2014-2015 Annual Report - District Council of Grant

ANNUAL
REPORT
2014-2015
‘…A progressive and caring Council….’
Contents
Council Profile …………………………………………………………………………………..1
Mayor’s Report ………………………………………………………………………………….2
Chief Executive Officer’s Report ………………………………………………………..6
Strategic Management Plan ………………………………………………………………8
Elected Members ………………………………………………………………………………10
Governance ……………………………………………………………………………………….11
Finance and Community Services ………………………………………………………20
Mount Gambier Airport …………………………………………………………………….25
Mount Gambier Saleyards …………………………………………………………………27
Works ………………………………………………………………………………………………..29
Human Resources ……………………………………………………………………………..31
Environmental Services ……………………………………………………………………..32
Audited Financial Statements …………………………………………………………….36
South East Local Government Association (SELGA) Annual Report …….42
COUNCIL PROFILE
7,855 residents
190,477 hectares
5,387 ratable properties
510km sealed roads
1025km unsealed roads
$7.9m general rate revenue
$13.674m operational revenue
$14.251m operational expenditure
$6.797m capital expenditure
The District Council of Grant is the most
southern local government area in South
Australia. Situated on the south east coast it
is bounded to the south and west by the
Southern Ocean, the Victorian Border to the
east and the Wattle Range Council to the
north. The Council encircles the local
government area of the City of Mount
Gambier, and is located 450km from
Adelaide and Melbourne.
area of 190,477 hectares. The area contains
some of the richest and most productive
agricultural land in South Australia. Major
industries include Agriculture, Forestry,
Fishing, Transport, Manufacturing and
Retail.
The Port MacDonnell Fishing Industry is a
significant factor in the economy of the
area, in particular, the rock lobster industry.
Our spectacular coastline and natural and
built heritage make the area a popular
travelling destination.
20.0%
16.0%
12.0%
8.0%
4.0%
0.0%
Agriculture,…
Manufacturing
Retail trade
Health care and…
Construction
Education and…
Accommodation…
Transport, postal…
Other services
Public…
Wholesale trade
Professional,…
Administrative…
Electricity, gas,…
Financial and…
Rental, hiring…
Information…
Arts and…
Mining
Inadequately…
The Council is predominantly rural with a
number of small townships, serves a
population of 7,855 residents and covers an
1
MAYOR’S REPORT
Government, they instead introduced the
Cost of Living concession that would be paid
directly to pensioners and concession card
holders. This was a big win for South
Australian pensioners.
Palliative Care
Palliative Care Services in our region have
been hit hard through budget cuts by the
State Government. Our Council, along with
the City of Mt Gambier and local lobby
groups, will continue to put pressure on the
Health Minister and our State and Federal
Government to reinstate the budget and
bring back the level of care that has
previously been afforded to those families
facing the sad journey for end-of-life care
that they deserve.
We have been
encouraged by the support we have seen
across our community.
Where has the time gone since our last
Annual Report! The 2014-2015 period has
been filled with highs and lows. The
challenges seem to keep on coming with
Local Government and community
expectations being tested by external
decisions from all tiers of Government. As a
local Government body we continue to
advocate on your behalf to try to influence
Government decisions and policy, as well as
deliver services and projects for the
community that we serve.
Some
achievements and challenges during this
time have included:
Emergency Services Structural Reform and
the Increase of the Emergency Services Levy
The reform process started last year has
been met with opposition from across the
sector. All of those affected have agreed
that there are areas that can be changed to
enhance the services undertaken by the
State Emergency Service (SES), Country Fire
Service (CFS) and Metropolitan Fire Service
(MFS). Real consultation needed to take
place to encourage the services to talk
through issues and agree on not only the
process but the changes that would bring
about reform within each area. The mix of
paid staff and volunteers has been the
cheapest way of achieving protection of life
and property and in the past have
complimented one another.
Minister Piccolo has driven the reform of the
SES, CFS and MFS, citing the need to reduce
Pensioner Concessions
The State Government announced they
would be removing Pensioner Concessions
from Council rates from 1 July 2015. Council
joined all Local Government bodies across
the State to protest and lobby for its
reinstatement. The State blamed the
Federal Government for budget cuts and
through the concerted effort of Local
Government and our communities, the
State announced on 15 May 2015 that while
they wouldn’t pay the concession to Local
2
MAYOR’S REPORT
duplication and drive down the cost of
supplying the emergency services. He has
increased private landholder costs of the
emergency services levy to 90%, reducing
the Government’s bottom line to less than
10% of the funding required to supply the
equipment and pay the costs of emergency
management across the sector.
a modern university campus in the region.
The City of Mount Gambier and District
Council of Grant joined with UniSA to offer
both financial and letters of support and
commitment to the facility and the
submission to gain funding. The project
aimed to keep our youth in the area to study
and have students come from other areas of
the country plus internationally, basing
themselves here to study at the modern
university. Local contractors are engaged on
this project with over 50% local content a
real boost to the economy. The completed
facility will be ready for early 2016.
Even though the process has slowed to
some degree, work is continuing on the
reform. Hopefully the Minister and senior
staff are now engaging appropriately with all
services. Our volunteers need to be
commended on their dedication and service
to our communities. Council will continue
to monitor and lobby on your behalf for the
best outcome for our volunteers, and
protest against the impost of an increased
levy on behalf of ratepayers.
Understanding the ICE Factor
19 February 2015 showed how a regional
community wanted to know more about the
drug and how it is starting to infiltrate our
community – both the facts and social
challenges. Parents, grandparents, and
friends young and old came together to
learn about the issue and hopefully make
some sense of it, but also learn how we
need to address the issues and those
affected by drug and alcohol abuse.
Brown Bay Community Project
Thanks to Christian Surfers South East, the
well-constructed board walk has been
completed, enhancing the new toilet
facilities on this beautiful part of our coast.
Access to the beach from the carpark will be
much safer and takes away the need to walk
on the access track risking pedestrians and
vehicles moving on and off the beach.
All Councils in the Limestone Coast have
assisted in getting these forums delivered
across our region. From these forums, a
dedicated group of people are working on
putting a submission together to take to the
Federal Government to gain funding to set
up a rehabilitation facility to help those who
need help to address the ICE and drug
dependency. As a Council we will work with
these groups to help where possible to get a
solution to the problems.
UniSA Groundbreaking Ceremony
14 January 2015 saw the state of the art
project that was to be the larger footprint of
3
MAYOR’S REPORT
Premier’s Mission to Shandong Province in
China
In May 2015, some 200 delegates attended
the trade mission to China. I was proud to
be given the opportunity, along with four
other Mayors from this region to be part of
group to investigate first-hand the
opportunities that exist within China for our
produce, commodities and services.
Forming friendships and building trust is the
first step in the process. We are now seeing
delegations coming out to Australia to
investigate the possibilities and the
products they wish to purchase and the
enterprises they could potentially co-invest
in. Some of our local farms are now
engaging with the entrepreneurs. Time will
tell how successful we will be. Much more
work will be undertaken over the next few
years to hopefully benefit our State and our
region.
TimberLink Success Story
Over the past 18 months the Timberlink mill
at Tarpeena has spent in excess of $28
million on upgrades to their facilities to
value add to our local pine wood. They are
currently putting in two continuous drying
kilns, and part of the process is
computerised and controlled with the latest
technology sourced from around the world.
Staff continue to be up-skilled and trained to
reduce costs and increase the value adding
capacity of the mill. In excess of $8 million
has been expended in labour to carry out
the work so far which is a huge benefit to
the local economy.
Academic Scholarships
Council has continued to assist local
students by donating scholarships for Senior
Students at Mount Gambier High School,
Grant High School, Tenison Woods College,
St Martins College and Allendale East Area
School. These scholarships apply to students
living within the District Council of Grant
area.
4
MAYOR’S REPORT
Seaweed Harvesting
TAFESA Job Cuts and Course Reductions
During my visit to China, I was very fortunate
to join the Wattle Range Council’s Mayor
and CEO on a tour of a Seaweed Harvesting
Plant, which is owned by an investor in the
Wattle Range region. The Chinese firm that
purchased the Seaweed Harvesting
Business has applied and is extending the
area for harvesting seaweed from the
Victorian border to the licensed area in the
Wattle Range Council.
