Agenda of Ordinary Meeting - 23 October 2006

UNCONFIRMED MINUTES

OF THE ORDINARY MEETING OF PENRITH CITY COUNCIL HELD IN THE

COUNCIL CHAMBERS

ON MONDAY 9 OCTOBER 2006 AT 7:03PM

NATIONAL ANTHEM

The meeting opened with the National Anthem.

STATEMENT OF RECOGNITION

His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Pat Sheehy AM, read a statement of recognition of Penrith City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage.

PRAYER

The Council Prayer was read by the Rev Neil Checkley.

PRESENT

His Worship the Mayor Councillor Pat Sheehy AM, Councillors Jim Aitken OAM, Kaylene Allison, David Bradbury (arrived at 7:53 pm), Lexie Cettolin, Kevin Crameri OAM, Greg Davies (arrived at 7:07 pm), Mark Davies, Ross Fowler, Karen McKeown, Susan Page, Garry Rumble, Steve Simat (arrived at 7:06 pm), and John Thain.

APOLOGIES

1103 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Karen McKeown that an apology be accepted for Councillor David Bradbury.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

Leave of Absence was previously granted to Councillor Jackie Greenow for the period 4 October 2006 to 22 October 2006 inclusive.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Ordinary Meeting - 25 September 2006

1104 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM that the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of 25 September 2006 be confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillor Ross Fowler declared a pecuniary interest in Item 2 of the Committee of the Whole business paper – St Marys Release Area, as he is auditor or accountant for a number of landowners, and a director of businesses that are directly or indirectly affected by the matters discussed in the report, and took no part in the debate or voting.

Councillor Jim Aitken OAM declared a pecuniary interest in Item 4 of the Committee of the Whole business paper – Council Property – Sale of No 8 Coallee Place South Penrith, as he is a shareholder in one of the real estate companies listed in the report, and took no part in the debate or voting.

Councillor Steve Simat declared a pecuniary interest in Item 2 of the Committee of the Whole business paper – St Marys Release Area- as he is employed by a company that provides consultancy services to landowner(s) in the area, and took no part in the debate or voting.

MAYORAL MINUTE

1 Election of Cr Susan Page to ALGWA National Board

1105 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Karen McKeown that the Mayoral Minute on Election of Cr Susan Page to the ALGWA National Board be received.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

The City as a Social Place

2 Maintenance of Turf Wickets for Penrith Grade Cricket Club

1106 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler seconded Councillor Karen McKeown

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Maintenance of Turf Wickets for Penrith Grade Cricket Club be received.

2. The annual subsidy to the Penrith Cricket Club Inc. be increased by $12,000, to a total of $60,000, for the 2006-2007 financial year, funded from the 2006/07 budget surplus.

3. The Penrith Cricket Club Inc. be advised of Council’s decision.

3 Community Assistance Program 2006-07 Rolling Component

1107 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler seconded Councillor Karen McKeown

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Community Assistance Program 2006-07 Rolling Component be received.

2. Council approve a grant of $1,000 under the rolling component of the 2006-07 Community Assistance Program to the Werrington Community Project to promote the involvement of young people and multicultural groups in the 2006 Werrington Community Festival.

4 Assistance Towards Amateur Sportspersons and Representatives in the fields of Art, Music, Culture - Overseas and Interstate Travel

1108 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler seconded Councillor Karen McKeown that the information contained in the report on Assistance Towards Amateur Sportspersons and Representatives in the fields of Art, Music, Culture - Overseas and Interstate Travel be received.

1 Proposed Use of Telecommunications Access Fees

1109 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on the Proposed Use of Telecommunications Access Fees be received.

2. Telecommunication Access Fees be utilised to upgrade facilities on the areas where the income was raised and this be extended to nearby reserves when the identified works are completed.

3. The floodlights at Potter Field be renewed.

4. A program of works be prepared for sporting venues where the Telecommunication Access Fees revenue is being received.

Councillor Garry Rumble requested that his name be recorded as having voted AGAINST the motion.

8 Development Application 05/1239 for an additional packing shed with carparking, loading and driveway area for an existing rural industry at Lot 15 DP 30265 (No. 1219 - 1231) Mamre Road, Kemps Creek. Applicant: Mosca Pserras Architects; Owner: Kool Packers Pty Ltd DA05/1239

1110 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Development Application 05/1239 for an additional packing shed with carparking, loading and driveway area for an existing rural industry at Lot 15 DP 30265 (No. 1219 - 1231) Mamre Road, Kemps Creek be received.

2. The development application 05/1239 for the erection of a packing shed, associated car parking and signage at Lot 15 DP 30265, No. 1219 – 1231 Mamre Road, Kemps Creek, be approved, subject to the following conditions:

Standard Conditions

2.1 A001 – Approved Plans

A011 – Engineering Works DCP

A029 – Hours of Operation and Delivery Times

D001 – Sediment & Erosion control Measures

D006 – No Filling

D014 – Plant & Equipment Noise

E01A – BCA Compliance

E006 – Accessibility

E008 – Fire Safety List

E009 – Annual Fire Safety

H001 – Stamped Plans & Erection of Site Notice

H002 – All forms of Construction

H041 – Hours of Work

I003 – Roads Act Approval

K014 – Flood Proofing

K025 – Pavement Seal

K027 – Carparking

Q001 – Notice of Commencement

Q006 – Occupation Certificate

Special Conditions

2.2 Prior to the issue of a Construction Certificate, a report is to be prepared by a suitably qualified person, demonstrating that the existing aerated effluent disposal system is suitable for the additional shed on site. The report should demonstrate that the capacity of the existing septic system is sufficient to accommodate the anticipated increase in load and that there is sufficient disposal area on site.

2.3 The proposed driveway shall be a minimum of 12 metres in width and designed in accordance with AS 2890.2 – 2002.

2.4 A Type ‘AUR’ (Auxiliary lane Right turn) treatment is to be provided in Mamre Road to facilitate safe and efficient right turn movements in to the development site. This right turn treatment shall be designed in accordance with the RTA’s Road Design Guide.

2.5 A deceleration lane shall be provided for left turn movements in to the subject site. The length of the deceleration lane shall be in accordance with the RTA’s Road Design Guide.

The provision of a deceleration lane will require land dedication from the subject site and may require utility relocation, which shall be at no cost to the RTA.

Turning and parking areas are to be delineated by line marking and are not to be used for any other purpose.

2.6 The design requirements of the Type AUR treatment and deceleration lane on Mamre Road shall be in accordance with the RTA Road Design Guide and other Australian Codes of Practice. In addition, a concept design of the intersection treatment shall be submitted to the RTA for consideration and approval prior to the release of the construction certificate by Council and commencement of road works.

The developer shall be responsible for all public utility adjustment/relocation works, necessitated by the above work and as required by the various public utility authorities and/or their agents.

The RTA fees for administration, plan checking, civil works inspections and project management shall be paid by the developer prior to the release of the approved design plans.

A Works Authorisation Deed is to be entered into with the RTA.

In addition to the above, the ‘Occupation Certificate’ is not to be released until all the road works are fully constructed and operational.

2.7 All vehicles entering and exiting from the proposed development site must be in a forward direction

2.8 All vehicles associated with the construction of the proposed development are required to be accommodated within the site

2.9 All works associated with the development shall be at no cost to the RTA

2.10 Upon request from Council, the operator will be required to provide a report from a qualified acoustic consultant demonstrating the compliance of operations with condition numbered D014.

2.11 The existing approved operating hours (Monday to Friday 7am to 5pm) be maintained

2.12 Prior to building works commencing, works associated with conditions 2.3, 2.4, 2.5 and 2.6 are to be completed.

3. Those persons who made submissions be informed of Council’s decision and the consent conditions that apply to the development.

4. Residents be advised of the contact number that they can report breaches of these conditions to.

Leadership and Organisation

5 Pecuniary Interest Returns

1111 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Garry Rumble that the information contained in the report on Pecuniary Interest Returns be received.

6 2005-06 Annual Financial Statements

1112 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Garry Rumble that the information contained in the report on 2005-06 Annual Financial Statements be received.

7 Implementation of Direct Debit Facilities for Payment of Rates

1113 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM that this matter be deferred so that a further report to Council may be considered, including a full comparison of costs.

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

QWN 1 Great River Walk

Councillor Garry Rumble requested an update on the report he requested, at the Ordinary Meeting of 7 August 2006, on the structural stability of the proposed walkways over Peach Tree Creek and Boundary Creek.

QWN 2 Advisory Committees for Penrith Performing and Visual Arts Ltd

Councillor Garry Rumble requested information on the status of the selection and appointment of members of the advisory committees for Penrith Performing and Visual Arts Ltd and asked whether the outcome of the selections are to be reported to Council.

QWN 3 Citywide Removal of Graffiti

Councillor Garry Rumble requested a reply letter be sent to the Glenmore Park Action Group and to Mrs Margeretha Bonnet, with a copy of these letters to all Councillors, concerning ongoing issues concerning the planned program for the citywide removal of graffiti.

QWN 4 Explorers' Monument

Councillor Garry Rumble requested a memo reply regarding the solution to be arrived at, concerning the non-operational clock located at this monument, so that this Penrith attraction may once more be appreciated.

QWN 5 Graffiti in Glenmore Park

Councillor Mark Davies requested that Mrs Margeretha Bonnet be supplied with paint, brushes and rollers to assist in the maintenance of the park opposite her house on Sheerwater Drive. Councillor Mark Davies also requested graffiti removal at the park as a large amount of graffiti has been there since late August 2006.

QWN 6 Graffiti - Oxley Park

Councillor Steve Simat requested that action be taken to remove graffiti located on various fences at the intersection of Sydney Street and the Great Western Highway, Oxley Park.

QWN 7 Graffiti Matters

Councillor Greg Davies requested that media releases and other advertising be prepared, detailing Council’s timeframe for removal of graffiti from various areas of the City.

QWN 8 Cost of Connection to Sewerage System

Councillor Ross Fowler requested that property owners in Mulgoa and Wallacia, facing additional costs to connect to the new sewerage scheme due to the flood liability of their land, be advised that Council is investigating ways to assist with connection to the new sewerage scheme.

QWN 9 Statement of Recognition

Councillor John Thain requested a report to Council considering recognition of the Dharug People in Council’s Statement of Recognition.

Committee of the Whole

1114 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler seconded Councillor John Thain that the meeting adjourn to the Committee of the Whole to deal with the following matters, the time being 7:45 pm.

1 Presence of the Public

CW1 RESOLVED on the motion of Councillor Ross Fowler seconded Councillor John Thain that the press and public be excluded from Committee of the Whole to deal with the following matters:

City as a Social Place

2 St Marys Release Area

This item has been referred to Committee of the Whole as the report refers to advice concerning litigation, or advice that would otherwise be privileged from production in legal proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege and discussion of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.

Leadership and Organisation

3 Property Matter

This item has been referred to Committee of the Whole as the report refers to information that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business and discussion of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.

4 Council Property - Sale of No 8 Coallee Place South Penrith

5 Industrial Relations Matter

The meeting resumed at 8:25 pm and the General Manager reported that the Committee of the Whole met at 7:45 pm on Monday 9 October 2006, the following being present

His Worship the Mayor Councillor Pat Sheehy AM, Councillors Jim Aitken OAM, Kaylene Allison, David Bradbury (arrived at 7:53 pm), Lexie Cettolin, Kevin Crameri OAM, Greg Davies, Mark Davies, Ross Fowler, Karen McKeown, Susan Page, Garry Rumble, Steve Simat and John Thain

and the Committee of the Whole excluded the press and public from the meeting for the reasons set out in CW1 and that the Committee of the Whole submitted the following recommendations to Council.

CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS

Councillor Mark Davies left the meeting, the time being 7:47 pm.

Councillor Mark Davies returned to the meeting, the time being 7:49 pm.

Councillor David Bradbury arrived at the meeting, the time being 7:53 pm.

3 Property Matter

RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM

CW3 That:

1. The information contained in the report on Property Matter be received.

2. Council grant an early termination of the lease to JNESE Pty Limited without commercial or financial penalties being imposed on the tenant.

3. Leasing opportunities for the premises be pursued.

5 Industrial Relations Matter

RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Ross Fowler

CW5 That the information contained in the report on Industrial Relations Matter be received.

Having previously declared a pecuniary interest in Item 2, Councillor Ross Fowler left the meeting, the time being 7:57 pm.

Having previously declared a pecuniary interest in Item 2, Councillor Steve Simat left the meeting, the time being 7:57 pm, and did not return.

Having previously declared a pecuniary interest in Item 4, Councillor Jim Aitken OAM left the meeting, the time being 7:57 pm.

2 St Marys Release Area

RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor David Bradbury seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM

CW2 That:

1. The information contained in the report on St Marys Release Area be received.

2. The recommendations made in the report to the Committee of the Whole be adopted.

3. A further report be brought back to Council on the opportunities available to Council to seek indemnity in relation to future property transfers.

Councillor Ross Fowler returned to the meeting, the time being 8:08 pm.

4 Council Property - Sale of No 8 Coallee Place South Penrith

RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Ross Fowler

CW4 That the matter be reported to the next Ordinary Meeting in Open Council.

Councillor Jim Aitken OAM returned to the meeting, the time being 8:26 pm.

ADOPTION OF Committee of the Whole

1115 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Susan Page seconded Councillor Greg Davies that the recommendations contained in the Committee of the Whole and shown as CW3, CW5, CW2 and CW4 be adopted.

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed, the time being 8:28 pm.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Leadership and Organisation*

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
Local Traffic Committee MEETING

HELD ON 9 October, 2006

PRESENT

Michael Alderton – Road Network Services Engineer (Chairperson), Mayor Councillor Sheehy – Representative for the Member for Londonderry, Deputy Mayor Councillor McKeown – Representative for the Member for Mulgoa, Sergeant Scott Smith – Penrith Police, Senior Constable Mark Elliott – St Marys/Regentville Police, Richard McHenery – Roads and Traffic Authority

IN ATTENDANCE

Michael Pruss – Westbus, Stephen Barnes – Senior Traffic Engineer, Sharon Maddox – Road Safety Co-ordinator, Noel Fuller – Co-ordinator, Ranger Services, Mary Jaser – Trainee Engineer

APOLOGIES

LTC 120 Councillor Greenow, David Burns – Asset Manager, Tim Horan – Representative for the Member for Penrith

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 4 September 2006

LTC 121 That the minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting of 4 September 2006 be confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

There were no declarations of interest.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

The City Supported by Infrastructure

1 High Street/Castlereagh Street, Penrith - Construction of Concrete Median Islands

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 122 That:

1. The information contained in the report on High Street/Castlereagh Street, Penrith - Construction of Concrete Median Islands be received.

