Attachments of Ordinary Council

Item: 12.6.2

Attachment d.: Minutes – GVROC Council Meeting - 8 October 2015

GVROC Council Meeting

Thursday 8 October 2015

In-Person Meeting

Councillors Conference Room, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

MINUTES

CONTENTS

1. DECLARATION OF INTEREST. 3

2. OPENING AND ANNOUNCEMENTS. 3

3. RECORD OF ATTENDANCE, APOLOGIES AND LEAVE OF ABSENCE. 3

3.1 Attendance. 3

3.2 Apologies. 4

4. GUEST SPEAKERS/PRESENTATIONS. 4

4.1 Ms Jo Del Prete, Manager Regional Services and Ms Erin Bond, Regional Manager – Goldfields Department of Sport and Recreation (8.30am) (Attachment) 4

4.2 Mr Shayne Flanagan CEO, Goldfields Esperance Development Commission (9.20am) (Attachment) 5

4.3 Hon Tony Simpson MLA, Minister for Local Government; Community Services; Seniors and Volunteering; Youth (Attachment) 5

4.4 Hon Ken Baston MLC, Member for Mining and Pastoral Region. 6

4.5 Ms Gail McGowan, Director General Department of Planning and Mr Richard Sellers, Director General Department of Mines and Petroleum.. 6

5. MINUTES OF MEETINGS. 8

5.1 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) Council held Wednesday 5 August 2015 (Attachment) 8

5.2 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) Council held Friday 28 August 2015 (Attachment) 8

5.3 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils Technical Officers Working Group held Tuesday 28 July 2015 (Attachment) 8

5.4 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils Technical Officers Working Group held Friday 4 September 2015 (Attachment) 9

5.5 Business Arising from a Meetings of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) held between July and September 2015 – Status Report 9

5.6 Matters for Noting. 9

6. GVROC FINANCE. 10

6.1 Financial Statement for 31 August 2015 and Accounts for Payment (Attachment) 10

7. GOLDFIELDS RECORDS STORAGE FACILITY - FINANCE AND OTHER MATTERS. 12

7.1 Financial Statement for the Period ending 31 August 2015. 12

7.2 Review of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility. 13

8. GVROC BUSINESS. 14

8.1 Wild Dog Control across the GVROC Region. 14

8.2 Goldfields Esperance Revitalisation Fund. 16

8.3 Increase in the Emergency Services Levy. 17

8.4 2015 Proposed Electoral Boundary Changes. 19

8.5 Meeting with the Minister for Transport on Wednesday 14 October 2015. 20

8.6 Goldfields Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint – Consultation on Draft Blueprint 21

8.7 Bonser Designs – Request to Present to GVROC. 22

8.8 Preparation of a Discussion Paper on Energy Efficient Street Lighting. 23

8.9 Invitation to Southern Rangelands Workshop in Geraldton on Thursday 29 October 2015 24

8.10 Actions arising from Discussions and Presentations at the GVROC Meeting held Thursday 8 October 2015 25

9. LATE ITEMS as notified, introduced by decision of the Meeting. 26

9.1 Review of Local Government Water Services Licensing. 26

10. FUTURE MEETINGS/FUNCTIONS. 28

11. CLOSURE OF MEETING.. 28

Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC)

An in-person meeting of the GVROC Council to be held Thursday 8 October 2015

MINUTES

1. 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 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. If you are affected by these recommendations, please excuse yourself from the meeting and do not participate in deliberations.

2. OPENING AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

In opening the meeting at 8.30am the Chair, Mayor Yuryevich, welcomed all in attendance with a special welcome to the Minister for Local Government and Communities, the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries and the Directors General for the Departments of Local Government and Communities, Planning and Mines and Petroleum.

3. RECORD OF ATTENDANCE, APOLOGIES AND LEAVE OF ABSENCE

3.1 Attendance

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

Cr Mal Cullen President, Shire of Coolgardie

Mr Paul Webb (left meeting at 12.35pm) CEO, Shire of Coolgardie

Cr Jacquie Best President Shire of Dundas

Mr Doug Stead CEO Shire of Dundas

Cr Malcolm Heasman President, Shire of Esperance

Cr Beverley Stewart Councillor, Shire of Esperance

Mr Matthew Scott CEO, Shire of Esperance

Cr Suzie Williams Councillor, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Mr Rob Radosevich A/CEO, City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Cr Patrick Hill President, Shire of Laverton

Cr Shaneane Weldon Deputy President, Shire of Laverton

Mr Steve 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 Pascoe Durtanovich (left meeting at 12.35pm) A/CEO, Shire of Menzies

Cr Jim Quadrio President Shire of Wiluna

Cr Graeme Harris Deputy President, Shire of Wiluna

Mr Dean Taylor A/CEO Shire of Wiluna

Ms Helen Westcott, Joint Executive Officer

Mr Bruce Wittber, Joint Executive Officer

3.2 Apologies

Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku

Shire of Ravensthorpe

Hon Mark Lewis MLC, Member for Mining and Pastoral Region

3.3 Guests

Hon Tony Simpson MLA, Minister for Local Government; Community Services; Seniors and Volunteering; Youth (left the meeting at 1.40pm)

Hon Ken Baston MLC, Member for Mining and Pastoral Region and Minister for Agriculture and Food; Fisheries (left the meeting at 1.15pm)

Ms Wendy Duncan MLA, Member for Kalgoorlie (left the meeting at 1.15pm)