We have seen across the board reductions
in funding for Vocational Education and
Training due to the lack of control, planning
and supervisions of the Skills for All debacle.
We are seeing the fallout for inaction to
address the problems that were far
advanced.
Private Regional Training
Organisations are also disappearing. We are
being told that training will now be linked to
jobs. Regional areas are losing staffing
positions. As a Council we will be continuing
to take this issue up with TAFESA
Department heads and the Minister to try to
effect change for the best outcome for our
area.
I would like to thank my fellow Councillors,
staff, volunteers, community groups and
organisations for their valued contributions
to make the Grant Council area such a great
place to live and work.
Prison Expansion
Whether we agree or not the prison
situated on Carpenter Rocks Road in the
Grant Council area is continuing to grow.
The latest project finished just recently will
house another group of inmates in twostorey apartment type accommodation.
The State of the art facilities boast the latest
in security technology. Once again, local
contractors and services were used to
complete the project on time and on
budget, quality guaranteed, has meant that
these contractors will be able to quote on a
similarly designed prison project at Port
Augusta, which is testimony to the quality
tradesmen we have in our community that
can tender for such projects.
Richard Sage
Mayor
5
CEO’S REPORT
and commercial sectors alike, and I would
like to thank everyone who worked hard to
achieve a successful outcome for this
project.
Council continues to be
appreciative of the support of the Port
MacDonnell and surrounding community,
and the feedback received from the various
commercial fishing associations in our
district.
Port MacDonnell and River & Coast
Masterplans
In continuing to plan for our future, Council
has now adopted the River and Coastal
Communities Master Plan, with this
following from the adoption and
implementation of the Port MacDonnell
Urban Design Framework and Master Plan
which has commenced with the upgrade of
the Village Green in Port MacDonnell.
The 2014/2015 year has been another year
of achievement and challenges for Council
and the community, with a continued focus
on ensuring that the District Council of
Grant is well placed to meet expectations in
its short and long term future.
Council has completed several major
projects this year which will result in
improved facilities and accessibility to some
of our great natural resources.
In order to ensure an appropriate level of
community engagement, these Masterplans
were developed with extensive input and
consultation with our communities and
other stakeholders, with Council then going
on to consider such Plans for adoption.
Port MacDonnell Marine Infrastructure
project
The Masterplans are effectively a ‘blueprint’
for the future development of our towns
and communities, and encourage a
coordinated approach from Council and
community organisations that can assist
with the implementation of the plans.
Funding opportunities have a greater
chance of success with such an approach as
well, and Council will be pursuing any such
external funding opportunities.
The upgrade of the Port MacDonnell Marine
Facilities was completed on-time and under
budget. The $2.7m upgrade included a
complete reconstruction with a new 4-lane
boat ramp, extension of the commercial
wharf, two floating pontoons, upgraded
entrance road and carpark, new concrete
paths, upgraded lighting in the carpark, and
installation of private infrastructure for fuel
facilities. The new marine facilities are a
great facility for the Port MacDonnell and
surrounding community – both recreational
6
CEO’S REPORT
Port MacDonnell Jetty Upgrade
plans for our various groups of Council
assets.
Through its work to make our local
environment sustainable and attractive to
both locals and visitors to the area, Council
is pleased to see the restoration of the Port
MacDonnell Jetty by the Department of
Planning, Transport and Infrastructure has
now been completed. With brand new
decking and handrails, it looks great and is
another great asset for the community.
Council was able to retain the timber from
the existing jetty decking to be utilised in
community projects at Port MacDonnell and
Carpenter Rocks as planned.
The adoption of these plans enables us to
critically assess our past methodology and
approach, our performance, and our
financial sustainability in maintaining and
improving our asset base. These Plans
include
Roads,
Airport,
Saleyards,
Community Wastewater Management
Schemes, and Buildings. Once again, these
Plans are essentially a blueprint for our
future approach on what we should provide,
what service levels are required, what
standards are expected from the
community, and what can we afford to do.
These plans all link into our Long Term
Financial Planning and our Annual Budget &
Business Plan.
The upgrade of the jetty included a change
of use from a commercial wharf to a
recreational jetty, and this supports our
commitment to tourism within the region.
Council is committed to the future
implementation and continued review of
our asset management plans, and these are
critical to our continued future financial
sustainability.
Organisational Reviews
Council has also undertaken a number of
reviews of our organisational structures and
business practices, and again, this is to
ensure that we are fully aware and informed
of our capacity and ability to continue to
deliver appropriate and effective services.
I would like to thank the Mayor and Elected
Members, Council staff, volunteers,
ratepayers and residents for their ongoing
support as we continue our approach to
improve and maintain the high expectations
and standard of living of the District Council
of Grant.
All organisational reviews focus on service
delivery,
improved
outcomes
and
efficiencies in the way Council does its
business. The implementation of actions
has commenced and will continue for the
foreseeable future.
Planning for our Future
All Councils are required by legislation to
adopt Long Term Financial Plans, and Asset
Management Plans – and Council has
continued to roll out the development,
review, and adoption of asset management
Trevor Smart
Chief Executive Officer
7
STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN
Council Vision / Mission
To plan, develop and advocate for the
provision
of
appropriate
Council
infrastructure to meet the needs of our
Community that can be sustained within
Council’s resources.
Council’s Vision and Mission are contained
within the Strategic Management Plan.
The Vision is:‘A progressive and caring Council, providing
responsible
leadership,
sustainable
development and cost effective quality
service.’
∼ Infrastructure, Saleyards, Airport and
Buildings Asset Management Plans in
place to maintain, develop and utilise
∼ Airport Master Plan adopted
∼ Saleyards and Airport improvements
and upgrades
∼ Brown Bay Amenities and carpark
project completed
∼ Port MacDonnell Marine
Infrastructure project completed
∼ South East Local Government
Regional Trails Project adopted
∼ Master Plans and Community Plans
process
∼ Port MacDonnell Master Plan
adopted
∼ River & Coast Masterplan adopted
∼ Tarpeena Community Plan adopted
The Mission seeks:‘To provide a range of services which meet
environmental, social and economic needs
of our Community.’
Strategic Management Plan 2012-2016
The Strategic Management Plan guides
Council’s direction and actions.
The
Strategic Management Plan is widely
available from Council’s website and offices.
The five key result areas cover:
∼ Infrastructure
∼ Economic Development
∼ Community Development and
Support
∼ Governance
∼ Quality Environment
Economic Development
To strengthen the economic base, promote
employment opportunities and sustainable
growth in the District.
Ongoing:
∼ advocacy for local contractors
involvement in Government and large
projects undertaken in the region
∼ support of the commercial fishing
industry related to Marine Parks
∼ advocacy on the retention and
viability of TAFE SA for the future
development of young people in the
region
The next major review of the Strategic
Management Plan is currently in progress
with adoption likely to take place in early
2016.
Infrastructure
8
STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN
∼ active participation in the area of
tourism in supporting and seeking
opportunities for hosting of major
events
To provide sound leadership
management to our Community.
and
Adopted:
∼ long-term financial plan
∼ community funding and support
policy
∼ Code of Conduct for Council
Members
∼ Code of Conduct for Council
Employees
Community Development and Support
To plan, design, coordinate and implement
the social, Community, recreational, health
and medical services, facilities and
infrastructure
necessary
for
the
enhancement of the physical, social and
cultural amenity of our District.
Quality Environment
To protect and enhance the natural and built
environment for a sustainable future for the
District.
∼ Ongoing youth engagement through
programs including Cyber Safety,
Geared2Drive, Youth Week
∼ Advocacy for tourism and economic
development through the forming of
a joint Councils working group on
tourism and economic development
∼ Formulation of a promotional
campaign highlighting DC Grant’s
excellent tourism attractions
∼ Roadside Vegetation Management
Plan
∼ Reviewed Waste Transfer Station
management
∼ Involvement in coastal management
and protection at Pelican Point
∼ Focus on illegal dumping
Governance
9
ELECTED MEMBERS
The District Council of Grant is represented by a Mayor and nine (9) Elected Members. The
Council Area is divided into three (3) Wards: Central Ward (7 Elected Members), Tarpeena Ward
(1 Elected Member) and Port MacDonnell Ward (1 Elected Member). The Mayor is elected by
all who vote and is Council’s representative spokesperson for the District.
