Agenda of Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 February 2019

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Membership

Mr James Caldwell - Chairperson

Clr Jo Gash

Clr Patricia White

Clr Nina Digiglio

Mr Paul Keech or delegate

Mr Phil Costello or delegate

Ms Annie Aldous

Mr Scott Baxter

Mr Brendan Goddard

Mr George Parker

Ms Lynnette Kearney

Mr Wesley Hindmarch

Non-voting members

All other Councillors

Quorum – Five (5) members

Role – Note: Tasks in relation to 1.4 will not be undertaken by Councillors

1. Committee’s Role:

1.1. Recommend to Council possible refinement of, and improvements to, the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy as the committee considers appropriate.

1.2. Develop a list of projects (with estimated costings) for Council to consider funding over a rolling three-year time frame, that will assist in achieving the ten elements of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy. The list is to be presented to an Ordinary Meeting of Council in February each year, and thus adopted by the Council.

1.3. Make a formal submission to Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD, in accordance with Council’s budgeting process.

1.4. Monitor the expenditure of Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD, in particular;

1.4.1. Approving design plans and specifications at the 20% complete and the 80% complete milestones.

1.4.2. In cases where the General Manager (or delegate) determines that capital works within the Nowra CBD, will be tendered out, the Committee Chair (or delegate) will approve the tender documentation before tenders are advertised.

1.4.3. The Committee Chair (or delegate) is to participate on tender evaluation panels for capital expenditure in the Nowra CBD.

1.4.4. Assign a Project Steering Sub Committee to endorse the payment of progress claims and endorse the approval of variations, for capital expenditure in the Nowra CBD.

1.4.5. In the case where Council staff undertake capital expenditure in the Nowra CBD the Committee will receive a report outlining progress (including expenditure updates) and plans at each of the Committee’s Meetings.

1.5. Act as a communication conduit between Council and the CBD stakeholders in respect to the ten elements within the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy and approved Capital Works within the Nowra CBD with reasonable support from Council, at Council’s expense, as determined by the General Manager.

1.6. Assist Council in advocating to the community the adopted list of projects that seek to deliver on the ten elements of the CBD Revitalisation Strategy.

1.7. Provide a report to Council each quarter outlining the year to date expenditure of Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD and present a report to an Ordinary Meeting of Council in August each year that explains the capital expenditure and any non-expenditure, for the previous financial year.

1.8. Consult with relevant stakeholders as needed.

Purpose

· To direct the development and implementation of the Revitalisation Strategy for the Nowra CBD and review as appropriate.

· To determine overall capital works programs established by the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy, as amended from time to time.

· To agree an annual capital works budget with council

· To identify and approve all expenditure of funds identified in the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy, additional funds allocated by council for capital expenditure in the Nowra CBD including any loans, grants or from funds from any other source.

· To act as a communication conduit between Council and the CBD stakeholders in respect to the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy with appropriate support from council as required.

· Assist council in advocating the adopted CBD Revitalisation Strategy to the community.

· Provide a report to council each year outlining progress towards achieving the goals set out in the CBD Revitalisation Strategy together with any recommendations for updating the Revitalisation Strategy.

· Consult with relevant stakeholders as needed

Delegated Authority

· To expend funds allocated to the CBD Nowra Revitalisation Strategy Committee by Council within the approved budget. Budget adopted $500,000.

· To establish sub Committees as deemed appropriate.

· To promote the advantages of the CBD inside and outside the area, including making press releases and promoting the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy project.

· To raise funds other than rates and loans to fund the objectives of the Committee.

· To expend funds raised outside of Council as the Committee deems appropriate, e.g. promotions, entertainment etc.

Nowra Revitalisation Committee - Sub/Working Groups

	Events / Promotions	Infrastructure (including Wayfinding signs)	Writers / Historic Walk	Banners / Perm Lighting	Logo / Communications
James Caldwell (Chair)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Cr Jo Gash	Yes			Yes
Cr Patricia White	Yes			Yes
Cr Nina Digiglio					Yes
Wesley Hindmarch		Yes			Yes
Vacant
Annie Aldous	Yes
Scott Baxter		Yes	Yes	Yes
Brendan Goddard		Yes			Yes
George Parker	Yes
Lynnette Kearney	Yes			Yes
Phil Costello			Yes
Paul Keech		Yes		Yes

SCC Contact (Director Rep)	Jessica Rippon	Tom Dimec	Gordon Clark	Tom Dimec	Jessica Rippon

Minutes of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

Meeting Date: Tuesday, 22 January 2019

Location: E-Meeting

The following members were present:

Mr James Caldwell - Chairperson

Clr Patricia White

Clr Nina Digiglio

Mr Phil Costello - Director, Planning Environment and Development

Mr Michael Harben – Acting Director Assets and Works

Ms Annie Aldous

Mr Brendan Goddard

1. Apologies / Leave of Absence

Nil

2. Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Clr White / James Caldwell)

That the Minutes of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee held on Wednesday 05 December 2018 be confirmed.

CARRIED

3. Declarations of Interest

Nil

Reports

CBD19.1 Possible International Artist Mural Project - Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Public Art - Out of Session Opportunity

HPERM Ref: D19/20775

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee:

1. Supports the commissioning of international Muralist, Case Maclaim, for a Nowra CBD Mural project in February/March 2019.

