At the 16 September Council meeting discussions included the Resilience Project School Wellbeing Program and a DA for a $16m solar energy project on Cadia Road.
Here are some key decisions.
DA for $16m solar energy project on Cadia Road
Council has reviewed the development application (DA) for a $16m solar energy project on Cadia Road. The proposal includes two solar farms and a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on a 25.75-hectare site. The application received 42 public submissions, with 41 objections. Council expressed concerns about a conflict with future urban expansion, possible environmental risks and a lack of community consultation.
Council will make a submission to the Western Regional Planning Panel acknowledging the DA meets the planning criteria, but there are some concerns that should be considered.
Small donations
Council will donate $2500 to Orange Scouts Camp to contribute to transport for Orange members to attend regional camp.
Half-yearly report
Council has noted the six-month progress report for the 2024/2025 Operational Plan (Year 3 of the Delivery Program), covering the period from 1 January to 30 June 2025. The report outlines Council's progress in delivering actions from the Community Strategic Plan and confirms that most projects are on track, with some delays due to timing and budget considerations. The report fulfils Council's Integrated Planning and Reporting obligations under the Local Government Act and supports transparency and accountability in service delivery.
The Resilience Project School Wellbeing Program
Council discussed supporting The Resilience Project School Wellbeing Program in 2026. The program, run by The Resilience Project, has been helping local students since 2021 with funding from grants, student payments, and support from the Orange Aboriginal Medical Service. The program teaches students practical mental health skills and supports teachers and families. Because the grant money will end in 2025, Council will consider putting in $27,500 next year to help keep the program going and will work with local schools and the local state MP to lobby the state government to fund the program going forward.
Strategic Policies on public exhibition
Council will put seven updated policies on public exhibition for 28 days so the community can have a say. These policies cover things like how the Council logo is used, rules for mobile traders like coffee vans, how library services are managed, and updates to policies on whiteway lighting, climate change, ageing and disability services, and service delivery for disability support. Feedback from the public may lead to further updates before final approval.