Mayor Richard Sage
Cr Brian Collins
Cr Bruce Bain
Cr Alan Hill
Cr Shirley Little
Cr Gill Clayfield
Deputy Mayor
Cr Greg Saunders
Cr Graham Slarks
10
Cr Barry Kuhl
Cr Julie Reis
GOVERNANCE
Meeting Attendance
Elected Members are part of the Full Council and attend Full Council Meetings. In addition,
nominated Elected Members are Members of Council’s Committees. For the 2014-2015 year,
there were:23
6
0
2
3
3
Full Council Meetings (1 meeting was adjourned and rescheduled due to a lack of
quorum)
Grant Council Development Assessment Panel (CDAP) Meetings
Works Committee Meetings
Mount Gambier Airport Management Committee Meetings
Mount Gambier Saleyards Advisory Committee Meetings
Audit Committee Meetings
Name
Mayor Sage
Cr Bain
Cr Clayfield
(EM from December
2014)
Cr Collins
Cr Hill
Cr Kuhl
Cr Little
Committee/Council
Full Council
Airport Committee
Saleyards Committee
Audit Committee
Full Council
CDAP
Airport Committee
Saleyards Committee
Audit Committee
Full Council
Attendance Record
22 attended out of 23 meetings held
2 attended out of 2 meetings held
2 attended out of 3 meetings held
1 attended out of 3 meetings held
15 attended out of 23 meetings held
3 attended out of 6 meetings held
1 attended out of 2 meetings held
2 attended out of 3 meetings held
2 attended out of 3 meetings held
10 attended out of 14 meetings held
Full Council
Airport Committee
Saleyards Committee
Full Council
Airport Committee
Audit Committee
Full Council
CDAP
Saleyards Committee
Full Council
Airport Committee
20 attended out of 23 meetings held
2 attended out of 2 meetings held
3 attended out of 3 meetings held
22 attended out of 23 meetings held
2 attended out of 2 meetings held
3 attended out of 3 meetings held
23 attended out of 23 meetings held
4 attended out of 6 meetings held
3 attended out of 3 meetings held
22 attended out of 23 meetings held
1 attended out of 1 meetings held
Full Council
Airport Committee
9 attended out of 12 meetings held
0 attended out of 1 meetings held
(representative from
December 2014)
Cr Morgan
(EM until December
2014)
11
87% of
meetings
attended
62% of
meetings
attended
71% of
meetings
attended
89% of
meetings
attended
96% of
meetings
attended
94% of
meetings
attended
96% of
meetings
attended
69% of
meetings
attended
GOVERNANCE
Name
Cr Reis
Committee/Council
Full Council
Airport Committee
(representative from
December 2014)
Attendance Record
20 attended out of 23 meetings held
1 attended out of 1 meetings held
Saleyards Committee
1 attended out of 2 meetings held
Cr Saunders
Full Council
19 attended out of 23 meetings held
Cr Slarks
Full Council
CDAP
Saleyards Committee
Audit Committee
20 attended out of 23 meetings held
4 attended out of 6 meetings held
1 attended out of 3 meetings held
2 attended out of 3 meetings held
(representative from
December 2014)
Annual Allowances
85% of
meetings
attended
83% of
meetings
attended
77% of
meetings
attended
o $200.00 per Meeting
o $50.00 per Teleconference
Meeting
Council
Council Member Annual Allowances are
now (independently) set by the
Remuneration Tribunal. Council Members
are entitled to receive the following annual
allowance as determined by the
Remuneration Tribunal pursuant to Section
76 of the Local Government Act (amended
each year with any CPI change) for
performing and discharging their official
functions and duties.
∼ Mayor
o $36,400 per annum paid
quarterly in advance
∼ Deputy Mayor
o $11,375 per annum paid
quarterly in arrears
∼ Other Elected Members
o $9,100 per annum paid
quarterly in arrears
Audit Committee
∼ Independent Member
o $200.00 per Meeting
In addition to any allowance paid, Elected
Members are also entitled to receive
reimbursement for travel within the area of
Council, and dependent care expenses
associated with attendance at Council and
Committee meetings.
Additional Support
Council has resolved to make available to
Elected Members, the following facilities
and support to assist them in fulfilling their
official functions and duties:An iPad issued to Members, on the
understanding that all equipment remains
the property of Council, with Council
provision of 12GB data over 12 months. The
Member being responsible for any
consumables and extra communication
costs associated with this equipment.
Council Development Assessment Panel
∼ Presiding Member
o $250.00 per Meeting
o $60.00 per Teleconference
Meeting
∼ Independent Members
12
GOVERNANCE
Freedom of Information
Council provides Members with an
allowance of $60 per month for phone
rental and call costs.
The District Council of Grant processed four
(4) Freedom of Information applications
during 2014-2015. Two (2) applications
were granted full access, while one (1)
application was advised that Council did not
have any documents requested.
The remaining application was processed,
consultation
undertaken
and
a
determination
made,
however,
no
documents were released prior to 30 June
2015 as the applicant had not paid the
required fee within the timeframe given by
Council.
Council has resolved to make available to
the Mayor the following facilities and
support:∼ The Mayor has elected to provide
his own mobile telephone, with
Council providing an allowance of
$150 per month for mobile
telephone calls, and a $60 per
month allowance for home
telephone.
∼ Access to a vehicle (with full private
use), on the understanding that the
vehicle remains the property of
Council, and with Council meeting
costs of insurance, registration,
servicing, tyres and minor expenses
for the vehicle. The Mayor is
responsible for all fuel costs for the
vehicle. Council also provides an
allowance of $250 per month to
cover fuel costs.
Council publishes an updated
Freedom of Information Statement on
its website, in accordance with
requirements of Section 9(1a) of the
Freedom of Information Act 1991.
Council is pleased to comply with the
legislation and welcomes enquiries.
Delegations to Council Officers
Council has delegated responsibilities and
powers to the Chief Executive Officer who
may then, at any time, sub-delegate to
appropriate Council Officers. The schedule
of delegations was reviewed and adopted by
Council on 16 March 2015, and is available
for the public to view at the Council office.
13
GOVERNANCE
Confidentiality Provisions
During 2014-2015, Section 90(2) provisions
of the Local Government Act 1999, which
enable the exclusion of the public from
Council meetings, were invoked on 14
occasions (5.4% of the total number of
items considered). Section 91(7) provisions,
which keep minutes confidential, were
invoked on 12 occasions.
Council held 22 ordinary meetings and one
(1) special meeting for the financial year
1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015. A total of 258
items were considered at these meetings.
2014-2015
Description
Nature of Confidentiality
Held in
Confidence
04 Aug 14
Audit of Mount Gambier & District
Saleyards
Proposed Proponent Sponsored
Development Plan Amendment
Port MacDonnell & Environs
Development Plan Amendment
Qantaslink Proposal
Qantaslink Proposal
Nominations for the 2015 Australia
Day Citizens Awards
RKH & VM Pearson – Junkyard
Activities and Unsightliness of
Property
Port MacDonnell & Environs
Development Plan Amendment
Proposed Proponent Sponsored
Development Plan Amendment
Pelican Point Coast Protection
Works
Audit Committee Confidential
Minutes 10/3/15 – Appointment of
Auditors
Sale of Land for Non-payment of
Council Rates & Charges
Sutton Court Aged Housing
Complex
Planning & Development
Committee Confidential Minutes
25/5/15 – Proposal to Rezone Land
90(3)(d) commercial information
(not a trade secret)
90(3)(m) development plan
amendment proposal
90(3)(m) development plan
amendment proposal
90(3)(b) commercial advantage
90(3)(b) commercial advantage
90(3)(a) personal affairs
Yes
90(3)(h) legal advice
Yes
90(3)(m) development plan
amendment proposal
90(3)(m) development plan
amendment proposal
90(3)(k) tenders for supply of
goods or provision of services
90(3)(k) tenders for supply of
goods or provision of services
Yes
90(3)(a) personal affairs
Yes
90(3)(d) commercial information
(not a trade secret)
90(3)(m) development plan
amendment proposal
Yes
01 Sep 14
20 Oct 14
1 Dec 14
5 Dec 14
15 Dec 14
19 Jan 15
02 Mar 15
02 Mar 15
16 Mar 15
16 Mar 15
08 Apr 15
20 Apr 15
01 Jun 15
14
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
GOVERNANCE
The following graph indicates the Number
of confidential orders made for the
previous four (4) years.
