Agenda of Ordinary Meeting - 1 December 2008

UNCONFIRMED MINUTES

OF THE ORDINARY MEETING OF PENRITH CITY COUNCIL HELD IN THE

COUNCIL CHAMBERS

ON MONDAY 10 NOVEMBER 2008 AT 7:35PM

NATIONAL ANTHEM

The meeting opened with the National Anthem.

STATEMENT OF RECOGNITION

His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Jim Aitken OAM read a statement of recognition of Penrith City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage.

PRAYER

The Council Prayer was read by the Rev Neil Checkley.

PRESENT

His Worship the Mayor Councillor Jim Aitken OAM, Councillors Kaylene Allison, Robert Ardill, Kevin Crameri OAM, Greg Davies, Mark Davies, Tanya Davies, Ross Fowler OAM, Ben Goldfinch, Jackie Greenow, Prue Guillaume, Marko Malkoc, Karen McKeown, Kath Presdee, and John Thain.

APOLOGIES

There were no apologies.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Ordinary Meeting - 13 October 2008

398 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Karen McKeown seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM that the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of 13 October 2008 be confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillor Ross Fowler OAM declared a pecuniary interest in Committee of the Whole Item 2 - Regentville Hall - Nepean Food Services Incorporated - Licence for Part of Lot 2 DP 1002686, 8 - 20 Jeanette Street, Regentville as he is the auditor for Nepean Food Services Incorporated.

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM declared a Less than Significant Non-Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Item 2 - Community and Cultural Development Department - Projects and Key Achievements - 1 January to 30 June 2008, and Item 3 - Magnetic Places Community Cultural Grants Program 2008/09, as he is Public Officer and President of the Llandilo Hall Committee.

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM declared a Less than Significant Non-Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Item 4 - Northern Rural Areas Community Development Project Grant Application, as he is a resident of the Llandilo/Londonderry area.

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM declared a Less than Significant Non-Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Item 12 - City Operations Directorate Report to end of September 2008, as he is Deputy Captain of the Llandilo Rural Fire Service.

Mayoral Minutes

1 Council's recognition for successful community engagement

399 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jim Aitken OAM seconded Councillor Tanya Davies that the Mayoral Minute on Council's recognition for successful community engagement be received.

Reports of Committees

1 Report and Recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on 13 October 2008

400 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Karen McKeown that the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 13 October, 2008 be adopted.

2 Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee Meeting held on 20 October 2008

401 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Prue Guillaume that the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee meeting held on 20 October, 2008 be adopted.

3 Report and Recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee held on 3 November 2008

402 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Karen McKeown seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 3 November, 2008 be adopted.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

The City in its Broader Context

1 Request for sponsorship of Blind Cricket Ashes Return Series

403 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Request for sponsorship of Blind Cricket Ashes Return Series be received.

2. Council approve the request for sponsorship of $5,000 to be funded from the City Marketing budget.

The City as a Social Place

3 Magnetic Places Community Cultural Grants Program 2008/09

404 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Greg Davies

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Magnetic Places Community Cultural Grants Program 2008/09 be received.

2. Council approve the proposed amounts for funding of seven projects as outlined in Table 1 of this report to a total of $34,126.00.

4 Northern Rural Areas Community Development Project Grant Application

405 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Greg Davies

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Northern Rural Areas Community Development Project Grant Application be received.

2. Council accept the grant of $153,298 from the Department of Community Services Communities Division Metro West to implement the Northern Rural Areas Community Development Project as outlined in the report.

2 Community and Cultural Development Department - Projects and Key Achievements - 1 January to 30 June 2008

406 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded Councillor Karen McKeown that the information contained in the report on Community and Cultural Development Department - Projects and Key Achievements - 1 January to 30 June 2008 be received.

5 Access Committee - Appointment of Community Representatives

407 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Access Committee - Appointment of Community Representatives be received.

2. The following persons be appointed as community representatives on Council’s Access Committee for a period of two years:

Mr John Farragher

Mrs Denise Heath

Ms Tricia Hitchen

Ms Ronda Hopkins

Ms Sherille Stephens

Mr Michael Morris.

6 Naming of a Park in Victoria Street, Cambridge Park

408 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Kath Presdee

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Naming of a Park in Victoria Street, Cambridge Park be received.

2. Council endorse the naming of the park on Victoria Street, Cambridge Park as ‘Steamroller Park’ and make application to the Geographical Names Board for the official gazetting.

3. The students of class 4MS at St Joseph’s Primary School be advised of the proposed name for the park and be thanked and congratulated for their input.

4. An appropriate plaque be placed at this location, detailing the origins of the name of the park, with students of class 4MS at St Joseph’s Primary School being invited to the ceremony.

7 North Cranebrook Works in Kind Agreement for the embellishment of the Centauri Circuit Park (Developer: WEM Property Ventures Pty Ltd)

409 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow

That:

1. The information contained in the report on North Cranebrook Works in Kind Agreement for the embellishment of the Centauri Circuit Park (Developer: WEM Property Ventures Pty Ltd) be received.

2. Council enter into a Works in Kind Agreement with WEM Property Ventures Pty Ltd for the embellishment of the park located off Centauri Circuit, North Cranebrook.

3. Council accept the transfer of the Centauri Circuit park site for the payment of $117,477 to WEM Property Ventures Pty Ltd.

In accordance with Section 375A of the Local Government Act 1993, a DIVISION was then called with the following result:

For

Against

Councillor Jim Aitken OAM

Councillor Kaylene Allison

Councillor Robert Ardill

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM

Councillor Greg Davies

Councillor Mark Davies

Councillor Tanya Davies

Councillor Ross Fowler OAM

Councillor Ben Goldfinch

Councillor Jackie Greenow

Councillor Prue Guillaume

Councillor Marko Malkoc

Councillor Karen Mckeown

Councillor Kath Presdee

Councillor John Thain

The MOTION was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

The City In Its Environment

8 Floodplain Management Authorities 49th Annual Conference - 17 February 2009 to 20 February 2009

410 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Ben Goldfinch

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Floodplain Management Authorities 49th Annual Conference - 17 February 2009 to 20 February 2009 be received.

2. Council nominate Councillors Jim Aitken OAM, Jackie Greenow, Kevin Crameri OAM, Tanya Davies, and any other available Councillors, as delegates to the 2009 Floodplain Management Authorities Conference and Workshop, to be held at Albury from 17 February 2009 to 20 February 2009.

The City as an Economy

9 International Links Program - 2009 Celebrations

411 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on International Links Program - 2009 Celebrations be received.

2. A working party, to include all available Councillors, be formed to provide input into the planning of Penrith City’s 50^th anniversary celebrations in 2009.

The City Supported by Infrastructure

10 Tender Reference RFT 03-08/09 Re-Roofing of Depot Works Building

412 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Tanya Davies seconded Councillor Karen McKeown

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Tender Reference RFT 03-08/09 Re-Roofing of Depot Works Building be received.

2. Lidoran Environmental Services Pty Ltd is awarded the contract for the re roofing of the depot works building up to a maximum value of $143,720 and that the final project cost be determined in accordance with their tendered schedule of rates following a detailed measurement of the roof area prior to commencement of any works.

3. Getex Pty Ltd be appointed to carry out air monitoring and compliance during the asbestos removal process, up to a maximum value of $4,500.

4. The provision of solar panels as part of the re-roofing works be investigated as a matter of priority and funded from the Sustainability Revolving Fund.

Leadership and Organisation

Councillor Greg Davies left the meeting, the time being 8:17 pm.

13 20th Women, Management and Employment Relations Conference

413 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM that the information contained in the report on 20th Women, Management and Employment Relations Conference be received.

15 2008 Local Government Association Annual Conference

414 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on 2008 Local Government Association Annual Conference be received.

2. Council resubmit its motion on ‘Proposed Amendments to the Local Government Association Constitution’ to the 2009 Local Government Association Conference.

17 Summary of Investments & Banking for the period 1 October 2008 to 31 October 2008

415 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Summary of Investments & Banking for the period 1 October 2008 to 31 October 2008 be received.

2. The Certificate of the Responsible Accounting Officer and Summaries of Investments and Performance for the period 1 October 2008 to 31 October 2008 be noted and accepted.

3. The graphical investment analysis as at 31 October 2008 be noted.

11 Funding of River Road Riparian Corridor Plan of Management

416 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Karen McKeown that the information contained in the report on Funding of River Road Riparian Corridor Plan of Management be received.

12 City Operations Directorate Report to end of September 2008

Councillor Greg Davies returned to the meeting, the time being 8:23 pm.

417 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Robert Ardill that the information contained in the report on City Operations Directorate Report to end of September 2008 be received.

At 8:27 pm, the Mayor, Councillor Jim Aitken OAM, vacated the Chair, and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Ross Fowler OAM, took the Chair for consideration of Item 14.

14 Movement of two District Courts at Penrith to the Parramatta Justice Precinct

418 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jim Aitken OAM seconded Councillor Mark Davies

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Movement of two District Courts at Penrith to the Parramatta Justice Precinct be received.

2. The Chief Judge and Registrar of the District Court and all other stakeholders be invited to an urgent meeting to discuss the implications, both social and financial, of moving two district courts at Penrith to the Parramatta Justice Precinct.

3. Council write to other affected councils to gain their support and involvement in the stakeholder meeting.

4. Following the stakeholder meeting, an urgent report be provided to Council on the outcomes of the meeting and detailing a strategy to retain current legal services, particularly the three district courts in Penrith, so as to ensure essential legal services remain in the City, in keeping with the State Government Regional status of Penrith.

The Mayor returned to the Chair at 8:53 pm.

16 2008 Local Government Elections - 13 September 2008

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

That:

1. The information contained in the report on 2008 Local Government Elections - 13 September 2008 be received.

2. The concerns and suggestions made in regard to the ‘centralised counting centre’, ‘counting of votes at polling places’, ‘how to vote material’, ‘awareness of election’ and ‘polling places’ be forwarded to the NSW Electoral Commission and the Local Government Association of NSW, together with the following issues that arose from the conduct of the 2008 Local Government Elections:

· Training of Electoral Commission staff regarding counting and differentiating between formal and informal ballot papers;

· Advising Polling Place Managers more consistently with regard to sorting of Above the Line, Below the Line, and Other ballot papers at polling places on election night;

· The unsuitability of some venues as they did not have access to adequate parking, or adequate shelter for candidate assistants;

· Information concerning the location of pre-poll facilities in adjoining Local Government Areas not being made available to pre-poll booths within this city;

· Centralised counting – noting the possibility that counting for the Penrith LGA could be undertaken locally at a central venue, such as the Penrith Civic Centre.

3. Council note the action being taken by the Local Government Association in relation to Urgent Motion L37 - Electoral Commission, arising from Penrith City Council’s successful Motion submitted to the 2008 Local Government Association Conference.