2. The design plan for the provision of concrete median islands, and associated regulatory parking restrictions, at the intersection of High Street and Castlereagh Street, Penrith be finalised and endorsed for construction.

2 Jamison Road/Castlereagh Street, Penrith - Proposed Construction of Concrete Median Closure at Intersection & Left-Turn Median Island in Castlereagh Street

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 123 That:

1. The information contained in the report on Jamison Road/Castlereagh Street, Penrith - Proposed Construction of Concrete Median Closure at Intersection & Left-Turn Median Island in Castlereagh Street be received.

2. The report be deferred until the issues raised in any further submissions have been addressed.

3 Lethbridge Street/Doonmore Street, Penrith - Proposed Construction of Traffic Facility

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 124 That:

1. The information contained in the report on Lethbridge Street/Doonmore Street, Penrith - Proposed Construction of Traffic Facility be received.

2. The design plan tabled at the meeting not be approved for construction.

3. Further investigations be carried out into the feasibility of alternative measures such as kerb blister islands and improved delineation signage in Doonmore Street, to maintain the current intersection configuration and comply with the current intersection priority.

4 Birmingham Road, South Penrith - Request for Provision of Pedestrian Crossing Facility

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 125 That:

1. The information contained in the report on Birmingham Road, South Penrith - Request for provision of pedestrian crossing facility be received.

2. The provision of a marked pedestrian crossing in Birmingham Road south of Trent Avenue, South Penrith not be supported.

3. Further investigations be carried out into the feasibility of providing a pedestrian refuge island in Birmingham Road south of Trent Avenue, South Penrith.

4. Karyn Paluzzano MP, Member for Penrith and Councillor Jim Aitken be advised of the Committee’s recommendation.

5 Silverdale Road, Wallacia - Proposed Temporary Half Road Closure

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 126 That:

1. The information contained in the report on Proposed temporary half road closure - Silverdale Road, Wallacia be received.

2. The proposed temporary half road closure of Silverdale Road at Blaxland’s Crossing Bridge, Wallacia be approved.

3. The applicant to request approval from the Roads and Traffic Authority’s Traffic Management Centre for a Road Occupancy Licence prior to any works commencing.

4. The applicant to submit to Council for approval a Transport Management Plan, which addresses how peak flows of traffic will be managed during the proposed closure, prior to any works commencing.

GENERAL BUSINESS

GB 1 Leonay Parade, Leonay – Traffic & Parking Problems (Raised Deputy Mayor, Councillor McKeown)

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor McKeown raised concerns, on behalf of some residents, regarding traffic and parking problems near the Leonay general store in Leonay Parade, Leonay. Since the squash courts have changed to a gym, there has been a substantial increase in vehicles parking on-street in close proximity to driveways and intersections.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 127 That the matter be investigated and referred to Council’s Rangers for enforcement if required.

GB 2 Station Street, Penrith – Pedestrian Safety Issues (Raised Deputy Mayor, Councillor McKeown)

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor McKeown raised the issue of pedestrian safety at the Penrith Station bus interchange in Jane Street, outside Penrith Railway Station. There is a raised threshold at this location and no pedestrian crossing markings. Council’s Road Network Services Engineer advised that a letter has recently been sent to the Railcorp to address this matter.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 128 That Councillor McKeown be advised of Railcorp’s comments when received.

GB 3 Great Western Highway/Werrington Road, Werrington – Update Following Accident (Raised St Marys/Regentville Police)

The St Marys/Regentville Police representative advised that following the double fatality at the intersection of Great Western Highway and Werrington Road, Werrington in July 2006, there have been no further accidents since the phasing of the traffic signals was changed in August 2006.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 129 That the Committee note the information.

GB 4 Hall Street, St Marys – Request for Extension of No Stopping Restriction (Raised St Marys/Regentville Police)

The St Marys/Regentville Police representative advised that traffic is congested in Hall Street, St Marys, outside the St Marys RSL Club, opposite McDonalds. There is an existing No Stopping restriction and it is requested that this restriction be extended from the traffic signals to the entrance to the RSL to relieve traffic congestion.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 130 That the matter be investigated.

GB 5 Queen Street, St Marys – Request for Extension of ‘No Parking Police Vehicles Excepted’ Signage (Raised St Marys/Regentville Police)

The St Marys/Regentville Police representative requested the provision of an additional one or two parking spaces in Queen Street, St Marys for Police parking. There are currently three car spaces provided, however since the St Marys Police Station has temporarily moved to Jeanette Street, Regentville, there is a need to park five vehicles fronting the Police shop front in Queen Street.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 131 That the matter be investigated.

GB 6 Roper Road, Colyton – Request for Provision of Traffic Signals (Raised St Marys/Regentville Police)

The St Marys/Regentville Police representative advised that Roper Road, Colyton has been identified as a black spot area and advise that since the Minchinbury area has expanded a number of accidents have occurred involving right-turn movements from Roper Road to the M4 on the eastbound on-ramp, and provision of traffic control signals is requested.

Council’s Road Network Services Engineer advised that a letter has been sent to the Roads and Traffic Authority regarding vehicles queuing at this location, and the RTA has advised that this matter is currently being investigated.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 132 That the St Marys/Regentville Police representative be advised of the RTA’s comments, when received.

GB 7 Jeanette Street, Regentville – Parking at Bus Stop (Raised St Marys/Regentville Police)

The St Marys/Regentville Police representative advised that vehicles are being parked at the bus stop in Jeanette Street, Regentville, between the neighbourhood centre and the Fire Brigade properties, and requested Westbus to advise whether this location is currently being used as a bus stop.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 133 That Westbus be requested to investigate the matter and advise the St Marys/Regentville Police.

GB 8 Leicester Way, St Clair – Speeding Vehicles..(Raised Council)

Council’s Senior Traffic Engineer advised that Councillor Simat has raised the issue of speeding vehicles in Leicester Way, on behalf of residents in the area.

The St Marys/Regentville Police representative advised the Committee that a letterbox drop was recently carried out regarding burnouts in the area.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 134 That a speed classification survey be carried out in Leicester Way, St Clair, to determine whether there is currently a speeding problem, and a memo to be forwarded to all East Ward Councillors advising of the outcome.

GB 9 Scott Smith: Penrith Public School P&C – MA advised that this matter has already been responded to. MA to forward letter of advice to Penrith Police.

GB 10 Riley Street, Penrith – Penrith Plaza (Raised Westbus)

The Westbus representative asked whether there are any plans to change the colour of the cobblestone area in Riley Street, between the two sections of Penrith Plaza.

Council’s Road Network Services Engineer advised that coloured tactile markings were put on the ground in lieu of replacing pavers with coloured pavers, and that there is currently no proposal in place to carry out any works at this location.

RECOMMENDATION

LTC 135 That:

1. Penrith Police be requested to ascertain the accident history at this location.

2. Council continue to monitor safety at this location.

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed, the time being 10:30am.

RECOMMENDATION

That the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 9 October, 2006 be adopted.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Leadership and Organisation*

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
Policy Review Committee MEETING

HELD ON 16 October, 2006

PRESENT

His Worship the Mayor Councillor Pat Sheehy AM, Councillors Jim Aitken OAM, Kaylene Allison, David Bradbury (arrived 7:40pm), Lexie Cettolin, Kevin Crameri OAM, Greg Davies, Mark Davies, Ross Fowler, Karen McKeown, Garry Rumble, and John Thain.

APOLOGIES

PRC 76 RECOMMENDED that apologies be received an accepted from Councillors Susan Page, Steve Simat and David Bradbury.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

Leave of Absence was previously granted to Councillor Jackie Greenow for the period 4 October 2006 to 22 October 2006 inclusive.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Policy Review Committee Meeting - 11 September 2006

PRC 77 RECOMMENDED that the minutes of the Policy Review Committee Meeting of 11 September 2006 be confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillor Jim Aitken declared a Pecuniary Interest in Item 1 – Werrington Enterprise Living and Learning (WELL) Precinct, as he owns land in the precinct area, and advised that he would leave the meeting for consideration of this item.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

The City as a Social Place

Having previously declared a pecuniary interest in this item, Councillor Jim Aitken OAM left the meeting, the time being 7:02pm.

1 Werrington Enterprise Living and Learning (WELL) Precinct

PRC 78 RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Werrington Enterprise Living and Learning (WELL) Precinct be received.

2. Council adopt the refined Concept Plan for the WELL Precinct.

3. Council report back to the community the current progress in the planning for the future development of the WELL Precinct and arrange an ‘open day’ information session for local residents.

4. Further reports be submitted to Council for considering advancement of the public exhibition of draft Local Environmental Plans, Development Control Plans and Contributions Plans for the South Werrington Urban Village and Caddens Release Area in early 2007.

5. Council write to the relevant Ministers and local Members regarding the lack of response to Council’s request for information on the University Railway Station.

2 Library Services Casual Staffing

PRC 79 RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Library Services Casual Staffing be received

2. Council endorse the increase of Library FTE positions across the various classifications by 2.5.

Leadership and Organisation

Councillor Jim Aitken OAM returned to the meeting, the time being 7:09pm.

3 Community Participation Manual

PRC 80 RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on the Community Participation Manual be received.

2. The Community Participation Manual be endorsed by Council as an organisational standard and be made available to the public.

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM left the meeting, the time being 7:26pm.

4 Service Specification Program

PRC 81 RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on the Service Specification Program be received.

2. The specification for the Public Domain Maintenance Service be adopted.

3. The specification for the Environment Protection Service be adopted.

4. The specification for Customer Services be adopted.

5. The annual budget allocation for Public Domain maintenance be increased from 2007-2008 in line with the increase in the public domain asset base.

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM returned to the meeting, the time being 7:30pm.

5 Alignment of the Organisation

PRC 82 RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Alignment of the Organisation be received

2. The proposed changes to the alignment of Information Management and Information Technology functions and the restructuring of the Information Manager and City Librarian positions as detailed in the report be endorsed.

6 Council Meeting Cycle

PRC 83 RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Council Meeting Cycle be received

2. Council adopt a three-week rolling meeting cycle and calendar commencing from February 2007

3. Council adopt the later start time of 7.30pm for Ordinary and Policy Review Committee Meetings

4. Council adopt the draft Charter for Councillor Briefings attached to this report.

Councillor David Bradbury arrived, the time being 7:40pm.

7 2005-2009 Strategic Program Annual Review

PRC 84 RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on the 2005-2009 Strategic Program Annual Review be received.

8 Development Committees

PRC 85 RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on Development Committees be received.

9 Position of Grants Support Officer following completion of a twelve-month trial

PRC 86 RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Position of Grants Support Officer following completion of a twelve-month trial be received.

2. Council extend the temporary position of Grants Support Officer for an additional 12 months to October 2007.

3. A further report be brought to Council in approximately April 2007 on the progress of assistance in making grant applications. The report is to outline both successful and unsuccessful grant applications.

10 Proposed implementation of Direct Debit Facilities for Payment of Rates

PRC 87 RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Proposed implementation of Direct Debit Facilities for Payment of Rates be received

2. Council endorse the introduction of the Direct Debit payment method

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 7:55pm.

RECOMMENDATION

That the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee meeting held on 16 October, 2006 be adopted.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*The City in its Broader Context*

The City in its Broader Context

2007 International Dragon Boat Championships

Compiled by: Andrew Robinson, Recreation and Cultural Facilities Coordinator

Authorised by: Gary Dean, Facilities Operations Manager

Requested By: Councillor Jackie Greenow

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Penrith Lakes is developing and being used in a way that establishes it as a principal Sydney destination.

Critical Action: Participate in the planning process for Penrith Lakes and advocate its innovative development as a regional centre for enterprise, water based recreation elite sports, entertainment and events.

Purpose:

To advise Council of this international sporting event, the status of the event planning and Council's involvement. The report recommends that the information be received.

Background

The Sport of Dragon Boating

Modern dragon boat racing is organised at an international level by the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF). The IDBF recognises two types of Dragon Boat Racing activities, namely Sport racing, as practised by IDBF member organisations, including the Australian Dragon Boat Federation organisers of the 2007 World Dragon Boat Championships; and Festival racing, which are the more traditional and informal types of races, organised around the world, where racing rules vary from event to event.

Sport racing distances are normally over 200m, 500m, 1000m and 2000m, with formal rules of racing. Dragon Boat Racing is separated by age: Junior (up to 18 year of age), Premier, Masters (40 and above) and Grand Dragons (50 and over). Each age division has 3 classes: Women, Mixed and Open.

Today, Dragon Boat racing is among the fastest growing of team water sports around the world. The sport is recognised for the camaraderie, strength and endurance fostered amongst participants, and it has also become a very popular corporate and charitable sport.

The IDBF is acknowledged by the International Olympic Committee and the General Association of International Sports Federations as the autonomous International Federation, World Governing Body for Dragon Boat Sport.

The World Dragon Boat Racing Championships

The World Dragon Boat Racing Championships in 2007 will take place at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, and will be the eighth championships since the first one, which took place in Yue Yang (China) in 1995. Since 1995, the championships have been held every two years in: Hong Kong, Nottingham (England), Philadelphia (USA), Poznan (Poland), and Berlin (Germany). An additional World Championship was held in Shanghai in 2004 to compensate for the cancellation of an earlier championship due to the SARS epidemic.

The event will take place between Sunday, 16 September and Sunday, 23 September. A schedule of activities and races, is being organised for this period. Organised by a Committee of the Australian Dragon Boat Federation, the event is set to attract between 1,500 and 2,000 competitors and support teams (administrators, coaches etc) from approximately 20 countries. To date, confirmed sponsors of the event are NSW Major Events Board, Eco Point (Myall Shores Resort) and KEA camper rental and sales.

