Agenda of Strategy and Assets Committee

Minutes of the Strategy and Assets Committee

Meeting Date: Tuesday, 12 June 2018

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

Time: 5.00pm

The following members were present:

Clr John Wells - Chairperson

Clr Joanna Gash

Clr Amanda Findley

Clr Patricia White

Clr Nina Cheyne

Clr Annette Alldrick

Clr John Levett

Clr Mitchell Pakes

Clr Greg Watson

Clr Mark Kitchener

Clr Bob Proudfoot

Russ Pigg - General Manager

Apologies / Leave of Absence

Nil

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr White) MIN18.424

That the Minutes of the Strategy and Assets Committee held on Tuesday 15 May 2018 be confirmed.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest

Clr Patricia White – SA18.139 Potential Sites for Sussex Inlet Library – Non Pecuniary Less than Significant Interest – Will remain in the room and will take part in discussion and vote – Assisted community to save the Uniting Church at 175 Jacobs Dr Sussex Inlet from closure.

Clr Joanna Gash – SA18.151 Councillor Briefing on the Tallyann Point and Mia Way Bushcare Action Plan reviews – Non Pecuniary Less than Significant Interest – Will remain in the room and will take part in discussion and vote – Is a member of the Mia Way Bushcare Group.

Mayoral Minutes

Nil

Deputations and Presentations

SA18.130 - Vincentia Ratepayers and Residents Association - Review of CCB Status (Page 46)

Roslyn Vickery, committee member of the Vincentia Ratepayers and Residents Association Inc./CCB, spoke against the recommendation.

Notices of Motion / Questions on Notice

Procedural Motion - Bring Item Forward

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr Levett) MIN18.425

That the matter of item SA18.130 Vincentia Ratepayers and Residents Association- Review of CCB Status be brought forward for consideration.

CARRIED

SA18.130 Vincentia Ratepayers and Residents Association - Review of CCB Status

HPERM Ref: D18/186715

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. Advise the VRRA that they are no longer recognised as a CCB of Council due to their non-compliance with the CCB Guidelines

2. Thank the VRRA for their service to the community, in the time that they have been the CCB for Vincentia.

3. Provide an Expression of Interest to the Vincentia Community to seek alternative groups who may wish to apply to become the CCB for Vincentia. The EOI will state that any group would need to be representative of the community and show clear ways in which they would seek to bring the Vincentia community together.

RESOLVED (Clr Proudfoot / Clr Pakes) MIN18.426

That Council continue to recognise the Vincentia Ratepayers and Residents Association as a Community Consultative Body of the Council.

For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr White, Clr Alldrick, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Clr Proudfoot

Against: Clr Findley, Clr Cheyne and Clr Levett

CARRIED

Procedural Motion - Bring Item Forward

RESOLVED (Clr Watson / Clr Proudfoot) MIN18.427

That the matter of item SA18.128 - Progress report 3 - Development Application for a Motor Sports Complex be brought forward for consideration.

CARRIED

SA18.128 Progress report 3 - Development Application for a Motor Sports Complex

HPERM Ref: D18/183862

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council accept the third progress report on the preparation of a development application by Council for a motor sports facility for information.

RESOLVED (Clr Watson / Clr Proudfoot) MIN18.428

That Council accept the third progress report on the preparation of a development application by Council for a motor sports facility for information.

For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr White, Clr Alldrick, Clr Levett, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener, Clr Proudfoot and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Findley and Clr Cheyne

CARRIED

Procedural Motion - Bring Item Forward

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr Proudfoot) MIN18.429

That the matter of item SA18.131 Hyams Beach - Peak Period Management- Progress Update be brought forward for consideration.

CARRIED

SA18.131 Hyams Beach - Peak Period Management- Progress Update

HPERM Ref: D18/190799

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Agree to the proposed four step approach to finding a long-term solution for Hyams Beach which includes immediate actions, short term actions, long term actions (including revenue options, parking options, out of area parking options) and broader discussions on the overall management of tourism within the Shoalhaven.

2. Undertake a community engagement process with the whole Hyams Beach community on the proposed short-term actions and that these be provided to the community as a proposed package of projects. This package of projects to be shown as a concept plan (with maps) and include details such as traffic management, amenity upgrades, indicative timing and proposed budget allocations.

3. Continue to engage with the Stakeholder Working Group and Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group on potential revenue raising options including paid parking, out of area parking and other long-term solutions.

4. Dedicate a Project Officer to work on the Hyams Beach Project coordination to ensure oversight and project management of short and long-term actions and to continue to find sources of revenue (grants or other solutions) to fund projects.

5. Continue to undertake broader discussions relating to the 360 Tourism Model and overall management of tourism with the wider community.

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr Proudfoot) MIN18.430

That Council:

2. Undertake a community engagement process with the whole Hyams Beach community on the proposed short-term actions and that these be provided to the community as a proposed package of projects. This package of projects to be shown as a concept plan (with maps) and include details such as traffic management (including digital traffic management), amenity upgrades, indicative timing and proposed budget allocations.

4. Dedicate a Project Officer to work on the Hyams Beach Project coordination and other heavily visited areas to ensure oversight and project management of short and long-term actions (including digital traffic management) and to continue to find sources of revenue (grants or other solutions) to fund projects.

5. Continue to undertake broader discussions relating to the 360 Tourism Model and overall management of tourism and other heavily visited areas with the wider community.

6. That all Councillors be invited to future stakeholder meetings.

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

Against: Clr White

CARRIED

Procedural Motion - Bring Item Forward

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr Gash) MIN18.431

That the matters of the following items be brought forward for consideration.

· SA18.127 SEATS (South East Australia Transport Strategy) - report on activities

· SA18.129 Establishing a Boat Harbour within Jervis Bay - request for support

· SA18.142 Far North Collector Road – Grant Funding Approved by the Australian Government

· SA18.153 St Andrews Way Sewer Scheme - inclusion of 11 properties - Bolong Rd, Berry's Bay

CARRIED

SA18.127 SEATS (South East Australia Transport Strategy) - report on activities

HPERM Ref: D18/180601

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. Receive the report for Information.

2. Provide a short summary to SEATS Executive of Shoalhaven road projects for inclusion in the SEATS election strategies.

3. Supports the discussions with Goulburn-Mulwaree & Queanbeyan Palerang Regional Councils in regards to the section of Road between Nerriga & Sandy Point near Windellama be the subject of a future application as a strategic freight route.

4. Endorses a joint application from Goulburn-Mulwaree & Queanbeyan Palerang Regional Councils for the section of road between Nerriga & Sandy Point as a strategic freight route through the Heavy Vehicle Safety Productivity Program, Fixing Country Roads and the new Federal fund to support Roads of Strategic Importance.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Clr Levett) MIN18.432

That Council

1. Receive the report for Information.

2. Provide a short summary to SEATS Executive of Shoalhaven road projects for inclusion in the SEATS election strategies.