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

QWN 1 Grass cutting - frontage to Penrith Golf Club

Councillor Mark Davies requested a memo reply concerning the overgrown nature strip at the front of the Northern Road boundary fence of the Penrith Golf Club and requested that this be remedied.

QWN 2 Dumped shopping trolleys in Peachtree Creek

Councillor Mark Davies requested a memo reply regarding the removal of dumped shopping trolleys in Peachtree Creek.

QWN 3 Personnel Matter - to be considered in Committee of the Whole

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM requested that an item concerning a personnel matter be referred to Committee of the Whole as the item refers to personnel matters concerning particular individuals and discussion of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.

QWN 4 Japanese Maple in Weatherby Street, Cambridge Park

Councillor John Thain requested a memo reply concerning the ongoing issue of an overgrown Japanese Maple in Weatherby Street, Cambridge Park and requested that this matter be investigated and remedied as soon as possible.

QWN 5 Lots 1 and 2 Russell Street, Emu Plains

Councillor John Thain requested a report to Council, before the end of the exhibition period, detailing the policy position that Council had taken in relation to Lots 1 and 2 Russell Street when the proposed draft LEP zonings were considered.

QWN 6 Provision of Barriers for Ronald McDonald Charity Day

Councillor John Thain requested that barriers be urgently provided for the Ronald McDonald Charity Day to be held on Saturday 15 November 2008.

QWN 7 Beautification Works - Intersection of Swallow Drive and Erskine Park Road, Erskine Park

Councillor Greg Davies requested that an amount of $6,500 be allocated from East Ward voted works towards beautification works at the intersection of Swallow Drive and Erskine Park Road, Erskine Park.

420 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow that the matter be brought forward as a matter of urgency.

His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Jim Aitken OAM, ruled that the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.

421 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow that an amount of $6,500 be allocated from East Ward voted works towards beautification works at the intersection of Swallow Drive and Erskine Park Road, Erskine Park.

QWN 8 Provision of bus shelter on Derby Street, Kingswood, near Nepean Hospital

Councillor Prue Guillaume requested a memo reply concerning the possible provision of a bus shelter on Derby Street, Kingswood, near Nepean Hospital, to provide shelter for residents catching the bus to and from the hospital.

QWN 9 CWA building in Penrith - Replacement of Air conditioning, wiring and refrigeration

Councillor Karen McKeown requested that an amount of $2,775 be allocated from both South and North Ward voted works towards replacing the air conditioning, wiring and refrigeration at the CWA building in Penrith.

422 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Karen McKeown seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that the matter be brought forward as a matter of urgency.

His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Jim Aitken OAM, ruled that the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.

423 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Karen McKeown seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that an amount of $2,775 be allocated equally from both South and North Ward voted works towards replacing the air conditioning, wiring and refrigeration at the CWA building in Penrith.

QWN 10 Transport Summit

Councillor John Thain left the meeting, the time being 9:22 pm.

Councillor John Thain returned to the meeting, the time being 9:24 pm.

Councillor Jim Aitken OAM requested that a report be provided to a Policy Review Committee meeting, detailing what outcomes would be required from this forum.

QWN 11 Traffic Study – Glenmore Park Road

Councillor Mark Davies requested that another traffic study be undertaken in Glenmore Park Road, to measure speeding.

Committee of the Whole

424 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that the meeting adjourn to the Committee of the Whole to deal with the following matters, the time being 9:29 pm.

1 Presence of the Public

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

Councillors Greg Davies, John Thain and Ross Fowler OAM left the meeting, the time being 9:30 pm.

City as a Social Place

2 Regentville Hall - Nepean Food Services Incorporated - Licence for Part of Lot 2 DP 1002686, 8 - 20 Jeanette Street, Regentville

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.

City In Its Environment

3 Property Matter

4 Personnel Matter

This item has been referred to Committee of the Whole as it refers to personnel matters concerning particular individuals and discussion of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.

The meeting resumed at 10:07 pm and the General Manager reported that the Committee of the Whole met at 9:29 pm on 10 November 2008, the following being present

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 Regentville Hall - Nepean Food Services Incorporated - Licence for Part of Lot 2 DP 1002686, 8 - 20 Jeanette Street, Regentville

RECOMMENDED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow

CW2 That:

1. The information contained in the report on Regentville Hall - Nepean Food Services Incorporated - Licence for Part of Lot 2 DP 1002686, 8 - 20 Jeanette Street, Regentville be received.

2. Council agree to a new Licence Agreement with Nepean Food Services Incorporated for a 5 year period in accordance with the terms and conditions as outlined in the report.

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

Councillor Ross Fowler OAM returned to the meeting, the time being 9:32 pm.

3 Property Matter

Councillors Greg Davies and John Thain returned to the meeting, the time being 9:35 pm.

RECOMMENDED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM

CW3 That the information contained in the report on Property Matter be received.

4 Personnel Matter

Councillor Karen McKeown left the meeting, the time being 10:03 pm.

Councillor Karen McKeown returned to the meeting, the time being 10:06 pm.

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM asked for clarification of the timing of action taken in relation to a contract progress payment.

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

CW4 That the information provided in response to the matter raised be received.

ADOPTION OF Committee of the Whole

425 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM that the recommendation contained in the Committee of the Whole and shown as CW2, CW3 and CW4 be adopted.

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 10:08 pm.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*Leadership and Organisation*

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
Penrith Valley Community Safety Partnership MEETING

HELD ON 13 November, 2008

PRESENT

Councillor Marko Malkoc, Councillor Karen McKeown, Debbie Moore, St Marys Local Area Command; Anthony Holton, St Marys Local Area Command; Julie Passau, Penrith Local Area Command; Gina Field, Chamber of Commerce; Gladys Reed, Penrith City Centre Association; Ben Feszczuk, Penrith Local Area Command; Jeni Pollard, Penrith City Council; Tracy Leahy, Penrith City Council; Grant Healey, Penrith Local Area Command; Rachael Downie, Penrith City Council; Ruth Byrnes, Penrith City Council; Lisa Jenner, Penrith City Council; Jennie Hughes, Workers in Neighbourhood Centres; Allison Dunsdon, RailCorp Security; Andrena Faletolu, RailCorp Security; Yvonne Perkins, Penrith City Council; Allison Kyriakakis, Penrith City Council; Erin Davidson, Penrith City Council; David Burns, Penrith City Council.

APOLOGIES

His Worship the Mayor Councillor Jim Aitken OAM Wendy Herne, St Clair - Erskine Park Community Safety Association; Rob Herne, St Clair - Erskine Park Community Safety Association; Mary Cook, Glenmore Park Action Group; Stephanie Brennan, Penrith Youth Interagency; Kristy Williams, St Marys Local Area Command; Ray Filewood, St Marys Local Area Command.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Penrith Valley Community Safety Partnership Meeting - 25 June 2008

The minutes of the Penrith Valley Community Safety Partnership Meeting of 25 June 2008 were confirmed.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

The City as a Social Place

1 Alcohol Free Public Spaces Policy & Review of Alcohol Free Zones

Allison Kyriakakis provided an update on the Alcohol Free Public Spaces Policy.

A small working group was established to develop the Alcohol Free Public Spaces Policy. The purpose of the policy is to assist in the effective use of alcohol free areas to minimise alcohol related antisocial behaviour and harassment, and promote responsible social behaviour in identified public spaces across the City.

The policy outlines how the Alcohol Free Areas will be implemented and the process for applying for temporary suspensions for community events and celebrations where it is considered appropriate for alcohol to be consumed.

A number of locations across the City have been identified as proposed locations for Alcohol Free Areas based on police statistics.

David further added that the Alcohol Free Areas would be implemented for a three year period to coincide with the duration of the Alcohol Free Zones and that an Alcohol Free Area may need to be implemented to support an Alcohol Free Zone.

In order for the policy to be formally adopted by Council the policy must first go to a Policy Review Meeting, where Council will receive the report in draft, then to the ordinary meeting where the policy will be recommended for adoption.

Yvonne advised that a review of signage will also take place, including the types of signage used by other Councils to clearly define the area covered by the zones, such as the use of maps.

RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on Alcohol Free Public Spaces Policy & Review of Alcohol Free Zones be received.

2 Warner Group Graffiti Education Program

A PowerPoint presentation was shown to update Partnership members on the delivery status of the education program from Warner Group.

Warner Group was engaged to deliver a graffiti education program to primary school students in Year 5 and secondary students in Year 8 to get them thinking about the negative consequences of graffiti and its impact on the community.

Warner Group carried out all aspects of the program from researching the program to suit the Penrith Local Government Area, development and tailoring of materials and artwork, engaging with schools to promote the program and book performances, delivery of the performances, post program evaluations and providing progress reports.

The program involves a 45 minute interactive and informative presentation delivered by an actor to engage the students to think about the negative consequences of graffiti and influencing factors such as peer pressure and boredom.

At the conclusion of the performance schools are given a reinforcement pack containing comics and stickers to hand out to students for further discussion in the classroom.

Penrith Council is the first Council in New South Wales to engage Warner to deliver this program. To date, 92 sessions have been delivered to 54 local primary schools and 21 local secondary schools.

Ben Feszczuk requested the PowerPoint Presentation be emailed to him

RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on Warner Group Graffiti Education Program be received.

3 Penrith Valley Community Safety Plan - Key Strategy Development 2007-2011

1. Community Safety Audits

Allison Kyriakakis advised that a small working group of the Penrith Valley Community Safety Partnership was established to address issues of anti social behaviour and levels of safety in targeted locations within the Penrith Local Government Area.

As a result of the small working group it was recommended that a series of day-time and night-time community safety audits be conducted in and around Penrith, St Marys, and Kingswood railway precincts.

The first of the community safety audits to be conducted was at Penrith railway precinct on 23 October 2008 with a day-time audit from 3.30pm til 6.30pm and a night-time audit from 7.30pm til 9.30pm. The audit area covered Station Street, Penrith railway station forecourt, Coreen Ave car park, ATO forecourt, and Jane Street car park. The audit area focused on addressing opportunities for crime and antisocial behaviour and contributing factors for fear of crime.

The audit was well attended with representation from a number of stakeholders including:

× Penrith Police

× St Marys Police

× Springwood Police

× Workers In Neighbourhood Centres (WINC) Inc.

× Chamber of Commerce

× RailCorp

× Premier Cabs

× Penrith City Centre Association

The audit report is currently being compiled and is due out in a couple of weeks. In the meantime Council has met with RailCorp and immediate action has been taken to improve Jane Street car park with litter removal and cleaning on a daily basis and investigation into the replacement of the fence along the car park.

