ELECTED MAYOR & COUNCILLOR ANSWERS TO ZEN POLICY QUESTIONS

Prior to the March 2020 Noosa Council election, Zero Emissions Noosa, Inc. invited all candidates to answer a number of detailed policy questions relating to the goal of achieving zero emissions in Noosa by 2026. Details of the questions can be viewed here, and the full set of answers from the 20 candidates who did respond here.

We congratulate the successful candidates and thank them and other candidates for the time they took to consider our policy questions.

Note that the responses are listed in the order that we received them. Candidates marked with an asterisk * denote a re-elected candidate.

Zero Emissions Noosa will be seeking to followup up with members of the new council about their policies.

Mayor

Clare Stewart - Answers received 23 Mar 2020

COUNCILLORS

Listed in alphabetical order

Karen Finzel - Answers received 15 Mar 2020

Joe Jurisevic * - Answers received 11 Mar 2020

Amelia Lorentson - Answers received 5 Mar 2020

Brian Stockwell * - Answer received 1 Mar 2020. Updated answers published 6 Mar 2020

Tom Wegener - Answer received 18 Mar 2020. Updated answer to Q1 published 19 Mar 2020

Frank Wilkie * - Answers received 9 Mar 2020

Candidate Name: Brian Stockwell

Answers to questions:

1. Will you seek to develop a Climate Emergency Action Plan in consultation with the community in time for the 2020-2021 Budget?

The Queensland Climate Resilient Council’s detailed governance assessment ranked Noosa as a leading Council’s in the state for its integrated approach to Climate Change. It is embedded across numerous policies. Hazard assessment is well advanced and extensive community consultation is proposed in coming months to develop the Climate Adaptation Plan.

2. Will you support the creation of a Green Business Extension Officer in Council, to work with businesses to assist them to reduce their electricity costs  and emissions?

I support ongoing extension to business to assist the energy transition. The efficiency and effectiveness of a council staffer versus third party delivery needs to be assessed before committing more resources. As a Body Corp Chair I am currently looking at a >400kw business solar system and understand the value of extension.

3. Will you endorse a massive urban pathway tree planting program in anticipation of increased temperatures in coming years?

The Noosa Design Principles implemented over many years mean we do not have urban heat islands and hence we do not need massive urban street tree plantings – Although I support a program to fill priority gaps. However, 1000s of ha of revegetation and regrowth in the hinterland, is far more cost effective and a higher priority in my mind.

4.  Will you work within Council to achieve a shift to electric vehicles for Council's fleet?

I have actively advocated for this outcome and would anticipate that 30% of vehicles will be electric by the end of next term. Personally, I use a plug in hybrid electric car and an electric bike, both charged by renewable energy, to make about 90% of my Councillor trips carbon neutral.

5. Will you request the CEO to review all employee Key Performance Indicators to ensure that climate emergency action is embedded in all Council policy, strategy and  operations?

As stated above, independent assessment shows Noosa Council is already a leading council in this regard. Just last month I moved to include Climate Change into our Health and Well-being Plan. The CEOs Performance is assessed against Corporate Plan KPIS and Climate Change is already in there.

6. Will you pursue with all vigour Council gaining control of its street lighting and associated costs and energy efficient lighting?

Energex and hence the State Government’s archaic position on facilitating streetlighting transition is deplorable. Other Councils have tried and failed to wrestle back ownership. It is important that Council continue to lobby through the LGAQ and Ministers to achieve reform of outdated thinking by the energy provider.

7. Will you investigate how Council can work with low income and rental households to achieve an uptake of rooftop solar for these sectors?

Yes, have previously, and will continue to support this initiative.

8. Will you ensure that Council's capital works program gives priority to sustainable transport initiatives, and not to making trips easier for the private car?

Yes, I have been an advocate in the current Council for changes to budget allocations to reflect the world we are heading to in terms of transport. There has been some change, but not enough. If elected I commit to try make substantial new initiatives focussed on active transport a reality.

9. Will you support an electric bike sharing scheme in dedicated locations on Council public land?

I am a committed convert to electric bike riding. I have ridden over 2000km since January 2019. However, we can’t just expect to transport the culture and practices of European cities to Noosa and expect to make a difference. Before committing I would need to review the effectiveness of all options available to increase uptake of this technology.

10. Will you require a detailed Operational Plan which enables proper review of performance by councillors and the community?

