<h2>Summary of Ballarat Council Meeting - 23 July 2025</h2> <h3>Key Decisions &amp; Outcomes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Bridge Mall Road Proclamation</strong>: Bridge Mall is now officially proclaimed as a public road, which will facilitate better infrastructure management and potential development.</li> <li><strong>Procurement Policy Update</strong>: The council amended the Procurement Policy to remove mandatory sustainability criteria, instead requiring officers to consider its applicability in the tender design process.</li> <li><strong>Waste Compactors Contract</strong>: A contract worth $5.6 million was awarded to Superior Pak Pty Ltd for new waste compactors, enhancing waste management capabilities.</li> <li><strong>Councillor Childcare Expenses</strong>: The hourly rate for childcare expense reimbursement was increased to align with the national minimum wage, supporting councillors with childcare needs.</li> <li><strong>UNESCO Creative Cities Conference</strong>: Approval was given for a council representative to attend the UNESCO Creative Cities Network Conference in Japan, with costs covered by the host city.</li> </ul> <h3>Detailed Descriptions</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Bridge Mall Road Proclamation</strong></li> <li><strong>Context</strong>: Bridge Mall's new status as a public road will aid in infrastructure improvements and future urban planning.</li> <li><strong>Implications</strong>: This move opens up possibilities for enhanced traffic flow and pedestrian safety, benefiting local businesses and visitors.</li> <li> <p><strong>Stakeholders</strong>: The project is overseen by the Infrastructure and Environment Division, headed by Director Bridget Wetherall.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Procurement Policy Update</strong></p> </li> <li><strong>Context</strong>: The revised policy aims to streamline procurement processes by removing mandatory sustainability criteria.</li> <li><strong>Reasoning</strong>: The change follows a review showing sustainability criteria materially impacted only 16% of tenders.</li> <li> <p><strong>Stakeholders</strong>: Commerce Ballarat, represented by Darren Trigg, participated in discussions, emphasizing local economic interests.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Waste Compactors Contract</strong></p> </li> <li><strong>Details</strong>: The contract, valued at $5.6 million (excluding GST), will provide ten new waste trucks to improve waste management efficiency.</li> <li><strong>Timeline</strong>: The contract is set to enhance waste management services as soon as the vehicles are deployed.</li> <li> <p><strong>Contractor</strong>: Superior Pak Pty Ltd will supply the compactors, ensuring modern and efficient waste collection.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Councillor Childcare Expenses</strong></p> </li> <li><strong>Details</strong>: The adjustment reflects the national minimum wage plus a 25% casual loading, acknowledging the increased cost of living.</li> <li> <p><strong>Impact</strong>: Supports councillors in balancing civic duties with family responsibilities, potentially encouraging a more diverse council representation.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>UNESCO Creative Cities Conference</strong></p> </li> <li><strong>Details</strong>: The Coordinator Creative City will present at the conference, focusing on economically sustainable creative cities.</li> <li><strong>Implications</strong>: This international engagement aligns with Ballarat's strategic goals and fosters potential cultural exchanges with Japan and China.</li> </ul> <h3>Community Impact</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Public Road Proclamation</strong>: Residents can expect improved infrastructure management and safety enhancements in the Bridge Mall area.</li> <li><strong>Waste Management</strong>: The introduction of new waste compactors will likely result in more efficient and reliable waste services for residents.</li> <li><strong>Childcare Support for Councillors</strong>: The updated childcare expense policy supports councillors with young families, promoting inclusivity and diversity.</li> </ul> <h3>Other Notable Items</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Community Arts Support</strong>: A motion to enhance support for local arts was discussed, highlighting community interest in creative initiatives.</li> <li><strong>Public Participation</strong>: Several community representatives spoke on various issues, including local arts and safety concerns, indicating active public engagement.</li> </ul> <h3>Tech &amp; Innovation Notes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Digital Inclusion</strong>: The council's website now offers multilingual options, improving accessibility and engagement for non-English speaking residents.</li> </ul> <p>This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the decisions and discussions from the Ballarat Council meeting, ensuring residents are informed about local governance and community developments.</p>