Agenda of Strategy and Assets Committee

Minutes of the Strategy and Assets Committee

Meeting Date: Tuesday, 21 March 2017

Location: Council Chambers, City Administrative Centre, Bridge Road, Nowra

Time: 5:00pm

The following members were present:

Clr Andrew Guile - Chairperson

Clr Joanna Gash

Clr John Wells

Clr Patricia White

Clr John Levett

Clr Nina Cheyne

Clr Annette Alldrick

Clr Kaye Gartner – left the meeting 7.19pm

Clr Amanda Findley

Clr Mitchell Pakes

Clr Mark Kitchener

Clr Bob Proudfoot

Mr Russ Pigg - General Manager

Apologies / Leave of Absence

Clr Watson

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Cheyne) MIN17.184

That the Minutes of the Strategy and Assets Committee held on Tuesday 21 February 2017 be confirmed.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest

Conflict of Interest Declaration – Russ Pigg - pecuniary interest – SA17.82 Ratepayers Advance Kerb & Gutter Construction - 58 - 64 Basin View Pde, Basin View – he is one of the property owners – will leave the room, will not take part in discussion or vote.

Conflict of Interest Declaration – Clr White – less than significant non pecuniary interest – SA17.71 Telstra Tech Savvy Seniors Grant Funding – her husband is a previous Telstra Dealer, Council is receiving grant funding of $1800 for library programs and no remuneration or advantage will be received by her husband – will leave the room, will not take part in discussion or vote.

Conflict of Interest Declaration - Clr Proudfoot – less than significant non pecuniary interest – SA17.87 Dealing With Development Applications Lodged by Council Staff or Councillors – he has a Development Application before Council – will leave the room, will not take part in discussion or vote.

Deputations and Presentations

Mr Paul Davies addresed the Committee in relation to Item SA17.75 Funding Options - Sealing - Bishops Drive, Mollymook

Ms Jenny Brodie addressed the Committee in relation to Item SA17.74 Bomaderry Aquatic Centre & Nowra Aquatic Park - Winter Swimming in Northern Shoalhaven

Procedural Motion - Bring Item Forward

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr Kitchener) MIN17.185

That the matter of items SA17.75 Funding Options - Sealing - Bishops Drive Mollymook and SA17.74 Bomaderry Aquatic Centre & Nowra Aquatic Park - Winter Swimming in Northern Shoalhaven be brought forward for consideration.

CARRIED

SA17.75 Funding Options - Sealing - Bishops Drive Mollymook

HPERM Ref: D17/37745

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on the sealing of 150 metres of Bishop Drive be received for information and the works not be funded in the 2017/18 budget.

Motion (Clr Kitchener / Clr Proudfoot)

That Council consider sealing the 150 metres of Bishop Drive, Mollymook as a priority for the next scheduled road works and the $213,000 cost for the works be funded in the 2017/18 budget.

For: Clr Guile, Clr Pakes, Clr Kitchener and Clr Proudfoot

Against: Clr Gash, Clr Wells, Clr White, Clr Levett, Clr Cheyne, Clr Alldrick, Clr Gartner, Clr Findley and Russ Pigg

lost

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr Gartner) MIN17.186

That the report on the sealing of 150 metres of Bishop Drive be received for information and the works not be funded in the 2017/18 budget.

For: Clr Gash, Clr Wells, Clr White, Clr Levett, Clr Cheyne, Clr Alldrick, Clr Gartner, Clr Findley and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Guile, Clr Pakes, Clr Kitchener and Clr Proudfoot

CARRIED

SA17.74 Bomaderry Aquatic Centre & Nowra Aquatic Park - Winter Swimming in Northern Shoalhaven

HPERM Ref: D17/83607

Recommendation

That Council

1. Within the Shoalhaven Swim & Fitness area, maintain the operation of:

a. Bomaderry Aquatic Centre 25 metre indoor pool – all year

b. Bomaderry Aquatic Centre 50 metre outdoor pool – all year

c. Nowra Aquatic Park 50 metre outdoor pool - close 30 June 2017 until 1 November 2017

d. To be funded within existing 2016/17 budgets

2. Undertake a comprehensive Community Engagement Process to outline the proposed six (6) options for summer and winter swimming in the northern Shoalhaven (Bomaderry Aquatic Centre and Nowra Aquatic Park) as outlined in this report. That this consultation seek the community’s views on which is the preferred option taking into consideration all factors including service level provision and costs. This be undertaken as part of the DPOP consultation and be reported back to Council as part of the budget process.

3. Upon receipt of the feedback, determine which option of the six considered it will fund in future budgets.

Recommendation (Clr Pakes / Clr Findley)

That Council:

1. Undertake a comprehensive Community Engagement Process in plain English to outline the proposed six (6) options for summer and winter swimming in the northern Shoalhaven (Bomaderry Aquatic Centre and Nowra Aquatic Park) as outlined in this report. That this consultation seek the community’s views, including swimming community members, on which is the preferred option taking into consideration all factors including service level provision and costs. This be undertaken as part of the DPOP consultation and be reported back to Council as part of the budget process.

2. Upon receipt of the feedback, determine which option of the six considered it will fund in future budgets.

For: Clr Gash, Clr Wells, Clr White, Clr Levett, Clr Cheyne, Clr Alldrick, Clr Gartner, Clr Findley, Clr Pakes, Clr Kitchener and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Guile and Clr Proudfoot

CARRIED

Procedural Motion - Bring Item Forward

RESOLVED (Clr Cheyne / Clr Findley) MIN17.187

That the matter of item SA17.68 Shoalhaven Family Day Care - Consultation process and feedback re transfer of service be brought forward for consideration.

CARRIED

SA17.68 Shoalhaven Family Day Care - Consultation process and feedback re transfer of service

HPERM Ref: D17/8966

Recommendation

1. That Council receive the report for information on the consultation process with affected staff, Educators and Families and feedback regarding potential transfer of the Shoalhaven Family Day Care Service to a suitable provider for information.

2. That Council adopt Option 4 Performance Targets met or transfer and that an update report be provided to Council in April 2018.

3. That as part of the public exhibition/community engagement period for the draft 2017/18 DP/OP council specifically gain feedback on the matter of ‘ratepayer subsidy’ for the FDC service.

Recommendation (Clr Cheyne / Clr Wells)

2. Council adopt performance targets to improve services it provides and report back in April 2018 when more clarity around federal funding is available.

3. That as part of the public exhibition/community engagement period for the draft 2017/18 DP/OP council specifically gain feedback on the matter of ‘ratepayer subsidy’ for the FDC service.

4. Council acknowledge that high quality child care services are a fundamental responsibility of the Federal Government and acknowledge that the current service of the Family Day Care Service reaches an exceeding level and congratulate the staff and the educators for that high level recognition.

5. That Council continue to lobby the Federal Government for Federal Government support and funding.

CARRIED

Note: That Clr Cheyne read to the Committee a letter submitted by educator, Jamie Horton.

Notices of Motion / Questions on Notice

SA17.62 Notice of Motion - Code of Meeting Practice - Adjournment of Meetings

HPERM Ref: D17/72458

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council consider a ten minute adjournment at all meetings after two hours.

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr Findley) MIN17.188

That Council consider a ten minute adjournment at all meetings after two hours.

CARRIED

SA17.63 Question on Notice - Traveller Rest Areas

HPERM Ref: D17/82219

Question

What is the Council policy or plan on the provision of short time traveller rest areas.

Background

There appears to be a growing need for roadside areas that can be utilised for overnight traveller stays, with basic toilet and shower facilities. A number of locations are now used which appear to be inadequate for the pupose in particular the roadside area opposite the Bewong Café.

Response

Roadside rest areas primarily come under the responsibility of NSW Roads & Maritime Services, they provide rest stops in various locations on the Princes Highway within the Shoalhaven region. The rest areas are placed in locations where traffic flow is high enough to justify the cost of establishing such a facility for passing travellers, rather than overnight site accommodation. There is often shelters and toilets provided at rest areas. Areas such as Bewong and Rotary Park (South Nowra) are designed to provide rest stops, not overnight site accommodation.

The provision of overnight site accommodation with adequate facilities is covered under the Local Government Regulations (Caravan Parks and Camping Grounds). Overnight site accommodation of this type is provided by over 80 approved caravan parks in the Shoalhaven. There are alternative primitive camping areas and camp grounds provided in National Parks.

Under State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) (Infrastructure) 2007, certain development can be exempt, if development can be carried out by or on behalf of a public authority in connection with a road or road infrastructure facilities and complies with Clause 20 of that SEPP.

This includes roadside facilities and rest areas, if the development does not involve the installation of toilets and involves no greater disturbance to the ground or vegetation than necessary.

http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/#/view/EPI/2007/641/part3/div17/subdiv1/cl97

Refer to Clause 97 (1) (ix).

Clause 20 of the SEPP states:

RESOLVED (Clr Levett / Clr Findley) MIN17.189

That Question on Notice - Traveller Rest Areas be recevied for information.

CARRIED

SA17.64 Question on Notice - "Adopt a Road" Scheme	HPERM Ref: D17/82232
Question Could Councillors be given an explanation of the operation and success of the “Adopt-a-Road” scheme in the Shoalhaven, is it still actively worked, and could it be expanded as a means of coping with the roadside rubbish issue. Response Shoalhaven City Council does participate in the “Adopt A Road” programme. Currently there is one formal “Adopt A Road” group which is the Adopt A Road Bendigo Bank Parkcare Group which removes litter as necessary along all roads in Sanctuary Point, St Georges Basin and Basin View. The group began in 2012 and the Parkcare Action Plan was adopted by Council in March 2013 (D13/4640). The group was supplied with personal protection equipment by Council and has been very effective and donated over 190 hours of labour, to the task, since its creation. Council’s Parkcare Programme in many areas is very successful and provides an opportunity for volunteers to provide higher levels of services which are currently unable to be funded by Council due to large area serviced. It also provides a fantastic opportunity for volunteers to “give back” to their community and demonstrate pride in the local area. Council provides all groups with financial support and assistance by staff to set up their groups and develop their Action Plans which are then put forward to Council for consideration and adoption. New Parkcare groups require approximately $400 per year in funding which forms part of the recommendation at the time of the Action Plans adoption. The Adopt A Road programme can be easily expanded if there are willing volunteers to assist Council in control of litter.
RESOLVED (Clr Levett / Clr Findley) MIN17.190 That Question on Notice - "Adopt a Road" Scheme be received for information. CARRIED
Note: Clr Findley acknowledged, Jo Power who received an International Womens Award for her work along Bendalong Beach and Plastic Free NSW Facebook and instagram pages.

