AGENDA
General Meeting
Wednesday, 16 April 2025
commencing at 9.30am
The Council Chambers
91 - 93 Bloomfield Street
CLEVELAND QLD
AGENDA
General Meeting
Wednesday, 16 April 2025
commencing at 9.30am
The Council Chambers
91 - 93 Bloomfield Street
CLEVELAND QLD
General Meeting Agenda 16 April 2025
2 Record of Attendance and Leave of Absence
5 Receipt and Confirmation of Minutes
6 Declaration of Prescribed Conflict of Interests and Declarable Conflict of Interests
7 Matters Outstanding from Previous Council Meetings
7.1 Indoor Sports Facilities Planning
7.4 Councillor Representative Portfolio Structure
7.5 Service Review and Restructure
7.6 Tropical Cyclone Alfred Event
10 Petitions and Presentations
10.1 Petition - Cr Peter Mitchell - Adoption of Net-Zero Emissions
11 Motion to Alter the Order of Business
12 Reports from the Office of the CEO
13 Reports from Organisational Services
13.1 March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
13.3 Media Relations and Speeches Guideline review
13.4 Office of the Independent Assessor Referral of Suspected Conduct Breach
14 Reports from Advocacy, Major Projects and Economic Development
15 Reports from Community & Customer Services.
16 Reports from Infrastructure & Operations
17 Notices of Intention to Repeal or Amend a Resolution
18.1 Cr Colley - Benchmarking with Northern Queensland Councils on Vegetation Policies
18.2 Cr Bishop - Birkdale Community Precinct
19 Urgent Business Without Notice
On establishing there is a quorum, the Mayor will declare the meeting open.
Recognition of the Traditional Owners
Council acknowledges the Quandamooka people who are the traditional custodians of the land on which we meet. Council also pays respect to their elders, past and present, and extends that respect to other indigenous Australians who are present.
2 Record of Attendance and Leave of Absence
Motion is required to approve leave of absence for any Councillor absent from today’s meeting.
Member of the Ministers’ Fellowship will lead Council in a brief devotional segment.
Mayor to present any recognition of achievement items.
5 Receipt and Confirmation of Minutes
General Meeting - 19 March 2025
6 Declaration of Prescribed Conflict of Interests and Declarable Conflict of Interests
Councillors are reminded of their responsibilities in relation to a Councillor’s Prescribed Conflict of Interest and Declarable Conflict of Interest at a meeting. For full details see Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009.
In summary:
Obligation of Councillor with Prescribed Conflict of Interest
Section 150EL of the Local Government Act 2009 requires Councillors to declare a Prescribed Conflict of Interest in a matter as soon as they become aware of their interest in the matter, either:
(1) at a local government meeting, or
(2) as soon as practicable, by giving the Chief Executive Officer written notice of the prescribed conflict of interest.
(3) The declaration must include the following particulars:
(a) For a gift, loan or contract – the value of the gift, loan or contract;
(b) For an application for which a submission has been made – the matters the subject of the application and submission;
(c) The name of any entity, other than the Councillor, that has an interest in the matter;
(d) The nature of the Councillor’s relationship with the entity mentioned in (c) above;
(e) Details of the Councillor’s, and any other entity’s, interest in the matter.
Dealing with Prescribed Conflict of Interest at a Meeting
Pursuant to Section 150EM of the Local Government Act 2009, if a Councillor declares a Prescribed Conflict of Interest in a matter, the Councillor must leave the place at which the meeting is being held, including any area set aside for the public, and stay away from the place while the matter is discussed and voted on.
Obligation of Councillor with Declarable Conflict of Interest
Section 150EQ of the Local Government Act 2009 requires Councillors to declare a Declarable Conflict of Interest in a matter as soon as they become aware of their interest in the matter, either:
(1) at a local government meeting, or
(2) as soon as practicable, by giving the Chief Executive Officer written notice of the declarable conflict of interest.
(3) The declaration must include the following particulars:
(a) The nature of the declarable conflict of interest;
(b) If the declarable conflict of interest arises because of the councillor’s relationship with a related party:
(i) The name of the related party; and
(ii) The nature of the relationship of the related party to the Councillor; and
(iii) The nature of the related party’s interests in the matter;
(c) If the Councillor’s or related party’s personal interests arise because of the receipt of a gift or loan from another person:
(i) The name of the other person; and
(ii) The nature of the relationship of the other person to the Councillor or related party; and
(iii) The nature of the other person’s interests in the matter; and
(iv) The value of the gift or loan, and the date the gift was given or loan was made.
Procedure if Councillor has Declarable Conflict of Interest
Pursuant to Section 150ES of the Local Government Act 2009, eligible Councillors at the meeting must, by resolution, decide whether the Councillor who has declared the interest:
May participate in a decision about the matter at the meeting, including by voting on the matter; or
Must leave the place at which the meeting is being held, including any area set aside for the public, and stay away from the place while the eligible Councillors discuss and vote on the matter.
Duty to report another Councillor’s Prescribed Conflict of Interest or Declarable Conflict of Interest
Pursuant to section 150EW of the Local Government Act 2009, a Councillor who reasonably believes or reasonably suspects another Councillor has a Prescribed Conflict of Interest or a Declarable Conflict of Interest in a matter must:
Immediately inform the person who is presiding at the meeting about the belief or suspicion; or
As soon as practicable, inform the Chief Executive Officer of the belief of suspicion.
