Your questions answered
CANDIDATES were given 40-50 words to answer each of five questions our readers offered. Here they are, in order of the ballot sheet. The first two questions and answers ran yesterday.
3. How can you cut red tape for businesses dealing with council? MAYORAL RACE Mayor Paul Antonio: The council is putting a lot of resources into a study into how we deliver the services to our community. Part of that will be cutting red tape, and I also expect part will be about how we can better serve our communities. I am committed to making things better for business who play a big part in our economy.
Chris Meibusch: We need to review and streamline all regulations, obligations and charges on local businesses. Governments don’t apply regulations without reason. Blindly cutting so-called “red tape” risks businesses taking shortcuts with self-regulation that may threaten our safety and the viability of our community. COUNCIL RACE
Cr Bill Cahill: There are always two sides to this scenario. Understandably, there are always challenges when dealing with large organisations, and there is always room to improve when looking to streamline interactions between business and council. Equally, council is the guardian of the broader community’s interests in ensuring we are not left with undesirable legacies.
David King: By using generic business applications and a standard process in dealing with similar applications. There are too many people with a lot of input but very few skills in the decision-making process thereby increasing the time and cost of dealing with the council. Cr Nancy Sommerfield:
The council is on a journey with red tape. There have been some changes made but there is more to do. We must ensure we meet legislative criteria while trying to assist small businesses. The Chambers of Commerce throughout the region could be a helpful conduit.
Lindy Eising: This has to be addressed. Builders are giving up too much red tape and all the costings, which has to stop.
Carol McCabe: In my experience, red tape is an indicator of management ineptitude and a blight on good business practice. For many of us, unnecessary requirements mean slow resolutions. Documentation must be in plain English, forms and other documents should be to the point, and easily resolved.
Petria Grabham: I will look at reasonable ways to adjust the regional law delivery. Red tape is in place to protect people, community and our environment, however, some red tape can restrict growth. By introducing an overall law we can throw out the ridiculous and keep the necessary.
Chelle McIntyre: Having worked for Federal Government, legislation and regulation must be applied for safety. It is about communication and commitment between vested interests – good negotiators and commonsense is required. A review of procedures and charges should take place as community and business continue to suffer financial hardship.
Michael Truskinger: We need to be careful when it comes to the term red tape. Some requirements are out of the council’s control, however there should be a re-evaluation of unnecessary and duplicated processes that could be needlessly hampering approvals.
Warren Midgley: Amalgamation created inefficiencies that have not been effectively resolved. A complete review of processes is required to simplify and streamline application
processes. We must make greater use of emerging technologies to maximise efficiency and reduce delays.
Robert Relvas: Through an external review of council operations, we can ensure there is adequate staffing. Ensuring businesses are informed of what is needed to complete business applications. We can then streamline processes and reduce time frames to address the State Act’s legislation for small business.
Lizzie Adams: Review current processes and identify the issue that is impacting on this process. When developing any processes, they must be clear and concise. They must be communicated in a manner that does not create confusion or allow misinterpretation. Cr Megan O’Hara Sullivan: I would like a dedicated relationship manager in the council to help small business deal with the complexities of legislative requirements mandated by the State Government. I would support an audit or “red tape challenge” to find ways to reduce the compliance costs to small business and where reporting requirements overlap.
Kirsten Smolenski: We can cut red tape by clarifying and simplifying the large amount of repetitive, overly complicated or ambiguous documentation that a business must undertake to operate. I understand that there are legislative and safety requirements to adhere to however an overhaul would be greatly beneficial.
Mike Flanigan: Each time I discuss council engagement with small and large business operatives, the complaint is always red tape. I firmly believe that the TRC requires a total management restructure as it is top-heavy. The new CEO of Western Downs Regional Council did so, streamlining management with excellent results and encouraging sus
tainable enterprises.
Cr Geoff McDonald: Two stage approach: firstly, determine through consultation what red tape issues are directly related to the council. Secondly, work with stakeholders to reduce this where possible.
Cr James O’Shea: The council needs to adopt common sense processes to be customer focused and deliver outcomes in a timely manner and to communicate decisions clearly. It’s also important for the council to continue to consult and review with the business community.
Kevin Flanagan: Bigger organisations lead to greater bureaucratic processes. This applies to councils. Decisions take too long and roadblocks frustrate small business. I will always be looking for red tape reduction and promoting “what are you trying to achieve and how can we get there”.
Rob Berry: They need to stop over-regulating everyone because they cause red tape and have no idea of the effect on business. If they were running a business, they would be bankrupt. Not one of them is fighting against red tape, they just make excuses.
Tim Entwistle: I’ve asked a number of business owners about this issue, and they all mention the vagueness of regulation compliance. Business owners are happy to make necessary changes to comply, but compliance officers finding new things to scrutinise after each visit makes this difficult. I will advocate for clarity and straightforward procedures.