Ms Jessica Lenney, Principal Policy Adviser to Minister Simpson (left the meeting at 1.40pm)

Ms Jennifer Matthews, Director General Local Government and Communities (left the meeting at 1.40pm)

Ms Gail McGowan, Director General Department of Planning (left the meeting at 1.40pm)

Mr Johan Gildenhuys, Planning Manager Central Region – Regional Planning and Strategy, Department of Planning (left the meeting at 1.40pm)

Mr Richard Sellers, Director General Department of Mines and Petroleum (left the meeting at 1.40pm)

Ms Jo Del Prete, Manager Regional Services Department of Sport and Recreation (left the meeting at 9.20am)

Ms Erin Bond, Regional Manager – Goldfields Department of Sport and Recreation (left the meeting at 9.20am)

Mr Shayne Flanagan CEO, Goldfields Esperance Development Commission (left the meeting at 10.09am)

Ms Jill O’Brien Manager Recreation and Regulatory Services, Shire of Coolgardie (left the meeting at 12.35pm)

Ms Sandy Donkin, Manager Community Services, Shire of Coolgardie (left the meeting at 12.35pm)

Mr Robert Connor, Manager Technical Services, Shire of Coolgardie (left the meeting at 12.35pm)

3.4 WALGA Representatives

Nil

4. GUEST SPEAKERS/PRESENTATIONS

4.1 Ms Jo Del Prete, Manager Regional Services and Ms Erin Bond, Regional Manager – Goldfields Department of Sport and Recreation (8.30am) (Attachment)

The Department of Sport and Recreation has requested an opportunity to meet with GVROC’s Member Councils as part of its consultation in reviewing its strategic plan for the next 5 years. The Department has provided the following notes with respect to this review.

Western Australia’s sport and recreation industry is a rapidly progressing one operating in an ever changing environment in all areas, and on all levels, of the sector. The industry has a commitment to strategically address the future challenges confronting it, and to capitalise on opportunities presented and/or to be unearthed in the future, through collaboration and innovation. In part, this is guided through a state-wide, industry-led and owned strategic agenda, Strategic Directions for the Western Australian Sport and Recreation Industry (SD). This provides the foundations for a coordinated and targeted industry-approach to develop and grow the Western Australian sport and recreation industry’s capability and capacity. In turn, this results in maintaining and advancing Western Australia’s status as a world leader in the field of sport and recreation.

SD6 is to guide the broader Western Australian sport and recreation industry (i.e. academic, not-for-profit, private, public) for a 5-year period comprising 2016-2020, building upon the foundations of SD 1-5 spanning the period of 1997-2015

The Department is keen to seek input from Regional Stakeholders to the SD6 process and will be doing so through forums similar to this across a number of regions. The input provided will then be fed back in to the broader industry consultation process being led by DSR.

A copy of the SD6 document forms an attachment to the meeting agenda and will be the basis discussion at the GVROC Meeting.

The presenters for this session will be Ms Jo Del Prete, Manager Regional Services and Ms Erin Bond, Regional Manager – Goldfields.

An additional document relating to the strategic plan review was also circulated to member Councils. A copy of this forms an attached the minutes of the meeting.

4.2 Mr Shayne Flanagan CEO, Goldfields Esperance Development Commission (9.20am) (Attachment)

Mr Shayne Flanagan CEO, Goldfields Esperance Development Commission (GEDC), has requested time to meet with Member Councils to discuss the draft Goldfields-Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint which is now out for public comment. The Consultation period runs from 16 September through to 11 November 2015.

A copy of the PowerPoint presentation given by Shayne Flanagan forms an attachment to the minutes of the meeting.

4.3 Hon Tony Simpson MLA, Minister for Local Government; Community Services; Seniors and Volunteering; Youth (Attachment)

As Member Councils are aware, the Minister for Local Government and Communities, Hon Tony Simpson MLA, was invited by GVROC to attend its January 2015 Meeting. Unfortunately due to other commitments at the time the Minister was unable to attend. GVROC’s October meeting was the first available date for the Minister to meet with Member Councils.

The Minister has been provided with a number of topics to be discussed during his meeting with Member Councils, including:

§ CEO’s pay – re recent comments by the Premier that Local Government CEOs are paid excessively;

§ Level of rates charged by Local Government re recent comments by the Premier that Council rates are too high – Member Councils are interested in the Minister’s views as to what evidence there is to base this view on. Member Councils would also be interested in hearing from the Minister as to what strategies he believes would assist in lowering the level of rates currently imposed by Councils across the region;

§ Involvement of the Auditor General in the Local Government audit process;

§ Compulsory elected member training;

§ Section 6.40 of the Local Government Act and specifically the ambiguity of the Act in relation to a local government having to refund rates when a mining lease/tenement is surrendered.

§ Municipal and essential services provision in discrete Aboriginal Communities – currently Local Government is not part of the Strategic Leadership Groups that have been established to oversee the reform of service provision to discrete Aboriginal communities. They will, however, be asked to participate in the District Leadership Groups being established as part of the governance framework for the reform process. Will the Department of Local Government and Communities have any role in this group?

