16 October 2020
On 18th September 2020, Council received a letter from the President of the Stanthorpe RSL Sub Branch seeking assistance with accommodation for Veterans and the development of a master plan for the Soldier’s Memorial.
Whilst providing a letter of support for third party grant applications is something that Council can do here and now, gifting land is not so simple. Under the provisions of the Local Government Regulations 2012, it is required that any disposal of valuable non-current assets, in this case land, must follow the default contracting procedures.
At the Wednesday 14 October Ordinary Meeting, Council voted to consider surplus Council land that may be available to meet the needs of the Stanthorpe RSL Sub Branch; and advise the Sub Branch when the land is available through a Public Tender or Expression of Interest process. Additionally, this decision also included consideration for the inclusion of the Stanthorpe Soldier’s Memorial Master Plan into future Capital Works program.
Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Vic Pennisi said that supporting our community and community organisations is always a priority for Council but Local Government regulations need to be followed strictly.
“Our regulations give us firm guidelines about how we can solve problems and provide assistance to the community. We need to ensure we work within these guidelines to protect Council and the community organisations we work alongside” said Mayor Vic Pennisi.
“I look forward to working closely with the Stanthorpe RSL Sub Branch on this and future projects.”
With respect to the Soldier’s Memorial Master Plan project, Council officers will put forward the project in the 2021/22 Capital Works budget for Council consideration.
For all the latest Council news and information, visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/news. Alternatively, call 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372) or email mail@sdrc.qld.gov.au.