Garry Humphries: Businesses see the council as either a “fat cow to be milked”, a “mad cow to be shot” or a “sturdy work horse to partner with”. Red tape is used to protect your rates dollars from the first two but if you have a council that partners with businesses you don’t need red tape.
Ben Apsey: With common sense. If red tape doesn’t serve the people then it goes. I don’t have much patience for unnecessary bureaucracy.
Melissa Taylor: We must ensure there’s synchronicity between all our council departments, so every department is working with the same information. We must demand shorter waiting periods for answers on applications. The longer the wait time, the less investment in our region – it’s easier to do business elsewhere!
David Campbell: Interestingly, The Chronicle asked the same question in the 2016 campaign. It’s evident the problem still exists as we see major developers walking away. Balance needs to occur between council and business to give transparency and make all parties accountable, while assuring investor confidence.
Aaron Goldie: Red tape can be reduced with proper communication from the council with application guides. Delays in approvals play a big part in slowing development. We need a change, including increased staffing levels in the council sectors that process approvals, so that everyone can get on with business.
Kerry Shine: In the shortterm, the council must look to defer, discount or waive fees, rates and charges. For example, waiving food licensing fees (while maintaining food standards) could allow many local cafes and restaurants to stay afloat. Longer term, we must support businesses to quickly reopen and recover.
Alyce Nelligan: Regulations are in place for legitimate reasons and so any changes to that would have to be carefully considered. However, businesses do need to have efficient, simple and transparent dealings with council to support our economy.
Joy Mingay: I would like to introduce an ombudsmanstyle officer in the council so
that business can have a full understanding of the rules and regulations before submitting applications or proposals. We must review fees and charges and look for road maps rather than roadblocks for business.
Cr Carol Taylor: The council must have rigorous processes in place that offer an equal playing field and accountability. It also provides protections for workers, neighbours and the community. The council’s local procurement is approaching 70 per cent and my door is always open to businesses and improvement opportunities – but not at any cost.
Eakraj Adhikari: Businesses are the backbone of our region, if elected I will do everything I can to ease the procedures. However, we will focus on sustainable prosperity and seek advice from businesses and experts before implementing any strategy. I will do everything possible to support small businesses.
Tim McMahon: Most red tape is legislated and much of it is necessary. A road map of how to navigate red tape, specifically relating to subdivision, tenders, development applications and starting new businesses would be a solution.
Rebecca Vonhoff: By being reasonable. Job security and stability has never been more important, so we need businesses to know they have a council that is open to ideas, is on its toes and wants to encourage prosperity. 4. What are your plans for the region’s future water security? MAYORAL RACE Mayor Paul Antonio: We know that on advice there are no viable dam sites in our region. This means we must look elsewhere for future supplies, and for that reason I have met with the Federal Government and they understand our need to begin the search for future water as soon as we can.
Chris Meibusch: We need to help develop an eastern Darling Downs water grid building on the legacy of the Wivenhoe pipeline. We need a continuation of the progressive replacement of existing
water mains infrastructure and expansion of water and sewerage services to towns surrounding Toowoomba. COUNCIL RACE Cr Bill Cahill: A safe, secure, sustainable water supply, the need for inter-regional discussions, both at state and federal level. The community needs to be included in interregional and state planning, for the future sustainability of regional Australia. The other part of it is around demand management, or being accountable for every drop.
David King: Extend the Wivenhoe pipeline to move treated water from Brisbane to farmers using solar or the excess solar supply to pump water up the range. Use the Inland Rail tunnel to run the pipeline and increase the capacity of existing dams.
Cr Nancy Sommerfield: No one solution but many solutions. Smart water meters equal reduced water use. Identifying infrastructure leaks (currently too high) and higher use of recycled water on our parks and roads. Toowoomba Bulk Water Supply security is to 2049. Rural communities’ underground aquifers require additional licences and planning pipeline to Clifton.
Lindy Eising: We need to create dams, like the Emu Creek dam, and improve water basins.
Carol McCabe: As a new council candidate, I would like to be briefed by staff experts on the current situation, contracts, obligations, ideas and work in place. Depending on what is revealed, my preference would be to support another water source and escalate pipelines, smaller dams and household tanks.
Petria Grabham: Water security in our region is the first item on my agenda. We need to engage with state and federal government to develop a southeast collective water solution. I think it’s time to move into the 21st century and invest in recycled water for industry, agriculture and enjoyment.
Chelle McIntyre: I believe in the commonplace recycling of treated wastewater and smart land management so run-off is contained. Many examples show the effectiveness of these. My excellent research and comprehension skills and commitment to community are strengths here. We need broader understanding of nature’s contribution for remedy.
Michael Truskinger: I have had several conversations with people, including a water engineer over water security, and I believe we need to enlist advice from experts to find the best way forward for water sustainability for the region.
