Agenda of Policy Review Committee Meeting

2010 MEETING CALENDAR

February 2010 - December 2010

(adopted by Council on 9/11/09 and amended by Council on 19/4/10)

TIME

FEB

MAR

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG

SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

Mon

Ordinary Council Meeting

7.30pm

16#

6ü

11¨

(7.00pm)

22#

24#

21*

27^

(7.00pm)

Policy Review Committee

7.30pm

13@

29@

Operational Plan Public Forum

6.00pm

v	Meeting at which the Draft Operational Plan for 2010/2011 is adopted for exhibition
*	Meeting at which the Operational Plan for 2010/2011 is adopted
#	Meetings at which the Operational Plan quarterly reviews are presented
@	Delivery Program progress reports
^	Election of Mayor/Deputy Mayor
ü	Meeting at which the 2009/2010 Annual Statements are presented
¨	Meeting at which any comments on the 2009/2010 Annual Statements are presented

- Extraordinary Meetings are held as required.

- Members of the public are invited to observe meetings of the Council (Ordinary and Policy Review Committee).

Should you wish to address Council, please contact the Acting Executive Officer, Glenn Schuil.

UNCONFIRMED MINUTES

OF THE POLICY REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETING OF PENRITH CITY COUNCIL HELD IN THE PASSADENA ROOM, PENRITH

ON MONDAY 28 JUNE 2010 AT 7:48PM

PRESENT

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

APOLOGIES

29 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Jackie Greenow that apologies be received from Councillors Jim Aitken OAM, Tanya Davies, Ben Goldfinch and John Thain.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Policy Review Committee Meeting - 10 May 2010

30 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Marko Malkoc that the minutes of the Policy Review Committee Meeting of 10 May 2010 be confirmed.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillor Ross Fowler OAM declared a Pecuniary Interest in Item 3 – Placement of Council’s news page as he is a Director of one of the news papers discussed in the report.

DELIVERY PROGRAM REPORTS

A Leading City

1 Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC) - Future Directions

Group Manager – Leadership, Ruth Goldsmith introduced Executive Director of WSROC, Mr Jeremy Goff who gave a presentation on the future directions and recent achievements and initiatives of WSROC.

Councillor Mark Davies left the meeting, the time being 8:08pm.

Councillor Mark Davies returned to the meeting, the time being 8:10pm.

31 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Ross Fowler OAM seconded Councillor Greg Davies that the information contained in the report on Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC) - Future Directions be received.

2 One Association for Local Government in NSW

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

That:

1. The information contained in the report on One Association for Local Government in NSW be received.

2. Council nominate His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM and Deputy Mayor, Ross Fowler OAM or their representatives to attend the One Association Convention to be held in Sydney on 16 & 17 August 2010.

3. A Position Paper be prepared for Council’s consideration and endorsement once the Discussion Paper is received.

3 Placement of Council's news page

Having previously declared a Pecuniary Interest Councillor Ross Fowler OAM left the meeting, the time being 8:11pm.

33 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Greg Davies seconded Councillor Marko Malkoc

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Placement of Council's news page be received.

2. The weekly Council news page be placed in the Western Weekender for a trial period of 12 months in the Early General News section of the paper.

3. A further report be brought to a future Advertising Working Party discussing recruitment advertising.

4. Council introduce its own internal monitoring program to ensure the Western Weekender is being delivered on time to all residents.

Councillor Ross Fowler OAM returned to the meeting, the time being 8:15pm.

URGENT BUSINESS

UB 1 Leave of Absence

Councillor Kath Presdee requested leave of absence from 11 July 2010 to 15 July 2010 inclusive.

34 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Marko Malkoc that the matter be brought forward and dealt with as an urgent matter.

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

35 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Jackie Greenow seconded Councillor Marko Malkoc that Leave of Absence be granted to Councillor Kath Presdee from 11 July 2010 to 15 July 2010 inclusive.

There being no further business the Chairperson declared the meeting closed the time being 8:16pm.

*Policy Review Committee Meeting*	*12 July 2010*
*A Leading City*

NSW 2010 Community Building Partnership Program

Compiled by: Ray Richardson, Grants Support Officer

Authorised by: Vicki O’Kelly, Group Manager - Finance

Strategic Objective: We demonstrate leadership, and plan responsibly for now and the future

Strategic Direction: We deliver services for the City and its communities, and maintain our long term financial sustainability

Executive Summary

The NSW Government announced in its budget for 2010-11 $35 million to provide a second round of the Community Building Partnership Program.

The objectives of the NSW 2010 Community Building Partnership program are to:

1. Improve local community participation and cohesion through the delivery of social, environmental or recreational services or activities by enhancement of community infrastructure.

2. Improve opportunities for people from disadvantaged or otherwise isolated groups to be included in community activities.

Incorporated, community based not-for-profit organisations and NSW Local Government Authorities are eligible to apply.

A local government must match funding for any of its proposals that are approved.

A council may submit one application for each State electoral district within its boundaries.

Each electoral district has an allocation of $300,000 (Penrith and Mulgoa) or $400,000 (Londonderry and Smithfield) from which to make grants.

A schedule of proposed projects is being provided to Council in this Report. If there are any changes to the recommended list following discussion at tonight’s meeting an updated report will be provided to Council’s Ordinary Meeting of 19 July for endorsement. Submissions will be prepared on the basis of tonight’s discussion to meet the July 23 2010 deadline.

