specific to the Shire of Esperance.

2. The “opportunities” do not appear to have any real alignment with the Blueprint.

3. The issues and threats described in the text on each sector are not consistently carried through to the “opportunities”.

4. The issues and threats are not consistently carried through to the strategic directions in Chapter 3.

5. The “opportunities” are not consistently carried through to the strategic directions in Chapter 3.

6. A number of the opportunities may be more appropriately framed as regional development opportunities rather then regional planning needs.

7. A review of the document identified a range of errors and omissions which are addressed in the recommendation of this report.

The manner in which the Framework deals with the issues around the identification of high quality land is an example of the lack of consistency and poor “line of sight” in the document. This same issue is described as an issue of Economy and Employment (s. 2.1.3, p. 10), Environmental and Heritage (s. 3.5, p. 41), and Natural Resources and Heritage (Table 7 Implementation Activities No. 40, p. 46).

Part A: Chapter 3 Strategic Directions

The role of Esperance as a ‘Regional Centre’ in the ‘Activity Centre Framework’ is well described (S. 3.2.2).

Based on the State’s official population forecasts as set out in ‘Western Australia Tomorrow’, Table 6 (p.37) shows the forecast population for Esperance at 2021 as 13 600 (low growth band), 15 700 (median growth band), and 17 700 (high growth band). This is comparable with the 2021 forecasts of 14 594 (1% growth), 15 790 (2% growth), and 17 072 (3% growth) from the Growth Plan. It is noted that the primary planning assumption of the Growth Plan is a 3% per annum growth scenario.

A list of infrastructure projects that have been recently undertaken or committed to are listed in S. 3.4 (p. 38). Of particular relevance to Esperance as listed are:

1. Esperance Port Access Corridor – including Coolgardie–Esperance Highway stage 1 and associated rail realignment;

2. Esperance Health Campus redevelopment – stage 1

Based on the Growth Plan a number of infrastructure projects that have been recently undertaken or committed to are not listed, including:

1. Esperance Waterfront Project Stages 1 and 2

2. Myrup Truck Wash Facility

3. Infill Sewer in Esperance Town Centre - Areas 17A and 18A

It is recommend that Council make a submission to the DoP seeking the listing of these infrastructure projects.

Table 7 (pp. 42 – 46) sets out a number “initiatives” under the heading of ‘Implementation Actions’. The ‘initiatives are listed as being either underway or proposed. The only reference to Table 7 is under the heading of “Future scenarios’ (S.3.3.2, p. 36). The Framework would benefit from having some text that explains the context and implications of Table 7. It is assumed that Table 7 sets out a portfolio of regional planning actions to implement the Framework, some of which are already underway, whilst others are proposed. The status of proposed “initiatives” is not clear. It could be concluded that proposed “initiatives” are not yet adopted by the WAPC. This then suggests that reviews of the Framework will change the status of proposed ‘initiatives’ to “underway”. The difficulty with that assumption however, is that the document does not contain any statements about reviews of the Framework. The South West Framework for example makes the review position very clear.

“The WAPC has resolved the Framework will remain a current document subject to review every three (3) years. The infrastructure projects and initiatives, which outline the social and economic requirements for the region and sub-regions ...,will be reviewed annually.”

It is recommended that Council make a submission to the DoP seeking clarification about the context and implications of Table 7 and the need to identify the review period.

Council may wish to make a submission to the DoP supporting, opposing or commenting on regional planning initiatives listed in Table 7: Implementation Actions. In addition, Council may wish to make a submission to the DoP seeking the inclusion of new regional planning initiatives in Table 7: Implementation Actions.

No.	Initiative	Lead Agency	Comments
1 - 13	Various	Various	No comment
14	Regional Waste Management Planning	SER, GEDC,LGA	Support.
15	Goldfields–Esperance Regional Economic and Employment Lands Study	DoP	Support
16	Goldfields–Esperance Regional Tourism Planning Study	GEDC	Support. Listed in ‘Planning for our Future: Growth Plan for Esperance and the South-East Region 2012’ Change the lead agency to ‘Tourism WA’.
17	Goldfields–Esperance Regional Digital Economy Strategy	DoC	Support
18	Rangelands Reform Program		No comment
19	Esperance Region Economic Development Strategy	GEDC	Support the development of this sub regional strategy already underway.
20 - 27	Various	Various	No comment
28	Goldfields-Esperance Revitalisation Initiative	GEDC	Move this initiative to under the heading ‘Economy and employment’.
29-31	Various	Various	No comment
32	Goldfields-Esperance Regional Energy Planning Study	GEDC	Include a reference to sustainable energy generation in the details
33-34	Various	Various	No comment
35	Goldfields-Esperance Regional water planning	DoW	include a reference to desalination and resource development in the details
36	Coastal management vulnerability and risk assessment study	DoT	SoE is nearing completion of a SoE funded Coastal management vulnerability and risk assessment study and is seeking CAPS funding from DOT for a Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy. SoE supports a sub regional study to share knowledge and resources between Esperance and Ravenshorpe. It is noted that the Shire of Dundas does not have a coastal boundary and is therefore not a relevant local government.
37 - 43	Various	Various	No comment
New	Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy	DoT	SoE proposes the development of sub-regional adaption strategy to reduce vulnerability to coastal hazards, and build the long-term adaptive capacity of the Esperance, Ravenshorpe communities to manage coastal hazard risk and to adapt, consistent with the State Coastal Planning Policy and Guidelines
New	Sub Regional FIFO/DIDO Study		Proposed in ‘Planning for our Future: Growth Plan for Esperance and the South-East Region 2012’ for the Shires of Esperance, Ravensthorpe, and Dundas. SoE proposes for inclusion in Table 7.
New	Fixing Mobile Telecommunications		Continue the development and expansion of mobile communications across the region with a focus on the agricultural area.
New	Rail Access to Esperance Port		Improvement of rail access to the Esperance Port with specific reference to line duplication in light of increased tonnages of iron ore.
New	PortLink	DoT, DRD	Support PortLink - a large-scale nation building project that seeks to create a more robust State freight network and open up the Goldfields-Esperance, Pilbara and Mid West regions to development opportunities.
New	Roads	LGA, MRWA	Focus needs to be place on improving the management of road assets.

B: Regional Infrastructure Planning

Table 1 (p. 4) provides a list of potential Goldfields–Esperance regional infrastructure projects that may be important from the region’s perspective to facilitate further economic and population growth.

Chapter 3 states that after the public consultation period on the draft Framework is concluded, the listed potential Goldfields−Esperance regional infrastructure projects will be reviewed as part of finalising the Framework. Part B therefore appears to be an interim part of the Framework. Endorsed projects will then be listed in S. 3.4 of the Framework.

Based on the Growth Plan, Council may wish to make a submission to the DoP proposing the inclusion of these additional infrastructure projects.

1. Sub Regional Waste Management Facility

2. Esperance Tanker Jetty Replacement

3. Town Centre Revitalisation Infrastructure

4. Mobile Telecommunications

5. Redevelopment of the Goldfields Institute of Technology, Esperance Campus

Consultation

Nil

Financial Implications

There are no direct financial implications arising from the recommendations of this report.

Asset Management Implications

There are no direct asset management implications arising from the recommendations of this report.

Statutory Implications

There are no direct statutory implications arising from the draft State Planning Strategy at this time. This may change in the future as the Framework will need to be considered in any reviews of, or amendment to the Local Planning Strategy and Local Planning Scheme.

Policy Implications

There are no direct policy implications arising from the recommendations of this report.

Strategic Implications

Strategic Community Plan 2012-2022

Strategic Community Plan 2012 – 2022

· 2.4 – Effectively use our land and development policies to optimise environmental outcomes and minimise environmental risks and impacts

· 2.5 – Sustainably manage our waste, water, energy use and facilities and investigate opportunities to reduce their impacts on our environment

· 2.6 – Manage environmental risks in the Shire

· 2.7 – Plan for and adapt to changes in our climate and the impacts on increased water and energy vulnerability.

· 3.2 – Ensure essential services and infrastructure are aligned to community needs now and in the future.

· 3.3 - Deliver and advocate for a diverse and safe transport system which is efficient and meets the needs of all users.

· 3.4 - Create and strengthen partnerships to advocate for and deliver community facilities, and services and major infrastructure.

· 3.6 – Advocate and plan for population growth and diverse residential and economic development in a sustainable manner.

· 3.8 – Facilitate and guide high quality and efficient building and development across the Shire.

Corporate Business Plan 2013/2014 – 2016/2017

Action 3.4.4 - Represent and communicate community priorities at Federal, State and regional level.

Regional Implications

The Framework has regional implications that should be considered by GVROC.

Environmental Considerations

There are no direct environmental considerations arising from the recommendations of this report.

Attachments

a View.

Submission Points on Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

Officer’s Recommendation

That Council instruct the CEO to make a submission on its behalf to the Department of Planning on the draft Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework containing the points stated in Attachment A.

Voting Requirement Simple Majority

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 37

Item: 12.1.4

Development Application - Storage Units - Reduction in Landscaping - Lot 442 (20) Gilpin Street, Chadwick

Author/s	Peter Wilks	Town Planner
Authorisor/s	Richard Hindley	Director Development Services

File Ref: P2017; DD010.02014.00002537.001

Applicant

Rod Norwood on behalf of Clyde Hill South Pty Ltd and R W Norwood

Location/Address

Lot 442 (20) Gilpin Street, Chadwick

Executive Summary

To consider and determine an application for reduced landscaping and an alternative parking layout on Lot 442 (20) Gilpin Street, Chadwick.

Recommendation in Brief

For Council to approve Development Application 10.2014.2537.1 for reduced landscaping and an alternative parking layout on Lot 442 (20) Gilpin Street, Chadwick.

Background

The application was lodged with Planning Services on 3 April 2014 by Mr Norwood for a reduction of landscaping and the layout of the parking from that approved by the previous Planning Consent (10.2011.1667.1) for Storage Units on the property.

Whilst the new application amends the layout of the parking there in no reduction in the overall number of parking bays provided on the site.

The subject site is 4,001 square metres in area, and is zoned “Industry – General” with a designated of Industrial under the Local Planning Strategy.

The proposed reduction in landscaping will see a reduction from 25% of the front 12 metres, as required by Schedule 8 of Local Planning Scheme No. 23, to approximately 12.5% of the front 12 metres.

One non-objection was received by Planning Services from a neighbouring landowner, with a verbal non-objection received over the phone from a second. No objections were received to the proposal.

The application is referred to Council under Clause 5.5.1 of Local Planning Scheme No. 23.

Officer’s Comment

With regard to the requirements of Local Planning Scheme No. 23, the proposal calls solely for the varying of the landscaping requirement for the “Industry – General” zone laid out in Schedule 8 which calls for 25% of the front 12 metres of an “Industry – General” zoned property to be utilised for landscaping. The proposed reduction to approximately 12.5% of the front 12 metres does not represent a substantial detrimental impact on the amenity of the locality.

Previous approval 10.2011.1667.1 was granted on 16 August 2011 for the development of ancillary storage units on the lot with 25% of the first 12 metres as landscaping and 18 car parking bays on site. An inspection of the site determined that this condition had not been met. In response to this inspection the landowner requested that the landscaping condition be modified due to the site being completely sealed.

A new application has been sought as the Local Planning Scheme No. 23 only allows the modification of a condition under very specific circumstances as state in clause 8.3.1 which provides:

The local government may, on written application from the owner of land in respect of which planning approval has been granted, revoke or amend the planning approval, prior to the commencement of the use or development subject of the planning approval.

Once a development has commenced the Shire cannot amend a planning approval.

Section 164 (1) of the Planning and Development Act 2005 allows development to be approved after it has been commenced:

A responsible authority may grant its approval under a planning scheme or interim development order for development already commenced or carried out.

To amend a pre-existing condition a new approval is required.

Consultation

One non-objection was received from the landowner of neighbouring lot 441 (22) Gilpin Street, with a verbal non-objection received over the phone from the landowner of neighbouring lot 443 (18) Gilpin Street.

Financial Implications

Nil

Asset Management Implications

Nil

Statutory Implications

The statutory implications associated with this item are:

1.) Planning and Development Act 2005; and

2.) Local Planning Scheme No. 23

Policy Implications

The policy implications arising from this report are:

1) Local Planning Strategy

2) Industrial Development Guidelines

Strategic Implications

Strategic Community Plan 2012-2022

Economic

3.8 Facilitate and guide high quality and efficient building and development across the Shire.

Environmental Considerations

Nil

Attachments

a View.

Plans

Officer’s Recommendation

That Council approve Development Application 10.2014.2537.1 for Storage Units with a reduction in the landscaping requirement at Lot 442 (20) Gilpin Street, Chadwick, subject to the following conditions:

1. Development shall be carried out and fully implemented in accordance with the details indicated on the stamped approved plan(s) unless otherwise required or agreed in writing by the Shire of Esperance (Planning Services).

2. The use of Storage units is to be ancillary to the predominant use on the land, unless written consent is provided by the Shire of Esperance (Development Services).

3. The vehicle crossover is to be constructed, drained and sealed to the satisfaction and specifications of the Shire of Esperance (Engineering Services) – refer enclosed vehicle crossover application form.

4. A minimum of seventeen (17) car parking bays are to be provided on-site in accordance with the requirements of Australian Standard AS2890.1:2004 Parking Facilities – Off-street Car Parking and the Building Code of Australia.

5. Prior to the commencement of the use, vehicle parking, manoeuvring and circulation areas shall be suitably constructed, sealed (asphalt, concrete or brick pavers), drained, kerbed, marked (including disabled bays) and thereafter maintained.

6. Seal treatment to be as per approved plans

7. All car parking areas and access ways shall be maintained for their stated purpose at all times and shall not be used for display or general storage purposes.

8. Landscaping (12.5% of the first twelve metres) shall be carried out in accordance with the approved plan and thereafter shall be maintained as landscaped areas at all times.

9. The provision of all services, including augmentation of existing services, necessary as a consequence of any proposed development shall be at the cost of the developer and at no cost to the Shire of Esperance.

