Agenda of Strategy and Assets Committee

Minutes of the Strategy and Assets Committee

Meeting Date: Tuesday, 12 March 2019

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 Kaye Gartner

Clr Nina Digiglio

Clr John Levett

Clr Mitchell Pakes

Clr Greg Watson

Clr Mark Kitchener

Clr Bob Proudfoot

Mr Russ Pigg - General Manager

Apologies / Leave of Absence

Apologies were received from Clr Guile.

RESOLVED (Clr Levett / Clr Digiglio) MIN19.119

That a Leave of Absence be granted for Clr Alldrick to Monday 25 March 2019.

CARRIED

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Clr Digiglio / Clr White) MIN19.120

That the Minutes of the Strategy and Assets Committee held on Tuesday 12 February 2019 be confirmed.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest

Nil

Call Over of the Business Paper

RESOLVED (Clr Watson / Clr White) MIN19.121

That the Chairperson Call Over all the items on the Agenda.

CARRIED

Deputations and Presentations

SA19.21/IA19.5 - Additional Item - Medium Density Update - Disability Awareness Training (page 12)

Ms Kylie Knight, a member of the Inclusion & Access Advisory Group, addressed the meeting to speak for the recommendation.

SA19.30 – Bendalong Boat Harbour – Erosion Control Measures (page 52)

Ms Lexie Meyer, representing Red Head Villages Association, addressed the meeting in relation to parts of the Recommendation.

Presentation – Certificate of Appreciation

Clr Wells advised the Committee that Council has received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Berry Rotary Club, for Council’s donation for their fireworks display on New Years Eve.

Procedural Motion - Bring Items Forward

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr Gash) MIN19.122

That the following matters be brought forward for consideration:

· SA19.21 – Report of the Inclusion and Access Advisory Group – 18 February 2019

· SA19.30 – Bendalong Boat Harbour – Erosion Control Measures

CARRIED

Report of the Inclusion & Access Advisory Group - 18 February 2019

IA19.5 Additional Item - Medium Density Update - Disability Awareness Training

Recommendation

That Council consider including Disability Awareness Training for Councillors as part of their Training and Development Program.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Digiglio) MIN19.123

That:

1. Council includes Disability Awareness Training for Councillors as part of their Training and Development Program for the incoming Councillors in 2020.

2. The General Manager organise Disability Awareness Training for the existing Councillors prior to 30 June 2019.

CARRIED

Items marked with an * were resolved ‘en block’.

IA19.12 Additional item - Compliance Schofields Lane - Bus Loading Ramp

RESOLVED* (Clr Pakes / Clr Gartner) MIN19.124

That:

1. Staff investigate the compliance of the Bus loading ramp in Schofields Lane and discuss with Bus companies and report back.

2. This matter be added to the Action Table.

CARRIED

IA19.13 Additional item - Ulladulla Subway and Services NSW Accessible Parking

Recommendation

That:

1. Staff investigate the options for moving the accessible park at Ulladulla – Services NSW and report back.

2. This matter be added to the Action Table.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Clr Findley) MIN19.125

That:

1. Staff investigate the options for moving the accessible carpark at Ulladulla – Services NSW and report back.

2. This matter be added to the Action Table.

CARRIED

IA19.14 Additional item - Footpath - Near Nowra Post Office - Corner Berry and Junction Streets

RESOLVED* (Clr Pakes / Clr Gartner) MIN19.126

That:

1. Staff investigate the damage from tree roots to the footpath on Berry/Junction Street corner and report back.

2. This matter be added to the Action Table.

CARRIED

IA19.15 Additional Item - Memorial Gardens Access Ramp and Crossing

Recommendation

That:

1. Staff investigate and construct the accessible ramp/path and realign the crossing at the Memorial Gardens Worrigee and report back.

2. This matter be added to the Action Table.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr White / Clr Digiglio)

That:

1. Staff investigate and construct the accessible ramp/path and realign the crossing at the Memorial Gardens Worrigee and report back.

2. This matter be added to the Action Table.

3. This matter be included in the 2019/2020 budget and works be delivered as a priority.

4. When carparking is under review, Council consider the number of parking spaces with a view to increasing the ratio of disability/accessible carparking spaces.

CARRIED

IA19.16 Additional item – Council’s Website - Community Page - Provision for Accessible Icon and Information

RESOLVED* (Clr Pakes / Clr Gartner) MIN19.127

That:

1. Staff investigate the incorporation of an Accessible Icon on Council’s Community Webpage which includes helpful information relating to accessibility and report back.

2. This matter be added to the Action Table.

CARRIED

SA19.30 Bendalong Boat Harbour - Erosion Control Measures

HPERM Ref: D19/35666

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council adopt the following measures to address stormwater and coastal erosion at the Bendalong Boat Harbour and include these measures in the Draft Bendalong Boat Harbour Masterplan for consideration at a future date:

1. As outlined in the report by MI Engineers (Stormwater Infrastructure Upgrade Report 18 January 2018)

a. Divert as much stormwater as possible away from the catchment that discharges to the beach. Estimated to cost ($140,000);

b. Address erosion in the major draining channels within the catchment by lining the channels with rock protection. Estimated to cost ($130,000);

c. Convert the piped outlets onto the beach to surcharge/soak-away pits thus allowing rock protection arrangements to be continuous along the beach. Estimated to cost ($140,000);

d. Convert the piped inlets to pit inlets and line the road side drain with rocks to provide scour protection. Estimated to cost ($80,000)

e. Longer Term – When the time comes to reconstruct the road (say 5 to 10 years), provide a causeway crossing and thus eliminate the pipe crossings altogether. Estimated to cost ($160,000).

2. As outlined in the Bendalong Draft Coastal Hazard/Erosion Technical Advice Report – April 2018 – prepared by Advisian, sort existing rock at the eastern end of the beach and place on the eroded sections of the beach to interlock and provide protection for wave attack up to 0.7m. Estimated to cost $30,000.

RESOLVED (Clr Proudfoot / Clr Pakes) MIN19.128

1. As outlined in the report by MI Engineers (Stormwater Infrastructure Upgrade Report 18 January 2018):

a. Divert as much stormwater as possible away from the catchment that discharges to the beach. Strategic location of the optimum number of swails be part of the diversion solution. Estimated to cost ($140,000);

b. Address erosion in the major draining channels within the catchment by lining the channels with rock protection. Estimated to cost ($130,000);

c. Convert the piped outlets onto the beach to surcharge/soak-away pits thus allowing rock protection arrangements to be continuous along the beach. Estimated to cost ($140,000);

d. Convert the piped inlets to pit inlets and line the road side drain with rocks to provide scour protection. Estimated to cost ($80,000)

e. Longer Term – When the time comes to reconstruct the road (say 5 to 10 years), provide a causeway crossing and thus eliminate the pipe crossings altogether. Estimated to cost ($160,000).

3. Council monitor the effectiveness of the storm water diversion management through annual monitoring

CARRIED

Procedural Motion - Bring Item Forward

RESOLVED (Clr Wells) MIN19.129

That the matter of item SA19.29 – Nowra CBD Multi-Storey Car Park - Update be brought forward for consideration.

CARRIED

SA19.29 Nowra CBD Multi-Storey Car Park - Update

HPERM Ref: D18/418293

Recommendation

That council allocate $150,000 in the 2019/20 draft budget to complete the detail design required to get the approved multi storey car park at Corner Berry St Worrigee St, Nowra to a shovel ready stage.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Findley / Clr Pakes)

That Council allocate $150,000 in the 2019/20 draft budget to complete the detail design required to get the approved multi storey car park at Corner Berry St Worrigee St, Nowra to a shovel ready stage.