The Councillor must also inform the person presiding, or the Chief Executive Officer, of the facts and circumstances forming the basis of the belief or suspicion.
Record of Prescribed and Declarable Conflicts of Interest
Where a Councillor informs the meeting of a Prescribed or Declarable Conflict of Interest, section 150FA of the Local Government Act 2009 requires the following information to be recorded in the minutes of the meeting:
The name of the Councillor who may have a prescribed or declarable conflict of interest in the matter;
The particulars of the prescribed or declarable conflict of interest;
If another Councillor informs the meeting of a belief of suspicion, about another Councillor’s Conflict of Interest:
(a) The action the Councillor takes;
(b) Any decision by eligible Councillors; and
(c) The name of each eligible Councillor who voted in relation to whether the Councillor has a declarable conflict of Interest, and how each eligible Councillor voted.
Whether the Councillor participated in deciding the matter, or was present for deciding the matter;
For a matter to which the Prescribed or Declarable Conflict of Interest relates:
(a) The name of the Councillor who has declared the conflict of interest;
(b) The nature of the personal interest, as described by the Councillor;
(c) The decision made;
(d) Whether the Councillor participated in the meeting under an approval by the Minister;
(e) If the Councillor voted on the matter, how they voted; and
(f) How the majority of Councillors voted on the matter.
If the Councillor has a Declarable Conflict of Interest, in addition to the information above, the following information must be recorded in the minutes:
(a) The decision and reasons for the decision as to whether the Councillor with the Declarable Conflict of Interest may participate in the decision, or must not participate in the decision; and
(b) The name of each eligible Councillor who voted on the decision, and how the eligible Councillor voted.
7 Matters Outstanding from Previous Council Meetings
7.1 Indoor Sports Facilities Planning
At the General Meeting 18 September 2023 (Item 16.1 refers), Council resolved as follows:
1. To endorse officers to investigate opportunities for a new indoor sports facility to be established in Redlands Coast as a legacy outcome in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
2. To endorse the development of an Indoor Sports Facility Action Plan for the Redlands Coast identifying priority locations, funding requirements and opportunities for refurbishing existing facilities to obtain a minimum of six indoor courts.
3. To endorse the development of a feasibility study on the priority site(s) identified by the indoor sports court action plan.
4. To bring a report to Council on the outcomes of Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games indoor sports facility investigation and the Indoor Sports Facility Action Plan.
A report will be brought to a future meeting of Council.
7.2 Draft Birkdale Community Precinct Local Government Infrastructure Designation Consultation Report
At the General Meeting 13 September 2023 (Item 14.1 refers), Council resolved as follows:
1. To endorse the Birkdale Community Precinct Local Government Infrastructure Designation Consultation Summary Report, including responses to submissions.
2. To note that officers will continue to progress amendments to the Birkdale Community Precinct Local Government Infrastructure Designation based on the Consultation Report, and that a report seeking Council endorsement to make the designation will be brought to a future meeting of Council.
3. To thank the community for its participation in the consultation.
A report will be brought to a future meeting of Council.
7.3 Petition - Cr Shane Rendalls - Request for Council to Reverse the Full Cost Recovery Policy for Moreton Bay Marine Facilities
At the General Meeting 20 November 2024 (Item 10.2 refers), Council resolved as follows:
That the petition be received and referred to the Chief Executive Officer for consideration and a report to the local government.
A report will be brought to a future meeting of Council.
7.4 Councillor Representative Portfolio Structure
At the General Meeting 19 February 2025 (Item 18.1 refers), Council resolved as follows:
To request that a report be tabled at the General Meeting on 19 March 2025, finalising the Councillor Representative Portfolio Structure and the supporting Policy and Guideline.
A report addressing this matter is listed as Item 13.2 of the agenda.
7.5 Service Review and Restructure
At the General Meeting 19 March 2025 (Item 8.2 refers), Council resolved as follows:
1. Establish an advisory group, including the Mayor and Chief Executive Officer, to guide the review process with regular report back to Council.
2. Ensure the review is evidence based and draws on best practice models of local administration, including innovative delivery models drawing on the latest knowledge and technology.
3. The Terms of Reference will come back to Councillors.
4. With the intent to commission a comprehensive external review of all Redland City Council services (both internal and external), organisational structure and delivery models to ensure that Council is appropriately resourced to deliver what the community needs in the most efficient way possible.
A report will be brought to a future meeting of Council.
7.6 Tropical Cyclone Alfred Event
At the General Meeting 19 March 2025 (Item 13.1 refers), Council resolved as follows:
That Council resolves as follows:
1. To note Council’s preparedness and response to the Tropical Cyclone Alfred event.
2. To endorse continued advocacy to the Federal and State governments for ongoing support during the recovery phase.
3. To note Council will publicly thank partner agencies, Council staff and volunteers for providing support to the Redlands Coast community before, during and after the Tropical Cyclone Alfred event.
4. To bring a report for consideration to the April 2025 General Meeting relating to Council’s recovery approach to the Tropical Cyclone Alfred event.
A report will be brought to a future meeting of Council.