§ Ageing in the bush;

§ Access to child care in regional and remote WA;

§ Youth services in regional and remote WA;

§ Declining numbers of volunteers;

§ The amount of red tape faced by Local Government;

§ The Goldfields Esperance Economic Blueprint - Member Councils are concerned at the delay in the Region’s Blueprint being finalised;

§ The Goldfields Esperance Revitalisation Fund – Member Councils are concerned at the process involved in determining projects for funding and the delays experienced in getting funding for projects give that the Fund was announced prior to the last State election;

§ The inability of agencies such as the Department of Environment to provide advice as they have done in the past;

§ Passage of the Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2014 (that part which deals with the establishment of regional subsidiaries); and

§ Introduction of the Revised Policy for the Gross Rental Valuation of Mining Tenements (the revised policy comes into effect on 1 October 2015 (Circular No Mo5-2015 was published on 1 October 2015. A copy of the circular forms an attachment to the meeting agenda).

4.4 Hon Ken Baston MLC, Member for Mining and Pastoral Region

As with the Minister for Local Government and Communities, GVROC extended an invitation to the Hon Ken Baston MLC to attend its January 2015 Meeting. Unfortunately due to other commitments at the time Mr Baston was unable to attend, with GVROC’s October meeting the first available date for him to meet with Member Councils.

Mr Baston has been provided with a number of topics to be discussed during his meeting with Member Councils, including:

§ Agriculturally based economic development for the region;

§ The recent decision by the Department of Agriculture not to lead the agriculture land release initiative as detailed in the Esperance Sub-regional Economic Development Plan (draft). Though a SuperTown project, the GEDC are currently leading the project, and despite the Shire’s of Esperance, Dundas and Ravensthorpe (and support from GVROC as a whole) endorsing the document, the GEDC will not finalise the document until they can find a state agency to lead this one initiative;

§ Biosecurity;

§ Further information on the dissolution of the Pastoral Board and the establishment of the advisory board that will replace it;

§ The Goldfields Esperance Economic Blueprint - Member Councils are concerned at the delay in the Region’s Blueprint being finalised;

§ The inability of agencies such as the Department of Environment to provide advice as they have done in the past; and

§ Passage of the Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2014 (that part which deals with the establishment of regional subsidiaries).

4.5 Ms Gail McGowan, Director General Department of Planning and Mr Richard Sellers, Director General Department of Mines and Petroleum

GVROC’s Member Councils have had a number of long-running concerns around planning across the region, in particular the State Government’s current policy restricting development of land within a gazetted townsite over which mineral claims have been lodged and its negative impact on Councils across the region.

This concern culminated in the GVROC Chair writing to the Department of Planning’s Director General to invite her to meet with GVROC Council in order that she could hear the concerns of Member Councils.

Ms Gail McGowan, Director General Department of Planning and Mr Richard Sellers, Director General Department of Mines and Petroleum have accepted the GVROC’s invitation to meet and discuss these concerns. Ms McGowan and Mr Sellers have been provided with a number of topics to be discussed during their meeting with Member Councils, including:

§ Town Planning Regulations 2015 and the potential adverse impact upon a number of Councils throughout the State now that a transportable dwelling is now included in the definition of a single house;

§ Seek an update on mining rates in general, not just the issue of GRV rates on mining, petroleum and resource interests. An update on the review on the GRV rates issue should also be sought; and

§ Discuss Member Councils concern regarding the State Government’s policy with respect to mineralisation and its negative impact on the towns with mineral claims across the townsite, in particular the ongoing negative impact on their attempts to foster economic development initiatives within their communities.

5. MINUTES OF MEETINGS

5.1 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) Council held Wednesday 5 August 2015 (Attachment)

Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Wednesday 5 August 2015 have previously been circulated to Member Councils.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Wednesday 5 August 2015 be confirmed as a true and correct record of proceedings.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Heasman Seconded: Cr Williams

That the Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Wednesday 5 August 2015 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) Council held Friday 28 August 2015 (Attachment)

Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 August 2015 have previously been circulated to Member Councils.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 August 2015 be confirmed as a true and correct record of proceedings.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Heasman Seconded: Cr Williams

That the Minutes of the GVROC Council Meeting held Friday 28 August 2015 be confirmed as a true and correct record of proceedings, subject to the inclusion in the attendance of Cr Heasman President, Shire of Esperance.

CARRIED

5.3 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils Technical Officers Working Group held Tuesday 28 July 2015 (Attachment)

Minutes of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Tuesday 28 July 2015 have previously been circulated to Member Councils.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Minutes of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Tuesday 28 July 2015 be received.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Heasman Seconded: Cr Williams

That the Minutes of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Tuesday 28 July 2015 be received.

CARRIED

5.4 Minutes of a Meeting of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils Technical Officers Working Group held Friday 4 September 2015 (Attachment)

Minutes of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Friday 4 September 2015 have previously been circulated to Member Councils.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Minutes of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Friday 4 September 2015 be received.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Heasman Seconded: Cr Williams

That the Minutes of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group Meeting held Friday 4 September 2015 be received.

CARRIED

5.5 Business Arising from a Meetings of the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils (GVROC) held between July and September 2015 – Status Report

The Executive Officer will provide a report to the meeting.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Executive Officer’s report be received.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Heasman Seconded: Cr Williams

That the Executive Officer’s report be received.

CARRIED

5.6 Matters for Noting

1. Unconfirmed Minutes from a Goldfields Esperance District Emergency Management Committee Minutes held Wednesday 2 September 2015; and

2. Goldfields Esperance District Emergency Management Contact List as at 2 September 2015;

RECOMMENDATION:

That the documents listed in Item 5.6 be received.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Heasman Seconded: Cr Williams

That the documents listed in Item 5.6 be received.

