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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………… MINUTES STATUTORY MEETING OF COUNCIL Wednesday, 7 November 2012 Held at the Swan Hill Town Hall, Council Chambers, McCallum Street, Swan Hill Commenced at 5:30 PM

OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

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Page 1: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson……………………………………………

MINUTES

STATUTORY MEETING OF COUNCIL

Wednesday, 7 November 2012

Held at the Swan Hill Town Hall, Council Chambers,

McCallum Street, Swan Hill Commenced at 5:30 PM

Page 2: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 2 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council INDEX 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS ..................................................................3

SECTION B – REPORTS..........................................................................................21

B.12.136 MAYORAL TERM OF OFFICE.................................................................21

B.12.137 ELECTION OF MAYOR FOR YEAR 2012-2013 ......................................24

B.12.138 ELECTION OF DEPUTY MAYOR 2012/2013 ..........................................28

B.12.139 DETERMINATION OF COUNCIL MEETING LOCATIONS ......................31

B.12.140 APPOINTMENT OF COUNCIL DELEGATES TO OUTSIDE ORGANISATIONS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS....................................35

B.12.150 SETTING OF COUNCILOR ALLOWANCES............................................41

Page 3: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 3 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS

Note: The Acting Chief Executive Officer will chair the meeting until the Councillors Elect have taken the oath and declaration of office and the election or mayor/deputy has been undertaken.

Newly elected mayor remarks Newly elected deputy mayor remarks Comments by newly elected Councillors

Open David Leahy, Acting Chief Executive Officer assumed the Chair and declared the meeting open at 5.30pm Acknowledgement to Country Acting Chief Executive Officer David Leahy read the Acknowledgement to Country. Prayer Acting Chief Executive Officer David Leahy read the Prayer. Apologies Nil Recommendations That the apologies be accepted.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 4 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Oath of Office and Declaration The following Councillors elect, took the Oath of Allegiance and the Affirmation of Office.

Jessie Kiley Jim Crowe

Michael Adamson

John Katis

Les McPhee

Greg Cruickshank

Gary Norton

Each Councillor came forward and in turn spoke and signed an Oath of Office as a Councillor, and the Affirmation to Australia, before the Acting Chief Executive Officer David Leahy and the meeting attendees.

Page 5: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 5 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 6: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 6 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 7: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 7 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 8: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 8 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 9: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 9 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 10: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 10 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 11: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 11 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 12: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 12 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 13: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 13 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 14: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 14 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 15: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 15 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 16: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 16 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 17: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 17 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 18: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 18 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Page 19: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 19 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 20 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Councillors remarks Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting.

Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim Crowe

Councillor Michael Adamson

Councillor Greg Cruickshank

Councillor Jessie Kiley

Councillor Gary Norton

Councillor Les McPhee

Page 21: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 21 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

SECTION B – REPORTS

B.12.136 MAYORAL TERM OF OFFICE Source: Procedural Department: Chief Executive File Number: 24-19-00

Summary

Changes to the Local Government Act 1989 in 2008 allow for the election of a Mayor for a two-year term.

Council Plan Strategy Addressed

Councillor and Staff accountability - Council will represent the interests of our community and will conduct its affairs openly and with integrity, reflecting high levels of good governance Develop open community relationships – Council seeks to achieve greater community inclusiveness and understanding of Council’s operations and decisions.

Recommendations

It is recommended that Council:

1. It is recommended that Council determine whether to elect a Mayor for a term of one or two years.

Policy Implications

Nil Financial and Resource Implications

Costs associated with Mayoral allowances and ancillary costs are included in the budget each year. Triple Bottom Line Impact

Not applicable for the nature of this report.

Page 22: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 22 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Background

The Local Government Act at Clause 71 outlines the need for Council to determine whether to elect the Mayor for either a one or two year term. Election of Mayor

1. At a meeting of the Council that is open to the public, the Councillors must elect a Councillor to be the Mayor of the Council.

2. Before a Mayor is elected under this section, the Council may resolve to elect

a Mayor for a term of 2 years.