In accordance with s.6.9 of Council Meeting Standing Orders, the Mayor may put to the meeting a written motion called a ‘Mayoral Minute’, on any matter. Such motion may be put to the meeting without being seconded, may be put at that stage in the meeting considered appropriate by the Mayor and once passed becomes a resolution of Council.
In accordance with s.6.10 Council Meeting Standing Orders:
1. In each meeting (other than special meetings), a period of 15 minutes may be made available by resolution to permit members of the public to address the local government on matters of public interest relating to the local government. This period may be extended by resolution.
2. Priority will be given to members of the public who make written application to the CEO no later than 4.30pm two days before the meeting. A request may also be made to the chairperson, when invited to do so, at the commencement of the public participation period of the meeting.
3. The time allocated to each speaker shall be a maximum of five minutes. The chairperson, at his/her discretion, has authority to withdraw the approval to address Council before the time period has elapsed.
4. The chairperson will consider each application on its merits and may consider any relevant matter in his/her decision to allow or disallow a person to address the local government, e.g.
a) Whether the matter is of public interest;
b) The number of people who wish to address the meeting about the same subject
c) The number of times that a person, or anyone else, has addressed the local government previously about the matter;
d) The person’s behaviour at that or a previous meeting; and
e) If the person has made a written application to address the meeting.
5. Any person invited to address the meeting must:
a) State their name and suburb, or organisation they represent and the subject they wish to speak about;
b) Stand (unless unable to do so);
c) Act and speak with decorum;
d) Be respectful and courteous; and
e) Make no comments directed at any individual Council employee, Councillor or member of the public, ensuring that all comments relate to Council as a whole.
10 Petitions and Presentations
10.1 Petition - Cr Peter Mitchell - Adoption of Net-Zero Emissions
In accordance with s.6.11 of Council Meeting Standing Orders, Cr Peter Mitchell will present the petition and motion as follows:
|
That the petition is of an operational nature and be received and referred to the Chief Executive Officer for consideration.
|
10.2 Petition - Cr Lance Hewlett - Request for creation of a suitable water drain between the dam in Sandy Drive Bushland Reserve to the Southern Boundary of Renaissance Retirement Village
In accordance with s.6.11 of Council Meeting Standing Orders, Cr Hewlett will present the petition and motion as follows:
|
That the petition is of an operational nature and be received and referred to the Chief Executive Officer for consideration. |
11 Motion to Alter the Order of Business
The order of business may be altered for a particular meeting where the Councillors at that meeting pass a motion to that effect. Any motion to alter the order of business may be moved without notice.
13 Reports from Organisational Services
13.1 March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Objective Reference: A11940343
Authorising Officer: Sandra Bridgeman, Executive Group Manager Financial Services & Chief Financial Officer
Responsible Officer: Peter Paterson, Financial Controller
Report Author: Udaya Panambala Arachchilage, Corporate Financial Reporting Manager
Attachments: 1. March 2025 Monthly Financial Report ⇩
Purpose
To note the year-to-date financial results as at 31 March 2025.
Background
Council adopts an annual budget and then reports on performance against the budget on a monthly basis. This is not only a legislative requirement but enables the organisation to periodically review its financial performance and position and respond to changes in community requirements, market forces or other outside influences.
There are no issues to report. The purpose of the attached report is to provide financial information to Council based upon actual versus budgeted financial activity.
Strategic Implications
Council has either achieved or favourably exceeded the following key financial sustainability ratios as at the end of March 2025.
· Operating Surplus Ratio
· Operating Cash Ratio
· Unrestricted Cash Expense Cover Ratio
· Asset Consumption Ratio
· Leverage Ratio
· Net Financial Liabilities Ratio
The Council-Controlled Revenue, Population Growth, and Asset Renewal Funding Ratios are reported for contextual purposes only. Population Growth and Asset Renewal Funding Ratios will not materially change from month to month.
Legislative Requirements
The March 2025 financial report is presented in accordance with the legislative requirement of section 204(2) of the Local Government Regulation 2012, requiring the Chief Executive Officer to present the financial report to a monthly Council meeting.
Risk Management
The March 2025 financial report has been noted by the Executive Leadership Team and relevant officers who can provide further clarification and advice around actual to budget variances.
Financial
There is no direct financial impact to Council as a result of this report, however it provides an indication of financial outcomes at the end of March 2025.
People
Nil impact expected as the purpose of the attached report is to provide financial information to Council based upon actual versus budgeted financial activity.
Environmental
Nil impact expected as the purpose of the attached report is to provide financial information to Council based upon actual versus budgeted financial activity.
Social
Nil impact expected as the purpose of the attached report is to provide financial information to Council based upon actual versus budgeted financial activity.
Human Rights
There are no human rights implications from this report as the purpose of the attached report is to provide financial information to Council based upon actual versus budgeted financial activity.
Alignment with Council's Policy and Plans
This report has a relationship with the following items of Council’s Our Future Redlands – A Corporate Plan to 2026 and Beyond:
Efficient and effective organisation objectives
7.1 Improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Council’s service delivery to decrease costs, and enhance customer experience and community outcomes.
7.4 Demonstrate good governance through transparent, accountable processes and sustainable practices and asset management.