I believe the amount of information available every month which tracks our finances together with the very detailed department by department quarterly reports well and truly meets the needs of the vast majority of the community. The Mayor ( if re-elected) has plans to open up the budget deliberations to the community and it maybe as part of that process we can look to reformat Operational Plans so that they provide the community with a better insight of proposals for the coming financial year.

11.  Will you ensure that Council delivers on the recommendations of the Walking and Cycling Strategy currently being prepared?

Yes, I have been advocating for increased investment in paths and trails for a number of years. When I surveyed them I found out that this was the second highest priority for hinterland residents and hence pushed for the current strategy process. I expect multimillion dollar investment in the next 4 years.

12. Will you support Council moving towards a commercial and community composting facility and service, as the emissions from the Council controlled landfill comprises over 65% of Council’s total carbon footprint?

While I have been a long term advocate for agricultural re-use of food and organic wastes, I am advised there is some doubt whether we could get the necessary environmental approvals to achieve a large scale composting facility at the tip. Biochar from waste to energy systems is another option being investigated.

13. Will you support a requirement for electric trucks in Council’s next waste collection contract?

Yes. We looked at it last time we went to tender but unfortunately, we were ahead of the market availability. I think there is likely to be numerous options by the next tender process.

Candidate Name:  Amelia Lorentson

Will you seek to develop a Climate Emergency Action Plan in consultation with the community in time for the 2020-2021 Budget?

Yes.  A Climate Emergency Action plan must be developed with the community in time for the 2020-2021 Budget.  As a Council we should NOT be swayed by political motivations, instead we need to listen to our community’s position on climate change. And then take action to reduce our impact on the environment.

Will you support the creation of a Green Business Extension Officer in Council, to work with businesses to assist them to reduce their electricity costs   and emissions?

No.  We do not need to spend ratepayer’s money on a Green Extension Officer.  Instead, Council should be offering perks and incentives to businesses to assist them to reduce their electricity costs and emissions.   

Will you endorse a massive urban pathway tree planting program in anticipation of increased temperatures in coming years?

How many trees?  How much?  Where?  The community must be allowed full disclosure and asked to decide. 

Will you work within Council to achieve a shift to electric vehicles for Council's fleet?

Yes, provided Council could show a financial benefit and the community approved.  The main barriers to EVs are the capital costs of purchasing the vehicles and uncertainty around the costs of charging infrastructure. 

Will you request the CEO to review all employee Key Performance Indicators to ensure that climate emergency action is embedded in all Council policy, strategy and operations?

I am not sure whether KPI’s are the correct indicators for climate change actions.  There is so much uncertainty associated with climate change impacts.

However, I do support Council adopting a holistic approach and embedding climate emergency action into all Council processes and creating a workplace culture that supports sustainability.

Will you pursue with all vigour Council gaining control of its street lighting and associated costs and energy efficient lighting?

Changing lighting to LED makes good sense both economically and environmentally. But it comes at a cost.  Council will need to work with Energex to negotiate to share costs of replacing regular street lamps with LED.  Council then need to present the cost of the upgrades to the community and benefits, and ask the community to decide.  Local governments are established so that local residents pay and vote to decide what services they want and how they want it delivered. 

Will you investigate how Council can work with low income and rental households to achieve an uptake of rooftop solar for these sectors?

The burden of escalating electricity costs is disproportionately affecting low income owners. 

It is the role of Council to lobby State government to deliver solar power systems to low income families. 

Noosa Council should encourage Energy Saving Projects that focus on cutting energy bills for households. 

Cutting electricity usage is not the only way to reduce electricity bills.  For example, Noosa Council can recommend low income and rental households to switch retailers and mandate energy efficiency standards in rental properties. 

Will you ensure that Council's capital works program gives priority to sustainable transport initiatives, and not to making trips easier for the private car?

Yes.  We need to prioritise sustainable transport options in Council’s capital works program.

There are too many “Investigate” “subject to investigation’ ‘subject to discussion’ ‘investigate the feasibility’ in the Noosa Transport Strategy Plan 2017-2027.  The next elected Council should have the courage and vision to act. The studies and reports have been done.

Will you support an electric bike sharing scheme in dedicated locations on Council public land?

Noosa Shire needs better bicycle infrastructure before taking on e-bike schemes.  We need to first complete our bicycle networks and provide safe cycleways. 

Will you require a detailed Operational Plan which enables proper review of performance by councillors and the community?

Yes.

