Description: Maranoa Logo Process

 

Business Paper

 

General Meeting

 

Wednesday 13 August 2014

 

Roma Administration Centre

 

NOTICE OF MEETING

 

Date: 12 August 2014

 

 

Mayor:                                                   Councillor R S Loughnan

 

Deputy Mayor:                                        Councillor W S Wason

Councillors:                                            Councillor J L Chambers

                                                              Councillor R J Denton

                                                              Councillor P J Flynn

                                                              Councillor W M Newman

                                                              Councillor C J O’Neil

                                                              Councillor M L Price

                                                              Councillor D J Schefe

 

Chief Executive Officer:                          Ms Julie Reitano

 

Senior Management:                               Mr Cameron Castles (Director Infrastructure Services)

                                                              Mr Rob Hayward (Director Development, Facilities & Environmental Services)

                                                              Ms Sharon Frank (Director Corporate, Community & Commercial Services)

 

Officers:                                                 Ms Jane Frith (Coordinator Corporate Communications)

 

Please find attached agenda for the General Meeting to be held at the Roma Administration Centre on August 13, 2014 at 9.00am.

Julie Reitano

Chief Executive Officer

 


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Item       Subject

No

1            Welcome

 

2            Present/Apologies

 

3            Confirmation of Minutes

              General  23 July 2014........................................................................................................ 6

              Special Budget  23 July 2014......................................................................................... 22

 

4            Business arising from Minutes

 

5            On the Table  

 

6            Presentations/Petitions and Deputations

 

7            Consideration of notices of business

 

8            Consideration of notices of motion  

 

9            Reception of notices of motion for next meeting

 

Reports

 

10          Office of the CEO

10.1      Fourth Quarter Review - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services     33

Prepared by:      Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

Sharon Frank, Director - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services

10.2      Fourth Quarter Review - Infrastructure Services...................................... 38

Prepared by:      Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

10.3      Fourth Quarter Review - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services           43

Prepared by:      Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

10.4      Fourth Quarter Review - Office of the CEO................................................ 46

Prepared by:      Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

 

11          Corporate, Community & Commercial Services

11.1      Repeal of previously identified delegable powers under the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996.............................................................................. 51

Prepared by:      Christina Tincknell, Coordinator - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services

11.2      Community Care - Transition Process for Community Aged Care Services 53

Prepared by:      Melissa Wathen, Specialist - Community Care Transition

11.3      Consideration of Elected Member Attendance at Conferences........... 57

Prepared by:      Kelly Rogers, Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

11.4      South West Queensland Local Government Association...................... 60

Prepared by:      Kelly Rogers, Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

 

12          Infrastructure Services

12.1      Loading Zone - Arthur St, Roma................................................................... 62

Prepared by:      Kylie Fleischfresser, Specialist - Infrastructure Planning

Attachment 1:    Acknowledgement Letter to Stephen Burke Re - Loading Zones, Roma........................................................................................ 64

Attachment 2:    Request - Designated Loading Zone, Health Plus Chemists Roma     66

12.2      Airport Fees & Charges - Annual Landing & Parking Fees................... 68

Prepared by:      Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

Attachment :      Application for Annual Landing &/or Parking Charges at Roma Airport....................................................................................... 70

12.3      Origin Water Bombing Operations at Injune Airport................................ 71

Prepared by:      Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

12.4      General Aviation Apron Extension .............................................................. 75

Prepared by:      Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

12.5      Proposed WiFi installation at Roma Airport............................................... 77

Prepared by:      Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

Attachment :      Telstra WiFi Site Assessment Quotation............................ 79

 

13          Development, Facilities & Environmental Services

13.1      Local Government Boundary Anomalies................................................... 82

Prepared by:      Tanya Mansfield, Manager - Facilities

Attachment 1:    Maps - Local Government Boundary Anomolies.............. 87

Attachment 2:    Map Showing General Locality of Lots.............................. 90

Attachment 3:    Inward Correspondence - Balonne Shire Council.......... 91

13.2      Commercial Tenancy Agreement............................................................... 117

Prepared by:      Josephine Horsfall, Coordinator - Property & Legal

Attachment 1:    Commercial Tenancy Agreement..................................... 119

Attachment 2:    Blue Care Injune - Licence Agreement........................... 121

13.3      Post Event Report ......................................................................................... 126

Prepared by:      Janet Hogarth, Local Development Officer - Roma

13.4      Application to waive fees for Tourism and Events Queensland Photo Shoot.         129

Prepared by:      Megan Swords, Coordinator - Tourism

13.5      Department of Human Services - Surat Agency Contract 2014-15... 131

Prepared by:      Jacqueline  Burns, Coordinator - Libraries, Arts & Culture

Attachment :      Department of Human Services - Surat Agency Contract 2014-15     134

13.6      Allocation of Reserve - Neil Turner Weir.................................................. 141

Prepared by:      Tanya Mansfield, Manager - Facilities

Attachment :      Mitchell Neil Turner Weir - Map......................................... 143

13.7      Amendment of Reserve - Muckadilla Parkland ...................................... 144

Prepared by:      Tanya Mansfield, Manager - Facilities

Attachment :      Muckadilla Parkland - Map................................................. 146

13.8      Application for Material Change of Use - "Extractive Industry" up to 500,000 tonnes p.a. and Environmentally Relevant Activities 16(2)(b) and 16(3)(b) - Extractive and Screening Activities. File: 2014/18864....................................................... 147

Prepared by:      David Fermer, Coordinator - Planning

Attachment 1:    Body of Report...................................................................... 161

Attachment 2:    Development Plans............................................................. 176

Attachment 3:    Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Concurrence Agency Response...................................... 188

13.9      Material Change of Use - "Extractive Industry" (up to 500,000 tonnes/annum) & Environmentally Relevant Activity 16 (Extractive and Sceening Activity) File: 2014/18926........................................................................................................ 195

Prepared by:      Christopher Tickner, Town Planner

Attachment 1:    Body of Report...................................................................... 209

Attachment 2:    Development Plans............................................................. 224

Attachment 3:    Department of State Development, Infrastructure & Planning - Concurrence Agency Response...................................... 229

Attachment 4:    Department of Environment and Heritage Protection - Concurrence Agency Response............................................................... 233

13.10    Maranoa Economic Snapshot & Report - July 2014............................. 238

Prepared by:      Ryan Gittins, Specialist - Business Development

Attachment 1:    AEC Group Ltd - Maranoa Economic Snapshot - July 2014       241

Attachment 2:    AEC Group Ltd - Maranoa Economic Update (Full Report) - July 2014....................................................................................... 275

13.11    Retrospective Approval to Submit Funding Applications under the Queensland Anzac Centenary Program, Round Two.................................................. 280

Prepared by:      Susan (Sue) Sands, (Acting) Coordinator - Local Development & Council Events

13.12    Sub-Agreement for Mitchell Master Drainage Study............................. 282

Prepared by:      Susan (Sue) Sands, (Acting) Coordinator - Local Development & Council Events

 

Status Reports

 

14          Office of the CEO

 

15          Corporate, Community & Commercial Services

 

16          Corporate Services

 

17          Infrastructure Services

 

18          Commercial Business

 

19          Building, Facilities & Environmental Services

 

Next General Meeting

 

 

Confidential Items

 

In accordance with the provisions of section 275 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, a local government may resolve to close a meeting to the public to discuss confidential items that it’s Councillors or members consider it necessary to close the meeting.

 

20          Confidential Items

 

21          Confidential Items

21.1      Variation to Rates Business Agreement

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(e) contracts proposed to be made by it.

21.2      Draft Surat Grain Centre Lease

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(f) starting or defending legal proceedings involving the local government.

21.3      Deed of transfer of CNF and SRC funded housing from Economic Development Queensland to Maranoa Regional Council

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(h) other business for which a public discussion would be likely to prejudice the interests of the local government or someone else, or enable a person to gain a financial advantage.

21.4      Denise Spencer Pool

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(e) contracts proposed to be made by it.

21.5      Regional Arts Development Fund Applications from Round 1, 2014/15 Financial Year

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(h) other business for which a public discussion would be likely to prejudice the interests of the local government or someone else, or enable a person to gain a financial advantage.

21.6      Jetgo request for fee waiver at the Roma Airport

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(d) rating concessions.

21.7      Update on Organisational Restructure - Financial Services

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(a) the appointment, dismissal or discipline of employees.

21.8      Roma Airport Expansion

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(h) other business for which a public discussion would be likely to prejudice the interests of the local government or someone else, or enable a person to gain a financial advantage.

21.9      Minor Amendments to Organisational Structure

              Classification:      Closed Access

Local Government  Regulation 2012 Section 275(a) the appointment, dismissal or discipline of employees.

 

Councillor Business

 

22          Councillor Business

 

 

Closure


Minutes of the General Meeting of maranoa Regional Council held at Roma Administration Centre on 23 July 2014 commencing at 10.00am

 

ATTENDANCE

 

Mayor Cr R S Loughnan chaired the meeting with, Deputy Mayor Cr W S Wason, Cr J L Chambers, Cr R J Denton, Cr P J Flynn,  Cr C J O’Neil, Cr M L Price, Cr D J Schefe, Chief Executive Officer – Julie Reitano, Coordinator Corporate Communications – Jane Frith, and Kelly Rogers Minutes Officer in attendance.

 

AS REQUIRED

 

Director Infrastructure Services – Cameron Castles, Director Corporate, Community and Commercial Services – Sharon Frank, Manager Economic and Community Development – Ed Sims.

 

GUESTS

 

There were no guests in attendance at the meeting.

 

WELCOME

 

The Mayor welcomed all present and declared the meeting open at 9.36am.

 

APOLOGIES   

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/45

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Price

 

That an apology be received and leave of absence granted for Cr Newman for this meeting.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

 

The Mayor invited Councillors to comment on adoption of the 2014/15 Budget earlier that day, with Councillors in turn providing comments on the process, acknowledging the efforts of staff and key highlights for the coming year.

 

Confirmation of Minutes

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/46

Moved Cr Chambers                                                      Seconded Cr Wason  

 

That the minutes of the General Meeting (12-9.07.14) held on 9 July 2014 be confirmed.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

 

Business Arising FROM MiNUTES

 

There was no business arising from the minutes.

 

On the Table

 

There were no items for discussion on the table.

 

Presentations/Petitions and Deputations

 

There were no presentations/petitions or deputations at the meeting.

 

Consideration of notices of business

 

There were no notices of business for consideration.

 

Consideration of notices of motion

 

There were no notices of motion for consideration.

 

Reception of notices of motion for next meeting

 

No notices of motion were received for the next meeting.

 

Business

 

Corporate, Community & Commercial Services

 

Item Number:                                    11.1

File Number: D14/46944

Subject Heading:                         Council Initiated Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Kelly Rogers, Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

Executive Summary: 

As part of Council’s Draft Community Engagement Strategy, Council has initiated a number of Advisory Committees to seek community and stakeholder input on key projects and businesses of Council.  Feedback, or the outcome of these forums, assists Council to identify priorities, inform decisions and develop future strategies and policies.

 

This report provided a copy of the confirmed meeting minutes of the advisory committees that had held meetings during the months of May 2014 – June 2014.  

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/47

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Wason  

That Council receive and note the confirmed minutes of the following Advisory Committee Meetings:

 

  • Roma Saleyards Advisory Committee Meeting – 29/05/14
  • Airport Advisory Committee Meeting – 04/06/14

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

 


 

Item Number:                                    11.2

File Number: D14/50098

Subject Heading:                         Proposed UQ School of Architecture Exhibition & Workshop

Applicant:                                         University of Queensland School of Architecture

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Kelly Rogers, Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

Executive Summary: 

The University of Queensland School of Architecture put forward a draft proposal for Council’s consideration.  The proposal included an exhibition and workshop component, inviting both attendance and participation from the local community.

 

The town of Roma has been nominated for a focus study as part of the students’ assessment and research program.  The program includes development of proposals for urban propositions and architectural interventions that respond to the town’s current presentation and anticipate possible future visions.  

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/48

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Denton  

 

That Council endorse the proposal, and approve the provision of financial support as presented for the estimated value of $1,725.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

 

Item Number:                                    11.3

File Number: D14/50889

Subject Heading:                         Councillor Request for Leave of Absence

Applicant:                                         Cr Peter Flynn

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Kelly Rogers, Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

Executive Summary: 

Due to personal work commitments, Cr Peter Flynn has requested a brief leave of absence from Council duties extending from 22 to 30 July 2014.    The Mayor and Chief Executive Officer also made mention of Cr Newman’s advice of the need for a leave of absence due to personal/family reasons.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/49

Moved Cr Price                                                             Seconded Cr Chambers  

 

That Council grant Cr Peter Flynn’s request for leave of absence from Council duties for the requested period of 22 to 30 July, and for Cr Newman until further notification is received of her return, due to personal commitments.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

 

Cr Flynn left the Chambers at 9.48am, and did not return for the remainder of the meeting, taking leave of absence following Council’s approval.

 

Item Number:                                    11.4

File Number: D14/51307

Subject Heading:                         Endorsement of Contracts and Memorandum of Understanding with external partners to enhance service provision within community care

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Annette Gallagher, Coordinator - Community Care

Executive Summary: 

Council had previously endorsed that Memorandums of Understanding and contracts from external providers within community care be signed by the Chief Executive Officer to enhance existing service delivery. Council has a legislative obligation to continue to meet the legislative requirements within the service agreements during the transition of services.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/50

Moved Cr Denton                                                          Seconded Cr Chambers  

 

That Council authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign the following Contracts and Memorandum of Understandings on behalf of Council, to continue the existing agreements until the cessation of community care services. These agreements include:

 

  • Surat Community Care (Home Care Package meals) – Meals on Wheels Surat
  • Westhaven Aged Facility and Friends of Westhaven
  • Anglicare – contract to provide services
  • Uniting Care – service provision
  • Wallumbilla Community Care (Food Services) – Wallumbilla General Store

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      7/0

 

Responsible Officer

Coordinator - Community Care

 

 

Development, Facilities & Environmental Services

 

Item Number:                                    13.1

File Number: D14/48193

Subject Heading:                         Commerce Roma - Request to Publish the 'Focus on Roma' booklet on Council’S Website & MyMaranoa App

Applicant:                                         Commerce Roma

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Ryan Gittins, Specialist - Business Development

Executive Summary: 

Representatives of Commerce Roma have verbally requested that a digital version of the Focus on Roma publication be included on the Council website and MyMaranoa App.

 

Both Council’s website and the MyMaranoa App can accommodate this request without modification.

 

 

 

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/51

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Price  

 

That Council approve the request to publish an electronic version of the ‘Focus on Roma’ booklet on the Council website and MyMaranoa App.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      7/0

 

Responsible Officer

Specialist - Business Development/ Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

 

 

Item Number:                                    13.2

File Number: D14/49767

Subject Heading:                         Membership Renewal 2014-15 - Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Edward Sims, Manager - Economic & Community Development

Executive Summary: 

Since March 2012, Council has been a platinum sponsor of Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise Ltd (TSBE).  The achievements of TSBE are well documented in reports to Council and also in the local (Surat Basin) media. 

 

The regional economy enjoys useful benefits through inputs provided by TSBE staff and board members and it can be agreed that the benefits relative to the investment by Council have been well justified.

 

The anniversary of Council’s Platinum level subscription has arrived and this report sought Council’s endorsement of its remittance.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/52

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Chambers  

 

That Council approve the renewal of the sponsorship of Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise Ltd at the Platinum level at a cost of $22,000 including GST, as described in its renewal notice.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      7/0

 

Responsible Officer

Manager - Economic & Community Development

 

Cr Schefe declared a perceived ‘Conflict of Interest’ due to his wife being a potential local service provider contracted under the ‘Get Out, Get Active’ program, and left the Chamber at 10.00am, taking no further part in discussion or debate on the matter.


 

Item Number:                                    13.3

File Number: D14/50301

Subject Heading:                         Request for Council Contribution to Get Out Get Active Funding

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Fiona Vincent, Coordinator - Sport & Recreation

Executive Summary: 

Immediately prior to 30 June 2014, Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing released funding called Get Out, Get Active to provide local governments with funding to support community-based approaches to the delivery of enjoyable, accessible and affordable activities which may be in partnership with local clubs, businesses and community organisations, to get women and girls physically active.

 

The guidelines state that the Council contribution to the eligible project costs, the maximum being $20,000, for a Council population of greater than 5,000 and up to 40,000 residents shall be 20%. Councils must also provide evidence in their application that Council financial contributions are secured.

 

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/53

Moved Cr Chambers                                                      Seconded Cr Price  

That Council provide 20% contribution being $4,000 towards the Get Out, Get Active funding application to encourage women and girls to get physically active within the Maranoa region, provided that funding is secured.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

Coordinator - Sport & Recreation

 

At cessation of discussion on the abovementioned item, Cr Schefe entered the Chamber at 10.02am.

 

Late Items

 

Item Number:                                    L.1

File Number: D14/51490

Subject Heading:                         Delegation Of Authority To Sign The Deed Of Financial Agreement For Regional Resource Town Action Plan Grant Funding For The Roma Sewerage Augmentation Project

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Paraic Butler, Engineer

Executive Summary: 

The Deed of Financial Agreement for the Regional Resource Town Action Plan grant funding is an agreement that must be endorsed by Council and signed by a designated authority.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/54

Moved Cr Schefe                                                           Seconded Cr Wason  

That Council endorse the Deed of Financial Agreement, and authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign the agreement on behalf of Council.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      7/0

 

Responsible Officer

Engineer

 

 

Item Number:                                    L.2

File Number: D14/51700

Subject Heading:                         Roma Youth Precinct Upgrade – Budget Amendment

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Larissa Pears, Support/Project Officer - Economic & Community Development

Executive Summary: 

An additional cost of $5,000 is required to move the installed Skate Park equipment two (2) metres further west on the concrete slab to minimise a steep exit from the ramp’s corners.

 

Discussion:

Council determined that the matter should lay on the table for further consideration at a later point during the meeting, in order to further investigate the availability of funding under the 2014/15 budget.

 

 

Action:

 

That the matter lay on the table for further discussion at a later point during the meeting.

 

 

 

CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS

 

In accordance with the provisions of section 275 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council resolved to close the meeting to discuss items it has deemed to be of a confidential nature and specifically pertaining to the following sections:-

(a)        the appointment, dismissal or discipline of employees;

(c)      the local government budget;

          (d)      rating concessions;

          (e)      contracts proposed to be made by it;

          (h)      other business for which a public discussion would be likely to prejudice the interests of the local government or someone else, or enable a person to gain a financial advantage;

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/55

Moved Cr Schefe                                                           Seconded Cr Denton

 

That Council close the meeting to the public at 10.06am.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      7/0

 

 

 

Cr Schefe left the Chamber at 10.14am.

Cr Schefe entered the Chamber at 10.16am.

 

The Mayor declared a ‘Conflict of Interest’ in Item C.3 – “Request for Waiver of Passenger Taxes”, due to him being a member of the Roma Rugby Union Club Inc. who were hosts for the Premier Rugby, receiving the applicant as guests to Roma, and left the Chamber at 10.18am.

 

At cessation of discussion on Item C.3 – “Request for Waiver of Passenger Taxes,” the Mayor entered the Chamber at 10.21am.

 

 

Cr Wason declared a ‘Conflict of Interest’ in Item C.4 – “Business Activity Report – Saleyards and Quarry,” due to him owning the parcel of land on which Mt Saltbush Quarry is sited, the operation of which sees him entitled to payment of Royalties (funds) for material extracted from the site, and left the Chamber at 10.21am taking no further part in discussion on the item with respect to Council’s Quarry.

 

At cessation of discussion on Item C.4 - “Business Activity Report – Saleyards and Quarry,” Cr Wason entered the Chamber at 10.36am.

 

 

Subject Heading:        suspension of standing orders

Council adjourned the meeting for morning tea at 10.36am.

 

Subject Heading:        resumption of standing orders

Council resumed the meeting at 11.16am

 

 

Cr O’Neil, who had not returned from Morning Tea at resumption of the meeting, entered the Chamber at 11.18am.

 

The Mayor left the Chamber at 11.24am, with Deputy Mayor Cr Wason taking the Chair.

The Mayor entered the Chamber at 11.28am, and assumed the Chair.

 

 

The Mayor left the Chamber at 11.55am.

The Mayor entered the Chamber at 12.02pm.

 

 

Subject Heading:        suspension of standing orders

Council adjourned the meeting for lunch at 12.46pm.

 

Subject Heading:        resumption of standing orders

Council resumed the meeting at 1.35pm

 

 

Cr Schefe did not return to the meeting at resumption of Standing Orders at 1.35pm.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/56

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Wason

 

That Council open the meeting to the public at 1.36pm.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

 

 

Item Number:                                    C.1

File Number: D14/50275

Subject Heading:                         Request from QLD Ambulance for Driveway Upgrade: Roma Diagnostic Imaging

Location:                                          Roma Diagnostic Imaging, 124 McDowall Street, Roma

Applicant:                                         Queensland Ambulance

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Julian McEwan, Manager - Roads & Drainage (Nth E Central) and Parks & Gardens

Executive Summary: 

Council had received a request from Queensland Ambulance to upgrade the driveway of 124 McDowall St, Roma. The driveway in question is the access for the business Roma Diagnostic Imaging. As a client of Roma Diagnostic Imaging, Queensland Ambulance reported that the current driveway alignment does not allow a smooth transition for the ambulance service.

 

This upgrade has been scoped and a cost estimate calculated twice previously.  Council’s Property Access & Access Crossovers Policy states that the responsibility and costs associated with the upgrade rests with the property owner.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/57

Moved Cr Denton                                                          Seconded Cr Chambers  

 

That Council advise the owners of Roma Diagnostic Imaging (124 McDowall Street, Roma) that in accordance with Property Access & Access Crossovers Policy, the responsibility and costs associated with an upgrade rests with the property owner, and as such Council will leave the existing driveway in-situ as it meets the current policy standards.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      4/2

 

Responsible Officer

Manager - Roads & Drainage (Nth E Central) and Parks & Gardens

 

 

Item Number:                                    C.2

File Number: D14/50672

Subject Heading:                         Request for sponsorship from Queensland Justices Association

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Susan (Sue) Sands, (Acting) Coordinator – Local Development & Council Events

Executive Summary: 
Council has received a sponsorship request from the Queensland Justices Association (Toowoomba Branch), seeking financial support for their bid to hold a conference in Toowoomba in October 2015.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/58

Moved Cr Chambers                                                      Seconded Cr Price  

 

That Council decline the opportunity to provide financial support to the Queensland Justices Association (Toowoomba Branch), as the proposed conference is not being held within the Maranoa region.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

(Acting) Coordinator - Local Development & Council Events

 

The Mayor declared a ‘Conflict of Interest’ in the following item, due to him being a member of the Roma Rugby Union Club Inc. who were hosts for the Premier Rugby match receiving the applicant as guests to Roma, and left the Chamber at 10.18am, with Deputy Mayor Cr Wason taking the Chair.

 


 

Item Number:                                    C.3

File Number: D14/50695

Subject Heading:                         Request for waiver of passenger taxes

Location:                                          Roma Airport

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Kelly Rogers, Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

Executive Summary: 

Council has received a request to waive applicable passenger taxes for three (3) charter flights into the Roma Airport.  

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/59

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Price  

 

That Council not approve the requested passenger tax waiver associated with flights into Roma Airport.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      5/0

 

Responsible Officer

Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

 

At cessation of discussion and debate on the abovementioned item, the Mayor entered the Chamber at 1.38pm, and assumed the Chair.

 

Cr Wason declared a ‘Conflict of Interest’ in the following item, due to him owning the parcel of land on which Mt Saltbush Quarry is sited, the operation of which sees him entitled to payment of Royalties (funds) for material extracted from the site, and left the Chamber at 1.30am taking no further part in discussion or debate on the item.

 

Item Number:                                    C.4

File Number: D14/51281

Subject Heading:                         Business Activity Report - Saleyards and Quarry

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Deborah Bond, Support Officer - Corporate & Commercial Services

Month & Year of Report:                    June 2014

Name of Department:                        Commercial Services

 

Executive Summary: 

A report was presented to Council to provide a summary of the performance of Council’s Quarry and Saleyards over the past month and year to date. The information in this report aimed to review the month’s activities, give an overview of financial performance and bring to Council’s attention any emerging issues.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/60

Moved Cr Denton                                                          Seconded Cr O'Neil  

 

That Council receive and note the Officer’s report as presented.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      5/0

 

Responsible Officer

Support Officer - Corporate & Commercial Services

 

At cessation of discussion and debate on the abovementioned item, Cr Wason entered the Chamber at 1.35pm.

 

Item Number:                                    C.5

File Number: D14/51394

Subject Heading:                         Minor Amendments to Organisational Structure

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Erin Tompkins, Associate to the CEO & Mayor

Executive Summary: 

The report sought Council approval for minor amendments to the organisational structure, and sought Council’s endorsement of the Chief Executive Officer’s actions in extending the temporary employment of the Inspections and Permits Officer while the restructure progresses.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/61

Moved Cr Price                                                             Seconded Cr Denton  

That Council approve the following proposed amendments, and incorporate the changes into the Organisational Structure:

 

·        Local Development Officer – Mitchell  -  Amend the status of the position from Full Time to Full Time/Part Time,  to allow flexibility for full time or part time replacement during the period of maternity leave;

 

·         Manager Facilities – Extension of term until new contracts are drafted;

 

·         Three new Compliance Officer positions (Consistent with the budget for 2014/15);

 

·         Flexibility for the Senior Compliance Officer to be either full time or part time – noting the transition to the role description of (and selection of a) Lead Compliance Officer over the next 12 months; and

 

·         Creation of an additional position number for the Compliance Officer currently sharing the role with the other Compliance Officer; together with the flexibility for either full time or part time appointment.

 

Further that Council endorse the Chief Executive Officer’s actions in extending the temporary employment of the Inspections and Permits Officer while the restructure is underway.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

Associate to the CEO & Mayor/Manager – Human Resources

 


 

LATE CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS

 

Item Number:                                    LC.1

File Number: D14/51378

Subject Heading:                         Request for payment in advance of transfer of title to Horizon Housing Solutions for Lander No 4 housing development

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Edward Sims, Manager - Economic & Community Development

Executive Summary:

Due to cost increases associated with the Horizon Housing Solutions Ltd/APLNG/and Maranoa Regional Council, Lander No.4 project, Origin APLNG has increased its contribution to the project. 

 

It has been requested that Council bring forward its agreed payment to August 2014.  This would have been due in December 2014.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/62

Moved Cr Denton                                                          Seconded Cr Wason  

That Council:

 

1.   Advise Horizon Housing Solutions Ltd that it will provide the agreed amount under its resolution GM/02.2014/19, on the condition that an amended deed of agreement, which protects Council’s interests, is signed.

 

2.   Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign the agreement on Council’s behalf.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

Manager - Economic & Community Development

 

 

Item Number:                                    LC.2

File Number: D14/52046

Subject Heading:                         Application for Aircraft annual landing & parking fee frequent user discount

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

Executive Summary: 

The applicant had applied for a frequent user discount applicable to Aircraft Annual Landing and Parking fees. The current fees and charges allow for up to a 20% discount to be applied.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/63

Moved Cr Denton                                                          Seconded Cr Chambers  

 

That the matter be deferred to a future meeting so that Council can review its policy position on the matter.

 

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

 

 

Item Number:                                    LC.3

File Number: D14/52174

Subject Heading:                         APLNG-WP3c - Civil works to widen Yuleba -Taroom Road chainage 24.58km - 35.5km & 37.20km - 38.16km including upgrade of intersection at Cattle Creek Road

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Peter Weallans, Manager - Infrastructure Contracts & Engineering Services

Executive Summary: 

Awarding of Work Package APLNG-WP3c: Road widening works on the Yuleba – Taroom Rd. Ch. 24.58km – 35.5km and Ch. 37.2 – 38.16km. The proposed works also includes the upgrade of the intersection of the Yuleba-Taroom Rd with Cattle Creek Rd. 

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/64

Moved Cr Price                                                             Seconded Cr Chambers  

 

That, subject to concurrent acceptance by Origin Energy/APLNG in the form of the necessary purchase order, Council award tender number APLNG-WP3c to RoadTek South at an estimated value of $5,849,242 (excluding GST).

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

Manager - Infrastructure Contracts & Engineering Services

 

 

Item Number:                                    LC.4

File Number: D14/52484

Subject Heading:                         Proposed Organisational Changes

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

Executive Summary: 

The Chief Executive Officer proposed organisational changes for Council’s consideration.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/65

Moved Cr Chambers                                                      Seconded Cr Denton  

 

That:

 

  1. Council note the increased emphasis on strategic finance, asset management and procurement in achieving the goals outlined in Council’s new Corporate Plan.

 

  1. The Chief Executive Officer be authorised to proceed to staff engagement for a period of two weeks, with a report to be presented to the Council meeting on 13 August 2014 in the relation to the proposed enhancements to the structure.   In this way, roles and responsibilities will be clear, and responsive to our changing business needs (e.g. Increased Energy Sector works and Asset and Service Planning, to align with Council’s vision).   The enhancements include:

 

·         Transfer of the Procurement function to the department of Resource Coordination    (Responsible for Depots, Workshops, Stores, Plant, Supply Contracts, Tendering Coordination & Other Resource Coordination – Water/Gravel/Camps)

 

(Note:   It is suggested that the Procurement within Infrastructure Contracts become part of Resource Coordination, with the Specifications undertaken by Infrastructure Contracts)

 

·         Transfer of Asset Valuations to Infrastructure Planning & Design

                   Supported by Strategic Finance resources for financial transactions.

 

·         The remaining Accountant position (current incumbent soon to go on Maternity leave) be included within Strategic Finance, as well as the two Finance Officers currently doing bank reconciliations, work orders, journals and capitalisation.

 

·         The functions of Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable be transferred to Manager Administration & Information Services  (Note:   This manager previously oversaw IT which is now under a separate Manager – IT Solutions).