2. The subject of the mural proposal be open to creative freedom/expression of the artist with the following broad scope:

i. The artist to possibly incorporate his signature ‘hands’ or similar into the mural informally directing consumers into the CBD depending on the location of the final wall.

ii. First preference for the mural location is the southern brick wall of the former Squid Studios building on the eastern side of the Princes Highway

iii. Second preference for the mural location is the northern brick wall of the Isons Building on Bridge Road

3. Council staff negotiate with landowners of preferred walls listed above or other buildings if unavailable to secure owners consent and permission to enter to enable the mural to be painted.

4. Budget $30,000 (maximum) to cover the commissioning of the artist and associated costs for the mural project.

RESOLVED (Clr White / James Caldwell)

That the Committee:

1. Supports the commissioning of international Muralist, Case Maclaim, for a Nowra CBD Mural project in February/March 2019.

2. The subject of the mural proposal be open to creative freedom/expression of the artist with the following broad scope:

a. The artist to possibly incorporate his signature ‘hands’ or similar into the mural informally directing consumers into the CBD depending on the location of the final wall.

b. First preference for the mural location is the southern brick wall of the former Squid Studios building on the eastern side of the Princes Highway

c. Second preference for the mural location is the northern brick wall of the Isons Building on Bridge Road

3. Council staff negotiate with landowners of preferred walls listed above or other buildings if unavailable to secure owners consent and permission to enter to enable the mural to be painted.

4. Budget $30,000 (maximum) to cover the commissioning of the artist and associated costs for the mural project.

For: James Caldwell, Clr White, Clr Digiglio, Phil Costello, Michael Harben, Annie Aldous and Brendan Goddard

Against: Nil

CARRIED

Mr James Caldwell

CHAIRPERSON

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 February 2019

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CBD19.2 Reporting Grant Opportunities for Nowra CBD and Businesses.

HPERM Ref: D19/22124

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Economic Development

Purpose / Summary

The committee has requested that it be advised when grants become available for business, which may also include funding programs for CBD improvements.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee:

1. Be aware of the grant alerts as published on the Australian Government’s business.gov.au website and the Productive Shoalhaven website.

2. Receive grant alerts from Council officers or other sources within and external to Council.

3. Establish relationships with other agencies and key personnel who will be aware of funding opportunities such as Office of Premier and Cabinet, Regional Development Far South Coast, ministerial feeds etc.

Options

1. The recommendation be accepted as written.

2. An alternative resolution be proposed.

Background

At the meeting of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee in November 2018 a request was made that this committee receive information about upcoming business grants.

Government Business Assistance Programs

The Government has a comprehensive list of government assistance programs for business. These Government programs are found on https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/search

Subscription to Ministerial alert feeds can be established to be notified of any new programs.

The recently established Council Grants Officer position aims “to maximise external funding opportunities for Council” by supporting Council staff in the identification of funding sources, preparation of grant submissions and the reporting and acquittal of grants received. The position’s primary focus is Council projects.

A spin-off of the role is that Council officers can refer funding opportunities to the community and local business. It is then the responsibility of the relevant officer to assist the community or business organisation to prepare grant applications, if requested. The Grants Officer supports Council staff if requested but does not offer a consultancy service directly to community organisations, groups or businesses.

The CBD Revitalisation Committee can and will be informed of upcoming grant opportunities and if wishing to proceed to an application will be required to liaise with relevant Council officers or other experts relevant to the funding scheme. This may include Regional Development Australia Far South Coast, Shoalhaven Tourism office, the Business Development Manager of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, Office of Small Business etc.

Previous Grant Alerts – To Business

The CBD Revitalisation Committee can access the details of and links to regular grants by visiting the Productive Shoalhaven webpage. Examples to date have included:

· Jobs for NSW – provides financial support to start-ups and emerging and fast-growth small to medium enterprises (SMEs) to scale and grow new jobs in NSW.

· Regional Growth Loans – supports projects which involve the construction of new infrastructure, or the upgrade or extension of existing infrastructure that provide economic and social benefits to regional and remote areas.

· Building Partnerships grants help revenue generating technology start-ups become the high-growth, job-creating businesses of tomorrow.

· Fund new marketing partnerships in Australia or overseas to develop innovative, new-to-market solutions.

· Minimum Viable Product Grant support promising start-ups with the funds needed to progress from a proof of concept stage to a minimum viable product.

· The Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program.

· Entrepreneurs Program – AusIndustry – to businesses through Accelerating Commercialisation (SME), Business Management and Innovation Connections.

· Small Business Grants – NSW Office of State Revenue – The Small Business Grant (Employment Incentive) will provide employers up to $2,000 per new employee for businesses that don't pay payroll.

Government Grant Programs for capital improvements to Civic Infrastructure

In recent years both levels of government have provided financial programs to assist councils (and sometimes not for profit incorporated community groups) to apply for grant funding to upgrade facilities where a demonstrated economic benefit can be articulated.

Council considers these programs and assesses what projects can be developed that address the program criteria and fit within other grant guidelines.

For the recent Building Better Regions Fund the following infrastructure projects were submitted:

o Burton St (Vincentia) Project to the value of $3.4m, seeking grant funding of $1.7m with a Council contribution of $1.7m

o Sydney & Owen St roundabout at Huskisson to the value of $1.99m, seeking grant funding of $997,000 with a Council contribution of $997,000

o A project at Myola to provide car park, public amenities, and traffic calming to the value of $925,000, seeking grant funding of $462,500 with a Council contribution of $462,500

o A project at Berry to provide a nature play area, including learn to ride facility, in Boongaree Park to the value of $956,000 seeking grant funding of $478,000 with a Council contribution of $478,000

o A project at Swanhaven to provide a shared user path bridge to the value of $1.5m, seeking grant funding of $750,000 with a Council contribution of $750,000

o Stage 1 of the Riversdale Masterplan at Riversdale, seeking grant funding of up to $9.5m, with total project cost being $19m.