Warren Midgley: A co-ordinated response is required, which will include working with other councils and state and federal government. This needs to be partnered with better local solutions. One obvious example would be better stormwater catchment and storage plans to be required in development applications.
Robert Relvas: After the plebiscite, the region voted against the use of recycled water, and I respect that. Research and technology has advanced since then and we should consider using recycled water for the region’s parks, unsealed roads, on development sites and for farmers’ use.
Lizzie Adams: I acknowledge water security as a priority and I have limited knowledge in this area and will be guided by the council, the community and experts. Cr Megan O’Hara Sullivan: I will advocate for the fast-tracked development of a new Toowoomba Region water sustainability plan. The Wivenhoe pipeline ensures our water security until 2049, depending on what happens with the pipeline to Warwick. We need to be discussing alternatives, such as recycling.
Kirsten Smolenski: Firstly, by analysing the data, then having an open-minded look at all options, taking into account the environment and ratepayer value.
Mike Flanigan: One of the council’s core business focus is water security. Some neighbouring councils have been caught short by the drought. TRC is no exception as the opportunity to deepen Cooby Dam has been lost. My plan to
increase water security is to raise the height of the Cooby Dam wall.
Cr Geoff McDonald: Water security needs to be a broader discussion with state and federal governments. A national water grid is overdue and needs priority. The council needs to ensure we have every measure in place to provide safe, secure and accessible water.
Cr James O’Shea: Water security is a very important issue across all of Australia, particularly in this region. All levels of government need to work together to ensure water security for households, industry and agriculture. The council needs to investigate the viability of additional water sources.
Kevin Flanagan: Water security must recognise our changing climate, be underpinned by water conservation and recycling, consider all options and be based on working with adjacent authorities and State Government to maximise shared opportunities.
Rob Berry: I have a very detailed plan that has the outcome of complete water sustainability of all residents. It ensures water security – it’s simple and affordable. It just needs the council to approve instead of blocking any change they haven’t thought of.
Tim Entwistle: If elected, I will be in full support of research into the viability of a new dam. I believe we can leverage our position in the negotiations of the Warwick/ Toowoomba pipeline to the ratepayers’ benefit.
Garry Humphries: First a regional, then a state water grid. It is always raining somewhere in Queensland, so let’s pipe water where it’s needed. Also, more, but smaller dams statewide so we don’t rely on a few ageing dams and continued water conservation efforts.
Ben Apsey: There are two
issues that need to be addressed – how much water we have and how well we use the water we’ve got. I think the council should be focused on the latter. The council must learn to do more with less.
Melissa Taylor: It is very important to create a longterm strategic plan to protect our communities and our environment, like a sustainable plan for water security. We can’t do this alone so we must work with our local government neighbours while lobbying state government for our fair share of dollars.
David Campbell: Water security has been debated for years. The problem hasn’t gone away but worsened. It’s critical we droughtproof our region to ensure industry, agriculture and every person can have a sustainable life. Water security has been achieved in other parts of the world and we need to follow their lead.
Aaron Goldie: Water security is always a concern for the region as we live atop a range. I believe that council programs, such as subsidies for water tanks, and their mandatory installation in new properties, are the most effective way to ensure that water capacity increases as our region grows.
Kerry Shine: I strongly support an independent expert review of water policy, with all options on the table – including a new dam. The cost of each option per household must be made clear. Furthermore, our regional towns must be fully included, with a secure water supply for every resident.
Alyce Nelligan: My number-one priority is ensuring our regional towns have access to a reasonable amount of clean water. We potentially could renegotiate the cost of the Wivenhoe pipeline. We need to revisit the idea of recycled water. We must ensure our region has water to sustain
our communities.
Joy Mingay: Population growth as well as challenges from droughts and ageing infrastructure highlight the importance of water security planning. We must work with State and Federal government to look at water conservation measures, everything is on the table, including new dams.
Cr Carol Taylor: The Wivenhoe pipeline and the TRC’s three dams have the region’s water needs secured for at least the next 20 years. I am always working for the entire region to develop our infrastructure and secure funding from state and federal governments.
Eakraj Adhikari: If elected, as a councillor I will focus on protecting and preserving the water sources. We must preserve the water sources with massive tree plantations and developing green belts and building more smaller dams. Compulsory rainwater tanks in every households. Strategies on how to save water through water education.
Tim McMahon: We must invest in recycled water, especially for non-potable uses. Other regions have already adopted dual piping for new housing developments that use recycled water for gardening, amenities, industry and agriculture. I will see to it in the first term.
Rebecca Vonhoff: Water is our most precious and foughtover resource, so we need to capture every drop on new and existing buildings; recycle water for agriculture and industry; appreciate that aquifers are an exhaustible resource and consider new ways to harness and redirect water to our region. Mayoral candidate Douglas Doelle and councillor candidate Rita Toledo Clarke did not provide responses. Some responses have been edited for brevity.