 

  1. The position of Manager Financial Operations be made redundant, and the Chief Executive Officer be authorised to enact clause 22 of the employment contract with the current incumbent.

 

  1. Council consider re-allocating available funding for:

 

o     a resource for Risk Management & Internal Audit.

o    continuation of 2 part-time resources in Strategic Finance.

 

  1. A Project Plan be developed and implemented to finalise preparation of the annual financial statements for 2013/14, pooling available resources.

 

  1. The external auditors and valuers be briefed on the proposed changes to the Organisational Structure and proposed reallocation of duties with respect to financial services.

 

  1. A copy of the Project Plan be provided to the external auditors.

 

  1. A courtesy briefing be provided to the Department of Local Government & Planning and Qld Treasury Corporation on the proposed changes to structure, plans for completion of the annual financial statements and arrangements for daily cash management and amended delegations/authorisations.

 

  1. Advertising be commenced immediately for Procurement professionals based on the number of resources already approved (Coordinator + 2 procurement specialists) as part of Stage 1 recruitment.

 

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer

 


 

Item Number:                                    L.2

File Number: D14/51700

Subject Heading:                         Roma Youth Precinct Upgrade – Budget Amendment

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Larissa Pears, Support/Project Officer - Economic & Community Development

Executive Summary: 

An additional cost of $5,000 is required to move the installed Skate Park equipment two (2) metres further west on the concrete slab to minimise a steep exit from the ramp’s corners.

 

Discussion:

This item had been laid on the table earlier during the meeting to allow Council to further consider potential budget implications.  Council resumed discussion on the matter.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/66

Moved Cr Chambers                                                      Seconded Cr Price  

 

That Council approve an additional $5,000 for the Roma Youth Precinct Capital Project to make necessary modifications to the Skate Park equipment, with required funds of $5,000 to be added to the 2014/15 budget for Regional Sport and Recreation, and $5,000 removed from the 2014/15 Regional Signage budget, and incorporated into future budget review preparations.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

Support/Project Officer - Economic & Community Development/Specialist – Strategic Finance

 

 

Item Number:                                    L.3

File Number: N/A

Subject Heading:                         verbal report - Request for landing fee and passenger tax waiver

Author & Officer’s Title:                    Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer on behalf of Manager – Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell), Ben Jones

Executive Summary:

Council has received an email request from the applicant, requesting a landing fee and passenger tax waiver in support of establishing a new air route into Roma Airport.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/67

Moved Cr Price                                                             Seconded Cr Wason

 

That Council request the applicant put forward a formal proposal for further consideration.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

Manager – Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

 


 

Item Number:                                    L.4

File Number: N/A

Subject Heading:                         verbal report - Injune Sewerage Treatment Plant Upgrade

Author & Officer’s Title:                    Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer on behalf of Acting Coordinator – Local Development & Council Events, Susan (Sue) Sands

Executive Summary:

The Department of State Development had forwarded a Sub Agreement for Council’s consideration of sign off in support of funding approval for the Royalties for Regions Program Round 3 – Injune Sewerage Treatment Plant Upgrade.

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/68

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Denton

 

That Council authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign, on Council’s behalf, the Sub Agreement for Round Three (3) of the Royalties for Regions funded project – Injune Sewerage Treatment Plant Upgrade.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      6/0

 

Responsible Officer

(Acting) Coordinator - Local Development & Council Events/Chief Executive Officer

 

 

CLOSURE

 

There being no further business, the Mayor thanked Council for their attendance and declared the meeting closed at 1.48pm.

                                 

 

These Minutes are to be confirmed at the next General Meeting of Council to be held on 13 August 2014, at Roma Administration Centre.

 

 

 

 

...............……….................                                          ..................................

Mayor.                                                                          Date.

 


Minutes of the Special Budget Meeting of Maranoa Regional Council held at Roma Administration Centre on 23 July 2014 commencing at 9.00am

 

ATTENDANCE

 

Mayor Cr. R S Loughnan chaired the meeting with, Deputy Mayor Cr. W S Wason, Cr. J L Chambers, Cr. R J Denton, Cr. P J Flynn, Cr. C J O’Neil, Cr. M L Price, Cr D J Schefe, Chief Executive Officer – Julie Reitano, Corporate Communications Officer – Jane Frith, and Kelly Rogers Minutes Officer in attendance.

 

GUESTS

 

There were no guests in attendance at the meeting.

 

WELCOME

 

The Mayor welcomed all present and declared the meeting open at 9.05am.

 

APOLOGIES

 

Resolution No. SMB/01.2014/01

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Chambers

 

That apologies be received and leave of absence granted for Cr. Newman for this meeting.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

 

Cr. Flynn left the Chamber at 9.07am

Cr. Flynn entered the Chamber at 9.08am.

 

Business

 

Item Number:                                    3.1

File Number: D14/44378

Subject Heading:                         Presentation of Draft Budget 2014/15 and Draft Forward Estimates 2015/16 to 2023/24

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

In accordance with 107A of the Local Government Act 2009, the Mayor formally requested that Council consider the budget material presented by him,  to Councillors on the 9 July 2014.   

 

The preliminary draft inclusions for the 2014/15 budget were collated by management and staff using the budget parameters as presented to, and discussed with, Councillors in March 2014.  The Executive Management Team reviewed draft budget submissions and then presented the information to a series of workshops with Councillors.

 

Councillors reviewed both operational and capital budget submissions for 2014/15, the proposed fees and charges and policies that are required by legislation.

 

Sections 169 to 171of the Local Government Regulation 2012 prescribe the requirements for the adoption of Council’s budget. The information presented complies with the requirements for the adoption of Council’s budget.

 

            1.Statement of Income & Expenditure

            2. Statement of Financial Position

            3. Statement of Changes in Equity

            4. Cash Flow Statement

            5. Measures of Financial Sustainability

            6. Schedule of Capital Works and Funding Sources

            7. Change in Rates and Utility Charges

 

The 2014/15 Budget totals $213.9M (excluding carryover projects) and $229.9M, including carry over projects.  Some key highlights are:

 

    Capital projects of $131.5M ($147.6M total including carry over projects) including Energy Sector road construction contracts and the finalisation of Stage 1 of the levee bank.

    Recoverable works such as flood restoration, Main Roads and Energy Sector contract maintenance works totalling $10.4M

    Funded 2014/15 one off projects worth $961K

    Road maintenance works of $9.4M

    Salaries and wages including on costs

 

Discussion:

The Mayor thanked both staff and Councillors for their effort and contributions in preparing the 2014/15 Budget.

 

Resolution No. SMB/01.2014/02

Moved Cr Chambers                                                      Seconded Cr O'Neil 

 

That Council receive the budget and foreshadow the tabling of collated amendments in  – L.1 – “Proposed Amendments to Budget.”

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer/Specialist -Strategic Finance

 

 

Item Number:                                    L.1

File Number: D14/51709

Subject Heading:                         Proposed Amendments to Budget

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Jan Chambers, Councillor

Executive Summary: 

Budget documents were provided to Councillors for review on 9 July 2014.  Councillors were provided with the opportunity to consider the documents, and a workshop was held on 16 July 2014 to enable questions to be raised and answered.  Cr Chambers tabled the collated list of proposed amendments.

 

 

 

Resolution No. SMB/01.2014/03

Moved Cr Wason                                                           Seconded Cr Denton

 

That Council endorse the proposed amendments for incorporation into the Draft Budget in Item 3.8 – Adoption of Budget 2014/15 and Forward Estimates to 2023/24.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer/Specialist – Strategic Finance

 

 

 

Item Number:                                    3.2

File Number: D14/44379

Subject Heading:                         Re-Adoption of Revenue Policy

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

Council considered the matter of the Revenue Policy at its meeting on 14 May 2014.

 

In accordance with s 169 (2) (c) of the Local Government Regulation 2012, the budget must include the Revenue Policy.    The policy was submitted for Council’s re-adoption.

 

 

Resolution No. SMB/07.2014/04

Moved Cr Denton                                                          Seconded Cr Schefe 

 

That Council re-adopt the Revenue Policy for 2014/15.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer/Specialist – Strategic Finance

 

 

 

Item Number:                                    3.3

File Number: D14/46125

Subject Heading:                         Revenue Statement 2014/15

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

Section 169 (2) (b) of Local Government Regulation 2012 requires Council to include a Revenue Statement in the Annual Budget. The Revenue Statement is an explanatory statement, detailing the revenue measures adopted in the annual budget.

 

Section 172 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 details what must be contained in the Revenue Statement and Section 193(2) states that the guidelines for preparing the Revenue Statement may be included in the Revenue Policy.

 

The key inclusions in the attached Revenue Statement for residential properties are:

 

•     General rates – cent in the dollar increased by 3.5%

•     Minimum general rate increased by 6%

•     Service (water, sewerage, waste) charges increased by 3.5%

•     Special charges (Rural fire brigade levy and Levy for wild dog management & state government precept) increased by 3.5%

•     Continuation of the standard pensioner concessions and other concessions

•     Continuation of the early payment discount of 10% applicable on general rates only, and if no arrears exist.

 

The average increase for a residential property on the minimum general rate will be 4.3%. Various percentages have been applied to non-residential properties.

 

 

Resolution No. SMB/07.2014/05

Moved Cr Price                                                             Seconded Cr Flynn 

 

That Council, incorporating proposed amendments:

 

1.         Receive and note the report titled “Revenue Statement 2014/15” (labelled as Schedule K in the budget documents presented on 9 July 2014), and the amendments proposed.

2.         Pursuant to Section 81 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 determine that, for the purpose of levying differential general rates for the 2014/15 financial year, the different categories of rateable land and a description of those categories is included in Attachment 1 of the Revenue Statement “Supplementary Information” as amended.

3.          Adopt the Revenue Statement 2014/15 (Attached) noting that adoption incorporates proposed changes being:

             Table 1 – Differential General Rates

                Category 11. Include the statement “Extractive Industry – Other C, Refer also categories 32 & 33 for Extractive Industry – Other”

             Category 4. Include the statement “& Rural Residential A”

             Category 5. Include the statement “& Rural Residential B”

             Category 6. Include the statement “& Rural Residential C”

             Addition of Categories:

Category

Rate in the Dollar $

Minimum General Rate

Capped Percentage

32. Extractive Industry Other D

0.08073

$500

Not Capped

33. Extractive Industry – Other E

0.08073

$4,000

Not Capped

ATTACHMENT 1 – SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION FOR REVENUE STATEMENT 2014/15

Table 1 – Differential Rating Categories 2014/15

             The following table entries to state:    

Category 4 – Large Housesite & Small Rural A & Rural Residential A

Land used, or capable of being used for rural residential, residential or rural purposes, which has an area less than 80 hectares and a rating valuation of less than or equal to $80,000 which is not otherwise categorised

Land having the land use codes of 03, 04, 05, 06, 60-87, 89, 93, 94

Category 5 – Large Housesite & Small Rural B & Rural Residential B

Land used, or capable of being used for rural residential, residential or rural purposes, which has an area less than 80 hectares and a rating valuation greater than $80,000 but less than or equal to $200,000 which is not otherwise categorised

Land having the land use codes of 03, 04, 05, 06, 60-87, 89, 93, 94

 

 

Category 6 – Large Housesite & Small Rural C & Rural Residential C

Land used, or capable of being used for rural residential, residential or rural purposes, which has an area less than 80 hectares and a rating valuation greater than $200,000 which is not otherwise categorised

Land having the land use codes of 03, 04, 05, 06, 60-87, 89, 93, 94

Table 1 – Differential Rating Categories 2014/15 continued…

 

Category 11 – Extractive Industry – Other C

Land used for the purpose of extractive industry, where the permitted tonnage of production per annum is unknown and the area is greater than 50 hectares.

 

Land having the land use code of 40 including Lot 2 on SP 197617.

 

Category 32 – Extractive Industry – Other D

Land used for the purpose of extractive industry, where the permitted tonnage of production per annum is unknown, with an area less than or equal to 1 hectare.

Land having the land use code of 40.

 

Category 33 – Extractive Industry – Other E

 

Land used for the purpose of extractive industry, where the permitted tonnage of production per annum is unknown, with an area greater than 1 hectare but less than or equal to 50 hectares.

Land having the land use code of 40.

 

             Further, in adopting the Revenue Statement in accordance with Section 169 (2) (b) of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council also adopts pursuant to Section 94 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 the overall plans for the special rates and charges for the following and appearing in the Revenue Statement, namely:

 

    Wild Dog Management & State Government Precept

 

    Rural Fire Brigade

 

4.          Levies differential general rates, special rates and charges for those properties identified in the Overall Plan relevant to their area and utility charges for the 2014/15 financial year pursuant to Section 94 of the Local Government Act 2009 at the rates included within the Revenue Statement.

 

5.          Pursuant to Section 118 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, resolve that those rates and charges must be paid within 30 calendar days after the notice has been issued.

 

6.          Allow a discount for the payment of rates and charges pursuant to Section 130 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 in accordance with the Revenue Statement.

7.          Allow payment of certain rates or charges by arrangements and concessions to certain classes of ratepayer pursuant to Section 129 and Section 119 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 in accordance with the Revenue Statement.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Manager Administration & Information Services / Coordinator Rates

 

Item Number:                                    3.4

File Number: D14/46131

Subject Heading:                         Pensioner Rates Concession Policy

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

Tabled was an updated policy for Council’s consideration, to enable rate concessions to be granted to eligible pensioners.   The policy, which draws on the same criteria as the State Government, provides clarity for officers who administer the pensioner subsidy program.

 

Resolution No. SMB/07.2014/06

Moved Cr O'Neil                                                            Seconded Cr Chambers 

 

That Council adopt the Pensioner Rates Concession Policy.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Manager Administration & Information Services / Coordinator Rates

 

 

Item Number:                                    3.5

File Number: D14/46132

Subject Heading:                         Debt (Borrowing) Policy 2014/15

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

It is a requirement of the Local Government Regulation 2012 (Section 192), that a local government prepare and adopt a debt policy for a financial year.    The section defines what should be included in the policy – i.e:

 

(a) the new borrowings planned for the current financial year and the next 9 financial years; and

 

(b) the period over which the local government plans to repay existing and new borrowings.

 

Resolution No. SMB/07.2014/07

Moved Cr Schefe                                                           Seconded Cr Price 

 

That Council adopt the Debt (Borrowings) Policy incorporated in Schedule L of the Budget material presented, noting that no external borrowings are planned for 2014/15.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer/Specialist -Strategic Finance

 


 

Item Number:                                    3.6

File Number: D14/51049

Subject Heading:                         Investment Policy 2014/15

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

Local Government Act 2009 (Section 101 & 104) & Local Government Regulation 2012 state that a local government must prepare and adopt an investment policy.  

 

The investment policy must outline—

 

(a) the local government’s investment objectives and overall risk philosophy; and

(b) procedures for achieving the goals related to investment stated in the policy

 

Council has a number of responsibilities when investing funds. These responsibilities are outlined in Section 47 and Section 48 of the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982.

 

Section 47(1) states that:

 

“A statutory body must use its best efforts to invest in funds:

(a)      At the most advantageous interest rate available to it at the time of the investment for an investment of the proposed type;  and

(b)      In a way it considers most appropriate in all the circumstances”.

 

Resolution No. SMB/07.2014/08

Moved Cr Chambers                                                      Seconded Cr Wason 

 

That Council adopt the Investment Policy incorporated in Schedule “O” of the Budget material presented.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

Item Number:                                    L.3

File Number: D14/52165

Subject Heading:                         Amendments to Fees & Charges 2014/15

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

Council initially considered the schedule of Fees & Charges at its meeting of 14 May 2014.    The full schedule was presented to Council for re-adoption on 9 July 2014.

 

At the General Meeting on 9 July 2014, Council resolved to amend Fees & Charges, details are provided below:

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/27

Moved Cr Chambers Seconded Cr Flynn

That Council charge a rate of $15 per night to camp in an unpowered site, or a $30 per night to camp at a powered site at Bassett Park, Roma (this site is a Tier One Camping Option).

 

Resolution No. GM/07.2014/32

Moved Cr O'Neil Seconded Cr Schefe

That Council charge an overnight rate of $15 per powered site, or $10 per unpowered site at the Wallumbilla Showgrounds, and investigate the viability of ‘user pays’ facilities for the site (this site is a Tier Two Camping Option).

 

Action:

The proposed amendments were discussed and it was foreshadowed that these would be addressed by Council as part of Item 3.7 – Fees & Charges 2014/15.

 

 

 

Item Number:                                    3.7

File Number: D14/51047

Subject Heading:                         Fees & Charges 2014/15

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

Council initially considered the schedule of Fees & Charges at its meeting of 14 May 2014.    The full schedule is presented to Council for re-adoption.

 

 

Resolution No. SMB/07.2014/09

Moved Cr Price                                                             Seconded Cr Schefe 

 

That Council:

 

1.    Adopt the fees in Schedule P of the Budget material presented, incorporating the following amendments identified in item L.3 “Amendments to Fees & Charges 2014/15, which were resolved by Council at the General Meeting on 9 July 2014:

 

That Council charge a rate of $15 per night to camp in an unpowered site, or $30 per night to camp at a powered site at Bassett Park, Roma (this site is a Tier One Camping Option).

 

            That Council charge an overnight rate of $15 per powered site, or $10 per unpowered site at the Wallumbilla Showgrounds, and investigate the viability of ‘user pays’ facilities for the site (this site is a Tier Two Camping Option).

 

2.    Resolve that, in relation to those cost-recovery fees to which Section 97 of the Local Government Act 2009 applies:

 

(i)         the applicant is the person liable to pay these fees; and

(ii)        the fee must be paid at or before the time the application is lodged; and

 

3.    Delegate to the Chief Executive Officer the power to amend commercial charges to which section 262 (3) (c) of the Local Government Act 2009 applies.

 

4.    Approve the omission of fees and charges from the Schedule for quarry materials and services for commercial reasons.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer/Specialist -Strategic Finance

 


 

Item Number:                                    3.8

File Number: D14/48239

Subject Heading:                         Adoption of Budget 2014/15 & Forward Estimates to 2023/24

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Robert Loughnan, Mayor

Executive Summary: 

In accordance with Section 107A of the Local Government Act 2009, the Mayor formally requested that Council adopt the budget material presented by him, to Councillors on the 9 July 2014, and any amendments that Council may resolve to make.

 

Sections 169 to 171of the Local Government Regulation 2012 prescribe the requirements for the adoption of Council’s budget. The information that has been presented complies with the requirements for the adoption of Council’s budget.

 

            1. Statement of Income & Expenditure (Schedule A)

            2. Statement of Financial Position (Schedule B)

            3. Statement of Changes in Equity (Schedule C)

            4. Cash Flow Statement (Schedule D)

            5. Measures of Financial Sustainability (Schedule E)

            6. Schedule of Capital Works and Funding Sources (Schedule F)

            7. Change in Rates and Utility Charges (Schedule I)

 

In addition to the legislative requirements for budget, a financial summary of each of Council’s funds/business units is provided in Schedule H.

 

National Competition Policy reform provisions contained in the Local Government Act 2009 (the Act) require Council’s nominated ‘business activities’ to apply the competitive neutrality principle to their operations.  Council this year will apply the Code of Competitive Conduct to its building certification and roads activity, as required by Section 47 of the Act and Section 39 of the Regulation 2012.

 

Resolution No. SMB/07.2014/10

Moved Cr Loughnan                                                      Seconded Cr Flynn 

That Council, incorporating the amendments identified in SMB/01.2014/03:

 

1.   Receive and note the change in rates and utility charges for 2014/15 (Schedule I).

 

2.   Receive and note the 2014/15 capital works program and funding sources (Schedule F).

 

3.   Receive and note the budget spreadsheets 2014/15 (including one-off expenditure) (Schedule N), and projected carry-over projects (Schedule G).

 

4.   Receive and note the measures of financial sustainability (Schedule E).

 

5.   Receive and note the financial summaries for Council’s funds/business units (Schedule H).

 

6.   Receive and note the budgeted financial statements and the long term financial forecast (Schedules A-D).

 

7.   Receive and note the budgeted reserves 2014/15 (Schedule Q).

 

8.   Adopt the document titled “2014/15 Budget and Forward Estimates to 2023/24” incorporating all schedules as amended.

 

9.   Apply the code of competitive conduct to the Business Certification Unit and Roads activity for 2014/15.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer/Specialist -Strategic Finance

 

Item Number:                                    L.2

File Number: D14/52116

Subject Heading:                         Proposed Amendments to Work Programs

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Jan Chambers, Councillor

Executive Summary: 

Work Program documents were provided to Councillors for review on 9 July 2014.  Councillors were provided with the opportunity to consider the documents, and a workshop was held on 16 July 2014 to enable questions to be raised and answered.  Cr. Chambers provided the collated list of proposed amendments.

 

 

 

Action:

The proposed amendments were discussed and it was foreshadowed that they would be addressed by Council as part of Item 3.9 – Operational Plan 2014/15.

 

 

Item Number:                                    3.9

File Number: D14/51577

Subject Heading:                         Operational Plan 2014/15

Author and Officer’s Title:                 Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

Executive Summary: 

Under Section 104 of the Local Government Act 2009, Council’s financial management systems must incorporate an annual operational plan.  Under Section 174 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, a local government may adopt the annual operational plan for a financial year at the same time the local government adopts its budget for the financial year.

 

The Local Government may, by resolution, amend its annual operational plan at any time before the end of the financial year.

 

Resolution No. SMB/07.2014/11

Moved Cr Chambers                                                      Seconded Cr Denton 

 

That Council:

 

1.   Receive and note the information included in the report.

 

2.   Adopt the draft Operational Plan for 2014/15 incorporating the amendments contained in Item L.2 - Proposed Amendments to Work Programs (Operational Plan) for 2014/15.

 

CARRIED                                                                                                                      8/0

 

Responsible Officer

Chief Executive Officer

 


 

 

CLOSURE

 

There being no further business, the Mayor thanked Council for their attendance and declared the meeting closed at 9.29am.

                                 

 

These Minutes are to be confirmed at the next General Meeting of Council to be held on 13 August 2014 at, Roma Administration Centre.

 

 

 

 

...............……….................                                                      ..................................

Mayor.                                                                          Date.

 

 

    


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 7 August 2014

Item Number: 10.1

File Number: D14/56898

 

Subject Heading:                     Fourth Quarter Review - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          N/a

Location:                                            N/a

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

 

Executive Summary: 

Presenting a sub-set of the 4th Quarter Review – those areas relating to Corporate, Community & Commercial Services.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council:

 

1.   Receive and note the Work Program reports for Corporate, Community & Commercial Services as at 30 June 2014.

 

2.   Note the summary of highlights and issues for Corporate, Community & Commercial Services for the 4th Quarter as presented by the Director.

 

 

Body of Report:

DIRECTOR

·    Re-established functioning Audit Committee with adopted Audit Committee Policy and Terms of Reference for the Committee.

·    Internal Audit Charter and Plan adopted.

·    Community Hub construction completed (in partnership with Manager Economic & Community Development).

·    Roma Saleyards Truck Stop Project Management Brief released.

·    Roma Saleyards Truckwash – Project Management Call for Submissions completed, awarded and project commenced.

·    Delegations and Authorised Person Project commenced, processes developed, gap analysis, delegations and authorised persons powers under local laws prepared.

·    Reviewed the directorate structure with key positions identified and minor changes made to enhance functionality of team and key skill sets required.  Manager IT Solutions, Coordinator Customer Service Facilitation, Coordinator Information Management, Specialist – Finance  Systems Support.

·    Yuleba Services Centre – Internal consultation with Key Stakeholders regarding concept design and detailed design, review detailed design based on change of scope.

·    Application for Department of Local Government funding for Yuleba Services Centre prepared (Advised successful in July).

 

ADMINISTRATION & INFORMATION SERVICES

Cemeteries

·    AEC Spatial engaged to supply web based mapping of the region’s cemeteries. GPS mapping has commenced.

·    Cemetery Operations and Burials on Private Property Policies adopted and implemented across the region including new application form & FAQ distributed to Customer Service Team.  Positive feedback received from community member on the new process for Burials on Private Property.

Information Management (Records)

·    Position of Coordinator has been successfully filled – for commencement in July

·    TRIM Classification Project 90% complete

·    Annual Qld State Archives Recordkeeping Survey completed

Elected Members & Community Engagement

·    Agendas and Minutes – all deadlines met

·    Citizenship ceremony for 13 new Citizens with 100+ in attendance

Rates

·    End of Financial Year went smoothly for Rates

·    Prepared and agreed in principle with Civica a 3 year Training Plan for Rating Staff to ensure that rates staff are adequately skilled in all areas of the rates authority module at cessation of the contract.

Corporate Communications

·    Completed articles - Portfolios of each Councillors for the Corporate Plan

·    Media Releases: June Quarter 55 (April 2014: 21, May 2014: 19, June 2014: 15)

·    Media Enquiry Responses: June Quarter 32 (April 2014: 10, May 2014: 14, June 2014: 8)

·    Bottle Tree Bulletin:  April, May and June editions complete

 

CUSTOMER SERVICE FACILITATION

·    Public Interest Disclosure Policy and adopted - procedure and flowchart developed

·    Customer Service Facilitation Team statistics for quarter:

 

 

Calls Answered

Counter Enquires

Customer Requests Created

Receipts Issued

Documents into TRIM

April 2014

2,455

2,260

664

1,645

228

May 2014

2,496

2,311

718

  665

346

June 2014

2,492

  975

729

  585

296

 

COMMUNITY SERVICES

·    Community Care staff and Community consultations on the changes were positive and well received.

·    Drought Assistance supported programs and events were planned and well received, Old Fella, Tie up the Black Dog, Quilting for ladies, Care Outreach volunteer visits.

·    Demountables in Mitchell were installed to the new site.

·    Healthy Communities Initiative to remain post 30 June 2014 - approved and funded by Council.

·    My Maranoa phone app / Community Directory developed and went live.

·    Maranoa Early Learning Centre Proposed Upgrade – Plans finalised and approved should a provider be secured

·    Aboriginal Family Legal Service ceased with Council and commenced under their own incorporation 30 June 2014.

 

FINANCIAL OPERATIONS

·    Monthly Bank Reconciliation completed, Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable system reconciliations completed

·    Monthly Payroll Tax and Business Activity Statements Lodged

·    Fringe Benefits Tax Return completed and lodged for 1 April 2013 to 31 March 2014

·    Procurement Policy reviewed by Procurement Working Group and adopted

·    Authority End of Financial Year roll over completed

 

IT SOLUTIONS

·    Manager IT Solutions’ position filled and successful applicant commenced with Council on 23 April 2014 to manage the strategic and operational aspects of Council’s IT environment.

·    Information Technology Business Continuity Plan completed.

·    Independent IT health check of the IT environment undertaken with preliminary draft strategies prepared.

·    Microsoft Licensing Agreement – flexible cost effective solution to managing licensing contracts

·    Ongoing issues with the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) at the Roma Airport resolved.

·    Archive Manager installed and operational

·    Disaster Recovery Pod completed at Cartwright Street Depot

·    Preliminary work completed for Disaster Recovery Pod at Community Hub

·    Authority Improvement Project continuing

·    Authority Role Based Security Project commenced

 

SALEYARDS

·    Total cattle throughput for the quarter was 101,897

·    The Origin boundary fence was renewed together with the fence on the eastern paddock near the power station.  The walkway in the Bull Sales area was raised and twenty-six troughs were lowered.

 

QUARRY

·    Used Articulated Water Truck purchased

·    Quantity produced for the quarter 155,446 tonnes

·    Product Costing Model developed

·    Quarterly stock levels calculated and end of year reconciliations completed.

 

Consultation (internal/external):

·    Director

·    Managers

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

N/a

Policy Implications:

N/a

Financial Resource Implications:

N/a

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.1.1(a) To undertake all governance functions and activities in a professional manner promoting corporate ethics and integrity and informed decision making practices so as foster an operating environment advocating fairness, equity and consistency.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

 

Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 7 August 2014

Item Number: 10.2

File Number: D14/57142

 

Subject Heading:                     Fourth Quarter Review - Infrastructure Services

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          N/a

Location:                                            N/a

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

 

Executive Summary: 

Presenting a sub-set of the 4th Quarter Review – those areas relating to Infrastructure Services.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation: 

The Council:

 

1.   Receive and note the Work Program reports for Infrastructure Services as at 30 June 2014.

 

2.   Note the summary of highlights and issues for Infrastructure Services for the 4th Quarter as presented by the Director.

 

 

Body of Report:

 

DIRECTOR

 

·    The Infrastructure Directorate has been reviewing the organisational structure - key risk areas have been the first area of priority. Preparing the staff through a transition plan including key change management steps has been an important part of the restructure. A change management and resilience workshop was held on 21 May with additional supportive workshops and one on one meetings also being provided for all staff.

·    The signing of the Infrastructure Agreement is a major milestone that now requires the implementation strategy to be commenced to position Council to deliver the associated program of works.

·    The completion of the flood recovery program and the final close out of all of the construction projects is continuing and on target to be completed in the required timeframes.

·    The delivery of the Roma levee is now 97% complete with land access issues being resolved by agreement.

·    Reviewing the use of consultants where there is Council capability to resource activities, as well as better planning and predicting the requirements of specialist advice.

 

INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING & DESIGN

 

Quality and Environment

·    Achieved third party certification under international standards for Quality and Environmental Management systems for civil road construction and maintenance on 26 May 2014

Infrastructure Planning

·    Drafted 4 year renewal and upgrade plan for roads and drainage infrastructure to inform budget deliberations for 2014/15 financial year budget

·    Purchase of 17 new traffic counters and commencement of review of placement schedule

·    Compiled 5 capital request reports to Council meetings

Asset Management (AM)

·    Continued work with asset advocates to develop hierarchy and attribute templates for AM module in Authority.  