CARRIED

SA18.129 Establishing a Boat Harbour within Jervis Bay - request for support

HPERM Ref: D18/185607

Recommendation

That Council reaffirm its “in principle support” for the development of a boat harbour within Jervis Bay at a location that meets current sustainable economic, ecological, and engineering requirements and meets community expectations.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Pakes / Clr White)

For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr White, Clr Alldrick, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener, Clr Proudfoot and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Findley, Clr Cheyne and Clr Levett

carried

SA18.142 Far North Collector Road – Grant Funding Approved by the Australian Government

HPERM Ref: D18/135648

Recommendation

That

1. Council accepts the $13,800,000 grant funding offer from the Australian Government for the Far North Collector Road project, and authorises the expenditure on job numbers #85979 (land acquisitions) and #85080 (design and construction) in accordance with the approved funding profile (provided below in the report)

2. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) writes to the Honourable Michael McCormack MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, and Member for Gilmore, Ann Sudmalis, thanking them for his support of the Shoalhaven Community through the Australian Government’s Infrastructure Investment Program.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Watson / Clr Proudfoot)

That

3. A further report be provided to Council on whether the timetable can be brought forward.

4. Council ask Ann Sudmalis, Member for Gilmore, to attend a Councillor Briefing to explain the grant funding for the Far North Collector Road project.

5. The General Manager (Assets & Works) consider expediting this project.

carried

SA18.153 St Andrews Way Sewer Scheme - inclusion of 11 properties - Bolong Rd, Berry's Bay

HPERM Ref: D18/168645

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Resolve to connect 1260 – 1280 Bolong Rd, Coolangatta (Berry’s Bay) to reticulated sewer and amend the Delivery Program and Operational Plan to include these properties in the capital project to sewer the residential subdivision at St Andrews Way (construction to be completed in 2019/20); and

2. The inclusion of 1260 – 1280 Bolong Rd, Coolangatta (Berry’s Bay) to the St Andrews Way sewerage scheme be fully funded by Council Sewer Fund.

3. Write to each of the property owners to advise them of Council’s decision.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Pakes / Clr Cheyne)

That Council:

2. The inclusion of 1260 – 1280 Bolong Rd, Coolangatta (Berry’s Bay) to the St Andrews Way sewerage scheme be fully funded by Council Sewer Fund.

3. Environmental Services to write to each of the property owners to advise them of Council’s decision.

carried

The meeting adjourned at 7.17pm

The meeting reconvened at 7.41pm

The following members were present:

Clr John Wells - Chairperson

Clr Joanna Gash

Clr Amanda Findley

Clr Patricia White

Clr Nina Cheyne

Clr John Levett

Clr Mitchell Pakes

Clr Greg Watson

Clr Mark Kitchener

Clr Bob Proudfoot

Russ Pigg - General Manager

SA18.123 Notice of Motion - Amendment of the Proposed Rate Increase

HPERM Ref: D18/188534

Recommendation

That Council amend its proposed Rate increase in the years 18-19, 19-20 and 20-21 to zero in taking the 17-18 Rate income as the accumulated base.

MOTION (Clr Watson / Clr Proudfoot) MIN18.433

That Council amend its proposed Rate increase in the years 18-19, 19-20 and 20-21 to zero in taking the 17-18 Rate income as the accumulated base.

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

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

lost

Report of the Youth Advisory Committee - 9 May 2018

YA18.7 Applications for Membership

HPERM Ref: D18/141567

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Appoint Ms Hannah Schofield and Ms Pallas Retimaha as community members to the Youth Advisory Committee.

2. Write to Ms Schofield and Ms Retimaha to notify them of their appointment and invite them to all future meetings.

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr White) MIN18.434

That Council:

1. Appoint Ms Hannah Schofield and Ms Pallas Retimaha as community members to the Youth Advisory Committee.

2. Write to Ms Schofield and Ms Retimaha to notify them of their appointment and invite them to all future meetings.

CARRIED

Report of the Business & Employment Development Committee - 23 May 2018

BE18.17 Additional Item - Membership

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Accept the resignation of Peter Dryer and write to him to thank him for his contribution.

2. Advertise for nominations for membership from the community for the vacant position of community representative.

3. Increase membership of the Business and Employment Development Committee as follows:

a. A replacement member representing TAFE NSW;

b. A second position for the Shoalhaven Business Chamber, being for the President of the Shoalhaven Business Chamber; and

c. A representative from the Aboriginal Advisory Committee.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Clr Cheyne) MIN18.435

That Council:

1. Accept the resignation of Peter Dryer and write to him to thank him for his contribution.

2. Advertise for nominations for membership from the community for the vacant position of community representative.

3. Increase membership of the Business and Employment Development Committee as follows:

a. A replacement member representing TAFE NSW;

b. A second position for the Shoalhaven Business Chamber, being for the President of the Shoalhaven Business Chamber; and

c. A representative from the Aboriginal Advisory Committee.

CARRIED

Reports

SA18.126 Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation - Appointment of Delegates and Alternates

HPERM Ref: D18/170746

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That:

1. Council appoint Clr John Wells as the second voting delegate to the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organsiation Board;

2. Council appoint Clr Patricia White as the alternate voting delegate to the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organsiation Board;

3. Appointments be for the remaining term of this Council.

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr Findley) MIN18.436

That:

1. Council appoint Clr John Wells as the second voting delegate to the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organsiation Board;

2. Council appoint Clr Patricia White as the alternate voting delegate to the Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organsiation Board;

3. Appointments be for the remaining term of this Council.

CARRIED

SA18.127 SEATS (South East Australia Transport Strategy) - Report on Activities

HPERM Ref: D18/180601

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting see MIN18.432.

SA18.128 Progress Report 3 - Development Application for a Motor Sports Complex

HPERM Ref: D18/183862

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting see MIN18.428.

SA18.129 Establishing a Boat Harbour Within Jervis Bay - Request for Support

HPERM Ref: D18/185607

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting.

SA18.130 Vincentia Ratepayers and Residents Association - Review of CCB Status

HPERM Ref: D18/186715

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting see MIN18.426.

SA18.131 Hyams Beach - Peak Period Management - Progress Update

HPERM Ref: D18/190799

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting see MIN18.430.

SA18.132 Customer Service Charter

HPERM Ref: D18/92440

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council rescind the Customer Service Targets – External Customers Policy and Correspondence Standards and Signing of Official Correspondence Policy and adopt the Customer Service Charter.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Cheyne) MIN18.437

That Council rescind the Customer Service Targets – External Customers Policy and Correspondence Standards and Signing of Official Correspondence Policy and adopt the Customer Service Charter.

