We often hear the question, “Where is the money we raised all those years ago?” There is a financial statement on this webpage, that details income and expenditure since the Committee was formed. The money for the bricks is in the bank! Feasibility studies and engineering consultants have over time accounted for much of the expenditure, and we currently hold a balance of around $70,000
Our Committee has had no discussion with the Stand Alone people. Our focus is to achieve our goal of an aquatic centre on Phillip Island, by working with Bass Coast Shire Council. Similarly, we will work at raising funds from federal and state governments, whichever major party is in power. Privately, our committee members and fund members are free to support Stand Alone if they wish. Having said that, we acknowledge that the Stand Alone group lists the lack of an aquatic centre as one of their concerns.
The following is the motion approved by Council
Alternative Motion
Item E.7 Aquatic Facilities Feasibility Study
Recommendation:-
1. Notes that the Feasibility Study for the viability of two aquatic centres in Bass Coast has been completed.
2. Commit to providing an aquatic centre on Phillip Island subject to the following;
· Undertaking further work to determine the suitable location for the Phillip Island Centre.
· Undertaking further work to determine the most appropriate first stage of construction of the Phillip Island Aquatic Centre by June 2015.
· Continues to meet with the Phillip Island Working Group on a quarterly basis.
· Council funding required to determine the most appropriate first stage, and design for construction of the first stage, is considered as part of the 2015/2016 budget.
· Funding is obtained to the value of at least 50% of the cost of the first stage of construction through community fundraising and/or government grants. Community fundraising must take the form of cash funds.
· Further stages of development of the Phillip Island Aquatic Centre will require the community to achieve a fund raising target of equivalent to 50% of the cost of the project. Community fundraising must take the form of cash funds.
3. Notes that a report will be presented to the June Council meeting regarding the development of the Crown Allotment 79 master plan.
4. Commit to the redevelopment of the Bass Coast Aquatic and Leisure Centre subject to the following;
· The first stage of work will include providing a new 10 lane 25 meter pool and upgrading of the toilets, change rooms, providing a cafe, crèche and improved parking.
· Further stages of development of the centre are to be determined as part of the design process currently being undertaken for the centre.
5. Refers the funding for improved aquatic facilities in Bass Coast for consideration as part of the development of a long term financial plan during the 2014/2015 financial year.
6. Begins to advocate to the state and federal governments for the funding required to develop two aquatic facilities in the municipality.
7. Notes that Council’s current Strategic Resource Plan does not provide any allocation of funding for improved aquatic facilities in Bass Coast.
Carried by six to one (Neil)
Council ordinary meeting 21st May 2014