For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr Findley, Clr White, Clr Gartner, Clr Digiglio, Clr Levett, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Proudfoot

CARRIED

Reports

SA19.22 Quarterly Progress Report - Councillors' Notices of Motion

HPERM Ref: D19/46342

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Progress report on Councillors’ Notices of Motion for the period of 4 October 2016 to 31 January 2019 be received for information.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Gartner) MIN19.130

That the Progress report on Councillors’ Notices of Motion for the period of 4 October 2016 to 31 January 2019 be received for information.

CARRIED

SA19.23 Draft Donations Policy - Public Exhibition

HPERM Ref: D19/67474

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That

1. The Draft Donations Policy and Procedures (Attachment 1 to the report) be placed on public exhibition for a period of four (4) weeks to obtain community feedback on the proposed Policy

2. That all current recipients of donations be advised in writing of the public exhibition and their ability to make comment.

3. That a report be provided at the completion of the exhibition period, outlining the submissions received and a Final Draft Policy and Procedures for adoption by the Council.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Gartner) MIN19.131

That:

1. The Draft Donations Policy and Procedures (Attachment 1 to the report) be placed on public exhibition for a period of four (4) weeks to obtain community feedback on the proposed Policy

2. All current recipients of donations be advised in writing of the public exhibition and their ability to make comment.

3. A report be provided at the completion of the exhibition period, outlining the submissions received and a Final Draft Policy and Procedures for adoption by the Council.

For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr Findley, Clr White, Clr Gartner, Clr Digiglio, Clr Levett, Clr Pakes, Clr Kitchener, Clr Proudfoot and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Watson

CARRIED

SA19.24 Peak Tourist Period Management - Progress Update

HPERM Ref: D19/25114

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Receive the report on the results of management strategies implemented over the peak tourism period to manage traffic, safety and local amenity concerns in high visitation areas.

2. Continue to manage short term high tourism visitation challenges over the next 12 months throughout the Shoalhaven Region and continue to provide a net budget allocation of $150,000 in the 2019/20 financial year to ensure the standard of service and improvements made over the last 12 months are maintained.

3. Commit to ongoing priority be given to resolving Hyams Beach challenges through continued investigation of long-term solutions as follows:

i. Actively pursue options for parking outside of Hyams Beach Village with walk in and/or a shuttle bus service, with preference given to two identified potential sites owned by Jerrinja Land Council and National Parks and Wildlife Service respectively.

ii. Actively work on feasibility, funding and installation of a permanent roundabout to ease traffic congestion and control access into Hyams Beach at peak holiday times.

iii. Continue to actively investigate the viability of paid parking through the required traffic studies and report back to council in due course.

4. Note that in relation to issues with illegal camping and noise complaints within the Seamans Carpark and in response to strong representations from the community to limit use of the carpark to be open only during daylight hours, the following key actions will be trialled:

i. Installation of a gate on the carpark and lock the gate – carpark only open during daylight hours

ii. Lock toilets – open only during daylight hours

iii. Investigate the ability to issue higher dollar infringements for illegal camping

5. Receive a further report on the outcomes of the grant application for infrastructure upgrades under the “Shoalhaven Sustainable Tourism Infrastructure Package” as part of the Restart NSW Environment and Tourism fund

6. Actively seek ongoing funding for tourism related infrastructure improvement projects as opportunities arise.

7. Proceed with a limited Expressions of Interest process to identify potential Smart Technology Solutions available to assist in solving the very high visitation challenges identified at Hyams Beach and report findings with estimated budgets back to council and the community via the Hyams Beach CCB.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Proudfoot / Clr Findley)

That Council:

1. Receive the report on the results of management strategies implemented over the peak tourism period to manage traffic, safety and local amenity concerns in high visitation areas.

3. Commit to ongoing priority be given to resolving Hyams Beach challenges through continued investigation of long-term solutions as follows:

ii. Actively work on feasibility, funding and installation of a permanent roundabout to ease traffic congestion and control access into Hyams Beach at peak holiday times.

iii. Continue to actively investigate the viability of paid parking through the required traffic studies and report back to council in due course.

i. Installation of a gate on the carpark and lock the gate – carpark only open during daylight hours

ii. Lock toilets – open only during daylight hours

iii. Investigate the ability to issue higher dollar infringements for illegal camping

6. Actively seek ongoing funding for tourism related infrastructure improvement projects as opportunities arise.

CARRIED

SA19.25 Events Policy - Definition of Exotic Animals - Circuses	HPERM Ref: D19/63436
Note: Clr Gartner left the meeting at 6.41pm.
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That: 1. With respect to Circuses that the Council defines ‘Exotic Animals’ to be: a. ‘Animals not native to Australia or introduced from abroad (excluding domestically farmed animals). This would include (but not limited to); lions, tigers, monkeys and primates, leopards, elephants, camels, antelope and foreign domestic cattle including Ankole, Gayal and Yak; and b. Australian native animals (excluding those covered under exhibitor/education licences for wildlife rescue groups and educational mobile zoos).’ 2. The Events Policy be updated to include this definition.
RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Digiglio) MIN19.132 That: 1. With respect to Circuses that the Council defines ‘Exotic Animals’ to be: a. ‘Animals not native to Australia or introduced from abroad (excluding domestically farmed animals). This would include (but not limited to); lions, tigers, monkeys and primates, leopards, elephants, camels, antelope and foreign domestic cattle including Ankole, Gayal and Yak; and b. Australian native animals (excluding those covered under exhibitor/education licences for wildlife rescue groups and educational mobile zoos).’ 2. The Events Policy be updated to include this definition. CARRIED

SA19.26 Local Government Conference - 2019 National General Assembly of Local Government - Proposed Motions

HPERM Ref: D19/58100

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Endorse the four (4) motions as detailed in this report for submission to the Australian Local Government Association – 2019 National Assembly.

2. Nominate a Councillor as the Council’s Voting delegate for the conference.

3. Nominate a Councillor as the Council’s Alternate Voting Delegate for the conference.

Motion (Clr Findley / Clr Digiglio)

That Council:

1. Endorse the four (4) motions as detailed in this report for submission to the Australian Local Government Association – 2019 National Assembly.

2. Nominate the Mayor as the Council’s Voting delegate for the conference.

3. Nominate the Deputy Mayor as the Council’s Alternate Voting Delegate for the conference.

Amendment (Clr Watson / Clr Pakes)

That Council:

1. Endorse the four (4) motions as detailed in this report for submission to the Australian Local Government Association – 2019 National Assembly.

2. Nominate the Deputy Mayor as the Council’s Voting delegate for the conference.

3. Nominate Clr Wells as the Council’s Alternate Voting Delegate for the conference.

For: Clr Pakes, Clr Watson and Clr Proudfoot

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

lost

Note: Clr White left the meeting at 6.54pm

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Digiglio) MIN19.133

That Council:

1. Endorse the four (4) motions as detailed in this report for submission to the Australian Local Government Association – 2019 National Assembly.

2. Nominate the Mayor as the Council’s Voting delegate for the conference.

3. Nominate the Deputy Mayor as the Council’s Alternate Voting Delegate for the conference.

For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr Findley, Clr Digiglio, Clr Levett, Clr Kitchener, Clr Proudfoot and Russ Pigg

Against: Clr Pakes and Clr Watson

CARRIED

SA19.27 Sporting Fields Renovation - Use of Recycled Material

HPERM Ref: D19/43756

Note: Clr Pakes left the meeting at 6.59pm

Note: Clr White returned to the meeting at 7.00pm

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Trials the use of a locally sourced recycled organic soil conditioner at Huskisson Sportsground to evaluate the performance of the material both chemically and physically.

2. Amends the topdressing application practice to align with an industry standard application depth of 10 – 15mm depth.

RESOLVED (Clr Proudfoot / Clr Wells) MIN19.134

That Council:

1. Trials the use of a locally sourced recycled organic soil conditioner (subject to a risk assessment) at Huskisson Sportsground to evaluate the performance of the material both chemically and physically.