Background

Reports on the previous Community Building Partnership Program were provided to Council on 3 August 2009, 1 February 2010 and 22 February 2010.

Council received two grants under the 2009 Community Building Partnership program.

The following table summarises 2009 results for Council and community applications by electoral district:

Category	Project	Comment	Grant
*Penrith Electoral District*
Council	Jamison Park Shared Pathway	Requested $200,000	$134,700
Community	Great Community Transport Inc	Council Depot refit for relocation	$40,000
	Anglican Church Property Trust Diocese of Sydney	Children’s Playground	$21,200
	Emu Plains Junior Rugby League Inc	Upgrade seating and landscaping at Leonay Oval	$25,000
	Police & Community Youth Clubs NSW Ltd	Repairs and maintenance to club premises Penrith PCYC	$41,003
	PRA WestClub	Construction of a pergola at WestClub	$10,516
*Londonderry* *Electoral District*
Council	Werrington Downs Walking Trail	Requested $161,300: unsuccessful
Community	Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre	Unsuccessful
	Penrith District Grade Cricket Club	Rance Oval improvements: unsuccessful
	Berkshire Park, Llandilo and Shanes Park Community Action group	Playground at Berkshire Park Council funding shade $26,000 from RLCIP 2	$49,000
	Cranebrook United Soccer Club	Bore to provide water for irrigation at Andromeda	$27,500
	Llandilo Hall Committee	Restoration of 110 year old church building	$25,950
	St Marys and District Historical Society Inc	Storage for historical costumes	$1,375
*Mulgoa Electoral District*
Council	Roper Road Playing Field, Colyton	Requested $125,000: unsuccessful
Community	Nepean District Soccer	Seating at Cook Park, St Marys: unsuccessful
	Panthers BMX	Lighting at St Marys BMX track: unsuccessful
	Glenmore Park Junior Rugby League Club	Glenmore Park High School sports field development	$100,000
	Nepean District Soccer Football Association Inc	Fencing at Mark Leece Oval, St Clair	$18,000
	St Clair Junior Australian Football Inc	Upgrade lighting at Cook Park, St Marys	$45,000
	Ability Options	Three nursery polyhouses, Working Options for people with a disability, St Clair	$30,000
	Anglican Church Property Trust	Replacement of church hall roof, St Mary Magdalene Church, St Marys	$50,628
	Mamre Plains Ltd	Re-sealing of Mamre entrance road.	$30,000
	St Marys Band Club Rangers Soccer Group	Lighting on soccer fields, St Marys	$10,000
	St Paul’s Lutheran Kindergarten	Kindergarten paint rejuvenation, Mulgoa	$14,000
	St Paul’s Lutheran Kindergarten	Refurbishment of play areas, St Marys	$15,620
*Smithfield* *Electoral District*
Council	Chameleon Drive footpath	Requested $13,000	$13,000
Council	Erskine Park Community Hall Kitchen	Requested $30,000: unsuccessful

Current Situation

Proposals brought forward by staff for consideration have been reviewed by Group Managers and CMT and have been considered with reference to Council’s Building and Parks Asset Renewal programs and Federal funding for infrastructure projects announced through the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program Round 3.

Council is requested to consider the shortlist and adopt, or amend the priority project for each electoral district.

Only Council’s highest priority in each electoral district will be developed as an application for the deadline on 23 July.

The four priority projects identified through the process described above are:

Penrith Electoral District

· Cranebrook Neighbourhood Centre refurbishment of kitchen and toilets (North Ward).

· Project cost $90,000.

· Grant request $45,000. Source of matching funds: 2010-11 Building Asset Renewal Program.

Mulgoa Electoral District

· St Marys Senior Citizens common area and toilet refurbishment (East Ward).

· This work will complement the upgrade of the kitchen with a grant of $70,032 from the Department of Ageing and Disability Services, reported to Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 21 June 2010.

· Project cost $90,000.

· Grant request $45,000. Source of matching funds: 2010-11 Building Asset Renewal Program.

Londonderry Electoral District

· Werrington Walking Trail missing links section: 400m of 1.5m wide walking trail through Werrington Lakes Reserve to link Burton St and Herbert St, near Harrow Road (North Ward).

· Project cost $60,000.

· Grant request $30,000. Source of matching funds: 2010-11 City Works Operational Budget

Smithfield Electoral District

· Erskine Park Childcare Centre kitchen and bathroom upgrade (East Ward).

· Project cost $70,000.

· Grant request $35,000. Source of matching funds: Children’s Services Pooled funds.

Financial Services Manager’s comment

Council’s total commitment to co-funding should all four proposals be approved is $155,000.

$90,000 will be allocated from the 2010-11 Building Asset Renewal Program. The sum of $260,000 was originally allocated to replace air conditioning at Ripples if the RLCIP Strategic Project application had been successful. That project must now be deferred as the application was unsuccessful. A portion of this amount will be reallocated to matching the Cranebrook Neighbourhood Centre and St Marys Senior Citizens Community Building Partnership projects, if approved.

$30,000 will be allocated from the 2010-11 City Works Operational Budget if the Werrington Walking Trail project is approved. The City Works maintenance program will be adjusted to accommodate this allocation.

$35,000 will be allocated from Children’s Services Pooled Funds, if the Erskine Park Childcare Centre staff area refurbishment is approved.