Event Planning

On 3 November 2003, the International Dragon Boat Federation announced that the 2007 World Championships would be held at Sydney International Regatta Centre, and correspondence received from The Australian Dragon Boat Federation in February 2004 confirmed this.

Council Involvement

An introductory meeting of Council officers and Dragon Boats NSW was convened in May 2004, to establish a relationship with the event organisers, begin exploring how best the City can take advantage of the event, as well as understand the nature of the event and contents of the successful bid documentation. The bid documentation, and any commitments in the document, were compiled by the Australian Dragon Boat Federation and Sydney Convention and Visitors Bureau, independent of seeking assistance, support and input from Penrith City Council.

Following the initial meeting, a hiatus in communication occurred between the event organisers and Council officers, as the Australian Dragon Boat Federation commenced appointing members of, and developing and establishing responsibilities for, the Organising Committee. The Australian Dragon Boat Federation advertised nationally, to Dragon Boat Clubs and Associations, for voluntary Committee members. A Committee has now been appointed with 98% of its members coming from Dragon Boats NSW.

Furthermore, during the course of the last 12 months, the Australian Dragon Boat Federation has been attending overseas Dragon Boat Championships, in places such as Canada and Macau, to ‘sell’ the World Championships in Penrith to potential competing nations.

In March of this year, another meeting was organised with the Australian Dragon Boat Federation to establish where opportunities existed, and where potential support would be required from Council, to ensure that the City could maximise the benefits from the Championships, and that the event will be a success. A team of Council officers attended and the agenda included, for discussion:

- The event

- Civic program requirements

- City marketing and local marketing

- Operational and logistical support

- Media support

- Sponsorship

- Community programs

It was agreed that the Australian Dragon Boat Federation would supply further details in relation to sponsor proposals, an event project plan with a planning timeline, itemised budget, and organisational structure with areas identified for possible Council support. To date, this information is not available, and at a further meeting with the Technical Director of the event in September, opportunities for Council to assist were again outlined, subject to the previously requested information being made available. This information has been requested, as a matter of urgency, so that a report can be submitted to Council at the earliest opportunity.

Australian Dragon Boat Federation

Since the announcement of the successful bid to host the Championships, the Australian Dragon Boat Festival has progressed event planning and organisation with the appointment of an Organising Committee, securing sponsorship, and marketing the event to potential competing nations. In addition, other event milestones have been achieved, such as the launch of the event website, and the recently held ‘Year to Go’ launch at which the then Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jackie Greenow, attended.

Most significantly for Penrith City, the Australian Dragon Boat Federation has managed to secure the State and National Championships, as well as the Corporate Games to be held at Sydney International Regatta Centre. The State Championships will be held on 24 March 2007, the Corporate Games on 25 March, and the National Championships will be held between 5and 9 April 2007. All of these events will bring economic benefits to the City, as teams will be using local accommodation and services during the duration of the competitions. These events will be treated as ‘test events’ for the World Championships.

For accommodation for the World Championships, the Australian Dragon Boat Federation has sourced and booked all suitable (ie matches requirements of teams, officials and International Dragon Boat Federation officials) and available accommodation (as much as accommodation providers would allow) within the Penrith Local Government Area.

The International Dragon Boat Federation Rules for the Championships state that all competitors must stay within a 20 minute radius of the competition venue. The event website directs competitors and visitors to the accommodation providers, and a company, GoWay, has been appointed by the Australian Dragon Boat Federation to coordinate and manage accommodation bookings. Furthermore, the Australian Dragon Boat Federation has been distributing the Penrith Valley Experience, and details about accommodation and attractions in Penrith, on event marketing visits to the championships in Toronto and Macau.

In relation to the event itself, the Australian Dragon Boat Federation is liaising with the management of Sydney International Regatta Centre, regarding venue logistics. Furthermore, following the request of Council officers, the Australian Dragon Boat Federation is currently obtaining quotes from suppliers, from within the Penrith Local Government Area, for event infrastructure equipment and services.

Other elements of the event, which the Australian Dragon Boat Federation has been developing, include the Opening Ceremony and the ‘After Party’. In the initial bid documentation, Darling Harbour was identified as the venue for the Opening Ceremony, as the Australian Dragon Boat Federation is eager to ensure that the event promotes Dragon Boats to a wider audience than the immediate confines of the competition venue. The International Dragon Boat Federation has since deemed that Darling Harbour is not an appropriate venue for the Opening Ceremony and the Australian Dragon Boat Federation had to look for a new venue.

At the time this occurred, a representative of the Organising Committee was liaising with Parramatta City Council about other matters and, as a result of these discussions, the Lord Mayor of Parramatta City Council invited the Australian Dragon Boat Federation to hold the Opening Ceremony in Parramatta Park, as part of the existing Moon Festival. As Dragon Boat tradition makes it a natural fit with the theme of the Moon Festival and, because of the desire to promote Dragon Boats to a wider audience than the event venue, the offer to hold the Opening Ceremony in Parramatta Park was accepted. The Opening Ceremony will therefore be in Parramatta Park and will be an athlete based reception. Event organisers have confirmed that the Mayor of Penrith City Council will be invited to be part of the official proceedings, including providing a speech, and that other representatives of Council will be invited to attend.

For the ‘After Party’, the Organising Committee is currently investigating the opportunities to host the event in Penrith, at a venue which is big enough to host all the athletes and officials.

Conclusion

The World, National and State Dragon Boat Championships present significant opportunity for the City to benefit from the influx of anticipated visitors, and to contribute to promoting the growing sport of Dragon Boats. Dragon Boats NSW has hosted several events at Sydney International Regatta Centre, and there are existing networks with local clubs, such as the Pendragon Panther Dragon Boat Club and Pendragon Abreast, which are both participating in Council’s Activate 2006 event.

To date, the partnership with the Australian Dragon Boat Federation has been developing, and ongoing discussion is taking place with event organisers, regarding event organisation and marketing the City to take the best possible advantage of this international event. A more formal and structured approach to further event support will be assessed on the submission of more detailed event information and request for assistance provided by the Australian Dragon Boat Federation, as requested.

RECOMMENDATION

That the information contained in the report on 2007 International Dragon Boat Championships be received.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme (WSAAS) 2006 Local Ranking Committee

Compiled by: Vesna Kapetanovic, Community Projects Officer (WSAAS)

Authorised by: Erich Weller, Community Development Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Effective responses are made to the social impacts of growth, redevelopment and change.

Critical Action: Assess the social impacts of urban change in both new release and established areas and develop planned responses.

Purpose:

To seek two Councillor nominations to participate on the Penrith LGA WSAAS Local Ranking Committee for a two-year term. The report recommends that the report be received and Council nominate two Councillor representatives for the Penrith LGA WSAAS Local Ranking Committee for a two-year term.

Background

The Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme (WSAAS) is a regional community development grants program, currently administered by the Communities Division within the NSW Department of Community Services (DoCS). The Scheme was launched in Western Sydney in 1979, as an innovative program to address social issues in areas experiencing rapid urban growth. The scheme was later extended to cover the Macarthur, Illawarra, Central Coast, Hunter and North Coast regions.

The AAS provides grants to local councils and non-government organisations for projects that improve community infrastructure. Funding is provided for one-off capital projects, as well as time limited social infrastructure development projects of one, two, three or four years duration. There is also a very limited amount of funding available in this funding program for recurrent ‘pick up’ projects.

The scheme is a partnership between the NSW government, local councils and the community. In addition to developing and managing projects funded by the AAS, the community is also actively involved in making funding recommendations to the Minister, through the Local Ranking Committee process.

Some examples of successful projects that have been funded by the AAS in the past include:

· $124,175 to Westworks Inc, to provide leadership and mentoring opportunities for people who live and work with mental illness in Penrith LGA, over 2 years;

· $101,660 to South Penrith Youth & Neighbourhood Services Inc, to employ a worker to support and resource improved links between community based organisations and schools in Penrith LGA, over 2 years;

· $ 61,370 pa to Penrith Women’s Health Centre, funding a support project for women with intellectual disabilities who are experiencing domestic violence, over 3 years;

· $39,360 to Relationships Australia NSW, to establish links with local grandparents, who are primary carers of their grandchildren, in Penrith and the surrounding area, over 1 year.

The AAS is one strategy employed by the NSW Government to progress its social justice agenda. It gives priority to programs that deliver real change to vulnerable communities, and focuses on the following 3 outcomes:

1. Connecting communities through partnerships

2. Building community leadership and capacity

3. Promoting safe communities.

The 2006 WSAAS Round

The 2006 WSAAS round ran from 5 August to 6 September, and was promoted extensively to the community through interagencies and networks, and an information session was held to increase access to this funding opportunity. The WSAAS funding program received much local interest, which resulted in a considerable number of applications targeting various community service needs and issues in the Penrith LGA.

At this stage, all applications have been received and assessed for eligibility. Eligible applications have been collated for the ranking process that occurs as the next step in the assessment of applications by the Local Ranking Committee.

Nominations for the 2006 WSAAS Local Ranking Committee

A Local Ranking Committee (LRC) meets in each local government area within the AAS regions, including the Penrith LGA, to:

· Provide advice to DoCS on local needs and issues

· Assess applications received from the LGA against AAS criteria

· Rank applications from the LGA as low, medium or high priority.

The Area Assistance Scheme Policy and Procedure Guidelines allow for a maximum of eight members on the LRC. The voting members include four community representatives, a Chairperson who has a casting vote only, and two Council representatives. Council representatives may be either elected Councillors, or alternatively Council officers, as nominated by Community Development Managers or their equivalents.

It has been the practice in the Penrith LGA that Council is represented by two councillors.

In the past, on occasions, one of the Councillors nominated has been unable, due to unforseen circumstances, to attend on the agreed date for an LRC meeting. It is proposed that, if this occurs in 2006 or 2007, the Community Development Manager will represent Council with the other Councillor nominee.

It is usual that each member would serve a two-year term. Councillors Thain and Cettolin served two-year terms on the LRC for the period of 2004-2005. Nominations are now being sought from Council for 2 representatives to each serve a two-year term on the LRC.

It is anticipated that the LRC process will require a maximum of two meetings this year, and that all business of the 2006 LRC will be completed by the end of this calendar year. The date for these meetings is yet to be determined, although it is highly likely that they will be held in early to mid November.

Summary

The Area Assistance Scheme is a funding program of the NSW Department of Community Services. In the determination of successful submissions for funding, councils and community representatives are involved in Local Ranking Committees to prioritise projects. Penrith Council has traditionally nominated two Councillors to represent Council on the WSAAS LRC. This practice is recommended to continue in the 2006 and 2007 years. However, if a Councillor is unable to attend the agreed meeting time, due to unforseen circumstances, it is suggested the Community Development Manager represent Council with the other Councillor nominee.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme (WSAAS) 2006 Local Ranking Committee be received.

2. Council nominate two Councillors to participate in the WSAAS Local Ranking Committee for a term of two years (2006 and 2007).

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Tender No. 08-06/07 - Provision of Graffiti Removal Services

Compiled by: Mal Ackerman, Supply Co-ordinator

Yvonne Perkins, Community Safety Coordinator

Authorised by: David Burns, Asset Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: A community safety plan, building on a partnership with police, the community and other stakeholders is in place and supported by Council’s programs.

Critical Action: Maintain and implement a Community Safety Plan for the City with the aid of relevant stakeholders that responds to current prioritised issues.

Purpose:

To seek endorsement to proceed with the implementation of a panel supply contract for the provision of graffiti removal services on an as required basis for a period of 1 year with an option to extend the arrangements for a further 1 year period subject to satisfactory performance. The report recommends that Council establish a panel of preferred suppliers to provide graffiti removal services covering 3 separate functions including graffiti removal, painting over graffiti and inspection/reporting services.

Background

During the development of its 2006/2007 Management Plan, Council resolved to seek a Special Rate Variation (Asset Renewal and Established Areas Strategy – AREAS), focusing on areas where residents have been demanding special attention. That focus is on increased investment in infrastructure renewal and public domain maintenance (including roads, buildings, graffiti removal and street cleaning, as well as maintenance of the Penrith & St Marys CBD’s) and programs addressing the needs of the city’s older areas.

Graffiti Management and Removal was included as a component of the AREAS. Ministerial approval for the rate increase was received in late June 2006.

The Special Rate Initiative included an amount of $250,000 for additional graffiti management and removal. This allocation will be used to appoint a panel of specialised graffiti removal contractors to supplement the increased internal resources allocated for graffiti removal in the 2006-2007 Management Plan.

Current Situation

Tenders for the provision of Graffiti Removal Services (on an as required basis) for a 1-year period, with an option to extend for further 1-year period, allowing for rise and fall provisions, were advertised on 1 August 2006 and closed on Tuesday, 29 August 2006.

It was proposed in the Tender documents, that Council will select a panel of suppliers to perform all or any of the specified services. The services comprised the removal of graffiti, painting out graffiti along with inspections, and detailed reporting of affected areas.

Tenderers were required to submit their tender on a standard pro-forma sheet, which clearly identified the required response against each of the evaluation criteria.

Tender Evaluation Committee

The Tender Evaluation committee consisted of Mal Ackerman, (Supply Co-ordinator), David Burns (Assets Manager) and Yvonne Perkins (Community Safety Coordinator).

Tender Evaluation Criteria

The selection criteria advertised and used in selecting the successful tenderers were as follows:

Mandatory Criteria

· Conforming Requirements

· Conflict of Interest

· Insurance

· Instrument of Agreement

· Company Profile

· Statement of Conformance

Scope of Services

· Demonstrated ability in meeting the supply of services required

· Compliance to specified requirements

· Response times

· Conformance to standards

Cost/Price Category

· The rates and unit prices for the services specified

· Rise and fall provisions

· Payment terms

Business Category

· Financial viability

· Business record

· Safety record

Management and Administration

· Occupational Health & Safety and Public Liability Management

· Reporting capabilities

· Company resources and personnel

· Support systems

· Quality of services

· Environmental Management

Summary of tenders received

A total of 18 offers were received in response to the advertised tender. Of these, the following tenders were received after the closing time and were therefore not included in the final evaluation of offers.