2. Amends the topdressing application practice to align with an industry standard application depth of 10 – 15mm depth.

CARRIED

SA19.28 Acceptance Grant Funding - Everyone Can Play - Boongaree	HPERM Ref: D19/71945
Note: Clr Levett left the meeting at 7.16pm.
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That Council 1. Accept the State Government grant funding $200,000 offer. 2. Delegate authority to the General Manger or nominee, to accept and acquit the grant funding. 3. Write to the State Government Minister for Planning, The Hon. Anthony Roberts MP and Local Member of Parliament Gareth Ward and thank them for the grant offer.
RESOLVED (Clr White / Clr Findley) MIN19.135 That Council: 1. Accept the State Government grant funding $200,000 offer. 2. Delegate authority to the General Manger or nominee, to accept and acquit the grant funding. 3. Write to the State Government Minister for Planning, The Hon. Anthony Roberts MP and Local Member of Parliament Gareth Ward and thank them for the grant offer. CARRIED

SA19.29 Nowra CBD Multi-Storey Car Park - Update

HPERM Ref: D18/418293

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting.

SA19.30 Bendalong Boat Harbour - Erosion Control Measures

HPERM Ref: D19/35666

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting see MIN19.128.

SA19.31 Classification of Land - Lot 542 DP 1250028 - Macquarie Drive Burrill Lake

HPERM Ref: D19/46192

Recommendation

That Council resolve to classify the land as Lot 542 DP 1250028, Macquarie Drive Burrill Lake in 3A07/1005, as Community Land.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council resolve to classify the land as Lot 542 DP 1250028, Macquarie Drive Burrill Lake in 3A07/1005, as Community Land.

CARRIED

SA19.32 Classification of Land - Lot 332 DP 1224103 of Subdivision SF9055 - Sussex Inlet Rd Sussex Inlet

HPERM Ref: D19/46272

Recommendation

That Council resolve to classify the land described as Lot 332 DP 1224103 in SF9055, Sussex Inlet Rd, Sussex Inlet, as Operational Land.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council resolve to classify the land described as Lot 332 DP 1224103 in SF9055, Sussex Inlet Rd, Sussex Inlet, as Operational Land.

CARRIED

SA19.33 Grant of Electricity Easement for Pad Mount Substation and Restriction on the Use of Land to Endeavour Energy - Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre - 84 Cambewarra Road, Bomaderry

HPERM Ref: D19/20550

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Grant an Easement for a Pad Mount Substation and the creation of a Restriction on the Use of Land in favour of Endeavour Energy over Lot 100 DP1237704, 84 Cambewarra Road, Bomaderry; and

2. Authorise the General Manager to sign all documentation required to give effect to this resolution and to affix the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven to all documentation required to be sealed.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Gash / Clr White)

That Council:

1. Grant an Easement for a Pad Mount Substation and the creation of a Restriction on the Use of Land in favour of Endeavour Energy over Lot 100 DP1237704, 84 Cambewarra Road, Bomaderry; and

CARRIED

SA19.34 South East Weight of Loads Group (SEWOL) - Deed of Agreement

HPERM Ref: D19/46340

Recommendation

That:

1. The Deed of Agreement between the Shoalhaven City Council and Queanbeyan City Council (on behalf of the association known as the South East Weight of Loads Group), for the purposes of administering the weight of loads of motor vehicles using local council and classified roads, be continued for a period of 4 years, with the annual contribution being voted from the relevant year's Roads Maintenance allocation (Job No 25002);

2. The General Manager be authorised to agree to changes to SEWOL inspectorial staff, on behalf of Council; and

3. 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 this resolution.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr White / Clr Gash)

That:

2. The General Manager be authorised to agree to changes to SEWOL inspectorial staff, on behalf of Council; and

CARRIED

SA19.35 Announcement New Projects - NSW Safer Roads - Saving Lives on Country Roads Program

HPERM Ref: D19/54653

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That:

1. Council accepts the grant funding offers under the NSW Government Safer Roads Program as follows:

a. $30,000 for development (survey/design) in 2019-20 and $240,000 (to construct in 2020-21) pedestrian safety improvements in Queen Street, Berry, including removal of the existing pedestrian refuge and installation of two raised pedestrian crossing treatments (at the locations of the existing pedestrian refuge and pedestrian blisters);

b. $50,000 for development (survey/design) in 2019-20 and $250,000 (to construct in 2020-21) pedestrian safety improvements in O’Keefe Avenue, Nowra, including removal of the existing pedestrian crossing and installation of pedestrian-traffic signals at the location of the existing crossing, installation of a raised crossing treatment at the location of existing blisters, and installation of a 40km/hr high pedestrian activity area zone;

c. $50,000 for development (survey/design) in 2019-20 and $850,000 (to construct in 2020-21) road safety improvements on Bolong Road (a 620m length, from chainage 9.46km to 10.08km east of the Princes Highway) being to the north of Askeaton Park, including wider sealed shoulders and guardrail;

d. $60,000 for development (survey/design) in 2019-20 to prepare a design and costings for the proposed removal of the existing roundabout, and replacement with traffic signals, at the intersection of Berry and Worrigee Streets, Nowra (noting a separate application for construction funding will be required to be submitted in future if the project is supported by the NSW Roads and Maritime Services, following the design investigation works)

2. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) writes to the NSW Roads & Maritime Services, and both local State Members of Parliament, thanking them for their ongoing support of the Shoalhaven Community through the NSW Government Safer Roads Program and for the support of RMS staff in reviewing and supporting Council’s nominations for these important local road safety improvements.

RESOLVED (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN19.136

That:

1. Council accepts the grant funding offers under the NSW Government Safer Roads Program as follows:

CARRIED

SA19.36 Anzac Day – Grant Funding Assistance	HPERM Ref: D19/55590
Note: Clr Levett returned to the meeting at 7.18pm
Recommendation That: 1. Council accepts the $7,500 grant funding contribution approved to date by Gladys Berejiklian MP (Premier of NSW) in support of the 2019 Anzac Day services 2. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) writes to both Gladys Berejiklian MP (Premier of NSW) and South Coast MP Shelley Hancock, thanking them for the financial support of Shoalhaven Anzac Day services approved to date, which will help to mitigate the cost burden on Council in the 2018-19 year. 3. Council notes the advice received from David Elliott MP (Minister for Counter Terrorism, Minister for Corrections, and Minister for Veterans Affairs) that the responsibility for organising and funding Anzac Day marches sits with the NSW State Branch of the RSL and the respective sub-branches. 4. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) continues to seek an annual commitment from the State Government to assist the NSW State Branch of the RSL and the respective sub-branches fund their ANZAC Day Ceremonies (in particular Traffic Controller and Marshal training) and thus mitigate Council’s ongoing costs in supporting future annual Anzac Day ceremonies. 5. Whilst funding commitments for future ANZAC Day marches continues to be negotiated, Council continues to provide support to the local RSL sub-branches in the planning and implementation of local Anzac Day ceremonies in the Shoalhaven for 2019. 6. Council’s budget established in support of local Anzac Day ceremonies be reviewed after the 2019 Anzac Day services; however, $30,000 initially to be included in the draft budget for 2019-20, and a further report to Council be provided in regard to future budgets required (in support of the 2020 Anzac Day services, and beyond).
RECOMMENDATION (Clr Digiglio / Clr White) That: 1. Council accepts the $7,500 grant funding contribution approved to date by Gladys Berejiklian MP (Premier of NSW) in support of the 2019 Anzac Day services 2. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) writes to both Gladys Berejiklian MP (Premier of NSW) and South Coast MP Shelley Hancock, thanking them for the financial support of Shoalhaven Anzac Day services approved to date, which will help to mitigate the cost burden on Council in the 2018-19 year. 3. Council notes the advice received from David Elliott MP (Minister for Counter Terrorism, Minister for Corrections, and Minister for Veterans Affairs) that the responsibility for organising and funding Anzac Day marches sits with the NSW State Branch of the RSL and the respective sub-branches. 4. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) continues to seek an annual commitment from the State Government to assist the NSW State Branch of the RSL and the respective sub-branches fund their ANZAC Day Ceremonies (in particular Traffic Controller and Marshal training) and thus mitigate Council’s ongoing costs in supporting future annual Anzac Day ceremonies. 5. Whilst funding commitments for future ANZAC Day marches continues to be negotiated, Council continues to provide support to the local RSL sub-branches in the planning and implementation of local Anzac Day ceremonies in the Shoalhaven for 2019. 6. Council’s budget established in support of local Anzac Day ceremonies be reviewed after the 2019 Anzac Day services; however, $30,000 initially to be included in the draft budget for 2019-20, and a further report to Council be provided in regard to future budgets required (in support of the 2020 Anzac Day services, and beyond). CARRIED

