COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES - ARARAT Reports only.pdf · Mr Tim Day - Executive Manager ... KORS will also challenge the granting of a borrow-pit permit in VCAT; ... At the Special Council

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES

TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017

MINUTES OF THE ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 27 JUNE 2017 IN THE ALEXANDRA OVAL COMMUNITY CENTRE, 1 WARATAH AVENUE, ARARAT, WHICH COMMENCED AT 6.01PM

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PRESENT The Mayor, Cr PA Hooper Chairperson, Crs Gwenda Allgood, Jo Armstrong, Peter Beales, Darren Ford, Glenda McLean and David Pettman, Mr Andrew Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Colleen White, Director Corporate Strategy, Risk and Governance, Mr Don Cole, Director, Assets, Finances and Corporate Services, Mr Neil Manning - Executive Manager Planning and Public Health, Mr Tim Day - Executive Manager Operations and Infrastructure, and Mrs Jenny Woolcock, Manager Executive Services and Governance.

1 TRADITIONAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The Prayers were read out by Mayor Cr Paul Hooper. WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE TRADITIONAL OWNERS OF THE LAND ON WHICH

WE MEET TODAY, AND PAY OUR RESPECTS TO THEIR ELDERS, PAST AND PRESENT.

OPENING PRAYER ALMIGHTY GOD, WE HUMBLY ASK YOU TO HELP US, AS ELECTED

COUNCILLORS OF THE ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL. GUIDE OUR DELIBERATIONS. PROSPER WHAT IS YOUR WILL FOR US, TO YOUR HONOUR AND GLORY AND FOR THE WELFARE AND BENEFIT OF THE PEOPLE WHOM WE SERVE IN THE ARARAT RURAL CITY.

COUNCILLORS OATH WE WILL UNDERTAKE THE DUTIES OF THE OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR IN THE

BEST INTERESTS OF THE PEOPLE OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF THE ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL AND FAITHFULLY AND IMPARTIALLY CARRY OUT THE FUNCTIONS, POWERS, AUTHORITIES AND DISCRETIONS VESTED IN US UNDER THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1989 OR ANY OTHER ACT TO THE BEST OF OUR SKILL AND JUDGMENT.

2 APOLOGIES Nil.

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 3 – CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

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MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR PETTMAN That the Minutes of the: 1 Council Meeting held on 16 May 2017; 2 Special Council Meeting held on 30 May 2017; 3 Special Council Meeting held on 6 June 2017; and 4 Special Council Meeting held on 13 June 2017, be confirmed. CARRIED 3507/17

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 4 – REQUEST TO ADDRESS COUNCIL

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A written request to address Council must be received before 12noon on the Monday prior to the Council meeting. Written requests must be in relation to an item listed on the current Council Meeting Agenda. If a request is not accepted by the Mayor or Chief Executive Officer, a written advice will be provided to the requester outlining the reasons for this decision. Approved requests to address Council Meetings will be heard at the commencement of the Council Meeting. The presenter will be allocated a maximum of three (3) minutes to present his or her address to the Council. An extension of time may be granted by the Mayor. During the presentation, the presenter may not address questions to Councillors or officers. Two minutes will be allocated for Councillors to ask questions of the presenter, if required. Council may request a further report on the matter from officers. Members of the public gallery are not allowed to communicate with Councillors and officers whilst the meeting is in progress.

MairiAnne Mackenzie, Ararat; and KORS (Keep Original Route Supporters) Re: Planning Permit for borrow pit for Western Highway Duplication Premature: Date of approval of an Incorporated Document for the Highway project triggering the application is uncertain. Explanation will be given, including A Minister for Planning has sought and the plaintiffs have agreed to an indefinite adjournment

of the court case; B The community group KORS has indicated that it will legally challenge an exemption by the

Planning Minister to avoid public presentation and consideration of new engineering and environmental information about the planned route;

Greater risk: KORS will also challenge the granting of a borrow-pit permit in VCAT; The risk of a VCAT challenge will be greater from granting of a permit than from its refusal, especially a permit with conditions where there is scope for challenges both from the applicant and from KORS. Ms Mackenzie was not in attendance when this item was dealt with.

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 5 – DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS

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Disclosure of Interests are to be made immediately prior to any relevant item being discussed. Local Government Act 1989 Section 79 (2) A Councillor or member of a special committee who has a conflict of interest and is attending the meeting of the Council or special committee must make a full disclosure of that interest - (a) by either -

(i) advising the Council or special committee at the meeting of the details required under paragraph (b) and (c) immediately before the matter is considered at the meeting; or

(ii) advising the Chief Executive Officer in writing of the details required under paragraphs (b) and (c) before the meeting; and

(b) classifying the type of interest that has given rise to the conflict as either - (i) a direct interest: or

(ii) an indirect interest and specifying the particular kind of indirect interest under section 78, 78A, 78B, 78C, 78D or 78E; and

(c) describing the nature of the interest; and (d) if the Councillor or member advised the Chief Executive Officer of the details under

paragraph (a) (ii), the Councillor or member must make a disclosure of the class of interest only to the meeting immediately before the matter is considered at the meeting.

Local Government Act 1989 Section 80C) A person who is providing advice or a report to a meeting of the Council or a special committee, and who has a conflict of interest in a matter to which the advice or report relates, must disclose the constituting the conflict of interest when providing the advice or report and before the advice or report is considered by the Council or the committee.

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 6 - PETITIONS

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Clause 15 of Council’s Meeting Procedure states: 1 A petition presented to Council must lay on the table until the next Ordinary Meeting of

Council and no motion, other than to receive the petition or joint letter may be accepted by the Chair, unless the Council agrees to deal with it earlier.

2 Petitions received by Ararat Rural City Council will be tabled under “Petitions” in the Order of Business.

3 At the meeting the petition will be formally received by Council and referred to the relevant area of Council for consideration and action which will be reported to the next ordinary meeting of Council for decision if one is required.

4 When a petition relates to an item already on the agenda at the meeting at which the petition is tabled, the matter will be dealt with at that meeting.

5 Any Councillor presenting a petition will be responsible for ensuring that he or she is familiar with the contents and purpose of the petition and that the petition is not derogatory or defamatory.

6 Any person who fraudulently signs a petition or joint letter which is presented to the Council is guilty of an offence.

Chief Executive Officer, Mr Andrew Evans disclosed a direct interest in Item 6.1 – A & J McDonald Centre Petition, due to him being on the Executive Committee of the Ararat Musical Comedy Society. Mr Evans did not leave the Council Chamber. ITEM 6.1 A & J MCDONALD CENTRE PETITION 17084116

EXECUTIVE SERVICES – COMMUNITY LIFE

Introduction A second petition has been received from residents regarding the McDonald Centre. The petition stated: “We of the Ararat Musical Comedy Society are asking for your support so that we can obtain use of the McDonald Centre. The Ararat Musical Comedy Society is a non-profit community group, who have been providing entertainment to the local populous every year for over 40 years. We have done this as a public service to enrich the cultural life of this community, with members spending many, many hours rehearsing and preparing to stage their productions, for no commercial gain, to provide entertainment to the Ararat and surrounding district The Musical Comedy Society wishes to find a home, for it to store both its costumes and props, as well as a place to rehearse it’s productions. The McDonald Centre has been a vital part of the towns life in the past and it has been a tragedy to see if fall so far into disrepair and it would be wonderful to see it find new life as the home for Ararat Musical Comedy Society rather than to see such an iconic building continue to become an eye sore, unused and unloved, as it has been over the last 20 years.” The petition was presented to the 16 May 2017 Council meeting. The petition has been available for consideration for 28 days.


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Discussion Discussions are still underway with a lease not yet completed. The resolution from Council was that a future report with a draft lease and feedback from Community be returned to Council prior to entering into any agreement with the Musical Comedy Society. 221 People have signed this latest petition. Last month Council received a petition signed by 166 people stating concerns for the current direction council was taking. Options Council could: 1. Acknowledge receipt of the petition and include the information as feedback for future

consultation. 2. Request other action from officers.

POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM THIS ISSUE Council plan reference 1.1 Assist Communities to develop and prosper Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Financial and resource implications None identified. Risk implications There is an unassessed level of reputational risk with any petition. Statutory Implications None identified. Community Implications The McDonald Centre is an important asset to the community and there is a strong desire to see the facility re-used in an appropriate manner. Environmental Implications None identified. Internal/external consultation Consultation on the re-use of the centre occurred during 2016 with no report to Council on recommendations for future use. Further consultation will occur prior to any final decisions.

Attachments There are no attachments included in this report.


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Conclusion Throughout 2016 a McDonald Centre re-use committee met on a monthly basis to discuss potential uses for the facility. Though no report was provided to Council or requests from the committee it remains clear that the Centre is important to members of the community which should be taken into account in any future decisions about the Centre.

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR ARMSTRONG That Council acknowledges receipt of the McDonald Centre petition and include the information as feedback for future consultation. CARRIED 3508/17

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 7 – OFFICERS REPORTS

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ITEM 7.1.1 RATING STRATEGY 2017 17083036 ASSETS, FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES

Introduction At the Special Council meeting held on 2 May 2017, Council resolved,

“That: 1 Council prepares the Draft 2017 Rating Strategy to include a rate increase of 2%, no rate

differentials and no Municipal Charge; 2 Council places the proposed strategy on public exhibition and considers submissions as part of the

2017/2018 budget process; 3 Following consideration and hearing of any submission received as part of the budget process, Council

considers the proposed 2017 Rating Strategy for adoption at the Council meeting to be held on Tuesday 27 June 2017.

Discussion It is now appropriate for Council to consider the submissions received and adopt the Ararat Rural City Rating Strategy 2017, with or without further amendment. Submissions regarding Draft Rating Strategy There were over 690 submissions received relating to the Draft Budget/Draft Rating Strategy, with 44 people choosing to speak to their written submission at the Special Council meeting held on 6 June 2017. The vast majority of submissions were made by the farming community. The submissions are included as an attachment to this report. The farming community has serious concerns about the proposal to abolish the differential rating system, and the general themes in their submissions were as follows:

“Abolishing differential rates will have a direct impact on the business operations of farms and the community. The sudden imposition of cost on a business is irresponsible and failure to give sufficient notice of change means farming businesses are ambushed and can have no certainty about future changes”.

“The governance of Council is questioned when two rating options are presented to the community but instead of adopting one of these options as the basis of the Draft Rating Strategy and Draft Budget the Council elected to adopt a uniform rate with no differential rates”.

“Council states in its Rating Strategy 2016 that the farm rate is lower than for all other classes of land (except recreation & culture) because farming operations involve large properties which have significant value and which are often operated as family concerns. Agricultural producers are unable to pass on increases in costs like other businesses. Farm profitability is affected by the vagaries of weather and international markets. In this sense farms are seen to be more susceptible or fragile than other commercial and industrial operations. Farming is the only “occupation” dependant on a land asset base for earning an income. A lower rate is also to encourage land use consistent with farming activities and conservation of areas which are suited for agricultural pursuits”.

“Concerns about the high level of rates paid in Ararat and “what do we get for it””?


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“The level of volunteer support for fire brigades, sporting and social clubs, committees of management of schools, halls and health services may reduce as the farming community will not have the funds or spirit to continue”.

“Concerns about the potential social, economic, environmental, and mental health and wellbeing implications for our community”.

“Farmers have to accept market prices for their goods so it is impossible to pass on rate increases commercially”.

“By removing $2.5 million dollars from farmer’s bottom line, the flow on will hurt local business and trades, not to mention the divide between town and country”.

“There is no correlation between the value of the land and the capacity to pay rates”.

“The only fair option is option 1”.

Submissions received from the general sector referred to the following general themes/comments:

“The “status quo” is not okay, however a move to a uniform rate is an abrupt change especially to farm ratepayers. I ask Council to consider a much longer term rating strategy initially along close lines to Option 2 with a differential farm rate of 75% with increases of 1% per year for 15 years to end at a farm differential of 90%”.

“Being a single income family with 2 young children we find that the cost of living is always on the way up which makes it hard at times for a lot of families! It would be a major relief to have a decrease on our rates”.

“I thoroughly agree with the new rating strategy. It's not before time. The farmers are able to claim their rates on tax whereas the town’s people don’t have that luxury. Ararat Rural Council finally heading in the right direction”.

“I agree with the proposed change in the rating strategy. I feel that in particular that residents of our townships unfairly subsidise the farming businesses in our district. The cost of rates is too high for our lower socio-economic class of residents in our townships. We need to help our poor pensioners and less well-off rate paying residents to be able to live sustainably in our community”.

Submissions received from the commercial sector differed with some supporting a uniform rate and others not supporting a uniform rate. Some comments and themes include:

“We are a business operating in the municipal district and are concerned about Councils proposal to abolish differential rates. We feel the decision has the potential to be detrimental to the long term sustainability of our business and feel the Council decision was made without adequate public consultation, communication and analysis. The existing ARCC differential rating methodology was devised through considerable public consultation to address well known inequalities associated with the land valuation process. We therefore support the retention of the existing ARCC differential rating methodology which is a balanced approach to sustaining farming, business and commercial viability of our community”.

“Businesses to be impacted by a uniform rate include rural merchandise suppliers, local machinery manufacturers & dealers, car dealers, mechanics, tradesman, engineers, vets and earth moving contractors”.

Officer’s Comments

There is no direct connection between the rates paid and the level of council services received by individual ratepayers.

Rates are a land tax, based on the capital improved valued of each property.


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The current rating system in based on the capital improved valuation of each property. It does not take into account:

o Whether a ratepayer has one rate assessment or multiple rate assessments. o Whether the ratepayer is a resident owner or non-resident owner. o Whether there is one person contributing to the payment of rates or multiple income

earners. o Whether the property is mortgaged, and if there is a mortgage the amount outstanding

on that mortgage. o Whether the property is an investment property (e.g leased farm, leased shop, leased

residential house). o The types of taxation that applies to each rate assessment and each person contributing

to the payment of rates – e.g capital gains, income tax, GST, land tax and stamp duty. o The type of ownership and the benefits and drawbacks of each type of ownership -

Couples, singles, families with multiple income earners, private companies, superannuation funds, trusts, non-resident owners etc.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) submission claimed there are 1,718 farm assessments with the median farm having 3.7 assessments, equating to 461 farm businesses. To qualify for the “farm” rate the ratepayer only has to satisfy the definition of farm land under the Valuation of Land Act 1960. A rate assessment may attract a farm rate if it is over 2 hectares. A review of the rates database indicates the 1,718 rate notices for farm land have been sent to 866 unique addresses. There are 671 addresses receiving a total of 832 farm rate notices for either one or two assessments. The VFF figures are therefore questionable.

Ararat’s farm rate of 55% in 2016/17 was less than most other Councils in Victoria. Mornington Peninsula, Wyndham and Warrnambool City Councils each offer lower farm rate differentials; however the farm rates generated in these municipalities is low enough to be considered immaterial to their overall rate budget. The VFF supplied data showing the various farm differentials of other Councils – Central Goldfields 80%, Corangamite 94%, Glenelg 100%, Moorabool 78%, Moyne 100%, Pyrenees 81%, Southern Grampians 80% and West Wimmera 100%.

Since 2007/08 there have been 309 additional general assessments created and 4 more farm assessments. The growth in general assessments has occurred mainly in urban Ararat due to subdivisions.

The rates burden for residential properties will continue to be transferred from the rural townships to Ararat as a result of the growth in Ararat, and as the valuations in rural townships continue to decline, or to not increase at the same level as Ararat. The same trend is occurring in farm land where valuations will improve in some areas of the municipality whilst other farm land will not increase in value as much. Revaluations do not result in extra income – under the rate cap the average rates cannot increase by more than 2%.

The Local Government Act caters for ratepayers who are suffering financial hardship. The current rating strategy states waiver of rates and interest will only apply with regard to rates on their primary residence. This excludes commercial properties, industrial properties, residential investment properties and in most cases farm properties. Ratepayers suffering financial hardship are required to complete an application form and see a financial counsellor to support their application. In the past Council has waived interest and not charged interest for a certain period. Council has also deferred the payment of rates for a certain period. Council can change the rating strategy to expand the eligibility for the waiver to include farm land ratepayers.

Improved capital values are realised when properties are sold – some not for generations but others on a more regular basis. The increases in value results in an increase in net worth on the balance sheet. Increased asset values allow ratepayers to borrow e.g. new car or caravan


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for residential owners, new farm equipment for farmers. Operators of commercial properties however may not benefit in increases in property values as they may not own the premises. 24% of commercial properties have different owners to ratepayers.

For example: o One ratepayer in Ararat has 5 properties and the total increase in the capital improved

value of these properties is $58,500 and the rates have increased by 67% ($1,698) since 2007/08.

o In contrast, a local farmer who also has 5 rate assessments has experienced an increase in rates of 46% ($6,385) as the capital improved value of the 5 farm assessments has increased by $1,494,500 since 2007/08.

There is a general assumption that ratepayers with highly valued properties have a greater capacity to pay. This is supported by the Municipal Association of Victoria’s Fact Sheet on Local Government Rating Principles, as presented below.


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POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM THIS ISSUE Council plan reference 5.1 Good governance through leadership. 5.5 Sustainable, long term financial management. Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Financial and resource implications None identified. Risk implications None identified. Statutory Implications The Local Government Act 1989 provides the legislative framework to be used in developing a Rating Strategy. Community Implications Council’s Draft Rating Strategy 2017 proposes a significant change, abolishing the current differential rating system and moving to a uniform rating system with no municipal charge. The farming sector could pay $2.4 million more whilst all other classes of land will pay less. This may cause financial hardship for certain ratepayers. If the Rating Strategy is altered to include farm properties as being eligible to apply for the waiver or deferral of rates, then these ratepayers may apply for a waiver or deferral of the whole or part of any rate or charge or of any interest imposed for late payment. Environmental Implications None identified. Internal/external consultation Extensive external consultation has occurred including calling for submissions from the public on two occasions and holding public information sessions in Lake Bolac, Moyston, Ararat and Elmhurst. Councillors were provided with reports on the submissions received at the Special Council meetings held on 2 May 2017 and 6 June 2017 and provided an opportunity for concerned ratepayers to speak in support of his submission. 44 people presented their submissions at the meeting held on 6 June 2017. Councillors and Officers have met on numerous occasions to discuss the Rating Strategy.

Options Council has four options 1. Adopt Option 1 (see below - “Background on various options”) as previously presented to the

community as the basis for the 2017 Rating Strategy 2. Adopt Option 2, as previously presented to the community as the basis for the 2017 Rating

Strategy


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3. Adopt the Draft Rating Strategy included in this agenda as the basis for the 2017 Rating Strategy, subject to changing the waiver clause to include all property types being eligible to apply for the waiver or for deferral of rates on the grounds of financial hardship.

4. Reject all of the above options and adopt another option as the basis for the 2017 Rating Strategy.

Background on the various options At the Special Council meeting held 4 April 2017 Council resolved that:

1. Council engage with the community to get feedback on two differential rating options: Option 1 – General 100%, Commercial 160%, Industrial 130%, Farm 55% and a Municipal Charge of $92, and Option 2 – General 100%, Commercial 200%, Industrial 150%, Farm 75% and a Municipal Charge of $150;

2. Council invites interested persons to make a written submission relating to the Differential Rating System with written submissions to be received at the Municipal Offices, Ararat Rural City Council, 59 Vincent Street Ararat not later than 5.15pm on Friday 21 April 2017;

3. Council considers the feedback before adopting the Draft Budget and Draft Rating Strategy for 2017/18 at the Special Council meeting scheduled for 2 May 2017.

The two options were widely advertised through Council’s website and the Ararat Advertiser. An online survey was also conducted, asking the community to choose between option 1 and option 2. Of the 131 responses received 82% chose option 1 and 18% chose option 2. In addition to the online survey a total of 24 written submissions were received by email or in the post. The majority of these submissions were from the farming community who favoured option 1. Option 1 Option 1 proposed a Commercial rate of 160% of the General rate; an Industrial rate of 130% of the General rate, a Farm rate of 55% of the General rate and a Municipal Charge of $92 per rateable assessment.

Table 1.1 - Change in rate yield by rating category

Existing - 100%, 160%, 130%, 55%,

$90 Municipal Charge Option 1 - 100%, 160%, 130%, 55%,

$92 Municipal Charge

Rate Differential No.

Rates & M/C

Revenue 2016/17

Current Share of Revenue

Current Average rates &

mc

Rates & M/C

Revenue 2017/18

Share of Revenue

Average rates & M/C

Change in

Average rates

General 4966 $7,137,640 51.7% $1,437 $7,280,472 51.7% $1,466 $29

Commercial 328 $1,231,020 8.9% $3,753 $1,255,476 8.9% $3,828 $75

Industrial 91 $213,690 1.5% $2,348 $217,972 1.5% $2,395 $47

Farm 1718 $5,229,250 37.9% $3,044 $5,332,700 37.9% $3,104 $60

Totals 7,103 $13,811,600 100% $1,944 $14,086,620 100% $1,983 $39

As Option 1 assumes the same differential rates as 2016/17 with a 2% increase in the municipal charge, 100% of properties would experience a 2% rate rise in line with the rate cap set by the State Government.

Table 1.2 – Number of assessments with rate increases and decreases


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Classification Total Assessments

Assessments with a rate increase

Assessments with a rate decrease

Number Number % Number %

General 4,966 4,966 100.0% 0 0.0%

Commercial 328 328 100.0% 0 0.0%

Industrial 91 91 100.0% 0 0.0%

Farm 1,718 1,718 100.0% 0 0.0%

Total 7,103 7,103 0

Option 2 Option 2 proposed a Commercial rate of 200% of the General rate; an Industrial rate of 150% of the General rate, a Farm rate of 75% of the General rate and a Municipal Charge of $150 per rateable assessment.