Thomas & Coffey

All Styles Pressure Cleaning Pty Ltd

Marsupial Landscape Management Pty Ltd

A submission received from Modern Décor Painting was only in the form of a powerpoint presentation, and no details in response to the evaluation criteria were provided. They were also excluded from the final evaluation.

Criteria Evaluation

Following the evaluation of the remaining 14 submissions, the evaluation committee determined that all 14 companies demonstrated compliance against each of the evaluation criteria.

Price Evaluation

Not all companies submitted an offer for each component. In some cases, companies offered painting out services only.

Prices were requested for 4 separable components as follows, and for each component tenderers were requested to provide unit rates for work performed during normal hours, and work performed after hours and on weekends:

Painting out Graffiti

Graffiti Removal (pressure cleaning)

Inspection and reporting of affected areas

Miscellaneous work (inspection of previously cleared areas, attendance at court cases as a prosecution witness etc)

It is highly unlikely that any of the companies will be required to provide miscellaneous services, and subsequently this item will be removed from the scope of services.

The following tables are a summary of the rates offered (lowest to highest) for the remaining service components.

Table 1A - Graffiti Removal-Top 6 companies by price ranking

Table 1B - Graffiti Removal – price ranking 7-14

Table 2 - Painting out Graffiti - all surface types

Tenderer	Paint Over (per sq mar)
Tenderer	Normal working hours	O/Time
Techni-clean Australia	6.00	10.00
LR Hopkinson & DE Petersen(Graffiti Cops)	7.00	9.00
Sideshow p/l (Graffiti Gone)	12.00	12.00
The Graffiti Eaters Pty Ltd	12.00	17.00
TLC Graffiti Removal Services Pty Ltd	12.50	17.50
The Graffiti Specialists Pty Ltd	14.50	22.24
GOA	15.00	20.00
Graffiti X	15.00	15.00
Wundaguard	15.40	17.00
Fernbay Pty Ltd (Graffiti Fighters)	17.00	28.00
ECO Restoration Service Australia Pty Ltd	17.50	26.00
Allcorp Property Services Pty Ltd	23.00	23.00
Greymac Industries Pty Ltd	28.00	38.00
Octagonal Building Services (Graffiti Busters)	28.00	40.00

Table 3 - Inspection Services - Hourly Rates

Tenderer	Inspections
Tenderer	Inspections
Graffiti X	0.00
LR Hopkinson & DE Petersen (Graffiti Cops)	35.00
Wundaguard	35.00
GOA	39.00
Techni-clean Australia	45.00
The Graffiti Eaters Pty Ltd	50.00
The Graffiti Specialists Pty Ltd	50.90
Allcorp Property Services Pty Ltd	55.00
ECO Restoration Service Australia Pty Ltd	65.00
TLC Graffiti Removal Services Pty Ltd	65.00
Octagonal Building Services (Graffiti Busters)	88.00
Greymac Industries Pty Ltd	90.00
Fernbay Pty Ltd (Graffiti Fighters)	100.00
Sideshow p/l (Graffiti Gone)	Not offered

General Comments

Based on compliance with the selection criteria and unit cost rankings, the following suppliers have been recommended for inclusion onto the panel for each of the specified work categories (see table 4 below).

All companies selected have demonstrated their capability in providing the specified services and have a wide range of experience in carrying out the services.

An examination of the tenders offered by the other companies indicated that there was no advantage to Council in considering these tenders any further.

As specified in the documents, following the identification of affected areas, and the prioritising of the various work tasks, contractors will be engaged to perform the services on the basis of cost, availability, and suitability of contractor.

Work will be allocated by the Public Domain Coordinator, in conjunction with the Asset Manager, and will be distributed between the selected contractors. Several contractors will be engaged at any one time, especially during the initial cleanup of graffiti across the City. Contactors will be allocated specific areas/ precincts for graffiti removal eg suburb based, CBDs, local shopping strip precincts.

Contractors are also required, by a condition of contract, to observe all laws creating employee entitlements, including enterprise or workplace agreements and Industrial Awards applicable to the contractor’s employees. Contractors are required to provide evidence and records to demonstrate compliance with this condition, when requested.

Table 4 - Final recommended Suppliers

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Tender No. 08-06/07 - Provision of Graffiti Removal Services be received.

2. The following companies are placed on the panel of approved suppliers for Graffiti removal for a period of 1 year with an option to extend for a further 1 year period: Sideshow Pty Ltd (T/A Graffiti Gone), Techni-clean Pty Ltd, TLC Graffiti Removal Services, Graffiti Eaters Pty Ltd, Wunderguard, Graffiti Off Australia Pty Ltd (GOA).

3. The following companies are placed on the panel of approved suppliers for painting out graffiti for a period of 1 year with an option to extend for a further 1 year period: Sideshow Pty Ltd (T/A Graffiti Gone), Techni-clean Pty Ltd, TLC Graffiti Removal Services, Graffiti Eaters Pty Ltd, LR Hopkinson & DE Petersen (Graffiti Cops).

4. The following companies are placed on the panel of approved suppliers for Graffiti Inspection Services for a period of 1 year with an option to extend for a further 1 year period: Techni-clean Pty Ltd, Graffiti Eaters Pty Ltd, LR Hopkinson & DE Petersen (Graffiti Cops), Wunderguard, Graffiti Off Australia Pty Ltd.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Variation of Restrictive Covenant applying to Lot 8 DP 1020587 (No. 2 - 4) South Street, Glenmore Park Applicant: Innovation Planning Australia Pty Ltd; Owner: T & K Schafer

DA06/0661

Compiled by: Stephen Krimmer, Environmental Health and Building Surveyor

Authorised by: Paul Lemm, Development Services Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Redevelopment of existing areas contributes to safe, sustainable, affordable and satisfying living environments and cohesive communities.

Critical Action: Work in partnership with the local community to foster understanding of the reasons why established areas are redeveloping.

Purpose:

To seek endorsement from Council to vary a restrictive covenant imposed on a property. The report recommends that this restriction be varied, with the Common Seal of Penrith City Council being affixed to all necessary documentation, and the application for the garage be approved.

Background

Council approved subdivision application DA990697 for the creation of ten (10) new allotments for rural residential purposes in Glenmore Park. As part of that approval, a restrictive covenant under Section 88B of the Conveyancing Act 1919 was imposed.

The restriction on the use of land firstly referred to in the abovementioned Deposited Plan states in section (b):

“All buildings shall be setback a minimum distance of 30m from the M4 Motorway southern boundary”.

The authority empowered to release, vary or modify the above restriction is Penrith City Council.

The subdivision is approximately six years old and has been fully developed. The subject site is located between The Northern Road to the east, M4 Motorway to the north and Garswood Road to the south (see Locality Map). The site has an existing single storey dwelling facing towards the M4 motorway. The intent of the restrictive covenant is to create a visual and acoustic buffer to the M4 motorway.

The location of the existing dwelling on the site denies access to the rear yard for the construction of a garage behind the building setback.

The applicant has requested the above restriction be varied to allow for a garage and water tank to encroach within the area identified as the restricted area on the Deposited Plan. (See Appendix No. 2). The proposed garage location area is approximately 13.5m from the M4 motorway, is relatively level, and clear of any vegetation, as indicated in the site plan accompanying the application. (See Appendix No. 3).

The Proposed Development

The proposed development includes the following aspects:

· Construction of four (4) car garage with associated workshop. The garage will measure 7m x 14.5m and will be located in the north-eastern section of the site. The proposed garage will be located 13.5m from the northern boundary and 2.5m from the eastern boundary. The garage is to be constructed of selected brick and colorbond steel roof to match the existing dwelling. Corner brick conning will also be used as a design feature;

· Rainwater tank to collect stormwater runoff from garage. The rainwater tank will be 3.5m in diameter and have a capacity of 22,500 litres and will be located on the northern side of the garage. The rainwater tank will be of a colour that will match the existing colorbond roof;

· Landscaping, to provide screening measures, in the form of a photinia “red robins” hedge will be planted around the proposed garage. In addition to the hedge, a series of native shrubs and bushes will be planted, along with two native trees, at either end of the hedge. (See Appendix No. 4).

Planning Assessment

The development has been assessed in accordance with the matters for consideration under Section 79C of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, and having regard to those matters, the following issues have been identified for further consideration.

1. Section 79C(1)(a)(i) – Any Environmental Planning Instrument

Sydney Regional Environmental Plan No. 20 – Hawkesbury-Nepean River (SREP 20)

The provisions of SREP 20 apply to the property as it falls within the Hawkesbury-Nepean River Catchment. SREP 20 aims to protect the environment of the Hawkesbury-Nepean River by ensuring that the impacts of future land uses are considered in a regional context.

The proposal is not expected to have an adverse cumulative impact on the Hawkesbury-Nepean River system, and meets the requirements of SREP 20, subject to recommended standard conditions including sediment and erosion control measures.

Penrith Local Environmental Plan 1998 – Urban Land

The land is zoned 2(r1) Rural Residential under the provisions of the Urban Land LEP. The proposal is defined as a ‘building or structure ordinarily associated with a dwelling house’, which is permitted with consent, and means ‘a garage, carport, pergola, swimming pool or the like, and includes alterations and additions to an existing dwelling house’.

The proposal seeks to construct a garage in front of the existing dwelling house.

The proposal is consistent with the relevant objectives of the 2(r1) Rural Residential zone as follows:

i) to provide a transition between the open, semi-rural character of the Northern Road frontage and urban areas of Glenmore Park;

The erection of the garage as proposed is consistent with the existing semi-rural character of the locality. The existing surrounding vegetation and proposed landscaping maintains the transition between the urban and semi-rural areas.

The restrictive covenant seeks to create a visual and acoustic buffer to the M4 motorway. Immediately to the north of the M4 motorway boundary is a 4-5 metre cut/embankment where the western on-ramp to the M4 motorway is located. The vegetation within the M4 motorway road reserve is made up of relatively dense planting comprising mature trees and shrubs. This existing vegetation provides screening measures between the M4 motorway and residences in Glenmore Park.

The subject lot currently has minimal vegetation and screening within the property boundaries. The applicant has provided a landscape plan, proposing screen planting around the proposed garage and water tank area. The proposed plantings will grow to a height of three (3) metres with a spread of two (2) metres. Visual impacts to the M4 motorway will be minimal, as existing landscaping along the M4 motorway boundary adjoining the subject lot provide substantial screening. The proposed garage includes further landscaping to ensure a visual buffer will be maintained.

The proposed garage is to be used to house vehicles and will not be used for habitable or recreational purposes. The size and height of the garage is consistent with surrounding development. Noise impacts on a non-habitable garage are not considered to be of concern, as residents will not be using the structure for any extended periods of time. The garage will also provide some noise attenuation to the existing dwelling.

The proposed garage is to be used for the purposes of storing four vehicles, and a small section is to be used as a workshop. The owner operates a cleaning business off-site, and requires the associated vehicles and trailers to be stored away as they contain valuable equipment. It is not proposed to use the garage for any on-site business activities. Conditions will be imposed on the development consent, stating the garage shall not be used under any circumstances for any commercial, industrial or habitable residential activity.

An existing shipping container is located within the proposed building area. Removal of this container will be required, and conditioned accordingly, as part of the assessment of the development application for the garage.

A water tank has also been proposed to collect stormwater runoff from the proposed garage. The water tank will be screened with proposed landscaping to minimise visual impacts.

The development application for the garage within the restricted area was neighbour notified to adjoining properties and no objections were received.

ii) to protect and promote a low density settlement pattern which:

(A) recognises the importance of conserving the semi-rural land use pattern and image of the gateways into the urban areas of the City of Penrith located within the vicinity of the Northern Road; and

(B) provides sufficient flexibility for dwelling siting and orientation of allotments to minimise the visual impact of development and overcome noise constraints.

The proposed garage is considered a low density development and the proposed siting and screening measures maintain the gateway into the surrounding urban areas. Visual impacts and noise impacts have been considered as part of the above assessment to vary the restrictive covenant. Visual impacts and noise constraints will be minimal.

2. Section 79C(1)(a)(iv) – The Regulations

The proposed development is in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 in relation to Building Code of Australia and fire safety requirements.

3. Section 79C(1)(b) – The Likely Impacts of the Development

The proposal is consistent with the bulk, scale, colour and design of other development in the locality. The development will have only minor impact on the amenity of the area and the streetscape. The development is compatible with the surrounding and adjacent land uses. It is considered the development will have minimal impact on the amenity of the area in terms of Sunlight Access (overshadowing) / visual and acoustic privacy / views or vistas. The development will have no impacts on natural environment.

It is acknowledged that the landscaping along the M4 provides immediate benefits to this site, in terms of potential visual impacts of the proposed development, however the applicant’s landscape plan supplements this feature, and will be required to be implemented prior to an Occupation Certificate being granted.

4. Section 79C(1)(c) – The Suitability of the Site for the Development

The subject lot currently has minimal vegetation and screening measures within the property boundaries. The applicant has provided a landscape plan, which indicates screen planting around the proposed garage and water tank area. The proposed plantings will grow to a height of three (3) metres with a spread of two (2) metres. Visual impacts to the M4 motorway will be minimal, as existing landscaping along the M4 motorway boundary adjoining the subject lot provides substantial visual screening. The proposed garage includes further landscaping to ensure a visual buffer will be maintained.

5. Section 79C(1)(d) – Any Submissions made in relation to the Development

In accordance with Council’s Notification and Advertising Development Control Plan, the proposed development was notified from 17 May to 31 May 2006 to nearby and adjoining residents. No submissions were received.

Conclusion

The proposed garage and water tank within the 30m restricted area, and associated landscaping, is considered to be consistent with the original intent of the Section 88B restriction. For the reasons outlined in the report, it is considered that the proposal will maintain a visual and acoustic buffer to the M4 motorway.

It is recommended that the restrictive covenant be varied on Lot 8 DP 1020587, to allow a garage and water tank to be constructed within the restricted area, and the development consent be given.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Variation of Restrictive Covenant applying to Lot 8 DP 1020587 (No. 2 - 4) South Street, Glenmore Park be received.