CARRIED

6. GVROC FINANCE

6.1 Financial Statement for 31 August 2015 and Accounts for Payment (Attachment)

From Executive Officer

Background:

Presenting the unaudited financial statement for the period 1 July 2015 to 31 August 2015 and the accounts for payment for the period 1 August 2015 to 30 September 2015

Financial Statement:

The Executive Officer provides the following comment:

1. Account 501 - Members subscriptions – at the 30 September three Member Councils had not paid their annual subscription.

2. Account 502 – Members subscriptions Goldfields District Display – see previous note

3. Accounts 1513 and 1514 – Executive Officer Services – payment for Executive Officer Services and expenses incurred such as travel and accommodation.

4. Account 512 - Project General Contributions - at the 30 September three Member Councils had not paid their Contribution.

5. Account 515 - DLG Grant Asset Management – these funds have been transferred from the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. During August 2015 the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder transferred the balance of the grant funds to GVROC to administer.

6. Account 1836 – Sponsorship Goldfields District Display – expenditure to assist the preparation of the Royal Show District Display.

7. Account 1848 – DLG Asset Management Business Case – the management of this project has recently transferred to GVROC.

Accounts Paid:

Cheque	Date	Payee	For	Amount incl GST
EFT	030815	BHW Consulting	Reimbursement for: § GVROC Meeting 19 June 2015, § GVROC Meeting 28 July 2015 § Professional Services February, March , April, May and June 2015	16,458.97
EFT	170815	Up to Date Accounting	Accounting July 2015	475.20
EFT	110915	WALGA	Catering GVROC Meeting LG Week	660.00
EFT	110915	Goldfields Tourism Network	Contribution Royal Show District Display	13,200.00
TOTAL $30,794.17

RECOMMENDATION:

1. That the Statement of Financial Position for the period ending 31 August 2015, as attached, be received.

2. That the Accounts Paid for the period 1 August 2015 to 30 September 2015 totalling $30,794.17 be approved.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Hill Seconded: Cr Harris

1. That the Statement of Financial Position for the period ending 31 August 2015, as attached, be received.

2. That the Accounts Paid for the period 1 August 2015 to 30 September 2015 totalling $30,794.17 be approved.

CARRIED

7. GOLDFIELDS RECORDS STORAGE FACILITY - FINANCE AND OTHER MATTERS

7.1 Financial Statement for the Period ending 31 August 2015

Reporting Officer: Rob Radosevich, A/CEO City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Yvette Hargreaves, Manager Goldfields Records Storage Facility

Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: No interest to disclose

Date: 30 September 2015

Attachments: Financial Statement for the Goldfields Records Storage Facility for the period ending 31 August 2015

Background:

The A/CEO City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder will provide comment on the financial statement for the Goldfields Records Storage Facility.

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment required.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Provisional Financial Statement for period ending 31 August 2015 for the Goldfields Records Storage Facility, as attached, be received.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Hill Seconded: Cr Harris

That the Provisional Financial Statement for period ending 31 August 2015 for the Goldfields Records Storage Facility, as attached, be received.

CARRIED

7.2 Review of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility

Reporting Officer: Rob Radosevich, A/CEO City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: No interest to disclose

Date: 30 September 2015

Attachments: Records Facility Report 2015

City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder 15/16 Budget Working Document

Background:

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has reviewed the operations of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility (the Facility), preparing a report for GVROC. The report provides both an update on the facility and options to consider regarding its future.

A copy of the report forms an attachment to the meeting agenda.

A copy of the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s Working Budget for the 2015/2016 year also forms an attachment to the meeting agenda.

Executive Officer Comment:

The report identifies that the Facility is well managed, with income increasing and expenditure just below budget expectations.

The report provides four options regarding the future of the Facility, recommending Option 1 be adopted. Option 1 provides for GVROC to continue to operate the Facility and for all Member Councils to allocate the required funds ($16,000 per Council as in previous years) for its continued operation in the 2015/2016 financial year. Option 1 also provides for further review in 12 months time.

Consultation: The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

1. That GVROC continue to operate the Goldfields Records Storage Facility;

2. That the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder invoice GVROC’s Member Councils $16,000 each for the continued operation of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility for the 2015/2016 year;

3. That GVROC’s Member Councils look to include a further allocation of $16,0000 in their 2016/2017 Budgets; and

4. That a further review of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility be undertaken no later than 31 October 2016.

EN BLOC

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Hill Seconded: Cr Harris

1. That GVROC continue to operate the Goldfields Records Storage Facility;

2. That the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder invoice GVROC’s Member Councils $16,000 each for the continued operation of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility for the 2015/2016 year;

3. That GVROC’s Member Councils look to include a further allocation of $16,0000 in their 2016/2017 Budgets; and

4. That a further review of the Goldfields Records Storage Facility be undertaken no later than 31 October 2016.

CARRIED

8. GVROC BUSINESS

8.1 Wild Dog Control across the GVROC Region

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 21 August 2015

Attachments: Correspondence to GVROC from the Chair of the Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on Public Administration

Background:

The issue of wild dog control across the Goldfields Esperance Region is one that has been discussed on a number of occasions by Member Councils, most recently at the GVROC Meeting held on Friday 19 June 2015.

At this time the Shire of Coolgardie brought to Member Councils attention the fact that the Sporting Shooter Association Australia (SSAA) runs a program where recreational shooters with land owner permission will come out and “hunt out” feral animals. With pastoral industry viability severely constrained because of the large numbers of wild dogs across the pastoral region, the Shire of Coolgardie considered there may be merit in GVROC meeting with representatives from the SSAA to discuss whether such programs might be of value across the GVROC region.