Upcoming audits in the series are scheduled for the following days:

× St Marys railway and surrounding precinct: Wednesday 10 December 2008

× Kingswood railway and surrounding precinct: Wednesday 18 February 2008

Yvonne advised that Council is still looking at conducting very late night audit to look at pedestrian movements within the CBD. This audit would possibly only be attended by Council staff who will report back to the Partnership.

Grant Healy advised that the Embassy, The Bloc and Panthers have been targeted to become responsible venues. Strategies have been implemented such as lock outs from midnight to 2.00am, no shots sold after a certain time, last drinks being called half an hour before closing and raising the price of premixed drinks or not stocking them at all.

2. Funding Submissions

Allison Kyriakakis advised that a number of funding submissions have been submitted over recent months.

Safer Suburbs Plan

David Bradbury highlighted a $300,000 funding opportunity through the Federal Attorney General’s Department under their Safer Suburbs plan for a community safety project in Cranebrook. If successful the funds will be used to accelerate the implementation of recommendations from the community safety audit that was held in Cranebrook, 7 May 2008.

National Binge Drinking Strategy

A submission was made to the Department of Health and Aging, National Binge Drinking Strategy Community Level initiative for $86,000 to develop a public awareness campaign for young people aged 17 – 24 years. It is proposed that the funding will assist in responding to alcohol related antisocial behaviour and assaults by developing a wallet sized card highlighting safe pedestrian routes in the CBD, and an education campaign to raise the risks associated with binge drinking.

Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme (WSAAS)

Tracy Leahy advised that a funding submission for $60,000 was made to WSAAS to support the delivery of an integrated approach to domestic and family violence in the Penrith Local Government Area whereby NGO’s workers would be provided with training to work with clients that present with domestic violence issues. A resource kit will also be developed to provide workers with a consistent referral process.

NSW Attorney General’s Crime Prevention Funding

The NSW Attorney General’s Department recently announced the next round of funding under the crime prevention grant program.

Allison has prepared an application aimed at preventing and reducing number plate theft within the Penrith Local Government Area. The funding will be used the purchase anti theft number plate screws which will be fitted to vehicles across a number of advertised car park locations throughout the Penrith and St Marys area. This funding round closes 12 December 2008

3. Nepean Domestic Violence Network – Reclaim the Night Event

The Nepean Domestic Violence Network hosted Reclaim the Night event on Thursday 30 October 2008 in the green space between the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre and Westfield’s Penrith.

The night is traditionally a march against sexual assault against women and children. However this year the Network organised a drumming event to engage with young men and women in the area and raise awareness about sexual assault against women and children.

Tracy also added that she engaged with young people in the area as she was handing out flyers. Feedback that she received was that young people liked hanging out in the area as they felt safe.

RECOMMENDED that the information contained in the report on Penrith Valley Community Safety Plan - Key Strategy Development 2007-2011 be received.

Regular Items

A) Police Statistics

Penrith Police

Reported Crime Statistics June 2008 – October 2008

Crime Category	June	July	August	Sept	Oct
Assault	88	92	61	74	78
Robbery	-	-	-	-	-
Break & Enter	62	67	56	40	54
Stealing	172	133	169	143	184
Steal Motor Vehicle	40	38	35	36	36
Malicious Damage	130	108	113	124	131
Drug Detection	27	20	17	28	14
Traffic Offences	417	449	378	455	434
Motor Vehicle Accident	71	65	57	87	67

St Marys Police

Reported Crime Statistics June 2008 – October 2008

Crime Category	June	July	August	Sept	Oct
Assault	104	105	122	90	112
Robbery	5	6	5	10	5
Break & Enter	69	56	77	75	52
Stealing	139	101	116	138	128
Steal Motor Vehicle	49	33	37	45	44
Malicious Damage	196	142	147	161	188
Drug Detection	23	5	4	13	8
Traffic Offences	403	435	477	423	412
Motor Vehicle Accident	52	63	79	67	59

B) What’s In The Media

GENERAL BUSINESS

GB 1 Penrith Crime Prevention Partnership

Grant Healy advised that the Crime Prevention Partnership (CPP) is chaired by Penrith police in conjunction with Council and meet monthly and report quarterly. The CCP focuses on targeting the following issues:

× Alcohol Related Crime

× Steal from Motor Vehicle

× Robbery

× Assault

The first action plan is now complete for Alcohol Related Crime. The Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing (OLGR) are in the process of investigating glassings within the CBD and are also conducting covert operations around targeted locations over the Christmas/new year period.

Grant advised that the Robbery action plan will be sent out next week and the steal from motor vehicles action plan is still to come.

Councillor Karen McKeown asked if DUI has become an escalated problem. Grant advised that he had not seen an increase in PCA figures. General duties staff conduct 4,000 random breath tests per month using mobile units that target hot spots and individuals and morning tests which provide positive results.

GB 2 Penrith Valley Community Safety Partnership Newsletter

Allison handed out a newsletter with updates on community safety projects undertaken over the past few months since the last Partnership meeting.

It is hoped that a newsletter will be distributed quarterly between scheduled meetings to keep everyone updated with projects. Allison also advised that the newsletter will also be posted on the Community Safety section of the Council Website.

GB 3 Graffiti Education Program – Comics and Stickers

Allison handed out stickers and comics that Warner Group had developed for distribution to students after the program had been delivered. These resources were developed to reinforce the message that graffiti has negative consequences both to the individual and the community.

GB 4 Tracy Leahy – Senior Officers Working Group

Tracy advised that there is a forum to be held on Monday 17 November 2008 around developing an integrated approach to Domestic Violence at Penrith Pace Way. Expected outcomes are to be discussed about how services will work together.

GB 5 Ben - Stakeholders

Ben advised that he was pleased with the Partnership and that an extremely good relationship has been developed with stakeholders.

GB 6 Gladys Reed – Penrith City Centre Association

Gladys advised that a small working group had formed and surveyed 163 small businesses along high Street and Station street on the level of malicious damage occurring to their businesses. A number of these businesses further agreed to fund a foot patrol on Friday and Saturday nights from 8.30pm to 4.30am in a bid to minimise anti social behaviour and malicious damage. The three month trial period will run from 17 October 2008 til 14 February 2009.

The Penrith City Centre Association fund the majority of the costs associated with providing the service however, negotiations are being held with insurance companies for sponsorship.

Gladys also advised that security guards on foot patrol would cable tie trolleys to street poles if they were left within the CBD and if glass bottles were found in the street or on the footpath security guards would pick them up and place them in the bin.

Participants of the program had concerns as to whether or not security actually patrolled their premises throughout the night. Gladys advised that when a guard visited the premises a ticket is placed in the door lock hinge or under the door for verification.

The foot patrol covers High Street, Lawson Street to Danny’s on High, and Station Street, Union Lane to Henry Street, Union Lane to Penrith RSL and along Woodriff Street.

Businesses that are contributing to the cost of supplying the security guard are given a small sticker with “Streetwatch – Supporting a Safer CBD” with the police assistance line number to place on their front window. The aim of the program is to encourage all businesses to participate and have every window displaying the sticker.

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 8:10pm.

RECOMMENDATION

That the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Penrith Valley Community Safety Partnership meeting held on 13 November, 2008 be adopted.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*Leadership and Organisation*

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
Policy Review Committee MEETING

HELD ON 17 November, 2008

PRESENT

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Ross Fowler OAM, Councillors Kaylene Allison, Robert Ardill, Kevin Crameri OAM, Greg Davies, Mark Davies, Tanya Davies, Ben Goldfinch, Jackie Greenow, Prue Guillaume, Marko Malkoc, Karen McKeown, Kath Presdee, and John Thain.

APOLOGIES

An apology be received for His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Jim Aitken OAM.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Policy Review Committee Meeting - 20 October 2008

The minutes of the Policy Review Committee Meeting of 20 October 2008 be confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM declared a Non Pecuniary Less than Significant Conflict of Interest in Item 5 – 2008/2009 Heritage Assistance Fund as he is related by marriage to Sister Mary Louise Petro, Chief Executive Officer of Mamre Plains Ltd based at Mamre House, which is one of the projects recommended for funding. Furthermore, Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM declared that Dean Newbold handed out election material for him 2 elections ago and that Mrs Cox who is associated with Combewood is a friend. Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM also declared that his horse is currently being agisted on the “Mamre House” property.

Councillor Kath Presdee declared a Non Pecuniary Less than Significant Conflict of Interest in Item 4 – Now Mow Zones as she resides in a street which has a designated No Mow Zone close by.

MASTER PROGRAM REPORTS

Leadership and Organisation

1 2008-2009 Management Plan - September Quarter Review

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on the 2008-2009 Management Plan - September Quarter Review be received

2. The 2008-2009 Management Plan Review as at 30 September 2008, including the revised estimates identified in the recommended budget, be adopted

3. The recommended reallocations to projects and amendments to Key Performance Indicators, Strategic Tasks and Service Improvements detailed in the report be adopted.

The City as a Social Place

3 Penrith Regional City Garden Feasibility Study

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Penrith Regional City Garden Feasibility Study be received

2. Council endorse seeking opportunities in our negotiations on the future planning of Penrith Lakes and the Riverlink Precinct for consideration to be given to the potential establishment of components of a Penrith Regional City Garden.

3. A copy of the report and presentation be forwarded to former Councillor Garry Rumble.

4. Ms Oi Choong and Professor Helen Armstrong be thanked for their presentation.

The City In Its Environment

4 No Mow Zones

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on No Mow Zones be received.

2. Extensive Community Consultation be undertaken before implementation at specific sites, including notification in the Mayoral Column.

3. A review of the Asset Protection Zones be undertaken at individual sites.

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM left the meeting, the time being 8:27pm.

The City as a Social Place

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM returned to the meeting, the time being 8:31pm.

Councillor Karen McKeown left the meeting, the time being 8:35pm

Councillor Karen McKeown returned to the meeting, the time being 8:36pm.

2 Draft Alcohol Free Public Spaces Policy

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Draft Alcohol Free Public Spaces Policy be received

2. The Draft Alcohol Free Public Spaces Policy be adopted to support the establishment, suspension and/or cancellation of Alcohol Free Areas and Alcohol Free Zones in designated areas in the Penrith Local Government Area.

3. When adopted, public awareness of the Alcohol Free Public Spaces Policy is to be undertaken through use of the Council’s website and Mayoral Column and also to stakeholders, such as sporting clubs, park users and community groups who utilise facililties that adjoin these areas.

The City In Its Environment

5 2008/2009 Heritage Assistance Fund

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on 2008/2009 Heritage Assistance Fund 2008/2009 be received

2. Council approve the recommended funding allocations as provided in this report.

6 Creation of an Urban Design Review Panel

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on the establishment of an Urban Design Review Panel be received

2. The “in house” Urban Design Review Panel be composed of one senior environmental planner, one internal architect, one internal landscape architect and one external architect

3. The appointment of the external architect be either by Expressions of Interest or via written invitation from the Department of Commerce’s list of consulting local architects.