10. The works involved in the implementation of the development must not cause sand drift and/or dust nuisance. In the event that the Shire of Esperance is aware of, or is made aware of, the existence of a dust problem, measures such as installation of sprinklers, use of water tanks, mulching, or other land management systems as appropriate may be required to be installed or implemented to prevent or control dust nuisance, and such measures shall be installed or implemented within the time and manner directed by the Shire of Esperance (Environmental Health Services).

11. The use hereby approved must not create community safety concerns, or otherwise adversely affect the amenity of the subject locality by reason of (or the appearance or emission of) smoke, fumes, noise, vibration, odour, vapour, dust, waste water, waste products or other pollutants.

AND the following advice notes:

1. The development is to comply with the Building Code of Australia, Building Regulations and the Local Government Act.

2. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that building setbacks correspond with the legal description of the land. This may necessitate re-surveying and re-pegging the site. The Shire of Esperance will take no responsibility for incorrectly located buildings.

3. It is the responsibility of the developer to search the title of the property to ascertain the presence of any easements and/or restrictive covenants that may apply.

4. If the development the subject of this approval is not substantially commenced within a period of 2 years, or such other period as specified in the approval after the date of the determination, the approval shall lapse and be of no further effect.

5. Where an approval has so lapsed, no development shall be carried out without the further approval of the local government having first been sought and obtained.

6. If an applicant is aggrieved by this determination there is a right of review by the State Administrative Tribunal in accordance with Part 14 of the Planning and Development Act 2005. An application for review must be lodged within 28 days of the determination.

Voting Requirement Simple Majority

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 43

Item: 12.1.5

Development Application - Offices - Lot 75 Dempster Street, Esperance

Author/s	Richard Hindley	Director Development Services
Authorisor/s	Richard Hindley	Director Development Services

File Ref: F13/351; P43 & P84; DD0010.2014.00002560.1

Applicant

Eileen Altieri

Location/Address

Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street, Esperance

Executive Summary

To consider and determine an application for an Office on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street, Esperance.

Recommendation in Brief

For Council to approve Development Application 10.2014.2560.1 for an Office on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street, Esperance subject to conditions.

Background

An application has been received to allow Council to consider a request to vary the parking requirement for the extension of Dutton Arcade on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street.

The extension of Dutton Arcade on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street was approved by Council in July 2000 (Recommendation No. 442 of the Engineering and Development Services Committee). As part of this resolution it was resolved:

b) Authorise staff to finalise approvals need for the development to proceed subject to standard conditions and the specific condition than any development of the proposed vacant additional storey will be deemed to be a change of land use requiring planning consent and a car parking contribution in accordance with Town Planning Scheme requirements.

Development approval was issued over both lots 33 and 75 Dempster Street in September 2002 which required:

11. Provision of a minimum number of 32 parking spaces in accordance with Council’s planning requirements. All parking areas, loading docks, delivery and collection areas and internal road systems must comply with the current requirements of Australian Standards: AS 2890.1, AS 2890.2, AS 2890.3 and AS 2890.5.

The parking on Lot 33 (89) Dempster Street was supplied to satisfy, along with a number of other bays elsewhere, a condition placed on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street. This arrangement was agreed to and authorised by the Chief Executive Officer after meeting with the Town Planning Officer and the land owner.

Council also approved the additions and alterations to the building on Lot 33 (89) Dempster Street at its June 2011 meeting where as part of resolution O0611-1640 it resolved:

8) Twenty seven (27) existing car parking bays located on Lot 33 Dempster Street are be retained.

No additional parking bays were required for this development.

A request was considered by Council at the February OCM to remove the link between Lots 33 and 75 Dempster Street, Esperance. At this meeting it was resolved (O0214-047):

That Council agree to remove the link between the parking on Lot 33 (89) Dempster Street, Esperance and the development on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street, Esperance conditional on a cash-in-lieu contribution for 27 bays being made to the Shire. The contribution will be on the basis of a land valuation by a licensed valuer appointed by the Shire for 27 bays. Each parking space shall consist of one standard bay of 2.5m x 5.5m plus half the width of the standard access aisle, i.e. a total of 2.5m x 8.5m in the case of 90 degree bays. An additional contribution is required to cover construction cost at a rate of $2,500 per bay.

In response to this recommendation the proponent sought legal advice which questioned the placement of a cash contribution to unlink the bays and resulted in the Shire seeking its own advice in relation to this matter (Attachment A).

Officer’s Comment

The currently provided parking is deemed to be in accordance with the Scheme requirements and the existing development approval. The applicant is seeking the approval of the development without any requirement for parking to be provided.

A new application has been sought as the Local Planning Scheme No. 23 only allows the modification of a condition under very specific circumstances as stated in clause 8.3.1 which provides:

Once a development has commenced the Shire cannot amend a planning approval.

Section 164 (1) of the Planning and Development Act 2005 allows development to be approved after it has been commenced:

A responsible authority may grant its approval under a planning scheme or interim development order for development already commenced or carried out.

To amend a pre-existing condition a new approval is required.

The extension to Dutton Arcade has a Gross Floor Area of 1088.7m². The Scheme requires 1 pay per 40m² of Gross Floor Area which would result in a parking requirement for 28 bays.

The Commercial Centre Strategy, which is an adopted Local Planning Policy, provides the following relaxation:

To facilitate the redevelopment of this area and recognise the small land parcels in this location, a 50% reduction in parking requirements is permitted except for civic uses, supermarket and DDS [discount department store] uses;

In line with the requirements of the Commercial Centre Strategy 14 bays are required to be provided for the development.

Options

Option 1

That Council approve Development Application 10.2014.2560.1 for Offices on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street, Esperance, subject to the following conditions:

2. This approval supersedes any previous planning approval for the subject property.

3. A minimum of 14 car parking bays are to be provided in accordance with the requirements of Australian Standard AS2890.1:2004 Parking Facilities – Off-street Car Parking and the Building Code of Australia.

4. All car parking areas and access ways shall be maintained for their stated purpose at all times and shall not be used for display or general storage purposes.

5. The landowner of Lot 75 shall enter into a Deed of Agreement (prepared and executed at the cost of the applicant/landowner) to the satisfaction of the Shire of Esperance, to guarantee a reciprocal ‘right of carriageway’ for vehicular and pedestrian movements between Lots 75 and 33. Such a Deed of Agreement is to be registered on the relevant Certificate of Titles as an encumbrance. A copy of such a Deed of Agreement is to be supplied to the Shire.

6. The provision of all services, including augmentation of existing services, necessary as a consequence of any proposed development shall be at the cost of the developer and at no cost to the Shire of Esperance.

7. All signs proposed to be erected on-site require the separate approval of the Shire of Esperance (Planning Approval and/or Signs Licence) prior to erection of such.

8. Signs shall be kept clean and maintained free of dilapidation at all times to the satisfaction of the Shire of Esperance (Planning Services).

AND the following advice notes:

1. The development is to comply with the Building Code of Australia, Building Regulations and the Local Government Act.

3. In relation to Condition 5 the applicant is advised that the Shire of Esperance’s solicitors may be required to check any deed prepared, at the applicant’s cost. Alternatively, the applicant may authorise the Shire of Esperance to instruct it’s solicitors (at the applicant’s cost) to prepare the required deed.

4. It is the responsibility of the developer to search the title of the property to ascertain the presence of any easements and/or restrictive covenants that may apply.

5. If the development the subject of this approval is not substantially commenced within a period of 2 years, or such other period as specified in the approval after the date of the determination, the approval shall lapse and be of no further effect.

6. Where an approval has so lapsed, no development shall be carried out without the further approval of the local government having first been sought and obtained.

7. If an applicant is aggrieved by this determination there is a right of review by the State Administrative Tribunal in accordance with Part 14 of the Planning and Development Act 2005. An application for review must be lodged within 28 days of the determination.

This recommendation will allow for parking to be provided in proximity to the development that is linked to Lot 75. This is not the preferred recommendation as it will not allow for a strategic approach to parking provision to be made. It should also be noted that the 27 bays on Lot 33 will remain in place as a result of a conditions placed on Development Application 10.2011.1583.1 as part of resolution O0611-1640.

Option 2

That Council approve Development Application 10.2014.2560.1 for Offices on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street, Esperance, subject to the following conditions:

2. This approval supersedes any previous planning approval for the subject property.

3. A cash in lieu contribution for the shortfall of 14 parking bays on site is to be paid to the Shire of Esperance. The value of the contribution must be determined by the Valuer General or a licensed valuer appointed by the Shire of Esperance. All costs associated with the valuation and execution shall be borne by the applicant/landowner and payable to the Shire of Esperance on demand.

4. The provision of all services, including augmentation of existing services, necessary as a consequence of any proposed development shall be at the cost of the developer and at no cost to the Shire of Esperance.

5. All signs proposed to be erected on-site require the separate approval of the Shire of Esperance (Planning Approval and/or Signs Licence) prior to erection of such.

6. Signs shall be kept clean and maintained free of dilapidation at all times to the satisfaction of the Shire of Esperance (Planning Services).

AND the following advice notes:

1. The development is to comply with the Building Code of Australia, Building Regulations and the Local Government Act.

3. It is the responsibility of the developer to search the title of the property to ascertain the presence of any easements and/or restrictive covenants that may apply.

5. Where an approval has so lapsed, no development shall be carried out without the further approval of the local government having first been sought and obtained.

This is the officer’s recommendation. This will result in the removal of the link to parking on Lot 33 whilst having a cash-in-lieu contribution made for the 14 bays that are not being provided. This option will not necessarily provide parking adjacent to the development but will allow the development of other strategic parking within the Central Area.

Consultation

Nil

Financial Implications

Nil

Asset Management Implications

Nil

Statutory Implications

Local Planning Scheme No. 23

Policy Implications

Nil

Strategic Implications

Strategic Community Plan 2012-2022

Economic

3.8 Facilitate and guide high quality and efficient building and development across the Shire

Corporate Business Plan 2013/2014 – 2016/2017

Action 3.8.1

Review, update and implement Local Planning Scheme and Policies

Environmental Considerations

Nil

Attachments

Legal Advice - Parking Linkage between Lots 33 and 75 Dempster Street, Esperance - Confidential

Officer’s Recommendation

That Council approve Development Application 10.2014.2560.1 for Offices on Lot 75 (91) Dempster Street, Esperance, subject to the following conditions:

2. This approval supersedes any previous planning approval for the subject property.

5. All signs proposed to be erected on-site require the separate approval of the Shire of Esperance (Planning Approval and/or Signs Licence) prior to erection of such.

6. Signs shall be kept clean and maintained free of dilapidation at all times to the satisfaction of the Shire of Esperance (Planning Services).

AND the following advice notes:

1. The development is to comply with the Building Code of Australia, Building Regulations and the Local Government Act.

3. It is the responsibility of the developer to search the title of the property to ascertain the presence of any easements and/or restrictive covenants that may apply.

5. Where an approval has so lapsed, no development shall be carried out without the further approval of the local government having first been sought and obtained.

Voting Requirement Simple Majority

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 131

Council Meeting

Friday 28 March 2014

In-Person Meeting

Councillors Conference Room, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

MINUTES

CONTENTS

1. GUEST SPEAKERS/PRESENTATIONS. 3

1.1 Meeting with Ms Wendy Duncan MLA, Member for Kalgoorlie. 3

1.2 Meeting with Mr Norm Baker, Acting CEO Goldfields Esperance Development Commission 3

2. DECLARATION OF INTEREST. 4

3. OPENING AND ANNOUNCEMENTS. 4

4. RECORD OF ATTENDANCE, APOLOGIES AND LEAVE OF ABSENCE. 4

4.1 Attendance. 4

4.2 Apologies. 4

5. MINUTES OF MEETINGS. 6

5.1 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) held Friday 31 January 2014 (Attachment) 6

5.2 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) held Friday 28 February 2014 (Attachment) 6

5.3 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils GVROC Technical Officers Working Group held Friday 7 March 2014 (Attachment) 6

5.4 Business Arising from Meetings of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) - GVROC Status Report as at Friday 21 March 2014. 7

6. FINANCE. 8

6.1 Statement of Financial Position for the Period Ending 28 February 2014 (Attachment) 8

6.2 List of Accounts Paid. 9

6.3 Income Tax Status Review (Attachment) 10

7. GOLDFIELDS RECORDS STORAGE FACILITY - FINANCE AND OTHER MATTERS. 11

7.1 Financial Statement for the Period ending 28 February 2014 (Attachment) 11

7.2 Progress Report for Goldfields Records Storage Facility for the Period January-March 2014 (Attachment) 12

8. GVROC BUSINESS. 13

8.1 Goldfields–Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework. 13

8.2 Country Local Government Fund – 2012/2013 Regional Group Applications for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Projects. 14

8.3 Business Planning and Advisory Services for the Goldfields Esperance Regional Collaborative Group (GERCG) – Project to Implement Theme 4 of the GECG’s Regional Business Plan (Asset Management) 16

8.4 Meeting with the Minister for Agriculture on Wild Dog Control and Cactus Eradication across the Goldfields Esperance Region. 17

8.5 CEO’s Review of Risk Management, Internal Control and Legislative Compliance. 19

8.6 Regional Cabinet Meeting in Esperance on Monday 9 June 2014. 21

8.7 Goldfields–Esperance Blueprint – Draft for Review. 22

8.8 Presentation on Roman II 23

9. MATTERS FOR NOTING.. 24

10. LATE ITEMS as notified, introduced by decision of the Meeting. 24

11. FUTURE MEETINGS/FUNCTIONS. 24

12. CLOSURE OF MEETING.. 24

Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC)

An in-person meeting of the GVROC Council was held on Friday 28 March 2014 commencing at 10.00am.

Note: The meeting commenced following meetings with Ms Wendy Duncan MLA, Member for Kalgoorlie and Mr Norm Baker, Acting CEO Goldfields Esperance Development Commission

MINUTES

1. GUEST SPEAKERS/PRESENTATIONS

1.1 Meeting with Ms Wendy Duncan MLA, Member for Kalgoorlie

Ms Duncan participated in the discussions surrounding each of the issues addressed by Mr Norm Baker, Acting CEO Goldfields Esperance Development Commission.