Procedural Motion - Adjournment of Meeting

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Pakes) MIN17.191

That the meeting be adjourned for 10 minutes, the time being 7.00pm.

CARRIED

Procedural Motion - Resumption of Meeting

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Pakes) MIN17.192

That the meeting be reconvened, the time being 7.12pm when the following members were present:

Clr Andrew Guile - Chairperson

Clr Joanna Gash

Clr John Wells

Clr Patricia White

Clr John Levett

Clr Nina Cheyne

Clr Annette Alldrick

Clr Kaye Gartner

Clr Amanda Findley

Clr Mitchell Pakes

Clr Mark Kitchener

Clr Bob Proudfoot

Mr Russ Pigg - General Manager

CARRIED

Reports

SA17.65 Economic Development Strategy - Draft Report to be Placed on Exhibition

HPERM Ref: D17/73359

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That

1. Council place the draft Economic Development Strategy (2017-2026) on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days.

2. A report be submitted to Council including comments from submissions received with the view to have the Economic Development Strategy (2017-2026) adopted by Council.

RESOLVED (Clr Proudfoot / Clr Wells) MIN17.193

That the matter of Economic Development Strategy - Draft Report to be Placed on Exhibition be defered to the Ordinary Meeting, Tuesday 28 March 2017 and a copy of the Draft Economic Development Strategy be made available as an attachment to the report.

CARRIED

SA17.66 Citizens Panel

HPERM Ref: D17/82371

Recommendation (Option 2)

That:

1. Council randomly select a total of 24 persons from the existing 24 Consultive Community Bodies (CCBs), Council’s Advisory Committees & Boards, and the Business Chamber Executives, to form a Community Reference Panel to provide input into the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) review process and the Delivery Program/Operational Plan (DPOP) and budget community engagement process.

2. This Panel undertake 3 workshops to provide feedback on the priorities for expenditure of the Special Rate Variation (SRV) and the projects and priorities of the CSP and DPOP

3. Council allocate a budget of $10,000 to meet staff and other costs to form and assist the Community Reference Panel in the process.

4. Council also utilise alternative community engagement methods to reach other stakeholders of Shoalhaven, to actively seek their feedback on their priority areas for expenditure of the proposed SRV as part of this year’s DP/OP and budget and allocate $5,000 to fund materials and resources for these engagement methods

5. Council consider providing a budget in the 2017/18 financial year for the establishment of a permanent randomly selected Community Reference Panel that could be externally facilitated and used for a number of projects of Council throughout the year and form part of Council’s overall community engagement strategy

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Guile) MIN17.194

That the Citizens Panel Report be received for information.

CARRIED

Note: Clr Gartner left the meeting – 7.19pm

SA17.67 Request for Alternate Delegates - Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

HPERM Ref: D17/56377

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That there be no change to the Terms of Reference in relation to membership of the committee.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Gash) MIN17.195

That there be no change to the Terms of Reference in relation to membership of the committee.

CARRIED

SA17.68 Shoalhaven Family Day Care - Consultation Process And Feedback Re Transfer Of Service

HPERM Ref: D17/8966

Item dealt with earlier/later in the meeting.

SA17.69 Shoalhaven Homelessness Taskforce - Terms of Reference

HPERM Ref: D17/60968

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. Establish the Shoalhaven Homelessness Taskforce as a section 355/377 Committee of Council;

2. Endorse the Terms of Reference of the Shoalhaven Homelessness Taskforce

3. Confirm the three councillor representatives on the taskforce.

RESOLVED (Clr Cheyne / Clr Levett) MIN17.196

That Council

1. Establish the Shoalhaven Homelessness Taskforce as a section 355/377 Committee of Council;

2. Endorse the Terms of Reference of the Shoalhaven Homelessness Taskforce with the following changes:

a. That all councillors be members of the taskforce.

b. The Chairperson be appointed for a term of 2 years

For: Clr Gash, Clr Wells, Clr White, Clr Levett, Clr Cheyne, Clr Alldrick, Clr Findley, Clr Pakes, Clr Proudfoot and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Guile and Clr Kitchener

CARRIED

SA17.70 Overview/Update - Shoalhaven Section 94 Contributions Plan Review

HPERM Ref: D17/67071

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That:

1. The report on the proposed reforms to the Shoalhaven Contributions Plan 2010 be received for information

2. The funds from recoupment projects and identified deleted projects be transferred to a “recoupment fund” and used as Council’s apportionment to projects and to provide seed funding for community infrastructure projects identified in the revised Contributions Plan.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN17.197

That:

1. The report on the proposed reforms to the Shoalhaven Contributions Plan 2010 be received for information

CARRIED

SA17.71 Telstra Tech Savvy Seniors Grant Funding

HPERM Ref: D17/70549

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Accept the NSW Government and Telstra Tech Savvy Seniors grant funding to the value of $1,800 for Shoalhaven Libraries to deliver a series of technology training modules to the Shoalhaven Community and adjust the budget accordingly.

2. Write to the NSW Government accepting the grant offer.

Conflict of Interest Declaration – Clr White – less than significant non pecuniary interest –SA17.71 Telstra Tech Savvy Seniors Grant Funding – her husband is a previous Telstra Dealer, Council is receiving grant funding of $1800 for library programs and no remuneration or advantage will be received by her husband – left the room, did not take part in discussion or vote.

Recommendation (Clr Proudfoot / Clr Alldrick)

That Council:

2. Write to the NSW Government accepting the grant offer.

CARRIED

SA17.72 2017 Future of Local Government National Summit

HPERM Ref: D17/73086

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee

1. Notes the details of the 2017 Future of Local Government National Summit scheduled for 25-26 May 2017 in Melbourne.

2. Authorises available Councillors to attend the conference and such attendance be deemed Council Business.

3. Travel, registration fees, accommodation and all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses be met in accordance with its adopted policy.

4. Request Councillors attending the conference to provide a written report within 30 days of returning from the conference.

Note Clr White returned to the meeting.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Cheyne) MIN17.198

That the Committee

1. Notes the details of the 2017 Future of Local Government National Summit scheduled for 25-26 May 2017 in Melbourne.

2. Authorises available Councillors to attend the conference and such attendance be deemed Council Business.

3. Travel, registration fees, accommodation and all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses be met in accordance with its adopted policy.

4. Request Councillors attending the conference to provide a written report within 30 days of returning from the conference.

CARRIED

SA17.73 2017 Australian Local Government Women's Association Conference

HPERM Ref: D17/81524

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee

1. Notes the details of the 2017 Australian Local Government Wormen’s Association Conference scheduled for 4 to 6 May 2017 in Penrith.

2. Authorises available Councillors to attend the conference and such attendance be deemed Council Business.

3. Travel, registration fees, accommodation and all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses be met in accordance with its adopted policy.

4. Request Councillors attending the conference to provide a written report within 30 days of returning from the conference.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Cheyne) MIN17.199

That the Committee

1. Notes the details of the 2017 Australian Local Government Wormen’s Association Conference scheduled for 4 to 6 May 2017 in Penrith.

2. Authorises available Councillors to attend the conference and such attendance be deemed Council Business.

3. Travel, registration fees, accommodation and all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses be met in accordance with its adopted policy.

4. Request Councillors attending the conference to provide a written report within 30 days of returning from the conference.

CARRIED

SA17.74 Bomaderry Aquatic Centre & Nowra Aquatic Park - Winter Swimming In Northern Shoalhaven

HPERM Ref: D17/83607

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting.

SA17.75 Funding Options - Sealing - Bishops Drive Mollymook

HPERM Ref: D17/37745

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting see MIN17.186

SA17.76 Long Term Parking Facility Proposal - Bomaderry Railway Station

HPERM Ref: D17/56033

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on the availability of land in the vicinity of the Bomaderry Railway station to be used for all day/night parking, be received for information

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Gash) MIN17.200

That the report on the availability of land in the vicinity of the Bomaderry Railway station to be used for all day/night parking, be received for information.

CARRIED

SA17.77 Bus Service - Bomaderry Rail Station to Nowra CBD

HPERM Ref: D17/56121

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on the feasibility of subsidising a shuttle bus service, or facilitating timely bus services, from Bomaderry railway station to the Nowra CBD, be received for information.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Cheyne) MIN17.201

That the report on the feasibility of subsidising a shuttle bus service, or facilitating timely bus services, from Bomaderry railway station to the Nowra CBD, be received for information.

CARRIED

SA17.78 Report - Traffic Management - Milton/Ulladulla Area - Summer Holiday Period - By-pass Proposal

HPERM Ref: D17/80036

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Report of the General Manager (Director of Assets & Works) be received for Information and council note the status of this matter as detailed in the Princes Highway Corridor Strategy.

Motion (Clr White / Clr Gash)

That:

1. The Report of the General Manager (Director of Assets & Works) be received for Information and council note the status of this matter as detailed in the Princes Highway Corridor Strategy.

2. Council continue to lobby the State Government for funding for the Milton Ulladulla Bypass and involve our community in that lobbying

Amendment (Clr Guile / Clr Proudfoot)

That:

1. The Report of the General Manager (Director of Assets & Works) be received for Information and council note the status of this matter as detailed in the Princes Highway Corridor Strategy.

2. Council continue to lobby the State Government for funding for the Milton Ulladulla Bypass as a priority Princes Hwy Project and involve our community in that lobbying

For: Clr Guile, Clr Findley, Clr Pakes, Clr Kitchener, Clr Proudfoot and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Gash, Clr Wells, Clr White, Clr Levett, Clr Cheyne, Clr Alldrick

CARRIED on the casting vote of the chair

The AMENDMENT became the MOTION and was PUT and CARRIED on the casting vote of the chair

RESOLVED (Clr Guile / Clr Proudfoot) MIN17.202

That:

1. The Report of the General Manager (Director of Assets & Works) be received for Information and council note the status of this matter as detailed in the Princes Highway Corridor Strategy.

2. Council continue to lobby the State Government for funding for the Milton Ulladulla Bypass as a priority Princes Hwy Project and involve our community in that lobbying

For: Clr Guile, Clr Findley, Clr Pakes, Clr Kitchener, Clr Proudfoot and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Gash, Clr Wells, Clr White, Clr Levett, Clr Cheyne, Clr Alldrick

CARRIED ON THE CASTING VOTE OF THE CHAIR

SA17.79 Shared path signage - citywide

HPERM Ref: D17/25041

Recommendation

That the General Manager (Director of Assets & Works)

1. Continues to ensure that signage for cycleways complies with Australian Standard AS1742.9 (Bicycle facilities) and AUSTROADS Guide to Road Design Part 6A (Pedestrian and Cyclist paths)

2. Includes a ‘share the path’ educational component in the pamphlet for distribution with the rates notices at a future time.