Consultation
|
Consulted |
Date |
Comment |
|
Council departmental officers |
Year to date 31 March 2025 |
Consulted on financial results and outcomes. |
|
Financial Services Group officers |
Year to date 31 March 2025 |
Consulted on financial results and outcomes. |
|
Executive Leadership Team and Senior Leadership Team |
Year to date 31 March 2025 |
Recipients of variance analysis between actual and budget. Consulted as required. |
Options
Option One
That Council resolves to note the financial position, results and ratios for March 2025 as presented in the attached Monthly Financial Report.
Option Two
That Council resolves to request additional information.
|
That Council resolves to note the financial position, results and ratios for March 2025 as presented in the attached Monthly Financial Report.
|
General Meeting Agenda 16 April 2025
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 1
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 2
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 3
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 4
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 5
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 6
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 7
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 8
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 9
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 10
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 11
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 12
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 13
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Attachment: March 2025 Monthly Financial Report
Page: 14
Objective Reference: A11893141
Authorising Officer: Amanda Pafumi, General Manager Organisational Services
Responsible Officer: Amanda Pafumi, General Manager Organisational Services
Report Author: Tony Beynon, Group Manager Corporate Governance
Attachments: 1. GOV-020-P Councillor Representative Portfolios Policy ⇩
2. GOV-020-001-G Councillor Representative Portfolios Priority Guideline ⇩
Purpose
To finalise a Councillor Portfolio Representative structure for Redland City Council including the supporting Policy and Guideline.
Background
At the General Meeting held 19 February 2025, Cr Julie Talty submitted a Notice of Motion which the Council subsequently resolved as follows:
That Council resolves to request that a report be tabled at the General Meeting on 19 March 2025, finalising the Councillor Representative Portfolio Structure and the supporting Policy and Guideline.
Issues
The Notice of Motion made reference to a Councillor Workshop on 18 November 2024, where Councillors discussed the introduction of a portfolio structure and discussed various options. Discussions centred around how the portfolios would function and what the responsibilities would be.
Following the Council resolution of 19 February 2025, further research was undertaken into Queensland Councils which operate a Portfolio Structure to gain an understanding on the workings and operations of such structures.
The research found that many of the Councils with portfolios identified the key features to be:
· Specialised expertise is developed
· Enhanced accountability is experienced
· Improvement in governance and efficiency
· Improved community engagement
Governance Framework
GOV-020-P Councillor Portfolio Representative Policy (attachment 1) and GOV-020-001-G Councillor Portfolio Representative Priority Guideline (attachment 2) have been developed to assist Redland City Council in achieving these same key benefits.
The governance framework proposed for the establishment and operations of the Representative Portfolios requires that the appointment of Councillors to a Portfolio is by resolution of Council with a tenure of the Council term.
Portfolios will operate at the strategic level and not the day-to-day operations of Council.
Limitations
Portfolio Representatives hold no statutory responsibilities beyond those they hold in their normal role as a Councillor. They have no delegated authority for policy determination or operational decision making.
Role of the Mayor
The introduction of a Councillor Representative Portfolio Structure does not override the core functions of the Mayor. The Mayor remains Council’s spokesperson in accordance with the ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline and is the lead on multiple committees, including the Local Disaster Management Group, other appointed committees and Council’s representative in intergovernmental relations.
Role of a Portfolio Representative
Each Portfolio Representative will be required to familiarise themselves with the services and activities of their portfolio functions and keep informed on portfolio matters by meeting regularly with Executive Leadership team (ELT) or the relevant manager. They will lead the advancement of Council’s key priorities and provide input and advice to employees on portfolio matters. In line with section 170(3) of the Local Government Act 2009, Portfolio Representatives cannot direct council employees.
Communication
Portfolio Representatives will act as an official spokesperson/representative on portfolio matters in accordance with ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline and be the key point of contact and engage with industry and the community. They will ensure consistent communication and messaging.
The Portfolio Representatives will be responsible for keeping the Mayor and other Councillors, including the relevant divisional Councillor, informed of matters impacting their portfolios, through the regular Mayor and Councillor meeting.
Portfolio Make Up
The Notice of Motion from the General Meeting held 19 February 2025 proposed the following Portfolios:
|
Portfolio |
Portfolio Representative |
Responsible Manager |
|
Planning, Strategic Planning and City Plan |
Cr Rowanne McKenzie Cr Shane Rendalls (Deputy) |
GMCCS |
|
Waste, Waste Transfer Stations, Capping and Remediation |
Cr Tracey Huges |
GMI&O |
|
Centres, Centres Strategy, Economic Development and Olympics Legacy |
Cr Peter Mitchell Cr Jason Colley (Deputy) |
GMCCS GMAMPED |
|
Audit and Finance, Tourism, Galleries and RPAC |
Cr Wendy Boglary |
GMOS GMCCS |
|
Community Sport and Facilities (sports fields, halls and leasing) |
Cr Jason Colley |
GMCCS |
|
Parks and Open Space, Environment, Environmental Management, Local Laws, Indigiscapes, RSPCA Wildlife, Community Programs & Events and Tracks & Trails |
Cr Julie Talty |
GMCCS |
|
Pest Management, Mosquito Control and Fire Ant Management |
Cr Paul Golle |
GMCCS |
Several Council functions are not included in the above proposal. Certain areas, such as Budget and the Corporate Plan, have been excluded noting they are addressed in workshops with the entire Council. There is an opportunity to incorporate additional areas into one of the existing groups or establish a new group. Additionally, Councillors who are not currently assigned a portfolio may be allocated one.