1.2 Meeting with Mr Norm Baker, Acting CEO Goldfields Esperance Development Commission

Three issues formed the basis of discussions when Norm Baker, Action CEO Goldfields Esperance Development Commission (GEDC), met with GVROC’s Member Councils:

1. Goldfields Revitalisation Plan;

2. Goldfields – Esperance Blueprint; and

3. Operational matters relating to the GEDC.

In discussing the Goldfields Revitalisation Plan the following points were highlighted:

§ The Expressions of Interest (EOI) for projects to be funded through the Revitalisation Plan has recently been published. The submission period is for a short time only (two weeks).

§ In addition to local governments throughout the region and public sector agencies being eligible to apply for funding, the not for profit and private sectors are also able to apply for funding. Concern was expressed by Member Councils at both the public sector and not for profit agencies being able to apply for funding. With respect to public sector agencies accessing funding through the Revitalisation Fund, Member Councils believed that such projects should be funded through other processes (eg consolidated revenue) and not the Revitalisation Fund. With the not for profit sector being potentially able to access fund this could pit one community project (ie one supported by a local government) against another (ie one promoted by a community organisation, with the project not necessarily aligned with the local government’s strategic plan.

§ Selection process/protocol once EOIs had been received, with a template/toolkit developed by the Department of Regional Development to assist in the selection process.

§ Cabinet approval is required for a project to be funded through the Revitalisation Fund.

§ The Regional Grants Scheme and the Community Chest Fund will be potential sources of funding for smaller scale projects.

§ Concern was expressed at the potential delay in accessing funds for successful projects, which could jeopardise funding leveraged from other sources. Certainty of funding is essential.

Wendy Duncan undertook to raise this matter with the Director General for Regional Development.

The submission period for comment on the first draft of the Goldfields – Esperance Blueprint closes today (28 March 2014). The final draft of the Blueprint will be presented to the Minister at the end of April. It is hoped that the Blueprint once finalised will be made available for public comment.

A review of the GEDC’s operations is underway, with the principal objective of the review being to create an agency with greater transparency than has existed previously. This will involve:

§ Review of the GEDC’s governance framework;

§ Creation of a register of delegations;

§ Creation of a workforce development plan;

§ Development of an IT replenishment plan;

§ Business contingency planning; and

§ Review of risk cover – risk management.

2. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Pursuant to the Code of Conduct, Councillors and CEOs must declare to the Chairman any potential conflict of interest they may have in a matter before the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils and Goldfields Esperance Country Zone of WALGA as soon as they become aware of it. Councillors, CEOs and Deputies may be directly or indirectly associated with some recommendations of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils and the Goldfields Esperance Country Zone of WALGA and the WALGA State Council. If you are affected by these recommendations, please excuse yourself from the meeting and do not participate in deliberations.

3. OPENING AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Chair welcomed everyone is attendance, opening the meeting at 10.00am

Note: Discussions with Ms Wendy Duncan MLA Member for Kalgoorlie and Mr Norm Baker, Acting CEO Goldfields Esperance Development Commission, took place prior to the commencement of the GVROC Council Meeting.

4. RECORD OF ATTENDANCE, APOLOGIES AND LEAVE OF ABSENCE

4.1 Attendance

Mayor Ron Yuryevich AM RFD (Chair) Mayor, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Cr Suzie Williams Councillor, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Mr Don Burnett CEO, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Mr Ryan Wilson Sustainability Officer, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder (departed meeting at 10.30am)

Mr Andrew Dover Manager Planning, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder (departed meeting at 11.30am

Cr Tracey Rathbone Deputy President, Shire of Coolgardie

Mr Paul Webb CEO, Shire of Coolgardie (departed the meeting at 11.30am)

Mr Richard Brookes CEO, Shire of Dundas

Cr Beverley Stewart Councillor Shire of Esperance

Mr Matthew Scott CEO, Shire of Esperance

Cr Beatrice Fuamatu Councillor, Shire of Laverton

Mr Steven Deckert CEO Shire of Laverton

Cr Peter Craig President, Shire of Leonora

Mr Jim Epis CEO, Shire of Leonora

Cr Greg Dwyer President, Shire of Menzies

Mr Peter Crawford CEO, Shire of Menzies

Cr Ian Goldfinch President, Shire Ravensthorpe

Cr Ken Norman Councillor, Shire of Ravensthorpe

Mr Pascoe Durtanovich CEO, Shire of Ravensthorpe

Cr Graham Harris President, Shire of Wiluna

Cr Christine Webb Councillor, Shire of Wiluna

4.2 Apologies

Cr Mal Cullen, President, Shire of Coolgardie

Cr Jacquie Best, President, Shire of Dundas

Cr Malcolm Heasman, President, Shire of Esperance

Cr Patrick Hill, President Shire of Laverton

Cr Rob Wedge, Deputy President, Shire of Laverton

Cr Jim Quadrio, Deputy President Shire of Wiluna

Ms Andrea Nunan, CEO Shire of Wiluna

Mr Bruce Wittber, Joint Executive Officer

4.3 Guests

Ms Wendy Duncan MLA Member for Kalgoorlie

Mr Norman Baker, Acting CEO Goldfields Esperance Development Commission

5. MINUTES OF MEETINGS

5.1 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) held Friday 31 January 2014 (Attachment)

Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 31 January 2014 have been circulated to Member Councils.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 31 January 2014 be confirmed as a true and correct record of proceedings.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Norman Seconded: Cr Goldsmith

That the Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 31 January 2014 be confirmed as a true and correct record of proceedings.

CARRIED

5.2 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) held Friday 28 February 2014 (Attachment)

Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 February 2014 have been circulated to Member Councils.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 February 2014 be confirmed as a true and correct record of proceedings.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Mr Epis Seconded: Cr Rathbone

That the Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 February 2014 be confirmed as a true and correct record of proceedings subject to noting that Cr Dwyer and Cr Craig should be recorded as apologies for the meeting.

CARRIED

5.3 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils GVROC Technical Officers Working Group held Friday 7 March 2014 (Attachment)

Minutes of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Friday 7 March 2014 have been circulated to Member Councils.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Minutes of the Meeting of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group held Friday 7 March 2014 be received.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Dwyer Seconded: Cr Stewart

That the Minutes of the Meeting of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group held Friday 7 March 2014 be received.

CARRIED

5.4 Business Arising from Meetings of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) - GVROC Status Report as at Friday 21 March 2014

The Executive Officer will present a report to the meeting.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the GVROC Status Report as presented be received.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Rathbone Seconded: Cr Stewart

That the GVROC Status Report as presented be received.

CARRIED

At this point, Item 9.1, 9.2 and 9.7 were brought forward for consideration but are recorded in numeric sequence.

The meeting adjourned for lunch at 12.00noon.

The meeting recommenced at 12.35pm

6. FINANCE

6.1 Statement of Financial Position for the Period Ending 28 February 2014 (Attachment)

From Executive Officer

Background:

Presenting the unaudited financial statement for the period 1 July 2013 to 28 February 2014

Executive Officer Comment:

The Executive Officer provides the following comment:

· Account 501 - Members subscriptions - have all been paid;

· Account 512 - Project General Contributions - have all been paid;

· Account 515 - DLG Grant Asset Management - has been transferred from the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder;

· Account 1836 – Sponsorship Goldfields District Display – the Technical Officers Working Group agreed to consolidate funding for the District Display through GVROC rather than it being split with member Councils. The additional funds have been recouped (Account 0502) from member Councils;

· Account 1842 Regional Records Project Operating is a reimbursement to the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder for purchases made on behalf of the Regional Records Facility; and

· Account 1843 – GERCG Project Officer – this is the final payment for this account and the grant is in the process of being acquitted.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Statement of Financial Position for the period ending 28 February 2014, as attached, be received.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Mr Epis Seconded: Cr Harris

That the Statement of Financial Position for the period ending 28 February 2014, as attached, be received.

CARRIED

6.2 List of Accounts Paid

From Executive Officer

Executive Officer Comment:

Accounts paid during the period 21 January to 17 March 2014

Accounts Paid:

Cheque	Date	Payee	For	Amount incl GST
EFT	210114	Up to Date Accounting	Accounting Services – December 2013	308.00
EFT	240214	BHW Consulting	GVROC Executive Officer Services, Accounting Services and Airfares and Travel Reimbursements July 2013 to September 2013	15,026.42
EFT	260214	Bankwest	Audit Certificate	60.00
EFT	070314	Up to Date Accounting	Accounting Services January/February 2014	462.00
TOTAL $15,856.42

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Accounts Paid for the period 21 January to 17 March 2014 totalling $15,856.42 be approved.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Harris Seconded: Cr Fuamatu

That the Accounts Paid for the period 21 January to 17 March 2014 totalling $15,856.42 be approved.

CARRIED

6.3 Income Tax Status Review (Attachment)

From Executive Officer

Background:

During the recent audit of the Great Eastern Country Zone and Central Country Zone books of account by auditors AMD it was noted in the Management Report that both groups were not registered as a tax exempt entity and as such income tax may be assessable for income tax purposes.

Further it was noted that a tax review had not been undertaken.

Executive Officer Comment:

This was the first time in having audits of the accounts undertaken that it was identified that such an assessment was required.

Given that the GVROC accounts are currently being audited it is likely that the same finding will be made.

The Executive Officer has sought advice from its accounting service Up to Date Accounting who has advised that a self-assessment is required. Up to Date Accounting has completed the worksheet on behalf of GVROC for the year 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013. The completed worksheet forms an attachment to the meeting agenda.

In Section D it will be noted that approval of the “Board/Committee/Trustee” is required.

Whilst the form does not need to be submitted to the Australian Tax Office it should be submitted annually with the papers for audit.

It is recommended that the GVROC Chair and Executive Officer be authorised to sign the document on behalf of GVROC.

RECOMMENDATION:

That as the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils is a tax exempt organisation the Chair and Executive Officer of GVROC be authorised to sign the Income Tax Status Review worksheet.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Williams Seconded: Cr Goldfinch

That as the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils is a tax exempt organisation the Chair and Executive Officer of GVROC be authorised to sign the Income Tax Status Review worksheet.

CARRIED

7. GOLDFIELDS RECORDS STORAGE FACILITY - FINANCE AND OTHER MATTERS

7.1 Financial Statement for the Period ending 28 February 2014 (Attachment)

Reporting Officer: Don Burnett, CEO City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Yvette Hargreaves, Manager Goldfields Records Storage Facility

Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: No interest to disclose

Date: 18 March 2014

Attachments: Unaudited financial statement for the period ending 28 February 2014

Executive Officer Comment:

Nil

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Statement of Financial Position for the period ending 28 February 2014, as attached, be received.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Mr Epis Seconded:

That the:

1. Statement of Financial Position for the period ending 28 February 2014, as attached, be received; and

2. Update on the operations of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility for January to March 2014 be noted.

CARRIED

7.2 Progress Report for Goldfields Records Storage Facility for the Period January-March 2014 (Attachment)

Reporting Officer: Don Burnett, CEO City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Yvette Hargreaves, Manager Goldfields Records Storage Facility

Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: No interest to disclose

Date: 21 March 2014

Attachments: Update on the Goldfields Records Storage Facility’s Operations January to March 2014

Monthly Income Chart

Background:

An update on the Goldfields Records Storage Facility’s operations has been provided by Ms Yvette Hargreaves, the Facility’s Manager. It forms an attachment to the meeting agenda. A monthly income chart for the Facility has also been provided for Member Councils information.

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment required.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That the update on the operations of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility for January to March 2014 be noted.

Refer to Item 8.1

8. GVROC BUSINESS

8.1 Goldfields–Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 22 March 2014

Attachments: Report by Officers from the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder on the Goldfields–Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

Background:

The Goldfields–Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework was released for public comment on Tuesday 4 March 2014. The Framework can be downloaded from the WA Planning Commission website at www.planning.wa.gov.au/frameworks (due to its size the two documents that form the Framework do not form attachments to the meeting agenda).

The Framework is out for public comment until Thursday 5 June 2014.

Given the Framework provides a strategic context for regional planning in the Goldfields–Esperance region it is critical for GVROC to be satisfied that it provides an accurate commentary on its economy and the diversity of geographic, environmental and social parameters that underpin the region’s economy.

Officers from the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder provided the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group with an overview of the Framework when it met on Friday 7 March 2014. Discussion that followed this presentation resulted in the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group resolving as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Jim Epis Seconded: Richard Brookes

That the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder be requested to provide Member Councils with comment on the Goldfields–Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework prior to the GVROC Council Meeting on Friday 28 March 2014 in order that the Framework can be discussed by GVROC Councils.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

The comments prepared by officers from the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder form an attachment to the meeting agenda.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

The matter is presented for discussion.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Mr Epis Seconded: Cr Harris

That the matter of the Goldfields–Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework be relisted for discussion at the GVROC Council Meeting to be held on Friday 2 May 2014.

CARRIED

8.2 Country Local Government Fund – 2012/2013 Regional Group Applications for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Projects

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 22 March 2014

Attachments: Report by Officers from the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder on GVROC’s 2012/2013 Regional Group Applications for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Projects

Background:

As Member Councils will be aware, it was resolved at the GVROC Council Meeting held on Wednesday 1 August 2012 to submit an application for CLGF funding in 2012/2013 for renewable energy and energy efficient projects, with Member Councils resolving as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Cullen Seconded: Cr Petz

That for the 2012/2013 round of regional CLGF funding, the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils:

1. Submit an alternate energy project for the region with the pool of funding for the project to be determined by Member Councils, with Member Councils notifying the Executive Officer of their intention to participate in the project no later than Friday 31 August 2012;

2. That the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder be given delegate authority to commence preparation of a business case for the alternate energy project, with the business case to look at participating Member Councils using funds from both the 2012/2013 and 2013/2014 allocations of regional CLGF funds;

3. Request the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission provide funding for the preparation of a business cases for GVROC Member Councils for the following projects in the 2012/2013 regional CLGF round of funding:

a) Retro-fitting of lighting and renewable energy power generation;

b) Regional waste management;

c) Norseman gateway project; and

d) A project for the Shires of Laverton and Ngaanyatjarraku (still to be determined); and

1. Give delegated authority to the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group to prepare and submit business cases for projects, other than the alternate energy project, agreed to for the 2012/2013 round of regional CLGF funds.

