Glen Innes Severn Council’s August meeting covered a wide range of issues, including renewable energy, community safety, financial pressures, and future use of public assets. While many decisions passed unanimously, several items sparked debate among councillors.
Renewable Energy Submission
Council resolved to lodge a submission to EnergyCo NSW calling for the inclusion of existing 132kV transmission infrastructure in the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
The Mayor said this would give Glen Innes Severn greater certainty for renewable energy developers and could unlock local benefits such as jobs, supply chain opportunities and contributions to community schemes.
Councillors spoke in support, with no opposition, and the motion passed unanimously.
Community Safety and Health Services
Council heard that the main street CCTV upgrade is now complete, with 33 cameras installed across the CBD, Town Hall and Anzac Park. Councillors welcomed the progress, with training underway for staff and cooperation with police.
The New England CT scanning facility also reached a milestone, with a construction certificate issued and essential power upgrades in progress.
Organisation and Training
A review of council’s organisational structure was endorsed, with the General Manager emphasising the need to focus on culture, mindset and effectiveness, not just structure. The Mayor highlighted the balance between using consultants when needed, and building stronger internal capacity.
Council also adopted a revised councillor induction and professional development policy. Debate centred on cost implications, with some councillors cautious about the financial impact and the need for added programs. Subsequently, an amendment was carried to strengthen compliance, broaden training to include diversity and wellbeing, and introduce mid-term reviews.
Councillor Expenses Policy
The revised expenses and facilities policy was adopted, though one councillor questioned wording around the provision of a mayoral car. The Mayor introduced an amendment to broaden carer support to include family and cultural obligations, which was carried.
Financial Assistance Grants
Council noted advice from the Local Government Grants Commission showing Glen Innes Severn’s increase in financial assistance grants was well below both CPI and the state average.
Councillors expressed concern that the current per-capita funding model disadvantages rural councils with little population growth. An amendment was adopted requiring a submission to be made during the upcoming methodology review to advocate for fairer outcomes.
Investment and Capital Works
Council’s cash position was reported as positive for the first time in months, albeit aided by a $5 million loan. The Mayor introduced an amendment requiring a report on strategies to manage declining interest rates while protecting investment returns.
Updates were provided on a range of capital works, including road rehabilitations and the Anzac Park playground, where revised designs now feature in-ground trampolines following community feedback.
Feedlot Development Approval
There was some debate over a proposed 999-head cattle feedlot at Wellington Vale. While staff recommended approval subject to conditions, 166 public submissions had been received, with only 3 coming from within the LGA.
Cr Sparks spoke strongly against the development, citing animal welfare concerns and the absence of shade for cattle. She argued council should insist on higher welfare standards, warning that “feedlot culture ignores the obvious need for shade” in warming climates.
Other councillors spoke in favour, describing the proponents as professional operators and highlighting economic benefits such as employment and supply chain opportunities. The motion to approve was carried, with Cr Sparks the sole vote against.
Former Ambulance Station
Another point of contention was the future of the former Glen Innes ambulance station, with Cr Scott moving that Council seek State support to transfer the building into community ownership at little or no cost, citing its history, community fundraising origins, and potential future uses. Cr Scott pointed to Armidale Regional Council’s acquisition of the Old Armidale Courthouse from the State for $1 as a precedent.
However, the Mayor and several councillors opposed his motion, arguing it posed financial risks to take on an unfunded asset without a clear plan. Instead, councillors supported a foreshadowed motion directing the Mayor to continue discussions with the State, while deferring any transfer request until funding and a viable plan are in place.
Confidential Matters
In closed session, Council resolved to:
- Pause the waste-to-energy public-private partnership pending results of a feedstock trial that will indicate whether or not the project is viable.
- Relist the sale of 23 Bourke Street, Deepwater, at $85,000 for six months.
- Decline offers for land at Dumaresq Street, Glen Innes, and review property policy to allow a broader marketing program through local real estate agents.
The meeting closed at 10:57am.