4. The Urban Design Review Panel be evaluated within 6 months from the date of its establishment and reported back to the Policy Review Committee.

Leadership and Organisation

7 Inquiry into NSW Planning Framework

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on the Submission to the State Government Standing Committee on State Development Inquiry into NSW Planning Framework be received.

2. Council make a submission to the NSW Legislative Council Standing Committee on State Development Inquiry into the New South Wales planning framework based on the commentary and recommendations outlined in the report.

3. A copy of previous report submitted to Policy Review Committee Meeting, 10 December 2007 – Affordable Housing be distributed to all Councillors.

8 Annual Report 2007-2008

RECOMMENDED

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Annual Report 2007-2008 be received.

2. The draft 2007-2008 Annual Report be endorsed and submitted to the Department of Local Government.

3. A congratulatory letter be sent to each staff member involved in the production of the 2007-2008 Annual report.

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

QWN 1 Castlereagh Road, Road Works

Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM requested a memo reply outlining the current road works that are being undertaken on Castlereagh Road, which are causing major traffic issues for Parker Street. Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM would like the phasing of the traffic lights to be investigated and to know how long the works are envisaged to take.

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 9:15pm.

RECOMMENDATION

That the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Policy Review Committee meeting held on 17 November, 2008 be adopted.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*The City in its Broader Context*

The City in its Broader Context

Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan 2007 and Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan

Compiled by: Abdul Cheema, Senior Environmental Planner

Liza Cordoba, Senior Environmental Planner

Authorised by: Ruth Goldsmith, Local Planning Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: Penrith City Centre provides a comprehensive range of economic and human and lifestyle services to Outer Western Sydney and Central Western New South Wales.

Critical Action: Develop and implement contemporary planning controls to support the delivery of the Penrith City Centre Strategy.

Purpose:

To advise Council of the recent public exhibition process for the Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan, which proposed a minor procedural amendment. The report seeks Council's endorsement to adopt the amended draft Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan 2007. The Minister for Planning has also recently directed Council to approve the Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan, subject to conditions. The report outlines the amendments made to the draft Civic Improvement Plan in response to the Minister's direction, and seeks Council's approval of the Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan.

Background

The Regional Cities Taskforce, together with Council staff, prepared a suite of four planning documents – a Vision, Local Environmental Plan (LEP), Development Control Plan (DCP) and Civic Improvement Plan (CIP) for the Penrith City Centre.

The draft plans were exhibited for over two months, until 15 February 2007. A briefing was provided to Councillors on 18 June 2007, summarising the issues and key matters raised during the exhibition period.

At its Ordinary Meeting of 15 October 2007, following public exhibition of the draft plans and consideration of the draft plans at its Policy Review Committee Meeting of 8 October 2007, Council endorsed the draft LEP and draft CIP and recommended that they be forwarded to the Minister to be made, and adopted the Vision and draft DCP.

Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan

The Penrith City Centre DCP 2007 was to take effect from the date that the Penrith City Centre LEP was gazetted. Unfortunately, the process of gazetting the LEP was delayed until early 2008. The name of the draft LEP was subsequently changed by the Department of Planning from ‘Penrith City Centre Local Environmental Plan 2007’ to ‘Penrith City Centre Local Environmental Plan 2008’, to reflect the year of gazettal.

This late name change had implications for the Penrith City Centre DCP, as adopted by Council in October 2007. The DCP referred to Penrith City Centre LEP 2007 rather than Penrith City Centre LEP 2008 throughout the document. This could have adversely impacted on the legislative connections between the LEP and DCP.

At its Ordinary Meeting of 8 September 2008, Council endorsed the public exhibition of a minor procedural amendment to Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan 2007 (to clarify reference to ‘Penrith City Centre LEP 2008’).

The draft Penrith City Centre DCP 2007 was publicly exhibited from 23 September 2008 until 27 October 2008. No submissions were received in response to the exhibition.

The draft Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan has been forwarded under separate cover to Councillors, due to the size of the document. Copies of the draft Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan will be available at tonight’s meeting, and a copy will be formally tabled to accompany this report.

It is recommended that Council adopt the draft Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan 2007, as exhibited. The Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan will take effect from when there is public notification, in a local newspaper, of Council’s approval of the DCP.

Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan (CIP) Control Plan

The draft Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan (CIP) was prepared within an extremely short timeframe set by the Regional Cities Taskforce. It was exhibited for public comment, from 28 November 2006 until 15 February 2007. A number of submissions relating to the CIP, at the time, suggested that more detailed information should be included in the draft plan, particularly with regard to the works proposed and the associated costing. Some concerns were raised about the level of contributions, and hence the negative economic effect on proposed development. Panthers sought to be excluded from the draft plan.

When the draft Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan was exhibited it included reference to the liabilities incurred through the current Section 94 Contributions Plan. The clause states:

The Penrith City Centre Developer Contributions Plan (1993) provided for certain works in the city centre to be constructed in advance and for the loan repayments to be funded from S.94 levies. Council has lent the S.94 fund $2.622 million interest free to enable it to pay its liabilities as they fell due and a further $1.6 million will become due in the future. These debts will be carried over and funded from contributions under this plan.

In the report to Council on 8 October 2007, the following comments were provided in response to the above matters:

The Civic Improvement Plan identifies where contributions will be spent and describes the proposed projects. Concerns regarding the level of contributions have also been raised in the other regional cities. The matter certainly deserves further consideration. Completing the more detailed precinct plans over the next year or so will be the catalyst for reviewing the contributions plan. The Minister should be advised that, should the draft plan be endorsed now, this matter will soon need to be re-examined.

The extent of the proposed works in the draft CIP initially reflected the 2 kilometre radius defined by the Metropolitan Strategy for a Regional City. The CIP projects were subsequently reviewed to only focus on works within the City Centre. In future, as the plan is reviewed, it is anticipated that the plan boundaries would also be reviewed, with a likelihood that they would be extended over time to reflect the broader Regional City. Panthers and North Penrith, both of which are outside of the plan’s current boundaries, have been removed from the CIP map, and will not required to pay contributions under the amended draft plan.

The Civic Improvement Plan is a Section 94 Contributions Plan applying to the Penrith City Centre. As such, the nature of submissions to the CIP related to deficiencies with the nexus and financial accuracy of the schedule of works. It is envisaged that the CIP will be made by the Minister, and thereby protected from any appeal relating to the section 94 contributions.

Council officers, in order to advance the CIP, acknowledged that the CIP is a temporary measure until such time as the design for the schedule of works has been explored, confirmed and reasonably quantified. As such, Council officers in consultation with the Taskforce made minor changes to the CIP, but have not changed the intent of the Plan.

To ensure that the CIP will not be subject to any appeal, Council officers recommend that the Minister make the CIP …It is recommended that Council does not adopt the revised draft CIP, but instead consents to the Minister for Planning making the CIP. As the Minister is making the CIP, it ensures that the CIP is protected from any future appeal. The Minister’s direction however, will not be issued to Council until such time as the Penrith City Centre LEP 2007 is to be gazetted.

In regard to the CIP, at its Policy Review Committee Meeting of 8 October 2007, Council recommended that:

3. Council support the revised draft Penrith City Centre Local Environmental Plan 2007 (as attached) and revised draft Penrith City Centre Civic Improvements Plan.

4. If the Minister for Planning directs the Council to make the revised draft Penrith City Centre Local Environmental Plan 2007 (LEP) and Penrith City Centre Civic Improvements Plan (CIP), Council write to the Minister consenting to the Minister making the LEP and CIP.

6. If the Minister refuses to make the CIP and directs Council to make the CIP, a further report on the CIP be forwarded to Council.”

The Minister for Planning has now advised Council the following:

I, the Minister for Planning, under clause 94EAA(1) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (1979), direct Penrith City Council to approve the Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan as a Section 94 contribution plan subject to the amendments described in Schedule A.

The plan is to be approved and notified in accordance with the requirements of clause 31 of the Environmental Planning and Assessments Regulation 2000.

Schedule A – Amendments to the plan

Council update the CIP to include additional documentation on the following:

Section 4.8 – breakdown of the cost of each of the projects in a schedule of works

Section 4.9 – causal nexus establishing the demand for the civic projects resulting from the development of the city centre.

The draft Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan has now been amended, as directed by the Minister for Planning. The draft Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan has been forwarded under separate cover to Councillors, due to the size of the document. Copies of the draft Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan will be available at tonight’s meeting, and a copy will be formally tabled to accompany this report.

It is recommended that Council approve the draft Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan, amended as directed by the Minister for Planning. The Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan will take effect from when there is public notification, in a local newspaper, of Council’s approval of the CIP.

Conclusion

The Regional Cities Taskforce worked with Council staff in 2007 to prepare and exhibit draft plans for the six Regional Cities, aiming for a general level of consistency between the plans. The Penrith City Centre Vision was adopted by Council on 15 October 2007, and the Penrith City Centre Local Environmental Plan came into effect on 1 February 2008.

The Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan has now been amended to ensure it properly references the Penrith City Centre Local Environmental Plan. Subject to Council’s adoption of the amended draft DCP tonight, it will come into effect when it is notified in a local newspaper.

The Penrith Civic Improvement Plan has been amended as directed by the Minister for Planning. Subject to Council’s approval of the amended draft CIP tonight, it will also come into effect when it is notified in a local newspaper.

The Penrith City Centre LEP and DCP will be incorporated into Stage 2 of the Penrith Local Environmental Plan. There will be opportunities over the next year to assess how the gazetted Penrith City Centre LEP and development controls are working, and whether they need to be reviewed or amended as part of the process of incorporating the Penrith City Centre LEP into the broader Citywide Penrith Local Plan in Stage 2.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan 2007 and Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan be received.

2. Council adopt the draft Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan 2007.

3. Penrith City Centre Development Control Plan 2007 takes effect from the date of public notification in a local newspaper.

4. As directed by the Minister for Planning, under clause 94EAA(1) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (1979), Council approve the Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan as a Section 94 Contributions Plan under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (1979).

5. Council repeal the existing Penrith City Centre Section 94 Contributions Plan, and the funding deficit from the existing Section 94 Contributions Plan be transferred to the adopted Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan.

6. Penrith City Centre Civic Improvement Plan takes effect from the date of public notification in a local newspaper.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

2008 Community Assistance Program Planned Component

Compiled by: Sanja Blanusa, Community Development Officer - Generalist

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 inform Council of the applications received in the 2008 Planned Component of the Community Assistance Program (CAP). The report recommends that Council approve the applications and amounts recommended for funding as outlined in this report.

Background

Council has an annual Community Assistance Program through which it makes small grants to non–profit organisations and community based groups to meet local community needs.

The maximum grant is $1,200.