Will you ensure that Council delivers on the recommendations of the Walking and Cycling Strategy currently being prepared?

Yes

Will you support Council moving towards a commercial and community composting facility and service, as the emissions from the Council controlled landfill comprises over 65% of Council’s total carbon footprint?

Yes.  Yes. Yes. 

Reducing our landfill sites through composting will significantly reduce the amount of waste we send to landfills!  I have been researching commercial and community composting machines like OSCA used at the SCU and Sunshine Coast Grammer School.  Council needs to offer incentives and/or partner with any business (Surfclubs, Resorts, RSLs, pubs and schools) that installs onsite commercial composters.

We need to also take inspiration and learn from other Councils who are doing waste better.  Eg Lake Macquarie Council has started the ‘greener 3-bin system’, where all food scraps and garden waste go into the household green bin, which is emptied weekly.  

Will you support a requirement for electric trucks in Council’s next waste collection contract?

What is the cost of replacement?  Rollover period? What are the benefits? The community must be asked to decide.  I would prefer to invest in a ‘greener 3 bin system.’

Candidate Name: Frank Wilkie

Answers to questions:
1. Will you seek to develop a Climate Emergency Action Plan in consultation with the community in time for the 2020-2021 Budget?

If such a plan can include the actions in Noosa council’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan, Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan, Zero Emissions Noosa 2026 and other climate change adaptation and response actions currently underway and planned, then it is worth considering as a means of integrating the work.

2. Will you support the creation of a Green Business Extension Officer in Council, to work with businesses to assist them to reduce their electricity costs  and emissions?

Currently Council’s Economic Development staff and the Carbon Reduction officer work with businesses to guide them in this regard. Along with strategic planning staff, they are planning proposals for the next budget to work in a more coordinated way, as climate change is just as much an economic as environmental issue.

3. Will you endorse a massive urban pathway tree planting program in anticipation of increased temperatures in coming years?

I will support street beautification projects involving more tree plantings.

4.  Will you work within Council to achieve a shift to electric vehicles for Council's fleet?

Yes. Electric vehicles are already part of the fleet. I would like to see the number of fleet EVs increase.

5. Will you request the CEO to review all employee Key Performance Indicators to ensure that climate emergency action is embedded in all Council policy, strategy and  operations?

A key objective Council’s Climate Change Response Policy is to ensure climate change adaptation is a core component of resilience planning and embedded across all Council’s functions and activities. I would like to learn more about how this could translate into specific KPI’s for all employees. 

6. Will you pursue with all vigour Council gaining control of its street lighting and associated costs and energy efficient lighting?

Council is already replacing its street lighting with LED bulbs and supporting Energex in its ongoing, cost-saving work to do the same. If the goal is ensuring all shire street lighting is LED, this is possibly going to be achieved without council having to also take on the purchase and maintenance cost burden of owning all of Energex’s assets.

7. Will you investigate how Council can work with low income and rental households to achieve an uptake of rooftop solar for these sectors?

Yes. Noosa Council has partnered with the Australian Energy Foundation (AEF) to offer residents free advice for reducing energy use and installing solar and battery storage technology. This program could be extended to low income groups through an outreach program

8. Will you ensure that Council's capital works program gives priority to sustainable transport initiatives, and not to making trips easier for the private car?

I will support sustainable transport initiatives in the capital works program and creating incentives for people to travel by means other than the private car.

9. Will you support an electric bike sharing scheme in dedicated locations on Council public land?

I believe electric bikes will be playing a major part in the shift away from the private car and would like to learn more about the specifics of this scheme. 

10. Will you require a detailed Operational Plan which enables proper review of performance by councillors and the community?

A detailed operational plan that is available for review by councillors and the community is already a legal requirement under the Local Government Act. 

11.  Will you ensure that Council delivers on the recommendations of the Walking and Cycling Strategy currently being prepared?

Yes. I will play my part to ensure projects from this strategy are funded and delivered.

12. Will you support Council moving towards a commercial and community composting facility and service, as the emissions from the Council controlled landfill comprises over 65% of Council’s total carbon footprint?

Noosa Council staff have been working with those from Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay Councils and Unitywater investigating a proposal for a regional anaerobic digester to handle food and other organic waste from those three shires to reduce emissions and the amounts going to landfill. 

13. Will you support a requirement for electric trucks in Council’s next waste collection contract?

The Noosa Council’s waste contract can run until 2027 (beyond the next council) by which time one would hope electric trucks would be a common option. 