3. Develops a strategy to install additional signage at key locations along the shared path network within existing budget constraints.

Recommendation (Clr Cheyne / Clr Levett)

That the General Manager (Director of Assets & Works)

1. Continues to ensure that signage for cycleways complies with Australian Standard AS1742.9 (Bicycle facilities) and AUSTROADS Guide to Road Design Part 6A (Pedestrian and Cyclist paths)

2. Includes a ‘share the path’ educational component in the pamphlet for distribution with the rates notices at a future time.

3. Develops a strategy to install additional signage at key locations along the shared path network within existing budget constraints.

CARRIED

SA17.80 Review - Graffiti Management Policy

HPERM Ref: D17/73999

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council reaffirm the Graffiti Management Policy with the minor update to nominate Assets & Works as the responsible Council Group.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Levett) MIN17.203

That Council reaffirm the Graffiti Management Policy with the minor update to nominate Assets & Works as the responsible Council Group.

CARRIED

SA17.81 Road Verge Improvements & Maintenance Policy (POL16/157).

HPERM Ref: D17/53061

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council reaffirm the Road Verge Improvements & Maintenance Policy (POL16/157).

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Findley) MIN17.204

That Council reaffirm the Road Verge Improvements & Maintenance Policy (POL16/157).

CARRIED

SA17.82 Ratepayers Advance Kerb & Gutter Construction - 58 - 64 Basin View Pde, Basin View	HPERM Ref: D17/73903
Recommendation That Council enter into a Ratepayers Advance Agreement, executed under the Seal of Council with: 1. Peter Brown of 58 Basin View Parade, Basin View in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction to the value of $5,379.72 (advance) of which $1,722.12 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $3,657.60 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $4,572.00. 2. Stephen Long of PO Box 460, Wollongong in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction at 60 Basin View Parade to the value of $5,621.72 (including additional an $242, which includes $22 GST, for a single driveway) (advance) of which $1,964.12 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $3,657.60 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $4,572.00. 3. Russ Pigg of PO Box 1150, Nowra in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction at 62 Basin View Parade to the value of $7,372.80 (including an additional $484, which includes $44 GST, for a 4.8 mt driveway) (advance) of which $2,689.20 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $4,683.60 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $5,854.50. 4. Sean Butcher of PO Box 30, Coniston in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction at 64 Basin View Parade to the value of $7,130.80 (including an additional $242, which includes $22 GST, for a single driveway) (advance) of which $2,447.20 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $4,683.60 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $5,854.50. 5. Graham Butler of 68 Basin View Parade, Basin View in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction to the value of $8,408.88 (advance) of which $2,070.16 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $6,338.72 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $7,923.40. 6. The Common Seal of Council of the City of Shoalhaven be affixed to any documentation required to be sealed otherwise the General Manager be authorised to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to the resolution.
Conflict of Interest Declaration – Russ Pigg - pecuniary interest – SA17.82 Ratepayers Advance Kerb & Gutter Construction - 58 - 64 Basin View Pde, Basin View – he is one of the property owners – left the room, did not take part in discussion or vote.
Recommendation (Clr Wells / Clr White) That Council enter into a Ratepayers Advance Agreement, executed under the Seal of Council with: 1. Peter Brown of 58 Basin View Parade, Basin View in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction to the value of $5,379.72 (advance) of which $1,722.12 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $3,657.60 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $4,572.00. 2. Stephen Long of PO Box 460, Wollongong in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction at 60 Basin View Parade to the value of $5,621.72 (including additional an $242, which includes $22 GST, for a single driveway) (advance) of which $1,964.12 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $3,657.60 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $4,572.00. 3. Russ Pigg of PO Box 1150, Nowra in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction at 62 Basin View Parade to the value of $7,372.80 (including an additional $484, which includes $44 GST, for a 4.8 mt driveway) (advance) of which $2,689.20 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $4,683.60 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $5,854.50. 4. Sean Butcher of PO Box 30, Coniston in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction at 64 Basin View Parade to the value of $7,130.80 (including an additional $242, which includes $22 GST, for a single driveway) (advance) of which $2,447.20 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $4,683.60 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $5,854.50. 5. Graham Butler of 68 Basin View Parade, Basin View in respect of Kerb and Gutter construction to the value of $8,408.88 (advance) of which $2,070.16 (excluding GST) is the contribution, $6,338.72 is the loan and the amount to be repaid to the Ratepayer in 5 years at 5% interest per annum is $7,923.40. 6. The Common Seal of Council of the City of Shoalhaven be affixed to any documentation required to be sealed otherwise the General Manager be authorised to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to the resolution. CARRIED

SA17.83 Exercise of Option - Lease - Part First Floor - 12 Berry Street Nowra - Shoalhaven Community Radio Incorporated

HPERM Ref: D17/71592

Recommendation

That Council:-

1. Approve the additional five (5) year term of the lease agreement with Shoalhaven Community Radio Incorporated for the continued occupation of Part 12 Berry Street, Nowra;

2. Affix the Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven to the lease agreement and any other documentation required to be sealed to enable the lease to be finalised.

Recommendation (Clr Wells / Clr Gash)

That Council:

1. Approve the additional five (5) year term of the lease agreement with Shoalhaven Community Radio Incorporated for the continued occupation of Part 12 Berry Street, Nowra;

2. Affix the Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven to the lease agreement and any other documentation required to be sealed to enable the lease to be finalised.

SA17.84 Road Closure - Lot 28 DP 755927 - Conjola	HPERM Ref: D17/59419
Recommendation That Council resolves to: 1. Make an application to the Minister administering the Roads Act 1993, for the unformed part of Wollybutt Road Conjola, shown by red shading on Attachment “1”, to be closed and vested in Council as Operational Land, then sell to the owners, J B McCloghry & V M Gautier, for consolidation with the adjoining Lot 28 DP755927,; 2. Authority be given to affix the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven to any documents required to be sealed and that the General Manager be authorised to sign any documents necessary to give effect to the resolution; and 3. Council authorise the sale of the closed road to J B McCloghry & V M Gautier in exchange for the land shown by blue hatching on Attachment “1” pursuant to Section 44 of the Roads Act 1993 and thatsuch land be dedicated as public road in the plan of consolidation pursuant to Section 9 of the Roads Act 1993; 4. All costs associated with this matter are to be met by the applicant.
Note: Russ Pigg returned to the meeting.
Recommendation (Clr White / Clr Cheyne) That Council resolves to: 1. Make an application to the Minister administering the Roads Act 1993, for the unformed part of Wollybutt Road Conjola, shown by red shading on Attachment “1”, to be closed and vested in Council as Operational Land, then sell to the owners, J B McCloghry & V M Gautier, for consolidation with the adjoining Lot 28 DP755927,; 2. Authority be given to affix the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven to any documents required to be sealed and that the General Manager be authorised to sign any documents necessary to give effect to the resolution; and 3. Council authorise the sale of the closed road to J B McCloghry & V M Gautier in exchange for the land shown by blue hatching on Attachment “1” pursuant to Section 44 of the Roads Act 1993 and thatsuch land be dedicated as public road in the plan of consolidation pursuant to Section 9 of the Roads Act 1993; 4. All costs associated with this matter are to be met by the applicant. CARRIED

SA17.85 Variation to Compensation - Acquisition of Easement for Water Supply at Terara

HPERM Ref: D17/75193

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council resolve to amend MIN16.914 (3) by inserting $15,000 plus GST in lieu of $8,500 plus GST.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr White) MIN17.205

That Council resolve to amend MIN16.914 (3) by inserting $15,000 plus GST in lieu of $8,500 plus GST.

CARRIED

SA17.86 June 2016 Storm Remediation Response

HPERM Ref: D16/400617

Recommendation

1. Council consider funding the Coastal Management and Infrastructure Reserve (MIN16.998) by transferring $500,000 each year from the Strategic Projects Reserve or another source, to fund priority coast and estuary management and infrastructure projects commencing in 2017/18 financial year.

2. In 2017/18 Council allocate $400,000 to complete and implement the Currarong coastal erosion strategy and determine the source of funds during the consideration of the draft 2017/18 budget.

Recommendation (Clr Wells / Clr White)

2. In 2017/18 Council allocate $400,000 to complete and implement the Currarong coastal erosion strategy and determine the source of funds during the consideration of the draft 2017/18 budget.

CARRIED

SA17.87 Dealing With Development Applications Lodged by Council Staff or Councillors	HPERM Ref: D17/72258
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That Council adopt the following policies with minor amendments: 1. Dealing With Development Applications Lodged by Council Staff or Councillors
Conflict of Interest Declaration - Clr Proudfoot – less than significant non pecuniary interest SA17.87 Dealing With Development Applications Lodged by Council Staff or Councillors – he has a Development Application before Council – will leave the room, will not take part in discussion or vote.
RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN17.206 That Council adopt the following policies with minor amendments: 1. Dealing With Development Applications Lodged by Council Staff or Councillors CARRIED

Introduction of Items as Matters of Urgency

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr Alldrick) MIN17.207

That the following addendum reports be introduced as matters of urgency:

1. SA17.88 NSW State Government Restart NSW - Environment and Tourism Grants Program

2. SA17.89 Greenwell Point Timber Jetty Decommissioning

CARRIED

The Chairperson ruled the matters as ones of urgency as they relate to urgent business of Council and allowed their introduction.

Note: Clr Proudfoot returned.

Addendum Reports

SA17.88 NSW State Government Restart NSW - Environment and Tourism Grants Program

HPERM Ref: D17/86241

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council make applications for the following projects to the NSW State Government Restart NSW – Environment and Tourism Grants program.

· Project - Round the Bay walk incl. Moona Moona Creek, Way Finding, Callala Bay - $1M

· Project – Woollamia – Maintaining the Tourism Fleet - $2.242M

· Project – South Nowra Rotary Park - $600,000

· Project – Nowra Showground Enhancements $1.05M

· Project – Beach Erosion Ulladulla Harbour - $750,000

· Project – Additional Boating Facilities Greenwell Point - $3M

· Project – Shoalhaven Heads River Road Precinct - $750,000

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN17.208

That Council make applications for the following projects to the NSW State Government Restart NSW – Environment and Tourism Grants program.