CARRIED

SA18.133 Funding Acceptance - Department of Social Services - Be Connected Grant - Good Things Foundation

HPERM Ref: D18/153085

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Accept the Australian Government Be Connected grant funding to the value of $1,500 for Shoalhaven Libraries to host a series of technology training modules to the Shoalhaven community in partnership with the Kiama and Shoalhaven Community Colleges.

2. Delegate authority to the General Manager, or nominee, to accept the grant funding and acquittal of funds.

3. Write to the Australian Government accepting and thanking it for the grant offer.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Cheyne) MIN18.438

That Council:

2. Delegate authority to the General Manager, or nominee, to accept the grant funding and acquittal of funds.

3. Write to the Australian Government accepting and thanking it for the grant offer.

CARRIED

SA18.134 Local Government Remuneration Tribunal - Determination - Councillor and Mayoral Fees - 2018/2019

HPERM Ref: D18/169815

Recommendation

That Council

1. Notes the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal’s Annual Report and Determination dated 17 April 2018

2. Agrees to adjust the Councillor Fee to $19,790 and the Additional Mayoral Fee to $43,170 for the 2018/19 financial year.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Findley / Clr Gash)

That Council

1. Notes the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal’s Annual Report and Determination dated 17 April 2018

2. Agrees to adjust the Councillor Fee to $19,790 and the Additional Mayoral Fee to $43,170 for the 2018/19 financial year.

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

Against: Clr Kitchener

carried

SA18.135 Update - Council Donations Policy Review

HPERM Ref: D18/169973

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Receive the report on the Update - Council Donations Policy Review for information.

2. Continue with the current donations program for the 2018/2019 financial year.

3. Receive a report providing a new Draft Donations Policy in the second half of 2018, with features as outlined in the report for 2019/2020 onwards.

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr White) MIN18.439

That Council:

1. Receive the report on the Update - Council Donations Policy Review for information.

2. Continue with the current donations program for the 2018/2019 financial year.

3. Receive a report providing a new Draft Donations Policy in the second half of 2018, with features as outlined in the report for 2019/2020 onwards.

CARRIED

SA18.136 NSW Auditor-General’s Report on Local Government 2017

HPERM Ref: D18/172005

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Receive the report provided to the Risk and Audit Committee for information

2. Note the General Manager’s letter to the Director of the Office of the Auditor-General on the issue of reporting consolidated results and the inclusion of capital grants in operating results and the Auditor-General’s response on these matters.

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr Cheyne) MIN18.440

That Council:

1. Receive the report provided to the Risk and Audit Committee for information

CARRIED

SA18.137 Cities Power Partnership Summit 2018

HPERM Ref: D18/185398

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. Notes the details of the Cities Power Partnership Summit scheduled for 18-19 October 2018 in Kiama.

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 Pakes / Clr Cheyne) MIN18.441

That Council

1. Notes the details of the Cities Power Partnership Summit scheduled for 18-19 October 2018 in Kiama.

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

SA18.138 Shoalhaven Swim & Fitness - Asset Management Plan

HPERM Ref: D17/292050

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. adopts the Shoalhaven Swim & Fitness Asset Management Plan noting that the estimated cost to renew and operate the swim and fitness assets over the next ten years is likely to be $50M (Renewal and Cost of Operation) and Council’s long term financial plan projects an expenditure of $37M (Capital Renewal and existing operating Budget), thus a funding shortfall of $13M exists.

2. notes that this plan will be further discussed and refined (in the context of other Council Assets) when considering Council’s Long Term Financial Plan for the 2019/2020 financial year and beyond.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Cheyne) MIN18.442

That Council

1. Adopts the Shoalhaven Swim & Fitness Asset Management Plan noting that the estimated cost to renew and operate the swim and fitness assets over the next ten years is likely to be $50M (Renewal and Cost of Operation) and Council’s long term financial plan projects an expenditure of $37M (Capital Renewal and existing operating Budget), thus a funding shortfall of $13M exists.

2. Notes that this plan will be further discussed and refined (in the context of other Council Assets) when considering Council’s Long Term Financial Plan for the 2019/2020 financial year and beyond.

CARRIED

SA18.139 Potential sites for Sussex Inlet Library	HPERM Ref: D18/107756
Clr Patricia White – SA18.139 Potential Sites for Sussex Inlet Library – Non Pecuniary Less than Significant Interest – Will remain in the room and will take part in discussion and vote – Assisted community to save the Uniting Church at 175 Jacobs Dr Sussex Inlet from closure.
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That Council note that: 1. possible sites for a library at Sussex Inlet (based on the 12 locational criteria outlined in the document “People Places: A Guide for Public Library Buildings in New South Wales”) include a. 19 Thomson St Sussex Inlet b. 29 Thomson St Sussex Inlet c. 175 Jacobs Dr Sussex Inlet d. Thomson St Sporting Fields Sussex Inlet 2. based on population and service-based benchmarking standards from the “People Places: A Guide for Public Library Buildings in New South Wales”, Council’s Library Services Manager considers that if a library was provided at Sussex Inlet a library with a gross floor area of between 320m²and 460m²would be required. 3. the Sanctuary Point Library building is a temporary structure always intended for relocation. The current building has a gross floor area of approximately 140m²and that the gross floor area is below that identified for a library at Sussex Inlet.
RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr Proudfoot) MIN18.443 That the General Manager hold a Councillor workshop to explore the need and possible options for the development and possible timing of a Library, noting the Committee’s preference for the site to be 29 Thomson St, Sussex Inlet. CARRIED

SA18.140 Australian Government Blackspot Program 2018-19 - Approved Projects

HPERM Ref: D18/135606

Recommendation

That

1. Council accepts the grant funding offers under the Australian Government Blackspot Program as follows:

a. $60,000 for the profile line marking (edge and centre lines) on Braidwood Road (between Albatross Road, Nowra Hill and Wugun Street, Yerriyong), and authorises the expenditure on job number 85041;

b. $260,000 for traffic/pedestrian signals at the intersection of North Street and Kinghorne Street, Nowra, and authorises the expenditure on job number 85163; and

c. $120,000 for a median island stop treatment, pedestrian refuge, and upgraded street lighting on Yurunga Drive (at the intersection of Illaroo Road), and authorises the expenditure on job number 86678.