CARRIED

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, as the Lead Council for the project, was advised by the Department of Regional Development on 5 December 2013 that Cabinet had approved the Country Local Government Fund (CLGF) 2012/2013 Regional Group project - Goldfields-Esperance Regional Energy Project. A Financial Assistance Agreement (FAA) is to be prepared and entered into with the Department of Regional Development (DRD).

At the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held on Friday 7 March 2014 officers from the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder provided with an update on the retro-fitting of lighting and renewable energy power generation projects the GVROC is currently seeking funding for. Following this report it was resolved as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Richard Brookes Seconded: Steve Deckert

That:

1. the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder be requested to provide Member Councils with an update on GVROC’s renewable energy and energy efficient project applications for the GVROC Council Meeting on Friday March 28 2014; and

2. the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group recommend that GVROC write to the Minister for Energy seeking assurance that the Gazettal of the new LED Tariffs will be completed in time for use in the 2014/2015 financial year.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

A copy of the report prepared by officers from the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder forms an attachment to the meeting agenda.

Executive Officer Additional Comment:

Mr Ryan Wilson, the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s Sustainability Officer, briefed Member Councils on the report prepared.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That GVROC write to the Minister for Energy seeking assurance that the Gazettal of the new LED Tariffs will be completed in time for use in the 2014/2015 financial year.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Williams Seconded: Cr Stewart

That:

1. GVROC write to the Minister for Energy seeking assurance that the Gazettal of the new LED Tariffs will be completed in time for use in the 2014/2015 financial year;

2. Horizon Power be requested to pass on any additional savings toe the GVROC through the use of new LED light technology over and above the new tariffs;

3. GVROC commit to the Community Energy Efficiency Program (CEEP) subject to the finalisation of the Horizon Power tender for LED lights and associated tariffs for this lighting; and

4. the GVROC Chair and/or GVROC CEO be given authority to sign off on the Community Energy Efficiency Program (CEEP) Project for the Goldfields Esperance Region.

CARRIED

Reporting Officer: Don Burnett, CEO City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 21 March 2014

Attachments: Nil

Background:

As Member Councils are aware, the GERCG has received additional funding from the State Government to implement findings from its regional business plan. The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder is the Lead Council for the project which will cover asset management and development of a position to oversee issues related to the implementation of integrated strategic planning reforms.

The City is still in the process of recruiting a Manager of Assets and Procurement. The process has taken longer than anticipated with no applicants from the previous two advertisements deemed suitable. An Acting Manager has been appointed to this role whilst the recruitment process continues.

Until the Manager of Assets and Procurement is appointed the Asset Officer position will remain vacant.

At the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Friday 7 March 2014 Don Burnett, CEO City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder provided an update on the project to that point. Following the update it was resolved as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Pascoe Durtanovich Seconded: Jim Epis

That the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder provide a further update on the appointment of an officer to oversee issues related to the implementation of integrated strategic planning reforms for the Goldfields Esperance Collaborative Group when the GVROC Council meets on Friday 28 March 2014.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment required.

Executive Officer Additional Comment:

Don Burnett, CEO City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, provided Member Councils with a further update on the City’s efforts to engage a Manager of Assets and Procurement, noting that a further report will be provided next week.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

The matter is presented for consideration by Member Councils.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Stewart Seconded: Mr Deckert

That the CEO, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s report on the appointment of a Manager of Assets and Procurement for the Goldfields Esperance Regional Collaborative Group be noted.

CARRIED

8.4 Meeting with the Minister for Agriculture on Wild Dog Control and Cactus Eradication across the Goldfields Esperance Region

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 21 March 2014

Attachments: Briefing prepared by delegates attending the meeting with the Minister for Agriculture on Thursday 6 March 2014

Background:

GVROC Council met with members of the Cactus Working Group on Friday 29 November 2013 to discuss the problem that cactus infestation presents across the Goldfields.

Following this meeting GVROC Council resolved as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Hill Seconded: Mr Epis

That GVROC write to the Minister for Agriculture and Food seeking a meeting to discuss the matter of wild dog control and the control of various species of cacti throughout the Goldfields Esperance region.

CARRIED

A delegation from GVROC met with the Minister for Agriculture on Thursday 6 March 2014. Below is a listing of those who attended this meeting on GVROC’s behalf:

Cr Mal Cullen President, Shire of Coolgardie;

Cr Greg Dwyer President, Shire of Menzies;

Cr Graham Harris President, Shire of Wiluna;

Cr Jim Quadrio Deputy President, Shire of Wiluna;

Mr David Fitzgerald Resident Shire of Leonora;

Mr David Wilcox Resident Shire of Leonora; and

Ms Helen Westcott Executive Officer, GVROC.

The Minister’s Chief of Staff, Mr Trevor Whittington, was also present at the meeting.

A brief report on the meeting with the Minister for Agriculture was provided by the Executive Officer to the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group when it met the following day. In discussing the meeting it was resolved as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Steve Deckert Seconded: Peter Crawford

That the Executive Officer prepare a report for the GVROC Council Meeting to be held on Friday 28 March 2014.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

A copy of the briefing notes prepared for the delegates attending the meeting with Minister Baston form an attachment to the meeting agenda.

Below are the Executive Officer’s notes from the meeting:

§ The Minister advised that approval from Cabinet was still required before completion of the Murchison component of the “dog fence”. Funding of $4m was being sought;

§ There was consensus from those present at the meeting that the ideal solution would be to get back the position of the 1960’s when the wild dogs were under control. If this could be achieved land could once again be stocked. This is currently not possible with the large numbers of wild dogs across the region. It was acknowledged that it was unlikely that the State would ever employ the same number of doggers as it had done in the past, even if the dog bounty trial currently underway is extended. The success or otherwise of this trial won’t be known until after the trial is completed and the final report is prepared;

§ The Minister did not seem to know much about the problem cactus presents across the region as he did about wild dog control. He was, however, aware of the work being undertaken by the Goldfields Nullabor Rangelands Biosecurity Association Inc and the recent letter to GVROC’s Member Councils from Ross Wood seeking some form of partnership between the Association and GVROC. A copy of Ross Wood’s letter forms an attachment to the meeting agenda;

§ The Minister was made aware of the cactus outbreak in the Shire of Ravensthorpe and the offer by the South Coast NRM on a fee for service basis to assist in the eradication of the cactus infestation in the Oldfield River area; and

§ In terms of both wild dog control and cactus eradication it was clear that an almost unassailable case for funding would have to be presented to the State Government to get any money for either wild dog control or cactus eradication.

The Executive Officer has written to the Minister’s office thanking him for making time available to meet with the GVROC Delegation.

Member Councils need to decide whether further action on the matters of wild dog control and cactus eradication is required.

In an email to the Executive Officer, Cr Cullen, President Shire of Coolgardie, has suggested that consideration to forming a partnership with the Goldfields Nullabor Rangelands Biosecurity Association Inc should be considered by GVROC as this might provide a mechanism for leveraging funding from the State Government. Whilst this might be the case, before any partnership was formalised careful consideration would need to be given to how the partnership would operate. Additionally consideration would also need to be given to how the needs of the Shire of Ravensthorpe (and the Shire of Esperance should they ever need assistance) would be met should this partnership be formalised.

Consultation: Nil

Financial Implications: As yet unknown

Voting Requirement: Simple Majority

This matter is presented for consideration by Member Councils.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Harris Seconded: Mr Epis

That GVROC’s Member Councils be requested to include a minimum of $20,000 within their 2014/2015 Budgets for use in a regional approach to the control and eradication of various species of cactus.

CARRIED

8.5 CEO’s Review of Risk Management, Internal Control and Legislative Compliance

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 21 March 2014

Attachments: Department of Local Government and Communities: Audit in Local Government. Local Government Operational Guidelines Number 9 Revised September 2013

Background:

At the Great Eastern Country Zone (GECZ) Meeting held on Thursday 27 February 2014 the matter of a CEO’s review of risk management as per Appendix 3 of the Local Government Operational Guidelines Number 9 Revised September 2013 WE-ROC Council Meeting held Wednesday 26 February 2014 was considered, with the GECZ resolving as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr O’Connell Seconded: Cr Comerford

That the Great Eastern Country Zone be requested to write to the Department of Local Government and Communities requesting whether the Department is going to provide a template or other guidance for the preparation of the required documentation and as this requirement is part of the Local Government reform process that financial assistance be sought in order for GECZ Member Councils to meet the end of calendar deadline.

CARRIED

With the need to have this review completed by the end of the 2014 calendar year, the Executive Officer brought this matter to the attention of the GVROC Technical Officers working Group when it met on Friday 7 March 2014. Following discussion of this matter it was resolved as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Jim Epis Seconded: Richard Brookes

That the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group recommend to the GVROC Council that the GVROC write to the Department of Local Government and Communities seeking information on whether the Department is going to provide a template or other guidance for the preparation of the required documentation and as this requirement is part of the Local Government reform process that financial assistance be sought in order for GVROC’s Member Councils to meet the end of calendar deadline.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment

Consultation: Nil

Financial Implications: As yet unknown

Voting Requirement: Simple Majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That GVROC write to the Department of Local Government and Communities seeking information on whether the Department is going to provide a template or other guidance for the preparation of the required documentation and as this requirement is part of the Local Government reform process that financial assistance be sought in order for GVROC’s Member Councils to meet the end of calendar deadline.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Goldsmith Seconded: Mr Deckert

CARRIED

8.6 Regional Cabinet Meeting in Esperance on Monday 9 June 2014

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 21 March 2014

Attachments: Nil

Background:

At the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Friday 7 March 2014 Member Councils were advised that Cabinet would be holding a regional Cabinet Meeting in Esperance on Monday 9 June 2014.

It was agreed that the possibility of GVROC seeking meetings with Cabinet Ministers be discussed the GVROC meeting scheduled for Friday 28 March 2014.

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment

Executive Officer Additional Comment:

The Shire of Esperance advised that Cabinet’s schedule during its visit to Esperance was such that there would be no time available for GVROC to meet with Ministers.

Consultation: Nil

Financial Implications: As yet unknown

Voting Requirement: Simple Majority

The matter is presented for consideration by Members Councils.

Noted

8.7 Goldfields–Esperance Blueprint – Draft for Review

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 22 March 2014

Attachments: Nil

Background:

On Thursday 13 March 2014 Member Councils received an email from the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission (GEDC) advising that it had received the Draft Goldfields Esperance Blueprint from the consultants Creating Communities. A copy of the draft was made available for GVROC to make comment before the Blueprint is submitted to the Department of Regional Development for approval.

Originally comments were to be with the GEDC by Friday 21 March 2014. An extension was requested, with the Minister for Regional Development granting GVROC a further week to review the draft and provide comment to the GEDC.

Member Councils’ comments are sought on the draft Blueprint,

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment

Executive Officer Additional Comment:

A copy of comments on the Blueprint prepared by the Shire of Esperance and the City of Kalgoorlie Boulder form attachments to the Minutes.

Andrew Dover, Manager Planning City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder (left the meeting at approximately 10.20am)

Mr Ric Halse, Strategic Planner, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder (left the meeting at approximately 10.20am)

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

The matter is presented for discussion.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Goldfinch Seconded: Cr Williams

That GVROC endorse the comments made by the Shire of Esperance and the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder in relation to the draft Goldfields-Esperance Regional Blueprint and that these comments form the basis of GVROC’s submission to the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission on the Goldfields-Esperance Regional Blueprint.

CARRIED

8.8 Presentation on Roman II

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 22 March 2014

Attachments: Nil

Background:

At the recent Transport Forum Cr Cullen, President Shire of Coolgardie spoke with the officer responsible for the roll out/assistance with Roman II. Cr Cullen thought that a presentation on Roman II would be of interest to Member Councils.

Craig Hansom is WALGA’s Business Manager for Roman II and has also approached both the Central Country Zone and the Great Eastern Country Zone to do a presentation that provides an overview of the ROMAN II system and Asset Management in general. The presentation would take about 10-15 minutes. Apparently he has made the presentation at a number of zone meetings last year and it was well received.

The Executive Officer sought the views of Member Councils on whether such a presentation would be of interest to you or your GVROC delegates. Cr Cullen thought that that elected members might be interested in hearing about Roman II.

At the time of preparing the meeting agenda only two Councils had provided a response for feedback. Both Councils believes that elected members would be interested in attending a presentation on Roman II and asset management generally.

Executive Officer Comment:

The Executive Officer seeks direction as to what Member Councils wish to do with respect to a presentation on Roman II.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

The matter is presented for discussion.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Mr Epis Seconded: Cr Goldfinch

That Craig Hansom, WALGA’s Business Manager for Roman II, be invited to present to interested Member Councils prior to or following the GVROC Council Meeting scheduled for Friday 13 June 2014.

