Community Cropping Leases Expressions of Interest
Date of Issue: 19 October 2021
Closing Date & Time: 9am Monday, 29 November 2021
Lodgement Address: governance@mingenew.wa.gov.au
More Information: 2021 Community Cropping Leases EOI Information Pack
Background and Overview
The Rifle Range Reserve and Airport Reserve have historically been leased by the Shire to local community groups to be managed and cropped as a fundraiser for those clubs/groups. The Rifle Range Reserve is currently leased by the Mingenew Football Club and the Airport Reserve is leased jointly by the Mingenew Turf Club and Mingenew Sports Club. No fees have been charged for the lease of these reserves.
The leases are due to expire on 15 December 2021 and Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now sought from local community groups interested in taking on the cropping leases (default term 5 years with extension option). The purpose of seeking EOIs is to ensure the process is open, transparent and allows Council to make an informed decision that is in the best interest of the community, without fear or favour.
Current lessees have an opportunity to confirm their interest, capacity and demonstrate community benefit, and may support their submission with existing management plans / arrangements by completing the EOI or by providing a written submission that extends upon previous correspondence provided to the Shire in regard to the group’s future plans for the cropped area.
The Shire recognises the many contributions made by the current lessees in managing the leases, with a large portion of funds going back into infrastructure and activities that benefit their organisations and the wider community.
Alternative models will be considered if the proposals can demonstrate financial viability, responsible management of the land and positive community outcomes.
Community groups may collaborate and submit a joint submission, but sufficient information must be provided outlining how the partnership will be managed and should include a letter of support endorsed by the relevant parties.
Submissions that demonstrate an understanding of their organisation, their ability to manage the lease, sound land management practices and offer viable benefits to the community will be considered more highly than writing style and quantity of content.
The Vision
The Shire’s Vision as outlined in its Strategic Community Plan 2019-2029 is “Mingenew Shire is a safe, inclusive and connected community with a thriving local economy that provides opportunity for all to succeed.”
To that end, we will preference applications which are aligned with the Strategic Community Plan’s goals and values. This will include (but not be limited to) proposed uses which support:
- The provision of buildings, facilities and services to meet community needs
- Development of healthcare and recreation services for all the community to ensure the well-being and health of all age groups within the community
- Community volunteers to maximise impact of their contributions
- Continuing programs to improve the look and feel of the community public spaces, places and services to support an active and inclusive lifestyle
Lessee Obligations
In relation to the leased area, lease holders will be responsible for:
- caring for and cropping the land efficiently to maximise community benefit
- installing and maintaining firebreaks in accordance with the Shire’s Annual Firebreak Notice
- control of noxious weeds and vermin
- identifying and protecting any rare and endangered species
- maintaining all boundary and internal fencing to a satisfactory condition (where applicable)
- holding adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or injury as a result of managing the land
- maintain a safe work area for their volunteers/members to operate within
- any other obligations that may be outlined and agreed to in a lease agreement
NOTE: Council will be establishing a more formal lease agreement for leasing these properties to ensure responsible management of the land and sustainable farming practices are used to benefit current and future users.
Your Submission
The application will be assessed according to:
- Alignment with Community Strategic Plan and/or your organisation’s goals
- Experience and capacity for applicant to responsibly manage the land/crop
- Risk Management planning
Proposals outside this scope will be considered but will need to include sufficient information to support the alternative model whilst meeting the strategic objectives. Note that the statutory disposal by lease process (that a local government must follow) differs for charitable purposes and business ventures. Please contact the Shire if you are considering an EOI for a commercial purpose.
The Shire reserves the right not to accept any or all submissions.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION FORM
Making an Enquiry or Submission
Any enquiries, regarding the Expression of Interest process, including requests to inspect the property, should be directed to Erin Greaves, Governance and Community Manager:
T: (08)9928 1102
E: governance@mingenew.wa.gov.au
Submissions can be emailed to the above address, posted to PO Box 120, Mingenew WA 6522 or delivered by hand to 21 Victoria Street, Mingenew WA 6522.
Expressions of Interest will be received up to 9.00 am Monday, 29 November 2021.