2. Council vote these funds to the 2018/19 budget.

3. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) writes to the NSW Roads & Maritime Services, and the Federal Member for Gilmore, thanking them for their ongoing support of the Shoalhaven Community through the Australian Government Blackspot Program and for the support of RMS staff in reviewing and supporting Council’s nominations for these important local road safety improvements.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Pakes / Clr Gash)

That

1. Council accepts the grant funding offers under the Australian Government Blackspot Program as follows:

a. $60,000 for the profile line marking (edge and centre lines) on Braidwood Road (between Albatross Road, Nowra Hill and Wugun Street, Yerriyong), and authorises the expenditure on job number 85041;

b. $260,000 for traffic/pedestrian signals at the intersection of North Street and Kinghorne Street, Nowra, and authorises the expenditure on job number 85163; and

2. Council vote these funds to the 2018/19 budget.

carried

SA18.141 Response to MIN18.209 SA18.44 Notice of Motion - Black Spot Grant Funding Application - Princes Hwy Jervis Bay Rd Intersection to Ulladulla

HPERM Ref: D18/135630

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council note the information from the RMS in relation to:

1. the “Route Safety Study” along the Princes Highway (Jervis Bay Road intersection to Ulladulla); and

2. Council’s ineligibility for Black Spot Funding on State Roads.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Clr Proudfoot) MIN18.444

That Council note the information from the RMS in relation to:

1. the “Route Safety Study” along the Princes Highway (Jervis Bay Road intersection to Ulladulla); and

2. Council’s ineligibility for Black Spot Funding on State Roads.

CARRIED

SA18.142 Far North Collector Road – Grant Funding Approved by the Australian Government

HPERM Ref: D18/135648

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting.

SA18.143 Outdoor Dining on Public Footpaths - Review of Fee Waiver

HPERM Ref: D18/142091

Recommendation

That Council reintroduce annual outdoor dining fees for the use and occupation of public footpaths across the Shoalhaven at the flat rate of $64.90/m²per annum commencing 1^st July 2018.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Pakes / Clr Watson)

That Council

1. Continue to not charge annual fees for Outdoor Dining on public footpaths until 1 July 2019 and that a fee of $0 be adopted as Council Fee for the 2018/2019 financial year with the fee being set each year after that as part of Council annual review of fees and charges process.

2. Continue to not charge the annual fee for the remainder of this Council term.

For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr Findley, Clr White, Clr Cheyne, Clr Levett, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Clr Proudfoot

Against: Russ Pigg

carried

SA18.144 Anzac Day Traffic Control – Costs

HPERM Ref: D18/143977

Recommendation

That

1. Council receives the report (on Anzac Day traffic control costs) for information

2. Council continues to provide support to the local RSL sub-branches in the planning and implementation of local Anzac Day ceremonies in the Shoalhaven

3. Council initially establishes a 2018-19 budget of $15,000 to support local Anzac Day ceremonies (currently estimated to be 50% of the likely total budget required)

4. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) writes to local members of parliament seeking “at least” 50% grant funding assistance ($15,000) to reduce the ongoing cost burden on Council in support of local ANZAC Day ceremonies

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Watson / Clr White)

That

1. Council receives the report (on Anzac Day traffic control costs) for information

2. Council continues to provide support to the local RSL sub-branches in the planning and implementation of local Anzac Day ceremonies in the Shoalhaven

3. Council initially establishes a 2018-19 budget of $15,000 to support local Anzac Day ceremonies (currently estimated to be 50% of the likely total budget required)

carried

SA18.145 Footpaths – three year works program 2018/19 – 2020/21

HPERM Ref: D18/152918

Recommendation

That Council adopt the following priority list for footpath works to address missing links from the PAMP strategy as follows (noting that funding for works on this list is subject to budget deliberations):

2018-19 $164,000

· Osborne Street, Nowra $90,000

· Corner of Bridge Road and North Street, Nowra $15,000

· Village Drive, Ulladulla $15,000

· Berry Street, Nowra $44,000

2019-20 $167,300

· South Street, Ulladulla $60,000

· Cyrus Street, Hyams Beach $107,300

2020-21 $170,600

· Bunberra Street, Bomaderry $35,000

· Cambewarra Road, Bomaderry $15,000

· Bolong Road, Bomaderry $30,000

· Hyam Street, Nowra $90,600

The above list is separate to both the community paths program and the shared user path strategy. The shared user path strategy was adopted by Council in 2017 (and has separate Council matching funds to successfully attract grant funding). The community paths program is currently being determined for 2018-19, and among other projects will include the Kalinga Street Cambewarra footpath.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Watson / Clr Cheyne)

2018-19 $164,000

· Osborne Street, Nowra $90,000

· Corner of Bridge Road and North Street, Nowra $15,000

· Village Drive, Ulladulla $15,000

· Berry Street, Nowra $44,000

2019-20 $167,300

· South Street, Ulladulla $60,000

· Cyrus Street, Hyams Beach $107,300

2020-21 $170,600

· Bunberra Street, Bomaderry $35,000

· Cambewarra Road, Bomaderry $15,000

· Bolong Road, Bomaderry $30,000

· Hyam Street, Nowra $90,600

carried

SA18.146 Land Dedication as Public Road - Adjoining Naval College Road, Vincentia

HPERM Ref: D18/159319

Recommendation

That Council

1. Dedicate Lot 6001 DP 1195858 and Lot 74 DP 874040 as public road (to form part of the Naval College Road Reserve at Vincentia) in accordance with the provisions of Section 10 of the Roads Act 1993; and

2. Affix the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven to any documents required to be sealed otherwise the General Manager be authorised to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to the resolution.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Findley / Clr Cheyne)

That Council

carried

SA18.147 Australian Government Blackspot Program 2017-18 – Variations Approved

HPERM Ref: D18/154551

Recommendation

That

1. Council accepts the grant funding variations approved under the Australian Government Blackspot Program as follows:

a. an additional $64,000 for the Flinders Road South Nowra (full length widening) project, originally $440,000, making total revised budget for this blackspot component of the Flinders Road project $504,000 and authorises the expenditure on job number 86618

b. an additional $162,000 for the Flinders Road South Nowra (Roundabouts at Albatross Road and adjacent service road) project, originally $360,000, making total revised budget for this blackspot component of the Flinders Road project $522,000 and authorises the expenditure on job number 86618

c. an additional $50,000 for the Paradise Beach Road/ Kingsford Smith Crescent (Sanctuary Point) roundabout project, originally $190,000, making total revised budget $240,000 and authorises the expenditure on job number 86669

d. an additional $100,000 for the Wheelbarrow Road, Woodburn road sealing project (CH2.0 to 3.2km east of Woodburn Road), originally $210,000, making total revised budget $310,000 and authorises the expenditure on job number 86671

e. an additional $100,000 for The Wool Road (Worrowing Heights) road widening project (from 140m to 780m west of Naval College Road), originally $295,000, making total revised budget $395,000 and authorises the expenditure on job number 85829