4. Each of these projects were developed by Council staff and successful projects will be announced in coming months.

5. In previous grant programs, projects within the Nowra CBD had been submitted but none had been successful.

Issues for the CBD Committee to consider

1. Grant Eligibility – auspicing arrangements. This would be required where a funding scheme was open to Council or not-for profit organisations and where business enterprises where not eligible. As a committee of Council, the CBD Committee may be eligible for certain grants but would need to have Council approval/endorsement to lodge an application. The Building Better Regions Fund would be an example of this situation. Recently Council auspiced an application to BBRF for a grant for the Bundanon Trust. If successful Council will receive the grant funds and manage, report and acquit the grant money.

2. CBD Committee governance – As a Council committee any application would need to comply with the Grant guidelines and Council priorities. It is acknowledged that the Committee has funds but would need to commit these funds where applicable to meet matching funding commitment.

3. Council concurrence – As owner of the asset within the CBD the agreement of Council to endorse the project application is required. Council also needs to consider other projects and has to prioritise its efforts and community need in line with the eligibility criteria and adopted Council Plans.

4. Grant timeframes – Often grant schemes are announced with very tight timeframes between opening and closing. Council staff are prepared for this with projects ready or “on the shelf”. Council cannot predict or be responsible for projects that the CBD Committee have in the pipeline. The CBD committee need to be cognisant of these timeframes and need to have realistic expectations about being informed of upcoming grants. Having projects “shovel ready” is imperative – however proceeding with applications for projects that may not be consistent with Council’s forward strategic, operational or infrastructure planning is counterproductive for the reputation of Council as an applicant and will lead to early elimination from the assessment process.

5. Funding contribution – most funding programs require a contribution from the applicant. At least 50% contribution is usually the norm, but it may be higher or lower. This contribution is required as cash and cannot be expended prior to the grant agreement has been executed by Council and Government. Grant applicants must be transparent and be able to prove that they have cash reserved specifically for the grant funded project.

6. Committees role in recommending projects to Council for funding – in accordance with clause 1.2 in the Committee’s Terms of Reference, certain projects should be made shovel ready in anticipation of a grant opportunity being available. This list of projects can be held by the General Manager to be considered by Council against the program criteria and other projects across the City.

Community Engagement

The Committee would be expected to undertake any community engagement necessary for submitting a grant application.

Policy Implications

This report should be read in conjunction with any policy and procedures applicable to the Committees operations and delegations.

Financial Implications

Matching funding by grant applicants needs to be identified prior to lodgement. In the case of the Committee, it does have its own funds. Businesses would need to identify and commit any funds required.

Risk Implications

Risks associated with any construction project usually need to be identified prior to lodgement of substantial grants. For minor grants, this requirement is less onerous.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 February 2019

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CBD19.3 Update - Review of Terms of Reference and Membership

HPERM Ref: D19/12187

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Human Resources, Governance & Customer Service

Attachments: 1. Draft Terms of Reference - January 2019 ⇩

Purpose / Summary

To advise the Committee of the recent Council resolution as detailed in the report and to provide a draft amended Terms of Reference for consideration by the Committee.

Recommendation

That Council adopt the amended Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee Terms of Reference, noting that Council MIN18.962 and MIN18.1012 are now included within the proposed amendment.

Options

1. As Recommended

Implications: The Terms of Reference could be considered at the 26 February 2019 Ordinary Meeting and updated accordingly.

2. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee suspend all meetings and hold a workshop of all Committee Members to prepare a draft Terms of Reference for the Council to consider adopting, and not hold any further meetings until Council considers the Committees proposed amendments and adopts an updated Terms of Reference.

Implications: At the Committee Strategic Workshop on 1 August 2018 the current Terms of Reference was identified as a major contributor to the confusion around the operation of the Committee. Pursuing this option will continue this confusion.

Background

Council at its meeting on Tuesday 18 December 2018 resolved (MIN18.1012) to adopt the following amendments to the Terms of Reference of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee (as recommended by the Committee at the December Meeting (CBD18.118)

RESOLVED:

“That given the Councillor membership on the committee, the Council adopt the following as the Role of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee and thus allow the Terms of Reference to now be reviewed in the context of these roles.

Note: Tasks in relation to 1.4 will not be undertaken by Councillors

1. Committee’s Role:

1.1. Recommend to Council possible refinement of, and improvements to, the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy as the committee considers appropriate.

1.3. Make a formal submission to Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD, in accordance with Council’s budgeting process.

1.4. Monitor the expenditure of Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD, in particular;

1.4.1. Approving design plans and specifications at the 20% complete and the 80% complete milestones.

1.4.3. The Committee Chair (or delegate) is to participate on tender evaluation panels for capital expenditure in the Nowra CBD.

1.4.4. Assign a Project Steering Sub Committee to endorse the payment of progress claims and endorse the approval of variations, for capital expenditure in the Nowra CBD.

1.6. Assist Council in advocating to the community the adopted list of projects that seek to deliver on the ten elements of the CBD Revitalisation Strategy.

1.7 Provide a report to Council each quarter outlining the year to date expenditure of Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD and present a report to an Ordinary Meeting of Council in August each year that explains the capital expenditure and any non-expenditure, for the previous financial year.

