Council has adopted the GeoLINK flying fox report as a resource document, not a complete plan of management, in the interests of moving quickly.
The unanimous vote at last night’s extraordinary meeting was met by cheers from Lorn residents.
The bat population has plummeted from 30,000 to an estimated 500 leaving many to agree timely action was critical to prevent their return.
Lorn resident Tony Morgan said estimates of $25,000 to disperse the bats, without a guaranteed result, was ludicrous.
“If council acts now, by lopping trees, they could prevent their return for a small sum,” he said during public access.
Lorn Residents Group spokesman Ron Bown said modifying houses and planting alternative habitat were only suitable as long-term solutions.
“Action is required now while the numbers are low and the breeding season is not until October,” he said.
“We simply ask that you maintain momentum and move us toward the goal, of being free from [the bats].”
Cr Loretta Baker, a Lorn resident, congratulated the village’s determination before moving the item.
Seconder Cr Lisa Tierney heeded the calls of residents and councillors for timely action.
“I agree the draft plan is a soft report that weighs heavily in favour of the bats,” she said.“The draft plan of management itself is not strong enough but we can use it to develop our own plans.”
Council’s resolution was to present to the chamber at its “soonest convenience” a complete plan of management.
That document would then be forwarded to the relevant ministers for approval.
Cr Arch Humphery said the GeoLINK report was back-to-front.
“I’ve never been more disappointed in a report that cost $20,000,” he said.
“It talks about the bats, but what about the people?”