2. Council accepts the grant funding variations approved under the NSW Safer Roads Program as follows:

a. $45,000 for the Currarong Road road widening project (from chainage 7.7 to 11.5) east of Coonemia Road, originally submitted as an Australian Government Blackspot Project, to recoup Council’s costs for survey and design to date, originally $1,000,000 in 2017-18 and $450,000 in 2018-19 for construction, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86642

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Proudfoot / Clr Levett)

That Council:

1. Accepts the grant funding variations approved under the Australian Government Blackspot Program as follows:

2. Accepts the grant funding variations approved under the NSW Safer Roads Program as follows:

3. Acknowledge the hard work of staff in obtaining this funding.

CARRIED

SA18.148 Proposed Lease - Kangaroo Valley Tennis Club Incorporated - Part Lot 1 DP775132 Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley

HPERM Ref: D18/170800

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Resolve to enter into a lease agreement with Kangaroo Valley Tennis Club Inc. for the use and occupation of the Kangaroo Valley Tennis Courts located on Part Lot 1 DP775132 corner of Moss Vale Road and Broughton Street, Kangaroo Valley for a term of five (5) years at an annual rental of $7,210.67 plus GST;

2. Rent received to be paid to a Restricted Asset Account established for this facility and to be used for capital improvements and major maintenance;

3. Authorise the General Manager to finalise the lease terms that may not yet be determined; and

4. Grant authority to affix the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven to any documents required to be sealed and the General Manager be authorised to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to this resolution.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Gash / Clr Levett)

That Council:

2. Rent received to be paid to a Restricted Asset Account established for this facility and to be used for capital improvements and major maintenance;

3. Authorise the General Manager to finalise the lease terms that may not yet be determined; and

carried

SA18.149 Opportunity to join Federal Court Proceedings - South Coast People Native Title Claim

HPERM Ref: D18/173662

Recommendation

That Council resolves to:

1. Make application to become a party to Federal Court Application No NSD1331/2017 for a determination of native title lodged by the South Coast People; and

2. Approve that the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven be affixed to any documents required to be sealed otherwise the General Manager be authorised to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to the resolution.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr White / Clr Pakes)

That Council resolves to:

1. Make application to become a party to Federal Court Application No NSD1331/2017 for a determination of native title lodged by the South Coast People; and

carried

SA18.150 Australian Government Blackspot & NSW Safer Roads Programs 2018/19 – Additional Funding For Survey/Design - 2017/18

HPERM Ref: D18/177578

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That

1. Council accepts the $41,000 grant funding offer from RMS under the NSW Safer Roads Program as follows:

a. $15,000 for the survey-design of the proposed roundabout at the intersection of Illaroo Road/Page Avenue North Nowra, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86665

b. $15,000 for the survey-design of the proposed roundabout at the intersection of Mitchell Parade/Donlan Rd (south), Mollymook, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86668

c. $5,000 for the survey-design of the proposed right turn bay at the intersection of Jervis Bay Rd/Gardner Rd, Falls Creek, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86667

d. $1,500 for the survey-design of the proposed traffic-pedestrian signals at the intersection of North Street /Kinghorne Street, Nowra, and authorises the expenditure on job number 85163

e. $1,500 for the survey-design of the proposed median island stop treatment (with pedestrian refuge) at the intersection of Yurunga Drive and Illaroo Road, North Nowra, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86678

f. $1,500 for the survey-design of the proposed raised threshold pedestrian crossing treatments on Jacobs Drive, Sussex Inlet, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86679

g. $1,500 for the survey-design of the proposed roundabout at the intersection of Green Street /Warden Street, Ulladulla, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86675

2. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) writes to the NSW Roads & Maritime Services, thanking them for their ongoing support of the Shoalhaven Community through the Australian Government Blackspot and NSW Safer Roads Programs and for the support of RMS staff in obtaining this additional funding for survey design in 2017-18

RESOLVED (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN18.445

That

1. Council accepts the $41,000 grant funding offer from RMS under the NSW Safer Roads Program as follows:

a. $15,000 for the survey-design of the proposed roundabout at the intersection of Illaroo Road/Page Avenue North Nowra, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86665

b. $15,000 for the survey-design of the proposed roundabout at the intersection of Mitchell Parade/Donlan Rd (south), Mollymook, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86668

c. $5,000 for the survey-design of the proposed right turn bay at the intersection of Jervis Bay Rd/Gardner Rd, Falls Creek, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86667

d. $1,500 for the survey-design of the proposed traffic-pedestrian signals at the intersection of North Street /Kinghorne Street, Nowra, and authorises the expenditure on job number 85163

f. $1,500 for the survey-design of the proposed raised threshold pedestrian crossing treatments on Jacobs Drive, Sussex Inlet, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86679

g. $1,500 for the survey-design of the proposed roundabout at the intersection of Green Street /Warden Street, Ulladulla, and authorises the expenditure on job number 86675

CARRIED

SA18.151 Councillor Briefing on the Tallyann Point and Mia Way Bushcare Action Plan reviews	HPERM Ref: D18/153383
Clr Joanna Gash – SA18.151 Councillor Briefing on the Tallyann Point and Mia Way Bushcare Action Plan reviews – Non Pecuniary Less than Significant Interest – Will remain in the room and will take part in discussion and vote – Is a member of the Mia Way Bushcare Group.
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) Council adopt the following two (2) reviewed Bushcare Group Action Plans: 1. Mia Way Bushcare Action Plan 2. Tallyann Point Bushcare Action Plan.
RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr White) MIN18.446 That Council adopt the following two (2) reviewed Bushcare Group Action Plans: 1. Mia Way Bushcare Action Plan 2. Tallyann Point Bushcare Action Plan. For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr Findley, Clr White, Clr Cheyne, Clr Levett, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson and Russ Pigg Against: Clr Kitchener and Clr Proudfoot CARRIED

SA18.152 Proposed Memorandum of Understanding and Action Plan - Jerrinja Local Aboriginal Land Council

HPERM Ref: D18/164643

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council endorse the Memorandum of Understanding and Action Plan between Shoalhaven City Council and Jerrinja Local Aboriginal Land Council.

RESOLVED (Clr Cheyne / Clr Findley) MIN18.447

That Council endorse the Memorandum of Understanding and Action Plan between Shoalhaven City Council and Jerrinja Local Aboriginal Land Council.

CARRIED

SA18.153 St Andrews Way Sewer Scheme - inclusion of 11 properties - Bolong Rd, Berry's Bay

HPERM Ref: D18/168645

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting.