1.8. Consult with relevant stakeholders as needed.

The above resolution is provided for information and now forms part of the Terms of Reference of the Committee.

Council via the Strategy and Assets Committee also resolved the following on Tuesday 11 December 2018 (MIN18.962), also as recommended by the Committee

That:

1. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee notes and receives for information the recommendations from the Workshop report of 1 August 2018.

2. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy be promoted and reviewed regularly.

3. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Action Plan be formalised, monitored and revisited annually.

4. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee be consulted in the preparation of the Draft Capital Works Program in relation to works in the Nowra CBD

5. The Terms of Reference and delegations of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee be amended to expand the membership to provide a broader community representation.

6. The frequency of meetings of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee be increased to monthly meetings until 31 March 2019 (excluding January 2019), after which meetings will be held bi-monthly meetings (6 per year).

To assist the Committee with the review of the terms of reference, a draft has been provided as an attachment to this report to assist in consideration and discussion by the Committee. The task of the Committee is now to reach consensus on a Draft Terms of Reference which is to be referred to the Council for adoption.

In relation to recommended amendment in the Attachment to Section 2.1 of the Draft Terms of Reference, the wording of the funding is suggested to be changed to correct the reference to the source of the funds. The new wording reflects the following information provided by Council’s Chief Finance Officer:

“The source of funds for the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee is an allocation from the Business – Nowra rates subcategory. Funds are allocated annually to the Committee’s agreed program via the budget process and unspent funds from previous years are revoted in the June Quarterly Budget Review.”

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 February 2019

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CBD19.5 Update - Maintenance Responsibility - Raised Planter Boxes - Nowra CBD

HPERM Ref: D19/9880

Group: Assets & Works Group

Attachments: 1. Planter Boxes Overall Site Plan - Nowra CBD ⇩

Purpose / Summary

To allow Council to consider the allocation of responsibilities for Planter Boxes in the Nowra CBD.

Note: this report is an updated version of report 18.116 Update - Maintenance Responsibility - Raised Planter Boxes - Nowra CBD which was tabled at the 5 December 2018 Committee meeting and deferered to be considered at this meeting.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee note the following responsibilities for planter boxes in the Nowra CBD.

Arrangements for Privately Funded Planter Boxes in the Nowra CBD

1. The planter boxes are to be to a style and standard approved by Council and will be located in agreed locations (as per approved Streetscape Plans) and are considered to be a donation to the Nowra CBD Streetscape.

2. The donators will be recognised by placing a small brass plaque on the shop side of the planter box prior to the boxes being installed.

3. The Shoalhaven City Council will assume ownership responsibilities of the planter boxes.

4. The Shoalhaven City Council will be responsible for planting, replanting and repairing damage by vandals in respect of the planter boxes.

5. The shop owners/tenants/donors will water and weed the planter boxes and generally keep them in a tidy manner (i.e. remove litter etc).

6. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee will monitor the shop owners’/tenants’/donors’ efforts and encourage a high standard of attention to the planter boxes.

7. Should the planter boxes not be adequately maintained by the shop owner/tenant/donors or circumstances change and the location of the planter box is no longer safe or practical, Shoalhaven City Council will attempt to relocate the planter box to another location within the Nowra CBD. Prior to doing this the donor will be given written notice of Council’s intention and a reasonable opportunity to remove the original donated planter box and take them back into their ownership.

Arrangements for Council Funded Planter Boxes in the Nowra CBD

1. The planter boxes are to be to a style and standard approved by Council and will be located in agreed locations (as per approved Streetscape Plans).

2. Not used

3. Not used

4. The Shoalhaven City Council will be responsible for planting, replanting and repairing damage by vandals in respect of the planter boxes.

5. The shop owners/tenants will water and weed the planter boxes and generally keep them in a tidy manner (i.e. remove litter etc).

6. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee will monitor the shop owners’/tenants’ efforts and encourage a high standard of attention to the planter boxes.

7. Should the planter boxes, not be adequately maintained by the shop owner/tenant or circumstances change and the location of the planter box is no longer safe or practical Shoalhaven City Council will attempt to relocate the planter box to another location within the Nowra CBD.

Options

Nil.

Background

At the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee meeting on 7 November 2018, it was resolved that:

“That the General Manager (Assets and Works) submit a report to the Committee in relation to the ongoing maintenance of the planter boxes installed in the Nowra CBD.”

Council’s records indicate that there are 34 raised planter boxes in the Nowra CBD, located as per the attached Plan Ref 2736_139 (Attachment 1).

The background on their installation is varied; however the following is consistent:

1. They are placed to beautify the streetscape

2. They are placed to the satisfaction of adjacent business owners

3. They are on Council’s property and thus are Council’s responsibility.

Recently Council installed 12 planter boxes including 9 privately funded planter boxes as follows.

PB23 21 Kinghorne Street; funded by Annie Aldous

PB27 73 North Street; funded by James Caldwell

PB28 73 North Street; funded by James Caldwell

PB29 55 Berry Street; funded by James Caldwell & Gary Lees

PB30 55 Berry Street; funded by James Caldwell & Gary Lees

PB31 55 Berry Street; funded by James Caldwell & Gary Lees

PB32 55 Berry Street; funded by James Caldwell & Gary Lees

PB31 112A Kinghorne Street; funded by Scott Baxter

PB32 112A Kinghorne Street; funded by Scott Baxter

The planter boxes were funded by the abovementioned individuals on the condition that Council would replace plants as required; however the individuals would be responsible for the daily maintenance. No formal agreement was signed or exchanged.