CAP - Planned and Rolling Components

There are two components of the Community Assistance Program. These are the Planned Component and the Rolling Component. The Planned Component of the program is undertaken once a year in September/October and is widely advertised and promoted. The Planned Component enables Council to assist local community organisations with funds for programs and activities that are planned to be undertaken during the following

financial year. Recognising that not all needs for funding can be foreseen, the Rolling Component allows for one-off requests to be brought before Council at any time during the year. This provides a flexible supplement to the Planned Component of the program.

All Planned & Rolling Component applications are assessed against the CAP eligibility and assessment criteria.

Eligibility and Assessment Criteria

There are three eligibility criteria for applications under the Community Assistance Program. These are:

· Community based non–profit organisations providing one off activities

· Direct benefit to, and participation by, Penrith City residents

· Project and project management, in line with Council’s Access and Equity Policy.

Fundraising programs or organisations whose main job is to fundraise are not eligible.

All CAP applications are assessed for priority against the Assessment Criteria adopted by Council as part of the CAP Policy. Recommendations to fund or not fund are made according to the criteria listed below:

· Whether the applicant for community assistance already receives significant Government funding, and whether the CAP request is more properly seen as a core responsibility of that Government funded program;

· The size of the organisation or group, and its capacity to access alternative resources;

· The possibility of access to other sources of funding for the request;

· The willingness of the applicant to work collaboratively with residents and other community groups;

· The level of participation and direct benefit for residents of Penrith LGA;

· Whether the proposal addresses the priority needs and issues of Penrith LGA residents, as identified through social planning processes;

· Whether the proposal is realistic;

· The cost effectiveness of the proposal;

· The beneficiaries of the project, ensuring that funds are distributed to diverse groups right across the Penrith LGA.

Budget Allocation and Expenditure to Date

In previous years, the total annual budget of the combined Planned Component and Rolling Component was $26,000. Due to the success of the program, Council increased the budget by $20,000 in 2007-08 financial year. As a result of this increase, the total annual budget is now $46,000, with $39,000 available for the Planned Component and $7,000 for the Rolling Component.

Table 1 – Budget Allocation and Expenditure 2008/09

	Allocated	Expenditure to Date	Committed	Available
Planned Component	$39,000	0	0	$39,000
Rolling Component	$7,000	$3,094	0	$ 3,906
Total annual funds	$46,000	$ 3,094	0	42,906

Planned Component

The funding round for the 2008 Planned Component opened on 22 September and closed on 20 October. The funding program was advertised in local papers, on Council’s web page, and was also promoted through a range of local interagencies and networks. There is $39,000 available in 2008 for the Planned Component.

Applicants were required to complete a simple application form, identifying their project objectives, population target groups, budget, accessibility and benefits to the local community.

The promotion of the 2008 Planned Component followed the Community Development Support Expenditure Scheme (CDSE) funding round in March, and the Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme funding round in August.

2008 Planned Component Applications

A total of 85 applications were received, requesting a total of $91,796.05. Of the 85 applications received, 46 have been recommended for funding for either all of the requested amount or an adjusted amount in light of the merit of the project and the available funds.

In 2007/08, Council received 65 applications totalling $63,292.

Appendix 1 to this report provides the list of 46 applications recommended for funding including details of each project and the rationale. Where there is a recommendation for funding that is not the full amount requested, the reason for part funding is given in the information for each project. In general, the quality of project applications was high.

The total amount of projects recommended is $39,000, equal to the budget available.

There are 39 applications that are not recommended for funding through the 2008 Community Assistance Program Planned Component. A rationale is provided for why each of these projects is not recommended for funding. Details of these 39 applications are provided at Appendix 2.

Table 2 below is a summary of all projects recommended for funding. Note that recommended projects have also been allocated to their particular population target groups.

Table 2 – 2008 CAP Funding Planned Component - Recommended Projects

No	Target group	Organisation	Project, Brief Description	Amount Requested	Recommended Funding
1	Seniors	ENOSIS Greek Seniors Group	To organise Seniors Greek Group Christmas party outing	$1,200.00	$500.00
2	General	Wallacia Progress Association	To ensure the hall meets safety standards and improve kitchen facilities.	$1,200.00	$1,200.00
4	Women	Penrith Women's Health Centre	To support community event that celebrates International Women's Day.	$1,200.00	$1,200.00
6	Disability	Karelle Life Enrichment Service Inc.	Celebrate Life To organise outing for adults with disability to celebrate International Day of People with a Disability.	$1,250.00	$625.00
9	General	Victoria Street Community Cottage	To purchase equipment required for setting up an area for play groups, meetings, and craft groups.	$800.00	$800.00
11	General	North Penrith Community Centre Management Committee	To purchase information brochure holder	$177.10	$178.00
12	Seniors	Penrith Older Women's Network	To purchase trolley and equipment for performances.	$342.95	$343.00

No	Target group	Organisation	Project, Brief Description	Amount Requested	Recommended Funding
14	Disability	Community Access Care Pair Inc.	Compass Playgroup Purchase large equipment for Compass playgroup for children with additional needs.	$888.37	$600.00
15	Children	Community Access Care Pair Inc.	To purchase a multifunction printer/copier	$449.00	$449.00
16	Disability	PATH Inc.	Sporting and Community Participation Awards for Children and Teenagers with a Disability To organise presentation ceremony	$1,000.00	$1,000.00
20	Women	Spyns - Strengthening Communities Project	Positive Life Skills To run personal development and life skills courses for women	$980.00	$980.00
21	Disabilities	Nepean Disabilities Social Group	To purchase sporting and other equipment for disabilities social group	$1,049.75	$750.00
22	ATSI	Spyns - Western Sydney Aboriginal Men's Group	To print and distribute a 2009 Western Sydney Aboriginal Men's Group calendar	$700.00	$700.00
25	Children	Colyton Little Tigers Playgroup	To purchase new equipment and toys for the children in the playgroup.	$1,200.00	$600.00
26	Children	North St Marys Community Pre-school	To purchase equipment and develop a music library	$1,199.84	$697.00
28	Disability	Sailability NSW Inc	To purchase a portable marquee for sun protection	$1,199.00	$1,199.00
32	General	Spyns Incorporated – Emu Plains Community Centre	Emu Plains Family Fun Day To support a family fun day at Emu Plains Community Centre	$1,200.00	$1,200.00
34	ATSI	Spyns Inc Penrith ATSI Neighbourhood Workers Project	Koori Cuppa Time To support the provision of childcare and transport to attend Koori Cuppa Time, a weekly local Aboriginal parenting group.	$1,200.00	$1,200.00
35	CALD	Penrith Women's Health Centre	To run a multicultural group to inform women on issues related to domestic violence and health relationships	$1,200.00	$1,200.00
36	Women	Spyns Inc. Glenmore Park Community Development	To organise a local community arts project for International Women's Day 2009.	$980.00	$700.00
37	ATSI	Nepean Division of General Practice	Community Barriers to Aboriginal Health To support an educational awareness session, presented by Aboriginal facilitator, to General Practitioners.	$1,555.00	$1,200.00
38	Seniors	Olympus Greek Seniors Group	To support social activities, Christmas celebration and group outings for Greek seniors	$1,200.00	$500.00
41	Disability	NILC Inc. (Nepean Independent Living Committee)	To support adults on disability support pensions to participate in a Christmas meal with entertainment.	$1,000.00	$1,000.00
42	Disability	Karelle Life Enrichment Service Inc.	Photography Equipment To run a creative photography arts program and purchase colour laser printer.	$1,059.00	$1,059.00
No	Target group	Organisation	Project Name, Brief Description	Amount Requested	Recommended Funding
44	Women	Nepean Multiple Birth Association	Produce advertising and promotional material - posters and flyers	$1,200.00	$600.00
48	Disability	Nepean Area Disabilities Organisation Inc.	Community Awareness Campaign To assist with celebrations for International Day of People with a Disability 2008. Printing of posters and advertising campaign	$1,200.00	$1,200.00
50	Disability	KU Starting Points Family Program - Penrith	"Learning Through Music" To support music therapy sessions by the Golden Stave Music Centre (UWS Penrith)	$1,200.00	$1,200.00
52	ATSI	Aboriginal Catholic Ministry	To fund concert and picnic in the park by the river Partnership project with ArtsNSW and PATSI group.	$1,171.00	$1,171.00
57	Youth	North St Marys Neighbourhood Centre Inc.	South Creek Personal Packs To put together personal hygiene care packs for youth group.	$1,100.50	$600.00
61	Youth	St Clair Youth and Neighbourhood Team Inc.	To purchase equipment for the youth centre	$1,198.00	$1,198.00
62	Children	Werrington Community Project	Werrington Occasional Child Care Service To purchase/replace equipment used for gross motor development.	$970.25	$971.00
63	CALD	Philippine Language and Cultural Association of Australia (PLCAA)	To organise "Philippine Carols on Wheels" event and purchase equipment.	$1,200.00	$770.00
64	General	Penrith Baptist Church	Christmas Carols at Claremont Meadows To organise a family festival and carols by candlelight at Claremont Meadows.	$1,200.00	$895.00
65	Youth	Fusion Western Sydney (Youth Services)	To purchase a portable PA system for youth festivals, community festivals, sports competitions and high school programs.	$1,199.00	$1,199.00
66	Women	Mission Australia	To purchase equipment for cooking classes	$900.00	$600.00
67	Disability	EPIC- Equipment Pool for Children with Disabilities	To purchase equipment for loan pool	$ 1,237.49	$716.00
69	Youth	Werrington Community Project Inc/Werrington Youth Centre	Sporting Program To purchase sporting/games equipment.	$1,000.00	$1,000.00
70	ATSI	Cranebrook Neighbourhood Centre, SPYNS Inc.	Cranebrook Community Development Project - Breakfast program To run Healthy Eating Breakfast Program for Koori Kids.	$1,200.00	$1,000.00
72	CALD	TRI Community Exchange Inc.	Llandilo Chinese Growers Group To purchase recreational equipment	$1,200.00	$500.00	No	Target group	Organisation	Project Name, Brief Description	Amount Requested	Recommended Funding
73	Women	Neighbourhood Development Team Erskine Park Inc.	To purchase materials for International Women's Day project and organise a local community event	$600.00	$600.00
No	Target group	Organisation	Project Name, Brief Description	Amount Requested	Recommended Funding
74	General	Neighbourhood Development Team Erskine Park Inc.	To establish Community Garden Project	$750.00	$750.00
75	Children	Gumnuts Playgroup	To purchase equipment and support a visit from a Mini Farm/Petting Zoo.	$1,200.00	$800.00
77	General	South Penrith Youth and Neighbourhood Services (SPYNS)	To establish a parenting group in Kingswood Park	$1,200.00	$1,000.00
82	Children	St Marys Area Community Development Project Inc.	School Holiday Activities To support school holiday activities	$1,200.00	$1,000.00
83	Seniors	Kingswood Neighbourhood Centre	To support provision of Thai Chi classes for seniors	$ 1,000.00	$ 500.00
85	Seniors	Spyns Inc	West Sydney Grand-Carers - Recreation Event To organise a recreational outing event for grand-carers and their children	$850.00	$850.00
			TOTAL	$48,206.25	$39,000.00

Applications not recommended for Funding

Appendix 2 provides details of those projects not recommended for funding from the 2008 CAP Planned Component budget.