Candidate Name: Joe Jurisevic

Answers to questions:

1. Will you seek to develop a Climate Emergency Action Plan in consultation with the community in time for the 2020-2021 Budget?
Council is already implementing several policies associated with Climate Change such as the Climate Change Adaptation Plan, Coastal Hazards Adaptation Plan, Zero Emissions Plan and is implementing priority actions already identified, such as the rollout of solar on Council Buildings. It is also ensuring that all Policies have the elements of Climate Change embedded within. It makes sense that a Climate Emergency Plan would be developed following the the declaration of a Climate Emergency to identify the priority actions needed to be undertaken with consultation and input from the community. I do support an Emergency Plan Action Plan that incorporates the work already undertaken and prioritise the actions to come.

2. Will you support the creation of a Green Business Extension Officer in Council, to work with businesses to assist them to reduce their electricity costs and emissions?

In principal, I support any initiative to encourage the uptake of solar by all businesses, and households for that matter. It makes environmental and economic sense.However, I'm not sure that business would listen to Council or that a Green Officer would make any further inroads than previous schemes, such as Ecobiz, with encouraging solar uptake by business or that Council is the best placed to deliver such advice. Tourism Noosa and ZEN Noosa have also been working towards the uptake of solar by business until now. What are the barriers? If it makes environmental and economic sense, why aren't businesses embracing the uptake? What would a Council Green Officer add that isn't already being done? What incentives do the State and Federal Governments offer?I would need to see the advantages and costs of Council taking on this role before committing to it.

3. Will you endorse a massive urban pathway tree planting program in anticipation of increased temperatures in coming years?

I agree that street trees are a significant contributor to the reduction of temperatures in urban areas, and Noosa has embraced street tree plantings which enhance our urban environment and wildlife corridors. I would support the additional planting of street trees in areas that can be identified as suitable with species that are suitable for our urban environment and infrastructure. What hasn't been defined is the term 'massive', where this massive influx of trees may be able to be planted, and the resultant initial and ongoing maintenance cost of a 'massive' influx of urban street trees? Tree clearing requests are one of the highest level of calls that Council fields currently, and trees in urban areas require regular maintenance which already challenges Council's resources. If more trees are to be planted, then I would be more supportive of parks and reserves being used as well where space is not of a premium and trees are less likely to become a cost factor for maintenance for future Councils and ratepayers. For example, many park benches in parks are currently out in the sun most of the day in many cases and could readily be shaded and benefit from further tree plantings.  

4. Will you work within Council to achieve a shift to electric vehicles for Council's fleet?

I continue to support the shift to all modes of alternate energy lower emission vehicles that are suitable for the application in Council's fleet. Council has been slower on the uptake of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure than I would have liked to see, but we have managed to see several hybrid cars purchased, principally due to ongoing Councillor demand for change. Council tested an early model Nissan Leaf to evaluate Electric Vehicle performance, costs and suitability. A large portion of the Council Fleet are utes, 4WDs and trucks that are still awaiting suitable electric versions in this country. An electric charging station is scheduled to be installed in the next stages of the Peregian Hub for public use. I have requested a report on the current state of the Council Fleet to see what opportunities there are to transition vehicles to alternate low emission vehicles such as electric cars. Targets need to be set once suitable replacements can be identified.Like several of the current Councillors, I own a plug in electric hybrid vehicle for our family's personal use.I am pleased to report that Council has replaced a great number of fuel powered tools with rechargeable battery powered alternatives.

5. Will you request the CEO to review all employee Key Performance Indicators to ensure that climate emergency action is embedded in all Council policy, strategy and operations?

I would expect this to be part of staff requirements if part of the policies and plans they are expected to implement. Suitable KPIs would have to be determined to be measurable.

6. Will you pursue with all vigour Council gaining control of its street lighting and associated costs and energy efficient lighting?

No! Not without a business case to see the benefits for the community at least! Like so many other things, why is the community expected to bear the cost of things when the State and State owned agencies don't deliver? I would first be advocating with other Councils through the LGAQ to pursue the State to deliver these outcomes in a timely manner as part of their emissions reduction initiatives. Energex has its part to play, and this would significantly reduce the load on energy supply and potentially the need for additional power stations across the State. Solar versions could be implemented with mains backups if required, further reducing power plant emissions. Why should Energex not be part of emission reduction targets with easy wins like this as they replace light globes? I Know it isn't in their interest to reduce energy costs for consumers.Council is already implementing a program for all of its lighting which has begun in all Council buildings and facilities and is planning for its street and external lighting to be upgraded to LED alternatives. Several sport facilities have upgraded to LED lighting with Council support and external grants with plans for more clubs to make the transition.

