Yes, previously council had a management policy which guided Council staff in considering offers of donations. Council resolved on 27 April 2023 (CCL23/109) that a draft Council Policy should be developed based on the existing management policy and placed on public exhibition.

The policy applies to proposed donations of park furniture, trees and the installation of suitably sized memorial plaques to recognise prominent people from our community.

• Park furniture (seat/table/bench/shelter)
• A garden
• A tree or shrub
• A drinking fountain
• Other approved item

This policy does NOT apply to the installation of historical markers, commemorative plaques, public art, statues, interpretative signage, the naming of public places and buildings, the scattering of cremated remains and roadside tributes.

Under special circumstances, consideration may be given to a living person where the naming is deemed to be in accordance with the Policy and the recognition is considered appropriate by the Chief Executive Officer.

In some circumstances where an application for a memorial plaque is potentially controversial or questionable, the application will be advertised for a period of twenty one (21) days to provide the community to provide feedback.

Advertisements calling for comment may be coordinated to occur quarterly to streamline the application and feedback process. Applications and community feedback received, will be given careful consideration prior to being presented to Council with recommendation(s) for review and decision.

No.

Council has provided a list of suitable species but will consider alternates and assess if they are sympathetic with the existing amenity, locality and other plant communities of the immediate area.

Should the seat or plaque be damaged, removed or stolen, repair and replacement costs would remain the responsibility of the applicant. In these circumstances the applicant must seek Council permission to replace the plaque and/or the park seat in accordance with the Public Memorials Policy and these Guidelines.

Council takes no responsibility for contacting the applicant if the seat is damaged, removed or stolen.

Council staff will assess and consider public submissions and prepare a report for Council detailing the results of the public exhibition. Council may then consider adopting a Council Policy for the Plaques and Donation of Park Furniture and Trees.