· Project - Round the Bay walk incl. Moona Moona Creek, Way Finding, Callala Bay - $1M

· Project – Woollamia – Maintaining the Tourism Fleet - $2.242M

· Project – South Nowra Rotary Park - $600,000

· Project – Nowra Showground Enhancements $1.05M

· Project – Beach Erosion Ulladulla Harbour - $750,000

· Project – Additional Boating Facilities Greenwell Point - $3M

· Project – Shoalhaven Heads River Road Precinct - $750,000.

CARRIED

SA17.89 Greenwell Point Timber Jetty Decommissioning

HPERM Ref: D17/86839

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the timber jetty, adjacent to the Crown’s concrete wharf at Greenwell Point, be demolished and an application for funding be made to the State Government at the appropriate time for a replacement berthing facility

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr Cheyne) MIN17.209

That:

1. The timber jetty, adjacent to the Crown’s concrete wharf at Greenwell Point, be demolished and an application for funding be made to the State Government at the appropriate time for a replacement berthing facility

2. Notifcation be made to Community Consultative Bodies at Greenwell Point and user groups including adjacent local business operators advising that Council supports the replacement as a priority and will be continuing to seek funding for this project

CARRIED

Confidential Reports

Pursuant to Section 10A(4) the public were invited to make representation to the meeting before any part of the meeting is closed, as to whether that part of the meeting should be closed.

No members of the public made representations.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Pakes) MIN17.210

That the press and public be excluded from the Meeting, pursuant to section 10A(1)(a) of the Local Government Act, 1993, to consider the following items of a confidential nature.

CSA17.6 Red Rocks UHF CB Repeater

Details of systems and/or arrangements that have been implemented to protect council, councillors, staff and Council property.10(A)(2)(f)

There is a public interest consideration against disclosure of information as disclosure of the information could reasonably be expected to expose a person to a risk of harm or of serious harassment or serious intimidation.

CSA17.7 Pump Procurement Contract

Information that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.10(A)(2)(c)

There is a public interest consideration against disclosure of information as disclosure of the information could reasonably be expected to reveal commercial-in-confidence provisions of a contract, diminish the competitive commercial value of any information to any person and/or prejudice any person’s legitimate business, commercial, professional or financial interests.

CARRIED

The meeting moved into confidential the time being 8.35pm.

The meeting moved into open session, the time being 8:38pm.

Report from confidential session

The following resolutions of the meeting, whilst closed to the public, were made public.

CSA17.6 Red Rocks UHF CB Repeater

HPERM Ref: D17/28810

RESOLVED MIN17.211C

That Council advertise its intention to relinquish its Red Rocks UHF CB licence and consider any feedback prior to removal of the equipment.

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 8.39PM.

Clr Guile

CHAIRPERSON

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 18 April 2017

Page 57

SA17.98 Milton Showground - Second Croquet Court Options - Follow Up Report

HPERM Ref: D17/67958

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Recreation Community & Culture

Attachments: 1. Strategy & Asset Committee Report - 11 October 2016 ⇩

2. Plan of second croquet court ⇩

3. Letter from Milton Show Society Requesting use of temporary fenced area of the proposed second croquet court ⇩

4. Hawkesbury Working Dogs using the proposed second croquet court area ⇩

5. Copy of letter confirming arrangement for a croquet event on the exiting croquet court during the Milton Show ⇩

6. Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club signage erected during Milton Show ⇩

7. Photos of Milton Show 2017 ⇩

8. Narrawallee Subdivision Reserve Information ⇩

9. Proposed Narrawallee Subdivision Croquet Court Facility ⇩

Purpose / Summary

To update Council on options for a second croquet court for Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club following the Milton Show which was held on 3 & 4 March 2017.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That:

1. Council endorse construction of a second croquet court at Milton Showground which is consistent with Council’s adopted Milton Showground Plan of Management.

2. Council continue to work with the Milton Showground Management Committee and Milton Show Society to minimise the impact of a second croquet court at Milton Showground and to increase use of all areas of the Showground.

3. Council continue to work with land owners adjacent to Milton Showground to formalise offsite parking options via a licence agreement to increase capacity for future large events at the Showground.

4. Council adopt the Croquet User Agreement (as outlined in the report to Council’s Strategy & Assets Committee meeting on 11 October 2016) and inform both Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club & Milton Showground Management Committee that they are to abide by this agreement.

5. Council advise both the Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club & Milton Showground Management Committee of the above Council resolution.

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation and Council staff continue progressing to deliver a second croquet court at Milton Showground which is consistent with Council’s adopted Milton Showground Plan of Management.

Implications: This will enable staff to continue progressing projects as discussed in this report.

2. Not adopt the recommendation and provide an alternative resolution with direction for staff.

Implications: Unknown until the Committee identify alternatives

Background

Related Council Resolution

In response to Council’s Strategy & Assets Committee meeting on 11 October 2016 considering a report on second croquet court & expansion options at Milton Showground, Council resolved that MIN16.768:

1. Council continue to work with land owners adjacent to Milton Showground to formalise offsite parking options via a licence agreement for future large events at the Showground.

2. Council peg out and temporary fence the area of the proposed second Croquet Court at the Milton Showground for the 2017 Milton Show to trial the potential impact of the development of the croquet court on the show which could also demonstrate the impact on similar large events especially in relation to parking.

3. Staff review the impacts on parking and other aspects of the show and seek formal feedback from the Showground Management Committee, The Milton Show Society and the Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club to include in a report to Council after the 2017 Milton Show

4. The croquet club submit a letter to the show management committee and show society requesting to run an event in March 2017.

5. Council undertake a review of the management plan of the Milton Showground.

In addition to the above resolution, the Strategy & Assets Committee meeting of 11 October 2016 also made a separate confidential resolution at this meeting that related to further investigation of acquisition of property adjacent to the Milton Showground.

The public report presented to the Strategy & Assets Committee meeting on 11 October 2016 is provided as Attachment 1.

Status of Second Croquet Court

As reported to the Shoalhaven Sports Board meeting on 3 August 2016, Council has received an application for Council’s Voluntary User Contribution Policy funds (VUCPF) from the Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club to construct a second croquet court at Milton Showground. The application requested $50,000 from the VUCPF to construct a second court to the value of $126,000 which the Club had designed and costed. The design is based on an area identified for the facility in the Milton Showground Plan of Management which Council adopted in February 2010. Since making this application, the Club has advised Council that it has received grant funding of $20,000 from the Federal Government Stronger Communities Programme to deliver this project.

An assessment by Council staff has determined that the second croquet design is consistent with the Council adopted Milton Showground Plan of Management (Plan of Management can be viewed at http://doc.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/Displaydoc.aspx?Record=D11/116086).

The second croquet court design plan as outlined in VUCPF application to the Shoalhaven Sports Board is provided as Attachment 2.

Previous Community Representation

Council has received representation both for and against a second croquet court at Milton Showground. Representation for the second court has primarily been received from the Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club which is wanting to expand their playing area and to ensure adequate court space for current and future club members. Representation against the second court has primarily been received from the Milton Showground Management Committee and Milton Show Society which is related to loss of space for onsite car parking and event use.

Peg Out & Temporary Fence the Area of the Proposed Second Croquet Court

As outlined in Committee resolution of 11 October 2016 MIN16.768, Council requested to peg out and temporarily fence the area of the proposed second Croquet Court at the Milton Showground for the 2017 Milton Show. This resolution was aimed at trialling the potential impact of the development of the second croquet court on the Milton Show and/or similar large events. At the request of the Milton Show Society, Council staff allowed for this temporary fence to be removed to permit the Hawkesbury Working Dogs to attend the Show and as outlined in the letter (see Attachment 3). Photos of how this area was used during the Show is provided as Attachment 4.

Croquet Club Event at Milton Show

As outlined in Council Committee resolution of 11 October 2016, the Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club submitted a letter to the Milton Show Society and an agreement was reached for the Club to run an event on the existing croquet court during the Milton Show. A copy of a letter confirming this arrangement is shown as Attachment 5 and signage erected by the croquet club during the show is shown as Attachment 6.

Milton Show Assessment / Review

Council staff undertook visual assessment of the Milton Show on both days of its operation being Friday 3 & Saturday 4 March 2017. Unfortunately on both these days significant rainfall occurred and subsequently events were cancelled and the overall public attendance to the show was reported to Council staff as being down 40% on previous years. Photos of the Milton Show, including an aerial photo, are shown as Attachment 7. These photos identified a large area on the western side of the showground that was not fully utilised and reserved for the purpose of “Dog Exhibitors Parking”.

Onsite Car Parking

As shown in the photos in Attachment 7, Council staff undertook visual review of the impacts on parking from the proposed second croquet area at the Milton Show. Whilst acknowledging that public attendance at the Show was down 40% on previous years these photos identified that considerable parking was available onsite and not all parking areas were used. In addition, the surrounding road/streets had capacity for on street car parking.

Adjoining Property Owner Feedback

Since Council making the above resolution, and conclusion of the annual Milton Show, the adjoining property owners have not changed their position / feedback as reported to Council Committee on 11 October 2016. Therefore, Council staff have not been able to investigate options to expand the showground site area. The only option here would be compulsory acquisition which is not recommended in this case.

Croquet User Agreement

As outlined in Council Committee resolution of 11 October 2016, finalisation of a Croquet User Agreement between Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club & Milton Showground Management Committee remains outstanding due to both parties being unclear on the future arrangements of Croquet on the Showground site.

Other Site Options

Recognising the above challenges in providing a second croquet court & expansion options at Milton Showground, Clr White has facilitated discussions with the Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club, Milton Showground Management Committee and Council staff representatives to examine possible Council owned land options that could facilitate a croquet site off the Showground site. These discussions have identified the possibility of relocating the Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club to a future public reserve (not currently in Council ownership) that will be dedicated to Council as part of the Hazcorp South Coast subdivision development at Narrawallee.

This potential Narrawallee public reserve that could provide for a croquet facility is shown in Attachment 8 and is the largest of three public reserves proposed in this subdivision. An initial concept plan of how a croquet court facility could be provided on this reserve (provided by the subdivision developer) is shown in Attachment 9. This reserve is currently heavily vegetated and has no services supplied and at this time the exact timing of handover of this land to Council ownership is unknown.