In addition to the above, the Shire of Coolgardie also drew to Member Councils attention the Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on Public Administration Report on Recreational Hunting Systems. One of the Committee’s major recommendations was that the State Government should introduce a two-year trial of recreational hunting on public land in Western Australia. It also recommended that the trial should be located in two separate areas, such as a reclaimed pastoral station in the Mining and Pastoral region and a state forest in the South West land division.

On the basis of the information provided, the Shire of Coolgardie proposed that GVROC should consider supporting a trial at a location within the GVROC region.

Following discussion of the matter GVROC resolved as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Cullen Seconded: Cr Goldfinch

That an invitation be extended to Hon Liz Behjat MLC, Chair Standing Committee on Public Administration, to meet with GVROC at its August Meeting to discuss the Committee’s report into recreational hunting in Western Australia.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

An invitation was extended to Hon Liz Behjat MLC, Chair Standing Committee on Public Administration, to meet with GVROC at its August Meeting. She was, however, unable to attend.

Ms Bejhat, has, however, written to GVROC. A copy of her letter forms an attachment to the meeting agenda.

The Executive Officer seeks direction from Member Councils as to whether they wish to pursue the matter further with the Minister for the Environment, Hon Albert Jacob MLA.

Executive Officer Additional Comment:

Cr Cullen noted that any further action on this matter might be best addressed once the wild dog management strategy is released for public comment in November 2015.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

The matter is presented for consideration by Member Councils.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Cullen Seconded: Cr Quadrio

That the matter lie on the table until the wild dog strategy is released for public comment.

CARRIED

8.2 Goldfields Esperance Revitalisation Fund

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 30 September 2015

Attachments: Nil

Background:

The allocation of funding for projects through the Goldfields Esperance Revitalisation Fund (GERF) has been a topic of discussion and concern for much of the funding program’s existence. The matter was discussed by the Technical Officers Working Group when it met on Friday 4 September 2015 at which time 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:

1. The GVROC Chair write to the Chair of the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission to seek both an update on every project that Member Councils have submitted for funding through the Goldfields Esperance Revitalisation Fund and the reasons why some projects have not met with success; and

2. GVROC seek an urgent meeting with the Board of the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission to discuss the lack of progress in the allocation of funds from the Goldfields Esperance Revitalisation Fund and release of the region’s economic blueprint.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Williams Seconded: Cr Heasman

That:

CARRIED

8.3 Increase in the Emergency Services Levy

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 30 September 2015

Attachments: Nil

Background:

In the 2015/2016 State Budget the Emergency Services Levy (ESL) increased by 10.6%.

The increase was noted on the WALGA President’s June Report as follows;

Increase to the Emergency Services Levy

The State budget has authorised an increase in the Emergency Services Levy (ESL) in the order of 10.8%. The Association is concerned that this represents an extraordinarily large increase when compared to rises in previous years.

WALGA understands that this substantial increase in the ESL is to offset a significant reduction in funding of the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) from consolidated revenue. This increase will see an additional $31.3 million injected into the DFES budget via ESL funds, whilst the budget papers reflect a $15.6 million reduction from consolidated revenue.

The Association has written to the Minister for Emergency Services, seeking clarification on the funding allocation via ESL as we understand the ESL budget increase is primarily due to an extension of activities funded by the ESL. The Association has requested a meeting with the Minister and the Fire Services Commissioner to clarify the additional activities and the impact these will have on funding for Local Governments in 2015/16.

Whilst the above comment was made no outcome of the correspondence and/or meeting with the Minister for Emergency Services has been provided to Member Councils.

In an article in the West Australian Newspaper (30 July 2015) it was commented that the ESL has increased by 81% in seven years but “that hadn’t resulted in the same increase in funding for the frontline because the Government quietly halved its allocations”.

The article also commented “Last financial year 78.6 per cent of DFES’s total cost of services was met by property owners through the ESL. The Government is budgeting for that proportion to reach 91.2 percent by 2018/2019.”

It would seem that the average household’s ESL has risen from $144 to $266 since the Barnett Government came to office and based on forward estimates will increase further over the next several years.

Given the ongoing increases that are likely to occur the ESL should be an issue that is pursued by WALGA to ensure that future increases are limited to CPI and that the State Government does not continue to reduce the appropriation from consolidated revenue.

Both the Central and Great Eastern Country Zones considered the impact of the ongoing increase in the ESL at their recent round of meetings. The Great Eastern Country Zone resolved as follows when it met on Friday 28 August 2015:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Hooper Seconded: Cr Strange

1. That the Great Eastern Country Zone note the continuing disproportionate increases in the Emergency Services Levy and request that WALGA develop a strategy to advocate to the State Government for a return to the original intent of the funding arrangements including an increased allocation from consolidated revenue.

2. That the Great Eastern Country Zone through its Member Councils prepares a petition to the President and Members of the Legislative Council of the Parliament of Western Australia seeking to have an inquiry into the disproportionate increases in the Emergency Services Levy and the decline in the proportion of funding from consolidated revenue.

CARRIED

The Central Country Zone passed a similar motion.

