Agenda of Ordinary Meeting

UNCONFIRMED MINUTES

OF THE ORDINARY MEETING OF PENRITH CITY COUNCIL HELD IN THE

COUNCIL CHAMBERS

ON MONDAY 5 MAY 2008 AT 7:35PM

NATIONAL ANTHEM

The meeting opened with the National Anthem.

STATEMENT OF RECOGNITION

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jackie Greenow read a statement of recognition of Penrith City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage.

PRAYER

The Council Prayer was read by the Rev Neil Checkley.

PRESENT

The Deputy Mayor Councillor Jackie Greenow, Councillors Jim Aitken OAM, Kaylene Allison, David Bradbury, Lexie Cettolin, Kevin Crameri OAM, Mark Davies, Ross Fowler OAM, Karen McKeown, Garry Rumble, Pat Sheehy AM, Steve Simat and John Thain.

APOLOGIES

148 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Steve Simat that the apology from Councillor Greg Davies be accepted.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

Leave of Absence was previously granted to Councillor Susan Page for the period 21 April 2008 to 12 May 2008 inclusive.

149 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Lexie Cettolin that Councillor Susan Page be granted an extension to her leave of absence, for another two weeks, to 26 May 2008 inclusive.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Ordinary Meeting - 21 April 2008

150 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Mark Davies that the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of 21 April 2008 be confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

There were no declarations of interest made at this stage of the meeting.

Councillors Jim Aitken OAM and Ross Fowler OAM made declarations of interest as part of the consideration of Reports of Committees.

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS

151 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that Standing Orders be suspended to allow members of the public to address the meeting, the time being 7:38 pm.

Daniel McNamara

Report and Recommendations of Policy Review Committee Meeting – 28 April 2008 (Item 3 – Riverlink Precinct Plan)

Speaking FOR the Recommendation

Mr McNamara, Director of DMPS, thanked Council and Council officers for the opportunity to contribute at this early stage of the planning process for the Riverlink Precinct Plan and expressed hope that Council will continue to co-operate in the sharing of information, particularly with regard to the flood study, and proposed permitted uses within the Precinct. Mr McNamara noted that residents were concerned at the lack of detailed information related to development potential of land available and viable recreation uses for the precinct.

Lorraine Quartermain

Report and Recommendations of Policy Review Committee Meeting – 28 April 2008 (Item 3 – Riverlink Precinct Plan)

Speaking AGAINST the Recommendation

Ms Quartermain, representing residents of Blaikie Road, expressed disappointment and frustration with the process that has been followed during Council’s development of the Riverlink Precinct Plan, and noted that several residents had been attempting to develop their land for some 20 years, including having numerous flood, and other, studies done.

RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS

152 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM that Standing Orders be resumed, the time being 7:51 pm.

Reports of Committees

Councillor Jim Aitken OAM declared a pecuniary interest in Item 4 of the Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee Meeting held on 28 April 2008 – Caddens Release Area draft Local Environmental Plan and draft Development Control Plan as he owns land within the area, and left the meeting, the time being 7:52 pm.

Councillor Ross Fowler OAM declared a pecuniary interest in Item 3 of the Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee Meeting held on 28 April 2008 - 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, and left the meeting, the time being 7:52 pm.

1 Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee Meeting held on 28 April 2008

153 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Karen McKeown that the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee meeting held on 28 April, 2008 be adopted.

Councillors Jim Aitken OAM and Ross Fowler OAM returned to the meeting, the time being 7:53 pm.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

Leadership and Organisation

1 Draft 2008-2009 Management Plan

154 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jim Aitken OAM seconded Councillor Karen McKeown

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 the amendments detailed in the memorandum from the Corporate Development Manager, dated 5 May 2008.

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.

The City as a Social Place

12 Research Partnerships Program - University of Western Sydney

155 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Garry Rumble seconded Councillor Karen McKeown

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Research Partnerships Program - University of Western Sydney be received.

2. Council endorse the research grant as outlined in this report and a contribution of $15,971 as the partner in the research project.

3. Council be advised of the outcome of the grant application.

4. Should the research grant be successful, Council and the Penrith City Children’s Services Cooperative be advised of the findings of the research.

2 Feasibility of Sporting Fields at Brookfield Reserve

156 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Lexie Cettolin that this matter be deferred until consultation has taken place with the Penrith Junior Rugby League Club and the Nepean Soccer Club, and the maximum amount available for a Capital Assistance Program grant has been established.

3 Requirements for submission of a development application for dual occupancy in rural areas

157 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Requirements for submission of a development application for dual occupancy in rural areas be received.

2. The report be submitted for consideration of the Development Regulation Working Party, in particular the issue of fees and charges and if payment of these can be deferred over a period of time, and also matters regarding costs associated with water and electricity meters.

The City In Its Environment

4 Request for Tender 12-07/08 for the Provision of Bushland Management and Associated Project Management

158 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jim Aitken OAM seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM

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.

The City Supported by Infrastructure

5 Local Government Road Safety Program - Additional Funding

159 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Kaylene Allison

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.

6 Fire Safety of Council Facilities

160 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM that the information contained in the report on Fire Safety of Council Facilities be received.

Leadership and Organisation

7 Pecuniary Interest Returns

161 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM that the information contained in the report on Pecuniary Interest Returns be received.

8 Australian Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) NSW Branch State Conference

162 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM that the information contained in the report on Australian Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) NSW Branch State Conference be received.

10 Transfer and Dedication as Road - Lot 8349, DP 1003801, Kyarra Terrace, Glenmore Park. Owner: Mrs Zagorka Ljubic. Applicant: J Wyndham Prince Pty Ltd

163 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Transfer and Dedication as Road - Lot 8349, DP 1003801, Kyarra Terrace, Glenmore Park. Owner: Mrs Zagorka Ljubic. Applicant: J Wyndham Prince Pty Ltd be received.

2. Council accept the transfer of Lot 8349, DP 1003801 in the amount of $1 on the basis the administration cost of $500 is paid to Council.

3. Lot 8349, DP1003801 be dedicated as road by a notice in the Government Gazette under Section 10 of the Roads Act 1993.

4. The Common Seal of the Council of the City of Penrith be affixed to all necessary documentation.

11 Annual GST Compliance Certificate

164 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Annual GST Compliance Certificate be received.

2. The Mayor, Deputy Mayor, General Manager and Chief Financial Officer sign the 2008 GST Compliance Certificate.

9 20th Women, Management and Employment Relations Conference - 24 to 25 July 2008

165 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor John Thain

That:

1. The information contained in the report on 20th Women, Management and Employment Relations Conference - 24 to 25 July 2008 be received.

2. Councillors Karen McKeown and Kaylene Allison attend the 20^th Women, Management and Employment Relations Conference.

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

QWN 1 Japanese Weeping Willow Tree

Councillor Pat Sheehy AM requested a memo reply to all Councillors concerning a Japanese Weeping Willow tree on a property in Weatherby Avenue, Cambridge Park that has become a matter of concern to the owner and neighbours, the owner having been denied permission to have the tree removed.

QWN 2 Footpaving - Brougham Street, Emu Plains

Councillor Karen McKeown requested a memo reply concerning the provision of footpaving on Brougham Street, Emu Plains, on the western side between the Great Western Highway and Pyramid Street.

QWN 3 Provision of Signage - Ray Morphett Pavilion at Dukes Oval

Councillor Karen McKeown requested that an amount of $600 from South Ward voted works be allocated to the provision of signage to the Ray Morphett Pavilion.

166 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Karen McKeown seconded Councillor Garry Rumble that the matter be brought forward and dealt with as a matter of urgency.

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jackie Greenow, ruled that the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.

167 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Karen McKeown seconded Councillor Garry Rumble that an amount of $600 from South Ward voted works be allocated to the provision of signage to the Ray Morphett Pavilion.

QWN 4 River Summit

Councillor John Thain requested a memo reply to all Councillors on possible items for the agenda of the planned River Summit, as referred to in the letter to members from Hawkesbury River County Council, dated 2 May 2008.

QWN 5 Roadworks in Kolenberg Place, Emu Plains

Councillor Jim Aitken OAM requested a report to Council on roadworks that need to be completed in Kolenberg Place, Emu Plains this year.

QWN 6 Spray paint damage to cars parked in Allen Place Carpark

Councillor Jim Aitken OAM requested a memo reply concerning spray paint damage that has occurred to cars parked in the Allen Place Carpark in Penrith.

QWN 7 Overgrown vegetation - land on corner of Iken Street and York Road, Penrith

Councillor Garry Rumble requested a memo reply to all Councillors concerning overgrown land on the corner of Iken Street and York Road, Penrith, asking if this land is part of a Council bushland regeneration program.

QWN 8 Criteria for Successful Tenderers - Training

Councillor Mark Davies requested a report to Council on the feasibility of including the criterion of training as an aspect of the list of criteria considered when determining a successful tenderer.

QWN 9 Referral of Legal Matter to Committee of the Whole

Councillor David Bradbury advised that the had a legal matter to be considered at the end of the meeting, in Committee of the Whole.

QWN 10 Sailability

Councillor Jackie Greenow requested that an amount of $11,875, derived in equal amounts from each Ward’s voted works, be allocated to the provision of path paving and the purchase of a 4 person boat for the Sailability Program to be located at the Sydney International Regatta Centre.

168 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM that the matter be brought forward and dealt with as a matter of urgency.

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jackie Greenow, ruled that the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.

169 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Jim Aitken OAM that an amount of $11,875, derived in equal amounts from each Ward’s voted works, be allocated to the provision of path paving and the purchase of a 4 person boat for the Sailability Program to be located at the Sydney International Regatta Centre.

Committee of the Whole

170 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that the meeting adjourn to the Committee of the Whole to deal with the following matters, the time being 8:38 pm.

1 Presence of the Public

CW1 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that the press and public be excluded from Committee of the Whole to deal with the following matters:

City as an Economy

2 Commercial Matter - Acquisition of Property - Christie Street, Dunheved

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

Leadership and Organisation

3 Property Matter - Council Property - Sale of Lots 120 & 121, DP 1121806, Koloona Drive, Emu Plains

This item has been referred to Committee of the Whole as the report refers to commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it; or (ii) confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council; or (iii) reveal a trade secret and discussion of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.

4 Question Without Notice 9 - Referral of Legal Matter to Committee of the Whole

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

The meeting resumed at 8:53 pm and the General Manager reported that the Committee of the Whole met at 8:38 pm on 5 May 2008, the following being present

The Deputy Mayor Councillor Jackie Greenow, Councillors Jim Aitken OAM, Kaylene Allison, David Bradbury, Lexie Cettolin, Kevin Crameri OAM, Mark Davies, Ross Fowler OAM, Jackie Greenow, Karen McKeown, Garry Rumble, Steve Simat, 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 and that the Committee of the Whole submitted the following recommendations to Council.

CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS

2 Commercial Matter - Acquisition of Property - Christie Street, Dunheved

RECOMMENDED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Steve Simat

CW2 That:

1. The information contained in the report on Commercial Matter - Acquisition of Property - Christie Street, Dunheved be received.

2. Council submit an offer to purchase the property from the owner in the form of the tender documentation, at the price indicated in the summary of the report.

3. Funding for the proposed acquisition be by way of loan borrowing, with debt servicing costs met by the Property Development Reserve.

4. If Council is successful in acquiring the subject land then it be classified as “Operational” land.

5. A further report be presented to Council as a result of the outcome concerning the subject site.

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

3 Property Matter - Council Property - Sale of Lots 120 & 121, DP 1121806, Koloona Drive, Emu Plains

RECOMMENDED on the MOTION of Councillor Pat Sheehy AM seconded Councillor Mark Davies

CW3 That:

1. The information contained in the report on Property Matter - Council Property - Sale of Lots 120 & 121, DP 1121806, Koloona Drive, Emu Plains be received.

2. Council sell Lots 120 & 121, DP 1121806, at Nos. 89-91 Koloona Drive, Emu Plains by public auction.

3. Century 21 Renshaw Realty be engaged to undertake the advertising and public auction of the property.

4. A further report be presented to Council to determine the reserve price to be presented to the auctioneer on the day of the auction.

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

4 Question Without Notice 9 - Referral of Legal Matter to Committee of the Whole

RECOMMENDED on the MOTION of Councillor David Bradbury seconded Councillor Pat Sheehy AM

CW4 That the information concerning various properties in Strathdon Road, Emu Heights be received.

ADOPTION OF Committee of the Whole

171 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillors Ross Fowler OAM seconded Councillor David Bradbury that the recommendations contained in the Committee of the Whole and shown as CW2 and CW3 be adopted, with CW4 being adopted, as amended, to read:

“That the information concerning various properties in Strathdon Road, Emu Heights be received and a further report be submitted to Council after a site meeting for Councillors has been convened.”

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 8:56 pm.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*Leadership and Organisation*

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
Disability Access Committee MEETING

HELD ON 2 April, 2008

PRESENT

Councillor Jackie Greenow (Chair), John Farragher, David Currie, Jill Huber, Tricia Hitchen (5.25pm).

IN ATTENDANCE

Graham Howe, Building Projects Co-ordinator; Hans Meijer, Asset Systems Engineer; Matthew Stewart, City Works Manager; Karin Schicht, Landscape Architecture Supervisor; Warwick Stimson, Development Assessment-South Co-ordinator; Vanessa Muscat, Environmental Health and Building Surveyor; Walter Sinnadurai, Transportation Planner; David Yee, Acting Design and Technical Advice Manager; Joe Ibbitson, Community Programs Co-ordinator; Ben Felten, Disability Access Officer; Erich Weller, Community and Cultural Development Manager (5.45pm).

APOLOGIES

Apologies were accepted from Steve Barratt and Craig Ross.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Disability Access Committee Meeting - 6 February 2008

The minutes of the Disability Access Committee Meeting of 6 February 2008 were confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

No declarations of interest.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

The City as a Social Place

1 Development Application referral to the Disability Access Committee

Warwick Stimson reported to the Committee on the Development Applications referrals.

