Mackay council set for major votes on development, councillor conduct
From votes on redefining Mackay’s waterfront to a possible censure on firebrand Councillor Martin Bella, there’s a lot going on at the May council meeting. Here’s what to expect.
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Firebrand councillor Martin Bella could face an official reprimand at a Mackay council meeting that promises to be one to remember.
Also on the agenda, the council will vote on whether to approve a petrol station in West Mackay that has incensed some residents in the area, a new pontoon for the waterfront, and whether to accept ownership of coastal fish habitats.
The Bella motion revolves around comments and social media posts he made in relation to the contentious Eimeo skate park mural, which was partly-painted after 17-year-old skater William Baker died in a collision between a dirt bike and a bus.
The council voted to paint over the mural because the public artwork did not go through the approvals process.
It is understood some councillors received abuse from some members of the public over the issue and Mr Bella said his remarks were made in that context, according to the May 24 agenda document.
“I did what I felt was right in the circumstances at play – some may see this as a mistake,” Mr Bella said in his statement.
“I recognise that my replies may be deemed inappropriate, and assure that you that were no intent to harm – merely to ease the pressure myself and others were placed under, by merely carrying out our roles in a responsible and ethical manner.”
Mr Bella’s conduct during council meetings discussing the skate park has been cleared by the Office of the Independent Assessor, the watchdog that investigates council-level misconduct.
But his social media posts were referred to the Councillor Conduct Tribunal, which has determined “the evidence is sufficient for the council to reach a determination that the allegation of inappropriate conduct is sustained on the balance of probabilities.”
If the councillors on Wednesday agree with the tribunal, they could pursue a number of measures against Mr Bella, including “an order that (he) make a public admission that (he) has engaged in inappropriate conduct,” or an official reprimand.
The council could order Mr Bella attend training and counselling, and resign from positions representing the local government, other than the office of the councillor.
The cost of the investigation into Mr Bella is pegged at $5518.
The council meeting will also determine a range of substantial development proposals including Reef Catchments request that the council take control of a set of habitat reef modules located off the Mackay coast.
The 30 modules, which were funded by the federal government, are designed to regenerate coral and fish species.
The agenda states the group cannot own the modules, which fall within the Port of Mackay waters, but the council has expressed concern about the cost and complexity of ownership.
“The benefits of this project to the marine environment and recreational fishing are recognised,” the agenda states.
“It is noted however that the regulatory requirements sitting with Council in relation to this has grown significantly from what was envisaged when entering into the (Memorandum of Understanding) and when Council was asked to accept ownership.”
Council officers have recommended the council reject ownership, noting however that such a move would essentially cripple the project.
The council will also vote on whether to approve a petrol station on the corner of Nebo Rd and Lagoon St in West Mackay.
The station has proved controversial, with some residents incensed about the plan, with the council receiving seven petitions and 192 submissions in opposition.
The new service station, if approved, would require tearing down three houses.
Council officers have recommended the council knock back the application “based on the noncompliance with the Planning Scheme and the concerns raised by submitters.”
A pontoon for Bluewater Quay is also up for a vote, with officers encouraging the council to award SMC Marine Pty Ltd a $2.4m contract to design and construct the pontoon for the Pioneer River, part of an overarching plan to reorient Mackay to become a river-facing city.
The council will also vote on whether to make June 20, 2024, a special holiday for the Mackay Show.
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