SA19.37 Tenders - Verons Estate Roadworks

HPERM Ref: D19/64832

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council consider a separate confidential report in accordance with Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993.

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr White) MIN19.137

That Council consider a separate confidential report in accordance with Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993.

CARRIED

Confidential Reports

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

No members of the public made representations.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr White) MIN19.138

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

CSA19.1 Tenders – Verons Estate Roadworks

Commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.10(A)(2)(d)(i)

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

CARRIED

The meeting moved into confidential the time being 7.20pm.

The meeting moved into open session, the time being 7.21pm.

Report from confidential session

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

CSA19.1 Tenders – Verons Estate Roadworks

HPERM Ref: D19/65334

RESOLVED MIN19.139C

That:

1. Council endorse the recommendation of the Tender Evaluation Team and accept the Tender from Stefanutti Constructions Pty Ltd for Verons Estate Roadworks at a total cost of $1,392,688.20 (excluding GST).

2. The contract documents and any other associated documents be executed on behalf of the Council in accordance with cl165 of the Local Government Regulation by the Assets & Works Group Director, as the Principal’s Representative.

3. Council authorise the General Manager (Assets & Works) to adjust the contract for variations under the contract and adjust the funding agreement within the Capital works Program.

CARRIED

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 7.22pm.

Clr Wells

CHAIRPERSON

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 09 April 2019

Page 1

SA19.40 Review Access Areas for Dogs Policy (POL16/173) - Engagement of Consultant, Allocation of Budget and Establishment of Community Reference Group

HPERM Ref: D19/58337

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Recreation Community & Culture

Attachments: 1. Community Reference Group - Recommendations ⇩

2. Public Quotation Submission - Consultant 1 (councillors information folder)

3. Public Quotation Submission - Consultant 2 (councillors information folder)

4. Public Quotation Submission - Consultant 3 (Preferred Consultant) (councillors information folder)

5. Submitted Expressions of Interest - Community Reference Group (councillors information folder)

Purpose / Summary

To seek Council endorsement to proceed with engaging a consultant to review the Access Areas for Dogs Policy (POL16/173) as per MIN18.810, allocate funding and the appointment of the Community Reference Group.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Engage Balancing Act to commence the review of the Access Areas for Dogs Policy (POL16/173).

2. Allocate a budget of $50,000 to engage the consultant to undertake the review from savings at the end of March 2019 Quarterly Budget Review.

3. Establish a Community Reference Group with the members in Attachment 1.

4. Receive a report on the draft Policy and Guidelines to Council prior to public exhibition.

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation.

Implications: This will enable Council staff to enact the previous resolution of the Council (MIN18.810) which seeks to commence a comprehensive review of the Access Areas for Dogs Policy in the first half of 2019.

2. Adopt an alternative recommendation.

Implications: Depending on the nature of the alternative resolution, the commencement of the review may be delayed. A delay in the commencement of the review may be contrary to the previous resolution of Council (MIN18.810) that stipulates that the review be brought forward to the first half of 2019.

3. Do not proceed with engaging a consultant to undertake the review at this time.

Implications: Council will need to provide direction on how to proceed with the Policy review. This direction will need to consider when the review should be undertaken, the extent of the review and the like. This option would be contrary to Council’s previous resolution (MIN18.810) and community expectations.

Background

During 2018, Council received various Notice of Motions in relation to off-leash dog areas and related signage, and specifically in relation to Greenwell Point and Sussex Inlet District.

Following a Councillor Briefing on 30 August 2018 and a subsequent report to Council’s Strategy and Assets meeting on 16 October 2018, Council resolved the following (MIN18.810):

1. Bring forward the timing of the comprehensive review of the Access Areas for Dogs Policy from 2020 to the first half of 2019.

2. Have the policy review undertaken in consultation with Ranger Services as the enforcement body, and the broader community, and consider the process for new off-leash dog areas including site criteria and fencing arrangements.

3. Seek quotations for the engagement of a suitably qualified and experienced consultant to facilitate the review, and a further report be presented to Council recommending a preferred consultant and an identified funding source.

4. Defer a decision in relation to an off-leash dog area in the Sussex Inlet District and at Greenwell Point, and signage, until the comprehensive review of the Access Areas for Dogs Policy has been completed.

This report arises following a Request for Quotation (RFQ) process seeking quotes from suitably qualified professionals to undertake the review of the Access Areas for Dogs Policy (POL16/173).

The purpose of this report is to seek Council endorsement of the preferred consultant, and identify a suitable funding source, as per part 3 of the above resolution. Following a decision on this matter, Council staff will be able to commence part 1, 2 and 4 of the above resolution.

Request for Quotation Process

The RFQ process was open from Wednesday 6 February to Thursday 28 February 2018 (inclusive). Quotations were requested to undertake:

· Review of the Policy and Guidelines including a review of existing dog on-leash, off-leash and prohibited areas,

· Review of records relating to the Policy and Guidelines including suggestions for new off-leash areas, complaints relating to the responsibilities of dog owners and other information of relevance,

· Review current signage content and investigate options for fencing and signage,

· Consultation with relevant internal and external stakeholders,

· Prepare draft Policy and Guidelines.

At the completion of the RFQ process, Council received a total of three (3) proposals. A copy of each of the quotations is provided in the Councillor Information Folder. An evaluation panel made up of two (2) representatives from Community and Recreation and one (1) from Ranger Services reviewed the proposals. Following an evaluation of the proposals, the panel identified a preferred consultant.

The engagement of the preferred consultant can be undertaken under staff delegation due to the value of the contract, however the matter is being reported back to Council in accordance with the Council minute and to seek an appropriate budget allocation to allow this work to be undertaken.

Preferred Consultant

The evaluation panel have identified Balancing Act as the preferred consultant. It was deemed that the preferred consultant’s quotation represented best value for money, comprehensive methodology that met the requirements of Council’s brief, thorough consultation, and suitable qualifications and experience.

As per part 3 of the Council resolution (MIN18.810), it is recommended that Balancing Act are engaged to undertake the review of the Policy and a suitable budget is allocated to allow for their engagement.

Community Reference Group

As part of the Policy review, a Community Reference Group (CRG) will be established to provide vital input to the consultant. It is expected that the CRG will represent a good cross-section of the Shoalhaven community in opinions, age groups and localities.

Expressions of Interest

An Expressions of Interest (EOI) process was established to seek community members who were interested in providing vital input into the review of the Policy and Guidelines. The EOI process was open from Friday 1 March to Friday 15 March 2019 (inclusive).

During this time, a total of 75 expressions were received from community members representing 30 towns and villages, one of which is outside of Shoalhaven. Registrations were received from community members ranging in ages 19 to 65 years and over.

