Wrap of the October Meeting

Published on 31 October 2019

MAYORAL MINUTES

Save Our Recycling

The first Mayoral Minute called on Council to reiterate its support for Local Government NSW's Save Our Recycling campaign. The campaign advocates for a greater share of the State's Waste Levy to be utilised to fund waste management, recycling, and resource recovery across NSW. The Mayoral Minute was supported. More information on the Save Our Recycling campaign can be found here.

Call for democracy in Shire

The second Mayoral Minute was also supported and will see Council write to the NSW Government and request that some form of democratically elected body be implemented in Central Darling Shire to represent and advocate for its residents, particularly on water issues. The Shire has been under Administration since 2014.





REPORTS

Two volunteers step up

Two locals have volunteered to serve on the Community Assistance Grants panel. Kenneth Martin and Pamela Tucker will work with Councillors and the General Manager to assess Council funding applications from community groups. Nomination forms for Community Assistance grants can be found here.

Impound fees to be redirected

Council announced its amended fee structure for the new animal shelter which is expected to be commissioned early next year. Under the new arrangement residents will pay animal fees directly to Council once it takes over running of the service, rather than paying it to a contractor, as is currently the case.

Alcohol free zones remain

Existing alcohol free zones have been re-established around the city in Creedon Street, and around the Lamb Oval and the Coles Express (Shell Memorial) service station. The existing South Broken Hill alcohol free zone was also expanded to incorporate establishments that supply alcohol.

Focus on finances

Council considered its yearly and quarterly financials. Council presented its audited financial statements for the 2018/2019 financial year, with results showing a net operating profit of $304,000. However the report noted that the positive result was largely attributed to one-off income from charges and fees associated with the W2BH pipeline. Council also tabled its quarterly budget update for the period ending September 19. It predicted an operating deficit increase of around $2.7 million due to additional expenditure for legal matters. Meanwhile expenditure in the capital budget is expected to decrease by around $465,000. Major changes include the deferral of the Warnock Street depot upgrade other road projects, and additional expenses to complete the waste transfer station and carry out urgent air-conditioning repair work on Council assets.

Animal policy on display

Councillors voted to put its draft Companion Animals Policy on public display for 28 days. The plan aims to outline the importance of companion animals to quality of life, meet the needs of animals and owners, and further promote the importance of responsible pet ownership. The draft policywill be posted to Council's website shortly.