2. The terms outlined in section (b) of the restriction on the use of land firstly referred to in the Section 88b Instrument of the Conveyancing Act 1919 applying to Lot 8 DP 1020587 (No. 2-4) South Street, Glenmore Park be varied as detailed in the report.

3. The Common Seal of Penrith City Council be affixed to all necessary documentation to vary the covenant.

4. The development application DA06/0661 for a garage at Lot 8 DP 1020587 (No. 2-4) South Street, Glenmore Park, be approved, subject to the following conditions:

Standard Conditions

4.1 A001 – Approved Plans

A008 – Works to BCA requirements

A009 – Residential Works DCP

A020 – Use of building

D001 – Erosion and sediment control measures

D009 – Coverage of waste storage areas

D014 – Plant and equipment noise

E001 – BCA compliance

F006 – Water tank and nuisance

H01F – Stamped plans and erection of site notice

H011 – Engineering plans and specifications

H041 – Hours of work

H030 – Roof finishes

K016 - Stormwater

L008 – Tree preservation order

Q01F – Notice of commencement and appointment of PCA

Q05F – Occupation certificate

Special Conditions

4.2 Prior to the issue of the Construction Certificate for the development, the variation of the restriction on the use of land firstly referred to, section (b) in the Section 88B Instrument attached to Deposited Plan 1020587 shall be registered with Department of Lands.

The variation to the covenant shall be in the terms approved by Penrith City Council in the documentation submitted in support of the development application.

4.3 All landscape works are to be constructed in accordance with the stamped-approved plan. Evidence that the landscaping has been implemented in accordance with the approved plan should be provided prior to the issue of Occupation Certificate.

Landscaping shall be maintained:

· In accordance with the approved plan

· In a healthy state

· In perpetuity by the existing or future owners and occupiers of the property

If any of the vegetation comprising that landscaping dies or is removed, it is to be replaced with vegetation of the same species and, to the greatest extent practicable, the same maturity, as the vegetation, which died or was removed.

4.4 The shipping container on the subject site is to be removed as part of the approved work prior to the issue of an occupation certificate.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

1. View	Locality Map	1 Page	Appendix
2. View	Deposited Plan	1 Page	Appendix
3. View	Site Plan	1 Page	Appendix
4. View	Landscaping Plan	1 Page	Appendix

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*The City in its Environment*

The City in its Environment

Drainage Impact Assessment for Properties in Cosgrove Cres, Morphett St, Millen St and Great Western Highway, Kingswood

Compiled by: Maruf Hossain, Engineering Stormwater Supervisor

Authorised by: Craig Ross, Design and Technical Advice Manager

Requested By: Councillor David Bradbury

Strategic Program Term Achievement: A floodplain management policy to protect the built environment is being implemented by Council consistent with Government guidelines.

Critical Action: Council’s Floodplain Management Policy is contemporary and is being implemented.

Purpose:

To provide an update on the outcome of the drainage impact assessment of properties in the vicinity of Cosgrove Crescent, Morphett Street, Great Western Highway and Millen Street, Kingswood. The report recommends that drainage works in Chapman Gardens be considered in a future drainage program.

Background

The drainage system downstream of the Great Western Highway is influenced by two sub‑catchments. The western catchment drains from a system through Chapman Gardens, and flows under the Highway, and through a three-cell (2.7x1.35) box culvert, and thence through the car sale yards on the northern side of the Highway through a single (3.3x2.1) box culvert. The eastern catchment drains through the UWS, Cosgrove Crescent and Council’s land on the Great Western Highway (Lot 101 DP 876202). Both sub-catchments join just upstream of the railway line.

In the past, residents of Cosgrove Crescent, Morphett Street and Millen Street have raised concerns of local drainage problems in the area. In order to assess the extent of drainage problems and impacts on surrounding properties, including the Council owned land (Lot 101), a detailed study for the local sub-catchment (eastern sub-catchment) was undertaken by a consultant, Cardno Willing. The study was carried out to determine the inundation extent, and any potential benefits in providing additional flood/drainage retention in the WELL development to benefit the Cosgrove/Morphett Street area.

In this study, a hydrodynamic flood model was run for a range of design events, and predicted water surface levels were compared with the surveyed property levels in the area.

A plan of the study area, together with the 1:100 year water surface extents is shown below:

Current Situation

Cosgrove Crescent & Morphett Street (Eastern) Sub-Catchment

The study identified that the building floor levels along Cosgrove Crescent and Morphett Street are above the 100-year ARI level and the impacts would be limited to inundation of gardens and fences. The filled portion of the Council owned land is also above the 100 year ARI level.

The consultant has concluded that the nature of inundation in this area is relatively minor, and no mitigation measures, or over retardation in the WELL Precinct is required in line with the State Government’s Floodplain Development Manual.

The Millen Street properties are similarly affected, with water surface impacts confined to gardens and fences and no floor inundation.

Chapman Gardens (Western) Sub-Catchment

Whilst the above consultant study focussed on the eastern catchment, the results provided a preliminary assessment of impacts along the Great Western Highway, west of Chapman Gardens. On-site inspection of properties in this area suggests that floor levels are generally above the 100–year ARI level, with the exception of two (2) properties with lower floor levels that may be subject to floor inundation under more frequent storm events.

Inundation of these properties, and others along the Great Western Highway, is influenced more by the Chapman Gardens sub-catchment than by flows from the Cosgrove Crescent area. Any additional mitigation in the WELL development would not have a significant benefit to these properties.

Additional drainage investigation, and analysis of the Chapman Gardens sub-catchment, was undertaken to determine if there were mitigation solutions available that would benefit the Great Western Highway properties.

Preliminary assessment indicates that the drainage capacity of the existing 3-cells box culvert across the Great Western Highway is approximately equivalent to a 20 year ARI flow. The drainage system through Chapman Gardens has been designed to accommodate overland flow through the park. Analysis of the inlet structure to the box culverts indicates that there is insufficient capacity to fully charge the culverts, creating some inefficiency in the system. In larger storm events, a significant volume surcharges and flows east through properties fronting the Great Western Highway, and contributes additional flows to the eastern sub-catchment. Attempts were made in the past to provide additional storage in the park by constructing a low height bund at the corner of the Great Western Highway and Cosgrove Crescent. The inlet structure was also upgraded.

Increasing the height of the bund wall would provide more storage in the park and improve the efficiency of the inlet pit. To adequately charge the downstream box culverts, the bund wall would need to be increased in height by approximately 1m. This would, under peak conditions, provide a maximum depth of ponding in the order of 1.5m. This is considered to be acceptable.

The estimated cost of this work is in the order of $25,000. It is pointed out that, whilst this work would improve the drainage situation of the properties along the Highway, it would not eliminate the problem. Significant overland flow would still occur, but this should be limited to storms greater than a 1:20 year event.

Any further improvement to the system would involve the upgrading of the box culverts downstream of the Highway to a higher capacity (and further studies). This area is fully developed with commercial activities and the construction and restoration costs would be expensive. The raising of the bund wall is the most cost effective option to provide some benefit to the area.

S149 Notations

Council’s current flood policy applies to areas affected by the “standard flood”. This is the 1% AEP event for rivers and streams, and the policy defines this as the level determined by the then Technical Services Manager (now Design and Technical Advice Manager). The flood extents currently relate to the mainstream flooding and the policy mandates development control in these areas.

The extent of the mainstream mapping currently extends downstream from the Great Western Highway (Werrington Creek). At the moment, the impacts upstream of the Highway are considered to be “drainage related flooding” rather than “mainstream flooding” and Council does not have a specific policy that restricts development for this risk. As such, a S149(2) notation would not apply to these properties.

Notwithstanding this, the State Government’s Floodplain Development Manual requires councils to consider whether overland flow and major drainage risks should be covered in their flood policies.

City-wide studies are underway to determine the extent of impacts and risks associated with overland flow, and a report will be presented to Council in the near future on this matter. It is envisaged that extensive consultation will occur to determine if Council’s policy requires amendment to reflect the overland flow risks.

Whilst S149(2) notations do not apply upstream of the Great Western Highway, it would be appropriate to apply a S149(5) notation, on affected properties, indicating that a study has been carried out that has identified a potential drainage related flooding problem. This is consistent with Council’s practice in other areas of the city where major drainage studies have been carried out. This position may change when the city-wide overland flow issue is resolved.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Drainage Impact Assessment for Properties in Cosgrove Cres, Morphett St, Millen St and Great Western Highway, Kingswood be received.

2. Consideration of funding for the bund works in Chapman Gardens be given in the next available program.

3. A S149(5) notation be applied to properties affected by the 1% AEP event identified in this study, as indicated in the report.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*The City Supported by Infrastructure*

The City Supported by Infrastructure

Maintenance of RTA Road Network

Compiled by: David Burns, Asset Manager

Authorised by: David Burns, Asset Manager

Requested By: Councillor Ross Fowler

Strategic Program Term Achievement: An asset management strategy is in operation for civil infrastructure that optimises its use and maintains it to agreed standards fit for its contemporary purpose.

Critical Action: An Asset Management Strategy for Civil Assets is developed, maintained and implemented.

Purpose:

To provide information to Council concerning the maintenance and repair of the RTA road network in the Penrith LGA and statewide. The report recommends that the information be received.

Background

At Council’s Ordinary Meeting on 21 August 2006, Councillor Fowler requested a report to Council concerning an audit of state arterial roads in the Penrith city area, which are currently owned and maintained by the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), and details as to whether the RTA has a plan for the maintenance and repair of these roads.

Current Situation

The Audit Office of NSW, in August 2006, released a performance audit on the condition and maintenance of state roads by the RTA. The highway and major arterial roads are arguably the most critical transport link between major population centres. They are the State Government’s biggest asset with a replacement value of around $69 billion. The RTA is responsible for maintaining and developing this public asset, with an annual budget allocation of more than $2 billion.

The Auditor General’s report examined the condition of the state road network, the maintenance program the RTA currently has in place, and the plans it has to maintain it in the long term.

This audit sought to determine how well the RTA is meeting the government’s objective of maintaining roads and bridges at minimum whole of life cost to ensure reliability, safety and retained value, including (i) condition state roads are in, (ii) condition state roads should be in, and (iii) what the RTA is doing to address any gap.

The Audit found that:

· The RTA has improved the overall surface condition of state roads in the last decade. Country road surfaces are now generally much better. Ride quality has improved and cracking has been reduced. The RTA has also achieved a substantial reduction in the number of structurally deficient bridges over the same period.

· Ride quality on Sydney roads, however, has been falling and is worse than it was 10 years ago. About 15% of the network is very rough or very cracked, although the RTA advises that no state road is closed, or subject to load or speed restrictions, due to its condition.

· While the RTA has standards for road maintenance, it has not specified appropriate condition standards. In the absence of these, the Audit Office states that it is difficult for the government, Parliament, and public to judge how well the RTA is maintaining road assets.

· Despite a significant increase in the state’s contribution to maintenance since 1999-2000, the RTA has deferred road rebuilding projects. The RTA is rebuilding at less than half its long term target, and has not met this target at any time this decade. As a consequence, the structural condition and expected life of state roads is declining. This presents a risk that roads may become unsafe or unreliable, and is likely to lead to higher repair costs. While the RTA says it has deferred rebuilding to manage more immediate risks to safety, it acknowledges the current rate of rebuilding is not sustainable in the long term and needs to increase.

· The RTA has not identified how it will address deferred rebuilding, although it advises it is developing a new road network management plan, which will address this.

· Tension exists between the need to develop new roads while maintaining the existing network. Yet the government’s priority is maintenance, including rebuilding. Despite the need to rebuild more existing roads, the RTA has been increasing its spending on new work. While it advises that Commonwealth funding arrangements reduce its capacity to redirect funds to rebuilding, it needs to do so. Otherwise, it will continue to push the problem onto future generations.

The recommendations contained in the Audit report are as follows:

Determine the gap between actual and appropriate condition	· Complete by 2008 its work on specifying appropriate condition standards for roads, and by 2009 for bridges (p28) · Assess if a gap exists between the actual condition of roads and bridges and appropriate condition standards (p29) · Determine what it needs to do to lift the network to appropriate condition standards, and long term funding needs (p29)
Improve methods and systems	· Finalise its current research and develop by 2008 a more rigorous and reliable method to assess the expected remaining life of roads (p19) · Develop by 2009 a more rigorous and reliable method to assess the future structural condition of bridges (p22) · Ensure regions use a consistent approach to assess risks and determine maintenance priorities and treatments (p34) · Investigate and implement improved systems to help staff identify the best maintenance solutions (p36) · Prepare a submission to the Minister, outlining the costs and benefits to the community of closing roads or lanes for an extended period to allow rebuilding, compared to the current approach of undertaking work in the middle of the night (p36)
Address deferred rebuilding	· Extend the planning horizon for asset management and maintenance to at least ten years (p37) · Investigate and implement potential models to quantify the risks to current and future road safety and reliability of travel, as well as the cost of repair, for various funding levels (p37) · Give higher priority to the rebuilding program to achieve long-term sustainability at minimum whole of life cost (p39)
Improve advice to government, parliament and the public	· Complete its new road network management plan, setting out the funding required to maintain the road network at minimum whole of life cost, including risks, any gap between appropriate and actual condition and rebuilding needs, and report this to the Minister and Treasury (p40) · Report in its Annual Report any gap between appropriate and actual condition, and how it plans to address it (p40) · Report in its Annual Report deferred rebuilding, the progress of its road rebuilding efforts, the proportion of the network past the end of its expected life, and the risks this represents (p40).

The numbers refer to the relevant page numbers in the Auditor General’s report. A copy of the Executive Summery is attached to this report. A full version of the Audit Report can be found on the Audit Office of NSW website (http://www.audit.nsw.gov.au).

The Audit Office report is consistent with similar findings made in the “Final Report of the Local Government Inquiry” (Percy Allan report) on the local road network in NSW, which also found that insufficient funds were being allocated to ongoing maintenance of local Council roads and other assets.

