Mayoral Column - Wednesday 22 April 2020

At the time of writing my column, it is pleasing to know there are still only six confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Snowy Monaro. We still have a long way to go before this crisis is over and now is definitely not the time for complacency. We must still follow social distancing requirements and adhere to the advice from our hardworking medical professionals.

We know it has been a dreadful couple of months for our local businesses. First, the bushfires crippled our summer tourism and now our businesses are adapting to life under the COVID-19 restrictions.

At last week’s Council Meeting, it was decided to waive the inspection fees for all food premise inspections conducted in the 2019/2020 financial year.

Council has provided in-principle support for the proposed Monaro Rail Trail. This support is pending a report to be delivered by the NSW Government into the viability of reinstating the rail line from Queanbeyan to Bombala.

When these recommendations are handed down and a further report comes before Council detailing the ongoing costs of maintaining the trail, we will then determine our final position. The proposed trail from either Queanbeyan or Michelago to Bombala is expected to result in significant boosts to our economy of up to $25 million.

The report outlines the trail would cost $48m unsealed or up to $63m sealed (a sealed service would potentially attract more users).

Council will place its Draft 2021 Operational Plan on public exhibition from Friday 24 April until Sunday 24 May. The plan sets out the priorities, direction and expected service delivery levels for our Snowy Monaro community.

Included in this document is the Draft 2021 Revenue Policy. Council has applied the recommended rates peg of 2.6% to the Draft 2021 Revenue Policy. A final decision on whether the 2.6% rates peg is introduced will be determined following the public exhibition period.

The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal has set the 2020-21 rate peg for NSW councils at 2.6%. This increase is in line with inflation and is needed for Council to continue delivering the services expected of us.

Councillor Peter Beer Mayor of Snowy Monaro Regional Council