Council
participated in a review of confidentiality
orders undertaken by the SA Ombudsman.
Twelve (12) SA Councils were selected by
the Ombudsman to participate in the 2012
audit with the results of the audit published
by the Ombudsman in a document titled ‘In
the Public Eye’. The District Council of Grant
has implemented the recommendations
made by the Ombudsman, thereby
significantly reducing the number of
confidential orders made overthe last three
(3) years.
Comparison Chart
2011-2015
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Council Committee
2011-2012
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
Confidential Orders
carried forward
25
36
32
9
Confidential Orders made
54
13
14
14
Number of Meetings
Number of Items
Items considered ‘in
confidence’
0
1
Airport Advisory
Audit
2
3
14
18
Planning & Development
1
4
1
Saleyards Advisory
Works
3
0
11
0
1
0
15
GOVERNANCE
Internal Review of Council Decisions
relevant legislation. In 2014-2015 there
were no formal requests for an internal
review of a decision.
The District Council of Grant is committed
to open decision making processes and to
providing access to a fair and objective
procedure for the hearing of review of
decisions. The District Council of Grant’s
Procedure for Review of Decisions has been
adopted in accordance with Section 270 of
the Local Government Act and applies to
matters that are not resolved satisfactorily.
A formal application or request for review
of a decision will therefore initiate the
internal review.
Council’s Decision Making Structure
Council meetings are held in the District
Council of Grant Council Chambers, 324
Commercial Street West, Mount Gambier,
on the first and third Monday of each
month at 5.30pm. When the Monday is a
Public Holiday, the Council meeting occurs
on the following Wednesday of that week.
Meetings are open to the public and
Council encourages attendance.
Any
individual wishing to bring a matter before
Council is to put their request in writing to
the Chief Executive Officer a minimum of
seven (7) working days prior to the
meeting.
The procedure applies to all formal
requests for review of decisions, except, for
example, Development Act or Freedom of
Information Act matters ie where specific
procedures are already prescribed in
COUNCIL
COUNCIL DEVELOPMENT
ASSESSMENT PANEL
WORKS
COMMITTEE
PLANNING &
DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE
AIRPORT
ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
SALEYARDS
ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
AUDIT
COMMITTEE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER
WORKS
ENVIRONMENTAL
SERVICES
AIRPORT
16
SALEYARDS
FINANCE AND
COMMUNITY
SERVICES
GOVERNANCE
Council Committees
In addition to the Committees listed, in
order to facilitate the assessment of
applications made to the Council, Council
has established the Grant District Council
Development Assessment Panel as the
relevant authority to exercise or perform, its
powers and functions in accordance with
the Development Act 1993.
Council Committees are formed under Section
41 of the Local Government Act 1999.
∼
∼
∼
∼
The Planning and Development Committee
has also been established pursuant to
Section 101A of the Development Act 1993.
Its role is to consider and determine matters
relating to planning and development
including strategic planning, policy
development, legislation requirements.
Audit Committee
Works Committee
Airport Advisory Committee
Saleyards Advisory Committee
As such, members of the public are welcome
to attend meetings.
A number of advisory groups and working
parties have been formed to give the
community the opportunity to provide
information and feedback to Council on
various matters. Council continues its
involvement in many regional and
community Committees.
Information on the Terms of Reference of
the above Committees is available on
Council’s website or can be obtained on
request from Council.
Mount Schank
17
GOVERNANCE
List of Registers, Codes and Practices
The Local Government Act or the Local
Government (Elections) Act 1999 requires
Council to keep the following Registers,
Codes of Conduct/Practice and Policies.
Registers
∼ Register of Interests (Members) – S.68
∼ Register of Allowances and Benefits – S.79
∼ Register of Remuneration, Salaries and
Benefits – S.105
∼ Register of Interests (Staff) – S.116
∼ Register of Community Land – S.207
∼ Register of Public Roads – S.231
∼ Register of By-Laws – S.252
Codes of Practice
∼ Code of Conduct for Council
Members – Section 63
∼ Code of Practice – (Access to
Council Meetings, Committees and
Documents) - Section 92
∼ Code of Conduct for Employees –
Section 110
∼ Code of Practice for Meeting Procedureses
Regulation 6(1)
Policies
The following are policies that are required
by the Local Government Act 1999, to be
available for inspection by the public and
for purchase, on payment of a fee. Council
also has a number of policies which are
developed to assist Council with its
operations and obligations, however these
policies are not legislative requirements
under the Local Government Act 1999.
∼ Caretaker Policy
∼ Procurement and Tender Policy
∼ Elected Members Allowances and
Support Policy
18
∼ Internal Control Policies
∼ Internal Review of Council Decisions
(Grievance Procedures)
∼ Order Making Policy
∼ Public Consultation Policy
∼ Selection of Road Names Policy
∼ Elected Members Training and
Development Policy
∼ Elected
Member
Complaint
Handling Policy
Elector Representative Review
The Local Government Act 1999 prescribes
that a review must be undertaken by the
Council in accordance with the Local
Government (General) Regulations as
gazetted by the Minister.
The next Elector Representative Review is
scheduled for commencement in April
2016. District Council of Grant currently
has 10 Elected Members for 5,544 electors.
There is a mechanism in Section 28 of the
Local Government Act 1999 for eligible
electors to initiate a proposal to alter the
boundaries of a Council area, or Ward
boundaries, or the composition of the
Council. This is a separate process from the
automatic review described above.
GOVERNANCE
The table below provides a comparison of the elected representation quota for the District
Council of Grant compared with similar size and type of Councils in South Australia.
Council
Electors
Elected
Members
Representation Quota
(including
Mayor)
Northern Areas
3489
9
387
Coorong
3896
9
432
Tatiara
4524
10
452
Wakefield Regional
4730
10
473
Naracoorte Lucindale
5778
11
525
Grant
5544
10
554
Mallala
5824
10
582
Mid Murray
6149
10
614
Clare & Gilbert Valleys
6630
10
663
Renmark Paringa
6367
9
707
19
FINANCE & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Annual Business Plan
Specific objectives for the 2014-2015
financial year proposed were consistent
with Council’s Long Term Financial Plan and
Asset and Infrastructure Management
Plans, to ensure the long term sustainability
of Council’s financial performance and
position. Council has also taken into
consideration the current and future
impact of the global financial crisis at a local
level.
The 2014-2015 Annual Business Plan sets
out the Council’s proposed services,
programs and projects for the year.
Council’s aim is to maintain efficient
services for the community and continue
progress towards the long term objectives
for the District Council of Grant as set out in
the Strategic Management Plan 2012-2016.
Priorities for 2014-2015 were:•
Continue with Council’s road maintenance, renewal and upgrade program
•
Upgrading of facilities for the Port MacDonnell Community Waste Water
Management System (CWMS)
•
Bio-solids facility for the Allendale East CWMS
•
Construction of Tourism Facilities at Brown Bay
•
Upgrade of Marine Facilites at Port MacDonnell – includes boatramp and wharf
Performance on specific Council objectives for the year 2014-2015 is summarised below:Major Road Projects
Objective
Performance
Tervoerts Road – Allendale East (resheet 1.7km)
Completed
Meyers Road – Cape Douglas (reconstruct 3km section)
Completed
Leggett Road – Worrolong (construct & seal 800m)
Completed
Daly Street – Allendale East (construct & seal 200m)
Completed
Lock Road – Moorak (reconstruct 1.4km section)
Completed
Lower Nelson Road – Eight Mile Creek (1.5km section)
Completed
Bryan Street – Allendale East (kerb & channel 240m)
Completed
Springs Road – Port MacDonnell (kerb & channel 200m)
Completed
Major Capital Projects
Objective
Performance
Port MacDonnell Marine Infrastructure Development
Completed
SCADA System and Pump Controllers upgrade - Port MacDonnell
Deferred to 2015-2016
Bio-solids facility for the Allendale East CWMS
Deferred to 2015-2016
Brown Bay Development
Completed
Airport Capital Improvements
Ongoing
Saleyards Capital Improvements
Ongoing
20
FINANCE & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Community Services
Council Community Grants
The 2014-2015 year saw the Department
involved in many different projects and
endeavours including:
The District Council of Grant was pleased to
support our community through our
Community Grants Program, providing
$25,832 in community, halls and sports
grants to non profit organisations to support
the implementation of $81,057 worth of
projects and programs in the 2014/15
financial year.
