Mayoral Column - Wednesday 24 February

Mayor Beer is on leave this week so we’re providing an update from Council.

Our first Council meeting for the year was held last Thursday in Bombala and as always there were a large number of reports presented. You can read the full business papers on Council’s website. Here is an overview of key items discussed and resolutions passed:

•Dalgety Showground s355 Committee Resignations Councillors accepted a resignation from one of the members of the Dalgety Showground s355 Management Committee. Councillors noted the wonderful contribution of those community members who provide their services on committees and thanked all s355 members. The process to fill this vacant position will begin shortly.

•Acquisition of property at 17 Bent Street, Jindabyne Council recently purchased the property at 17 Bent Street Jindabyne which is required to be used for the provision of community services. Councillors approved the recommendation to classify the block as operational land and to commence an EOI process for community groups/community service providers to suggest community uses for the land.

•North Ridge Reserve s355 Committee Five nominations for membership to the re-established North Ridge s355 committee were received following the EOI process. The role of this committee is to manage the reserve and ensure it is well maintained. This has always been a very active committee and we look forward to continuing to work with them.

•Bombala Library Sign New signage for the Bombala library will be installed on Maybe Street this month. This will ensure improved visibility of the library and community centre for passing traffic, along with clear messaging of operating hours.

•Draft Rural Land Use and Settlements Strategies Much discussion was once again focused on the Draft Rural Land Use and Settlements Strategies. While a motion to extend the feedback period was not agreed, revised drafts including feedback through submissions are currently in progress and will go out for comment when ready.

•Softwoods Industry Bushfire Recovery Study A key report was tabled regarding a study that was undertaken on the future of Bombala’s softwoods industry. This is a vital industry for the region and a motion was passed to consider implementation of some recommendations in Council’s next operational plan.

•Application to set maximum level of minimum rates Councillors approved for Council to set the maximum level of minimum rate in all categories. This does not mean that this maximum will be used, but if approved by IPART it will provide Council maximum flexibility as it works to harmonise the rating systems from the three predecessor councils. Models for a single rate structure are also being prepared.

•Harmonising Council’s customer service hours Council approved a recommendation to harmonise the hours for the four customer service offices across the region. From Monday 1 March 2021 offices in Bombala, Berridale, Cooma and Jindabyne will all be open to serve the community Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm - with payments available from 8.30am to 4pm. For urgent matters Council can be reached 24/7 on 1300 345 345.