Recently the issue of long term maintenance and ownership responsibilities for the planter boxes has been questioned.

The annual cost to maintain the 34 raised planter boxes in the Nowra CBD has recently been estimated to be approximately $31,000 per year and involves watering, fertilising and general maintenance as follows:

· 1 service per week from 1 April to 30 September

· 2 services per week from 1 October to 31 March

· Replacement of stolen plants as required

If a rain event occurs in a week for scheduled maintenance, then there would not be a requirement to water; however if there are high winds then watering is essential.

The annual cost does not cover any periodic refurbishment to the boxes such as painting etc.

After various discussions it is generally understood that in funding these planter boxes the funders anticipated that;

1. The planter boxes would be located in agreed locations and would be a donation to the Nowra CBD Streetscape.

2. The donators would be recognised by placing a small brass plaque on the shop side of the planter box.

3. The Shoalhaven City Council would assume ownership responsibilities of the planter boxes.

4. The Shoalhaven City Council would be responsible for planting, replanting and repairing damage by vandals in respect of the planter boxes.

5. The shop owners/tenants/donors would water and weed the planter boxes and generally keep them in a tidy manner (i.e. remove litter etc).

6. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee would monitor the shop owners’/tenants’/donors’ efforts and encourage a high standard of attention to the planter boxes.

7. Should the planter boxes not be adequately maintained by the shop owner/tenant/donors or circumstances change and the location of the planter box is no longer safe or practical, Shoalhaven City Council will relocate the planter box to another location within the Nowra CBD. Prior to doing this the donor will be given written notice of Council’s intention and a reasonable opportunity to remove the original donated planter box and take them back into their ownership.

On 18 January 2019 the Director Assets and Works confirmed, in a letter to the individuals concerned, that the above arrangements are agreed, and the nine privately funded planter boxes will be managed accordingly.

Consideration

It is appropriate that any further privately funded planter boxes be covered by a written agreement as to the standard and the responsibilities of the planter boxes.

The following is proposed from the above, with the tense changed to reflect an “agreement before the fact” not an understanding after the fact and to cover the standard and style of the planter boxes.

Arrangements for Privately Funded Planter Boxes in the Nowra CBD

1. The planter boxes are to be to a style and standard approved by Council and will ~~would~~ be located in agreed locations (as per approved Streetscape Plans) and are considered to ~~would~~ be a donation to the Nowra CBD Streetscape.

2. The donators will ~~would~~ be recognised by placing a small brass plaque on the shop side of the planter box prior to the boxes being installed.

3. The Shoalhaven City Council will ~~would~~ assume ownership responsibilities of the planter boxes.

4. The Shoalhaven City Council will ~~would~~ be responsible for planting, replanting and repairing damage by vandals in respect of the planter boxes.

5. The shop owners/tenants/donors will ~~would~~ water and weed the planter boxes and generally keep them in a tidy manner (ie remove litter etc).

6. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee will ~~would~~ monitor the shop owners’/tenants’/donors’ efforts and encourage a high standard of attention to the planter boxes.

7. Should the planter boxes, not be adequately maintained by the shop owner/tenant/donors or circumstances change and the location of the planter box is no longer safe or practical, Shoalhaven City Council will attempt to relocate the planter box to another location within the Nowra CBD. Prior to doing this the donor will be given written notice of Council’s intention and a reasonable opportunity to remove the original donated planter box and take them back into their ownership.

The following is proposed to endure that there are no gaps in the understanding in respect to the ownership and maintenance of planter boxes

Arrangements for Council Funded Planter Boxes in the Nowra CBD.

1. The planter boxes are to be to a style and standard approved by Council and will be located in agreed locations (as per approved Streetscape Plans).

2. Not used

3. Not used

4. The Shoalhaven City Council will be responsible for planting, replanting and repairing damage by vandals in respect of the planter boxes.

5. The shop owners/tenants will water and weed the planter boxes and generally keep them in a tidy manner (i.e. remove litter etc).

6. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee will monitor the shop owners/tenants efforts and encourage a high standard of attention to the planter boxes.

Note: the requirement for shop owners/tenants will water and weed the planter boxes and generally keep them in a tidy manner (ie remove litter etc), is a requirement in the spirit of the “requirement” of property owners to maintain the nature strip in front of their property.

Financial Implications

Nil significant implication. The planter boxes are already installed. Any future installations will be considered in the context of this arrangement.

Any funding proposed to be covered by Council will need to come from existing operational budgets or future capital budgets as determined by the Council.

Risk Implications

No new implications as a result of this report.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 February 2019

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CBD19.6 Bannerconda Banner Systems - Policy and Management Strategy - Southern Side Shoalhaven Bridge to Moss Street

HPERM Ref: D19/23187

Group: Assets & Works Group

Section: Asset Management

Attachments: 1. Nowra CBD Banner Policy ⇩

2. Bannerconda Brochure ⇩

3. Draft CBD Nowra Banner Policy 2019 ⇩

Purpose / Summary

To allow the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee to consider the responsibilities for the proposed installation and management of banners (using the Bannerconda ® system) onto the 18 existing Endeavour Energy light poles on the Princes Highway from the southern end of the Shoalhaven River Bridge to Moss Street, as per the Committee’s resolution on the 7 November 2018.

