<h2>Summary of Ballarat City Council Meeting - March 26, 2025</h2> <h3>1. Key Decisions &amp; Outcomes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Gillies Road Reconstruction Contract Awarded</strong>: Council approved a $5,059,269.38 contract with Fulton Hogan Industries Pty Ltd for the reconstruction of Gillies Road.</li> <li><strong>Kerbside Glass Bins Contract</strong>: Mastec Australia Pty Ltd secured a contract with an expected spend of $2,064,990 for providing kerbside glass bins.</li> <li><strong>Kerbside Organics Processing</strong>: Green Care Mulching Pty Ltd awarded a contract estimated at $5,597,990 for organics processing over a potential five-year term.</li> <li><strong>Heritage Appeal</strong>: Council decided to seek a review of a permit issued by Heritage Victoria concerning the Lydiard Street railway gates.</li> <li><strong>Yangzhou Friendship City Anniversary</strong>: Council plans to send a delegation to Yangzhou, China, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their Friendship City agreement and sign a new accord.</li> </ul> <h3>2. Detailed Descriptions</h3> <ul> <li> <p><strong>Gillies Road Reconstruction Contract Awarded</strong><br /> The Council approved the contract for the reconstruction of Gillies Road, covering the stretch from Addington Road to Glendonald Road. The project, awarded to Fulton Hogan Industries Pty Ltd, involves a significant investment of over $5 million. This initiative aims to improve infrastructure and road safety in the region.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Kerbside Glass Bins Contract</strong><br /> With an increasing focus on sustainable waste management, the Council has engaged Mastec Australia Pty Ltd to provide kerbside glass bins. This initiative is part of a broader circular economy strategy, with an anticipated expenditure of approximately $2 million.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Kerbside Organics Processing</strong><br /> The Council has reinforced its commitment to environmental sustainability by contracting Green Care Mulching Pty Ltd for organics processing services. This contract includes a three-year term with options for extensions, ensuring long-term waste management solutions.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Heritage Appeal</strong><br /> Responding to public input, the Council will appeal Heritage Victoria's decision to retain mechanical boom gates at the Lydiard Street crossing. The appeal will address concerns about heritage integrity and public safety, involving key stakeholders such as Ballarat Heritage Watch.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Yangzhou Friendship City Anniversary</strong><br /> To strengthen international ties, the Council will send a delegation to Yangzhou, China. This visit marks a decade of friendship and will focus on renewing agreements, enhancing cultural and economic exchange.</p> </li> </ul> <h3>3. Community Impact</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Infrastructure Upgrades</strong>: Projects like the Gillies Road reconstruction promise to enhance road conditions, potentially reducing traffic congestion and improving safety for commuters.</li> <li><strong>Waste Management Improvements</strong>: The introduction of kerbside glass bins and organics processing will streamline waste disposal, encouraging recycling and minimizing landfill contributions.</li> <li><strong>Cultural and Economic Exchange</strong>: The Yangzhou delegation aims to foster cultural understanding and economic collaboration, which could bring new opportunities for local businesses and residents.</li> </ul> <h3>4. Other Notable Items</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Community Concerns</strong>: During public question time, residents raised issues about parking controls near event venues and the need for improved cycling infrastructure.</li> <li><strong>Public Holiday Decision</strong>: Council decided not to propose an alternative to the Melbourne Cup public holiday for 2025-2029.</li> <li><strong>Youth Services and Engagement</strong>: Reports on the Youth Services Plan and Youth Profile 2024 were presented, highlighting efforts to engage young residents in community activities.</li> </ul> <h3>5. Tech &amp; Innovation Notes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Digital Infrastructure</strong>: The meeting did not specifically highlight technology initiatives, but ongoing projects like improved waste management services indicate a move towards smarter city operations.</li> </ul>