Introduction of Items as Matters of Urgency

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Levett) MIN18.448

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

1. SA18.154 Pilot Project- Council Land Review
Sanctuary Point

2. SA18.155 Public Amenity Priority List

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

CARRIED

Addendum Reports

SA18.154 Pilot Project - Council Land Review
Sanctuary Point

HPERM Ref: D18/163855

Recommendation

That:

1. Council endorse Sanctuary Point as the location of the Land Review Pilot Project;

2. Staff engage with the community and residents of Sanctuary Point to identify:

a. community expectations with regard to parks and reserves;

b. the appetite of the community to dispose of some Community land to fund improvements to underutilised or underembellished parks and reserves;

3. Staff undertake detailed investigation of Community land within the Pilot Area including those identified in the Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan 2017-2036 to identify which land may be suitable for full or partial disposal; and

4. Council receive a further report detailing outcomes of the community consultation and the detailed investigation of land.

RESOLVED (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN18.449

That Council defer consideration of this project pending:

1. More details of scope and population needs

2. Review of the boundaries

3. Familiarisation tour

CARRIED

SA18.155 Public Amenity Priority List

HPERM Ref: D18/185569

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Adopt the draft Public Amenity Top 20 Priority List.

2. Advertise the draft priority list (Trim Ref D18/184686) for a minimum of 28 days and consider the feedback in a future report to Council.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Clr Pakes) MIN18.450

That Council:

1. Adopt the draft Public Amenity Top 20 Priority List.

2. Advertise the draft priority list (Trim Ref D18/184686) for a minimum of 28 days and consider the feedback in a future report to Council.

CARRIED

Note: At the conclusion of matters on the agenda Clr Watson raised the matter of whether requisite approvals had been sought and given for the fence at Bomaderry Primary School erected by SALT Ministries, and whether the subletting was permissible.

The General Manager took the question on notice.

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 9.44pm.

Clr Wells

CHAIRPERSON

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 24 July 2018

Page 1

SA18.174 Far North Collector Road - Timetable

HPERM Ref: D18/226409

Group: Assets & Works Group

Section: Asset Management

Purpose / Summary

To provide information in response to MIN18.486 (a further report be provided to Council on whether the timetable can be brought forward.)

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council note that with respect to the Far North Collector Road:

1. The project control group has initiated the first steps to commence the detailed design process.

2. Council staff will work very closely with the Roads and Maritime Services at a senior level in relation to this project to ensure that it is opened as soon as possible and that it complements other Roads and Maritime Services activity that is funded over the next few years.

3. At this early stage the completion is due to be achieved sometime in the 2022/23 financial year however once the detailed design is completed the soonest possible completion date will be clear.

4. That with respect to the North Nowra Link Road Council note that the North Nowra Link Road is still retained as a project in Council’s Contributions Plan and Council is still collecting contributions on relevant development in the area

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation

2. Not accept the recommendation

Implications: Not accepting the current approved timetable could commit Council to preparing an application to the Federal Government to have the existing funding profile amended. If an earlier delivery timetable cannot be achieved, this will further commit Council to preparing grant-funding variation submissions later in the project (to expand the delivery timetable). There is a risk in that no application to the Government can be guaranteed.

Background

At its Ordinary meeting on 28 June 2018 the Council resolved (MIN18.486):

That

3. A further report be provided to Council on whether the timetable can be brought forward.

4. Council ask Ann Sudmalis, Member for Gilmore, to attend a Councillor Briefing to explain the grant funding for the Far North Collector Road project.

5. The General Manager (Assets & Works) consider expediting this project.

Items 1 and 2 have been addressed.

This report has been prepared to address Items 3 and 5 of the resolution.

In response to Item 4 an invitation has been extended to Federal MP Ann Sudmalis to attend a Councillor briefing on 30 August 2018.

Financial Year Cash flow

As provided to Council in the June report, the following is an extract from the approved project proposal report (identifying a breakdown of the $13.8M approved by the Federal Government).

Milestone

2017/18

Australian Government ($m)

2018/19

Australian Government ($m)

2019/20

Australian Government ($m)

2020/21

Australian Government ($m)

2021/22

Australian Government ($m)

2022/23

Australian Government ($m)

Survey/Design/Project Development

$200,000

$100,000

Land Acquisition

$2,500,000

$1,500,000

Tender/ Contract award/Start Up

$500,000

Project completion

$2,700,000

$6,200,000

Submission of a satisfactory Post Completion Report

$100,000

Total

$2,700,000

$1,600,000

$3,200,000

$6,200,000

$100,000

To amend the funding profile will require an application to the Federal Government (not recommended at this preliminary stage of the project).

The following information needs to be considered:

· Examples of recently completed large local road projects (delivery timeframes from survey-design through to construction):

o The Forest Road project took 3 years to deliver

o The Pyree Lane project took 4 years to deliver

o The Turpentine Road project took 4 years to deliver

o The Naval College Road project took 3½ years to deliver

o By the time it is completed the Flinders Road project will have taken 4 years to deliver

· The Far North Collector Road project will require approval from RMS due to its connection at the northern end to Moss Vale Road (part of the State Road network) and because of the traffic signals required at Moss Vale Road.

· It has just taken 12 months to obtain all of the relevant approvals from RMS for the current Princes Highway-Junction Street traffic-pedestrian signals project.

The above are some examples indicating that it may not be realistic to expect that the Far North Collector Road (that still needs to be designed, land acquired, and RMS approvals required) can be brought forward ahead of the current four-year planning forecast.

It is noted that whilst the funding profile indicates a four year delivery timeframe, the funding allocated in the 2021-22 financial year could potentially be expended at the start of the financial year, effectively bringing the project forward by 11 months without requiring any changes to the four year funding profile, effectively the approved funding profile provides for a range of delivery times from 3-4 years.

Accordingly, it is considered too premature to expect the timetable can be brought forward ahead of the current four year planning timeframe forecast. Notwithstanding the current funding approval will allow the timeframe to be brought forward by up to 11 months, if that is found to be possible following design, land acquisitions, and relevant project approvals.

Community Engagement

The Far North Collector Road project was approved as part of the adopted Nowra Bomaderry Structure Plan (NBSP) “preferred road network”, and the NBSP was subject to extensive community consultation during its development.

Following the media release by Ann Sudmalis on 10 May 2017 (announcing funds for the Far North Collector Road) Council received several enquiries from the public, and in response an update on the project was placed on the Council website, with an indicative concept alignment. This link is being updated as appropriate.

Following the June 2018 Council decision, a further update of the information on Council’s website is already underway.

A detailed community engagement strategy is yet to be formulated but will be determined as early as possible by the project team.

Council continues to receive calls from the community about the North Nowra Link Road and querying whether the Far North Collector Road has replaced the North Nowra Link Road.

