On the Local Government News Roundup for 2nd August 2024:
- Councils across the country react to the Rex Airlines crisis
- CEO appointments for two regional Victorian councils
- A CEO defends the editing of a council meeting recording
- Parramatta claims a win at NCAT over one its own councillors
- A Sydney council to remove poker machines from venues it owns
- Legal action tipped for Townsville’s mayor against the council, and
- Details of a Qld CEO’s mysterious departure revealed
- the biggest new development in South Australia in 70 years announced,
- and the UK council forced to do its bookkeeping manually, at a huge cost.
And yet more of the latest news from around the world of local government brought to you by the Victorian Local Governance Association, with support from Davidson recruitment and business advisory services.
Listen to this episode here, and find the link for your podcast player here.
Transcript for episode 370:
Victorian Roundup:
Golden Plains Shire Council has announced the appointment of its new CEO.
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Shane Walden, currently director of assets and operations at Macedon Ranges Shire Council, will take up the position in September.
Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham said Mr Walden brings to the role a clear and ambitious vision for the future of the shire.
Mr Walden has more than 20 year’s experience in engineering, asset management and operational environments.
He said he would be focused on the key Council priority of ensuring financial sustainability and effective resource management.
Mr Walden will relieve interim CEO Michael Tudball who has been in the role for four months since the departure of former CEO Eric Braslis. Mr Braslis has joined the executive team at the City of Wyndham in a senior role.
Sally Jones has been appointed as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Central Goldfields Shire, starting on September 2.
She brings 24 years of local government experience, including executive roles and acting CEO positions, most recently as General Manager Community Strengthening at Kingston City Council.
The appointment follows the resignation of current CEO Lucy Roffey who is heading to the City of Yarra in a director level position.
When Ms Roffey finishes at Central Goldfields on 21 August, the shire’s GM of Community Wellbeing Emma Little will be Acting CEO until the arrival of Ms Jones in September.
The interim appointment is expected to be for nine months to allow for the incoming Council to undertake recruitment of a new permanent CEO.
Ballarat City Council’s CEO has defended a decision to censor parts of a council meeting recording, for legal reasons.
CEO Evan King told Radio 3BA that while meeting minutes are the official legal record, live streams and recordings are supplementary and reviewed to remove any potentially problematic content.
He said the practice is consistent with the Council’s procedures and not unprecedented.
It’s believed that comments from a councillor about a Powercor development were removed out concerns about potential legal action.
A study conducted for Strathbogie Shire Council has recommended a multi-million dollar development of its civic and administrative facilities in Euroa, and upgrades of existing depots in Nagambie and Euroa.
A report to last month’s Council meeting outlined redevelopment options with a likely cost of around $25M to overhaul the sites that are no longer considered fit for purpose.
Administrator Peter Stephenson, acting as the Council, adopted a motion that foreshadowed financial modelling and analysis of potential funding sources over the next few months.
Consideration of a way forward will be referred to the incoming Council after elections in October.
East Gippsland Shire Council is expected to receive a draft report soon as part of a sustainability review of the operations of the East Gippsland Livestock Exchange.
The council’s CEO Fiona Weigall says the option of selling the facility is not under consideration.
She said the review aims to promote best practices and maintain a competitive advantage for the region’s producers and agents.
Once the council considers the draft report, it is expected it will be released for public review and comment.
Moyne Shire Council has voted to return $412,000 to the state government to fund a business case for the Port Fairy landfill project, which has faced delays and confusion.
The project is meant to address eroding landfill sites at East Beach, exposed by storms a decade ago.
The state Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) is the project lead.
A change in government contracting and account management requirements has led to confusion and delays which have frustrated councillors, who have learned a solution is still five to ten years away, according to a report from The Standard.
Victorian Briefs:
Murrindindi Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from residential developers to develop two sites in Alexandra for key worker housing.
The sites are part of the Council’s Key Worker Housing Strategy.
The Council plans to maintain ownership and enter long-term leases or joint ventures.
Moira Shire Council has opened applications for its Community Leadership Program, a 10-week course focused on leadership development, networking, and emergency management.
The program is open to individuals passionate about making a meaningful impact within the community. Applications are open until Friday, 16 August.
Gannawarra Shire Council is inviting residents to vote on a name for an unnamed road in Kerang, with a list of 12 shortlisted names to choose from. Residents can select up to three names in order of preference or provide objections with reasons by 5pm Friday, 23 August.
Three community assets in Corangamite Shire will receive upgrades thanks to state government funding from Rural Tiny Towns program.