DA 07/1630 Peachtree Hotel

The proposed alterations and additions to licensed premises include additional floor area, upgrade to food services and toilet facilities in the main bar. Access issues include car parking, toilets, path of travel and entrances. It is planned to apply the BCA in those instances based on advice supplied by building surveyors.

The Committee requested that the following be included:

· a sluice in the disabled toilet

· tiles to be in contrast colours

· additional disabled carpark spots

DA 05/1384 Upgrade Works to Panthers Football Stadium Grandstand

Warwick Stimson advised that the developers have answered all the questions that were brought up at a previous Disability Access Committee. These are itemised in the memo attached to the business paper.

The Committee requested that the following be looked into:

· additional accessible seating in the eastern grandstand – comparable to the percentage in the western stand

· whether the disabled toilets are still combined with parenting rooms

· drop off point for people with disabilities on the eastern side

Warwick Stimson agreed to report back to the next meeting regarding these concerns after consultation with the developers.

DA 08/0205 Alterations and Additions to the Penrith Rugby Leagues Club

The proposed refurbishments and minor additions to the club include a new entry, café and dining facilities, outdoor decks and member’s terraces, plus additional meeting and function rooms. It is also planned to reconfigure the carparking and improve the lighting. The club submits there is a surplus of parking presently on the site.

The Committee raised the following:

· more public buses servicing the club

· the size of the parking spaces

· possibility of a courtesy bus in the carpark

· location of the accessible toilets in the new additions

· access within the Evan Theatre.

RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on Development Application referral to the Disability Access Committee be received.

2 Penrith Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy

Walter Sinnadurai provided the Committee with an update on the Penrith Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy (PITLUS).

David Yee explained that Attachment 2 to the report extracted the key points in relation to access and mobility. He asked for the Committee to comment on this action summary to identify any impediments.

The Committee’s comments included:

· feasibility of upgrading of train and rail system

· possibility of all buses being accessible

· signage so people with different sensory needs are able to navigate

· lifts at railway stations

· timeframe for a university railway station

· no audio on the set of lights at the TAFE

· short notice for providing feedback on PITLUS

· accessible bus to UWS campus

· taxi drop off point near Westfield

David Yee agreed to check with the Traffic Committee regarding taxi signage outside Hoyts.

RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on Penrith Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy be received.

3 WSROC Submission - Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport

Ben Felten reported on the response of the WSROC submission to the Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Transport.

David Yee and Warwick Stimson left the meeting 6.16pm.

Ben Felten handed out copies of the WSROC submission which he had just received.

Out of 11 Councils only two put forward comments. There were a number of Councils that weren’t really aware of the requirements under the DDA as regards to transport. The comment was that Penrith is dealing with these issues quite well.

Joe Ibbitson advised that the WSROC submission was largely made up of the Penrith Council comments. A number of Council officers contributed to this submission and provided information about the impact of the implementation of standards and what that would mean.

David Currie congratulated everyone who took the time and effort to contribute to the submission.

Erich Weller advised that comments close at the end of March. The final report of the Review from the Government comes out in June/July. A report will be provided to the Disability Access Committee after the report is received.

RECOMMENDED that:

1. The information contained in the report on WSROC Submission - Review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport be received.

2. Council staff be congratulated for their efforts in compiling the report

4 2007-08 Disability Access Improvement Program - Progress Report

Ben Felten presented the progress report on the expenditure of the 2007-08 Disability Access Improvement Program.

Ben Felten highlighted that hearing loops had been installed in the Passadena Room and Nepean Room. The hearing loops are turned on via the light switch. The hearing loop in the Nepean Room has been operated and tested.

It was discovered that the Council Chambers already had a hearing loop but it is not functioning properly. It is a different system plugged into a microphone – the loop runs all around the seated area including upstairs.

Ben Felten advised of a booklet called Welcoming Customers with Disabilities and circulated a copy. This is good information concerning customer service and the provision of alternate formats. It is proposed to have the Mayor’s message inside the front cover and a table on the back cover with information on disability service providers. This booklet would then be distributed to all Council staff who do disability awareness training and community centres. Suggestions were made to also distribute the booklet to shops and the Chamber of Commerce.

It was noted that Council held eight courses on customer service training this year and all team leaders of the outdoor staff had attended. Joe Ibbitson advised that the Workforce Development Department was a strong contributor in the training, including financially, and they now co-ordinate this project.

RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on 2007-08 Disability Access Improvement Program - Progress Report be received.

LATE REPORTS

1 Memory Park

Karin Schicht gave a detailed and descriptive report of the proposals for the redevelopment of Memory Park and asked the Disability Access Committee for their comments.

Karin Schicht advised that the memorial had been designed specifically to incorporate the comments made at the Disability Access Committee meeting in December 2007. It will be possible for a person in a wheelchair to go up to the platform to place a wreath on the memorial. It is also possible for people to be able to touch the memorial.

In reply to concerns about graffiti Karin advised:

· Memory Park will receive a high level of maintenance due to its profile

· some CCTV will be provided

· there will be pole top mounted lighting as well as feature lighting of the trees

· treatment will be applied to the sandstone

The park will be completed in two stages. Stage 1 comprises the installation of the new memorial and some landscape work. Stage 2 includes the upgrade of the rest of the park including signage.

The new memorial will be dedicated in October.

Discussion was held around the engraving on the tablets and on the back of the figurines and whether it was tactile.

RECOMMENDED that:

1. The information contained in the report on Memory Park Penrith be received.

2. The designers of Memory Park be thanked for incorporating the ideas suggested by the Disability Access Committee.

2 Referral of a Proposed Pedestrian Bridge over Schoolhouse Creek, Loftus Street, Regentville

Matthew Stewart provided information on design development of the proposed pedestrian bridge over Schoolhouse Creek.

Karin Schicht left the meeting 7.10pm.

Matthew Stewart asked the committee to consider the proposal and make comments before the design details are finalised.

Members of the committee asked about:

· the footpath going to and from the bridge

· wider areas to be able to pass

RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on Referral of a proposed Pedestrian Bridge over Schoolhouse Creek, Loftus Street, Regentville be received.

GENERAL BUSINESS

GB 1 Penrith Council Annual Report 2006-2007 Summary/Home and Community Care Booklet

Joe Ibbitson handed out copies of the Council Annual Report 2006-2007 Summary and the Home and Community Care booklet.

GB 2 Department of Community Services Building, St Marys

Matthew Stewart reported on the pedestrian and vehicular traffic impacts resulting from Department of Community Services building to be constructed in St Marys. An aerial view map of the site was used to illustrate the temporary changes during construction. Discussion included signage, accessible parking, safety issues, lighting and the timing of the works.

Matthew Stewart asked the Committee to contact him with any comments or concerns.

GB 3 Tactiles at Penrith Railway Station

Hans Meijer reported that the tactiles at Penrith Railway Station have been completed.

GB 4 Upgrade of Southland Shopping Centre

Tricia Hitchen enquired about the Southland Shopping Centre upgrade. Joe Ibbitson advised that the Development Application was approved in February/March last year. At the end of 2007 there were still some minor design issues to be resolved. The work is expected to be completed before December 2009. This completion date is approximate and was provided by Southlands.

GB 5 Council’s Workforce Development Strategy and Action Plan

Councillor Greenow advised that Council’s Workforce Development Strategy and Action Plan was reported to a Strategic Program Review Briefing Meeting in March. The Strategy and Action Plan are currently being finalised. An update report on Council’s Workforce EEO Survey will be prepared for the next Committee meeting.

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 7:35pm.

RECOMMENDATION

That the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Disability Access Committee meeting held on 2 April, 2008 be adopted.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City Supported by Infrastructure*

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
Local Traffic Committee MEETING

HELD ON 5 May, 2008

PRESENT

Michael Alderton - Road Network Services Engineer (Chairperson), Councillor Pat Sheehy AM – Representative for the Member for Londonderry, Sergeant Natasha Crawford – Penrith Police, Senior Constable Mark Elliott – St Marys/Regentville Police, David Lance - Roads and Traffic Authority.

IN ATTENDANCE

Sharon Maddox – Road Safety Co-ordinator, David Drozd – Senior Traffic Engineer, Michael Pruss – Westbus, Ron Watson – Westbus, Noel Fuller – Co-ordinator, Ranger Services

APOLOGIES

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jackie Greenow, Councillor Karen McKeown – Representative for the Member for Mulgoa.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 7 April 2008

The minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting of 7 April 2008 were confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

There were no declarations of interest.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

The City Supported by Infrastructure

1 Russell Street, Emu Heights - Pedestrian Safety

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Russell Street, Emu Heights - Pedestrian Safety be received.

2. Provision of a 70m footpath extension along Palomino Road, from Russell Street to the intersection of Palomino Road and Ambler Close, Emu Heights, be considered in future budgets under Council’s Footpath Paving Program.

3. The residents of 165 Russell Street, 2 Palomino Road and 1 Ambler Close, Emu Heights be advised accordingly.

2 Chatsworth Road, St Clair - Request for Provision of Traffic Calming Devices

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Chatsworth Road, St Clair - Request for Provision of Traffic Calming Devices be received.

2. Council’s Design Co-ordinator be requested to investigate options for traffic calming in Chatsworth Road, St Clair along with the provision of kerb and guttering outside house number 51, and a further report submitted to the Local Traffic Committee for consideration.

3. The residents be advised.

3 Shearer Street, St Clair - Request for Residential Permit Parking Scheme

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Shearer Street, St Clair - Request for Residential Permit Parking Scheme be received.

2. The implementation of a Residential Permit Parking Scheme in Shearer Street not be supported.

3. Council request Clairgate Public School to give further consideration to the closure of the pedestrian gate at Shearer Street.

4. The resident be advised.

5. Councillors Bradbury and Allison be advised.

4 Farm Road & St Thomas Road, Mulgoa - Request for Road Widening & Centre Linemarking

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Farm Road & St Thomas Road, Mulgoa - Request for Road Widening & Centre Linemarking be received.

2. The installation of road widening and a centre line in Farm Road (between St Thomas Road and Littlefields Road) and in St Thomas Road, Mulgoa not be supported.

3. Council’s Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager be requested to arrange for trimming of roadside foliage along St Thomas Road to improve sight distance.

4. A ‘Curve’ and ‘Crest’ sign be installed on Farm Road prior to the bend fronting number 8-16 Farm Road, for both the north and south approaches, together with a chevron board for northbound vehicles.

5. The resident be advised accordingly.

5 Oxford Street, Cambridge Park - Relocation of 'No Parking - Australia Post Vehicles Excepted' Signage

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Oxford Street, Penrith - Relocation of 'No Parking - Australia Post Vehicles Excepted' Signage be received.

2. The relocation of the mail zone be approved.

3. The ‘No Parking – Australia Post Vehicles Excepted’ sign at the location of the current Mail Zone be replaced with a ‘P30’ timed parking sign, and the ‘P30’ timed parking sign on the light pole be replaced with a ‘No Parking – Australia Post Vehicles Excepted’ sign.

4. ‘No Parking – Australia Post Vehicles Excepted’ signage be installed at the eastern end of the 6m Mail Zone.

5. Australia Post be advised accordingly.

6 York Road, South Penrith - Feasibility of 'No Right Turn' Signposting & Provision of Median Island

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on York Road, South Penrith - Feasibility of 'No Right Turn' Signposting & Provision of Median Island be received.

2. The provision of ‘No Right Turn’ signposting and a median island within the Jamison Park access road off York Road not be supported.

3. A Traffic Management Plan be prepared by Council and submitted to the Roads & Traffic Authority for approval prior to the installation of signposting.

4. ‘No Right Turn’ signposting be provided which prohibits vehicles turning right into Preston Street from York Road, South Penrith.

5. Councillor Jim Aitken OAM and the resident be advised accordingly.

7 Erskine Business Park - Blanket B-Double Route Approval

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Erskine Business Park - Blanket B-Double Route Approval be received.

2. James Erskine Drive, Sarah Andrews Close, Quarry Road, Lenore Drive (between Erskine Park Road and Templar Road), John Morphett Place, Tyrone Place, Lockwood Road, Kellet Close and Templar Road be approved for 25m B-Double use.

3. The Roads & Traffic Authority be advised of this matter accordingly, and be requested to publish a notice in the Government Gazette in accordance with the “Route Assessment Guidelines for B-Doubles and Road Trains”, indicating approval to use the aforementioned roads as 25m B-Double Routes.

4. The applicant be advised accordingly.

8 40km/h High Pedestrian Activity Area Scheme

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on 40km/h High Pedestrian Activity Area Scheme be received.

2. Council accept the Roads & Traffic Authority’s offer of 100% funding for the preparation of a 40km/h High Pedestrian Activity Area Scheme.

3. Council engage its preferred consultant to prepare a detailed cost estimate for submission to the Roads & Traffic Authority and, subject to approval from the Roads & Traffic Authority, engage the consultant to prepare the report.

4. The outcomes of the process be referred to the Local Traffic Committee for consideration.

GENERAL BUSINESS

GB 1 Carsons Lane, St Marys – Closure of Carpark (Raised Council)

Carsons Lane, St Marys has recently been closed to through traffic between Queen Street and Bowlers Place carpark. Council’s Road Network Services Engineer advised that a memo has been sent to all Councillors from Council’s City Works Manager that detailed the reasons for the closure. A Traffic Management Plan and Traffic Control Plan has been submitted to Council by the applicant, which indicates that ‘Detour’ signs will be installed on Queen Street from Carsons Lane to Crana Street. Pedestrians are being directed over a vacant parcel of land between the Great Western Highway and Carsons Lane, that provides access from Queen Street to Bowlers Place carpark. This area will be sealed and lighting provided to improve the area and provide pedestrian access to the shops on Queen Street. Consultation has been conducted with shop owners in the immediate vicinity of Carsons Lane, with no objections to the temporary closure of Carsons Lane and proposed pedestrian access. The disabled parking spaces in Bowlers Place carpark will be temporarily relocated to near the pedestrian laneway for the duration of construction.