The Technical Officers Working Officers Group considered this matter when it met on Friday 4 September 2015, resolving as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Paul Webb Seconded: Jim Epis

That the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group recommend to the GVROC Council that:

1. GVROC note the continuing disproportionate increases in the Emergency Services Levy and request that WALGA develop a strategy to advocate to the State Government for a return to the original intent of the funding arrangements including an increased allocation from consolidated revenue.

2. GVROC through its Member Councils prepares a petition to the President and Members of the Legislative Council of the Parliament of Western Australia seeking to have an inquiry into the disproportionate increases in the Emergency Services Levy and the decline in the proportion of funding from consolidated revenue.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment.

RECOMMENDATION:

That GVROC:

1. note the continuing disproportionate increases in the Emergency Services Levy and request that WALGA develop a strategy to advocate to the State Government for a return to the original intent of the funding arrangements including an increased allocation from consolidated revenue.

2. through its Member Councils prepares a petition to the President and Members of the Legislative Council of the Parliament of Western Australia seeking to have an inquiry into the disproportionate increases in the Emergency Services Levy and the decline in the proportion of funding from consolidated revenue.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Harris Seconded: Cr Best

That GVROC:

2. through its Member Councils prepares a petition to the President and Members of the Legislative Council of the Parliament of Western Australia seeking to have an inquiry into the disproportionate increases in the Emergency Services Levy and the decline in the proportion of funding from consolidated revenue.

CARRIED

8.4 2015 Proposed Electoral Boundary Changes

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 29 September 2015

Attachments: GVROC Submission to the WA Electoral Commission

Background:

As Members Councils are aware, the WA Electoral Commission sought comment on proposed changes to State electorate boundaries for the next State election. The Commission has proposed significant changes that will impact on representation for regional WA. A number of the proposed changes impact upon the boundaries for Councils within GVROC.

Objections and comments to the 2015 proposed boundaries were invited, with the submission period closing on 24 August 2015.

The matter was considered by the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group when it met on Tuesday 28 July 2015, with the meeting resolving as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Richard Brookes Seconded: Ian Fitzgerald

That the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group recommend to the GVROC Council that a submission be made to the WA Electoral Commission on its recently released draft electorate boundaries for the next State election, with the submission to highlight the need to ensure adequate electoral representation for residents of regional and remote Western Australia.

CARRIED

This recommendation was adopted by GVROC Council when it met on Wednesdays 5 August.

Executive Officer Comment:

The Executive Officer prepared and lodged a submission on behalf of the GVROC by the due date.

That GVROC Technical Officers Working Group discussed completion of the submission when it met in Friday 4 September 2015 resolving as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Richard Brookes Seconded: Ian Fitzgerald

1. That GVROC endorse the submission lodged with the WA Electoral Commission on its recently released draft electorate boundaries for the next State election.

2. That copies of the GVROC submission be sent to all of the region’s parliamentary representatives.

CARRIED

A copy of the submission forms an attachment to the meeting agenda. Copies of the GVROC’s submission have recently been forwarded to all of the region’s parliamentary representatives.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That the matter be noted.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Best Seconded: Cr Harris

That the matter be noted.

CARRIED

8.5 Meeting with the Minister for Transport on Wednesday 14 October 2015

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 29 September 2015

Attachments: Nil

Background:

As Member Councils are aware, GVROC wrote to the Premier seeking a meeting to discuss the Member Councils’ concern with the ongoing cuts to road funding and its impact on country Councils.

Due to work commitments the Premier’s office advised he was unable to meet with GVROC Council. GVROC’s request was forwarded to the Minister for Transport. The Minister for Transport, Hon Dean Nalder MLA, is able to meet with Member Councils to discuss these concerns. Arrangements for the meeting are underway. Details for the meeting are provided below:

Meeting Date: Wednesday 14October 2015

Meeting Time: 10:30am to 11:30am

Meeting Venue: Minister Nalder’s office

Level 7, Dumas House, 2 Havelock Street West Perth

Executive Officer Comment:

At the time of preparing the meeting agenda the following Councils had provided advice on their attendance at the meeting and the topics they wished to raise with the Minister:

Shire of Esperance Issues around the current air services tender from the Department of Transport - the Shire shares this problem with the City of Albany

Shire of Menzies Sealing of the Menzies-Sandstone Road from Menzies to Lake Ballard

Shire of Wiluna Sealing the Goldfields Highway between Wiluna and Meekatharra

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

Noted

8.6 Goldfields Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint – Consultation on Draft Blueprint

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 22 September 2015

Attachments: Factsheet on Draft Blueprint

Background:

A draft of the Goldfields Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint has been released for public comment, with the public consultation period open until Wednesday 11 November 2015.

A copy of a factsheet providing information on the draft document forms an attachment to the meeting agenda.

Executive Officer Comment:

Given the draft Blueprint was only released in mid-September it is possible that not all Member Councils will have had an opportunity to consider the document at an Ordinary Council Meeting. This makes it problematic as to how GVROC as a whole can discuss the draft without each Member having discussed the draft.

The Executive Officer believes that GVROC should provide comment on the draft Blueprint given that it has been involved in all other stages of its development. The question is how will a submission be prepared and when can GVROC meet to discuss and “sign off” on anything that is prepared given GVROC Council does not meet again until Friday 27 November 2015 after the submission period closes.