The works will improve accessibility and facilities at the Camperdown Botanic Gardens, Terang Civic Hall, and Darlington Hall.
National Roundup:
The crisis at Rex Airlines has dominated news this week, and councils in regional areas across the country are on alert despite assurances that regional routes remain operational for now.
Balonne Shire Council in Queensland is urging all levels of government to ensure the continuation of Rex Airlines’ regional routes following the airline’s entry into voluntary administration.
Mayor Samantha O’Toole said the airline provided a crucial link for the Shire, and this week’s news is a significant blow.
Flinders Shire Mayor Kate Peddle the potential closure of a vital regional airline service presents an alarming challenge for that community, as it prepares for a significant influx of workers for the CopperString transmission line project.
The crisis comes at a time when the council is seeking substantial investment in airport expansions to accommodate the influx of workers.
Similarly in Eurobodalla Shire, the council’s Moruya Airport recently announced a return to pre pandemic passenger numbers of over 20,000 and a likely increase in Rex flights and airport expansion plans.
Despite this week’s news, the council says it will keep advocating for and supporting the service, which is vital to the community for business, family connections and medical services.
It’s been a hot topic on talk radio this week, with many mayors taking the chance to plead their case for government support.
Kylie King, the Mayor of Albury and Chair of Regional Cities Australia told ABC Radio that the federal government should do all it can to Keep Rex Airlines running.
She said the flights are fundamental to regional communities and their loss would be devastating.
However Dubbo Mayor and Regional Cities NSW Chair Matthew Dickerson said a government bailout is dangerous territory and that he hoped the restructure process would be enough to keep Rex operating.
Some councils are concerned about the revenue implications.
Greg Stocks, the Mayor of Albany in WA said the airline was two months behind in its payments to the council, an indicator that cashflow may have been an issue.
Esperance Shire President Ron Chambers told the Kalgoorlie Miner that the monies owed on leases and landing charges would be quarantined while administration processes were carried out.
And in Tasmania, King Island mayor Marcus Blackie has been on ABC Radio expressing relief that flights will continue for now, stressing the importance of aviation as the main way of connecting the island to the mainland and the rest of Tasmania.
NSW:
Parramatta City Council says it has successfully prevented the release of commercially sensitive information and a breach of a commercial contract at an NCAT hearing this week.
The Council said the hearing was pursued by Cr Kellie Darley despite attempts to resolve the issue through mediation and offers of access to certain documents.
It said that has resulted in significant community expense.
The Tribunal did not entertain Cr Darley’s allegations of systemic problems in Council’s decision-making processes, which were strenously denied by the council.
Cr Darley has agreed that she does not want access to commercially sensitive information, and the Council says it is now able to release further information to her.
The NCAT matter is not concluded and has been adjourned to 9 September 2024.
In a separate case, Cr Darley is taking the Council to the Supreme Court after a finding that she had breached the code of conduct through social media posts regarding confidential arrangements with the Eel’s NRLW team.
Lane Cove Council in Sydney has voted to remove poker machines from venues it owns, affecting 17 machines across two clubs, according to a report from ABC News.
The council will consult with the clubs to help them transition to pokie-free venues, with the aim of implementing changes when leases are renewed.
The move, driven by concerns over the harm caused by gambling, has faced opposition from some councillors and club representatives who argue it will significantly impact club revenues and community activities.
Wagga Wagga City Council has secured a $420,000 federal grant to explore the potential for smaller second homes to address housing needs.
The initiative aims to offer diverse housing options, particularly for smaller households and key workers, by overcoming barriers in local regulations and fees.
The project, which includes a $30,000 in-kind contribution from the Council, seeks to increase the uptake of secondary dwellings and is set for completion by 30 May 2025.
Willoughby City Council has secured nearly $875K in funding from the NSW Safe Speeds program to enhance safety and accessibility at Castle Cove Local Centre.
The project includes creating a 40km/h High Pedestrian Activity Area with cobblestone entry treatments, new pedestrian crossings, road reconfigurations, and landscaping upgrades.
Mayor Tanya Taylor said the transformation would prioritise safety, and be subject to community consultation
The City of Canterbury Bankstown is intensifying efforts to curb illegal footway parking to ensure pedestrian safety and protect council assets.
A new campaign reminds motorists that parking on footpaths, driveways, or grassed areas is illegal and can result in fines over $319.
Last year, the council issued 6,429 fines for such violations.
The campaign includes social media outreach and flyer distribution to educate the public.
Construction has begun on the Anthony Skarratt Reserve in Box Hill, the largest community and sporting facility in The Hills Shire in over 20 years.
The reserve will feature six sporting fields, six multi-purpose courts, a community center, an outdoor gym, and a playground.
Stage one is expected to be completed by late 2025.
The project is partially funded by a $14.15M grant from the NSW Government.
The NSW Government has announced its 2024-25 Shark Management Program, prioritising beachgoer safety while enhancing marine life protection.
Key measures include removing shark nets one month earlier, increasing net inspections, and trialing lights on nets to prevent turtle entanglement.
The $21.5 million program features drone surveillance, SMART drumlines, and acoustic warning devices, covering 25 local government areas.
The Government says it will further engage with local councils on its shark management program.
National Briefs:
Waverley Council’s longest serving member will not be contesting the upcoming Council elections.
Sally Betts is stepping away after 28 years including two terms as mayor from 2008 to 2011, and 2012 to 2017.
She told the Waverley Courier that she was leaving the council in good, solid hands.
Eloise Chaplain has been appointed as the Interim General Manager of Narrabri Shire Council, effective from 16 August 2024 for a potential maximum period of 12 months.
Ms Chaplain is currently the council’s Director of Infrastructure Delivery, and will relieve Rob Williams who leaves this month to take up the CEO role at Bundaberg Regional Council.
There’s been a councillor resignation at Mid Murray Council.
Advice was given this week that former deputy mayor John Forrester had stepped down after nearly six years of service.
The council will receive a report later this month in relation to the casual vacancy.
QLD:
Reports have emerged this week that Townsville Mayor Troy Thompson is suing the council for reputational damage.
The Townsville Bulletin quotes sources who say the embattled mayor is seeking $100,000 in compensation for breach of his human rights.
The council passed a vote of no-confidence in Mr Thompson in June, following which he took a leave of absence for mental health reasons, returning earlier this month.
The Crime and Corruption Commission is investigating allegations that he misrepresented his military service during the election campaign and afterwards.
Repeated calls from councillors and politicians, including Premier Steve Miles, for Mr Thompson to stand down have been ignored.
It was reported that councillors met with the mayor on Friday to explore how they could work better together.
Flinders Shire Council has released a statement regarding its former CEO Hari Boppudi, who had resigned in response to show cause notice.
The Council recently commenced a recruitment process for a new permanent CEO, and in May it announced the interim appointment of former Victorian and Queensland Council CEO Bruce Davidson while the recruitment process takes place.
The statement was released following significant queries from the public, after an investigation into allegations of suspected corrupt conduct by the former CEO.
It said that some allegations were substantiated, and a show cause notice was issued to Mr Boppudi seeking an explanation as to why his employment should not be terminated.
In response, it said Mr Boppudi tendered his resignation with immediate effect.
Police advised that the matter will not be taken any further, and the Council has been advised that the resignation mitigated the council’s risk in relation to the matter.
TAS:
**Hobart City Council’**s Planning Committee has approved a $40 million development for Liverpool Street, featuring a 12-storey office building with a basement car park, retail space, and a café.
The project includes landscaped rooftop areas and a new rivulet walk, enhancing the area’s aesthetic and providing much-needed office space.
The development aims to boost the city’s economic growth and address its low commercial vacancy rate.
Clarence City Council has approved a second 18-hole golf course within Mathew Goggin’s Seven Mile Beach development.
The new course at Five Mile Beach will share facilities with the existing Seven Mile Beach course.
Mayor Brendan Blomeley said the project had the potential to transform dormant land into a world-class public facility, benefiting the community and local businesses through golf tourism.
Dorset Council in Tasmania is preparing to start the third stage of the North East Rail Trail, which will extend the track from Scottsdale to Lilydale, doubling its length to roughly 40 kilometres.
The project, initially planned to run to Launceston, has seen costs rise to over $4.2 million due to increased expenses for decommissioning, new crossings, a tunnel, and bridge upgrades.
Despite retaining a $1.47 million federal grant, the project still faces a $2.8 million shortfall, according to a report from The Advocate.
SA:
The Rural City of Murray Bridge Council is preparing for the growth that will make it South Australia’s largest regional city.
A new satellite city at Gifford Hill will add 17,100 new homes and up to 44,000 residents to the city, and will be the largest single development in the state since the 1950s.
The council has recently endorsed the Murray Bridge Structure Plan, which identifies the essential land, services and infrastructure to support an expanding population.
LGA South Australia welcomed the announcement of the new development, and said it was exciting news that demonstrates that local councils are doing their part to support housing, jobs and well-planned communities.
WA:
A man accused of smashing 63 windows at the City of Vincent offices in Perth with a claw hammer, following the seizure and euthanisation of his dog, has been released on bail.
ABC News reported that Damien John Wright must adhere to strict bail conditions and is due back in court next month.
The court heard that CCTV footage captured a person causing the damage, but the offender’s identity is unclear.
The magistrate considered Mr Wright’s post traumatic stress disorder and lack of serious criminal history in the bail decision.
The City of Kwinana has installed 30 signs detailing $500 fines and increased Ranger patrols as part of efforts to reduce off-road vehicle offences.
Only one site in the city permits off-road motorbike activity, while four-wheel drive off-road activity is entirely prohibited.
Chief Executive Wayne Jack said there had been a significant rise in illegal off-road activities, with particular areas to be targeted by city rangers.
The City of Joondalup has partnered with Perth Symphony Orchestra to launch a Young Musician of the Year Award, offering young musicians a chance to compete for a $5,000 prize pool and perform with the orchestra.
The competition, featuring categories in Brass, Percussion, Strings, Woodwind, and Piano, will culminate in a Grand Final in October.
Global Roundup:
UK:
Rotherham Council has decided not to remove a photo of former mayor Shaun Wright from the town hall, according to BBC News.
A petition with 27 signatures calling for the photo’s removal was submitted to the council, and suggesting it be replaced with a QR code detailing Wright’s failures.
Mr Wright resigned as South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner in 2014 after the Jay Report revealed extensive child grooming in the town.
The council rejected the proposal, despite criticism from those affected by the scandal, citing no legal or historical precedent for such action.
The council’s assistant chief executive Jo Brown said pictures of former mayors dating back more than 100 years were displayed as a “matter of historical record.”
Financially troubled Birmingham City Council has spent £1m on manual bookkeeping due to the failure of its new £38m Oracle accounting software to automate processes.
Local gov dot co uk has reported that over 40,000 hours of manual work has been required to maintain daily operations.
The council said significant investment is needed to resolve the issues which have been frustrating.
The new Labour government has set a target for London Mayor Sadiq Khan to build approximately 80,000 new homes annually, more than double the 35,000 homes built last year.
The BBC reported that the target is part of a broader plan to restore mandatory house-building targets and overhaul the planning system.
While the mayor has welcomed the challenge, Conservatives argue the target is insufficient and less than their previous goal of nearly 100,000 homes.
USA:
The city of Rochester in Minnesota has restricted comments on its official Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as pages for parks, police, and other departments, due to “counterproductive” activity on its accounts.
The Mayor, Kim Norton, has also disabled comments on her pages, after experiencing negative interactions online.
The Star Tribune that some users have defended the decision, while others have criticised it as potentially harmful to community engagement and trust in local government.
Join us in the fight against toxic behaviour towards elected representatives and public officials. Register your free place for the global online summit, Tackling Toxicity, Cultivating Civility coming up in October, led by international civility campaigner Diane Kalen-Sukra. Details in the show notes.
The City of South Pasadena, California, has launched the nation’s first all-electric police fleet, replacing its gas-powered vehicles with 20 Teslas to reduce emissions and combat climate change.
The Associated Press reported that the fleet includes 10 Tesla Model Ys for patrol and 10 Model 3s for detective and administrative duties.
The initiative is partly funded by energy providers, and aims to save the city $4,000 annually per vehicle on energy costs and reduce maintenance expenses.
The Mayor of a South Carolina city has died after suffering a stroke.
Richard Turner had been a councillor at the City of Belmont for over a decade before becoming mayor last year.
The Charlotte Observer reported that his death followed complications from gallbladder and pancreas surgeries. He was 62.
NZ:
Councils in New Zealand are opposing proposed changes by the NZ Transport Agency to reduce funding for repairing transport infrastructure after severe weather events.
The changes include increasing the threshold for qualifying events and reducing the funding assistance rate, which councils argue would impose significant financial burdens and undermine proactive maintenance and resilience efforts.
Newsroom reported that Local Government NZ and various councils, including Gisborne and Taranaki, have criticised the timing and financial impact of the proposals, saying that they are driven by financial constraints rather than the best interests of the transport network.
Dunedin City Council has demanded Councillor Lee Vandervis formally apologise for race-based comments or face further sanctions., after an investigation found he had breached the code of conduct.
Radio New Zealand reported that the council upheld the findings of the investigation that Cr Vandervis had engaged in racist behaviour.
Cr Vandervis did not attend the meeting, and reiterated his controversial views in a statement.
His refusal to engage with the process was described by colleagues as disrespectful.
Cr Vandervis is required to apologise by 20 August or potentially face additional consequences.