A request has been received for the existing ‘No Stopping’ in Queen Street associated with Carsons Lane to be modified to timed ½ Hour Parking until the laneway is reopened.

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The Committee note the temporary closure of Carsons Lane, St Marys for the period of construction of the new Department of Community Services building, together with the Traffic Management Plan and Traffic Control Plan.

2. The existing ‘No Stopping’ restrictions on Queen Street, associated with Carsons Lane, be temporarily changed to ‘No Stopping 6.30am-9.30am & 3.30pm-6.30pm Mon-Fri; ½ Hour Parking 9.30am-3.30pm Mon-Fri & 8.30am-12.30pm Sat’, with a section of ‘No Stopping’ remaining on Queen Street opposite King Street to allow through traffic to pass turning traffic.

GB 2 Henry Street/Evan Street, Penrith –Temporary Closure of Footway (Raised Council)

The Roads and Traffic Authority has submitted a Traffic Management Plan for construction works in association with the widening of the Henry Street/Evan Street intersection. The Authority has advised that they will temporarily close the western footway along the affected section of Evan Street (across Lemongrove Bridge), and that they propose to install a temporary marked pedestrian foot crossing across Evan Street near The Crescent.

RECOMMENDED

That the Committee note the information.

GB 3 Second Avenue/O’Connell Street, Kingswood – Pedestrian & Traffic Safety Issues (Raised Councillor Greenow)

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Greenow made representation on behalf of a resident concerning pedestrian and traffic safety issues at the intersection of Second Avenue and O’Connell Street, Kingswood, where pedestrians are alighting from buses and unsafely crossing O’Connell Street to the TAFE.

RECOMMENDED

That the matter be investigated.

GB 4 John Oxley Avenue/Rugby Street, Werrington County – Request for Provision of Guardrail (Raised Council)

Council has received a letter from a resident of John Oxley Avenue, Werrington County regarding a recent traffic incident where a vehicle travelling east along Rugby Street failed to stop at the intersection of John Oxley Avenue and collided with her house at number 26 John Oxley Avenue. The vehicle failed to negotiate the curve in the road before the intersection and made a straight line for the property opposite the intersection. The resident is concerned about the safety of her family, and has indicated that this type of incident has occurred three times since she has lived at this property.

A search of Council’s accident database has revealed that one intersection related accident occurred at John Oxley Avenue and Rugby Street within the most recent five-year data period. This incident involved a single vehicle rolling over at the intersection causing injury to the driver, however upon request, the Police LAC provided additional minor crash information indicating a further six incidents at this intersection and numerous reports of street racing and dangerous road behaviour. The latter reports generally applied to John Oxley Avenue and Rugby Street along their entire lengths, and were not specifically confined to the intersection itself. It is noted that for this reason traffic devices were installed further down John Oxley Avenue.

The resident requested the installation of guardrail across the frontage of their property to protect it from vehicles exiting the carriageway. This matter was discussed with the RTA who confirmed that guardrail is specifically used in treating acute angled vehicle deflections as a result of vehicles inadvertently leaving the carriageway, and attempts to correct them to re-enter the roadway. Guardrail has some applications in asset protection (ie, power poles, etc) but is not conducive to high speed front on impacts.

The only application where guardrail can correctly be installed to mitigate front on impacts is where the beam lengths form a horseshoe shape, thereby withstanding impact from a single collision by spreading the impact of the force over a broader area. This negates the guardrail from being used in most residential applications, as in this case where with minor property frontage width, a guardrail would only spear oncoming vehicles into neighbouring residences.

It would be more prudent to treat the cause of the errant/speeding vehicles in Rugby Street rather than attempting to protect the end effect of these vehicles illegally crossing the intersection and thereby creating additional hazards.

The Local Traffic Committee, at its meeting on 4 February 2008, considered a report on John Oxley Avenue and Rugby Street, Werrington County and at its meeting on 25 February 2008, Council resolved (in part), on the recommendation of the Committee, that “Council’s design section be requested to investigate the provision of traffic calming devices along Rugby Street, Cambridge Park and a report be submitted to the Local Traffic Committee following the investigation.”

The present report takes into account new information supplied by the NSW Police and the recent incident as described above, and seeks to accelerate the installation of traffic calming devices in this locality.

Following the recent incident, a number of site inspections were conducted by Council officers which revealed that vehicles travelling north in Rugby Street must negotiate a curve in the roadway before approaching the intersection of John Oxley Avenue. Whilst vehicles travelling at the speed limit would have advance warning of the intersection, those travelling above speeds would have difficulty in stopping before the intersection. Recent speed classification results indicate that Rugby Street has an 85% speed of 66km/h (2007).

In addition to this, two large trees planted on the western side of Rugby Street at the inner radius of this curvature inhibit sight distance to the intersection. Coupled with this, street lighting is obscured by the planted trees. In summary, vehicles travelling east in Rugby Street descend at grade into a curvature before the intersection of John Oxley Avenue, with partially obscured lighting and decreased intersection visibility. Whilst this can be improved by tree trimming and advance intersection warning signage, a more thorough solution would be to slow and channelise vehicles in Rugby Street on approach to the intersection and thereby ameliorate the issues faced at this intersection.

Council’s Traffic and Design staff inspected the site and found opportunity to place a Watts Profile speed hump with clear sight distance for vehicles in Rugby Street 55m before the intersection (outside house no.118 Rugby Street). The Watts Profile speed hump incorporates concrete blister islands and a central concrete island in order to also channel vehicles through the device. The device is positioned in a way that vehicles exiting the device will have clear sight distance to the intersection, and are slowed on that approach. Furthermore the channelising works will prevent vehicles from crossing the hump at an angled approach, thereby further slowing driver approach and departure at the device.

As part of the works, it is proposed to link the intersection with the device in order to provide some continuity to motorists and enhance awareness of the intersection. In this regard the existing rubber tuff median (in Rugby Street) at the intersection is proposed to be removed and replaced with a wider and longer concrete island. The devices will also be linked with the extension of the BB centrelines. The devices as shown on Plan no. AR157 incorporate relevant advance warning signage to the device and intersection, upgrades the intersection to Give Way control, and provides for relevant linemarking and RRPMs with embedded glass kerb studs, for improved visibility.

The design has accounted for vehicular movements from all affected driveways providing ample clearance to necessitate access by vehicles towing trailers and boats, etc. The design plans are submitted to be endorsed for construction, to be constructed in the current financial year’s traffic facilities program. In this regard, notification to residents of the impeding design shall be provided prior to construction.

As a precautionary measure, Council has commissioned water-filled barriers to be placed in the nature strip area of the subject property in order to avert any immediate off road incidents. The resident has been advised that the barriers are of a temporary nature until the construction of the slowing device has been completed and is operational.

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The design plan AR157 be finalised and endorsed for construction from the 2007/2008 traffic facilities program.

2. The affected residents of the proposal be consulted with prior to installation, with any major objections referred back to the Local Traffic Committee prior to construction.

3. The resident be advised accordingly.

GB 5 Richmond Road, Berkshire Park – Change to Speed Limit (Raised Council)

Council’s Senior Traffic Engineer advised that the Roads and Traffic Authority has notified Council of a change to the speed limit from 90km/h to 80km/h on Richmond Road, west of Garfield Road, Riverstone (in the Hawkesbury Council area), to east of St Marys Road, Berkshire Park.

RECOMMENDED

That the Committee note the information.

GB 6 Go 40 For Me – Road Safety Program (Raised Council)

Council’s Road Safety Co-ordinator advised that the ‘Go 40 For Me’ road safety program commenced on Tuesday, 29 April 2008.

RECOMMENDED

That the Committee note the information.

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 10:45am.

RECOMMENDATION

That the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 5 May, 2008 be adopted.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*Leadership and Organisation*

Leadership and Organisation

2007-2008 Management Plan - March Quarter Review

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 March Quarter progress report on Council's 2007-2008 Management Plan. The report recommends that the review be adopted including revised estimates and expenditures as detailed in the report.

Due to the size of the document, copies are supplied to Council under separate cover.

Background

In accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, the Management Plan Progress Report for the period ending 31 March 2008 is presented tonight for Council’s consideration.

This is the third quarterly review of Council’s 2007-2008 Management Plan, which is the third year of Council’s four year program under its current Strategic Plan for the City of Penrith, Penrith City: the Competitive Edge.

Managers have provided details of progress in accordance with their assigned accountabilities. This includes delivery of the ongoing requirements of services, progress of annual tasks and projects and performance against budget. Commentary has also been provided on key achievements for the year to date, as well as issues arising that have impacted on the delivery of the annual program.

The General Manager’s report in the document includes comments on key results and issues arising over the first three quarters of the year and indicates the focus of organisational efforts for the remainder of 2007-08.

The Financial Services Manager’s report is also contained within the review document, and includes information on budget performance, significant issues and proposed variances.

Financial Position

The proposed year end budget position is a deficit of $501,000, after a number of recommended allocations and assumes that the recommendations included in this report and in other reports to tonight’s meeting are endorsed. It is likely that the deficit will be addressed in the final quarter of the year from savings in operational areas including employee costs although specific areas where these savings may be realised have not yet been identified. Council’s working capital position at 30 June 2007 was $3.7 million, well above the adopted benchmark of $2.0m. Looking forward the draft 2008-09 Budget has been adopted for public exhibition and predicts a surplus of $143,000. The current $501,000 deficit is made up as follows:

$000’s

Original Surplus......................................................................................... $15.2

1^st Quarter Council approved variations..................................................... $49.7

2nd Quarter Council approved variations.................................................. ($39.9)

3rd Quarter Council approved variations................................................... ($49.8)

March review variations.......................................................................... ($475.8)

Projected Budget Year End Result ................................................... ($500.6)

The review recommends a number of both positive and negative adjustments to the adopted budget. There are some adjustments to income projections and estimated costs that have led to a number of additional variations to the original budget.

The more significant variations (F - favourable, U - unfavourable) for the quarter include:

$000’s

Salary Savings .......................................................................................... 537.8 F

Ripples additional support ........................................................................ (489.0) U

Development Applications ....................................................................... (280.0) U

Subdivision Income ................................................................................... (20.0) U

Construction Certificates ............................................................................. 80.0 F

Subdivision Certificates ............................................................................... 21.0 F

Occupation Certificates ............................................................................... 10.0 F

Development Application Infrastructure Fees............................................ (101.0) U

Road Opening Income ............................................................................... (35.0) U

Occupation certificates .............................................................................. (45.0) U

Telephone costs ........................................................................................ (80.0) U

Other budget adjustments........................................................................... (74.6) U

These, together with minor variations and reallocations, are discussed in detail in the Financial Services Manager’s report in the summary review document however some detail is provided below on the more significant.

Salary Savings

A total of $237,600 of salary savings was identified in the September quarter and this was transferred to the Employee Leave Entitlements Reserve in anticipation of the impact that the expected resignations of a number of long serving staff will have on the Reserve. The reserve balance and the impact of employee movements continue to be monitored closely. It is expected that the planned transfers in the 2008-09 and 2009-10 Management Plans will provide funding in the Reserve in line with adopted parameters. In the December review identified salary savings of $460,000 (0.75% of the total original budgeted employee costs) were taken to the bottom line. Additional savings of $537,800 have been identified in the current quarter and it is recommended that these too be transferred to the bottom line. These savings have eventuated due to vacancies across a number of departments. Most vacant positions are in the process of being filled. Some other identified salary savings are recommended to be retained in the individual departments to enable the engagement of consultants or temporary staff to ensure delivery of some key Management Plan tasks and projects. Total salary savings for the year are $1.2m or 2% of the budget for employee costs.

Ripples

As was foreshadowed at the second 2008-09 Management Plan workshop a formal request from the Board of Directors of Ripples has been received for additional support. The support requested is made up of 3 components:

· $267,000 to fund direct operations to 30th June 2008.

· $125,861 to waive the current outstanding balance of Sundry Debtors Account for period ending 30th June 2007 (largely water and insurance costs).

· $96,135 for additional Workers Compensation premiums.

This review includes allocation of funds to support that request. A significant contribution was made to Ripples in 2006-07 including a total subsidy of $250,000 and forgiveness of debts totalling $245,123. Council is currently providing a subsidy to Ripples, to underwrite its performance of $320,000.

The Ripples Board wrote that “A number of issues have beset the Company in achieving its budget projections this financial year, especially in Fitness and Hydrotherapy as well as increased costs in utilities. Fitness being one of our major cash generating areas has suffered a significant decline in membership income, mainly due to competition entering the market (Valley Fitness) and the current economic climate. Hydrotherapy was directly affected by the sudden departure of one of our Exercise Therapists in October 2007. This person was replaced in January 2008, however income was not sustainable with only one Therapist available. Weather has also had a major impact on the summer swimming season, with wet and cold conditions being experienced in what should be our peak operating period.”

$100,000 of this assistance has already been advanced to Ripples to ensure that cash flows were adequate to meet obligations. This was advised to Councillors by memo. The waiving of the debts will not affect Council’s consolidated financial result for the financial year.

Development Related Income

A number of income areas have been impacted by the continuing downturn in building related activity. The main impact has been on Development Application Income which has decreased by $280,000 or 21% compared to the original budget. There has also been a decline in subdivision income of $20,000. DA activity continues to decline especially in the residential area. There is little activity in the residential release areas or new houses within the established areas. Broader economic impacts are having a noticeable knock on effect to the level of developer and resident confidence in the market place. There is still a reasonable degree of interest in commercial and industrial development although the size and scale of these types of proposals are in decline. It is anticipated that these trends will continue until such time as the residential market recovers from its slump.