CARRIED

9. MATTERS FOR NOTING

Nil

10. LATE ITEMS as notified, introduced by decision of the Meeting

Nil

11. FUTURE MEETINGS/FUNCTIONS

Friday 2 May 2014 – a teleconference commencing at 9.00am to consider the WALGA State Council agenda for the State Council meeting to be held in Merredin on 8-9 May 2014

Friday 16 May 2014 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group (venue to be determined)

Friday 13 June 2014 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Council/GERCG Board at which the WALGA State Council Agenda for the State Council meeting to be held Wednesday 3 July will also be considered (venue to be determined)

Friday 11 July 2014 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group (venue to be determined)

Wednesday 6 August 2014 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Council/GERCG Board (whilst the meeting will be held in Perth a venue has yet to be determined)

Friday 29 August 2014 – a teleconference to consider the WALGA State Council agenda for the State Council meeting to be held Wednesday 3 September 2013

Friday 5 September 2014 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group (venue to be determined)

Friday 24 October 2014 - an in-person meeting of the GVROC Council/GERCG Board (venue to be determined)

Friday 28 November 2014 – a teleconference to consider the WALGA State Council agenda for the State Council meeting to be held Wednesday 4 December

Friday 5 December 2014 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group (venue to be determined)

Friday 30 January 2015 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Council/GERCG Board in Esperance

12. CLOSURE OF MEETING

There being no further business the Chair declared the meeting closed at 1.15pm

DECLARATION

These minutes were confirmed by the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils at the meeting held 13 June 2014

Signed _______________________________

Person presiding at the meeting at which these minutes were confirmed

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 154

Council Meeting

Friday 2 May 2014

Teleconference

Commencing at 9.00am

MINUTES

CONTENTS

1. DECLARATION OF INTEREST. 3

2. ANNOUNCEMENTS. 3

3. ATTENDANCE AND APOLOGIES. 3

3.1 Attendance. 3

3.2 Apologies. 4

3.3 WALGA Representatives. 4

4. WESTERN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (WALGA) BUSINESS. 5

4.1 Review of WALGA State Council Agenda - Matters for Decision. 5

4.2 Review of WALGA State Council Agenda - Matters for Noting. 9

4.3 Review of WALGA State Council Agenda – Organisational Reports. 9

4.4 Review of WALGA State Council Agenda – Policy Forum Reports. 10

4.5 WALGA President’s Report (Attachment) 10

4.6 WALGA Status Report (Attachment) 10

4.7 State Councillor / Goldfield Esperance Zone President’s Report 11

5. REPRESENTIVE REPORTS. 11

5.1 Department of Local Government and Communities (Attachment) 11

6 URGENT BUSINESS as permitted by the Chair 11

7 DATE, TIME AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING.. 11

9. CLOSURE OF MEETING.. 11

Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils

and

Goldfields esperance country zone of walga

Teleconference Meeting to be held on Friday 2 May 2014 commencing at 9.00am

MINUTES

1. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Cr Goldfinch declared an impartiality interest with respect to Item 4.1 (51 Interim Submission to the Inquiry into the Management of WA’s Freight Rail Network). Cr Goldfinch is a former board member of CBH.

Mayor Yuryevich declared an interest with respect to Item 4.4 (7.2.1 Metropolitan Reform Implementation Policy Forum). Mayor Yuryevich is a member of the Local Government Advisory Board.

2. ANNOUNCEMENTS

The purpose of the meeting is to consider and provide advice to the WALGA State Council Representative, Mayor Ron Yuryevich AM, RFD.

3. ATTENDANCE AND APOLOGIES

3.1 Attendance

Mayor Ron Yuryevich AM RFD (Chair) Mayor, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Mr Don Burnett CEO, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Cr Mal Cullen President, Shire of Coolgardie

Mr Paul Webb CEO, Shire of Coolgardie (left the meeting at 9.07am)

Ms Rhonda Evans Manager Administration Services, Shire of Coolgardie (entered the meeting

at 9.07am)

Cr Malcolm Heasman President, Shire of Esperance

Cr Beverley Stewart Councillor, Shire of Esperance

Mr Matthew Scott CEO, Shire of Esperance

Cr Patrick Hill President Shire of Laverton

Mr Steve Deckert CEO, Shire of Laverton

Mr Jim Epis CEO, Shire of Leonora

Cr Greg Dwyer President, Shire of Menzies (entered meeting at 9.05am)

Mr Chris Paget CEO, Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku

Cr Ian Goldfinch President, Shire of Ravensthorpe

Cr Ken Norman Councillor, Shire of Ravensthorpe

Ms Helen Westcott Joint Executive Officer

3.2 Apologies

Mr Richard Brookes CEO, Shire of Dundas

Cr Rob Wedge Deputy President, Shire of Laverton

Cr Beatrice Fuamatu Councillor, Shire of Laverton

Cr Peter Craig President, Shire of Leonora

Mr Peter Crawford CEO, Shire of Menzies

Mr Pascoe Durtanovich CEO, Shire of Ravensthorpe

Mr Bruce Wittber Joint Executive Officer

3.3 WALGA Representatives

Mr Zac Donovan, Executive Manager Marketing and Communications

Ms Erin Fuery, Senior Community Policy Officer

4. WESTERN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (WALGA) BUSINESS

Zone delegates to consider the Matters for Decision contained in the WA Local Government Association State Council Agenda and put forward resolutions to Zone Representatives on State Council

4.1 Review of WALGA State Council Agenda - Matters for Decision

From Executive Officer

Background:

WALGA State Council meets five times each year and as part of the consultation process with Member Councils circulates the State Council Agenda for input through the Zone structure.

The Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) is able to provide comment or submit an alternate recommendation that is then presented to the State Council for consideration.

5.1 Interim submission to the Inquiry into the Management of WA’s Freight Rail Network (05-006-02-0005 PS)

WALGA Recommendation

That the Association’s interim submission to the Economics and Industry Standing Committee’s Inquiry into the Management of WA’s Freight Rail Network.

ZONE COMMENT:

5.2 Zone Tax Offset Reform (05-055-03-0002 PS)

WALGA Recommendation

That the Association advocate to the Federal Government for:

1. The following increases in the fixed component of the zone tax offset: Zone A, from $338 to $584; Zone B, from $57 to $99; Special Areas, from $1173 to $2028. The variable components of the zone tax offset (i.e., notional offsets) should be increased by the same proportion as the fixed components.

2. Indexation of zone tax offsets to reflect changes in the Australian Consumer Price Index.

3. Eligibility changes to ensure the zone tax offset only applies to permanent residents of the zones.

4. A review of the zones so that they reflect a more contemporary definition of remoteness.

5. A review of higher income earners’ eligibility for the zone tax offset.

6. Any savings that are made from better targeting of the zone tax offset should go towards further increasing the amount of the offset for those taxpayers who remain eligible.

ZONE COMMENT:

GVROC support WALGA Recommendation.

5.3 Interim submission to the Productivity Commission’s Draft Report on Public Infrastructure (05-088-03-0001 PS)

WALGA Recommendation

That the Association’s interim submission to the Productivity Commission’s Draft Report on Public Infrastructure be endorsed.

ZONE COMMENT:

GVROC support WALGA Recommendation.

5.4 Senate Economics References Committee: Inquiry into Affordable Housing in Australia – WALGA Submission (05-036-03-0020 CG)

WALGA Recommendation

That State Council endorse the interim submission to the Senate Economics References Committee regarding the Inquiry into Affordable Housing in Australia.

Executive Officer Comment:

This matter was discussed at the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 February 2014 at which the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder made some comments and suggestions on the matter of affordable housing. Some, including the difficulty in defining “affordable housing”, have been included within the interim submission.

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder might wish to add further comment.

ZONE COMMENT:

GVROC support WALGA Recommendation.

5.5 Review of the Australian Citizenship Ceremonies Code 2009 (05-091-03-0001 JH)

WALGA Recommendation

That the Associations’ interim submission to the Hon Scott Morrison MP, Minister for Immigration and Border Protection’s Review on Australian Citizenship Ceremonies Code (2009) be endorsed.

ZONE COMMENT:

GVROC support WALGA Recommendation.

5.6 WA Police and WALGA Memorandum of Understanding for the Provision of Crime Statistics (05-019-03-0006JH)

WALGA Recommendation

The proposed Memorandum of Understanding between WA Police and WA Local Government Association for the provision of crime statistical information be endorsed.

ZONE COMMENT:

The following is an extract from the State Council agenda:

In Brief

· Local Governments and the Association have been advocating for many years for access to better statistical data on crime from WA Police to assist Local Governments with Community Safety and Crime Prevention planning.

· In 2011 as part of the State Government’s Community Crime Prevention Plan 2011-2014, the WA Police advised Local Government that they were developing a new system for collection of crime data and sought feedback.

· In 2013 WA Police and WALGA representatives met to discuss the best way to progress Local Government access to the WA Police crime statistics.

· The development of the MOU is significant advocacy win for Local Governments and acknowledges the partnership between WA police and Local Government.

GVROC support WALGA Recommendation.

5.7 Local Government & Provision of Facilities for Child Health Centres (05-019-03-0006JH)

WALGA Recommendation

That:

1. The final AEC Report Local Government and Provision of Facilities for Child Health Centres be forwarded to the Hon Kim Hames, Minister for Health and the Hon Tony Simpson, Minister for Local Government and Communities seeking a commitment to the following outcomes:

a. The Department of Health and the Department of Local Government and Communities working with Local Government to develop a strategic plan for the provision of child health services, which identifies priority locations requiring maternal and child health services based on population growth and demographic data, and provides a sustainable framework for future investment by the State Government; and.

b. The Departments working with WALGA and its members to establish sustainable and equitable funding and leasing arrangements between the State and Local Governments for the provision of facilities from which child health services are delivered in Western Australia;

2. WALGA develop and conduct a Local Government Early Years Forum to enable Local Governments to discuss the key issues facing the sector.

ZONE COMMENT:

GVROC support WALGA Recommendation.

5.8 Review of the State / Local Government Agreement for the Provision of Public Library Services (05-012-03-0001JH)

WALGA Recommendation

1. That an extension to the current State / Local Government Agreement for the Provision of Public Library Services to June 2015 is supported;

2. That WALGA is requested to conduct a broad review and visioning process on the future of public library services comprised of:

a. a background paper on trends, priorities and innovation in library services in other jurisdictions;

b. a series of visioning workshops and forums with elected members, CEO’s, managers, public librarians and community groups;

c. an analysis of the financial contributions of the State and Local Governments to libraries, the socio-economic benefits derived from this investment and potential sources of funding; and

d. development of a paper outlining the vision of WA Local Governments for public library services in 2025 and the strategies to achieve this;

and provide a report to State Council on the outcomes of the process by March 2015.

Executive Officer Comment:

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has previously made comments on matters involved with the arrangements around funding for the provision of library services. The City might wish to make comment on the matters currently under consideration.

ZONE COMMENT:

GVROC support WALGA Recommendation.

5.9 Interim Submission to the Department of the Environment’s Emission Reduction Fund – Green Paper (05-028-03-0016CP)

WALGA Recommendation

That the Association’s interim submission to the Department of the Environment’s Emission Reduction Fund – Green Paper be endorsed.

ZONE COMMENT:

GVROC support WALGA Recommendation.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT:

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder raised concerns around both Items 5.7 and 5.8.

The City’s CEO noted that the City believed the issue of a local government’s responsibility for infrastructure it did not manage should be included in any discussions relating to the provisions of child health care facilities.

He also noted that the City considered that any review of the financial contributions by the State and Local Governments to libraries should also include an analysis of the regional library service.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils endorses all recommendations contained in the WALGA State Council Agenda other than those recommendations separately considered.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Cullen Seconded: Cr Goldfinch

That the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils endorses all recommendations contained in the WALGA State Council Agenda other than the recommendations relating to Items5.7 and 5.8.

In relation to Item 5.7 (Local Government & Provisions of facilities for Child Health Centres (05-019-03-0006JH) the Recommendation should read as follows:

That:

c. Should a Local Government wish to transfer the title or management order to the State or Health Department at no cost then the State or Health Department should give a commitment to accept the property or management transfer.

2. WALGA develop and conduct a Local Government Early Years Forum to enable Local Governments to discuss the key issues facing the sector.

In relation to Item 5.8 (review of the State / Local Government Agreement for the Provision of Public Library Services (05-12-3-001JH) the Recommendation should read as follows:

1. That an extension to the current State / Local Government Agreement for the Provision of Public Library Services to June 2015 is supported;

2. That WALGA is requested to conduct a broad review and visioning process on the future of public library services comprised of:

a. a background paper on trends, priorities and innovation in library services in other jurisdictions;

b. a series of visioning workshops and forums with elected members, CEO’s, managers, public librarians and community groups;

c. an analysis of the financial contributions of the State and Local Governments to libraries and the regional library service, the socio-economic benefits derived from this investment and potential sources of funding; and

d. development of a paper outlining the vision of WA Local Governments for public library services in 2025 and the strategies to achieve this;

and provide a report to State Council on the outcomes of the process by March 2015.

CARRIED

4.2 Review of WALGA State Council Agenda - Matters for Noting

6.1 Local Government Reform and Poll Provisions (05-034-01-0015)

Executive Officer Comment:

This matter arises from the discussion at the GVROC Meeting on 28 February 2014 in response to an item submitted by the Shire of Wagin. A number of GVROC’s Member Councils have provided support to the Shire of Wagin’s request for assistance with this matter.

The WALGA State Council Agenda notes that the purpose of the report is:

to inform the sector about the process that has been adopted to address this issue and to stimulate discussion within the sector. The opportunity for the sector to decide on the issue and form part of the Association’s policy development process will be through the Zone process leading to the 2 July 2014 State Council meeting where a formal policy position will be taken for advocacy to the State Government.

The WALGA President’s Report also makes reference to the fact that the issue was considered at the Metropolitan Local Government Reform Implementation Committee meeting.

6.2 Review of 2013 Local Government Elections – Member Feedback (06-024-01-001JMc)

4.3 Review of WALGA State Council Agenda – Organisational Reports

7.1 Key Activity Reports

7.1.1 Report on Key Activities, Environment and Waste Unit (01-006-03-0017 MJB)

7.1.2 Report on Key Activities, Governance and Strategy (01-006-03-0007 TB)

7.1.3 Report on Key Activities, Infrastructure (05-001-02-0003 ID)

7.1.4 Report on Key Activities, Planning and Community Development (01-006-03-0014 AH)

Executive Officer Comment:

Included in this Key Activities Report are the following matters:

Regional Planning and Infrastructure Frameworks

Regional Planning and Infrastructure Frameworks for the State’s country planning regions, with the following Regional Planning and Infrastructure Frameworks currently available for comment until the 5th June 2014: -

· Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

· Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

· South West Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

· Great Southern Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

· Kimberley Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework

This matter was covered at the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 March 2014.