Another possibility, whilst not investigated further other than an idea, is the potential use of part of the Milton Pony Club Grounds for a croquet court facility and to examine co-sharing or, again not investigated, in the future the Pony Club consider relocation to the Milton Showground. It should be noted that their requirements for the site are unknown and whether these would have a similar potential impact on space at the showground that does not resolve the current concerns. At present, Council staff are aware that the Pony Club has a relatively small membership and could be open to this proposal.

Cost / Benefit Analysis of Croquet Court Facility Relocation

Should Council consider relocation of the croquet court facility from the Milton Showground to another site, it needs to understand the associated costs / benefits which is briefly summarised in the table below.

Cost / Benefit Analysis Item	Milton Showground Site	Alternative Site (future Narrawallee Reserve)
Likely cost (provide clubhouse and 2 courts)	$126,000 (as identified in VUCPF application) to provide a second croquet court.	Unknown at this time. If vegetation clearing, services, soil, site levelling, drainage, car parking is required the cost of providing is clubhouse and 2 courts is likely to be in the order of $1,000,000 (based on recent earthworks at the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre).
Site Issues	An approximate court area of 820m² (25.6m x 32m) is potentially no longer available for car parking and event use.	Unknown at this time and needs to be determined during further detailed investigation however, as shown in Attachment 9 the reserve has sufficient space to provide a two court croquet facility including clubhouse and car parking.

Cost / Benefit Analysis Item	Milton Showground Site	Alternative Site (future Narrawallee Reserve)
User Issues	Recognition that the site is a multi-use venue for all the community to use. The proposed additional croquet court is consistent with the specific site Plan of Management. An outstanding point, the user agreement between the Management Committee and Croquet Club has not been signed off.	Recognition that this potential site is a multi-use venue for all the community to use.
Timing	Site area is available and construction is pending completion of an REF which is unlikely to impede or deter court construction.	Unknown and pending completion of REF and design investigations.

Resolution Need

Resolution of a preferred option to provide or not provide for second croquet court for the Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club is required. A final decision on this matter will also determine how to treat the grant funding that the Club has received and also determine the arrangements of the Croquet User Agreement between Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club & Milton Showground Management Committee.

Milton Showground Plan of Management Review

Depending on the Council resolution, a review of the Milton Showground Plan of Management may need to be brought forward by Council and with identified resources. This matter will need to be considered if the above recommendation is changed.

Community Engagement

Ongoing community engagement has been occurring with Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club & Milton Showground Management Committee and both these groups will be updated on the Council resolution from this report.

Financial Implications

The Milton Ulladulla Croquet Club is seeking consideration of funding from Council’s VUCPF at the next Sports Board meeting to allow construction to commence on a second croquet court at Milton Showground. A decision to relocate the croquet court facility to another site will have a related financial implication.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 18 April 2017

Page 76

SA17.99 Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence - Project Status Update

HPERM Ref: D17/67960

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Recreation Community & Culture

Attachments: 1. Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence Master Plan (under separate cover) ⇨

2. DA Approved site plan ⇩

Purpose / Summary

To update Council on the following matters related to the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence:

· Project status for current stage 1 works;

· Options for development approval to assist in delivery of future stages; and,

· Options for Berry Riding Club to use the site.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. Accept the status report for stage 1 of the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence.

2. Lodge a DA application for the remaining area of Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence Master Plan.

3. Work with the Berry Riding Club to negotiate a future licence area that aligns with relevant Development Application approvals.

4. Note that the budget reallocations as detailed in the report will form part of the March Quarterly Budget Report submitted in May.

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation and Council staff continue progressing completion of the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence.

Implications: This will enable staff to continue progressing the project as discussed in this report.

2. Not adopt the recommendation and provide an alternative resolution with direction for staff.

Implications: Unknown until the Committee identify alternatives.

Background

Related Council tender resolution / Project Budget

Council at its Ordinary meeting of 19 April 2016 resolved that:

a) Council accept the tender of TCL Constructions Pty Ltd for works only in the amount of $425,394 excl. GST;

b) Authorise the General Manager, (Director Community and Corporate) to finalise and execute the contract with TCL Constructions Pty Ltd on behalf of Council;

c) Authorise the General Manager, (Director Community and Corporate) to adjust the contract for variations for components under the contact.

d) Council allocate additional project funding of $31,664 in the 2016/2017 budget to meet the shortfall plus any minor project variations.

Based on the above resolution, the agreed Council budget for the project was $457,058 for the tender contract component of the project delivery.

Master Plan

The master plan which guides development of the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence is provided as Attachment 1.

Stage 1 works

As reported to the Council meeting of 28 June 2016, Council endorsed Development Application (DA) approval for stage 1 works for the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence which consists of a storage shed, a spectator shelter, two (2) grassed warm up/training areas, a multipurpose equestrian arena associated earthworks, car parking and access for construction. The purpose of the DA was to provide ‘like for like’ facilities on the Equestrian Centre site for the Berry Riding Club which was displaced as part of the Berry Highway Bypass works and which the RMS provided $450,000 in compensation.

Stage 1 - Status report / construction budget increases

Prior to obtaining DA approval on 28 June 2016, Council accepted the above tender resolution on 19 April 2016 as tenders were initially advertised in anticipation that DA approval would be approved prior to tender submissions expiring. Unfortunately, the DA assessment was delayed and hence the tender process was reported to Council to avoid Council having to re-tender for the project, to minimise project delays, and to minimise the impost to the Berry Riding Club.

Upon receiving the DA approval, a number of changes / additions were required to deliver stage 1 of the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre which are summarised below:

· Providing a hardstand car park 60M x 20M

· Additional internal road

· Disabled Car Parking

· Hardstand Wash Bay

· Extra Water Line

· Boundary landscaping / fencing improvements

Provision of these changes / additions to the accepted tender document were then negotiated with the successful tenderer and subsequently added additional construction costs of approximately $140,000 to the project.

The delivery of the project has been delayed as a result of a design oversight and heavy rainfall. The design oversight related to cut and fill calculations not allowing for a contingency amount for unpredicted high topsoil required quantities. The initial design quantities could not be used and compacted to form the multipurpose equestrian arenas.

This design oversight resulted in a shortfall of approximately 4,500 cubic metres of fill material which was subsequently sourced and imported at no cost for the soil material from the adjacent Berry Highway Bypass works however, resulted in additional construction costs of approximately $40,000 for the tenderer to spread this additional soil across the site.

When delivering the site earthworks program, the need was recognised to integrate the adjacent current temporary equestrian riding area used by the Berry Riding Club into the stage 1 project. This increases the footprint of the Stage 1 works which was previously unfunded, although part of the overall masterplan to be delivered in a subsequent stage.

This involved scraping and burying a section of rock material at cost of approximately $6,000 that previously formed a vehicle access road. It was necessary to undertake this work at this point in time due to the economies of having available machinery on site.

The impact of recent heavy rainfall on the project, and other related incidental costs, including additional project management costs incurred as a result of addressing the aforementioned items, have resulted in increased construction costs that at this time are estimated to cost $27,000.

Stage 1 - Budget shortfall

The combined effect of meeting both contemporary requirements for an equestrian centre and the above project variations to complete the project has resulted in the following project construction budget shortfall.

Shortfall summary

Original project budget (adopted at tender acceptance)	$457,058
Meet contemporary requirements (engineering)	$140,000
Earthwork shortfall	$40,000
Removal of previous vehicle access road	$6,000
Heavy rainfall / related incidental costs	$27,000
Total project budget required	$670,058
Total project budget shortfall	$213,000

To address the construction shortfall, the following existing funding sources/budgets have been or are identified to be transferred into the original project budget. This will result in these activities / projects not being undertaken.

Original Stage 1 project budget (adopted at tender acceptance – job number 88801)	$457,058
Future business planning / design budget for the site Stage 2 (job number 88803 already transferred to the project in a previously quarter review to assist meeting DA Approval requirements)	$120,000
Nowra Showground arena replacement fencing budget (job number 82513)	$75,000
Implementation of Plans of Management budget (job number 82511)	$18,000
Total project budget	$670,058

Temporary Berry Riding Club licence area

The Berry Riding Club has been displaced from their original site beside the Berry Sporting Complex to allow for construction of the Berry Highway Bypass. Their preferred site for equestrian activities is the Equestrian Centre site, the Club has - via a licence agreement with Council – been temporarily using a small area of the Equestrian Centre site. This is located between stage 1 site and the highway with access to the site via the adjacent Department of Primary Industries land - shown in Attachment 2.

Unfortunately, due to construction delays with providing stage 1 works, and withdrawal of access via Department of Primary Industries land by the Department, the temporarily licenced area is not able to be accessed by the Berry Riding Club until stage 1 is completed. This is due to access not being permissible through the construction site.

Currently the Riding Club activities have been suspended until the works have been completed. It is anticipated that this will be completed in late Quarter 2 dependant on prevailing weather conditions.

Additional Berry Riding Club improvements

In addition to seeking permanent use of the temporary areas located beside the stage 1 site, the Berry Riding Club is also wanting to erect a portable cabin on the site to commence establishing a clubhouse facility and developing trails as identified in the master plans which will require works around a creek line. To do this the Riding Club will need to seek DA approval and associated building approvals for these works. Attachment 2 shows the approved DA area.

Development Approval to assist in delivery of future stages

Recognising that current DA approval only covers stage 1 works, subsequent DAs are required and need to be reported to Council to meet relevant legislation as this is Council owned land.

To minimise the requirement to report subsequent DAs related to the Equestrian Centre which are consistent with the Council adopted master plan, it is recommended that staff lodge a DA application for the remaining master plan area.

Should Council approve a Development Application for the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence Master Plan, subsequent DA applications consistent with the Master Plan would not need to be reported to Council however, DA applications which are variations to the Master Plan would be needed to be reported to Council for endorsement – for example the Berry Riding Club seeking to locate a temporary Club House on site, which is not shown in the masterplan.

Future Berry Riding Club licence area

It is proposed that Council work with the Berry Riding Club to negotiate a future licence area that aligns with relevant Development Application approvals.

Community Engagement

Community engagement continues with the Berry Riding Club.

Financial Implications

As outlined above, to complete all requirements for delivery of stage 1 works, and to balance the construction budget, for the Shoalhaven Equestrian Centre of Excellence requires transfer of funds in the upcoming budget review into the Equestrian Centre job number (88801).

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 18 April 2017

Page 83

SA17.101 Future operations and management of Nowra Showground

HPERM Ref: D17/97283

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Recreation Community & Culture

Attachments: 1. Nowra Showground Ownership map ⇩

Purpose / Summary

To respond to part 4 of the Council resolution of 22 November 2016 (Minute 16.888) and outline options for further feasibility investigations for a caretaker arrangement at the Nowra Showground.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Continue to retain existing arrangements at Nowra Showground which involves daily Ranger site visits.