Recommendation

That Council adopt the revised Nowra CBD Banner Policy (POL16/243) as presented to reflect the installation and management of banners (using the Bannerconda ® system) onto the 18 existing Endeavour Energy light poles on the Princes Highway from the southern end of the Shoalhaven River Bridge to Moss Street with specific regard to the following:

	Item	Approved by	Funded by	Actioned by
1	Who will fund the initial purchase and installation of the 18 Bannerconda® systems ($35,000).	Council (Council resolution)	The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee	Council (Assets and Works)
2	Who will be responsible for arranging the banner designs and the costs associated with achieving those designs ($200 per design).	As per Draft Policy Nowra CBD Banner Policy	By the Applicant.	As per Draft Policy Nowra CBD Banner Policy
3	Who will responsible for the installation of the banners onto the Bannerconda® system ($1,800)	As per Draft Policy Nowra CBD Banner Policy	By the Applicant.	Council (Assets and Works)
4	Who will fund the ongoing replacement and installation of any worn banners on the 18 Bannerconda® systems ($3,600 per set of 18 3 months life).	Council (Assets and Works)	By the Applicant.	Council (Assets and Works)
5	Who will be responsible for the replacement of worn and faded banners	Council (Assets and Works)	Council (Assets and Works)	Council (Assets and Works)

Options

1. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee receives the report for information (recommended).

Implications: The report is noted.

Background

One of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee’s initiatives to revitalise the CBD is to install colourful banners along the highway on the existing light poles.

At the 18 September 2018 Committee meeting staff advised the committee that approval from Endeavour Energy (the pole owners) had been obtained to install the Bannerconda® systems onto (non-timber) poles on both sides of the Princes Highway from the Shoalhaven River to the Worrigee Street intersection.

The Bannerconda® system was chosen predominately because the system allows Banners to be installed from the ground using a pulley system. The details of the Bannerconda® system are as per the attached brochure (Attachment 2).

Based on the report to the Committee at the 7 November 2018 meeting, the cost to supply and install 18 Bannerconda® systems is approximately $35,000.

At the 7 November 2018 meeting the Committee confirmed that it was only interested in installing banners along the “green section” from Shoalhaven River to Moss Street (a total of 18 poles) and resolved as follows.

1. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee rescind its resolution with respect to Item CBD18.74 – Update – Report – Banners – Worrigee Street - from the meeting of 10 October 2018; and

2. The General Manager (Assets and Works) provide a report to the Committee regarding the Policy on banners/flags, proposing a Management Strategy and costing and implications for installation of Bannerconda (from the southern side of the Bridge to Moss street)

3. Council seek assurance from RMS regarding the poles that have the Bannerconda® system in place, will they be replaced once works on the Nowra Bridge project are completed.

The RMS is unable to give any assurance regarding the poles that have the Bannerconda® system in place, other than the standard position which is where items are temporality removed they will be replaced to the current standard and where items are relocated they will be relocated to the current standard.

CBD18.117 Bannerconda Banner Systems - Policy and Management Strategy - Southern Side Shoalhaven Bridge to Moss Street HPERM Ref: D18/423748

RESOLVED (Clr White / James Caldwell)

That:

1. The matter relating to the Bannerconda system be deferred

2. The Banner Sub-Committee meet to discuss the review of the Flag Policy at a date to be confirmed in January 2019.

CARRIED

On 5 December 2018 the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee deferred this matter to the Subcommittee for consideration.

The subcommittee met on 16 January 2019 and was attended by:

The subcommittee Clr P White, Clr J Gash, Jemma Tribe, James Caldwell, David (Nowra Business Chambers)

The subcommittee discussed various matters in relation to the current existing Nowra CBD Banner Policy (POL16/243 – Attachment 1) which sets the protocols and standards for the management of current banners within Nowra CBD.

The part of the Princes Highway in question falls within the defined Nowra CBD area and thus is covered by the existing policy.

The following is extracted from the policy for the committee’s convenience:

Any application under this policy is to be consistent with the following policy outcomes:

· Banner poles are to be used primarily for the promotion and marketing of the Nowra CBD, its events and activities.

· Banner poles will be available for use by commercial and not-for-profit groups at times when they are not being used by Council. Council sponsored events will take precedence.

· Banners should contribute towards the entry statement for the Nowra CBD.

· Banners may be used to celebrate significant public holidays e.g.: Christmas, Australia Day and Easter and may extend to use of the poles for bunting, decoration, lights or festive décor.

· Requests to have a single promotion for a special event or occasion may be considered by Council. The organiser of such will be responsible for all expenses incurred with the production, installing and removing of banners to Council policies.

· Council reserves the right to exclude any events or activities that are not legally, socially or politically in keeping with community values.

The custom designed banners are estimated to be $200 per banner. The manufacturer recommends that banners be replaced on a three-monthly basis due to wear, tear and fading.

The cost to purchase 18 Banners is $3,600 per installation (approximately $14,400 per annum, based on four sets of banners per year)

The cost to install the 18 banners is approximately $1,800 per installation including traffic control. By the Applicant.