Consistent with the adopted Nowra-Bomaderry Structure Plan, the Far North Collector Road is “not” a replacement for the North Nowra Link Road, it was always required “in addition to” the North Nowra Link Road to offset the adverse traffic impacts associated with development envisaged under the Structure Plan.

Council was unsuccessful in obtaining an approval to build the North Nowra Link Road (central route), so has resolved to bring forward the construction of the Far North Collector Road to provide some traffic relief to Illaroo Road, whilst importantly facilitating development of the Moss Vale Road Urban Release Areas.

Whilst the construction of the Far North Collector Road will allow Council to defer a decision on the North Nowra Link Road for several years, the matter will still need to be resolved by Council going forward. If it is not constructed, traffic volumes on Illaroo Road will still increase significantly over time.

Because the North Nowra Link Road is still an integral component of the Nowra Bomaderry Structure Plan, in addition to the Far North Collector Road, at this point the North Nowra Link Road is still retained as a project in Council’s Contributions Plan and Council is still collecting contributions on relevant development in the area.

It is intended that this context will be addressed throughout the project as part of the community engagement strategy, and will be further discussed as part of the briefing to Council and Ann Sudmalis on 30 August 2018.

Financial Implications

The Far North Collector Road project is 100% funded by the Federal Government, based on the preliminary estimate of the project.

Risk Implications

Council can only claim expenses on the project that have been incurred. If Council requires an amendment to the delivery timetable to be approved by the Federal Government, and if Council applies and that is approved (but it turns out that the earlier timeframes cannot be achieved), there may no longer be any confirmed funding in the fourth year, which is a significant risk.

The preliminary cost of the project has been conducted by experienced staff using reference to similar types of works a detailed costing and thus any financial implications will not be known until the detailed design process is at the 80% complete milestone.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 24 July 2018

Page 1

SA18.185 Acceptance of Grants - Grey Headed Flying Fox and Biodiversity Corridor Mapping

HPERM Ref: D18/210530

Group: Planning Environment & Development Group

Section: Environmental Services

Purpose / Summary

To report to Council three grants: two in relation to managing a Grey-headed Flying-fox (GHFF) colony at the Elowra Wetland, Bolong Road, Bomaderry, and one in regard to the Illawarra Shoalhaven Region Plan - Biodiversity Corridor Mapping.

1. Grant 1 - $47,130 from Local Government NSW for “Implementing emergency flying-fox camp measures where there are significant community impacts” at the Elowra Wetland, Bolong Road, Bomaderry;

2. Grant 2 - $20,000 from the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage for developing a Grey-headed Flying-fox Camp Management Plan for the Elowra Wetland, Bolong Road, Bomaderry; and

3. Grant 3 - $25,000 from the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage to investigate and report on the viability of seven habitat corridors in the Shoalhaven as identified in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Region Plan.

Recommendation

That

1. Council accept the three grants totalling $92,130 from Local Government NSW (LGNSW - $47,130) and the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage (OEH - $45,000);

2. Council provide an in-kind contribution, as a condition of Grant 1, by allocating $48,840 from existing Environmental Services budget in the form of staff time and vegetation management; and

3. The General Manager thank both LGNSW and OEH, in writing, for the grant funding.

Options

1. As recommended.

Implications: The first grant offered from Local Government NSW (LGNSW) is subject to Council providing a matching or greater in-kind contribution ($48,840) for managing and implementing the grant. The full amount for managing the GHFF colony and community expectations is estimated at $95,970 (including grant money) over the current season so Council would be liable for the full amount if the grant is not accepted

The second grant of $20,000 from the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage (OEH) provides for a plan for management of the GHFF colony at Bomaderry, if required, into the future and is not subject to an in-kind contribution. Such a plan will assist in addressing and mitigating issues recently experienced with the colony.

The third grant for the habitat corridors is not subject to an in-kind contribution and will better inform OEH and Shoalhaven City Council as to the practicality of habitat corridors identified in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan.

2. Council returns the LGNSW grant $47,130 for “Implementing emergency flying-fox camp measures where there are significant community impacts”.

Implications: Council staff had to quickly apply for the grant from the LGNSW before the grants closed. The grant was then “announced” by the NSW government local member on 18 May 2018 following representations from local residents impacted by the close proximity of the GHFF colony to residences. Returning the grant will mean the full cost of managing the impacts of the colony will be met by Shoalhaven City Council.

3. Council returns the OEH grant of $20,000 for developing a Grey-headed Flying-fox Camp Management Plan for the Elowra Wetland, Bolong Road Bomaderry.

Implications: Council staff will not have guidance on how to manage the GHFF colony at Bomaderry should the GHFF return, in the same or greater numbers, next summer. There is no guarantee GHFF will return to the same location next summer.

4. Council returns the OEH grant of $25,000 to investigate and report on the viability of seven habitat corridors in the Shoalhaven as identified in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Region Plan.

Implications: OEH and Council will not know if “habitat corridors” currently identified in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan are in a condition to function as a habitat corridor.

Background

Grants 1 & 2; GHFF camp management - present and future

Grey-headed Flying-fox is a threatened species listed as vulnerable to extinction under both the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BC Act) and Commonwealth Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Actions related to the species, such as removal of roosting trees, requires a licence from the NSW Office of Environment & Heritage (OEH) and potentially approval from the Federal Environment Minister.

A large GHFF “camp” formed late 2017 and early this year (last summer) on a Council reserve near the corner of the Princes Highway and Bolong Road, Bomaderry known as the Elowra Wetland (see Figure One). As the number of GHFF increased over the summer months Shoalhaven City Council received complaints from six (6) nearby residents with concerns about unpleasant odours and noise from the camp affecting residents’ sleep. Council’s Environmental Services Section referred the complaints to the regional Office of Environment & Heritage (OEH) in Wollongong. Council was advised by OEH that, as the land manager, it was Council’s responsibility to manage the impacts of the colony / camp on residents and that grants were available from Local Government NSW to help in this regard. OEH also advised that actions related to the habitat of the GHFF camp would require and be controlled by a licence pursuant to the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Acting on this advice, Council’s Planning Environment & Development Group employed an additional staff member with expertise in managing the impacts of Flying-foxes in residential areas to successfully apply for a LGNSW grant and licence to undertake habitat modification actions from OEH. During discussions with OEH about the issue of the GHFF camp in close proximity to residents at Bomaderry, and that the camp may reform next summer, OEH offered Shoalhaven City Council the second grant to write a site specific GHFF Camp Management Plan so Council would be better prepared, should the number of GHFF reach the same or greater numbers in the future.

