Proposition #1 – A more holistic consideration and analysis of strategic policy and development applications by amalgamating Council’s EDMP and PET Directorates into one Directorate
Yes I agree with Proposition #1 and will support its implementation if elected
Things that streamline processes, remove double handling and have a focus on the
“Triple Bottom Line” would be warmly welcomed.
Proposition #2 – A system of multi disciplinary teams should be established to undertake the assessment of development applications throughout the City
Yes I agree with Proposition #2 and will support its implementation if elected
Clearly more details on the who and how of the way these teams would be selected is
required.
Proposition #3 – Establish a ‘specialist assessment unit’ to assess development applications along the GCRT route and within the major centres serviced by the GCRT system
Yes I agree with Proposition #3 and will support its implementation if elected
Again, more details are required with regard to how these teams would be developed and
monitored.
Proposition #4 – Waive all infrastructure charges for employment generating developments which diversify the economic base of the City
No I disagree with Proposition #4 and will oppose its implementation if elected
I agree that some of these charges are excessive but would fall short of suggesting ALL charges
be waived – infrastructure charges need to be covered without a profit component.
Proposals could be considered individually based on merit, need and future service to the
community in which they are built for further reductions.
Proposition #5 – Provide infrastructure ‘credits’ for vacant commercial premises under Council’s Adopted Infrastructure Charges Resolution (AICR)
Yes I agree with Proposition #5 and will support its implementation if elected
In difficult times, “credits” are a reasonable suggestion as it allows for the possibility that some
charges may still be applicable so that council is able to justify the cost of approvals etc.
Proposition #6 – Immediately undertake an audit of all existing Planning and Environment Court and Court of Appeals, commit to a quarterly review of all existing appeals, (review to include Mayor, Divisional Councillor, Chair of Planning Committee, CEO and Director of PET) and establish of an independent panel of experts to review Council’s position in relation to future appeals
Yes I agree with Proposition #6 and will support its implementation if elected
Transparency and impartiality are essential components to seeing this proposition realized. I
have questions as to the cost of creating such a panel/committee and how to ensure its i
integrity.
Developer’s interests do not always serve the best interests of the public so checks and balances
are essential. I do not want to see the rights of the people in the community to object to
development removed or reduced.
Proposition #7 – Establishment of a senior internal Ombudsman to serve as an independent arbiter in disputes between Council and the general public/development and construction industry
Maybe Yes I agree with Proposition #7 and will support its implementation if elected
Sounds great in theory but how does someone employed by the council remain an impartial
third party? How would this position be funded?
Proposition #8 – Employment of a senior internal ‘change management’ officer to ensure that all new Council policies are consistent with existing Council policies and Legislation
Yes I agree with Proposition #8 and will support its implementation if elected
I can’t believe this position does not exist!
Proposition #9 – Direction to Allconnex / Gold Coast Water to use compulsory resumption powers (in appropriate circumstances) to establish essential community infrastructure easement connections in greenfield development areas
I fail to see how I could be expected to answer a question of this magnitude without more i
information.
Further descriptions of “appropriate circumstances” needs to be addressed. I fear David and Goliath
type battles over elderly resident’s properties. This proposal makes no mention of compensation in
such circumstances and how or who would be responsible for ensuring the outcome was equitable
for all.
I don’t wish to see the “Davids” of the world holding out and stifling progress out of greed but I also
wouldn't allow for the “Goliath’s” to roll over any little people in their path in the name of progress.
Extenuating circumstances may indeed apply when it involves such things as special needs care, aged
care, medical facilities and education.
Before I post anything, people have been asking me which division they are in. So I located this little map on the Electoral Commission website that can tell you in an instant:
If you would like to know what division you are located in, you can click this link
Gold Coast Divisions and find the information you need.
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