3. The Mayor is to be elected –

a. After the fourth Saturday in October but not later than 30 November in each year;or

b. If under subsection (2), the Mayor is elected for a term of 2 years, the

next election of Mayor is 2 years after the fourth Saturday in October but not later than 30 November in the second year after the election; or

c. As soon as possible after any vacancy in the office of the Mayor

occurs. Issues

Council is reviewing its current position against its statutory requirements. Consultation

This is a matter solely for Council. Options

Council may resolve to elect the Mayor for either a one or two year term. Conclusion

The length of time that the Mayor is elected, either one or two years, is at the discretion of Council

Attachments Nil.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 23 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

18/12 Resolved

MOVED Councillor Cruickshank

It is recommended that Council determine whether to elect a Mayor for a term of one year.

SECONDED Councillor Norton

The Motion was put and CARRIED

Page 24: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 24 Minutes for Statutory Meeting SECTION B - REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

B.12.137 ELECTION OF MAYOR FOR YEAR 2012-2013 Source: Procedural Department: Chief Executive File Number: 24-19-00

Summary

This report outlines the process and statutory requirements for the election of Mayor for the period from the 7 November 2012 until November 2013 Statutory Meeting or 2014 subject to the outcome of Agenda Item 1. Election of Mayor The Chief Executive Officer must facilitate the election process of the Mayor in accordance with the provisions of the Act if required. As the Act does not provide for a Deputy Mayor, the CEO also usually conducts the election of the Deputy Mayor. Method of Voting

The election of the Mayor and/or Deputy Mayor must be carried out by a show of hands.

Councillors who are not in attendance at the meeting are not entitled to vote.

Proxy and phone voting is not permitted. The Election The Council shall appoint the Chief Executive Officer to deal with the election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

Council Plan Strategy Addressed

Councillor and Staff accountability - Council will represent the interests of our community and will conduct its affairs openly and with integrity, reflecting high levels of good governance Develop open community relationships – Council seeks to achieve greater community inclusiveness and understanding of Council’s operations and decisions.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 25 Minutes for Statutory Meeting SECTION B - REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Recommendations

It is recommended that Council:

1. Call for Nominations for the position of Mayor.

Policy Implications

Council has endorsed the policy for the continuing position of Mayor.

Financial and Resource Implications

Not applicable Triple Bottom Line Impact

It is considered that there are no triple bottom line implications within this report. Background

The aims of the position of Mayor are:

To provide leadership in pursuing the objectives of the Council Plan and other strategic priorities of Council; and

To be the ceremonial head at official civic and community functions.

Under section 71 of the Local Government Act 1989, the Councillors must elect a Councillor to be the Mayor of the Council. The term of office of the Mayor is until the next Statutory Meeting of Council for the election of the Mayor is held or until any vacancy in the office of Mayor occurs or as determined by resolution associated with 71(2) of the Local Government Act 1989. Section 73 of the Local Government Act 1989 states that the Mayor of a Council takes precedence at all municipal proceedings within the municipal district and that the Mayor must take the chair at all meetings of the Council at which he or she is present. The Mayor’s role should be seen as being at the apex of Council structures in relation to policy making, the setting of Council priorities and the political aspirations of the community’s democratic leadership. The Mayor represents a primary form of accountability and responsible governance.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 26 Minutes for Statutory Meeting SECTION B - REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

The role of the Mayor includes: To liaise closely with the Chief Executive Officer to ensure effective

relationships between Council and its administration in pursuing Council goals.

To create and maintain political stability. To embody the community’s democratic leadership and provide a symbol of

democracy to the community. To lead, coordinate and provide guidance for the Council and Councillors. To chair Council meetings so as to ensure adequate Council discussions and

community debate on key issues, and provide leadership and direction. To speak publicly about the Local Government’s role and developments in the

community. To represent the municipality at key ceremonial occasions and in political

forums. To oversee performance of the Chief Executive Officer. To facilitate appropriate coordination of the roles of Lead Councillor and

Councillor responsible to assist these roles in achieving their purposes. Issues

It is considered that there are no issues associated with this report. Relevant Policies Local Law No 1 – Meeting Procedure Local Government Act 1989 Consultation

Not applicable. Options

Council is required to appoint a Mayor pursuant to the Local Government Act 1989. Conclusion

This report recommends the election of the Mayor in accordance to the Local Government Act.