·    Assembled data describing: What, Where and Type / Material Measure for asset classes

Current status:            (As per detail provided by asset owners)

§ What: 100%   

§ Where:            100%  

§ Measure: Average 87% (Range 20% to 100%)

Design Services

·    Completed eleven (11) sets of design documentation for capital projects (April – June)

·    Undertook eight (8) design reviews of external designs received

·    Commenced development of standard documentation templates and drawings for future inclusion in Council’s Management System

GIS Services

·    Responded to four (4) requests for addresses

·    Progressed the naming of  2 new streets in accordance with Council policy

·    Responded to 12 internal assistance requests

·    Completed annual review and amendment of Road Register

·    Undertook continuous review of GIS data in line with improvement in information provided by asset owners.

INFRASTRUCTURE CONTRACTS

 

·    GLNG Infrastructure Agreement signed

·    Sealing of 5km’s of Horse Creek Road from Western Downs Regional Council boundary completed.  Contract Value $4.685m and funded by APLNG (WP5 Ch 5.0km – Ch 10km)

·    Upgrading of 7km of Yuleba – Taroom Road adjacent to Horse Creek intersection has commenced. Contract Value $2.992m and funded by APLNG WP2C (Ch 17.38km to Ch 24.58km)

·    Upgrading of the Yuleba-Taroom /Reedy Creek intersection has been completed.  (WP3B Ch 35.5km to Ch 37.2km) Contract Value $1.726m

·    Upgrading of 7km of Yuleba-Taroom Road WP2A (Ch 10.27km to 17.38km) completed.  Contract Value $5.879m and funded by APLNG.

·    Probuild BCIPA Claim unsuccessful. $1.5m (Ruling 90% in Council’s favour)

AIRPORTS

 

·    Roma Airport emergency desktop exercise conducted.

·    Project manager for Terminal and Car Park expansion stated 28/4/14.

·    Planning commenced for the installation of the Procession Approach Path Indicator system.

·    The Construction of the RFDS hanger commenced(not really a work program but something that happened at the Airport)

 

 

ROADS & DRAINAGE (NORTH EAST CENTRAL) AND PARKS & GARDENS

 

·    Delivery of Infrastructure Capital work program:

 

Details of the Rural Capital Works Program outcomes by Infrastructure:

 

Work
Status

Capital Works Description

 

Location

TOTAL
BUDGET

WIP +
2014
TOTAL

Complete

Orallo Road

Construction

Roma

$935,000

$1,022,777

Complete

Duck Creek (includes  a re-seal) CH12km -24km

Construction

Roma

$560,000

$677,419

Complete

Duck Ck Rd (includes  a re-seal)

Re- seal

Roma

$400,000

$524,942

Complete

Wallumbilla North Rd

Construction

Wallumbilla

$5,350,000

$4,068,393

 

Also included in this is the MRC Bitumen Reseal Program which has a value of $3.5M. This is currently due to recommence late August this year.

 

Significant projects being delivered in 201-14 as part of the Urban Improvement Program include:

 

·    Safety Improvements at Playgrounds and Barbeques Upgrades in Open Spaces.

·    Improvements to Park Facilities including Upgrades to playground equipment, fencing: Big Rig,

·    Apex park fencing.

·    Road Safety Measures including regulating parking, and 40km speed limit  in the CBD.

 

Details of the Urban Capital Works Program outcomes by Infrastructure:

 

Work
Status

Capital Works Description

Location

TOTAL
BUDGET

WIP +
2014
TOTAL

Complete

QAS - Car Park

Construction

Roma

$80,000

$81,173

Complete

Wallumbilla Cemetery Road

Construction

Wallumbilla

$24,100

$24,025

Complete

Soutter Street

Construction

Roma

$500,000

$541,427

In Progress

Cnr Wyndham & Bowen St

Footpath

Roma

$43,750

$31,655

Complete

Queen St and Duke Street

Footpath

Roma

$100,000

$63,984

Complete

High St - Chadford St to Flinders St

Footpath

Wallumbilla

$33,000

$24,828

Complete

Chadford St - College St to High St

Footpath

Wallumbilla

$39,000

$39,864

Carry Over

Edward St

K&C

Roma

$25,000

-

Carry Over

Hasted St

K&C

Roma

$77,000

-

Carry Over

Courtney St

K&C

Roma

$40,000

-

Complete

Big Rig Park -  Upgrade of Playground

Parks

Roma

$110,000

$108,143

Complete

Apex Fencing.

Parks

Roma

$7,000

$7,000

 

·    Issues:

Limited water sources throughout the shire restricted work in certain areas.

Budget figures for capital projects not matching realistic rates to deliver projects.

Maintenance on roads where sub base material imported previously causing issues with tyres.

Bitumen Reseal Program – screenings with high moisture content.

Positive feedback from CSG Industry on maintenance work completed.

Positive feedback from Queensland Fire after fire breaks completed.

Issues with old Works Orders (reporting) however resolved with new works orders.

 

 

ROADS & DRAINAGE (SOUTH & WEST) AND PLANT & WORKSHOPS

 

Plant

Placement of orders for $3.2M of heavy plant

Placement of orders for $1.0M of light fleet

Completion of 831 Workshop related activities

 

Roads & Drainage

Finalisation of $12M of TNRP (TMR NDRRA) Works

80% Close out rate of Customer Requests to date

 

Issues:

 

Plant

Current resourcing levels within team – being addressed through restructure

Lack of integrated management systems and over reliance on spreadsheets – being addressed through new resource – Project Officer (Plant Systems)

Management of Pool Plant – being addressed through restructure

Delay in advancement of Plant replacement program – being addressed through additional resources through restructure

 

Roads & Drainage

Aging and unreliable plant – being addressed through Plant Management and Plant Replacement

Extent of forward planning and scheduling of individual work teams – being addressed through restructure and in house training

Delayed delivery of certain projects due to earlier projects running over time – being addressed through improvements to pre-project planning systems

 

 

Consultation (internal/external):

·    Director

·    Managers

 

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

N/a

Policy Implications:

N/a

Financial Resource Implications:

N/a

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.1.1(a) To undertake all governance functions and activities in a professional manner promoting corporate ethics and integrity and informed decision making practices so as foster an operating environment advocating fairness, equity and consistency.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

 

Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 7 August 2014

Item Number: 10.3

File Number: D14/57148

 

Subject Heading:                     Fourth Quarter Review - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          N/a

Location:                                            N/a

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

 

Executive Summary: 

Presenting a sub-set of the 4th Quarter Review – those areas relating to Development, Facilities & Environmental Services

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation: 

That Council:

 

1.   Receive and note the Work Program reports for Development, Facilities & Environmental Services as at 30 June 2014.

 

2.   Note the summary of highlights and issues for Development, Facilities & Environmental Services for the 4th Quarter as presented by the Director.

 

 

Body of Report:

 

DIRECTOR HIGHLIGHTS

 

·    After significant consultation with the community and state agencies, the infrastructure charges for the commercial and industrial areas was presented to Council for adoption.

·    Review of Disaster Management Plan and sub plans completed.

·    Purchase of trailer mounted lighting and tandem trailer for the Roma State Emergency Services.

·    Successful recruitment of vacant Town Planning position.

·    Recruitment of swimming pool lessees for Injune and Wallumbilla swimming pools.

·    Successful Anzac Day Ceremonies across the Maranoa Regional Council area.

 

Disaster Management

·    Production of A4 Waterproof Satchel

·    Distribution of Disaster Packs at Local Show – Wallumbilla, Roma & Mitchell. Further distribution of Disaster Packs at Customer Services Centre Locations – Yuleba, Surat, Injune, Roma & Mitchell.

FACILITIES

 

·    Agreement between Mitchell RSL and Combined Sports Club and Council.

·    Upgrade of electricity to southern end of Mitchell Showgrounds.

·    Commencement of replacement of Mitchell Hall Roof to waterproof the building.

·    Commencement of replacement of Roma Pool filtration shed to increase longevity of facility.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH, COMPLIANCE & WASTE

 

·    260 Food Businesses registered in the region.

·    Full time Environmental Health Officer employed.

·    Nugrow composting trial started at the Roma Refuse Site.

·    A complete Land Management Team fulfilled.

 

 

PLANNING & BUILDING DEVELOPMENT

 

·    99 Building Applications Approved  

·    57 Plumbing Applications Approved

·    18 Planning Applications Approved

 

 

ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

 

Manager

·    Community hub reached practical completion

 

Economic Development

·    Surat basin Energy Expo

·    Building Better Business Forum program (10 Seminars)

·    E-Dev (Economic Development) newsletter released 22 April 2014.

·    Maranoa App - Competition to promote business registration

 

Tourism

·    20 new volunteers recruited following first Attraction Drive

·    Two familiarisation tours held (Balonne 60 participants , Yuleba, Wallumbilla & Surat 35 participants)

·    Assistance provided to Roma Cup Races and Easter in the Country

·    Drive Trails Artwork Completed

·    Characters of Injune cut-outs and stories completed – characters still need to be installed

·    Attended two Travel Shows with RTO’s

 

Sport & Recreation

·    Wallumbilla Showgrounds – Stage 1 and 2 Completed

·    Opening of Harry Thompson Walk

·    Mitchell boat ramp upgraded

·    Roma Youth Precinct completed but requires modifications

 

Consultation (internal/external):

·    Director

·    Managers

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Nil

Policy Implications:

Nil

Financial Resource Implications:

Nil

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.1.1(a) To undertake all governance functions and activities in a professional manner promoting corporate ethics and integrity and informed decision making practices so as foster an operating environment advocating fairness, equity and consistency.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

 

Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 7 August 2014

Item Number: 10.4

File Number: D14/57178

 

Subject Heading:                     Fourth Quarter Review - Office of the CEO

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          N/a

Location:                                            N/a

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer

 

Executive Summary: 

Presenting a sub-set of the 4th Quarter Review – those areas relating to the Office of the CEO, together with some whole-of-organisation highlights.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation: 

That Council:

 

1.   Receive and note the Work Program reports for Office of the CEO as at 30 June 2014.

2.   Note the summary of highlights for the Office of the CEO for the 4th Quarter.

 

3.   Note the Organisational Highlights.

 

 

Body of Report:

 

ORGANISATIONAL OVERVIEW

 

There were a number of key achievements during the 4th quarter, spanning a number of Directorates.   However, the following warrant special mention:

 

The organisation:

·    achieved third party certification under international standards for Quality and Environmental Management systems for civil road construction and maintenance on 26 May 2014.   Special acknowledgement to the Infrastructure Planning & Design Manager and the Coordinator – Integrated Management Systems, and all staff involved.

·    achieved AS/NZ 4801 Safety Certification for 3 years for whole of Council operations   (Audit 5-9 May 2014).     Special acknowledgement to the Manager Human Resources, Workplace Health & Safety Coordinator, Unit and all staff involved.

 

·    commenced the Infrastructure Services Restructure – two key reports to Council during the 4th Quarter:

 

9 April 2014                 GM/04.2014/25

14 May 2014               GM/05.2014/35

·                     Signed Road Infrastructure Agreement (RIA) with Santos / GLNG Project

 

2013/14 was the first full year of operation of the new Work Programs (Operational Plan).   The learnings from the first 12 months (what worked and didn’t work) were applied to the 2014/15 Work Program & Budget preparations at year end.

 

 

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S WORK PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

 

·    New Corporate Plan 2014 – 2019 adopted on 25 June 2014 (GM/06.2014/41)Workshops held with Councillors, Directors, Managers, Specialist Organisational Development.

 

·    Led conclusion of negotiations for Road Infrastructure Agreement (RIA) with Santos/GLNG Project.   Council resolved (provided approval) to sign on 11 June 2014 (GM/06.2014/20).      First two Service Level Agreements signed on 28 June 2014.

 

·    New Work Program (intranet) system designed and implemented in preparation for the 2014/15 budget.

 

·    Purchase of properties completed for Roma Flood Mitigation project (last settlement on 25 June 2014).

 

·    Nil Ombudsman complaints outstanding at 30 June 2014.

 

·    Reports to Council on the major restructure launched for Infrastructure Services (Working with the Director Infrastructure Services).    CEO Newsletter issued 11 April 2014.

 

Key projects in progress at year end that will be completed in 2014/15 (completion deferred due to RIA, Corporate Plan, Work Program and Budget priorities for the 4th Quarter):

 

·    Procurement Working Group (ongoing during 2014/15)

·    Delegations and Authorisations based on new Organisational Structure (Project is now being led by the Director Corporate, Community & Commercial Services)

·    Review of Employment Contracts (Carried forward to incorporate new performance measures for 2014/15)

·    Further intranet enhancements (Corporate calendar, Budgets, Customer service measures)

·    Audit/review of Council resolution implementation status

·    Reviewed position description (drawing on standardised role statements)

 

Project held over to 2014/15:

·    Review of draft QTC Airport Commercial Review

 

ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

 

·    Customer Requests

o Customer request management and reporting established within SMT (Senior Management Team) Team Site

·    Policy Review

o Policy categorisation i.e. Directorate; Organisational; Council

o Policy template finalisation

o Policy approval process review and intranet work flow

o Policy register establishment

·    Work Programs – format review and transition to intranet environment

·    How We Do Business - creation of a framework within the intranet to display quality and environmental management system information i.e. How We Do Business.

·    Staff Communication Enhancements – creation of (within the intranet framework)

o staff wall,

o Share a thanks (Share a Special Achievement)

·    My Maranoa App – project coordination, launch and stage 1 development

·    Corporate Plan 2014 – 2019 – development of new layout and content coordination

·    Council Vision Logo – concept design

 

STRATEGIC FINANCE

 

·    Completion of General Ledger and Work Order restructure 8 April 2014

·    Third Quarter Budget Review adopted on 14 May 2014

·    Fees & Charges adopted on 14 May 2014

·    Revenue Policy adopted on 14 May 2014

·    Budget for 2014/15 well underway as at 30 June 2014.

 

 

HUMAN RESOURCES

 

Payroll

 

·         Payment of wages and salaries, employee superannuation, employee payments and deductions completed on time, within legislative requirements, and within tolerances.

 

·         Payroll system prepared for the new financial year.

 

 

Workplace Health & Safety

 

·    Achieved AS/NZ 4801 Safety Certification for 3 years for whole of Council operations   (Audit 5-9 May)

 

Employee Training & Competency

·    Conducted: First Aid & CPR Training; Animal Management; Authorised Persons; Plant Assessments--  Roller, Backhoe; Grader; Excavator; and Forklift;. Operate Weighbridge

·    1 Plumber and 1 Mechanic completed their apprenticeships.

·    5 employees completed Certificate IV in Project Management.

·    Resume Writing; Key Selection Criteria and Interview Techniques held across all Council operational areas.

Recruitment Services

·    51 vacancies filled from recruiting 44 external applicants and 7 internal applicants.

·    Manager - IT Solutions, Ruben Broom appointed into newly created position.

·    Designed flow chart for recruitment process and forms for tightened short listing process using checklists.

HR Support Services

·    Maranoa Medal award presented to Annette Gallagher and all employees nominated presented a certificate in the General Council Meeting on 25 June 2014.

·    Flu Vaccination Program completed with 32% of employees participating.

·    Specialist Advice - Strategic Workforce Planning: Reshaping of Infrastructure Services directorate and Community Services department.

Consultation (internal/external):

·    Managers

·    Specialists

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

N/a

Policy Implications:

N/a

Financial Resource Implications:

N/a

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.1.1(a) To undertake all governance functions and activities in a professional manner promoting corporate ethics and integrity and informed decision making practices so as foster an operating environment advocating fairness, equity and consistency.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

 

Julie Reitano, Chief Executive Officer  


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 24 July 2014

Item Number: 11.1

File Number: D14/53312

 

Subject Heading:                     Repeal of previously identified delegable powers under the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                           

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Christina Tincknell, Coordinator - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services

 

Executive Summary: 

This Report seeks Council's approval to repeal previously delegated powers to the Chief Executive Officer, under the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996.  

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

Council resolves to repeal all powers previously delegated to the Chief Executive Officer, pertaining to the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996.

 

General Meeting 26 October 2012, Resolution No. GM.334.12.

 

 

Body of Report:

Maranoa Regional Council receives a monthly Delegations and Appointment update service provided by MacDonnells Law. As part of the service, MacDonnells Law continually reviews and updates all pro forma documents relating to Delegations and Authorised Persons Powers.

When identifying powers for delegation, it is necessary to strike a balance between being comprehensive and not delegating unnecessarily. As a result of the most recent review of the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996, the opinion has been formed that, on balance, the powers previously identified do not require delegation, and it is recommended that Council update its register to reflect this. 

At the General Meeting 26 October 2012, Council resolved to delegate to the Chief Executive Officer, the exercise of its power under Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996, among several other identified legislations. There have been no amendments to this regulation since Council’s resolution. It is recommended that all the delegated powers to the Chief Executive Officer under this regulation be repealed.

Consultation (internal/external):

MacDonnells Law

Ollie Dowd, Coordinator Workplace Health & Safety

Kay Crosby, Manager Environmental Health, Compliance & Waste

 

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

The delegation of local government powers is important and necessary for the effective operation of the Council.

Policy Implications:

Nil

Financial Resource Implications:

Delegation update service funded in the current budget.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.2.3(a) To implement Council’s governance policies and procedures in an evolving organisational environment whilst ensuring legislative relevance, consistency and fairness in application.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

Report authorised by:

Sharon Frank, Director - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 29 July 2014

Item Number: 11.2

File Number: D14/54164

 

Subject Heading:                     Community Care - Transition Process for Community Aged Care Services

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                           

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Melissa Wathen, Specialist - Community Care Transition

 

Executive Summary: 

The Australian Government is pursuing a reform agenda that will reshape the Aged Care system and the way Providers deliver Community and Aged Care services. Council resolved 11 June 2014 (GM/06.2014/21) approving the transition out of Community and Aged Care service delivery and to initiate the transition plan to another provider.

Maranoa Regional Council has undertaken extensive consultation and investigations of their Community and Aged Care Programs with both Federal (Department of Social Services) and State (Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services) delegates, as to the appropriate process for transition. New information from the Federal delegates regarding their funded service types requires Council consideration and decision. The information contained in this report will guide Councils recommendation regarding the transition process.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation: 

1.   That Maranoa Regional Council continue to provide all Community and Aged Care Services until 30 June 2015.

 

2.   That Maranoa Regional Council not tender/negotiate for Community and Aged Care Services to commence 1 July 2015.

 

3.   That Council Officers formally advise and notify in writing the Federal and State Departments of recommendations (1) and (2).

 

4.   That Council Officers liaise with the Federal Department regarding the application to Transfer Aged Care Places (18 Home Care Packages)  other than Provisionally Allocated Places to another Provider and that Officers provide Council with a recommendation with options regarding the potential Service Provider, as per the Aged Care Act.

 

5.   That the Council Officers notify in writing the clients/carers/nominated representatives currently receiving Home and Community Care Services (HACC) (Over 65’s/Under 65’s) and National Respite for Carers Program (NRCP) of recommendation (1).

 

6.   That the Council Officers notify in writing the clients/carers /nominated representatives currently receiving Home Care Packages (HCP) of recommendations (1) and (4).

 

7.   That the Council Officers notify in writing key stakeholders of the recommendations (1), (2) and (4).

 

8.   That the Council Officers prepare the required Transition and Exit Plans/documentation, as recommended by the Federal and State Departments with regards to recommendations (1) and (2).

 

9.   That Council’s Community and Aged Care Services continue to accept clients who are assessed as eligible for services and these clients/carers/nominated representatives are fully aware of the recommendations (1) and (4) prior to accepting services.

 

 

Body of Report:

New information from Federal delegates, regarding the transition of their Community and Aged Care services require further Council consideration and decisions.

Consultation between Council Officers and Federal delegates regarding the transition of the existing HACC program for over 65’s (delivered in Wallumbilla, Roma, Injune, Surat, Mitchell and surrounds) and NRCP (delivered in Wallumbilla) has provided options.  Previous conversations regarding service provider selection resulted in the suggestion of an Expression of Interest. This is no longer an option; others are listed in detail below. 

Both Federal and State Departments are committed to ensure a seamless transition and the best possible outcomes for clients. It should further be noted; that the decision made for Federal funded programs will have a direct effect on the HACC (under 65’s) State funded program and is discussed in further detail within this report.

Option 1: Novate

The Federal Department has advised that this is an option, only if one other Service Provider is interested in these service types.   To date, more that one provider in the Maranoa region has expressed an interest in our Community and Aged Care Services. Informal information sessions have been held with representatives from Anglicare and Blue Care. This does not include other providers in the Darling Downs and South West who may have expressed an interest to the Department in regards to the potential delivery of services in the Maranoa.

 

Option 2: Relinquish

Relinquish all Community and Aged Care services prior to the Service Agreement/s expiring date of 30 June 2015. The Federal Department would determine the process for an alternative Service Provider to deliver Community and Aged Care Services which could include a Select or Open Tender. Federal delegates could not confirm whether the selected Providers for these service types pre 30 June 2014, would be the same Provider post 30 June 2014.  Further to that; it could not be confirmed that the service types would remain with one provider.

Relinquishment would require a minimum of 6 months notice and would need to coincide with a funding cycle payment, that being 1 January 2015 or 1 April 2015. Relinquishment of services on the first day of a new year would be complicated and relinquishment in April could result in the client/carer transitioning providers twice in a matter of months. In addition; the uncertainty of what occurs post 30 June 2014, could result in the client/carer transitioning providers three times.

As noted earlier; the decision made for the federally funded services will have a direct impact on the state funded service types. State delegates (HACC under 65’s) have advised that, should Council resolve not to deliver services till 30 June 2015, the only option would be to relinquish this Service Agreement and consequentially the Under 65’s HACC services. The State Department and Council would jointly consult to consider future service delivery by an alternative provider.

Option 3: Sub-Contracting

Council could Sub- Contract services to another provider. This process also needs to coincide with a funding cycle and requires a Memorandum of Understanding between the two parties. The Sub-Contractor would provide direct client services however; Council would remain responsible for all components of the Service Agreement, including, governance, quality, MDS reporting and financial reporting.

A further consideration of this option involves Human Resource Management. Council currently employ personnel to deliver Community and Aged Care Services. If Council were to Sub- Contract to a third party there is a real possibility that the third party would need to engage existing Council staff to deliver services in outreach areas. This would have implications in regards to the Section 698 of the Industrial Relation Act (1999) and the Maranoa Regional Council Field Employees Certified Agreement (2012) clause (39). These Human Resource and contractual implications outweigh the benefits to Council to consider this option.

Option 4: Not tendering or negotiating a new Service Agreement.

This option involves Council continuing to provide Community and Aged Care services until the end of the current Service Agreement 30 June 2015.  Council would advise both Departments that they were not going to enter into any further negotiations to deliver Community and Aged Care service post this date.

The Departments would negotiate and select a new Service Provider prior to the existing agreement expiring, which will be the process for all other existing and new Service Providers. In consultation with the Departments and the new Service Provider, Council would then plan for the transition of clients/carers in the last quarter of the 2014-15 financial year and clients/carers would commence receiving services under a new provider 1 July 2015.

This is the Officers preferred option as it would guarantee only one transition for clients/carers and provide existing Community & Aged Care staff with the best opportunity to gain future employment under a new Service Provider.

Consultation (internal/external):

Sharon Frank, Director – Corporate, Community& Commercial Services

Julie Neil, Manager – Community Services

Annette Gallagher, Coordinator – Community Care

Donald Wells, Manager – Human Resources

Lynne Kendall – Department of Social Services (Federal)

Sue Renton – Department of Social Services (Federal)

Joy Cameron – Department of Social Services (Federal)

Amanda Moffat – Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services, (State).

Kaylene Nasser – Program Manager, Aged and Community Care Branch, Department of Social Services (Federal)

Sue Harrison – Blue Care Roma

Heather Hall – Anglicare Roma

 

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Nil

 

Policy Implications:

Nil

 

Financial Resource Implications:

As Community Care Programs are funded by a third party there will be minimal impact on Council financially if services continue until 30 June 2015. Staff redundancies will vary slightly due to the additional time frame. The training costs and redundancy costings can be calculated once a service cessation date is confirmed and this will be provided to Council in a separate report.

 

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.4.7(f) To undertake a review of all Community Care services with a view to identifying any issues which need to be considered by council as part of their service provision obligations.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

Report authorised by:

Julie Neil, Manager - Community Services

Sharon Frank, Director - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 7 August 2014

Item Number: 11.3

File Number: D14/56931

 

Subject Heading:                     Consideration of Elected Member Attendance at Conferences

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          N/a

Location:                                            Toowoomba

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Kelly Rogers, Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

 

Executive Summary: 

The report seeks formalisation of Elected Member attendance at an upcoming conference as part of advocacy activities and/or enhancing strategy and policy development for Maranoa Regional Council.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:

That Council approve the attendance of representing Councillors at the following  upcoming conference:

 

·    The Mayor, Cr. O’Neil, Cr. Price and Cr. Denton at the Ag in the Asian Century: National Export and Innovation Conference on 1 – 2 October 2014 in Toowoomba.

·    Cr. Newman at the 6th Darling Downs South West Planners Forum on 19 – 20 August 2014 in Dalby

 

 

Body of Report:

Ag in the Asian Century: National Export and Innovation Conference

 

The Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) have invited Council to attend the inaugural Ag in the Asian Century: National Export and Innovation Conference in Toowoomba on 1 – 2 October 2014.

 

The conference will include key industry speakers, world class presentations, panel discussions and a variety of networking opportunities focusing around export and innovation opportunities for the Australian agriculture an agribusiness sectors.

 

Agriculture and Forestry is a key industry for the Maranoa region, contributing approximately $200.3 million to the Gross Regional Product (GRP), with an annual growth rate of approximately 13.1%.  

 

Attendance at the upcoming conference provides an important opportunity for Council to enhance and further investigate strategic opportunities to capitalise on the strength of the regional industry.

 

The Mayor, Cr. O’Neil, Cr. Price and Cr. Denton have indicated a keen interest to attend the upcoming conference.

 

6th Darling Downs South West Planners Forum

 

Cr. Newman has received a notification via email of an upcoming Planners Forum in Dalby on 19 & 20 August 2014. 

 

Planning staff of Maranoa Regional Council are attending the forum, which further explores planning reforms and planning practice, in particular how they impact rural Councils operating in a sometimes contested landscape.

 

Covered areas also include Economic Development and planning, new legislation, infrastructure charging, regional planning, state development referrals and levee regulation. 

 

Cr. Newman has indicated a keen interest to attend this upcoming forum in her capacity of Portfolio Chair – Development (town planning, building certification, Council buildings and structures).

 

Consultation (internal/external):

MRC Councillors

 

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

The Act requires that Councillors’ attendance at conferences and deputations be permitted by the local government.  Unauthorised Councillor Attendance at conferences could compromise insurance entitlements should circumstances arise that lead to the submission of an insurance claim.

Policy Implications:

Councillor Expense & Provision of Facilities Policy.

Financial Resource Implications:

Ag in the Asian Century: National Export and Innovation Conference

Conference Registration:               $832 per delegate (20% early bird + member discount)

Accommodation & Meals:               Estimated at $980 per person where required

Travel:                                                Councillors will travel by car in a Council provided vehicle

Total Estimate:                                $1,812 (per person)

 

6th Darling Downs South West Planners Forum

Accommodation & Meals:               $300

Travel:                                                Council provided vehicle

Total Estimate:                               Estimate $300

                       

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.1.1(b) To structure Council’s governance functions in a manner so as to allow effective and efficient utilisation of elected members time and resources to the benefit of the constituents which Council serves.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil.

Report authorised by:

Dale Waldron, Manager - Administration & Information Services

Sharon Frank, Director - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 7 August 2014

Item Number: 11.4

File Number: D14/57062

 

Subject Heading:                     South West Queensland Local Government Association

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          Not Applicable

Location:                                            Not Applicable

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Kelly Rogers, Coordinator - Elected Members & Community Engagement

 

Executive Summary: 

Council has received an invoice from South West Queensland Local Government Association (SWQLGA) seeking payment of membership fees for the 2014/15 financial year.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council :

 

1.   Renew its membership annually with South West Queensland Local Government Association (SWQLGA) for the remainder of this term of Council, by way of payment of the applicable annual membership fee. 

 

2.   Update the Community Engagement Framework to include reference to Council’s membership.

 

 

Body of Report:

Council currently attends the South West Queensland Local Government Association (SWQLGA) meets as required.  The group generally meets three (3) times a year in Charleville.   Representing attending members include the Mayor (or proxy) and Chief Executive Officer (or proxy).

 

Membership of neighboring Council’s include:  Bulloo Shire, Quilpie Shire, Paroo Shire, Balonne Shire and Murweh Shire.

 

Membership represents opportunity for associated Council’s to collaborate and advocate to the State and Federal Government on a joint basis for appropriate projects and funding opportunities on the strength of that membership, rather than on an individual basis, given the tightening of available funding programs at all levels of government.

 

For the 2014/15 financial year a fee of $1,500 has been issued to assist with administrative costs of the association. 

 

Consultation (internal/external):

Mayor – MRC

CEO - MRC

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Membership represents an opportunity to strengthen political influence for members, including Maranoa Regional Council.

Policy Implications:

Nil

Financial Resource Implications:

Annual Membership Fee

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.1.1(b) To structure Council’s governance functions in a manner so as to allow effective and efficient utilisation of elected members time and resources to the benefit of the constituents which Council serves.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

Report authorised by:

Dale Waldron, Manager - Administration & Information Services

Sharon Frank, Director - Corporate, Community & Commercial Services  


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 29 July 2014

Item Number: 12.1

File Number: D14/54397

 

Subject Heading:                     Loading Zone - Arthur St, Roma

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                           

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Kylie Fleischfresser, Specialist - Infrastructure Planning

 

Executive Summary: 

Council has received a request for a dedicated parking bay/loading zone outside the Health Plus Chemist on Arthur Street, Roma.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That a parking space near the Chemist be allocated as a loading zone and be signed accordingly.