Strategic Implications
Legislative Requirements
There is no statutory requirement for portfolios under the Local Government Act 2009.
Under section 150D of the Local Government Act 2009, the Minister for Local Government must make a Code of Conduct stating the standards of behaviour for Councillors in the performance of their responsibilities as Councillors.
The Standards of Behaviour contained in that Code of Conduct require that, at a minimum, ‘Councillors have a responsibility to attend and participate meaningfully in all local government meetings, committee meetings, informal meetings, relevant workshops and training opportunities to assist them in fulfilling their roles other than when prior leave of absence is given’.
Portfolio meetings would be considered to fall within the parameters of this standard of behaviour.
Risk Management
There are no risks associated with this report.
Financial
There is no direct financial impact to Council as a result of this report.
People
It is anticipated that there will be an increase in the workload of Portfolio Representatives and Councillor Executive Support Officers however the precise extent of this increase cannot be quantified at this time.
Environmental
There are no environmental implications from this report.
Social
The contents of this report are designed for internal evaluation and strategic alignment.
Human Rights
Consideration has been given to the Human Rights Act 2019 (Qld) and there are no Human Rights implications from this report.
Alignment with Council's Policy and Plans
This report aligns with Our Future Redlands – A Corporate Plan 2026 and Beyond.
Consultation
|
Consultation Date |
Comments/Actions |
|
|
Councillors |
18 November 2024 |
Workshop |
|
Councillors |
19 February 2025 |
Notice of Motion presented at General Meeting |
|
Councillors |
17 March 2025 |
Workshop |
|
Councillors |
1 April 2025 |
Workshop |
Options
Option One
That Council resolves as follows:
1. To implement the Councillor Portfolio Representative Structure as outlined in this report.
2. To appoint the nominated Portfolio Representative for the remainder of the Council Term.
3. To adopt GOV-020-P Councillor Portfolio Representative Policy and GOV-002-001-G Councillor Portfolio Representative Priority Guideline.
Option Two
That Council resolves not to implement the Councillor Portfolio Representative Structure outlined in this report.
|
That Council resolves as follows: 1. To implement the Councillor Portfolio Representative Structure as outlined in this report. 2. To appoint the nominated Portfolio Representative for the remainder of the Council Term. 3. To adopt GOV-020-P Councillor Portfolio Representative Policy and GOV-002-001-G Councillor Portfolio Representative Priority Guideline.
|
General Meeting Agenda 16 April 2025
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Councillor Portfolios
Attachment: GOV-020-P Councillor Representative Portfolios Policy
Page: 1
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Councillor Portfolios
Attachment: GOV-020-P Councillor Representative Portfolios Policy
Page: 2
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Councillor Portfolios
Attachment: GOV-020-001-G Councillor Representative Portfolios Priority Guideline
Page: 1
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Councillor Portfolios
Attachment: GOV-020-001-G Councillor Representative Portfolios Priority Guideline
Page: 2
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Councillor Portfolios
Attachment: GOV-020-001-G Councillor Representative Portfolios Priority Guideline
Page: 3
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Councillor Portfolios
Attachment: GOV-020-001-G Councillor Representative Portfolios Priority Guideline
Page: 4
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Councillor Portfolios
Attachment: GOV-020-001-G Councillor Representative Portfolios Priority Guideline
Page: 5
13.3 Media Relations and Speeches Guideline review
Objective Reference: A11988788
Authorising Officer: Amanda Pafumi, General Manager Organisational Services
Responsible Officer: Morgana Prior, Group Manager Communication, Engagement & Tourism
Report Author: Morgana Prior, Group Manager Communication, Engagement & Tourism
Attachments: 1. ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline - marked with proposed changes ⇩
Purpose
To note the administrative changes to ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline.
Background
Council’s Media Relations and Speeches Guideline relates in part to the release of information to the news media about Council initiatives, decisions, responses, events and services. The guideline enables effective and efficient Council media relations.
Administrative changes to the Media Relations and Speeches
Guideline last came into effect on
9 December 2024.
Changes to the Media Relations and Speeches Guideline is proposed to ensure continued consistent, effective and efficient media relations.
Issues
Guideline Type
To update to a ‘Priority’ Guideline which will be public facing and sit on Council’s website along with Council’s Policies.
Proposed Guideline Changes under a Councillor Portfolio Structure
Media spokespeople under a Councillor Portfolio structure
· As civic leader, the Mayor will be the lead spokesperson on all Council information released to news media.
For city-wide matters
· Where matters originate from, or relate to, a Councillor Portfolio, the Lead Portfolio Councillor will be a secondary spokesperson on city-wide matters relating to their portfolios, or lead spokesperson, if the Mayor defers to them to be so. In the absence of the Lead Portfolio Councillor, the Deputy Portfolio Councillor, where one is appointed, will fulfill this role.
For Division-specific matters
· The relevant Divisional Councillor will instead be the secondary spokesperson.
· When a Portfolio Councillor is a spokesperson, Divisional Councillors will not be spokespeople.
Strategic Implications
Legislative Requirements
This policy supports the Corporate Plan Our Future Redlands – A Corporate Plan to 2026 and Beyond.
Risk Management
Under the current Media Relations and Speeches Guideline, elected representatives are free at all times to initiate their own media communications on matters relating to personal opinion rather than Council policy.