Attachments Nil.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 27 Minutes for Statutory Meeting SECTION B - REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

19/12 Resolved

MOVED Councillor Katis

That Council nominate Councillor Les McPhee for the position of Mayor.

SECONDED Councillor Norton

The Motion was put and CARRIED Acting Chief Executive Officer vacated the Chair at 6.04pm and Mayor Les McPhee assumed the chair.

Page 28: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 28 Minutes for Statutory Meeting SECTION B - REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

B.12.138 ELECTION OF DEPUTY MAYOR 2012/2013 Source: Procedural Department: Chief Executive File Number: 24-19-02

Summary

The Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) only requires Council to elect a Mayor of either a one or two year term. Within the Act there is no express need for the election of a Deputy Mayor. Although the Act is silent on the matter, there is nothing that precludes Council from having a Deputy Mayor position. Further the Act provides guidance on the role of the Mayor and what capacity Council has to create an acting Mayor position. 73 Precedence of Mayor

1. The Mayor of a Council takes precedence at all municipal proceedings within the municipal district.

2. The Mayor must take the chair at all meetings of the Council at which he or

she is present.

3. If there is a vacancy in the office of Mayor or the Mayor is absent, incapable of acting or refusing to act, the Council must appoint one of the Councillors to be the acting Mayor.

4. An acting Mayor may perform any function or exercise any power conferred

on the Mayor. Since 1999 Swan Hill Rural City Council has had an elected Deputy Mayor position.

Council Plan Strategy Addressed

Councillor and Staff accountability - Council will represent the interests of our community and will conduct its affairs openly and with integrity, reflecting high levels of good governance Development of open community relationships – Council seeks to achieve greater community inclusiveness and understanding of Council’s operations and decisions.

Page 29: OC 07112012 MIN AT - Swan Hill Rural City Council · 2013-10-04 · Each Councillor then in turn provided a brief maiden speech to the meeting. Councillor John Katis Councillor Jim

Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 29 Minutes for Statutory Meeting SECTION B - REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Recommendations

It is recommended that Council:

1. Agrees to continue the position of Deputy Mayor

2. Call for Nomination for the position of Deputy Mayor.

Policy Implications

Council has endorsed the policy for the continuing position of Deputy Mayor. Financial and Resource Implications

Currently the position of Deputy Mayor is not recognised for the Local Government Act as a position that attracts an allowance. As such the Deputy Mayor receives the Councillor allowance as set by Council form time to time in accordance with the Act. Triple Bottom Line Impact

Not applicable for the nature of this report. Background

At the December 8 2008 Special Council Meeting Council adopted a Deputy Mayor Position Policy (POL/GOV006) to strengthen the position of Mayor and the operations of Council. It was resolved by Council; That Council elect a Deputy Mayor to support the Mayoral role to facilitate the smooth and uninterrupted civic, statutory and policy-making functions of Council in the absence of the Mayor. The process of election of the position of Deputy Mayor has been the same as the election of the Mayor, as set out in Swan Hill Rural City Council Local Law No 1 “Meeting Procedures Local Law”, Part 3 Issues

The Deputy Mayor would not necessarily automatically take the role of Mayor if the elected Mayor is absent due to resignation or incapacity. The Act expressly outlines at section 73 (3) what is required of Council.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 30 Minutes for Statutory Meeting SECTION B - REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Consultation

The determination on whether Council continues with a dedicated Deputy Mayor position is a Council decision. Options

Nil. Council has previously determined to maintain the position of Deputy Mayor. Conclusion

The intent of the position is for the Deputy Mayor to represent the Mayor at meetings and functions.