A teleconference meeting could be scheduled in early November at which time any submission prepared could be discussed and finalised for submission to the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission prior to the public consultation period closing on 11 November.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That GVROC:

1. Prepare a submission on the draft Goldfields Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint; and

2. Hold a teleconference meeting on Friday 6 November 2015 for the purpose of reviewing and adopting a submission on the draft Goldfields Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Williams Seconded: Cr Stewart

That GVROC:

1. prepare a submission on the draft Goldfields Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint; and

2. hold a teleconference meeting on Friday 6 November 2015 commencing at 8.00am for the purpose of reviewing and adopting a submission on the draft Goldfields Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint.

CARRIED

8.7 Bonser Designs – Request to Present to GVROC

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 29 September 2015

Attachments: Information on Bonser Designs’ Goldfields Esperance Publication

Background:

Greg Willson from Bonser Designs contacted the Executive Officer BHW Consulting (BHW) regarding a soon to be released publication on the Goldfields Esperance Region.

An information sheet on the forthcoming publication forms an attachment to the meeting agenda.

The Executive Officer has also been provided with sample books similar to the book proposed for the Goldfields Esperance region. They are available for Member Councils to peruse during the meeting.

Bonser Designs have requested an opportunity to meet with Member Councils to discuss their project with them and seek their interest in using the publication as a means of showcasing the region.

The Executive Officer is advised that Bonser Designs have received favourable indications from both the Goldfields Esperance Development Commission and some of GVROC’s membership.

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That GVROC invite representatives from Bonser Designs to the first GVROC Council Meeting for 2016, scheduled to be held in Esperance on Friday 29 January 2016.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Harris Seconded: Cr Cullen

That the matter be noted and no further action be taken.

CARRIED

8.8 Preparation of a Discussion Paper on Energy Efficient Street Lighting

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: No interest to disclose

Date: 30 September 2015

Attachments: WALGA Street Lighting Discussion Paper - Submission Summary

Background:

On Friday 7 November 2014 WALGA released a discussion paper investigating energy efficient street lighting. Following release of the discussion paper WALGA sought submissions from the sector to assist in its development of a policy to assist in advocacy around the issue.

It was agreed that GVROC make a submission, with a submission being lodged in late February 2015.

WALGA has recently published a summary of the responses received from the sector in relation to energy efficient public lighting projects.

A copy of the summary forms an attachment to the meeting agenda.

Executive Officer Comment:

WALGA received submissions from officers representing 36 Local Governments, the details of which form the basis for the summary report.

The report will be used as a basis for an action plan to be developed. The action plan will be presented to State Council for approval at its December meeting.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That the WALGA Street Lighting Discussion Paper - Submission Summary be noted.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Harris Seconded: Cr Hill

That the WALGA Street Lighting Discussion Paper - Submission Summary be noted.

CARRIED

8.9 Invitation to Southern Rangelands Workshop in Geraldton on Thursday 29 October 2015

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: No interest to disclose

Date: 30 September 2015

Attachments: Nil

Background:

The Executive Officer recently received correspondence from Jane Bradley, Program Manager Southern Rangelands, extending an invitation to a member of GVROC to attend a Southern Rangelands workshop in Geraldton on Thursday 29 October 2015. To quote from the email regarding the purpose for the meeting:

“There is a lot happening on the ground and at a policy level that has an impact on the Southern Rangelands. With the roll-over of leases just completed, several new initiatives are being planned by government, and considerable work is happening in the NGO sector in the area of rangelands reform.

This workshop will provide an opportunity for stakeholders in the Southern Rangelands to share information on what they are planning/doing and learn about other initiatives which they may be able to get on-board with. The workshop is also about the group discussing the potential to work as a collective towards a common vision for the Southern Rangelands.”

Executive Officer Comment:

Southern Rangelands is hoping that someone from within GVROC will nominate to attend the workshop. RSVPs need to be with officers from Southern Rangelands by Thursday 22 October 2015 for catering purposes.

Executive Officer Additional Comment:

The Executive Officer offered to be the GVROC’s representative should that be considered appropriate.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

The matter is presented for consideration by Member Councils.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Williams Seconded: Cr Cullen

That:

1. Cr Harris be supported by GVROC as its nominated representative to the Southern Rangelands Workshop to be held in Geraldton on Thursday 29 October 2015; and

2. GVROC approve the Executive Officer attending the Workshop should Cr Harris be unable to attend.

CARRIED

8.10 Actions arising from Discussions and Presentations at the GVROC Meeting held Thursday 8 October 2015

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: No interest to disclose

Date: 1 October 2015

Attachments: Nil

Background:

Guests to the GVROC Council Meeting have been provided with a list of topics/issues that Member Councils wished to discuss with them.

Following on from these discussions Member Councils need to determine whether further action on any of these issues is required.

Executive Officer Comment:

The Executive Officer seeks direction from Member Councils as to whether there are issues which they require further work to be undertaken on following on from the meetings with:

§ Hon Tony Simpson MLA, Minister for Local Government; Community Services; Seniors and Volunteering; Youth;

§ Hon Ken Baston MLC, Member for Mining and Pastoral Region;

§ Ms Gail McGowan, Director General Department of Planning;

§ Mr Richard Sellers, Director General Department of Mines and Petroleum; and

§ Ms Jo Del Prete, Manager Regional Services and Ms Erin Bond, Regional Manager – Goldfields Department of Sport and Recreation.

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

The matter is presented for consideration by Member Councils.

Executive Officer Additional Comment:

The Executive Officer advised that the issue of the Bio-Security Forum (as proposed at the WALGA AGM) had been the subject of recent email exchange with Mr Mark Batty of WALGA. It was also noted that the Hon Ken Baston was asked a question earlier in the day about DAFWA support for the forums.