Patient Assistance Travel (PATS) Review

Funded by Royalties for Regions, the Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS) provides a subsidy towards the cost of travel and accommodation for eligible patients travelling long distances to seek certain categories of specialist medical services. To find out more about the scheme please visit http://www.wacountry.health.wa.gov.au/index.php?id=628#c1120

The Committee on Public Administration has initiated a Parliamentary Inquiry into the State Government’s Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS). The inquiry is examining how adequately PATS delivers assistance to regional people accessing specialist medical care including the level of funding provided for travel and accommodation, eligibility criteria and administration of the scheme. WALGA has circulated an Infopage to all members seeking feedback to inform the development of a WALGA submission by 9 May 2014.

This matter was covered at the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 March 2014.

4.4 Review of WALGA State Council Agenda – Policy Forum Reports

7.2 Policy Forum Reports

7.2.1 Metropolitan Reform Implementation Policy Forum

7.2.2 Country Reform Policy Forum

7.2.3 Mining Community Policy Forum

7.2.4 Container Deposit Legislation Policy Forum

7.2.5 Metropolitan Mayors Policy Forum

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils notes the following reports contained in the WALGA State Council Agenda:

§ Matters for noting;

§ Organisational reports; and

§ Policy Forum reports.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Cullen Seconded: Cr Stewart

1. That the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils notes the following reports contained in the WALGA State Council Agenda:

§ Matters for noting;

§ Organisational reports; and

§ Policy Forum reports.

2. That the Technical Officers Working Group be given delegated authority to prepare a submission on the Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework for submission to the Department of Planning prior to the submission period closing on 5 June 2014, with the submission to be ratified by the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils when it meets on Friady 13 June 2014.

CARRIED

4.5 WALGA President’s Report (Attachment)

The WALGA President, State Councillor or WALGA Officer will deliver this report.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the WALGA President’s Report be noted.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Hill Seconded: Cr Cullen

That the WALGA President’s Report be noted.

CARRIED

4.6 WALGA Status Report (Attachment)

From Executive Officer

BACKGROUND:

Presenting the Status Report for April 2014 which contains WALGA’s responses to the resolutions of previous Zone Meetings.

ZONE COMMENT:

This is an opportunity for GVROC’s Member Council to consider the response from WALGA in respect to the matters that were submitted at the previous Council Meeting.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the WALGA Status Report for April 2014 be noted.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Stewart Seconded: Cr Hill

That the WALGA Status Report for April 2014 be noted.

CARRIED

4.7 State Councillor / Goldfield Esperance Zone President’s Report

Mayor Ron Yuryevich, AM RFD

In his report to Member Councils, Mayor Yuryevich noted the following points:

§ The second meeting of the Goldfields Esperance Revitalisation Advisory Group will take place on 12 May 2014;

§ At a recent meeting with the Minister for Indigenous Affairs the matter of the closure of some short stay indigenous housing was discussed and the problems associated with its closure. The Minister was unaware of this matter. The matter of the normalisation of indigenous townsites was also discussed but as yet there has been no agreement between the Commonwealth and the State Governments on this matter.

5. REPRESENTIVE REPORTS

5.1 Department of Local Government and Communities (Attachment)

The Department of Local Government and Communities has provided an update of its recent activities for Member Councils information.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Department of Local Government and Communities April 2014 Update be noted.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Dwyer Seconded: Mr Epis

That the Department of Local Government and Communities April 2014 Update and State Councillor – Goldfields Esperance Zone President’s Report be noted.

CARRIED

6 URGENT BUSINESS as permitted by the Chair

Nil

7 DATE, TIME AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING

Date	Meeting	Venue
Friday 16 May 2014	An in-person meeting of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group to be held in Kalgoorlie commencing at 8.00am	Kalgoorlie
Friday 13 June 2014	An in-person meeting of the GVROC Council/GERCG Board	Kalgoorlie

9. CLOSURE OF MEETING

There being no further business the Chair declared the meeting closed at 9.38am

DECLARATION

These minutes were confirmed by the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils at the meeting held 13 June 2014

Signed _______________________________

Person presiding at the meeting at which these minutes were confirmed

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 170

Item: 12.5.3

Esperance Golf Club - Outstanding Reuse Water Charges

Author/s	Matthew Scott	Chief Executive Officer
Authorisor/s	Matthew Scott	Chief Executive Officer

File Ref: F12/1442

Applicant

Esperance Golf Club (Inc)

Location/Address

16 University Avenue, Esperance WA 6450

Executive Summary

For Council to consider a request from the Esperance Golf Club (the Golf Club) to reduce the reuse water charge applied for the 2013/14 from $0.50 per kilolitre to $0.275 per kilolitre.

Recommendation in Brief

That Council not approve the request to reduce the reuse water charge applied to the Esperance Golf Club.

Background

The Esperance Golf Club accesses the Shire’s Eastern Suburbs Water Reuse Scheme to provide water to the golf course (fairway and greens). The Eastern Suburbs Water Reuse Scheme (the Scheme) has operated since the late 1980’s, utilizing processed waste water from the Water Corporations treatment plant at Middletown. When the scheme was established, there was an agreement that the cost of water would be based around recovering the operating costs of the scheme plus a small charge for renewal. Since its establishment the Scheme is now used by the Esperance Golf Club, The Esperance Turf Club, Castletown Primary School and the Shire to water green areas, rather than utilise mains water.

Given the age of the infrastructure associated with the Scheme and the increase draw of reuse water, the scheme is now costing the Shire considerably more, resulting in the estimated true cost of reuse water, inclusive of renewal of assets, being calculated at $2.53kl; the 2012/13 scheme charge was $0.25kl. In order to address this disparity of cost verses charge, Council increased the charge from $0.25kl to $0.50kl, in the 2013/14 Budget, with the aim of progressively increasing the charge to the true cost over future years, via a $0.25kl annual increase. Obviously, in the first year, this resulted in 100% increase in the water charge in the 2013/14.

Given the significant increase in water costs, and the obvious concerns from organizations affected by the fee increase, a meeting was held with all users of the reuse water in March 2014, to explain the history of the scheme, the increases in water charges, and how the new fee has been developed.

As a consequence of 2013/14 adoption, invoices for water use have been issued based on the $0.50kl in the 2013/14 year to all scheme users, with all but the Esperance Golf Club paying the full increase in water charges. Instead of paying the issued invoices at the new rate ($0.50kl), the Club has only paid issued invoices at a rate the 2012/13 fee of $0.25kl. On the 2 May 2014, the Shire President and CEO met with representatives of the Golf Club to discuss their outstanding water account. As result of this meeting the Golf Club has now written to Council (see attached) requesting their water invoices be amended to reflect a $0.275kl water charge, being only a 10% increase, and effectively capping any future increases to 10% over the next 5 years. The Golf Club has been advised that in accordance with the Local Government Act 1995, only the Council has ability to approve such a request. For the benefit of Council, below is table illustrating the water usage and charges to the Esperance Golf Club over the last 5 years:

Year	Consumption (KL)	Charge (Per KL)	Amount Invoiced
2008/09	57,902	$0.20	$11,580.40
2009/10	71,785	$0.21	$15,074.85
2010/11	79,849	$0.22	$17,566.78
2011/12	39,612	$0.23	$ 9,110.76
2012/13	78,227	$0.25	$19,556.75
Average over 5 years	65,475	$0.22	$14,577.91

Officer’s Comment

There is no dispute that the increase from $0.25kl to $0.50kl (100%) is a massive increase and hard for any organisation to absorb, however Council and other users of the scheme have accepted that the current fee structure is unsustainable for the long term future of the scheme. The Shire has calculated the true cost of scheme water to be $2.53kl (inclusive of Asset Renewal Costs). To progress from $0.25kl to $2.53kl in a reasonable time frame, requires substantial increases ($0.25kl pa for the next 10 years). As previously noted all organisations, except the Golf Club, have accepted the increase, by paying their respective invoices in full.

In 2013/14, the Esperance Golf Club has been issued invoices totaling $42,042.50, based on 84,085kl x $0.50, for the period 1 July 2013 to 4 March 2014. To date the Shire has only received $435.00 from the Golf Club, being the half of invoice #39136, for the period July’13-Sept’13, with initial indications that they would only be paying at the 2012/13 rate of $0.25kl for remainder of the year. The recent correspondence from the Golf Club indicates a willingness to pay a rate of $0.275kl. Below is comparison based on the various rates that have been discussed throughout this report.

Invoice Period	Kilolitres	@$0.25kl	@$0.275kl	@$0.50kl
1/7/13-1/10/13	1,740	$435.00	$478.50	$870.00
1/10/13-30/12/13	43,497	$10,874.25	$11,961.68	$21,748.50
30/12/13-4/3/14	38,848	$9,712.00	$10,683.20	$19,424.00
Total	84,085	$21,021.25	$23,123.38	$42,042.50

As stated in the table above, if Council was to accept payment based on $0.275kl (as per the Golf Club’s letter), then Council would need to write off $18,919.13 ($42,042.50 - $ 23,123.38). This does not include any further charges the remainder of the financial year.

In considering this request, Council needs to consider the impact of agreeing to this write off, not only from a budgetary perspective, but what this may mean to other scheme users, who have paid their water accounts at the adopted fee (i.e. $0.50kl).

Firstly, if Council agrees to reduce the fee to $0.275, then the Shire (and therefore the ratepayer) will be significantly subsidising the Golf Club’s water usage. Access to Golf Club is not free to the general public, and therefore only golf club members or paying users of the course will benefit from this reduction of fee, while Council will need to find these funds from other services to offset this write-off (effectively resulting in a reduction of service to the community). Furthermore, there will be further delay in achieving the true scheme cost recovery (to $2.53kl), which at a 10% pa increase, will take some 25years to achieve.

Likewise reducing the fee for one user (Golf Club) will create a precedent that other users (Turf Club & Education Department etc) may use to request further reductions on the water charge. This would compound the impact on future funding the scheme, putting further budgetary pressure on municipal funds, in the both current and future years.

Given this issues, it is hard for the Administration to recommend the proposed reduction requested by the Golf Club. The Administration acknowledges the increase to the Golf Club overall costs is significant ($42,042.50-21,250.25=$21,021.25), and that it may take some additional time to Club to settle the outstanding amount. It is proposed to offer the Golf Club the ability to pay the outstanding debt over an additional six (6) months, to give them time to consider and implement options to both settle the outstanding amount and possibly reduce their reliance on reuse water. Should the Golf Club choose not to settle the outstanding debt, the Shire has few other options, other than enforce its Debt Collection Policy, which could include restricting or denying access to the reuse water in the future.

At this stage the Administration has deferred initiating Council Debt Collection policy (and process), while the matter is in dispute.

Consultation

Council and Executive Staff

The Esperance Golf Club

Financial Implications

The financial implications arising from this report are $21,021.25 plus any additional proportion of water charges for the remainder of year.

Asset Management Implications

Though there is no immediate impact on Asset Management, if Council cannot charge an appropriate fee that covers both operational costs and renewal costs (or progress to) then Council may find a funding issue in renewing the Eastern Suburbs Reuse Scheme in the future, when critical components start failing.

It is envisaged that Council will need to commence the replacement of the main line, valued at $3,000,000, in the next 2 years as the line is now over 30 years old and needs renewal due to increase failures and an increase in capacity to cope for an increase in demand from all current users.

Statutory Implications

Local Government Act 1995,

Section 6.12 Power to defer, grant discount, waive or write off debts

Policy Implications

CORP 013: Debt Collection

GUIDELINES – SUNDRY DEBTORS

1. All Shire of Esperance Sundry Debtor accounts are 30 day accounts.

2. Accounts unpaid after the due date will be issued with a Reminder Letter requesting payment within 7 days from date of letter.

3. Outstanding debtors after 14 days will be issued a Second Reminder Letter requesting immediate payment.

4. A Final Demand letter will be issued for all outstanding debtors 60+ days overdue requesting immediate payment. Courtesy phone calls will be made at this stage to attempt to contact and arrange payment with debtor.

5. After nil response from a final demand letter the Shire may cease providing further services to the debtor until the debt has been paid.

6. All accounts overdue at 90 days may be referred to Council’s Debt Collection Agency for immediate action.

7. Debt collection will not commence with accounts that are in dispute.

8. Debt collection will not commence for debts held by other government agencies e.g. DFES, MRWA.

Strategic Implications

Strategic Community Plan 2012-2022

Theme 4: Civic Leadership

Strategy 4.5 Be innovative in the management of Shire operations, services, staff and resources to create a resilient and financially stable Shire.

Corporate Business Plan 2013/2014 – 2016/2017

Action 4.5.15 Manage financial services

Environmental Considerations

Nil

Attachments

a View.

Esperance Golf Club

Officer’s Recommendation

That Council:

1. Not approve the request from the Esperance Golf Club to reduce the reuse water fee to $0.275 per kilolitre; and

2. Offer the Esperance Golf Club six (6) months to settle their current outstanding water debt; and

3. Should Esperance Golf Club refuse to come to any arrangement to settle the outstanding water debt, authorise the CEO to fully apply the Shire’s Debt Collection Policy, inclusive of restricting or denying access to the Eastern Suburbs Water Reuse Scheme.

Voting Requirement Simple Majority

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 177

SHIRE OF ESPERANCE

BUSH FIRE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

HELD ON TUESDAY 1^st APRIL 2014

COMMENCING AT 7pm

IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER

MINUTES

1 OFFICIAL OPENING

Gavin Harris opened the meeting and thanked everyone for their attendance.

As this is the first meeting since the Local Government elections in October, a Chairperson needs to be elected. Mr Harris called for nominations.

Cr Victoria Brown was nominated by Peter Harkness, seconded by Jeff Halford

There being no further nominations, Cr Brown was appointed Chairperson.

