Community reps called for Local Planning Panel
Wingecarribee Shire Council is calling for applications from interested community members to join an Interim Independent Advisory Assessment Panel.
Community members are required to join the Advisory Assessment Panel to assist in determining development applications previously referred to Council for decision.
The establishment of the Independent Advisory Assessment Panel is one of the first actions adopted by Council’s Interim Administrator Mr Viv May PSM following the suspension of councillors.
In addition to determining development applications, the Assessment Panel will also deal with all Planning Proposals and make recommendations to Council in regards to their merit.
In his initial address to Council, Mr May said the establishment of an Interim Independent Advisory Assessment Panel would assist in de-politicising planning functions. Local Planning Panels set-up in other local government areas have provided strong procedural checks and balances without hindering the overall functioning of the planning system.
The community members will join a panel of members, appointed by Mr May, including independent experts from a variety of professional backgrounds.
Applicants must reside in the Wingecarribee Shire, have a basic understanding of the planning system and an appreciation of issues unique to the Southern Highlands community.
Once established the Advisory Assessment Panel will meet on the first Wednesday of each month at Council’s Moss Vale Civic Centre.
An allowance will be provided to the successful community representatives.
The Interim Independent Advisory Assessment Panel will operate until a Local Planning Panel is approved by the Minister for Planning and Public Places.
Applications forms, selection criteria, qualifications and experience can be found and submitted online at www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/Council/Council-Committees/Interim-Independent-Advisory-Planning-Assessment-Panel.
Nominations from community representatives close at 9am on Monday 19 April 2021.
For more information phone 4868 0888 or email Council’s Acting General Manager, Mr Les McMahon direct at Les.McMahon@wsc.nsw.gov.au.