Better outcome for Surfers at heart of committee axing

THE axing of the Heart of the City Advisory Committee (HOCAC) makes sense and will ensure relevant issues within Surfers Paradise are given better attention, in a more timely manner.

By disbanding the current committee – and creating an alternate Committee of Special Function directly under the Division 7 banner – means greater flexibility with the frequency of meetings and a better process to respond to current issues.

It also allows the Special Function Committee to invite relevant stakeholders and professionals to join relevant discussions as required.

This is, by far, a more positive outcome for the Surfers Paradise precinct.

Since I was elected to represent Division 7 in 2016, there have been concerns over the effectiveness of the Heart of the City Advisory Committee.

The most pressing matter was the Terms of Reference which dictated the structure of the committee.

A protracted reporting process to council meant that issues relating to council were often tabled far too late to be effective.

So the horse had bolted before council even got to consider the issue.

The objectives of the HOCAC were to “provide council with strategic advice and information on:

• The identification of influences and issues likely to affect the Surfers Paradise precinct, including: master planning, car parking, traffic and transportation, street scaping, urban design, emergency access, tourism promotions and entertainment, events, crime prevention and safety, licensed venues, beach and mall activities, developments and employment.

• Identify effects likely to manifest from these influences and issues and strategic responses that will assist council in responding or enhancing its responses to the challenges and opportunities presented by these influences.

• Identify opportunities and solutions in responses to the above influences and issues.

• Provide advice to council and recommend actions on relevant issues, programs and initiatives.

• Provide advice on the activities and projects proposed or occurring in the precinct and assist in their implementation.

• Act as an ambassador for the Surfers Paradise precinct and assist in the promotion of a positive image.

With such a broad scope of objectives, of which many rely directly on the State Government, it was always difficult to maintain momentum on pertinent issues with current timelines.

I look forward to the Special Functions Committee being able to support Surfers Paradise into the future.

COUNCILLOR GARY BAILDON