There has been an upward adjustment to the construction certificate, subdivision certificates and occupation certificates income for the amounts of $80,000, $21,000 and $10,000 respectively. There has also been some corresponding salary savings of $55,000 which have been directed to the bottom line.

Building activity has a flow on effect to income related to DA Infrastructure, Road Opening Income and Compliance Certificates. These areas have seen falls in budgeted income of $101,000, $35,000 and $45,000 respectively

Revotes

There are a number of projects that need to be revoted o 2008-09. More details of the larger revotes or those that affect a special initiative are provided below. Full details of all proposed revotes are provided in part B of the review document.

Sustainable Playing Fields - ($345,000 Grant funded)

The project was delayed 3 months due to the assessment and approval of the business plan by the NSW Environmental Trust and will now be implemented over three years with $159,000 expended in the current year.

Glenmore Park Child and Family Precinct- ( $776,000 S94 funded)

The DA was approved in late November 2007. During the December /January period the tender process commenced with an Expression of Interest. A ‘short list’ of suitable contractors was adopted by Council in February 2008. Delays were experienced in finalising some cost items such as utility augmentation. However all issues have been resolved and an application for a Construction Certificate was lodged on 20th March 2008 and is expected to be issued in the next fortnight. The final independent Quantity Surveyor (QS) cost estimate was received in April 2008. A detailed assessment of the final QS is now completed. This assessment confirms that there are sufficient funds available within the budget. It is expected that the next stage of the tender process, that is seeking tenders from the adopted ‘short list’ of suitable contractors, will commence in June 2008. The preferred tenderer will be reported to Council for endorsement in the first quarter of the 2008-09 financial year with construction likely to commence in August 2008.

Londonderry Park Amenities - ($210,900 Grant funded)

The construction work has been rescheduled and is anticipated that the work will commence in July/August. The project was delayed due to some changes made to the building design to reduce costs. The DEC considered Council’s request for design changes and this task took 3 months to resolve.

Building Asset Renewal ($300,000 – General Revenue funded)

It is recommended that part of the current year’s program ($150,000) for replacement of one of the lifts in the Civic Centre is held over to 2008-09. This will enable all 3 lifts in the Building Asset Renewal program to be purchased and installed together which provides economies of scale in the order of $15,000 per lift. Expenditure of $150,000 provided in the current program for asset renewal work at Ripples was delayed pending the completion of condition audits and determination of a revised program of renewal works. The $150,000 will be utilised in an extensive program of works to be coordinated in 2008-09.

Penrith CBD Traffic Study - $217,800 (General revenue and EEP funded)

This project requires additional data to be sourced regarding the projected extent of floor space growth in the CBD. This work is in process but unlikely to be finished in time for the study to start this year.

Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct - ($781,000- General Revenue and Reserve funded)

Council has made a strong commitment to the development of the Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct at St Marys as a major City facility. The refurbishment of the Memorial Hall and the construction of the Community Square and surrounding landscaping is a major component of the overall precinct development. Tenders of this element of the project have been finalised and the appointment of a contractor to complete these works is being considered.

Recent delays relate to the assessment of a grant application with the Federal Government which forms a major element of the funding model. While this grant was an election promise delays have been experienced in receiving the formal approval and funding agreement. This has delayed the completion of the tender process. The grant approval has now been confirmed as part of the “Better Regions” program announced in the Federal Budget.

Other revotes include:

· West Catchment Drainage ($136,000 s94 funded)- The project has been delayed due to the scope of work being changed to incorporate four lanes on Erskine Park Road. The design is currently being finalised.

· Caddens Rd Culverts and Road Upgrade ($163,000 s94 funded)- Project delayed due to the finalisation of the watermain design work for relocation.

· Pedestrian Bridge Schoolhouse Creek ($173,300 s94 funded) - Geotech Investigations continue and the calling of quotations to build the bridge are in progress.

· Catchment Management Floodplain Drainage( $189,100 Grant & Reserve funded) - Detailed overland flood studies for Penrith CBD and its surrounding suburbs and St Marys areas are in progress.

· Ropes And South Creek Implementation of Open Space Management Plan ($150,000 Grant funded)- This grant funded project has been delayed because of the time taken to finalise tenders and appoint a contractor. The contractor will catch-up this work next year.

Summary of impact of Revotes and returns to Reserves

With these adjustments, the annual capital works program is expected to be completed by the end of the financial year. There are no projects where the recorded spending is materially higher than the officially adopted budget of the project.

Path paving works ($240,000) in recreational areas completed in advance of the adoption of the Penrith District Open Space s94 plan have been transferred to the plan in this review.

Format of the Quarterly Review

The new Services-based reporting approach, which was introduced in the present year, aims to provide greater clarity and accountability to Council and the public on the annual delivery of Council’s program through its approved services and their required goals. This both reflects the service specifications in a highly practical way and how the strategy for the City which Council has set is being delivered by the organisation.

The quarterly Management Plan report to Council and the community is now clearly based on performance of the specified services through which Council’s operations are conducted, together with the usual financial statements and other required information.

The Quarterly Review provides a comprehensive progress report on the performance of all Council’s external and internal services (with the exception of the three controlled entities which have separate reporting requirements).

Reporting is based on the delivery of the annual program of activities, tasks and projects which was adopted by Council for each service through the Management Plan. The report contains:

· An ‘executive summary’ of the quarter’s progress with commentary provided by the General Manager and Financial Services Manager, together with key results and identification of any service areas requiring greater focus

· A report on the overall performance, key performance indicators and tasks deliverable for each service, together with a formal budget statement for that service

· Capital and operating projects budget progress (arranged to align with the services)

· Detailed financial statements and summaries.

The services performance report, which provides much of the basis of the review, details the progress of the ongoing and annual deliverables of that service. This report has previously not included the capital and operating projects, which were fully reported but elsewhere in the document. This approach has been amended in the present report, as noted below.

It is important to note that the simple expenditure budget snapshot provided under services is supplemented for each service by a fully detailed budget which includes any proposed variations.

Further Refinement to Report Format

The report on the performance of each Service now also includes details of the relevant Capital Budget Projects and Operating Budget Projects for which the Service is responsible. This brings all reportable elements which contribute to the overall performance of the Service together to clarify the Managers’ assessment of performance and enhance full accountability.

Supplementing this information in the Services section of the document, a full financial progress report and reconciliation of Capital and Operating Projects and subprojects of works programs is provided in the financial statements section.

Performance Assessment

The review documents incorporate detailed reporting on the year to date performance of each of the services from several principal aspects. These form the basis of the Overall Performance assessment of that service for the year to date. To that is added a Budget Performance snapshot as explained above.

The normal expected overall service performance for the first three quarters of the year is 75%. However, note that some services (particularly in the Operations Directorate) are more dependent on the completion of particular projects or works programs, which will strongly influence the result. The model for service reporting is detailed in the review document.

The reportable elements of the Service from which its performance is assessed include:

· Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for ongoing requirements of the Service

· Strategic Tasks which link Services to Council’s four year Strategic Program

· Service Improvements identified through means including ongoing Services Review

· Capital and Operating Projects funded in the annual program

(NB not all Services contain all of these elements)

In addition to the particular KPIs and annual targets which Council adopted in the Management Plan, additional measures have been added to ensure that all the important ongoing activities of service specifications are incorporated. These more generic KPIs for the service have a set target of 100% of ongoing requirements. This approach was initiated in the September review and has been further developed and refined with Managers.

All reporting is in terms of year to date progress to fulfil the annual requirements of Council’s program. Where actions have a life of more than one year, the report is on the performance for 2007-08 only. Those tasks and projects scheduled to commence after the third quarter are listed in the report but are not included in the performance ratings.

Management Plan Performance

From the statements provided by the responsible Managers against the deliverables as explained above, the results for the quarter are as identified in the following table.

Table 1. Service Performance Summary ~ March Quarter

SERVICE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY	Completed	GREEN	AMBER	RED	Totals
SERVICES OVERALL (Service Profile)		61 (98%)	1 (2%)	-	62
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)		201 (90%)	15 (7%)	6 (3%)	222
Strategic Tasks (ST)	5 (5%)	82 (87%)	7 (7%)	-	94
Service Improvements (SI)	1 (2%)	45 (83%)	7 (13%)	1 (2%)	54
Capital Projects *	40 (32%)	72 (57%)	6 (4%)	9 (7%)	127
Operating Projects *	21 (20%)	73 (67%)	8 (7%)	7 (6%)	109

[ Note : * These figures do not include sub-projects or the specific components of works programs]

The progress of Council’s program is expressed through the use of percentages and ‘traffic light’ indicators. These are based on the responsible Manager’s statement of the delivery of the annual requirements for that item.

Council has, for a number of years, used a traffic light rating scale for reporting on the performance of Management Plan deliverables. This is supplemented in the new report format by an appropriate rating scale for the expenditure budget performance of services, adapted from that used in the monthly Financial Health monitoring by the organisation. The rating scales are explained in the table below.

Table 2. Guidelines for ‘Traffic Light’ Status Indicators

[Green]

General Performance: Progress for the Year To Date is on target for annual requirements/completion of the relevant action. Normally indicates completion of 90%+ of the scheduled requirements.

Budget Performance: Expenditure for the Year To Date is under budget by <=15% or over budget by <=5%.

[Amber]

General Performance: Progress is marginal and extra attention is needed. Normally indicates completion of 75%-89% of the scheduled requirements Year To Date.

Budget Performance: Expenditure for the Year To Date is under budget by >15% or over budget by 6-15%.

[Red]

General Performance: Progress is not on target and requirement may not be delivered. This should be addressed by the Manager’s commentary. Performance is normally rated as less than 75% of the scheduled requirements Year To Date.

Budget Performance: Expenditure for the Year To Date is over budget by >=16%.

Completed (usually applies to Capital & Operating Projects with defined target dates).

A detailed table of all items which are rated at risk of not being delivered within 2007-08 and the response which is proposed by the relevant Manager is provided in the ‘Executive Summary’ section of the document.

Proposed Amendments to Service Elements

To deliver the annual requirements of the operational Management Plan, Council adopted as part of the service program a more detailed set of tasks and KPIs. It is normally the case that a quarterly review, with its comprehensive assessment of service performance, will identify a number of proposed revisions to the detailed annual program. Any such proposals with a budget impact are directly addressed by the financial statements and commentary provided.

Subject to endorsement by Council, amendments to non-financial elements of the operational plan have been incorporated in the present review. These proposed changes are detailed in the Appendix to this report for Council’s consideration.

Alignment of the Organisation

During the first quarter of the present year, Council received two reports from the General Manager on alignment of the organisation and endorsed a number of changes to accountabilities and service and departmental arrangements. Those new arrangements were reflected in the previous Quarterly Reviews as far as possible, however more settled information is included in the present report.

The most significant impact of these changes is in regard to the City Operations directorate. The new departments of City Works, Public Domain Amenity and Safety and Recreation, and the service responsibilities of the relevant Managers, are incorporated in the report.

A new approach being taken to the management of certain major projects, as discussed with Council in the organisational alignment reports, sees a number of projects (Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct, Londonderry Neighbourhood Centre, Penrith Football Stadium, Civic Centre Extensions) now being identified within the Project Management & Advice Service with delivery accountabilities assigned to the position of Major Projects Manager within the City Planning Directorate. That Manager is also responsible for the Design service. The Acting Design and Technical Advice Manager is responsible for the remainder of the services within this department.

Special Initiatives

The 10-year special initiative, Asset Renewal and Established Areas (AREAS) Strategy, commenced on 1 July 2006. The AREAS funding from additional rate revenue approved by the Minister for Local Government, is for additional infrastructure renewal and public domain maintenance (which includes roads, buildings, graffiti removal and cleaning) as well as greater attention to the needs of our older neighbourhoods.

Council also continues to advance three 10-year special initiatives which commenced in 2002-2003, for which additional rate revenue was also approved by the Minister. These are:

· Enhanced Environmental Program (EEP)

· Community Safety and Neighbourhood Renewal Program

· Economic Development and Tourism - support for Penrith Valley Economic Development Corporation (PVEDC)

As previously agreed by Council, specific reporting on the progress of each of these initiatives is presented to Council, the community and the Department of Local Government at six-monthly intervals, through the half-year and end-of-year Management Plan reviews and the Annual Report. In addition, more detailed reports on key aspects of the programs are provided to Council by the relevant Managers at appropriate intervals during each year.

In the present review, the progress of these programs is therefore reported within the normal services format.

Conclusion

The review indicates substantial progress to meeting Council’s challenging annual program. In keeping with Council’s established practice the General Manager and Chief Financial Officer will not make a presentation at this time, as formal presentations are made at the mid-year and end of year reviews. The opportunity is, however, available for Council tonight to seek clarification or elaboration on particular matters in any section of the Progress Report.

The review documents will be placed, in full, on Council’s website, as well as being made available to the public in hard copy and CD versions on request, and through the Civic Centre, Queen St Centre and all libraries.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on 2007-2008 Management Plan - March Quarter Review be received.

2. The 2007-2008 Management Plan Review as at 31 March 2008, including the revised estimates identified in the recommended budget, be adopted.

3. The proposed budget reallocations detailed in the report be adopted.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

1. View

Proposed Amendments to 2007-08 Management Plan Tasks and KPIs

1 Page

Appendix

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City in its Broader Context*

The City in its Broader Context

Report on the Local Government & Shires Associations Tourism Conference 2008

Compiled by: Paul Page, City Marketing Supervisor

Authorised by: Geoff Shuttleworth, Economic Development and City Marketing Manager

Requested By: Councillor Garry Rumble

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Penrith is recognised locally and throughout Sydney as vibrant, innovative and attractive, distinguished from the rest of Sydney, with a range of services and experiences, complemented by those available in the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury.