Attachments Nil. 20/12 Resolved

MOVED Councillor Cruickshank

That Council agrees to continue the position of Deputy Mayor

SECONDED Councillor Adamson

The Motion was put and CARRIED 21/12 Resolved

MOVED Councillor Katis

That Council Nominate Councillor Cruickshank for the position of Deputy Mayor for the next 12 months.

SECONDED Councillor Crowe

The Motion was put and CARRIED

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 31 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

B.12.139 DETERMINATION OF COUNCIL MEETING LOCATIONS Source: Procedural Department: Chief Executive File Number: 22-13-00

Summary

Each year Council holds its Ordinary business meetings in a range of locations throughout the municipality to enable members of the community to access Council, and have the opportunity to see the Council decision making process in action. Council meetings are set to commence at 7pm, on the third Tuesday of each month. Council has the opportunity to consider whether continuing this practice allows for as many members of the community to attend Council meetings or whether another day in the month and a different starting time will achieve this objective.

Council Plan Strategy Addressed

Developing open community relationships - Council seeks to achieve greater community inclusiveness and understanding of Council’s operations and decisions Councillor accountability – Council will represent the interests of our community and will conduct its affairs openly and with integrity, reflecting high levels of good governance.

Recommendations

It is recommended that Council:

1. Confirms its current meeting dates and times of the third Tuesday of the month at 7.00pm with the exception of the February meeting to be brought forward to the second week of the month, June meeting being moved back to the fourth week of the month and December being brought forward to the second week of the month.

2. Confirm that the November 2012 and December 2012 meetings be held in Swan Hill

3. Determine to hold its Ordinary business meetings at the locations as listed in the schedule within this report.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 32 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Policy Implications

The Swan Hill Rural City Council Code of Governance identifies that Council meets in different locations throughout the municipality to facilitate public access. Similarly, meetings are held at 7.00pm at night to enable members of the community to attend. Financial and Resource Implications

Costs associated with conducting Council meetings outside of the Council Chamber in the Swan Hill Town Hall are included in the budget each year. Triple Bottom Line Impact

Facilitating community access to Council meetings will aid the Sustainable Community goal of Building Community Capacity. Background

Historically Council has held its meetings on the third Tuesday of the month, commencing at 7.00pm to enable interested members of the community to attend Council meetings. For the same reason Council has held its ordinary monthly business meetings in a range of locations throughout the municipality. Over the last three years Council has met in the following locations as identified in the table further in this report. As can be seen from the table, in the last three years Council has met regularly in Robinvale and on two more occasions at smaller locations in the municipality. In the last four years Council has met in Lake Boga, Ultima, Manangatang, Nyah, Woorinen South and Piangil. Issues

Meeting in locations outside of Swan Hill enable access to Council meetings by members of the community who otherwise would have to travel significant distances to attend Council meetings. Scheduling meetings in other locations during daylight savings enables Councillors to inspect local developments and issues prior to the commencement of the Council meeting. The following table includes proposed locations for 2011, based on informal discussions with Councillors:

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 33 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Month

2011 2012

2013

January

No meeting Swan Hill

No meeting

February

Swan Hill Swan Hill

Swan Hill

March

Lake Boga Lake Boga

Ultima

April

Swan Hill Swan Hill

Swan Hill

May

Swan Hill Manangatang

Swan Hill

June

Boundary Bend Robinvale

Boundary Bend

July

Swan Hill Swan Hill

Robinvale

August

Nyah Swan Hill

Swan Hill

September

Swan Hill Swan Hill

Swan Hill

October

Robinvale Swan Hill

Nyah

November

Swan Hill

Swan Hill

Swan Hill

December

Swan Hill Swan Hill

Swan Hill

It should be noted that Council traditionally does not meet in January, however in 2012 it was considered by Council that there was need to conduct a January meeting due to the significant number of issues needing to be considered by Council.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 34 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Council did not set the venues for the final two Council Meetings for 2012 and needs to determine locations it is suggested both meeting be held in Swan Hill. Consultation

Public consultation has not been undertaken in relation to this report.

