2 May 2008
Dear Councillor,
In pursuance of the provisions of the Local Government
Act, 1993 and the Regulations thereunder, notice is hereby given that an ORDINARY MEETING of Penrith City
Council is to be held in the Council Chambers, Civic Centre,
Attention is directed to the statement accompanying
this notice of the business proposed to be transacted at the meeting.
Yours
Faithfully
Alan Travers
General Manager
BUSINESS
1. APOLOGIES
2. LEAVE OF ABSENCE
Leave of absence has been
granted to:
Councillor Susan Page - 21 April
2008 to 12 May 2008 inclusive.
3. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
Ordinary Meeting - 21 April
2008.
4. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Pecuniary Interest (The Act requires Councillors who
declare a pecuniary interest in an item to leave the meeting during discussion
of that item)
Non-Pecuniary Interest
5. ADDRESSING THE MEETING
6. MAYORAL MINUTES
7. NOTICES OF MOTION
8. ADOPTION OF REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATION OF COMMITTEES
Policy Review Committee
Meeting - 28 April 2008.
9. MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS
10. URGENT REPORTS (to be dealt with in the master program to which the
item relates)
11. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
12. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Monday 5 May 2008
table of contents
seating arrangements
meeting calendar
confirmation of minutes
report and recommendations of committees
master program reports
Statement of Recognition of
Aboriginal and
Cultural Heritage
Council values the unique status of
Aboriginal people as the original owners and custodians of lands and waters,
including the land and waters of
Council values the unique status of Torres
Strait Islander people as the original owners and custodians of the
We work together for a united
PRAYER
“Sovereign God, tonight as we gather together as a Council we affirm
that you are the giver and sustainer of life.
We come together as representatives of our community to make decisions
that will benefit this city and the people within it.
We come not in a spirit of competition, not as adversaries, but as
colleagues. Help us to treat each other
with respect, with dignity, with interest and with honesty. Help us not just to hear the words we say,
but also to hear each others hearts. We
seek to be wise in all that we say and do.
As we meet, our concern is for this city. Grant us wisdom, courage and strength.
Lord, help us. We pray this in
the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.”
Council
Chambers Seating Arrangements
Managers
2008 MEETING CALENDAR
February 2008 - December 2008
|
TIME |
FEB |
MAR |
APRIL |
MAY |
JUNE |
JULY |
AUG |
SEPT |
OCT |
NOV |
DEC |
Mon |
Mon |
Mon |
Mon |
Mon |
Mon |
Mon |
Mon |
To be confirmed. |
||||
Ordinary Meetings |
7.30 pm |
4 |
10 |
7 |
5v |
|
14 |
4 |
8ü |
|||
25 |
|
21 |
19 |
23* |
|
|
29^ |
|||||
Policy Review Committee |
7.30 pm |
|
3 |
|
12# |
|
7 |
|
1 |
|||
18#+ |
31@ |
28 |
|
16 |
28 |
18#+ |
|
|||||
Councillor Briefing / Working Party / Presentation |
7.30 pm |
11 |
|
14 |
|
2Y |
|
11 |
|
|||
|
17 |
|
26 |
30 |
21 |
25 |
|
# Meetings at which the Management Plan ¼ly
reviews are presented. |
^ Election of Mayor/Deputy Mayor |
#+ General Manager’s presentation – half year
and end of year review |
@ Strategic Program progress reports [only
business] |
v Meeting at which the Draft
Management Plan is adopted for exhibition |
ü Meeting at which the 2007/2008
Annual Statements are presented |
* Meeting
at which the Management Plan for 2008/2009 is adopted |
Y Management Plan
Councillor Briefings/Public Forum (May) |
-
Council’s Ordinary Meetings
are held on a three-week cycle where practicable.
-
Extraordinary Meetings are
held as required.
-
Policy Review Meetings are
held on a three-week cycle where practicable.
-
Members of the public are
invited to observe meetings of the Council (Ordinary and Policy Review
Committee). Should you wish to address Council, please contact the Public
Officer, Glenn McCarthy on 4732 7649.
OF
THE ORDINARY MEETING OF
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
ON MONDAY 21 APRIL 2008 AT 7:40PM
NATIONAL ANTHEM
The meeting opened with the National Anthem.
STATEMENT OF RECOGNITION
His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Greg Davies read a
statement of recognition of
PRAYER
The Council
Prayer was read by the Rev Neil Checkley.
PRESENT
His Worship the Mayor Councillor Greg Davies, Councillors Kaylene Allison, David Bradbury, Lexie Cettolin, Kevin Crameri OAM, Mark Davies, Ross Fowler OAM, Jackie Greenow, Karen McKeown, Garry Rumble, Pat Sheehy AM, Steve Simat (arrived at 8:11 pm) and John Thain.
APOLOGIES |
112 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Pat Sheehy AM that the apology from Councillor Steve Simat be accepted. |
LEAVE OF ABSENCE
Leave of Absence was previously granted to Councillor Jim Aitken OAM for the period 7 April 2008 to 21 April 2008 inclusive.
A request for three weeks leave of absence was received from Councillor Susan Page for the period 21 April 2008 to 12 May 2008 inclusive.
113 RESOLVED on the MOTION of
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Ordinary Meeting - 7 April 2008 |
114 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Lexie Cettolin that the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of 7 April 2008 be confirmed. |
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillor Kaylene Allison declared a pecuniary interest in Item 7 - Development Application DA07/0742 for the use of an existing school hall as a Place of Worship at Lot 912 DP 836641 (No. 86 - 90) Andromeda Drive, Cranebrook as she is employed by the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church.
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS |
115 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow that Standing Orders be suspended to allow members of the public to address the meeting, the time being 7:43 pm. |
Rita Schembri
Item 6 – Section 94 Contributions for Dual
Occupancies
Speaking AGAINST the
Recommendation
Ms Schembri, representing an affected person, spoke against the fees charged for Section 94 contributions, and suggested that these costs, along with other development costs, were prohibitive to residents wishing to carry out a dual occupancy development on their property. Also, noting the additional cost of an Aboriginal Cultural Assessment, which is required to be undertaken over some properties in the Penrith Local Government Area.
Councillor Kaylene Allison left the meeting, the time being 7:50 pm.
Father David Maguire
Item 7 – Development
Application DA07/0742 for the use of an existing school hall as a Place of
Worship at
Speaking FOR the Recommendation
Father Maguire,
spokesperson the applicant, spoke in favour of the application, but requested
amendment of a number of conditions of consent which referred to the maximum
size of any congregation, ventilation of the hall and noise attenuation during
use of the PA system and when the band is playing, and the matter of overflow
parking in Andromeda Drive. Father
Maguire
Don Barnes
Item 7 – Development
Application DA07/0742 for the use of an existing school hall as a Place of
Worship at
Speaking AGAINST the
Recommendation
Mr Barnes, an affected neighbour, spoke against the recommendation for approval of this development, citing a number of matters of concern, such as hours of operation; noise emanating from the hall; parking issues; number of people attending using the facility; absence of a landscaping buffer and car park lighting; and wedding receptions being held in the area outside the hall.
116 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Lexie Cettolin seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that an extension of time be granted to Mr Don Barnes, the time being 8:04 pm.
Mr Barnes concluded by requesting that a decision on this development be deferred to enable other local residents, who were not aware that this matter was to be presented to Council this evening, to comment on the proposal.
RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS |
117 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Pat Sheehy AM that Standing Orders be resumed, the time being 8:06 pm. |
Councillor Kaylene Allison returned to the meeting, the time being 8:07 pm.
Mayoral Minutes
Councillor Steve Simat arrived at the meeting, the time being 8:11 pm.
Councillor Lexie Cettolin left the meeting at 8:12 pm and did not return.
1 Federal Cabinet makes history in
Penrith |
118 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg
Davies seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow That: 1. The Mayoral Minute on Federal Cabinet makes history in Penrith be received. 2. Council
thank the Prime Minister and Cabinet for choosing Penrith as the venue for
the first Community Cabinet meeting in 3. Council thank the local member, David Bradbury, for his assistance with both the Community Cabinet and Cabinet meetings being held in Penrith. 4. Council
thank |
Launch of
Councillor Jackie Greenow presented the Mayor with a
certificate of appreciation and a photo of participants from the
Reports of
Committees
1 Report and Recommendations of the
Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on 7 April 2008 |
119 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Karen McKeown that the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 7 April, 2008 be adopted. |
MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS
The City in its
Broader Context
1 Status on the Planning Reforms and the
Release of the Exposure Draft Bills |
120 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John
Thain seconded Councillor Kaylene Allison That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Status on the Planning
Reforms and the Release of the Exposure Draft Bills be received. 2. Council endorse a submission to the Department of Planning, based on the matters outlined in this report, in response to the Planning Reforms Exposure Draft Bills. 3. The implications of the planning reform legislation, when it is introduced, be reported to Council’s Development Regulation Working Party and Council. |
Recomittal of Item
1 - Status on the Planning Reforms and the Release of the Exposure Draft Bills
121 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM that consideration of Item 1 - Status on the Planning Reforms and the Release of the Exposure Draft Bills be recommitted for consideration of Council.
A MOTION was MOVED by Councillor Mark Davies seconded Ross Fowler OAM
That:
1. The information contained in the report on Status on the Planning Reforms and the
Release of the Exposure Draft Bills be received.
2. Council endorse a submission to the Department of Planning, based on the matters outlined in this report, in response to the Planning Reforms Exposure Draft Bills.
3. The implications of the planning reform legislation, when it is introduced, be reported to Council’s Development Regulation Working Party and Council.
4. The Mayor write to the Premier, the Hon Morris Iemma MP, seeking the resignation of the Minister for Planning, the Hon Frank Sartor MP, in relation to the perceived lack of transparency, accountability and reduced public consultation. Furthermore, to the reduction of councils’ traditional autonomy to approve local development and responsibility for decisions on behalf of the local community.
An AMENDMENT was MOVED by Councillor David Bradbury seconded Councillor Pat Sheehy AM
That:
1. The information contained in the report on Status on the Planning Reforms and the
Release of the Exposure Draft Bills be received.
2. Council endorse a submission to the Department of Planning, based on the matters outlined in this report, in response to the Planning Reforms Exposure Draft Bills.
3. The implications of the planning reform legislation, when it is introduced, be reported to Council’s Development Regulation Working Party and Council.
Upon being PUT to the Meeting, the AMENDMENT was CARRIED.
Councillor David Bradbury called for a DIVISION.
For Against
Councillor Pat Sheehy AM Councillor Ross Fowler OAM
Councillor Kaylene
Allison Councillor
Mark
Councillor Karen McKeown
Councillor John Thain Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM
Councillor Jackie Greenow
Councillor Greg Davies
122 The AMENDMENT became the MOTION and was CARRIED.
The
2 |
123 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Garry
Rumble seconded Councillor Karen McKeown That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Glenmore Park Community
Equipment Pool be received. 2. The Section 377 Committee for the Glenmore Park Community Equipment
Pool project be dissolved and the project be discontinued. 3. Any remaining equipment in the Glenmore Park Community Equipment Pool
be donated to local community groups in 4. The balance of remaining funds of $1,000 in the account of the |
3 Assistance Towards Amateur
Sportspersons and Representatives in the fields of Art, Music, Culture -
Overseas and Interstate Travel including results gained by recipients |
124 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Garry
Rumble 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 including results gained by recipients be received. |
5 Variation to 88B Instrument for |
125 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Garry
Rumble seconded Councillor Karen McKeown That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Variation to 88B Instrument
for Lot 804 DP 1068323 (No. 16 - 21) 2. The terms of
clause (b) of Restrictive Covenant fourthly referred to in the 88B Instrument
attached to Lot 804, DP 1068323, be varied as follows as it applies to (b) All development erected
on the subject lot will be in accordance with the proposed building platform
indicated on the Site Plan Prepared by Charleston Homes Pty Ltd, Drawing for
Job Number BAC34307 3. The Common Seal of Penrith City Council be affixed to the necessary documentation 4. Development Application No 07/1288 for the construction of a dwelling, in-ground swimming pool, pavilion, shed and entry gates, and the installation of an on site sewerage management system, be approved subject to the proposed conditions of Development Consent as follows: Standard
Conditions 4.1 A008 – Works to BCA requirements A009 – Residential Works DCP A019 – Occupation Certificate A046 – Issue of Construction Certificate D001 – Sedimentation and Erosion Controls D009 – Covering Waste Storage area E001 – BCA compliance E005 – Smoke Alarms F010 – Septic distance from house H001 – Stamped plans and erection of site notice H011 – Engineering plans and specifications H013 – Further details of building components H014 – Slab design H015 – Termite protection H036 – Rainwater tank H037 – Safe supply from catchment H038 – Connection of rainwater tank supply H039 – Rainwater tank pumps H041 – Hours of work H034 – Bushfire roof sarking I003 – Roads Act approval K017 – Stormwater and sewerage plan L001 – General landscaping L008 – Tree preservation order Q001 – Notice of commencement and appointment of PCA Special
Conditions 4.2 The development must be implemented substantially in accordance with the plans numbered for Job No BAC54507, drawn by Charleston Homes and dated 4th July 200y, the application form, the BASIX Certificate, and any supporting information received with the application, except as may be amended in red on the attached plans and by the following conditions 4.3 All boundary fences are to be low profile, open style and rural in character. The front fence is not to exceed 1.5m in height. The brick dwarf wall is not to exceed 300mm above natural ground level at any point. 4.4 The future swimming pool is to be the subject of a separate development application to Council. 4.5 Prior to the issue of a Construction Certificate for the development, the variation of the Restriction on the Use of land numbered 4(b) in DP 1068323, shall be registered with the Land and Property Information division of the Department of Lands The variation to the covenant shall be in the terms approved by resolution of Penrith City Council 4.6 Cut and fill operations on the property are only permitted in conjunction with the building works and shall be strictly limited in depth and extent to that detailed on the approved plans and specifications Before any fill material is imported to site, a validation certificate issued by an appropriately qualified person is to be provided to the Principal Certifying Authority. The validation certificate must demonstrate that the fill material is free from contaminants and weeds, that it is suitable for its intended purpose and land use, and that it will not pose an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment If Penrith City Council is not the Principal Certifying Authority, a copy of the validation certificate is to be submitted to Council for their reference {Note: Penrith Contaminated Land Development Control Plan defines an appropriately qualified person as “a person who, in the opinion of Council, has a demonstrated experience, or access to experience in hydrology, environmental chemistry, soil science, eco-toxicology, sampling and analytical procedures, risk evaluation and remediation technologies. In addition, the person will be required to have appropriate professional indemnity and public risk insurance.”} 4.7 All house sewer and plumbing work shall be carried out in accordance with Sydney Water's requirements or the Local Government (Water, Sewerage and Drainage) Regulation 1993 a) Penrith City Council is both the consent authority and certifying authority for the installation of the On Site Sewage Management System (OSSM), otherwise known as a septic tank system. It is your responsibility to contact Council's Building Approvals and Environment Protection Department to organise all inspections required for the installation of the system. In this regard, the following will require inspection: · All internal and external drainage lines and septic tanks before they are backfilled/covered · On completion of the system's installation and prior to its commissioning, ensuring compliance with those conditions specific to the installation of the system A copy of the satisfactory inspection reports carried out by Council shall be submitted to the Principal Certifying Authority if Council is not the Principal Certifying Authority i. The septic tank, drainage lines and effluent disposal area shall not be altered without the prior approval of Council. In addition, the septic tank shall not be buried or covered ii. There shall be no effluent runoff from the subject property to adjoining premises, public places or reserves iii. There shall be available all year round, adequate water supply that is available to the property 4.8 The Eco Max Cells shall have a minimum area of 140m2 and shall be prepared in accordance with the “Environmental and Health Protection Guidelines On Site Sewage Management for Single Households” and AS1547:2000 Prior to the issue of the Occupation Certificate and the issue of an operational licence for the OSSM system by Penrith City Council, the effluent disposal area shall be: · Prepared/ landscaped in accordance with the stamped - approved plans All stormwater and seepage shall be diverted away from the disposal area by using an agricultural drain or earthen bund and dish drain 4.9 Prior to the commencement of construction works: (a) Toilet facilities at or in the vicinity of the work site shall be provided at the rate of one toilet for every 20 persons or part of 20 persons employed at the site. Each toilet provided must be: · A standard flushing toilet connected to a public sewer, or · If that is not practicable, an accredited sewage management facility approved by the council, or · Alternatively, any other sewage management facility approved by council 4.10 The recommended construction details to reduce aircraft noise intrusion to meet indoor design sound levels, as detailed in the report prepared by Acoustic Logic Consultancy and dated 12th May 2006 are to be undertaken during construction. As the recommended construction details are carried out and on completion of the development, a qualified acoustic consultant shall certify that the development has been constructed to meet the indoor design sound levels in accordance with the approved acoustic report 4.11 Roof and surface water shall be disposed of in accordance with the approved drainage design. Overflow from the existing in-ground rainwater tank is to be disposed of into the street gutter 4.12 The existing trees to the perimeter of the property, other than those nominated on the site plan to be relocated, shall be retained and duly protected during the construction of the development. Tree protection measures shall be installed before any works can commence on site including the clearing of site vegetation 4.13 An Occupation Certificate is to be obtained from the Principal Certifying Authority on completion of all works and prior to the occupation of the dwelling. The commitments listed in the BASIX Certificate are to be completed prior to the issue of the Occupation Certificate The Certificate shall not be issued if any conditions of
this consent, but not the conditions
relating to the operation of the development, are outstanding. This includes submitting the following
documentation to the Principal Certifying Authority: (a) Written documentation or Compliance Certificate from Penrith City Council certifying to the satisfactory completion of works approved under the Roads Act 1993 (b) Written documentation or certification attesting to the satisfactory installation of, and the Licence to Operate the on site sewage management system issued by Penrith City Council (c) Certification from a qualified acoustic consultant certifying that the development has been constructed in accordance with the approved acoustic report/to meet the indoor design sound levels in accordance with the approved acoustic report 4.14 A copy of the Occupation Certificate and all necessary documentation supporting the issue of the Certificate is to be submitted to Penrith City Council, if Council is not the Principal Certifying Authority. In the event that a Compliance Certificate was issued by the Principal Certifying Authority certifying compliance that all conditions of the development consent required to be met has in fact been met as well as any documentation stated above, shall be submitted to Penrith City Council if Council is not the Principal Certifying Authority. |
4 Western |
126 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Steve
Simat seconded Councillor Pat Sheehy AM That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Western Sydney Employment
Hub - Public Exhibition of draft SEPP (Western Sydney Employment Hub) 2008
and draft Erskine Park Link Road Network Plan be received 2. Council endorse a submission to the Department of Planning on the Western Sydney Employment Hub Draft SEPP and Draft Erskine Park Link Road Network plan based on the issues identified in the report. 3. Council
endorse a deputation to meet with the Premier seeking his support for the RTA
to move as a matter of urgency to undertake the necessary acquisition and
construction of the |
6 Section 94 Contributions for Dual
Occupancies |
127 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross
Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM That: 1. The information contained in the report on Section 94 Contributions for Dual Occupancies be received. 2. An |
Having previously declared a pecuniary interest in Item 7, Councillor Kaylene Allison left the meeting, the time being 9:16 pm.