SGIC Driver Awareness Program
Council was successful in securing SGIC as a
funding partner through a grant of $4,400 to
deliver the Geared2Drive Adult Learner
Driver Program in November 2014.
Around 80 people took advantage of the
recent free driver awareness workshops
hosted by the District Council of Grant in
Mount Gambier and Port MacDonnell in
October.
Participants gained an
understanding of who is deemed at ‘high
risk’ of being involved in a car accident and
updated their skills so they can mentor their
children or grandchildren when teaching
them to drive.
Workshops were presented by Senior
Constable Nigel Allen from the SA Police
Traffic Division with the aim to increase
awareness of the new Australian road rules,
road safety, factors that influence fitness to
drive, online driving assessment updates,
and how to self-regulate personal driving
performance.
Council actively supported a number of
community groups to attract $77,340 in
external grants to support projects valued at
$131,752 across the district.
Rotary Youth Driver Awareness Program
(RYDA)
The RYDA Program was brought to Mount
Gambier by the Rotary Club of Mount
Gambier West and supported by the District
Council of Grant Geared2Drive program.
RYDA is a one day Program and was
conducted at the Mount Gambier Show
Grounds. The program was available to all
senior schools in Mount Gambier and
District. During the RYDA Program, the
students take part in six interactive sessions:
∼ Stopping Distances
∼ Hazards, Distractions & Risk
∼ Plan B: Alcohol, Drugs and Fatigue
∼ Road Choices
∼ Crash Survivor
∼ My Wheels
The Program was nominated for a People’s
Choice Award by SGIC.
21
FINANCE & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Geared 2 Drive
Council was active in supporting the
Limestone Coast Drug & Alcohol Team to
host the ICE Forum in Mount Gambier.
Geared2Drive is a learner driver program
was developed to support young people to
gain their provisional driver’s licence, which
they are unable to gain through their own
means. The program focuses on training in
safe
driving,
risk
management,
communication and managing peer
relationships, to minimise the risks young
drivers face on our road.
As a joint initiative with the City of Mount
Gambier, Council secured $5,000 from the
Office for Youth to conduct an analysis
providing a platform for both Councils and
partnering organisations to better profile,
plan and support the future needs of youth
across the district. This project utilised
young people to develop and conduct the
research as part of training and
development. As part of this project,
Councils hosted a joint information stand at
the Careers Expo at TAFE held in August.
As at the end of July 2015, the program has
received over 100 participant applications,
with 9 volunteers with 20 young people
obtaining their Provisional Licence and the
program clocking up over 1,000 driving
hours.
Recognition of Volunteers and Seniors
Youth Activities
Council hosted its annual morning tea
during National Volunteers Week in May,
which was attended by about 80 volunteers,
and sponsored events for National Seniors
Month in October, which are hosted by
various township groups as well as offering
a free SGIC Driver Awareness Workshop and
lunch at Port MacDonnell for all district
seniors. The workshop was provided by an
SGIC Community Grant.
Council partnered with SA Police, supported
by a grant from the Office for Youth grant of
$1,500, to host the 2015 National Youth
Week celebrations in April.
Activities
included:
∼ Art Project Launch – 12 students
from Allendale East Area School
together with Principle Beth Mahony
and Teacher Sarah Stratford attended
the launch. The students enjoyed the
opportunity to unveil the art work.
Morning tea was provided.
∼ Open Mic Night – partnering with the
Bluelight Committee – 30 people
attended the Open Mic Night with 8
young people taking to the mic.
Although not well attended the night
was very successful. Amazing talent
was showcased by our local youth.
The young people were thrilled with
the prizes and give-a-ways.
Tourism
Council staff regularly provide advice to
local tourism operators and community
groups on tourism issues including
promotional opportunities and preparation
of promotional materials, event procedures
and requirements, and also promote coastal
and local heritage areas and activities
including cave diving, Mount Schank,
Piccaninnie and Ewens Ponds.
22
FINANCE & COMMUNITY SERVICES
delegates attended from all visitor
information centres in South Australia and
Western Victoria and were provided with a
tour of the district and local wine and
produce tastings.
This was a great
opportunity to showcase our region to the
ground face of tourism in South Australia
and Western Victoria.
Event support and assistance with
promotion,
insurance
and
other
requirements were supplied to a number of
community groups including:
∼ Port MacDonnell Bayside Festival
∼ Generations in Jazz
∼ Mil Lel A&H Show
∼ Rotary Club Blue Lake Fun Run
∼ Cows Create Careers
∼ South East Automobile Club
∼ Donovans Easter Market
∼ Tarpeena Community Market
∼ Bay Markets
∼ National Premier League
∼ Community New Year’s Eve Event
2014 Campolina Fulton Hogan Tour of the
Great South Coast Cycling Classic
Council supported the 2014 Campolina
Fulton Hogan Tour of the Great South Coast
Cycling Classic from August 13-17. Stage 3
consisted of a distance of 136.9kms
commencing at Mount Gambier and
finishing at Port MacDonnell via Carpenter
Rocks, Pelican Point, Blackfellows Caves,
Kongorong, Blue Lake Golf Links, Donovans,
Brown Bay, Riddoch Bay and Racecourse
Bay. The Stage included 4 sprints and a hill
climb.
The prestigious championships
attracted interstate and international
competitors and promoted our region
through SBS coverage. Cycling has been
recognised as a growing tourism market and
health initiative, and Council will continue to
support the Lakes Oil-Fulton Hogan Tour of
the Great South Coast in August 2015.
Advertising and promotion is undertaken in
the South Australian Tourism Commission
(SATC) Limestone Coast Official Visitor Guide
and other locally produced tourism guides
in the Limestone Coast and Western
Victoria, as well as on a number of websites
including
www.dcgrant.sa.gov.au
and www.portmacdonnell.sa.au that are
hosted by Council. Council operates a
Visitor Information Outlet at its Port
MacDonnell Community Complex, which is
open to the public 7 days a week, and has
hosted a number of exhibitions for visitors
to view free of charge in the Gallery
including the Australian National Maritime
Museum’s ‘War at sea’ graphic panel
display, and exhibitions from the Riddoch
Art Gallery ‘Our Recent Past; The Victorian
and Federation Years’ and Gooch Collection;
works from the Central Desert’.
Along with the City of Mount Gambier,
Council co-hosted the annual South
Australian Visitor Information Centre State
Conference in March 2015, and the Cross
Border Visitor Information Providers
Conference in November 2014. Conference
23
FINANCE & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Community Events presented by Council
Council has produced a Community
Development Framework that provides a
framework within which sound principles of
community development and services can
be applied to ensure that the District
Council of Grant has the resources,
processes and workplace culture to
successfully achieve the vision and strategic
objectives as outlines in the District Council
of Grant Strategic Management Plan.
2015 Australia Day Awards and Celebration
Over 500 people celebrated at Council’s
Australia Day event held at the Allendale
East Soldiers Memorial Park on Monday
26th January. The free family focused event
featured live music, displays, and children’s
entertainment. Two citizens originally from
Ethiopia chose to undertake their Australian
Citizenship Ceremony at the event, and
Australia Day Ambassador Ms Jan Stirling
AM gave a spirited address before assisting
with the presentation of Australia Day
Awards. The 2015 Community Event of the
Year was awarded to the Mil-Lel A&H
Society Show, Young Citizen was awarded to
Jedda Glynn, and Theresa Moulden was
named Citizen of the Year.