Critical Action: Maintain a marketing program that presents Penrith Valley as the attractive, vibrant centre of outer northwest Sydney, designed to distinguish it from other parts of Sydney and attract visitors.

Purpose:

To report on the recent Local Government and Shires Associations Tourism Conference. The report recommends that the information in the report be received.

Background

The first LGSA Tourism Conference was held in 2005 at Forbes. The 2006 conference was held in Penrith.

The conference was established to fill the vacuum left by the discontinuation of the Tourism New South Wales Annual Conference in 2000. It is the only NSW based tourism conference.

The 2008 Conference

The 2008 conference took place on 12-14 March. Lismore, Richmond Valley and Kyogle were the joint host councils. The Welcome Function and plenary sessions were held at the Student Union at the Lismore campus of Southern Cross University.

A choice of three streamed field trips was offered on the first afternoon of the conference. The streams featured each of the three host Council areas. Stream 1 was “Regional City and Environs” and was largely based in Lismore itself. Stream 2 was the “Hinterland - Nimbin and Kyogle” and Stream 3 was “Coastal – Evans Head and Environs”. Each of the field trips finished late in the afternoon in Casino which was the venue for the conference dinner.

The conference theme was “Partnerships: sharing the risks and benefits”. The MC for the conference was Sorrel Wilby, TV travel presenter and writer. Penrith was represented at the conference by City Marketing Supervisor, Paul Page.

A strength of the conference was some very practical case studies of successful low cost local marketing campaigns and events. Good presentations in this category included:

· Getting the most out of Tourism New South Wales co-operative campaigns – Shoalhaven;

· I love Dubbo – counteracting negative media coverage of racial tension;

· Lantern Parade – Lismore;

· Rainforest Way and National Landscapes program – Kyogle;

· Newcastle Airport – Newcastle and Port Stephens.

There were presentations on new product developments and how they have had a positive impact on tourism in their local areas. These included:

· Grand Pacific Drive – Wollongong

· Shell Cove Project – Shellharbour

· Temora Aviation Museum – Temora

There were also sessions on tourism research from the CRC for Sustainable Tourism and a general session on the role of local government in fostering tourism development.

Tourism Managers’ Exchange

Tourism NSW holds biannual exchanges for local government tourism managers. These exchanges involve a briefing on Tourism NSW programs and activities, as well as being an opportunity to provide information about other important trends and to exchange ideas with other tourism managers.

Each year since the Penrith conference, Tourism New South Wales has taken the opportunity to hold a Tourism Managers’ Exchange in conjunction with the LGSA Tourism Conference which saves on travel and other costs for delegates.

The Exchange was held on the Wednesday before the conference commenced and covered tourist signposting, visitor information centre accreditation, local research and the Australian Regional Tourism Network. There was also a presentation on the new Local Government Statistical Profiles which were launched by Tourism Research Australia on the day before the conference.

Conference Recommendations

Although the conference was primarily intended to be for training and networking, it did adopt a number of recommendations as follows:

That the…

· LGSA hold another Local Government Tourism Conference in 2009 and that Tourism NSW continue to support and partner the conference.

· Minister for Tourism considers the development of a flexible template which will allow one, four and 10 year strategic tourism plans for Local Government to mirror the NSW Government’s 10 year State Plan.

· LGSA request Tourism NSW to develop best practice models for Local Government investment in tourism.

· LGSA request that the NSW Government review its funding for infrastructure and services for regions and localities that have tourism responsibilities and impacts.

· Conference and the LGSA call for the reintroduction of regional rail services to:

o support and promote tourism;

o provide for commuters; and

o mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

· The Premier expedite the release of the O’Neill Report into Tourism in NSW to allow councils to plan and budget for tourism in light of its recommendations.

RECOMMENDATION

That the information contained in the report on Report on the Local Government & Shires Associations Tourism Conference 2008 be received.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City in its Broader Context*

The City in its Broader Context

Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct - Tender for St Marys Memorial Hall Refurbishment and Community Square

Compiled by: Robert Paluzzano, Project Coordinator

Andrew Moore, Financial Accountant

Authorised by: Craig Ross, Design and Technical Advice Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: The Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct is completed and contributing to a vibrant urban village lifestyle in St Marys.

Critical Action: Complete the Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct at St Marys.

Purpose:

To provide Councillors with a status report for the refurbishment of Memorial Hall and Community Square and to advise Council of the outcome of the tender process and to recommend a preferred tenderer for the proposed works.

Background

Council has made a strong commitment to the development of the Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct (Precinct) at St Marys as a major City facility. This project is a major component of the overall precinct development and will improve community use as well as deliver a complete refurbishment. Elements of this project date back to 1998 when the relocation of the St Marys Library to the Queen Street business centre occurred. Major inroads into this project have occurred since 2007, when the Development Approval was issued.

To date, the refurbishment of the CWA building has been completed and officially opened. Work is substantially complete on the former St Marys Council Chambers.

The refurbishment of the St Marys Memorial Hall and the construction of the Community Square, along with the associated landscaping works, remains the largest component of the works to be completed. Council staff are currently constructing a new car parking facility on site with the remainder of the above works falling within the scope of this tender.

Current Situation

Tenders were called for the refurbishment of Memorial Hall and Community Square on 11 December 2007 and closed on 8 January 2008.

The proposed works in the main include the replacement of the roof to St Marys Memorial Hall, the upgrade of the Hall to provide disability access, air conditioning of the Hall and an upgrade of the kitchen and toilet facilities and the construction of a Community Square between the Senior Citizens and the Memorial Hall.

Summary of Tenders Received

Eleven submissions were received in response to the Tender by the close of the Tender on 8 January at 2:00pm. Those received on time were:

1. AMFM Constructions Pty Ltd

2. AXIS Constructions Pty Ltd

3. Bilas Knight Pty Ltd

4. Brodyn Pty Ltd

5. C & M Constructions Group Pty Ltd

6. CBS Refurbishment Pty Ltd

7. Cavasinni Constructions Pty Ltd

8. Kaleva Constructions Pty Ltd

9. Projectcorp Australia Pty Ltd

10. SIMCAR Constructions Pty Ltd

11. Walton Construction Pty Ltd

A submission received from Kane Constructions (NSW) Pty Ltd was not received by the close of the Tender and therefore the company’s tender was not accepted by the Tender Evaluation Panel for further consideration or assessment.

Tender Evaluation Panel

The Tender Evaluation Panel consisted of representatives from Council’s Project, Supply, Finance and Legal Sections and a client representative. The Tender Evaluation Panel included:

· Robert Paluzzano (Project Co-ordinator)

· Mal Ackerman (Supply Co-ordinator)

· Andrew Moore (Financial Accountant)

· Matthew Bullivant (Legal Officer – Probity Advisor)

· Erik Henricksen (Penrith Swimming Centre Pool Superintendent - Client Representative)

Tender Evaluation Criteria

The selection criteria advertised and used in selecting the successful Tenderers were:

Mandatory Requirements	Environmental Management
· Form of Tender · Insurances · Collusive Tendering · Conflict of Interest · Construction Program · Compliance Statements · Completed Schedules	· Relevant Industry References · Demonstrated use of environmental management systems, that ensure use of ESD practices and waste management plans
Demonstrated Ability	Industrial Relations Management
· Demonstrated ability to complete the Projects on time and on budget · Major Plant and equipment proposed to be used · Key Personnel, qualifications, experience and availability · Time to complete project · Technical & resource capability to complete the project	· Industrial relations management, relevant policies and programs and relevant existing / proposed agreements · Current / Existing Workplace and Enterprise Agreements
Management & Administration	Insurances
· Company Resources – Personnel · Support Systems · Quality of Product / Service · Commitment to Quality Management systems · Quality and availability of back-up, advisory and support services · OH&S Management · Demonstrated use of OH&S systems and compliance with OH&S Act · Relevant Licensing and Permits	· Workers Compensation insurance · Public Liability Insurance · Personal Accident Insurance · Professional Indemnity Insurance · Other relevant Insurance policies held
Business	Prices
· Financial Assessment & Viability · Relevant Industry References	· Schedule of Prices & Rates · Lump Sum Price · Hourly rate schedule for Trades submitted

Tendered Prices

From the eleven accepted submissions, the Tendered Prices (GST exclusive) were as follows, in order of lowest to highest:

Company	Total Cost
C & M Constructions Group Pty Ltd	$ 3,422,810
Projectcorp Australia Pty Ltd	$ 3,673,450
Brodyn Pty Ltd	$ 3,844,218
AMFM Constructions Pty Ltd	$ 4,014,964
Cavasinni Constructions Pty Ltd	$ 4,211,933
Bilas Knight Pty Ltd	$ 4,217,255
Walton Construction Pty Ltd	$ 4,544,900
CBS Refurbishment Pty Ltd	$ 4,594,040
SIMCAR Constructions Pty Ltd	$ 4,707,430
Kaleva Constructions Pty Ltd	$ 4,782,432
AXIS Constructions Pty Ltd	$ 5,177,726

Roger Woollam from Woollam Parkinson & Partners, Council’s nominated Quantity Surveyors (QS) for the project completed a review of the documentation prior to the tender being issued, based on their estimate of the value of works and the budget for the project set by Council.

Tender Evaluation

An initial assessment in accordance with the evaluation plan was carried out. Following this initial assessment, the four lowest complying offers were short listed for further evaluation. The four short listed companies included;

· C&M Constructions Group Pty Ltd

· Projectcorp Australia Pty Ltd

· Brodyn Pty Ltd

· AMFM Constructions

The evaluation panel determined that there was no benefit to Council in further considering the remaining submissions.

The four short-listed companies were interviewed by the Evaluation Panel against the pre-established selection criteria to ensure that the entire scope of the works had been taken into account and to provide a further assessment of the capabilities of the tenderers to complete the job. Once it became apparent that the three lowest tenderers had met the panels initial assessment it was considered appropriate to exclude AMFM Constructions on the basis of price.

Given the variances in the tendered prices, the panel agreed to engage the QS to provide an updated project estimate to reflect any increases in costs since the QS’s last estimate. The QS provided an updated estimate of $4,100,811.The QS was also engaged to provide expert advice on the costing component of the project.

The QS recommended that as part of the evaluation process further discussions be held with the three lowest tenderers to ensure they had a complete understanding of the scope of work and that they had made adequate allowances in each of the trades.

The evaluation panel, together with the QS held discussions with the three lowest tenderers. Following these discussions the QS provided the evaluation panel with a report and recommendations based solely on the costing of the project.

This information combined with the panel’s detailed analysis is contained in the Committee of the Whole report to tonight’s Business Paper.

The Tender validity period expired on the 7th of April 2008, on the 2nd of May the three short listed contractors were contacted to ascertain if their tenders held firm. Both C & M Constructions and Projectcorp advised that they were willing to hold their tendered price, Brodyn Pty Ltd advised that they could not hold their tendered price.

Reference Checks

C&M Constructions Pty Ltd

C&M Constructions’ recently completed or in progress projects of a major scale include shop fit outs for 30 stores across Australia for Amazing Loans, valued at $2.1m, construction of a high quality residence at Point Piper valued at $7m, renovation of Parramatta Town Hall valued at $430,000, Greenfield Park shopping centre fit out valued at $3.2m, Octagon Building Parramatta toilet and ground floor refurbishment valued at $2.8m, Hornsby Railway Hotel renovation of main bar, bistro and saloon bar valued at $1.1m, Kirribilli renovation of Heritage listed residence valued at $1.3m.

Referee checks were conducted for C&M Constructions Pty Ltd. Based on the referee reports received, C&M Constructions Pty Ltd was rated good to very good overall. A further referee check was conducted with Parramatta City Council where C&M had recently commenced a refurbishment project on the Town Hall. This revealed that an error had occurred in their tender and they had under quoted for that refurbishment project. This, combined with C&M being 16.53% below the revised estimates of the QS, was a concern to the Tender Evaluation Panel.

Projectcorp Australia Pty Ltd

Projectcorp Australia Pty Ltd has been operating for the last 6 years. Projectcorp has completed a number of projects for local government in this time, with projects completed being in the size and scale from $500,000 to $6,000,000.

Projectcorp has just completed construction of the Wadalba Sports Facility for Wyong Shire Council valued at $6,000,000.

Other projects completed by Projectcorp include the refurbishment of North Sydney Olympic Pool valued at $250,000 for North Sydney Council, the refurbishment and fit out of North Sydney Indoor Sports Centre valued at $250,000 for North Sydney Council, and the refurbishment and fit out of the Des Renford Aquatic Centre and Maroubra Beach Pavilion, works completed concurrently, valued at $400,000 for Randwick Council.

Projectcorp’s Project Manager has prior experience in larger scale projects including conversion of the heritage Grace Building Warehouse to residential blocks valued at $12,000,000 and Park Beach Plaza refurbishment valued at $10,000,000.

Reference checks were also conducted for Projectcorp. Those referees initially contacted indicated that the overall quality of the work carried out by Projectcorp was assessed as good. There was some feedback that indicated that Projectcorp’s Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) systems required improvement. Further extensive referee checks were carried out with a focus on OH&S.

No similar concerns were identified following reference checks, including a current project being completed for North Sydney Council. North Sydney Council confirmed that Projectcorp’s OH&S systems were very good.

Following these further investigations it also became apparent that that the quality of the work by Projectcorp was considered excellent on the basis that a particular Project Manager was employed. This Project Manager has been put forward by Projectcorp to undertake this project.

