Council Meeting Update - 26 March 2024
Here is an overview of outcomes from tonight’s Ordinary Meeting of Tamworth Regional Council:
- In a step towards enhancing transport energy sustainability and a move expected to benefit the region’s tourism sector, Councillors have resolved to place the Electric Vehicle (EV) Strategy and Electric Vehicle Charging on Public Land Policy on public exhibition for a period of 28 days. With these two documents, Council aims to lead the way in setting clear guidelines for companies seeking to invest in our region through the installation of electric vehicle chargers on public land. Benefits of introducing this strategy and policy include assisting the Tamworth Local Government Area connect to the wider EV network, providing guidance around where and under what conditions Council will make available public carparks for EV charging. It also encourages the provision of accessible EV chargers near the CBD to help attract visitors who may explore local stores, eateries, and other attractions while they wait for their vehicles to charge. Public consultation will open on Thursday 28 March 2024 and close 25 April 2024.
- Councillors have agreed to provide a submission to the NSW Productivity Commission to assist with an investigation into alternative funding models for local water utilities. The investigation will focus on reducing risks for local water utilities, taking into account current funding arrangements, minimum service levels, incentives for performance, transition path to alternative funding models leveraging capabilities of State-owned corporations; and pensioner rebates.
- Councillors considered a report which detailed a number of appointments made to community committees across the region and documented some facility improvements made including a light tower installed at Piallamore Recreation Reserve and removal of a stage at Nemingha Hall in preparation for new flooring to be laid.
- Councillors have agreed to submit a number of motions to the 2024 National General Assembly of Local Government. The motions include calling on the Australian Government to start an education campaign including the direct potable reuse of water and another calling on the Australian Government to address the shortfall in Financial Assistance Grants for Local Government particularly around road funding. Earlier last month, Councillors authorised Mayor Russell Webb, Deputy Mayor Judy Coates, Councillor Phil Betts and Councillor Marc Sutherland to travel to Canberra for the National General Assembly on 2-4 July.