Options

In relation to this report Council can elect to:

Decide whether to continue meeting on the third Tuesday of the month or another day.

Decide whether to continue commencing meetings at 7.00pm or at another time.

Meet in Swan Hill and/or other locations. Which locations outside of Swan Hill, and in which month.

Conclusion

It remains for Council to determine on its meeting dates, times and locations for 2013.

Attachments Nil. 22/12 Resolved

MOVED Councillor Norton

That Council:

1. Confirms its current meeting dates and times of the third Tuesday of the month at 7.00pm with the exception of the February meeting to be brought forward to the second week of the month, June meeting being moved back to the fourth week of the month and December being brought forward to the second week of the month.

2. Confirm that the November 2012 and December 2012 meetings be held in Swan Hill

3. Determine to hold its Ordinary business meetings at the locations as listed in the schedule within this report.

SECONDED Councillor Crowe

The Motion was put and CARRIED

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 35 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

B.12.140 APPOINTMENT OF COUNCIL DELEGATES TO OUTSIDE ORGANISATIONS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS Source: Procedural Department: Chief Executive File Number: 22-20-00

Summary

The purpose of the report is to consider the appointment of Councillors to outside organisations and community groups.

Council Plan Strategy Addressed

Developing open community relationships - Council seeks to achieve greater community inclusiveness and understanding of Council’s operations and decisions Councillor accountability – Council will represent the interests of our community and will conduct its affairs openly and with integrity, reflecting high levels of good governance.

Recommendations

It is recommended that Council:

1. Adopt the attached list of appointments to outside organisations and community groups.

Policy Implications

Not applicable Financial and Resource Implications

Costs associated with attendance have been budgeted for. Triple Bottom Line Impact

Appointments will assist in achieving triple bottom line objectives.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 36 Minutes for Statutory Meeting REPORTS 7 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Background

Council makes appointments to various outside organisations and community groups. This assist Council in working closely with its community and to be able to take part in a wide range of activities associated with the development of the Municipality.

Issues

Nil Consultation

Not applicable Options

Council do not have to make appointments. Conclusion

It is important that Council is represented on a wide range of issues.

Attachments 1 COUNCIL DELEGATIONS 23/12 Resolved

MOVED Councillor Katis

That Council:

1. Adopt the attached list of appointments to outside organisations and community groups.

SECONDED Councillor Kiley

The Motion was put and CARRIED

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Attachment 1

COUNCIL DELEGATIONS

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson……………………………………

APPOINTMENT OF COUNCIL DELEGATES TO COMMUNITY GROUPS

Organisation Councillor Representative

Councillor/Officer December 2011/ 2012

Councillor/Officer December 2012/ 2013

Asset Naming Sub-Committee (of Council)