Other projects

Other projects that were prioritised for consideration were:

Penrith Electoral District

Jamison Park shared pathway missing link on York Road from Jamison Road to entrance: project cost $72,500. No alternate funding source for the required matching funding has been identified.

Jamison Netball Courts concreting around entrance (referred to Council by Jamison Netball Club) project cost: $24,000. No alternate funding source for the required matching funding has been identified. Council has been advised that Jamison Netball Club is submitting an application for internal refurbishment of their clubhouse.

Mulgoa Electoral District

Mark Leece Sport Complex and Ces Blinkhorn floodlighting upgrades: project cost $80,000. This project will be prioritised for future Department of Sport and Recreation funding.

Myrtle Road Reserve playground replacement: project cost $60,000. No alternate funding source for the required matching funding has been identified.

Londonderry Electoral District

Allsopp and Patterson Reserve playground replacement: project cost $60,000. No alternate funding source for the required matching funding has been identified.

Castlereagh Hall refurbishment: project cost $60,000. This project will be incorporated into a larger scale project application under the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program Round 3.

Smithfield Electoral District

Erskine Park Hall kitchen and sustainability upgrade: project cost $60,000. This project will be prioritised under the Building Replacement Program 2011-12.

Community proposals

At the time of preparation of this Report, Council was aware of the following proposals being considered by eligible community groups. Note that community groups are not required to match grant funding.

Project	Proponent	Cost
*Penrith Electoral District*
Andrews Road amenities block	Brothers Rugby League and Penrith Rugby Union	$60,000
Hickeys Lane awning	Brothers Rugby League	$20,000
Upgrade of field event facilities	Jamison Little Athletics	$20,000
Grey Gums Oval Lighting and irrigation of No 2 Field	Growing Grey Gums	$60,000
Jamison Park Netball Clubhouse internal refurbishments	Penrith Netball Association	TBA
*Mulgoa Electoral District*
BMX track lighting	Panthers BMX	$88,000
Samuel Marsden Road Riding Facility improvements	Riding for the Disabled	TBA
Surveyors Creek Reserve dugouts, storage and shade	Penrith City Softball Association	$20,000
Monfarville Reserve installation of additional dugouts and scorers’ safety fencing for junior field	St Marys Baseball	$13,850
Ched Towns Floodlight enhancement	Glenmore Park Soccer	$50,000
Coowarra Cottage St Clair laundry	St Clair Youth & Neighbourhood Team	TBA
Regentville Hall kitchen	Nepean Food Service	TBA
*Londonderry* *Electoral District*
Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre security fencing Stage 1	Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre	TBA
*Smithfield* *Electoral District*
Emmaus School netball courts floodlighting	Emmaus School Netball Club	$40,000

Summary

The four projects recommended for submission to the NSW 2010 Community Building Partnership Program are:

· Penrith - Cranebrook Neighbourhood Centre refurbishment of kitchen and toilets (North Ward).

· Londonderry – Werrington Walking Trail missing links section: 400m of 1.5m wide walking trail through Werrington Lakes Reserve to link Burton St and Herbert St, near Harrow Road (North Ward).

· Mulgoa - St Marys Senior Citizens common area and toilet refurbishment (East Ward).

· Smithfield - Erskine Park Childcare Centre kitchen and bathroom upgrade (East Ward).

Should the bids for projects that require matching funding from the Building Asset Renewal Program budget be successful then the budget will be adjusted to reflect the amended priority of these projects.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on NSW 2010 Community Building Partnership Program be received.

2. Council endorse the four nominated projects to be developed into submissions to meet the 23 July 2010 application deadline, with matching funding confirmed from the identified sources.

Penrith Electoral District:

· Cranebrook Neighbourhood Centre refurbishment of kitchen and toilets.

· Grant request $45,000.

· Source of matching funds: 2010-11 Building Asset Renewal Program.

Mulgoa Electoral District:

· St Marys Senior Citizens common area and toilet refurbishment.

· Grant request $45,000.

· Source of matching funds: 2010-11 Building Asset Renewal Program.

Londonderry Electoral District:

· Werrington Walking Trail missing links section through Werrington Park.

· Grant request $30,000.

· Source of matching funds: 2010-11 City Works Operational Budget

Smithfield Electoral District:

· Erskine Park Childcare Centre kitchen and bathroom upgrade.

· Grant request $35,000.

· Source of matching funds: Children’s Services Pooled funds.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Policy Review Committee Meeting*	*12 July 2010*
*A Leading City*

Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program Round 3

Compiled by: Ray Richardson, Grants Support Officer

Authorised by: Vicki O’Kelly, Group Manager - Finance

Strategic Objective: We demonstrate leadership, and plan responsibly for now and the future

Strategic Direction: We deliver services for the City and its communities, and maintain our long term financial sustainability

Executive Summary

The Federal Government has announced a third round of the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program (RLCIP), with Council’s allocation at the same amount as Round Two ($721,000).

The purpose and criteria are expected to remain the same as for Round Two: to build and modernise community facilities, including town halls, libraries, community centres, sports grounds and environmental infrastructure and is aimed at strengthening our communities during the economic recovery by supporting local jobs and provide long-term benefits to communities by renewing and upgrading local infrastructure.

The $100 million injection into the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program will be delivered as an allocation to all 566 of Australia's councils (565 councils plus the ACT).