State Road Network in the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA)

The RTA maintains approximately 126 km of state roads in the Penrith LGA as follows:

Road Name	From	To
Carlisle Avenue	South Creek	Roper Road
Castlereagh Road	Council boundary	High Street
Cranebrook Road	Londonderry Road	Castlereagh Road
Elizabeth Drive	The Northern Road	Council boundary
Erskine Park Road	Mamre Road	Carlisle Avenue
Great Western Highway	Council boundary (Roper Road)	Russell Street
Mamre Road	Elizabeth Drive	Great Western Highway
Mulgoa Road	Park Road	Great Western Highway
The Northern Road	Richmond Road	Council boundary
Park Road	The Northern Road	Greendale Road
Richmond Road	Council boundary	Bennett Road
Russell Street	Leonay Parade	Great Western Highway

Resources did not permit a full audit of this network by Council staff, however, after discussions with Councillor Fowler, Council’s Asset Coordinators inspected the following sample sections and reported on the condition as shown below:

Mulgoa Road – Glenmore Parkway to Park Road, Wallacia

Carriageway:

· Single carriageway approximately 12.2 km in length with a flush sealed wearing surface between the Parkway and Mulgoa Village and an asphaltic concrete wearing surface between Mulgoa Village and Park Road.

· No sealed road shoulders

Flush Sealed wearing surface:

· Poor ride quality due to pavement roughness and patching

· Extensive pavement cracking and failures

· Localised pavement stripping and rutting

Asphaltic Concrete wearing surface:

· Extensive pavement cracking and failures especially through Wallacia Village

Mulgoa Village:

· Mulgoa village has sections of missing kerb and gutter and associated stormwater drainage

Cranebrook Road – Andrews Road to The Northern Road

Carriageway:

· Single carriageway north of Andrews Road with a flush sealed wearing surface

· Partially sealed road shoulders in some areas

Flush Sealed wearing surface:

· Poor ride quality due to pavement roughness, failures and patching

· Extensive pavement failures

· Extensive pavement cracking

· Extensive pavement stripping

· Pavement rutting

Road Relocation/ Development

· The relocating of Castlereagh Road between Cranebrook Rd (Nepean St) and Castlereagh Rd (Smith St) is currently in progress

· 2nd stage reconstruction of Cranebrook Rd provides a twin carriageway between Andrews Rd and Nepean St. The reconstruction of this section is dependent on the rezoning of adjacent lands

The Northern Road – Andrews Road to Cranebrook Road

Carriageway:

· Single carriageway with an asphaltic concrete wearing surface between Andrews Rd and Ninth Avenue and flush sealed wearing surface between Ninth Avenue and Cranebrook Road

· Sealed road shoulders provided between Andrews Rd & Ninth Avenue

Asphalt wearing surface:

· Poor ride quality due to pavement roughness and patching

· Extensive pavement cracking and failures

Flush sealed wearing surface:

· Poor ride quality due to pavement roughness and patching

· Extensive pavement cracking and failures

· Aggregate stripping

Sample photographs showing examples of the road condition of each of the above three sections of the state roadwork are attached to this report.

Proposed Works by the RTA

At the time of compiling this report, no response had been received from the RTA concerning its proposed roadworks in the Penrith LGA for 2006/2007. The RTA did provide expenditure figures for the last two years in the amounts of $1.64M and $1.0M. However, only $466,000 and $115,000 of this expenditure could be identified as being within the Penrith LGA. The balance of the expenditure was either in the Blacktown or Hawkesbury LGA’s.

RECOMMENDATION

That the information contained in the report on Maintenance of RTA Road Network be received.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

1. View	Conditions of State Roads - Executive Summary	9 Pages	Appendix
2. View	Conditions of State Roads - Photos	3 Pages	Appendix

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*The City Supported by Infrastructure*

The City Supported by Infrastructure

Penrith Road Safety Audit Report - Llandilo Area - Existing Roads

Compiled by: Michael Alderton, Road Network Services Engineer

Authorised by: David Burns, Asset Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Road network capacity, safety and efficiency are improved and traffic congestion is reduced.

Critical Action: A program is being implemented to address deficiencies and areas of congestion in the Local Road Network.

Purpose:

To advise Council of the outcomes and recommendations of the Penrith Road Safety Audit Report - Llandilo Area - Existing Roads Report, and the Schedule of Deficiencies and Remedial Actions prepared by Maunsell. The report recommends that the proposed Schedule of Deficiencies and Remedial Actions be approved and prioritised, and that an Implementation Program be developed for Council approval.

Background

At its meeting on 3 April 2006, Council considered a report recommending that a grant of $10,000 from the RTA be accepted to undertake a stage 5 Road Safety Audit in Llandilo. Council resolved that:

“1. The information contained in the report on Local Government Road Safety Auditing/Accident Investigation and Prevention (AIP) Program - 2005/2006 be received.

2. Council accept the RTA grant of $10,000 to undertake a road safety audit (Stage 5 - Existing Roads) at the following locations:

a. Ninth Avenue, Llandilo

b. Eighth Avenue, Llandilo

c. Seventh Avenue, Llandilo

d. Sixth Avenue, Llandilo

e. Fifth Avenue, Llandilo

f. Fourth Avenue, Llandilo

g. Third Avenue, Llandilo

h. Terrybrook Avenue, Llandilo

i. Second Avenue / Llandilo Road, Llandilo

3. Council’s 50% matching funding for the road safety audit (Stage 5 - Existing Roads) project and the additional $7,000 (total $17,000) be allocated from the 2005/2006 Traffic and Transport Facilities Program.”

Assessment process

Council engaged Maunsell to undertake the Road Safety Audit, in the locations adopted at its meeting on 3 April 2006, in accordance with Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) and AUSTROADS road safety audit Guidelines. A copy of the report is included as Appendix 1 to this report.

The road safety audit was commissioned as a proactive measure to identify potential hazards and provide a safer road environment for users.

The study considers all components within a conventional RTA road safety audit, and addresses certain elements beyond the scope of a conventional road safety audit. The components of this study include:

1. Day and night road safety audits, listing road safety deficiencies and associated risk assessment in accordance with the RTA Accident Reduction Guide Part 2 Road Safety Audits (August 2005) and AUSTROADS Road Safety Audit Guidelines 2002;

2. Digital video of the entire road network has been taken;

3. Review and analysis of the speed classification and AADT volume data as provided by Council;

4. Discussion on significant departures from current design standards, where relevant;

5. Review of potential remedial actions to overcome deficiencies; and

6. Corrective action requests will be developed following a review of the findings by Council.

Road Safety Audit Schedule of Deficiencies and Remedial Actions

Based on the results of the data analysis, and a review of the deficiencies assessed, the report makes recommendations of remedial actions to be considered by Council. The recommendations include advanced warning signage that can be installed with no consultation with other authorities, together with physical engineering works that will require detailed investigation, analysis, community consultation and consideration by the Local Traffic Committee.

The results of the Road Safety Audit are listed in Appendix B - Schedule of Deficiencies and Remedial Actions - to the report.

The deficiencies, risks and remedial actions provide a thorough assessment of all risk factors in the target area. The report does not provide a detailed survey and design, cost benefit analysis or consultation of each remedial action.

Each Remedial Action requires investigation and assessment, with regard to cost benefit analysis, design and approval process. Additional advisory signage for example, can be installed without further approval, subject to funding availability, while additional regulatory signage will require consideration by the Local Traffic Committee.

Conclusion

It is recommended that Council endorse the Road Safety Audit and the schedule of Deficiencies and Remedial Actions. Those actions that can be implemented without further approvals, ie additional advisory signage, linemarking and maintenance treatments, will be carried out using existing annual programs. Those actions that require investigation analysis, design and approvals, will be included in a prioritised Implementation Program that will be submitted to Council for approval.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Penrith Road Safety Audit Report - Llandilo Area - Existing Roads be received.

2. The list of remedial actions as listed in the Road Safety Audit, Appendix B, be endorsed.

3. Those remedial actions, as listed in the Road Safety Audit, Appendix B, that require investigation, detailed survey, design, cost benefit analysis be included in a prioritised Implementation Program.

4. The Implementation Program be reported to Council for approval.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

Penrith Road Safety Audit

76 Pages

Attachment

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Leadership and Organisation*

Leadership and Organisation

Council Property - Sale of No 8 Coallee Place, South Penrith

Compiled by: Brian Griffiths, Property Development Manager

Authorised by: Brian Griffiths, Property Development Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Council provides adequate resources to deliver its program and has introduced measures to increase its capacity.

Critical Action: Implement a property development program that maximises the potential for sustainable additional revenue to support major projects and programs.

Purpose:

To provide Council with details on vacant land owned by Council that is considered surplus to Council's asset requirements. The report recommends that the Property Development Manager be authorised to sell No 8 Coallee Place, South Penrith in accordance with the land's current market value for residential purposes.

Background

Council agreed to purchase the subject property, described as Lot 24 in DP 249672, with an area of 952.6 m^2, known as No 8 Coallee Place South Penrith in September 1973, from Mr Vella for the amount of $31,500, and it was settled on 20 June 1975. The property is irregular in shape, and is located at the western end of Coallee Place that runs off Samuel Foster Drive. The land immediately north of the subject property is dedicated as roadway abutting Maxwell Street, and the Jamison High School abuts the western boundary of the subject site. A plan of the subject land is appended to the report.

Prior to the implementation of the South Penrith residential release area in 1973, the subject property was acquired, due to the impact of the future road widening of Maxwell Street, from The Northern Road to Mulgoa Road. The property was acquired at that time on the assumption the house located on the site could be affected by a reduced property value, due to its closeness to a new road.

The property, when purchased, contained a residential dwelling that was leased for a number of years, and was demolished on 19August 1986, as maintenance costs were increasing and the net rental return was negative.

As South Penrith began to develop, it became evident the likelihood of widening Maxwell Street the full distance from The Northern Road to Mulgoa Road was remote, and Council decided not to progress the widening on traffic grounds. Most of the land that was dedicated to Council for road widening is now used for open space and landscaping purposes.

Current Situation

The property has been examined by the Property Strategy Group within Council, and has been declared surplus with respect to Council’s property asset portfolio and hence the land is available for disposal.

In determining the best method of sale, either through private treaty, tender or public auction, 6 local real estate agents were contacted in writing to advise as to their sales commission and advertising costs in selling the land on behalf of Council. Those agents who were selected are all within a 100 metres radius of each other, located in the real estate precinct of High and Castlereagh Streets, Penrith. Those agents have demonstrated they specialise in the sale of residential properties, and all are very familiar with the South Penrith area. Of the 6 agents asked to quote only 5 responded.

It is considered that the public auction system would be the best method of disposal, and the 5 agents were asked to provide the following information, to assist who would be the most appropriate in undertaking the auction sale. To determine the total cost to Council in taking into account the agencies fees, as well as advertising expenses, a figure of $315,000 was adopted as a market appraisal concerning the sale of the land.

It should be noted that the figure mentioned is only a market appraisal in terms of average opinion from the agents, and is not regarded as a current market value of the vacant land.

Real Estate Agent

Agency Fees

Agency Advertising Costs

Total cost to Council

Raine & Horne Residential - 344 High Street Penrith

2.0% Plus GST

$990

$7,290

L J Hooker Penrith - 306 High Street Penrith

2.0% Plus GST

$1,500 Plus GST

$7,800

Century 21 - Renshaw Realty - 354 High Street Penrith

2.5% Plus GST

$800

$8,675

Jim Aitken & Partners - 429 High Street Penrith

3.0% Plus GST

Nil

$9,450

Stanton & Taylor First National Real Estate - 371 High Street Penrith

2.5% Plus GST

$1,760

$9,635

Once a program has been established, concerning the auction date and extent of advertising, an independent valuation report will be obtained from a qualified registered valuer, to assess the current market value of the vacant land, and a further report will be presented to Council to approve the vendor’s reserve price to be presented to the auctioneer on the actual day of the auction.

In examining the agents’ submissions, any one of them could be regarded as capable of selling the land on Council’s behalf through the public auction process. The agent that is the most cost effective is Raine & Horne Penrith, and it is recommended they be engaged to undertake the auction process.

Proceeds from the sale are proposed to be transferred to the Property Development Reserve to assist in funding major city projects.

Council, at its Ordinary Meeting on 17 July 2006, allocated $1,300 from South Ward Voted Works for the construction of a chainwire fence adjacent to the existing colourbond fence that forms the boundary between Lots 7 and 8 Coallee Place.

The fence was to prevent football activities in striking and damaging the colourbond fence on Lot 7. As Lot 8 is to be sold, the fence is no longer required, as it would be on private property after the sale. It is therefore recommended that the $1,300 be returned to South Ward Voted Works. The owner of Lot 7 has previously been advised that the fence would not be built as Council’s Lot 8 was to be sold, subject to Council’s approval.

Development Services Manager’s Comment

When the planning scheme for South Penrith was implemented, the subject property was zoned Residential 2(d), in accordance with IDO No. 28. While the report indicates that the land was purchased to cater for Maxwell Street road widening, the road widening within the planning scheme did not affect the actual site.

The Maxwell Street extension was to provide an alternative east-west link between Mulgoa Road and The Northern Road. The circumstances which existed at the time that this Maxwell Street extension was set aside have changed. The M4 Motorway now provides an additional east-west link.

Council dealt with a report on 27 October 2003, uplifting restrictions from Industrial property located in Altair Place, that backed onto the proposed widening of Maxwell Street that was off York Road, and approval was given due to the Maxwell Street extensions now not occurring.

The subject property has an area of 952.6 m^2, and a frontage of 19.2 metres, and is currently zoned 2 (b) “Residential (Low Density)” in accordance with the Local Environmental Plan 1998 (Urban Land). There is a range of uses permissible within this zone, however multi-unit housing is prohibited. The types of residential uses that the zone advocates are dwelling houses on individual allotments or dual occupancies. The objective of the zone is to reinforce the natural settings of sites and promote the established urban character of traditional subdivisions.

Summary

In view of the land being surplus to Council’s asset management property portfolio, the action in undertaking the public auction is considered to be the most appropriate procedure in achieving the sale of the land.

