Agenda item

In accordance with Chapter 3, Rules 57 and 59, of the Governance Rules developed by Council in accordance with section 60 of the Local Government Act 2020.

In accordance with Chapter 3, Rules 57 and 59, of the Governance Rules developed by Council in accordance with section 60 of the Local Government Act 2020.

 

QUESTION 1

 

Wendy Wright of Wandin North asked;

 

The council's own Strategy reveals 60% of the 7,000 (4,200+) residents who completed the survey wanted WEEKLY rubbish collection to remain.
65% of webinar attendees (less than 200) would consider FORTNIGHTLY collection.

Why did Councillors choose to ignore the majority of community feedback?

 

Amanda Kern, Acting Director Planning and Sustainable Futures:

 

Thank you for your question, Wendy.

The decision to transition to fortnightly collection was based on a range of considerations, including community sentiment. Council’s Community Resource Recovery and Waste Plan is based on waste industry research, best practice for FOGO collections, other sector insights and community feedback.

The collection frequency adopted in our Plan is designed to maximise the recovery of organic material from landfill and ensure that we can meet Recycling Victoria targets by 2030, and that the service provides the best value for the community. 

We are committed to providing education to the community throughout the roll out of this new service to help all residents better understand the service and its benefits.

 

 

 

QUESTION 2

 

Dean Hurlston of Malvern East asked;

 

Can Council please explain how it can IMPOSE, MANDATE AND ENFORCE a service on the community when the legislation says it must provide it, HOW can Council compel residents to accept this service and pay for it, is this not an imposition of a non opt out TAX?

 

Amanda Kern, Acting Director Planning and Sustainable Futures:

 

Thank you for your question, Dean, we understand this question relates to the introduction of FOGO services.

All Councils are required to provide the services and work towards the reduction targets outlined by Recycle Victoria.

Councils can charge fees for a range of services such as waste, recycling or food and organic services.

 

 

 

 

 

QUESTION 3

 

Dean Hurlston of Malvern East asked;

 

Can Council explain to residents how the mandatory opt in FOGO service responds to the diverse needs of the community, given it has no consideration of those who compost or do not require the service?

 

Amanda Kern, Acting Director Planning and Sustainable Futures:

 

Thank you for your question, Dean.

Council understands the diversity of our community. The FOGO service is intended to complement those currently composting. You can place certain items into your FOGO bin that some home composting systems can't accept such as cooked foods, meat, bones, dairy and citrus. 

The FOGO service maximises the recovery of organic material from landfill and ensures that we can meet Recycling Victoria policy targets to be achieved across the state by 2030 and provides the best oputcomes for the Community.

Council is committed to reviewing of how the system is working following its 6-month implementation to ensure it best meets community needs and delivers on the broader environmental targets.

 

 

QUESTION 4

 

Wendy Wright of Wandin North asked;

 

Does the State legislation Circular Economy (waste reduction and recycling) Act 2021 specify the FREQUENCY at which rubbish collection is to be provided OR is this a decision of the Council because of it's Community Waste Plan and adopted policy?

 

Amanda Kern, Acting Director Planning and Sustainable Futures:

 

Thank you for your question, Wendy.

Councils are required to provide the services and work towards the reduction targets set by Recycle Victoria.

Collection frequency is the decision of Council. This was included in the Community Waste and Resource Recovery plan which went out for community consultation and has been formally adopted by Council.

The collection frequency adopted is designed to maximise the recovery of organic material from landfill and ensure that we can meet Recycling Victoria policy targets to be achieved across the state by 2030.

 

QUESTION 5

 

Tammi Rose, Chief Executive Officer:

 

Finally for fullness, I would like to note that Council received a fifth question that missed the submission deadline and is relating to a matter already listed on the agenda tonight. The question is regarding the Kilsyth pool, and the submitter will be contacted by one of our officers in the coming day with a formal response.

 

Kyle Taylor of Kilsythasked;

 

Why is council going to spend more money trying to build a new aquatic facility in Lilydale when the bones of an aquatic centre that needs renovating is already available at Kilsyth?

 

 

 

SUBMISSIONS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Waste Collection and Circular Economy Policy

Darryn Fisher spoke regarding the Waste Collection and Circular Economy Policy and the need for Council to address issues with the current system and the need for change with the implemented service.