Consideration

In regard to a Management Strategy and costing and implications for installation of Bannerconda (from the southern side of the Bridge to Moss street) the following is proposed in accordance with the revised Policy:

	Item	Approved by	Funded by	Actioned by
1	Who will fund the initial purchase and installation of the 18 Bannerconda® systems ($35,000).	Council (Council resolution)	The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee	Council (Assets and Works)
2	Who will be responsible for arranging the banner designs and the costs associated with achieving those designs ($200 per design).	As per Draft Policy Nowra CBD Banner Policy	By the Applicant.	As per Draft Policy Nowra CBD Banner Policy
3	Who will responsible for the installation of the banners onto the Bannerconda® system ($1,800)	As per Draft Policy Nowra CBD Banner Policy	By the Applicant.	Council (Assets and Works)
4	Who will fund the ongoing replacement and installation of any worn banners on the 18 Bannerconda® systems ($3,600 per set of 18 3 months life).	Council (Assets and Works)	By the Applicant.	Council (Assets and Works)
5	Who will be responsible for the replacement of worn and faded banners	Council (Assets and Works)	Council (Assets and Works)	Council (Assets and Works)

The subcommittee concluded without a definitive resolution of changes to the existing policy. The attached is a draft revised policy prepared following the thrust of the discussions at the Sub Committee (see attachment 3)

The essence of the changes is listed below;

· With additional 18 existing Endeavour Energy light poles on the Princes Highway from the southern end of the Shoalhaven River Bridge to Moss Street

· Who will be responsible for arranging the banner designs and the costs associated with achieving those designs. By the Applicant.

· Who will responsible for the cost & installation of the banners onto the Bannerconda® system. By the Applicant.

· Who will fund the ongoing replacement and installation of any worn banners on the 18 Bannerconda® systems. By the Applicant.

· Who will be responsible for the removal of worn and faded banners. Cost to be beared by the promoter for council remove and replace.

· For any enquiries in relation to booking the Nowra CBD Banner Poles, or corporate sponsorship, please contact Council’s ~~Economic Development Section on (02) 4429 3388.~~ Finance Corp & Community Tourism Section on (02) 44 29 3248

Policy and Management Implications

The existing Nowra CBD Banner Policy (POL16/243 – Attachment 1) sets the protocols and standards for the management of banners within Nowra CBD. The amendments are considered minor and in the spirit of the existing policy.

Financial Implications

Any funding proposed to be covered by the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee will need to be drawn from the capital allocation that Council has delegated expenditure responsibility to the committee.

In cases where Council quotes the cost of works to the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee that quote will constitute an upper limit to the cost of the works and the Committee will be required to fund the actual costs up to this amount.

Any funding proposed to be covered by Council will need to come from existing operational budgets or future capital budgets as determined by the Council.

Applicants for banners will be charged to cover 100% of the costs incurred by Council in installing and removing the banners

Risk Implications

Traffic and pedestrian management

Once the Bannerconda Systems are fixed to Endeavour Energy poles the risk to pedestrians and Council employees who erect the banners is considered low, as the securing of the banner onto the Bannerconda® system is done from the ground.

Whoever installs the Bannerconda® systems will be required to implement a Site Safety Plan specific to the tasks being undertaken prior to commencing any work – it is noted that there is a three-metre-wide road shoulder on both sides of the highway. The road shoulders provide an opportunity to mitigate risks and avoid complications with pedestrians and highway traffic and should be considered in the creation of a Traffic Management Plan (TMP). No work is to proceed until the TMP is approved and implemented.

Timeline to procure and install

Staff have been advised by the Bannerconda supplier that there is limited stock in Australia of the patented Bannerconda® systems and new stock is not expected to arrive until early 2019.

Commentary

It’s worth noting that the location of a Bannerconda® system on a light pole does not guarantee the ongoing existence of that light pole and it is the RMS or Endeavour Energy’s right to determine the location of poles.

Work along the Princes Highway requires negotiation with RMS and it is advisable to note that this phase of the approval process may affect the timing of the installation phase.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 February 2019

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CBD19.7 All Day Parking Signs - Review - Nowra CBD

HPERM Ref: D19/20067

Group: Assets & Works Group

Section: Asset Management

Attachments: 1. CBD Nowra Day Parking Location Plan ⇩

Purpose / Summary

The purpose of this report is to advise the Committee of the progress and the review of the All-Day Parking Signs in the CBD of Nowra.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee note that the location and condition of directional and entry signage to All-Day off-street parking within the Nowra CBD is sufficient and compliant with current standards (regarding position and size).

Options

1. Do nothing; Note that the location and condition of directional and entry signage to All-Day off-street parking within the Nowra CBD is sufficient and compliant with current standards (regarding position and size).

Implications: Nil. The arrangement meets current minimum standards and the wear and tear of the existing arrangement will be addressed as part of Council’s normal asset management practices

2. Allocate $15,000 from the Nowra CBD Revitalisation funds to augment the existing All Day off street carparking signage arrangement with larger, more prominent signage, update the existing public information on Council’s website and add the updated information to a multi-user platform, such as Google Maps.

Implications: Carpark information (and possibly utilisation) will be provided to a higher than minimum standard.

Background

In the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee meeting on 7 November 2018 (CBD18.98), it was resolved that:

RESOLVED (By consent)

That the General Manager (Assets and Works) review the current All-Day Parking Signs and report back to the Committee on options for providing indication/location signs for All Day Parking in the CBD

Nowra CBD currently has approximately 830 all day off-street parking spaces spread among six carparks within the CBD.

Council staff have identified, through desktop assessments and an on-site investigation, the location and condition of directional and entry signage to All-Day off-street parking within the Nowra CBD. The existing signage is typically in good condition with some minor wear and tear exhibited in streets with higher traffic flow.

The current location of car parking and signage is shown on the attached plan (Attachment 1).

It has been noted that directional signage to off street parking in Nowra, while sufficient and compliant with current standards (regarding position and size), could be improved through the augmentation of existing signage and implementation of online tools.