Mr Harris left the meeting 7.05pm

2 ATTENDANCE

2.1 Meeting Delegates

Cr Victoria Brown Shire of Esperance

Brian Welke Cascade Bush Fire Brigade

Lyndon Mickel Condingup Bush Fire Brigade

Andrew McDonald Coomalbidgup Bush Fire Brigade

Peter Luberda Dalyup Bush Fire Brigade

Jeff Halford Gibson Bush Fire Brigade

Simon Schlink Howick Bush Fire Brigade

Peter Harkness Mt Beaumont Bush Fire Brigade

Ashley Stewart Neridup Bush Fire Brigade

Chook Henderson Pink Lake Bush Fire Brigade

John Durdin Quarry Rd Bush Fire Brigade

Rory Graham Salmon Gums Bush Fire Brigade

Daren Curnow Scaddan Bush Fire Brigade

Dale Burgess Six Mile Hill Bush Fire Brigade

Ian Hesford Southern Mallee Bush Fire Brigade

John Rose EESU

2.2 Ex Officio

Tom Brown Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

Kingsley Scott Senior Fire Control Officer – West Coast

Tom Parkins Senior Fire Control Officer – Urban Rural

Gavin Wornes DFES, Esperance

Mel Ammon CESC, Shire of Esperance

2.3 Observers

Paul Pratt Quarry Rd Bush Fire Brigade

Michael Sainty Pink Lake Bush Fire Brigade

Blake Halford Gibson Bush Fire Brigade

Dave Mills Gibson Bush Fire Brigade

Anthony McDonald Howick Bush Fire Brigade

Lonica Collins Fire and Rescue Service

Brandon Coney-Lax Fire and Rescue Service

Wes Graham Dalyup Bush Fire Brigade

Chris Hallam Southern Mallee Bush Fire Brigade

Roger Nankivell Condingup Bush Fire Brigade

2.4 Guests

Trevor Ayers Manager of Economic and Business Development

Shire of Esperance

3 APOLOGIES & NOTIFICATION OF GRANTED LEAVE OF ABSENCE

4 DECLARATION OF MEMBERS INTERESTS

4.1 Declarations of Financial Interests – Local Government Act Section 5.60a

4.2 Declarations of Proximity Interests – Local Government Act Section 5.60b

4.3 Declarations of Impartiality Interests – Admin Regulations Section 34c

5 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

That the Minutes of the previous Bush Fire Advisory Committee Meeting held on 3^rd September 2013, be confirmed as a true and correct record. Minutes Attached at appendix 1

Moved: Ashley Stewart

Seconded: Chook Henderson

CARRIED

6 BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES

6.1 Changing of Prohibited Burning Times

Areas are assigned Zones by which Prohibited Burning times are allocated. Esperance is within Zone 2. Date wise this Zone provides is the shortest timeframe (1^st November – 31^st January) for the Prohibited Burning period. Application can be made to DFES to shorten this time as conditions provide, if required.

Recommendation

That Council write a letter to the Legislative Review Committee seeking the ability for stubble burning to be undertaken, at local discretion, during Prohibited Burning time with strict conditions issued under a permit.

Moved : Rory Graham

Seconded : Ashley Stewart

CARRIED

7 REPORTS

7.1 Chief Bush Fire Control Officer – Tom Brown

· Minister Visit – 31^st January

- 30 minutes to discuss some local issues

- TFB issues raised, will be referred back to the Commissioner

· Weekend 000 calls, acknowledge Tom Parkins for his effort and assistance

· Excellent response times. We are providing and fantastic service to the community

· Extension of burning restrictions

- Shire very dry, excluding Salmon Gums and far East due to some good summer rain

- Look to continue extending restricted burning until some decent rain arrives.

7.2 DFES Area Officer – Gavin Wornes

· Training

- Seasonal Workers Seminars, AIIMS Training with EESU and Urban Rural Training Exercise carried out.

- Fire Blankets have been distributed. There is a training package, however with the arrival of the blankets it was deemed more important to get the blankets in trucks and training to be carried out over the winter period.

- Intro to Fire and FCO Courses to be run in July, August and Sept. Info to be sent out.

- Machine Supervision training course to be offered

- Advanced Bush Fire training course to be offered

· Mitigation – Greater Western Woodland

- Track construction and maintenance has been carried out

· Esperance Noongar Agreement

- There are no restrictions to the response capability during a fire, however advice needs to be provided to the Esperance Noongar Group with regard to the location of the fire and newly formed tracks as a result of the fire.

- Prior to carrying out mitigation works, advice needs to be sought from the Esperance Noongar Group

· Office of Bush Fire Risk Management

- Department within DFES overseeing risk management

- Is looking at local permits and investigating some issues

- Extra vigilance required with permitted burns including plantations

· Local Conditions

- Very dry, relatively uneventful season

- Lack of unsettled weather patterns. Season started with some thunderstorm activity through November, but did not continue

- The April soil dryness index is at an 8 year high

· Russell Gould’s retirement

- Russell has retired as of 28^th March 2014 after 40 years with the Bush Fires Board, FESA and DFES. He provided great support to the Esperance region and will be sorely missed in this role.

ACTION ITEM

Mel to write a Letter of Appreciation to Russell Gould thanking him for his support to the Esperance bushfire network over many years.

7.3 DPaW Officer – No report tabled

7.4 Emergency Services Coordinator – Mel Ammon

· DOAC Meeting – Shire of Plantagenet 27/3/14

- The burning of Blue Gum plantations is a concern across the Great Southern region. Most Shires are working toward having Guidelines to be met by the landowner prior to burning the plantations.

- Some Shires are reporting ongoing issues with Western Power infrastructure with as many as 7 pole top fires reported on one day. I advised that through Horizon Power and their pole and insulator replacement program pole top fires have been almost non existent over recent years.

· Emergency Services Levy

- Truck servicing is paramount. Through the acquittal process, DFES is monitoring truck servicing and the works being carried out. When completing the acquittal this year, invoices for truck servicing will need to be included. Please ensure all trucks are serviced prior to the end of the financial year.

- After a quiet year, is the 4^th quarter allocation required by all Brigades? As per a couple of years go, by withholding the 4^th quarter payment from Brigades who do not require it, this money can be used for bulk purchasing of foam and other equipment that ordinarily would not be budgeted for, i.e. roadside signage.

- If the money is required by a Brigade for justifiable ESL expenditure, it will be provided. Truck servicing, PPE, fuel etc are the priority and should be carried out or included in any consideration prior to advising whether the last payment is or isn’t required.

ACTION ITEM

Mel to write to Brigades asking if 4^th Quarter payment is required.

· Roadside Signage

- Some examples of signage were provided to the meeting

- A Stop/Slow lollipop sign approx $100 per sign

- An A frame 900 x 600 (AS) reflective sign reading “Slow Down, Firefighters Ahead” or “Smoke over Road” approx $200 per sign. Bulky to store on truck and may need to be pegged down.

- A nylon roll up sign with 2 x 16mm rod reading “Slow Down, Firefighters Ahead” or “Smoke over Road” approx $120 per sign. Easier to store on truck (roll up in PVC pipe with rods), not available in reflective material, labour intensive to erect as rods need to be hammered in.

- Depending on money available, this project may be rolled out over a couple of years to get all Brigades full equipped with a full set of signs. Priority Brigades will be located along highways.

ACTION ITEM

Mel to write to Brigades requesting road signage preference (i.e. A frame or Nylon). In the first round of purchases only one kind of sign will be ordered – majority rules as per feedback.

7.5 Association of Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades – Kingsley Scott

Mr Scott provided an report of the issues being discussed by the Association of Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades. Any items of interest, can be further discussed with Mr Scott.

8 GENERAL BUSINESS

8.1 Bush Fire Advisory Committee Terms of Reference

Trevor Ayers to explained the BFAC Term of Reference and how the Committee should be operating. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of voting rights by the Chief, Deputy Chief and Senior Fire Control Officers at Bush Fire Advisory Committee meetings.

RECOMMENDATION

It be recommended to Council that the Terms of Reference for the Bush Fire Advisory Committee be changed to read:

“ Membership

Committee Members (Voting)

1 x Elected Member

1 x Delegate as nominated by each Bush Fire Brigade in the Shire of Esperance

Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

1 x Senior Bush Fire Control Officer for each Bush Fire Zone in the Shire of Esperance

Ex-Officio Members (non-voting)

Community Emergency Services Co-ordinator

Area Officer for the Dept of Fire and Emergency Services

Executive Officer

Director Engineering Services or their nominee”

Moved : Andrew McDonald

Seconded : John Durdin

CARRIED

8.2 Election of Senior Fire Control Officers

An election was held to appoint the following positions:

· Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

Nominated : Tom Brown by Rory Graham, seconded Peter Harkness

Tom Brown elected

· Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

Nominated : Ashley Stewart by Andrew McDonald, seconded Peter Luberda

Ashley Stewart elected

· Senior Fire Control Officers

- West Zone

Nominated : Brian Welke by Andrew McDonald, seconded by Ashley Stewart

Brian Welke elected

- West Coast Zone

Nominated : Kingsley Scott by Ashley Stewart, seconded by Peter Luberda

Kingsley Scott elected

- North Zone

Nominated : Ross Doney by Rory Graham, seconded by Peter Luberda

Ross Doney elected

- East Zone

Nominated : Gavin Egan by Ashley Stewart, seconded by Peter Harkness

Gavin Egan elected

- East Coast Zone

Nominated : Andrew Middleton by Ashley Stewart, seconded by Andrew McDonald

Andrew Middleton elected

- Urban Rural Zone

Nominated : Tom Parkins by Chook Henderson, seconded by John Rose

Tom Parkins elected

· Deputy to the Senior Fire Control Officers

- West Zone

Nominated : Will Carmody by Ashley Stewart, seconded by Brian Welke

Will Carmody elected

- West Coast Zone

Nominated : Andrew McDonald by Ashley Stewart, seconded by Peter Luberda

Andrew McDonald elected

- North Zone

Nominated : Rory Graham by Ashley Stewart, seconded by Chook Henderson

Rory Graham elected

- East Zone

Nominated : Peter Harkness by Ashley Stewart, seconded by Andrew McDonald

Peter Harkness elected

- East Coast Zone

Nominated : Anthony McDonald by Peter Harkness, seconded by Ashley Stewart

Anthony McDonald elected

- Urban Rural Zone

Nominated : Peter Rowe by Chook Henderson, seconded by Ashley Stewart

Peter Rowe elected

RECOMMENDATION

That Council authorises the following appointments in accordance with the Bush Fire Act 1954 as Bush Fire Control Officers for the Shire of Esperance :

Chief Bush Fire Control Officer : Tom Brown

Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer : Ashley Stewart

Senior FCO – West Zone : Brian Welke

Senior FCO – West Coast Zone : Kingsley Scott

Senior FCO – North Zone : Ross Doney

Senior FCO – East Zone : Gavin Egan

Senior FCO – East Coast Zone : Andrew Middleton

Senior FCO – Urban Rural Zone : Tom Parkins

Deputy Senior FCO – West Zone : Will Carmody

Deputy Senior FCO – West Coast Zone : Andrew McDonald

Deputy Senior FCO – North Zone : Rory Graham

Deputy Senior FCO – East Zone : Peter Harkness

Deputy Senior FCO – East Coast Zone : Anthony McDonald

Deputy Senior FCO – Urban Rural Zone : Peter Harkness

Moved : Ashley Stewart

Seconded : Chook Henderson

CARRIED

8.3 Burning of Tree Plantations

With the sale of the Blue Gum Plantations, many farmers are planning on knocking the trees down and burning them. Some of these plantations are on large land holdings and it is felt that some guidance should be provided for burning these areas.

At the meeting of the Senior Fire Control Officers, a guideline paper was developed, and has since been used at the Dell A’gastino fire, providing some learnings and minor changes, as follows;

· Permit required for all burns

· Maximum burn area – change to 500ha

· Remove “Fuel configuration to be in windrows” line

· Maps to be distributed to neighbours, Shire, DFES, DPaW local and surrounding Brigades

· Min crew of 2 per appliance. Crew to be adequately dressed i.e. boots, long pants, long sleeves as minimum. Pref fire fighting tunic

· Notifications to include Shire, FCO, DPaW, DFES, Brigades and Horizon Power

· Traffic Management to include consultation with Shire and courtesy call to Police

· To be signed off by Land Owner

· Space to be provided under each heading for land owner signoff to acknowledge consideration made to topic

· Burn Pres to be completed prior to burn. Include tick and flick for day of burn conditions and considerations

It was discussed once the season opened an element of control was lost as these Guidelines would not be required to be completed. Additionally concerns were raised that without a permit, there would be no control over how many plantation fires could be lit at one time.

The Committee feels a Shire Policy on the burning of Blue Gum Plantations would be beneficial in order to ensure the local Brigades were aware of what was happening in the area and that farmers were carrying our some checks prior to the fire being lit.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council implement a Policy on burning Blue Gum Plantations to include the need for a permit to be issued and the completion of the Plantation Guidelines be included as a condition of the Permit.

Moved : Dale Burgess

Seconded : Chook Henderson

CARRIED

8.4 Ban on Stubble Slashing

Several enquiries have been made this season by slashing contractors as to why there is a ban on slashing during Christmas and New Year, but harvest can continue.

This Ban has been in place since 2008, and was recommended due to the risks involved with slashing and the lack of personnel around during this time. The decision was made over several BFAC’s during 2007 and 2008 and feedback was sought from Brigades.

It was discussed that farmers are relying more on contractors to carry out slashing and these Bans are preventing people from carrying out their business. Precautions are in place and communicated through the annual fire breaks notice. The number of fires that have started from slashing has reduced in the past three years due to an increased awareness in the risks associated with slashing during the dry periods and added precautions being taken.

It was agreed by the Committee that the restriction on slashing between the Christmas and New Year period should be removed.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council amend the Council Policy on Post Harvest Stubble Slashing to no longer include the total ban on stubble slashing between 23^rd December and 3^rd January annually.

Moved : Rory Graham

Seconded : Peter Harkness

CARRIED

8.5 Coomalbidgup Telephone Exchange

The Coomalbidgup BFB have experienced difficulties with communications as the local telephone exchange loses power and landline and mobile phones do not work.