7 Development Application DA07/0742 for
the use of an existing school hall as a Place of Worship at |
128 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat
Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that consideration of this
matter be deferred and a further report come back to Council which considers
the matters raised by speakers to this Item, particularly with regard to
special conditions 2.22, 2.33 and 2.34. |
Councillor Kaylene Allison returned to the meeting, the time being 9:30 pm.
The City as an
Economy
8 Young Achievement |
129 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat
Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow That: 1. The information contained in the report on Young Achievement Australia Business Skills Program be received. 2. Council write to Young Achievement Australia requesting an evaluation of its program so that Council may consider any future requests for sponsorship from the Program, if required. |
The City Supported
by Infrastructure
9 Tender 16-07/08 Relocation of Water
Mains at |
130 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat
Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Tender 16-07/08 Relocation
of Water Mains at 2. Firedam Civil
Engineering Pty Ltd be engaged to undertake the Relocation of the Water Mains
at |
Leadership and
Organisation
10 Pecuniary Interest Returns |
131 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross
Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Garry Rumble that the information contained in the report on Pecuniary Interest Returns be received. |
11 Update on Local Government Elections -
13 September 2008 |
132 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross
Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Garry Rumble that the information contained in the report on Update on Local Government Elections - 13
September 2008, be received. |
12 Amendments to the 2008 Meeting Calendar |
133 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross
Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Garry Rumble That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Amendments to the 2008
Meeting Calendar be received. 2. The 2008 Meeting Calendar be altered as follows: · the Monday night meetings from 12 May 2008 through to 2 June
2008 inclusive be rescheduled to provide for an Ordinary Council meeting on
19 May 2008, a Policy Review Committee on 12 May 2008 and Councillor
Briefings on 26 May 2008 and on 2 June 2008 (Management Plan Public Forum); · the Monday night meetings from 1 September 2008 through to 29 September 2008 inclusive be rescheduled to provide for Ordinary Council meetings on 8 September 2008 and on 29 September 2008 (Mayoral Election) and a Policy Review Committee meeting on 1 September 2008; 3. Council note the intention to submit a report to a meeting of the Policy Review Committee, prior to the end of the term of the current Council, on the balance of the 2008 Meeting Calendar and on the 2009 Meeting Calendar. |
16 Summary of Investments & Banking for
the period 1 March to 31 March 2008 and an
Agency Collection Method |
134 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross
Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Garry Rumble That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Summary of Investments
& Banking for the period 1 March to 31 March 2008 and an Agency Collection Method be received. 2. The
Certificate of the Responsible Accounting Officer and Summaries of
Investments and Performance for the period 1 March 2008 to 31 March 2008 be noted and accepted. 3. The
graphical investment analysis as at 31 March 2008 be noted. 4. The
Agency Collection Methods be noted. |
13 Council Property - Leasing of parts of
"Community" land under Council's Plan of Management to Scouts |
135 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat
Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow that consideration of this
matter be deferred until Councillors have been provided with information as
to the contents of Agreements with Scouts Australia, regarding the
maintenance of buildings and grounds that are used by the organisation, as
well as other similar agreements that may exist with Girl Guides and like
organisations. |
14 Memorandum of Understanding between |
136 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John
Thain seconded Councillor Kaylene Allison That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Memorandum of Understanding
between Blue Mountains City Council and Penrith City Council be received. 2. Council endorse the General Manager signing a Memorandum of Understanding between Blue Mountains City Council and Penrith City Council. 3. Council send a letter to the Hon Kerry Hickey, former Minister for Local Government, the Hon Paul Lynch MP, Minister for Local Government, and the Hon Anthony Albanese, Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, advising that Council is actively working with other Councils, with a copy of the report to be provided to the Hon Kerry Hickey. 4. A memo be provided to Councillors regarding the status of Council’s Memorandums of Understanding with other adjoining councils. |
15 City Operations Directorate Report to
end of March 2008 |
137 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow that the information contained in the report on City Operations Directorate Report to end of March 2008 be received. |
QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
QWN 1 Parking Issue - |
Councillor
John Thain requested a memo reply concerning a truck which has been parked on
the verge of |
QWN 2 Provision of Footpath
- |
Councillor
Mark Davies requested that an amount of $16,800 from South Ward voted works
be allocated to the provision of a footpath along |
138
RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor
Garry Rumble that the matter be brought forward and dealt with as a matter of
urgency. His Worship the
Mayor, Councillor Greg Davies, ruled that the matter was urgent and should be
dealt with at the meeting. |
139 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark
Davies seconded Councillor Garry Rumble that an amount of $16,800 from South
Ward voted works be allocated to the provision of a footpath along |
QWN 3 Trimming of Trees -
High Street, Penrith |
Councillor
Mark Davies requested a memo reply regarding the trimming of overgrown trees
along both the south and north sides of High Street, Penrith, in particular
in the |
QWN
4 Referral
of Personnel Matters to Committee of the Whole |
Councillor
Kevin Crameri OAM advised that he had two matters to be considered at the end
of the meeting, in Committee of the Whole. |
QWN 5 |
Councillor
Kevin Crameri OAM requested a memo reply to all Councillors providing
information as to whether land at |
Councillor Mark Davies left the meeting, the time being 9:46 pm.
QWN 6 Parking at YWCA,
Penrith |
Councillor
Kevin Crameri OAM requested a memo reply concerning lack of adequate,
well-lit parking at the YWCA in Penrith, and also concerning the strong odour
of paint thinners or a similar substance in the area. |
Councillor Mark Davies returned to the meeting, the time being 9:49 pm.
QWN 7 Provision of
Industrial Mower for use of RDA and Pony Club |
Councillor
Kevin Crameri OAM requested that the amount of $500 from each Ward’s voted
words ($1,500 in total) be allocated to the purchase from Council of an
industrial type mower for use by the Riding for the Disabled (RDA) and Pony
Club. |
140
RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded
Councillor Pat Sheehy AM that the matter be brought forward and dealt with as
a matter of urgency. His Worship the
Mayor, Councillor Greg Davies, ruled that the matter was urgent and should be
dealt with at the meeting. |
141 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin
Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Pat Sheehy AM that the amount of $500 from
each Ward’s voted words ($1,500 in total) be allocated to the purchase from
Council of an industrial type mower for use by the Riding for the Disabled
(RDA) and Pony Club. |
QWN 8 |
Councillor
Kevin Crameri OAM (on behalf of Councillor Lexie Cettolin), requested that
the amount of $600 from North Ward voted works be allocated to the hire of
the Berkshire Park Community Hall for the 4th Annual Rural Living
and Ute Show, to commence on 19 July 2008. |
142
RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded
Councillor Pat Sheehy AM that the matter be brought forward and dealt with as
a matter of urgency. His Worship the
Mayor, Councillor Greg Davies, ruled that the matter was urgent and should be
dealt with at the meeting. |
143 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin
Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Pat Sheehy AM that the amount of $600 from
North Ward voted works be allocated to the hire of the Berkshire Park
Community Hall for the 4th Annual Rural Living and Ute Show, to
commence on 19 July 2008. |
QWN 9 Footpaving - |
Councillor
Jackie Greenow requested that the amount of $12,000 from East Ward voted
works be allocated to the provision of a footpath for |
144
RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded
Councillor Steve Simat that the matter be brought forward and dealt with as a
matter of urgency. His Worship the
Mayor, Councillor Greg Davies, ruled that the matter was urgent and should be
dealt with at the meeting. |
145 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie
Greenow seconded Councillor Steve Simat that the amount of $12,000 from East
Ward voted works be allocated to the provision of a footpath for |
QWN 10 100 Year anniversary
of Penrith Weir |
Councillor
Jackie Greenow requested a report to Council on the feasibility of conducting
a ‘river festival’ to mark the 100 year anniversary of Penrith Weir in 2009. |
QWN 11 Grass cutting carried
out at Lighthorse Interchange on the M4 Motorway |
Councillor
Jackie Greenow requested that a letter be sent to the RTA, thanking the
Authority for the recent mowing of the grassed area in the vicinity of the
Lighthorse Interchange on the M4 Motorway, and suggesting that this area be
regularly maintained to this high standard. |
QWN 12 Condition of Property
in |
Councillor
Jackie Greenow requested a memo reply to all Councillors concerning a
heritage property in |
QWN 13 Tree Maintenance - |
Councillor
Greg Davies requested an urgent memo reply to all Councillors on the status
of tree trimming in |
QWN 14 St Clair Netball
Courts |
Councillor
Greg Davies requested that an inspection of St Clair Netball courts be
carried out regarding maintenance issues including a broken brick wall; water
spilling over the wall at the |
QWN 15 Finlay Street Carpark,
St Marys |
Councillor
Greg Davies requested an inspection of the Finlay Street Carpark, St Marys,
with a memo reply to be provided to all Councillors. |
Committee
of the Whole
146 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM that the meeting adjourn to the Committee of the Whole to deal with the following matters, the time being 9:58 pm.
1 Presence of the Public
CW1 RESOLVED on the motion of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM that the press and public be excluded from Committee of the Whole to deal with the following matters:
2 Question Without Notice 4 - Referral of Personnel Matters to
Committee of the Whole
Two matters raised by Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM were referred
to Committee of the Whole as they refer to personnel matters concerning
particular individuals and discussion of the matter in open meeting would be,
on balance, contrary to the public interest.
The
meeting resumed at 10:10 pm and the Acting General Manager reported that the
Committee of the Whole met at 9:58 pm on Monday 21 April 2008, the following
being present
His Worship the Mayor Councillor Greg Davies, Councillors Kaylene Allison, David Bradbury, Kevin Crameri OAM, Mark Davies, Ross Fowler OAM, Jackie Greenow, Karen McKeown, Susan Page, Garry Rumble, Pat Sheehy AM and John Thain
and the
Committee of the Whole excluded the press and public from the meeting for the
reasons set out in CW1.
CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS
2 Question Without Notice 4 - Referral of Personnel Matters to Committee of the Whole |
After Councillor Crameri was given an opportunity to outline the issue,
the Mayor |
ADOPTION
OF Committee of the Whole
147
RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Jackie
Greenow that a memo reply to all
Councillors be provided in response to the matters raised by Councillor Crameri
being an overgrown and unsightly property in
There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 10:12 pm.
PENRITH
CITY COUNCIL
Procedure
for Addressing Meetings
Anyone can request permission to address a meeting, providing
that the number of speakers is limited to three in support of any proposal and
three against.
Any request about an issue or matter on the Agenda for
the meeting can be lodged with the General Manager or Public Officer up until
12 noon on the day of the meeting.
Prior to the meeting the person who has requested
permission to address the meeting will need to provide the Public Officer with
a written statement of the points to be covered during the address in
sufficient detail so as to inform the Councillors of the substance of the
address and a written copy of any questions to be asked of the Council in order
that responses to those questions can be provided in due course.
In addition, prior to addressing the meeting a person
addressing Council or Committee will be informed that they do not enjoy any
privilege and that permission to speak may be withdrawn should they make
inappropriate comments.
It should be noted that speakers at meetings of the
Council or Committee do not have absolute privilege (parliamentary
privilege). A speaker who makes any
potentially offensive or defamatory remarks about any other person may render
themselves open to legal action.
Prior to addressing the meeting the person will be
required to sign the following statement:
“I (name) understand that the meeting I intend
to address on (date) is a public meeting.
I also understand that should I say or present any material that is
inappropriate, I may be subject to legal action. I also acknowledge that I have been informed
to obtain my own legal advice about the appropriateness of the material that I
intend to present at the above mentioned meeting”.
Should a person fail to sign the above statement then
permission to address either the Council or Committee will not be granted.
The Public Officer or Minute Clerk will speak to those
people who have requested permission to address the meeting, prior to the
meeting at 7.15pm.
It is up to the Council or Committee to decide if the
request to address the meeting will be granted.
Where permission is to be granted the Council or
Committee, at the appropriate time, will suspend only so much of the Standing
Orders to allow the address to occur.
The Chairperson will then call the person up to the
lectern or speaking area.
The person addressing the meeting needs to clearly
indicate:
·
Their name;
·
Organisation or group they are representing (if applicable);
·
Details of the issue to be addressed and the item number of the
report in the Business Paper;
·
Whether they are opposing or supporting the issue or matter (if
applicable) and the action they would like the meeting to take;
·
The interest of the speaker
(e.g. affected person, neighbour, applicant, applicants
spokesperson, interested citizen etc).