Financial
There are no known financial implications associated with this report.
People
There are no known staff implications associated with this report.
Environmental
There are no known environmental implications associated with this report.
Social
There are no known social implications associated with this report.
Human Rights
There are no known human rights implications associated with this report.
Alignment with Council's Policy and Plans
This Guideline has been developed to support the application or administration of ENG-002-A Communications Administrative Directive and ENG-003-P Community Engagement Policy.
Consultation
|
Consulted |
Consultation Date |
Comments/Actions |
|
Councillors |
1 April 2025 |
Proposed changes to Media Relations and Speeches Guidelines to support the introduction of Councillor Portfolios. |
Options
Option One
That Council notes the administrative changes to Council’s ENG-001-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline.
Option Two
That Council resolves to request additional information.
|
That Council notes the administrative changes to Council’s ENG-001-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline. |
General Meeting Agenda 16 April 2025
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Media Relations and Speeches Guideline review
Attachment: ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline - marked with proposed changes
Page: 1
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Media Relations and Speeches Guideline review
Attachment: ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline - marked with proposed changes
Page: 2
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Media Relations and Speeches Guideline review
Attachment: ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline - marked with proposed changes
Page: 3
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Media Relations and Speeches Guideline review
Attachment: ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline - marked with proposed changes
Page: 4
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Media Relations and Speeches Guideline review
Attachment: ENG-002-001-G Media Relations and Speeches Guideline - marked with proposed changes
Page: 5
13.4 Office of the Independent Assessor Referral of Suspected Conduct Breach
Objective Reference: A11879218
Authorising Officer: Amanda Pafumi, General Manager Organisational Services
Responsible Officer: Tony Beynon, Group Manager Corporate Governance
Report Author: Tony Beynon, Group Manager Corporate Governance
Attachments: 1. Summary Investigation Report ⇩
2. Investigation Report - Confidential
Purpose
In accordance with 150AG of the Local Government Act 2009 (the Act), Council must decide whether or not a Councillor has engaged in a conduct breach and under section 150AH of the Act, determine any disciplinary action if a conduct breach has occurred.
Background
On 13 December 2024, the Office of the Independent Assessor (OIA) received a complaint about the conduct of Mayor Jocelyn Mitchell (Mayor Mitchell). A further complaint regarding the same matter was received by the OIA on 3 January 2025. These complaints are referred to by the OIA as complaint numbers C/25/00003 and C/25/00009 respectively.
The OIA conducted a preliminary assessment, and reasonably
suspected the conduct, if proven, would amount to a conduct breach. In
accordance with section 150W(b) of the Act, on 17 January 2025 the OIA referred
the matters to Council to investigate in accordance with Council’s
GOV-009-P Investigations Policy (the Policy) which was adopted pursuant to
section 150AE of the Act.
The suspected conduct breach involves two allegations:
Allegation 1 – That on 9 December 2024, the Councillor posted a video to their Facebook page containing oral comments which misrepresented the facts surrounding a site visit to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands on 30 July 2024.
Allegation 2 – That on 9 December 2024, the Councillor made two written comments in the comments section of the Facebook post containing the aforementioned video, which misrepresented the facts surrounding the site visit to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands on 30 July 2024.
At the General Meeting held on 22 January 2025, in accordance with the Policy, Council were notified of the referral notices and resolved to note the matters would be investigated and results presented to a future general meeting of Council for a decision.
BDO were engaged to undertake the investigation into these two matters, which were dealt with as one investigation report, as the complaints related to the same Councillor, and the same matter.
In accordance with the Policy, the investigator must prepare a Preliminary Statement of Findings and must give the preliminary findings to the Councillor before preparing the Investigation Report and allow the Councillor to give evidence or a written statement about the conduct and preliminary findings.
This Preliminary Statement of Findings report was provided to the Councillor on 25 March 2025, and no response was received from the Councillor within the allocated timeframe.
The investigation has now been completed and a summary investigation report (Attachment 1) and a confidential full investigation report (Attachment 2) are now presented to Council for decision.
Issues
Under section 150AG (1)(a) of the Act, Council must now decide if the Councillor engaged in a conduct breach. If Council, under section 150AG(1)(b), decides the Councillor engaged in a conduct breach, Council must then decide any disciplinary action under section 150AH (1) as follows:
(a) Order that no action be taken against the councillor; or
(b) Make 1 or more of the following orders—
(i) an order that the councillor make a public apology, in the way decided by the local government, for the conduct;
(ii) an order reprimanding the councillor for the conduct;
(iii) an order that the councillor attend training or counselling to address the councillor’s conduct, including at the councillor’s expense;
(iv) an order that the councillor be excluded from a stated local government meeting;
(v) an order that the councillor is removed, or must resign, from a position representing the local government, other than the office of councillor;
(vi) an order that if the councillor engages in the same type of conduct again, it will be treated as misconduct;
(vii) an order that the councillor reimburse the local government for all or some of the costs arising from the councillor’s conduct breach.
Strategic Implications
Legislative Requirements
The investigation was conducted in accordance with Council’s GOV-009-P Investigations Policy which was adopted pursuant to section 150AE of the Act. A decision about the subject Councillors’ suspected conduct breach must be made in accordance with section 150AG, with any decision regarding disciplinary action (if applicable) made in accordance with section 150AH of the Act.