Councils should complete and properly acquit their current projects under the Round One $250 million allocated component of the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, and be performing to the Department's satisfaction under other RLCIP rounds, as appropriate, to maximise their opportunity for funding under RLCIP Round Three.

Council officers have reviewed potential projects for nomination in the light of the State’s 2010 Community Building Partnership program and other unfunded projects identified in the process of determining projects for Rounds One and Two.

A schedule of proposed projects is being provided to Council in this Report. If there are any changes to the recommended list following discussion at tonight’s meeting an updated report will be provided to Council’s Ordinary Meeting of 19 July 2010 for endorsement. Submissions will be prepared on the basis of tonight’s discussion to meet the 30 July 2010 deadline.

Eligible projects must be additional or additional stages of current projects, and represent value for money. Additional projects are those which have not been included in the local government’s financial budget for 2010-11, are new or can be brought forward as a result of RLCIP funding. Projects need to be ready to begin construction within 6 months of signing the Funding Agreement (contract). Councils must not commence their RLCIP project until they have received a Funding Agreement executed by the Commonwealth. Projects which represent value for public money are those which, in the context of the objectives and outcomes of the project, add value by achieving something worthwhile for the community that would not occur without grant assistance. All work must be completed by 31 December 2011.

Each Council must submit an application outlining the component of the activity or project on which their RLCIP $100m allocation will be spent. No joint application forms will be accepted. All RLCIP $100m funding must be spent on different components of the joint project/s.

Funding cannot be used for:

· ongoing costs (e.g. operational costs and maintenance);

· roads or related infrastructure covered by the Roads to Recovery or Black Spots programs;

· artworks;

· information technology and communications hardware and software;

· non-fixed infrastructure [e.g. above ground irrigation systems]; or

· project management costs.

As part of the application process, councils will be required to submit project application(s) that account for the entirety of their funding allocation. Councils are encouraged to submit a number of prioritised projects, the aggregate value of which may exceed their allocation. Should the Department find that a higher priority project is ineligible, a lower priority yet eligible project may then be substituted in its place.

Background

Council will recall that in Round One, an allocation of $1.706 million was received through the RLCIP from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government.

With these funds Council completed 23 projects before the 30 November 2009 deadline.

These included improvements at Neighbourhood Centres (Namatjira and Cook Parade), Halls (Ridge Park and Arthur Neave Memorial), Emu Plains Community Centre, Penrith Senior Citizens Centre, Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct, Penrith Swim Centre, Cranebrook Skate Park, Children’s Centres (Yoorami and Strauss Road) as well as installation of roller doors on all Children’s Centres, new playgrounds (Windrush Circuit, Peppertree, Carrington Road and Adelaide Street reserves; Sales and Baronessa parks), Victoria Park, Woodriff Lane and bridge repairs (Park Avenue Kingswood, Madison Circuit St Clair and Burton Street Werrington).

Round Two approved projects that have commenced or are in final planning are new playgrounds at Grassmere Street, Fantail and Whistler and Arundel Park Drive reserves and a shade structure at Berkshire Park Reserve; Berkshire Park Hall upgrade; University of the Third Age building upgrade; playground upgrades at Strauss Road and Stepping Stones Child Care Centres and Emu Plains OOSH; and two Great River Walk projects, including installation of two decks at river level and a lookout near Hunter Street.

The proposed playground at Arundel Park Reserve has been opposed by residents due to ongoing antisocial behaviour associated with the previous playground that has recently been removed. Approval is being sought from the Department to amend the approved project, proposing to construct a new playground at Gough and Lucas Reserve, Emu Plains.

Round Two projects must be completed by 31 December 2010.

Current Situation

Projects nominated for Council’s consideration for RLCIP Round Three are:

Roper Road construction of new playing field (East Ward)

Council has received a grant of $100,000 from the Department of Sport and Recreation’s Sport and Recreation Facility grant program (application reported to Council on 22 February 2010). This amount is less than requested by Council to construct and adequately facilitate this facility. Council will contribute $80,000 to this project from the Local Area Open Space Plan towards matching funding as required under the conditions of the Sport and Recreation Facilities Grant program. It is proposed that RLCIP funding of $70,000 be requested to provide floodlighting for the playing field, to complete the delivery of one fully operational field. If RLCIP funding is not approved for this project, additional borrowings will need to be made against the Local Area Open Space Plan. Use of this field is not allocated to any specific group or sport, but is designed to meet the growing need for recreational facilities in the City. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of recreation facilities (sports grounds and facilities).

This project has been rated as the highest priority as it has been identified as a highly desirable project for many years.

Project cost (total): $250,000

Sport and Recreational Facility Grant: $100,000

Council contribution: $80,000

Project cost (floodlighting): $70,000

Grant request: $70,000

Castlereagh Hall drainage and grading, floor and kitchen refurbishment (North Ward) Drainage and grading must be completed before other works can commence. External works, including stormwater drainage, levelling, and paving are estimated at $45,000. The cost of the floor is estimated at $65,000; a new kitchen $90,000 and a new roof $85,000. The proposal is that Council apply for RLCIP funding to undertake drainage works and grading, and to replace the floor and kitchen (estimated at $200,000). The roof replacement ($85,000) will be funded from the Building Asset Renewal fund in 2011-12. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of social and cultural infrastructure (community centres).