All services, including water, sewer, electricity, telephone, and kerb and guttering with road access, are available to the site.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Council Property - Sale of No 8 Coallee Place, South Penrith be received.

2. Council sell Lot 24 DP 249672 at No 8 Coallee Place South Penrith by public auction.

3. Raine & Horne Residential Penrith be engaged to undertake the public auction of the property.

4. A further report be presented to Council to determine the vendor’s reserve price to be made available to the auctioneer on the day of the auction.

5. The Common Seal of the Council of the City of Penrith be placed on all necessary documentation.

6. The $1,300 allocated by Council for the construction of a chainwire fence between Lots 7 and 8 Coallee Place be returned to South Ward Voted Works.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

1. View

Council Property - Sale of No8 Coallee Place, South Penrith

1 Page

Appendix

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Leadership and Organisation*

Leadership and Organisation

City Operations Directorate Report to end of September 2006

Compiled by: Joanne Robertson, AM Secretary

Authorised by: Ray Moore, Director - City Operations

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Services and programs that Council provides are determined based on equity, customer requirements, community benefits and best value.

Critical Action: Deliver quality customer services, responsive to contemporary community expectations within available resources.

Purpose:

To inform Council on the progress of works of the City Operations Directorate. The report recommends that the information be received.

Background

ASSET MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

Civil Operations

PROGRAM		STATUS REPORT

*Urban Drainage Construction Program*
Expenditure to Date: Budget Estimate:	$5,860 $380,000	Pit and pipe construction in progress in Bromley Road, Emu Plains.

*Kerb & Gutter Program*
Expenditure to Date: Budget Estimate:	$69,234 $453,000	Works are substantially completed on the construction of kerb and gutter in Bromley Road, Emu Plains.

*Roads Reconstruction Program*
Expenditure to Date: Budget Estimate:	$628,128 $2,723,896	Works are in progress on the road and drainage construction in The Kingsway, St Marys.

Footpath Construction Drainage and Road Construction

Bringelly Road, Kingswood The Kingsway, St Marys

*Lambridge Estate Drainage*
Expenditure to Date: Budget Estimate:	$1,632,071 $3,774,000	Works are substantially completed in the laying of pipes in Lambridge Estate. Works have commenced on pit construction and kerb and gutter preparation in Camden Street and Gorden Street.

*National Blackspot Program*
Expenditure to Date: Budget Estimate:	$27,549 $137,000	Draft designs have been completed, and community consultation is in progress for proposed facilities at Jamison Road and Castlereagh Street, Penrith.

*Path Paving Program*
Expenditure to Date: Budget Estimate:	$226,933 $750,000	Works have been completed on Charles Todd Cr, Werrington County, Carinya Avenue and Blair Ave, St Marys and within Peppermint Park, Kingswood. Works are in progress in Ellim Place, Cranebrook and Bringelly Road, Kingswood.

*Dunheved Road/Greenbank Drive*
Expenditure to Date: Budget Estimate:	$770,000 $848,247	Traffic signals were activated on 4 September 2006. Additional street lighting is currently being installed along the Francis Street deviation to Dunheved Road.

Operational Activities

Road maintenance continues in accordance with priorities identified from regular precinct inspections, based upon Auspec No 4 Specifications.

Heavy patching crews are currently carrying out the necessary repairs for the road resurfacing program.

Concrete crews have assisted in drainage pit construction in Lambridge Estate, Penrith. Concrete crews have also been focussed on performing service utility restorations across the City.

Other recurrent programmed maintenance activities including street sweeping, public domain maintenance, signs installation and maintenance, litter patrol, footpath cleaning and street furniture maintenance continue.

Asset Systems

Roads to Recovery Program 2006/2007

A total of 18,000sqm (0.23% of Council’s road network) has been resurfaced under this program in 2006/2007.

Road Resheeting/Resealing Program

The following roads have been resurfaced since the previous report under the Road resheeting / resealing program:

· Cambridge St, Cambridge Park (entire length)

· Edith St, Kingswood

· Edna St, Kingswood

· Edward St, Kingswood (Manning St to 150m west)

A total of 50,300sqm (0.64%) of the road network has been resurfaced to date with asphaltic concrete during 2006/07.

Repair works are in progress for the 2006/07 road programs. A total of 370m of kerb and gutter and 9,700sqm of road pavement has been repaired to date for the 2006/2007 road resurfacing program.

Audits/Inspections

The twenty-first round of Ausspec 4 (routine maintenance inspections) has now commenced and is 20% complete. The majority of defects identified during the inspection were minor potholes and pavement failures. Pothole repairs are in progress as per set response times.

Community Safety

The development of the second Penrith Valley Community Safety Plan continues. A range of consultations have been conducted including focus groups, surveys and meetings with the Penrith and St Marys Local Area Commands. These consultations, and research of crime statistics, have resulted in the identification and development of draft strategies by a working group of the Penrith Valley Community Safety Partnership. The draft strategies were supported by the Partnership and recommended for inclusion in the new Community Safety Plan.

The new Plan will be developed utilising the recommended Crime Prevention Division of the NSW Attorney General’s Department format for option/solution selection, focussing on the high priorities identified from the consultations and research conducted.

The Draft Plan is in the final stages of development for presentation to Council, at its Policy Review Meeting on 13 November, seeking approval to exhibit the Draft second Penrith Valley Community Safety Plan.

Traffic

The Local Traffic Committee (LTC), at its meeting on 4 September 2006, considered nine items on traffic and road safety issues. The recommendations of the LTC have been considered and adopted by Council, at its meeting on 18 September 2006. The traffic impacts of four development application referrals have been assessed, from 1 September to 30 September 2006.

Investigation and analysis of other traffic and road safety issues received, including footpath requests and determination of speed profiles in nominated locations, are being carried out as required.

Community consultation for the 2006/2007 Auslink National Blackspot Program are completed. The projects were reported to the LTC on 9 October 2006. The LTC recommended that the proposals for High Street/Jamison Road and Doonmore Street/Lethbridge Street be resubmitted to the LTC with further information.

BUILDING SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Maintenance Works for September 2006

The Building Services Department received 530 maintenance requests for the month of

September 2006. Out of these 320 were for graffiti removal. Council Staff removed graffiti from buildings on 320 occasions during the month September 2006.

Building Projects

Ø Erskine Park Child Care Centre Extensions

· Works commenced 29 May 2006

· Slab poured

· Timber frame completed

· Works progressing to schedule

Ø Jamison Park Netball Extensions

· Work commenced

· Slab poured

· Brickwork commenced

Ø Samuel Marsden Baseball Amenities

· Work well underway

· Brickwork completed

· Roofing commenced

Ø Penrith Regional Gallery

· Work to Anchor House and Covered Way underway

· External works taking place

· Due for completion 17 November 2006

Ø CWA Alterations & Additions

· Tenders advertised on 29 August 2006 and closed on 26 September 2006

· Currently being assessed

Ø Queen Street St Marys – Office Building

· At Council’s meeting of 6 February 2006 a number of companies were selected to provide tenders for the above project (Expression of Interest)

· Tenders close on 31 October 2006

PARKS CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE

Windstorm Event

The majority of the Sydney area experienced a severe windstorm event on Sunday, 24 September 2006. The effect in Penrith was widespread across nearly all suburbs. Several houses were damaged by falling trees, and power lines were brought down in many locations. Council’s Parks staff were called out on the Sunday and worked in consultation with the SES, RFS, NSW Fire Brigade, Integral Energy and NSW Police. The work on the Sunday concentrated on removing trees from houses, and clearing roads to enable Integral Energy to restore power.

The clean-up commenced on the Monday morning. With the assistance of the Asset Management Department, additional staff, backhoes, trucks and contractors were deployed City-wide. The bulk of the work was completed by Friday, 29 September 2006.

The quantity of debris collected was stockpiled at Council’s nursery, placing added pressure on the stockpile area. Arrangements were made immediately for the mulching of the material from the storm damage to be carried out. The contractor commenced mulching on 9 October 2006. The cleanup was a large exercise and was undertaken by Council staff in a very efficient manner.

Parks Improvement Program

· Samuel Marsden Amenities

The new building will replace the mobile containers that were modified into toilets and storage. Construction on the building will be completed in late November.

· Jamison Park Amenities

Good progress is being made on the new toilet additions. The work may be completed prior to Christmas if the current progress is maintained.

· Andrews Road Baseball Complex

The new perimeter fence for the main (eastern) diamond has been completed. This fence will prevent unauthorised vehicle access and provide a home run fence for senior baseball games.

· Greygums Oval

Dugout shelters for the AFL Club are nearing completion. The shelters are an innovative design with graffiti-resistant walls and were built with materials to help minimise damage from vandalism.

· Jamison Park Field No 5

Work on the western half of the cricket oval has commenced. A rugby league field will be integrated into this section of the oval to eventually accommodate training for junior rugby league representative sides. This project was submitted for a Capital Assistance Grant for field lighting.

Playing Field Renovations

The ongoing effects of the drought are being experienced on a large number of Council’s playing fields.

Weed infestation is widespread, particularly bindii and clover. A contractor has completed weed spraying on a large number of playing fields. The area sprayed is approximately double the area sprayed in previous years, a consequence of the ongoing dry weather.

Aeration by “Earthquake” has been carried out at the following locations: Greygums Oval and Leonay Oval, Peter Kearns Oval, Hunter Field, Jamison Park (3 fields) and Cook Park (3 fields). The modified soccer field used by Londonderry Soccer Club at Londonderry Public School has also been “earthquaked” in conjunction with the school. Topdressing at these and other locations has also commenced.

A large section of Parker St No 3 soccer field has been returfed.

Contributions towards the renovation work have been committed from the Nepean District Soccer Football Association, Emu Plains Soccer Club and Penrith/Nepean United Soccer Club.

Bushcare

Banool Avenue Planting Day

There were lots of volunteers to assist with the mammoth task of planting 1,000 native trees, shrubs and ground covers. This planting was as a result of Council’s Sustainability Unit successfully applying for an NRMA grant.

Ropes Creek Planting Day

280 Bursaria spinosa and 20 Hardenbergia violacea were planted under the Integral Energy powerlines, as part of a combined tree planting day on the Penrith and Blacktown sides of Ropes Creek, as part of National Tree Planting Day. Since this area is subject to vandalism, we decided not to use tree sleeves and we have mulched the site with dead African Love Grass from a compost pile on site.

Bushcare Exchange Day

The Clissold Reserve Bushcare volunteers had an exchange day with Blue Mountains Knapsack Creek Bushcare group on Saturday, 12 August. The aim of the exchange days is to foster a stronger relationship between the volunteers within the two groups, with a mutual aim of improving the condition of the catchment. Work involved Lantana removal.

Great River Walk

Although not part of the Bushcare normal work this project is progressing well. How are we involved? The previously inaccessible area between the north end of Weir Reserve and Cassola Place will soon have a pathway through it. Some months ago, the initial route was cut through a swathe of weeds and ‘unknown territory’. The route includes a boardwalk over Peach Tree Creek, and within the next month there will be a bridge over Boundary Creek. The whole pathway is to be asphalt and accessible to walkers, joggers, cyclists, and there will be access for disabled people. As part of the project, a significant amount of bush regeneration/landscaping is being undertaken. Apart from weed removal, some areas of native plants, including native grasses, have been located and are being encouraged to spread. There is also, by necessity, revegetation occurring. Although you cannot currently access the Walk, due to construction still occurring, it will not be long before you will be able to enjoy a Great Walk.

Evidence of the Cumberland Land Snail (empty shells) have been found along the riverbank.

Kanangra Bushcare group (4^th Sunday of the month)

The group has been tackling the noxious weed Mother of Millions as well as African Love Grass, which are starting to reseed as the weather is warming up. There was also assistance from the bush regeneration team to spray some of the larger areas of M&M. There is also a hybrid M&M with boat-shaped leaves occurring on the site. A hare was startled out of long grass in a gully during one visit.

Bellbird Reserve (4^th Saturday of month)

The group have worked diligently and completed clearing the Lantana, followed by planting the area.

Before clearing Lantana 75 New plants were installed

Clissold Reserve (2^nd Saturday of month)

The schools tree planting day saw pupils from Emu Heights Public School enjoying planting 240 trees and shrubs in Clissold Reserve. The planting will hopefully give the school children some responsibility in caring for the area. However, the pupils also needed to be given a stern message as a result of trees being snapped off in the weeks leading up to the planting, in order to discourage this from happening again.

Emu Heights school tree planting day Damage caused by vandalism at Clissold Reserve

On a happier note, the pupils and their teacher saw the bush regeneration staff watering and maintaining the plants a few weeks later and came down to inspect their own handy work, hopefully showing their commitment for the site.

Council’s Bushland team and Contractors

Tench Reserve

Deciduous weed trees such as Acer negundo and Camphor laurel have been drilled and injected in strategic areas where they are not a danger to the public. Further work removing Balloon vine and Madeira vine has also continued.

Werrington Creek and Ellison Reserve

The team is experimenting with hand scattering/ spreading Acacia parramattensis seed within cleared areas at Ellison Reserve and at the Horseshoe.

St Joseph’s school assisted with a planting at the Horseshoe where 300 Hardenbergia violacea were planted.

Asparagus fern, Blackberry, Cestrum, Bridal creeper and Madeira vine were treated at Ellison Reserve.

Contractor Works

Peppermint Reserve

Work has continued manually, removing Mother of Millions and African Love Grass from the core of Peppermint Park.

Mother of Millions in flower Mother of Millions after being sprayed

A significant amount of the M&M has also been sprayed with a selective herbicide. The contractors’ work has been enhanced by an afternoon’s work by TAFE students. Next month, the Bushcare group will start meeting monthly to enhance the work on site.

Cassola Place

A small contract has been let to extend on the bush regeneration work that has been previously undertaken. The buffer of Lantana between the top area and the embankment is slowly being removed as native grasses are regenerating below. The Lantana had previously been left to prevent African Love Grass from extending down the slope. As the Microlaena is moving up from the bottom it is now time to give it more room to spread. At the same time there are more resources to manage the weeds on the top edge.

Jamison Creek

The work under the grant from the Department of Lands, for treating lantana and blackberry in the upper Jamison Creek catchment (between The Sanctuary Drive and Currawong Crescent), has now been completed.