The list (Appendix 2) of projects not recommended for funding includes the following four projects which were able to be resolved through equipment donations or alternative resourcing.

No	Organisation	Project Name Brief Description	Recommendation
7	University of Third Age Nepean Blue Mountains Chifley Chapter Inc.	To purchase equipment, organise a local community event or project.	Organisation provides educational facilities for seniors. The current membership in Penrith LGA is 300. The Council officers have arranged for laptop donation.
8	Werrington Elderly Care	Live Life Today To organise a Seniors Week event in March 2009 for a volunteer run organisation (non-funded).	The event would focus on frail aged and vision impaired. Aims to encourage participation in social activity, 50-60 expected to attend. Application more suitable for and refered to Seniors Week Grants.
18	Family Planning NSW - The Warehouse Youth Health Centre	To partially fund a weekend young peoples camp that will provide leadership and peer support skills to vulnerable refugee young people aged 16-24 from Iraq, Afghanistan and Sudan at YMCA Camp Yarramundi, to provide them with support, skills and experiences to assist them to deal with their issues as they arise.	Great initiative; aims to provide educational and recreational activities, and teach new skills such as leadership and problem solving. Camp has received funds from SWAHS, STARTTS and FPA NSW. Council can support and resource this initiative as a partnership through its Multicultural Access Project.
30	Mission Australia	Workers Resource Kit for Working with Migrant and Refugee Children in Penrith The development and printing of a resource kit for generalist workers providing services to refugee and migrant children and their families.	The project aims to compile information on services in Penrith LGA for refugee and migrant children and families. This project will assist in improved access to services and contribute to raising community awareness. Council can support this initiative through Multicultural Access Project. Similar resource kits were done across the sector, could be easily altered to Penrith context.

Target Group Analysis

It is useful to summarise the recommended allocation of 2008 Community Assistance Program Planned Component funds and the principal beneficiary target group for funding (see Table 3 below). The target groups correspond to the seven mandatory target groups, as listed in the Department of Local Government Social and Community Planning and Reporting Guidelines.

These groups are older people, people with a disability, women, young people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, children, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. An eighth category “general community” has also been included in the table below because a large number of projects do not have a single target group. Please note that some project target groups could be placed in more than one category. The principle target group is identified in the distribution in Table 3.

Table 3 – CAP Planned Allocation by Target Group

Older People	7 %
People with a Disability	24 %
Women	12 %
Young People	10.2 %
People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds	6.3 %
Children	11.6 %
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People	13.5 %
General Community	15.4 %
Total	100%

Summary

Council has received 85 applications, requesting a total of $91,796.05 for Community Assistance Program funding, in the 2008 Planned Component. After careful consideration against the identified criteria, 46 projects totalling $39,000 have been recommended for funding. Recommended projects cover a range of target groups and suburbs across the city, address many different social and related needs, and include a number of city-wide initiatives.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on the 2008 Community Assistance Program Planned Component be received

2. Council approve funding for the recommended projects and amounts totalling $39,000 from the Planned Component of the 2008 Community Assistance Program as outlined in Table 2 in this report.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

1. View	Projects Recommended for funding	5 Pages	Appendix
2. View	Projects Not Recommended for Funding	4 Pages	Appendix

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Australian Government Budget Commitment - Sports and Recreation Facilities

Compiled by: Andrew Robinson, Recreation Manager

Authorised by: David Burns, Director - City Operations

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 of the Australian Government's 2008-2009 budget commitment to contribute $5,234,000 towards projects at facilities controlled by Penrith City Council. The report recommends that Council accept the Australian Government's commitment to providing: $5m for the development of the southern grandstand at CUA Stadium, Penrith Park; $100,000 for a spectator seating and facility development project at Cook Park soccer fields; $84,000 for the resurfacing project at Jamison Park netball courts; and $50,000 for the construction of shade shelters at Penrith Waratahs Rugby League Club.

Background

The Australian Government, through the Department of Health and Ageing, have advised that there is a commitment to contribute $5,234,000, towards facilities controlled by Penrith City Council, in their 2008-2009 budget. Administration of the funding will be subject to negotiation of an appropriate funding agreement and will be allocated to:

CUA Stadium, Penrith Park ($5,000,000)

Council, in early August 2005, adopted a master plan for the overall redevelopment Penrith Park Football Stadium. An indicative cost for the overall project was estimated at $30 million in 2005. As the total funding for the master plan was not available at that time a staged approach to project development was established.

Stage 1 has been completed, at a cost of $10 million, which was funded from the Federal Government. Work constituting this stage included a new playing surface and major western Grandstand improvements. The first NRL game at the ‘new’ Penrith Stadium was played on 28 April 2006.

Stage 2, refurbishment of the Eastern Grandstand, is nearing completion with only minor finishing works to be undertaken. The State Government made an allocation of $5m for this project with a scope of works to:

- Upgrade the north east entry/north east forecourt;

- Provide Centres of Excellence;

- Provide increased numbers of public toilets;

- Enhance accessibility through provision of a lift, widening of a top level corridor, seating for people with disabilities;

- Back of house services;

- Upgrading corporate boxes.

Stage 3, the next stage of the development of the master plan, is to develop a Southern Grandstand which provides facilities for the Stadium, and also provides utility for the cricket ground at Howell Oval. It is for this next stage of the project that the Australian Government has allocated the $5m in its 2008-2009 budget.

Cook Park Soccer Fields ($100,000)

There are currently 4 soccer fields at Cook Park, with Field No.1 being the dedicated premier soccer field in the City. Representative teams of Penrith Nepean United utilise the facility, with other Football NSW representative games occasionally being hosted at this venue.

Council currently pays a subsidy of $20,000 to the Nepean District Soccer Football Association (NDSFA) who has care and control of the ground and its grandstand, and carry out all required maintenance to the pitch and facilities. Automatic irrigation to 3 of the pitches to the value of $40,000 was installed in the 2007-2008 financial year and was wholly funded by the NDSFA. The original infrastructure grandstands and floodlights were installed by Council a number of years ago.

Jamison Park Netball Courts ($84,000)

The Penrith Netball Complex at Jamison Park is the regional centre for netball in the Penrith LGA and has 32 sealed lit courts, 8 grass courts and a pavilion which provides changing amenities, kiosk and office accommodation and club room for the Penrith District Netball Association. The Penrith District Netball Association has over 300 teams registered in its competitions hosted at Jamison Park.

Penrith District Netball Association have contributed to all projects undertaken at the facility including financial contributions towards the development of a new toilet block, previous court resurfacing, and car park construction.

Penrith Waratahs Rugby League Club, Doug Rennie Fields ($50,000)

Doug Rennie Fields has been the home of Penrith Waratahs Rugby League Club (PWRLC) since 2005, prior to which it was home to a local soccer club who have now relocated to Jamison Park. PWRLC previously played at Jamison Park.

As part of the relocation agreement with PWRLC a mini field was constructed, a sealed car park provided and improvements made to the amenities. Currently the club boasts 25 teams and 450 registered players.

Current Situation

CUA Stadium

At Council’s Ordinary Meeting, on 29^th September 2008, it was recommended that the Penrith Stadium Redevelopment Working Party should continue to operate until the master plan for the stadium is complete. The Working Party’s role will be to steer the design and implementation process of the Southern Grandstand’s redevelopment as well as provide advice on the future implementation of the master plan. The membership of that working party was also determined and is subject to a separate report to Council. A meeting of the Working Party has been scheduled and, prior to this, concepts and indicative budgets are being prepared for a basis of discussion.

$20m, including the $5m currently committed by the Australian Government for the Southern Grandstand, has been allocated to the redevelopment of Penrith Park Football Stadium. At 2005 prices, and without detailed design being undertaken, an estimate of $30m was allocated to complete the master plan. Current cost estimates indicate that completion of the project, as identified in the master plan, is now likely to be approximately $35m.

Cook Park Soccer Fields

Meetings have been held with the users of Cook Park soccer facility to determine the most effective use of the $100,000 which has been allocated. The financial contribution has been made for spectator seating and the football user groups are currently consulting with Football NSW regarding their requirements for the ground at Cook Park. Should Council agree to the $100,000 Australian Government contribution a further report to Council will be submitted regarding the project content, and the project will be scheduled for completion within the existing financial year.

Jamison Park Netball Courts

In consultation with the President of the Penrith District Netball Association it has been determined that the proposed $84,000 from the Australian Government, for the resurfacing of the courts at Jamison Park, will resurface 8 of the existing courts and seal two of the existing grass courts. A project schedule has been developed, should Council accept the financial grant, whereby the work will be completed by February 2009

Penrith Waratahs Rugby League

Several meetings have been conducted with the committee of the Penrith Waratahs Rugby League Club. At this stage a project has been determined which will include provision of shade shelter construction, amenity refurbishment, redirecting floodlights, and other minor works, utilising the $50,000 proposed by the Australian Government and $50,000 previously committed by the State Government.

Designs and quotations have been obtained for the project and should Council endorse the allocation of $50,000 by the Australian Government these projects will be delivered to ensure that their use is maximised during the course of the Waratah’s 2009 season.

Financial Services Manager’s Comment

There are no identified funds currently allocated to these projects within Council’s

2008-2009 capital or operating budgets and, therefore, the financial commitment from the Australian Government will allow projects to be undertaken which otherwise would have required Council or sport club contributions. The commitment made by the Australian Government, through the Department of Health and Ageing, does not require match funding from Council or the sports clubs.

Should Council confirm that they accept the $5,234,000 from the Australian Government, for the purpose of developing the projects outlined in this report, the annual budget will be adjusted to include the appropriate amounts. To obtain the funds from the Australian Government, a funding agreement, outlining key project milestones and payment schedule, needs to be executed. Funds will be released once key project milestones have been reported.

Conclusion

The financial contribution from the Australian Government, Department and Health and Ageing, will allow sports and recreation facilities to be enhanced which otherwise could not have been funded at this time. The projects which have been devised will provide maximum community benefit and also ensure that, in the case of CUA Stadium, Penrith Netball Complex and Cook Park these facilities will provide services to residents of Penrith LGA and also attract athletes from outside the area to events and competitions. For the Penrith Waratahs it will mean that they will play at a significantly enhanced facility and meet the need to provide improved spectator and player match and training accommodation.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Australian Government Budget Commitment - Sports and Recreation Facilities be received.