Project cost: $285,000

Grant request: $200,000

Erskine Park High School playing field enhancements (East Ward)

The NSW Department of Education has approved $50,000 towards enhancement of the sporting fields at Erskine Park High School. It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding ($50,000) to construct a new playing surface, including the supply and incorporation of recycle organics (1,000 T) to create a suitable growing medium ($25,000), returf the oval surface (12,000sqm - $20,000) and undertake a topdressing program ($5,000). These funds would supplement the schools contribution, which would be utilised for earthworks, retaining works and irrigation. The school has indicated a willingness to partner Council in this project with a view to the oval being available for use by community sporting organisations after school hours and on weekends, addressing the needs of the local sporting community and assisting in playing field sustainability. This funding is directed at a discrete component of the project. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of recreation facilities (sports grounds and facilities).

Project cost (total): $100,000

NSW Education Department $50,000

Grant request (playing surface): $50,000

Penrith Swim Centre Concourse (South Ward)

Areas of paving within the Swim Centre are deteriorating and require upgrading to maintain the quality of access required for this facility. Penrith Pool concourse replacement costs are estimated as follows: 50m pool $176,000; small pools $207,000; inside entry and path to small pools $29,000. It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding to upgrade the concourse for the 50m pool within the Penrith Swim Centre grounds. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of recreation facilities (swimming pools).

Project cost: $176,000

Grant request: $176,000

St Clair Library refurbishment (East Ward)

Council has extended the operating hours and increased resources for St Clair Library, resulting in increased usage. The facility requires refurbishment to provide a satisfactory level of service. The refurbishment will include altering the entrance, new shelving and signage and repainting (estimated at $50,000) and replacement of air conditioning with improved and more efficient, sustainable equipment (estimated at $20,000). It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding for this project. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of social and cultural infrastructure (libraries).

Project cost: $70,000

Grant request: $70,000

Koala Corner Children’s Centre staff room upgrade (East Ward)

Staff facilities at Koala Corner Children’s Centre in St Marys are cramped and inadequate. It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding to build an extension to the staff facilities at Koala Corner to upgrade the kitchenette and toilet facilities and provide seating. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of children, youth and seniors facilities (community childcare centres).

Project cost: $80,000

Grant request: $80,000

Ripples Leisure Centre St Marys outdoor pool filtration system (East Ward)

Two projects have been identified for potential RLCIP funding at Ripples Leisure Centre’s outdoor Olympic Pool. The replacement of the filtration system has been prioritised as the highest of these projects, allowing for an upgrade to more efficient and sustainable equipment at a cost of $30,000. It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding to replace the filtration equipment for the outdoor pool. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of recreation facilities (swimming pools).

Project cost: $30,000

Grant request (filtration system): $30,000

Seating and shade for playgrounds (All Wards)

Council has recently replaced several old playgrounds in reserves throughout the City. Not all of these playgrounds have been equipped with shade or seating. It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding to provide seating and to plant suitable shade vegetation at up to 9 playgrounds at an estimated cost of $2,500 per site. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of recreation facilities (playgrounds).

Project cost (9 sites @ $2,500) $23,000 (rounded up)

Grant request: $23,000

Fence for off-leash dog area at Jamison Park (South Ward)

Council requested that this project be included in proposals for RLCIP funding. The South Penrith community has requested a secure area within which dogs can be let off their leashes in the south-east corner of Jamison Park near Racecourse Road. It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding to erect a chain wire fence around the designated area. It is not clear that this project will meet RLCIP eligibility requirements. The project will be nominated against the category of Recreation facilities (Community recreation space).

Project cost: $22,000

Grant request: $22,000

The following two projects are nominated as alternate proposals for RLCIP Round 3 funding:

Great River Walk interpretation (South Ward)

Interpretation has been envisaged to complement the construction of existing and future stages of the Great River Walk through Penrith. A study into requirements is currently in progress and recommendations are expected to be available in October 2010. It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding for interpretation, which includes signage. It is estimated that a minimum of $50,000 is required to deliver an appropriate component; a larger grant of $85,000 will permit the delivery of more significant interpretation. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of tourism infrastructure (memorial halls/walkways).

Project cost: $85,000

Grant request: $85,000

Ripples Leisure Centre St Marys outdoor pool shade structure (East Ward)

Ripples Leisure Centre’s outdoor Olympic Pool has inadequate shade for patrons and Centre management have indicated this situation is affecting patronage. The installation of a shade structure is proposed as a second project for this facility. The estimate for installation of a suitable shade structure is $113,000. It is proposed that Council apply for RLCIP funding to install a shade structure for the outdoor pool. This project meets the RLCIP’s eligible category of recreation facilities (swimming pools).

Project cost: $113,000

Grant request (Outdoor pool shade): $113,000

The table contains a summary of proposed projects and grant requests in priority order:

Project	Grant request
*Roper Road new playing field* floodlighting	$70,000
*Castlereagh Hall* drainage and grading, floor and kitchen refurbishment	$200,000
*Erskine* *Park High School* *playing field* (new surface)	$50,000
*Penrith Swim Centre* Concourse	$176,000
*St Clair Library* refurbishment	$70,000
*Koala Corner Children’s Centre* staff room upgrade	$80,000
*Ripples Leisure Centre* outdoor pool filtration system	$30,000
*Seating and shade for 9 playgrounds*	$23,000
*Fence for off-leash dog area at Jamison Park*	$22,000
*PRIORITY PROJECTS RLCIP REQUEST ROUND 3:* *Alternative Projects:-* *Great* *River* *Walk –* interpretation *Ripples Leisure Centre -* outdoor pool shade structure	$721,000 $85,000 $113,000

Financial Services Manager’s Comment

The above projects total the amount of the RLCIP Round 3 grant allocation of $721,000. Any change to the priorities from either discussion at tonight’s meeting or by the Department will necessitate a review of the mix of the projects. Any final list that totals more than $721,000 will require additional funding to be provided by Council.