7. Will you investigate how Council can work with low income and rental households to achieve an uptake of rooftop solar for these sectors?

Council is closely monitoring schemes that have been initiated in other Council across Australia and is devising a plan to see if we can offer a viable option for low income and rental households.

 
8. Will you ensure that Council's capital works program gives priority to sustainable transport initiatives, and not to making trips easier for the private car?

I will continue to support initiatives that encourage alternate transport uses, and continue to advocate for an improvement in our public transport network with alternate low emission energy fuel sourced vehicles. Council has committed to identifying missing links pathways and cycleways and an action plan to prioritise vital connections. I have always though it ironic that we require end of trip shower and cycle facilities in business developments in our planning scheme when there is poor connection of pathways and cycleways to our commercial centres, especially the Industrial area. More off road cycleway opportunities to enhance rider safety are needed, or barriers such as can be seen at 1770 and Byron to encourage safer cycling such as the Bendigo Council initiative.There will always be a need to maintain our current road network and future road needs due the the distances that we need to travel.

9. Will you support an electric bike sharing scheme in dedicated locations on Council public land?

Possibly. Is this an outlay for Council to provide? More information required. There are challenges to such schemes and questions regarding the use of public land for business operation that have been brought up in the past. What about scooters? I see other Council schemes that have had bikes disposed of in rivers. What I do support, and can already happen, is the opportunity for existing business to be apart of a cycle hire network, especially those that offer accomodation for visitors. A rental business could partner with existing business operators which would enhance opportunities for exposure of business activity.  You would only need one in each destination location much the same as the public space idea functions. This already occurs with a number of accomodation providers offering bike hire and the existence of bike hire businesses. They just need better connectivity for short term hire with other establishments.

10. Will you require a detailed Operational Plan which enables proper review of performance by councillors and the community?

Council currently have a detailed operational plan with regular updates and performance reports that are available for Councillors and the Community to review. There is a proposal to open the budget deliberations up for community input in the next Council.

11. Will you ensure that Council delivers on the recommendations of the of the walking and Cycling strategy currently being prepared?;

Yes. This has been an initiative that a number of Councillors have advocated for and will be happy to see delivered as budgets allow over the next few years.

12. Will you support Council moving towards a commercial and community composting facility and service, as the emissions from the Council controlled landfill comprises over 65% of Council's total carbon footprint?;

Absolutely. I have long advocated for many of the changes that have been implemented at our Resource Recovery Facility, and FOGO ( Food and Organics) is the one of the last pieces in the puzzle. Council is currently in discussion with Unity Water and Southern Councils as well as a group of Northern Councils investigating the feasibility of a regional facility for treatment of food and organic waste and the production of a useable bi product that can be offered for soil improvement for agricultural production. The landfill is currently flaring methane, but has recently implemented measures to enhance methane capture with the target to capture sufficient to finally generate energy from the gas rather than flaring. I have been pursuing this goal since I started on Council.

13. Will you support a requirement for electric trucks in Council's next waste collection contract?:

Absolutely! I supported it in the last contract, but we there were no trucks capable of delivering a service in our hinterland available at the time of the contract. I had spoken with the suppliers at the National Waste Conference and continue to monitor vehicle availability for our next contract. 

Candidate Name:  Karen Finzel

Answers to questions:
1. Will you seek to develop a Climate Emergency Action Plan in consultation with the community in time for the 2020-2021 Budget?

A. The declaration by Noosa Shire Council together with 84 other Australian Councils in 2014 for climate emergency is well supported however this should be accompanied by the development and implementation of a 'Climate Emergency Plan'. The prestigious label of UNESCO Biosphere should see Noosa Council recognised in a leadership capacity when it comes to climate change. Of course, I will always engage community.

2. Will you support the creation of a Green Business Extension Officer in Council, to work with businesses to assist them to reduce their electricity costs  and emissions?

A. The creation of a 'Green Business Extension Officer' in Council would be of great assistance to business owner/s looking to minimise electricity costs and gain knowledge on alternative green energy initiates and more innovative ideas to help the environment, contribute to zero emission goals and to increase cash flow.

3. Will you endorse a massive urban pathway tree planting program in anticipation of increased temperatures in coming years?

