Mayoral Message - March 2025
Published on 13 March 2025
It's been a very busy month of Council business and community activities! So let's start with some very welcome news:
Picture (r): Mayor Jones chatting with CanAssist volunteers at the Yass Volunteer and Community Expo
CEO Appointment Announced
The Council is looking forward to welcoming our new CEO mid-April. The recent announcement regarding the selection of Council's new Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Gayleen Burley, is the result of an extensive recruitment search. We attracted a strong field of local, regional and national candidates. The selection panel and recruitment firm conducted thorough research, interviews, and reference checks to ensure due diligence on behalf of our community.
I extend my thanks to all the candidates for their time and effort in submitting high-quality applications and presentations. I also thank the other members of council's selection panel: Clr Burgess, Clr Butler, Clr Carter, Independent Advisor Ms. Kath Roach SINC Solutions, Independent Panel member CRJO Chief Executive Ms. Sharon Houlihan, and Mr. Gareth Broadrick, Head of Local Government at Capstone Recruitment. Ms Burley also presented to the whole of Council, and the decision to appoint her was unanimous.
Councillors were impressed by Ms Burley's experience, qualifications, resilience, commitment to community engagement, commercial acumen, business management skills, and strong background in planning and asset management. These qualities make her well-suited to address our current challenges.
Thank you to Ms Julia Costa
I also would like to thank Acting CEO Ms Julie Costa, Director of Planning & Environmental Services, who will continue in the Acting CEO role until mid-April. Ms Costa stepped up to the role under challenging circumstances and has demonstrated strong leadership and unwavering commitment to our community and council staff. Council is grateful for Julie's professionalism and fortitude in guiding the Council to a stronger position ahead of Ms Burley's commencement.
For further information, please visit our news story.
Sutton Planning Forum
Councillors Cameron, Charry, and I, along with planning staff, recently attended a Planning Forum in Sutton. The forum provided an opportunity to hear from the community and developers regarding a 39-lot housing application for Sutton Road and concerns for its safe connectivity to the village.
Picture: Proposed location of 39-lot housing application off Sutton Road
Council Rejects Transport for NSW ‘South East & Tablelands Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan’
Council has expressed strong objections to the draft Transport Plan. We believe it falls short in prioritising the Barton Highway duplication and fails to recognise Yass as a strategic centre. This is despite our local government area's significant location and ongoing population growth and the substantial traffic volume on our three Federal Highways, two State, and five regional roads.
Long Rail Gully Highway Service Centre
The proposed DA for the Long Rail Gully Highway Service Centre at Murrumbateman generated significant community interest. After hearing from both supporters and opponents of the project, Council deferred the decision to seek further safety advice from Transport for NSW. This advice will focus on the safety principles required for a Heavy Vehicle Rest Area and whether additional safety measures are needed due to fog.
Financial Sustainability
Our CFO, Jason McGuire, presented the Second Quarter Budget Review Statement, which shows an improved financial outlook for 2024-25. The forecasted budget deficit has been reduced from $4.8 million to $2.3 million due to additional income, expenditure reductions, deferred projects, grants, vacant positions, and savings in material costs.
Council is committed to improving its accounting processes and reporting. Detailed Monthly Financial Reports up to December 2024 are available online.
Binalong Masterplan
Council adopted the Binalong Recreation Ground Masterplan and agreed to provide sponsorship and in-kind assistance to the upcoming 2025 World Sand Greens Women’s Championship in March. We're pleased to hear that the Men's event last year has boosted ongoing weekly visitor numbers to Binalong Golf Course.
Yass RSL
Council will continue to provide in-kind support and funding for Anzac Day community events led by Yass RSL. We've also agreed to open the Yass Soldiers' Memorial Hall for the fortnightly Yass Veterans Hub to make this space accessible for this vital work with our veteran community.
Vision for a ‘Better Together’ Yass Valley
Councillors and staff have held workshops to determine how best to achieve the Community Strategic Plan's goals. Collaboration with our community was a key theme. More information will be shared soon.
Yass Valley Community Strategic Plan (CSP)
The Draft CSP 2042, which outlines the main priorities and aspirations for Yass Valley Council for the next 18 years, is now open for public comment until 31 March 2025. Please review the plan and share your feedback.
For a full council meeting summary, please visit our news story
Binalong Transfer Station Reopens
I'm pleased to announce that the Binalong Waste Transfer Site has reopened to the public. The extended closure was necessary due to a complex restoration project following a fire and subsequent asbestos contamination cleanup. We appreciate the community's patience during this time.
Mornings with the Mayor and Deputy
Pictured: Mayor Jones and Deputy Mayor Butler encourage people to voice their ideas and concerns at 'Meet the Mayor'
Recent "Mornings with the Mayor & Deputy" sessions addressed several important community issues, including road safety and maintenance. We also welcomed representatives from Regional and Yass TAFE to assist explore future course and service offerings. Additionally, we had our regular meeting with Yass Police Inspector Dave Cowell. If you'd like to book an in-person or Teams meeting with Kristin and myself, please email kyeo@yass.nsw.gov.au
Further meetings this month focused on Covid vaccine injury advocacy, protection of culturally sensitive aboriginal sites, and the draft Yass Valley Clinical Health plan.