Each person then has five minutes to make their
address. Those addressing Council will
be required to speak to the written statement they have submitted. Permission to address Council is not to be
taken as an opportunity to refute or otherwise the points made by previous
speakers on the same issue.
The Council or Committee can extend this time if they
consider if appropriate, however, everyone needs to work on the basis that the
address will be for five minutes only.
Councillors may have questions about the address so
people are asked to remain at the lectern or in the speaking area until the
Chairperson has thanked them.
When this occurs, they should then return to their
seat.
Glenn McCarthy
Public
Officer
02 4732 7649
Reports of
Committees
Item Page
1 Report and Recommendations of the Policy
Review Committee Meeting held on 28 April 2008
5
May 2008 |
|
Leadership and Organisation |
|
REPORT
AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
Policy
Review Committee MEETING
HELD
ON 28 April, 2008
PRESENT
His Worship the Mayor Councillor Greg Davies, Councillors Jim Aitken OAM, Kaylene Allison, Lexie Cettolin, Kevin Crameri OAM, Mark Davies, Ross Fowler OAM, Karen McKeown, Garry Rumble, Pat Sheehy AM and John Thain.
APOLOGIES |
RECOMMENDED that apologies be received and accepted from Councillors David Bradbury, Jackie Greenow and Steve Simat. |
LEAVE OF ABSENCE
Leave of Absence was previously granted to Councillor Susan Page for the period 21 April 2008 to 12 May 2008 inclusive.
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Policy Review Committee Meeting - 31 March 2008 |
RECOMMENDED that the minutes of the Policy Review Committee Meeting of 31 March 2008 be confirmed. |
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillor Ross Fowler OAM declared a pecuniary interest in Item 3 – Riverlink Precinct Plan as he is a Director of a company that owns property in the Plan area and also the accountant for property owners within the Plan area. Councillor Fowler declared his intention to leave the meeting during debate and voting on this matter.
Councillor Jim Aitken OAM declared a pecuniary interest in Item 4 – Caddens Release Area draft Local Environmental Plan and draft Development Control Plan as he owns land within the area. Councillor Aitken declared his intention to leave the meeting during debate and voting on this matter.
MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS
The
Having previously
declared a pecuniary interest in Item 4, Councillor Jim Aitken left the
meeting, the time being 7:40pm.
4 Caddens Release Area draft Local
Environmental Plan and draft Development Control Plan |
Mr Kerry
Robinson, General Manager Urban Development, Landcom and Ms Camille Abbott,
Development Director, Landcom, gave a presentation on the Caddens Release
Area. The presentation included information on Landcom’s role, the process to
date, community consultation, structure plan, sustainability blueprint
principles and precinct centre concept and the process from here. |
RECOMMENDED That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Caddens Release Area draft
Local Environmental Plan and draft Development Control Plan be received. 2. In accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
and associated Regulations, Council submit the draft Caddens Release Area
Local Environmental Plan to the Director-General of the Department of
Planning seeking the issue of a Section 65 certificate to enable the draft
Plan to be publicly exhibited. 3. In accordance with the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 and associated Regulations, a draft amendment to Penrith Development Control Plan 2006 to incorporate the development controls relating to Caddens Release Area be publicly exhibited. 4. Landcom and the other landowners within the Caddens Release Area be advised of Council’s decision and of the importance of achieving a suitable outcome for delivery of affordable housing across the whole of the release area. 5. A further report be presented to Council following the exhibition. |
Councillor Jim
Aitken returned to the meeting, the time being 7:59pm.
LEADERSHIP AND
ORGANISATION
6 Planning Online Services |
Councillor Mark Davies left the meeting,
the time being 8:24pm. Councillor Mark Davies returned to the
meeting, the time being 8:32pm. Ms Shari Hussein, Strategic Planning
Coordinator, |
RECOMMENDED That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Planning Online Services be
received. 2. The information displayed on the public view of the DA tracker and register be approved. |
THE CITY IN ITS BROADER
CONTEXT
Having previously
declared a pecuniary interest in Item 3, Councillor Ross Fowler OAM left the
meeting, the time being 8:32pm.
3 Riverlink Precinct Plan |
RECOMMENDED That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Riverlink Precinct Plan be
received 2. The revised Riverlink Precinct Plan, as attached to this report, be adopted by Council as an Interim Policy 3. The policy directions outlined in the adopted Riverlink Precinct Plan be used to guide the preparation of planning controls in the draft Penrith Local Environmental Plan and Penrith Development Control Plan (Stage 2) 4. The landowners and residents of the Riverlink Precinct be invited to comment on the draft planning controls for the Precinct when they are developed. |
Councillor Ross
Fowler returned to the meeting, the time being 8:34pm..
1 Draft Penrith Development Control Plan
2008 |
RECOMMENDED That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Draft Penrith Development
Control Plan 2008 be received. 2. Further necessary changes be made to the draft Penrith Development Control Plan 2008 prior to exhibition, to ensure consistency with draft Penrith LEP 2008 (Stage 1). 3. Draft Penrith Development Control Plan 2008 be publicly exhibited, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 and associated Regulations. 4. Amendments to Penrith Development Control Plan 2006 be publicly exhibited, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 and associated Regulations, as outlined in this report. 5. An amendment to Penrith Local Environmental Plan 1991 (Environmental Heritage Conservation) be publicly exhibited, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 and associated Regulations, as outlined in this report. 6. The amendment to Penrith Local Environmental Plan 1991 (Environmental Heritage Conservation) be exhibited in accordance with the Department of Planning document entitled “LEPs and Council Land – Best Practice Guideline for councils using delegated powers to prepare LEPs involving land that is or was previously owned or controlled by Council”, in as far as that plan relates to newly proposed heritage items. 7. Further reports be presented to Council following the exhibition. |
2 Penrith Urban Study and Strategy |
RECOMMENDED That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Penrith Urban Study and
Strategy be received. 2. Council endorse the Urban Study and Urban Strategy program,
including the proposed communications framework, as outlined in this report. |
The
5 Refugee Welcome Zone |
RECOMMENDED That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Refugee Welcome Zone be
received. 2. Council endorse the declaration of Penrith City Council as a Refugee Welcome Zone at a Public event such as Refugee Week in June 2008. 3. Penrith City Council further explore actions in this report to promote the City as a Refugee Welcome Zone. |
There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 8:35pm.
That the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee meeting held on 28 April, 2008 be adopted. |
Item Page
Leadership and Organisation
1 Draft 2008-2009 Management Plan
The
2 Feasibility of Sporting Fields at
3 Requirements for submission of a
development application for dual occupancy in rural areas
URGENT
12 Research Partnerships Program -
The City In Its Environment
4 Request for Tender 12-07/08 for the
Provision of Bushland Management and Associated Project Management
The City Supported by Infrastructure
5 Local Government Road Safety Program -
Additional Funding
6 Fire Safety of Council Facilities
Leadership and Organisation
7 Pecuniary Interest Returns
8 Australian Local Government Women's
Association (ALGWA)
9 20th Women, Management and Employment
Relations Conference - 24 to 25 July 2008
10 Transfer and Dedication as Road - Lot
8349, DP 1003801, Kyarra Terrace,
11 Annual GST Compliance Certificate
THIS PAGE HAS BEEN LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Leadership and Organisation
Item Page
1 Draft 2008-2009 Management Plan
5
May 2008 |
|
Leadership and Organisation |
|
Leadership and Organisation
1 |
Draft
2008-2009 Management Plan |
|
Compiled by: Ken Lim, Organisational Development Co-ordinator
Geraldine Brown, Budget Accountant
Authorised by: Vicki O’Kelly, Financial Services Manager
Ross Kingsley, Corporate Development Manager
Strategic Program Term Achievement: Council's
operating culture is flexible, efficient, integrated and aligned to Council's
strategic objectives and program delivery.
Critical Action: Prepare, implement and review management
plans and processes aligned to and consistent with Council’s Strategic Plan and
Program.
Purpose:
To present the Draft 2008-2009
Management Plan documents and accompanying information for Council's
consideration and adoption to enable their public exhibition. The report
advises Council of further details regarding public consultation on the draft
Plan. The report recommends that the Draft Management Plan be adopted for
public exhibition.
Due to the size of these documents, copies have been provided to Councillors
under separate cover. Copies are also available to the public.
Background
The Draft 2008-2009 Management Plan provides for the delivery of the
final instalment of Council’s four year program within its 2005-2009 Strategic
Plan, Penrith City: the Competitive Edge.
Preparation of the draft Plan has involved extensive discussions with
Council through a series of workshops and reports.
The draft documents presented tonight for Council’s consideration
represent the culmination of Council’s discussions and resolutions over the
last few months.
2005-2009
Strategic Plan and Program
In December 2004, Council adopted the 2005-2009 Strategic Plan for the
City and the Strategic Program to deliver it. Through this process, Council
considered in depth both a longer term vision and a more specific four year
program for the City. Management was directed to assess the essential responses
to the Strategy over the four year period 2005-09 and beyond, in the context of
both existing services and capacity and future possible requirements.
In adopting its Strategy, Council highlighted certain key themes of the
Plan for emphasis in the organisation’s response to the four year program.
While recognising that Council’s strategy continued and built on many of the principal directions set by
previous Councils, it was also seen to reflect a number of new or strengthened
themes, such as:
·· The City considered in a broader context
and in its metropolitan role, leadership, collaboration and partnering with
government, other advocates and the City’s people
·· Managing the growth, development and
change of places so that they are sustainable and satisfying for those who
choose to live there, recognising this need not only for new areas but for our
older neighbourhoods
·· Quality of life for residents, including
accessible cultural, social, economic services and access to readily suitable
employment
·· Securing and providing the
infrastructure which a growing regional City needs and managing it in a
sustainable way
·· Equipping and managing the organisation
to deliver Council’s program effectively in a context of generational change in
its workforce, increasing demand for services from Local Government and
increasing insistence for local communities to be more involved in decisions
which affect them.
These themes were to be used over time to develop responses to Council’s
strategy across its programs and to test Management Plan proposals as they
emerged. This has been carried out through the first three annual instalments
of the Strategic Program. The draft Management Plan submitted tonight
represents the conclusion of the present program.
The 2008-2009
Management Plan Program
Council has previously confirmed the following key objectives that the
Plan will seek to achieve. These are to:
·· Address essential operating costs,
including significant variations due to external factors
·· Maintain existing service provision at
current levels, except as may be directed by Council
·· Maintain the priority given to asset
management and continue to increase allocations in this area to meet the
identified needs of the City
·· Maintain a level of expenditure similar
to recent years on new capital works; and
·· Make a
comprehensive and effective address of the requirements for the coming year set
out by Council in its Strategic Plan and four-year program.
Based on these objectives, the Draft Plan has been drawn up to deliver:
· Council’s annual program of works and services for 2008-2009; and
· through the critical actions and proposed set of strategic tasks, as well as through the delivery of Council’s 62 ongoing services, complete as far as possible the directions laid down by Council’s Strategic Program for 2005-2009.
Financial
Considerations
The Budget, Revenue Policy and Commentary is contained in Part B of the
Draft Management Plan. The commentary
highlights significant changes and provides information on Council’s Budget
Policies and Financial Position.
The draft budget has been prepared on the basis of continuing existing
service levels, adding new projects, removing one-off items and adjusting for
expected changes in costs from 2007-08 to 2008-09. Significant new initiatives include an
enhancement to the level of parks asset renewal and the first year of a staged
public toilet replacement program. This extends Council’s previously adopted strategies and commitment
to ongoing asset renewal across the City.
The 2008-09 total budget estimates expenditure of $186.2m, including
$51.3m of Capital Works. The budget
currently has a small surplus ($143,700) and it is recommended that this remain
unallocated until the amount of the Financial Assistance Grant is known in
September as this amount fluctuates form year to year.
Following the Public Exhibition process, the budget may be amended
prior to being adopted as Council’s original 2008-09 Budget. The changes may
include amendments due to public submissions, or due to additional information
becoming available that amends cost or income estimates. Officers will also continue reviewing the
budget while it is on exhibition.
Notwithstanding this, the draft budget gives a clear view of Council’s
intentions and priorities for 2008-09 and is ready for Public Exhibition.
Significant Changes to Expenditure from 2007-08
· Employee Costs -
$4.2m increase
Total employee costs are predicted to increase by $4.2m (6.8%) from 2008-09. This increase includes an estimated 4.95% increase on current salaries and wages. This increase comprises an estimated industry average 3.25% award increase (2.15% annualised), 1.8% for salary step progressions, and 1.0% for performance appraisals.
Current claims estimates are that there will be an increase in the Workers Compensation premium, compared to 2007-08, of $100,000 (5%) to $2.0 million for 2008-09.
In 2000, the Local Government Superannuation Scheme (LGSS) announced that it had $800m in reserve funds, and that the required contribution from member councils in the defined benefits scheme would be waived from 1 November 2000 for an ongoing indefinite period. This contribution “holiday” ceased from 1 July 2005 and was re-introduced at half rates. The “half holiday’ will cease from 1 July 2008. Council had previously prudently made provision by way of reserve to minimise the impact of the full superannuation contributions. The reserve amount of $450,000 has been transferred to partly offset the costs in 2008-09. The full impact from 2009-10 will be approximately $720,000. On this basis, superannuation for 2008-09 is estimated to be $5.28m, which represents an increase of approximately $720,000 (16%) over the current estimated actual for 2007-08.
Employee costs include direct salaries and wages, long service leave, gratuities, superannuation, workers compensation premiums and fringe benefits tax and are the largest single area of expenditure for Council. Even a relatively small percentage increase in costs has a large impact on the total budget. Council’s annual superannuation expense is impacted by a combination of general wage increases, salary system progression and position regrading/market forces reviews.
· Insurances -
$144,000 increase
The results from the liability insurance renewals, discussions with Westpool, and a review of the claims that will affect our premiums for 2008-09, have resulted in an estimated increase of $73,000 (9%) in Public Liability/Professional Indemnity (PL/PI) for 2008-09 over the original 2007-08 budget. Premiums for ISR (property) insurance are expected to increase by $37,000(13%) in 2008-09. An allowance of $90,000 is provided in the Insurance Reserve pending confirmation of a revised premium for PL/PI as part of a move towards 100 % compliance with APRA regulations by Westpool (a risk management alliance of western Sydney Councils)
Plant
and Motor Vehicle insurance premiums are expected to be $180,000 in 2008-09,
which is approximately $34,000 (23%) more than the original 2007-08 due to the
cost of claims on CGU exceeding the premiums for two successive years. Council’s premium increase has been cushioned
by the performance of other members of Westpool and CGU’s premium pricing mechanisms.
Nonetheless the premium compared to private comprehensive insurance remains
favourable with insurance cost per fleet passenger vehicles increasing from
$239 in 2006-07 to $325 for 2007-08 and $365 for 2008-09. Measures are being
reviewed to minimise claims in the future.
Budgets for claim excess are expected to remain unchanged at
$490,000.
· Contribution to other Organisations -
$69,000 increase
At this time of the budget preparation process, not all information regarding contributions to authorities is available, and a 3.5% increase has been applied to most contributions. The exceptions to this assumption are contributions to the Rural Fire Service - 14%, the New South Wales Fire Brigade - 5%, and WSROC - 3.2% (which increases by the rate pegging percentage each year).
· Loan Repayments - $557,000 increase
The cost of interest and of capital repayments has been estimated. While repayments for existing loans are known, the recent interest rate increase will impact on the rate achieved for the June 2008 program. This increase, combined with any future increases, will result in an increase in the cost of funds compared to 2007. Additional loan borrowings for the final stage of the footpath paving accelerated program and additional asset renewal borrowing also contribute to the increase.
The current estimate of loan repayments included in the draft budget for 2008-09 is $3.8m of interest and $6.0m of principal repayments. This represents a $555,000 (10.3%) increase on principal repayments and $2,000 (0.05%) increase on interest repayments from the previous year which is partly funded by an additional $366,000 funding from s94 and Property Development Reserve in keeping with the purpose of the loan.
· Borrowings - $6.9m
Council’s previous five-year borrowing program ended in 2004-05. The five-year program targeted a borrowing level of $2.8m through to 2004-05. The program was part of Council’s debt reduction strategy. This level of general purpose borrowing was continued in 2005-06, however it was reviewed in 2006-07 and increased by $400,000 from that year. The new base infrastructure borrowing of $3.2m, after allowing for increases in CPI, is equivalent to the previous $2.8m base borrowing figure.
In addition the following borrowing strategy which was adopted as part of the 2007-08 Management Plan process continues in 2008-09:
· Borrowing $2m per year in 2007-08 and 2008-09 to bring forward the balance of the footpath paving program and completing it over two years compared to six years based on the 2006-07 allocation.
· Funding the general revenue component of the AREAS asset renewal program (discussed below) over the ten year term by additional loan funding. This represents $913,000 in additional borrowing each year until 2015-16.
Borrowings to advance the Asset Renewal strategy and path paving program will add $2.9m to the program, taking total infrastructure borrowings for the year to $6.1m. Additional borrowings of $800,000 are also proposed to fund essential works at Ripples. The impact of this additional borrowing strategy has now been incorporated in the draft 2008-09 Draft Management Plan and long term financial model. Council intends to acquire a property, and borrow the funds for acquisition (to be repaid by Property Development Reserve), in the Dunheved Industrial Estate to facilitate re-development of that area. The purchase price is subject to tender. If Council’s offer is accepted the purchase price will be disclosed at the completion of the tender process and will form part of the 2008-09 borrowing program.
The proposed purchase is the subject of a separate report to tonight’s meeting in Committee of the Whole.
· Indexation of Asset
Services - $495,000 increase
Materials budgets in this area have been increased by CPI or the appropriate factor based on Council policy. A summary of these increases is shown below:
Parks
increased by $110k
· Materials and contracts budget $39k (CPI)
· New assets $71k (policy based)
City
Works increased by $305k
· Roads and drainage materials and contracts $89k (CPI)
· Plant and motor vehicle materials and contracts $76k (CPI) funded increase
· Building maintenance materials and contracts $81k (Building Maintenance Index)
· Buildings - new assets $41k (2.5%, policy based)
· Drainage – new assets $18k (policy based)
Public
Domain increased by $80k
· Materials and contracts budget $23k (CPI)
· New Assets $57k (policy based)
· Asset Renewal and Established Areas Strategy (AREAS) - $795,000 increase
In line with the AREAS strategy in 2008-09, it is proposed that funding under the three main areas of this strategy increase for road asset renewal by $523,000 (5%), building asset renewal by $200,000 (15%), and established areas revitalisation by $72,000 (4%). The special rate increase which commenced in 2006-07 funds the bulk of this program, and in 2007-08 Council endorsed sourcing loan funds to provide the bulk of the currently unfunded portion, as detailed in the table below:
Increased
budget – AREAS programs |
2007-08 $’000 |
|
2008-09 $’000 |
|
2009-10 $’000 |
Road Asset renewal |
1,453 |
|
1,976 |
|
2,045 |
Building Asset renewal |
650 |
|
850 |
|
880 |
Established Areas Revitalisation |
1,711 |
|
1,783 |
|
1,845 |
Total increased budget |
3,814 |
|
4,609 |
|
4,770 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additional
funding to Support AREAS |
|
|
|
|
|
Special Rate Increase (5.2% above rate pegging) |
3,063 |
|
3,163 |
|
3,274 |
Additional Loan Borrowing (above previous $2.8m program) |
400 |
|
400 |
|
400 |
Asset Renewal borrowings |
290 |
|
913 |
|
913 |
Total additional funding |
3,753 |
|
4,476 |
|
4,587 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Estimated General Revenue
Funds Required |
61 |
|
133 |
|
183 |
New Items and Changes to Funding Arrangements
In addition to estimating cost changes, various changes result from the
implementation of Council policies, the ending of specific arrangements, or new
funding becoming available. These items were discussed in Council Workshops,
and the recommended 2008-09 draft budget varies from the 2007-08 budget as
follows:
· Section 94 works
have been identified for 2008-09. A
total of $14.45m expenditure is
proposed, and is included in the Capital and Operating Projects list following
the Budget, Revenue Policy and Commentary in Part B of the draft documents.
· Projects funded
from the special 10-year rate increase approved in 2002 are expanded by the
amount of the Ministerial Rate Increase. The Environmental Enhancement Program,
Economic Development and Community Safety and Neighbourhood Renewal programs
are all budgeted to increase by 3.2%.
Operations managed by the Penrith City Children’s Services Cooperative are budgeted to have a net impact on general revenue of $222,500 in 2008-09. This incorporates a contribution of $146,950 to fully fund the Inclusion Support Program. This represents an overall increase of $89,500 in the Council subsidy provided to the Cooperative in 2007-08.
Significant Changes to Revenue from 2007-08
· Rates - $2.6m increase
An
increase of $2.6m for rates income has been included in the draft budget, which
is based on the maximum permissible rate increase of 3.2% for rates. The
estimate for 2008-09 also factors in growth of $960,000, including $660,000
predicted for growth in non-residential rates.
· Financial Assistance Grant - $377,700 increase
The Financial Assistance Grant (FAG) allocated to Penrith this year was $79,100 more than estimated during the 2007-08 budget process. As part of the 2008-09 budget process, an increase of 3% has been applied to the 2007-08 Grant. This has resulted in a total estimated increase to the Grant of $377,700 (3.8%) over the original 2007-08 budget. As $63,300 of this increase relates to the roads component, this has been added to the roads budget according to Council policy.
· Development Related Income - $142,000
decrease
The current general downturn in building and building related activity is expected to continue in 2008-09. Income related to building and development activity has been decreased by $142,000 (7%).
· Interest on Investments - $250,000 increase
Council’s investment portfolio will be actively managed, in accordance with Council’s investment strategy and ongoing investment advice from Oakvale Capital, to ensure that overall the portfolio continues to outperform set benchmarks. At this time, expected interest on investments has been increased in the draft budget by $250,000 (18%), based on the general revenue portion of the portfolio of $22m and an interest rate of 7.0%.
· Fees and Charges
As part of the draft Management Plan process, fees and charges have been reviewed with the proposed increases in the fees set directly by Council being generally in the vicinity of the estimated CPI increase. Overall, the average increase in user fees and charges included in Part C of the documents, the Draft Fees and Charges booklet, is 3.71%. This category of income is estimated to be $32.7m, which is 18% of Council’s total estimated operating revenue for 2008-09. Council’s Revenue Policy is included in part B of the Management Plan documents.
Children’s Services fees have been incorporated into the fees and charges document at the amounts recommended by the Board of the Penrith Childrens’ Services Cooperative. The fees and charges for the Controlled Entities fees are set and published by those organisations. Fees set by regulation are included at the current rates, but are subject to change when the regulations change.
· Waste Management
Council entered into new 10-year waste collection contracts commencing October 2007 which will include a 3-bin collection system for organics (food & garden waste), recyclables, and residual waste in urban areas. A small increase to the annual cost of the standard 240L domestic waste charge to $249 pa ($243 in 2007-08) is proposed for 2008-09. For those residents choosing a 140L bin the draft budget proposes that there be no change to the current annual charge of $184 pa.
2004-05 Special rate variation
Council holds a special rate variation of 1.32%,
approved in 2004-05, to subsidise the sullage collection for those households
not having access to sewerage services.
The total subsidy amount is directly proportional to the volume pumped
out, and is expected to decrease by $282,000, as a result of the subsidised
properties that have been connected to the Mulgoa/Wallacia sewerage system
since it came on line in the second half of 2006. Council has already agreed to pay, from the
special variation funds, for the clean out of tanks to allow for their
conversion to rainwater tanks. The
special rate variation will continue to provide a subsidy for those residents
in villages without access to sewerage schemes.
Following endorsement in the 2007-08 Management Plan any savings made
will be directed to other environmental enhancement projects across the
city.
Long Term Financial Model
Whilst 2008-09 has a small predicted surplus, long term modelling indicates that, based on the proposed allocations of surplus funds in the draft 2008-09 budget, 2009-10 and 2010-11 will have deficit budgets. These future year deficits include the associated recurrent costs and additional debt servicing, and also a number of assumptions for such items as inflation, wages growth, revenue increases and housing lot approvals, all of which will be regularly updated as more current information becomes available. It is not our intention to present a deficit budget in any of these years. Methods of addressing the predicted deficit include examination of reserves and their capacity to fund projects, deferments of general revenue funded projects and allocations and a review of the level of rating. Naturally any increase in the predicted rate of development will have a positive impact and it is likely that development of key employment lands within the city will be expedited by State Government. The net impact from these areas is not yet included in the model and will make a significant contribution. At this stage, it is anticipated that these deficits will be addressed in the annual budget process.
Year |
2009-2010 |
2010-2011 |
2011-2012 |
2012-2013 |
2013-2014 |
2014-2015 |
2015-2016 |
2016-2017 |
2017-2018 |
Available Funds $000’s |
(1,742.2) |
(593.8) |
344.2 |
354.0 |
2,759.2 |
4,027.2 |
4,990.9 |
6,500.7 |
7,367.9 |
Similarly, the surpluses shown in late years are indicative only of estimated financial capacity, based mainly on expected trends. New projects and programs and/or financial strategies will be included resulting in a relatively balanced budget year-to-year.
Reserves
Details of Council’s reserves are also included in Part B of the Draft Management Plan. These are amounts held for specific purposes. The reserves are divided into internal reserves (set up to apply Council policy) and external reserves (required by law). Some reserves are set up to ensure that Council’s policies with regard to a particular outcome are safeguarded, while others provide funds for a particular expressed purpose some time in the future.
Voted Works
Also included in the reserves is an allocation to “Voted Works”. Council policy is that an amount of $53,000 is allocated to each of the three Wards each year. These funds are normally applied to particular purposes of an urgent nature, in one or more of the Wards, by resolution of Council. Voted Works also provides an opportunity to allow some discretionary funding for items that arise unexpectedly during the year, and when all other funding in the annual program has been allocated. It is Council policy that any unexpended amounts in Voted Works are revoted to the following year.
Section 94 Program of Works
A central feature of the Draft Plan is the
inclusion of an extensive program of infrastructure works and community
facilities, funded by Section 94 contributions in 2008-09. These projects are
outlined below, and have been included in the Capital and Operating Projects
section of Part B of the draft documents.
A summary of the proposed Section 94 program capital works expenditure for 2008-09 under each relevant Plan is provided below.
Section 94 Plan |
Proposed
2008-09 Expenditure |
|
$1,658,043 |
|
$7,565,365 |
|
$4,338,126 |
Library Resources |
$325,000 |
|
$372,500 |
Penrith City District Open Space |
$191,750 |
TOTAL |
$14,450,784 |
Capital and Operating Projects
At its Management Plan Workshop of 14 April 2008, Council endorsed a
proposed list of Capital and Operating Projects to be included in the Draft
Management Plan, including some adjustments to previous program levels to meet
Council policy or particular priorities (as discussed elsewhere in this
report).
These projects, include the following categories:
1. Established annual works programs, encompassing a number of
specific projects or capital works, which by policy have a ‘notional’ funding
level assigned in the initial preparation of the draft Plan, which may then be
approved or varied by Council (further commented on below)
2. Continuation of the 10-year Special Rate Variation programs for
Enhanced Environmental Program (EEP), Community Safety Development and
Neighbourhood Renewal and Economic Development which commenced in 2002-03
3. Continuation of the 10-year Asset Renewal and Established Areas
Strategy (AREAS) Special Rate Variation programs for road and building asset
renewal and established areas revitalisation which commenced in 2006-07; and
4. The proposed allocation of 2008-09 surplus funds to high priority
projects, discussed below in this report
are included in the Capital and Operating Projects lists and Service
budgets within Part B of the Draft Management Plan presented tonight.
Established Capital Works Programs
Funding for the established annual works
programs, noted above, is drawn from Council’s general revenue (which can be
applied to priorities at Council’s discretion), grants (normally ‘tied’ to a
particular purpose), Section 94 contributions (required to be used for works
proposed in the relevant S94 Plan), and reserves.
In each case, specific projects or works
within the particular Program are recommended to Council for the coming year.
Council has the opportunity, according to its contemporary priorities, to
adjust the program either in its funding level or by the addition or deletion
of particular components.
Projects may be added to these Programs in
the preparation of the draft Management Plan, or by later Council decisions
reflecting consideration of the annual Management Plan through Revotes, through
re-allocation of savings in the Quarterly Reviews, or Voted Works allocations.
These Programs and their proposed funding
levels for 2008-09 include:
· Road Resealing/Resheeting -$4.1m (part Asset Renewal Special Rate Variation funded)
· Roads Reconstruction - $1.3m
· Path Paving - $2.0m
· Building Asset Renewal -$3.1m (including capital works shown under the separate Ripples Asset Renewal project)
· Urban Drainage Construction - $354,000
· Kerb & Guttering - $203,000
· Parks Improvements (Older Established Areas) - $362,500
· Traffic & Transport Facilities - $370,000
· Rural Roads Resealing - $59,500
· Construction of Bicycle Facilities - $60,000
· Bus Shelters -$85,000
· Desktop Hardware/Software - $340,000
There are three further established programs
which are funded through the ten year Special Rate Variation sought and
obtained by Council in 2002. These are:
· Enhanced Environmental Program ($2.1m - projects are shown under various Service areas but are all labelled ‘EEP’ for identification)
· Community Safety and Neighbourhood Renewal ($692,000)
· Economic Development and Tourism (support of the independent Penrith Valley Economic Development Corporation - $370,000).
In addition, the Federal Government-funded Roads to Recovery program ($917,000) is separately identified in the
Operating Projects listing (as these works are considered to be additional
asset maintenance and not new infrastructure).
Major Projects
As previously discussed with Council, budget allocations for projects
which are included in Council’s Major Projects strategy, as well as relevant
Strategic Tasks to advance the Major Projects in 2008-09, are included within
the draft documents. At this stage $16.8m is anticipated to be allocated in the
2008-09 Management Plan to Major Projects of which $813,000 is funded from
general revenue. Major Projects form
critical elements of Council’s Strategic Program.
Service Adjustments and Project Evaluation
Through the Management Plan Workshop process, Council has made a number
of choices to assign available general revenue to matters of high priority, and
to approve other proposals not requiring a general revenue allocation. These
directions are reflected in the 2008-09 draft Management Plan documents and are
summarised in the table below.
Priority Allocations from 2008-09 General Revenue Surplus |
General
Revenue Estimate $ |
· Public Toilet Replacement – (1 toilet and
design) |
150,000 |
· Public Toilet Cleaning – increased service
level |
144,000 |
· Parks Asset Renewal – (10 year program) |
250,000 |
· City Events Program (recurrent) |
100,000 |
· Civic Events (recurrent) |
50,000 |
· Inclusion Support Program (Childrens’
Services) |
146,950 |
· Strategic Plan Development |
60,000 |
· Ripples additional subsidy |
160,000 |
· PVEDC additional allocation |
90,000 |
· Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct
Coordinator (recurrent) |
55,000 |
· Internal Audit - additional resources |
27,500 |
· Celebrating Castlereagh Wall Hanging |
10,500 |
· History of Penrith Volume 2 |
50,000 |
TOTAL |
1,293,950 |
In addition, the following service level adjustments and projects were
approved with funding which involves an allocation within the ‘base budget’ and
no additional call on general revenue.
Proposed Funded Projects 2008-09 |
Funding
Source |
· Tree replacement (5 year program) - $
210,000 |
Environment/
Sullage
Reserve |
· Ripples - Asset Renewal (loan servicing
from general revenue) - $1,850,000 |
Loan/
Building Asset Renewal Program/ Property Development Reserve |
· Penrith Swimming Centre – Improvements -
$400,000 |
Property
Development Reserve |
· Environmental Health Officer (recurrent) -
$67,000 |
Environment
Protection Reserve |
· Footpath – |
Path
Paving Program |
· Llandilo Hall Improvements - $28,000 |
Community
Safety & Neighbourhood Renewal /Building Asset Renewal Programs |
Other Matters with Budgetary Implications
· Planning Resources
In 2001 and 2002, Council authorised additional resources for the Release Area Planning program, including the establishment of several extra planning positions. These resources are provided for in the draft budget for 2008-09 for approximately $854,000. This amount is funded 50% by EEP and 50% by general revenue but developer funding contributions to the program are also actively pursued where appropriate.
The principles upon which these resourcing arrangements were implemented included the establishment of permanent positions for the identified planning and key specialist roles in the first stage, reviewing the positions over time, particularly at the conclusion of the main body of planning work required, with the intention that the staff establishment returns to original levels via natural attrition. It was also suggested at the time that following the completion of the release area planning agenda consideration should be given to focusing the redeployment of these positions into the release area implementation areas.
A further detailed report will be provided to Council on the status of the Release Area program and this additional resourcing. It is important to note that Council is presently managing the planning and concurrent delivery of 13 major new urban/employment release areas, which is an unprecedented and significant challenge. Our strategic objectives command close attention to ensuring that our response will deliver, cohesive, sustainable new communities and economically viable, vital employment precincts.
· Priority Staff Resource Proposals
By policy, any increase in the staff establishment requires approval by Council.
Through the Project Evaluation process, the Corporate Management Team has assessed a number of proposals for service level adjustments involving additional staff. Those matters which have been endorsed with Council through the workshop process are noted above in the recommended budgetary provisions for 2008-09. The proposed allocations which involve additional staff positions are:
· Enhanced Public Toilet Cleaning (additional 2-person crew, general revenue funded)
· Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct Coordinator (general revenue funded)
· Environmental Health Officer (funded from the Environmental Reserve)
A small number of other resource bids considered to be of high merit are being further reviewed by the relevant Directors and Managers. Given the need to rigorously assess any staff establishment increase and with the budget parameters applying to 2008-09, any opportunities to appropriately deliver the service outcome within available means will be given priority.
The matters under further investigation are:
· Healthy People Partnership Officer (50% grant funded by Sydney West Area Health Service for some years; funding not yet confirmed for 2008-09)
· Environmental Health Officer (in addition to the position proposed to be funded from the Environmental Reserve, noted above)
· Companion Animals Officer (proposed retention of present temporary position, authorised as a trial for 2007-08)
· Planning Systems Officer (proposed retention of present temporary position)
The results of this assessment are being finalised and will be further reported in the Management Plan process. Where any additional allocation or alteration to service level may be involved, this will require specific approval.
· Drainage Issues - North Ward
Through the workshop
process, a number of potentially significant drainage issues in the Londonderry,
Management Plan Structure and Format
The Draft Management Plan documentation presented for Council’s
consideration tonight is generally consistent with the format utilised in the
present year’s Plan. This reflects and confirms the reform which was carried
out in 2007, with some refinements which have been discussed with Council
through the workshop process.
The
three volume format consists of:
Part A - Strategic Overview
This part, arranged under the Sustainability Principles framework, identifies how each of Council’s selected outcomes for the City or the Organisation (Term Achievements) will be completed in 2008-09 through the specified Services, the adopted Critical Actions and the proposed Strategic Tasks and approved Projects.
Part B - Operational Plan - Services and Budget
This volume provides details of each of Council’s specified services, including service objectives, the ongoing activities, tasks and service improvement initiatives to be undertaken and the service budget. This essential direction for the organisation and its services is the basis for performance reporting by Managers in the coming year.
The Operational Plan volume also includes an overall Budget and funding summary, the Capital and Operating Projects identified and confirmed by Council for 2008-09, together with other required statements.
Part C - Fees and Charges
This volume provides full details of all Council fees and charges.
The key
components of Part A and Part B of the documents are further discussed below.
Copies of all of the documents will be readily available to the public
throughout the exhibition, as detailed elsewhere in this report.
Response to the Strategic Program in 2008-09
The recent comprehensive report by the Directors on the progress of Council’s 2005-09 Strategic Program and discussion with Council of key challenges to complete the program has provided important direction for the fourth and final Management Plan in the program. With this re-confirmation by Council of its strategic priorities, the organisation is charged to ensure that the coming Management Plan effectively completes the delivery of the outcomes selected by this Council.
Part A of the documents brings together in the framework which was endorsed in 2007 two key adopted policy settings:
· The complete content of Council’s Strategic Program 2005-09
· Penrith’s Principles for a Sustainable City (based on the internationally-recognised UNEP Principles, together with those Objectives which were developed as a basis for Council’s local response to the principles).
Most importantly, the Strategic volume identifies how each of Council’s selected outcomes for the City or the organisation (the Term Achievements) will be completed in 2008-09. As noted above, this reflects the policy settings of Council as to the specified Services and Critical Actions as well as programs of works. Importantly, it requires a powerful set of Strategic Tasks where required to respond to the remaining needs of the Critical Actions.
Particular emphasis has been given to ensuring that effective responses are brought forward for each key issue discussed with Council in the recent Strategic Program Review, as well as to Major Projects and equivalent key priorities. It is anticipated in this regard that some further refinement may well be made through the exhibition period.
Service Plans for 2008-09
The 2007-08 Management Plan reflected explicitly for the first time the specification, service level and budget for each of Council’s defined external and internal Services (including the controlled entities as distinct Services). This has helped establish an even more effectively base for accountability, performance reporting and communication to the community on Council’s program.
Improvements to Service focus and delivery which were identified through the initial review of all specified Services and other analysis were also incorporated in the Plan. Sustainability Indicators were added to some relevant Services based on adopted Council action plans.
A further refinement of the template for annual ‘Service Plans’ has been carried out for 2008-09. This provides, in a more reader-friendly format:
· essential information from the service specification regarding Service Objectives and links to Council’s Strategy
· what will be delivered by each Service for 2008-09 in terms of core Activities, Strategic Tasks (as discussed above) and key approved Projects.
The remaining annual deliverables of the Service are grouped as KPIs and tasks under four categories which were selected to incorporate key focus areas in the service review and the commitment to continuous improvement. These categories are:
· Customer Responses (including direct service targets, access and equity initiatives and other community responses)
· Sustainability Initiatives (a strengthened and extended response to this area including specific targets where adopted)
· Workforce Initiatives (reflecting initiatives to value our people and increase Council’s employer of choice status, as well as indicators for occupational health and safety etc.)
· Process Improvements (including financial, risk management and systems efficiency and effectiveness)
What is appropriate to each Service in these areas reflects the nature and scope of the Service. It is important to note that while the KPIs may be ongoing requirements, other tasks are intended to be precise, measurable and annual, rather than generic statements of intent.
Refinement of Specified Services
The draft documents submitted tonight reflect a refinement to the previous 65 specified services in three areas which are outlined below. This results in a total of 62 Services in the 2008-09 Management Plan. No alteration of the approved service directions or levels is entailed but rather a consolidation of some existing operations in keeping with organisational alignment to deliver Council’s program.
As previously confirmed with Council, the Children’s Services Co-operative has now taken on some additional direct service responsibilities, while responsibility for City-wide planning and advocacy for the needs of children and families has been transferred to the Community and Cultural Development Service. These changes are reflected in 2008-09 by the incorporation of the previously separate ‘Children’s Services Planning and Policy’ into ‘Children’s Services’ (Council’s direct service provision through the Co-operative) and the relevant component into Community & Cultural Development.
Similarly, with the recent realignments in the City Operations Directorate which were approved by Council, specified activities of the former Building Construction Service have been absorbed in the expanded role of the Project Management Service (particularly in regard to Major Projects) and the Building Maintenance Service.
In the Local Planning area, it has been identified that it is more effective to bring together the two specifications for ‘Planning Places’ and ‘Planning Policy’ into one Service.
Commensurate amendments to these Service Specifications are being made. Subject to Council’s consideration tonight, all are incorporated in the draft Management Plan documents.
Strategic Program Amendments
A report on the progress of Council’s 2005-2009 Strategic Program was
presented to Council’s Policy Review Committee meeting of 31 March 2008.
Arising from that discussion, and through the development of the Draft
Management Plan, a small number of proposed amendments to Critical Actions in
the Strategic Program have been identified. The purpose of these changes is to
clarify Council’s current intent in its strategy or to respond more strongly to
matters of clearly high priority. In each case, the purpose of the suggested
change is to strengthen the implementation of Council’s selected Term
Achievements.
These suggested amendments are detailed in Appendix A to
this report, with an explanation of each. Pending Council’s endorsement
tonight, these amendments have been incorporated into the draft Management Plan
documents. The changes would take effect from 2008-09.
Performance Assessment
The organisation’s performance in delivering the annual Management Plan
is reviewed, under the Local Government Act, as part of quarterly and annual
reviews of the Plan.
Performance will be measured principally by progress towards the
achievement of the tasks and projects stated in the Draft Plan, as well as
performance measures for ongoing services provided by Council.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are stated for services and can be
found within the relevant Service plan in Part B ~ Operational Plan and
Budget. They are generally expressed
as quantifiable measures of output, efficiency or effectiveness, and provide an
indication of how well a service is being delivered to the community against
targets set by Council. Where the same KPI is contained in the 2007-08
Management Plan, a comparison of the annual target is also provided.
Timetable
Council has previously approved the following timetable for the public
notification, exhibition and consultation on the draft Plan. The dates and
arrangements for the Public Meeting and consultations are further discussed
below.
Step/Action |
Dates |
· Public Exhibition and Submissions |
Monday 12 May to Tuesday 10 June |
· Children’s Services Cooperative Forum
(7.30pm, Civic Centre) · Public Meeting and Consultative Forum
(7.00pm, Civic Centre) · City Partners Forum |
Thursday
29 May Monday 2
June To be
confirmed |
· Consideration of 2007-2008 Management Plan
for adoption |
Ordinary Meeting Monday 23 June |
Public Consultation
Section 405 of the Local Government Act states that Council must give
public notice of its draft Management Plan after it is prepared and that the
period of Public Exhibition “must not be less than 28 days”. Subject to
Council’s adoption of the draft Plan tonight, it is proposed that the
exhibition period be 30 days, beginning on Monday 12 May and ending on Tuesday
10 June 2008. Within this period, copies of the document will be accessible at
the Civic Centre, Queen St Centre, all Libraries, all Post Offices in the City,
Youth Centres, Neighbourhood Centres, Council’s Children’s Centres, and
Recreation Centres. The draft Plan will also be available throughout (to view
or download) on Council’s website.
A program of public notification and consultation has been developed
for the Draft 2007-2008 Management Plan which is detailed below. This largely
follows the model established in recent years, with the significant addition of
a specialised web-based community consultation facility (discussed below).
The main features of the publicity and consultation program include:
· A Public Meeting, presentation and forum
· Consultative forums in the areas of Children’s Services and with our City Partners
· Consultation with local State and Federal Members within existing arrangements
· Briefing of media and other publicity elements such as the regular Mayoral column
· Comprehensive advertising in local newspapers and through Council’s community newsletter
· Referring the Management Plan to other committees on which Council has representation, major City partners and stakeholders for comment
· Establishment of a dedicated telephone information line and email address for enquiries
· Use of other established community meetings and forums to advertise the Draft Plan and its content
· Provision of a specifically-designed community consultation website for the exhibition period.
Details of specific components of the program are provided below.
Public Notification
· Local Newspapers
It is intended to notify the community of the Draft Management Plan
exhibition through all local newspapers. In the case of weekly newspapers,
advertisements will be placed in the first week of the exhibition and the issue
immediately preceding the Public Meeting. Monthly local newspapers (Mulgoa
Gazette, Glenmore Gazette etc.) will also be utilised wherever practicable.
The notice will include a brief indication of the importance and
content of the Draft Plan, information about the Public Meeting / consultative
forums and opportunities for the community to make submissions on the Draft
Plan.
· Community Newsletter
In addition to the newspaper advertising, detailed information on the
Draft Plan has been placed in Council’s quarterly Community Newsletter, which
is distributed to households and businesses throughout the City. The newsletter
is scheduled to be issued in May, during the exhibition period and prior to the
Public Meeting.
Consultative Meetings
The Act and Regulations do not specify a requirement for consultative
mechanisms during the exhibition of the Draft Management Plan (with the
exception that in the case of a proposed special rate variation the results of
a public meeting are required to be reported).
Council has the policy of consulting with the community, in addition to
the general exhibition and submission opportunity, through a number of
consultative forums. In recent years, the usual arrangement has been to hold a
Public Meeting (including a formal presentation by the Mayor), together with
special interest forums in particular areas of the program, with a targeted
invitation list of relevant businesses and community groups.
· Public Meeting and Forum
A Management Plan Public Meeting and Consultative Forum will be held
from 7.00pm on Monday 2 June 2008 in the Civic Centre. This will largely follow
the arrangements used in recent years. A comprehensive presentation will be
made on the Draft Plan to all attendees by the Mayor and the Chief Financial
Officer, followed by the opportunity for a number of smaller targeted
workshops/consultation groups across the range of the social, cultural,
environmental, economic and infrastructure programs. These groupings can be
tailored to the interests identified by attendees who register for the evening.
Members of the public will be invited to the Public Meeting through the
advertising program outlined above, as well as through direct invitations in
response to all enquiries made on the Draft Plan. In addition, invitations will
be issued to a large number of community and interest groups who are normally
advised of the forum. Arrangements for child minding and transport for persons
with disabilities will be provided and promoted.
According to Council’s established practice, all comments and questions
from members of the public at the public meeting will be accepted as
submissions on the Draft Plan. The opportunity will be available for attendees
to follow up questions or issues identified with relevant officers following
the forum itself.
· Children’s Services Forum
The Board of the Children’s Services Co-operative has agreed to once
again hold a forum with interested parents/community members on children’s
services issues. This has been arranged for the evening of Thursday 29 May at
the Civic Centre.
All parents/guardians of children attending Council’s Children’s
centres will be invited, together with the usual advertising to the public.
· City Partners Forum
It is proposed to arrange a particular forum with key City Partners as
part of the engagement and consultation process. This replaces in a modified
form the usual Economic forum and recognises that a number of other regular
partnership opportunities are in place for its main constituency, business
representatives.
The date for the City Partners forum is not finally confirmed and will
be notified to Councillors by memorandum. Invitees unable to attend the forum
will have the opportunity to take part
in the main Public Meeting and consultation (which will also cover relevant
program issues more broadly).
· Other meetings and forums
It is intended, in addition to the formal consultation mechanisms, to
utilise other established meetings and forums with the community and
stakeholders over the exhibition period to promote the Draft Plan and
opportunities for the community to provide comment.
Online Community Consultation
Council has for some years utilised its website to promote and extend
community and stakeholder engagement and consultation for purposes including
the Draft Management Plan. This has generally been through the provision of
information and key documents, contact details and the opportunity for emailed
queries, comments and submissions. This will again be in place for the coming
process and formal submissions by email (including through a website link) are
provided for.
The evolution of a broader and more innovative range of community
engagement initiatives in the present year has previously been discussed with
Council. As part of this enhancement, it is proposed through the Draft
Management Plan exhibition to introduce and test the provision of an interactive
and specially-designed website for community consultation. This facility,
provided by a specialist consultant, has been utilised to date by a number of
other councils and has been thoroughly assessed by officers. It is fully
compliant with Council’s adopted Community Participation Policy and guidelines.
The website is a means of generating additional awareness of, interest
in and comment on the particular project exhibited and on the priority of
particular issues. In this case, the
Draft Management Plan may of course give rise to comment on a wide range of
matters, as is always the case and responses will need to be carefully
considered. The consultation website is operated independently by the
consultants at ‘arms length’ from Council (but with any inappropriate/offensive
comments immediately removed). Officers will monitor the site and have the
opportunity to clarify statements of fact or respond to issues which arise.
As members of the public will be able to browse the website or register
to provide comments without submitting their details to Council, comments made
through the site will not be treated as formal submissions. Rather, a detailed
report will be available to Council on the usage and findings of the website
consultation, which can be considered, in the context of the submissions which
are made, as part of the overall public response to the Draft Management Plan. This
information will be included in the report back to Council on the results of
the public exhibition.
It is hoped that this new approach may prove an effective and
contemporary means of further encouraging members of the community (including
young people and those not easily reached through more traditional forms of consultation)
to engage more extensively with the process and Council’s planning for the
City.
Consideration of Submissions
The closing date for submissions on the Draft Management Plan will be
Tuesday, 10 June 2008.
In accordance with the Act, Council must consider all submissions and
matters arising from them and make any appropriate adjustments to the Plan
prior to its adoption.
Depending on the nature and complexity of each submission, Council may
choose to amend the Draft Management Plan, or consider a submission but defer
any changes to the Plan until a subsequent period. Once the Plan is adopted,
Council can then make its rates and charges and fix its fees for the coming
year.
In keeping with Council’s normal practice, all submissions received on
the Draft Management Plan will be individually acknowledged and a detailed
response provided by appropriate officers as soon as possible, reflecting
Council’s established policy or following Council’s determination of the
particular issue. A full report on public submissions will be made as part of
the report to Council’s Ordinary Meeting of 23 June which will seek adoption of
the Management Plan.
Conclusion
Subject to any amendments arising from Council’s consideration of the Draft 2008-2009 Management Plan at tonight’s meeting, the Plan is now submitted for Council’s adoption to enable its Public Exhibition in accordance with the Local Government Act, 1993.
That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Draft 2008-2009 Management
Plan be received. 2. The proposed amendments to the Strategic Program as detailed in Appendix 1 to the report be adopted from 1 July 2008. 3. The proposed consolidation of certain Services as detailed in the report be adopted from 1 July 2008. 4. Council adopt the Draft 2008-2009 Management Plan, including any amendments made at tonight’s meeting, for exhibition. 5. The Draft 2008-2009 Management Plan be placed on Public Exhibition for 30 days, commencing on Monday 12 May 2008 and closing on Tuesday 10 June 2008. 6. Submissions from the public on the Draft Management Plan be invited and the public consultation arrangements as detailed in this report be implemented, including a public meeting and forum to be held on Monday 2 June 2008 in the Civic Centre. |
1. View |
Proposed Strategic Program Amendments |
2 Pages |
Appendix |
THIS
PAGE HAS BEEN LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
The City in its
Broader Context
There were no
reports under this Master Program when the Business Paper was compiled
THIS PAGE HAS BEEN LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
The
Item Page
2 Feasibility of Sporting Fields at
3 Requirements for submission of a
development application for dual occupancy in rural areas
URGENT
12 Research Partnerships Program -
5
May 2008 |
|
The City as a Social Place |
|
The City as a
2 |
Feasibility
of Sporting Fields at |
|
Compiled by: Lindsay Clarke, Parks Coordinator
Authorised by: Raphael Collins,
Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager
Requested
By: Councillor John Thain
Strategic Program Term Achievement: The
City’s recreation and leisure facilities and services meet its needs and are
optimally used.
Critical Action: Ensure facilities and services reflect the
City's diverse current and future recreation and leisure needs.
Purpose:
To address the feasibility of
providing sporting fields at
Background
Councillor John Thain has requested a report to Council on the feasibility of the playing fields located on Brookfield Avenue, Werrington Downs being reserved for use by the local Henry Lawson/Cambridge Park Junior Rugby League Football Club and also by the Henry Lawson Cricket Club and the Henry Lawson Football (Soccer) Club, noting that the Rugby League Club intends to apply for a Capital Grant to develop the area.
The Secretary of the Henry Lawson/Cambridge Park Junior Rugby League Football Club has been contacted to ascertain details of the facilities required by the Club. These facilities have been costed in this report.
Current Situation
The reserve on
The short term requirements of the Henry Lawson/Cambridge Park Junior Rugby League Football Club can be satisfied in the southern basin. The northern basin is available for long-term expansion if required.
Development of the southern basin is costed below:
1. Excavation – The stormwater storage volume of the detention basin must be maintained, meaning that the floor of the detention basin cannot be raised. Because the existing soil on the basin floor is unsuitable to support active sport, it must be removed (excavated) and replaced with suitable soil to the existing levels. The quantity of excavation must extend 4 metres past the side lines of each field. The minimum depth of excavation is 100mm and this tranlates to 1900m² (3300 tonne) of material to be removed. This material cannot be used on site and must be either transported to a Council project elsewhere or transported to landfill. The rate to excavate, load and transport to another project is estimated at $30/tonne.
Cost $99,000
Additional disposal fee, if applicable, would be $51/tonne or $168,300
2. Import Organic Topsoil – Best results are obtained by importing an organic soil conditioner (recycled green waste) and rotary hoe this into the subsoil. This would improve the soil profile to a greater depth and reduce future water demand. A total quantity of 1900cum of organic soil conditioner is required at a rate of $36/cu m.
Cost $68,400
3. Rotary Hoe/Level Field Surface – An area of 19,000m² requires rotary hoeing and grading. The rate for rotary hoeing is $1.00/m² and grading $0.50/m²
Cost $28,500
4. Turf – Area of turf 19,000m² at $2.00/m²
Cost $38,000
5. Topdress – Topdressing is required following turfing to provide an even surface for active sport. Area to be topdressed is 19,000m² at a rate of $0.50/m²
Cost $9,500
6. Amenities – The Club has indicated that it would require a full amenities building with change rooms, canteen and toilets. Preliminary estimates for a building of this size is $500,000 minimum. This is based on recent prices for smaller buildings and a quantity surveyor’s current estimate for a similar size building. A basic amenities building like the one recently constructed at Samuel Marsden Reserve is estimated at $300,000.
Cost $300,000
7. Floodlighting – The Club would require both fields to be floodlit. Two poles with two lights per pole are generally required for each field for training purposes. The lighting cost is usually in the order of $40,000 per field provided that three phase power is available in an adjoining street. Based on recent projects, the extension of three phase power to the site could add an additional $40,000 to the project.
Cost $80,000
8. Carpark – To minimise the impact on nearby residents, a sealed ‘off street’ carpark will be needed. For a two field complex, at least 25 car spaces would be required at a cost of $3,000 per space including access road.
Cost $75,000
9. Goal Posts – Four Rugby League goal posts would be required at a cost of $2,000 each.
Cost $8,000
10. Synthetic Cricket Pitch
Cost $10,000
11. Watering – New turf requires watering to establish. The only source of water available at this location is potable water from Sydney Water. This can be applied to the new turf by either water cart for establishment only or by an irrigation system for establishment and long term watering. Many of Council’s existing sporting fields survive without irrigation but this can limit the use especially during drought conditions. An irrigation system would cost in the vicinity of $44,000 including tank and reticulation. The use of a water cart to establish the turf would cost in the vicinity of $10,000.
Cost $10,000
12. Footpaving/disabled access – Footpaving will be required from the carpark to the amenities and from the amenities to the fields. Disabled access will need to be provided to the floor of the basin with appropriate ramps and hand rails at an estimated cost of $30,000.
Cost $30,000
Total
Estimated Cost $756,400
Possible Additional Costs
Spoil Disposal Fee $168,300
Full size Amenities $200,000
Extension of three phase power $40,000
Irrigation $44,000
$452,300
Conclusion
The provision of
sporting fields at
The Club has indicated that it intends to apply for a capital grant to develop the area. Based on past experiences Grants from the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation are approximately $20,000 - $30,000. Therefore, this project cannot rely on financial assistance from grants.
This project is not included in the Local Open Space Development Contributions Plan (Section 94) adopted by Council in June 2007. Council funding for a project of this size would most likely need to be funded from General Revenue.
Financial Services Manager’s Comments
The minimum cost for the
total project is approximately $756,400 with possible additional costs of up to
$452,300. The Grants Support Officer has
confirmed that, under the current program guidelines, the maximum grant
available under the Department of Sport and Recreation Capital Assistance
program is $30,000. Availability of these funds to the project is dependent on
a successful grant application. The
provision of playing fields at this location is not included in either the
Penrith Local Open Space or Penrith District Open Space s94 plans, therefore
general revenue would be required to fund the project. General revenue funds are not available
within the draft 2008-09 Management Plan.
Inclusion of this project would need to be considered against other
priorities of Council if any surplus funds were identified in the future.
That the information contained in the report on Feasibility of Sporting Fields at Brookfield Reserve be received. |
1. View |
|
1 Page |
Appendix |
5
May 2008 |
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The City as a Social Place |
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The City as a
3 |
Requirements
for submission of a development application for dual occupancy in rural
areas |
|
Compiled by: Gurvinder Singh, Acting Development Enquiry Unit
Coordinator
Mark Broderick, Release Area Unit
Coordinator
Authorised by: Paul Lemm,
Development Services Manager
Roger Nethercote, Environmental
Planning Manager
Requested
By: Councillor Kevin Crameri
OAM
Strategic Program Term Achievement: Redevelopment
of existing areas contributes to safe, sustainable, affordable and satisfying
living environments and cohesive communities.
Critical Action: Formulate and implement social and cultural
strategies for redeveloping established areas that support cohesive
communities.
Purpose:
To provide a summary of the
documents required to accompany a development application for dual occupancy in
rural areas and relevant Council's fees and charges. The report provides information on why
"granny flats" are considered to be dual occupancy developments. Information is also provided on the basis for
the Section 94 charges related to open space and the proposed open space improvements
in rural areas. The report recommends
that the information be received.
Background
At its meeting of 28 April 2008, Council resolved the following:
“That an urgent report be presented to the next Ordinary Meeting of Council concerning Section 94 fees and charges, in particular contributions for District Open Space and Local Open Space, as well as fees applicable to granny flats.”
This report provides information on the documents to accompany a development application for dual occupancy as required under the planning legislation, relevant Council’s fees and charges for “granny flats”. Information is also provided on the background to local and district open space Section 94 charges for dual occupancy development.
Documents
to Accompany Development Application
In determining a development application, Council is required to take into consideration the following matters as outlined in Section 79C of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the Act):
“(a) the provisions of:
(i) any environmental planning instrument, and
(ii) any draft environmental planning instrument
that is or has been placed on public exhibition and details of which have been
notified to the consent authority (unless the Director-General has notified the
consent authority that the making of the draft instrument has been deferred
indefinitely or has not been approved), and
(iii) any development control plan, and
(iiia) any planning agreement that has been entered
into under section 93F, or any draft planning agreement that a developer has
offered to enter into under section 93F, and
(iv) the regulations (to the extent that they prescribe matters for
the purposes of this paragraph),
that apply to the land to which the
development application relates,
(b) the likely impacts of that development, including environmental
impacts on both the natural and built environments, and social and economic
impacts in the locality,
(c) the suitability of the site for the
development,
(d) any submissions made in accordance with
this Act or the regulations,
(e) the public interest.”
The Act also stipulates how a development application must be made and
the supporting documentation that must accompany such an application. It is Council’s responsibility to assess the
application and it is the applicant’s responsibility to submit an application
in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
Schedule 1 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment (EPA)
Regulation 2000 provides information for applicants about the documents that
are required to accompany a development application. The Schedule is appended
to this report (Appendix No. 1). Council
can reject applications if the information required by this Schedule does not
accompany a development application.
An overview of the documents that may incur a cost to the applicant, and would need to accompany a development application for dual occupancy in rural areas where those matters are relevant, is provided in Appendix No. 2.
Generally, an applicant will need to engage a consultant to prepare their development applications. Costs associated with the above matters may vary between consultants. The majority of information that is outlined in the table that appears in Appendix No. 2 is required as a consequence of State Government Legislation. In an effort to simplify the development application process, Council has developed a number of supportive information documents and policies have been amended to reduce the costs associated with the submission of an application to Council. Such documents include the On-site Sewer Management and Grey Water Reuse Policy and a variety of fact sheets that are outlined in Appendix No. 2.
Council Services – Facilitating Appropriate
Expenditure on Development Applications
Council provides services and information to prospective applicants in relation to the information and documents which shall accompany a development application. The following services are provided:
a) Pre-lodgement Advisory Service
The primary aim of this service is to identify relevant information and documents to be submitted with a development application and resolve issues relating to a development ‘upfront’ prior to the development application being submitted.
b) Enquiries over the Counter and Phone:
Council’s Duty Environmental Planners are available to answer any enquiries over the counter and phone during normal working hours at Council’s Penrith and St Marys offices. Enquiries are generally answered about Council’s fees and charges.
c) Council also provides information fact sheets, relating to:
· Building in bushfire prone areas
· On-site sewage management systems
· Waste management plan
· Erosion and sediment control
· BASIX (Building Sustainability Index)
· Termite risk management
d) There is early input into the development of
our rural lands from the Environmental Health Department
Council’s Development Application Fees and
Charges for Dual Occupancy in Rural Areas
Council fees and charges applicable to a
dual occupancy proposal are based on the estimated cost of the
development. For example – to build an
additional dwelling on a rural allotment with an estimated cost of $150,000 the
following fees apply:
1. Type of Development - Local
Fee |
Amount $ |
Development
– General ($150 000) |
716.00 |
Environmental
Compliance Levy |
42.00 |
Neighbour
Notification – Up to 25 notifications |
151.00 |
Section
101 advertising |
33.00 |
Total |
942.00 |
2. Type
of Development – Integrated
Fee |
Amount $ |
Development – Integrated ($150 000) |
716.00 |
Environmental Compliance Levy |
42.00 |
Notification in the Local Paper - Integrated
Development |
940.00 |
Neighbour Notification – Up to 25 notifications |
151.00 |
Section 101 advertising |
33.00 |
Total |
1,882.00 |
Section 94 Development Contributions for
Dual Occupancy in Rural Areas
The following table summarises the contributions plans and the current contributions payable for a dual occupancy development across the City -
Facilities |
Amount $ |
Cultural Facilities (adopted
5/05/03) |
294.00 |
Library Facilities (adopted
7/05/01) |
777.00 |
District Open Space (adopted 17/12/07) |
4,634.50 |
Local Open Space (adopted
25/06/07) |
1,674.00 |
Total |
7,379.50 |
The above facilities are calculated and provided on a City-wide population needs basis and capital costs then applied to all new housing growth across the City. While the above contributions apply across the City, specific development areas, such as new release areas, will attract other substantial contributions towards, for example, new roads or trunk drainage.
As actual occupancy rates of individual new dwellings will differ in individual circumstances and inevitably change over time, an assumed dwelling occupancy rate is used to provide an equitable application of contribution rates for all new dwellings across the City. The occupancy rate currently used for new dwellings, including dual occupancies, is around 3 persons per new dwelling and is derived from ABS statistics for the City. Multi-unit dwellings, including apartments, are calculated on an assumed occupancy rate of 2 persons per dwelling.
These statistics, as
well as other parameters used to check the veracity of our development
contribution plans, are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure equity across all
parts of the City. Additional to this is
the task of coordinating and managing the City’s various Development
Contributions Plans, for which a 1% charge is applied. The application of this charge is consistent
with Section 94 Planning Guidelines
prepared and issued by the Department of Planning (DoP) and is commonly applied
by other Councils. It recognises the
workload involved in managing Section 94 Plans, which are multi-project,
multi-million dollar and complex in nature.
This charge which is paid by an applicant specifically ties the fee for
service to the beneficiaries, whereas to recover this from rates would result
in cross-subsidisation.
Principles Related to Section 94 Charges on
Residential Development
In order to provide an equitable approach to the
levying of the contributions, all residential development in the City which has
the potential to increase the population base, and hence extend the need for
community and recreation facilities, is charged at the rates set in Council’s
adopted Section 94 development contributions plans.
The underlying principle is that all additional
dwellings, whether they be in a dual occupancy, town house development,
apartment block or a new dwelling in an urban release area, through the
addition of new households create an increased demand for a range of
infrastructure items including community and recreational facilities. That is, new residential population arising
from new housing development creates additional demands on facilities and
services within the City. This is the
case whether that development is located in an established residential
neighbourhood or a rural locality.
In relation to dual occupancy development, only the
second (additional) dwelling is charged a Section 94 contribution. This concession is based on the assumption
that either the lot on which the dual occupancy is to be established, or the
existing dwelling where one exists, has previously paid for community and
recreation facilities already established within the City. It
should be noted this principle also relates to a new single dwelling in a rural
area on an existing allotment in as much as it similarly is not charged a
Section 94 contribution.
Open Space Contributions
The previous Local Open Space Development
Contributions Plan was focused on improvements to local parks and open space
areas within the established residential areas of the City. The investigations undertaken in the PLANS
study identified a wider need for open space improvements within the rural
areas of the City to better serve and provide a more equitable response to the
City’s rural communities. For this
reason, the Local Open Space Development Contributions Plan adopted by Council
in June 2007 provided for a range of open space and park improvements in the
rural areas throughout the City.
An extract from the Works Schedule contained
in the Local Open Space Development Contributions Plan is included in the
Appendix No. 3 to this report. It will
be noted that these works total some $900,000 and represent approximately 10%
of the overall budget in the plan of around $9.2 M. The current population within the rural areas
represents around 8.6% of the City’s total population.
The District Open Space Development
Contributions Plan was adopted by Council on 17 December 2007 and is now in
force. In the formulation of the District Open Space
Development Contributions Plan, consideration was also given to the
recommendations emerging from the PLANS study, adopted by Council in 2004,
which identified a wide range of district level recreation and cultural
facility needs across the City. This
research identified that existing district open space facilities were only just
sufficient, and were sometimes deficient, in meeting the demand generated by
the existing population. It was
recognised therefore that Council’s existing district open space facilities did
not have the capacity to absorb the needs generated from future residential
development in the City.
As a result, Council decided that it was
appropriate to upgrade its existing recreation land and facilities to meet the
demand generated by future development across the City. It was also considered that, in the interest
of keeping costs to a reasonable level, additional land would not be acquired
to establish new facilities. Rather, the
approach was taken to make the existing open space land and facilities ‘work
harder’ by upgrading them where feasible, and adding new infrastructure where
required.
The PLANS Study demonstrated that district open
space facilities clearly benefit both urban and rural residents, therefore a
whole of City approach was required to be adopted. Clearly, rural residents of the City have the
ability, along with those residents in the urban areas, to have equal access to
those identified district level facilities.
On this basis, both local and district development contributions have
been apportioned to new residential development in urban as well as rural
areas.
Benchmarking our Section 94 Plans with Other
Councils
In the drafting of the District Open Space
Facilities development contributions plan, the contributions were benchmarked
with plans in other comparable growth LGAs in
We have also undertaken recent benchmarking
with other councils where rural development opportunities exist and have found
that the extent and type of Section 94 contribution vary considerably. The Section 94 plans for Hawkesbury City
Council, Baulkham Hills Shire Council, Sutherland Shire Council, Hornsby Shire
Council, Wollondilly Shire Council and Camden Council were reviewed. The contribution amounts for Open Space
relevant to a dual occupancy ranged from approximately $4000 at Hawkesbury City
Council to $14,300 at Baulkham Hills Shire Council.
The average Section 94 amount for Open Space
was approximately $8,400 which exceeds Council’s current charges. Many of the Councils required payment of
other amounts such as community facilities, drainage, roads and library besides
the open space amount. Given this, it is
considered that Council’s charges for dual occupancy developments are
reasonable.
“Granny Flats”
“Granny flats” are not defined under the Act or the accompanying Regulations to the Act. They are not defined in Council’s current Local Environmental Plan 201 (Rural Lands) and are not listed as a defined use in the DoP’s Local Plan template.
When the term “granny flat” is used, it is generally a reference to a dwelling that can be separately occupied, either attached to an existing dwelling house or separated from the principal dwelling and is intended to be occupied by a family member of those residing in the principal dwelling.
However, as there is no statutory definition of a “granny flat”, it is considered to be permitted as a dual occupancy development as two dwellings result on the site, both of which have the potential to be separately tenanted or occupied by 2 separate families.
Dual occupancy development is defined under LEP 201 (Rural Lands) as
“development that results in 2 dwellings
(whether or not attached) on a single allotment of land”
A dwelling is defined as
“a room or suite of rooms occupied or used
or so constructed or adapted as to be capable of being occupied or used as a
separate domicile.”
The new standard LEP template produced by DoP introduces the definition of “secondary dwelling” in addition to the definition of “dual occupancy”. “Secondary Dwelling” means a self-contained dwelling that:
(a) is established in conjunction with another dwelling (the principal dwelling), and
(b) is on the same lot of land (not being an individual lot in a strata plan or community title scheme) as the principal dwelling, and
(c) is located within, or is attached to, or is separate from, the principal dwelling.
Controls are proposed to be included in Stage 1 of the draft Penrith LEP 2008 for secondary dwellings on an allotment. The proposed controls relating to “secondary dwellings” are:
If development for the purposes of a secondary dwelling is permitted under this Plan, the total floor area of the dwelling (excluding any area used for parking) must not exceed whichever of the following is the greater:
(a) 60 square metres;
(b) 10% of the total floor area of both the self-contained dwelling and the principal dwelling.
Although no clear information has been issued by the DoP it is understood the intention of introducing secondary dwellings is to permit a small dwelling to cater for family members or close relatives that still provides a measure of independence. At this stage secondary dwellings are proposed to be permitted in all zones that permit a dual occupancy under Penrith LEP 2008.
At this stage there is little differentiation between dual occupancies and secondary dwellings, other than one of scale. The only exception to this is a provision within draft LEP 2008 which requires a minimum site area of 2ha for dual occupancies when they are not serviced by reticulated sewer to allow effective on-site effluent disposal. Given the comparative small scale intended for a “secondary dwelling”, it is proposed to insert a variation to this clause which will permit a secondary dwelling on a lot under 2 ha provided it can be demonstrated that the existing on site effluent disposal system can accommodate the additional load. Additional criteria are to be included in draft Development Control Plan 2008 to clarify the requirements for a secondary dwelling.
Section 94 development contributions plans
would apply to a proposal for a secondary dwelling based on the same principles
outlined above that apply to dual occupancies.
However, given the limitation on the floor area of a “secondary
dwelling”, it would be reasonable for consideration to be given to the relevant
Section 94 contributions being calculated on the basis of an occupancy rate of
2 persons rather than the 3 persons currently assumed for the occupancy rate
for a dual occupancy dwelling..
Conclusion
The requirements of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulations
2000 require specific information and documents to be submitted with a
development application. It is the
applicant’s responsibility to prepare a development application in readiness
for Council to be able to determine what is proposed.
The planning approval process has become overly complicated in part due
to the changes to the planning regime in recent years, which have seen the
development application process deemed the most appropriate point at which
approval for all matters affecting a site will be determined. The result of these impacts has been to
increase the expectation about what should accompany a development application
in terms of supporting information which in turn adds to the cost to the
applicant.
Council has prepared supportive documentation about various components of
the assessment process and provides pre-lodgement services to assist
applicants. Council takes a more a
lenient view about the quality of development applications submitted rather
than simply referring to the requirements of the Regulations.
“Granny flats” presently do not exist as a separate type of land use and are considered to be dual occupancy developments under Penrith LEP 201-Rural Lands. Controls are proposed to be included in Stage 1 of the draft Penrith LEP 2008 for secondary dwellings on an allotment. Consideration will be given to the calculation of Section 94 charges for secondary dwellings on the basis of a 2 person occupancy rate (same as multi-unit dwellings) rather than the 3 person occupancy rate used for dual occupancies.
Dual occupancies have
the potential to cater for a new household and as such, Section 94
contributions are applicable. Council’s
adopted Local Open Space and District Open Space Development Contributions
Plans have been prepared on the basis of both rural and urban developers or
applicants equitably sharing the cost of new facilities required to meet future
demands from resident growth.
That the information contained in the report on Requirements for submission of a
development application for dual occupancy in rural areas be received. |
1. View |
Schedule 1 Forms |
4 Pages |
Appendix |
2. View |
Documents that accompany a DA in the Rural
Areas |
3 Pages |
Appendix |
3. View |
Local Facility open space embellishments -
rural communities |
1 Page |
Appendix |
5 May 2008 |
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Appendix
3 - Local Facility open space embellishments - rural communities |
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The City In Its Environment
Item Page
4 Request for Tender 12-07/08 for the
Provision of Bushland Management and Associated Project Management
5
May 2008 |
|
The City in its Environment |
|
The City in its Environment
4 |
Request
for Tender 12-07/08 for the Provision of Bushland Management and Associated
Project Management |
|
Compiled by: Rebecca McCaskill, Supply Officer (Contracts)
Janet Rannard, Bushland Management
Officer
Authorised by: Raphael Collins,
Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager
Strategic Program Term Achievement: The
City’s biological diversity is being protected and conserved through the
implementation of a biodiversity conservation and bushland management strategy.
Critical Action: Undertake biodiversity conservation and
protection and pursue the effective management of natural areas.
Purpose:
To seek endorsement from
Council to proceed with the establishment of Panel of Approved Suppliers for
the provision of Bushland Management and Associated Project Management for an
initial period of three (3) years with an option to extend for a further 2 x 1
year periods on an "as required" basis. The report recommends the six
highest ranked suppliers as noted in this report are to be included in the
panel of approved suppliers.
Background
Council’s current panel agreement of approved suppliers has expired, due to this council has called for Tenders for an approved panel of suppliers to carry out individual projects on an ‘as required’ basis for funded works.
The appointment of professional bush regenerators, who will ultimately work alongside bushcare volunteers and Council’s own staff, will augment Council’s commitment to the care and management of our remnant bushland. The contractors will provide an opportunity to supplement Council staff where bush regeneration works are required to be carried out in bushland reserves identified for priority protection and restoration.
Selection Process
Requests for Tenders were advertised on the 26th February 2008, for the provision of Bushland Management and Associated Project Management on an as required basis for a period of three (3) years with options to extend the arrangements for a further two (2) x one (1) year period. The time period to submit tender applications closed on 27th March 2008. As part of the Tender process and its conditions Council also retained the right to require specific quotations for works expected to exceed $50,000, or follow a separate Tender process.
It was proposed in the Tender documents that Council would select up to six (6) suppliers for each of the Services, ie Bush Regeneration Services and Associated Project Management. Although these are to be ranked in order of preference, the engagement of Contractors will be made on the basis of availability, cost, and suitability to meet the requirements of the scope of works, demonstrated experience and qualifications of relevant staff. All requirements for the engagement of services will be on an as required basis with no commitment to any specific level of expenditure over the period of the agreement.
Tender Evaluation
The tender evaluation committee consisted of:
· Rebecca McCaskill - Supply Officer - Contracts,
· Janet Rannard – Bushland Management Officer,
· Nick Pagnamenta – Bushcare Officer
Criteria
The selection criteria advertised and used in selecting the successful tenderers were as follows:
Mandatory Criteria
· Critical Assumptions
· Conforming Requirements
· Conflicts of Interest
· Insurances
· Response to Conditions for Participation
· Required Declaration
· Compliance Statements
General evaluation Criteria
Corporate Social
Responsibility Criteria
· Social Responsibility
· Corporate Responsibility
· Innovation & Environment
Demonstrated Experience
· Personnel
Capability
· Company
Capability
· Management
Capability
· Financial
Capability
Cost/Price
· The
rates and unit prices for the Services specified.
· Rise and fall provisions.
· Payment terms.
Previous Performance
· Experience in supplying similar services
Management & Administration
· Personnel
· Emergency Service
· Performance Evaluation
· Quality Management
· OH&S Management
· Environmental Management.
Summary
of Tenders Received
A total of twelve offers were received from the following suppliers in response to the advertised tender.
· Earth Repair & Restoration Pty Ltd
· Ecohort Pty Ltd
· Good Bush People Pty Ltd
· Marsupial Landscape Management Pty Ltd
· Muru Mittigar Pty Ltd
· National Trust of
· RE: Habitat Pty Ltd
· The Bush Doctor (NSW) Pty Ltd
· Toolijooa Pty Ltd
· Total Earth Care Pty Ltd
· Urban Bushland Management Projects Pty Ltd
· Bush Habitat Restoration Co-operative Limited
The evaluation team did not include the submission received from Toolijooa Pty Ltd in the short list, based on the company incorrectly submitting the Tender document with no price schedules. Due to this non compliance we did not include Toolijooa Pty Ltd in the final evaluation.
Criteria
Evaluation
Following the evaluation of the remaining eleven submissions the evaluation committee determined that all Tenderers demonstrated compliance against each of the evaluation criteria.
For each category of Bushland Management specified the unit rates from each of the tenderers were annualised based on an estimated expenditure of 20 hours of Bushland Regeneration over 52 weeks. Each of the tenderers were given a score based on the responses to each of the general evaluation criteria, the total score achieved was then compared to the annualised cost to determine the ‘best value for money’ offer. The table below gives a summary of the evaluation along with the preferred rankings.
All tenders received were assessed against these criteria and given a final ranking of compliance with the tender.
The table below summarises the results of the selection panel’s assessment of the applications against this criteria.
Company |
Annualised Cost (20 hours per week over 52 weeks) |
Compliance Ranking |
Bush Habitat Restoration Co-operative Limited |
$35,360 |
1 |
RE: Habitat Pty Ltd |
$35,360 |
9 |
Ecohort Pty Ltd |
$36,400 |
3 |
Muru Mittigar |
$36,400 |
4 |
The Bush Doctor |
$36,400 |
7 |
The Good Bush People Pty Ltd |
$36,400 |
8 |
The National Trust (NSW) |
$37,440 |
2 |
Total Earth Care |
$37,440 |
6 |
Earth Repair & Restoration |
$37,440 |
10 |
UBM Projects Pty Ltd |
$38,480 |
11 |
Marsupial Landscape Management |
$46,800 |
5 |
Comments
Based on the compliance ranking, proven ability, experience, and cost the evaluation team recommends that these six Tenderers listed below are to be placed on the approved panel of suppliers for three years with the option to extend for a further two by one year periods.
1. Bush Habitat Restoration Co-operative Limited
2. Ecohort Pty Ltd
3. Muru Mittigar
4. The Bush Doctor
5. The Good Bush People Pty Ltd
6. The National Trust (NSW)
All companies recommended have previously provided bush care services to Council over a number of years and have a proven track record in the industry.
That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Request for Tender 12-07/08
for the Provision of Bushland Management and Associated Project Management be
received. 2. The six highest ranked Tenderers be placed on the approved panel for Bushland Management & Associated Project Management for an initial period of three years with an option to extend for a further two by one year periods. |
There are no attachments for this report.
The City as an
Economy
There were no
reports under this Master Program when the Business Paper was compiled
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The City Supported by Infrastructure
Item Page
5 Local Government Road Safety Program -
Additional Funding
6 Fire Safety of Council Facilities
5
May 2008 |
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The City Supported by
Infrastructure |
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The City Supported by
Infrastructure
5 |
Local
|
|
Compiled by: Sharon Maddox, Road Safety Coordinator
Authorised by: David Yee, Acting
Design and Technical Advice Manager
Strategic Program Term Achievement: Road
network capacity, safety and efficiency are improved and traffic congestion is
reduced.
Critical Action: Implement with other stakeholders the
Purpose:
To advise Council of
additional funding from the Roads and Traffic Authority's
Background
The goal of the Local Government Road Safety Program is to reduce the incidence and severity of crashes through the increased involvement of local government.
Programs targeting behavioural road safety issues are developed from the Penrith Valley Road Safety Strategy 2005-2009 of which some are funded through the Roads and Traffic Authority’s Local Government Road Safety Program. The amount of funding available for the 2007-2008 financial year was limited to a maximum of $10,000. Funding submissions for drink-driving, speeding and vulnerable road user projects were successful as was reported to Council at the Ordinary Meeting of 23 July 2007. These programs have been developed and implemented in conjunction with various stakeholders.
Current Situation
Recently, the Roads and Traffic Authority has made small parcels of funding available for simple road safety projects that can be implemented before the end of the financial year. A funding submission was submitted and was successful to develop key messages for pedestrians and motorists regarding the safe use of pedestrian facilities. The funding will be used to develop overhead banners and corflute signage to be displayed in the vicinity of busy pedestrian areas. The Roads and Traffic Authority has offered to fund $1000.00 towards the project.
That: 1. The information contained in the report
on Local Government Road
Safety Program - Additional Funding be received. 2. Council accept the grant from the Roads and Traffic Authority as outlined in the report. |
There are no attachments for this report.
5
May 2008 |
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The City Supported by
Infrastructure |
|
The City Supported by
Infrastructure
6 |
Fire
Safety of Council Facilities |
|
Compiled by: Glen Tuckwell, Building Maintenance Supervisor
Steve Barratt, Building Regulatory
Coordinator
Authorised by: Matthew Stewart,
City Works Manager
Requested
By: Councillor Pat Sheehy AM
Strategic Program Term Achievement: A
building asset maintenance strategy is in operation that maintains those assets
to appropriate standards fit for their contemporary purpose and addresses the
increased costs of maintaining additional buildings.
Critical Action: Complete a register of assets and condition
assessment of Council buildings.
Purpose:
To inform Council of the
procedures that have been adopted for Council's facilities to comply with the
requirements of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act (EP&AA)
regarding the maintenance of essential fire safety services installed in
Council facilities. The report recommends the information be received.
Background
Council’s building portfolio is a mixture of public use buildings and managed facilities. In these types of facilities / buildings it is essential that fire safety measures are installed correctly and that they are continuously maintained to reduce risk in an emergency. These measures are known as Essential Fire Safety Measures (EFSM) and are detailed in a fire safety schedule that is issued for each facility when construction approval is granted.
The EP&AA requires that owners of buildings, where EFSM have been installed, submit a compliance statement to Council every year. The statement must verify that the EFSM are being maintained so that in an emergency they are capable of performing in accordance with relevant standards.
Assessments of EFSM are undertaken by qualified contractors that are required to provide a certificate attesting that any required servicing has been carried out in accordance with the relevant Australian Standard and that EFSM are operational. These certificates form part of the Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) issued for each facility to the Development Services Department.
Current
Situation
The City Works Department use fire safety schedules to identify EFSM requiring inspection and maintenance across all Council facilities. City Works coordinate the EFSM testing and inspection, manage any corrective actions identified and ensure that AFSS are submitted to Council.
EFSM that require testing and inspections must be tested and/or inspected by a properly qualified person not more than three months prior to the issuing of the AFSS. Council uses qualified service providers to undertake the servicing, testing and maintenance of fire safety measures installed within each facility.
All Council
Facilities
All Council facilities requiring an AFSS are maintained in accordance with relevant standards, and all documentation is provided to Council by qualified service providers prior to the issuing of an AFSS to the Development Services Department.
In addition to complying with relevant statutory requirements, additional measures are often recommended as a “Duty of Care”. City Works assess, prioritise and implement many of the recommendations. An example of the proactive approach to fire safety in Council buildings is the connection of smoke detectors to the security alarm system. The security alarm system is monitored externally 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In the event of activation, Council is notified with a security company responding after hours.
High Risk
Facilities
In higher risk facilities an independent third party provider is responsible for inspecting each facility prior to the anniversary date, collating all testing and inspection reports and preparing the AFSS to be submitted to Council. City Works ensures that any identified corrective actions, if required, are addressed and all relevant maintenance certificates are recorded prior to the issuing of the AFSS. This process ensures that the AFSS issued comply with all aspects of the EP&AA.
High risk facilities are:
Major Facilities |
|
Penrith Civic Centre & Central Library |
Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre |
Queen St Centre |
St Clair Recreation and Leisure Centre |
Penrith Regional Gallery |
|
|
|
Halls |
|
Arthur Neave Memorial |
|
|
Castlereagh |
|
Harold Corr |
|
Mulgoa |
|
Regentville |
|
|
|
|
Community Centres |
|
|
|
Colyton |
Cook Parade |
Coowarra Cottage |
Cranebrook |
Emu Plains |
|
|
Floribunda |
|
Namatjira |
Namatjira Annex |
|
St Marys |
|
Surveyors Creek |
|
Werrington Downs |
|
|
|
Senior Citizens |
|
Penrith |
St Marys |
Risk
Management Comments
Service risk assessments identified that the management of EFSM represents a high risk activity and is a significant risk exposure to Council. City Works and Building Approvals staff, together with Risk Management, developed an audit survey brief for of a number of sites. The audit excluded high risk facilities currently serviced by third parties. The survey includes a sample of critical sites to determine if EFSM in facilities complies with the requirements of the Building Code of Australia (BCA) either at the date of construction or in accordance with the current use of the building. The survey is also designed to provide an estimated cost of corrective and recommended actions so that building asset renewal programs are inclusive of EFSM. The survey will also assist City Works manage the level of risk exposure to Council from its public facilities.
The sample list of sites prioritised all children’s services centres to be completed by June 2008 with a number of other community use facilities to be completed by 30 August 2008. Expressions of interest were sought from a number of expert providers and the most competitive response was received from the Building Regulatory Services Department of Council.
In undertaking the EFSM system management audit, a comprehensive and specified list of fire safety systems throughout Council facilities will be compiled, allowing a review of EFSS management to be undertaken.
Summary
This report outlines the requirements for EFSS under the EP&AA and the actions being undertaken by Council for its facilities. Council facility EFSM are being maintained so that in an emergency they are capable of performing in accordance with relevant standards as they are intended to. Council’s Risk Management Department are currently undertaking an audit of EFSM management and certification to ensure that service providers are meeting the requirements of the EP&AA.
That the information contained in the report on Fire Safety of Council Facilities be
received. |
There are no attachments for this report.
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PAGE HAS BEEN LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Leadership and Organisation
Item Page
7 Pecuniary Interest Returns
8 Australian Local Government Women's
Association (ALGWA)
9 20th Women, Management and Employment
Relations Conference - 24 to 25 July 2008
10 Transfer and Dedication as Road - Lot
8349, DP 1003801, Kyarra Terrace,
11 Annual GST Compliance Certificate
5
May 2008 |
|
Leadership and Organisation |
|
Leadership and Organisation
7 |
Pecuniary
Interest Returns |
|
Compiled by: Stephen Pearson, Executive Services Officer
Authorised by: Glenn McCarthy,
Executive Officer
Strategic Program Term Achievement: The
organisation is managing its statutory requirements and the needs of a
participatory community in a transparent and balanced way.
Critical Action: Develop, review and monitor policies and
procedures to enable the organisation to engage more effectively with the
community while meeting its statutory and public interest obligations.
Purpose:
To advise Council that
Pecuniary Interest Returns have been lodged in accordance with statutory
requirements. The report recommends that
the information be received.
Background
Chapter 14 of the Local Government Act, 1993 (the Act) concerns
“Honesty and Disclosure of Interests” and requires all elected members and
designated persons to complete an initial Pecuniary Interest Return, and every
year thereafter, an Annual return.
Designated persons include the General Manager, other senior staff and
staff holding a position identified by the Council as a position of a
designated person because it involves the exercise of certain functions such as
regulatory or contractual functions.
First returns have to be completed within three months of becoming a
Councillor or designated person.
Current
Situation
Section 450A of the Act deals with the
registration and tabling of returns lodged by Councillors and designated
persons.
A register of all returns lodged by Councillors and designated persons
in accordance with the Act is currently kept by Council as required by this
part of the Act.
A list of the pecuniary interest returns lodged by Councillors and
designated persons must be tabled at a Council Meeting.
With regard to Section 450A(2)(a) the following first pecuniary
interest return has been lodged:
Name |
Position |
Due Date |
Date Lodged |
Matthew Stewart |
City Works Manager |
4 May 2008 |
20 February 2008 |
The return has been lodged prior to the due date for the receipt of the
returns, and is kept in a register held by the Executive Officer.
That the information contained in the report on Pecuniary Interest Returns be received. |
There are no attachments for this report.
5
May 2008 |
|
Leadership and Organisation |
|
Leadership and Organisation
8 |
Australian
Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) |
|
Compiled by: Colleen McKee, Corporate Secretary
Authorised by: Glenn McCarthy,
Executive Officer
Strategic Program Term Achievement: Council's
operating culture is flexible, efficient, integrated and aligned to Council's
strategic objectives and program delivery.
Critical Action: Implement a structured program of continuous
improvement, based on identifying and adopting leading practice, across the
organisation.
Purpose:
To advise Council on the Australian
Local Government Women's Association (NSW Branch) Conference hosted by Rockdale
Council from 3 - 5 April 2008. The report recommends that the information be
received.
Background
The Australian Local Government Women’s
Association (ALGWA) NSW Branch, 2008 State Conference was held in Brighton Le
Sands from 3 – 5 April 2008 and was attended by approximately 125 delegates
from all parts of NSW.
As in previous years, Penrith Council staff members also
attended the Conference as a development opportunity and their comments
regarding the Conference are:
Natalie
Zwaan, Team Leader – Customer Service Centres
“Having
recently joined Council in a position supervising a team of 14 women I was a
little surprised at not having heard of ALGWA prior to the conference. That
said, I was very excited to hear much at the conference about expanding on the
visibility of such a relevant association and extending membership and
Executive Committee roles to Council Staff, at all ages and positions held. I
also felt that the choice of each speaker was pertinent and at times
provocative, but all were inspirational in some way.
I
was pleasantly surprised at the openness with which all delegates communicated
and networked - both Councillors and Staff. I personally made many useful
contacts, useful not only as a woman with career aspirations in a largely male
dominated environment, but as a supervisor in general. I plan to use the
contacts made and the information provided to better educate myself and in-turn
better manage in my role – a win/win for both myself and Council.
I am
very thankful to
“I thoroughly enjoyed the conference hosted
by Rockdale Council and the company of the Penrith and
It is heartening to have key Local
Government Ministers attend and hear them acknowledge the need to promote
diversity (including women) in local government as part of good
governance.
The suggestion that General Managers’
contracts should include requirements to increase the number of women in senior
roles is supported. Local Government needs to prepare for the LGMA Action
Plan for “Getting to the Top” by targeting ‘leaders’ training for women in
confidence/assertiveness, conflict management, governance and financial management.”
The theme of the
Conference was ‘Rock to Success’ and topics covered included:
· The Power of One
· Effective
Governance in a Dynamic Political Environment
· Using the right
techniques to ensure your messages gets out there
· Communication –
what goes wrong and how to fix it
· Surviving the bear
pits
· Compelling issues
facing Local Government
· Making a
difference in your community
Speakers included:
Hon
Anthony Albanese MP, Minister of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional
Development and Local Government commented on the progress in relation to the numbers of women being
elected to Local Government and how Local Government affects people in their
everyday life.
Monica
Attard OA, Journalist and Presenter, ABC Radio and ABC Media Watch spoke of her experiences working for ABC in
She emphasised the importance to believe in
what you are doing, to be honest, sincere and determination. She spoke of the ‘Power of One’ and related
the story of Justine Perkins who established the ‘Touched by Olivia’ Foundation
the aim of which is to improve the lives of young children.
Hon.
Frank Sartor, Minister for Planning, Minster for Redfern Waterloo and Minister
for the Arts spoke of his
personal experiences during his time in Local Government and State Parliament.
Hon
Paul Lynch MP, Minister for Local Government, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs,
Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health) spoke about the challenges of working in a
new Government. He announced the
establishment of a Board of Councils and invited Expressions of Interest. He also indicated participation of ALGWA on
that Board.
Mr
Ross Woodward, Deputy Director General, Department of Local Government spoke on effective governance in a dynamic
political environment
Mr.
Peter Christopher, Editor in Chief, Fairfax Community Newspaper NSW, and Neryl
East, Manager Media and Communications, Shellharbour City Council – a panel discussion about the right
techniques to ensure your message is heard – how to get the message across with
impact.
Candy
Tymson, Author, Communications and Public Relations Consultant spoke on communication – what goes wrong and
how to fix it.
Associate
Prof Graham Sansom, Director, Centre for Local Government spoke on the issues facing Local Governments
now and in the future and outlined what he believes are the solutions to some
of the problems facing Local Government.
Paul
Smith, Speaker, Trainer, Psychologist gave an energetic presentation on Skills for Success and the
characteristics of a ‘champion’.
Penny
Holloway, President, LGMA, General Manager,
The
Annual General Meeting was also held during the Conference. Cr. Christine
Jeffreys (Shellharbour Council) was elected as the new President, ALGWA (NSW
Branch). Cr. Karen McKeown were elected
as Secretary with Cr. Jackie Greenow and Bev Spearpoint elected as members of
the Executive Committee. Cr. Susan Page
remains on the Executive Committee as the Past President.
The Conference also voted on the location for the 2010 State Conference. The successful bid was from Moree Plains Shire Council.
That the information contained in the report on Australian Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) NSW Branch State Conference be received. |
There are no attachments for this report.
5
May 2008 |
|
Leadership and Organisation |
|
Leadership and Organisation
9 |
20th
Women, Management and Employment Relations Conference - 24 to 25 July
2008 |
|
Compiled by: Stephen Pearson, Executive Services Officer
Authorised by: Glenn McCarthy,
Executive Officer
Strategic Program Term Achievement: Council
values its staff and its workforce culture is adaptable, harmonious, flexible
and conducive to high levels of innovation, empowerment, motivation and
productivity.
Critical Action: Opportunities are created for all staff to
realise their potential and systems encourage innovation, empowerment,
motivation and productivity.
Purpose:
To advise Council of the
Macquarie University's Labour-Management Studies Foundation (LMSF) Women,
Management and Employment Relations Conference being conducted from 24 to 25
July 2008 and to seek an indication from Councillors interested in attending. The report recommends that Council consider
attendance by interested Councillors at the Conference.
Background
The Women, Management
and Employment Relations Conference will be conducted at the Four Seasons
Hotel,
Current Situation
The
Conference provides an annual audit of the key issues confronting women in the
workplace. All sessions are interactive and will explore practical solutions to
issues. The Conference provides networking opportunities.
Conference sessions will include the following
topics:
· Advance
· Who Cares? Managing Flexibility
in the Workplace
· Grabbing the Patriarchal Tiger
by the Tail: is this the way to go?
· Women’s Pay: Why the Gap?
· Leadership is Women’s Business
· Speak Up & Stand Out
· Getting the Culture Right
Leading speakers
include:
· Sharan Burrow, President,
Australian Council of Trade Unions
· Air Chief Marshal Angus
Houston, AC, AFC, Chief of the Defence Force
· Robert Milliner, Chief
Executive Partner, Mallesons Stephen Jaques
· The Hon Tanya Plibersek, MP,
Minister for the Status of Women
· Ann Sherry, AO, Chief Executive
Officer, Carnival
· Dr Anne Summers, AO, Journalist
and Author
The Key-Note Dinner Address will be given by The Hon Maxine McKew, MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Early Childhood Education and Child Care, Australian Labor Party.
An indication is sought
from Councillors who may wish to attend the Conference.
That: 1. The information contained in the report
on 20th Women, Management and
Employment Relations Conference - 24 to 25 July 2008 be received. 2. Council consider the attendance of interested Councillors at the 20th Women, Management and Employment Relations Conference. |
There are no attachments for this report.