2. The Australian Government be notified that Penrith City Council accepts the $5,234,000 commitment to the projects at: CUA Stadium, Penrith Park - $5m; Cook Park spectator seating - $100,000; Jamison Park netball court resurfacing - $84,000; Penrith Waratahs Rugby League Club construction of shade shelters - $50,000.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Penrith Park, CUA Stadium - Stage 3, Southern Grandstand and Howell Oval

Compiled by: Andrew Robinson, Recreation Manager

Authorised by: Barry Husking, Chief Financial Officer

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 details of the current status of the implementation of the master plan for Penrith Park - CUA Stadium, as adopted by Council in 2005, and to outline a proposed project management delivery process to develop Stage 3 of the project which is the redevelopment of the Southern Grandstand. The report recommends that the information regarding the current status of the implementation of the Penrith Park - CUA Stadium master plan be received and that the project management delivery process for Stage 3 of the master plan development be endorsed. The report also recommends that a further report be presented to Council detailing the scope of work for Stage 3, as endorsed by the Penrith Football Stadium Redevelopment Working Party.

Background

Council, in early August 2005, adopted a master plan for the overall redevelopment of Penrith Park Football Stadium. An indicative cost for the overall project was estimated at $30 million. As the total funding for the master plan was not available for the redevelopment of the stadium at this time, it was established that the master plan would be implemented in stages.

Stage 1 has been completed, at a cost of $10 million, which was funded from the Federal Government. Work constituting this stage included a new playing surface and major Western Grandstand improvements. The first NRL game at the ‘new’ Penrith Stadium was played on 28 April 2006.

Stage 2, refurbishment of the Eastern Grandstand has taken place, utilising an allocation of $5m from State Government, with a scope of works to:

- Upgrade the north east entry/north east forecourt;

- Provide Centres of Excellence facilities including office accommodation for Western Sydney Academy of Sport, Panthers on the Prowl and the Western Sydney Junior Rugby League Academy;

- Increase the number of public toilets;

- Enhance accessibility through provision of a lift, widening of a top level corridor, seating for people with disabilities;

- Back of house services;

- Upgrading corporate boxes.

Despite the architect’s costs for Stage 2 of the project totalling over $6m to deliver the scope of works identified, a proactive team approach to project delivery (directed by the Penrith Football Stadium Working Party, and involving Penrith Panthers Project Management Team, Council Officers, Scott Carver Architects and Evolve Construction Management), has ensured that the ‘community benefit’ elements of the project have been delivered within the $5m budget available. All Stage 2 major works were completed by 31^st October 2008, minor finishing works are expected to be completed by 5^th December.

The original master plan identified that Stage 3 of the project is a proposed southern grandstand designed with a dual purpose, offering utility to the adjoining Howell Oval. The original plan included seating accommodation facing Howell Oval for cricket spectators and proposed cricket rooms, and amenities and concessions with a specific focus on Howell Oval.

The Federal Government has allocated a $5m grant for the purpose of implementing Stage 3 of the overall master plan and this financial contribution is the subject of both this report and, a further report relating to an Australian Government funding commitment for sport and recreation facilities in Penrith, presented elsewhere in this business paper.

Current Situation

Working Party

A Penrith Stadium Redevelopment Working Party has played a key role in the development and delivery of both Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the master plan. At Council’s Ordinary Meeting, on 29th September 2008, it was suggested to Council that the existing Penrith Stadium Redevelopment Working Party be expanded to include the Federal Member for Lindsay (or his nominated representative), two representatives of Penrith Cricket Club, as well as a representative from Council's Access Committee. Councillor Mark Davies and Councillor Greg Davies were nominated to remain on the Working Party and Councillor Ben Goldfinch was nominated as Council’s third Councillor representative. Subsequent discussion has identified that the Access Committee do not require representation on the Working Party. The preferred involvement of the Access Committee is that of being updated at appropriate times during the project process, as has been the practice during Stages 1 and 2 of the Stadium redevelopment.

Council identified that the Working Party should steer the design and implementation process of the Southern Grandstand's redevelopment, as well as provide advice on progressing the overall master plan for the Stadium. A meeting of the Working party is scheduled for 10^th December and the appropriate documentation will be circulated to the nominated members including the identified Councillor representatives.

The recommendations to this report give effect to the expanded working party and, if adopted the new Working Party will comprise:

- Federal Member for Lindsay

- Member for Penrith

- 3 Councillors

- General Manager (or his nominated representative)

- 4 Nominated Penrith Panthers Representatives

- 2 Representatives of Penrith Cricket Club

- 1 Representative of the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation

Council Staff attending the Working Party will include:

- Director City Services

- Chief Finance Officer

- Legal Officer

- Recreation Manager

- Design and Technical Advice Manager

- Development Assessment Coordinator

- Budget Accountant

Project Management

Prior to Stage 1 of the Stadium redevelopment, the upgrade of the Western Grandstand, Council officers worked closely with Penrith Panthers representatives in the selection of specialists to assist with the project. In particular, for Council, the selection of a suitably qualified and experienced architect for the development of the master plan and Stage 1 was important.

Expressions of Interest were invited. Following consideration of those received, and formal interviews with a short list of three (3) consultants, Scott Carver was engaged to develop a master plan and identify options for Stage 1. Penrith Panthers were designated project management responsibilities.

This model, with Penrith Panthers as project managers, was very successful in delivering the upgraded Western Grandstand and, as such, was endorsed as the proposed model to use for the Stage 2 of the project, the redevelopment of the Eastern Grandstand. It is suggested that the preferred method of developing Stage 3 is for Penrith Panthers to continue as project managers and for them to engage an architect.

If Penrith Panthers are to be the project managers, the provision of the budget needs to be transferred from Council to Penrith Panthers. Previous legal advice, obtained in relation to the redevelopment of the Eastern Grandstand utilising a Federal budget allocation, identifies that this arrangement is permissible under Section 356 of the Local Government Act. On that occasion, a Funding Deed to protect Council’s prudential position was executed between Penrith Panthers and Council. It is recommended that this methodology is implemented for the Stage 3 Southern Grandstand redevelopment with Council’s Recreation Manager and Legal and Governance Manager being authorised by Council to negotiate the appropriate Deed agreement. Any resulting agreement will be affixed with Council’s Common Seal. This arrangement will also be need to be approved by the Federal Government.

To ensure that the Working Party has enough detail about the opportunities for the Southern Grandstand and Howell Oval, preliminary discussions by Council Officers have been held with Penrith Cricket Club and Penrith Panthers to establish their needs in relation to the brief and scope of works for Stage 3. Should the recommendations in this Council report be received these considerations will be presented to Penrith Panthers’ preferred architects with the brief to develop concepts, and indicative costs for the scope and elements of Stage 3 for presentation to the Working Party.

This presentation to the Working Party by the architects will provide the context for the Working Party to identify priority or preferred work for Stage 3. With that direction from the Working Party, the architects will develop more detailed designs and costs for a further report back to a subsequent Working Party meeting. The Working Party endorsed Stage 3 option will be communicated in a report to Council after consultation with the Department of Lands as owners of the land.

Should Council approve both the designs and the costs in the Stage 3 option, a Project Control Group will be established as per the implementation of Stage 1 and Stage 2. This group will be responsible for the day to day delivery of the project and will include a quantity surveyor appointed by Penrith City Council.

Budget

$20m (plus investment interest), including the $5m currently committed by the Australian Government for the Southern Grandstand, has been allocated to the redevelopment of Penrith Football Stadium. In 2005, and without detailed design being undertaken, an estimate of $30m was allocated to complete the master plan. Current cost estimates indicate that completion of the project, as identified in the master plan, is now likely to be approximately $35m. The total cost of the Southern Grandstand component within this will not be known until the scope of work is finalised by the Working Party and detailed designs and costs are provided by the architects. The outcomes of this design and cost analysis will determine the future funding strategy required with continuing representation to State and Federal Government proposed.

Financial Services Manager’s Comment

Australian Government Funding of $5m has been granted to Penrith City Council for the delivery of Stage 3 of the implementation of master plan for Penrith Park. To obtain the funds from the Australian Government, a funding agreement, outlining key project milestones and payment schedule, needs to be executed. Funds will be released once key project milestones have been reported.

A project plan and payment schedule will be prepared by Penrith Panthers as project managers and milestone reporting will be coordinated with this programme. Penrith City Council will appoint an independent quantity surveyor to verify the claims made by the project managers throughout the course of the project.

Conclusion

The completion of the Stadium upgrade is recognition that that venue is one of the City’s and Council’s significant assets and therefore should receive more wide-spread utilisation.

The project will also achieve Council’s long-standing strategic objective to provide a community sports hub, centres of excellence for sport and an entertainment facility capable of hosting major events.

The project management process, utilised for Stage 1 and Stage 2 including; the Working Party, Penrith Panthers as project managers, and the day to day implementation of the agreed scope of works being managed by the Project Control Group, has been productive in realising the most effective value for money outcomes for these projects. As such, it is recommended that this model is implemented to realise Stage 3 with the Working Party being extended to include the Federal Member for Lindsay (or his nominated representative) and two representatives of Penrith Cricket Club. Councillor Mark Davies, Councillor Greg Davies and Councillor Ben Goldfinch have been nominated as Council’s representatives.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on the current status of the implementation of Penrith Park, CUA Stadium - Stage 3, Southern Grandstand and Howell Oval be received.

2. The project management process for the implementation of Stage 3, being the redevelopment of the Southern Grandstand including utility for Howell Oval, be adopted as follows:

- The existing Penrith Football Stadium Redevelopment Working Party be reconvened and be expanded to include: the Federal Member for Lindsay (or his nominated representative) and two representatives of Penrith Cricket Club.

- Penrith Panthers be appointed as the Project Managers subject to Federal Government approval, and appropriate documentations being agreed.

3. Further reports be presented to Council detailing the scope of work and costs for Stage 3 of the development of Penrith Park – CUA Stadium master plan and Penrith Panthers being appointed as the formal project managers.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*The City as a Social Place*

The City as a Social Place

Caddens Release Area Planning Agreement

Compiled by: Mark Broderick, Release Area Unit Coordinator

Authorised by: Roger Nethercote, Environmental Planning Manager

Strategic Program Term Achievement: New release areas provide for a diversity of housing opportunities, including affordable housing, consistent with emerging community needs and which facilitates the development of diverse neighbourhoods.

Critical Action: Prepare and implement plans for each new release area in collaboration with the development sector and key Government agencies that provide a wide diversity and mix of housing types that meet current and emerging community needs.

Purpose:

To outline a proposed Planning Agreement for Caddens Release Area between Council and Landcom to achieve delivery of affordable housing and transfer of Environmental Conservation land. The report recommends that Council endorse finalisation, public notification and signing of the Planning Agreement.

Procedural note: Section 375A of the Local Government Act 1993 requires that a division be called in relation to this matter.