After making a decision under section 150AG, Council must make the investigation report for the investigation publicly available in accordance with section 150AGA of the Act.
Risk Management
The risk of not meeting Council’s legislative obligations under the Act is reduced by this matter being tabled at the General Meeting for a decision in accordance with Appendix 3, 3.2 of Council’s Standing Orders.
Any decision that is not consistent with the recommendation of the investigation report must state in the resolution and meeting minutes, the reasons for the decision. The minutes must give sufficient information to demonstrate the logic that has been applied to justify the decision not to follow the recommendation of the investigation report.
Financial
The cost for undertaking the investigation was $15,592 excl GST and this was funded through the existing budget allocation.
People
The Work Health and Safety (Psychosocial Risks) Amendment Regulation 2022 stipulates, and broadens, the concept of psychosocial hazards that arise from, or relate to, a work environment, workplace interactions or behaviours that may cause psychological harm. Consideration has been given to these regulations in framing this report and the impact it may have on individuals.
Environmental
There are no environmental implications associated with this report.
Social
There are no social implications associated with this report.
Human Rights
All persons as part of a legal proceeding are subject to the presumption of innocence and a fair hearing as per sections 31 and 32 of the Human Rights Act 2019.
In accordance with Council’s GOV-009-P Investigations Policy, any investigation of suspected conduct breach must be carried out in accordance with natural justice principles, including affording the person being investigated a chance to have his or her say before formal findings are made (fair hearing, known as the Hearing Rule), the investigators should be objective and impartial (absence of bias, known as this Bias Rule) and any action taken is based on evidence (not suspicion or speculation, known as the Evidence Rule). Council’s investigator, BDO has confirmed in their summary and full (confidential) report, that each Rule was satisfied in this investigation, and they summarise how this natural justice, or procedural fairness, was satisfied in their reports.
Alignment with Council's Policy and Plans
GOV-017-SD Redland City Council Meeting Standing Orders
GOV-009-P Investigations Policy
Our Future Redlands – A Corporate Plan to 2026 and Beyond
Consultation
|
Consulted |
Consultation Date |
Comments/Actions |
|
Group Manager Corporate Governance |
3 -18 March 2025 |
Reviewed Investigation Report, Participated in discussions with investigator. |
|
Executive Group Manager Legal and Risk |
3-13 March 2025 |
Reviewed Reports, Participated in discussions with investigator. |
|
CEO and General Manager Organisational Services |
13 March 2025 |
Received copy of Report, reviewed process to ensure compliance with Policy. |
CONCLUSION
Following consideration of this report and the attached Investigation report, the local government must decide whether or not the Councillor has engaged in a conduct breach.
If the local government decides the Councillor has engaged in a conduct breach, they must decide what action the local government will take under section 150AH to discipline the Councillor.
In deciding what action to take the local government may consider any previous conduct breach of the Councillor; any allegation made in the investigation that was admitted, or not challenged; and the local government is reasonably satisfied is true.
The local government may order that:
1. No action to be taken against the Councillor; or
2. Make 1 or more of the following orders
i. An order that the Councillor make a public apology, in the way decided by the local government, for the conduct.
ii. An order reprimanding the Councillor for the conduct.
iii. An order that the Councillor attend training or counselling to address the Councillor’s conduct, including at the Councillor’s expense.
iv. An order that the Councillor be excluded from a stated local government meeting.
v. An order that the Councillor is removed, or must resign, from a position representing the local government, other than the office of Councillor.
vi. An order that if the Councillor engages in the same type of conduct again, it will be treated as misconduct.
An order that the Councillor reimburse the local government for all or some of the costs arising from the Councillor’s conduct breach.
3. Pursuant to the Investigation Policy – Councillors (GOV-009-P) the reasons for deciding against the Investigation Report’s recommendation must be stated in the resolution.
|
1. That Council decides whether or not the Councillor has engaged in a conduct breach for Allegation 1. 2. That Council decides whether or not the Councillor has engaged in a conduct breach for Allegation 2. 3. That if the Council decides that the Councillor has engaged in a conduct breach – what action the Council will take under section 150AH of the Local Government Act 2009, to discipline the Councillor. 4. That confidential Attachment 2 (Investigation Report) - for the investigation to be made publicly available within 10 business days after the decision is made as required by section 150AGA of the Local Government Act 2009, subject to redactions allowed pursuant to the section. 5. That in accordance with section 150AHA of the Local Government Act 2009, the Chief Executive Officer provides notice to the Office of the Independent Assessor of the decision, reasons for the decision; and where an order is made under section 150AH of the Local Government Act 2009, details about the order. 6. Pursuant to sections 150DX and 150DY of the Local Government Act 2009, if an order is made under section 150AH of the Local Government Act 2009, that the Councillor Conduct Register is updated accordingly.
|
General Meeting Agenda 16 April 2025
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Office of the Independent Assessor Referral of Suspected Conduct Breach
Attachment: Summary Investigation Report
Page: 1
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Office of the Independent Assessor Referral of Suspected Conduct Breach
Attachment: Summary Investigation Report
Page: 2
This page is a placeholder for a single page of a PDF attachment. It will be replaced by the actual PDF page when the PDF version of this document is generated.