Mayor or Deputy Mayor 1 Councillor as member

Cr Jennings Cr Croft Cr Katis

Deputy Mayor Cr Katis

Audit Committee 2 Councillors as members

Cr Katis

Cr Croft

Cr Katis

Cr Crowe

Chief Executive Officer Performance Review Committee

Mayor, Immediate

Past Mayor and Councillor

Mayor

Cr Cruickshank

Cr Jennings

Cr Crowe

Swan Hill Regional Livestock Exchange

Councillor

Officer

Cr Croft Cr McPhee

Swan Hill Indoor Sport & Recreation Centre Committee of Management

Ward Councillors as observers

Cr Cruickshank Cr Adamson

Swan Hill Leisure Centre Committee of Management

Councillor as Delegate

Councillor as Sub-Delegate

Cr Quayle

Cr Katis as Sub- Delegate

Cr Kiley

Cr Adamson Sub-Delegate

Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery Advisory Committee

Councillor as member

Cr Croft Cr Kiley

Swan Hill Riverfront Master Plan Advisory Group

2 Councillors as members

Cr McPhee

Cr Cruickshank

Cr Cruickshank

Cr Crowe

Central Murray Regional Waste Management Group

Councillor as Director on Group Board

Cr Quayle Cr Cruickshank interim

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Attachment 1

COUNCIL DELEGATIONS

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson……………………………………

Organisation Councillor Representative

Councillor/Officer December 2011/ 2012

Councillor/Officer December 2012/ 2013

Livestock Saleyards Association of Victoria Inc

Councillor as member

Cr Croft Cr McPhee

Municipal Association of Victoria

Councillor as Delegate

Councillor as Sub-Delegate

Cr Norton as Delegate Mayor as Sub-Delegate

Cr Norton Mayor as Sub-Delegate

Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee

Councillor as Chair

Cr McPhee

Cr Croft and

Cr Katis as back up

Cr McPhee

Cr Katis Sub-Delegate

Murray Darling Association

Councillor as member

Cr Norton

Cr Croft

Cr Norton

Cr Crowe Sub-Delegate

Murray Mallee Local Learning & Employment Network (MLLEN)

Councillor/Officer as member

Cr McPhee Cr Adamson

Murray River Group of Councils

Mayor and CEO Mayor

CEO

Mayor

CEO

North West Municipalities Association

Mayor and CEO or Councillors

Cr Norton

Cr Croft (Proxy)

Cr Norton as Delegate

Cr Adamson as

Sub-Delegate

Swan Hill Community House

Councillor as member

Cr McPhee

Cr McPhee

Swan Hill “Healthy Minds” Network

Councillor as member

Cr Quayle

Cr Kiley

Swan Hill Inc. Councillor/Officer as board member

Cr Cruickshank Cr Kiley

Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA)

Councillor Delegate and Councillor as Sub-Delegate

Councillor McPhee as Delegate and Councillor Jennings as Sub-Delegate

Councillor McPhee as Delegate and Councillor Adamson as Sub-Delegate

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Attachment 1

COUNCIL DELEGATIONS

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson……………………………………

Committee Councillor 2011/12 Councillor 2012/13

Robinvale Aboriginal Elders Committee

Cr Katis Cr Katis

Robinvale Euston Business Association

Cr Katis Cr Katis

Lake Boga Inc Cr McPhee Cr McPhee

Manangatang Improvement Group

Cr Norton Cr Norton

Nyah Action Group Cr Norton Cr Norton

Ultima Progress Association Cr McPhee Cr McPhee

Bigger Better Beverford Group Cr Jennings

Cr Cruickshank

Cr Quayle

Cr Croft

Cr Cruickshank

Cr Adamson

Cr Crowe

Cr Kiley

Woorinen Progress Association Cr Jennings

Cr Cruickshank

Cr Quayle

Cr Croft

Cr Cruickshank

Cr Adamson

Cr Crowe

Cr Kiley

Piangil Community Group Cr Norton Cr Norton

Boundary Bend Progress Association

Cr Norton Cr Norton

Swan Hill Rural City Residents & Ratepayers Association

Cr Croft Any Councillor can attend

Rail Freight Alliance Cr Jennings Cr Cruickshank

Cr Adamson

Murray Region Tourism Board Cr Cruickshank Cr Cruickshank

Central Murray Regional Transport Forum

Cr Cruickshank Cr Cruickshank

Cr Adamson

Tree Committee Cr Katis

Cr Jennings

Cr Kiley

Cr Katis

Chisholm Reserve Motor Sports Development Group

Cr Cruickshank Cr Cruickshank

Cr Crowe

Cr Adamson

Community Grants Cr Quayle Cr Crowe

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Attachment 1

COUNCIL DELEGATIONS

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson……………………………………

Committee Councillor 2011/12 Councillor 2012/13

Rural Councils Victoria Mayor Cr Norton

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 41 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

B.12.150 SETTING OF COUNCILOR ALLOWANCES Source: Procedural Department: Chief Executive File Number: 24-08-00

Summary

The Local Government (Council Remuneration Review) Panel Report April 2008 recommended the new Council and Mayoral allowances and support package to better reflect the contribution made by locally elected councillors. The allowance package is based on a three-category model of Council allowances, based on revenue and population figures and ensures Councils can retain flexibility and discretion to set allowances within a range in consultation with their community. New allowance ranges will apply to all Councils effective from the 27 October 2012. Once adopted, following a Statutory advertising and submission process, Councillors are entitled to receive the new Councillor or Mayoral allowance. The current allowance will be paid until that date.

