The Snowy Monaro Regional Council meeting held yesterday, Thursday May 15, saw Councillor Elliott address a pressing matter in council’s Delivery Program Progress Report concerning the state of public toilet facilities and planned works in Jindabyne. Amidst extensive discussions around the state of the old Jindabyne toilets, in particular the men’s, an amendment to the existing refurbishment plans scheduled for after the upcoming winter season was proposed and passed, seeking urgent advice on minor repairs.
PHOTO: The Old Jindabyne men’s toilet is as described by Councillors – missing mirrors, tiles, and covered with graffiti CREDIT: J. Connell
Councillor Elliott started by highlighting the “general poor standard” of the toilets, especially before the influx of visitors during the upcoming school holidays. The proposed amendment suggested that minor repairs, such as the replacement of missing tiles and mirrors, graffiti removal, and general painting, be conducted as a matter of urgency. Councillor Elliott expressed a desire for immediate action, stating, “I’d like to see that council do minor reservations before winter.”
After robust debate over the financial implications, the council considered the allocation of $5,000 from the existing budget dedicated to the overall refurbishment planned post-winter. The amendment requires council staff to evaluate and provide urgent advice on the the minor repairs and report back to councillors.
PHOTO: Plans and funds are already in place to refurbish the toilets after winter – The $5,000 for urgent repairs will be deducted from future works CREDIT: J. Connell
Despite recognition by most councillors on the toilets’ substandard condition, concerns regarding the economic viability were debated. Mayor Chris Hanna voiced relevant caution, saying, “We are pretty much doing something then ripping it out and redoing it in three months’ time.”
Councillor Williamson argued for immediate action, saying he believes something needs to be done for this winter.
“It’s so disgusting that minimal work could be done… to have it a lot more acceptable than it is now,” he expressed.
PHOTO: The Old Jindabyne men’s toilets sees a high number of tourists use the facility in winter season CREDIT: J. Connell
Councillor Davis warned against diverting funds from the future comprehensive refurbishment plan, noting, “When we start nibbling away at that budget… we’re actually undermining our job that we want to do, and the community are expecting us to do into the future.”
In support of addressing immediate concerns, Councillor Rose acknowledged Councillor Elliott’s perspective, pointing out the potential negative impact on the town’s image due to the anticipated “influx of visitors over winter.”
PHOTO: Councillor Rose supports Councillor Elliott’s suggested amendment CREDIT: SMRC screenshot
Ultimately, the amendment passed, with the changes aimed at enhancing the functionality and appearance of the toilets before the Winter 2025 season, with urgent advice to be sought from council staff in regard to what can be done under the $5,000 allocation of funds.