 

 

Body of Report:

Council has received a request from Stephen Burke requesting a dedicated parking bay/loading zone outside the Health Plus Chemists store Arthur Street, Roma. He states that they regularly service a number of nursing homes and residents in the Roma community, delivering medicines which can be heavy and cumbersome.

 

Loading zones are used in urban commercial zones to improve the logistical efficiency of local businesses receiving and/or delivering goods. Currently, Roma already has 2 loading zones within the CBD. Roma town may potentially benefit from some additional, strategically placed loading zones with time limits to accommodate local businesses.

 

The designation of loading zones, whether regular or special (commercial or passenger), by local government is provided for under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 as part of the regulated parking provisions.   

 

This would require the installation of one or two loading zone signs as prescribed by the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices’ regulated parking series. They would look similar to below, noting that with the implementation of regulated parking the bottom section would be changed accordingly.

 

         

 

 

 

Consultation (internal/external):

Noel Kerr – Technical Officer, Infrastructure Services

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Nil

Policy Implications:

Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995

Financial Resource Implications:

Total Capital Cost of $1,000.00 for the installation of signage for one loading zone and an increase of $100.00 per annum in maintenance and renewal costs.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.5.1(a) To provide professional and technical engineering advice and support for Council in an effective and timely
manner.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Acknowledgement Letter to Stephen Burke Re - Loading Zones, Roma

D14/54489

2

Request - Designated Loading Zone, Health Plus Chemists Roma

D14/54527

 

Report authorised by:

Kym Downey,  Manager - Infrastructure Planning & Design

Cameron Castles, Director - Infrastructure Services


Attachment 1

Acknowledgement Letter to Stephen Burke Re - Loading Zones, Roma

 



Attachment 2

Request - Designated Loading Zone, Health Plus Chemists Roma

 



Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 6 August 2014

Item Number: 12.2

File Number: D14/56763

 

Subject Heading:                     Airport Fees & Charges - Annual Landing & Parking Fees

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                            Roma

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

 

Executive Summary: 

The current Annual Landing & Parking fee schedule is to be amended to give clear instruction to customers on the eligibility of Annual Landing & Parking fees & 20% resident discount.  It is proposed to amend the Annual Landing & Parking fees to be applicable to aircraft less than 5700kg & the 20% discount be specific to proven Maranoa Regional Council residents.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

1.   That Council amend the current fees & charges for Annual Landing & Parking fees to be applied to aircraft less than 5700kg.

2.   That Council remove the frequent user discount of 20%

3.   That Council apply a 20% discount to Annual Landing & Parking Fees for proven Maranoa Regional Council residents.

 

 

Body of Report:

The existing fee schedule states that the Annual Landing & Parking Charges are available for Ultralight, Single & Twin Engine planes (private or commercial) based in the Maranoa Regional Council. It also states that frequent users of the airport may make application to Council for a discount of up to 20%.

 

The amended schedule would show:

Annual Landing & Parking Charges are available for Ultralight, Single & Twin Engine Aircraft less than 5700kg. A 20% discount is applicable to these fees for Maranoa Regional Council residents.

 

Customers would be required to complete the attached application form for Annual Landing & Parking fees. Included in the application form is a section to be completed for those Maranoa Regional Council residents who wish to apply for the 20% resident discount.

 

 

Consultation (internal/external):

NIL

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Total reduction of revenue in applying a 20% discount to Annual Landing & Parking fees is $177.30 including gst per plane

Policy Implications:

NIL

Financial Resource Implications:

To date there already has been an option for frequent users to apply for the 20% discount which equates to $77.78 including gst for Landing Charges & $99.52 including gst for Parking Charges per plane. The amount will not alter with the amended Fees & Charges

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.5.1(a) To provide professional and technical engineering advice and support for Council in an effective and timely
manner.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Application for Annual Landing &/or Parking Charges at Roma Airport

D13/32244

 

Report authorised by:

Cameron Castles, Director - Infrastructure Services


Attachment 1

Application for Annual Landing &/or Parking Charges at Roma Airport

 

 

Application for Annual Parking/Landing Charges at Roma Airport

 

To view the current published Register of Fees and charges for Maranoa Regional Council, including Airport Parking and Landing charges please refer to http://www.maranoa.qld.gov.au/

 

Invoices for annual charges will be issued at the same time each year, until such time as the applicant notifies Maranoa Regional Council in writing to discontinue issuing invoices on an annual basis. It is the responsibility of the applicant to notify Airport Management of any changes to aircraft information or applicant details. Annual charges are applied to one aircraft; multiple charges for multiple aircraft can be applied if requested by the applicant.

Please Note: Council requires notification of change of address. If the change of address is outside the MRC area the 20% discount will no longer be applicable.

 

APPLICANT DETAILS

 

First Name:________________________ Surname:_______________________________________________

Company Name:___________________________________________________________________________

Company Contact:__________________________________________________________________________

Phone:________________________ Mobile:_________________________  Fax:________________________

Email:_______________________________________________________________________________________

Street Address:______________________________________________________________________________

Suburb:_________________________________ State:__________________ Postcode:__________________

Postal Address:______________________________________________________________________________

Suburb:_________________________________ State:__________________ Postcode:__________________

Signature: ______________________________ Date:__________________

 

Preferred Method of delivery of Invoice: Post/Email/Fax

 

AIRCRAFT DETAILS

Aircraft Registration:_________________________________________________________________________

Aircraft Model:______________________________________________________________________________

Please circle: Single Engine/Twin Engine/Ultralight

Private/Commercial use

Annual landing charges: Yes/No                                                            Annual parking charges: Yes/No

Are you applying for the 20% Maranoa Regional Council Resident discount? Yes/No

Note: If Yes, please provide one original form of evidence of residency to the Maranoa Regional Council Airport Administration Office to be viewed.

OR

Attach one certified form of evidence of residency

 

Acceptable forms of evidence: Current financial year MRC Rates Notice, Current (no older than 90 days) Utilities Invoice, Drivers License.


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 6 August 2014

Item Number: 12.3

File Number: D14/56829

 

Subject Heading:                     Origin Water Bombing Operations at Injune Airport

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          Origin Energy

Location:                                            Injune

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

 

Executive Summary: 

Origin wishes to secure the Injune Airport for use as a staging area for their contracted Water bomber operations for the upcoming bush fire season.

 

The aircraft used will exceed the 5,700kg limit of the Injune Aerodrome, however their weight of 7 000kg will be for taxi & take off only which represents a very low risk of damage to the runway as the majority of damage generally occurs on landing. The aircraft will be approximately 2800kg when landing -  well below the 5 700kg limit.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation: 

1.   That Council grant a pavement concession for fire bombing operations at the Injune Airport of up to 7 000kg for taxi & take off only.

 

Body of Report:

Origin has requested the use of the Injune Airport for the upcoming 2014 bush fire season water bomber operations.

 

The period required is from August 2014 until January 2015 and includes the use of 2 x ATR 802 fixed wing aircraft in the operations. These 2 aircraft would be required to park at the Injune Airport on high risk days for a quick response. They would be parked on the grassed area away from the apron to ensure no impact to normal aerodrome operations.  This may be overnight or for several days.

 

The aircraft proposed to conduct the fire bombing operations will exceed the 5,700kg limit of the Injune Aerodrome. The maximum take off weight of the aircraft is 7000kg however this will be for taxi and take off only. Operating in this way presents a very low risk of damage to the runway as the majority of damage caused by aircraft occurs on landing. The aircraft will be approximately 2,800kg when landing, well below the 5,700kg limit.

 

Based on last year’s operations approximately 8 days usage would be required where the aircraft were either forward staged or water bombing operations were conducted. However with the forecast this year it is anticipated that this season will likely be much worse.

 

The Aircraft provider is self sufficient having their own fuel truck to refuel their aircraft and water will be supplied by Origin using a water truck. Water supply however is often an issue and so if there is some ability to leverage local supply this would be beneficial to the operation.

 

Operations such as these are very beneficial for the broader community for assistance with immediate bush fire situations.

 

Email between parties

 

Apologies Ben,

 

Please disregard the previous weights stated. I have received revised totals for the aircrafts, the operator had confused the weights for this particular model. Hopefully these will be more appropriate.

 

The correct approximation of weights for the AT-802 are:

1.    Fully loaded – 7.0 tonnes

2.    Unloaded – 2.8 tonnes

 

Regards

 

Alistair Brown

Local Government Advisor - Western Downs & Maranoa |
Approvals, Land & Stakeholder
……………………………………………………………………………
Origin

93 Arthur Street, Roma QLD 4455
m 0467 767 661
e
alistair.brown@originenergy.com.au

originenergy.com.au

 

From: Brown, Alistair
Sent: Tuesday, 5 August 2014 1:33 PM
To: 'Benjamin.Jones@maranoa.qld.gov.au'
Cc: 'airport@maranoa.qld.gov.au'
Subject: FW: Injune Airport

 

Hi Ben,

 

I have been advised that the aircrafts involved have an operational weight of 3200kgs (empty) and 12000kgs (loaded). I have been advised that the aircraft would fly from Meandarra loaded directly to the area required then depending on location fly to the closest airport empty (which Injune could be one), reload etc. Whilst on standby the aircrafts would comply with councils requirements as you require. Due to the weight restrictions would this be feasible? Look forward to hearing from you soon.

 

Cheers      

 

Alistair Brown

Local Government Advisor - Western Downs & Maranoa |
Approvals, Land & Stakeholder
……………………………………………………………………………
Origin

93 Arthur Street, Roma QLD 4455
m 0467 767 661
e
alistair.brown@originenergy.com.au

originenergy.com.au

 

From: Brown, Alistair
Sent: Monday, 4 August 2014 9:58 AM
To: 'Benjamin.Jones@maranoa.qld.gov.au'
Cc: 'airport@maranoa.qld.gov.au'
Subject: FW: Injune Airport

 

Hi Ben,

 

Just following up the below email. I would appreciate if you could please advise.

 

Regards

 

Alistair Brown

Local Government Advisor - Western Downs & Maranoa |
Approvals, Land & Stakeholder
……………………………………………………………………………
Origin

93 Arthur Street, Roma QLD 4455
m 0467 767 661
e
alistair.brown@originenergy.com.au

originenergy.com.au

 

From: Brown, Alistair
Sent: Friday, 25 July 2014 1:24 PM
To: 'airport@maranoa.qld.gov.au'
Subject: Injune Airport

 

Hi Ben,

 

As discussed, Origin would like to secure the Injune Airport for use as a staging area for our contracted Water bomber operations for the upcoming bushfire season.

 

As an overview please refer below:

 

Aircraft Provider

1.    Meandarra Air who operate 2  x ATR 802 fixed wing aircraft

 

Period Required

1.    August – January (bushfire season)

 

Purpose – water bombing staging area

1.    Forward staging for the 2 aircraft on high risk days for a quick response, this can be overnight and for several days and can park the aircraft on grass area away from airstrip apron areas to ensure no impact to normal airstrip operations

2.    Reloading with water and fuel during water bombing operations

 

Logistics – self sufficient

Ø Meandarra have their own fuel truck to refuel their aircraft

Ø Water will be supplied by Origin using a water truck

NOTE: water supply is always an issue and if there is some ability to leverage local supply would be beneficial

 

Anticipated Frequency

1.    Using last year as a measure we conducted 8 or so days where we either forward staged aircraft or conducted water bombing operations

2.    The outlook for this year is that the season will likely be much worse with very dry fuel lads and predicted dry lightning and thunder storms (which have been the main cause of fires last year).

 

If you could please respond with any requirements and the process going forward throughout this time.

 

Consultation (internal/external):

NIL

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

NIL

Policy Implications:

NIL

Financial Resource Implications:

NIL

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.5.1(a) To provide professional and technical engineering advice and support for Council in an effective and timely
manner.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil.

Report authorised by:

Cameron Castles, Director - Infrastructure Services


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 7 August 2014

Item Number: 12.4

File Number: D14/56919

 

Subject Heading:                     General Aviation Apron Extension

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                            Roma

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

 

Executive Summary: 

Due to the increase in aircraft traffic at the Roma Airport the General Aviation apron is often at capacity. An option to increase the available parking space is to extend the existing General Aviation apron to the west, this will result in an additional 7 light aircraft parking bays.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That council approve up to $28,000 ex GST to undertake a detailed engineering design to extend the General Aviation apron.

 

 

Body of Report:

Through consultation with Peter English, a Senior Airport Civil engineer, several options to expand the General Aviation were provided in the attached report. The first low cost option was to install a nominal depth of gravel including tie downs with no seal, this option results in a high risk of damage to aircraft and an unknown life due to minimal investigation and engineering design.

The second option proposed is to conduct an investigation and engineering design resulting in an apron that was sealed having a known life with a low risk of damaging aircraft. There were two types of seal proposed; a cost effective “Chip seal” and a more expensive asphalt seal. In general an asphalt seal provides slightly more strength and approximately 10% longer life.

By increasing the available parking space for General Aviation aircraft this is a potential increase in revenue of up to $20,440 per annum. 

 

Consultation (internal/external):

The Airport Group, Peter English

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Nil

Policy Implications:

Nil

Financial Resource Implications:

$28,000 ex GST cost for engineering design.

Up to $20,440 inc GST potential increase in revenue

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.5.1(a) To provide professional and technical engineering advice and support for Council in an effective and timely
manner.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

Report authorised by:

Cameron Castles, Director - Infrastructure Services


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 7 August 2014

Item Number: 12.5

File Number: D14/57020

 

Subject Heading:                     Proposed WiFi installation at Roma Airport

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                            Roma

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Ben Jones, Manager - Airports (Roma, Injune, Surat & Mitchell)

 

Executive Summary: 

Due to high peak periods mobile phone coverage is at capacity providing a low level of service at the Roma Airport. At times this results in making or receiving mobile calls at the Airport very difficult.

It is proposed that the possible installation of WiFi at the Roma Airport be investigated.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  


That Council approves the cost of $4,964.79 for Telstra to attend site and conduct a survey to produce a costed proposed solution for a WiFi installation at Roma Airport.

 

 

Body of Report:

Installing a WiFi connection will alleviate some of the demand on the mobile network, resulting in a higher level of service during busy periods. This will improve reception, and the ability to make and receive mobile calls.

 

By providing WiFi to the airport there is the ability to include a survey each time customers log onto the service. This survey will potentially give Council feedback from users of the airport providing information on a variety of areas. This information may include details on :-demographic information such as percentage of FIFO workers/local resident usage, tourism, frequently asked questions and general feedback  to assist Council in improving customer service at the Airport.

 

By providing this additional coverage it gives a higher level of customer service to those utilizing the Airport and potential revenue to Council should a decision be made to implement a usage charge.

 

 

Consultation (internal/external):

Rueben Broom – MRC IT Department

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

NIL

Policy Implications:

NIL

Financial Resource Implications:

Investigation Costs: $4964.79

Potential Revenue: Dependent upon a decision by Council to implement a usage charge.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.5.1(a) To provide professional and technical engineering advice and support for Council in an effective and timely
manner.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Telstra WiFi Site Assessment Quotation

D14/57045

 

Report authorised by:

Cameron Castles, Director - Infrastructure Services


Attachment 1

Telstra WiFi Site Assessment Quotation

 



 


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 10 July 2014

Item Number: 13.1

File Number: D14/49527

 

Subject Heading:                     Local Government Boundary Anomalies

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                           

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Tanya Mansfield, Manager - Facilities

 

Executive Summary: 

At the request of the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Council has been considering a number of anomalies pertaining to the Maranoa Regional Council local government boundary adjacent to the Banana Shire, Western Downs Regional Council and Balonne Shire Council local government boundary.

 

This ongoing matter has been considered at General Council meetings held on November 2013 and 22 January 2014.  The Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience has however requested further information and deliberation by Council before the Department will make a decision on amending Council boundaries.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation: 

That Council:

(1) Advise Banana Shire, Western Downs Regional Council and Balonne Shire Council that Council has completed an assessment of the boundary anomalies as notified by the Department Natural Resources and Mines and considered in its assessment access roads to the property, the location of the majority of the area of the lot and feedback from affected property owners;

 

(2) Advise Banana Shire, Western Downs Regional Council and Balonne Shire Council that it is Council’s position that the local government boundary should be moved to locate Lot 5 on SP215322 and Lot 6 on SP215322 entirely in Balonne Shire Council and Lot 4 on SP 204532, Lot 9 on AB 244, Lot 9 on SP 236780, Lot 22 on SP 248280, Lot 70 on WV 631 and Lot 368 on FTY 535 entirely within the Maranoa Regional Council Local Government Area.

 

(3) Apply to the Minister for Local Government for a referral of the matter to the Local Government Change Commissioner (Electoral Commission of Queensland) providing details of Council’s assessment and recommendations.

 

 

Body of Report:

At its General Meeting held on 22 January 2014, Council considered Officers reports in relation to local government boundary anomalies as identified by the Department of Natural Resources and Mines. 

 

The anomalies occur where the Council boundary bisects property lots, effectively dividing the parcel of land between two different Council areas.  As a consequence these properties are sometimes split into two different localities which cause further confusion for landowners, Council and essential services.

 

The anomalies identified along the Maranoa Regional Council boundary adjacent to the Banana Shire and Western Downs Regional Council’s are delineated on the attached maps:-

(a) CHQ024459/845 – Lot 4 on SP204532 and Lot 9 on AB244 – Maranoa Regional Council (Locality of Pony Hills) and Banana Shire Council (Locality of Baroondah).

(b) CHQ024459/848 – Lot 9 on SP236780, Lot 22 on SP248280, Lot 70 on WV631 and Lot 368 on FTY535 – Maranoa Regional Council (Localities of Wallumbilla North and Yuleba North) and Western Downs Regional Council (Localities of Bundi and Clifford).

 

The anomalies identified along the Maranoa Regional Council boundary adjacent to Balonne Shire Council is delineated on the attached map:-

(a) CHQ024459/660 – Lots 5 and 6 on SP215322 – Maranoa Regional Council (Localities of Wellesley and Wycombe) and Balonne Shire Council (Locality of St George).

 

The Department of Natural Resources and Mines had also corresponded with the Banana Shire Council, Western Downs Regional Council and Balonne Shire Council on the anomalies.

 

As directed by Council, consultation was conducted with affected property owners to obtain their feedback on the proposed changes to locality boundaries.  At this meeting Council was advised that affected property owners had been contacted via correspondence and asked to provide feedback, however no feedback was forthcoming. 

 

The outcome from this meeting was that Council resolved to:-

 

Resolution No. GM/01.2014/01

Moved Cr Price                                                             Seconded Cr Newman  

That Council apply to the Minister for Local Government for a referral of the matter to the Local Government Change Commissioner (Electoral Commission of Queensland) to assess the proposed boundary change which affects Lot 4 on SP204532, Lot 9 on AB244, Lot 9 on SP236780, Lot 22 on SP248280, Lot 70 on WV631, Lot 368 on FTY535, Lots 5 and 6 on SP215322,  in accordance with the Local Government Act 2009.

 

CARRIED          9/0

This resolution was actioned and a letter was written to the Minister for Local Government dated 24 January 2014.

On 21 February 2014, a letter was received in response from the Director-General Minister for Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience advising that the correspondence had insufficient detail on the outcome of consultation with the other affected local governments and communities. 

It was suggested that Maranoa Regional Council or the local governments jointly, resubmit the request for the boundary changes to the Minister detailing:-

a)   Consultation by the local governments with any affected property owners and their views in relation to the change proposal;

b)   Resolution date of the local government to proceed with an amended change proposal;

c)   Results of consultation between Maranoa Regional Council, Western Downs Regional Council, Banana Shire Council and Balonne Shire Council on the respective change proposals.

Assessment of Lots

Lot and Plan

Owner/s

Feedback from Owner/s

Majority Lot

Entry Road

MRC Officers Recommendation

Lot 5 on SP215322

 

R J Underwood

No response to correspondence seeking advice

Balonne Shire Council

Not Maranoa Regional Council

Move boundary to accommodate entire lot in Balonne Shire Council.

Lot 6 on SP215322

E A Underwood

No response to correspondence seeking advice

Balonne Shire Council

Not Maranoa Regional Council

Move boundary to accommodate entire lot in Balonne Shire Council.

Lot 4 on SP 204532

Australia Pacific LNG

No response to correspondence seeking advice

Maranoa Regional Council

Maranoa Regional Council – Injune Taroom Road

Move boundary to accommodate entire lot in Maranoa Regional Council.

Lot 9 on AB 244

Australia Pacific LNG

No response to correspondence seeking advice

Maranoa Regional Council

Maranoa Regional Council – Injune Taroom Road

Move boundary to accommodate entire lot in Maranoa Regional Council.

Lot 9 on SP 236780

B A Howe

No response to correspondence seeking advice

Maranoa Regional Council

Maranoa Regional Council – Injune Taroom Road

Move boundary to accommodate entire lot in Maranoa Regional Council.

Lot 22 on SP 248280

Australia Pacific LNG

No response to correspondence seeking advice

Maranoa Regional Council

Maranoa Regional Council – Injune Taroom Road

Move boundary to accommodate entire lot in Maranoa Regional Council.

Lot 70 on WV 631

Maller

No response to correspondence seeking advice.

Maranoa Regional Council

Maranoa Regional Council – Cattle Creek Road

Move boundary to accommodate entire lot in Maranoa Regional Council.

Lot 368 on FTY 535

Combabula State Forest

No correspondence sent.

 

Maranoa Regional Council – Injune Taroom Road or Horse Creek Road

Move boundary to accommodate entire lot in Maranoa Regional Council.

 

Advice from Affected Councils

On 23 June 2014, Balonne Shire Council sent this Council a copy of a letter sent to the Minister for Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience.  Balonne Shire Council has recommended that Lots 5 and 6 on SP215322 be wholly incorporated into Balonne Shire subject to owner consent.

Consultation (internal/external):

Max Barrie, Director Program Implementation and Review – Department of Local Government

Kym Downey, Manager, Infrastructure Planning & Design

Kim Edwards, Technical Officer, Infrastructure Planning & Design Department

Dana Harrison, Coordinator Rates

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

There are no strategic or operational risks identified.

Policy Implications:

In accordance with the Local Government Act 2009, the Minister for Local Government is responsible for formalizing local government boundaries within Queensland.

 

This process has been undertaken as per relevant legislative requirements.  There are no policy implications in relation to this matter.

Financial Resource Implications:

The preparation of this report has been undertaken in accordance with allocated funds within the Facilities Budget.

 

Council’s Rates Team has advised the following valuation and rating figures for the affected lots:-

 

Lot and Plan

Valuation

Annual Rates Payable as at January 2014

Lot 5 on SP215322 is rated with Lot 10 on EG 30

$225,000

$1,544.18

Lot 6 on SP215322

$90,000

$676.44

Lot 4 on SP 204532 and Lot 9 on AB 244

$750,000

$5,147.28

Lot 9 on SP 236780

$44,500

$649.92

Lot 22 on SP 248280 and Lot 50 WV 1511

$920,000

$6,313.98

Lot 70 on WV 631, Lot 81 WV 1504, Lot 71 WV 1546 and Lot 69 on WV 618.

$270,000

$1,853.02

Lot 368 on FTY 535

Combabula State Forest

 

 

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.2.3(a) To implement Council’s governance policies and procedures in an evolving organisational environment whilst ensuring legislative relevance, consistency and fairness in application.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Maps - Local Government Boundary Anomolies

D13/56643

2

Map Showing General Locality of Lots

D13/56917

3

Inward Correspondence - Balonne Shire Council

D14/45229

 

Report authorised by:

Robert Hayward, Director - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services


Attachment 1

Maps - Local Government Boundary Anomolies

 




Attachment 2

Map Showing General Locality of Lots

 


Attachment 3

Inward Correspondence - Balonne Shire Council

 



























Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 17 July 2014

Item Number: 13.2

File Number: D14/51372

 

Subject Heading:                     Commercial Tenancy Agreement

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                            41-45 Hutton Street Injune

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Josephine Horsfall, Coordinator - Property & Legal

 

Executive Summary: 

In July 2013 Council entered into a Commercial Tenancy Agreement with Queensland Blue Light Association Injune, Injune Youth Group and the Injune Swimming Club which allowed the groups use of the premises at 41-45 Hutton Street Injune. Blue Care Injune has also shared the use of the premises under a Licence Agreement with Council. Both the Commercial Tenancy Agreement and Licence Agreement expired on 1 July 2014.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council:-

1.   Extend the current Commercial Tenancy Agreement between Queensland Blue Light Association, Injune Youth Group, Injune Swimming Club and the Licence Agreement with Blue Care Injune until Council completes the review of Injune facilities;

2.   Advise the groups that Council retains the right to terminate the agreement at any time with the provision of one months notice to vacate;

3.   Continue to pay all outgoings subject to the group’s continuing a cooperative, shared use arrangement with other community organisations.

 

Body of Report:

In July 2013 Council entered into a Commercial Tenancy Agreement, for one year, with Queensland Blue Light Association Injune, Injune Youth Group and the Injune Swimming Club. Blue Care Injune has also shared use of the premises under a Licence Agreement with Council. Both agreements expired on 1 July 2014. These agreements allowed the groups use of the premises at 41-45 Hutton Street Injune being part of Lot 3 on RP171817.

 

As Council is currently completing a review of usage of Injune Facilities it is recommended that the current arrangements be extended until this review is finalised.

Consultation (internal/external):

Dion Horn Sgt Officer In Charge – Injune Police Station

Nigel Gray Property Manager - Blue Care Property Services

Tanya Mansfield Manager - Facilities

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

The Commercial Tenancy Agreement and Licence Agreement requires the community organizations to maintain a public liability insurance policy for the amount of $10 million.

 

Policy Implications:

Council has provided this space free of charge for Injune based community groups.

Financial Resource Implications:

Council is responsible for all outgoings.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.2.3(a) To implement Council’s governance policies and procedures in an evolving organisational environment whilst ensuring legislative relevance, consistency and fairness in application.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Commercial Tenancy Agreement

D13/25939

2

Blue Care Injune - Licence Agreement

D14/57302

 

Report authorised by:

Tanya Mansfield, Manager - Facilities

Robert Hayward, Director - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services


Attachment 1

Commercial Tenancy Agreement

 

Officer Report

Meeting: General  26 June 2013

Date: 18 June 2013

Item Number: 13.2

File Number: D13/25939

 


Subject Heading:                     Commercial Tenancy Agreement

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          Injune Blue Light Association, Injune Youth Group,Injune Swimming Club, and Blue Care Injune

Location:                                            41-45 Hutton Street Injune

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Josephine Horsfall, Coordinator - Property & Legal

 


 

Executive Summary: 

In January 2012 Council entered into a Commercial Tenancy Agreement with Queensland Blue Light Association Injune, Injune Youth Group and the Injune Swimming Club which allowed the groups use of the premises at 41-45 Hutton Street Injune. Blue Care Injune has from time to time shared in the use of the premises.  The tenancy agreement expired on 18 January 2013.

 

 


 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council enter into a Commercial Tenancy Agreement with Queensland Blue Light Association, Injune Youth Group, Injune Swimming Club and Injune Blue Care for a period of one (1) year with Council to pay all outgoings. Subject to the groups continuing a cooperative, shared use arrangement with other community organisations, no rent will be charged.

 

 


Body of Report:

In January 2012 Council entered into a Commercial Tenancy Agreement, for one year, with Queensland Blue Light Association Injune, Injune Youth Group and the Injune Swimming Club which allowed the groups use of the premises at 41-45 Hutton Street Injune being part of Lot 3 on RP171817.

 

Christopher Mitchell, Officer in Charge Injune Police Station, made contact with Council with regards to all parties being interested in renewing the lease agreement on the same conditions as the previous year.

 

Susan Harrison, Blue Care Injune, also contacted Council requesting use of office space in Injune for a period of one year. Blue Care Far South West has undergone a restructure and the closure of Maranoa Health Enhancement Program will mean a reduction in staff, as a result a large office space is not required.

The agreement between council and the community organisations allowed the groups free use of the building with Council to pay all outgoings including rates, electricity, water and building insurance.

Consultation (internal/external):

Fiona Vincent, Coordinator - Sport & Recreation

Robert Hayward Director - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services

Christopher Mitchell - Officer in Charge of the Injune Police Station

Susan Harrison – Blue Care Far West South - Injune

 

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

The Commercial Tenancy Agreement requires the community organizations to maintain a public liability insurance policy for the amount of $10 million

Policy Implications:

Council has provided this space free of charge for Injune based community groups.

Financial Resource Implications:

Council is responsible for all outgoings.

 


Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.4.3(a) To develop community capacity and encourage community engagement so as to address identified needs and opportunities to enhance the quality of life and wellbeing for residents of our region

Supporting Documentation:

1

Letter - Susan Harrison - Blue Care, Injune

D13/15397

2

Bluelight Injune Tennancy Request - QPS

d13/26623

 

Report authorised by:

Robert Hayward, Director- Development, Facilities & Environmental Services


Attachment 2

Blue Care Injune - Licence Agreement

 






Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 29 July 2014

Item Number: 13.3

File Number: D14/54418

 

Subject Heading:                     Post Event Report

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                           

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Janet Hogarth, Local Development Officer - Roma

 

Executive Summary: 

A post event report on the 2014 Maranoa Region June/July School Holiday Program, which incorporated a range of events and activities across the region.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council receive and note the Officers Report as presented.

 

 

Body of Report:

On behalf of the Maranoa Regional Council, the Local Development team runs a regional school holiday program in the June/July and December/January school holidays each year. 

 

The 2014 June/July school holiday program ran from Monday 30 June to Friday 11 July and was deemed an outstanding success by parents and children alike.  The events and activities were well attended across the region with over 1,000 children and parents getting involved over the two weeks.

Activities included:

 

·    Rock Climbing Wall with Bungee Jumping

·    Rodeo School

·    Laser Skirmish

·    Stormco – ran activities in Mitchell and Surat

·    Movie Nights

·    NAIDOC Celebrations – Indigenous Walkabout

·    Graffiti Art workshops

·    Opening of revamped Skatepark in Roma

·    Games and activities at Maranoa PCYC

 

Local Development Officers worked in conjunction with other community groups to organise, promote and deliver events and activities.  While programs were delivered in each town, regional youth were also provided with the opportunity to travel to Roma for different activities, and to mix and socialise with their peers.