The EOIs received during the process have been reviewed, and a total of 16 participants are recommended to represent the CRG. Attachment 1 identifies the recommended participants for the CRG; these individuals are considered to represent a good cross-section of the Shoalhaven community in opinions, age groups and localities. The full list of expressions received is provided in the Councillor Information Folder.

The recommended participants represent the following localities. Localities have been grouped to protect the identity of individuals:

Locality	No.
North Shoalhaven (made up of Beaumont, Berry, Woodhill, Kangaroo Valley, Shoalhaven Heads, Bomaderry, North Nowra, Nowra, West Nowra)	5
Culburra Beach & Surrounds (made up of Culburra Beach, Callala Bay, Callala Beach, Greenwell Point)	2
Bay and Basin (made up of Huskisson, Vincentia, Hyams Beach, Erowal Bay, Sanctuary Point, St Georges Basin, Falls Creek)	2
Sussex Inlet District (made up of Sussex Inlet, Cudmirrah, Berrara)	2
South Shoalhaven (made up of Manyana, Lake Conjola, Ulladulla, Milton, Narrawallee, Bawley Point, Kioloa)	5

The total number of participants on the CRG has been limited to sixteen (16) individuals to ensure that workshops are manageable.

Community Engagement

As part of the Policy review, the consultant will engage with relevant stakeholders, including but not limited to:

· Council internal staff from Community and Recreation, Rangers Services and Tourism Sections;

· External agencies including National Parks and Wildlife Services;

· Councillors,

· Community Reference Group; and

· Broader community.

Community consultation will occur throughout the Policy review process and will include workshops, questionnaires and a formal exhibition period of the draft Policy and Guideline. It is recommended that Council receive a report on the draft Policy and Guideline, prior to the public exhibition.

Policy Implications

Council’s Policy, Access Areas for Dogs, was last reviewed in 2017. This report seeks to commence the next review as per Council’s resolution MIN18.810.

Financial Implications

Council did not allocate a budget to undertake the review when the matter was reported in October 2018. Therefore, a budget allocation of $50,000 is required to enable the consultant to be engaged and the review to be delivered. It is recommended that this budget be allocated from savings resulting from the March 2019 Quarterly Budget Review.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 09 April 2019

Page 1

SA19.41 Sustainable Energy Initiatives

HPERM Ref: D19/84629

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Recreation Community & Culture

Attachments: 1. Callala Wastewater Treatment Plant Solar Farm (under separate cover) ⇨

2. Flow Power Retail Electricity (under separate cover) ⇨

3. Open Energi - Demand Management (under separate cover) ⇨

4. SCC General Supply Electricity Contract (under separate cover) ⇨

5. Shoalhaven Water Behind the Meter Solar PV (under separate cover) ⇨

6. Cities Power Partnership (under separate cover) ⇨

7. EV Charging Station Policy (under separate cover) ⇨

8. LED Streetlighting Upgrade (under separate cover) ⇨

9. Planet Footprint (under separate cover) ⇨

10. Social Access Solar Garden (under separate cover) ⇨

11. Sustainable Energy Policy (under separate cover) ⇨

12. Ulladulla Leisure Centre - Upgrade to Filtration - 25 Metre Indoor & Therapy Pools (under separate cover) ⇨

13. Waste Services - Sustainability Workshops (under separate cover) ⇨

14. Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre (under separate cover) ⇨

15. Sustainable Fleet Initiatives (under separate cover) ⇨

16. Cemetery Solar Panels (under separate cover) ⇨

17. Nowra Aquatic Park - Eco Friendly Alternatives to Single Use Plastics (under separate cover)

Purpose / Summary

In response to a Resolution received from the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 13 November 2018, Group Directors were asked to prepare a report for a future Strategy and Assets Committee meeting as to what each department has pursued or is currently pursuing in the sustainable energy space.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee receive the Sustainable Energy Initiatives report for information.

Options

1. As per the recommendation.

Implications: The Council is informed of the current status of the relevant projects.

2. Request further information.

Implications: Staff can provide further detail on any Council request.

Background

A number of areas of Council have been pursuing sustainable energy initiatives throughout 2018/19 to ensure energy efficient operations and to prevent excessive energy charges. Two consultants have been engaged within the Shoalhaven Water Group to oversee energy management, both within Shoalwater and more broadly across Council.

Public Exhibition - Draft Sustainable Energy Policy POL18/44

In accordance with Council’s resolution of MIN19.118 adopted at the Development and Environmental Committee on 5 March 2019:

“That the draft Sustainable Energy Policy (attached) be placed on public exhibition for 28 days and a further report be provided to Council on the results of that exhibition”.

Council’s Draft Sustainable Energy Policy (POL18/44) has been placed on Public Exhibition and advertised in Shoalhaven local papers and Council’s Website. Submissions on the Draft Policy are encouraged up to the 18 April 2019.

2018/19 Sustainable Energy Initiatives

Callala Wastewater Treatment Plant Solar Farm

Shoalhaven Water has investigated the feasibility of a 5MW solar farm on the Callala wastewater treatment plant site to meet a proportion of Council’s electricity consumption. The site is favourable for the development of a solar farm and Shoalhaven water engaged industry consultants to develop a preliminary business case.

The business case is marginal on a purely financial basis over the 30 year life of the plant. However, when including other social benefits, such as cost of carbon, the project becomes attractive. There are outstanding issues regarding how the retail electricity agreements may work.

Flow Power Retail Electricity

Flow Power are a new generation of electricity retailer. They offer exposure to the wholesale market price of electricity (with options for hedging and reducing risk).

This option is advantageous for sites with flexibility regarding when electricity is consumed. It’s the ‘time of use’ that determines the price and there are large savings available with individual site optimisations.

Flow power also offer a demand management product whereby high loads are signed up to be available for shedding during network peaks, with generous financial rewards for doing so.

Open Energi - Demand Management

Open Energi are a UK based company who offer a service called Dynamic Demand 2.0. Dynamic Demand 2.0 uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to deliver data-driven savings and revenues through interconnected electricity demand management.

They have thousands of sites signed up in the UK, including large water utilities, and they are effectively managing the demand in the network to provide robust savings to existing clients and are looking to expand into Australia.

SCC General Supply Electricity Contract

SCC is currently experiencing very favourable contracted electricity rates for its 43 ‘Large Sites’ (>100MWh/yr) and 538 ‘Small Sites’ (<100MWh/yr).

The Large and Small Sites contracts are both with Origin Energy and expire on 31 Dec 2019. The current contracts were negotiated through Local Government Procurement (through a pool of 54 Councils in total). Depending on when these negotiations take place in the energy market cycle will determine the price of the electricity offer, which if adopted, is locked in for the next 2-3 years from 2020 onwards. Renewable energy could form a portion of the energy mix Council purchases from 2020.

It is expected that we may face a large relative increase in electricity rates (from industry forecasts). This is a complex space and this project will work with Council’s procurement team to help facilitate the best outcome for Shoalhaven Council.

Shoalhaven Water Behind the Meter Solar PV

This project is investigating the feasibility of local generation solar PV systems on some of Shoalhaven Water’s suitable assets.

Behind-the-Meter generation is financially more attractive when compared to a larger solar farm because the network charges can be avoided at the site (along with the energy charges and a small reduction in demand charges, if applicable. However, this approach is restricted in size as it must take into account the local load profile and the percentage of solar generation consumed on site.

Cities Power Partnership

Shoalhaven Council signed up to the CPP in 2017 and agreed to 5 pledges including to set city-level renewable energy targets, emissions reduction targets and sustainable energy policies to provide a common goal and shared expectation for residents and businesses. Pledges are reported on every 6 months to the CPP. A South-East NSW CPP Buddies Group, comprised of Shoalhaven, Kiama, Wingecarribee, Eurobodalla and Bega Council staff, was formed in early 2018 and has met a number of times. The group won the national Knowledge Sharing Award at the inaugural CP Summit held in Kiama in Oct 2018.