Cyber Safety Awareness
Council engaged internationally renowned
consultant, Susan McLean, to present Cyber
Safety Seminars aimed to raise awareness
with young people, parents, teachers and
professional care workers on how to
manage and prevent cyber bullying and
grooming and risks of improper use of the
internet.
Demand to attend Susan’s
presentations was extremely high with the
initial program expanded to 14 workshops
and seminars for approximately 2,000
people in the Limestone Coast from 11-15
August 2014. The program was made
available with support from the South
Australian Government Attorney-General’s
Department Crime Prevention Grant.
Citizen of the Year Theresa Moulden with Jan Stirling
AM and Mayor Sage
Sgt Paul Scicluna and Susan McLean (2nd right)
with the parents who attended the Cyber Safety
Awareness session at Port MacDonnell
Community Complex.
Allendale East Soldiers Memorial Park
Community Development Framework
24
MOUNT GAMBIER AIRPORT
Flying School
During the year, Mount Gambier Airport
purchased and completely refurbished the
old Flying School Building. The building
setup served a twofold purpose – one half
as a meeting and conference room
complete with widescreen TV for power
point presentations, and the other half as a
flying school.
A flying school from Parafield operated a
satellite flying school and offered flying
training for a short period of time.
The Mount Gambier Airport is proudly
owned and operated by the District Council
of Grant. The Airport services just under
80,000 passengers per year.
In the mean time we have been negotiating
the complete relocation of a flying school
from Victoria offering ultralight & General
Aviation pilot licences, right through to
commercial level.
This will mean an
additional three aircraft being located at the
Airport as well as a flight simulator. They
plan to complete to move late 2015. With
the availability of varying levels of training
their services will appeal to a greater
number of the public wishing to gain either
an ultralight or General Aviation licence.
Airport Master Plan and asset management
plan integration
The Mount Gambier Airport Master Plan
2015-2025 and the Airport Asset
Management Plan have been fully
integrated to provide a solid basis for
investment and upgrades and maintenance
going forward. This has allowed a solid
pathway to plan future maintenance
costings and by linking it with capital works,
promotes a longer term and more accurate
view by providing for the sound
management and upgrading of District
Council of Grant’s valuable assets well into
the future.
Secure Carpark
In response to one of the most frequently
asked questions “do you have a secure
carpark” our new secure carpark was
opened in July 2014 with capability to hold
a capacity of 52 cars.
It is a fully automated facility
with ticketing and payment
facilities located on site. The
carpark is fully lit and covered by
cameras at all times.
It
consistently runs between 50%
and 80% capacity
25
MOUNT GAMBIER AIRPORT
Visitors to Mount Gambier Airport in 2014/15
Mount Gambier Airport Consulting
Passenger Numbers
Mount Gambier Airport continues to
provide consulting services to other regional
airports. We were involved in the Coober
Pedy runway widening project, by providing
Works Safety Officers for the duration of the
month long project.
Mount Gambier
Airport also supplied services to Portland
Vic., and facilitated an emergency exercise
at Port Augusta airport. These relationships
with other Airports assist the industry
greatly in continually raising the standards
of safety and compliance.
92,554
2010- 2011
89,195
Year
2011 - 2012
83,343
2012 - 2013
79,736
2013 - 2014
77,079
2014 - 2015
-
50,000
No. of Passengers
Mount Gambier Airport is a regular transfer point for the RFDS as well as the Victorian Air Ambulance
The RFDS made in excess of 460 visits to Mount Gambier in 2014/15
26
100,000
MOUNT GAMBIER SALEYARDS
The Mount Gambier and District Saleyards is
located on the Princes Highway at
Glenburnie and operates sale days each
Wednesday. The Saleyards offers seven
selling agents, and is EU (European Union)
Prime Eligible.
Stock data for the Mount Gambier and
District Saleyards are shown in the table
below.
Year
Cattle (not including Calves)
Sheep and Lambs
Revenue
2011/2012
103,744
196,936
$700,769
There has been an increase in cattle sales of
approximately 10% from 2013-14, while
sheep and lamb sales have decreased by
approximately 20% from last year.
2012/2013
87,887
199,787
$744,715
2013/2014
96,351
199,987
$851,998
2014/2015
104,985
163,922
$950,994
∼ Upgrade of computers and livestock
exchange software
∼ Replacement of Administration building
roof
∼ Upgrade of Avdata truck wash software
∼ Updating and review of Saleyards policies
∼ Updating of Saleyards Safe Operating
Procedures for tasks and equipment
∼ Implementing the action list from the
Saleyards audit
∼ Review of Saleyard general security and
accessibility to all stakeholders
∼ High level analysis for possible power /
energy Biogas potential
∼ High level analysis for possible digestate /
fertilizer production
∼ Repairs and Maintenance and general
improvements to paddock fencing
∼ Surveying
our
stakeholders
for
improvement opportunities and ideas
∼ Reviewing opportunities for grants and
planning
other
developments
in
consultation with stakeholders
There have been several changes in staff
with new Business Manager Peter Mitchell
commencing in late March 2015,
Maintenance
worker
Olivia
Pratt
commencing in October 2014 and
Maintenance worker Evan Hill commencing
in late June 2015. Existing staff member
Denise Aston has also been promoted to the
role of Team Leader.
Projects & Outcomes
The 2014-2015 years have seen grant
funding success and projects undertaken
including:∼ Upgrade of mens and ladies toilets
∼ Completion of Meeting Room
alterations
∼ New Hand scanner
Projects for the coming financial year
include:∼ Installation of generator
27
MOUNT GAMBIER SALEYARDS
Saleyards Review
expectations to a high standard. The
Saleyards staff will continue to focus on
listening and working co-operatively with all
stakeholders of the Saleyards facility to
make sure that everyone prospers and the
Mount Gambier Saleyards reputation and
image is known, trusted, respected and
valued by all as the place to sell Livestock in
the south east of South Australia and
western Victoria.
A full review of the Mount Gambier and
District Saleyards commenced in December
2013. The extensive audit was undertaken
by an external advisor on the operations,
efficiency and effectiveness of the Mount
Gambier and District Saleyards. A project
team was formed to develop and implement
changes as recommended in the report.
Progress as per the agreed actions schedule
has commenced, and there will be ongoing
assessment
of
processes,
policy
development, staff development and
education, in addition to communication
with other stakeholders to ensure successful
implementation in the long term.
The economic value of the Saleyards within
the District Council of Grant is estimated, on
current stock prices, to be around $140M
per annum. The Saleyards employs directly
5 staff, 7 agents and their staff and over 100
producers. Indirectly the Saleyards benefits
many transporter companies (large and
single operator), other businesses and
industries within the Limestone Coast with
further value adding and the money
multiplier effect of the income spend by
producers.
The aims and objectives of the review and
actions to be taken are to ensure that the
Saleyards facility remains an important,
critical and financially viable part of
Council’s and the community’s business,
and raises our operational standards and
28
WORKS
Construction Projects and Road Works
The Department consists of 30 employees,
dealing with day-to-day tasks, major road
construction, road maintenance and other
road related projects, parks and gardens,
sport and recreation and maintenance
work.
Road Funding Received 2014-2015
$200,000
$266,304
$324,090
$63,196
Special Local Roads
Program (State
Government)
Roads to Recovery (Federal
Government)
Federal Assistance Grants
$615,000
Funding
State Government MAC
The Motor Accident Commission Road
Safety Fund (MAC) provided funding for
three road safety projects in the District
Council of Grant
∼ 90m of Guard railing was installed in
Cape Douglas with funding received
from MAC at a total cost of $22,428.
∼ 200m of guard railing was installed on
Whitehead Road with funding
received from MAC at a total cost of
$40,768.
Special Local Roads Program Funding was
received to undertake the reconstruction of
a 2km section of Meyers Road which was
completed in May 2015 at a cost of
$400,000. Funding of $200,000 was
received, with the remainder contributed by
Council. This is a four stage project with:
∼ 3km sealed in 2012/13
∼ 2km sealed in 2013/14
∼ 3km to be sealed in 2014/15
∼ 2.5km to be sealed in 2015/16
$4,708,152
Loan Funding
General Revenue (Council
rates)
Council’s 10 Year Road Program commits to
seal and kerb at least one street per year in
our townships.