2. Consider a preferred “caretaker model” (if any) from the options within the report and request further details or analysis.

3. Consider whether additional funding is needed in the 2017/18 budget to increase Ranger site visits and security night patrols to the Nowra Showground to ensure adequate surveillance and enforcement of compliance requirements.

4. Receive a further report at its May 2017 Strategy and Assets Committee Meeting regarding feedback from the Nowra Showground Ideas Day held with the community to address Council Minute MIN16.886.

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation and provide further direction to staff.

Implications: This will enable staff to focus on the future arrangements to be implemented at the Showground.

2. Not adopt the recommendation and provide alternate resolution with direction for staff.

Implications: Unknown until the Committee identify alternatives.

Background

Related Council resolutions

Council at its Ordinary Meeting of 22 November 2016, made the following resolutions:

Minute 16.888, that states:

1 Council apply a ban in respect of casual camping at Nowra Showgrounds in tents with exception of camping associated with an event.

2. Council reaffirm its policy to actively encourage the use of the Nowra Showground for motor homes and caravans.

3. Council ensure that any booking in respect of the above does not overlap the days when the Showground is used for the Nowra Show.

4. The General Manager report back to Council on the feasibility of reinstating a Caretaker for the Nowra Showground.

5. Council lobby the State and Federal Governments to increase funding for homelessness services in the Shoalhaven.

Minute 16.886, that states:

That staff prepare a report to Council on a suite of improvements and approximate costs that could improve the Nowra Showgrounds, including but not limited to improving the look out and picnic facilities, sealing of roads within the showgrounds, landscaping and demarcation for camping.

The above resolutions will be discussed in this report however, the main purpose of this report is to outline options for further feasibility investigations for a caretaker arrangement at the Nowra Showground.Site context

Nowra Showground is a public reserve which consist of both Crown Land and Community Land (Sportsground) – see Attachment 1 demonstrating land ownership. The site is approximately 18 hectares of which 13 hectares are Crown Lands and the remainder is Community Land. The site has 3 vehicle controlled (gated) entrances from Scenic Drive, Junction Street and Worrigee Street. In addition, the site has controlled pedestrian access at the Junction Street and Worrigee Street vehicle entrances and pedestrians can enter the site (which are not normally locked) with open access from the adjacent Bens Walk. The site is used regularly for sporting activities, events, meetings, functions, vehicle/caravan based camping, public recreation and other activities.

On Crown Land which makes up the Showground, approval for new activities and infrastructure needs to be sourced from the Crown. In seeking approval Council staff would need to approach the Crown and possibly (dependent on the activity) need to seek a lease agreement.

In addition, Council needs to be aware there is currently a blanket Aboriginal Land Claim over the site and therefore there is no guarantee of Crown support for leases or building works until this Claim is resolved.

Homelessness

When considering options for further feasibility investigations for a caretaker arrangement at the Nowra Showground, the matter of homelessness related to the site needs to be considered. As Councillors would be aware, the homelessness issue is increasing in the Shoalhaven and the Nowra Showground remains an option for the homeless who live in a registered car or caravan. In addition, homeless people camping in tents or the alike have been deterred from using the Showground.

In response to considering this matter recently, Council at its Strategy & Assets Committee Meeting of 21 March 2017, resolved (MIN17.196) that Council:

a) Establish the Shoalhaven Homelessness Taskforce as a section 355/377 Committee of Council;

b) Endorse the Terms of Reference of the Shoalhaven Homelessness Taskforce with the following changes:

· That all councillors be members of the taskforce.

· The Chairperson be appointed for a term of 2 years.

As outlined at the meeting of 21 March 2017, the Taskforce is comprised of service providers in the homelessness sector, faith based organisation and community groups and members. The Taskforce will aim to better understand the complexities of homelessness, develop a strategic framework to address the issues of homelessness and to advocate for homelessness solutions throughout the Shoalhaven.

This Taskforce formed under the above Terms of Reference have not yet met and it would be beneficial for this group to have input into any proposed caretaker arrangements at the Nowra Showground.

In addition, Council has endorsed the NSW Protocol for Homeless People protocol which means it is obligated to treat homeless people in public places in the same way as anyone else and not discriminate.

Caretaker context/Definition

Upon reviewing part 4 of the Council resolution of 22 November 2016 (Minute 16.888), the notion of “caretaker arrangement” at the Nowra Showground is quite broad and hence feasibility options cover a variety of scenarios. The role of the caretaker could simply be a person or community group to monitor the site and report non permissible activities to Council and/or police; or a dedicated Ranger and/or paid person/company onsite; and/or a person/company that only deals with camping matters at the Showground. Therefore, in considering this matter, Council needs to define the caretaker role.

Caretaker considerations

Dependent on the preferred context/role of the caretaker, the following considerations also need to be considered prior to determining the appropriate caretaker option.

Development Application Approval

If a new building is to be provided on the site as a residence, this Application would need to address issues such as siting context within a heritage precinct, access provisions, parking etc.

Plan of Management

The existing Plan of Management does not currently address caretaker’s provisions and therefore amendments to the Plan would need to be undertaken in consultation with the Crown. As previously mentioned, there is currently a blanket Aboriginal Land Claim over the majority of the showground site and therefore there is no guarantee of Crown support for a Development Applications or building.

Human resourcing considerations

It is estimated that a caretaker wage for 365 day cover would be approx. $130,000 per year, plus call out fees (for out of hours calls) and relief manager costs (to cover leave) of approx. $1,800 per week. Council engages management contractors to manage the properties in its Holiday Haven group through the tender process and these management contractors maintain the site and manage their own staff and bookings on behalf of Council. Given the “other” public activities that occur on the showground site, a caretaker would not have the enforcement powers of a Council Ranger.

Jurisdictional Authority

A caretaker may be authorised to refuse entry or ask someone to leave the grounds, but if the direction is not adhered to, a Ranger or the police would need to be called. The jurisdictional powers of the caretaker would need to be addressed in line with Crown Lands Act, Residential Tenancy Act and Local Government Act. Council’s Rangers currently have the ability to enforce these requirements at the showground.

Site access

As mentioned above, the showground has 3 entry points that are locked at night by a Security Patrol company. Bens Walk provides open public access to the showground and the public nature / use of the site makes it difficult to limit access during the day for both casual use and the regular organised users of the site.

Caretaker period

Upon considering a caretaker arrangement, the period of time required onsite needs to be defined. For example, a caretaker could be onsite for specific days/ times or alternatively it could be 24 hour/7 day a week role.

Precedents with other showgrounds

Council may also need to consider the current arrangements at other showgrounds within the Shoalhaven. In addition to Nowra, the Shoalhaven has three other showgrounds – Berry, Milton and Kangaroo Valley. All of these showgrounds, except Nowra, are run by a Management Committee, i.e. community volunteers. Of those, Kangaroo Valley does not permit regular/casual camping as they have a camp ground immediately next door. Berry and Milton do permit camping, including tent based camping, and the Management Committees are responsible for handling community inquiries, taking bookings, maintaining the site and collecting fees, thereby acting as caretakers.

Current site costs and revenue

According to Crown Lands reporting, the Nowra Showground ran at a deficit of $133,549 in the 2015/16 financial year and is currently running at deficit of $101,664 for the current 2016/17 financial year.

According to Council’s financial information, the Nowra Showground made $12,962 in camp fees in the 2014/15 financial year and $7,481 in the 2015/16 financial year. This current revenue from camping, and its future potential revenue, needs to be analysed when considering future improvements and the cost/benefits of associated decisions.

Caretaker options for further investigations

In consideration of the matters outlined above, the following caretaker options are available and will be further investigated to understand the specific needs and resourcing requirements.

1. Council continue to retain existing caretaker arrangements at Nowra Showground which involves daily Ranger site visits

Currently, Nowra Showground operations are overseen by Council’s Facilities Coordinator within the Social & Infrastructure Planning Unit and currently there is no Management Committee or caretaker in place. All camping inquiries, bookings and camp fee collections are managed by the Nowra Visitor Information Centre. Maintenance is coordinated by Council’s Parks staff and Rangers conduct daily visits to check and enforce compliance matters.

2. Council allocate additional funding to increase Ranger site visits and night time security patrols to the Nowra Showground to ensure adequate surveillance and enforcement of compliance requirements

An alternative option is to employ additional Ranger services and night time security patrols to provide extra site surveillance and enforce compliance requirements. It is estimated that a Ranger with this role would need to be paid wages of approx. $60,000 per year and would not be full time at the site but would visit mornings and afternoons.

This arrangement would then be available to assist the Rangers in other priority enforcement areas when not needed at the Showground. The current security arrangements include 2 visits per day – 1 at open and 1 at lock up - at a cost of $19 per day. Increasing these by 2 additional visits per day/night would cost an additional $20 per day, which equates to $140 per week or $7,280 additional each year at current rates.

3. Provide an alternative off site management option – i.e. Holiday Haven

An option exists for site bookings to be managed through a reservation management system similar to that used by Council’s Holiday Haven group. Bookings would be able to be made either through the Visitor Information Centre or online. Council would continue maintaining the site.

This arrangement could involve a roving caretaker who would visit the site once/twice per day, but would have little jurisdiction over the site. Therefore, if there were issues with compliance, the Rangers or police would need to be called.

To allow this option to go ahead, the Showground would need to be embellished with formalised camp sites, amenities and the like to increase patronage and revenue. These works would need planning, approvals, construction and costings would need to be investigated.

Alternatively, Council could look to advertise for an external management company to monitor the site and collect fees – cost of this option is unknown.

4. Caretaker in former caretaker building

Previously, there was an on-site caretaker at the Nowra Showground who lived in the building just inside the main gates, located off Worrigee Street, and had limited obligations (i.e. walk the site and lock gates). This building has since been altered and is currently utilised as a multipurpose facility and is licenced to three community organisations:

Spinners and weaver – licenced until 2 February 2024

Woodcraft Society – licenced until 2 February 2024

Men’s Shed – licenced until 31 July 2024.

The existing licences provide the current users with security of tenure and therefore if Council proposed to terminate these agreements, alternative facilities and/or compensation would need to be negotiated.