Executive Summary

Caddens Release Area is a sub-precinct identified in the Werrington Enterprise Living and Learning (WELL) Precinct and has been the subject of extensive planning for its urban development. Caddens will comprise around 1,247 new dwellings supported by a new local shopping centre, recreation facilities and required supporting infrastructure.

In April 2008, Council resolved to publicly exhibit a draft Local Environmental Plan and draft Development Control Plan. Council was also advised that Landcom, the principal land owner in the estate, had agreed to make a financial contribution towards affordable housing, as well as transferring to Council’s ownership environmental conservation zoned land along Werrington Creek which passes through the estate.

A Planning Agreement between Council and Landcom is being finalised. The agreement secures the above offer in the terms outlined in this report.

The report seeks Council’s agreement to endorse and publicly notify the Agreement, and to have the Agreement signed in the appropriate manner following public notification.

Background

Caddens is a sub-precinct of the Werrington Enterprise Living and Learning (WELL) Precinct and is located between the University of Western Sydney (UWS) campus, Caddens Road, Claremont Meadows and South Kingswood residential areas. It has been the subject of extensive strategic planning with a view to its eventual development as a predominantly residential neighbourhood/suburb. A draft Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and draft Development Control Plan (DCP) for Caddens were exhibited between October and November 2008. The new suburb of Caddens is expected to comprise approximately 1,247 dwellings, a new local shopping and commercial centre (incorporating a community centre), recreation opportunities (including parks and playing fields), an environmental conservation area and infrastructure such as roads and water management facilities, that are associated with development of a new residential release area.

Land within Caddens is primarily owned by Landcom and UWS, however there are seven other private landowners, along with NSW State Archives.

As the primary landowner, Landcom began progressing a rezoning proposal for Caddens (integrated with the WELL Precinct project) several years ago.

In planning new suburbs such as Caddens we are guided by the requirements of Council’s adopted Sustainability Blueprint for Urban Release Areas. Amongst other things, the Blueprint requires:

· The retention and conservation of indigenous vegetation and wildlife habitat corridors; and

· The provision of affordable housing opportunities across the site (with a minimum of 3% of all residential allotments to be provided for the purpose of affordable housing).

On 28 April 2008, Council considered a report regarding the draft LEP and draft DCP for Caddens. The report detailed the extensive background studies that had guided the final proposed development form of the release area. Amongst the background studies prepared for Caddens were those relating to affordable housing and the local ecology.

With respect to the issue of affordable housing, the background study revealed that, whilst two thirds (2%) of the required affordable housing could be delivered in Caddens via new low cost dwellings, the remaining third (1%) would need to be provided by way of a financial contribution. This contribution would be put towards a fund providing low cost rental accommodation in perpetuity within the Penrith local government area.

The Caddens ecological study revealed that land of high conservation value existed along Werrington Creek. As a consequence of this finding, the environmentally significant land was proposed to be zoned for ‘Environmental Conservation’, thereby precluding its development for anything but conservation-compatible, incidental activities.

The report to Council of 28 April 2008 also flagged that the rezoning proponent, Landcom, had offered to enter into a voluntary Planning Agreement with Council regarding the issues of affordable housing and ecological conservation. The agreement proposed:

· An offer to make a financial contribution for that 1% of housing need that relates to those on very low incomes that will be generated by development within Landcom-owned sites; and

· An offer to transfer to Council, ownership of Landcom land proposed to be zoned ‘Environmental Conservation’ under the Caddens draft LEP.

The current Department of Planning Practice Notes regarding Planning Agreements (and the Planning Reform legislation currently awaiting implementation) require that Planning Agreements may only be entered into with the ‘developer’ of land. The agreement is a voluntary one and cannot be mandated. The developer is defined to include the body seeking rezoning of a site or proposing to make a development application. As such, our negotiations in relation to issues which may be relevant for an agreement have focused on Landcom and UWS as the proponents of the rezoning for Caddens. This report outlines the elements to be included in the proposed Planning Agreement to be entered into with Landcom. .

Planning Agreement Items

1. Transfer of Environmentally Significant Land

With respect to the transfer of environmentally significant land from Landcom to Council, this refers to a right-angle shaped parcel which extends north from Caddens Road parallel to O’Connell Lane and then runs west along the southern boundary of the UWS Kingswood campus. The width of the corridor varies from approximately 80 metres at its broadest to 35 metres at its narrowest. The length of the corridor is approximately 800 metres. Werrington Creek and a tributary travel through the corridor, which comprises vegetated and grassed areas either side of the creek banks.

The Ecological Study for Caddens carried out by consultants ERM identified the corridor as having “high” conservation value and containing threatened species (including the Cumberland Land Snail and the bent winged bat) and their habitat. The land adjoins similar environmentally significant land on the UWS Kingswood campus and several water cycle management facilities within Caddens estate. As a consequence of these attributes, the subject land forms part of a wider riparian and water cycle management network. The findings of the ecological study reveal the land is not considered suitable for development.

Following consultation with the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC), the land was identified as ‘E2 Environmental Conservation’ zone under the draft Caddens LEP. DECC also advised that it believed the long term conservation of the land was best achieved under Council ownership. As the land has no economic development potential, it is thus surplus to Landcom’s needs. The combination of these findings and the area’s high conservation values resulted in an approach from Landcom to Council in which transfer of the land to Council was proposed. Landcom has proposed that transfer occur at no cost to Council.

2. Contribution for Affordable Housing

The Sustainability Blueprint requires that 3% of housing within new urban release areas be made available for affordable housing. The affordable housing study for Caddens Release Area prepared by consultants and analysed by Council staff, confirmed that 2% of housing within the estate would be suitable for medium income and some low income families. However, the accommodation needs of very low income households would not be delivered via the proposed market housing delivery in Caddens. As a consequence of this shortfall (ie 1% of total housing), Landcom is proposing that it make a monetary contribution. This contribution is based on the standard already agreed in-principle by Council for other urban release areas (such as Glenmore Park Stage 2 and South Werrington Urban Village). The proposed contribution rate is $614 per additional dwelling created on Landcom land within Caddens, which equates to a total contribution of $337,000.

It is intended the contribution from Landcom would be pooled with those from other Release Areas. The contributions will be utilised to lever additional funds from the NSW Centre for Affordable Housing and a suitable community housing association to deliver affordable housing projects in Penrith LGA.

Currently, Council officers are negotiating with the Centre for Affordable Housing the legal and other agreements required and timeframes for the delivery of affordable housing projects.

These projects are intended to provide long-term rental dwellings principally for very low to low income households in the City. It is expected that Council will receive a detailed report on the process for delivery of affordable housing in March/April 2009.

University of Western Sydney Affordable Housing

UWS owns land within Caddens which is zoned ‘B2 Local Centre’ and ‘R3 Medium Density Residential’. These areas generate - respectively - 94 dwellings (by way of shop-top housing) and 102 dwellings, creating a total of 196 new dwellings within Caddens located on UWS land. The University is not proposing that very low income housing be located on these sites. It is noted however that as these sites will accommodate multi-unit housing, the average cost of dwellings in these locations will be lower than for detached dwellings elsewhere in Caddens. On this basis, the numbers of moderate and lower income dwellings provided by way of market supply would be higher than elsewhere in Caddens and hence at least 2% of the 3% low income affordable housing dwellings standard required by the Sustainability Blueprint will be met.

The University has advised that its approach to delivering affordable housing will be by way of several hundred additional low-cost student accommodation rooms constructed over the next 5 years. A development application from UWS for 100 student rooms was lodged in November 2008 and applications for similar numbers of rooms are expected to occur over the next 4 years. Whilst this housing addresses only a narrow sector of the Penrith community, it is a sector that is often overlooked and due to less reliable income sources can have difficulty accessing appropriately sized/designed rental housing and has almost no scope to purchase housing. Provision of rental housing for this group by UWS would also reduce their demand for affordable housing elsewhere in the private rental market. Significantly, the numbers of new student dwellings will be considerably greater than the number of dwellings than would otherwise be provided by way of an alternative monetary contribution.

Planning Agreement Finalisation and Operation

A Planning Agreement has now been drafted for consideration by Council and is being finalised.

The nature of the Planning Agreement is a contractual relationship between Landcom and Penrith City Council for:

(a) The payment of a monetary developer contribution of $337,000 towards the delivery of affordable housing in the City of Penrith; and

(b) The transfer by Landcom - at no cost to Council – of land within Caddens identified as ‘Environmental Conservation Area’.

If endorsed by Council, the agreement will be publicly notified in accordance with the relevant legislation. Following completion of the 28 day notification period the agreement can be signed by the relevant parties. In the case of Council the signatories would be the General Manager and the Mayor, and notification of its signing must then appear in the local newspaper. Given the timeframe for processing LEPs, the Agreement will be in force prior to the LEP for Caddens being gazetted. The affordable housing contribution and the transfer of land will be made within two years of the date of gazettal of the Caddens draft LEP.

The Agreement only operates if the LEP is gazetted. The Agreement cannot fetter Council’s discretion in dealing with its power under the Act in relation to a change, or a proposed change, in an environmental planning instrument.

As reported to Council on 21 April 2008, the draft Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment Bill 2008, amongst other things sets out who can enter into a planning agreement and that the planning agreement can only apply to ‘key community infrastructure’ or ‘additional community infrastructure’ that has been approved by the Minister. Under the proposed legislation, affordable housing and land for environmental conservation would best be categorised under ‘additional community infrastructure’ which would require an application to the Minster for Planning for approval.

It is unclear at this stage when the new legislation is expected to take effect. Should the legislation come into force during the process of this Agreement, it may affect whether an approval is required from the Minister. We are yet to be advised of any savings and transitional arrangements for these provisions, or the processes in obtaining the Minster’s approval for such agreements. The DoP has advised Council to continue with the current legal process in the absence of enactment of the legislative changes.

Conclusion

The endorsement of the outlined Planning Agreement between Council and Landcom will ensure that there is a contribution towards the delivery of affordable housing across the City. This contribution will support Council’s ability to secure additional funding which can guarantee sustainable, affordable housing opportunities in Penrith for very low income earners.

The transfer at no cost to Council of the environmentally sensitive land will ensure its long term viability and conservation as well as enabling its informal use by new and existing residents for walking, cycling and incidental passive recreation.

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act requires Planning Agreements to be publicly notified, and a copy of the proposed Agreement to be made available for public inspection, for a period of not less than 28 days. The Agreement is formally signed following that process. It is therefore recommended that Council endorse finalisation, public notification and signing of the Planning Agreement with Landcom as outlined in the report. It will be necessary for Council to place its common seal on the resulting document.

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*The City as an Economy*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*Appendix 1 - Projects Recommended for funding*

*Ordinary Meeting*	*1 December 2008*
*Appendix 2 - Projects Not Recommended for Funding*