Council Plan Strategy Addressed

Councillor and Staff accountability - Council will represent the interests of our community and will conduct its affairs openly and with integrity, reflecting high levels of good governance

Recommendations

It is recommended that Council:

1. Set the rate of allowance for all Councillors and the Mayor in line with State Government guidelines.

2. Advertise the proposed allowances and seek submissions in accordance with Section 223 of the Local Government Act.

3. In the event no submissions are received, adopt the proposed allowances effective from the date of this resolution.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 42 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Policy Implications

Council must comply with its statutory requirements as outlined in the Local Government Act 1989. Financial and Resource Implications

Costs associated with Councillor allowances are included in the budget each year. Triple Bottom Line Impact

Not applicable for the nature of this report. Background

The Local Government Act 1989 states; S74 Council and Mayoral Allowances

(1) A Council must review and determine the level of the Councillor allowance and the Mayoral allowance within the period of 6 months after a general election or by the next 30 June, whichever is later.

The Victorian Government sets upper and lower limits for all allowances paid to Councillors and Mayors. For the purpose of these allowances limits, Councils are divided into three categories based on the income and population of each council. Soon after being elected, each Council determines the precise annual amount that will be paid to it Mayor and Councillors, within the limits set by the Government. These amounts are payable from the date of the resolution of the Council determining the level of allowances S74 (2) the Local Government Act and following a Statutory advertising process. However, a Council may review its allowance level during this time if the limits set by the Government are changed. Councillors can decline to receive an allowance. Allowances are automatically adjusted for cost increases by Ministerial direction annually following the initial adoption. Issues

Current annual allowances set for this Council are a Mayoral allowance of $56,271.48 and a Councillor allowance of $21,210.02. The current allowance range applicable to this Council is: Category 2 – Councillors from $9,317 to $22,405 and up to $69,325 for the Mayor.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 43 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Additionally a remote travel allowance will continue to provide compensation for the time spent on long distance travelled by Councillors in remote areas, This allowance provides for a maximum limit of $5,000 per annum (at daily rate of $40 in respect to each meeting or function) or as may be amended from time to time by Order in Council. Superannuation at 9% is paid in addition to the allowance. Councillors are not employees of their Council and do not receive employment benefits like leave entitlements. Additional support is provided to Councillors in accordance with the Act and Council Policy. These include; Resources/facilities mandatory

Administration support Office access for the Mayor and Councillors Vehicle for the Mayor Computer-desktop and iPad or a laptop Fax/printer Mobile phone and landline if determined Stationery Access to fax/copier

Reimbursement will be provided for Council related:

Travel - including reimbursement of public transport costs Phone call costs Internet Child care/family care

Consultation

As part of the Local Government (Councillor Remuneration Review) Panel Report extensive consultation and discussion was held between Local Government professional bodies, Councils, Councillors and the wider public. In addition, Council must follow a legislated Section 223 consultation and submission process prior to finalising the level of allowances.

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Swan Hill Rural City Council Page 44 Minutes for Statutory Meeting Of Council SECTION A – PROCEDURAL MATTERS 07 November 2012

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Confirmed 20 November 2012………………………….Chairperson…………………………………………

Options

Nil Conclusion

Council needs to determine the level of Councillor and Mayoral allowances.

Attachments Nil. 24/12 Recommendations

MOVED Councillor Norton

That Council:

1. Set the rate of allowance for all Councillors and the Mayor in line with State Government guidelines and the allowances stay as they are with the automatic adjustments.

2. Advertise the proposed allowances and seek submissions in accordance with Section 223 of the Local Government Act.

3. In the event no submissions are received, adopt the proposed allowances effective from the date of this resolution.

SECONDED Councillor Katis

The Motion was put and CARRIED There being no further business the Mayor Les McPhee closed the meeting at 6.20pm.