A. Trees reduce temperatures by shade and transpiring water. Studies have proven that one mature tree can produce the same cooling effect as 10 room sized air conditioners. Forward thinking and careful planning now will ensure the health and wellbeing of residents while providing shade trees and simultaneously combating projected rising temperatures should be considered best practice. Endorsement of such a program makes sense.

4.  Will you work within Council to achieve a shift to electric vehicles for Council's fleet?

A. The shift to electric vehicles for Council's fleet makes sense. Consultation with residents/ratepayers and all key stakeholders is paramount. The Council has committed to zero emission for its own operations by 2026 therefore careful planning and budgeting to deliver within the timeframe is vital. Collaborating with industry experts is essential.

5. Will you request the CEO to review all employee Key Performance Indicators to ensure that climate emergency action is embedded in all Council policy, strategy and  operations?

A. The goal of Council to deliver climate emergency action in all areas of operations, policies and strategies can be most effectively achieved by regular reviews of the Council's employee key performance indicators to evaluate their success at reaching targets. Of course, implementation of all organisational KPI's is best practice.

6. Will you pursue with all vigour Council gaining control of its street lighting and associated costs and energy efficient lighting?

A. It is essential Noosa Council adheres to responsible stewardship over utilities and undertakes cost saving measures. Perhaps a pilot program just as Brisbane City Council who managed savings of over half a million dollars through switching to LED lights is worthy of consideration.

7. Will you investigate how Council can work with low income and rental households to achieve an uptake of rooftop solar for these sectors?

A. Perhaps monies saved in the switch to LED lighting can be reinvested into the households experiencing 'solar poverty' A progressive Council can implement measures and seek State Government assistance to ensure equity for all residents regardless of ability, gender or race. Increased uptake of roof top solar can also assist in reaching targets set within timeframes to reduce emissions while minimising dependence on coal.

8. Will you ensure that Council's capital works program gives priority to sustainable transport initiatives, and not to making trips easier for the private car?

A. Raising awareness, education and initiatives making it easier for residents to uptake sustainable transport options is imperative in conjunction with Council's capital works program to prioritise ease of access to all park and ride, bikeways and walkways as this may contribute to promoting healthy lifestyle and environmental protection. These are key principles in the Noosa Transport Strategy 2017-2027.

9. Will you support an electric bike sharing scheme in dedicated locations on Council public land?

A. Support for all initiatives /schemes that potentially contribute to reaching zero emission targets set by Council which are supported by residents and identified by key stakeholders as priority. Of course, as always projected budgets and planning is essential.

10. Will you require a detailed Operational Plan which enables proper review of performance by councillors and the community?

A. Firstly, a detailed Operational Plan can be requested. Secondly, however one has to know how effective is the Council's Operational Plan in measuring success or failure of the non-capital works initiative in its quarterly review of performance by Councillors and Community.

11.  Will you ensure that Council delivers on the recommendations of the Walking and Cycling Strategy currently being prepared?

A. The Walking and Cycling Strategy is expected to be ready for pubic consultation in late 2020. A strategy requires dollars allocated in the budget to enable its implementation. Of course sustainable transport goals remains a top priority.

12. Will you support Council moving towards a commercial and community composting facility and service, as the emissions from the Council controlled landfill comprises over 65% of Council’s total carbon footprint?

A. Preventing waste in the first place is best environmental outcome. Support for Council moving forward on any facility or services that contributes to reducing Council's total carbon footprint is important. Waste as a commercial resource makes sense.

13. Will you support a requirement for electric trucks in Council’s next waste collection contract?

A. Electric trucks for waste collection are a key demonstration of Council's support for renewable energy as they significantly reduce our environmental footprint and improve the sustainability of residential hard waste collection. Electric trucks create less noise, making streets more liveable while saving approximately 180kg of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere when operational as compared with an equivalent  diesel truck. Of course, sensible planning and budgeting are imperative.

Dear Zero Emissions Noosa,

I am passionate about cutting Noosa’s emissions down to Zero.  I support the declaration of a climate emergency and see Noosa as a national and world leader in cutting emissions.

Thank you for inviting me to answer your questions, however I found many of the questions beyond my scope of knowledge. Instead of answering them,  I have opted to give a broad policy statement. 

