<h2>Summary of the Ballarat Unscheduled Council Meeting - November 10, 2025</h2> <h3>1. Key Decisions &amp; Outcomes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Mayoral and Deputy Mayoral Term Set</strong>: The Council decided that the term for both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor will be one year.</li> <li><strong>Election of Mayor 2025/26</strong>: Cr Tracey Hargreaves was elected as Mayor for the upcoming term.</li> <li><strong>Election of Deputy Mayor 2025/26</strong>: Cr Ben Taylor was elected as Deputy Mayor for the year.</li> </ul> <h3>2. Detailed Descriptions</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Mayoral and Deputy Mayoral Term Set</strong></li> <li> <p>The Council resolved to set both the Mayoral and Deputy Mayoral terms at one year. This decision aligns with the Governance Rules, ensuring leadership continuity and responsiveness to community needs. The resolution was moved by Cr Jim Rinaldi and seconded by Cr Des Hudson, reflecting a unanimous agreement among council members.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Election of Mayor 2025/26</strong></p> </li> <li> <p>The election process was conducted in accordance with the Local Government Act 2020 and the Council’s Governance Rules. Two nominations were received: Cr Tracey Hargreaves and Cr Damon Saunders. With an absolute majority, Cr Hargreaves was re-elected as Mayor, highlighting her leadership as recognized by her peers. This decision ensures continuity in the leadership of the City of Ballarat.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Election of Deputy Mayor 2025/26</strong></p> </li> <li>Similarly, the Deputy Mayor election followed statutory requirements, with nominations from Cr Ben Taylor and Cr Jim Rinaldi. Cr Ben Taylor secured the position through a majority vote, marking his role in supporting the Mayor and representing the City alongside her.</li> </ul> <h3>3. Community Impact</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Leadership Continuity</strong>: The re-election of Cr Hargreaves as Mayor and the appointment of Cr Taylor as Deputy Mayor promise consistent and stable governance for Ballarat residents. Their leadership is expected to continue addressing key community concerns and advancing city projects.</li> <li><strong>Public Engagement</strong>: The meeting's broadcast and recording availability ensure transparency, allowing community members to stay informed and engaged with council activities.</li> </ul> <h3>4. Other Notable Items</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Public Participation and Acknowledgment</strong>: The meeting began with a Welcome to Country by Shannen Mennen, acknowledging the traditional custodians, the Wadawurrung people. This practice underscores the Council's commitment to honoring Indigenous heritage and fostering inclusive community relations.</li> </ul> <h3>5. Tech &amp; Innovation Notes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Digital Accessibility</strong>: The live broadcast and subsequent online availability of the meeting proceedings exemplify the Council’s commitment to leveraging technology for civic engagement and transparency.</li> </ul> <p>This summary encapsulates the key outcomes and discussions from the Ballarat Unscheduled Council Meeting, reflecting the Council's decisions and their implications for the community.</p>

<h2>Summary of Ballarat City Council Meeting - October 8, 2025</h2> <h3>Key Decisions &amp; Outcomes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>In Principle Approval of Financial and Performance Statements</strong>: The Council approved the 2024/25 Financial Report and Performance Statement in principle, pending any changes recommended by the Auditor-General.</li> <li><strong>Authorization for Certification</strong>: The Mayor and Deputy Mayor were authorized to certify the financial documents post-audit.</li> </ul> <h3>Detailed Descriptions</h3> <ul> <li> <p><strong>In Principle Approval of Financial and Performance Statements</strong><br /> The Council has granted in principle approval for the 2024/25 Financial Report and Performance Statement. This is a standard procedure allowing the Council to move forward with the auditing process. The approval is necessary before these documents can be submitted to the Victorian Auditor-General for review. The process ensures that the financial operations and performance of the Council are transparent and accountable. The statements detail the financial health and service performance of the Council, providing critical information for future planning and public accountability. John Hausler, Director of Corporate Services, and Jason Clissold, Executive Manager Financial Services, presented the report.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Authorization for Certification</strong><br /> The meeting resolved to authorize the Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves, and Deputy Mayor, Cr Ben Taylor, to certify the Financial Report and Performance Statement once any amendments recommended by the Auditor-General are made. This step ensures that the Council leadership stands by the accuracy and integrity of the financial documents, reinforcing public trust.</p> </li> </ul> <h3>Community Impact</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Financial Transparency and Accountability</strong><br /> These measures ensure that the City of Ballarat maintains high standards of financial transparency and accountability. Residents can expect continued clarity in how public funds are managed and allocated, which is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that resources are used effectively for community benefits.</li> </ul> <h3>Other Notable Items</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Next Scheduled Meeting</strong>: The next council meeting is set for October 22, 2025, where further developments and approvals may be discussed.</li> <li><strong>Public Recognition</strong>: The meeting began with an acknowledgment of the traditional custodians of the land, showing respect and recognition of indigenous communities in the area.</li> </ul> <h3>Tech &amp; Innovation Notes</h3> <p>There were no specific tech or innovation items discussed during this meeting. However, the ongoing commitment to transparency and governance may involve digital solutions for better financial reporting and public engagement in the future.</p> <p>This summary aims to keep the community informed about the key activities of their local government, ensuring that civic processes remain accessible and transparent.</p>