Brian O’Connor

1 BRIAN O’CONNOR Question 1: Noosa Council has announced that it will cease operation of the Mobile Library in 2020, now just two months away, and has sought public feedback on the nature of alternative arrangements for having library items loaned out to hinterland residents. What was the feedback received, what is the alternative favoured by Noosa Council based on that feedback, will further consultation occur and, if, so how and when? When does the council plan to have the new arrangements in place and will these be monitored to assess the success or otherwise of those new arrangements? Response by Kerri Contini, Director Community Services: Noosa Council’s Mobile Library is now 13 years old and reaching the end of its useful life. Council staff have been planning for its replacement for the past year and this has included consultation with a range of stakeholders including Mobile Library customers, businesses and community organisations. Options being considered include a smaller truck, 24/7 library vending machines and extending services through bulk loans to partnering facilities. It is likely that the final model will be a combination of these and will be implemented in approximately mid-2020. The community is continuing to be kept informed both directly to library customers and through platforms such as the Library’s website, social media platforms and local media. Question 2: With the sale of the former Tewantin TAFE College complete, can Noosa Council provide an update on: the final sale price; the estimated amount of money required to refurbish the building to an acceptable standard; likely uses, including involvement by the private sector; estimated rental income from tenants; and the maintenance and utilities outlays in any one year? When will the buildings be occupied? Response by Tony Wellington, Mayor: Council has not yet secured ownership of the site. There are constraints on the land and so Council are still in negotiation with the State over this matter.