This is not a large project.

I assume it will be a lump sum contract for the construction and associated works.

I assume an architect will do the important design, estimate of contract sum, supervise the tender process and provide project management.

Why are we employing a project manager? Is this to be a council employee or a contractor?

In any event, the position will be expensive, probably time-based for costs; also professional indemnity insurance is not cheap.

Surely Council has its own professional staff who could look over the shoulder of architect and builder (who has their own project manager).

Also I understood that appropriate council professional staff would be educated in project management skills by state government – a recommendation from the Glasshouse inquiry I think.

It is important that our councillors keep their noses out of this project from the get-go - shades of the Glasshouse mess. 

The idea is great in concept; let’s hope its great in execution.

What is a steering group? Are members paid per hour.

Who do they report to? Are they accountable to anyone?

Do the committee members have any ‘steering’ experience (whatever that is)?

Is this to be a principal controlled project? If so, who is the principal?

Who will do the building contact wording review? Are they expert in this area?

How about some transparency around this project such as scope of works, the responsibilities tree, so on and so forth.

Richard Karpin, Port Macquarie