WALGA was intending to hold a number of forums across WA and it was proposed that a forum be held to coincide with the GVROC meeting in Esperance in January 2016.

It was agreed that the Executive Officer discuss with WALGA the conduct of a bio-security forum in January 2016 in Esperance to coincide with the GVROC Meeting.

It was also agreed, as result of earlier discussions, that representatives of the Department of Mines and Petroleum and Department of Planning be invited to attend the January and August meetings of GVROC.

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

9.1 Review of Local Government Water Services Licensing

Reporting Officer: Helen Westcott, Executive Officer

Disclosure of Interest: Nil

Date: 7 October 2015

Attachments: Nil

Background:

Currently the Department of Water (DoW) is undertaking a review of Local Government Water Services Licensing. The aim of the review is to:

§ Identify the extent and nature of any compliance issues in Local Government water services,

§ Assess options for reducing the regulatory burden on Local Government, and

§ Identify options for increasing the capacity of Local Government to provide the water services.

Twenty Councils across the State, including the Shire of Ravensthorpe, are currently licenced for water service provision, predominately the provision of waste water treatment (sewerage) and non-potable (re-use) water services. All of these have been contacted by the DoW and have had their issues and concerns noted as part of the review.

A major concern for some of these Councils is that the current levels of water licence and asset management systems compliance is disproportionate to the number of services that are provided with no consideration given to the administration burden it places on small local governments. The water licensing framework applies equally to all licence holders, regardless of the size and complexity of their water service.

The State Government determined in 2010 that small local government water service providers (with fewer than 1 000 connections) would not be required to pay the license fees. Instead, it was decided that these fees would be funded by the State Government. The Department of Treasury wrote to local governments on 11 July 2013 to confirm this arrangement.

The Executive Officer understands that affected Councils recognise they are exempt from the payment of fees but are more concerned at the cost of ensuring compliance with the water licensing framework being applied equally to all licence holders, regardless of the size and complexity of their water service.

WALGA Officers will be making a submission to the review and would appreciate the support of the Zones in bringing this issue to the notice of WALGA State Council before a recommendation is made to the Minister for Water.

This matter was brought to the attention of the Central Country Zone by the Shire of Brookton when it met on Friday 28 August 2015, with the Central Country Zone resolving as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Crute Seconded: Cr Lange

That the Central Country Zone advises WALGA State Council of its concerns and issues with the current regulatory and compliance burden imposed on Local Governments by the Economic Regulation Authority under the Water Services Act (2012) and seek for WALGA to advocate for a full exemption for non-metropolitan local governments with less than 1,000 connections.

CARRIED

The matter was considered at the Technical Officers Working Group held Friday 4 September 2015 where it was resolved as follows:

RESOLUTION: Moved: Ian Fitzgerald Seconded: Paul Webb

That the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group recommend to GVROC Council that GVROC advise WALGA State Council of its concerns and issues with the current regulatory and compliance burden imposed on Local Governments by the Economic Regulation Authority under the Water Services Act (2012) and seek for WALGA to advocate for a full exemption for non-metropolitan local governments with less than 1,000 connections.

CARRIED

Executive Officer Comment:

No further comment

Consultation: Nil

Voting Requirement: Simple majority

RECOMMENDATION:

That GVROC advise WALGA State Council of its concerns and issues with the current regulatory and compliance burden imposed on Local Governments by the Economic Regulation Authority under the Water Services Act (2012) and seek for WALGA to advocate for a full exemption for non-metropolitan local governments with less than 1,000 connections.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Cullen Seconded: Mr Epis

That GVROC advise WALGA State Council of its concerns and issues with the current regulatory and compliance burden imposed on Local Governments by the Economic Regulation Authority under the Water Services Act (2012) and seek for WALGA to advocate for a full exemption for non-metropolitan local governments with less than 1,000 connections.

CARRIED

10. FUTURE MEETINGS/FUNCTIONS

Friday 6 November 2015 (8.00am) – a teleconference meeting for the purpose of reviewing and adopting a submission on the draft Goldfields Esperance Regional Investment Blueprint;

Friday 27 November 2015 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Council at which the WALGA State Council Agenda for the State Council meeting to be held Wednesday 3 December 2015 will also be considered. Elections must be held at this meeting. The meeting will be in Kalgoorlie unless otherwise determined;

Friday 4 December 2015 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Technical Officers Working Group (in Kalgoorlie unless otherwise determined); and

Friday 29 January 2016 – an in-person meeting of the GVROC Council in Esperance

11. CLOSURE OF MEETING

Before closing the meeting the Chair, Mayor Ron Yuryevich, noted that this was his last meeting due to his pending retirement from Mayor of the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. He expressed his appreciation to the members of GVROC for their support during the time that he was Chair of GVROC. He wished the GVROC well for the future.

A number of members expressed their thanks to Mayor Yuryevich for his commitment to the role as inaugural Chair of GVROC.

RESOLUTION: Moved: Cr Hill Seconded: Mr Epis

That the GVROC express a vote of thanks to the retiring Chair Mayor Ron Yuryevich and wish him well for the future.

CARRIED WITH ACCLAMATION

There being no further business the Chair declared the meeting closed at 2.35pm

DECLARATION

These minutes were confirmed by the Goldfields Voluntary Regional Organisation of Councils at the meeting held on 27 November 2015

Signed _______________________________

Person presiding at the meeting at which these minutes were confirmed