Cross Border Health Concerns
Access to Cross Border health services, and further funding of local services, were the major issues raised by our region's mayors, and local member Mrs Wendy Tuckerman, during a regular health forum with the Southern Local Health District. These concerns arose in response to the ACT Government's indication that it may curb access to the region due to its health budget deficit.
Crago Mill Precinct Redevelopment
Picture: Steel is up on the Crago Mill Precinct
Construction on the Crago Mill precinct is progressing rapidly. The steel frame of the administration building is well underway, following the completion of the library frame, and is expected to be substantially completed by Easter. The Councillor Steering Committee has been reconvened and will tour the site this Thursday, followed by a meeting.
I'm also excited to announce that the Council has applied for a $25 million grant under the Regional Precincts & Partnerships Program Precinct Delivery grant program. Council is proud to partner with the Onerwal Local Aboriginal Lands Council & Yass Valley Business Chamber on this project and grant application. Through these partnerships, we aim to create a vibrant business, community, and cultural space for current and future generations. This project presents a unique opportunity to honour and showcase the rich cultural heritage of our First Nations people while fostering community cohesion and economic development.
I would like to thank the following organisations for their letters of support for this grant: Onerwal Local Aboriginal Lands Council, Yass Valley Business Chamber, Canberra Region Joint Organisation of Councils, Regional Development Australia, Local Emergency Services Commander Police Inspector Dave Cowell, State Member The Hon. Ms Wendy Tuckerman, and Federal Member The Hon. Kristy McBain.
Connectivity for Murrumbateman
Working with Telstra and our community, Council has supported a significant grant funding bid for the improvement of connectivity in Murrumbateman. I look forward to learning if we are successful.
OUT & ABOUT IN OUR COMMUNITY
It was an honour to assist in opening the inaugural Volunteer & Community Expo at the Yass Railway Museum. The event was a great success and showcased the valuable contributions of our community members. The high demand for participation suggests that the next Expo will be eagerly awaited. I commend the organisers for their excellent work.
Picture: Yass Business Chamber talking to visitors at the Community & Volunteer Expo
The Yass Valley Business Chamber has had a busy start to the year. The February breakfast meeting featured guest speaker Federal Member for Riverina, Mr Michael McCormack, and was well-attended. Afterward, Mr McCormack, President Jack Walker, and I visited local businesses and the Liberty Theatre with thanks to Mrs Bimbi Turner. We also toured the Crago Mill Precinct redevelopment site and discussed its potential to boost Yass' economy and create cultural spaces. The Chamber's March breakfast highlighted upcoming Business Awards Finalists, and the Awards Gala will take place on 28th March at Shaw Wines Estate. I wish all the nominated businesses every success!
The Yass Valley Triathlon Club's recent all-women triathlon was a great success. Deputy Mayor Kristin Butler and I were proud to present medals and cheer on the participants. It was inspiring to see the women's achievements and the dedication of the Club's volunteers. Also I would like to say congratulations to Councillor Flanery for her participation!
Picture: Participants in the Yass Tri-Club women's event
I would also like to acknowledge the Yass Picnic Races organising committee for their outstanding work in producing another high-quality regional event. The Yass Picnic Races attracts visitors from across the state while also providing a fun day out for local families.
The Combined Churches service at the Vine Church was well-attended, and it was wonderful to see local legend John (Johnny) Goode recognised for his ministry in aged care. The funds raised from the collection will go directly to SRE scripture in our local schools. I commend our churches for creating social and/or faith-based opportunities for our children, parents, carer/grandparents, and youth through SUPA Clubs, Youth Arise combined youth group, Mt Carmel's SALT youth group, Yass Valley Anglican Kid's Club, and various church playgroups. Thank you also to Pastor Keith Todd and Rev. Luke Collings for visiting the Council to offer prayers and encouragement at our February meeting.
I also applaud the women working towards the inauguration of the Murrumbateman View Club, which supports The Smith Family's work to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged Australian children. The Yass Garden Club and Yass Music Club have also had successful starts to their 2025 programs.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, I have requested the Binalong Progress Association host a community meeting in Binalong on 17th March to discuss concerns over a Transport for NSW proposal to close Richmond Street, along with Transport for NSW transport plan flagging the introduction of expanded PBS 3 vehicle haulage on the Hume HWY.
Berinba Primary School is putting its best foot forward this Friday raising funds for the Country Education Foundation with a Boot Bash (gold coin to wear your favourite boots). What a fantastic initiative!
I am also looking forward to officiating at today's (Thursday) grant-funded Seniors Week event with High Tea & Strings from the Canberra Symphony Orchestra in the beautiful grounds of Highclere Farm. I also have the privilege to assist launch the Yass U3A Art Group exhibition at Tyger Gallery this coming Monday showcasing local artists' talented creations.
And Finally…
The much-anticipated annual Yass Show is this Saturday and my whole family looks forward to this great family day out. Sadly, my zucchini’s, button squash and tomatoes peaked early so the ribbon chances remain as elusive as they ever were. However, best of luck to all those avid cooks, sewers, crafters, flower arrangers, produce, poultry and wool growers, Lego master builders, photographers and artists who have entered the Yass Show Society’s competitions.
See you at the Yass Show!
Jasmin Jones
Yass Valley Mayor