In 2014-2015 Council completed kerbing
and water channel construction to Springs
Road in Port MacDonnell and also in Bryan
Street and Saleyards Road in Allendale. It is
Council’s plan to continue sealing roads
throughout the townships until all roads
have been completed.
Road Works Expenditure 2014-2015
Road Construction
$748,587
In accordance with Council’s 10 Year
Roadwork’s Program, the following roads
have been reconstructed and sealed:∼ Leggett Road
∼ Daly Street
∼ Lower Nelson Road
∼ Crafter Road
∼ Meyers road
$256,694
Resheet
$1,701,501
$1,371,223
Reseals
Construction
Road Maintenance
29
WORKS
As part of Council’s commitment to maintenance of the unsealed road network, sections of
the following roads were re-sheeted during the year:Tervoerts Road
Spehrs Road
Glynns Road
Swaffers Road
OB Flat Road
Boat Ramp at Blackfellow Caves
completed in Oct 2014
Ferguson Road
Concannon Road
Grundys Lane
Strickland Road
Fern Road
Megaw Road
Bones Road
Nick Lyon Road
Kentish Road
200m Guard railing installed
Whitehead Road – April 2015
View of Port MacDonnell Boat Ramp and Wharf during
construction. Construction began in May 2014 and was
completed early 2015.
90m Guard railing installed Cape
Douglas April 2015
Tourist facility at Brown Bay was completed in
December 2014 along with construction, sealing
and linemarking of the carpark.
30
HUMAN RESOURCES
Our Workforce
Council places a strong emphasis on the
prevention of discrimination, harassment
and bullying and this has been strengthened
through the development of Organisational
Values – TRUST RESPECT VALUE. These
values have been embraced by the
management team and are providing a
sound basis for alignment of purpose across
Council and an ability to address future
challenges.
District Council of Grant is a siginificant
employer and has a commitment to
promoting a sustainable workforce, which in
turn plays a significant role in working
towards successful achievement and
outcomes.
Culture
Council is committed to treating our
employees fairly and promoting a work
environment that respects, protects and
promotes the human rights of each
employee.
Our Structure
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER
AIRPORT
SALEYARDS
WORKS
ENVIRONMENTAL
SERVICES
FINANCE AND
COMMUNITY
SERVICES
EXECUTIVE
SERVICES
Construction
Building
Finance
Human Resources
Workshop
Planning &
Development
Rates
Governance &
Policy
Maintenance
Environmental
Health
Community
Development
Parks & Gardens
Community
Rangers
Customer Service
Port MacDonnell
Community
Complex
31
Risk Management
Office of the CEO
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
The Environmental Services Department
comprises the areas of planning, building
and development, environmental health,
and community rangers. The Department
undertakes a significant amount of
compliance and enforcement work.
An internal review of the Department was
undertaken during 2014/2015. This review
focused on customer service outcomes
and improving our provision of advice,
development application turnaround
timelines and meeting compliance
requirements.
The table below provides information on Development Applications with comparisons to
earlier years.
$ Value of
Development
Applications
Number of
Development
Applications Received
New Dwellings
2011-2012
22,075,077
240
39
2012-2013
15,713,021
259
45
2013-2014
17,218,510
253
50
2014-2015
15,636,846
257
40
Financial Year
The following table provides information on the average processing time for Development
Applications with comparisons to earlier years
Financial Year
Up to 1
week
1 – 2 weeks
2 – 3 weeks
3 – 4 weeks
> 4 weeks
2011-2012
39 (16%)
38 (16%)
50 (21%)
26 (11%)
87 (36%)
2012-2013
36 (14%)
48 (19%)
55 (21%)
34 (13%)
86 (33%)
2013-2014
23 (9%)
30 (12%)
50 (20%)
35 (14%)
115 (45%)
2014-2015
49 (19%)
61 (24%)
41 (16%)
32 (12%)
74 (29%)
32
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Council Planning Projects
this time, it is anticipated that the DPA will
be completed and approved by mid-2016.
Greater Mount Gambier Master Plan
This Master Plan continues to guide
development in the Greater Mount Gambier
area.
Environmental Health
The Environmental Health roles maintain a
proactive approach towards Community
Wastewater
Management
Schemes
(CWMS), septic tank inspections, waste
management and recycling, food premises
and food safety, and other health-related
issues.
Development Plan (Consolidated – 28
August 2014)
The Council’s Development Plan was
consolidated and came into operation on 28
August 2014. This Development Plan
included the Better Development Plan (BDP)
Development Plan Amendment (DPA), the
Country/Rural Living and Township
Expansion DPA (Stage 2), and the Gateway
Precincts DPA. The Minister for Planning
gave final approval of these three (3)
Development Plan Amendments on 28
August 2014. The Development Plan
Amendments were then considered and
approved by the State Government’s
Environment, Resources and Development
Committee later in 2014.
Waste Management & Recycling
The past twelve months has seen residents
continue to support the need for increased
recycling of waste in our District through the
use of both Kerbside collections and visiting
the waste transfer stations. This can be seen
through the following statistics:
∼ Over 600 tonnes of recycling collected
or dropped-off
∼ Over 6 tonne of e-waste items sent for
recycling
∼ Over 2000 tonnes of scrap metal sent
for recycling
∼ Over 5,000 cars through the gates at
our 5 waste transfer stations
The preparation of the three (3)
Development Plan Amendments took a
number of years and involved both public
and Government Agency consultation.
We also continue to support the Mobile
Muster program, with collection points for
old mobile phones and accessories at our
Commercial Street West Office, Port
MacDonnell RTC.
Port MacDonnell and Environs Development
Plan Amendment
Council has resolved to undertake the
preparation of a Port MacDonnell and
Environs Development Plan Amendment
(DPA). A Statement of Intent to proceed
with the preparation of the DPA has not yet
been agreed to by the Minister for Planning.
When the Statement is agreed to, Council
will proceed with the preparation of the
DPA. The preparation of the DPA will
involve a consultation process with
Government Agencies and the public. At
Public Health
The State Government approved the
development of a Regional Public Health
Plan for the South East, with public
consultation undertaken in late 2014, prior
to the final submission to the Chief Public
Health Officer for approval. The new Act has
an emphasis on Council’s and their close
33
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
relationship with their community and the
day to day public health issues impacting its
residents. The regional public health plan
has been developed, concentrating on what
issues already being dealt with by Councils
are impacting on Public health, both good
and bad. Plus, looking into the future at
what Council’s can do better and the forging
of relationships with other government
departments
and
non-for-profit
organisations to improve Public Health for
the future.
The Rangers continue to combat the
increase in instances of dogs wandering at
large. Rangers have continued to conduct
more frequent township patrols. Instances
of dog attacks and dogs wandering at large
are responded to as expediently as
resources allow.
As a result of investigations conducted into
breaches of the Dog and Cat Management
Act, Expiation numbers have reduced.
Serious breaches of the Dog and Cat
Management Act have resulted in a number
of dogs having to be destroyed due to
attacks on livestock and humans.
The following table provides some statistics
Community Rangers
The Community Rangers are responsible for
animal management, animal and stock
control, community education, drum
Muster, illegal dumping, abandoned
vehicles and fire prevention.
Animal management and control is carried
out with the approval of the Dog and Cat
Management Board, Council’s Animal
Management Plan and Council’s By-laws
which are periodically reviewed.
In the 2014-2015 year, the number of dog
complaints and dogs wandering at large
have increased, as have the incidence of dog
attacks on humans and other animals.
of activity in the area of animal control.
Animal Control
Number of registered dogs
Number of wandering dog reports
Number of registered barking dog complaints
Number of dogs impounded
Number of dogs returned to owner
Number of dogs re-homed
Number of dogs destroyed
Number of dog attacks on humans / harassments
Number of dog attacks on animals
34
2,651
22
3
69
16
14
9
3
12
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Wandering Stock
The reports in 2014-2015 where motor
vehicles have collided with stock during this
reporting period is slightly less than last
year. These incidents still appear to be
attributed to the deterioration of rural
fences and lack of maintenance. A number
of reports have been made to Council by
landholders where gates are being
deliberately opened. Council will continue
to work with landholders to highlight
potential fencing issues to reduce the threat
that is posed to road users.