First, I am very impressed with the ZEN website and especially so with information on solar panels.  By providing information on ways to lower emissions as well as contacts to local businesses which will achieve this goal, ZEN is facilitating a network within the community.  The end is not only reducing emissions but fostering our local economy as well. I see Noosa as economic and cultural powerhouses. This culture values our natural environment and strives to preserve it.  These values promote local businesses to innovate emissions reductions strategies and hardware. The advancements made in Noosa both support the culture and the economy. I see these being exportable IT as well as the subject of lucrative educational opportunities. As a councillor I will facilitate the goal of zero emissions by 2026 as well as promote the forward-thinking culture of Noosa residents. I will support local business with an eye on creating another valuable resource for our Noosa Shire. 

In my field of surfboard manufacture I did a similar thing to which I have described above.  I began making wood surfboards and the local culture supported me. The culture appreciated what I was doing, bought my surfboards, and facilitated my advancement in the manufacturing process. My business became enmeshed in the network of local suppliers of materials as well as selling retailing surfboards.  Soon Noosa was the world hub of wooden surfboards and an exportable product was created. I have sold surfboards and taught my methods in numerous countries including Japan, Korea, USA, France and the UK. Recently my story was featured on ABC Landline with Sean Murphy. Please see https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-08/sustainable-surfboards-from-paulownia-wood-biodegradable/12024522

Thank you very much,

Tom Wegener

Supplementary answer from Tom received 19 Mar 2020

1. Will I seek to develop a Climate Emergency Action Plan in consultation with the community in time for the 2020-2021 Budget?

After I get elected, I will have two and a half months before the budget is due to investigate, consult the community, anticipate costings and create a report on the Climate Emergency Action Plan. This is a substantial undertaking which I will begin, but I cannot give any guarantees on actually completing these tasks before the budget.

Candidate Name: Clare Stewart

Answers to questions:
1. Will you seek to develop a Climate Emergency Action Plan in consultation with the community in time for the 2020-2021 Budget?

I will consider the work already done by council and then consult the community.

2. Will you support the creation of a Green Business Extension Officer in Council, to work with businesses to assist them to reduce their electricity costs  and emissions?

At this stage, given the priority that needs to be addressed regarding Covid-19 I will not be committing any council funds to new initiatives.

3. Will you endorse a massive urban pathway tree planting program in anticipation of increased temperatures in coming years?

No I will not be committing any additional council funds to any projects until Covid-19 and its implications for our community has been addressed.

4.  Will you work within Council to achieve a shift to electric vehicles for Council's fleet?

I will review the council fleet and consider all costs involved and then in consultation with councillors and available advice make the necessary recommendations.

5. Will you request the CEO to review all employee Key Performance Indicators to ensure that climate emergency action is embedded in all Council policy, strategy and  operations?

Not at this stage due to the emergency situation we find ourselves in regarding Covid-19.

6. Will you pursue with all vigour Council gaining control of its street lighting and associated costs and energy efficient lighting?

I will call for a report from energex and work towards reducing costs to the ratepayer.

7. Will you investigate how Council can work with low income and rental households to achieve an uptake of rooftop solar for these sectors?

Yes I am happy to work with council staff to investigate such opportunities.

8. Will you ensure that Council's capital works program gives priority to sustainable transport initiatives, and not to making trips easier for the private car?

I will review all public transport options. A complete review of footpaths, cycle paths and parking.

9. Will you support an electric bike sharing scheme in dedicated locations on Council public land?

I would give consideration to private enterprise for a bike sharing and scooter scheme.

10. Will you require a detailed Operational Plan which enables proper review of performance by councillors and the community?

I will ensure working with the CEO that the major emphasis is placed on best outcomes for all council business with the focus firmly on community services and facilities.

11.  Will you ensure that Council delivers on the recommendations of the Walking and Cycling Strategy currently being prepared?

I would hope that after spending $650k by the current council we will be provided with a document that allows us to get on with delivering outcomes- building footpaths and cycle ways.

12. Will you support Council moving towards a commercial and community composting facility and service, as the emissions from the Council controlled landfill comprises over 65% of Council’s total carbon footprint?

As Anthony Pratt said over the past few days in ‘The Weekend Australian’ newspaper- ‘there is the ongoing shift towards converting waste to energy and the ability to turn garbage into a useful commodity’. I would support looking at all options concerning our problems with waste and garbage disposal as new technology evolves.

13. Will you support a requirement for electric trucks in Council’s next waste collection contract?

I’ll take advice from the CEO on the state of the current fleet and give that advice consideration and make decisions from that where required.