 

The Western Star provided valuable support, with a 2 page spread promoting the school holiday program in the week prior to the holidays, and ran several photos and stories outlining the success of the program.

 

This year in particular highlighted community organisations working together, and with Council, to achieve great outcomes for all involved ensuring children from all social demographics were able to participate.  Overall the feedback was incredibly positive with many parents reporting children were still talking about the great time that they had and highlighting the fact there were numerous outdoor activities, thus getting children off computers and partaking in physical activities.

 

Marketing of Event Programs:

Event programs were communicated through the region via a range of marketing initiatives including:

§ Editorial coverage through local media

§ Bottle Tree Bulletin Community Newsletter

§ Posters on noticeboards and hand delivered at sporting events

§ Newspaper advertising

§ Facebook

§ Council Website

§ Council messages on hold

§ Emails to community contact lists

§ School newsletters

§ Word of mouth

 

Feedback:

§ Thank you MRC for putting on such a great event for the Holidays – 2 very happy and exhausted kids tonight.

§ Thank you MRC, LDO’s and all the volunteers – Best holiday program we have seen in years! Can’t wait for the next one.

§ Thanks for all of the activities you have organised over the school holidays.  Both my kids have enjoyed themselves.  It makes for a more enjoyable holiday.

Consultation (internal/external):

 

Robert Hayward – Development, Facilities & Environmental Services

Edward Sims - Manager Economic and Community Development

Susan Sands – (Acting) Coordinator Local Development & Council Events

Joh Hancock – Local Development Officer, Surat

Jane Fenton – Local Development Officer, Mitchell

Amanda Whitney – Local Development Officer, Injune

Penny Howland – Local Development Officer, Wallumbilla/Yuleba

Fiona Vincent – Sport & Recreation Coordinator

Lizzie Elmes – Support Officer

Injune Bluelight Group

Local Bowls Clubs

Charleville & Western Areas Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islanders Community Health Ltd - CWAATSICH

Downs Industry School Co-op Inc - DISCO

Roma Police

Maranoa PCYC

Stephen Brown – Community Support Officer-Indigenous Community Links (Roma) 

Roma Fire Brigade

Service To Others Really Matters - STORMCO

Local community volunteers

 

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Nil

Policy Implications:

Nil

Financial Resource Implications:

$16, 300.  Within budget as per annual School Holiday budget.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.4.3(a) To develop community capacity and encourage community engagement so as to address identified needs and opportunities to enhance the quality of life and wellbeing for residents of our region

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

Report authorised by:

Susan (Sue) Sands, (Acting) Coordinator - Local Development & Council Events

Edward Sims, Manager - Economic & Community Development


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 29 July 2014

Item Number: 13.4

File Number: D14/54440

 

Subject Heading:                     Application to waive fees for Tourism and Events Queensland Photo Shoot.

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          Megan Swords

Location:                                            Roma and Surat

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Megan Swords, Coordinator - Tourism

 

Executive Summary: 

On Monday, July 28 2014, Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), in partnership with Southern Queensland Country Tourism (SQCT) commissioned Big Boy Film Services Pty Ltd. to undertake a film shoot in Roma Surat and St George.

All images will remain the property of TEQ and SQCT, though will be made available for use by Council through TEQ’s online Image Library. 

 

As part of the planning for the photo shoot, Council required the organisers to complete an ‘Application to Undertake Regulated Activity on Local Government Controlled Area or Road Reserve,’ and to pay an application fee of $270.40.

 

As the images from the shoot will be used to promote tourism in the Maranoa and will also be available for Council use, TEQ and SQCT were hoping that Council would consider waiving the application fee.

 

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

 

That Council resolve to waive the application fee of $270.40 for Big Boy Film Services Pty Ltd to undertake regulated activity on Local Government Controlled area or Road for the purpose of their photo shoot on July 28, 2014.

  

 

 

Body of Report:

On Monday, July 28 2014, Tourism and Events Queensland, in partnership with Southern Queensland Country Tourism commissioned, Big Boy Film Services Pty Ltd. to undertake a photo shoot in Roma and Surat.

The photo shoot took in local sites, including the Roma Saleyards, Adungadoo Pathway, McDowall Street, the Big Rig/ Parklands, Heroes Avenue, Fisherman’s rest, Surat Riverside Parklands and the Cobb and Co Changing Station, Surat. The purpose of the shoot was to capture film and images of visitors in the region for use by Tourism and Events Queensland, Southern Queensland Country Tourism for the promotion of the Maranoa. Images will also be made publicly available through the Tourism and Events Queensland Image Library for promotion of the Maranoa.

As part of their application, Council requires that the organisers gain permission to undertake regulated activity on Local Government Controlled Area, including a submission of their own Public Liability Insurance. While TEQ have completed all of the relevant documentation, including submission of their Public Liability Insurance, they are hoping that Council may be generous enough to waive the application fee associated, which is $270.40.

Consultation (internal/external):

Atom Togiatama (Environmental Health Officer, Environmental Health & Compliance)

 

Sally Buckingham (Marketing Coordinator, Southern Queensland Country Tourism)

Melissa Webster (Production Coordinator – Brand and Marketing, Tourism and Events Queensland)

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Nil.

Policy Implications:

Nil.

Financial Resource Implications:

Application fee of $270.40 waived.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.4.2(a) To identify and implement actions that facilitates the development of the regional tourism industry.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

Report authorised by:

Edward Sims, Manager - Economic & Community Development


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 30 July 2014

Item Number: 13.5

File Number: D14/54498

 

Subject Heading:                     Department of Human Services - Surat Agency Contract 2014-15

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          Jacqueline Burns

Location:                                            Surat Cobb and Co Changing Station - Library

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Jacqueline  Burns, Coordinator - Libraries, Arts & Culture

 

Executive Summary: 

The Department of Human Services has been invited the Maranoa Regional Council to continue to provide Agent Services (Centrelink) in Surat for the period commencing 1 July 2014 and ending on the 30 June 2015.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council endorse the continuation for the provision of services in Surat as an agent for the Department of Human Services.

 

 

Body of Report:

The Surat Cobb and Co Changing Station operates as a multi functional complex with the core business of providing library and cultural services. The Surat Library also offers additional services for QGAP (Queensland Government Agency Program) and the Department of Human Services, previously referred to as Centrelink Services.

 

The Department of Human Services has invited the Maranoa Regional Council to continue to provide agent and access point services to the Surat community for the period commencing 1 July 2014 and ending on 30 June 2015. The services comprise the provision of face to face information services and self service facilities to access the Department’s services and information.

 

The Maranoa Regional Council Library Services staff receives specific training from the Department of Human Services to deliver the suite of services available to the Surat community. The Department also supplies the marketing collateral and hardware to be able to deliver these services effectively.

 

The Department of Human Services requests the return of the signed Letter of Offer at Council’s earliest convenience.

 

As previously discussed with Councilors, an opportunity to extend these services to other communities in the region is being investigated.

 

In December 2013, an Expression of Interest was forwarded to the Department of Human Services for the provision of services in the Mitchell Library. The Department representative Mitch Greig advised that the Mitchell Library was declined as a possible venue due to the lack of privacy in the facility. Mr. Greig personally visited the Mitchell Library to investigate the potential for service provision and identified that the facility echoes when patrons are speaking and this presented an issue of privacy due to the sensitive nature of requests by some of the Department’s clients. On this basis, the Department endorsed that the Mitchell Courthouse/Police Station would continue to provide these services to the Mitchell community for 2014/15.

 

The Department of Human Services is aware of the Maranoa Regional Council’s interest in offering added services and will consider future expressions of interest if the issue of client privacy can be addressed appropriately.

Consultation (internal/external):

Edward Sims – Manager Economic and Community Development

Joanna Weinert – Library and Cultural Services Officer (Surat)

Mitch Greig – Manager Roma Service Centre – Department of Human Services

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

<provide risk details or state 'Nil'>

Policy Implications:

<provide detail or state 'Nil'>

Financial Resource Implications:

As outlined in the Schedule of Payments included in the Letter of Offer, the Maranoa Regional Council receives a monthly agency payment of $1067.66. The total amount received equates to $12,811.87 for the 2014-15 financial year.

 

This total contract amount has increased from $12,498.60 received in the 2013-14 financial year.

 

The Library staff at the Surat Cobb and Co Changing Station provides QGAP and Department of Human Services as a value added service to their existing duties and presents no additional financial implications to the Maranoa Regional Council.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.4.11(a) To administer various social support programs in accordance with defined services agreements and within financial limitations as per funding received and the level of community service obligation as determined by Council from time to time.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Department of Human Services - Surat Agency Contract 2014-15

D14/54484

 

Report authorised by:

Edward Sims, Manager - Economic & Community Development

Robert Hayward, Director - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services


Attachment 1

Department of Human Services - Surat Agency Contract 2014-15

 








Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 31 July 2014

Item Number: 13.6

File Number: D14/55029

 

Subject Heading:                     Allocation of Reserve - Neil Turner Weir

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                            Mitchell

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Tanya Mansfield, Manager - Facilities

 

Executive Summary: 

In the recent review of camping options in the region, it was identified that the land known as Lot 3 on DL366 on which the park and toilet block are located at the Neil Turner Weir in Mitchell and across the road where sand has in the past been stockpiled is gazetted as Unallocated State Land.  It is recommended that Council apply to the Department Natural Resources and Mines to have the land gazetted as a Reserve for Park and Recreation Purposes with Council nominated as the trustee.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council apply to the Department Natural Resources and Mines to gazette Lot 3 on DL366 being Unallocated State Land as a Reserve for Park and Recreation Purposes with Council as the nominated trustee.

 

Body of Report:

It has been identified that Lot 3 on DL366 being the land on which the Rotary Park and toilet block at Neil Turner Weir are located and the former sanitary reserve across the road, have been gazetted as Unallocated State Land.

 

Council currently has facilities on this land including a toilet block and picnic tables and maintains the parklands and infrastructure. 

 

After discussions with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, it is recommended that Council apply to the Department to gazette the land as a Reserve for Park and Recreation Purposes with Council as the nominated Trustee.

 

Council may be required to deal with Native Title as part of the process to have this land gazetted as reserve.  

Consultation (internal/external):

Department Natural Resources and Mines – Tania McKenzie

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Council is currently using the land.  No additional risk is incurred as a result of this recommendation.  Council may need to address any Native Title issues arising as a result of this proposed change in land tenure type.

Policy Implications:

Allocating the land as a reserve is the correct process for managing the land.

Financial Resource Implications:

Nil anticipated.  If native title needs to be addressed it will be accommodated in the Facilities Operational budget.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.2.4(a) To maintain and present Council’s community facilities in a manner appropriate to the standard expected by users for each respective facility within budgetary constraints whilst considering organisational sustainability.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Mitchell Neil Turner Weir - Map

D14/55837

 

Report authorised by:

Robert Hayward, Director - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services


Attachment 1

Mitchell Neil Turner Weir - Map

 


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 31 July 2014

Item Number: 13.7

File Number: D14/55030

 

Subject Heading:                     Amendment of Reserve - Muckadilla Parkland

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                            Muckadilla

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Tanya Mansfield, Manager - Facilities

 

Executive Summary: 

In the recent review of camping options in the region, it was identified that the land known as Lots 13 - 16 on M3832, behind the Muckadilla Hall, toilets and park is gazetted as a Reserve for Park Purposes.  The Muckadilla Community currently promote the area for camping, however camping is not an allowable use of a park reserve.

 

It is recommended that Council apply to the Department Natural Resources and Mines to have the land gazetted as a Reserve for Park and Recreation Purposes with Council continuing to act as the trustee of the reserve. 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

Apply to the Department Natural Resources and Mines to change the purpose of  Lots 13 – 16 on M3832 behind the Muckadilla Hall, Public Toilets and Park from a Reserve for Park Purposes to a Reserve for Park and Recreation Purposes.

 

Body of Report:

It has been identified that Lots 13 – 16 on M3832 being the land behind the Muckadilla Hall, Public Toilets and Park are gazetted as Reserve for Park Purposes.

 

The Muckadilla Community currently promotes this land is a camping area and stopover for caravans, however camping is not an allowable use of a park reserve. 

 

After discussions with the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, it is recommended that Council apply to the Department to gazette the land as a Reserve for Park and Recreation Purposes with Council to continue as the nominated Trustee.  This would allow camping at the site for a maximum of three nights stay.

Consultation (internal/external):

Department of Natural Resources and Mines

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Council is currently using the land.  No additional risk is incurred as a result of this recommendation.

Policy Implications:

Allocating the land as a reserve is the correct process for managing the land.

Financial Resource Implications:

Nil.  Council is already maintaining the land.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.2.4(a) To maintain and present Council’s community facilities in a manner appropriate to the standard expected by users for each respective facility within budgetary constraints whilst considering organisational sustainability.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Muckadilla Parkland - Map

D14/55839

 

Report authorised by:

Robert Hayward, Director - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services


Attachment 1

Muckadilla Parkland - Map

 


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 5 August 2014

Item Number: 13.8

File Number: D14/55921

 

Subject Heading:                     Application for Material Change of Use - "Extractive Industry" up to 500,000 tonnes p.a. and Environmentally Relevant Activities 16(2)(b) and 16(3)(b) - Extractive and Screening Activities. File: 2014/18864

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          David and Susan Bassingthwaighte C/- Ausrocks Pty Ltd

Location:                                            41476 Warrego Highway, Jackson QLD 4426 (Lot 12 on SP218512)

Author & Officer’s Title:                 David Fermer, Coordinator - Planning

 

Executive Summary:  The application seeks approval for a Material Change of Use – “Extractive Industry” to 500,000 tonnes per annum  and Environmentally Relevant Activities 16(2)(b) and 16(3)(b) – Extractive and Screening Activities, on land at 41476 Warrego Highway, Jackson QLD 4426 (described as Lot 12 on SP218512).

 

The application is subject to Impact Assessment against the relevant provisions of the Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme 2006.  Public notification was carried out between 9 April 2014 and 6 May 2014, and no submissions were received.

 

The application is generally consistent with the provisions of the Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme 2006 including the Desired Environmental Outcomes and Rural Zone Code.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  The application for Material Change of Use - “Extractive Industry” to 500,000 tonnes per annum  and Environmentally Relevant Activities 16(2)(b) and 16(3)(b) – Extractive and Screening Activities, on land at 41476 Warrego Highway, Jackson QLD 4426 (described as Lot 12 on SP218512), be approved subject to the following conditions:

 

Preamble

 

(i)      Refer to http://www.cmdg.com.au for the Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines (CMDG).

 

(ii)     The relevant planning scheme for this Development Approval is the Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme 2006. All references to the ‘Planning Scheme’ and ‘Planning Scheme Schedules’ within these conditions refer to the above Planning Scheme.

 

 

(iii)    The related Environmental Authority(s) as included in the Environmental Protection Act 1994 must have been given and remain current while the use continues. All references to the ‘Environmental Authority’ within these conditions refer to the Environmental Authority for this approved use.

 

The related Environmental Authorities are:

a)    2(b) extracting, other than by dredging in a year, more than 100,000t but no more than 1,000,000t; and

b)    3(b) screening, in a year, more than 100,000t but no more than 1,000,000t.

 

(iv)    All Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in Queensland is protected under the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 and penalty provisions apply for any unauthorised harm.  Under the legislation a person carrying out an activity must take all reasonable and practicable measures to ensure the activity does not harm Aboriginal Cultural Heritage.  This applies whether or not such places are recorded in an official register and whether or not they are located in, on or under private land.  The developer is responsible for implementing reasonable and practical measures to ensure the Cultural Heritage Duty of Care Guidelines are met and for obtaining any clearances required from the responsible entity.

 

(v)     The Environmental Protection Act 1994 states that a person must not carry out any activity that causes, or is likely to cause, environmental harm unless the person takes all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent or minimise the harm.  Environmental harm includes environmental nuisance.  In this regard, persons and entities involved in the operation of the approved development are to adhere to their ‘general environmental duty’ to minimise the risk of causing environmental harm to adjoining premises.

 

(vi)    Building construction is to accord with the Building Code of Australia, Queensland Development Code and State Planning Guidelines for building in bushfire prone areas.

 

Construction standards for a Medium Bushfire Hazard area will apply.

 

Use

 

1.      The approved development is a Material Change of Use - "Extractive Industry” and related Environmentally Relevant Activities 16(2)(b) and 16(3)(b) – Extractive and Screening Activities, as shown on the approved plans.

a)    The approved extraction tonnage is capped at 500,000 tonnes per annum.

b)    This approval is current for 5 years commencing from the date of approval. The life of this approval is restricted as neither Council nor the extractive industry operator can be sure of the longer term impacts on the Council road system from the development. The conditions requiring road impact contributions are based on a timeframe of 5 years.

 

2.      The period of the currency of this approval may be extended to 20 years by an infrastructure agreement which allows the Council, the extractive industry operator and the approval holder to establish longer term protocols and arrangements which address the possible variations to the impacts on Council’s road infrastructure over an extended period.    

 

Timing

 

3.      All conditions relating to the establishment of the approved development must be fulfilled prior to any approved use commencing, unless otherwise noted within these conditions.

 

4.      Prior to commencement of use, the applicant shall contact Council to arrange a development compliance inspection.        

 

Approved Plans and Documents

 

5.      Maintain the approved development, in accordance with the following approved plans, subject to and as modified by any conditions of this approval:

 

Drawing SP_s2001

Jackson Quarry Site Layout Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing SP_s2002

Jackson Quarry Site Layout Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing EP_s2001

Jackson Quarry Extraction Area 1 Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

  

Drawing EP_s2002

Jackson Quarry Exraction Area 1 Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing EP_s2003

Jackson Quarry Extraction Area 2 Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing EP_s2004

Jackson Quarry Extraction Area 2 Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing EP_s2005

Jackson Quarry Extraction Area 3 Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing EP_s2006

Jackson Quarry Area 3 Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing SP_s2005

Jackson Quarry Office and Amenities Layout Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing SP_s2006

Jackson Quarry Office and Amenities Layout Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 17/01/2014

 

Drawing NP_s2001

Jackson Quarry Neighbour Plan.

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 28/03/2014

 

6x3m Site Office _Jackson Quarry

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers    

 

Document – Site Based Management Plan

Prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers     dated 01/2014

 

Documents – Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines

While all of the Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines apply to the approval the following guidelines have direct application:

 

D1 Geometric Road Design                                                 dated 03/2012

D2 Pavement Design                                                                        dated 03/2012

D5 Stormwater Drainage Design                                        dated 03/2012

D6 Site Regrading                                                                 dated 03/2012

D7 Erosion Control and Stormwater Management          dated 03/2012

 

6.      All works must comply with:

 

a)    the development approval conditions;

b)    any relevant provisions in the Planning Scheme;

c)    Council’s standard designs for such work where such designs exist;

d)    the Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines;

e)    any relevant Australian Standard that applies to that type of work; and

f)     any alternative specifications that Council has agreed to in writing and which the developer must ensure do not conflict with any requirements imposed by any applicable laws and standards.

 

Environmental Authorities

 

7.      This approval relies on the relevant approved Environmental Authority (and its related documents) applicable to the site to identify and state the all the requirements for this approval related to Environmentally Relevant Activities for the site (where those Environmentally Relevant Activities are not expressly devolved to the Council).

 

8.      This approval relies on the entity responsible for approving and managing the Environmental Authority to meet its responsibilities. The Council will not take any responsibility for the management of environmental impacts covered by the Environmental Authority unless and until that entity (or its legal successors) is unable to act.

 

9.      The standards and approval of civil works and services and aspects of environmental management not covered by the Environmental Authority are the responsibility of the Council, but subject to the environmental impact management requirements that may be imposed by the Environmental Authority (or any approval that effectively replaces that Environmental Authority).

 

10.    Where there is a conflict between the conditions and standards set by an Environmental Authority for the site and the conditions and standards set by the Development Permit, those set in the Environmental Authority shall prevail in those matters covered by the Environmental Authority.

 

Operating Hours

 

11.    Hours of operation are 6:00am to 6:00pm Monday to Saturday.  No work is permitted on Sundays or public holidays. Hours of operation include the transporting of material from the site.

 

12.    The quarry operator may apply to Council to vary the hours of operation for a particular project where the extended operating hours are necessary in the opinion of the Council having considered the requirements and community benefits of the particular project and the duration of the additional impacts upon the local community.

 

13.    Any Council approval of the varied hours will be restricted to the duration of the project, and may be rescinded by the Council on seven days notice if the extended hours of operation are considered to be causing undue nuisance or disruption to other persons.

 

Amenity

 

14.    Any advertising signage is subject to a further development approval unless compliant with the self-assessable development provisions of the planning scheme.

 

15.    Effluent storage and removal must not have an adverse effect on the surrounding areas and must not cause nuisance to neighbouring properties.

 

16.    Waste containers shall be maintained in a clean and tidy state at all times while the use continues, and shall be emptied, and the waste removed from the site on a regular basis.

 

Avoiding Nuisance

 

17.    The approved development and the premises are to be maintained in a clean and tidy condition and not to pose any health and safety risks to the community.

 

18.    Extraction areas, access and site roadways and surrounds shall be kept in an orderly fashion and free of rubbish.

 

19.    No nuisance is to be caused to adjoining properties and their occupiers by the way of smoke, dust, rubbish, contaminant, stormwater discharge or siltation at any time, including non-working hours.

 

20.    Lighting of the site, including any temporary or security lighting, shall be such that the lighting intensity does not exceed:

 

8.0 lux at a distance of 1.5 metres from the site at any property boundary.

 

Earthworks

 

21.    All earthworks for the development shall be undertaken in accordance with Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines D6 ‘Site Regrading’ Design Guidelines.

 

Erosion Control

 

22.    Erosion and Sediment Control is to be managed in accordance with:

a)    Site Based Management Plan (Jackson Quarry) Section 14.10 Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan; and

 

b)    Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines D7 ‘Erosion Control and Stormwater Management’.

 

23.    Where it is necessary for a road and/or drainage system to be reinstated or cleaned up as a result of erosion and/or sedimentation from the site, such works must be undertaken at the developer’s expense.  Such works shall be undertaken immediately, where it is a potential hazard to pedestrians and/or passing traffic.

 

Provision of Services

 

24.    At all times during the operation on site effluent is to be disposed of in accordance with Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater Code 2013 and AS1547.2012 (On-site domestic wastewater management).  A development permit for plumbing and drainage works shall be sought from Council for any onsite sewerage system provided to the development.

 

25.    The site must be provided with an on-site water supply with sufficient capacity to meet all operational needs, including watering to minimise dust nuisance and also a potable water supply sufficient to meet the needs of staff and visitors to the site.

 

26.    Any supply of potable water to the site, and disposal of effluent from the site is to be performed by a suitably licenced contractor.

 

Stormwater and Drainage

 

27.    Stormwater is to be managed in accordance with:

 

a)    Site Based Management Plan (Jackson Quarry) Section 14.10 Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan; and

b)    Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines D5 ‘Stormwater Drainage Design’.

 

28.    Discharge of stormwater runoff from the development shall drain freely in all cases, and no nuisance of ponding is to be created within the vicinity of the development.

 

29.    There shall be no increases in any silt loads or contaminants in any overland flow from the site being developed, or into creeks or roadways, either during the development process or after the development has been completed.

 

Access, Car parking and Manoeuvring

 

Note that the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning have attached conditions to this approval concerning access to the State Controlled Road Network.

 

30.    The landowner shall be responsible for construction and maintenance of vehicle crossovers from the road carriageway to the property boundary and for obtaining any approvals that may be required, and for complying with the applicable designs and standards.

 

31.    All weather vehicle access shall be provided for traffic movement within the development site.

 

32.    Unsealed internal roads are to be watered upon receipt of any complaint regarding dust nuisance caused by vehicle movements within the site.

 

Environmental Management

 

33.    All activities while the use continues are to be managed in accordance with:

a)   The relevant Environmental Authority issued by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, or any subsequent Environmental Authority that is issued for the approved use;

b)   the Site Based Management Plan, (Jackson Quarry) prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers; and

c)   all relevant sections of the Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines.

 

34.    Remediation of the site is to occur in consultation with the landowner, and is to be managed in accordance with:

 

a)      the relevant Environmental Authority issued by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, or any subsequent Environmental Authority that is issued for the approved use; and

b)      the Rehabilitation Plan, Section 14.17 of the Site Based Management Plan, (Jackson Quarry) prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers.

 

35.    If the environmental approval issued by a State agency (Department of Environment and Heritage Protection or its successor) to undertake this use on this site ceases to have effect and is not replaced by an appropriate approval, code or law to manage the use and the rehabilitation of the site, then the conditions, requirements and obligations of the original environmental approval given for this use on this site shall become conditions of this approval. References in the original environmental approval to the State agency will then be construed as references to the Council to the greatest extent possible. The standards referenced by the most recent environmental approval will be the applicable standards.

 

36.    Weeds and pests are to be monitored and controlled in accordance with Section 14.14 of the Site Based Management Plan prepared by Ausrocks Consulting Mining Engineers.

 

Fees, Infrastructure Charges and Impact Contributions

 

37.    A local roads additional impacts charge will be paid to Maranoa Regional Council in accordance with the Local Roads Additional Impacts Charges Schedule A, attached to and forming part of these conditions.  This condition and the conditions in Local Roads Additional Impacts Charges Schedule A are based on division 2 of chapter 8, more specifically sections 650 and 651 and linked sections, of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.

 

38.    All matters contained within this development approval may be covered by infrastructure agreements or deeds of agreement between the relevant parties for each matter

 

39.    All fees, rates, interest and other charges levied on the property, shall be paid in accordance with the rate at the time of payment.

 

Complete and Maintain

 

40.    Complete and maintain the approved development as follows: (i) in accordance with development approval documents and (ii) strictly in accordance with those parts of the approved development which have been specified in detail by the Council or Referral Agency unless the Council or Referral Agency agrees in writing that those parts will be adequately complied with by amended specifications.

 

41.    Complete and maintain all operational, building and plumbing and drainage work associated with this development approval, including work required by any of the development approval conditions.

 

Repair Damaged Infrastructure

 

42.    The developer is responsible for locating and protecting any Council and public utility services, infrastructure and assets that may be impacted on during construction of the development.  Any damage to existing infrastructure (road pavement, existing underground assets, signs or other) that is attributable to the progress of works on the site or vehicles associated with the development of the site shall be immediately rectified in accordance with the asset owners’ requirements and specifications and to the satisfaction of the asset owners’ representative(s).

 

43.    Council is to be indemnified against any claims arising from works carried out by the applicant on Council’s property.

 

No Cost to Council

 

44.    The developer is responsible for meeting all costs associated with the approved development unless there is specific agreement by other parties, including the Council, to meeting those costs.

 

45.    All rates and charges of any description and all arrears of such rates and charges, together with interest outstanding thereon, on the land, due to the Council, shall be paid to the Council prior to any approved use commencing.

 

Latest versions

 

46.    Where another condition refers to a specific published standard, manual or guideline, including specifications, drawings, provisions and criteria within those documents, that condition shall be deemed as referring to the latest versions of those publications that are publicly available at the time the first operational works or compliance approval is lodged with the assessment manager or approval agency for those types of works to be performed or approved, unless a regulation or law requires otherwise.

 

Application Documentation

 

47.    It is the developer’s responsibility to ensure all entities associated with this Development Approval have a legible copy of the Decision Notice and the Approved Plans and Approved Documents bearing ‘Council Approval’.

 

Electricity Easement        

 

48.    Development is carried out generally in accordance with the plans and reports provided as part of the application.

 

49.    All easement conditions remain relevant and applicable to the burdened parcels.

 

50.    The proposed haulage road is to be constructed as close to the edge of the easement as practicable (ie. as far away from the centre line of the easement).

 

51.    The proposed haulage road is to stay to one side of the easement (rather than cut across and back) as practicable (to limit vehicle movements under the lines).

 

52.    A high strength guard barrier is constructed at a minimum distance of 15m from the base of any high voltage tower in the vicinity of the haulage route. Design of the barrier is to be approved by Ergon Energy before construction to determine suitability and any special earthing requirements. All costs associated with the construction of the barrier will be at the expense of the applicant.

 

53.    Signage is to be installed (both directions) where the proposed haulage route passes under the lines, alerting drivers to the presence of the powerline and towers to reduce risk of damage or contact.

 

54.    Access to the easement and access along the easement must be available to Ergon Energy personnel and equipment at all times.  Where fencing prohibits access to and along the easement area, gates must be supplied and installed at the developer/owner's expense.

 

55.    Should changes to any Ergon Energy infrastructure be proposed or required as part of the development, those changes are made with Ergon Energy's consent and at the developer/owner's expense (unless otherwise agreed to by Ergon Energy).

 

Charges Schedule A - Local Roads Additional Impacts

 

56.    These conditions are required because the development will impact on the local roads when materials associated with the operation of the extractive industry are carried along those local roads. The local roads additional impacts charge covers all roads in the Maranoa Regional Council Area where heavy vehicles of the type used in this activity/use are permitted to travel. The tonnage of extracted material leaving the extractive industry is deemed to be a proportional measure of the total traffic to and from the site.

 

57.    A local roads additional impacts charge of $0.50 per tonne will be paid to Maranoa Regional Council for all extracted material transported from the site. This is the local roads additional impacts charge for the 2013-2014 financial year. Until such time as (1) the level of approved use is changed or (2) Council has amended charges as a result of a review requested by the extractive industry operator, the local roads additional impacts charges amount will be increased or decreased annually by a percentage equivalent to the 3-year moving average annual percentage increase in the PPI index (as defined in the Sustainable Planning Act 2009) for the period of 3 years ending at the start of the financial year.

