The following questions were addressed to the above meeting. Some questions were adequately responded to at the meeting, however others required a more detailed response in writing.
This document includes both verbal and written responses. In this instance, no written responses were provided as issues were adequately addressed at the meeting.
Andy Richards submitted questions in relation to Asbestos Removal to which a written response will be provided within 14 days.
*** The General Manager Planning and Development provided a written response in relation to the above on 9 December 2016.
Colin Wallace asked the following:
Dr Alexander, in your letter to me dated 22 August 2016, you said you would not meet with me and did not mention my wife at all, even though when I asked here at public question time on 16 August if you would meet with my wife and me you said you would.
To explain this turnaround, you said in the letter you did some research. Your research did not extend to consulting me or my wife.
You had never met with us and had no communication of any sort to you from us except my questions here on 28 June and 16 August.
Since, according to your letter, the outcome of your research is that you will not meet with us despite saying you would, I am asking would you, Dr Alexander, provide a list of the resources you used in your research, such that each item of information is readily identifiable?
Kathy Alexander indicated that she would not provide the requested information.
Mary Wallace asked questions regarding personnel related matters, and as previously advised, “Council does not discuss personnel related matters in an open forum”.
Priscilla Pescott asked questions regarding signage at Balyang Sanctuary:
Last time I was there, a young woman with several small children had come with a large bag full of french stick bread to feed the birds. She said she was unaware that feeding the birds was prohibited.
When I returned from my walk, there were several of the bread sticks floating in the water, and on the concourse.
The notice of prohibition is only on the bird identification signs, and not very prominent. So I would ask that more prominent signs with this message be erected fronting the car park and beside the lakes.
Rodney Thomas responded that Council will have a look at the signage with a view to improving it.
A subsequent written response was provided by the Manager Environment and Waste Services in the following terms: |
I refer to your question presented at the Council meeting on 22 November 2016 requesting more prominent signs be erected outlining the prohibition of bird feeding in this reserve.
You are advised that staff within the Environment and Waste Services Unit will investigate this matter further in consultation with the City’s Local Laws Unit.
Once the agreed course of action has been agreed upon I will ensure the key Council officer advises you as to the outcome and the timing of any new signs that are to be erected.
On behalf of Council I wish to thank you for your question and your interest in this reserve.
Sue Clark asked question in relation to 43 Upper Skene Street, Newtown:
Given that buildings and fences currently exist that are not in line with the overlay guidelines and that one side of the street has been excluded, what is the Heritage Overlay trying to achieve by including Upper Skene Street in the precinct?
Kathy Alexander suggested Peter Bettess have some of the planning staff meet and discuss the issues further.
*** A meeting has been arranged for Thursday, 22 December.
Michael Loughnan asked questions regarding the Annual Global Costings of Armstrong Creek:
so as to retrieve money from developers in keeping with real costs;
to add weight to growing costs of delivery desirable qualities for subdivisions and efficient service delivery.
Peter Bettess advised he would ask his Executive Assistant to make contact in regard to formalising a meeting.
** A meeting was arranged with Mr Loughnan for 7 December 2016.
Jennifer Bantow asked questions in relation to the Newtown West Heritage Review and Johnstone Park Concept Plan:
Newtown West Heritage Review:
Is it planned to have any other areas reviewed in the near future?
Is there any annual budgetary allocation for this purpose until all the Outer Areas Heritage Study is completed?
Peter Bettess responded he can’t say what the next areas to be reviewed are, but would be putting to the heritage strategy which will identify those areas that haven’t been studied, which should be.
Johnstone Park Concept Plan:
Does Council consider the closure of Mercer Street and the demolition of the buildings within the Woolstores Heritage Overlay should be endorsed?
Brett Luxford added the Johnstone Park Concept Plan is being put out for a period of 14 days for public consultation and added he is aware of the elements mentioned and is working with Heritage Victoria for the best outcome.