Lobbying efforts for continuation of the program

Penrith City Council is an active member of the National Growth Areas Alliance (NGAA). The Alliance represents 25 of Australia’s fastest growing local government areas. Over the next 20 years, the population of these local government areas will grow at double the national rate.

Growth areas play a central role in accommodating the nation’s growth. People are attracted to these areas for the house prices and the lifestyle on offer. Growth areas struggle, however, to be equipped with the necessary infrastructure to meet the demands that rapid growth places on these communities. For this reason, the NGAA has advocated for more sustainable growth areas wherein the current and future residents have greater access to the basics.

The interest in growth areas from the Federal Government and the funding received by growth councils to date via programs such as the RLCIP has been very welcome. There is, however, still much that needs to be done.

The NGAA has lobbied for a commitment from the Federal Government to the ongoing funding of the RLCIP at a cost of $300m per annum each year for the next four years ($1.2 billion). This represents a triple of the allocation in Round 3 ($100 million).

The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has prepared a 10 point plan for lobbying major parties in the lead up to the 2010 Federal election.

Point 2 is: Continue investment in the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, so that more of the current stock of ageing local community infrastructure can be renewed and upgraded.

ALGA also calls for $300m per annum over four years in RLCIP funding.

Conclusion

Penrith City Council recognises the value of the RLCIP funding as a contribution towards reducing the backlog of community infrastructure replacement and renewal that it has identified. Over three rounds of non-competitive allocations, Council will have received $3,148,000, delivering significant benefits to the community.

This funding has been received directly from the Federal Government, which is a welcome means of investment, following the successful model of the Roads to Recovery Program, enabling councils to identify and propose projects it knows to be relevant to local needs.

The efforts of NGAA and ALGA to secure additional funding through the RLCIP program is welcomed and strongly supported.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program Round 3 be received.

2. Council endorse the recommended projects and their prioritisation for applications to be submitted to the RLCIP Round Three program to permit staff to prepare applications for the 30 July 2010 deadline.

3. That Council thank the Minister for Infrastructure for the provision of funding under RLCIP Round 3 and encourage the Minister and the Federal Government to continue the funding of community infrastructure replacement and renewal by establishing the RLCIP as a permanent program of assistance for Local Government.

4. That Council support the efforts of ALGA and the National Growth Areas Alliance in lobbying for the establishment of a permanent Federal fund to assist Local Government in resourcing the replacement and renewal of ageing community facilities.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES

There are no attachments for this report.

*Policy Review Committee Meeting*	*12 July 2010*
*A Vibrant City*

Draft Health Strategy and Action Plan

Compiled by: Monique Desmarchelier, Healthy People Partnership Officer

Anthony Price, Environmental Health Co-ordinator

Authorised by: Graham Liehr, Environmental Health Manager

Strategic Objective: We build on our strengths

Strategic Direction: We encourage the wellbeing, creativity, inclusivity and diversity of our communities

Executive Summary

The health of communities is influenced by our environment, lifestyle and behaviours. Lifestyle choices such as smoking and poor diet are known as risk factors that can lead to diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. These ‘lifestyle diseases’ can lead to a reduction in quality of life and longevity and could lead to more serious diseases such as heart disease and cancers.

While Penrith City Council is not a direct provider of traditional health services (e.g. hospitals and allied health care), Council is a major provider of many other services that can have a positive impact on the health of the people who live and work in our community. This includes providing people with the information to make healthy lifestyle choices and facilities that encourage healthy lifestyles such as parks, footpaths and leisure centres.

The purpose of the Draft Strategy and Action Plan is to introduce the benefit of Health Planning and to highlight and respond to the various factors affecting the health of our communities. The Draft Strategy provides direction to positively influence the long term health of Penrith communities and also serves as a guide for the allocation of resources and building capacity for health advocacy and programs.

Penrith is also recognised as a Regional City in the State Government’s Metropolitan Strategy, which sets the blueprint for Sydney for the next 20 years. This has implications for the continuing development of the region and the role of Penrith City Council as a regional leader. Health Planning in local government is an emerging area and Council has an opportunity to deliver a strategy that makes Penrith a more healthy and sustainable City.

The Draft Health Strategy and Action Plan focuses on delivering the significant outcome highlighted in the Community Strategic Plan 2031 -

‘A City that Promotes Health and Well Being’.

It also approaches health in an innovative way and strives to raise awareness about social, physical and mental wellbeing as well as providing opportunities for improved health outcomes.

The report recommends Council endorse the draft Health Strategy and Action Plan for the purposes of public exhibition.

Determinants of Health

A number of different factors determine the health of communities and individuals and they can be grouped into three categories:

· the social and economic environment,

· the physical environment, and

· the person’s individual characteristics and behaviours.