 

58.    The payment of the local roads additional impacts charge must be made by the extractive industry operator within 14 days of the end of each 3 month period, with the periods starting with the commencement of the use/activity. The extractive industry operator must calculate the payment and provide details of the calculation. If no payment is made within the set time, the Council may demand payment based on the maximum approved annual production capacity of the activity/use divided by 4.  The maximum approved annual production capacity of the extractive industry will be deemed to be the maximum capacity of the extractive industry listed in the approvals for the site. If the extractive industry operator does not pay the local roads additional impacts charge for two consecutive periods, the Council can require the holder of the development approval to pay the local roads additional impacts charge to the Council.

 

59.    The holder of the development approval or the extractive industry operator may ask for the local roads additional impacts charge to be reviewed once in every three year period after the approval for the activity/use is given. The review will take account of the rates and methodology applying to similar operators in the Council Area and the facts and circumstances applying to this approved activity/use.

 

60.    Despite the payment of a local roads additional impacts charge, the Council may stop the extractive industry operator from using particular roads. The reasons may include Council concerns about the level of damage being caused or may be caused to those particular local roads by the addition to total road use of heavy vehicles associated with the extractive industry.

 

61.    Council or its representatives is entitled to inspect, copy and audit any records which may help to prove the actual use of the road network by the extractive industry operator or the approval holder(s) for the purposes of assessing the local roads additional impacts charge. The extractive industry operator and the approval holder(s) have agreed by the acceptance of this condition that the Council has their agreement and permission to access those records wherever held and that their agreement and permission cannot be revoked.

 

62.    The extractive industry operator or the approval holder(s) may undertake roadworks in lieu of paying a local roads additional impacts charge. The roadworks must be of the same value as the local roads additional impacts charge. The value of roadworks will be determined by Council or by an independent RPEQ standard engineer agreed to by the Council. The roadworks must be roadworks included the Council current roadworks program and within a 50 kilometre radius of the extractive industry site on roads that may be used by the operator.  The carrying out of roadworks must comply with CMDG guidelines and other requirements which normally apply to works carried out on Council roads by contractors, including warranties for the works performed. The onus is on the entity intending to perform the roadworks to gain all necessary approvals for the roadworks. The roadworks must be completed within 3 months after the local roads additional impacts charge was due to be paid or within a period agreed in writing with the Council.

 

63.    The charges or roadworks or other relevant matters can be included within an infrastructure agreement or deed of agreement with the Council, the extractive industry operator and any other relevant parties by consent of the parties. The extractive industry operator, the approval holder and the Council may vary the charges and other factors by mutual consent where circumstances warrant such variations and the community interest is protected.

 

 

Body of Report: Refer to Attachment 1

Consultation (internal/external):

-      State Assessment and Referral Agency/DSDIP as a Concurrence Agency

-      Ergon Energy – Third Party Advice

-      Queensland Fire and Rescue Service – Third Party Advice

-      Ruth Golden – MRC Development Engineer

-      Warren Oxnam – MRC Compliance Specialist

-      Public notification was undertaken in accordance with the requirements of SPA.

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

The applicant has appeal rights under SPA against any decision of Council.

Policy Implications:

The application generally accords with the policy position of the Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme.

 

5 Year Operating Period

The recommended approval is for 5 years commencing from the date of approval. The condition explains that the life of this approval is restricted as neither Council nor the extractive industry operator can be sure of the longer term impacts on the Council road system from the development.  The conditions requiring road impact contributions are based on a timeframe of 5 years.

 

A second condition period of the currency of this approval may be extended to 20 years by an infrastructure agreement which allows the Council, the extractive industry operator and the approval holder to establish longer term protocols and arrangements which address the possible variations to the impacts on Council’s road infrastructure over an extended period.  It is not practical to spell out the details of the methodology, protocols and arrangements in the development approval.  The use of a voluntary infrastructure agreement also gives the developer scope to influence the methodology, protocols and arrangements to fit in with the operational environment of the project.

 

Please note that the extension of the currency period for the approval is only related to the impacts on local roads and no other matters.  All of the other matters can be addressed by the conditions with a high level of certainty.  Projections of road impacts beyond a 5 year period are very difficult to determine because of a range of factors.

 

If a mutually satisfactory set of methodology, protocols and arrangements can be embedded in the infrastructure agreement, then the risks to the Council and the developer over the longer term are more manageable, even if they are not clearly predictable.

 

Without the voluntary infrastructure agreement, the conditions and the approval currency period of 5 years establish an acceptable level of risk for both parties. If the approval is open-ended, the burden and unpredictability of the risks gradually increase for the Council without necessarily increasing the risks for the developer.

 

Environmental Management

With the emphasis placed by the Queensland Government on the separation of responsibilities, the approval of development applications by the Council now should include conditions that make it clear that that the responsibility for managing the environmental impacts of a non-devolved environmentally relevant activity for a quarry rests with the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection DEHP).  DEHP issues an environmental authority for the environmentally relevant activity if they consider it necessary, can also include concurrence agency conditions in the development approval.

 

The recommended Council conditions now state that the approval relies on the environmental authority for the site to provide the basis for managing environmental impacts.  The conditions also state that the approval also relies on the entity approving and managing the environmental authority to meet its responsibilities.  To make this point very clear, the conditions state that the Council will not take any responsibility for the management of environmental impacts unless the entity responsible for the environmental authority is unable to act.

 

It also means that the standards and approval of civil works and services that are the responsibility of the Council will need to be compatible with the environmental impact management requirements that may be imposed by the environmental authority.

 

As a reserve power, the recommended Council conditions contain a “sleeper” clause.  This clause is inserted just in case the environmental authority or the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection cease to exist during the life of the quarry.  This “sleeper” clause states that if the environmental approval issued by a State agency ceases to have effect and is not replaced by an appropriate approval, code or law, then the conditions of the original environmental approval given for this use on this site become conditions of this approval. References in the original environmental approval to the State agency will then be construed as references to the Council to the greatest extent possible.

 

By taking this approach, the holder of the approval can clearly see who is responsible for the oversight of site environmental management. It also helps restrict “jurisdiction shopping”. The other result is that it makes it clear that the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection is the entity responsible for environmental management.

Financial Resource Implications:

Local Road Impacts

The proposed development approval conditions include provisions for a Network Access Charge which takes account of the proportional impact of the development on the local government road system.  The Network Access Charge (NAC) has been initially set at $0.50 per tonne for all extracted material leaving the site. The NAC allows for the use of all parts of the local government road system open to vehicles of the weight and type used in the extractive industry operations.

The information and requirements for the payment of the NAC are contained in the Charges Schedule - Local Roads Additional Impacts which is attached to the approval and forms part of the conditions.

 

The conditions which set up the NAC have been modified from earlier versions to comply with the recent State Government amendments to the infrastructure charges provisions of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.3.1(a) Regulate and control development in a consistent and responsible manner that enhances the lifestyle of our community whilst promoting sustainable development.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Body of Report

D14/56903

2

Development Plans

D14/55972

3

Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Concurrence Agency Response

D14/56541

 

Report authorised by:

Danielle Pearn, Manager - Planning & Building Development


Attachment 1

Body of Report

 

 

Background Information

 

Proposed Land Use

 

The application seeks to establish a Material Change of Use for "Extractive Industry” to extract up to 500,-000 tonnes of hard rock quarry material per annum on land at 41476 Warrego Highway, Jackson QLD 4426 (described as Lot 12 on Plan SP218512).

 

Details of Proposed Development

 

The proposed development is for the expansion of an existing quarry for civil construction (road), with an annual production of up to 500,000 tonnes.  On-site operations will include material extraction, sorting, crushing, screening, and then distribution of processed material.

 

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1994, the application constitutes an ‘Environmentally Relevant Activity’.  An increase in proposed production, from 100,000t to 500,000t, will require an additional ERA under the Sustainable Planning Regulation 2009. An environmental approval is therefore to be considered in combination with this application.  The proposed development is to occur within Lot 12 on SP218512.  Existing quarry infrastructure will be expanded in combination with a new proposed extraction area to the north-west.  Of the total 8,088 hectares, the proposed development will occupy a total of 50.5 hectares.

 

The application has also been considered by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, as the subject land is located adjacent to the Warrego Highway, and access to the quarry is directly from the Warrego Highway.  DTMR have forwarded conditions to be imposed as part of any development approval.

 

Strip mining will be the primary method of material extraction.  Review of the Site Based Management Plan identifies that low-scale drilling and blasting may be required if material cannot be economically extracted by dozer rip methods.  Conditions of approval forwarded by the State Assessment and Referral Agency include conditions for drilling and blasting and state that adjacent land owners and occupiers must be notified 3 days before such activities occur and that the Site Management Plan must be revised to include these conditions.

 

Vehicles and equipment proposed to be used onsite include:

 

-     2 x D11 Dozer,

-     5 x Wheel Loader,

-     3 x Excavator,

-     1 x Fuel Truck,

-     1 x Maintenance Truck,

-     2 x Crushing Plant (cone),

-     2 x Screening Plant, and

-     6 x Light Vehicles

 

Existing and proposed buildings associated with this application will include:

-     2 x office blocks

-     Ablution block with septic tank

-     Staff amenities/crew room

 

Electricity and telecommunications will be supplied to the site via reticulated overhead wires.  Water tanks will be attached to the buildings and will provide a potable water supply.  These tanks will be filled through rainwater or by delivery if required. Stormwater and storage ponds will provide water for quarry processes such as dust suppression, and for fire-fighting purposes. The potable tank water will also be available for fire-fighting if required.

 

When operating, it is expected that the development will employ approximately 12 people. Regular operating hours will be 6am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, with no operation on Sunday.  These operating hours are the same as the original approval (2013/18566 for 100,000 tonnes per annum).  An additional condition will for allow an extension of operating hours to Sunday for particular specific projects with the consent of Council. 

 

Figure 1 – Zoning Map/Site Locality                                              (Source: Bendermere Planning Scheme)  

 

 

 

Figure 2 – Aerial Map                                                                                        (Source: Nearmap 2012)

 

Characteristics of the Site

 

Lot 12, on SP218512, is approximately 2 kilometres west of the Jackson Township.  Site access is via the Warrego Highway, which runs along the southern boundary of the lot.  The site is zoned Rural. Reticulated water and sewerage are not available.

 

The site is mapped as containing Areas of Good Quality Agricultural Land, medium bushfire hazard and protected areas under the Bendemere Shire Council Planning Scheme 2006.  The site is also mapped as containing Remnant. Remnant vegetation has been previously cleared on the site as per the previous development approval (for extraction up to 100,000 tonnes), however no additional clearing is required for the proposed development.

 

The site contains an existing dwelling that is currently unoccupied. The nearest occupied dwelling is located approximately 650m south-east of the closest extraction area (Extraction Area 1). The next closest dwelling is located over 1750m in Jackson Township. 

 

An electricity line easement runs east – west across both lots, north of the extraction areas 1 and 2, and south of extraction area 3.  Ergon Energy has supplied 8 conditions to protect the easement and infrastructure, and these conditions have been included in the proposed conditions of development.

 

Transport and Haulage

 

Site access will be provided via an existing approved access from the Warrego Highway. Internal access/haul roads are to be of an all-weather gravel construction. 

 

Quarry material will be transported by way of truck & dog (32 tonnes) and semi-trailer (26 tonnes) haul. Based on an estimated extraction rate of 500,000t per annum, the proposed development will generate approximately 3,000 truck & dog movements per annum and 1,800 semi-trailer movements per annum. The site will also generate approximately 300 light vehicle movements annually for staff and delivery purposes. Given the limited plant on-site to load the haulage trailers it is assumed that trailers will be loaded evenly throughout each day, resulting in 500 of the total 4,800 trips occurring during peak hours.  The application states that 70% of haulage trips will travel east towards Miles and 30% will travel west towards Roma, with various final destinations

 

The application has been referred to Department of Transport and Main Roads (via the State Assessment and Referral Agency). DTMR have attached several conditions to be imposed as part of any development approval,   including that site access must be upgraded to DTMR  Basic Left Turn and Basic Right Turn standards, and a development contribution of 27.3 cents per tonne be paid at 6 month intervals.

 

Infrastructure Connections

 

The development site does not have reticulated water or sewerage networks available.  As a result, effluent disposal will be by way of septic tank and there will be several water tanks for potable water attached to on site facilities..  Appropriate conditions of approval have been included within the schedule of conditions to ensure that a suitable potable water supply and amenities are available on site.

 

Public Notification

 

As the development application is impact assessable, public notification is required in accordance with Section 297 of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009. The application was publically notified between 8 April 2014 and 6 May 2014.

 

No submissions were received during this period.

 

 

Definition of Use & Assessment Status

 

The Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme defines the proposed use as:

 

"Extractive Industry" means any premises used for the winning or treatment on the land or on adjacent land, or gravel, rock, sand, soil, stone, or other similar materials. The term does not include the removal of materials authorised by Section 32(13) of the Local Government Act 1993, or mining within the meaning of the Mineral Resources Act 1989.

 

The application is subject to Impact Assessment, and so requires assessment against the Desired Environmental Outcomes and the Rural Zone Code of the Planning Scheme:

 

“Environmentally Relevant Activity 16 – Extractive and Screening Activities”, threshold:

-     2(b) extracting, other than by dredging, in a year, more than 100,000t but no more than 1,000,000t; and

-     3(b) screening, in a year, more than 100,000t but no more than 1,000,000t

 

 

The application is subject to Impact Assessment, and so requires assessment against the Desired Environmental Outcomes and the Rural Zone Code of the Planning Scheme:

 

Desired Environmental Outcomes

The Desired Environmental Outcomes (DEOs) are based on ecological sustainability established by the Integrated Planning Act 1997, and are the basis for the measures of the Planning Scheme.  Compliance is outlined below:

 

(a) Environment

 

(i)   The areas of high scenic amenity, remnant vegetation, wetlands, fauna habitats and wildlife corridors and regionally significant open space in the Shire are protected.

 

Amenity to the site will be protected by remanent vegetation contained in the road reserve. Some remanent vegetation has been cleared on site as part of the previous application, however, no clearing is proposed for the increase in extraction. Native trees will be utilised for site rehabilitation once extraction is complete. 

 

(ii)   Places, areas or sites identified as being susceptible to land degradation, including contamination, erosion, salinity and landslip, are protected and further degradation is minimised.

 

The site is not susceptible to land degradation as extraction will comply with the standards outlined in the quarry’s management plans.

 

(iii)  Ecological sustainability is achieved by maintaining and improving biodiversity, water and air quality.

 

The site based management plan addresses ecological sustainability through the Stormwater Management Plan, Rehabilitation Management and Air Quality Management Plan. Ecological sustainability will be ensured through the implementation of these plans.

 

(iv) Places of historical and indigenous cultural heritage and social significance are protected, maintained and enhanced.

 

The site is not identified as being in proximity to a place of historical, cultural or social significance. The quarry is sufficiently remote from the places and buildings within the Jackson township to protect them from adverse impacts. Site based management plans will protect any cultural heritage if found during extraction operations.

 

 

(b) Economic

 

(i)   Good Quality Agricultural Land is protected as a major economic resource for the region.

 

The site is mapped as containing GQAL. The proposed development will only occupy a small portion of the overall site (50.5ha of 8,088ha total site area) and will not prejudice the balance of land being used for agricultural purposes.

 

(ii)  Key Resource Areas, extractive resources, petroleum, gas and mineral resources are protected as a major economic resource for the region.

 

This application is for extractive industry, suitably located in the Rural Zone.

 

(iii) Industry, business and employment opportunities are improved and appropriately located to service the community and region, and encourage economic activity within the local area.

 

The proposed development is for an extractive industry, providing material for civil construction, generally contributing to the economic growth of the region. It is estimated that 12 employees will be required to operate the site.

 

(iv) Rural business opportunities are improved to protect and value-add to the existing rural based economy.

 

The proposed development brings diversity to the existing rural based economy and contributes to resource industry requirements at a local level. The development will generally improve local business opportunities and protect the existing rural based economy.

 

(c)  Community Well-Being & Lifestyle

 

(i)   A convenient access to roads and services is achieved through well located land uses and the efficient use and timely provision of infrastructure such as water, sewerage and roads walkways and cycling facilities.

 

The proposed development will gain vehicle access via the Warrego Highway. Direct access to the Warrego Highway offers effective transportation of the extracted materials while keeping heavy vehicle haulage on local roads to a minimum. The development places minimal additional demand on existing water and sewerage services in the Jackson area. Matters relating to the provision of any other infrastructure needs can be appropriately addressed by way of conditions of development.

 

(ii)  Rural residential and urban residential development occurs in distinct localities that provide a sense of community, amenity, services, and a safe, affordable living environment, whilst maintaining the rural amenity of the shire. The role and identity of Yuleba and Wallumbilla townships as the main business and community centres of the shire is consolidated.

 

The proposed development is for an extractive industry, adequately separated from Jackson to preserve the living environment within the town. Haulage from the quarry will occur directly along the Warrego Highway, and will not increase impacts of traffic within the town. The operation is adequately buffered from surrounding land use so as to not determinately impact the rural amenity of the area.

 

(iii)  Infrastructure networks such as road, rail, water cycle and electricity are protected from encroachment by sensitive land uses which may adversely affect or limit the normal operation of that infrastructure.

 

The proposed development is not considered to be a sensitive land use and will not adversely impact on the current or future operations of established infrastructure networks.  

 

(iv)  The adverse effects from natural and other hazards, including bushfires are minimised.

 

The site is identified as containing a significant area of low and medium bushfire hazard area.  Matters relating to bushfire management can be appropriately controlled by the provision of a bushfire management plan, which is required as a condition of approval.

 

(v)   The range of housing types, services and facilities meets the needs of the community and other uses.

 

The proposal is for an Industrial use and will not affect the range of housing types in the town.

 

Overall Outcomes for Rural Zone Code

The Rural Zone Code identifies overall outcomes providing direction about relevant assessment issues.  The overall outcomes for the Rural Zone Code are the purpose of the code.  The code seeks to ensure that development within the Rural Zone:

 

(a)  reflects the economic potential of the rural area

 

The proposed development utilizes a natural resource to develop the economic potential within the Jackson area. By contributing road and hardstand construction material, developing the resource contributes to the growth of the resource industry and other industries in the Maranoa Region.

 

(b)  is appropriately located within the Rural Zone and existing and future rural activities are not prejudiced by inappropriate development

 

Extractive Industry is most appropriately located in the Rural Zone. An acceptable access to the Warrego Highway is required and specified by Department of Transport and Main Roads, and impacts on the local road network are mitigated (in part) by the application of the Network Access Charge for use of Maranoa Regional Council controlled roads.. Future rural activities will not be jeopardized due to the small size of operations on the large site.

 

(c)   maintains the environment, including soil, air and water, compatible with healthy natural systems and ensures public health and safety

 

The proposed development is for an extractive industry in a Rural Zone. The proposed development would not negatively impact rural amenity or compromise the role of Yuleba and Wallumbilla townships.

 

(d)  protects Good Quality Agricultural (GQAL) from fragmentation, alienation or encroachment of incompatible land uses in accordance with State Planning Policy 1/92 – “Development and Conservation of Agricultural Land”

 

GQAL has been identified on the site. Extraction operations will only affect 1.6%of the total site area and as such will not affect the overall integrity of the Good Quality Agricultural Land (GQAL). The quantity of good quality agricultural land in the Jackson area will not be significantly changed by the development.

 

(e)  is located, designed and operated in a manner that protects and enhances the predominant rural scale, intensity, form and character

 

The proposed development will be undertaken within a defined area of land comprising approximately 50.5 hectares contained within a larger 8,088 hectare parcel.  The development achieves adequate separation from sensitive land uses and buildings and excavation associated with the use will be appropriately setback from site boundaries ensuring the rural character and amenity is maintained. Furthermore, the Site Based Management Plan includes a Rehabilitation Management Plan and the land will be return to its rural form once extraction is complete.   

 

(f)    maintains the rural amenity

 

Extractive industry is commonly located within rural areas.  Operations of the proposed use will be limited to a defined area within the site that is separated from residences on adjoining properties.  The development will not prevent the continuation of existing uses to on the remaining site area and will not affect the rural amenity.

 

(g)  does not prejudice or impact adversely on other uses including those within other Zones

 

The proposed development will not significantly prejudice the establishment of other uses within the locality, including those within other zones.

 

(h)  has an appropriately designed access to the road network and traffic generated by the development does not impact adversely on the local road network

 

The proposed access onto the Warrego Highway is existing and is required to be  upgraded to accommodate the increased usage.   Impacts on the local road network are to be mitigated (in part) by the conditions requiring a Network Access Charge be against tonnage hauled from the site.

 

(i)    protects areas and sites of conservation importance, including cultural and high landscape values

 

There is no evidence on the site of any indigenous cultural heritage, however if found, the Site Based Management Plan contains an outline of processes to protect indigenous cultural heritage. Some remanent vegetation is to be cleared on the site (as per the previous application) however no addition clearing will occur. The site will be rehabilitated using native plants once extraction is complete.

 

(j)    is undertaken in an orderly and logical sequence to achieve an efficient provision of infrastructure

 

The proposed development does not represent out-of-sequence development, and supports the efficient provision of infrastructure by the provision of civil construction materials.

 

(k)   is located and designed in ways that minimise the need for flood, bushfire and landslide mitigation and to protect people and premises from such natural events

 

The site is identified as containing areas of bushfire hazard.    The applicant has included a Bushfire Management Plan as part of the Site Based Management Plan, which is included as an approved document within the conditions of approval.

 

(l)    has water supply, stormwater disposal, sustainable effluent and waste disposal and power to appropriate standards adequate for the use

 

Services proposed to be provided to the site will be appropriate for the use. Water supply will be supplemented by truck delivery when required. The Stormwater Management Plan, included in the Site Based Management Plan, will address stormwater collection and usage standards.

 

(m) does not impact adversely on infrastructure

 

Impacts on infrastructure are to be appropriately addressed by way of conditions of development. Impacts on the local road network are mitigated by the application of charges for transportation of heavy materials within the region via the application of the network access charge to the development.

 

 

The Code’s relevant Performance Criteria are shown below, in order to more easily permit structured and detailed consideration of relevant issues—

 

Rural Zone Code

 

Performance Criteria

Assessment responses

A.  A. For all the Rural Zone

1. Infrastructure

PC 1 Electricity

Premises are provided with a supply of electricity adequate for the activity.

 

Electricity supply is existing on-site.

 

 

PC 2 Water Supply

Premises are provided with an adequate volume and supply of water for the activity.

The existing office has a 20,000L water tank attached for potable water supply. The proposed new office building will also have a water tank attached.

 

The quarry operations will utilize water from the storage dams located on the site.

 

 

PC 3 Effluent Disposal

To ensure that public health and environmental values are preserved, all premises provide for the treatment and disposal of effluent and other waste water.

The existing ablution block is provided with a septic tank which will be emptied by an approved contractor when required.

 

PC 4 Stormwater/Inter-Allotment Drainage

Stormwater is collected and discharged so as to:

(a) protect the stability of buildings or the use adjacent land;

(b) prevent the water-logging of nearby land; and

(c) protect and maintain environmental values.

In accordance with the approved Site Management Plan, stormwater will be collected through diversion bunds and contour drains then discharged through a series of sediment control measures on-site, or into sedimentation dams.

 

 

PC 5 Vehicle Access

Vehicle access is provided to a standard appropriate for the use.

 

An existing access road will be upgraded as per DTMR design guidelines and conditions of development. A network access charge will be applicable for the use of Council maintained roads.

PC 6 Parking and manoeuvring

Vehicle parking and service vehicle provision is adequate for the use whilst ensuring both safe and functional operation for motorists and pedestrians.

The proposed activity is located on a large rural allotment, with sufficient area for onsite vehicle parking and manoeuvring. Approximately 12 car parking spaces will be provided, as outlined on the Site Plan.

PC 7 Roads

All weather road access is provided between the premises and the existing road network.

All-weather access roads will be provided on site.

 

PC 8.1 Highways

All Highways are maintained and enhanced as a link between major centres.

 

PC 8.2 State Controlled Roads

Development adjacent to State Controlled

Roads is located to ensure safe and efficient use of the highway and maintain the integrity of the highway as a commuter link

 

PC 8.3 Noise Sensitive Developments

Noise sensitive developments (residential, educational and community) must ensure that road traffic noise levels are appropriately managed to achieve acceptable levels of amenity.

There is an existing approved access to the Warrego Highway and it is proposed to use this access for the increase in haulage truck movements.

 

 

There is no development proposed within 100m of the Warrego Highway. Department of Transport and Main Roads have assessed the development application in relation to impacts on road infrastructure, and have imposed conditions.

 

 

 

 

PC 9 Gas and Oil Pipelines

Buildings are located at an appropriate distance from pipelines to ensure community safety and operation of the use is not compromised.

N/A – The subject site is not located in close proximity to any gas or oil pipelines.  

PC 10 Refuse Tips and Effluent Treatment Plants

Buildings are located at an appropriate distance from refuse tips or effluent treatment plants to ensure community safety and operation of the use is not compromised.

N/A – The subject site is not located in close proximity to any Refuse Tips and Effluent Treatment Plants. 

 

PC 11.1 Rail Corridors

Development is at an appropriate distance from the rail corridor so as not to prejudice safety, speed or intended role of the existing and proposed rail corridors.

 

PC 11.2 Noise Attenuation

Development adjoining the rail corridor is protected from the impact of noise

The subject site is separated from the rail corridor to the south by the Warrego Highway. The development will not affect the operation of the railway nor be impacted by noise from rail activity.

 

PC 12 Electricity Transmission Line

Easement – Vegetation

Transmission lines within an Electricity transmission line easement are protected from vegetation.

 

No development will occur within the electricity easement located at the north of the subject site.

 

Conditions protecting this infrastructure have been imposed in accordance with Ergon Energy advice.

PC 13 Electricity Transmission Line

Easement – Separation Distance

Habitable buildings and community orientated uses are located a minimum distance from lines to ensure community safety.

An Electricity Transmission Line Easement exists on the site and there is a buffer area more than 10m from Extraction Area 2.

 

2. Environment

PC 14 Watercourses

Development ensures the maintenance of riparian areas and water quality including protection from off-site transfer of sediment.

The Stormwater Management Plan details how stormwater runoff will be controlled to ensure water quality guidelines are met.  Compliance with this will be enforced as a condition of approval. Management of surface waters forms part of the Environmental Authority. Stormwater within the site will be collected for treatment and reused for dust suppression and fire fighting purposes.

PC 15 Flooding

Premises are designed and located so as:

(a) not to be adversely impacted upon by

flooding;

(b) to protect life and property; and

(c) not to have an undesirable impact of the extent and magnitude of flooding.

Extraction Area 3 is identified on SPP Mapping as being located within a Flood Hazard Area however there are no buildings proposed in this area.

 

The Stormwater Management Plan ensures that stormwater does not have an adverse impact on flooding.

PC 16 Air Emissions

Air emissions from premises do not cause environmental harm or nuisance to adjoining properties or sensitive land uses.

Sufficient quantities of stormwater will be stored on-site for use as dust suppression. Machinery and plant will be fitted with dust suppression devices.

 

 Appropriate exhaust systems are to be fitted and maintained on all combustion engines to prevent particulate emissions.

PC 17 Noise Emissions

Noise emissions from premises do not cause environmental harm or nuisance to adjoining properties or sensitive land uses.

 

Matters relating to noise emissions can be appropriately addressed by way of the mitigation measures detailed in the Site Base Management Plan.

 

The Department of Environment & Heritage Protection have assessed the application in relation to environmental impacts. The management of noise emissions forms part of the Environmental Authority issued by the department.

PC 18 Water Quality

The standard of effluent and/or stormwater runoff from premises ensures the quality of surface water is suitable for:

(a) the biological integrity of aquatic ecosystems;

(b) recreational use;

(c) supply as drinking water after minimal treatment;

(d) agricultural use; or

(e) industrial use.

The proposal includes directing run-off from disturbed areas into a sediment basin, the water from which is to be used for dust suppression and fire fighting purposes.

 

The Department of Environment & Heritage Protection have assessed the application in relation to environmental impacts. The maintenance of water quality forms part of the Environmental Authority issued by the department.

PC 19 Excavation and Filling

Excavation and filling of land ensures:

(a) that both the amenity and safety of users of the site and adjacent land holdings; and

(b) soil erosion is kept to a minimum with remedial works.

Implementation of the Site Based Management Plan will ensure amenity, safety of users and minimum soil erosion.

 

PC 20 Construction Activities

Both erosion control and silt collection measures are undertaken so as to ensure protection of environmental values during construction.

Matters relating to construction activities are addressed in the conditions of development.

PC 21 Good Quality Agricultural Land

Good Quality Agricultural Land areas as identified on Map R2 - Good Quality Agricultural Land are conserved and managed for the longer term and protected from development that may lead to its alienation or diminished productivity.

Good Quality Agricultural Land will not be affected by this development as the extraction areas are not located in areas mapped GQAL.

PC 22 Vegetation Retention

Development retains vegetation for the:

(a) protection of scenic quality;

(b) protection of general habitat;

(c) protection of soil quality; and

(d) establishment of open space corridors and networks

There is no proposal to clear vegetation as part of this application however clearing was approved under the previous application. Rehabilitation will take place when quarrying is complete.

PC 23 Protected Areas

Development is undertaken to ensure areas of significant biodiversity and habitat value are protected.

There is no proposal to clear vegetation as part of this application, however clearing has been approved under the previous application. Rehabilitation will take place when quarrying is complete. 

PC 24 Sloping Land

Development is undertaken to ensure:

(a) vulnerability to landslip erosion and land degradation is minimised; and

(b) safety of persons and property is not compromised

Some parts of this development will take place on slopes greater than 15%. Implementation of the Site Based Management Plan will ensure landslip, erosion and land degradation is minimised and safety of persons and property is not compromised.