5. Provide a new building on site

If a new caretaker cottage were to be built, a Development Application would be required. Initial inquiries to purchase, install and provide services to a new building (a two bedroom 8.5m x 5.3m cabin) suggest the costs would be approx. $100,000. There would also need to be accommodation for the relieving manager when the caretaker is on leave, or alternatively this period could be covered by Rangers.

It should be noted as previously commented due to the Aboriginal Land Claim there is no guarantee that Crown Lands will give permission for further development of the site until the Claim is resolved. In addition, such a building could be considered to accommodate an overnight Ranger with the relevant additional staffing costs provided.

6. Establish a Management Committee

In line with Berry and Milton Showgrounds, an option is to establish a Management Committee and Council delegate the caretaking responsibility for all matters such as handling inquires, taking bookings, maintaining the site and collecting fees to this volunteer group. However, it must be recognised that use of volunteers in such an arrangement has limitations with required abilities and capacities. At both Berry and Milton Showgrounds this caretaker arrangement is almost at capacity and is a potential significant financial liability to Council if these arrangements were handed back to Council to manage directly as volunteer arrangements currently add significant in-kind value and make the operations viable.

A further limitation of this arrangement is that Rangers or Police would need to be called to enforce compliance issues if they arise. This option would allow for the Management Committee to monitor on a daily basis who is coming into the Showground and therefore prevent homeless people in tents from camping at the Showground and also direct people who may be homeless to appropriate services in the first instance.

7. Cease all forms of camping at Nowra Showground

This option would cease all forms of camping at Nowra Showground, in line with Kangaroo Valley Showground, and direct all camping requests to the surrounding tourist parks, etc. This could be considered a more cost effective approach given the current revenue that the Showground site generates.

Nowra Showground Ideas Day

To commence actioning Council resolution (Minute 16.888 – see above) Council staff, in conjunction with the Nowra Show Society, organised and facilitated an Ideas Day on Sunday 26 February 2017 at the Showground which approximately 70 participants attended.

The Nowra Showground Ideas Day was very successful and had great input from the community. Council staff are currently analysing feedback and will report back to Council in May 2017. It should be noted that camping at the Nowra Showground was a significant feedback theme at the Ideas Day, along with more defined caretaker role to improve the overall showground facility.

Community Engagement

Depended on the preferred options for further feasibility investigations for a caretaker arrangement at the Nowra Showground, it is likely that further community engagement may be required.

Financial Implications

Dependent on the preferred options for further feasibility investigations for a caretaker arrangement at the Nowra Showground, it is likely that the financial implications will need to be reported at a later date.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 18 April 2017

Page 107

SA17.107 Local Government Conference - 2017 National General Assembly of Local Government - Proposed Motions

HPERM Ref: D17/108863

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Human Resources, Governance & Customer Service

Purpose / Summary

This report details Council’s proposed Motions to be submitted to the Australian Local Government Association – 2017 National General Assembly scheduled for 18 to 21 June 2017 in the National Convention Centre Canberra, ACT. Motions are required to be submitted by 21 April 2017.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council endorse the six (6) motions as detailed in this report for submission to the Australian Local Government Association – 2017 National Assembly.

Options

1. As per the recommendation

Implications: The Motions and supporting text are finalised and ready for submission prior to the deadline.

2. That alternate Motions be presented for consideration.

Implications: Motions are required to be submitted by 21 April 2017. In order for the deadline to be reached both the motion and supporting text will be required.

Background

A report was submitted to Ordinary Meeting of 28 February 2017 which recommended in part 6. “Call for a Councillor Briefing to be convened to consider Notices of Motion for the Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly. “

A Councillor Briefing was held Thursday 11 March 2017 to discuss draft Motions for submission.

Further at the Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on 28 March 2017, Council resolved in relation to Report CL17.65 Notice of Motion – Balloon Release Ban (MIN17.233) as follows:

“That Council…

Asks Amanda Findley, our voting delegate at the Australian Local Government Association 2017 National General Assembly, to introduce a Notice of Motion urging Environment Minister, Josh Frydenberg to introduce similar bans.”

The Six (6) motions proposed for submission arising from the briefing and the Council Resolution are as follows:

1. FAMILY DAY CARE FUNDING

Motion :

That Federal Government Funding for Family Day Care Services that meet or exceed the National Quality Standards be re-established in a manner that provides continuity of financial support for quality services.

National Objective:

· The Community Support Program assists Family Day Care providers to maintain viable services in parts of the country where they might not otherwise be viable or able to meet the unique requirements of the community, such as in disadvantaged or regional and remote areas. This funding will cease with the implementation of the Jobs for Families Package on 1 July 2018.

· The intent of the Jobs for Families Child Care Package is to make child care more affordable, accessible and flexible. Quality Family Day Care services already meet all these requirements however ongoing funding is needed to ensure the standards are maintained and this flexible option of Early Childhood Education and Care remains available to families.

Summary of Key Arguments:

· Family Day Care services which have been rated as ‘Exceeding the National Quality Standards’ or ‘Excellent’ have provided to children and their families quality Education and Care. There is a significant amount of research which links high levels of investment in quality early childhood education to greater developmental and social outcomes for children, and later adults. This in turn correlates to significant savings for taxpayers and governments.

· Family Day Care services which exceed the National Quality Standards have proven their ability to use funding with integrity to maintain their coordination units to recruit, train and support Educators in providing quality care as well as monitoring to ensure compliance with all relevant legislation. In addition they have proven their ability to support children and their families. Regional and rural areas encounter additional operating expenses in ensuring support and compliance visits are maintained on both a regular and spontaneous basis, as well as providing professional development opportunities for all staff and Educators.

· Quality Family Day Care services recognise the value of relationships between Coordinators, Educators, Families and the Community. In some instances Family Day Care is the only form of Education and Care, or the only form of care which has the flexibility and local knowledge to meet a family’s needs.

· Services rated as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Exceeding the National Quality Standards’ have proven their ability to work under an ethic of continuous improvement based in their Quality Improvement Plan. These services are proactive rather than reactive in working towards best practice.

2. INNOVATION FUND - REMOVAL OF PLASTIC WASTE

Motion :

That the Federal Government implement an Innovation Fund for the specific purpose of reducing plastic waste.

National Objective:

To position our nation at the forefront of recognising and acting upon the serious problem of plastic pollution.

Summary of Key Arguments:

· Legislation is required for key business and corporate stakeholders to implement strong process that leads to reduction of manufacture of single use plastics.

· The Community has become aware of the plastic pollution problem and are looking for leadership in changing habits and practices.

· There needs to be a focus on sustainable, long lasting solutions and community plays a vital role in the acceptance and implementation of any legislative change.

3. NATIONAL NATURAL DISASTER FUNDING

Motion :

That the Federal Government’s Natural Disaster Funding Programs include natural and built assets as eligible works when impacted by natural disaster events and affects of climate change and Sea Level rise.

National Objective:

Federal Government Natural Disaster Funding is available to local government to manage natural resources (beaches, estuaries, and foreshores) and infrastructure impacted by climate change and Sea Level rise.

Summary of Key Arguments:

· Most public assets that are impacted upon by sea level rise and the impacts of climate change cannot be insured and are not eligible for natural disaster grant funding. These include foreshore access structures and existing coastal erosion protection measures which protect public (roads, water, sewer, access, walking tracks and boardwalks, parks etc.) and private infrastructure (residential and commercial).

· Legislation requires that Councils provide public access to foreshore areas and protect these foreshore, most of which are on Crown Land that Councils are required to manage, however there is no funding available to renew or restore these assets and the foreshore when natural disaster/damage occurs.

· Recreational infrastructure contributes to building and maintaining community resilience as well as building a community’s health and well-being. Whether a sporting field or shared pathway/walking track or a park, they can provide places where community members can regain a sense of normality, interact with other users or have a break away from the demands of restoration tasks in the event of a natural disaster. Eligibility for funding could be linked to projects, facilities or locations that can demonstrate outcomes around rebuilding communities and their resilience that can also contribute to economic development e.g. provision of recreation facilities to encourage the return of tourists post-disaster.

· Funding is required to proactively manage assets (natural or built) that are impacted by climate change and sea level rise to ensure that they are more resilient to the likely impacts of a natural disaster.

4. FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS

Motion :

That the Federal Financial Assistance Grants to Local Government be restored to the level of 1% of total Taxation Revenue.

National Objective:

The Whitlam Government identified that the lack of adequate services and infrastructure in Australia was due to the poor funding of local government, it rectified this by giving local government access to funding through the Commonwealth Grants Commission. The level of need for funding has not changed however the amount of grants have – this needs to be restored for the benefit of all Communities across the nation.

Summary of Key Arguments:

· Current levels of funding for local government via Federal Financial Assistance Grants are insufficient to adequately support the provision of adequate services and local infrastructure across the nation.

· Without restoration of the Federal Financial Assistance Grants to the initial share of total taxation Local Government infrastructure and services will continue to be at risk and decline.

· The FAG’s are untied giving local government the flexibility needed to meet the varying needs of it’s communities.

5. ROADS TO RECOVERY FUNDING

Motion :

That the Federal Government be commended for the ‘ Roads to Recovery’ Program funding and be encouraged to continue funding at the current levels

National Objective:

The 2015 National State of the Assets report produced for the Australian Local Government Association found that of the $73.7 billion of roads assets, $8.2 billion (11%) were in a poor to very poor state. It will require significant levels of funding from all levels of government to start addressing the backlog of roads in poor condition. The ‘Roads to Recovery’ Program is therefore a critical funding source for local councils to renew their roads.

Summary of Key Arguments:

Communities expect their local councils to provide safe, serviceable and efficient road networks. However, many councils do not have the financial resources to arrest the deterioration of their networks. This leads to increasing road safety risks, higher vehicle operating costs and more expenditure on road maintenance and renewal than would otherwise be necessary.

6. BALLOON RELEASE BAN

Motion :

That the Minister for the Environment and Energy, the Hon Josh Frydenberg MP, be requested to bring into force national bans on the use of helium to inflate balloons and the release of balloons.

National Objective:

To prohibit the release of balloons and the use of helium to inflate balloons across the nation due the recognised threat they cause to wildlife and the environment.

Summary of Key Arguments:

· Approximately 95% of released balloons burst in the atmosphere and litter small pieces of plastic to earth. The remaining 5% do not reach a high enough altitude to burst and instead can drift hundreds of kilometres before coming down at land or at sea.

· Balloons can cause significant harm to land and sea creatures. Even the natural latex balloons take months to break down and are known to harm and kill animals both in the marine environment and on land. The attached strings and clips on balloons last a long time in the environment and can be eaten by or entangle marine species.

