Debra Walz

DEBRA WALZ Question 1. Please provide an economic cost analysis and works management timeframe for Noosa Shire to become fluoride free. Response by Richard MacGillivray, Director Development and Regulation Noosa Council does not manage the abstraction, treatment and distribution of potable water in Noosa. Treatment is undertaken by SEQ Water and distribution by Unity Water. At this point in time Council does not have information relating to the costs or timeframes involved in removing fluoride from the public supply. Officers have contacted SEQ Water to seek advice on these questions however due to the complexity of the questions raised we are aware this may take some time. Question 2. When are the Noosa Shire Council Local Laws due to be reviewed and what are the consultation processes to involve community input? Response by Richard MacGillivray, Director Development and Regulation Council’s Local Laws are reviewed when they are impacted by a change in legislation or when local circumstances require that they are amended in order for their specific objectives to be met. Noosa’s current Local Laws are based on the model local laws provided by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning. The process of assessing potential improvements to Noosa’s Local Laws is occurring continuously through ongoing feedback from our community and businesses. The review of specific Local Laws is planned to commence in the near future. These reviews will focus on ensuring they meet the contemporary needs, expectations and lifestyles of our communities. The process of making Local Law is defined in the Local Government Act 2009. It is consistent for all Queensland councils and is a very transparent process. As part of a review process Council officers will prepare a report detailing whether a new or amended local law is required and an authority to proceed is reported to Council. The Council will consider information supporting the proposal and if in agreement will resolve to commence the local law making process. When the draft is completed, Councils are then required to submit the proposals to the Queensland Government who undertake what is termed a “state interest check”. Following the successful completion of this step, notice of the proposed local law is required to be posted publicly in the local newspaper and on Council’s website. Council will be seeking to actively engage with the public who are invited to review the Local Laws and provide feedback. Submissions from this consultation is considered by Council and appropriate revisions made to the proposed new local law before being bought back to Council for consideration and resolution.