PC 25 Bushfire Hazard

Development maintains the safety of people and property by avoiding areas of High or Medium Bushfire hazard or mitigating the risk through:

(a) the siting of buildings ensuring setbacks from hazardous vegetation are maximised and elements least susceptible to fire are sited closest to the bushfire hazard; and

(b) the provision of firebreaks to ensure adequate setbacks between buildings, structures and hazardous vegetation

The site is identified as containing a small area of medium bushfire hazard risk. Buildings will be located in a cleared area and a Bushfire Management Plan has been prepared as part of the Site Based Management Plan. Firebreaks, firefighting equipment and a 20,000L water tank are also included as part of the development.

 

 

PC 26 Character Buildings

Development adjacent to buildings identified as heritage or character buildings in Schedule 10 incorporates design features, materials and details that blend with the existing character.

N/A – The site is not located in proximity to any character buildings.

PC 27 Cultural Heritage

The significance of known places of indigenous and/or cultural heritage value is retained.

The site is not identified as being in proximity to a place of historical, cultural or social significance Site based management plans will protect any cultural heritage if found during extraction operations.

B. Specific Land Uses

PC 28 – Catteries and Kennels

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 29-32 – Commercial Premises

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 33-37 – Community and Recreation

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 38-41 – Dwelling House

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 42-44 - Forestry

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 46-48 – Home Based Business 

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 49-52 – Host Home Accommodation 

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 53-57 – Industry (Low/Medium) 

Not Applicable – The proposed development is for Extractive Industry

PC 58 – Telecommunication Facility 

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 63-65 – Tourist Facility

Not Applicable to the development application.

 

Submissions

 

No Submissions were made against this application.

 

 

Assessment Summary

 

Although the planning scheme requires Impact Assessment for the proposed use, it is considered that there is no significant conflict with the intent of the Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme.  The development is appropriately located within the rural area, and any matters relating to environmental impacts, protection of amenity and infrastructure upgrading can be appropriately addressed by way of conditions of development, and through adherence to the conditions of the Environmental Authority issued by Department of Environment and Heritage Protection.


Attachment 2

Development Plans

 













Attachment 3

Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Concurrence Agency Response

 








Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 5 August 2014

Item Number: 13.9

File Number: D14/56040

 

Subject Heading:                     Material Change of Use - "Extractive Industry" (up to 500,000 tonnes/annum) & Environmentally Relevant Activity 16 (Extractive and Sceening Activity) File: 2014/18926

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                          S & M Phelps C/- StruXi Design

Location:                                            184 Crossroads Road, Yuleba North QLD 4427 (Lots 6 & 7 on Plan WV409)

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Christopher Tickner, Town Planner

 

Executive Summary:   The application seeks approval for a Material Change of Use – “Extractive Industry” and related Environmentally Relevant Activities 16 (2) (b) and 16(3)(b) – Extractive and Screening Activities, on land at 184 Crossroads Road, Yuleba North QLD 4427 (described as Lots 6 & 7 on Plan WV409).

 

The application is subject to Impact Assessment against the relevant provisions of the Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme 2006. Public notification was carried out between 2 May 2014 and 26 May 2014 with no submissions received during this period.

 

The application is generally consistent with the provisions of the Bendemere Planning Scheme 2006 including the Desired Environmental Outcomes and Rural Zone code.

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  The application for Material Change of Use- “ Extractive Industry” and related Environmentally Relevant Activities (16(2)(b) and 16(3)(b) – Extractive and Screening Activities, on land at 184 Crossroads Road, Yuleba North QLD 4427 (described as Lots 6 & 7 on Plan WV409),  be approved subject to the following conditions:

 

Preamble

 

(i)         Refer to http://www.cmdg.com.au for the Capricorn Municipal Development          Guidelines (CMDG).

                                               

(ii)        The relevant planning scheme for this Development Approval is the           Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme 2006. All references to the ‘Planning         Scheme’ and ‘Planning Scheme Schedules’ within these conditions refer to       the above Planning Scheme.

 

(iii)       The related Environmental Authority(s) as included in the Environmental Protection Act 1994 must have been given and remain current while the use        continues. All references to the ‘Environmental Authority’ within these   conditions refer to the Environmental Authority for this approved use.

 

            The related Environmental Authorities are:

 

            a)         2(b) extracting, other than by dredging in a year, more than 100,000t                       but no more than 1,000,000t; and

            b)         3(b) screening, in a year, more than 100,000t but no more than                                1,000,000t.

 

(iv)       All Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in Queensland is protected under the        Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 and penalty provisions apply for any          unauthorized harm.  Under the legislation a person carrying out an activity        must take all reasonable and practicable measures to ensure the activity   does not harm Aboriginal Cultural Heritage.  This applies whether or not such             places are recorded in an official register and whether or not they are located       in, on or under private land.  The developer is responsible for implementing             reasonable and practical measures to ensure the Cultural Heritage Duty of        Care Guidelines are met and for obtaining any clearances required from the         responsible entity.

 

(v)        The Environmental Protection Act 1994 states that a person must not carry           out any activity that causes, or is likely to cause, environmental harm unless           the person takes all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent or     minimise the harm.  Environmental harm includes environmental nuisance.           In this regard, persons and entities involved in the operation of the approved        development are to adhere to their ‘general environmental duty’ to minimise             the risk of causing environmental harm to adjoining premises.

 

(vi)       Building construction is to accord with the Building Code of Australia,        Queensland Development Code and State Planning Guidelines for building in   bushfire prone areas.

 

            Construction standards for a Medium Bushfire Hazard area will apply

 

Use

 

1)         The approved development is a Material Change of Use - "Extractive          Industry” and related Environmentally Relevant Activities 16(2)(b) and         16(3)(b) – Extractive and Screening Activities, as shown on the approved            plans.

 

            a)         The approved extraction tonnage is capped at 500,000 tonnes per                           annum.

            b)         This approval is current for 5 years commencing from the date of                            approval. The life of this approval is restricted as neither Council nor                      the extractive industry operator can be sure of the longer term impacts                    on the Council road system from the development. The conditions                                     requiring road impact contributions are based on a timeframe of 5                          years.

 

2)         The period of the currency of this approval may be extended to 20 years by          an infrastructure agreement which allows the Council, the extractive industry            operator and the approval holder to establish longer term protocols and            arrangements which address the possible variations to the impacts on                   Council’s road infrastructure over an extended period.           

 

Timing

 

3)         All conditions relating to the establishment of the approved development               must be fulfilled prior to any approved use commencing, unless otherwise   noted within these conditions.

 

4)         Prior to commencement of use, the applicant shall contact Council to arrange      a development compliance inspection.

           

Approved Plans and Documents

 

5)         Maintain the approved development, in accordance with the following       approved plans, subject to and as modified by any conditions of this     approval:

 

            Drawing 1430.13804 003 Revision D

            Site Plan.

            Prepared by StruXi Design Pty Ltd,          dated 05/03/14.

 

            Drawing  1430.13804 002 Revision C

            Locality Plan.

            Prepared by StruXi Design Pty Ltd,          dated 05/03/14.

 

            Drawing 430.13804 401 Revision A

            Office Elevations.

            Prepared by StruXi Design Pty Ltd,          dated 15/07/13.

 

            Drawing 1430.13804 101 Revision B

            Office Floor Plan.

            Prepared by StruXi Design Pty Ltd,          dated 05/03/14.

           

            Drawing -

            Gravel Pit Rehabilitation - Concept Plan.

           

            Drawing -

            Basin and Sediment Management Details.

            (amended by Council in red)

 

            Drawing -

            Appendix 7 Location of Sensitive Receptors.

            (amended by Council in red)

 

            Document – Site Based Management Plan

            Lots 6 & 7 WV409, Crossroads Road, Yuleba North

            Prepared by Peter Swan (Struxi design)                        

 

            Documents – Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines

            while all of the Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines apply to the             approval the following guidelines have direct application:

 

            D1 Geometric Road Design                                               dated 03/2012

            D2 Pavement Design                                                          dated 03/2012

            D5 Stormwater Drainage Design                                      dated 03/2012

            D6 Site Regrading                                                               dated 03/2012

            D7 Erosion Control and Stormwater Management        dated 03/2012

 

6)         All works must comply with:

 

                        a)         the development approval conditions;    

                        b)         any relevant provisions in the Planning Scheme;

                        c)         Council’s standard designs for such work where such designs                                exist;

                        d)         the Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines;

                        e)         any relevant Australian Standard that applies to that type of                                      work; and

                        f)          any alternative specifications that Council has agreed to in                                       writing and which the developer must ensure do not   conflict                                   with any requirements imposed by any applicable laws and                                          standards.

 

Environmental Authorities

 

7)         This approval relies on the relevant approved Environmental Authority (and         its related documents) applicable to the site to identify and state the all the      requirements for this approval related to Environmentally Relevant Activities   for the site (where those Environmentally Relevant Activities are not       expressly devolved to the Council).

 

8)         This approval relies on the entity responsible for approving and managing the             Environmental Authority to meet its responsibilities. The Council will not take       any responsibility for the management of environmental impacts covered by    the Environmental Authority unless and until that entity (or its legal           successors) is unable to act.

 

9)         The standards and approval of civil works and services and aspects of       environmental management not covered by the Environmental Authority are           the responsibility of the Council, but subject to the environmental impact management requirements that may be imposed by the Environmental          Authority (or any approval that effectively replaces that Environmental             Authority).

 

10)      Where there is a conflict between the conditions and standards set by an Environmental Authority for the site and the conditions and standards set by           the Development Permit, those set in the Environmental Authority shall             prevail in those matters covered by the Environmental Authority.

 

Operating Hours

 

11)      Hours of operation are 6:00am to 6:00pm Monday to Saturday.  No work is           permitted on Sundays or public holidays. Hours of operation include the transporting of material from the site.

 

12)      The quarry operator may apply to Council to vary the hours of operation for a        particular project where the extended operating hours are necessary in the     opinion of the Council having considered the requirements and community    benefits of the particular project and the duration of the additional impacts         upon the local community.

 

13)      Any Council approval of the varied hours will be restricted to the duration of         the project, and may be rescinded by the Council on seven days notice if the    extended hours of operation are considered to be causing undue nuisance or   disruption to other persons.

 

Amenity

 

14)      Any advertising signage is subject to a further development approval unless        compliant with the self-assessable development provisions of the planning     scheme.

 

15)      Effluent storage and removal must not have an adverse effect on the         surrounding areas and must not cause nuisance to neighbouring properties.

 

16)      Waste containers shall be maintained in a clean and tidy state at all times             while the use continues, and shall be emptied, and the waste removed from          the site on a regular basis.

 

Avoiding Nuisance

 

17)      The approved development and the premises are to be maintained in a clean       and tidy condition and not to pose any health and safety risks to the community.

 

18)      Extraction areas, access and site roadways and surrounds shall be kept in an      orderly fashion and free of rubbish.

 

19)      No nuisance is to be caused to adjoining properties and their occupiers by           the way of smoke, dust, rubbish, contaminant, stormwater discharge or siltation at any time, including non-working hours.

 

 

 

20)      Lighting of the site, including any temporary or security lighting, shall be such     that the lighting intensity does not exceed:

 

            8.0 lux at a distance of 1.5 metres from the site at any property   boundary.

 

Earthworks

 

21)      All earthworks for the development shall be undertaken in accordance with          Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines D6 ‘Site Regrading’ Design      Guidelines.

 

Erosion Control

 

22)      Erosion and Sediment Control is to be managed in accordance with:

 

            a)         Site Based Management Plan (Lots 6 & 7 WV409, Crossroads Road,                      Yuleba North), Section 4.3 Stormwater Management and Erosion and                      Sediment Control Plan; and

            b)         Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines D7 ‘Erosion Control and                 Stormwater Management’.

 

23)      Where it is necessary for a road and/or drainage system to be reinstated or            cleaned up as a result of erosion and/or sedimentation from the site, such          works must be undertaken at the developer’s expense.  Such works shall be       undertaken immediately, where it is a potential hazard to pedestrians and/or          passing traffic.

 

Provision of Services

 

24)      At all times during the operation on site effluent is to be disposed of in       accordance with Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater Code 2013 and        AS1547.2012 (On-site domestic wastewater management). A development         permit for plumbing and drainage works shall be sought from Council for any          onsite sewerage system provided to the development.

 

25)      The site must be provided with an on-site water supply with sufficient capacity     to meet all operational needs, including watering to minimise dust nuisance    and also a potable water supply sufficient to meet the needs of staff and             visitors to the site.

 

26)      Any supply of potable water to the site, and disposal of effluent from the site         is to be performed by a suitably licenced contractor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stormwater and Drainage

 

27)      Stormwater is to be managed in accordance with:

 

            a)         Site Based Management Plan (Lots 6 & 7 WV409, Crossroads Road,                      Yuleba North), Section 4.3 Stormwater Management and Erosion and                      Sediment Control Plan; and

            b)         Capricorn Municipal Development Guidelines D5 ‘Stormwater                                 Drainage Design’.

 

28)      Discharge of stormwater runoff from the development shall drain freely in all        cases, and no nuisance of ponding is to be created within the vicinity of the           development.

 

29)      There shall be no increases in any silt loads or contaminants in any overland      flow from the site being developed, or into creeks or roadways, either during         the development process or after the development has been completed.

 

Access, Car parking and Manoeuvring

 

            Note that the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning        have attached conditions to this approval concerning Access to the State-        controlled road network.

 

30)      The landowner shall be responsible for construction and maintenance of             vehicle crossovers from the road carriageway to the property boundary and             for obtaining any approvals that may be required, and for complying with the          applicable designs and standards.

 

31)      The access intersection between the development and Crossroads Road is          to be upgraded in accordance with DTMR Standard Drawing D04-221     Standard Access (Minor) Radius 30m. This will include a 2 coat bitumen seal      and associated drainage to the Wild Dog Barrier Fence gate.

 

32)      All-weather vehicle access shall be provided for traffic movement within the         development site.

 

33)      Unsealed internal roads are to be watered upon receipt of any complaint   regarding dust nuisance caused by vehicle movements within the site.

 

34)      All vehicle accesses intersecting the Wild Dog Barrier Fence are to be       constructed in accordance with regulations and standards required by the   authority for the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act         2002.

 

 

 

 

 

Roadwork

 

35)      Crossroads Road is to be upgraded from the end of the bitumen on Horse             Creek Road extending in an easterly direction to the entrance of the site to          the following standards:

 

            (a)       formation width:                   8.0 metres;

            (b)       pavement width:                   7.0 metres;

            (c)        seal width:                             7.0 metres;

 

            (d)       pavement design:   

                        CMDG Table D2.08.1 ‘Rural & Rural Residential’ >100 vpd;

 

            (e)       rural design criteria:

                        Table D1.21.03 ‘Rural Road Elements for Maranoa Regional                                    Council, 100  - 140 VPD Rural Collector – Minor’;

 

            and otherwise generally in accordance with Capricorn Municipal    Development Guidelines D1 ‘Geometric Road Design.’

 

 

Environmental Management

 

            Note that the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection have     attached conditions to this approval concerning Buffer Zones.

 

36)      All activities while the use continues are to be managed in accordance                  with:

 

                        a)         the relevant Environmental Authority issued by the Department                               of Environment and Heritage Protection, DEHP’s conditions of                                approval (attached), or any subsequent Environmental Authority                                  that is issued for the approved use;

 

                        b)         the Site Based Management Plan, (Lots 6 & 7 WV409,                                               Crossroads Road, Yuleba North) prepared by Peter Swan                                         (Struxi design); and

 

                        c)         all relevant sections of the Capricorn Municipal Development                                   Guidelines.

 

37)      Remediation of the site is to occur in consultation with the landowner, and is       to be managed in accordance with:

 

                        a)         the relevant Environmental Authority issued by the Department                               of Environment and Heritage Protection, DEHP’s conditions                                                 of approval (attached), or any subsequent Environmental                                              Authority that is issued for the approved use; and

 

 

                        b)         the Rehabilitation Plan, Section 4.4 of the Site Based                                                             Management Plan, (Lots 6 & 7 WV409, Crossroads Road,                                        Yuleba North) prepared by Peter Swan (Struxi design).

 

38)      If the environmental approval issued by a State agency (Department of      Environment and Heritage Protection or its successor) to undertake this use     on this site ceases to have effect and is not replaced by an appropriate      approval, code or law to manage the use and the rehabilitation of the site,          then the conditions, requirements and obligations of the original     environmental approval given for this use on this site shall become conditions       of this approval. References in the original environmental approval to the         State agency will then be construed as references to the Council to the    greatest extent possible. The standards referenced by the most recent             environmental approval will be the applicable standards.

 

39)      Weeds and pests are to be monitored and controlled in accordance with    Section 4.2.4 of the Site Based Management Plan prepared by Struxi Design.

 

40)      The operator is to develop and implement appropriate bushfire mitigation plans for the development site prior to the commencement of use.

 

Fees, Infrastructure Charges and Impact Contributions

 

41)      A local roads additional impacts charge will be paid to Maranoa Regional Council in accordance with the Local Roads Additional Impacts Charges          Schedule A, attached to and forming part of these conditions. This condition            and the conditions in Local Roads Additional Impacts Charges Schedule A        are based on division 2 of chapter 8, more specifically sections 650 and 651         and linked sections, of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.

 

42)      All matters contained within this development approval may be covered by            infrastructure agreements or deeds of agreement between the relevant       parties for each matter. 

 

43)      All fees, rates, interest and other charges levied on the property, shall be paid      in accordance with the rate at the time of payment.

 

Complete and Maintain

 

44)      Complete and maintain the approved development as follows: (i) in            accordance with development approval documents and (ii) strictly in     accordance with those parts of the approved development which have been     specified in detail by the Council or Referral Agency unless the Council or     Referral Agency agrees in writing that those parts will be adequately          complied with by amended specifications.

 

45)      Complete and maintain all operational, building and plumbing and drainage        work associated with this development approval, including work required by      any of the development approval conditions.

 

Repair Damaged Infrastructure

 

46)      The developer is responsible for locating and protecting any Council and public utility services, infrastructure and assets that may be impacted on during construction of the development.  Any damage to existing      infrastructure (road pavement, existing underground assets, signs or other) that is attributable to the progress of works on the site or vehicles associated        with the development of the site shall be immediately rectified in accordance           with the asset owners’ requirements and specifications and to the satisfaction          of the asset owners’ representative(s).

 

47)      Council is to be indemnified against any claims arising from works carried out     by the applicant on Council’s property.

 

No Cost to Council

 

48)      The developer is responsible for meeting all costs associated with the        approved development unless there is specific agreement by other parties,     including the Council, to meeting those costs.

 

49)      All rates and charges of any description and all arrears of such rates and charges, together with interest outstanding thereon, on the land, due to the      Council, shall be paid to the Council prior to any approved use commencing.

 

Latest versions

 

50)      Where another condition refers to a specific published standard, manual or          guideline, including specifications, drawings, provisions and criteria within     those documents, that condition shall be deemed as referring to the latest           versions of those publications that are publicly available at the time the first          operational works or compliance approval is lodged with the assessment   manager or approval agency for those types of works to be performed or    approved, unless a regulation or law requires otherwise.

 

Application Documentation

 

51)      It is the developer’s responsibility to ensure all entities associated with this           Development Approval have a legible copy of the Decision Notice and the             Approved Plans and Approved Documents bearing ‘Council Approval’.

 

Charges Schedule A - Local Roads Additional Impacts

 

52)      These conditions are required because the development will impact on the           local roads when materials associated with the operation of the extractive          industry are carried along those local roads. The local roads additional    impacts charge covers all roads in the Maranoa Regional Council Area where            heavy vehicles of the type used in this activity/use are permitted to travel.             The tonnage of extracted material leaving the extractive industry is deemed          to be a proportional measure of the total traffic to and from the site.

 

53)      A local roads additional impacts charge of $0.50 per tonne will be paid to   Maranoa Regional Council for all extracted material transported from the site.     This is the local roads additional impacts charge for the 2013-2014 financial          year. Until such time as (1) the level of approved use is changed or (2)          Council has amended charges as a result of a review requested by the             extractive industry operator, the local roads additional impacts charges       amount will be increased or decreased annually by a percentage equivalent           to the 3-year moving average annual percentage increase in the PPI index    (as defined in the Sustainable Planning Act 2009) for the period of 3 years            ending at the start of the financial year.

 

54)      The payment of the local roads additional impacts charge must be made by          the extractive industry operator within 14 days of the end of each 3 month             period, with the periods starting with the commencement of the use/activity.       The extractive industry operator must calculate the payment and provide          details of the calculation. If no payment is made within the set time, the             Council may demand payment based on the maximum approved annual production capacity of the activity/use divided by 4.  The maximum approved        annual production capacity of the extractive industry will be deemed to be the       maximum capacity of the extractive industry listed in the approvals for the           site. If the extractive industry operator does not pay the local roads additional      impacts charge for two consecutive periods, the Council can require the    holder of the development approval to pay the local roads additional impacts        charge to the Council.

 

55)      The holder of the development approval or the extractive industry operator            may ask for the local roads additional impacts charge to be reviewed once in     every three year period after the approval for the activity/use is given. The           review will take account of the rates and methodology applying to similar    operators in the Council Area and the facts and circumstances applying to             this approved activity/use.

 

56)      Despite the payment of a local roads additional impacts charge, the Council         may stop the extractive industry operator from using particular roads. The reasons may include Council concerns about the level of damage being caused or may be caused to those particular local roads by the addition to     total road use of heavy vehicles associated with the extractive industry.

 

57)      Council or its representatives is entitled to inspect, copy and audit any       records which may help to prove the actual use of the road network by the           extractive industry operator or the approval holder(s) for the purposes of     assessing the local roads additional impacts charge. The extractive industry    operator and the approval holder(s) have agreed by the acceptance of this             condition that the Council has their agreement and permission to access those records wherever held and that their agreement and permission cannot       be revoked.

 

58)      The extractive industry operator or the approval holder(s) may undertake   roadworks in lieu of paying a local roads additional impacts charge. The    roadworks must be of the same value as the local roads additional impacts       charge. The value of roadworks will be determined by Council or by an       independent RPEQ standard engineer agreed to by the Council. The         roadworks must be roadworks included the Council current roadworks      program and within a 50 kilometre radius of the extractive industry site on   roads that may be used by the operator.  The carrying out of roadworks must   comply with CMDG guidelines and other requirements which normally apply       to works carried out on Council roads by contractors, including warranties for           the works performed. The onus is on the entity intending to perform the    roadworks to gain all necessary approvals for the roadworks. The roadworks             must be completed within 3 months after the local roads additional impacts          charge was due to be paid or within a period agreed in writing with the       Council.

 

59)      The charges or roadworks or other relevant matters can be included within an      infrastructure agreement or deed of agreement with the Council, the           extractive industry operator and any other relevant parties by consent of the parties. The extractive industry operator, the approval holder and the Council       may vary the charges and other factors by mutual consent where             circumstances warrant such variations and the community interest is         protected

 

 

Body of Report:  Refer to Attachment 1

Consultation (internal/external):

State Assessment and Referral Agency/DSDIP (Concurrence agency)

Warren Oxnam, Specialist Compliance

Danielle Pearn, Planning Manger

Ruth Golden, Specialist Development Engineer (Internal)

Public notification was undertaken in accordance with the requirements of SPA.

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

The applicant has appeal rights under SPA against any decision of Council.

Policy Implications:

The application generally accords with the policy position of the Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme.

5 Year Operating Period

The recommended approval is for a period of 5 years commencing from the date of approval. The condition explains that the life of this approval is restricted as neither Council nor the extractive industry operator can be sure of changes to hauling practices and haul routes in the longer term and so the corresponding  longer term impacts on the Council road system from the development. The conditions within this recommended approval that require road impact contributions are based on a timeframe of 5 years.

A second condition states that the period of the currency of this approval may be extended to 20 years by the forming of an infrastructure agreement which allows the Council, the extractive industry operator and the approval holder to establish longer term protocols and arrangements which address the possible variations to the impacts on Council’s road infrastructure over an extended period. It is not practical to spell out the details of the methodology, protocols and arrangements in the development approval. The use of a voluntary infrastructure agreement also gives the developer scope to target the methodology, protocols and arrangements of the agreement, and so fit in with the particular operational environment of the project.

Please note that the potential extension of the currency period for the approval is only related to managing the impacts on local roads, and no other matters. All of the other matters can be addressed by the recommended conditions with a high level of certainty. It is projections of road impacts beyond a 5 year period that are very difficult to determine because of the range of influencing factors.

If a mutually satisfactory set of methodology, protocols and arrangements can be embedded in the infrastructure agreement, then the risks to the Council and the developer over the longer term are more manageable, even if they are not clearly predictable.

Without the voluntary infrastructure agreement, the recommended conditions and the approval currency period of 5 years establish an acceptable level of risk for both parties. If the approval were to be open-ended, the burden and unpredictability of the risks gradually increase for both the Council and the developer over time.

Environmental Management

With the emphasis placed by the Queensland Government on the separation of responsibilities, the approval of development applications by the Council now should include conditions that make it clear that that the responsibility for managing the environmental impacts of a non-devolved environmentally relevant activity for a quarry rests with the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection DEHP).  DEHP issues an environmental authority for the environmentally relevant activity and if they consider it necessary, can also include concurrence agency conditions in the development approval.

The recommended Council conditions now state that the approval relies on the environmental authority for the site to provide the basis for managing environmental impacts. The conditions also state that the approval also relies on the entity approving and managing the environmental authority to meet its responsibilities.  To make this point very clear, the conditions state that the Council will not take any responsibility for the management of environmental impacts unless the entity responsible for the environmental authority is unable to act.

It also means that the standards and approval of civil works and services that are the responsibility of the Council should be compatible with the environmental impact management requirements that may be imposed by the environmental authority.

As a reserve power, the recommended Council conditions contain a “sleeper” clause.  This clause is inserted just in case the environmental authority or the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection ceases to exist during the life of the quarry. This “sleeper” clause states that if the environmental approval issued by a State agency ceases to have effect and is not replaced by an appropriate approval, code or law, then the conditions of the original environmental approval given for this use on this site become conditions of this approval. References in the original environmental approval to the State agency will then be construed as references to the Council to the greatest extent possible.

By taking this approach, the holder of the approval can clearly see who is responsible for the oversight of site environmental management. It also helps restrict “jurisdiction shopping”. The other result is that it makes it clear that the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection is the entity responsible for environmental management.

 

Financial Resource Implications:

Local Road Impacts

The proposed development approval conditions include provisions for a Network Access Charge which takes account of the proportional impact of the development on the local government road system. The Network Access Charge (NAC) has been initially set at $0.50 per tonne for all extracted material leaving the site. The NAC allows for the use of all parts of the local government road system open to vehicles of the weight and type used in the extractive industry operations.

The information and requirements for the payment of the NAC are contained in the Charges Schedule - Local Roads Additional Impacts which is attached to the approval and forms part of the conditions.

The conditions which set up the NAC have been modified from earlier versions to comply with the recent State Government amendments to the infrastructure charges provisions of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.3.1(a) Regulate and control development in a consistent and responsible manner that enhances the lifestyle of our community whilst promoting sustainable development.

Supporting Documentation:

1

Body of Report

D14/56806

2

Development Plans

D14/56066

3

Department of State Development, Infrastructure & Planning - Concurrence Agency Response

D14/28294

4

Department of Environment and Heritage Protection - Concurrence Agency Response

D14/56817

 

Report authorised by:

David Fermer, Coordinator - Planning

Danielle Pearn, Manager - Planning & Building Development


Attachment 1

Body of Report

 

 

 

Background Information

 

Proposed Land Use

 

The application seeks to establish a Material Change of Use for "Extractive Industry” to extract up to 500,000 tonnes of road base material per annum on land located at Wilga View, 824 Crossroads Road, Yuleba North, (Lots 6 & 7 on WV409).

 

Details of Proposed Development

 

The applicant proposes to expand on existing quarry operations (currently maximum of 100,000 tonnes per annum) to allow for an annual production of up to 500,000 tonnes per annum of hard rock quarry material. The operation would include winning, screening, stockpiling and loading.

 

The application includes requests for associated Environmental Authorities (ERA (2)(b) Extracting to 1,000,000 tonnes per annum  and ERA(3)(b) Screening to 1,000,000 tonnes per annum.  The site has a total land area of 1,157.8ha.  The proposed extraction operation would occupy 55 hectares of the site.

 

The submitted Site Based Management Plan contains relevant information on the management of stormwater, erosion and sediment, a proposed methodology for site remediation and details of daily operations.  It is recommended that the Site Based Management Plan be included as an approved document.

 

Strip mining will be the primary method of material extraction, excavating to a maximum depth of 3000mm.  Machinery proposed to be used on site includes;

 

-     Excavators

-     Front end loaders

-     Contractor’s equipment for screening

-     Road Trains and AB Triples

-     Truck and Dog

 

The operation will not include any permanent site infrastructure.  It is proposed that portable “Atco” type offices and amenities will be utilised.  A portable sewage system, trucked in water and portable power generation are proposed as part of the development.  It is estimated that 12 people will be employed when the site is fully operational.

 

Approved operating hours will be 6am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, with no operation on Sunday.  These operating hours are not the same as the previous approval (2013/18666 for 100,000 tonnes per annum), as it is considered important to standardise the operating hours for quarry approvals across the region,  and to align the operating hours of this quarry with similar recently approved quarry developments.

 

The application has been considered by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, due to the increase in extraction rates.  DTMR have forwarded conditions via the State Assessment and Referral Agency which include the prevention of the use of the State-controlled road network for the transportation of any material produced at the site.  It is recommended that the approval be conditioned with a Network Access Charge to make a partial contribution to the increased loading on the local (Council) road network.

 

There is a residence on site that will be used as a caretaker’s residence.  The residence has a reticulated electricity supply.  It is proposed that the portable office located at the extraction area will be powered by a diesel generator.  The caretaker’s residence has sufficient potable water and firefighting water supply, provided by rainwater tanks.  Sediment ponds and the existing property storage dam will provide a source of water for dust suppression operations, and fire fighting if required.