Brodyn Pty Ltd T/as TCQ Builders

Brodyn Pty Ltd is based in Chullora and has been in operation under the current company name since 1982. The company has successfully completed several projects for the New South Wales Department of Commerce. They are currently completing two further projects for the Department and these are on schedule and have not encountered any unexpected variations or concerns. The company is on the Department’s preferred contractor list. Brodyn Pty Ltd T/as Time, Cost & Quality Builders won a Master Builders Association Award in 2007 for Restoration of an Historical Building $1,000,001 - $5,000,000; Excellence in Construction Award for No. 1 Fire Station 1887, Castlereagh Street Sydney, Building Refurbishment. The company has an accredited Occupational Health & Safety Management System AS/NZS 4801:2001 and Quality Management Systems AS/NZS 9001:2000 for the design, construction and refurbishment of public and private buildings, both accreditations received from the Department of Commerce. Brodyn Pty Ltd has extensive experience in the construction and refurbishment industry.

Financial Services Manager’s Comment

A total budget of $5.3m has been allocated to the Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct Project in the 2007-08 and 2008-09 budgets for the completion of this stage. The construction phase of the Memorial Hall and Community Square is the largest component of the uncompleted works. The preferred tender from Projectcorp (Australia) Pty Ltd is within the budget allocated for these works.

A major component of the funding model for this project is a grant application through the Regional Partnerships Program with the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government (formerly DOTARS) for $933,000. While this grant was an election promise delays have been experienced in receiving the formal approval and funding agreement. This had delayed the completion of the tender process. The grant approval has now been confirmed as being in the 2008/2009 Better Regions Program as part of the recent Federal Budget.

The evaluation of the tenderers’ financial assessment and viability is included in a report later in tonight’s Business Paper.

Probity Advisor’s Comment

Prior to the closing of tenders, the evaluation panel determined to assess tenders against the evaluation criteria, which has been outlined earlier in this report. This process of evaluation was applied throughout the entire evaluation process. Procedural fairness was applied to all tenderers. The tenderers were treated equally and fairly having been assessed on their merits. The evaluation panel had regard and complied with the tendering provisions of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005.

Conclusion

The Tender Evaluation Panel has assessed the three remaining lowest tender submissions against the evaluation criteria. Consideration was given to the information provided in the tenders, interviews, the QS report (following the revised estimate and his involvement in the second interview), reference checks, independent financial analysis and the tendered price. The panel recommends that Projectcorp (Australia) Pty Ltd be selected as the preferred tenderer. Projectcorp demonstrated, throughout the tender evaluation process, a better capability to deliver a project of this scale and nature.

Whilst the three remaining lowest tender submissions were evaluated, the third lowest tenderer has subsequently indicated that they will now not hold their tender firm.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct - Tender for St Marys Memorial Hall Refurbishment and Community Square be received.

2. Projectcorp (Australia) Pty Ltd be accepted as the successful tenderer for the refurbishment of St Marys Memorial Hall and Community Square in the value of $3,673,450 (GST exclusive).

3. The Common Seal of Council be affixed to any necessary documents.

4. All other tenderers be contacted and advised of Council’s decision and be thanked for submitting a tender.

5. The General Manager be authorised to sign any necessary documentation associated with the Federal grant offer for this project.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Seniors Week 2008 Celebrations - 'Laugh at the Lighter Side of Life'

Compiled by: Joe Ibbitson, Community Program Coordinator

Authorised by: Erich Weller, Community and Cultural Development Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Strategies are in place to respond to the social and health needs of the community.

Critical Action: Support community organisations to address the differing needs and issues of the various age groups through Council's policy responses, program initiatives and advocacy.

Purpose:

To provide information about Council's Seniors Week 2008 event 'Laugh at the Lighter Side of Life'. The report presents details of other activities held during Seniors Week. The report recommends that the information be received.

Background

Seniors Week is celebrated annually across New South Wales, and 2008 Seniors Week was held from 6 to 13 April. The Seniors Week celebrations encourage the involvement of older people in the community generally, and support their continued participation in local activities. This year was the 50^th anniversary of Seniors Week celebrations and once again, the broader theme for Seniors Week was ‘Live Life’, with the emphasis on the contribution that seniors make to family, friends, workplaces and communities.

On Thursday, 10 April, Council hosted a special concert event ‘Laugh at the Lighter Side of Life’ for Penrith’s senior residents. Council received $1,000.00 from the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Homecare (DADHC) to assist with the event.

Council Concert – Laugh at the Lighter Side of Life

Council’s celebration was extremely successful, with over 450 people attending the event at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre.

The success of the concert is the result of the hard work and support of the organising committee, a partnership of local organisations and individuals. The organising committee is comprised of representatives from the following organisations:

· Penrith Older Women’s Network

· Nepean HACC Access Project – Tri Community Exchange

· Nepean Migrant Access

· Lemongrove Governor Phillip Campus Day Centre

· Penrith Senior Citizens

· Penrith Seniors and Pensioners Club

· Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre

· Combined Pensioners Superannuants – St Mary’s branch

· St Marys Historical Society

Council co-ordinated the organising committee meetings as well as provided significant support.

The role of the organising committee offers an opportunity to build on existing skills and knowledge and fosters new ideas by working together. This approach to organising the event contributes to strengthening the co-operation in the sector and providing an opportunity for new partnerships.

‘Laugh at the Lighter Side of Life’ not only showcased local musical acts across generations and cultures, but incorporated the concept of laughter and fun as important for the emotional, social and physical well-being of the City’s senior residents.

The Mayor formally opened the event and officially launched Seniors Week 2008 in Penrith City.

Margaret Pope from the Penrith Music and Comedy Company was the MC and kept the concert moving as she introduced the performers.

The concert opened with a dance performance by Aboriginal elders from the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry group. This was followed by two silent Charlie Chaplin movie clips, The Circus and Modern Times, with live piano accompaniment.

Students from Cranebrook High School then took to the stage with their spectacular and colourful Can Can. The colour and high energy of the performance was greatly appreciated by the large audience.

Full House at ‘The Joan’ for Council’s Seniors Week 2008 concert

Johnny Pace, one of Australia’s most versatile comedians, was then welcomed to the stage as he performed the first of two very funny, and well received routines.

The Penrith Seniors Dance Group then entertained the audience with several brackets of dances this was followed by the local Silver Fox Quartet who sang a number of songs, in harmony and without any musical accompaniment.

The Joan Sutherland Seniors Choir then took the stage for the final performance of the concert. The choir had been formed in 2007 with a grant from the Council and support from the Penrith Older Women’s Network and the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre. It was obvious from their performance just why they are continuing to receive many bookings throughout the year.

The fun filled and very enjoyable concert finished with a group sing-a-long of Singing in the Rain, Making Whoopee and the Seniors Song.

Morning Tea was provided before the start of the concert and then at the conclusion the 450 plus senior residents were all seated and provided with a packed lunch. Throughout the morning tea and luncheon period “Piccolo” the wandering clown entertained everyone with his wit and humour.

“Piccolo” entertaining a group of seniors in the atrium prior to lunch.

Students from St Dominics College and Penrith High School assisted with the serving of the morning tea and lunch.

Evaluation

An evaluation survey of Council’s celebration was conducted with the members of the organising committee. The following comments are taken from the evaluation:

· Well organised event

· It seemed from my perspective that registration was the smoothest yet

· Much better than last year – more smooth as the frail and aged went first and the remainder waited. PA to let them know lunch wouldn’t be served until seated was good.

· No problems, seemed better than last year

· Great event – keep up the good work

· This has become a very worthwhile event, held in a great venue. Something Council can be proud of.

The evaluation survey was also valuable in gathering comments about ways in which the celebration can be further fine-tuned for next year’s event.

Seniors Week Grants

Council allocates funds each year through the Seniors Week Grant Program to assist community-based groups in organising activities during Seniors Week for older residents in the community. At the Ordinary meeting on 4 February 2008, Council allocated $6,220 to fund ten (10) local community organisations to assist in the delivery of projects during Seniors Week.

The range of events showcased the skills of older people, their participation, and their contribution to the community. The following activities and organisations indicate the range of activities in 2008:

· Werrington Elderly Care organised “Live Life Today” – a series of indoor games and gentle exercises followed by lunch and entertainment

· St Marys Branch of the Combined Pensioners and Superannuates Association (CPSA) held an ecumenical church service followed by an afternoon tea.

· SPYNS Inc, in partnership with seven (7) community organisations organised a 1950’s celebration with a ‘name that tune’ segment. Refreshments were served and there was entertainment from local schools.

· The Enosis Greek Seniors Group, in partnership with the Greek Orthodox Parish of St Demetrius Church Seniors Group, had a celebration with food and entertainment from the local community for elderly and frail Greek residents. There were also a number of guest speakers.

· St Clair Youth and Neighbourhood Team launched the booklet “Celebrating what’s Good about Getting Older” which had been produced in consultation with the local community.

· The North St Marys Neighbourhood Centre Inc organised a luncheon, “A Laugh with Lunch”, for forty (40) seniors from North St Marys, Oxley Park and Colyton. Local school students and volunteers assisted on the day.

· St Marys Branch of the Combined Pensioners and Superannuates Association (CPSA), in partnership with Nepean Migrant Access, organised “Live Life in Harmony” which included demonstration of tai chi and heart moves to promote healthy and active lifestyles. Morning tea and entertainment were also provided.

· The Catholic Parish of the Holy Spirit St Clair, together with Emmaus Village and Mamre House, hosted a tour of Mamre House. This included morning tea, lunch and entertainment.

· Braddock Public School organised a Grandparents’ Day. Gifts were presented to all grandparents and a display of the children’s work and activities was followed by morning tea.

· Werrington Community Projects Inc organised their successful annual two (2) day Seniors’ Art and Craft Expo.

Evaluation was sought from all groups who received grants to assist with planning for Seniors Week 2009. The feedback has been very positive. Events were well attended, often exceeding the expectations of organisers. The events have been a great opportunity for seniors to participate in activities, interact with other groups and learn from each other.

Conclusion

Seniors Week offers organisations and individuals the opportunity to become involved in programs to celebrate the contribution seniors make to communities. Council’s 2008 successful event ‘Laugh at the Lighter Side of Life’ acknowledged and celebrated the contribution older people make to communities, but it also highlighted the importance of music and laughter for the well-being of older people by involving them in the activities. It was a day filled with music, dance, sounds, laughter and celebration which involved local performers across generations and cultures and the assistance of local volunteers and school children.

Additionally, the ten (10) community-based groups who organised activities, or worked in partnership with other groups during Seniors Week, showcased the skills of older people and their contribution to the community. The activities encouraged the involvement and participation of local school children, volunteers, older people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and older people with disabilities.

As indicated earlier, all events were successful. Seniors Week 2008 has been a valuable opportunity for seniors to participate in activities with other groups.

Certificates of Appreciation and letters were forwarded to students who volunteered at Council’s event ‘Laugh at the Lighter Side of Life’. Letters of appreciation, together with a disc of photos taken of the event, were also forwarded to performers and organising committee members.

The annual Seniors Week concert at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre has become a “must attend” annual event for the seniors in the community.

RECOMMENDATION

That the information contained in the report on Seniors Week 2008 Celebrations - 'Laugh at the Lighter Side of Life' be received.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Request for Tender 15-07/08 for the Supply and Installation of a Prefabricated Building for Yoorami Before & After School Care

Compiled by: Glen Tuckwell, Project Co-ordinator

Rebecca McCaskill, Supply Officer (Contracts)

Authorised by: Janet Keegan, Children's Services Manager - Operations

Matthew Stewart, City Works Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Services are provided to meet the diverse needs of families and to support the development of children.

Critical Action: Facilitate the delivery of children’s services with a range of stakeholders to meet the current and emerging needs of families.

Purpose:

To advise Council of the outcome of the tender process and to recommend a preferred contractor for the supply of a purpose built portable building to accommodate the Yoorami Before and After school facility. The report recommends that the tender submitted by Ausco Building Systems Pty Ltd be accepted.

Background

Yoorami commenced operations in 1977 and converted to a cluster centre in 2000. Yoorami Children’s Centre is a 60 place Long Day Care centre, a 45 place Before and After School Care and a 45 place Vacation Centre situated at Werrington. Yoorami Long Day Care was a purpose built centre based on a school design approximately 30 years ago. Before and After School Care is being conducted from a cottage that is separate to the main building providing challenges in regard to staffing, supervision, space, resource management and ongoing maintenance. The floor space of the current OOSH building in relation to the OOSH National Standards is adequate for 19 children. Currently, the service has approval for 45 places Child Care Benefit places per session with a utilisation year to date rate of 36.65 for After School Care.

Due to recent legislation changes, the (Out of School Hours) OOSH building is no longer suitable for the current service provision as it no longer meets National Standards. It is considered that the building has reached the end of its economic life and is threatening the economic viability of the service.

In light of this, a number of options were investigated for a way forward, including looking at Council’s current stock of buildings, pursuing an alternative building solution including a purpose-built prefabricated building and closing the service.

At its meeting of 5 November 2007, Council adopted a report and recommendations with regard to the Yoorami OOSH building. The portable building solution was endorsed with an initial funding source from the property development reserve. The proposal is for the prefabricated building to be co-located with the Long Day Care service with a connecting hallway. It is anticipated that with the new building, economies of scale will be achieved with staffing, utilities, goods and services and that utilisation levels will increase. In addition, the National Standards for OOSH services will be met.

Advantages of this Option

· The prefabricated building can be linked to current Long Day Care building;

· Allows for the cluster model to continue, further enhancing prospects for long term viability;

· Enhances workforce and people management issues, e.g. staff rostering, recruitment, staff management;

· The potential budget deficit is removed;

· It will meet Licensing and National Standards;

· Potentially will improve utilisation as the environment will be more pleasing to families;

· Staff satisfaction/children and family satisfaction;

Current Situation

Requests for Tenders were advertised on the 5^th February 2008 and closed at 3:00pm on Tuesday 26^th February 2008, for the Supply & Installation of a Factory Prefabricated Building for Yoorami Before & After School Care.