The above factors are known collectively as the ‘Determinants of Health’ and any actions planned to improve health must consider these as a foundation. Health determinants and risk factors pose challenges when planning for healthy communities. The challenges can be grouped into three broad categories and are discussed below:

· Fundamental Public Health (e.g. water supply, waste management, infectious diseases, food safety and immunisation)

· Contemporary Public Health (e.g. obesity, depression, drug and alcohol use, injury, violence, air pollution, active transport and crime prevention)

· Emerging Public Health (e.g. associated with climate change and other environmental changes, heat stress, water security, food security, vector borne diseases and mental wellbeing.

At Risk Populations and Risk Factors

There are certain priority groups within communities that are more vulnerable to health risk factors than the general population. These include:

· Older people

· Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

· Children (up to 12 years)

· Youth (16 to 25 years)

· Women

· Cultural and linguistically diverse and refugees

· People with mental illness

· People on single and low incomes

· Homeless people.

These priority groups are recognised by various health agencies and Council can work with key partners to contribute to their improved health outcomes.

The main risk factors with a potential to impact the health of Penrith Local Government Area (LGA) communities include:

· Smoking

· Weight and Obesity

· Diabetes

· Access to Fruits and Vegetables

· Physical Activity

· Cancer

· Heart Disease

· Injury

· Mental Health.

Each of these risk factors is discussed within the Draft Strategy including their relationship to the health challenges for the City.

Health Challenges

There are a number of health challenges for the City. The World Health Organisation, an international centre that focuses on developing tools and resources for health policy and urban planning, has grouped these challenges in the following way:

· Transport

· Work and Income

· Housing

· Food and Nutrition

· Social Interaction

· Childhood

· Partnerships.

The Health Planning process must consider and respond to these challenges. The result should be reduction of health risk factors (discussed above) and improved health outcomes for the City. The challenges relevant to the Penrith LGA are as follows:

Transport

The World Health Organisation advises that healthier transport means driving less with more walking, cycling and improved public transport. Transport is an issue in the Penrith LGA as large numbers of people commute long distances from the Penrith LGA for work or tertiary education. This is gradually being addressed with an increased focus on providing more jobs and a greater variety of jobs within the City; however Penrith City Council’s location on the outskirts of Sydney will always mean that some residents will need to travel to work.

Opportunities for active transport e.g. cycling and walking are also limited, partially because of safety concerns and partially due to lack of adequate facilities. There are limited dedicated cycle lanes along major roads making it difficult for cyclists to travel in safety and in some areas access to footpaths is also limited. There is also an opportunity for workplaces to provide end of journey facilities for employees who chose to walk or cycle to work, including lockers, showers and safe bicycle storage areas.

Work and Income

The World Health Organisation advises that stress in the workplace increases the risk of disease and that job security increases health, well being and job satisfaction. Employment opportunities is an issue for the Penrith LGA because there is still a shortage in the choice of local jobs that forces people to leave the area for work. This could be addressed by attracting major corporations or government agencies to locate in the Penrith LGA.

Higher incomes, skills and qualifications provide for greater employment opportunities and access to goods, services and facilities that improve and maintain health. Lower incomes reduce these opportunities.

Housing

Access to appropriate housing is an issue everywhere and one where Council has some level of influence. The Penrith LGA has long been regarded as an affordable area for young families to purchase their first homes and Council is committed to seeing that a level of affordable housing continues.

If affordable housing is not available then homelessness may occur. Health risks occur whether the reasons for homelessness are a loss of job or eviction from rental accommodation, domestic violence, or lack of affordable housing in the area.

Food and Nutrition

Access to healthy food is a global issue. Even when healthy food is available it is often more expensive than the unhealthy options. If people are not able to afford healthier food options it is likely to impact on their health.

Trying to provide enough food, let alone healthy food for a family can be a source of great anxiety. This may include long term feelings of hunger or short term episodes of food shortage. The main driver of this is income, especially for those who live below the poverty line. People who are unable to buy healthy food are also more likely to suffer obesity, poor mental health, below average educational outcomes and social isolation.

Social Interaction

The World Health Organisation advises that friendships and strong supportive networks improve health. As in most areas, the percentage of older people in the Penrith LGA is increasing and more people are living alone. The trend of single person households makes it important for Council to help provide all members of the community with opportunities to build social networks and to combat the negative health impacts of isolation.

Childhood

The World Health Organisation advises that important foundations of adult health are formed in childhood and that there is a need to support mothers and young children. Like healthy eating and appropriate housing, ensuring children are given the best possible start in life is an issue everywhere, not just in the Penrith LGA. It is particularly relevant to our City with its high number of families with children. The Penrith LGA has also traditionally been an area that is attractive to young families.

Domestic violence, which sadly occurs everywhere, is also flagged as an issue that can significantly impact on children. The long term impacts on a child’s behaviour and emotional wellbeing can be enormous and Council is in a position to support prevention and awareness initiatives.

Partnerships

Effective partnerships with key health organisations can influence the direction of health improvement strategies for the community. These partnerships can be developed to further promote health and wellbeing in communities.

Partnerships with other government and non-government health service agencies can also result in improved health outcomes. Some examples of health partnerships that Council has developed over the years are as follows:

· The Sydney West Area Health Service is responsible for promoting health in an attempt to prevent disease. Council has developed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Area Health Service in order to assist in delivering common priorities.