Andrew McDonald advised the meeting that discussions with Telstra have seen an improvement in the service, however concerns still remain over the reliability of the Telstra tower.

Further discussions found that mobile phone reception across the Shire had diminished. As emergency responders telephone contact is the most important method of communications within Brigades and over the wider area.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council write to Telstra explaining the concerns of emergency response agencies with regard to it’s aging and rundown infrastructure and the unreliable nature of telephone exchanges within the Shire of Esperance.

Moved : Andrew McDonald

Seconded : Peter Luberda

CARRIED

8.6 Permit Issuing Books

A letter was received from John Hallam, Permit Issuing Officer for Southern Mallee Brigade, outlining his concerns about the new Permit to Set Fire to the Bush books. His points of concern include :

· No space to specify the type of fire the permit allows i.e. stubble burn, chaff dumps, leaf litter etc

· Pre ticked boxes are not conducive to the arrangements within the Shire.

· The “other conditions” box is too small restricting additional information from being added.

Mr Hallam states in his letter that the new format does not suit the requirements of broadacre farming and is disgusted at the lack of consultation or input requested from Permit Issuers in rural areas.

Feedback from other Permit Issuing Officers at the meeting supported Mr Hallams concerns.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council write to Dept of Fire and Emergency Services outlining the following concerns associated with the new Permit to Set Fire to the Bush books:

· No space to specify the type of fire the permit allows i.e. stubble burn, chaff dumps, leaf litter etc

· Pre ticked boxes are not conducive to the arrangements within the Shire.

· The “other conditions” box is too small restricting additional information from being added

· The new format does not suit the requirements of broadacre farming

· The lack of consultation or input requested from Permit Issuers in rural areas.

Moved : Ian Hesford

Seconded : Rory Graham

CARRIED

9. Meeting Closure

With no further business. Cr Brown thanked everyone for their attendance and closed the meeting at 9.55pm.

The next meeting of the Bush Fire Advisory Committee is scheduled for Tuesday 2^nd September 2014, commencing at 7pm in the Council Chamber.

These Minutes were confirmed at a meeting held on _________________

Signed _______________________________

Presiding Member at the meeting at which the Minutes were confirmed.

Dated________________________________

Ordinary Council: Agenda

27 May 2014 Page 197

CORP 001: BUSHFIRE MANAGEMENT

Document Management:

Last Reviewed: April 2008, Corporate & Community Services Meeting; Ordinary Council Meeting

Last Amended: April 2008, Corporate & Community Services Meeting; Ordinary Council Meeting

Key Words: Harvesting, Machinery and Vehicle Movement Bans; Bushfire Control Officer; Landowners; Declared and Proclaimed Plants; Clover Burning Permits; Track Chaining; Post Harvest Stubble Slashing

Statute: Bushfire Act 1954

Bushfire Regulations

Objectives:

1. Fire incident management and the imposing and reviewing harvesting, machinery and vehicle movement bans within the district of the Shire of Esperance.

2. To ensure that Bushfire Control Officers have the necessary experience and training to hold these positions.

3. Management of applications from landowners to vary or to be exempt from standard firebreak requirements.

4. Conditions under which Declared or Proclaimed Plants or refuse of those plants may be burnt during the prohibited burning season.

5. To ensure consultation between the Chief Bushfire Control Officer and the CEO of the Shire of Esperance in relation to the issuing of these permits.

6. To ensure that a mobile fire fighting unit is in place when track chaining is in progress.

7. To ensure that a mobile fire fighting unit is in place when post harvest stubble slashing is in progress.

Policy

Division and Management of District for Harvest Bans and Burning Permits

That for the purposes of fire incident management and imposing and reviewing Harvesting, Machinery and Vehicle Movement Bans and the district of the Shire of Esperance be divided into six zones – West Coast Zone, West Zone, North Zone, East Zone, East Coast Zone and Urban Rural Zone and include the following sub-zones:

· West and West Coast Zones be divided into two sub-zones down the Lort River, which provides a natural boundary.

· East and East Coast Zones to be divided into two sub-zones from Mt Ridley, along Bronzewing Road, Kau Rocks Road, Kettles Road and Daniels Road.

· North Zone be divided into two by the Brigade boundaries of Southern Mallee and Salmon Gums.

· Naming of the sub-zones be by numbering 1 and 2 within each existing Zone, using Esperance town as a “hub” and numbering away from town.

Each zone is to have a 'senior' control officer referred to as a Senior Bushfire Control Officer. These officers and the Chief Bushfire Control Officer shall also be appointed Fire Weather Officers. It is accepted that the Chief Bushfire Control Officer may also be appointed a Senior in control of a zone.

The Chief Bushfire Control Officer shall have ultimate authority for fire control and imposition and review of Harvesting, Machinery and Vehicle Movement Bans although in relation to harvest bans he must make every effort to liaise and consult with the Senior Control Officers in each zone. Senior Control Officers should make every effort to be available to assist the Chief Bushfire Control Officer with the imposition and review of harvest bans.

Qualifications of Bushfire Control Officers

That a person being nominated and elected to the position of Bushfire Control Officer is required to have practical fire fighting experience and to have successfully completed the Fire and Emergency Service Authority Fire Control Officers (FCO) Course within twelve (12) months of being appointed and to undergo subsequent refresher training every 5 years.

Exemption/Variation of Firebreaks

That the Chief Executive Officer in consultation with the relevant bushfire brigade captain be authorised to issue approval for applications from landowners to vary or be exempt from the standard firebreak requirements, provided applications satisfy conditions specified in the annual firebreak notice.

Burning of Declared and Proclaimed Plants During the Prohibited Burning Season

That Declared or Proclaimed Plant or the refuse of those plants may be burnt during the PROHIBITED BURNING PERIOD so long as the burning is carried out subject to conditions below:

Permit to burn proclaimed plants and refuse thereof

· Subject to sections 24---36 inclusive of the Bush Fire Regulations (Bush Fires Act 1954 as amended)

Permit to burn a declared plant and refuse thereof

· Subject to sections 24 and 36A of the Bush Fire Regulations (Bush Fires Act 1954 as amended)

and the following MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

· The area to be burnt does not exceed 40ha and is surrounded by a fire break to a width of not less than 10 metres.

· Provide at least one fire unit minimum 800 litres capacity and 3 people to be constantly in attendance at the burning operations from the time the fire is lit until it is completely extinguished and to assist in keeping the fire under control and prevent it from spreading beyond the land on which the burning operations are conducted.

· The fire shall not be lit except between the hours of four o'clock in the afternoon and ten o'clock in the evening and extinguished by midnight of the same day.

· The fire shall not be lit unless and until notice of intention to do so has been given at least four days before commencing the burn to:

o every occupier of land adjoining the property on which the burn is to take place.

o the Bush Fire Control Officer for the district.

o the Department of Conservation and Land Management.

o an officer or employee of each notifiable authority.

o the area to be burnt to be inspected by a Fire Control Officer for that area before any permit is issued by the Chief Executive Officer .

o the Chief Executive Officer after consultation with the inspecting Fire Control Office may impose any other condition as sees fit to prevent the escape of fire.

Authority to Issue Clover Burning Permits During Prohibited Burning Period

That the Chief Bushfire Control Officer in consultation with the Chief Executive Officer be the person responsible within the Shire of Esperance for the issuing of clover burning permits during the Prohibited Burning Period.

Track Chaining

That a mobile fire fighting unit of not less than 800 litre capacity be situated in the paddock when track chaining is in progress during the Restricted and Prohibited Burning period.

Post Harvest Stubble Slashing

That post harvest stubble slashing can only be undertaken during the Restricted and Prohibited Burning Periods under the following conditions:

· A mobile fire fighting unit of not less than 800 litres capacity be situated in the paddock whilst stubble slashing is in progress.

· A minimum of 2 x 9 litre fire extinguishers must be carried on all slashers.

· A 2-way radio communications unit must be installed on all vehicles.

There is to be a total ban on stubble slashing between 23 December and 2 January.

Guidelines for Vehicle and Machinery Movement Bans

A Harvesting, Machinery and Vehicle Movement Ban will be put in place when the Fire Danger Index

(FDI) reached 32 on the Grass land Fire Danger Meter – McArthur Mark 4.

On days a Very High fire danger or above is forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology, a radio sched will

take place at 7am, where weather conditions and a plan for the day will be established by the Senior Fire

Control officers across the Shire.

A Harvesting, Machinery and Vehicle Movement Ban will be implemented when the 32FDI is reached. A

Ban can be in place across the whole Shire or individual Zones. Lifting the Ban, when weather conditions

ease and the FDI falls below 32, can be lifted the same way.

When a Ban is implemented, it will be communicated by text message, updates on the Harvest Ban

Hotline, Facebook, the Shire Website and ABC Radio.

There will be an automatic Harvesting, Machinery and Vehicle Movement Ban is place on Christmas Day

and New Years Day annually.

The following definitions shall apply to the guidelines on the ban if vehicle and machinery movement under Regulation 38A of the Bush Fires Act.

Laneway: A laneway is defined as having a constructed, trafficable surface, a minimum of three (3) metres wide, free of all inflammable material. Overhanging vegetation has to be pruned back so as not to come into contact with parts of a vehicle.

Mobile fire fighting unit: A mobile fire fighting unit is defined as a vehicle fitted with a 400 litre tank, an operational fire fighting pump and radio communications.

Harvest Ban: A ban on the operation of all grain harvesting vehicles and machines within a Shire or part of a Shire and during a time, as specified in a notice or broadcast (Reg 38A).

Total Vehicle and Machinery Movement Ban: A ban on the movement of all vehicles and machinery within a Shire or part of a Shire and during a time as specified in a notice of broadcast (Reg 38A) with the exception of the movement of vehicles and machinery on made gazetted roads, laneways and yards. The following activities are permitted provided these comply with specified conditions.

Specified Conditions

1. Loading and offloading of grain, fertiliser and feed is only permitted on sites which are approved and registered by Council on an annual basis and which are clear of all inflammable material save live standing trees to a radius of at least 25 metres. A mobile fire fighting unit shall be in attendance at all times and accompany the grain carting vehicle when travelling on a laneway between the registered site and a made gazetted road.

(Please note that an owner or occupier of a site may appeal to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer in cases where approval was not granted or granted subject to additional conditions).

2. Water carting for stock and domestic purposes provided it is accompanied by a mobile fire fighting unit, or alternatively, the water carting vehicle acts as the mobile fire fighting unit and meets minimum specifications (this also requires the retention of 400 litre of water at all times).

3. All necessary travel within piggeries, sheep or cattle feed lots, provided this is undertaken in a mobile fire fighting unit.

4. All necessary carting of live stock, provided that such a vehicle is accompanied by a mobile fire fighting unit.

5. Activities which received specific exemptions from Council or a Chief Bush Fire Control Officer.

All other activities or operations may only be undertaken during Total Vehicle and Machinery Movement Bans after approval has been granted by Council. Approval has to be sought on an individual basis. Approval may be subject to specified conditions. It should be noted that approval may not be granted.

Burning of Blue Gum Plantations

A Permit to Burn must be sought by the landowner from a Permit Issuing Officer within the Brigade area prior to the burning of Blue Gum Plantations. A standard condition of this permit will include the completion of the Burning Blue Gum Plantation Guidelines – Version 2 April 2014 (Attached at Appendix 2)

REGISTRATION FORM

LOADING AND OFF LOADING SITE

SHIRE OF ..............................................

Fire Season: .........................................

Location Address:	Owner/Occupier Address:
Location Number:	Name:
Nearest Road:	Residential Address:
Locality:	Postal Address: ________________________________ Phone No:

Diagram of Location/Site

Minimum specifications for a registered loading/offloading site are an area of at least twenty-five (25) metre radius free of all inflammable material save live standing trees, with a constructed roadway or laneway between the site and a made gazetted road clear of all inflammable material to a width of three (3) metres.

Loading and offloading on this site as well as travel to and from this site is permitted during vehicle movement bans provided that a mobile operational fire fighting unit (as specified in Council’s regulations) is in attendance during loading and offloading operations and accompanies the vehicle on laneways between the registered site and a made gazetted road.

(Please note that additional fire safety conditions may be specified.

The above site and laneway meets/does not meet minimum conditions (delete as appropriate).

Inspected by .......................................... Rank ................................... Date: .............

The registration has to be reviewed annually.

Comments or Additional Conditions .............................................................................

......................................................................................................................................

------------------------------------------------ Policy Ends ------------------------------------------------

14. Motions of which Notice has been Given

Nil

15. MEMBERS QUESTIONS WITH OR WITHOUT NOTICE

16. URGENT BUSINESS APPROVED BY DECISION

17. MATTERS BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

18. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

19. CLOSURE

a View.	Application - Twilight Aerials Gymnastics Academy - Acrobatics Workshop
b View.	Application - ESCARE Vacation Program
c View.	Appliaction - Cannery Arts Centre July Kick Arts

a View.	GVROC Council Meeting Minutes - March 2014
b View.	GVROC Council Meeting Minutes - May 2014
c View.	EDRA Minutes - May 2014

Disclosure of Financial, Proximity or Impartiality Interests

Local Government Act 1995 – Section 5.65, 5.70 and 5.71 and Local Government (Administration) Regulation 34C

Declaration of Interest (Notes for Your Guidance)

Author/s	Amelia Fitzgerald	Engineering Administration Officer
Authorisor/s	Gavin Harris	Director Engineering Services

Author/s	Jennifer Parry	Manager Administration Services
Authorisor/s	Shane Burge	Director Corporate Services

Author/s	Beth O'Callaghan	Manager Financial Services
Authorisor/s	Shane Burge	Director Corporate Services

Author/s	Lynda Horn	Community Services Officer
Authorisor/s	Rod Hilton	Director Community Services

Author/s	Helen Hall	Executive Assistant
Authorisor/s	Matthew Scott	Chief Executive Officer

Author/s	Mel Ammon	Community Emergency Services Coordinator
Authorisor/s	Gavin Harris	Director Engineering Services

a View.	Burn Prescription for Plantations
b View.	Bush Fire Management