EV Charging Station Policy

Shoalhaven Council resolved to prepare a policy for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations on public land. This will assist in providing public authorities and private industry with guidelines for site selection, infrastructure requirements and other considerations. With an expected increase in the uptake of EVs within Australia in the next decade, EV drivers will need to rely on public charging points to reduce ‘range anxiety’. A policy to provide guidance to third parties seeking to install EV charging stations on public land will help to ensure stations are sited appropriately, available to all EV users and boost regional tourism.

LED Streetlighting Upgrade

Shoalhaven Council has been liaising with Endeavour Energy about a potential accelerated replacement program of streetlights with energy savings LEDs. Endeavour Energy’s current policy when lights need routine or emergency replacement is to replace them with LED luminaires. This may take several years to fully replace all existing street lights to more energy efficient LEDs. As SCC pays for the electricity consumption of street lights, installing more energy efficient LEDs will save on running costs. The business case to accelerate this LED replacement program currently has a simple payback period of around 7-8 years due to SCC’s current ‘cheap’ electricity contract rates. At this time therefore, the program is not that feasible and would require a capital investment of around $2M.

Planet Footprint

Planet Footprint are engaged by Shoalhaven Council to gather, analyse and monitor Council’s energy consumption. Through a package called ‘Finance Footprint’, PF also gather and check Council’s energy and water bills and make arrangements for these to be approved and paid. PF also provide an online portal that Council staff can access to view electricity invoices, graphs of consumption trends in energy, etc. PF also supply a Quarterly Performance Report for Group Directors as part of ongoing energy monitoring.

Social Access Solar Garden

The Social Access Solar Garden project was a multidisciplinary team of researchers, Councils and other agencies investigating the potential viability of low income households accessing solar power. Shoalhaven Council, along with Repower Shoalhaven, identified a potential local site for a solar farm that was subjected to technical investigations. The prototype project was essentially a feasibility research study, attempting to identify a viable financial model that would enable ‘locked out’ people such as renters and low income earners, to enjoy the benefits of solar power.

This project had a number of project partners including Byron Shire Council, Community Power Agency, Repower Shoalhaven and the Institute for Sustainable Futures (UTS).

Sustainable Energy Policy

Shoalhaven Council has a draft Sustainable Energy Policy that identifies a future sustainable energy vision or objectives at both the corporate or community level. To help drive investment in clean and renewable energy, as well as reduce carbon emissions, Council pledged under the Cities Power Partnership in 2017 to ‘set city-level renewable energy targets, emissions reduction targets and sustainable energy policies to provide a common goal and shared expectation for residents and businesses’. A comprehensive Sustainable Energy Policy will lead to a new Sustainable Energy Strategy that will set targets for clean energy and guide action towards energy savings and climate change mitigation for the Shoalhaven region.

Ulladulla Leisure Centre – Upgrade to Filtration – 25m Indoor & Therapy Pools

Ulladulla Leisure Centre’s previous sand filters were approximately 20 years old and at the end of their effective service life, showing delamination of the filter shells, with a high likelihood of failure at any given time.

Two types of filtration were considered as acceptable options for this project:

• Pressure sand filtration

• Pre-coat ultra-fine Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filtration

These systems differ markedly in their filtration efficiency, plant size, and wash water consumption.

The intent of the filtration system upgrade works was to install the specified Pre-coat filters while the facility remained open to the public, with minimal disruption to Centre day to day operations. The works were strategically planned and implemented in order to minimise required closure times.

The selected filtration significantly reduces the backwash frequency rates (from weekly to monthly) and mains water consumption, whilst saving on water heating costs due to reduced heated water loss and addition of cold mains water. This results in a reduction in chemical usage for disinfection, and a reduction in volume of backwash water discharged to sewer of approximately 70%.

Waste Services – Sustainability Workshops

In Waste we have been holding regular (usually spring and autumn) sustainability workshops for the community which include topics such as:

• Home composting (using food scraps and garden waste to produce compost)

• Worm Farming (producing compost and fertiliser through food scraps)

• Beeswax Wraps (re-usable wrapping for lunches)

• Furoshiki (Japanese eco fabric wrapping – using fabric instead of plastic bags)

• Backyard Chicken Basics (managing kitchen waste and producing fertiliser)

• Natural cleaning (using natural products for cleaning)

• Hand Weaving and Basket Making using Recycled Materials

• Altered Books – a recycling Story

• Healthy Soils for a Healthy life

We have also focussed on increasing recovery of recyclables from the Recycling and Waste Facilities, including the introduction 18 months ago of household problem waste recycling centres (for paints, fluorescent globes, gas bottles, smoke alarms, household batteries, etc.), and improved sorting of recyclable materials dropped off in mixed loads. We have improved the produced quality of shredded green waste by doing an additional screen, and the material is in great demand.

Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre

The Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre (SISC) design team recognises that Environmental sustainability is one of the most important issues facing contemporary society. Accordingly, the team placed am emphasis on integrating best practice environmental design into the project and analysing the impact on our environment and importantly on the well-being of its occupants.

The following key objectives for the SISC were identified at the early design phase:

· Reinforce all of Shoalhaven City Council’s Sustainable and Environment Policies

· Maximise the environmental benefit of the project, minimising the environmental footprint of the SISC

· Where possible, educate and inform the building users/occupants and the community

· Engage a simple yet integrated EDS design approach resulting in a high environmentally performing building

Crucial to delivering an energy efficient building is applying passive design principles where possible, such as natural ventilation systems, good solar access and orientation, and controlled natural day lighting. This approach need not increase costs and is vital for achieving improved thermal performance, energy efficiency and optimum occupant comfort.

Sustainable Fleet Initiatives

Over 8 years we have reduced the vehicle choice from 28 to 11 removing all 6 and 8 cylinder cars, now offering more fuel efficient 4 cylinder cars. Less models means less parts to stock and streamline servicing.

Over the last 5 years we have reduced petrol vehicles choice from 9 to 5 (this includes 2 hybrid). The move towards other fuel source provides greater fuel economy and longer servicing intervals. This was a Federal Government initiative.

We offer two Hybrid vehicles with the prospect of trialling some electric vehicles. Reducing running costs while being environmentally friendly.

Residuals are up from 45% 5 years ago to 56% over all vehicles (not plant). We contribute this to the vehicle choice being offered taking into consideration what the market is demanding, and extended warranty offered on certain manufacturers.

Better residuals and reducing the list has resulted in reduced whole of life cost across the fleet.

Solar Panel Installation – Cremators

Planning for future installation of solar panels is underway. Existing plans need updating due to the additional construction of the cremator building. To better understand possible costs an initial quote was sought for installation of 30.00 kW solar system for buildings in 2014 which came in at $89,568.

Electricity costs are approximately $16,000 per annum. There are currently no capital funds available for solar installation but with increasing interest in the sector and possible loan programs for local government in the future this may be possible.

Shoalhaven Swim, Sport & Fitness - Food & Beverage Consumables

Over the past 18 months Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness centres have phased out the use of single use plastic by replacing straws, foodservice disposables etc with biodegradable, eco-friendly alternatives.

Given that majority of the food served at the aquatic and leisure centres is takeaway, a considerable effort has been made to replace all foodservice disposables with sustainable food packaging alternatives.

Currently, foodservice disposables are served in BETA Board and/or BioPak products. BioPak provides an eco-friendly alternative for disposables such as milkshake cups, serviettes, soup/salad bowls etc. What this means is that the foodservice disposables served at the Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness Centre cafés have been manufactured using renewable sustainably sources materials that are non-toxic throughout their lifecycle and are certified carbon neutral.

Most recently, all plastic straws have been replaced by plant-based straws from Vegware, which are made from renewable, lower carbon or recycled materials which can be commercially composted with food waste.