· Council has been a partner of the Cancer Council since 2006. Since the partnership began Council has embarked on a number of activities to raise awareness and to reduce the impact of smoking in the community. The partnership has assisted in improving the health and wellbeing of residents and workers in the region and attempts to reduce the impact of cancer on the community.

· Council also has an agreement with the NSW Food Authority as part of a Food Regulation Partnership with an objective of providing safe food and healthy food premises for the community.

Health Strategy Objectives and Action Plan

The following strategic objectives have been developed to address the health challenges and risk factors described above:

· Provide opportunities for physical activity within the community

· Provide opportunities for social interaction in the community

· Provide safe environments for the community

· Improve access to fresh foods for the community

· Enhance the health and wellbeing of children and families

· Provide leadership by planning for the health and wellbeing of our City

· Engage in strategic partnerships for health.

A draft Action Plan has been developed that details specific actions for Council to meet the above objectives. The aim of the plan will be to integrate high priority actions into Council’s Annual Operational Plan. The priority actions will be reviewed each year with consideration of the draft Health Strategy objectives. The plan also identifies the lead departments responsible for the implementation of each action. The delivery of these actions will be monitored and reported through Council’s established reporting processes. A copy of the draft Action Plan is attached to this report.

Health and Sustainability

The Sustainable Penrith program recognises that the health and wellbeing of our communities is reliant on factors such as clean air, clean water, fresh food, secure housing, protection from pollutants, programs to prevent and control disease, and social cohesion.

Just as the health determinants covered earlier impact on health and wellbeing, so do environmental factors such as climate and the health of local ecosystems. Similarly, the actions and lifestyles of communities affect not only their own personal health but also impact on the health and wellbeing of our environment.

One of the key challenges facing the health of our communities, our environment, and our economies, both now and in the coming years is the issue of climate change. This issue poses a range of risks to human health ranging from the risk of physical injury and deaths arising from extreme events such as heatwaves and storms through to increases in the cost of fresh food as a result of drought or other climate events.

Council has recognised the above and other risks in its Climate Change Risk Assessment undertaken in 2009. This assessment identified a range of potential risks including risks to health and wellbeing as a result of climate change. There is now an opportunity to plan for and respond to these environmental, social, and economic challenges ahead. The development of strategies and initiatives to respond to these challenges will provide additional benefits in terms of improving the quality of the local environment and social infrastructure.

Consultation Process

During the development of the Draft Health Strategy and Action Plan Council officers consulted twelve organisations including St Marys Community Development, St Marys Community Health, South Penrith Youth Neighbourhood Service, Nepean Division of General Practice, Cancer Council, Mission Australia, Women’s Health and the Sydney West Area Health Service.

The common themes that resulted from these consultations were: difficulties in accessing safe public transport, domestic violence, employment and educational opportunities, improving access to local food for vulnerable communities and the extent of take away foods in the City. These issues have been included where appropriate in the draft Action Plan.

Different age groups were also surveyed at community events in order to determine their understanding of health issues. Some of the issues raised by adults between the ages of 22-59 years of age included food, childhood experiences and community activities. Feedback was also obtained from the primary school and early teenager age group. The majority of these spoke about the importance of healthy food with transport being the next popular topic. Some of the actions suggested by the community as part of these surveys included: maps for walking and cycling, increasing physical activity opportunities, vegetable gardens in schools and community events.

There are also a number of Council departments who would be involved in delivering the priority actions highlighted in the draft Action Plan including:

· Children’s Services

· City Marketing

· Community and Cultural Development

· Environmental Health

· Engineering Services

· Public Domain Amenity and Safety

· Recreation

· Sustainability and Planning.

The Managers of each of these departments have been consulted through the development of the draft Strategy. Department representatives have also been invited to participate in a working group to guide and review the performance of the draft Action Plan. The current priorities identified in the Action Plan that have been identified by the participating Departments are part of current or planned initiatives. When the Action Plan is reviewed the financial capacity for Council to deliver any revised or new priorities will be assessed at that time.

Exhibition Period

The next step in the development of the draft Health Strategy and Action Plan is to place the documents on public exhibition for a minimum one month period. Organisations who have been consulted to date will be notified of the public exhibition. In addition to the usual advertising through media and Council’s website, there is also an opportunity to use a ‘Bang the Table’ survey. Feedback from the public exhibition will be used to finalise the documents prior to proceeding with their implementation.

A further report will be brought back to Council to adopt the final version of the Health Strategy and Action Plan following our assessment of public submissions.

Conclusion

The Draft Strategy and Action Plan before Council has been prepared with focus on delivering the Community Strategic Outcome: ‘A City that Promotes Health and Well Being’.

Council is well placed to contribute to the health and wellbeing of communities within Penrith. While Penrith City Council is not a direct provider of traditional health services (e.g. hospitals and allied health care), Council is a major provider of many other services that can have a positive impact on the health of the people who live and work in our community. This includes providing people with the information and facilities that encourage healthy lifestyle choices.

Penrith City Council can also play a leadership role in Health Planning by considering the social, economic and environmental factors affecting health and wellbeing with the goal of making Penrith a healthier and more sustainable City.

RECOMMENDATION

That:

1. The information contained in the report on Draft Health Strategy and Action Plan be received.

2. The draft Health Strategy and Action Plan be placed on public exhibition.

3. A further report be brought back to Council following assessment of public submission for consideration of adoption of the Health Strategy and Action Plan.

ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES