MAYORAL MINUTE
Concern over contribution diversion
A Mayoral Minute opposing reforms to infrastructure contributions was supported by Council. The reforms would see developer contributions for major projects given to the State for distribution, rather than going directly to local Councils. Council will lobby relevant Ministers around the changes, and also support LGNSW in its opposition to the reforms.
REPORTS
Adams to continue as Deputy Mayor
Councillor Christine Adams was re-elected as Deputy Mayor and will serve in the position until the 2021 Local Government Elections in December.
Cultural Plan adopted
Council adopted a new Cultural Plan after it was placed on display for 28 days. The plan delivers a framework which identifies the value of culture in Broken Hill and provides strategic directions for cultural programs, services, and facilities in the City for the next twenty years. The plan will be added to Council’s website, and can be viewed on page 86 on in the meantime.
New policies for library
Several new policies for the library were adopted after being on display for 28 days. The policies relate to library internet access, library membership, and the general operation of the library service. The policies can be found on page 192 of .
Gallery policy supported
Council adopted the Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery Collection Management Policy. The policy provides guidance on the processes for acquisition, management, and deaccessioning of all artworks of the collection that falls under the direct care and control of the Gallery. The policy can be viewed on page 218 of .
Business Support Plan on show again
The draft Business Support Policy will be placed on public display for another 28 days after significant changes were made as a result of feedback received during the initial 28-day display period. The policy has been amended to include some of the recommendations in the submissions and the opportunity for Broken Hill businesses to access short-term, no interest loans of up to $2,000 and rates relief through agreed payment plans during periods of extreme hardship as identified by the State or Federal Government. The loans will be available to businesses who are unable to access existing business support packages being offered by the State and/or Federal Government. The revised plan can be found on page 233 of .
Council hit hard by COVID
Council expects to take a $400,000 hit in income this quarter as a result of the effects of COVID. Major projects and the delivery of new plant, vehicles, and material has also been delayed.
Draft financials tabled
Council presented its draft Primary Financial Statements for 2020/21. The figures will be audited and tabled at the October meeting for adoption.
Tourism campaign successful
A report on the “It’s Out There” tourism campaign being undertaken by Council in partnership with Central Darling Shire shows the initiative has been very effective. The $590,000 campaign has been delivered in “bursts” due to tourism interruption caused by the COVID pandemic, and media coverage generated by the campaign is valued at approximately $1.7 million.
Committee volunteers recognised
Annual and financial reports were received from the many s355 Committees who help operate and maintain the city’s various public facilities. Mayor Darriea Turley and Deputy Mayor Christine Adams took a break in proceedings to extend sincere thanks on behalf of Council to all the committee volunteers who give up their time for the benefit of the community.
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