Council plans to rebuild a new lookout tower at the Newborough site after the previous structure was demolished in 2007.

TRUenergy demolished the former tower in 2007 due to the age of the structure and associated concerns for the safety of the public.

Following discussions between council and TRUenergy it was proposed that both parties would provide contributions of $23,000 and $10,000 respectively for the construction of a new lookout.

The financial details have yet to be finalised by council.

Safe Communities Conference

LATROBE City councillor Sandy Kam will visit New Zealand in October to attend the 17th International Safe Communities Conference.

The conference will include representatives working in injury prevention, crime prevention and safety.

The theme of this year's conference is working together to make a difference to strengthen community safety as an integral part of national and international injury, health, crime and violence policies, research and programs.

According to a council officer's report, the conference will help Cr Kam develop relationships with other councillors and experts in the field of community safety from across the world.

Council approved funding for Cr Kam to attend the conference at Monday night's council meeting.

Policy to help employers

AN updated Economic Development Assistance Policy has been adopted by Latrobe City Council.

The policy is designed to attract new employers and to assist with the expansion of existing employers in Latrobe City.

According to a council officer's report, the specific aim of the policy is to encourage business expansion or attraction through the provision of some financial assistance.

The revised policy provides stronger direction for council's Economic Development assistance activities.

Age-proofing homes

THE Universal Housing Alliance Victoria Policy Platform has been endorsed by Latrobe City Council.

Latrobe City will now push for the State Government to endorse and implement the policy which will `age-proof' new and existing homes.

The policy would encourage homes to have wide doorways and corridors, reinforced walls in the bathroom, shower and toilet and slip-resistant flooring.

At Monday's night meeting, Cr Lisa Price stressed that the policy was ``vital'' to the community.

``If something happens now to us then our homes won't be adaptable if our circumstances change,'' Cr Price said.

``It is certainly important for the community and it will allow people to stay in their homes longer.''