· Helium is non- renewable gas which is extracted from the earth’s crust and there is currently a shortage of this gas. The use of helium to inflate balloons not only exacerbates the problem with the travel of balloons and impact on the environment, but also creates demand for this scarce gas. This is a problem as helium is an important gas used in medicine – It is used in MRI scanners and is mixed with oxygen to aid respiration for the ill and in particular newborn babies.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 18 April 2017

Page 146

SA17.115 Community Energy Congress - Conference Report

HPERM Ref: D17/96037

Submitted by: Clr John Wells

Clr Patricia White

Purpose / Summary

To provide a report from Clr John Wells and Clr Patricia White on the Community Energy Congress held in Melbourne in February 2017 in accordance with Clause 3.3(e) of the Council Members – Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities Policy.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee receive and note the report from Clr John Wells and Clr Patricia White on the Community Energy Congress for information.

Options

1. Receive the report for information

2. Request further information on the conference

Report from Clr John Wells and Clr Patricia White

Overview

The Power of Community Energy

Communities around the world are playing a critical part in the clean energy transition.

The Conference highlighted Community energy projects bring an added social dimension to renewable energy and harness the passion, time and energy of thousands of committed people across Australia and around the world.

Strengthening community energy helps to deliver substantial economic, environmental, social, technological and political benefits which will in turn help activate deep support for the transition by the community.

Observations at the Congress indicated that Australian Community energy sector is moving from strength to strength and has come a long way since the early 2000’s. There is now over 70 groups developing community energy projects and more than 30 projects up and operating.

The Community Energy Congress 2017 was held in Melbourne in February; it built on the strength of the community energy sector by bringing together the majority of community energy groups from across Australia, including every day residents. However, it should be noted that Shoalhaven had the greatest number of individual conference attendees from any LGA.

The Community Energy Congress event was organised by the Coalition for Community Energy (C4CE).

Over 500 community energy stakeholders from across Australia attended the Congress, you could say the Melbourne Town Hall was packed to the rafters. The highlights of the Congress were:-

· Inspiring speakers and workshops to create change in their communities;

· Built on developing skills and capacity to deliver community energy projects;

· Provided an understanding of pathways for communities, companies, and local and state government to collaborate;

· It Identified key opportunities and barriers facing the sector

· Provided successful community energy case studies

· Provided networking opportunities to share information and strategies about overcoming barriers and realising real opportunities;

· Provided information on consolidate and coordinate efforts across the nation; and

· Fostered new networks and relationships within the community energy sector.

The Congress was a 2-day event with a number of side-events held before and after the Congress, including trainings, master classes and field trips.

Report

Opening

The key themes for the Congress were:

1. Energy Justice

2. Powering the Future together

3. Empowering Communities

Key Note Speakers

Søren Hermansen - spearheaded his community’s efforts to become 100 percent energy independent and has proved to the world that it is possible for communities to become energy self-sufficient.

Born and raised on the Island of Samsø in Denmark – the island became the world’s first 100% renewable island in 2007.

Søren focused on his experiences of transferring common knowledge into action and translating top down policies into local action. He sees community power as the key to energy democracy and local ownership.

He spoke about the 3 challenges:-

· Climate Change

· Security of Supply

· Industry economy and jobs

There needs to be a new deal - paving the way for the next 10 to 20 years; it’s about long term energy policies; the need to make new investments in renewable energy; and changes to meet the new technology. How is this done – reliable policies; brave politics; long term framework and reasonable budgets.

Link: www.energiakademiet.dk

Other Key Note Speakers:

Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio

Candace Vahlsing

Nicky Ison

(Presentations available http://c4ce.net.au/congress/congress-output/)

Workshops:

The congress featured a number of breakout sessions which delivered a number of short presentations by speakers on a range of projects and developments in the community energy/renewable energy sectors. Included among these presentations were-

Sydney Renewable Power Co - Is a volunteer operated public company established to install a solar energy grid for Sydney. The company’s first project is the installation of a solar farm on the roof of the new Sydney International Convention Centre. The company secured this project by directing its proposal to a known tenderer for the construction of the facility, a proposal which the NSW Government’s procurement team found appealing from a number of perspectives including a community based case for renewable clean energy in the city centre funded by a public share offer.

Lismore Solar Farms - Funded in part by the OEH, two solar farms situated on Lismore Council’s Leisure Centre and Sewer Treatment Works. The projects were funded by the community with Council establishing a limited shareholder company (20 shareholders) each of whom bought $9000 worth of shares to fund the projects. The share offer which was oversubscribed provides a degree of community ownership/buy-in, with council giving shareholders 5% ROI –a price it felt acceptable.

The Bendigo Sustainability Network - A community group that solarises Council building using Community funding. Council buys the power so generated under a power supply agreement with funds going back to the community for re-investment in other renewable projects

Clear sky Solar Investments - A not for profit community Energy Company based around Sydney’s northern beaches. The company uses Trust funding models to invest in renewable and claims competitive ROI to other Trust investment options

Clean Cowra - A presentation by director Dylan Gowe outlining the company’s focus on biomass aggregation using anaerobic digestion technology to generate methane to drive turbine generators. Very much in the developmental stage, the project claims a capability to deliver 60% of Cowra’s power needs.

Community Energy Financing, Legals and Risk – This presentation was made by Solicitors and Financiers:-

Manny Pasqualini Jennifer Lauber Patterson

Simon Currie Huon Hoofesteger

Kylie Hitchman

The session discussed the common legal structures and legal considerations for communities in community energy. Communities need to consider what their vision is; how to develop it; the business plan; legal structure; but the two main messages were: “keep it simple – more efficient” and “what’s best for the community”. It is about delivery of projects not just talking about it.

The session then provided information on the new Community Energy Funding Toolkit (Toolkit) that has been developed as a “centralised, simplified repository of information” to mobilise the development of community renewable energy projects. The Toolkit provides:-

§ Increases expertise in developing renewable energy projects

§ Information on funding alternatives and to improve financial literacy of CE project Developers

§ Resources to provides the tools required to enable CE project development

§ Understanding community renewable energy models (with CE Examples) that can be replicated

§ Case studies that show practical application

§ Reduces costs and timeline for delivery and development

Link: http://c4ce.net.au/congress/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Community-Energy-Financing-Legals-and-Risk_Lauber-Patterson-Jennifer.pdf

Website: www.FrontierImpact.org.au

Repower Shoalhaven - RePower Shoalhaven; Shoalhaven Councillors and residents who attended the Conference sat down together for approx. 1 hour and discussed and exchanged the opportunities and ideas for the LGA. These will be discussed at the Climate Change Committee in coming months.

Key Note Addresses:

Ben Franklin MLC – Parliamentary Secretary for Renewable Energy - NSW

Shane Rattenburg-Grenns MLA & Minister for Climate Change and Energy - ACT

Chris Picton MP Assistant to the Treasurer - SA

Kristy Gowers, GM of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA)

All demonstrated a commitment by governments to a zero emissions future by at least 2050; a recognition of the role community energy schemes will play in future (household solar panels now produce as much energy as the Snowy Hydro scheme).

Speakers also recognised that the National Electricity Market is dysfunctional arising from failure by Governments and the market to provide incentives for investment into renewable alternatives and distortions caused by open market pricing of gas and failure to dedicate a proportion of the Nations gas resource for domestic energy generation.

Conclusion

It was an excellent conference and it was interesting to listen and network with Energy Renewal stakeholders, residents and groups from different areas across Australia and understand the changes over the last 10 years.

In recent times energy renewal, supply and politics has become a real issue for everyone and as a Council, we have vital roles to play.

Related Parties
AASB 2015-6 ‘Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards’ extended related party disclosures to not-for-profit entities. From 30 June 2017, the financial statements must disclose key management personnel remuneration, related party relationships, transactions and balances.	Risk of non-compliance with the requirements as per AASB124 ‘Related Party Disclosures’, especially the risk of incomplete disclosure.	We will gain an understanding of Council’s policies and procedures to capture and disclose related party information as at 30 June 2017. We will audit the related party disclosures to determine whether the Council has materially complied with AASB 124.
Procurement and contract management risk
Council spends a substantial amount each year to procure goods and services and its contracts vary in nature, size and complexity.	Lack of probity, accountability or transparency in procurement operations increases the risk of: · unauthorised purchases · corruption and /or fraudulent behaviour · value for money not being achieved · non-compliance with the Local Government legislation and internal policies and procedures. If contracts are not managed appropriately, this increases the risk of service delivery failure, unapproved scope variations and potential legal disputes.	We will gain an understanding of Council’s procedures around procurement and contract management. We will review tendering procedures to identify any probity and related party issues. For a sample of contracts, the audit team will review: · compliance with Council’s procurement policies · updating of the contract register.

Project Description	Funding	Year
Shared user path (SUP) - Vincent St and Twyford St, Vincentia	SCC - $190000 RMS - $190000	2017/18
SUP - Deering St – Stage 1 to ‘The Bombie’ car park, Ulladulla	SCC - $150000 RMS - $150000	2017/18
Pedestrian crossing improvements – Huskisson town centre	SCC - $100000 RMS - $100000	2017/18
SUP - Deering St – Stage 2 - ‘The Bombie’ car park to lighthouse Ulladulla	SCC - $250000 RMS - $250000	2018/19
SUP – Sanctuary Point to St Georges Basin – ‘missing link’ Stage 1 – The Wool Lane to Wonga Place	SCC - $100000 RMS - $100000	2018/19
SUP – Matron Porter Dr – Bannister Head Rd to Garside Rd	SCC - $280000 RMS - $280000	2019/20
SUP – Sanctuary Point to St Georges Basin – ‘missing link’ Stage 2 – Wonga Place to Claylands Dr (Wonga Place reserve)	SCC - $70000 RMS - $70000	2019/20
SUP – Yalwal Rd – Albatross Rd to Filter Rd	SCC - $240000 RMS - $240000	2020/21
SUP – Shoalhaven Heads Rd – Stage 1 – Mathews St to Jerry Bailey Rd	SCC - $110000 RMS - $110000	2020/21

Year	Capital Expenditure	On-going Operational Expenditure per year	Total
2017/18	$440,000	$10,000	$450,000
2018/19	$350,000	$8,000	$358,000
2019/20	$350,000	$8,000	$358,000
2020/21	$350,000	$8,000	$358,000
Totals	$1,490,000	$34,000	$1,524,000

*Total Income*			*$41,400.00*
*Total Expenses*			*$29,984.00*

*Surplus*			$11,416.00