Existing - 100%, 160%, 130%, 55%, $90 Municipal Charge

Option 2 - 100%, 200%, 150%, 75%, $150 Municipal Charge


Rates & MC Revenue 2016/17


Current Average rates

& mc


Share of Revenue

Average rates &

MC

Change in

Average rates

General 4966 $7,137,640 51.7% $1,437 $6,434,600 45.7% $1,296 -$142

Commercial 328 $1,231,020 8.9% $3,753 $1,326,200 9.4% $4,044 $290

Industrial 91 $213,690 1.5% $2,348 $215,250 1.5% $2,365 $17

Farm 1718 $5,229,250 37.9% $3,044 $6,110,950 43.4% $3,557 $513

Totals 7,103 $13,811,600 100% $1,944 $14,087,100 100% $1,983 $39

Option 2 proposed a significant change to the differential rates where the farm rate increases from 55% of the general rate in the dollar to 75% of the general rate in the dollar. This would result in 94.2% of properties classed as general and 13.2% industrial receiving a rate reduction in 2017/18 (even with the 2% rate cap increase) and other properties classed as General (5.8%) Commercial (100%), Industrial (86.8%) and Farm (100%) paying more.





General 4,966 290 5.8% 4,676 94.2%

Commercial 328 328 100.0% 0 0.0%

Industrial 91 79 86.8% 12 13.2%

Farm 1,718 1,718 100.0% 0 0.0%

Total 7,103 2,415 4,688

Introducing Option 2 changes would shift the rate burden from general properties to farm and commercial properties. Based on a 2% rate increase for the 2017/18 budget, the total amount raised from the farming sector would be $777,115 more, the commercial sector would be $70,660 more, the industrial sector $2,714 less and the general sector $845,793 less.

Table 2.3 – Shift in rate burden for Option 2


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Rate Differentia

l No. CIV '000 2016/17

% share

of CIV

Rates &MC

Revenue 2016/17 existing

differentials

‘000

Share of Revenu

e

Rates &MC

Revenue 2017/18

‘000

Share of Revenu

e $

change %

change

General 4,966 $931,205 39% $7,280 52% $6,435 46% -$845,793 -11.62%

Commercial 328 $104,512 4% $1,256 9% $1,326 9% $70,660 5.63%

Industrial 91 $22,002 1% $218 2% $215 2% -$2,714 -1.25%

Farm 1,718 $1,299,845 55% $5,334 38% $6,111 43% $777,115 14.57%

Totals 7,103 $2,357,563 100% $14,088 100% $14,087 100% -$732

Option 3 Option 3 is the basis of the current Draft Rating Strategy, proposing a rate rise of 2%, a uniform rate across all property types (no differential rates) and no municipal charge.


Existing - 100%, 160%, 130%, 55%, $90

Municipal Charge Option 3 – Uniform rate with

$Nil Municipal Charge




Current Average rates

& mc


Share of Revenu

e

average rates &

MC

Change in

Average rates

General 4966 $7,137,640 51.7% $1,437 $5,563,900 39.6% $1,120 -$317

Commercial 328 $1,231,020 8.9% $3,753 $624,500 4.4% $1,904 -$1,849

Industrial 91 $213,690 1.5% $2,348 $131,500 0.9% $1,445 -$903

Farm 1718 $5,229,250 37.9% $3,044 $7,766,600 55.1% $4,521 $1,477

Totals 7,103 $13,811,600 100% $1,944 $14,086,500 100% $1,983 $39

Option 3 proposes the most significant change where the differential rates are abolished and a uniform rate applied with no municipal charge. This would result in 100% of properties classed as general, commercial and industrial and 0.1% farm receiving a rate reduction in 2017/18 (even with the 2% rate cap increase) and Farm (99.9%) paying more.





General 4,966 0 0% 4,966 100%

Commercial 328 0 0% 328 100%

Industrial 91 0 0% 91 100%

Farm 1,718 1,716 99.9% 2 0.1%

Total 7,103 1,716 5,387

Introducing Option 3 changes would shift the rate burden from general, commercial and industrial properties to farm properties. Based on a 2% rate increase on the average rate for the 2017/18 budget, the total amount raised from the farming sector would be $2,432,665 more, the commercial sector would be $631,140 less, the industrial sector $86,464 less and the general sector $1,716,493 less.

Table 3.3 – Shift in rate burden for Option 3


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Rate Differentia

l No. CIV '000 2016/17

% share

of CIV

Rates &MC

Revenue 2016/17 existing

differentials

‘000

Share of Revenu

e

Rates &MC

Revenue 2017/18

‘000

Share of Revenu

e $

change %

change

General 4,966 $931,205 39% $7,280 52% $5,564 39.6% -$1,716,493 -24%

Commercial 328 $104,512 4% $1,256 9% $625 4.4% -$631,140 -50%

Industrial 91 $22,002 1% $218 2% $132 0.9% -$86,464 -40%

Farm 1,718 $1,299,845 55% $5,334 38% $7,766 55.1% $2,432,665 46%

Totals 7,103 $2,357,563 100% $14,088 100% $14,087 100% -$1,432

Attachments Further information regarding this item is provided in Attachment 7.1.1. Conclusion The Draft Rating Strategy 2017 has been advertised, calling for submissions. Over 690 submissions were received and 44 ratepayers addressed Council on 6 June 2017. Council must now decide which option to take in relation to the final Rating Strategy 2017.


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Recommendation That Council decide which option it should adopt as the basis of the Rating Strategy in 2017, bearing in mind that Council is required to notify everyone who has made a separate submission of the decision and the reasons for that decision; the reason being that Council believes the adopted 2017 Rating Strategy achieves the objectives of Council as determined by Section 3C of the Local Government Act (including to ensure the equitable imposition of rates and charges) and the role of Council as determined by Section 3D of the Local Government Act.

MOVED CR FORD SECONDED CR McLEAN That Council adopt the 2017/2018 Rating Strategy to include a rate increase of 2%, no rating differentials and no Municipal Charge, subject t to the following: a Changing the waiver clause to include all property types being eligible to apply for the

waiver or for deferral of rates on the grounds of financial hardship; b The transition to full implementation, if any, must adhere to the recommendations of

the Commission of Inquiry; and c The impacts of the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry to be fully

communicated to every ratepayer in a similar manner to that of the original mail-out of the draft rating strategy.

LOST

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR ARMSTRONG That the Draft Rating Strategy 2017 Report be deferred to the August 2017 Council Meeting, following the Commission of Inquiry submitting their report to the Hon Natalie Hutchins, Minister for Local Government. CARRIED 3509/17


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ITEM 7.1.2 2017/2018 BUDGET & DECLARATION OF RATES 17083820 ASSETS, FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES

Introduction Section 130 (3) of the Local Government Act 1989 states that:

“The Council must adopt the budget by 30 June each year.” Section 130 (4) of the Local Government Act 1989 states that:

“The Council must submit a copy of the budget or revised budget to the Minister within 28 days after adopting the budget under subsection (3) or adopting the revised budget under subsection 130 )(1)”

Section 158 of the Local Government Act requires Council to declare rates and charges. Discussion At the Special Council Meeting held on 2 May 2017, Council considered the proposed budget for 2017-2018 and resolved to give public notice of the Budget in accordance with Section 129 of the Local Government Act 1989. The draft budget was advertised in the Ararat Advertiser on Friday 5 May 2017. The advertisement called for public submissions and set out how submissions were to be made. Copies of the budget were made available for inspection at the Council Offices and on the Council’s website. There were over 690 submissions received relating to the Draft Budget/Draft Rating Strategy, with 44 people choosing to speak to their written submission at the Special Council meeting held on 6 June 2017. The vast majority of submissions were about the Draft Rating Strategy, and the high level of rates paid. The submissions are included as an attachment to the previous report as 7.1.1. When compared with other Councils in Victoria, rates in Ararat Rural City can be considered expensive. Information provided by the Municipal Association of Victoria show Ararat Rural City has the 11th highest average rates, municipal charges and waste management charges per assessment in 2015/16 of $2,156. Ararat also has the 13th highest average rates, municipal charge and waste management per head of population of $1,328. It is well recognised that Council provides a number of regional city type services such as performing arts centre, art gallery, Chinese heritage museum, indoor and outdoor pools, Alexandra Oval Community & Recreation Centre, but the rate revenue is derived from a small rate base. This has a flow-on effect, with higher recurrent operating costs associated with maintaining the key commercial areas at regional standard, including signage, footpaths, streetscape, cleaning and public conveniences.


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POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM THIS ISSUE Council plan reference 5.1 Good governance through leadership. 5.5 Sustainable, long term financial management Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Financial and resource implications The Budget outlines the strategic direction to be taken over the next 12 months. It includes financial statements, key strategic activities and initiatives and rating and borrowing strategies. The budget has been prepared within the following parameters: - complying with the Victorian Government’s rates cap of 2%. The cap applies to the average annual increase in rates and charges; - replacing the differential rating system with a uniform rating system with no municipal charge; - a 2% increase in the Council rebate to $92 for eligible pensioners; - an increase in waste and recycle charges of 2%; - a capital works program of $11.102 million. Whilst the budget for 2017/18 is balanced, the rate determination result included in the Strategic Resource Plan for the years 2018/19 to 2020/21 indicates a rate determination deficit of $0.624 million for this period, and an operating deficit of $8.112 million over the same period. Rate capping has restricted Council’s capacity to raise income at an appropriate level to fund Council’s operations. Detailed information is contained within the Budget document. Risk implications Council relies heavily on non-recurrent contributions for its long-term financial sustainability. The capital works program included in the Budget relies heavily on Government grants and transfers from reserves. Statutory Implications Council is required to adopt a budget by 30 June 2017 and undertake public consultation in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989. Community Implications The Budget has been prepared using Council’s Draft Rating Strategy 2017, which proposes a significant change, abolishing the current differential rating system and moving to a uniform rating system with no municipal charge. The farming sector could pay $2.4 million more whilst all other classes of land will pay less. This may cause financial hardship for certain ratepayers but if the Draft Rating Strategy is changed to include farm properties as being eligible to apply for the waiver or deferral of rates then these ratepayers may apply for a waiver or deferral of the whole or part of any rate or charge or of any interest imposed for late payment.


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Environmental Implications The Budget funds activities to support & protect the environment. Internal/external consultation The Budget has been developed through a rigorous process of consultation with Councillors and officers. Council held public information sessions in Lake Bolac, Moyston, Ararat and Elmhurst in May 2017. The public has been given the opportunity to make a submission on the budget. There were 44 people who presented their written submissions to Council on Tuesday 6 June 2017.

Options Having prepared the draft budget and received and considered the submissions from the community Council must now consider adopting the budget. Council has two options: 1. Adopt the budget as advertised and presented. The Draft budget is based on a uniform rate

with no municipal charge 2. Amend the budget to reflect an alternate Rating Strategy and adopt an amended budget. Attachments A copy of the Budget for 2017-2018 is included in Attachment 7.1.2. Copies of the submission received on the Draft Rating Strategy/Draft Budget 2017-2018 are included in Attachment 7.1.1 Conclusion The 2017/18 Budget represents a fair and appropriate allocation of Council’s resources. Should Council adopt a Rating Strategy that is not the current Draft Rating Strategy, the resolution will need to change to reflect the amended Rating Strategy and the Budget will need to be amended to reflect the alternate Rating Strategy.


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Recommendation – based on Draft Rating Strategy (uniform rate) 1 Adoption of the Budget (a) That Council having considered the proposed Budget for 2017/18 and having given the public notice as required

in Section 129 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act), and having considered all written submissions and having given the opportunity to be heard to all who requested in writing the opportunity to be heard, resolve to adopt the budget for the financial year, being for the period 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018;

(b) That public notice of the adoption of the Budget in accordance with Section 130(1) be given; (c) That a copy of the adopted Budget be forwarded to the Minister for Local Government within 28 days after

adopting the budget, in accordance with Section 130(4) of the Act; (d) That a copy of the adopted Budget be kept available at the municipal offices for public inspection in accordance with

Section 130(9) of the Act; and 2 Amount intended to be raised That an amount of $16,087,914 be declared as the amount Council intends to raise through general rates,

municipal charge, and annual service charges which are calculated as follows:–

Source of Revenue Amount General Rates (excluding Supplementary rates) $14,086,500

Municipal Charge $0

Annual service charges:

- Garbage Collection $1,605,929

- Water Supply $6,006

- Recycle Collection $386,950

Special charges:

- Bunnugal Drainage $2,529

Total $16,087,914

3 General Rates (a) That a general rate be declared in respect of the Financial Year, being for the period 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018; (b) That it be further declared pursuant to Sections 158, 158A and 160 of the Act that the general rate be raised by

the application of a uniform rate.

(c) That it be confirmed that the uniform rate for all rateable land within the municipal district be determined by multiplying “Capital Improved Value” by 0.005975 and

4 Municipal Charge

(a) That pursuant to Section 159 of the Act, no Municipal Charge be declared to cover some of the administrative costs of Council;


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Recommendation 1 Adoption of the Budget

(a) That Council having considered the proposed Budget for 2015/16 and having

given the public notice as required in Section 129 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act), having considered all written submissions and having given the opportunity to be heard to all who requested in writing the opportunity to be heard, resolve to adopt the budget for the financial year, being for the period 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016;

(b) That public notice of the adoption of the Budget in accordance with Section 130(2) be given;

(c) That a copy of the adopted Budget be forwarded to the Minister for Local Government in accordance with Section 130(4) of the Act;

(d) That a copy of the adopted Budget be kept available at the municipal offices for public inspection in accordance with Section 130(9) of the Act; and

2 Amount intended to be raised That an amount of $15,231,703 be declared as the amount Council intends to raise

through rates, municipal charge, and annual service charges which are calculated as follows:–

Source of Revenue Amount Rates (excluding Supplementary rates) $12,763,880

Municipal Charge $558,888

Annual service charges:

- Garbage Collection $1,530,980

- Water Supply $6,330

- Recycle Collection $369,096

Special charges:

- Bunnugal Drainage $2,529

Total $15,231,703 ; and

3 General Rates

(d) That a general rate be declared in respect of the Financial Year, being for the period 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016;

(e) That it be further declared pursuant to Sections 158, 158A and 161 of the Act that

the general rate be raised by the application of differential rates having regard to the objectives of each differential rate and characteristics of the land which are the criteria for declaring each differential rate as set out in the Budget Report 2015/16 of the Special Meeting of Council of 5 May 2015;

(f) That it be confirmed that the differential rates for all rateable land within the

municipal district be determined by multiplying “Capital Improved Value” of each rateable land by a percentage specified as the percentage of each uniform rate (which percent may be alternatively expressed as cents in the dollar of the Capital Improved Value):

5 Annual Service Charges

(a) That, pursuant to Section 162(1)(a), Section 162(1)(b) Section 163 and Section 221(1)(b) of the Act, an Annual Service Charge in respect of serviced properties be declared in respect of the 2017-2018 Financial Year;

(b) That Annual Service Charges be declared on properties where the service is provided in the municipal district for garbage services as follows:

Kerbside collection for 120 litre mobile bin - $299


(c) That Annual Service Charges be declared on properties where the service is provided in the municipal district

for recycling services as follows:


(d) That an Annual Service Charge of $429 be declared for the provision of water supply to properties in which water is supplied in the following areas: Mininera, Rossbridge, Tatyoon and Travellers Rest;

(e) That a special charge of $1.65 per hectare be levied in the high rating zone and $1.00 per hectare in the low rating zone on all properties in the Bunnugal Drainage area, for maintenance works within the drainage area; and

6 Cultural And Recreation Land That all cultural and recreational lands and indoor cultural and recreational facilities be exempt from the payment

of municipal rates, except where: a) the land is subject to a grazing lease, in which case it will attract the General rate (or the Farm rate if

applicable); b) the land is used for housing gaming machines, in which case the portion of the premises used for housing

gaming machines shall attract the Commercial rate, and the balance of the property shall be exempt from the payment of municipal rates; and

7 Rebates That a rebate of $92 per rateable assessment be granted in accordance with the provisions of Section 169(1)(a) to

those ratepayers who already receive a pensioner rate reduction under Section 171(4) of the Local Government Act 1989, to assist in the proper development of the municipal district and give rise to a community benefit because it facilitates greater equity for pensioner ratepayers; and

8 Incentives That no incentive be declared for early payment of the general rates, annual service charges and municipal charge;

and


Page 2736

9 Consequential

(a) That Council requires any person to pay interest on any amounts or rates and charges which;

That person is liable to pay; and Have not been paid by the date specified for their payment;

(b) That the interest rate fixed under Section 2 of the Penalty Interest Rates Act 1983 be noted as the

rate set out in accordance with Section 172(2) of the Act; (c) That the Chief Executive Officer be authorised to levy and recover the general rates, annual service

charge, municipal charge and amounts payable under the Act and the Cultural and Recreational Lands Act 1963; and

10 Payment Arrangements

That Council allow the payment of rates and charges by direct debit over nine monthly or eighteen fortnightly payments, free of interest, commencing the last Friday of September and finishing in the following May. That Council offer the option to pay rates and charges by lump sum under Section 167 of the Act by 15 February 2018. That, in accordance with Section 167 of the Act, rates and charges are also payable by four equal instalments on the date fixed by the Minister for Local Government, that is:

30 September 2017

30 November 2017

28 February 2018

31 May 2018; and That should any person pay an amount equivalent to their first instalment before 30 October 2017; Council will consider the payment as an instalment payment. Should any person pay an amount equivalent to their first instalment after 30 October 2017, Council will consider the payment as an amount towards the lump sum option and the rates will then be due in full by 15 February next.

11 Interest That Council allows a grace period of 30 days before interest is applied under Section 172 (3) of the Act to late instalments and late lump sum payments; and That Council set a minimum interest amount of $3 when charging interest on late payment in accordance with Section 172 of the Local Government Act 1989.

12 Submissions That Council note the submissions received under Section 223 and notify the persons who has made a separate

submission of the decision and the reasons for that decision; the reason being that Council believes the budget, as advertised and adopted, achieves the objectives of Council as determined by Section 3C of the Act and the role of Council as determined by Section 3D of the Act.


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MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR ARMSTRONG That the Draft Budget 2017/2018 Report be deferred to the August 2017 Council Meeting, following the Commission of Inquiry submitting their report to the Hon Natalie Hutchins, Minister for Local Government. CARRIED 3510/17


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ITEM 7.1.3 DRAFT COUNCIL PLAN 2017-2021 INCORPORATING THE STRATEGIC RESOURCE PLAN (SRP) 13041955 CORPORATE STRATEGY, RISK AND GOVERNANCE

Introduction At the Special Council Meeting held 6 June 2017 the following recommendation was moved:

That Council: 1 Receive all submissions in relation to the Draft Council Plan 2017-2021; and 2 Consider the Draft Council Plan 2017-2021 at the Ordinary Council Meeting to be held

on Tuesday 27 June 2017.

The Draft Council Plan 2013-2017 includes the strategic objectives for the next year, including the strategic actions and indicators for monitoring the achievement of these objectives. The SRP is a plan of the resources required to achieve the Council’s strategic objectives expressed in the Council Plan. It also facilitates the commencement of the Budget 2017-18 which follows as an annual resource plan to implement the fourth year of the Council Plan. The SRP also assists Council to maintain a financially sustainable organisation in the long term. The statutory requirements prescribed under Sections 125 and 126 of the Local Government Act 1989 require Council to consider whether the current Council Plan requires any adjustment in respect to the remaining period of the Council Plan at least once in each financial year. Council was required to advertise the Draft Council Plan/SRP for a period of 28 days in accordance with section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989. During this period community members were encouraged to scrutinise and review the Council Plan to ensure it expresses their view of the Council’s intended future direction. Three submissions were received regarding the Draft Council Plan 2017-2021. Discussion The Draft Council Plan 2017-2021 sets the direction for Council for the next year. As Council’s role is to support the community through leadership and service provision, it is ultimately a plan for the community. 1 Council Plan The Council Plan was developed with a strong understanding of the key physical and strategic issues facing Council fulfilling its role of fostering future growth and development for the Municipality’s residents. It defines the strategies Council will employ in endeavouring to meet these challenges and ensure continued growth and prosperity for the municipality. For the first time the Draft 2017-2021 Council Plan incorporates the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. The integration of the Council Plan and the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan seeks to put health and wellbeing of our community at the forefront of all strategic decision making.


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Council reviewed the Vision and Mission Statement, which has now been updated as follows: Our Vision – Our communities, our opportunities Our Mission Statement – We will demonstrate leadership through social responsibility, openness and transparency by actively working with our community to achieve shared goals. The 2017-2021 Council Plan is built on four Pillars: Our Community We value our people and our community, their sense of place and connectedness and will target our services to meet their needs. Our Lifestyle We will strengthen the underlying community fabric by building upon the culture and heritage which defines our identity. Our Economy We will enhance our community’s prosperity through encouraging sustainable growth. Our Environment We value our natural and built environment and want to protect, enhance and manage it, now and for future generations. Underlying these four pillars is the foundation of ‘Our Organisation’. Our Organisation Our Council is open, fair and honest, engaging with the community to provide leadership and supporting our community through efficient and effective service provision.

2 Strategic Resource Plan (SRP) The SRP is a rolling plan of at least four years and forms part of the Council Plan. The Plan outlines the resources that Council requires to achieve the objectives described in the Council plan, and includes the standard statements as prescribed by the regulation to outline the financial and non-financial resources required. The SRP has been developed to assist Council in adopting a budget within a longer term prudent financial framework. The key objective of this plan is financial sustainability in the medium to long term, whilst still achieving the Council’s strategic objectives in the Council Plan. The key financial policies contained in the Strategic Resource Plan are supported in the separate sections of the SRP document included in the Council Plan. Council has developed these in the context of the long term financial sustainability of the municipality and in assisting frame the 2017/18 Budget.


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POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM THIS ISSUE Council plan reference 5.1 Good Governance through leadership 5.2 Services and infrastructure that meets the municipality’s existing and future needs 5.5 Sustainable, long term financial management Financial and resource implications The implications of the Council Plan 2017-2021 have been considered in the 2017/18 Budget, and the Strategic Resource Plan. Risk implications The primary objective of Council is to endeavour to achieve the best outcomes for the local community having regard to the long term and cumulative effects of decisions. The proposed Council Plan and Strategic Resource Plan manages the financial risks faced by Council, ensuring that decisions are made and actions taken having regard to their financial effects on future generations. Statutory Implications In accordance with Section 125 of the Local Government Act 1989 Council must consider whether the current Council Plan requires any adjustment in respect to the remaining period of the Council Plan at least once in each financial year. Community Implications It is expected the community will benefit from activities and initiatives funded in the Council Plan 2017-2021. Environmental Implications Environmental, social and economic impacts of the Council Plan 2017-2021 have been considered in the development of a balanced future plan. Internal/external consultation Internal - Councillors, Executive Leadership Group and Management Group External – four Community Drop in BBQ Information Sessions were held in Lake Bolac, Moyston, Ararat (Tuesday 23 May 2017) and Elmhurst (Friday 26 May 2017).

Options Having prepared the Draft Council Plan 2017-2021 and received and considered the submissions from the community Council must now consider adopting the Council Plan. Council has two options: 1. Adopt the Draft Council Plan as advertised and presented. The Strategic Resource Plan

included in the Draft Council Plan is based on a uniform rate with no municipal charge 2. Amend the Strategic Resource Plan included in the Draft Council Plan to reflect an alternate

Rating Strategy and adopt an amended Council Plan. Attachments The Draft Council Plan 2017-2021 is included as Attachment 7.1.3.


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Conclusion There remain a number of strategic challenges ahead, including the renewal of Council’s asset base, the continuation of an appropriate range and level of services, the maintenance of a sound financial position and the protection of our natural environment. The pillars, key strategies, activities and initiatives in the Council Plan aim to meet these needs and continue to deliver on Council’s vision, mission and values.

Recommendation That Council having considered the Draft Council Plan 2017-2021 incorporating the Strategic Resource Plan and having given public notice, resolve to adopt the Draft Council Plan 2017-2021 incorporating the Strategic Resource Plan.

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR ALLGOD That Council defer the Draft Council Plan 2017-2021 incorporating the Strategic Resource Plan Report to the August 2017 Council Meeting, following the Commission of Inquiry submitting their report to the Hon Natalie Hutchins, Minister for Local Government. CARRIED 3511/17

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR FORD That Suspension of Standing Orders to allow the gallery to disperse at 6.59pm. CARRIED 3512/17

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR PETTMAN That Standing Orders recommence at 7.18pm. CARRIED 3513/17


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Ms Mairianne Mackenzie apologised for being late and asked if she could speak to Item 4 - Request to Address Council.

MOVED CR PETTMAN SECONDED CR BEALES That Item 4 - Request to Address Council from Ms Mairianne Mackenzie be heard. CARRIED 3514/17

Ms Mackenzie addressed the Council: “Please consider the following points against issuing Planning Permit No 02627 - Stone Extraction (Clay Borrow Pit), Western Highway, Buangor: 1 It is premature given no incorporated document exists and a court case is pending; 2 KORS has indicated it will challenge the issuing of a permit to VCAT; 3 The Aboriginal aspects cast further doubt on the current route, as in today’s Ballarat Courier;

and 4 A deferral may be a better option.”

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 8 - INFORMATION REPORTS

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ITEM 8.1.1 BUSINESS ARISING 13039071 CORPORATE STRATEGY, RISK AND GOVERNANCE

Council plan reference 5.1 Good governance through leadership

Introduction Information only item. Discussion Please note the following schedule listing actions taken on the resolutions from the last Council Meeting and outstanding items from previous meetings. Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure.


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Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item.

MOVED CR ALLGOOD SECONDED CR BEALES That the Business Arising Report be received. CARRIED 3515/17


Page 2853

ITEM 8.1.2 COUNCIL COMMITTEES 13039075

CORPORATE STRATEGY, RISK AND GOVERNANCE


Introduction Information only item. This report contains the records of Council Committee meetings minutes received since the last Council Meeting.

Committees Councillor representative

Current meeting (as presented)

Next scheduled meeting/s

Council Committees

Ararat Bypass Advisory Committee Cr Hooper and Cr McLean

- 3 July 2017

Ararat Regional Art Gallery Advisory Committee

Cr Armstrong - 18 July 2017

Audit Committee Mayor and Cr McLean

Audit Committee Report presented separately.

Community Engagement Advisory Committee

Cr Armstrong and Cr Pettman

3 May 2017 To be advised

Community Road Safety Steering Committee

Cr Allgood - Yearly in August/September

Early Years Strategic Planning Advisory Group

Cr Armstrong 14 June 2017 13 July 2017

Economic Strategy Advisory Committee Cr Allgood, Cr Ford and Cr Hooper

- 4 July 2017

Environmental Sustainability Advisory Group

Cr Pettman - To be advised

Future of Agriculture Advisory Group (also known as Ararat Rural City Council Drought Working Group)

Cr Armstrong and Cr Hooper

- To be advised

Health Promoting Leadership Advisory Group (also known as Ararat Prevention Leadership Group)

Cr Pettman 1 June 2017

July 2017 Workshop (date to be confirmed)

Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee

Cr Beales 25 May 2017

9 August 2017

Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure.


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Attachments Further information regarding this item is provided in Attachment 8.1.2.

MOVED CR ARMSTRONG SECONDED CR BEALES That the Council Committees Report be received. CARRIED 3516/17


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ITEM 8.1.3 ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS 13039074



Introduction Information only item. The Local Government Act 1989 (Section 80A) requires that the record of an assembly of Councillors is to be reported to the next practicable Council meeting and be included in the minutes of that meeting. Discussion The following records of meetings of the Assembly of Councillors since the last Council Meeting are attached. Note: Any disclosures of interest, relevant to these items, are recorded in the Assembly of Councillors record. 1 Assembly of Councillors held on 24 May 2017 MEMPC; 2 Assembly of Councillors held on 30 May 2017; 3 Assembly of Councillors held on 1 June 2017 Ararat Prevention Leadership Group; 4 Assembly of Councillors held on 13 June 2017; and 5 Assembly of Councillors held on 14 June 2017 Early Years Development Group. Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Attachments The five Assembly of Councillor records listed above are provided in Attachment 8.1.3.

MOVED CR PETTMAN SECONDED CR BEALES That the Assembly of Councillors Reports be received. CARRIED 3517/17


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Cr Allgood disclosed a direct interest in Item 8.1.4 – Grant Applications (No 481), due to her assisting her son with his fund raising efforts for the Ararat Skate Park Committee. Cr Allgood left the Council Chamber at 7.22pm. ITEM 8.1.4 GRANT APPLICATIONS 13039073


Council plan reference 1.1 Assist communities to develop and prosper

Introduction Information item only. Discussion Please note the following schedule updating grant applications. Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure.


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Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item.

MOVED CR McLEAN SECONDED CR BEALES That the Grant Applications Report be received. CARRIED 3518/17

Cr Allgood returned to the Council Chamber at 7.23pm.


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ITEM 8.1.5 COUNCILLORS EXPENSES 15065324 CORPORATE STRATEGY, RISK AND GOVERNANCE


Introduction Council resolved at the 21 July 2015 Council Meeting to publish, at each Council Meeting, the monthly expenditure and year to date amounts of Councillors Expenses, which will include accommodation, meals, mileage allowance, training and development, conferences and communication. Discussion To assist Councillors in meeting their obligations, they are provided with general support such as mobile phones, computers and reimbursement of official travel and meal costs. The following graph and table outlines the Councillors expenses up until 15 June 2017. Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item.

$- $500.00

$1,000.00 $1,500.00 $2,000.00 $2,500.00 $3,000.00 $3,500.00 $4,000.00

Councillors Expenses to 15 June 2017

April/May 2017 Y-T-D


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MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR ARMSTRONG That the Councillors Expenses Report be received. CARRIED 3519/17


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Cr Allgood disclosed a direct interest in Item 8.1.6 – Corporate Strategy, Risk and Governance Quarterly Report, due to her property being in the Mount Langi Ghiran Park, which is noted in the report. Cr Allgood disclosed an indirect interest (close association) in Item 8.1.6 – Corporate Strategy, Risk and Governance Quarterly Report, due to the Pitch Festival donating to the Ararat Skate Park. Cr Allgood disclosed a direct interest in Item 8.1.6 – Corporate Strategy, Risk and Governance Quarterly Report, due to her being on the Green Hill Lake Development Board, and Green Hill Lake photos in report. Cr Allgood disclosed a direct interest in Item 8.1.6 – Corporate Strategy, Risk and Governance Quarterly Report, due to her property being part of the GWM Water Pipeline Upgrade. Cr Allgood left the Council Chamber at 7.24pm. ITEM 8.1.6 CORPORATE STRATEGY, RISK AND GOVERNANCE QUARTERLY

REPORT 14050669 CORPORATE STRATEGY, RISK AND GOVERNANCE

Council plan reference 1.1 Assist communities to develop and prosper 3.1 A Strong and diverse local economy 5.4 Professional and skilled staff in a safe and supportive environment

TOURISM AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION Tourism Projects The Regional Tourism Pipeline is the development of a prioritised pipeline of Regional Tourism projects and a plan for future investment opportunities. Tourism is a major economic driver for regional Victoria and contributes significantly to Regional development through investment attraction, employment generation and visitor expenditure. Developing local tourist assets and encouraging more visitors to travel to destinations in Regional Victoria is a key growth opportunity. Council in partnership with surrounding Councils and Grampians Tourism continue to work on the below projects:- Mount Langi Ghiran Scenic Route and Tourism Development project This project included a market focused analysis of the Mount Langi Ghiran and Mount Cole areas, to

enable the identification and prioritisation of investment opportunities.

It also incorporates a feasibility study to look at development of a tourism product and investment in and around Mount Langi Ghiran.


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The preparation of the report engaged local tourism operators, government authorities, local businesses, community and relevant stakeholders to contribute their knowledge about the current state of the industry, constraints and future opportunities. The final report now endorsed by Council will be used to look at the opportunities and recommendations to further enhance Tourism. Regional Cycling and Trails Business and Master Plan This project will deliver a coherent and clearly outlined strategy for the infrastructure spend required for road cycling, mountain biking, BMX, Cyclo cross, bike packing and trail walking and adventure experiences, to develop consistent supporting tourism products Grampians wide. Key outcomes for this project will include:

Potential to attract both national and world class cycling and trail events, with the

accompanying boost to regional economic development

Significant opportunity to develop a consistent approach to marketing and promotion of

Grampians regional cycling product

Opportunity to plan a ten year program of infrastructure delivery across the Grampians

region, providing a long term view that allows for budget planning between the State and

respective LGAs

Encourage visitors to regional Victoria and build upon the strength of the region in nature

based, heritage and wine tourism.

Capitalise on the transport and infrastructure in regional Victoria to develop a network of

cycling and walking trails

Review cycling events, trails, infrastructure and proposed projects across the region and

develop a coordinated strategy

The Grampians region has the potential to be Australia’s premier tourism destination for cycling and trail related experiences. The Grampians Region Cycling and Trails Business and Master Plan will explore the full potential for the whole of the Grampians region, across all 11 LGA’s. A focus will be around capitalising on the iconic Grampians Peaks Trail and Goldfields Track, currently amongst two of the world’s best walking and cycling experiences, to develop consistent supporting tourism product Grampians wide. The Grampians Region Cycling and Trails Business and Master Plan will deliver a coherent and clearly outlined strategy for the infrastructure spend required for road cycling, mountain biking, BMX, cyclo cross, bike packing, and trail walking and adventure experiences for cycling and walking communities, visitors from across the country and the world. Ararat & Grampians Visitor Information Centre Visitation for the quarter to the Visitor Information Centre was up YOY by 11%. March total visitation was the highest on record. April also recorded fantastic results with an 18% increase YOY. Visitation from Melbournians for the quarter received a welcome spike increasing of 20% YOY. Capturing visitation to the Ararat & Grampians Visitor Information Centre was mainly during the events session with record numbers to the Region for events such as the Pitch Festival, Jailhouse Rock Festival and the Stawell Gift.


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Month (March 2017)

Visits Mar 17 Mar 16 % change

Local 846 797 6.1%

VIC Country

1065 1016 4.8%

Melbourne 1432 1153 24.1%

Interstate 330 415 -20%

International 159 126 26%

Total 3912 3507 11.5%

Month (April 2017)

Visits Apr 17 Apr 16 % change

Local 760 579 31%

VIC Country

1004 894 12%

Melbourne 1168 984 18.6%

Interstate 427 266 60%

International 67 83 -19%

Total 3426 2884 18.7%

Month (May 2017)

Visits May 17 May 16 % change

Local 700 692 1.1%

VIC Country

867 901 -3.7%

Melbourne 782 675 15.8%

Interstate 249 251 -0.7%

International 55 43 27%

Total 2653 2562 3.5%

International visitors during March recorded fantastic number which can be attributed to the Pitch Festival. International Volunteers visitors for the Pitch Festival used the VIC as a hub for transporting to and from the festival utilising the public transport facilities.

March 2017International Visitors Total: 159

AMERICA AUSTRIA

BELGIUM CANADA


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April 2017International Visitors Total: 67

BELGIUM CANADACHINA CZECH REPUBLICENGLAND FRANCEGERMANY HOLLAND

6

121

85

138

4217

10

50

100

150

ACT SA QLD NSW WA TAS NT

March 2017 Interstate Visitation

2

187

82108

27 210

0

100

200


April 2017Interstate Visitation

May 2017International Visitors Total: 55

CHINA ENGLANDFRANCE GERMANY


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Activities undertaken by Ararat & Grampians Visitor Information Centre for quarter were- Caravanning Australia Caravanning Australia is a national quarterly magazine that will this year include a Grampians feature for the winter 17 Outback edition. After 25 years in the industry there is s distribution of 120,000 copies printed which will also include an online subscription base of 60,000. The features are a mix of caravanning specific articles, travel destinations & touring routes, camping, clothing, tourism, 4x4, spares & repairs, accessories, lifestyle, boating, hobbies and attractions. Caravanning Australia is distributed to all caravan clubs nationally, and is available online (eMagazine) and at Qantas lounges, with a readership well in excess of 120,000 the coverage of the magazine is well worth the inclusion. Half Page Print Advert

Web Banner Advert

5

111

3666

16 14 10

100

200


May 2017Interstate Visitation


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Tower Banner Advert

Easter Brochure Similarly to previous years the events and tourism team developed a “What’s on this Easter”. This piece of collateral was delivered across the municipality. It is a valuable brochure that helps our community plan for events and help keep visiting friends and relatives busy during the busy Easter period.


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Alexandra Oval Community Centre and Fiscalini Pavilion

External booking numbers at Alexandra Oval Community Centre performed better than during the same period in 2016. The use of the venue by the Performing Arts Centre during the Town Hall’s redevelopment has helped boost this number and at the same time exposing the facility to a broader audience.

Performing Arts Centre staff have worked closely with Council’s Function and Promotions Officer to ensure all shows have transitioned to the Community Centre seamlessly and that audiences remain comfortable in the smaller venue.

For the next year, the monthly Morning Melodies will have a permanent place at Alexandra Oval Community Centre with kitchen facilities also in full use during this time, while a number of Friday evening performances have been scheduled in, which also includes the bar being in operation.

March is traditionally a high patronage month for the Alexandra Oval Reserve, with the Jailhouse Rock Festival (estimated 1000 people) staging all three days in the one location for the first time. The Ararat Gift (500), Collingwood FC Clinic (400) and school sports carnivals (240-300) were other notable large patron events during the month.

April saw the switch from Cricket Season to Football Season and after a successful transition in 2016, the same process was followed involving Council and the Seasonal Users. A number of internal meetings across departments were conducted during this period to prepare for the handover, this was then followed up with an induction and meeting with both football club presidents and Council’s Manager Tourism & Community Information, Function and Promotions Officer and Community Development & Client Services Coordinator.

Approximately 1000 people attended at least one function at the Alexandra Oval Community Centre as part of a very busy month of external bookings and seasonal user use. The May events included a range of training and information sessions, conferences and meetings, and performances and sporting events.


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Bookings Attendees

March Department of Health and Human Services Meeting 25 RSA Course 10 Grampians Peak Trail Meeting 30 Funeral 150 All Abilities Cricket (two days) 126 Collingwood FC Clinic 400 Jailhouse Rock Festival (three days) 1000 Ararat Gift 500 Morning Melodies 190 Stay in Play Forum 10 Hello Beautiful performance 25 St Mary’s Primary School sports carnival 250 Ararat 800 Primary School sports carnival 240 Ararat West Primary School sports carnival 230 Marian College sports carnival 300 Ararat College sports carnival 250

April Ararat Rats practice match 200 Passenger Rail Feasibility Study 25 Greater Western Victoria Rebels U16 training 30 First Birthday 100 GWM Water 15 Ararat Wine and Food Society Luncheon 70 Special Olympics Torch Relay and Sports Clinic 150 Cycling Master Plan meeting 25 Ararat and District Junior Football Association matches 150

May Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority community session 12 Hoban Recruitment prison officer information session 60 Western Region CFA conference 70 Yana Alana performance 30 Wimmera Uniting Care community information session 20 Ararat Rural City Council Volunteers Civic Reception 60 VicHealth Shortcourse 30 MAV meeting 15 Ararat and District Junior Football Association matches 150 Morning Melodies 80 Grampians Central West Waste meeting 25 Western Region CFA women’s forum 45 Ararat Rural City Council Community Barbeque Drop In Session 100 MAV Meeting 9


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Australian Rules Football College information session 30 Visit Ballarat workshop and briefing 25 Department of Health and Human Services group meeting 17 RSA Course 30 Customised Training 12

Gum San Great Hall

Bookings at Gum San Great Hall remained low during the quarter, with the majority of functions taking place at Alexandra Oval Community Centre.

The Great Hall was utilised when bookings clashed with another at the Community Centre, and although hirers tend to prefer the newer facilities, feedback still remains positive following use of the Great Hall.

The venue was ideal however for the Ararat Rural City Council-hosted Year of Opportunity Forum in March. This function saw 80 people in attendance with a large presentation in the morning followed by break-out discussions that afternoon. The large floor space of the Great Hall allowed both sessions to be setup prior to guests arriving and saw a seamless transition between morning and afternoon. Feedback of the venue was very complimentary from all involved in the organisation of the forum and it was agreed that it helped to contribute to the success of the event.

In May Friends of Gum San hosted a gala dinner called ‘Robe to Riches’ for a group of walkers participating in the 20-day, 500-kilometre trek to mark the journey Chinese immigrants took to the Victorian Goldfields.

Bookings Attendees

March 20 Ambulance Victoria Meeting 80 Year of Opportunity Forum

April National Disability Service Meeting 50 Department of Justice and Regulation Meeting 15

May Robe to Riches dinner 50


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Media & Communications

Media Coverage

A cross section of media coverage has been highly valuable for Ararat Rural City Council during the quarter to push out important information to the community.

Ararat Rural City Council’s Media and Communication’s team has built connections with media organisations 9news Ballarat and WIN News in the first half of 2017, and local stories are regularly featuring on both network’s nightly news programs. This has helped Council better promote initiatives, events and programs to larger audiences.

Media releases and advertisements in both The Ararat Advertiser and Weekly Advertiser were a strong focus during the quarter, particularly to help deliver information regarding Council’s Differential Rating Review and requests for public submissions. This campaign complimented and tied in with the Media and Communication team’s online campaign which featured information on ARCC’s website and social media feeds in both April and May.


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Events Jailhouse Rock Festival Attendance at the festival peaked within the thousands at the height of its popularity, and currently sits around 1500-2000 across several events held over the weekend. The majority of these attendees came from outside the region, including Melbourne, Ballarat and into South Australia. This year, due to the Performing Arts Centre redevelopment, the Friday and Saturday events were held in a marquee on Alexandra Oval. This was a dramatic change to the calendar and one done out of necessity for a venue large enough to cater for the size of the major dances. The dances are key events to the festival, with one held on the Friday night to welcome guests and two main dances and one to two smaller, more intimate events on the Saturday night. The second large change for 2017 was the centralisation of the daytime programs onto the oval and away from the main street. The daytime programs have the greatest appeal to locals. Firstly, the Saturday events were moved from the traditional home in the main street and secondly the oval was fully ticketed all weekend, meaning attendees had to pay where it wasn’t a requirement previously. The burden on attendees was lessened by the introduction of a weekend ticket which allowed one fee to enter the festival over both days. Attendance figures seems to show the change had a positive effect. Revenue from the gates included an approximate 10% increase in revenue, with over 1300 tickets sold at the gates. This figure did not include those who returned on the Sunday or volunteers and workers. Centralising activities on the oval made the weekend easier logistically for the small committee. This meant that the transition between events was much smoother, the resources required were streamlined and a hub was created for the weekend. It was felt that this provided a higher quality of venue for events, rather than continually varied locations. The committee currently has 3-4 key members who dedicate their time every year, although this may affect the overall longevity for a festival this size. Manpower is the main obstacle preventing the committee’s ability to bring new activities and initiatives to develop the festival. Moyston Sheepdog Trials The oldest sheepdog trials in Victoria celebrated its 89th year this year. More than 90 dogs were entered into this year’s competition, who were put through their paces over three days in front of a 300 strong crowd. The Moyston Recreation reserve hosted entrants and visitors with camping available and evenings full of great country hospitality. This traditional event keeps going from strength to strength, with gate takings this year almost double of 2016. As entry to the event is by gold coin donation and not ticketed, this is a fantastic indication of the event’s continued popularity. Next year the event will celebrate its 90th anniversary, cementing its title as the oldest continually running sheep dog trials in Victoria. Organisers are keen to extensively promote this anniversary with increased advertising and promotions through clubs and organisations around the state. HRCAV Double Points Show Mount Cole Equestrian Association hosted an official HRCAV Double Points Show at the Ararat Pony Club. The event features a range of equestrian events across a range of levels.


Page 2890

Feedback received from attendees was that the event was a well-run event within a welcoming and friendly environment, while meeting all the guidelines and requirements under the rules of the Horse Riding Club Association of Victoria accreditations. Ararat Gift The Ararat Gift was held in March, with an exceptional track prepared by the Parks and Gardens team. This year’s gift received 431 entries, down slightly on the year before, but still an increase from when the event was held close to Christmas. Overall attendance was estimated at around 750. For the first time men and women competed over equal distance for equal prize money. Increasing local appeal and revenue at the same time by having an event that appeals to a wide range of spectators with sideline activities is the key to this event. Willaura Good Friday Appeal Continuing a long history of being a generous fundraiser for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, the Willaura community help raised approximately $12,000 in this year’s appeal. More than 380 meals were prepared and served at the Willaura Recreation Reserve on Good Friday with children’s activities, a vintage car display and auctions and raffles contributing to the funds raised. Moyston Easter Market This annual Easter market celebrates Moyston’s history as the birthplace of AFL with the annual Longest Kick competition a key feature. With Easter falling at the end of the school holidays, the market capitalised on high levels of visitation to the area as well as through traffic for a high level of attendance. Stallholders remain steady at the traditional market, with additional stallholders coming on board for 2017, and many signing up on the day to return next year. Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Relay Special Olympics is a worldwide movement that inspires people with an intellectual disability to reach their personal best through regular sport and competition. The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) is a police aligned charitable committee. The relay passed through Ararat the morning of Wednesday 26 April with approximately 30 torch runners supported by carers, relay officials and interstate and local police members making their way from the Ararat Police Station, Barkly Street, through the Alexandra Gardens and finishing at an all abilities come-and-try sports day. Combining local schools, sports clubs, service clubs and disability service providers, the day showcased five sports on the oval. Special Olympics Victoria have programs in place to continue all abilities sports development off the back of this event in the region in the future. Junior Cycling Tour This is the first event in the Cycling Victoria junior calendar, the Ararat Junior Cycling Tour is always well attended. This year’s entries remained steady with more than 130 juniors between the ages of 9 and 16 competing in the tour at Moyston over 2 days.


Page 2891

Held over the Mother’s Day weekend, the tour launches the championships and is earmarked by Cycling Victoria as a key opportunity for growth and development. It is hoped that continual growth of cycling as a sport will attract new participants in the future. Mother’s Day Classic A chilly weekend and foggy start to Mother’s Day didn’t deter many walkers and runners donning the pink and turning out again this year for such a good cause. More than 150 runners and walkers completed the 4km or 8km course raising funds for breast cancer research. Moyston Endurance Ride A yearly fundraiser for the Moyston Fire Brigade, this year’s entries to the ride exceeded 120 horses, continuing to show the strength of this event in the endurance community. Support from the ride has raised significant funds for the CFA over the years, with a substantial amount contributed to a new tanker. One of the largest rides of its kind in the state, organisers are grateful for the support and assistance of Council in the event and acknowledge this support by including Council’s logo on prize blankets and merchandise. One Tree Hill Climb A record 81 cars entered into Round 7 of the Victorian Hill Climb Championships at One Tree Hill over the Queen’s Birthday weekend. With competitors and spectators from around Victoria and interstate staying across the long weekend, the growth of this event is great to see. The Ararat Car Club are now working with Parks Victoria to continue to develop infrastructure on One Tree Hill to increase the safety of the road for the competition and day to day visitors alike. Upcoming Events & Development With winter now well underway, we now enter the low season for events with things kicking off again in September with the warmer weather. Pomonal Art Show Happy with last year’s change of date to the first weekend in September, this Pomonal Primary School fundraiser is now into its peak planning phase. In addition to the main drawcard of local art, the event will include a community market day on the Sunday (Father’s Day) celebrating with live bands, local food and wine, market stalls and children’s events and activities. Pomonal Native Flower Show The APS Grampians Group Native Flower Show at Pomonal returns to add colour and vibrancy to the new hall. With an expected attendance of more than 900 viewers across the weekend, this event is a major drawcard to the Pomonal region. Pitch Music & Arts Festival Planning is underway for this festival to continue at the Mafeking site in 2018. A stakeholder meeting was held in early May to debrief the festival and outline changes which can be made to improve processes at future festivals. Overall, consensus between these groups was that the festival was a very well run event in its first year. Ticket sales for the festival met expectations and were enough that the festival will continue. Approximately 6200 tickets were sold for the weekend, with staff, volunteers and free tickets making


Page 2892

up a total attendance of close to 7000. Feedback received from attendees were positive, as well as both local and industry media and the community. Over the entire course of the festival, approximately $240,000 was spent directly at local businesses and suppliers by the festival. This included services such as water cartage, supplies and accommodation, a great result for the community. Run with the Wind The event is proposed to take place at the Ararat Wind farm located on the outskirts of Ararat, taking in the vibrancy and views of Ararat. This multi-event festival is aimed at providing something for the whole family. It will not only engage locals but attract visitation from runners, families and friends from outside the Region as well as provide an economic boost to local businesses. The event will be the first of its kind to be held in Victoria, highlighting the beauty and stunning countryside of Ararat and the Grampians Region. Run with the Wind event will promote active healthy lifestyle choices in a safe and inclusive atmosphere, it will also build community advocacy through participation and empowerment along with a platform for raising awareness about renewable energy and experiencing wind turbines up close.

The event will be promoted extensively via the event website and through all media channels with a focus on social media. It is proposed that Council engage the event for the next 3 years to be held on an annual basis. This then will deliver the foundation and stability needed to establish a long term legacy event for Ararat Rural City. In the first year the event would expect to attract up to 900 participants, of which 70% would be from outside the Region. Participants will bring an average 2.65 people with them to the event, with the demographics ranging from athletes to competitors aged from under 1 to over 80. It is proposed that the event will include options of a 21km Half Marathon, 14km Run and a 5km & 2.5km fun run. Consultation and discussion has taken place with Regional Development Victoria (RDV) as well as Visit Victoria in assisting with event funding. Regional Cinema Pop Up Cinema Pop Up is a grass roots program that connects with families and communities and is looking to locate within regional Victoria. The exclusive pop up road show is a seven week program across limited locations and Ararat has been chosen to be one of the locations. It will be a free event that is held over 4 days to engage families, local businesses and to generate positive PR for regional towns in coming together as a community.


Page 2893

ECONOMIC STRATEGY AND CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT Strategic Review Economic strategy is undertaking a significant revision in approach and capability. The Ararat Economic Strategy 2014 - 2030 (and its existing supporting plans) is currently under review and refinement in order to develop a concise, measurable set of guiding documentation which can be implemented. A major focus of the review is to build a workable framework which addresses identified gaps in our economic and community growth. Such an approach will align those gaps with existing initiatives from across the organisation, outside of the organisation as well as initiatives which are required through innovation yet currently do not exist. A significant challenge to the review process is identifying and minimising duplication of effort across the various internal Council departments and instead, leveraging progress at a strategic level to enhance outcomes. The review is nearing completion and will be the subject of discussion at an Economic Strategy Advisory Committee meeting 4 July 2017. Resource Capability After some months of planning and preparation, the Strategic Performance and Innovation portfolio, (now incorporating economic development) has physically relocated into a new workspace environment on the first floor of the Council office in Vincent Street. This move brings together the Manager, Strategic Performance & Innovation as well as the Business and Heritage Development Coordinator in one dedicated space to ensure the linkages between strategic and operational economic planning are streamlined and most effective. Economic Performance A breakdown of Ararat Rural City’s economy is as follows. It should be noted that a refresh of current data at the time of this report has not been undertaken by and therefore through the REMPLAN software system resulting in the presentation of data as previously submitted in December 2016.

Sector Output $ mill % Employment %

Manufacturing $404.289 29.8 619 14%

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing $175.585 12.9 721 16%

Construction $159.879 11.8 326 7%

Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services $115.836 8.5 26 1%

Public Administration & Safety $88.591 6.5 496 11%

Health Care & Social Assistance $74.125 5.5 641 14%

Wholesale Trade $62.378 4.6 169 4%

Retail Trade $46.863 3.5 428 9%

Accommodation & Food Services $36.936 2.7 272 6%


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Education & Training $36.664 2.7 315 7%

Financial & Insurance Services $34.931 2.6 54 1%

Transport, Postal & Warehousing $27.072 2.0 103 2%

Professional, Scientific & Technical Services $19.712 1.5 75 2%

Other Services $19.683 1.4 150 3%

Electricity, Gas, Water & Waste Services $17.109 1.3 23 1%

Administrative & Support Services $13.506 1.0 58 1%

Information Media & Telecommunications $9.638 0.7 20 0%

Mining $7.778 0.6 12 0%

Arts & Recreation Services $7.250 0.5 42 1%

Total for ARCC $ 1,357.83 4550

Significant Ongoing Projects GWM East Grampians Pipeline Upgrade – seeks to provide secure water supply to a significant portion of the Ararat Rural City Council area with flow on benefits to both Northern Grampians and Pyreness Shire Council’s. To date, consultants engaged to do a feasibility study have completed their work and a design concept has been adopted by the Steering Committee for advancement to the business case stage. Anecdotal projections have estimated the project may cost approximately $85.3 M. The concept assumes water will be supplied from Lake Fyans into Ararat with an upgrade to part of the existing Lake Fyans to Ararat Pipeline. In early May 2017, letters were sent to every rural landholder across three shires (1,468 letters) and 9 information sessions were undertaken throughout various townships. There is strong community interest and enthusiasm for the project with close to 200 Expressions of Interest (EOI) received by GWM as of 31 May 2017. It is anticipated that the actual or final numbers of EOI’s is likely to represent a much larger percentage of land area given multi-parcel ownership. Expressions of Interest are still being accepted by GWMWater Significant interest is also generating from the winery industry given the projects ability to underpin operations through drier years, along with the abattoirs and general agricultural/regional economy. A business case is being prepared by GWMWater with support from Council to target the Victorian National Water Infrastructure Development Fund round 2, 15 August 2017. Landholders are being asked to contribute one-off contributions of up to $12,500. This limit is based on affordability of landholders. Ballarat Rail line Upgrade– Major work to duplicate the rail line between the Melbourne CBD and through Sunshine will increase the number of services through to Ballarat and subsequently Ararat into the future. This is a long-tern project which will leverage the recent announcement of the current State Government’s Regional Rail Revival efforts. The 2016-17 State Budget includes $518 million to duplicate the Ballarat line to Melton, to increase the frequency of services for the Ballarat region and Melbourne’s outer west.


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The Ballarat Line Upgrade includes:

duplication of 17 kilometres of track between Deer Park West and Melton

a new carpark at Rockbank Station

additional platforms at Bacchus Marsh and Ballan stations, and extended platforms at Rockbank Station with new pedestrian links between platforms

new stabling facilities at Melton and Rowsley, and the removal of stabling facilities at Bacchus Marsh

a five kilometre passing loop at Ballan

a four kilometre passing loop near Bungaree which will make it possible to close the existing Bungaree loop and remove five level crossings

a duplication of three kilometres of track east of Warrenheip Junction

This project paves the way for future electrification of the line to Melton and passing loops which will provide more ways for trains to pass each other, which will help services recover from unexpected delays more quickly, boosting reliability and punctuality.

The Ballarat Rail Advisory Committee (BRAC), of which Ararat has representation via the Manager, Strategic Performance & Innovation, has been working toward identifying long-term (trickle down) opportunities and maintaining a regional voice to ensure the project enhances economic opportunities and fits with other current and potential projects such as the Grampians and Barwon South West Region Passenger Services Project and general advocacy around increasing and diversifying services in the case of more recent Ararat specific announcements. The BRAC is currently organising a workshop for contributing Council’s and their delegated officers and councillors to be held in July with the objective of crafting the scope of a research paper to investigate and solidify available and potential opportunities along the life of the project. Grampians and Barwon South West Region Passenger Services - A study of the passenger service needs of the Grampians and Barwon South West regions was commissioned by eight local government Councils in western Victoria, and covers the area from Ararat to the South Australian border and from Yarriambiack in the north to Glenelg Shire in the south. Councils asked the Study Team to investigate the extent to which existing passenger services – both train and coach – supported the social and economic requirements of this large and productive region, and whether the services currently provided and the infrastructure used could be improved. Councils wanted passenger services and infrastructure that would improve social and economic access and connectivity, reduce isolation, and enable the present and future residents of the region to easily connect with regional centres and Melbourne to meet social, economic, medical, educational and business needs through safe, efficient, frequent and reliable public transport. Central to this issue was whether train services could be reinstated to Horsham, Hamilton and other centres. With the feasibility study presented, the Grampians and Barwon South West Region Passenger Services-Steering Group, will now embark upon a comprehensive advocacy campaign due to launch on 11 July 2017 at Stawell Railway Station. Ararat Rural City Council is providing an ongoing contribution to the steering group via the Manager, Strategic Performance & Innovation.


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Grampians Pyrenees Business Awards - The biennial awards are being hosted by Northern Grampians Shire Council (NGSC) this year, part of a three-council two-year rotating cycle including ourselves and the Pyrenees Shire. As the most recent and most successful host of the awards, Council has been supporting and guiding the NGS team in the lead up to the awards, including the launch on 15 June to be held at Seppelts Winery. This year's awards are being sponsored by 'Neoen -renewing energy' and contain 16 award categories including the prestigious Business of the Year and a People's Choice award. The awards night has been set for 27 October 2017 at St Arnaud, with a long journey still to go with the judging process starting in September after the application period closes. These Awards are an avenue for business operators within our region to develop their businesses and provide an opportunity for likeminded people to network, recognise business excellence and celebrate success. Ararat Rural City's excellent results in 2015's ceremonies will be reinforced as Council encourages our local businesses to enter and submit high quality applications. For further information - http://www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/2017-Neoen-Grampians-Pyrenees-Business-Awards

Bio-Energy Conference – Council has commenced dialogue with Cultivate and participating neighbouring Council representatives to host a large portion of the upcoming Bio-Energy Conference tentatively earmarked for October 2017. Heritage Development - GUM SAN Chinese Heritage Centre Entry Entry figures for the February 2017 – April 2017 inc. was 1,587 people, down by 9% (1,763) from this period last year. Mostly this was due to a large drop in non-paying visitors (Casual Visitors) As can be seen from the revenue section revenue was actually up due to slight increase of paying customers.

http://www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/2017-Neoen-Grampians-Pyrenees-Business-Awards

http://www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/2017-Neoen-Grampians-Pyrenees-Business-Awards


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Gum San’s visitation was made up of the following:

Free = Carers, Teachers, Group Leaders, Bus Drivers, Chinese delegations Casual = People entering/utilising premises/purchasing at Gift Shop but not continuing to Entry,

Groups Group visitation numbers are similar to last years in this period but showing an increase in regular Adult group tours but a decrease in school students. There were 13 groups booked this year as opposed to 9 last year but this was offset by the group sizes being smaller. Revenue Entry revenue for the same period was $9,680, up 18% ($8,201) from the same period last year, but with the aforementioned drop in the Casual Visitor numbers, it’s not surprising that the Gift Shop revenue was down compared to this time last year. $4,367, down 14.8% from $5,131. Average Gross Profit was still a healthy 64%. It is interesting to note that Chinese New Year was earlier this year (January) and Easter was very late; two possible contributing factors.

24

236

80

153

439

27

399

229

0 100 200 300 400 500

U 5 N O - C H A R G E

G R O U P E N T R Y

F R E E

F A M I L Y E N T R Y

C O N C E S S I O N E N T R Y

C H I L D E N T R Y

C A S U A L V I S I T O R S

A D U L T E N T R Y

ENTRY BREAKDOWN


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Visitor Origins Overall Visitor Origin data for the year to date is as follows:

South Australia continues to be our largest Interstate visitor origin, more than double its nearest competitor. Interstate visitation break up for this last quarter is:

Only 5-6% of Gum San’s Visitors come from overseas, with China being the largest point of origin as per the following graph. While China’s percentage is high, it is a big part of a small sector that is being re targeted by greater links to the Melbourne Chinese communities. The international origin breakdown is as follows;

30%

2%

5%

19%

21%

23%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35%

U N K N O W N

L O C A L

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

I N T E R S T A T E

R E G I O N A L

M E T R O

VISITOR ORIGINSYTD 2017

1%

2%

3%

10%

16%

21%

48%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

N T

A C T

T A S

W A

Q L D

N S W

S A

INTERSTATE ORIGINSYTD 2017


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Economic Benefit to Ararat Based on data collected, Gum Sans economic benefit to Ararat is modelled at almost $823,000, with approx. 20% of its visitors staying in Ararat at least one night. These figures placed in REMPLAN give the following benefits:

21%

4%

4%

5%

9%

11%

13%

34%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40%

O T H E R ( 1 2 C O U N T R I E S )

C A N A D A

T A I W A N

N E W Z E A L A N D

F R A N C E

U S A

U K

C H I N A

INTERNATIONAL VISITATIONYTD 2017

$449,236

$112,407

$261,164

$822,807

$-

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

$700,000

$800,000

$900,000

D A Y V I S I T $ O / N I G H T V I S I T $

E C O N M U L I P ( 1 . 4 6 5 )

T O T A L

GUM SAN'S ECONOMIC BENEFIT TO ARARAT


Page 2900

PEOPLE AND CULTURE Training A group of ten employees from across the organisation are continuing the completion of a Certificate IV in Training & Assessment. Three members of the Corporate Strategy, Risk & Governance team attended a two day Introduction to Emergency Management course in Ballarat during May. The People & Culture team have attended sessions on Workplace Investigations in Mortlake and Torquay, while the Manager People & Culture also attended the Annual Protected Disclosure Coordinator Forum in Melbourne in May. The People & Culture team have also conducted a number of Personal Development Plan (PDP) process sessions for managers and supervisors requiring a refresher or induction into the process for first timers. The PDP process is a mandatory requirement prescribed by the Local Authorities Award 2001, but more importantly is an opportunity for employees and supervisors to discuss the work currently being performed, where improvements can be made, identifying skill gaps and discussing various other factors that affect the performance and vision of the individual. The process is designed to allow for an open and honest discussion to occur between the employee and their manager. Health & Wellbeing Council’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providers MindWorks Australia have held sessions two and three in a four part series. “Get better at stress” and “The Art of Communication” were well received and feedback has been extremely positive. Another positive sign to come from MindWorks is the uptake on the employee assistance program. While this is an entirely confidential service, Council do receive quarterly reports outlining the utilisation of the service. It has been reported that during the period 5 December 2016 to 31 March 2017 the uptake rate of the service was approximately 10%. This indication shows a strong uptake of the program considering that the industry standard is 2.5% - 3%. This is extremely encouraging and shows that employees are comfortable with the service and seeking the assistance they require.

Recruitment and Selection

The People and Culture team have successfully recruited and inducted five new employees during the April – June period into roles across the whole organisation while saying farewell to four employees moving on in their respective fields. These new positions include two trainees, one in Executive Services and the second in Rates and Valuations. A number of other positions have been advertised and are not yet filled including a Systems Improvement Officer, Inventory & Purchasing Officer, Graduate Design Engineer and an Internship


Page 2901

in Events and Marketing, while an expression of interest has also been extended to existing employees to increase our casual pool of employees within the organisation. The People & Culture team have also had a busy quarter managing the multitude of day-to-day matters and concerns of employees at Council. General Members of the Consultative, Health & Wellbeing, Safety and Act @ Work committees met with an independent facilitator to strategically look at the functions of all four committees with the view of possibly undergoing some form of merger. The day was highly productive and successful and ended with the culmination of the Consultative, Health & Wellbeing and Act @ Work committees merging and the Safety Committee continuing to stand alone. LOCAL LAWS Resources An Emergency Services, Safety & Local Laws Administration Co-ordinator has been appointed to provide the team with administration support. This position will enhance reporting and recording systems and increase productivity in animal and parking enforcement. This position will also be integral in the implementation of software programs for the management of Local Laws databases, permits and infringement recuperation and compliance. Training Local Laws Officers have attended the following specific training courses for Authorised Local Laws Officers:

Dangerous Dog Behavior and Handling held by renowned dog handler Steve Austin (All Local Laws Officers attended)

Induction to Emergency Management (Local Laws Officer)

Wildlife Management Workshop (Wildlife Victoria) (Team Leader Local Laws)

The Certificate IV course in Statutory Compliance and Animal Management is still being undertaken by the Local Laws Officers.

RSPCA There have only been requests for information received from the central RSPCA agency in relation to alleged cruelty allegations. Local Laws Officers are assisting the RSPCA in ongoing investigations relating to specific animal cruelty incidents. Pound Installation of a septic disposal system at the pound has been completed, with the system able to effectively breakdown and treat dog faeces. The system will improve the sanitation of the area, mitigating the transfer of the deadly parvovirus disease. Water hoses and drinkers are now fully installed in the quarantine pens. The pens are fully self-contained and isolate the dogs during the quarantine period to minimize the transfer of any diseases. This addition enables us to meet our Code of Practice conditions for a registered Pound and Shelter. Cat and Dog Registrations Animals in the municipality were required to be registered by 10 April 2017. Reminder letters have been sent to people that have not renewed their animal registrations. The purpose is twofold; to update


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our databases and remove deceased animals and/or change of address details. An extensive media campaign has started for the upcoming period which will lead into compliance and enforcement for people who have unregistered animals housed within the municipality. During the past quarter the following cats and dogs have been newly registered:

Dogs: 67

Cats: 37 Dog Attacks Five dog attacks were reported to Local Laws in the reporting period with the following summary

First attack 3 March 2017 - Two dogs were at large in Princes St, Ararat. Whilst they were out they attacked and fatally wounded a dog from a property in Princes St in the front yard of that property. The victim and the owner of the attacking dogs came to a private agreement and a statement of no complaint was signed by the victim. The owner of the attacking dogs was given Infringement Notices for the following,

Not registering dog x 2

Dog at Large during daytime x 2

The attacking dogs were euthanized by Veterinary Surgeon.

The second dog attack was on 30 March 2017. A dog was at large in Brooke St, Moyston. While at large, the dog had entered a property in Brooke St and attacked and killed the victim’s pet rabbits. The victim and owner of the dog came to an agreement and the victim signed a statement of no complaint regarding the issue of the dog attack. The owner of the dog was issued the following Infringements Notices.

Not registering dog

Dog at large during daytime

The third attack was on 4 April 2017. The victim was walking past a property in Kofoed St, Ararat. A dog from one of the properties rushed at the victim and was aggressively barking at him from behind the property gate. As he continued along he feared the dog was going to climb over the fence, so he stuck his hand out and received a minor wound. An Infringement Notice was issued for,

Nuisance dog

The fourth attack was on 12 April 2017. Two dogs were at large in Commercial St, Willaura. They entered a property in Commercial St and attacked and fatally wounded a domestic pet cat. ARCC are prosecuting the owner of the two dogs for the serious dog attack. Council have also issued Infringements for

Not registering dog x 2

Dog at large during the daytime x 2

The fifth dog attack was on 9 May 2017. Two dogs were at large in Lambert St, Ararat. The two dogs entered a property in Lambert St and attacked and killed two pet sheep. The two offending dogs have not been located and investigation is ongoing.


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Compliance and Enforcement Compliance and enforcement activities are outlined below:

Parking Infringements for the period 0 /$50. 0/$72. 0/$152 N/A

Animal Management infringements for the period: 36 $ 9,481.00

Local Laws Infringements $ 0.00

Infringement Notices Total: (including Animal Control)

$ 9,481.00

Meter takings for the period: Ext GST $ 15,790.98

Pound fees for the period: $ 2,330.00

Street Furniture permit receipts x 5 $ 220.00 Open air burning permit x 12 $ 180.00 Multi animal permit x 11 $ 560.00 Roadside trading permit x 2 $ 200.00 Disabled parking permit x 32 $ 320.00

Total revenue March – May 2017 Total $ 29,081.98

During the period a total of 36 infringement notices were issued:

14 Unregistered Animals

17 Dog’s at Large during the daytime

2 Non serious injury caused by a dog attack

1 Nuisance dog

2 Allow dog to rush or chase person

Prosecution Bartels are currently scheduling prosecutions for 23 overdue dog fines. Court dates are being scheduled for the 28 July and 11 August 2017. Domestic Animal Management The annual Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) is due to lapse in November 2017. The plan is being reviewed with the emphasis on developing a new DAMP that will better reflect community expectations around control of domestic animals in the municipality. The new plan will be submitted to Council for approval and adoption within the next 6 months. Requests of Assistance There were 216 customer requests for assistance from the Local Laws Team during this period.

March 72

April 57

May 87


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Meter Takings

Meter maintenance has been intensive, and as a result meter takings are down on year to date. The new financial year will see the meters upgraded, resulting in an increase in revenue and parking compliance recommencing. Easy Park EasyPark has been available to motorists in the city of Ararat from December 2014. Transaction and usage data show increasing uptake of the EasyPark pay by phone service by motorists in Ararat over time. Although parking data is subject to seasonality, since the start of 2016 data shows increased transactions and revenue in each month when compared to the same period last year. The revenue from Easy Park has been included in the overall parking meter takings amount. EasyPark activity in May in general was business as usual. Monthly service statistics show a strong increase in transactions and revenue – both compared to the previous month and to the same month last year. These figures show strong satisfaction with the EasyPark service in Ararat.

$0.00

$50,000.00

$100,000.00

$150,000.00

1 5 9 13172125293337414549

Ta

kin

gs

Week

Parking Meter Receipts

10/1111/1212/1313/1414/1515/1616/17


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Easypark Transaction Data:

Easypark Revenue Data:

Livestock During the period there were 4 reported cases of stock at large in the municipality, resulting in officers attending to move livestock off the road or back on to their property. In one case a notice was issued to the owner of cattle at Moyston, directing them to make urgent fence repairs (Impounding of Livestock Act). This was complied with and no further action needed to be taken. Disabled Parking Permits This quarter the Local Laws team has issued 32 Disabled Parking Permits.

Blue Permits (31)

Green Permits (1) Local Laws Permits

General 2

Permit to Burn 12

Street Furniture 5

Multi Animal Permit 11

Disabled permits 32

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140Ja

n

Feb

Mar

Ap

r

May Jun

Jul

Au

g

Sep

Oct

No

v

De

c

Transactions 2014

Transactions 2015

Transactions 2016

Transactions 2017

$0.00

$20.00

$40.00

$60.00

$80.00

$100.00

$120.00

$140.00

$160.00

Jan

Feb

Mar

Ap

r

May Jun

Jul

Au

g

Sep

Oct

No

v

De

c

Parking Fees 2014

Parking Fees 2015

Parking Fees 2016

Parking Fees 2017


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Total Permits Issued 62 Animal Control

NUMBER

March 2016 – May 2016 DOGS CATS LIVESTOCK

In Pound at start of period 5 6 1 (sheep)

Impounded – Seized/Trapped 48 30

Impounded - Surrendered 1 9

Released to owner 41 1

Euthanised 2 30

Rehoused 6 11 1 (Sheep)

In Pound at end of period 5 3 0

All cats euthanased were deemed feral or diseased and unsuitable for rehousing. The two dog’s euthanased were the dogs involved in the fatal dog attack. The recent decision by Council to provide a subsidized adoption rate from the Pound has been very well received. Numerous online adoption requests are received for the dogs and cats with some animals oversubscribed with potential owners. In the last quarter there have been 6 dogs and 11 cats adopted directly from the pound utilising the subsidized adoption rate. The increases in adoptions are a direct result of the Council having an online adoption presence and offering the subsidized vet work. Safety and Emergency Services Occupational Health and Safety Workcover claims are being managed in accordance with policy and legislation. During the reporting period there were three reported OHS incidents relating to slip, trip & fall with one resulting in a Worksafe claim One staff member attended training in Health & Safety Representative initial OHS training Course, providing additional skills to mitigate workplace risks and reduce workplace injuries. A Safety Officer was appointed on 15 May 2017, this position will provide additional skills in maintaining and improving Council’s safety program and assist in Council obligations under the OHS Act. Emergency Preparedness Permit to Burn Stubble The ARCC Municipal Fire Prevention Officer (MFPO) issued 290 Schedule 13 permits to burn stubble, between 20 March and 19April 2016, using a ‘Crisisworks’ software module. The cost to council for the program, time spent administering and issuing permits is in excess of $5,000.00.


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The Council’s MFPO along with MFPO’s from other councils have been advocating with MAV and State and Regional Municipal Emergency Management Enhancement Group (MEMEG) forums, that this role is the primary responsibility of the CFA. Emergency Planning Council has been notified by the State Emergency Service that the Ararat Municipal Emergency Management Plan is due for the legislated 3 year Audit, to ensure that it complies with the guidelines or directions issued by the Minister for Emergency Services . Staff continue to participate in multi-agency and internal workshops to amend the plan and prepare for the audit process. Fire and Emergency Planning Committee meetings were held on 24 May, with the next meeting scheduled for 9 August 2017. EXECUTIVE SERVICES AND GOVERNANCE Community Satisfaction Survey 2017 Council has received the annual Community Satisfaction Survey for Local Government for 2017. A copy of which has been provided to Councillors on Docs on Tap, and a copy placed on the Ararat Rural City Council website. A copy of the 2017 State-wide Research Report is also available on the following link https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/our-programs/councilcommunity-satisfaction-survey. This report enables councils and the community to view overall findings and trends for the service areas covered in the survey. Draft Council Plan 2017-2021 Over the past 6 months Council officers have developed a draft Council Plan 2017-2021, which is presented to the 27 June 2017 Council Meeting for adoption. The draft document outlines several changes, which include the following:

For the first time the Plan incorporates the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan;

Council reviewed the Council’s Vision and Mission Statement;

A section on “What the Community Told Us”, with feedback from the Postcard, “Our Say” and Online Health and Wellbeing Surveys.

The document has been designed and developed in-house. The Draft Council Plan is included as an attachment to Agenda Item 7.1.3. Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) On 1 June 2017 a meeting was arranged with Clara Reed from Local Government Victoria and Council officers involved in the LGPRF data collection. Officers were updated on the relevant changes to the LGPRF and the 2016/2017 reporting template and associated documents.

https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/our-programs/councilcommunity-satisfaction-survey


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Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item.

MOVED CR McLEAN SECONDED CR PETTMAN That the Corporate Strategy, Risk and Governance Quarterly Report be received. CARRIED 3520/17



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ITEM 8.1.7 COUNCIL PLAN 2013-2017 PROGRESS REPORT 13044064 CORPORATE STRATEGY, RISK AND GOVERNANCE

Council plan Strategic Objective 1.1 Assist communities to develop and prosper 1.2 Community services that are accessible, inclusive and responsive to the community’s needs 1.3 Community safety 1.4 Participation in diverse sport, recreation and leisure activities 1.5 Ararat Active City Strategy 2.1 Community and cultural connectedness 2.2 Respect our Sister City and Friendship Cities international relationships 2.3 Advocacy for regional living 2.4 Strong performing and visual art program 3.1 A strong and diverse local economy 3.2 Economic growth within the municipality 3.3 Effective and safe transport networks 3.4 Effective and efficient land use planning and building control 4.1 Attractive streetscapes, town entrances, parks and gardens 4.2 Effective management of municipal waste and safe and effective disposal of domestic

wastewater/stormwater 4.3 Community facilities that are developed and maintained 4.4 Protected and enhanced natural environment 4.5 Long term asset management 5.1 Good governance through leadership 5.2 Services and infrastructure that meets the municipality’s existing and future needs 5.3 Organisational risk 5.4 Professional and skilled staff in a safe and supportive environment 5.5 Sustainable, long term financial management

Introduction Information only item. Discussion Council Plan Progress Report 2013-2017 Attached is a Progress Report updating the actions from the Council Plan 2013-2017. There has been a significant number of projects completed over this period. With the adoption of the Council Plan 2017/2021, future Progress Reports will be presented to Council in September, December, March and June.


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Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item.

MOVED CR ARMSTRONG SECONDED CR BEALES That the Council Plan 2013-2017 Progress Report be received. CARRIED 3521/17


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Cr Allgood disclosed an indirect interest (close association) to Item 8.2.1 – Community Life Quarterly Report, due to her assisting with fund raising for the Ararat Skate Park Committee and her husband being a member of Ararat Rotary. Cr Allgood left the Council Chamber at 7.29pm. ITEM 8.2.1 COMMUNITY LIFE QUARTERLY REPORT

17083867 EXECUTIVE SERVICES - COMMUNITY LIFE

Council plan reference 1.1 Assist Communities to develop and prosper 1.2 Community services that are accessible, inclusive and responsive to the community’s needs 1.3 Community Safety 1.4 Participation in diverse sport, recreation and leisure activities 1.5 Ararat Active City Strategy 2.1 Community and cultural connectedness 2.4 Strong performing and visual arts program 3.1 Strong and diverse local economy 4.3 Community facilities that are developed and maintained.

Introduction This report provides an update to Council on the activities within the new Community Life area. Community Life includes the service areas of; • Sport & Recreation • Community Development • Ararat Performing Arts Centre • Ararat Regional Art Gallery • Ararat Regional Library Services (including outreach) • Home and Community Care • Regional Assessment Services • Maternal & Child Health Ararat Performing Arts Centre (APAC) APAC Artistic Program The period between 1 February and 30 April 2017 has been focused on the relocation of operations while still developing and delivering an impactful artistic program. With the closure of the venue the component of community hire-ins and external use of the venue has shifted to relocation of equipment, stocktaking, cataloguing, maintenance and research of equipment, along with the delivery of an outreach program. The majority of the technical and venue equipment has been relocated to a storage shed in Ararat and the officers have settled into the new arts hub in 1A Ligar Street, Ararat. The relocation was well planned and delivered in a time frame that allowed for the presentation of eight performances over


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the March-April period. The artistic program for this quarter attracted total attendances of 765 patrons. Considerable focus has been on audience development and improved marketing of the artistic program. Working with Regional Arts Victoria (RAV) a comprehensive situational analysis has been undertaken to better understand our current audience, engage new audiences and deliver consistency of communication externally. An audit on current marketing processes provided relevant information to inform improved methods of marketing strategies. The key outcomes were: • Initial review document • Online channel audit • Observations and recommendations document RAV provided training for the APAC Box Office and Administration Officer in the areas of communicating with the audience, E-Newsletter, post-show communications and surveys. This mentoring will continue with the APAC Coordinator throughout the redevelopment period. The research informed the development of a range of online and printed marketing collateral. The 2017 outreach program aims to engage the community beyond traditional PAC audiences. Through an extensive outreach program, new audiences will be developed with a view to continuing their engagement once the venue reopens in 2018 following a major redevelopment. There are considerable resource implications, especially in staff time, in presenting performances at external venues that do not have the required infrastructure in place. While the program presents only performances that are appropriate for non-traditional performance venues and maintain high production values, it remains a very challenging undertaking within existing resources. During this year of closure, many traditional venue hirers have needed to find alternative venues for their events. The Community Life staff are working closely with these community groups and organisations to support them as much as possible including providing access to equipment.

198 students attending HART by She Said Theatre A Prudent Man at JWard


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Core Artistic Program The PAC’s artistic program is committed to presenting excellence and diversity across all areas of the performing arts.

HART by She Said Theatre 17 March 2017at 12pm, Ararat Performing Art Centre A verbatim theatre piece, HART examines the difficult and harrowing history of the Stolen Generations from the perspectives of four Noongar men spanning three generations, including performer Ian Michael.

Hello Beautiful by Hannie Rayson 24 March 2017 at 7.30pm, Alexandra Oval Community Centre A funny and personal evening with one of Australia’s best-loved playwrights, Hannie Rayson. Hello, Beautiful! is a funny, big-hearted, one-woman show performed by one of Australia’s best-loved playwrights. Based on her best-selling memoir, Hello, Beautiful! Brings you a 60-minute piece of sublime comic storytelling – true stories from an adventurous life, spiced with wit, tenderness, social observation, and intimacy. Slapdash Galaxy 30 March 2017 at 6.3pm, Stawell Entertainment Centre A fun family event featuring the amazing Bunk Puppets. Using the contents of your cleaning closet, Bunk Puppets’ Hamish Fletcher conjures up astonishing lo-fi theatrical wizardry using only old boxes, bubble wrap, drinking straws, tennis balls, ping pong bats and old toys. A Prudent Man 29 April 2017 at 7.30pm, JWard, Ararat What makes the Trumps, the Abbotts and the Hansons of this world tick? What would happen if their world started to shift ever so slightly? Embodying their slogans, mannerisms and headlines, A Prudent Man is an amalgamation of recent history’s conservative politicians. Swansong 29 April 2017 at 10pm, JWard, Ararat Meet Occi Byrne, the illegitimate child of a single mother in the Catholic west of Ireland. Shunned by church, state and family, Occi must fight his way to adulthood in a dog eat dog world. Violent, tragic and hauntingly tender, Swansong is the story of a lost soul from one of the masters of Irish drama. Free Lunchtime Concerts – Morning Melodies Broadway Babes by The Stilton Sisters 22 March 2017 at 11.30am, Alexandra Oval Community Centre The Stilton Sisters, (musical comedy duo, Lulu McClatchy and Ana Mitsikas) are heading to Broadway, and there is no Broadway show they won’t do from Disney to Sondheim, Les Miserable to the Sound of Music. Gidget’s Jukebox by Nicci Nicholls 19 April 2017 at 11.30am, Alexandra Oval Community Centre A rock n roll era show full of laughter, great music and dancing offering a wonderful trip down memory lane. Total Attendances 765


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Upcoming APAC Performance Program 2017

Yana Alana Uncovered Cabaret Alexandra Oval Community Centre

LUX Radio Theatre Alexandra Oval Community Centre

Comedy Roadshow Comedy

Stawell Entertainment Centre

Shirley Valentine Classic Theatre Stawell Entertainment Centre

THE WITCHES - Griffin Theatre

Theatre Willaura Memorial Hall

The Wind in The Willows - LaBoit Theatre

Theatre Stawell Entertainment Centre

Lola Montez Gener8 Hub Elizabeth Park Ararat

Gener8 Fest Gener8 Hub Elizabeth Park Ararat

The CROW Family Micro Halls Tour Willaura, Moyston, Warrak

Mystery In The Air Classic Theatre Alexandra Oval Community Centre

Lovely Lady Lump Theatre/ Women Alexandra Oval Community Centre

Free Lunchtime Concerts – Morning Melodies LUX Radio Make Mamma Proud Cash, Monroe & Presley Dusty Doris & me Mystery In The Air Jade Hurley OAM Other The Venue and Programming Coordinator attended and participated in the following events:

Creative Victoria Touring Round Table

Regional Arts Victoria Regional Presenters Conference

Creative Victoria Touring Consultation working group

Victorian Performing Arts Centre Association Conference

Victorian Performing Arts Centre Association AGM

Regional Arts Victoria Marketing Mentorship meetings

Hamilton Performing Arts Interview Panel for PAC recruitment

VAPAC Presenter/Producer marketing workshop

Venue operations consultation session VAPAC Managers

Ararat Regional Art Gallery (ARAG) Exhibition Program The gallery’s delivery of exhibition programming at the Ararat Town Hall concluded on 15 January 2017 with a major exhibition by Melbourne-Buangor artist Jordan Marani and the community textile project, WARM by SEAM (Sustainable Environment Arts Movement).


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Due to the requirement to move the gallery’s entire art collection into temporary accommodation, programming has mostly been on hold however, an exhibition program will be delivered at the Ararat Regional Library throughout 2017. The first exhibition was installed in late April, drawing on the Ararat - A Rural City in Focus collection of photographs. This series of photographs was developed during two stages in 1998 and 1999 when leading documentary photographers visited Ararat and its townships to document its people and places at the turn of the century. An expression of interest process will be developed to attract local artists interested in exhibiting at the library. Once the gallery returns to the Town Hall, the library space will remain as a community-focused exhibition space. The gallery’s touring exhibition with NETS Victoria, ‘Slipstitch’, is currently at its final venue, the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Ollie Centre for the Arts in Murwillumbah, NSW from 3 March to 18 June 2017. The exhibition has been presented at six public galleries in total. Slipstitch presents an Australian perspective on the contemporary uptake of embroidery by a new generation of artists. Art Collection The gallery’s collection, valued at almost $1.3million, is an important asset and great care has been directed to ensuring it is correctly re-housed while the Ararat Town Hall is closed for redevelopment. The vast majority of the collection is housed in Ararat in temporary accommodation that has been fitted out in order to protect these artworks. A security system and pest management system has been established at this site and throughout the year staff time will be devoted to preparing objects so the collection is in optimal condition for long term storage on return to the Ararat Town Hall in 2018. Paintings have also been installed at the Council offices and at the gallery and PAC’s temporary office space. Sixty of the most exceptional garments from the Lady Barbara Grimwade Costume Collection have been sent off site to a textile specialist fine art storage facility where they will be photographed and stored in optimal conditions for around a year. This documentation will support ongoing management of these garments, while also enabling future exhibition development and publishing. A small number of high value and large textile works have been stored at the Horsham Regional Art Gallery. Some of these works will be presented to enhance the HRAG’s permanent collection exhibition display. HRAG will also present a major exhibition in late 2017 about the development of textile art in Australia that will be exclusively drawn from the ARAG collection. This will be an important opportunity to promote the collection and its increased visibility in the context of the Ararat Arts Precinct redevelopment. Public Programs The gallery resumed its free monthly Mini Makers Art Club program on Wednesday 3 May 2017 at 11am at its new home, Ararat Arts Hub, 1A Ligar Street, Ararat. Sessions are scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month throughout 2017. Mini Makers Art Club is designed especially for pre-schoolers with a craft theme inspired by a different story book each month. Each session includes, sing-a-longs, a story reading and guided craft activities designed to develop creative expression and fine motor skills in a fun, inclusive and encouraging environment. The gallery has received funding from the Department of Education and Training to deliver ‘My Special Sanctuary’ workshops with sculptor Emma Davies. The workshops are presented in association with local schools as part of Education Week 2017.


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Other On Thursday 13 April at 1pm, Minister for Regional Victoria, the Hon Jaala Pulford MP announced the awarding of the building contract for the Ararat Arts Precinct project to Nicholsons Builders. The Minister also announced a further $1.5 million in Victorian Government funding to support the project. The gallery director joined representatives from four regional galleries from across Australia at Museums and Art Galleries NSW’s (M&G NSW) offices in Sydney on 27 and 28 March to share ideas and develop new strategies to engage audiences for the touring exhibitions they will present. This was a fully funded opportunity that is further backed by an additional external investment of $5,000, through M & G NSW’s Engaging Audiences program, to support the delivery of public programs and enhance the gallery’s presentation of the ‘Soft Core’ exhibition in 2018. The gallery director / Manager Cultural Services gave the keynote address at the Ararat U3A annual general meeting on Monday 6 March 2017 about the Ararat Arts Precinct redevelopment project. The gallery director participated in the Public Galleries Association of Victoria (PGAV) Professional Development Planning session on Friday 24 March 2019 in his capacity as a regional representative on the PGAV board. The gallery director judged the biennial art quilt acquisitive prize at the Central Goldfields Art Gallery, Marlborough. The exhibition was 18 February to 26 March 2017 and included a featured quilt by Barbara Macey on loan from the ARAG collection. Two gallery staff members attended the Creative Victoria Full House Pilot Program Workshop in Melbourne on 9 February 2017

Victorian Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley visited the gallery on Thursday 5 January 2017 to announce an $80,000 grant through the Creative Victoria ‘Full House’ funding program to help the soon-to-be-revamped Ararat Arts Precinct to attract more patrons and visitors when it is re-opened in 2018. Minister Foley announced that the gallery would be included in a regional Victorian tour of ‘Kylie on Stage’ - an exhibition featuring costumes, photographs, footage and objects from Kylie Minogue’s tours dating back to 1989.

Mayor Cr Paul Hooper with Minister for Creative Industries, Nicholson Construction Director, Richard Nicholson and Martin Foley at the announcement that Ararat Regional Art Ararat Rural City Council Mayour, Cr Paul Hooper join Gallery will present “Kylie on Stage” in 2018 Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford for the Cermonial removing of the first brick to commence the Ararat Town Hall upgrade.


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Ararat Regional Library Library statistics From 1 February to 30 April 2017 the Ararat Library: • Attracted 10,786 visitors • Provided digital literacy sessions to 72 adults • Delivered items to 77 recipients through the library home service • Engaged 853 children in literacy activities and school holiday programs Lake Bolac Library Lake Bolac Library has purchased additional shelving to accommodate the growing collection. New volunteers have signed on and the local kindergarten and school use the library regularly. The community frequents the meeting room for meetings and exhibitions. Outreach Service The Outreach Service supports communities in Elmhurst, Moyston, Pomonal, Streatham and Willaura. The library now operates from the new Pomonal Community Hall. This service is well patronised by a growing number of people. The Moyston service had a temporary change of location during the Hall redevelopment but will now be located back at the hall for future services. Home Library Service Ararat Regional Library offers a free home library service provided to residents who have difficulty visiting the library because of illness, frailty or disability or who are full-time carers. Over this quarter the library has provided 77 items across a range media to home and institutional care based patrons. Public Programs Digital literacy classes have now evolved into more advanced classes. Instead of basic computer classes such as introduction to computers and email, the public are now requesting more advanced tutoring and assistance with Facebook, help with smart phones, tablets, resume creation, downloading eBooks and more. The library will purchase a screen to compliment the media package provided to community groups. The media package consists of a data projector, speakers, laptop and camera. The library partners with the Ararat Genealogical and Historical Society to provide much sort after family history and local information. The library holds the Ararat Advertiser from 1857 in both hard-bound copies and microfilm available for public use. The Ararat and District Cemetery records are also available at the library. Library staff assist the public through face to face, phone and online queries about local and family history reference materials. In partnership with Grampians Community Health, the library participates in the Share Your Spare program. People are able to bring in extra homegrown produce to swap and the library is one of the repositories for the program. To extend the program the library will host the launch of Seed Bank where the public will share seeds with the same principles as Share your Spare. During March the library ran a ‘Plant Swap’ day. The public shared cuttings, divisions and information. Guest speaker Brigitte Morrissey spoke about cacti and succulents.


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Children’s And Families Programs Ararat Library participates in the statewide public library program called ‘1000 Books Before School’. Research has shown that the most reliable predictor of school success is being read to at home during early childhood. 1000 Books Before School encourages parents and carers to read aloud to their children in the crucial first five years of life. This early years literacy program concludes when either the child has read 1000 books or starts school. The library works with Ararat Maternal Health, the community, playgroups and kindergartens to promote the program. The school holiday program was well attended with early years music and movement events, paper folding art, a techno session and an autumn art activity. Maternal and Child Health Service Delivery The months between December to April have seen 43 new babes born, 12 of whom live in the rural areas of the municipality. 354 children have visited the centre for their Key age stage visits ranging from 2 weeks to 3.5 years of age and 46 home visits have been done for new families with new babies. One new mothers group has completed and the next group started in May with 8-10 mothers attending. School immunizations for Year 7 students have started for 2017 Marian College, Lake Bolac College & Ararat Secondary college students have had their first round of immunizations. The 2nd round of School immunizations for Year 7 students were conducted in May. Community Health Centre Upgrade Project Since 2015 Council has been lobbying, alongside East Grampians Health Services, for funding to upgrade the Community Health Centre to enable co-location between Hospital and Council health services. East Grampians Health Service has received $4.120 million from the Victorian Government to redevelop the Community Health Centre, integrating Ararat Rural City Council’s Maternal and Child Health and Home and Community Care services onto the one site. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Health Minister Jill Hennessy made the announcement in Ararat on Friday March 3. The project, which has a total cost of $4.120 million, will involve refurbishment of the Community Health Centre building, situated in Girdlestone Street Ararat, and extension of the front of the building to accommodate consulting rooms, Ararat Rural City maternal and child health rooms and activity/education/meeting rooms. The physiotherapy/rehabilitation area and dental clinic will remain as is but the northern end of the building will receive minor refurbishments. The project will provide a more accessible front entry, a larger waiting area and a revamp of the reception and public toilet areas.


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The Outreach Building, which currently houses the EGHS Community Nursing service, will be refurbished to accommodate the Ararat Rural City HACC program. It will also include a new external play space for the Ark Toy and Activity Centre. The EGHS primary care services currently located in the Community Health Centre and Outreach Building include a dental clinic, women’s health, physiotherapy/physiology, health promotion, diabetes care, podiatry, occupational therapy, community nursing, social work, speech pathology, visiting medical and health professionals, dietetics, continence nursing and services to prisoners at Ararat regional prisons. This project will enhance the delivery of the health service’s primary care services and foster a stronger partnership with Ararat Rural City Council’s primary care services. The integration of the maternal and child health service and HACC into the Community Health Centre will mean the Centre will be a one stop shop for primary care services for all stages of life, from our new mums and babies through to people requiring home care in their later years. It is also a fantastic opportunity for Ararat Rural City to lead the way in integrating a developmental model of Early Years services with early intervention health services. Council officers and the Early Years Advisory Group are working closely with East Grampians Health Services via their project control group to ensure the design of the centre meets the needs of users and provides opportunities for greater integration of education and health services for families and children.

Premier of Victoria Daniel Andrews announces funding of $4.120 million Community Development, Sport & Recreation Ararat Men’s Shed This project has been delayed due to budget constraints. Tenders received in 2016 were above the allocated budget due to a range of site works that would be required at Kokoda Park. Council officers are working closely with Ararat Men’s Shed Inc to investigate alternative site options or design options to ensure the shed project continues. A further report is provided within this Council agenda regarding a request to utilise one of the Caledonian Court blocks of land. An extension to the funding agreement has been sought with the project now due for completion in June 2018. Skate Park Work continues to identify funding opportunities for the Ararat Bill Waterson Skate Park upgrade. A report regarding Community Sports Infrastructure Fund was provided in May and a subsequent decision to progress with the upgrade immediately. Momentum and interest in this project remains high as the community committee continue to have successful fundraising activities. Two applications


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have been submitted to the Community Sporting Infrastructure Fund through Sport and Recreation Victoria to assist in further development of the park and precinct. Education Think Tank Officers participated in an education “Think Tank” hosted by Central Grampians Local Learning & Employment Network to discuss the gaps in training and education opportunities in Ararat Rural City. It is evident that there are limited options from entry level through to tertiary and higher education levels for people living in this municipality. People from across the community with a passion for education, and a belief that filling this gap is key to addressing some of the disadvantage in our community, came together to discuss concerns and possible solutions. This was an introduction session and it is hoped that further discussions and action will come from the group in the future. Community Access Community Access is an important component of the new Community Life philosophy of Council. In order to achieve improved access the Community Life and Operations teams have been working closely together to ensure priority works are based on community needs. Council officers have established connections with a number of people in the community who experience access challenges either through mobility, vision or other difficulties. A terms of reference for a new Community Access Advisory Group is currently in draft form. This group will be made up of residents from within the community who experience some of these challenges. A number of residents have already agreed to participate in this group to assist Council to understand the challenges people face in accessing services and to provide advice in future planning and project activities. The group will seek to progress actions and priorities within the Community Access Strategy. Council’s Community Access Strategy has the following key focus areas; • Activities and Events • Advocacy and Lobbying • Building, Infrastructure and Planning • Governance • Health, Safety and Wellbeing • Information and Communication • Services • Workforce development Portsea Camp Ararat Rural City Council, along with community groups and businesses including the Ararat West Uniting Church Ladies Guild, Ararat Lions Club, Rotary Club of Ararat, AME Systems and the Ararat Ys Menettes, have combined to send 10 school aged children to the Portsea Camp on the Mornington Peninsula.

The camp provides children who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity, with a week of fun activities including discos, fishing, and flying foxes. The participants not only get to experience new adventures, but also build confidence, leadership and teamwork skills. Students with greatest need are selected by the Ararat North Primary School to attend.


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Without ongoing sponsorship from local businesses and service clubs this opportunity would not be possible. Thank you for your ongoing support. Community Grants Council’s community grants have continued to be popular amongst local clubs and organisations. The current round of Council’s community grants closed on 15 June, and will be reported to the July Council meeting for final decision. Sponsorships The sponsorship program has been consistent each month with two or three requests coming through each month. This program has assisted a lot of clubs in holding their event or function locally where hire costs may have been too high. Tatyoon Funding Announcement On March 30, the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Major Events and Regional Victoria, Danielle Green announced funding in the sum of $100,000 for the Tatyoon Netball Club change rooms project. This is a fantastic outcome for Tatyoon community and we look forward in working with the Football/Netball Club and Community on this project during 2017. The project control group has been meeting to progress this development. Volunteers Week Council held a civic reception to celebrate our volunteers on Tuesday 9 May. Nominations were received from across the community for recognition of outstanding community volunteers by Council. Twenty nominees were recognised this year at an event that was well supported by the community. Elmhurst Development Group The Elmhurst Community have come together to redevelop their development group with new members and a successful first meeting in March 2017. The meetings will be held quarterly on the 3rd Thursday of each month with their next meeting to be held on 15 June at the CFA shed. This is a fantastic effort by all involved. Glenelg Hopkins CMA – Drought Crew The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Drought working group has now completed the initial program of works, and a new program will be starting this month with a work crew that will be based at the Ararat Council’s depot. The crew has been able to assist Council and community on numerous projects over the last twelve months, including weed spraying, cleanup work, tree planting and other works. This partnership work has been extremely successful and we look forward to working with the new crew over an extended twelve months. Community Action Planning Further consultation has been had with Willaura on their Community Action plan soon to be completed. Warrak have submitted a draft for review and Pomonal has commenced reviewing their plan and projects list. Council officers continue to work with the communities on their various plans and projects, to review and update where required. A full update will be provided to Council in July. Ararat Fitness Centre Council received funding from the Department of Justice to improve safety around the Ararat Fitness Centre by improving lighting and passive supervision of the area. Ararat Energy added LED lights to


Page 2928

the front of the centre, between the carpark and front entrance, and replaced existing security lights overlooking the carpark with LED lights. Participation and membership at the fitness centre continues to increase. Ararat Outdoor Pool After 5 years of closure the Ararat Outdoor Pool was reopened for the 2016/17 summer season. The opening season has been considered a strong success with close to 12,000 people entering the gates. The season was extended by an additional week due to the warmer weather into March. The swimming club were again able to hold a successful championship event at the venue which was officially kicked off by Colin Brooks MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier. Feedback from users of the facility has thanked the operators of the pool for their upkeep and maintenance and firm but fair management of safety around the facility. The water play area was also mentioned as a highlight of the newly refurbished area as is the new café. Congratulations to all involved in rejuvenating the Ararat Outdoor Pool and giving it a new life. The Ararat Outdoor Pool will receive some additional extra treatment over the winter months through the new water slide project. ARARAT ACTIVE Cardio tennis Council staff assisted Cricket Victoria and Tennis Australia to deliver programs in Ararat. Cardio Tennis was held at the Ararat Tennis Club, and this health based tennis program attracted 10-20 participants over a 6-week period.

Milo Junior Cricket Milo Junior T20 cricket was held at Alexandra Oval, in May and targeted school aged children looking to participate and learn cricket skills.

Net Set Go The Ararat Netball Club has commenced “Net Set Go” for 8 weeks on a Sunday morning from the end of April until June for 5 to 10 year olds at the Alexandra Oval Netball Courts. Around 30 young people are attending. This is great encouragement for our future netball players.

The current netball courts had some small maintenance works completed prior to the season starting, some non-slip paint around the netball ring area and general fixing of the courts.

“Stay in Play” Climate Change Forum Council, with funding from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, and support from Parks and Leisure Australia, hosted a forum on Wednesday March 22, focusing on looking after sports grounds from a social, surface and irrigation perspective. A small number of representatives from sports clubs, Section 86 committees, Council staff and local business attended the forum and gained knowledge on new research, best practice and future trends related to sports grounds and water use. The information from this forum is available for all interested clubs.


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Alexandra Oval Alexandra oval, thanks to the great work of the Parks and Gardens team, was made ready for the football season, after a period of heavy use. The team worked hard prior to Easter in covering the cricket pitch with top soil, sowing and strengthening the growth of grass with a heat mat. The Parks and Gardens team have developed a new schedule of maintenance to assist in Alexandra Oval standing up to heavy use throughout each season. Council officers have been engaging with the football and netball teams to ensure a smooth start to their season. The lights for night football games have undergone maintenance with some replacement of globes required.

Active April Ten free passes were offered through the Ararat Fitness Centre for Active April and Kelli Fellini was engaged to provide free cardio and strength training sessions in Alexandra Gardens each Wednesday morning during April. Kelli averaged six participants over April. Thank you to Kelli for taking this on again this year and helping our community to get Active.

Special Olympic Torch Relay The Community Development team supported the Events team at the Special Olympics Torch Relay event and sporting activities on 26 April at Alexandra Oval. The Ararat Little Athletics Club, the Eagles Netball Club and the Ararat Basketball Association assisted greatly on the morning, providing skilled training activities for the students from Skene Street School, Ararat Primary School 800 and community volunteers. Victoria Police the Guardians of the Torch participated in coaching cricket, athletics, netball, soccer and ball handling skills on the morning. The weather was cold, but everyone had a fantastic time and we look forward to working with these clubs in increasing participation through enabling people with a disability to be encouraged and be involved in main stream sporting opportunities. We thank the clubs for their participation on the day.

ParkRun Council officers have been working with the ParkRun committee to assist in the establishment of Parkrun Ararat. The run was officially launched in April and is held every Saturday morning at 8am at the Alexandra Gardens. So far the run has been extremely successful with between 50 and 60 participants each week. ParkRuns are organised across the country by community volunteers and are held at the same time on the same day. Visitors have been enjoying the new run that has been added to the official Parkrun site and the feedback for Ararat has been positive. All are welcome to ParkRun and it is free. People of all fitness levels have been attending with some competitive runners heading the pack and a large group of walkers also participating with strollers and pets on leashes included.


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Congratulations to the Volunteer organisers of ParkRun Ararat. This is a really positive program being driven by community. Student Placement The team was pleased to welcome Tim Dawson, a 3rd year Deakin University student who is studying sports management. Tim commenced placement with us in March and due to finish end of May. Tim has been working with the Community Life Department and other Council departments in looking at the role Local Government play in sport and recreation. Tim has assisted in the co-ordination of local clubs and contacts for the recent Special Olympic Torch Relay and the activities on the oval when the torch arrived at Alexandra Oval. This event provided Tim with hands on event management experience and stakeholder engagement including the Ararat Primary School 800. Thank you Tim for your great efforts on the day and leading up to this event.

Providing practical placements to students who are studying has mutual benefit to both the student who gains practical skills in the workplace that they are able to utilise in future employment pursuits and to Council who has the benefit of fresh ideas and some additional resources to assist in achieving outcomes for the community.

Council’s Recreation and Community Development Officer was a guest speaker at the Parks and Leisure Australia Shared Facilities Forum at Bendigo in February. He was invited to speak about the Alexandra Oval Community Centre, and the unique situation of accommodating two football clubs in the same building. These programs are a great opportunity for Council’s to share their experience and for officers across a range of Council’s and services to learn from each other. Home and Community Care This service has experienced significant change during transition from Home and Community Care to the Commonwealth Home Support Services. All systems within this service are new and still under development in some cases. The My Aged Care system is now in full operation and is the entry point for all people requiring services. Current Home Support Services delivered by Council are now funded either through the Commonwealth Home Support Service, the Victorian Home and Community Care Program for Young People, Hospital to the Home or under fee for service brokered arrangements with other services. It is hoped that people receiving the services have not been negatively impacted by the transition as direct care staff continue to provide quality services. A full client survey will be underway over the coming months to ensure customer needs are being met and enable opportunities for service improvements. Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item.


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MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR FORD That the Community Life Quarterly Report be received. CARRIED 3522/17



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ITEM 8.2.2 BUILDING APPROVALS 13038442 EXECUTIVE SERVICES – PLANNING AND PUBLIC HEALTH

Council plan reference 3.4 Effective and efficient land use planning and building controls.

Introduction Information only item. Discussion This report outlines the monthly building permit approvals issued by Ararat Rural City Council and by private building surveyors for building works within Ararat Rural City for the month of May 2017. Approvals by Ararat Rural City Municipal Building Surveyor

Permit No.

Application Date

Approval Date Building Address

Nature of Works Use of Building

171447/0 22/02/2017 3/05/2017 13 Hucker Street, Ararat Addition Verandah

171448/0 23/02/2017 9/05/2017 64 Banfield Street, Ararat Addition Garage

171450/0 6/03/2017 29/05/2017 31 Nott Road, Ararat Shed Completion

171456/0 10/04/2017 8/05/2017 14 Tobin Street, Ararat Addition Deck

171458/0 17/03/2017 22/05/2017 6 Beauville Street, Ararat Addition Carport

171459/0 6/04/2017 15/05/2017 64 Lot 2, Warranooke Street, Willaura Alteration Dwelling

171462/0 4/04/2017 29/05/2017 22 Elizabeth Street, Ararat Carport Carport

171463/0 4/04/2017 22/05/2017 51 Tobin Street, Ararat Alteration to dwelling Completion

TOTAL VALUE $114,880.00


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Approvals by private surveyors – January 2017 Private Surveyor Approvals

Permit No. Date Received by Council

Date Approved

Building Address Description of Building Works or Use of Building

Surveyor

20162774/0 30/12/2016 12/19/2016 Lot (1) No.17 Echidna Court, Ararat 3377

Swimming pool & swimming pool safety barrier

Ian Welch

20160774/0 06/01/2017 19/12/2016 Lot (3) 14 Wild Street Ararat 3377

Construction of Verandah

Brent A Williams

20170013/0 20/01/2017 16/01/2017 Lot 12, 5 Laidlaw Street, Ararat 3377

Underpinning Dwelling - 1 Storey

David Kors

20170173/0 07/02/2017 31/01/2017 4 -30 Barkly Street, Ararat 3377

Re-stump of staff toilets Jason Daniels

20170121/0 07/04/2017 25/01/2017 Lot 2, Acacia Avenue, Ararat, 3377

Construction of Dwelling

Jason Foote

20170009/0 17/05/2017 18/01/2017 Lot C/A 38, 911 Warrak Road, Warrak 3377

Construction of Storage shed

Noel Gosling

TOTAL VALUE $489,155.00

Approvals by private surveyors – February 2017

Private Surveyor Approvals


Date Approved


Surveyor

20170368/0 15/03/2017 23/02/2017 26 School Road, Buangor, 3375

Internal Alternations & External ramp

Jason Daniels

20170025/0 02/03/2017 23/02/2017 Lot (1,2,3) 65 Moyston-Rocky Point Road, Moyston, 3377

Construction of Shed Kenton Robinson

20170093/0 03/03/2017 16/02/2017 Lot(11) 11 Coad Street, Ararat, 3377

Construction of Verandah

Brent A

Williams

TOTAL VALUE $ 214,317.00

Approvals by private surveyors – March 2017



Date Approved


Surveyor

20170030/0 29/03/2017 29/03/2017 Lot 1, 2406 Ararat- Halls Gap Road, Moyston 3377

Construction of Stock Shelter Kenton Robinson

20170007/0 21/03/2017 15/03/2017 Lot 1, 460 Yarrack Road, Narrapumelap South 3293

Alternations & Addition to existing dwelling include verandah and deck

Kenton Robinson

20170015/0 02/03/2017 01/03/2017 Lot (1&1), 139-141 High Street, Ararat 3377

Construction of Two Storage/Workshops with Associated Office and Showrooms

Kenton Robinson

TOTAL VALUE $ 719,043.00


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Approvals by private surveyors – April 2017



Date Approved


Surveyor

20170667/0 07/04/2017 03/04/2017 Lot 1, 87 Port Fairy Road, Ararat 3377

Demolish of Existing Dwelling & Construction of New Dwelling &Verandah

Jason Foote

20170191/0 10/04/2017 04/04/2017 Lot2, 174-176 High Street Ararat 3377

Proposed Sign Ice Konjarski

20170071/0 20/04/02017 20/04/2017 2778 Glenelg Hwy Wickliffe VIC 3379

Construction of Hay Storage/Shed

Adam McCosh

20170797 / 0 21/04/2017 21/04/2017 262 Western Highway, Ararat VIC 3377

Construction of a Dwelling & Garage & Verandah

Jason Foote

20173092/0 11/05/2017 03/04/2017 2110 Glenelg Hwy, Lake Bolac, 3351

Alternations to Shop Don Sherwell

20170258/0 04/05/2017 24/04/2017 1349 Ararat Halls Gap Road, Moyston 3377

Construction of Retrofitting to Bushfire Building

Stephen Bond

20170087/0 18/05/2017 27/04/2017 Lot 1, 30 Albert Street, Ararat , 3377

Remove DHHS dependent persons unit

Patti Smith

20170152/0 26/05/2017 21/04/2017 Lot (65) 5 Neylan Street ARARAT VIC 3377

Partial Restump of a Dwelling (1ai)

Jahan Trevena

TOTAL VALUE $ 742,436

Approvals by private surveyors – May 2017



Date Approved


Surveyor

20170056/0 11/05/2017 10/05/2017 49 Lot 1 Main Street Willaura 3291

Alterations and additions to train station

Barry Park

20162954/0 11/05/2017 03/05/2017 7459 Mortlake Ararat Road, Maroona, 3377

Complete Farm Shed Don Sherwell

20170881/0 15/05/2017 02/05/2017 9045 Mortlake Ararat Road, Ararat, 3377

Construction of a Shed Jason Foote

20170921/0 16/05/2017 08/05/2017 14 Thomas Road, Armstrong, 3377

Construction of a Dependant Persons Unit & Deck & Verandah

Jason Foote

20170199/0 17/05/2017 17/05/2017 72 Port Fairy Road ARARAT, VIC 3377

Additions & Alterations to Offices (5)

Jahan Trevena

20170203/0 18/05/2017 18/05/2017 88 Queen Street ARARAT VIC 3377

Construction of a Pergola attached to an existing dwelling (10a)

Jahan Trevena

20170218/0 23/05/2017 23/05/2017 18 Brewster Road ARARAT VIC 3377

Additions & Alterations to Detached dwelling (1ai)

Jahan Trevena

1242/008723/0

26/05/2017 15/05/2017 Delacombe Way, Willaura VIC 3379

EGHS Willaura Campus Parkland House Reclassification from 9a to 9c

Dean Pertuch

20171090 / 0 29/05/2017 29/05/2017 3666 Tatyoon Road Mininera VIC 3351

Swimming Pool & Swimming Pool Safety Barrier

Ian Welch

TOTAL VALUE $ 1,621,241


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Impact on Value-Added From a direct increase in output of $3,901,072 the corresponding increase in direct value-added is estimated at $1,111,526. From this direct expansion in the economy, flow-on industrial effects in terms of local purchases of goods and services are anticipated, and it is estimated that these indirect impacts would result in a further increase to value-added of $761,751. This represents a Type 1 Value-added multiplier of 1.685. The increase in direct and indirect output and the corresponding boost to jobs in the economy are expected to result in an increase in the wages and salaries paid to employees. A proportion of these wages and salaries are typically spent on consumption and a proportion of this expenditure is captured in the local economy. The consumption effects under this scenario are expected to further boost value-added by $444,306. Total value-added, including all direct, industrial and consumption effects is estimated to increase by up to $2,317,584 million. This represents a Type 2 Value-added multiplier of 2.085.

PLEASE NOTE: This REMPLAN calculation takes into account Ararat Rural City Council’s May 2017 Building Permits Issued as well as January 2017 – May 2017 Private Building Surveyors Permits Issued. Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item.

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR ARMSTRONG That the Building Approvals Report be received. CARRIED 3523/17


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Cr Allgood disclosed an indirect interest (close association) in Item 8.2.3 – Planning Matters Approved Under Delegation, Planning Permits and Certification of Subdivision Plans (Application number 02669), due to her assisting the Ararat Skate Park Committee to fund raise. Cr Ford disclosed a direct interest in Item 8.2.3 – Planning Matters Approved Under Delegation, Planning Permits and Certification of Subdivision Plans (Certification of Subdivision Plan S01144), due to him being he Applicant for Jolly. Cr Allgood and Cr Ford left the Council Chamber at 7.31pm. ITEM 8.2.3 PLANNING MATTERS APPROVED UNDER DELEGATION

PLANNING PERMITS AND CERTIFICATION OF SUBDIVISION PLANS 13038445 EXECUTIVE SERVICES

Council plan reference 3.4 Effective and efficient land use planning and building controls.

Introduction Information only item. Discussion Planning permits, certification of subdivision plans and liquor license applications are approved under delegated authority by relevant Council officers each month, where possible. This report outlines the various approvals for Council’s information. Planning permit approvals under delegated authority. May 2017

ARARAT PLANNING SCHEME Application No.

Date Lodged

Applicant Location Proposed Use of Development

Date of Delegated Approval

02628 15/11/2016 ARCC High Street, Ararat

Being Crown Allotment 2A Section 63, Township and Parish of Ararat

Construction of a Carpark

11/05/2017 Delegate Joel Hastings

02650 27/03/2017 NPM Architects for Flavell

1 Majella Court, Ararat Being Lot 1 PS141301 V9507 F180 Parish of

Ararat

Construction of Dwelling


02652 29/03/2017 King 149 Wannon River Road, Bornes Hill

Construction of Hay Shed

05/06/2017 Delegate


Page 2937


Date Lodged



19094 V9932 F007 Parish of Burrah Burrah

Joel Hastings

02653 22/03/2017 CPS Global Western Hwy, Buangor Being Lot 5 PS727721, Parish

of Buangor

Use & Development at a Telecommunications facility


02655 20/03/2017 Hayley Malloy

Picnic Road, Ararat being Lot 3 PS 097889, V8997 F397 & Lot PS 097889, V8997, F330, Parish of Ararat

Construction of a Shed


02656 03/04/2017 Jorgensen 41 Campbell Street, Ararat Being L1

TP339586 V5382 F364 Parish of

Ararat

Access to Road Zone 18/05/2017

02657 03/04/2017 Bradley & Hayes for McCrow

182 McCrows Road, Westmere Lot 7 LP4834 V3554 F786, Parish of Parupa

Two (2) lot subdivision


02660 10/04/2017 Max Perovich

Wilson Street, Ararat Being L1

TP400147 V4972 F338 Parish of

Ararat CA5 Section 50

V5339 F605 Township of Ararat

Parish of Ararat CA6 Section 50

V6232 F328 Township of Ararat

Parish of Ararat

Subdivide the land into three (3) lots (realignment)


02662 21/04/2017 Fry for Remfry

843 Stavely Road, Stavely

Crown Allotment 6, Section 2, Parish of

Nanapundah

Roof only yard cover 13/06/2017 Delegate Joel Hastings

02663 27/04/2017 Action Steel Industries

fort Weatherly

3524 Eurambeen- Streatham Road,

Streatham being Lot 1 TP 905665,

Crown Section A, Parish of Mininera

Storage Shed 13/06/2017 Delegate Joel Hastings


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Date Lodged



02664 03/05/2017 Andrew Eastick

80 Dodd Drive, Ararat being L2 LP94198 V8918 F521 Parish of Ararat

Development of Dwelling (extension & outbuilding)


02668 26/05/2017 Stephen Heard

1 Surface Hill Court, Ararat being L1 PS412172 V10391 F966 Parish of Ararat

Construction of a storage shed


02669 09/06/2017 ARCC Vincent Street, Ararat being CA 5A Section 2, Parish of Ararat

Construction of Shade Structure (Skate Park)


VCAT

Application No.


Status

1876 Andrea Marian Tower Road, Norval Removal of Native Vegetation and Construction of Dwelling & Outbuildings

Council decision upheld

Certification of subdivision plans under delegated authority. May 2017

CERTIFICATION OF SUBDIVISION PLAN

Application No.

Date Lodged

Applicant Location Procedure Date of Decision

S01144 11/05/2016 Ararat Survey Pty Ltd for

Jolly

73 Elizabeth Street, Ararat

Certification of Plan of Subdivision in relation to PS

05/05/2017

Liquor License Applications

LIQUOR LICENCING COMMISSION

Applicant Location Application Consent

Nil

Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest.


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No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item.

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR PETTMAN That the Building Planning Matters Approved under Delegation – Planning Permits and Certification of Subdivision Plans and Liquor License Applications be received. CARRIED 3524/17


ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 9 – SECTION 86 COMMITTEES

Page 2940

ITEM 9.1.1 SECTION 86 COMMITTEES OF MANAGEMENT 13039110/17085447/17084406/17084838/17085495


Introduction Section 86 Special Committees are established to assist Council with executing specific functions or duties. By instrument of delegation, Council has delegated to the Special Committees such functions and powers of the Council that it deems appropriate, utilising provisions of the Local Government Act 1989. Discussion Section 86 Special Committees are required to report to Council at intervals determined by the Council. A review of the process of receiving and presenting Section 86 Committees minutes is currently being carried out. Summary of Committee Meetings The following table updates Council on the meetings held by Council’s Section 86 Committees since the last Council Meeting. Please note that due to the timing of meetings some minutes may not have been confirmed at the time they have been presented to Council.

Special Committee Councillor representative


Next proposed meeting/s

Minutes last presented to Council

Alexandra Hall Committee of Management

Cr Allgood - 4 May 2017 29 June 2017

9 February 2017

Buangor Community Sports Centre Committee (including Cobb & Co Building)

Cr Hooper - 11 April 2017 9 May 2017 13 June 2017

14 February 2017

Elmhurst Public Hall Committee Cr Beales 13 April 2017 6 8 June 2017 7 9 February 2017

Lake Bolac Complex Committee Cr Beales 7 June 2017 Meeting dates not provided

15 February 2017

Lake Bolac Memorial Hall Committee

Cr Beales - Meeting dates not provided

30 September 2014

Maroona Recreation Reserve Committee

Cr Pettman - Meeting dates not provided.

22 August 2016

Mininera Recreation Reserve Committee

Cr Beales - 9 March 2017 13 July 2017 19 October 2017 AGM

20 October 2016

Moyston Public Hall Committee Cr Hooper 24 April 2017 29 May 2017

Meeting dates not provided

9 January 2017

Pomonal Hall & Reserve Committee

Cr Hooper - Meetings held 1st Wednesday of each month

1 March 2017

Streatham Memorial Hall Committee

Cr Armstrong - Meeting dates not provided

20 May 2016


Page 2941

Special Committee Councillor representative


Next proposed meeting/s

Minutes last presented to Council

SMW Community Development Committee (former Streatham Primary School)

- - - -

Tatyoon Hall and Recreation Reserve Committee


20 March 2017 4 April 2017

Warrak Public Hall Committee Cr Allgood - Annual General Meeting 4 July 2017

14 March 2017

Westmere Progress Association Committee (Westmere Hall and Recreation Reserve)

Cr Armstrong - Meeting dates not provided

17 October 2015

Wickliffe Action Group Wickliffe Common Committee

Cr McLean - Advised no formal meetings held

-

Wickliffe Recreation Reserve Committee

Cr McLean - Meeting dates not provided

26 June 2012

Willaura Golf Club


13 June 2012

Willaura Memorial Hall Cr Beales - 2 February 2017 6 April 2017 1 June 2017 3 August 2017 5 October 2017

1 December 2016

Willaura Recreation Reserve Cr Pettman - Meeting dates not provided

21 October 2015

Yalla-Y-Poora Community Centre Cr Armstrong - Meeting dates not provided

8 September 2014

POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM THIS ISSUE Council plan reference 1.1 Assist communities to develop and prosper. 5.1 Good governance through leadership Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Financial and resource implications None identified. Risk implications None identified. Statutory Implications Council’s Section 86 Committee Instrument of Delegation states that Committees must “Adhere to the Section 86 Committee Governance Manual (Governance) in relation to all reporting requirements.”


Page 2942

Section 86 Committee Minutes must be forwarded to Council within 14 days after the meeting. Community Implications None identified. Environmental Implications None identified. Internal/external consultation None identified.

Attachments Three Section 86 Committee has provided minutes, which are included in Agenda Attachment 9.1.1. Conclusion Under the Local Government Regulations 2004 Part 5, 11(i) requires that minutes from Special Committees of Council are available to the public.

MOVED CR ALLGOOD SECONDED CR BEALES That Council receives: 1 The Ordinary Meeting minutes of the Elmhurst Public Hall Committee of

Management meeting held on 13 April 2017; 2 The Ordinary Meeting minutes of the Moyston Public Hall Committee of

Management held on 24 April 2017 and 29 May 2017; and 3 The Ordinary Meeting minutes of the Lake Bolac Community Complex Committee of

Management held on 7 June 2017. CARRIED 3525/17

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 10 - OFFICERS REPORTS

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ITEM 10.1.1 MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN 2017-2020 13044688 CORPORATE STRATEGY, RISK & GOVERNANCE

Introduction This report submits the draft 2017– 2020 Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP) and sub plans to Council for endorsement.

Discussion Council has a legislative responsibility under Section 20 of the Emergency Management Act 1986 to prepare and maintain a Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP) which identifies municipal resources available for use in emergency prevention, response and recovery. Municipal emergency coordination and planning is undertaken by the Ararat Rural City Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee (MEMPC). Section 21 of the Emergency Management Act 1986, requires Council to appoint a planning committee to prepare and review the MEMP for consideration by the municipal council. The MEMP was distributed to the MEMPC via email with the quorum of members recommending the revised MEMP and Sub plans to Council for endorsement. The MEMP Sub Plans have been reviewed by the MEMPC and associated subcommittees and also seek Council endorsement; they include:

Emergency Animal Welfare Plan

Children and Young People in Emergencies Plan A Municipal Emergency Management Plan must be audited by the State Emergency Service (SES) every three years to assess whether the plan complies with the guidelines and the Ararat Rural City Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP) is due for audit in July 2017. The MEMP and sub plans represent a collaborative approach and shared responsibility between Council and agencies responsible for Emergency Planning and Management across the Municipality.

POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM THIS ISSUE

Council plan reference 1.3 Support the Community in emergency management planning, response, recovery and in the

prevention and mitigation of risks. Financial and resource implications None identified. Risk implications Endorsing the MEMP supports Councils commitment to mitigating community risk and building community resilience to emergency events.


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Statutory Implications By endorsing the plan Council complies with the legislative requirements of the Emergency Management Act 1986. Community Implications The continuing review and audit of the Ararat Rural City MEMP enhances community preparedness, prevention, response and recovery from emergencies. Environmental Implications None identified. Internal/external consultation The draft MEMP has been reviewed and endorsed by all agencies and organisations on the MEMP Committee and public consultation via Council webpage and media.

Options Council could: 1 Council endorse the MEMP thereby fulfilling the legislative requirements of the Emergency

Management Act 1986. 2 Council does not endorse the MEMP and risks legal sanction. Attachments There are 3 attachments relating to this item. Conclusion The endorsement of the MEMP and sub plans by Council will facilitate audit and review process as required by legislation.

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR ARMSTRONG That Council endorse the Municipal Emergency Management Plan and Sub Plans as presented. CARRIED 3526/17


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ITEM 10.2.1 REQUESTS FOR SPONSORSHIPS REPORT 17085274, 17085270, 17085277 EXECUTIVE SERVICES - COMMUNITY LIFE

Introduction Council's sponsorship procedure requires groups and organisations to apply in writing requesting sponsorship for their event for amounts up to $600. The guidelines allow this to occur throughout the year with no opening and closing dates. Council’s Sponsorship Program is enabling small groups and organisations to develop new community events and activities across the municipality and an opportunity for Council to continue to connect and support their community. The current balance for sponsorships for the 2016/2017 financial year is $1,273.68. Discussion Cricket Victoria – Victorian Primary Schools Cricket Program Cricket Victoria has delivered the Victorian Primary Schools Cricket Program since 1998. Cricket Victoria, along with partner School Sport Victoria (SSV) has been running the MILO T20 Blast School Cup program (formerly knowns as Kanga 8’s) in Ararat at Alexandra Oval for well over ten years. MILO T20 Blast School Cup is an exciting modified version of cricket for upper primary school age children that maximises the involvement of all participants in a 16-over game (eight overs per team) and requires just 50 to 60 minutes from start to finish. The MILO T20 Blast School Cup competition is:

Free to all schools

Modified cricket that maximises participation

Played by both boys and girls

Teacher friendly with easy to understand rules

Encourages team work, communication and leadership. In order for Cricket Victoria to continue to provide the MILO T20 Blast School Cup program for free for schools and primary aged children, they are requesting sponsorship from Council to assist with the costs of hiring Alexandra Oval for the School Cup Carnival on Monday 13 November 2017 at a cost of $163.60. Perennial Pastures Systems – Annual Conference Perennial Pastures Systems (PPS) is a farmer initiated group which conducts pasture research and extension in the central region of Victoria. This year will be the 9th Annual Conference of the Group and will be held at Gum San on Wednesday 20 September 2017. The conference now attracts over one hundred farmers, advisors along with CMA, rural finance industry and Dept. of Agricultural Staff, with guest speakers travelling from New South Wales to present at the conference. Perennial Pastures Systems are requesting sponsorship for the hire of Gum San Great Hall for the day and assistance towards bus hire for a tour to Windy Hill on the Pyrenees Highway and to a high production site for a new project generated from the local Drought Working Group. The request is for $600 towards these costs.


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Victorian Police Blue Ribbon Foundation The Victorian Police Blue Ribbon Foundation – Ararat Branch held their 16th Annual Gala “Night of Nights” on Friday 26 May 2017. This event is a major fundraiser and relies on the assistance of many supporters to make the event a success. The funds are to raise vital funds for the East Grampians Health Service (Ararat Hospital). The foundation has asked Council for a donation towards this fundraising effort in the sum of $500 for 2017. Council have previously sponsored this event in previous years and has again asked for Council’s support to reach their target of $30,000.

POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM THIS ISSUE Council plan reference 1.1 Assist communities to develop and prosper. 2.1 Community and cultural connectedness. 3.1 A strong and diverse local economy Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Financial and resource implications Council Sponsorship Program is available to groups for a maximum of $600. The balance for the Sponsorship Program is $1,273.68 Risk implications None identified. Statutory Implications None identified. Community Implications None identified. Environmental Implications None identified. Internal/external consultation Council’s Community Development and Client Services Co-ordinator has engaged with each group requesting sponsorship to discuss their event or project.


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Options Council could: 1. Approve the request for sponsorship from Cricket Victoria for the MILO T20 Blast School Cup

to be held on Alexandra Oval on Monday 13 November 2017 in the sum of $163.60 2. Not approve the request for sponsorship to Cricket Victoria for the MILO T20 Blast School Cup

to be held on Alexandra Oval on Monday 13 November 2017 in the sum of $163.60

1. Approve the request for sponsorship from Perennial Pastures Systems for the 9th Annual Conference to be held on the 20 September 2017 in the sum of $600.

2. Not approve the request for sponsorship from Perennial Pasture Systems for the 9th Annual

Conference to be held on the 20 September 2017 in the sum of $600. 1. Approve the request for sponsorship/donation for the Victorian Police Blue Ribbon Foundation

– Ararat Branch for the Blue Ribbon Foundation – 16th Gala Ball in the sum of $500. 2. Not approve the request for sponsorship donation from the Victorian Police Blue Ribbon

Foundation – Ararat Branch for the Blue Ribbon Foundation – 16th Gala Ball in the sum of $500.

Attachments There are no attachments relating to these items. Conclusion The Sponsorship Programs continues to be an important source of support from Council to community clubs, groups and committees.

MOVED CR ARMSTRONG SECONDED CR BEALES That Council approve the request for sponsorship for: 1 Cricket Victoria to hold the MILO T20 Blast School Cup at Alexandra Oval on Monday

13 November 2017 for the sum of $163.60; 2 Perennial Pasture Systems to hold the 9th Annual Conference on 20 September 2017 for

the sum of $600; and 3 Victorian Police Blue Ribbon Foundation – Ararat Branch for the Blue Ribbon

Foundation – 16th Gala Ball for the sum of $500. CARRIED 3527/17


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ITEM 10.2.2 APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT NO. 02627 Received : 09/11/2016 Applicant : Emma Vogel Proposed Use & Development : Stone Extraction (Clay Borrow Pit) Location : Western Hwy, Buangor Lot 13, PS727721, Parish of Colvinsby Zoning : Farming Zone Surrounding Zoning : Farming Zone, Road Zone 1, Vegetation Protection Overlay, Public Acquisition Overlay Assessment No : 612522.783000 Site The subject site is located approximately 5 km north of Buangor adjacent to the Western Highway. The land is currently used for farming purposes and is 35 ha in area with frontage to the Western Hwy, access via Pope Rd and is bounded by the rail to the south.

Proposal Application has been received for approval to extract stone on the land at Western Hwy, Buangor being Lot 13, PS727721, Parish of Colvinsby.


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The extraction site covers an area of approximately 180,000 m2 in an irregular rectangular shape of 750 m x 250 m with 300,000 cubic meter capacity. The proposal is to remove gravel and fill for construction material to be used in the duplication of the Western Hwy. The subject site abuts the Western Hwy where the duplication will occur. The site will be rehabilitated and return to agricultural use at the completion of project. A Work Authority is not required for the site as the development has a Ministerial exemption under S5AA (1) of the Mineral Resources Development Act 1990. An Environmental Management Plan, Biodiversity Report and Golden Sun Moth survey, and Cultural Heritage Due Diligence Assessment have been submitted to support the application. A Works on Waterway license (No: W-2014-0050) has also already been obtained. Notice of application Notice of application was carried out by forwarding notices to the owners and occupiers of the adjoining land, and placing a sign on the land. Following the fourteen day period one objection was received. The objection was made on the basis that ‘the borrow pit would be part of project whose legal validity is currently subject of a court case’. A response was provided by the applicant indicating that the project is state project which has the approval of State Government and the outcome of the matte before the courts should no impact on the planning application. Contact was made with the objector however no agreement could be made on the matter. Referrals The application was forwarded externally under S55 to VicRoads, VicTrack, DELWP and the Department of State Development, Business and Innovation. DSDBI indicated that a planning approval for the works under the Incorporated Document was not required however it was discovered at this that the incorporated document and they have confirmed the exemption from a Work Authority. DELWP considered the Native Vegetation Removal and requested further information regarding the proposal as high impact and the biodiversity assessment was forwarded to them together with sun moth surveys. Following further surveys the application was amended to avoid habitat associated with the EPBC Act and a Native Vegetation Report prepared by ecology and heritage partners has been submitted to DELWP who have provided conditions. VicTrack raised the impact of the operation on the adjacent rail line and the proposed stockpiling of material within the rail easement. This matter is outside the consideration of the planning permit and will require negotiation between parties, however VicTrack have provided conditions protect the operation of rail line which should be included in any permit. GHCMA did not object to the granting of the permit and advised the environmental issues were adequately managed through the Works on Waterway License. VicRoads provided conditions confirming the cessation of quarrying at the completion of the propose construction works.


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The application was forwarded internally to the Natural Resource Officer and Assets who raised no objection subject to conditions regarding the upgrade and management of Popes Rd for access. Planning Comment The site as indicated is zoned Farming and there are no overlay controls. A planning permit is required for the following reasons:

1) FZ 35.07-1 Table of uses: A Use in Section 2;

2) FZ 35.07-4 Building and Works: A permit is required to construct or carry out any of the following: A building or works associated with a use in Section 2 of Clause 35.07-1;

3) 52.29: A permit is required to: Create or alter access to: A road in a Road Zone, Category 1.

An assessment against State and local planning policy frameworks and the Decision Guidelines of Clause 52.09-5 (52.09 Stone Extraction and Extractive Industry Interest Areas) is provided below:

10. State Planning Policy Framework

State Planning Policy Framework Comment

14.03 Resource exploration and extraction To encourage exploration and extraction of natural resources in accordance with acceptable environmental standards and to provide a planning approval process that is consistent with the relevant legislation.

Protect the opportunity for exploration and extraction of natural resources where this is consistent with overall planning considerations and application of acceptable environmental practice.

Planning schemes must not impose conditions on the use or development of land that is inconsistent with the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990, the Greenhouse Gas Sequestration Act (2008), the Geothermal Energy Resources Act (2005), or the Petroleum Act (1998).

Proposal is generally consistent with the intentions of the FZ and planning considerations. Is exempt from the requirements of a work plan as the stone removal is for road construction and the extraction site is adjacent to the road project. Considered a suitable outcome if the site is managed in accordance with submitted environmental management plan.


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30. Zones

Clause 35.07 Farming Zone Comment

Purpose

The State Planning Policy Framework and the Local Planning Policy Framework, including the Municipal Strategic Statement and local planning policies.

To encourage use and development of land based on comprehensive and sustainable land management practices and infrastructure provision.

See above. Generally consistent with SPPF.

The use of and Extractive Industry is consistent with the purpose of the zone provided the use and development of the land is based on comprehensive and sustainable land management practices and infrastructure provision. The submitted environmental management plan includes rehabilitation of the site post extraction of the material.

52.09. Stone Extraction and Extractive Industry Interest Areas

Decision guidelines Comment

Decision guidelines General issues

Before deciding on an application, in addition to the decision guidelines in Clause 65, responsible authority must consider, as appropriate:

The effect of the proposed stone extraction on any native flora and fauna on and near the land.

See above. The development is generally consistent with the objectives of the SPFF.

A flora and fauna assessment was undertaken as part of this application which indicates that the site is golden sun moth site with native grasses and scattered native red gums. The riparian boundary to Billy Bill Creek West is outside the extraction boundary with a good buffer. The site also contains sun moth habitat and the survey on site indicated active sites to the east and north. The extraction boundary was modified following this survey to avoid this habitat and letter of advice has been referred to under EPBC Act

The impact of the stone extraction operations on sites of cultural and historic significance, including any effects on Aboriginal places.

The applicant has completed the aboriginal assessment tool and indicated the area is outside any area of the cultural sensitivity therefore no CHMP.

The effect of the stone extraction operation on the natural and cultural landscape of the surrounding land and the locality generally.

The site is undulating agricultural land and well setback approximately 500 m from the interface with the Western Highway, therefore considered it will not impact significantly on the amenity of the area. Also, as part of the environmental management plan, rehabilitation works will


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be undertaken on completion that will reinstate the land to an agricultural use.

The ability of the stone extraction operation to contain any resultant industrial emissions within the boundaries of the subject land in accordance with the Regulations associated with the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990 and other relevant regulations.

The application does not involve any industrial processing or industrial emissions.

The effect of vehicular traffic, noise, blasting, dust and vibration on the amenity of the surrounding area.

The site generally has large buffer distances to houses, with all dwellings more than 1000 m. The proposed quarry will not involve any blasting,

The ability to rehabilitate the affected land to a form or for a use which is compatible with the natural systems or visual appearance of the surrounding area.

The applicant has submitted a rehabilitation plan as part of the Environmental Management Plan indicating that topsoil will be removed prior to extraction of sand and stored on site for rehabilitation. This will allow the site to return to grazing or cropping uses. The land is gently undulating and the removed material will not impact heavily on the visual appearance of the area once topsoil is spread back over the site and pasture reinstated

The ability to rehabilitate the land so it can be used for a purpose or purposes beneficial to the community.

To be rehabilitated for agricultural use.

The effect of the proposed stone extraction on groundwater and quality and the impact on any affected water uses.

Applicant has indicated that extraction will not intercept the water table. No effect considered

The impact of the proposed stone extraction on surface drainage and surface water quality.

The works will involve the removal of surface gravel only and does not involve any works within the gullies or drainage lines which run through the site. The plans indicate a system of swale drains around the pit and access road in the site, with sediment retention basins to control storm water runoff into Billy Billy West Creek. Subject to the appropriate onsite management of storm water and vehicle movement no impact on water quality is anticipated. To be controlled by Environmental Management Plan.

Any proposed provisions, conditions or requirements in a work plan that has received statutory endorsement issued under the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990.

Exempt from work plan – no conditions.

Key Issues Assessment against the relevant provisions of the Ararat Planning Scheme has highlighted the Environmental Management Plan, Visual Amenity, Roads and Access, and Native Vegetation Removal for consideration. These are outlined below: Flora and Fauna A flora and fauna assessment was undertaken as part of this application which indicates that the site


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is a degraded understory of grassland, scattered red gum trees and that the site contains Golden Sun Moth which are protected under the Environmental Biodiversity and Conservation Act. Surveys where undertaken in December and January which identified sun moth presents on the site to the north and east of the proposed extractive area and consequently resulted in the amendment to avoid these areas. The applicant has undertaken the referral to the federal government and the management of the any impact will be managed under this legislation and a condition will be included to ensure all works are contained with the extractive boundary and no go zones clearly identified. Environmental Management Plan This plan addresses extraction management including removal of material, drainage, access, native vegetation, riparian zone, and cultural heritage protection; and rehabilitation management which includes vegetation, rehabilitation of extraction and stockpile areas and internal access road, and removal of all equipment and plant. This plan is considered equivalent to a work authority plan in terms of addressing the environmental and amenity impacts of a quarry and will be included as a condition on the permit. Roads and Access Access to the quarry is proposed along Pope Rd which is currently constructed to limited rural standard and will require upgrading and maintenance during construction. Assets have also identified that the existing waterway structure will require assessment for the proposed use. Objection The objector has questioned the issuing of the permit whilst the legality of Western Hwy Duplication is before the courts. The objector has been advised that a Planning Permit can be considered and issued independently by council, but whether the quarry is needed or not will depend on Western Hwy Project proceeding in its current form. Conclusion The subject land is located in the FZ and the use and development of a quarry is consistent with the purposes of this zone. The issues raised by the application can be adequately controlled by permit conditions and controls as outlined in the Environmental Management Plan. Generally this presents acceptable outcomes to State and local planning policies and the decision guidelines of 52.09 for extractive industries and should be supported.

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR FORD That, in accordance with the authority delegated by the Ararat Rural City Council under Section 188 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, having considered the question of detriment, a Notice of Decision be issued in respect of Application for Planning Permit No. 2627 for Stone Extraction, and Access to a Road Zone Category 1 at Western Highway, Buangor being Lot 13 Parish of Colvinsby subject to the following conditions. Ararat Rural City Council 1. Layout not altered

the use and development must be carried out in accordance with the endorsed plans and must not be altered without the written consent of the Responsible Authority.

2. Environmental Management Plan An Environmental Management Plan must be submitted to the Responsibility Authority to manage the use and development including extraction, management of buffer and no-go zones for native vegetation, traffic management and offsite impacts,


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and the progressive rehabilitation of the site. All works must be in accordance with the Environmental Management Plan, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

3. Access Roads Prior to the commencement of the use, Pope Rd must be constructed, formed and drained to avoid erosion and to minimize disturbance to the natural topography of the land, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

4. Damage to Council Roads In the event of any visual damage appearing on Council’s Road network, the applicant will pay all costs associated with repairs, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

5. Dust Control Dust control measures, as outlined in the approved Environmental Management Plan, should include the extent of Pope Road to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.

6. Permit Expiry This permit will expire if one of the following circumstances applies: The development and use is/are not started within two years of the approval of section 2b of the Western Hwy Duplication. The development is not completed within four years of the date of this permit. The responsible authority may extend the periods referred to if a request is made in writing before the permit expires, or within three months. VicRoads (Ref: 20179/16) 7. The excavation works must be ended at the completion of the proposed road

construction works; a. After 18 months from granting of permit or 300,000 cubic metres of material excavated, or whichever comes first, that the proponent must seek approval from VicRoads for continuing any excavation from the borrow pit.

VicTrack (CSM 31873) 8. VicTrack is consulted in the final approval of the Environmental Management Plan. 9. The permit holder must, at all times, ensure that the common boundary with railway

land is fenced at the permit holder’s expense to prohibit unauthorised access to the rail corridor.

10. The permit holder must not, at any time: a. allow any drainage, effluent, waste, soil or other materials to enter or be directed to the railway land; or b. store or deposit any waste, soil or other materials on the railway land.

11. The permit holder must not plant any plants or tree species that are likely to cause any future overhang onto the railway land or disturbance to the railway operations.

12. The permit holder must not enter any railway land without the written consent of the Rail Operator. If the permit holder has obtained the Rail Operator’s written consent to enter the railway land, the permit holder must comply with the Rail Operator’s Site Access Procedures and Conditions when accessing the railway land.

13. The permit holder must not, at any time, interfere with or damage any railway infrastructure (including without limitation overhead power and supporting infrastructure for trains and trams, and underground telecommunication cables). The permit holder must, at its own cost, rectify any damage to railway infrastructure or


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disruption to the rail operations, arising out of or in connection with the development to the satisfaction of VicTrack and the Rail Operator

Department of Environment Land Water and Planning (SP459033) 14. Notification of permit conditions

Before works start, the permit holder must advise all persons undertaking the vegetation removal or works on site of all relevant permit conditions and associated statutory requirements or approvals.

15. Native vegetation offsets 15.1 Offset requirement

To offset the removal of 0.528 hectares of native vegetation the permit holder must secure a native vegetation offset, in accordance with the Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Biodiversity assessment guidelines (DEPI 2013) and Native vegetation gain scoring manual (DEPI 2013) as specified below:

15.1.1 General offset A general offset of 0.079 general biodiversity equivalence units with the following attributes:

be located within the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority boundary or Ararat Rural City municipal district; and

have a strategic biodiversity score of at least 0.670 15.2 Offset evidence and timing

Before any native vegetation is removed, evidence that the required offset for the project has been secured must be provided to the satisfaction of the responsible authority. The offset evidence can be:

a security agreement signed by both parties, to the required standard, for the offset site or sites, including a 10 year offset management plan; and/or

an allocated credit extract from the Native Vegetation Credit Register A copy of the offset evidence will be endorsed by the responsible authority and form part of this permit

16. Monitoring and reporting on onsite offset implementation

Annual monitoring and reporting is required for offsets not secured on the Native Vegetation Credit Register. If a security agreement is entered into as per condition 2.2, the applicant must provide the annual offset site condition report to the responsible authority by the anniversary date of the execution of the offset security agreement, for a period of 10 consecutive years. After the tenth year, the landowner must provide a report at the reasonable request of a statutory authority.

Note: A Road Opening Permit is required for any works on Council roads – Contact Customer Service Unit

- End of Conditions - CARRIED 3528/17


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ITEM 10.3.1 DISCONTINUANCE A SECTION OF UNUSED ROAD RESERVE BETWEEN ALFRED STREET AND WESTERN BOUANDRY OF LOT 7 PARISH OF ARARAT

ASSETS FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES

Introduction Council has received a request to purchase a section of municipal road reserve land. Support of Council is required for such sale to proceed. Discussion The owner of Lots 6 & 7 (see below) has submitted a request to purchase a section of road reserve land, north of lot 6 and lot 7, TP769282 - off Alfred Street Ararat. The land is highlighted in white in the image below.

The subject land does not contain a physical road. For the land to be sold it must be first discontinued as a road. This is done under Schedule 10 (3) of the Local Government Act 1989. The process of the sale of the road reserve is undertaken by the Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning (DELWP). The preparatory work for this is generally undertaken by DELWP prior to the road discontinuation. For DELWP to commence this work they require in-principle support from Council for the road closure. There will be a subsequent public consultation process conducted by Council before a final decision to close the road is made by Council. Council has never constructed a road in this section of the road reserve and has no obvious reason to construct a road here in the future. The closure of the road and subsequent sale of land does not isolate any parcel of land. On-going management of the land would pass to the new land owner.


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POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS ARISING FROM THIS ISSUE Officer’s Declaration of Interest Under Section 80C of the Local Government Act 1989 officers providing advice to Council must disclose any interests, including the type of interest. No person involved in the preparation of this report has a direct or indirect interest requiring disclosure. Financial and resource implications Not significant. Risk implications Low. Statutory Implications None identified. Community Implications This road reserve provides no clear benefit to local residents. Environmental Implications None identified. Internal/external consultation Public consultation will be undertaken in accordance with legislative requirements.

Options Council could: 1 Provide, in principle support for the closure and subsequent sale of the subject road reserve

land, off Alfred Street Ararat. 2 Not support the closure and subsequent sale of the proposed section of road reserve land. Attachments There are no attachments relating to this item. Conclusion An adjoining property owner has expressed interest in purchasing a portion of the road reserve. Sale of a road reserve is conducted by DELWP but is subject to support from Council. Council is being asked to determine its support for this request.

MOVED CR ALLGOOD SECONDED CR PETTMAN That Council provides in principle support for the closure and subsequent sale by the Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning of land being part of unused road reserve to the North of lots 6 and 7, TP769282, Ararat. CARRIED 3529/17

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 11 - NOTICES OF MOTION

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Notice of Motions must be in writing and lodged with the Chief Executive Officer no later than 5pm on the Wednesday which is at least four (4) business days before the meeting at which it is intended to be considered, unless a public holiday falls within that four days, as per Clause 18(4) of the Ararat Rural City Council Meeting Procedure.

Cr McLean foreshadowed two Notices of Motion for the July 2017 Council Meeting. “That Ararat Rural City Council: 1 Immediately establish a Chief Executive Officer Recruitment, Remuneration, Performance and Development

Committee; and 2 Develop a Terms of Reference and Membership for this Committee and present to the 18 July 2017 Council

Meeting.” and “That Ararat Rural City Council: 1 Does not have a Deputy Chief Executive Officer and in the interests of fairness and merit, a selection exercise

is necessary; 2 Commence a whole of Council selection process to determine the Acting Chief Executive Officer pending the

permanent recruitment of a Chief Executive Officer; 3 Invite all Senior Officers of Council to apply for the Acting Chief Executive Officer position; 4 Hold interviews for the Acting Chief Executive Officer position on Monday 24 July 2017; and 5 Determine the successful applicant by Friday 28 July 2017.”

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 12 – COUNCILLORS REPORTS

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At each Council Meeting, all Councillors will have the opportunity to provide an overview of any meetings attended. If a Councillor chooses to provide details, the name of the conference/event and the Councillor attending will be noted in the Minutes of the meeting. If a Councillor requires additional information on the conference/event to be included in the Minutes, the Councillor must submit in writing to the Chief Executive Officer by no later than 12pm (noon) the day following the meeting.

Cr Armstrong attended the Glenelg Hopkins Environmental Achievers Awards in Hamilton on 22 June 2017, where Ararat Rural City Council residents Tim and Sally Philip won the Primary Producer Award.

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING – TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 13 – URGENT BUSINESS

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Ararat Rural City Council Meeting Procedure, Clause 17 Urgent Business states:

(1) Items proposed as urgent business must not be submitted to the meeting other than by resolution of the Council and only if it relates to or arises out of a matter which has arisen since distribution of the Agenda or which cannot be reasonably deferred for inclusion in the agenda of the next meeting

(2) The nature of the urgency must be stated by the Councillor and outlined in the minute of the meeting.

No Urgent Business Items.

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING - TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 14 – OFFICERS REPORTS – CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS

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7.43PM CLOSURE OF MEETING TO THE PUBLIC

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR ALLGOOD That the meeting be closed to members of the public to discuss the items listed in the confidential agenda, in accordance with the following provision: “89 Meetings to be open to the public (2) A Council or special committee may resolve that the meeting be closed to members of the public if the meeting is discussing any of the following— (a) personnel matters; (b) the personal hardship of any resident or ratepayer; and (d) contractual matters. CARRIED 3530/17

8.10PM OPEN COUNCIL MEETING RECOMMENCEMENT

MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR McLEAN That the Open Council Meeting recommence. CARRIED 3539/17

LIFTING OF CONFIDENTIALITY OF CLOSED SESSION RESOLUTIONS

MOVED CR ARMSTRONG SECONDED CR PETTMAN That the Confidentiality of the: 1 Report and decision in relation to Items 14.1.2, 14.2.1, 14.2.2, 14.2.3, 14.3.1 and 14.3.2 of

the Confidential Agenda not be lifted; and 2 Decision in relation to Items 14.1.1 and 14.2.4 of the Confidential Agenda be lifted. CARRIED 3540/17

ARARAT RURAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING - TUESDAY 27 JUNE 2017 14 – OFFICERS REPORTS – CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS

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The following resolutions are extracted from the minutes of the Ararat Rural City Council Meeting In Camera Session held on 27 June 2017. Any disclosures of interest, relevant to these items, are recorded in the Council Meeting In Camera minutes. ITEM 14.1.1 ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS 13039074


MOVED CR BEALES SECONDED CR FORD That the 1 Confidential Assembly of Councillors Report be received; and 2 Confidentiality of the decision be lifted. CARRIED 3531/17

ITEM 14.2.4 CONTRACT NO. MAV003 – SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF NEW

EXCAVATOR 17085456 EXECUTIVE SERVICES - OPERATIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE

MOVED CR PETTMAN SECONDED CR FORD That: 1 The Council award the Contract for the supply and delivery of one new excavator,

(Contract No. MAV003) to Komatsu Australia for the conforming tender price of $159,768 (excl. GST); and

2 The confidentiality of the decision be lifted. CARRIED 3536/17

Meeting closed at 8.11pm. I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT PAGES 2166 TO 3149 INCLUDING PAGES 127 TO 155 OF THE CLOSED SESSION ARE CONFIRMED AND ARE A TRUE AND CORRECT RECORD. MAYOR – CR PAUL HOOPER

Documents

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES - ARARAT Reports only.pdf · Mr Tim Day - Executive Manager ... KORS will also challenge the granting of a borrow-pit permit in VCAT; ... At the Special Council