                                   

 

 

 

Figure 1 – Zoning Map/Site Locality        (Source: Bendemere Shire Council Planning Scheme)

 

Figure 2 – Aerial Map                                                    (Source: Google Earth)

 

Characteristics of the Site

 

The subject site is located approximately 13km west of the intersection of Crossroads Road and Jackson-Wandoan Road.  Site access is provided via an existing access road located along the sites eastern property boundary.  The site is zoned Rural, and reticulated water and sewerage are not available.

 

A Material Change of Use ‘Extractive Industry’ was approved for the extraction of up to 100,000 tonnes per annum of hard rock quarry material at the site in December 2013.  Excavation operations have commenced and various site works have been undertaken as part of the approval, including the construction and grading of the access road and fencing around the extraction area.

 

Both lots are mapped as containing areas of remnant vegetation.  No clearing is required as part of the development, and buffers will be established to ensure the integrity of the vegetation is not compromised.

 

Areas of Good Quality Agricultural Land, Medium Bushfire Hazard and Protected Areas have been identified on both lots under the Bendemere Shire Council Planning Scheme 2006.

                     

The surrounding land uses include;

 

·    North: Rural grazing land and State forest

 

·    East: Rural gazing land, coal seam gas exploration and rural residences (nearest dwelling to the east is located 3.3km from the nearest excavation area).

 

·    South: Rural grazing land and associated residences (the nearest dwelling to the south is located 515m to the south of the operation).

 

·    West: Rural grazing land as associated residence (nearest dwelling is located 2.5km from the nearest excavation area).

 

Transport and Haulage

 

Access to the site is provided via an existing access road located along the site’s eastern property boundary.

 

From the site, it is expected that 90% of quarry material will leave west along Crossroad Road, and of this traffic, 70% will head north on Horse Creek Road to service the Origin Energy-Ready Creek Pilot Project.

 

The application has been referred to Department of Transport and Main Roads (via the State Assessment and Referral Agency).  The department has responded, stating that quarry traffic must not use the State controlled road network.

 

Infrastructure Connections

 

The site does not have reticulated water or sewerage networks available.  As a result, alternative water supply and sewerage treatment solutions will need to be provided on site.  A portable chemical toilet closet is proposed and potable water will be delivered to the site as required.  Appropriate conditions of approval have been recommended within the schedule of conditions to ensure that a suitable potable water supply and amenities are available on site.

 

Public Notification

 

As the development application is impact assessable, public notification was required in accordance with Section 297 of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.  The application was publically notified between 02 May 2014 – 26 May 2014. 

 

No properly made submissions were received during the notification period.

 

Definition of Use & Assessment Status

 

The Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme defines the proposed use as:

 

"Extractive Industry" means any premises used for the winning or treatment on the land or on adjacent land, or gravel, rock, sand, soil, stone, or other similar materials. The term does not include the removal of materials authorised by Section 32(13) of the Local Government Act 1993, or mining within the meaning of the Mineral Resources Act 1989.

 

“Environmentally Relevant Activity 16 – Extractive and Screening Activities”, threshold:

-     2(b) extracting, other than by dredging, in a year, more than 100,000t but no more than 1,000,000t; and

-     3(b) screening, in a year, more than 100,000t but no more than 1,000,000t

 

The application is subject to Impact Assessment, and so requires assessment against the Desired Environmental Outcomes and the Rural Zone Code of the Planning Scheme:

 

Desired Environmental Outcomes

The Desired Environmental Outcomes (DEOs) are based on ecological sustainability established by the Integrated Planning Act 1997, and are the basis for the measures of the Planning Scheme.  Compliance is outlined below:

 

(a) Environment

 

(i)   The areas of high scenic amenity, remnant vegetation, wetlands, fauna habitats and wildlife corridors and regionally significant open space in the Shire are protected.

 

The site is mapped as containing areas of remnant vegetation. No clearing is proposed as part of the development and buffers will be established around operations to ensure remnant vegetation is not compromised.

 

The development will operate in accordance with the Site Based Management Plan, which incorporates a management strategy for pit rehabilitation and end use, and the Environmental Authorities granted by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection.

 

(ii)   Places, areas or sites identified as being susceptible to land degradation, including contamination, erosion, salinity and landslip, are protected and further degradation is minimised.

 

Matters related to land degradation can be appropriately addressed by way of mitigation measures proposed as part of the Land Management Plan contained in the Site Based Management Plan, by the Environmental Authorities granted by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, and by way of conditions of approval. 

 

(iii)  Ecological sustainability is achieved by maintaining and improving biodiversity, water and air quality.

 

The Site Based Management Plan addresses ecological sustainability through the Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan, Rehabilitation Plan and Waste Plan.  Air quality and water quality are also addressed through the Site Based Management Plan.  Ecological sustainability will be ensured through the implementation of these plans, by Environmental Authorities and by way of conditions of approval.

 

(iv) Places of historical and indigenous cultural heritage and social significance are protected, maintained and enhanced.

 

The site is not identified as being in, or in close proximity to, a place of historical, cultural or social significance.

 

(b) Economic

 

(i)   Good Quality Agricultural Land is protected as a major economic resource for the region.

 

The site is mapped as containing Good Quality Agricultural Land (GQAL), however the quarry operation itself is not located within any of the mapped GQAL areas. The operation will not prejudice the use of the GQAL on the site.  The applicant has also undertaken to restore any disturbed grazing land after operations ceases.

 

The quarry operations will affect only a small portion of the overall site area (55ha of a 1,157.8ha site) and will not prejudice the balance of the land being used for agricultural purposes.

 

(ii)  Key Resource Areas, extractive resources, petroleum, gas and mineral resources are protected as a major economic resource for the region.

 

This application is for extractive industry and will provide employment opportunities and material for civil construction purposes. 

 

(iii) Industry, business and employment opportunities are improved and appropriately located to service the community and region, and encourage economic activity within the local area.

 

The location of this site is dictated by the resource available.  Employment opportunities will be provided as a result of the development occurring.

 

(iv) Rural business opportunities are improved to protect and value-add to the existing rural based economy.

 

The proposed development brings diversity to the existing rural based economy and contributes to resource industry requirements at a local level.  The development will generally improve local business opportunities and protect the existing rural based economy.

 

(c)  Community Well-Being & Lifestyle

 

(i)   A convenient access to roads and services is achieved through well located land uses and the efficient use and timely provision of infrastructure such as water, sewerage and roads walkways and cycling facilities.

 

It is expected that 70% of trips from the quarry will travel 10-14km along Maranoa Regional Council Roads to the Origin Energy-Ready Creek Pilot Projects.  As such, the quarry is considered conveniently located to the end-user.  It is recommended that the route be conditioned for upgrading appropriate to the increased use proposed by the developer. 

 

The development places minimal demand on water and sewage infrastructure.  The site does not require reticulated water supply or sewerage, as a portable chemical toilet closet will be used and potable water will be delivered to the site.

 

(ii)  Rural residential and urban residential development occurs in distinct localities that provide a sense of community, amenity, services, and a safe, affordable living environment, whilst maintaining the rural amenity of the shire. The role and identity of Yuleba and Wallumbilla townships as the main business and community centres of the shire is consolidated.

 

The proposed development is for an extractive industry, appropriately located in the Rural Zone.  Haulage from the site will mostly be to the Origin Energy Ready Creek Pilot Project located 10-14km from site operations, and will not increase traffic within any nearby town.  The operation is buffered and located a sufficient distance from surrounding land use as to not have a detrimental impact on surrounding land uses.

 

(iii)  Infrastructure networks such as road, rail, water cycle and electricity are protected from encroachment by sensitive land uses which may adversely affect or limit the normal operation of that infrastructure.

 

The proposed development is not considered to be a sensitive land use and will not adversely impact on the current or future operations of established infrastructure networks.

(iv)  The adverse effects from natural and other hazards, including bushfires are minimised.

 

The site is identified as containing a medium bushfire hazard area.  Matters relating to bushfire management can be appropriately controlled by the provision of a bushfire management plan, which is required as a condition of approval.

 

(v)   The range of housing types, services and facilities meets the needs of the community and other uses.

 

The proposal is for an industrial use and will not affect the range of housing types in the town.

 

Overall Outcomes for Rural Zone Code

The Rural Zone Code identifies overall outcomes providing direction about relevant assessment issues.  The overall outcomes for the Rural Zone Code are the purpose of the code.  The code seeks to ensure that development within the Rural Zone:

 

(a)  reflects the economic potential of the rural area

 

The quarry operation will provide construction material that will contribute to civil construction and other industries in the Maranoa Region.

 

(b)  is appropriately located within the Rural Zone and existing and future rural activities are not prejudiced by inappropriate development

 

Extractive Industry is most appropriately located in the Rural Zone.  Rural activities in the immediate area and on the subject site will not be jeopardized as a result of the operation.

 

(c)   maintains the environment, including soil, air and water, compatible with healthy natural systems and ensures public health and safety

 

Matters relating to adverse environmental impacts can be appropriately addressed by way of the mitigation measures detailed in the Site Based Management Plans and by way of conditions of development.

 

(d)  protects Good Quality Agricultural (GQAL) from fragmentation, alienation or encroachment of incompatible land uses in accordance with State Planning Policy 1/92 – “Development and Conservation of Agricultural Land”

 

Good Quality Agricultural Land (GQAL) has been identified on the site.  Extraction operations will only affect a small portion of the overall site, and will not be located in any area mapped as GQAL.  As such, the proposed operation will not affect the overall integrity of the GQAL.  The quantity of good quality agricultural land will not be negatively impacted as a result of the development.

 

(e)  is located, designed and operated in a manner that protects and enhances the predominant rural scale, intensity, form and character

 

The proposed development will be undertaken within a defined area of land comprising approximately 55ha hectares contained within the larger 1,157.8ha site.  Excavation associated with the use will be appropriately setback and buffered from site boundaries ensuring the rural character and amenity is maintained.  Furthermore, the Site Based Management Plan includes a Rehabilitation Management Plan and the land will be returned to its natural form once extraction is complete.

 

(f)    maintains the rural amenity

 

Extractive industry is commonly located within rural areas.  Operations will be limited to a defined area within the site and will be separated from residences on adjoining properties.  The development will not prevent the continuation of existing uses on neighbouring properties.

 

(g)  does not prejudice or impact adversely on other uses including those within other Zones

 

The proposed development will not significantly prejudice the establishment of other uses within the locality, including those within other zones.

 

(h)  has an appropriately designed access to the road network and traffic generated by the development does not impact adversely on the local road network

 

The proposal does not adversely impact on the local road network, as outlined in the Traffic Engineering Report. Recommended conditions of approval require Crossroads Road to be upgraded in order to cater for additional traffic as a result of the development.

 

(i)    protects areas and sites of conservation importance, including cultural and high landscape values

 

There is no evidence on the site of any indigenous cultural heritage, however if found, the Cultural Heritage Management Plan contained in the Site Based Management Plan will ensure indigenous cultural heritage is protected.

 

The site is mapped as containing Remnant Vegetation.  No clearing is proposed as part of the development and adequate buffers will be provided to ensure the integrity of the vegetation is not compromised.

 

(j)    is undertaken in an orderly and logical sequence to achieve an efficient provision of infrastructure

 

The proposed development does not represent out-of-sequence development, and supports the efficient provision of infrastructure through the provision of civil construction materials.

 

(k)   is located and designed in ways that minimise the need for flood, bushfire and landslide mitigation and to protect people and premises from such natural events

 

The site is identified as containing areas of bushfire hazard.  Matters relating to bushfire management can be appropriately controlled by the provision of a bushfire management plan, which is required as a condition of approval.

 

(l)    has water supply, stormwater disposal, sustainable effluent and waste disposal and power to appropriate standards adequate for the use

 

Services proposed to be provided at the site will be appropriate for the use.  Water supply will be supplemented by truck delivery when required.  The Stormwater Management and Erosion Sediment Control Plan, included in the Site Based Management Plan, addresses stormwater issues. Environmental Authorities issued by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection include controls for stormwater and sediment.

 

(m) does not impact adversely on infrastructure

 

Impacts on infrastructure are to be appropriately addressed by way of conditions of development.  Impacts on the local road network are mitigated by the application of charges for transportation of heavy materials within the region via the application of the Network Access Charge.

 

The Code’s relevant Performance Criteria are shown below, in order to more easily permit structured and detailed consideration of relevant issues—

 

Rural Zone Code

 

Performance Criteria

Assessment responses

A.  A. For all the Rural Zone

1. Infrastructure

PC 1 Electricity

Premises are provided with a supply of electricity adequate for the activity.

 

The caretakers residence on the site has access to electricity.  Portable site offices proposed as part of the development will run on diesel generators.

 

 

PC 2 Water Supply

Premises are provided with an adequate volume and supply of water for the activity.

Water for dust suppression and other operations will be sourced from sediment ponds and a dam located on site.

 

The caretakers residence provides adequately serviced rain water tanks and additional water will be trucked in if and when needed.

 

PC 3 Effluent Disposal

To ensure that public health and environmental values are preserved, all premises provide for the treatment and disposal of effluent and other waste water.

A portable chemical toilet will be provided on site and will be serviced and emptied as required.

PC 4 Stormwater/Inter-Allotment Drainage

Stormwater is collected and discharged so as to:

(a) protect the stability of buildings or the use adjacent land;

(b) prevent the water-logging of nearby land; and

(c) protect and maintain environmental values.

In accordance with the Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan contained in the Site Management Plan, stormwater management includes, but is not limited to, bunding diversion drains, catch drains and table drains. The Stormwater Management Plan is to be included in the approval as an approved document.

 

PC 5 Vehicle Access

Vehicle access is provided to a standard appropriate for the use.

 

 

An existing access road will be upgraded to a standard suitable for truck and dog and double road train manoeuvring.

PC 6 Parking and manoeuvring

Vehicle parking and service vehicle provision is adequate for the use whilst ensuring both safe and functional operation for motorists and pedestrians.

The proposed activity is located on a large rural allotment, with sufficient area for onsite vehicle parking and manoeuvring.

 

 

 

PC 7 Roads

All weather road access is provided between the premises and the existing road network.

 

 

Property access roads will be modified to accommodate expected traffic and traffic volume.

 

All-weather access roads will be provided on site to an acceptable standard for the machinery at the site.

 

PC 8.1 Highways

All Highways are maintained and enhanced as a link between major centres.

 

PC 8.2 State Controlled Roads

Development adjacent to State Controlled

Roads is located to ensure safe and efficient use of the highway and maintain the integrity of the highway as a commuter link

 

PC 8.3 Noise Sensitive Developments

Noise sensitive developments (residential, educational and community) must ensure that road traffic noise levels are appropriately managed to achieve acceptable levels of amenity.

The proposed development is not located adjacent to a State Controlled Road.

 

The proposed development is not a noise sensitive development, as the distances between the activities and the nearest sensitive receptor substantially reduce any noise.

 

PC 9 Gas and Oil Pipelines

Buildings are located at an appropriate distance from pipelines to ensure community safety and operation of the use is not compromised.

N/A – The subject site is not located in close proximity to any gas or oil pipelines.

PC 10 Refuse Tips and Effluent Treatment Plants

Buildings are located at an appropriate distance from refuse tips or effluent treatment plants to ensure community safety and operation of the use is not compromised.

 

N/A – The subject site is not located in close proximity to any Refuse Tips and Effluent Treatment Plants. 

 

PC 11.1 Rail Corridors

Development is at an appropriate distance from the rail corridor so as not to prejudice safety, speed or intended role of the existing and proposed rail corridors.

 

PC 11.2 Noise Attenuation

Development adjoining the rail corridor is protected from the impact of noise

The proposed development will not encroach on rail corridor land.

 

PC 12 Electricity Transmission Line

Easement – Vegetation

Transmission lines within an Electricity transmission line easement are protected from vegetation.

 

No vegetation planting will occur within an electricity easement.

 

 

PC 13 Electricity Transmission Line

Easement – Separation Distance

Habitable buildings and community orientated uses are located a minimum distance from lines to ensure community safety.

Habitable buildings on site are located an acceptable distance from transmissions lines.

2. Environment

PC 14 Watercourses

Development ensures the maintenance of riparian areas and water quality including protection from off-site transfer of sediment.

Appropriate distance and buffers are provided between the operation and any watercourse.

 

 

The Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Plan details how stormwater runoff will be controlled to ensure water quality guidelines are met.  Compliance with this will be enforced as a condition of approval.

 

PC 15 Flooding

Premises are designed and located so as:

(a) not to be adversely impacted upon by

flooding;

(b) to protect life and property; and

(c) not to have an undesirable impact of the extent and magnitude of flooding.

The site is not mapped in a known flood area.

 

 

 

 

 

PC 16 Air Emissions

Air emissions from premises do not cause environmental harm or nuisance to adjoining properties or sensitive land uses.

Appropriate measures to mitigate against air emissions, including issues related to dust suppression, are outlined in the Site Based Management Plan, which is to be included in the approval as an approved document.

 

 

PC 17 Noise Emissions

Noise emissions from premises do not cause environmental harm or nuisance to adjoining properties or sensitive land uses.

 

Matters relating to noise emissions can be appropriately addressed by way of the mitigation measures detailed in the Site Based Management Plan and by way of conditions of development.

 

PC 18 Water Quality

The standard of effluent and/or stormwater runoff from premises ensures the quality of surface water is suitable for:

(a) the biological integrity of aquatic ecosystems;

(b) recreational use;

(c) supply as drinking water after minimal treatment;

(d) agricultural use; or

(e) industrial use.

Stormwater management and water quality will be maintained in accordance with the Site Based Management Plan, which is to be included as an approved document.

 

PC 19 Excavation and Filling

Excavation and filling of land ensures:

(a) that both the amenity and safety of users of the site and adjacent land holdings; and

(b) soil erosion is kept to a minimum with remedial works.

Implementation of the Site Based Management Plan will ensure amenity, safety of users and minimum soil erosion.

 

PC 20 Construction Activities

Both erosion control and silt collection measures are undertaken so as to ensure protection of environmental values during construction.

 

Matters relating to construction activities are addressed in the conditions of development.

PC 21 Good Quality Agricultural Land

Good Quality Agricultural Land areas as identified on Map R2 - Good Quality Agricultural Land are conserved and managed for the longer term and protected from development that may lead to its alienation or diminished productivity.

Extraction areas are not located in areas mapped GQAL.  The quantity of good quality agricultural land in the area will not be significantly changed by the development.

PC 22 Vegetation Retention

Development retains vegetation for the:

(a) protection of scenic quality;

(b) protection of general habitat;

(c) protection of soil quality; and

(d) establishment of open space corridors and networks

There is no clearing of vegetation proposed by this application. Buffers will be provided around all remnant vegetation to ensure vegetation is not compromised.

PC 23 Protected Areas

Development is undertaken to ensure areas of significant biodiversity and habitat value are protected.

Separation distances are provided from areas mapped “Protected Areas” in accordance with advice received from the Department of Natural Resources and Mines.

PC 24 Sloping Land

Development is undertaken to ensure:

(a) vulnerability to landslip erosion and land degradation is minimised; and

(b) safety of persons and property is not compromised

All development will occur on land with a slope less then 15%.

PC 25 Bushfire Hazard

Development maintains the safety of people and property by avoiding areas of High or Medium Bushfire hazard or mitigating the risk through:

(a) the siting of buildings ensuring setbacks from hazardous vegetation are maximised and elements least susceptible to fire are sited closest to the bushfire hazard; and

(b) the provision of firebreaks to ensure adequate setbacks between buildings, structures and hazardous vegetation

The site is identified as containing a medium bushfire hazard area.  Matters relating to bushfire management can be appropriately controlled by the provision of a bushfire management plan, which is required as a condition of approval.

 

PC 26 Character Buildings

Development adjacent to buildings identified as heritage or character buildings in Schedule 10 incorporates design features, materials and details that blend with the existing character.

The site is not located in proximity to any character buildings.

PC 27 Cultural Heritage

The significance of known places of indigenous and/or cultural heritage value is retained.

The site is not identified as being in proximity to a place of historical, cultural or social significance. The Cultural Heritage Management Plan contained in the Site Based Management Plan, will protect any cultural heritage if such heritage is found during extraction operations.

 

B. Specific Land Uses

PC 28 – Catteries and Kennels

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 29-32 – Commercial Premises

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 33-37 – Community and Recreation

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 38-41 – Dwelling House

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 42-44 - Forestry

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 46-48 – Home Based Business 

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 49-52 – Host Home Accommodation 

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 53-57 – Industry (Low/Medium) 

Not Applicable – The proposed development is for Extractive Industry

PC 58 – Telecommunication Facility 

Not Applicable to the development application.

PC 63-65 – Tourist Facility

Not Applicable to the development application.

 

Submissions

 

No Submissions were made against this application.

 

 

Assessment Summary

 

Although the planning scheme requires Impact Assessment for the proposed use, it is considered that there is no significant conflict with the intent of the Bendemere Shire Planning Scheme.  The development is appropriately located within the rural area, and any matters relating to environmental impacts, protection of amenity and infrastructure upgrading can be appropriately addressed by way of conditions of development and through the Environmental Authority licensed by Department of Environment and Heritage Protection.


Attachment 2

Development Plans

 






Attachment 3

Department of State Development, Infrastructure & Planning - Concurrence Agency Response

 





Attachment 4

Department of Environment and Heritage Protection - Concurrence Agency Response

 






Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 6 August 2014

Item Number: 13.10

File Number: D14/56506

 

Subject Heading:                     Maranoa Economic Snapshot & Report - July 2014

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                           

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Ryan Gittins, Specialist - Business Development

 

Executive Summary: 

 

On an annual basis, AEC Group LTD has been engaged to update the Maranoa Economic Profile to reflect the most up-to-date economic statistics.

 

The latest editions of the economic snapshot and full report were completed in early July 2014. Council’s approval of these documents is sought prior to their dissemination via the Council and Invest Maranoa websites. 

 

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council:

 

Endorse the July 2014 editions of the Maranoa Economic Profile and Maranoa Economic Snapshot (as attached), prior to their dissemination via the Council and Invest Maranoa websites.

 

 

Body of Report:

 

Council’s approval of the July 2014 economic profiles is required before the reports can be released to the public.

 

The economic snapshot (5 pages) has been developed as a quick reference tool for prospective investors, outlining current & future projects, growth industries and key economic data.

 

The full economic report (30 pages) provides the historic analysis of the regional economy and its performance over the last five years.

 

The key findings of these reports are as follows:

 

 

 

            Labour Force and Industry

 

·    Growth in regional labour force (1.4%) and fall in unemployment rate (0.5%) over the year to December 2013.

·    157 new businesses in the Maranoa region, in the three year period between 2009 and 2012.

·    52.9% of regional businesses operate in the Agriculture, forestry and fishing sector.

 

Housing

 

·    22.6% decline over the past year in residential building approvals; 2013/14 figure is still double the level of 2008/09 financial year.

·    Average house and unit weekly rent decreased by 2.8% and 19.2% respectively in the March 2014 quarter. It should be acknowledged that these averages are still 53.1% and 46.1% higher than the market rates of the March quarter in 2009.

·    The average weekly rent for a 2 bedroom flat in Roma is more affordable than comparable properties in the Gladstone & Mackay regions. On average, weekly rents in Roma for 2 bedroom dwellings are less affordable than properties found in the Toowoomba, Western Downs, Scenic Rim, Rockhampton and Emerald regions.

·    The average weekly rent for a 3 bedroom house in Roma exceeds that of comparable properties in all neighboring areas, including the Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Scenic Rim, Toowoomba and Western Downs regions.

 

Population Growth

 

·    The regional population is estimated to grow at an annual rate of 1.3% to 2036, with approximately 142 people relocating to the Maranoa on an annual basis.

 

Consultation (internal/external):

 

Ed Sims, Manager – Economic & Community Development

Corporate Communications Unit

AEC Group Ltd

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Nil

Policy Implications:

Nil

Financial Resource Implications:

Payment totaling $10,403.80 was finalised in 2013/14 financial year.

 

Alternatives considered:

Remplan - $13,632.00

ID (Informed Decisions) - $11,728.00

 

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.4.1(a) To proactively identify and encourage actions which facilitate the sustainable development of the regional economy.

Supporting Documentation:

1

AEC Group Ltd - Maranoa Economic Snapshot - July 2014

D14/56462

2

AEC Group Ltd - Maranoa Economic Update (Full Report) - July 2014

D14/56461

 

Report authorised by:

Edward Sims, Manager - Economic & Community Development


Attachment 1

AEC Group Ltd - Maranoa Economic Snapshot - July 2014

 



































Attachment 2

AEC Group Ltd - Maranoa Economic Update (Full Report) - July 2014

 






Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 6 August 2014

Item Number: 13.11

File Number: D14/56712

 

Subject Heading:                     Retrospective Approval to Submit Funding Applications under the Queensland Anzac Centenary Program, Round Two

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                           

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Susan (Sue) Sands, (Acting) Coordinator - Local Development & Council Events

 

Executive Summary: 

Council is eligible to submit funding applications under the Queensland Government’s Anzac Centenary Grants program.  Council has submitted three separate applications to restore and enhance the cenotaphs at Roma, Mitchell and Injune by the due date of 12 August.

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council provide retrospective approval to submit funding applications under the Queensland Government’s Anzac Centenary Grants program for the cenotaphs at Roma, Injune and Mitchell, which were previously discussed and approved at Council workshop on 6 August 2014.

 

Body of Report:

The State Government has opened the Queensland Anzac Centenary Grants program, which provides up to $40,000 in funding for projects which commemorate the service of men and women in the First World War.

 

Following consultation with community members, Councillors and RSL members, Council has put forward applications to restore and enhance the cenotaphs in Roma, Mitchell and Injune.

 

At the workshop on 6 August 2014, Council approved the concept to submit the applications, and it is now recommended that this approval be formalised.

Consultation (internal/external):

Maranoa Regional Council Elected Members

Jane Fenton, Local Development Officer – Mitchell

Amanda Whitney, Local Development Officer – Injune

Janet Hogarth, Local Development Officer – Roma

Ed Sims, Manager, Economic & Community Development

Mark Farnham, Secretary of RSL Sub-branch Roma

Robert Menz, President of RSL Sub-branch Roma

Konrad Crawford, Coordinator, Parks & Gardens

<List organisation & individual names for external consultation>

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

If successful, Council will be required to enter into a sub-agreement with the State Government.

Policy Implications:

Nil

Financial Resource Implications:

Council must provide at least 25% of the total cost for each project.  It is anticipated that this would be covered in the current allocation in the 2014/15 budget.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.4.12(a) To distribute allocated Council funds to community organisations in a fair, equitable and efficient manner to address identified community need.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

Report authorised by:

Edward Sims, Manager - Economic & Community Development

Robert Hayward, Director - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services


Maranoa Regional Council

    

General Meeting -  13 August 2014

Officer Report

Meeting: General  13 August 2014

Date: 6 August 2014

Item Number: 13.12

File Number: D14/56826

 

Subject Heading:                     Sub-Agreement for Mitchell Master Drainage Study

Classification:                                   Open Access  

Name of Applicant:                         

Location:                                           

Author & Officer’s Title:                 Susan (Sue) Sands, (Acting) Coordinator - Local Development & Council Events

 

Executive Summary: 

Maranoa Regional Council has received advice that the application for the Mitchell Master Drainage Study, submitted under the State Government’s 2014/15 Natural Disaster Resilience Program, has been successful.  Council is now required to enter into a sub-agreement with the State Government to receive the funding, and provide confirmation that the remainder of the project costs will be met.

 

Officer’s Recommendation:  

That Council:

1.   Endorse the CEO to sign the sub-agreement with the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery & Resilience for the Mitchell Master Drainage Study project.

2.   Confirm that the remainder of the project costs (40%) will be met from the 2014/15 budget.

 

Body of Report:

Maranoa Regional Council has applied for funding for the Mitchell Master Drainage Study project under the State Government’s 2014/15 Natural Disaster Resilience Program.

 

This application was successful, and Council will receive $44,220 (60%) in funding towards the total project cost of $73,700.  The funding has been approved to investigate the storm water network under storm/flood conditions to identify infrastructure improvements in Mitchell. 

 

To facilitate this payment, Council is required to enter into a sub-agreement with the Department of Local Government, Community Recovery & Resilience.  It is recommended that Council endorse the CEO to sign the sub-agreement.

 

Council is also required to confirm that the remaining 40% of the project costs will be met from the 2014/15 budget, to ensure the project is delivered by the due date of 30 June 2015.  This is in accordance with Resolution No. GM/04.2014/34 from the meeting on 23 April, where Council moved as follows:

 

Resolution No. GM/04.2014/34

That Council:

 

1.      Apply for funding under the Queensland Government’s Disaster Mitigation and Resilience Funding program for Stage 2 projects of the Roma Flood Levee (as prioritised at Council’s Workshop scheduled for 29 April), and projects for Mitchell and Amby Flood Mitigation.

 

2.   Authorise the Mayor and the Chief Executive Officer to sign the certification form for the application on behalf of the Maranoa Regional Council.

 

3.   Give consideration to providing a contribution of funds to approved projects if required under the 2014/15 budget.

 

Consultation (internal/external):

Damon Meadows, Senior Advisor, Southern Region, Department of Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience

Cindy Irwin, Specialist - Infrastructure Program Funding

Risk Assessment (Legal, Financial, Political etc.):

Council is required to sign the sub-agreement with the Department to facilitate funding, and meet conditions including milestone reports, acknowledgement of funding and acquittal deadlines.

Policy Implications:

Nil

Financial Resource Implications:

Council will receive $44,220 (60%) in funding towards the total project cost of $73,700.

 

Link to Corporate Plan:

Corporate Plan 2009-2013 8.4.12(a) To distribute allocated Council funds to community organisations in a fair, equitable and efficient manner to address identified community need.

Supporting Documentation:

Nil

Report authorised by:

Edward Sims, Manager - Economic & Community Development

Robert Hayward, Director - Development, Facilities & Environmental Services