Council Decided - 7 June 2016

Local Government Reform – Funding Allocation

Council resolved to make a further budget allocation of $75,000 to fund legal costs associated with action being taken against the NSW Government’s merger proposal process. Legal proceedings are currently underway in the NSW Land and Environment Court.

MOSPLAN Delivery Program, Operational Plan, Budget and Pricing Policy – Schedule of Fees and Charges

Council adopted the latest revisions to its 2013-2017 Delivery Program, as well as its 2016-2017 Operational Plan, Budget and Pricing Policy – Schedule of Fees and Charges. These documents were previously exhibited for public comment during April and May, with one submission being received. All adopted documents will take effect from 1 July 2016 and will be available on Council’s website.

Mayor and Councillor Fees

Council discussed the latest determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal and resolved to adopt the maximum fees payable to the Mayor and Councillors in 2016/17 in line with that determination. For a Council of Mosman’s size, the maximum fees payable in 2016/17 are $41,090 p.a. for the Mayor and $18,840 p.a. for Councillors.

Balmoral Baths Turning Boards

Council discussed the two turning boards that facilitate swimming activity at Balmoral Baths. In recent years these boards have deteriorated rapidly in the marine environment and consultants have advised that replacement, rather than further repairs, would be the most cost effective way of dealing with the boards’ deterioration. Council resolved to endorse the turning boards as a project suitable for future grant applications and to provide assistance to local swimming clubs in preparing relevant applications. The turning boards will also be included in projects for Council’s next Section 94A Developer Contributions Plan which will be the subject of public consultation.

Tree Root Aeration – Balmoral Reserve

Council’s present approach to aerating the root systems of fig trees in Balmoral Reserve was discussed. It was resolved by Council that a report be prepared on current practices and that a small Committee of Councillors and staff review alternative options that allow more effective use of the reserve by members of the public while still achieving appropriate aeration outcomes for the trees’ root systems.