Apple Gum Reserve

A contract focusing on removing the mature African Olive trees has just been completed at Apple Gum Reserve in Glenmore Park. The aim is to reduce the seed spread from these plants and also to open up the area to allow natives to regenerate. The buzz of chainsaws on the first day had at least one concerned resident ringing up to find out what was happening, and I was able to reassure them that it was sound environmental practice, rather than wanton damage. However, I was glad to get the phone call. I think it shows that people are concerned about what is happening in their local area.

WASTE & COMMUNITY PROTECTION DEPARTMENT

Ranger & Animal Services

Rangers removed a considerable number of signs placed on electricity poles that were being displayed throughout the rural areas of the City.

An increasing number of motor vehicles are being parked for sale on public land (nature strips), which may cause obstructions or damage to grassed areas or infrastructure. Rangers are conducting weekend patrols and requesting owners to remove the vehicles. Penalty Infringement Notices may be issued to owners who fail to comply with such requests or disobey signs that have been placed in specific areas prohibiting this activity.

Following amendments to the Companion Animals Act, that provide for an increased number of control measures for Declared Dangerous and Restricted Breed dogs, Rangers and Animal Services Officers have notified (in writing) all known owners of such animals, and have begun inspections of properties to ensure that these requirements have been complied with. Penalty Infringement Notices of $1,320 may be issued for non-compliance with these requirements. This will be an ongoing program, which will require a significant number of premises to be inspected, as the control provisions also apply to crossbreeds of known Restricted Breed dogs.

Regional Illegal Dumping Squad

In September 2006, the RID Squad investigated 11 illegal dumping incidents in Penrith. Nine of these incidents involved illegal dumping offences, with two being littering offences. The Squad issued five Penalty Infringement Notices in September 2006 (for the Penrith LGA) with a total value of $1,550.00.

Penrith SES

Significant wind storms with wind speeds of up to 110km per hour affected the Penrith Local Government Area on Sunday, 24 September 2006. There were 540 calls for assistance received in the Penrith area alone. The majority of these involved damage by trees falling onto houses or other structures, or roofs damaged by the high winds.

Operations continued until midnight on Sunday, 24 September 2006, with assistance from the Penrith VRA Rescue Squad and Penrith Rural Fire Service.

Out of area support was received by SES units from throughout the State, including Ashfield/Leichhardt, Burwood, Canada Bay, Armidale/Dumaresq and Gunnedah. Operations continued until the evening of Wednesday, 27 September 2006.

Earlier in the month, the Penrith SES responded to 26 calls for assistance during heavy rain. These requests were mainly due to houses with leaking roofs.

Total hours for the month of September 2006, including maintenance, training, operations and administration, were 2,100 hours with 1,720 of these being operational hours.

Penrith Rural Fire Service

Penrith Brigades attended 82 emergency incidents during September 2006. These were:

2 calls to Power lines down

7 calls to Fire alarm ringing

30 calls to Grass and bush alight

11 calls to Vehicles alight

3 calls to Structure fires

4 calls to Rubbish burning

8 calls Found to be false alarm

6 calls to Motor vehicle accidents

10 calls to Severe weather situation

Local Brigades assisted in the clean up after the recent wind storms, with the removal of tree limbs from public roads.

Penrith Brigades responded to a large grass fire in the Orchard Hills area and assisted the fighting of large fires in the Baulkham Hills and Wollondilly areas.

The NSW RFS 10 Week Cadet Program with Nepean High School finished on Wednesday, 27 September, with 15 school students putting on a demonstration of their newfound skills in front of other students and teachers. The program has been very well received by the school, with an invitation to return in 2007.

At the Panthers Home Show on 22-24 September 2006, and at the St Marys Spring Festival, the RFS Volunteers provided an information display.

The Castlereagh Rural Fire Brigade and the St Paul’s and Orchard Hills Cadets represented the Cumberland Rural Fire Zone at the State Championships. St Paul’s Cadets were awarded First Place overall, and the Castlereagh Brigade gained a First Place in the “Cross Cut Chainsaw” competition, and a Second Place in the “Equipment Failure” competition.

Penrith Brigades at the RFS State Championships

Waste Services

Tenders for the collection, processing and treatment of domestic waste, including recycling and organics, were called for (closing date 17 October 2006). It is anticipated that a report will be provided to Council on the outcome of the tendering process in early December 2006.

Waste Education

Specific Litter Education Activities

Personal butt bins are available, free of charge, to smokers at the Civic Centre, Queen Street Centre, St Marys Swimming Centre and 17 community centres across the local government area.

Personal butt bins were distributed to smokers as part of events at St Marys Spring Festival and at the Nepean Zone of Playgroup Family Fun Day.

Community Waste Education Activities

A waste minimisation, recycling, composting and worm farming display was held at the Civic Centre & Queen Street Centre.

The ‘Can Do’ Steel Can recycling competition continued to be promoted at events including St Marys Spring Festival and Nepean Zone of Playgroup Family Fun Day.

‘Can Do’ Steel Can Recycling Competition and Waste Education Display at St Marys Spring Festival

Advertisements were placed in the Penrith Star, St Marys Star, Emu Gazette, Glenmore Park Gazette and Mulgoa Gazette.

Editorials, including photographs, appeared in the Penrith Press, Penrith City Star and Mulgoa Gazette. This competition is a joint partnership between Council, Cleanaway and VISY Recycling supported by Bunnings Warehouse, Old Leura Dairy and Cansmart.

Future community education programs include Earthworks workshops, which are scheduled for October and November at Kingswood and St Clair. These have been promoted at the St Marys Spring Festival and Nepean Zone of Playgroup Family Fun Day, and will also be promoted in local newsletters, local newspapers and via posters at libraries, child care centres, schools and community centres.

School & Other Children’s Group Waste Education

Education sessions were held at:

· Yoorami Child Care Centre (4 & 18/09/06)

· St Marys Children’s Centre (05/09/06)

· Blackwell Public School- Sustainability Street Waste Education (08/09/06)

· Jamisontown Child Care Centre (12/09/06)

· Carita Child Care Centre (15/09/06)

· Erskine Park Child Care Centre (26/09/06)

· Blue Emu Child Care Centre (27/09/06)

Future waste education sessions will be held at:

· The Kids Place Child Care Centre (04/10/06)

· Kindana Child Care Centre (11 & 12/10/06)

· Waste Education will be conducted at the Penrith Enviro Adventure on 26 October 2006

Home composting and worm farm

4 Compost Bins were sold during September 2006.

5 Worm Farm was sold during September 2006.

12 compost bins and 11 worm farms have been sold YTD.

Advertising Activities

Displays held in the Civic Centre Foyer and Queen Street Centre promoted waste avoidance, recycling, home composting and waste service options.

Displays were held at St Marys Spring Festival and Nepean Zone of Playgroup Family Fun Day, promoting waste avoidance and recycling.

‘Can Do’ Steel Can Recycling Competition and Waste Education Display

at the Nepean Zone of Playgroup Family Fun Day

The ‘Can Do’ competition was advertised in the Penrith City Star, St Marys Star, Emu Gazette, Glenmore Park Gazette and Mulgoa Gazette.

RECOMMENDATION

That the information contained in the report on City Operations Directorate Report to end of September 2006 be received.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Leadership and Organisation*

Leadership and Organisation

Development of the Justice Precinct at Parramatta and the consequences for the Penrith District Court

Compiled by: Matthew Bullivant, Assistant Legal Officer

Authorised by: Stephen Britten, Legal Officer

Requested By: Councillor Mark Davies

Strategic Program Term Achievement: A commonly shared long-term vision for the City underpins strategic collaboration and community engagement.

Critical Action: Conduct a structured dialogue with the community around issues relating to the performance and management of the City.

Purpose:

To report to Council on the outcome of a letter written by Council's General Manager, Alan Travers, to the NSW Attorney General, the Hon Bob Debus MP, in relation to the development of the Justice Precinct at Parramatta and the consequences for the Penrith District Court. The report recommends the information be received.

Background

At Council’s Ordinary Meeting of 21 August 2006, Councillor Mark Davies made a Councillor request. As a result of Councillor Mark Davies’ request, Council resolved to the effect:

1. A letter be written to the NSW Attorney General, the Hon Bob Debus MP, asking him to advise whether the Penrith District Court offices, and sittings at this Court in Penrith, which include the Cobham Children’s Court and the Community Justice Centre at Penrith, are to be relocated to the new legal precinct at Parramatta.

2. A report be prepared which considers the impact on local users of the justice system, should the Penrith Court activities be relocated to Parramatta.

Therefore, following Councillor Mark Davies’ request, Council’s General Manager, Alan Travers, prepared a letter dated 22 August 2006, for the consideration of the New South Wales Attorney General, the Hon Bob Debus MP. Accordingly, in the letter, the General Manager made reference to Council’s resolution in respect of this matter. The General Manager then went on to state the following:

“As you are aware, Council for many years has been supporting the growth of Court facilities in the Penrith City Centre including making Council’s former library available for a Court annex.

As you may be aware Penrith has been identified as one of the six (6) Regional Cities as part of the State Government’s Metropolitan Strategy – the New South Wales Government’s 25-year plan for Sydney. The Strategy proposes a Stronger Centres Initiative, aimed at clustering a range of jobs, services and housing around public transport nodes that serve population catchments. The provision of judicial services supports Penrith’s Regional City role confirmed in the State Government’s Metropolitan Strategy.

I note that the Attorney General’s Department in partnership with other State Government Departments has played a critical role in the Parramatta Justice Precinct. According to the ‘Information booklet’ available on the Department’s website, “the Parramatta Justice Precinct will usher in a new era in the provision of justice services in New South Wales, especially for the residents and businesses of Western Sydney”. Elsewhere on the website the Director General of the Department has said “the Complex will enable more of the case load of the District and Local Courts that relates to Western Sydney to be heard within this region”.

There are many Penrith residents and businesses that rely on Penrith Courts and its associated services. It would be a tremendous loss to the City and the surrounding region if the District Court, for example, were to be relocated from Penrith to the Parramatta Justice Precinct. There is some concern at present that the number of District Court cases being heard in Penrith could diminish.

Accordingly, Council is seeking your advice on whether the Penrith District Court offices, and sittings at this Court in Penrith, which include the Cobham Children’s Court and the Community Justice Centre at Penrith are to be located to the new legal precinct at Parramatta.

I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.”

On 12 September 2006, the New South Wales Attorney General, the Hon Bob Debus MP, responded to the General Manager’s letter. The Attorney General states the following:

“Thank you for your letter concerning the District Court sittings at Penrith and other related issues.

It is the Government’s clear policy that the District Court should continue to sit at Penrith, irrespective of the opening of the Parramatta Justice Precinct. I do not anticipate this policy being renewed or adjusted in any way. I would indeed resist any such moves.

Over the last 5 years the Government has spent $3 million on refurbishing the Penrith court complex. Airport style x-ray screening facilities have been installed, the air conditioning has been upgraded and we are currently replacing the court’s roof. This investment recognises the vital and continuing role of the court in serving the communities of greater western Sydney.

I can also advise that there will be no changes to the services provided by the Community Justice Centre (“CJC”) at Penrith. The Council’s constituents will experience no reduction in the number or the quality of mediations conducted at Penrith courthouse.

The only change the opening of the Parramatta Justice Precinct will have on staffing at Penrith courthouse is the relocation of 2 CJC administration staff. At present the policy and support staff for CJC’s across NSW are based in offices throughout Sydney and the rest of the state. The new Justice Precinct in Parramatta will accommodate the CJC policy team as well as a centralised administration office. I emphasise that the transfer of the 2 administration staff will not impact on the provision of alternative dispute resolution services in any way. The Local Court Magistrates and the Chamber Registrar will continue to refer matters to the CJC for mediation locally.

The NSW Children’s Court at Parramatta has been specifically designed to hear children’s matters and will open at the end of this year. There will be a children’s clinic on site as well as offices for DOCS and counselling services. The complex will also feature separate and secure rooms for parents, protected witnesses and witnesses support groups as well as child play areas.

Once the new court is opened all care and protection matters currently heard at the Cobham children’s court will be transferred to Parramatta. I believe that the transfer will substantially improve the comfort and safety of the children who come before the court in care and protection matters. I also note that all stakeholders have supported the decision to transfer care matters to Parramatta.

Criminal matters will continue to be heard at Cobham Children’s Court and a full time registry service will continue to operate out of Cobham.

Thank you for raising these matters with me. I trust that the information provided will relieve any concerns Councillors have about the impact of the opening of the Parramatta Precinct on the Penrith community.”

Conclusion

It would seem the Attorney General is indicating that there will be no effective change in the operation of the Penrith Court system. Accordingly, the Attorney General is indicating no change or effect to the services for Court users.

RECOMMENDATION

That the information contained in the report on Development of the Justice Precinct at Parramatta and the consequences for the Penrith District Court be received.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

	TIME	OCT	NOV	DEC
	TIME	Mon	Mon	Mon
Ordinary Meetings	7.00 pm	9	6	4
Ordinary Meetings	7.00 pm	23	20 #	11
Policy Review Committee	7.00 pm	16	13

# Meetings at which the Management Plan quarterly reviews are presented.	v Meeting at which the Draft Management Plan is adopted for exhibition
#+ General Manager’s presentation – half year and end of year review	* Meeting at which the Management Plan for 2006/2007 is adopted
@ Strategic Program progress reports (only business)	ü Meeting at which the 2005/2006 Annual Statements are presented
	^ Election of Mayor/Deputy Mayor (only business)

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 1 - Locality Map*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 2 - Deposited Plan*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 3 - Site Plan*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 4 - Landscaping Plan*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 1 - Conditions of State Roads - Executive Summary*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 2 - Conditions of State Roads - Photos*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 1 - Council Property - Sale of No8 Coallee Place, South Penrith*

1. View	Summary of Investments	4 Pages	Appendix
2. View	Agency Collection Methods	1 Page	Appendix

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 1 - Summary of Investments*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Appendix 2 - Agency Collection Methods*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*23 October 2006*
*Attachment 1 - Penrith Road Safety Audit*