It is believed the GHFF camp at the subject site is made up of a local population that moved to its current location in 2015/2016 from approximately 1km to the west in Bomaderry Creek bushland. The reason why the camp moved is unknown and for the first two years Council did not receive any complaints from residents as the camp held a relatively small number of animals and was wholly contained within the Council reserve. This past summer the camp expanded significantly in number and also spread to adjoining privately owned lands. As the weather has cooled and the GHFF food resource (flowering eucalypts) has become depleted, the number of GHFF using the camp decreased from 10,000 plus animals at its peak to, at last estimate (29 June 2018) approximately 2,000.

Council’s Environmental Services Section received a number of telephone calls from two residences where GHFF were camped in trees very close to houses and over the outdoor living areas of those homes. Other residents also expressed concerns to OEH and Council Staff on site about the GHFF and the potential for diseases to be transferred to humans. Some residents were upset that other residents were waking them up in the early hours of the morning when they were banging cooking pots or similar together in an effort to dissuade the GHFF from roosting in certain trees.

It should also be noted that the majority of residents OEH and Council Staff have spoken to were in favour of the GHFF and appreciative of the natural phenomenon.

The LGNSW “emergency grant funding” will include funding of:

· the select removal of up to eight spotted gums (Corymbia maculata) on the Council reserve where GHFF were roosting very close to a resident’s home preventing the occupants from sleeping due to noise and odour;

· habitat modification along Brinawarr Street (selection midstorey tree and weed removal) to dissuade GHFF roosting, which along with the spotted gum tree removal, is the subject of the OEH licence with strict conditions;

· community consultation and education around the perceived risks of disease from GHFF;

· items such as washing line and car covers etc for protection from GHFF faeces; and

· education material to highlight the benefits of GHFF and the important role the species plays in the healthy functioning of the South Coast’s forests.

Figure One – Location of the Elowra Wetland

Grant 3: Habitat Corridors

OEH approached Council to utilise Staff’s strategic and local knowledge to better inform OEH on the functionality and practicality of habitat corridors identified in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan. The seven locations are:

1. along riparian areas around the township of Berry;

2. land within and around Shoalhaven Heads;

3. mapped bushland areas in Falls Creek;

4. mapped bushland areas in Tomerong;

5. a habitat corridor along areas near The Wool Road (St Georges Basin area);

6. mapped areas west of Mollymook; and

7. mapped areas between Termeil and Brooman.

The project will involve on ground field work and interpretation of recent aerial photography to identify habitat corridor attributes and report them to OEH for consideration.

Community Engagement

Grants 1 & 2: GHFF camp management – present and future

Since early 2017, Council’s Environmental Services Staff have responded to telephone calls in relation to GHFF from two residences where GHFF were roosting (camped) in trees in close proximity to homes and over outdoor living areas. There were also reports of residents banging pots to dissuade GHFF from roosting in trees nearby homes. Council staff reported the colony and the complaints from the two residents to OEH.

Following OEH advise that as the land manager council was responsible for dealing with the GHFF colony issues, Environmental Services and OEH visited the area and door knocked residences surrounding the colony in late February 2018. Some residents wanted action to address odour and noise from the camp. Information about GHFF and the perceived disease risk was left with residents or in letter boxes along with contact details for an Environmental Services Staff member. Calls from only three residences have been received by Environmental Services after this initial consultation.

Council Staff continued to contact and listen to affected residents as well as residents in support of the GHFF colony. Council also liaised with OEH about possible management actions with OEH making it clear very early on that attempting to relocate the GHFF colony was not an option to consider as it was unlikely to work, very expensive and that the number of persons affected was relatively small.

Council Staff have been in regular contact with the most affected residents (two households) and explained what could be done to alleviate the issues of noise and odour, including applying for grants to fund direct measures such as habitat modification (subject to the OEH licence). Contact with affected residents has now stopped, beyond planning for the implementation of habitat modification, since the odour and noise issues have mostly disappeared with the onset of winter.

Council staff now wish to act on the OEH licence using the grant funding to ensure residents are best equipped to cope should the GHFF colony re-establish next summer. It should be noted the OEH licence comes with strict conditions in relation to the timing of actions around habitat modifications with no actions permitted if the GHFF will be unduly disturbed. This requires certain actions to be completed before the end of July 2018. Consultation with residents confirmed unauthorised disturbance of the colony just makes the issue of noise from the colony worse for surrounding residents.

Grant 3 Habitat Corridors

Council staff will be in contact with relevant land owners should it be deemed necessary to enter private land as part of the project. Should permission to enter not be obtained then those portions of the habitat corridors will not be inspected.

Policy Implications

Grants 1 & 2; GHFF camp management – present and future

Lessons learned from last summer in relation to the impacts of the GHFF on residents and the benefits of GHFF would be useful for future Council policy in this area. The writing of a camp management plan for the Bomaderry GHFF colony would be particularly useful to inform any future Council policy.

Grant 3; Habitat Corridors

The findings of the project could guide future amendments to the Shoalhaven City Council Local Environment Plan and regional plans in relation to habitat corridors.

Financial Implications

Grants 1 & 2; GHFF camp management – present and future

Council Staff time since February 2018 has come from existing budgets. The grants offered provide financial assistance to Council for additional staff time in managing the camp and community expectations. If the grants are not accepted, Council will be burdened with the full cost of managing the impacts of the GHFF colony.

Grant 3; Habitat Corridors

Accepting the grant will cover the financial cost of Council Staff time to complete the works.

Risk Implications

Grants 1 & 2; GHFF – present and future

Given that affected residents have approached both the State and Federal parliamentary members, Shoalhaven City Council may be viewed as ignoring the pleas of a small number of its residents directly affected by the GHFF colony at Bomaderry, should the grants not be accepted. The issues surrounding the colony have been reported by the media (television and newspapers) on a number of occasions.

Grant 3; Habitat Corridors

Should this grant funding not be accepted, OEH and Council will not know if “habitat corridors” currently identified in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan are in a condition to function as a habitat corridor.

PARK NAME	VOTES
Banyula Park	28
Berry Adventure and Fun Park	5
Berry Adventure and Sports Park	5
Boongaree Park	38
Broughton Park	36
Diorama Park	3
North Street Community Park	7

REASON FOR LATE CONSIDERATION OF VOTE	VOTE
Email confirmation showed participant voted for a name other than what they had wished to vote for	Banyula Park
System failure (either technological or user error) – unable to submit online form	2 x Broughton Park

PARK NAME	VOTES
Banyula Park	29
Berry Adventure and Fun Park	5
Berry Adventure and Sports Park	5
Boongaree Park	38
Broughton Park	38
Diorama Park	3
North Street Community Park	7

Tenderer	Location
iGas operations Pty Ltd t/a Intelligas	Queensland
LGI limited	Queensland

Tenderer	Location
Ampcontrol Pty Ltd	Cameron Park NSW 2285