Tender Evaluation

The tender evaluation committee consisted of:

· Rebecca McCaskill - Supply Officer - Contracts,

· Glen Tuckwell – Building Project Coordinator,

· Janet Keegan – Children’s Services Manager Operations

Criteria

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

Mandatory Criteria

· Proposed Building Specifications and Plans

· Conflicts of Interest

· Statement of Conformance

General evaluation Criteria

Scope of Requirements

· Demonstrated Ability in Construction of Similar Projects

· Proposed Building

· Project Completion Times

Cost/Price Category

· Project Cost – The Lump Sum Tender Price

· Other Cost Impacts

Business Category

· Financial Viability

· Insurance

· Business Record

· Employees & Wages

· Safety Record

Management & Administration

· Occupational Health & Safety and Public Liability Management

· Quality Assurance System

· Environmental Management System

Summary of Tenders Received

A total of three complying tenders were received from the following suppliers in response to the advertised tender, one late tender was received from Nomad Manufactured Buildings and was not considered.

· Ausco Building Systems Pty Ltd

· Australian Portable Buildings Pty Ltd

· Transfield Services Pty Ltd

Criteria Evaluation

Following the evaluation of the remaining three submissions the evaluation committee determined that all Tenderers demonstrated compliance against each of the evaluation criteria.

Each Tenderer was assessed based on their compliance with the Tender and the total Lump Sum cost to complete the project, to ensure that Council achieved a ‘Best Value for Money’ outcome. The table below summarises the evaluation results, showing the Tendered Prices and the Preferred Contractor.

Ranking	Contractor	Price (excluding GST)
1.	Ausco Building Systems Pty Ltd	$195,520
2.	Australian Portable Buildings	$204,896
3.	Transfield Services	$635,220

The lowest tender was submitted by Ausco Building Systems Pty Ltd, in the amount of $195,520. This company has satisfied the evaluation criteria and has recently completed the installation of a purpose built relocatable building for the State Emergency Services at Gipps Street, Claremont Meadows. This project was managed by Penrith City Council and was delivered successfully to the client’s satisfaction. This company has also recently completed large projects for Railcorp at Clyde and Pippita and Auburn Hospital for the Department of Commerce. Ausco Buildings Systems Pty Ltd operates Australia wide and has a good reputation and ability to service a wide variety of customers including the mining industry, schools the tourist resort market and also delivered accommodation and media facilities during the Sydney Olympic Games.

The next lowest tender was submitted by Australian Portable Buildings, in the amount of $204,896. This company has complied with all the conditions of the tender and would be capable of delivering the works. However, there would be no advantage to Council in accepting their tender.

The remaining tender was submitted by Transfield Services in the amount of $635,220.

Although this company has complied with all the conditions of the tender, due to the uncompetitive pricing this tender was not considered further.

Additional funding will be required to complete the project. These include;

Item	Estimated costs
DA and associated costs	$7,000
Electrical supply	$4,000
Sewage and stormwater connections	$7,000
Water connection	$3,000
Demolition of current B&A and turfing	$25,000
Opening and covered link from existing long day care	$20,000
Fencing	$15,000
Soft furnishings and equipment	$70,000
Landscaping	$20,000
Contingency	$30,000
Shade Structure	$15,000
Total	$216,000

Financial Services Manager’s Comment

Council, at its meeting of 5 November 2007, allocated $500,000 towards the redevelopment of a Yoorami Before and After School building from the Property Development Reserve. Acceptance of the preferred tender, together with the additional costs identified in this report, bring the expected cost of this project to $411,520, well within the budget allocation.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Request for Tender 15-07/08 for the Supply and Installation of a Prefabricated Building for Yoorami Before & After School Care be received.

2. Ausco Building Systems Pty Ltd’s Tender for $195,520 ex GST be accepted and appointed as the approved contractor to undertake the Contract for the Supply & Installation of the Prefabricated Building at Yoorami Before & After School Care.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Memorial to commemorate people who have died in workplace accidents

Compiled by: Bijai Kumar, Local Economic Development Program Manager

Raphael Collins, Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager

Authorised by: Bijai Kumar, Local Economic Development Program Manager

Raphael Collins, Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager

Requested By: Councillor David Bradbury

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

Critical Action: Assess the social impacts of urban change in both new release areas, established areas and rural areas..

Purpose:

To inform Council of memorials built by some other councils and organisations to commemorate those who have died in workplace accidents. The report recommends that the information contained in the report be received.

Background

Councillor David Bradbury has requested a report to Council providing details/options for the erection of a local memorial to remember those local residents of our City that have lost their lives in the course of their employment activities.

According to the 2005-06 Workcover Authority Annual Report, the following key trends in the workplace injuries and fatalities in NSW were highlighted:

· Employee fatalities continue to trend downwards from 177 in 2001-02 to 146 in 2005-06;

· The incidence rate of fatalities has halved in the last 20 years;

· Major workplace injury rates are at the lowest in 20 years and have decreased 18% from 13.4/1000 employees in 2004-05 to 11.0 in 2005-06.

The Data Analysis and Research Unit at Workcover Authority which generates such statistics has been requested in writing to provide information on workplace fatalities in Penrith but no response has been received to date despite several reminders.

Several Trade Unions such as the CFMEU and Victorian Trades Hall Council as well Local Governments across Australia have built memorials to commemorate workers who have been victims of workplace fatalities.

One of the biggest projects undertaken by a Trade Union is the Wall of Remembrance constructed by CFMEU in 2006 in Railway Street, Lidcome in memory of all workers killed and injured at work. On the Wall of Remembrance are the names of many workers killed in workplace accidents in NSW since 1988. In Victoria, a memorial service is held each year as part of the International Workers’ Memorial Day at the Memorial Rock at the Trades Hall. The Memorial Rock was unveiled in 2000 to commemorate those workers who lost their lives as a result of their work. The rock came from a worksite where a worker had lost his life.

On 15 October 2003, 16 year old Joel Exner fell 15 metres to his death from an Eastern Creek building site on his third day of work. At the request of Mr Exner’s family and the CFMEU, Blacktown City Council arranged for a memorial to be placed in Tallawong Park to remember Mr Exner’s tragic death and to highlight the importance of workplace safety. The memorial was unveiled in October 2006 and was attended by many of his school friends and some 400 construction workers.

Burwood Council has also constructed a plaque in Burwood Park in memory of workers who have died at work. A picture of the plaque is shown below:

The following words appear on the plaque:

International Day of Mourning

In remembrance of workers tragically killed and injured at work

And those who have died from exposure to chemicals and asbestos

Plaque unveiled by Mayor John Faker &

Andrew Ferguson, State Secretary, CMFEU

Thursday 10 May, 2007

Burwood Council joins with the community and

The Australian trade union movement

In supporting improved workplace safety

BURWOOD COUNCIL

Current Situation

Enquiries have been made of Burwood Council about its memorial and the costs associated with its construction. Based on the design, and considering materials and labour, it is estimated a memorial would cost $800.00.

A preliminary search for a suitable park in which to locate the memorial has led to Red Cross Anniversary Park or Chapman Gardens in Kingswood. These are only suggestions at this stage but it is thought that the memorial could be positioned adjacent to the pathways in these parks giving it a lot of exposure to passing park patrons.

RECOMMENDATION

That the information contained in the report on Memorial to commemorate people who have died in workplace accidents be received.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

North Ward Skate Facility

Compiled by: Raphael Collins, Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager

Authorised by: Raphael Collins, Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager

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 advise Council of the progress with the North Ward Skate Park project. The report provides details relating to the public consultation process and design of the facility. The report recommends the information contained in the report be received.

Background

In February 2007, Council considered a report concerning the proposed North Ward Skate Park (see attached). The report explained the process that was involved with the site selection of the facility. The report made the following recommendations:

· That Council endorse the Sherringham Reserve site in Cranebrook as the preferred location for a skate park;

· Consultation with key stakeholders, interested parties and potential users be undertaken;

· A further report be submitted to Council, at the end of the consultation process, providing feedback from the community concerning the Sherringham Reserve site.

Over the last year, key stakeholders in Cranebrook were identified and given the opportunity to submit their views about the skate park. These groups included:

· Cranebrook High School

· Braddock Public School

· Cranebrook Neighbourhood Advisory Board (NAB)

· Department of Housing

· Foothills Christian Church

· Barnardos

· Sydney Christian Outreach Centre

Concurrent with the consultation, Convic Design was commissioned early in the year to prepare concept plans for the skate park. A workshop was held on 31 July 2007, at Cranebrook Neighbourhood Centre, to learn from young people the kind of features they prefer in the skate park. Nearly 30 young people attended the workshop and provided the skate park designer with ideas for the preparation of the concept plans. Concept plans have been prepared to the value allocated to the project from the S94 plan .

Current Situation

As part of the public consultation process, a Field Day was organised on the site of the proposed skate park. Invitations were sent to the schools, NAB, local shops and an advertisement was placed in the local papers.

Personal letters were sent to approx 20 residents who live in close proximity to the reserve. The letters described the skate park facility and a map indicated its location. Several of the residents attended the Field Day and discussed issues relating to the facility.

The Field Day was held on Saturday 1 March and was attended by approximately 80 people including local residents. Representatives from Convic Design were available on the day to explain the technical aspects of the facility.

Survey Results

During the Field Day, people were asked to fill out survey forms that were made available on the day.

The following is a summary of those issues raised in the survey.

· Will the skate park be lit?

There is no intention to provide floodlighting to the facility. There will be the need to relocate an existing pathway light that is situated near the proposed skate park

· Illicit behaviour that occurs in the park during evening hours

Residents were concerned about the amount of broken glass and rubbish that will be left in and around the facility

· Clean up and maintenance of the skate park

A management plan of the North Ward skate park will be prepared that defines the level of service that will be carried out in and around the skate park. The adopted maintenance plan is a replica of the three other skate parks in the City. Public Domain staff will ensure the facility has regular clean-ups including graffiti removal. They will conduct daily inspections (7 days per week) and undertake general maintenance of the site.

· Supervision of the skate park

Skate parks are unsupervised facilities similar to play equipment. Like the other skate park facilities, Council must rely on good design, signage and regular maintenance as an effective way of managing risk and illicit behaviour.

· Inundation from stormwater

A nearby resident was concerned about how stormwater flows will impact on the skate park. The skate park will be positioned in a detention basin. Many skate parks including Glenmore Park have been placed in a detention basin because they are not adversely affected by inundation. As long as the skate park can be easily cleaned after inundation and there is no ponding of water, the proposed location in the detention basin is appropriate.

· Perceived noise levels from the skate park

Some residents living in close proximity to the skate park raised concerns about noise levels from skating, scooters and bike activities.

An independent consultant was commissioned to undertake noise measurements of the skate park. – Acoustic Logic Consultancy Pty Ltd.

A noise emission assessment was carried out over a 13 day period in April. The main noise sources generated by the skate park are:

· Skateboard wheels on concrete surfaces;

· Impact of skateboard hitting rails and ledges; and

· Speech.

The monitoring found that the predicted noise emissions from the skatepark comply with EPA noise emission guidelines during daytime and evening periods.

Community and Cultural Development Manager’s Comments

Over 35% of all 12 – 24 year old young people in Penrith City live in the North Ward of the Penrith LGA. Cranebrook has the highest number of young people in the North Ward. Cranebrook was highlighted as a preferred site for the North Ward Skate Park for a number of reasons. Young people in Cranebrook have poor public transport access to the Jamison Oval skate park and, in Council’s Youth Needs Audit, consultations with young people revealed that they wanted more recreation facilities, especially a skate park, in Cranebrook.

Consultation on the Cranebrook Skate Park and the preferred location has occurred with service providers that are members of the Cranebrook Neighbourhood Advisory Board and other stakeholders in the area. This includes local youth services as well as schools. The community has also been consulted regarding the proposed skate park.

A design workshop was also held for young people to inform the skate park consultants about their thoughts and ideas for the skate park. A field day was held in early March that was widely publicised to the community. Members of the community were able to have their say on the skate park and raise any issues. In addition, a number of families and young people expressed their support for the skatepark. Relevant issues raised will be addressed in the design and management plan for the skate park.

Financial Services Manager’s Comments

The Penrith Local Open Space s94 plan has provision for a skate park in North Ward with a construction cost of up to $320,000. An additional amount is provided for design and project management costs taking the total project cost to $368,000. $15,000 of the design costs have been incurred in the current year. The balance of the project is included in the draft 2008-09 Management Plan currently on exhibition.

Conclusion

Council decided in February 2007 that Sherringham Reserve was the preferred location for the North Ward skate park. Since that time, there has been ongoing consultation with a range of stakeholders. Throughout this process there has been overwhelming support for the facility.

Cranebrook has a high population of young people with limited recreational opportunities other than sporting fields. Many young respondents to the survey conveyed that there is little to do in Cranebrook especially since the concrete skate bowl was removed from Ironbark Reserve last year.

The concerns raised by some residents living near the reserve relate to the perception that a skate park will increase antisocial behaviour. These concerns are consistent with the other three skate parks in Penrith. In response to this concern, we can draw our attention to the Jamison Park facility. Since it’s opening in 2002, the reported incidents of anti social behaviour have been minimal.

Concerned residents have been advised that a Community Safety Management Plan will be developed for the skate park that will include a comprehensive maintenance schedule for graffiti/litter removal and other long term maintenance requirements.

Engaging the key stakeholders in the consultation process will continue. The next stage in the development of the stake park project will be to prepare the construction plans and documentation for development. Tendering for the project will take place early in the new year July/August.

Funding for the skate park has been included for consideration in the Draft 2008/09 Management Plan.

RECOMMENDATION

That the information contained in the report on North Ward Skate Facility be received.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Landscape Improvements to Victoria Park

Compiled by: Raphael Collins, Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager

Authorised by: Raphael Collins, Parks Construction & Maintenance Manager

Requested By: Councillor Kaylene Allison

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 provide a proposed schedule of works to implement the Masterplan in Victoria Park and provide details on the condition of the memorial bandstand and rotunda and proposed remedial works. The report recommends that the information contained in the report be received.