In the 2014-2015 year, the number of
incidents of stock being reported out on
public roadways has remained steady,
resulting in the need for the Rangers to be
on call both day and night to attend to these
incidents. These actions are often carried
out in conjunction with the South Australian
Police (SAPOL), and are in the best interests
of public safety.
Number of stock complaints
Number of accidents involving wandering stock
Number of stock impounded
Number of stock returned to owner
Illegal Dumping
66
1
5
114
Over the past 12 months there were
approximately 50 reported instances of
material/goods being dumped illegally along
roadsides and reserves in the Council area.
All of this illegally dumped rubbish was
removed by Council.
Illegal dumping still remains a constant
problem within the Council area. On
occasions, where Rangers have been able to
successfully identify offenders who have
illegally dumped rubbish, these people have
been expiated. Where possible, these
incidents may also proceed to court, where
the persons are prosecuted for depositing
goods on Council/public land.
Council will continue to implement strategies to
locate and prosecute offenders that engage in
the illegal deposit of litter, which also includes
abandoned vehicles on Council land.
Number of illegal dumping complaints
Number of abandoned vehicles
Number of impounded vehicles
Number of expiations issued
50
7
2
10
DrumMuster
from entering our landfills, and has been of
significant
benefit
in
improving
environmental health and safety in our
rural areas.
The collection of drums has continued to be
very successful and has seen a large
number of eligible containers collected,
processed and recycled for alternative use.
The DrumMuster initiative has social and
economic benefits, has prevented waste
In the 2014-2015 year, 2,500 drums were
recycled.
35
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Financial Statements 2013-2014 have been prepared in accordance with procedures contained
in the Local Government Act 1999, the Local Government (Financial Management) Regulations
2011, Australian Accounting Standards and Model Financial Statements.
The Statements have been audited by Council’s Auditor, Dean Newbery & Partners, in
accordance with Section 127 of the Local Government Act 1999, and Regulation 14 of the Local
Government (Financial Management) Regulations 2011.
The Statements were adopted by Council on Monday, 20 October 2014, and form part of the
Council’s Annual Report. Copies are also submitted to the Minister for Local Government and
the SA Local Government Grants Commission.
36
37
DISTRICT COUNCIL OF GRANT
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
for the year ended 30 June 2015
Notes
INCOME
Rates
Statutory charges
User charges
Grants, subsidies and contributions
Investment income
Reimbursements
Other income
Total Income
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
EXPENSES
Employee costs
Materials, contracts & other expenses
Depreciation, amortisation & impairment
Finance costs
Total Expenses
3
3
3
3
OPERATING SURPLUS / (DEFICIT)
2015
$'000
2014
$'000
7,864
206
2,315
2,653
55
228
353
13,674
7,503
201
2,054
1,809
66
102
343
12,078
5,173
3,882
4,885
311
14,251
4,831
4,051
4,593
264
13,739
(577)
(1,661)
Asset disposal & fair value adjustments
4
(1,795)
(1,027)
Amounts received specifically for new or upgraded assets
2
1,621
1,149
Physical resources received free of charge
Operating result from discontinued operations
NET SURPLUS / (DEFICIT)
transferred to Equity Statement
2
638
-
209
-
(113)
(1,330)
(5,379)
22,138
(5,379)
22,138
(5,492)
20,808
20
Other Comprehensive Income
Amounts which will not be reclassified subsequently to operating
result
Changes in revaluation surplus - infrastructure,
property, plant & equipment
Total Other Comprehensive Income
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
This Statement is to be read in conjunction with the attached Notes.
38
9
DISTRICT COUNCIL OF GRANT
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
as at 30 June 2015
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade & other receivables
Other financial assets
Inventories
Notes
5
5
5
5
Total Current Assets
Non-current Assets
Financial assets
Infrastructure, property, plant & equipment
Total Non-current Assets
Total Assets
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Trade & other payables
Borrowings
Provisions
6
7
8
8
8
Total Current Liabilities
Non-current Liabilities
Borrowings
Provisions
8
8
Total Non-current Liabilities
Total Liabilities
NET ASSETS
EQUITY
Accumulated Surplus
Asset Revaluation Reserves
Other Reserves
TOTAL EQUITY
9
9
This Statement is to be read in conjunction with the attached Notes.
39
2015
$'000
2014
$'000
3,122
848
89
281
4,340
1,140
1,996
89
161
3,386
179
181,761
181,940
186,280
207
187,616
187,823
191,209
1,046
433
976
2,455
2,455
1,118
389
955
2,462
2,462
5,456
56
5,512
7,967
178,313
4,842
100
4,942
7,404
183,805
36,262
140,431
1,620
178,313
36,574
145,810
1,421
183,805
DISTRICT COUNCIL OF GRANT
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
for the year ended 30 June 2015
Here list each individual change and the component of equity
2015
Notes
Accumulated
Surplus
Asset
Revaluation
Reserve
Other
Reserves
TOTAL
EQUITY
$'000
$'000
$'000
$'000
Balance at end of previous reporting period
Net Surplus / (Deficit) for Year
Other Comprehensive Income
Gain on revaluation of infrastructure, property, plant &
equipment
Transfers between reserves
36,574
(113)
199
-
Balance at end of period
36,262
140,431
1,620
178,313
36,568
(1,330)
123,672
2,757
162,997
(1,330)
145,810
1,421
(5,379)
(199)
183,805
(113)
(5,379)
2014
Balance at end of previous reporting period
Net Surplus / (Deficit) for Year
Other Comprehensive Income
Changes in revaluation surplus - infrastructure,
property, plant & equipment
Transfers between reserves
Balance at end of period
22,138
1,336
36,574
This Statement is to be read in conjunction with the attached Notes
40
145,810
22,138
(1,336)
1,421
183,805
DISTRICT COUNCIL OF GRANT
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
for the year ended 30 June 2015
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Rates - general & other
Fees & other charges
User charges
Investment receipts
Grants utilised for operating purposes
Reimbursements
Other revenues
Payments
Employee costs
Materials, contracts & other expenses
Finance payments
Notes
Net Cash provided by (or used in) Operating Activities
2015
$'000
2014
$'000
7,925
206
3,379
41
2,653
228
368
7,480
217
1,369
72
1,945
112
682
(5,348)
(3,889)
(271)
(4,772)
(4,747)
(355)
5,292
2,003
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Amounts specifically for new or upgraded assets
Sale of replaced assets
Repayments of loans by community groups
Payments
Expenditure on renewal/replacement of assets
Expenditure on new/upgraded assets
Net purchase of investment securities
1,621
593
31
1,149
696
25
(1,371)
(4,788)
-
(3,634)
(1,648)
(43)
Net Cash provided by (or used in) Investing Activities
(3,914)
(3,455)
1,029
1,450
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Proceeds from borrowings
Payments
Repayments of borrowings
Repayment of aged care facility deposits
(371)
(54)
Net Cash provided by (or used in) Financing Activities
604
Net Increase (Decrease) in cash held
1,982
Cash & cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash & cash equivalents at end of period
11
11
This Statement is to be read in conjunction with the attached Notes
41
1,140
3,122
(334)
1,116
(336)
1,476
1,140
SOUTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
(SELGA) ANNUAL REPORT
The South East Local Government Association is enacted pursuant to Section 43 of the Local
Government Act 1999 as a Regional Subsidiary as prescribed by Schedule 2, subsection 12 of
the Local Government Act 1999.
This is the report of the President, Executive Officer, Annual Program and abridged Audited
Financial Statements of the South East Local Government Association.
The South East Local Government Association is a representative body with seven (7) constituent
Councils, whose primary purpose is to represent all local South East Councils and conduct
activities of regional significance and importance.
The District Council of Grant has no other subsidiaries.
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
DISTRICT COUNCIL OF GRANT
324 Commercial Street West
Mount Gambier SA 5290
Telephone: 08 8721 0444
Facsimile: 08 8721 0410
PORT MACDONNELL COMMUNITY COMPLEX
5 Charles Street
Port MacDonnell SA 5291
Telephone: 08 8738 3000
Facsimile: 08 8738 2049
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.dcgrant.sa.gov.au