Report: Office of the Independent Assessor Referral of Suspected Conduct Breach
Attachment: Summary Investigation Report
Page: 3
17 Notices of Intention to Repeal or Amend a Resolution
In accordance with s.262 Local Government Regulation 2012.
18.1 Cr Colley - Benchmarking with Northern Queensland Councils on Vegetation Policies
In accordance with section 6.16 of Council Meeting Standing Orders, at the General Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 16 April 2025, notice is hereby given that Cr Jason Colley intends to move the motion as follows:
|
That Council resolves as follows: 1. That suitable officers from Council’s Parks and Conservation Team work with their counterparts from North Queensland councils to understand and learn about the vegetation policies and practices they have in place to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events. 2. That a report be brought to Council outlining learnings from other local government area’s and how these learnings can be adopted into our practices. |
Background
Despite being downgraded to a low-pressure system prior to crossing the mainland, ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred left a trail of damage in its wake last month, largely due to fallen trees and tree limbs. Numerous public and private properties sustained damage from trees and prolonged power outages were also attributable to vegetation which had taken out critical infrastructure.
Redland City Council has the monumental task of managing almost 200,000 trees on our streets and in our park perimeters. With a tree program which is predominantly reactive – meaning assessment and maintenance is generally done in response to a customer query or request – it is important council officers are empowered and equipped to deliver solutions which are in line with community expectations to protect people and property.
While ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred was the first of its kind in South-East Queensland for more than 50 years, many parts of North Queensland experience cyclones and extreme weather events far more frequently. The community has raised concerns with Councillors about our City’s preparedness for this type of event, and a future review of our tree management policy will best be informed by learning from those who have robust practices in place to mitigate the impact when disaster strikes.
18.2 Cr Bishop - Birkdale Community Precinct
In accordance with section 6.16 of Council Meeting Standing Orders, at the General Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, 16 April 2025, notice is hereby given that Cr Paul Bishop intends to move the motion as follows:
|
That Council resolves as follows: 1. To acknowledge the Birkdale Community Precinct (BCP) is a site of special community interest containing recognised cultural, environmental and heritage values and note a degree of community discussion regarding elements to do with planning, financial viability, and long-term stewardship of the site. 2. To request a report be brought to a future General Meeting, by July 2025, subject to the final investment decision on the Redland Whitewater Centre by both State and Federal Governments, providing clarity and assurance on the following matters: a. Project Delivery: Identify which elements of the Birkdale Community Precinct Master Plan are currently proposed for funding and delivery in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Games, including scope, timing and budget sources including details on partner involvement. b. Financial Modelling and Legacy Planning: Provide a transparent explanation of how proposed works – (particularly the proposed Whitewater Rafting Centre and potential lagoon) are underpinned by sound financial modelling, intergenerational planning, and fiscal preparedness, with a breakdown on costs to Council and community, as well as clarity on proposed delivery partner arrangements during construction, pre 2032 and in post 2032 legacy mode. c. Cultural, Environmental and Heritage Management: Clarify how Council will ensure that site works affecting environmental, cultural or heritage values are informed by current studies, guided by subject matter experts, and consistent with best-practice land stewardship principles, including an update on the status of the Federal Conservation Agreement and EPBC assessment process. d. Consultation and Co-Design: Demonstrate the degree to which meaningful community consultation will inform site planning; and outline the proposed process by which future project prioritisation, site activation, and community education that is consistent with the BCP Master plan will be designed in partnership with relevant stakeholders, experts, and communities of interest, ahead of 2032. |
Background
This Notice of Motion seeks to provide clarity on four key questions that are of ongoing importance to many members of the Redlands community in relation to the Birkdale Community Precinct (BCP).
1. Project Timing - What elements of the Birkdale Community Precinct Master Plan are currently planned for delivery ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Games?
2. Funding and Financial Sustainability - Who will be responsible for funding and delivering specific elements of the precinct—particularly major projects such as the proposed whitewater rafting facility and potential lagoon pool—and how has Council ensured that long-term management and financial sustainability measures have been considered to avoid placing a future financial burden on ratepayers?
3. Stewardship of Site Values - How will Council ensure that the cultural, environmental, and heritage values inherent to the site will be upheld and protected throughout the life of the project?
4. Consultation and Community Engagement - What processes will Council adopt, including those referenced in the Jacobs Report, to ensure that future planning, prioritised infrastructure delivery, and site activation are informed by meaningful consultation and co-design with the community, stakeholders, and subject matter experts, commencing in the near-term?
This motion is intended to support transparency, reinforce good governance, and confirm Council’s commitment to long-term planning, community engagement and site stewardship.
19 Urgent Business Without Notice
In accordance with s.6.17 of Council Meeting Standing Orders, a Councillor may bring forward an item of urgent business if the meeting resolves that the matter is urgent.
|
Urgent Business Checklist |
YES |
NO |
|
To achieve an outcome, does this matter have to be dealt with at a general meeting of Council? |
|
|
|
Does this matter require a decision that only Council make? |
|
|
|
Can the matter wait to be placed on the agenda for the next Council Meeting? |
|
|
|
Is it in the public interest to raise this matter at this meeting? |
|
|
|
Can the matter be dealt with administratively? |
|
|
|
If the matter relates to a request for information, has the request been made to the CEO or a General Manager Previously? |
|
|