Additionally, Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness introduced branded Keep Cups in 2017 to encourage customers to utilise re-useable cups for tea/coffee purchases.

A similar range of initiatives have also been introduced at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre (which have been previously reported), The Book n Bean Café at Nowra Library and will be extended to food and beverage services at the Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre.

Investigations are also being undertaken to improve waste management / recycling options for customers at our sites and use of ‘Return and Earn’ collection banks.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 09 April 2019

Page 1

SA19.46 Solar Garden - Update Report

HPERM Ref: D19/8527

Group: Assets & Works Group

Attachments: 1. Solar Garden - Final Report ⇩

2. Assessment of Native Title Extinguishment - Former North Nowra Tip ⇩

3. Native Title Status - Crown Land at North Nowra - Old North Nowra Tip ⇩

4. Response - Ben Tax - Native Title Status - Crown Land at North Nowra - Old North Nowra Tip ⇩

5. Repower acknowledgement & request letter ⇩

6. NSW Regional Community Energy - Fact Sheet - NSW Government ⇩

7. Letter of Support- Alternate site - Draft ⇩

Purpose / Summary

The purpose of this report is to update Council on:

1. Repower Shoalhaven’s intention to access the NSW Government’s Regional Community Energy Fund to support their proposed Social Access Solar Garden;

2. Land issues (specifically Native Title) associated with the former North Nowra Waste Depot Site (Lot 7313 SP 1153421) as per Attachment 1; and

3. Identify and recommend an alternate site for the Social Access Solar Garden Project.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Note Repower Shoalhaven’s advice that it is intending to submit a funding application under the NSW Government’s $30M Regional Community Energy Fund to deliver a Solar Garden in the Shoalhaven.

2. Advise Repower that Council supports the installation of a Solar Garden on either the Old Tip Site at North Nowra or the Northern Section of the Animal Shelter Site at Nowra Hill and will make these sites available to Repower for such a use, subject to the necessary approvals being obtained.

Options

1. Resolve as recommended

Implications: Repower Shoalhaven have a strengthened position with two potential sites to progress for the construction of the Social Access solar garden. The backup site, if found suitable, does not have the existing constraints imposed that the Old North Nowra Tip site has.

Repower Shoalhaven to apply for funding against two lots of land both of which have the support of the Council. Whilst the government application is being assessed:

· Repower Shoalhaven can complete a review of both sites to determine the preferred site to progress;

· Crown lands will be encouraged to resolve the Native Title and initiate the land amendment with Council on the Old North Nowra Tip site.

2. Not resolve above as recommended.

Implications: Repower will complete the NSW Government’s Regional Energy Fund grant application without land secured for the Social Access Solar Garden Project. This will weaken their grant funding application.

Background

On the 18 December 2018 Council resolved at its Ordinary Council Meeting as follows (MIN18.1028):

“That with respect to the proposed solar garden Project Council continue to:

1. Take the lead in resolving land issues relating to the Old North Nowra Tip site; and

2. Work with Repower Shoalhaven in an in-kind capacity to get this project to a “shovel ready” status.

A copy of this report is attached for Councillors convenience (see Attachment 1)

On 4 December Council’s Native Title Manager via email sent an opinion on the Status of native title for the site, to the Crown Lands Office in Nowra (Mark Edwards). A copy of the Native Title Extinguishment Determination Worksheet that accompanied that email is provided as Attachment 2

As per Attachment 2, the Native Title Manager’s Opinion is “Based on the above evidence and statements, I believe Council’s valid use of the land as a garbage disposal site is wholly inconsistent with the rights, interests and existence of native title. Therefore, native title has been extinguished.”

On the 13 March 2019 Shoalhaven City Council sent a letter to the Area Manager to the Department of Industry (Attachment 3) outlining the land issues and a brief timeline, requesting assistance to resolve the land issues at the Old North Nowra Tip site.

A response was provided from Area Manager of the Department of Industry on the 22 March 2019 acknowledging that they are “continuing to actively consider Council’s requests to resolve the reserve purpose” for the land. They understand the time frames for the Government Grants and “will continue to work through this extremely complex matter as quickly as possible” (see Attachment 4).

On 21 March 2019, Council received a letter from Repower Shoalhaven (Attachment 5) identifying the availability of a $30M Regional Community Energy Fund (NSW Government). Repower advised that they intended to prepare an application for this grant and that applications close on 3 May 2019. The grant (if awarded) will provide support for up to 50% of the project capital cost, capped at $3.5M. Repower advise that they would be seeking up to $2.4M. Details about the grant can be found via the fact sheet (see Attachment 6) at the following link: https://energy.nsw.gov.au/renewables/clean-energy-initiatives/regional-community-energy#-regional-community-energy-fund-

Of concern to Repower is the uncertainty around the North Nowra Tip site and thus they have requested Council consider a “backup” site, that could be added to their application.

Consideration

Backup Site - Lot 1 DP 1229955, 19 Nowra Hill Road, Nowra Hill

In an attempt to aid Repower Shoalhaven in their bid to access the grant funding, Council staff have conducted a desktop review of an alternative site that meets the broad requirements to deliver the Solar Garden Project. 5 Ha of land to the north of the new animal shelter on Nowra Hill Road, Nowra Hill has been identified as having potential for further investigation by Repower. A draft letter of support has been provided as Attachment 7.

The characteristics of site (Lot 1 DP1229955) are:

· The lot is 12.13 hectares in size (approximately 6 hectares excluding the new animal shelter footprint). The Solar garden requires 5-6 hectares.

· The lot is classified as Operational Land.

· This land may be contaminated. Council records indicate that this site may have been a sanitary Depot and therefore have implications for development of this land.

· The land is relatively flat and cleared

Benefits of Repower using the site and disadvantages:

· The solar garden requires an 11kV connection to the Endeavour electrical supply. The closer the electrical point of attachment is to the site the better financial proposition for the project. There is an 11kV supply that runs on the southern side of BTU road with an 11kV spur running up half the depth of the lot along Nowra Hill Road.

· Solar Panels will require pad style footings and thus excavation of the site is not required.

Investigations are required to be undertaken by Repower Shoalhaven to determine the suitability of this land for their proposal.

Repower are keen to include a letter of support for their application and the following has been drafted in consultation with Repower:

“Shoalhaven City Council is supportive of Repower Shoalhaven’s grant application to Round 1 of the Regional Community Energy Fund to construct a Social Access Solar Garden in the Shoalhaven region. The two (2) potential sites that you have nominated for the solar farm, namely the disused North Nowra tip site or the alternate old Sanitary Depot site, are both available for potential solar farms (subject to any existing area uses and approval requirements). Shoalhaven City Council is keen to encourage renewable energy projects in our region which benefit the local community and support a clean energy future. We wish you every success in your grant application.”

Community Engagement

Nil to date.

Repower are arranging a “Pre-Lodgement Meeting” in relation to their proposal with Council’s Development Team, and Community Consultation will form part of the Development Application process.

Policy Implications

Nil

Financial Implications

Nil. $20,000 in kind contribution has been funded from existing allocations. This was originally estimated at $10,000

Risk Implications

· The site Native Title cannot be settled (extinguished) or compensation is required to settle is too large.

· The Land Zoning prohibits the site to be used as a solar garden.