Community Engagement

Nil

Policy Implications

Nil

Financial Implications

Any funding proposed to be covered by Council will need to come from existing operational budget or further capital budget as determined by Council.

Risk Implications

Nil

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 February 2019

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CBD19.8 Parking Infringements in the Shoalhaven - Parking Fine Concessions for Constituents

HPERM Ref: D18/434301

Group: Planning Environment & Development Group

Section: Building & Compliance Services

Purpose / Summary

At the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee meeting on 5 December 2018, it was resolved that a report be provided on locations, times and revenue from parking infringements within the Shoalhaven.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee recommend penalty notice charges for overtime carparking, overtime street parking and not stand vehicle within marked space all remain at the current rate and not be reduced by 25% as suggested by the State Government (i.e. remain at $112.00 and not reduce to $84.00).

Options

1. Council approve the recommendation as proposed

Implications: There are no changes to the current system. The $112.00 is considered a deterrent for these offences.

2. Council approve the 25% reduction in fees to reduce them from $112.00 to $84.00.

Implications: This reduced fee may not act as a deterrent and people may opt to accept the penalty to obtain the parking space for an extended period. This was the case in previous years when the penalty amounts were much lower. A return to this situation may not be favourable as it reduces the turnover of spaces for the four main centres throughout the city. This could impact on business within these areas.

Background

In June 2018 the NSW Treasurer advised it would be possible for councils to consider a 25% reduction for ten parking penalties.

There is currently no paid parking in the Shoalhaven and Council is not considering such a proposal. Only three of the ten penalties apply in the Shoalhaven and these are underlined below (see items 1, 4 and 7).

1. Park continuously for longer than permitted ($112)

2. Park without current ticket displayed

3. Park after ticket expired

4. Stand vehicle in area longer than allowed ($112)

5. Stop in restricted parking area ($112)

6. Park after meter expired

7. Not stand vehicle in marked parking space ($112)

8. Remain in ticket-operated loading zone after ticket expired

9. Park without current loading zone ticket

10. Park without paying meter fee

The purpose of timed parking is to turn over spaces so that business in the town centres can benefit. The current fine for overstays is $112.00 and this does act as a deterrent. This results in people being more likely to move their vehicles, freeing up space for others to do their business in town. Reducing the fee may result in some people accepting the cost as “paid parking” and stay there all day (you can only be booked once a day). Fines are only issued to vehicle owners who overstay the time and not to those who do the right thing.

Council’s Parking Officers currently give a ten (10) minute grace period in timed parking areas. The Parking Officers also issue official warnings if the situation warrants.

Report

The penalties under consideration for review relate mainly to timed parking. The following areas are implicated within the city:

(a) Nowra: In Nowra CBD it relates to the Council-managed parking areas (Stewart Place and Egans Lane) which provide 2-3 hours of free parking. Council staff also monitor some of the private carparks at the request of the owners (i.e. Stockland Nowra, Nowra Mall, Aldi etc). There is also timed street parking, and this varies from 15 minutes up to 1 hour.

(b) Berry: In Berry it relates to the Council-managed parking areas (Albert Court and Princess Street) which provide 3 hour free parking. There is also timed street parking, and this varies from 15 minutes up to 3 hours.

(c) Huskisson: In Huskisson it only relates to timed street parking and this varies from 30 minutes up to 2 hours. The Council-managed car parks in Owen Street, Currambene Street and White Sands are all day parking with no restrictions.

(d) Ulladulla and Milton: In Ulladulla and Milton it relates to the Council-managed parking areas (Boree Street East, Boree Street West, South Street, Wason Street, etc) which provide 1-3 hours of free parking. Council staff also monitor some of the private carparks at the request of the owners (i.e. Aldi & Coles car parks). There is also timed street parking, and this varies from 15 minutes up to 2 hours.

The citywide ticket value of all parking related penalties for the 2018 calendar year was $853,146. Based on trends from previous years, approximately 70% of these will be paid. This figure includes all parking offences such as parking in an accessible space without a sticker, parking in a “No Standing Zone”, parking in a “No Parking Zone”, parking in a “Taxi Zone” or “Bus Zone” and other offences such as parking across driveways, on footpaths and too close to intersections.

The following table sets out the number of penalties issued in all areas for the calendar year 2018 for the offence codes relating to the proposed reduction in penalties.

Area	Overtime Carpark	Overtime On-Street	Not in space	Value
Nowra	1367	395	103	$208,880
Berry	20	0	0	$2,240
Huskisson	N/A	14	0	$1568
Ulladulla/Milton	64	10	69	$16,016
Total	1451	419	172	$228,704

These penalties represent only 26.8% of the total income from parking infringements. If Council reduces the fines from $112.00 to $84.00, this will result in a $57,176 reduction in revenue (i.e. 2042 x $28.00 = $57,176).

The main issue to consider is whether people will be deterred by the penalty imposed and therefore consciously overstay the time. This will reduce the turn-over availability and therefore frustrate shoppers who are seeking a vacant parking space. From previous years when the amount was lower, more penalties were issued by Council’s Parking Officers and Rangers and this supports the theory.

Community Engagement

Nil

Policy Implications

Nil

Financial Implications

There will be a reduction in the income for these penalty notices; however, it is possible that more penalties will be issued.

The main financial implication will be sustained by local business. This is particularly the case should people choose to shop elsewhere because they cannot find reliable parking spaces.

Risk Implications

Nil