Background

At its Ordinary Meeting on 7April 2008, Council considered a report about the status of landscaping works at Victoria Park. The recommendations from that report were as follows:

“1. The information contained in the report on the Status of Victoria Park Landscaping be received.

2. The Masterplan approved by Council in 2004 be implemented utilising funds identified in the Section 94 Local Open Space Developer Contribution Plan and that the remaining work be nominated for consideration through subsequent Project Evaluation processes.

3. A further urgent report be presented to Council on the Schedule of Works and the time frame for this, as well as providing information on any renovations for the memorial bandstand and rotunda that may have been planned.”

This report refers to the suggested schedule of works for the landscaping and associated costs according to the adopted Masterplan.

Current Situation

The following table shows the sequence of staged works for Victoria Park. It should be pointed out that stage 5 of the programmed work will complete the Section 94 funding and stages 6, 7 and 8, will require alternative funding sources.

Completed/Programmed Works
Stage	Description	Estimated Cost	Funding
1	Memorial Precinct - Demolition and landscape around memorial	$50,000	Section 94 (old plan) Completed 2006/07
2	Play precinct – Refurbish existing play equipment and relocate with rubber softfall. Purchase trees for advancing in Council’s nursery.	$50,000	Section 94 Included in current Management Plan
Future Works (Costs are in 2008 $’s)
3	Play precinct (continued) –Paving, fencing and landscape to SE corner of park. Work to include concrete edging to planting areas, arris rail fencing, turfing and tree planting.	$106,000 2008/09	Section 94
4	Play precinct (continued) - New picnic shelters, tables and associated paving	$112,000 Proposed 2009/10	Section 94
5	Landscaping, fencing and entry treatments to NW, NE and SW corners of park. Work to include edging, planting, footpath paving (including pram ramps) and turfing	$116,000 Proposed 2009/10	Section 94
6	Paving – 2.5m wide oval path in park, 2.5m wide paths linking oval path with corners of park, 1.5m wide footpaving around park.	$202,000	Council funds
7	Lighting – Decorative/security lighting at regular intervals around park. Includes conduits, controls and meters.	$106,000	Council funds
8	Park Planting and furniture – Jacaranda avenue, feature tree and mass planting, turfing, watering points, seating and interpretation stations around park.	$129,000	Council funds
8		$129,000	Council funds

As stated earlier in this report, that alternative funding sources will be required for Stages 6, 7 and 8, consideration could be given to existing Council programs contributing to these stages.

In this year’s Management Plan there is $100,000 (Section 94 funds) allocated for the Jam Factory site at Roper Road, Colyton. These funds were set aside to match a Metropolitan Greenspace Grant in which Council was unsuccessful. These funds could now be returned to the Section 94 reserve and made available for Victoria Park in the 2008-09 Management Plan.

Plans for the development of the Jam Factory site at Roper Road, Colyton are being progressed. There is $300,000 included in Section 94 plan to provide 2 playing fields at this site. A grant application is currently being prepared for submission under the Urban Sustainability Program in late June. The grant will focus on rehabilitation aspects of the project and developing a stormwater harvesting system for the proposed playing fields.

Victoria Park Rotunda

In September 2000, Mahaffey and Associates were engaged to investigate the condition of the rotunda. The consultants found a large amount of cracking occurring in the render. This was caused by the movement between the bricks and concrete (the structure was constructed with brick and concrete and has a rendered surface).

The investigations also revealed evidence of corrosion of the embedded steel reinforcing and the metal fence components. The extent of this corrosion was not evaluated but there are areas where the concrete is cracking due to the rusting of steel reinforcing.

The consultants recommended treatments to the rendered surface deterioration that included a new finish far superior to that which presently exists.

The process would include:

· Carry out repairs to faulty concrete and brickwork where corrosion of embedded steel reinforcement (spalling) has occurred;

· Remove and replace areas of failing render (drummy render);

· Fill in all cracking in render that is not drummy render;

· Apply commercial silicate paint to all the rendered surfaces including concrete surfaces;

· Strip and recoat metal fencing.

The estimate to undertake the above work is $56,000 to $60,000. In 2001, some minor masonry repairs and painting of the handrail were carried out at a cost of $3,800.

The consultants advised that if this work was carried out the structure would require little or no maintenance for many years.

Financial Services Manager’s Comments

Stages 3, 4 and 5 are able to be funded from the s94 plan. Predicted income for the plan indicates that the works cam be programmed over the next three years. Funding for the remaining stages will need to be identified from alternative sources.

Conclusion

The above report identifies a schedule of works that includes an additional 6 stages to complete the Masterplan of Victoria Park. Stages 3, 4 and 5 can be funded from the Section 94 Developer Contributions Plan. Currently, there are no funds allocated for Victoria Park in the 2008/09 Management Plan. The balance of the staged works can be progressed in future funding programs depending on available funds.

Works identified for the rotunda are not included in the Masterplan. Funding for the rotunda will be considered in the 2009/10 Building Maintenance or Asset Renewal programs.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Landscape Improvements to Victoria Park be received.

2. Costs for the work on the rotunda be considered in the 2009/10 Management Plan.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Variation of Restrictive Covenant applying to Lot 211 & 212 DP 1093617 (No. 36 & 38) Heaton Avenue, Claremont Meadows Applicant: Allam Homes Pty Ltd; Owner: D & K Currie

Compiled by: Stephen Krimmer, Environmental Health and Building Surveyor

Authorised by: Paul Lemm, Development Services Manager

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

Critical Action: Formulate and implement social and cultural strategies for redeveloping established areas that support cohesive communities.

Purpose:

To seek endorsement from Council to vary a restrictive convenant associated with two residential properties imposed on the original subdivision. The report recommends that the nominated restriction as to user be varied and the common seal of Penrith City Council be affixed to all necessary documentation.

Background

Council approved subdivision application DA 04/2582 for the creation of nineteen (19) allotments for residential purposes and an extension to Heaton Avenue off Caddens Road, Claremont Meadows in 2005. (See Locality Map Appendix No. 1). As part of that approval, a restrictive covenant under Section 88B of the Conveyancing Act 1919 was imposed.

The restriction on the use of land secondly referred to in the subject Deposited Plan No. 1093617 burdens Lots 211-213 & 217-218 and states:

“The owner of the lot burdened will maintain the area designated (P5) on the abovementioned plan as an inner protection area asset protection zone in accordance with ‘Planning for Bushfire Protection, 2001’ and Appendix No. 1 of the Conacher Travers Bushfire Protection Assessment dated February 2004, reference 3510B.”

Penrith City Council is nominated as the authority whose consent is required to release, vary or modify the terms of the restriction.

The development consent, issued by Council for the subdivision, required the provision of Bushfire Asset Protection Zones in accordance with the recommendations of a Bushfire Protection Assessment by Conacher Travers, dated February 2004, using the guidelines “Planning for Bushfire Protection 2001”. (See Existing Asset Protection Zone Plan Appendix No. 2). An Asset Protection Zone (APZ) consists of an Outer Protection Zone (OPZ) and an Inner Protection Zone (IPZ) and is an area surrounding a development managed to reduce the bushfire hazard to an acceptable level. Planning for Bushfire Protection 2001 has since been superseded by amended guidelines “Planning for Bushfire Protection 2006”. The amended guidelines are more site descriptive and set standards depending on conditions (such as slope, direction, access, water supply, type of vegetation and density) that apply to each site to determine the APZ setback to dwellings.

The applicants have requested the existing restriction be varied, by modifying the Inner Protection Zone on the above lots to correspond with the changes in bushfire legislation from “Planning for Bushfire Protection 2001” to “Planning for Bushfire Protection 2006”. The changes will result in the current IPZ setbacks on the subject lots of up to 14.0m being reduced to 4.0m. However, Council’s Development Control Plan 2006 requires a dwelling to have a minimum front setback of 5.5m or the average front setback of adjoining properties, whichever is greater. The reduction of the IPZ will allow for a new dwelling to be constructed on each lot less than the nominated 14m distance.

Council referred the proposed variation of the IPZ on the residential lots to the NSW Rural Fire Service. The NSW Rural Fire Service responded that it has no objection to the variation and stated an IPZ of 15.0m is required for the dwellings. This IPZ can be contained within the 11.0m road reserve and within the front 4.0m of the lots.

Site and Surrounds

The subject lots are located in a new subdivision. The subdivision is adjoined by Caddens Road to the north, Hermitage Court to the west, M4 Motorway to the south and a reserve to the east. The subdivision currently has a mixture of vacant lots and new dwellings under construction or completed. The subject lots are vacant, and surrounded by vacant lots or new dwellings. There is a reserve adjoining the other side of the road frontage. The surrounding area is characterised by high quality residential and rural residential development. The sites are relatively level.

The Proposal

The proposal includes the following aspects:

· Vary the restriction on the use of land secondly referred to in the subject deposited plan, allowing for the Inner Protection Zone (IPZ) location to be reduced to 4.0m for the subject lots with the remainder being provided within the 11.0m road reserve.

The proposal will result in the reduction of the size of the IPZ, as previously required under “Planning for Bushfire Protection 2001”. The following table indicates the revised IPZ required for each lot.

Lot No.

Existing IPZ within the front setback

Proposed IPZ within the front setback

LEP and DCP Setback Requirements for dwellings

211

14.0m maximum

4.0m

Front setback average of adjoining lots or 5.5m. Whichever is greater.

212

14.0m

4.0m

Front setback average of adjoining lots or 5.5m. Whichever is greater.

(The proposed dwelling on the lot has a front setback of 7.0m)

Assessment of Issues Relating to the Positive Covenant

The proposed variation of the Inner Protection Zone will not impact on the existing landscaping or the requirements for its preservation as the existing roads form most of the IPZ required under the 2006 guidelines.

The variation of the Inner Protection Zone will maintain a streetscape character conducive to the new subdivision, allow for open space around dwellings, and provide scope for comprehensive landscaping of developments.

The proposed changes to the 88B instrument are in accordance with the revised relevant controls for Planning for Bushfire Protection 2006, as outlined in the Bushfire Protection Assessment prepared by Conacher Travers and endorsed by NSW Rural Fire Service.

Due to the above issues, a variation of the IPZ as proposed would have minimal impact visually, or on the amenity or streetscape of the locality.

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

Community Consultation

In accordance with Council’s Advertising and Notification Development Control Plan, the proposed development was required to undergo public notification processes. No objections were received in relation to amendment to the 88B instrument.

Conclusion

Assessment of the application to vary the restrictive covenant on the use of land secondly referred to in the subject deposited plan applying to Lots 211& 212 DP 1093617, has demonstrated that the proposal is unlikely to have any significant impacts on the achievement of the outcomes intended by the planning and subdivision controls for these properties. The proposed variation of restrictive covenant will not compromise the bushfire safety, character or amenity of the locality, and will permit a significant increase in the spatial separation and perceived setbacks of development on the streetscape. The variation of restrictive covenant is therefore recommended for approval.

It is proposed to determine future development applications on the subject lots under Delegated Authority after the restriction has been varied.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Variation of Restrictive Covenant applying to Lot 211 & 212 DP 1093617 (No. 36 & 38) Heaton Avenue, Claremont Meadows be received

2. The terms outlined in the restriction on the use of land secondly referred to in the Section 88b Instrument of the Conveyancing Act 1919 applying specifically to Lots 211 & 212 in DP 1093617 (known as No. 36 & 38) Heaton Avenue, Claremont Meadows and Lots 213, 217 & 218 in DP1093617 (subject to an application being lodged to vary the restriction on these lots) be varied to allow the Inner Protection Area APZ to be reduced to 4.0m with the remainder being provided within the 11.0m road reserve

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

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

1. View	Locality Map 36 & 38 Heaton Avenue, Claremont Meadows	1 Page	Appendix
2. View	Existing Inner Protection Zone Plan	1 Page	Appendix

# 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)

Current Task or KPI	Amendment Proposed	Comment
EXTERNAL SERVICES
*Neighbourhood Facilities Management (PDASM)*
Current KPIs: · Number of events for regular hirers per quarter (Target 12,500 events per annum) · Number of functions held per quarter (Target 1,275 functions per annum)	Revised Annual Targets: · Number of events for regular hirers per quarter (New Target 8,600 events per annum) · Number of functions held per quarter (New Target 850 functions per annum)	The present targets for these KPIs have previously been reported to Council as unachievable. Further analysis has been undertaken of neighbourhood facilities utilisation over the past four years. This indicates that the current targets are not in line with utilisation and appear to have been errors. It is recommended that realistic targets be set for 2007-08. A task has been included in the Draft 2008-09 Management Plan to review the KPIs and targets for this Service.
INTERNAL SERVICES
*Workforce Development (WDM)*
Current Strategic Task: Finalise and implement a contemporary workforce and workplace strategy. [under CA34.2A]	Revised wording of Task: Identify and commence assessment of the key strategic challenges for the future of Council’s workforce and workplace.	To more meaningfully express the approach being taken to progression of key strategic issues in the present year and in the preparation of the next Strategic Plan. A draft discussion paper has been developed and presented to the senior management, which when completed will be the basis for Council and organisational engagement on this critical area of strategy.
*Corporate Development (CM)*
Current Service Improvement: Conduct a pilot survey for Council support services to measure internal customer satisfaction.	Deletion of 2007-08 Service Improvement Task and carry over to the Draft 2008-09 Management Plan.	While preparatory steps have been taken, due to other major priorities in this Service, the task cannot be completed in the present year. It has been included in the Draft 2008-09 Management Plan.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*Appendix 1 - Proposed Amendments to 2007-08 Management Plan Tasks and KPIs*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*Appendix 1 - Locality Map 36 & 38 Heaton Avenue, Claremont Meadows*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*Appendix 2 - Existing Inner Protection Zone Plan*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*19 May 2008*
*The City as an Economy*