· EPA requirements for the site creep due to the intended use

· The time to settle the above risks extends beyond the Solar Garden timeframe.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 09 April 2019

Page 1

SA19.48 NSW Government - Active Transport Program - Approved Projects 2018-19 and 2019-20

HPERM Ref: D19/88293

Group: Assets & Works Group

Purpose / Summary

To approve the NSW Government 2018-19 and 2019-20 Active Transport program.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Accepts the grant funding offers under the NSW State Government Active Transport Program in the 2018-19 budget, as follows:

a. $10,000 for the construction of end user facilities (bike racks) city wide, authorising the expenditure as follows;

· Chris Creek, Sussex Inlet (adjacent to shared path and picnic facilities), adding value to the current shared path bridge project

· Huskisson, adjacent to Portside Café (near Huskisson wharf)

· Wowly Creek access (end of Monarch Place), Callala Bay

· Moona Moona Creek reserve (adjacent playground)

· Centre Street, Callala Beach (adjacent to community hall and public toilets)

b. $15,000 for the construction of kerb ramps city wide, authorising the expenditure as follows:

· Nowra (two locations: intersections of Berry Street and Bice Road, and Worrigee Street and Nowra Lane)

· Bomaderry (intersection of Bunberra Street and Dalwah Street)

· Huskisson (intersection of Sydney Street and Field Street)

c. Provide Council’s matching funding ($25,000) reallocated from savings on the Beach Road Mollymook path project.

2. Accepts the grant funding offers under the NSW State Government Active Transport Program in the 2019-20 budget, as follows:

a. $290,000 for the construction of Stage 2 of the Deering St, Ulladulla off road Shared User Path project, completing the extension to Ulladulla Lighthouse

b. $135,000 for the construction of an off road shared user path linking St Georges Basin to Sanctuary Point (completing the missing link)

c. $12,500 for the survey, design, and cost estimation of a shared user path bridge over Swan Lake Inlet (The Springs Road, Cudmirrah)

d. $156,900 for the construction of pedestrian accessibility improvements (including kerb ramps and extensions) at the intersection of South St & Princes Hwy, Ulladulla.

3. Allocate $594,400 in the draft 2019-20 budget to provide the additional matching funds required to deliver the approved projects.

4. The General Manager (Director Assets & Works) writes to the NSW Roads & Maritime Services, and the Local Members of Parliament (for Kiama and South Coast), thanking them for their ongoing support of the Shoalhaven Community through the NSW Active Transport Program and for the support of RMS staff in reviewing and supporting Council’s nominations for these important local safety and accessibility improvements.

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation

2. Not accept the recommendation. This is likely to result in the works not proceeding, resulting in ongoing concerns in the community regarding local safety and accessibility.

Background

Two new Active Transport projects have been approved in 2018-19 totalling $50,000;

Project Description	Amount funded by RMS 2018-19	Amount provided by Council 2018-19	Total Cost
End user facilities (bike racks) 5 locations city wide	$10,000	$10,000	$20,000
Kerb ramps – 3 locations city wide	$15,000	$15,000	$30,000
Totals	$25,000	$25,000	$50,000

Locations for bike racks have previously been determined in consultation with community consultative bodies, however priorities can change. Given the timing of the announcement of the funding, consultation is currently being undertaken for the following locations to be constructed prior to June 2019;

· Chris Creek, Sussex Inlet (adjacent to shared path and picnic facilities), adding value to the current shared path bridge project

· Huskisson, adjacent to Portside Café (near Huskisson wharf)

· Wowly Creek access (end of Monarch Place), Callala Bay

· Moona Moona Creek reserve (adjacent playground)

· Centre Street, Callala Beach (adjacent to community hall and public toilets)

The locations for the kerb ramp projects have been recommended by the Inclusion and Access Advisory Group (amending existing kerb ramps that don’t comply with accessibility standards), the projects to be constructed prior to June 2019, include;

· Kerb ramps, Nowra (two locations; intersections of Berry Street and Bice Road, and Worrigee Street and Nowra Lane)

· Kerb ramps, Bomaderry (intersection of Bunberra Street and Dalwah Street)

· Kerb ramps, Huskisson (intersection of Sydney Street and Field Street)

Four new Active Transport projects have also been approved in 2019-20 totalling $1,213,800.

Project Description	Amount funded by RMS 2019-20	Amount provided by Council 2019-20	Total Cost
Deering St, Ulladulla – off road Shared User Path – Complete the extension to Ulladulla Lighthouse (Stage 2 of the project)	$290,000	$290,000	$580,000
Off road Shared User Path linking St Georges Basin to Sanctuary Point (complete missing link)	$135,000	$135,000	$270,000
The Springs Road, Cudmirrah – Shared User Path Bridge (survey, design, cost estimation only)	$37,500	$12,500	$50,000
Pedestrian Accessibility Improvements (including kerb ramps and extensions) – Intersection of South St & Princes Hwy, Ulladulla	$156,900	$156,900	$313,800
Totals	$619,400	$594,400	$1,213,800

The Springs Road shared user path bridge project is for project development only, with the intention that a further grant application would be made for construction of the shared user path bridge once the project is properly designed and costed.

Community Engagement

Community engagement was undertaken to date for all of the projects that Council had originally nominated (including consultation with directly affected properties and community consultative bodies), however community priorities can change.

Given the timing of the announcement of the funding, some locations for bike racks will be changing (to the list detailed above in the report), and consultation is currently being carried out with affected community consultative bodies. This will not affect the funding. The RMS is supportive of these changes which reflect current community priorities.

Policy Implications

N/A

Financial Implications

When the State Government originally did not approve any new Active Transport projects for Shoalhaven City in 2018-19 (due to the amount of funding allocated to Council for “Round the Bay” projects in 2017-18), the funding that Council had reserved in the 2018-19 budget for matching Active Transport funding was reallocated in the first quarter budget review process to address a high PAMP priority, that being completion of a footpath long Beach Road in Mollymook. This project had emerged as a high community priority following the recent completion of a shared user path along Mitchell Parade terminating at Beach Road.

Due to the constraints in Beach Road the design of the project is still being completed and additional funds will be required to allow completion of construction in 2019-20 (the additional funds have been allocated in the draft budget).

In February 2019 the NSW State Government made an announcement that Council’s Active Transport projects were now being approved. However, because of the lateness of the announcement, Council had to request that the approved projects be split over 2018-19 and 2019-20. Only the bike racks and kerb ramps projects were able to be accommodated in the 2018-19 program, the larger projects had to be scheduled into the 2019-20 program.

NSW Government Active Transport Projects are typically 50% funded by the NSW State Government (for construction projects). Project development projects (such as The Springs Road shared user path bridge project) can be approved with the NSW State Government funding up to 75%.

Council previously resolved (in 2017) to allocate matching funding in its delivery plan for matching active transport grants in accordance with the adopted strategy.

A further report to Council will be provided later in 2019 to consider an updated strategy (this is to obtain Council’s direction for continuing to seek further available grant funding for priority shared user paths and pedestrian crossing improvements, city wide).

In light of the current offer being made by the NSW Government for the above-mentioned Active Transport projects;

· $25,000 is required to be allocated by Council as its share of funding for the approved 2018-19 bike rack and kerb ramp projects (available from savings on the Beach Road, Mollymook path project which will now require completion of design in 2018-19 and completion of construction in 2019-20, and this construction work is listed in the draft 2019/2020 Capital Works Budget); and

· In addition to matching funding already allocated in the draft 2019-20 budget, an additional $594,400 is included in the draft 2019-20 budget to provide the additional funds required to deliver the approved 2019-20 active transport projects.

Risk Implications

N/A

Schools National Tree Day - 2018
School
Jervis Bay Primary School Schools Tree Day 2018	$220
Nowra Anglican College Schools Tree Day	$220
Berry Public Schools Tree Day	$220
St Michaels Primary School P& F Association	$220
Callala Public School	$220
North Nowra Public School	$220
Shoalhaven High School	$220
Kangaroo Valley P & C	$220
Nowra High School	$220
Culburra Public School	$220
Cambewarra Public School	$220
Huskisson Public School	$220
Terara Public School	$220
St John the Evangelist High School	$220
Tomerong Public School	$220
Illaroo Public School	$220
Milton Public School	$220
Total	$3,740