Agenda of Strategy and Assets Committee

Minutes of the Strategy and Assets Committee

Meeting Date: Tuesday, 21 July 2020

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 – (Remotely)

Clr Nina Digiglio

Clr Annette Alldrick – left at 7.00pm

Clr John Levett – left at 6.23pm

Clr Andrew Guile – left at 7.53pm

Clr Mitchell Pakes

Clr Greg Watson

Clr Mark Kitchener

Clr Bob Proudfoot – left at 6.55pm

Mr Stephen Dunshea - Chief Executive Officer

Apologies / Leave of Absence

Nil

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Clr Guile / Clr White) MIN20.480

That the Minutes of the Strategy and Assets Committee held on Tuesday 09 June 2020 be confirmed.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest

Clr Wells – SA20.124 - Proposed Road Closure Part Tarawara Street Bomaderry – less than significant non pecuniary interest declaration – will remain in the room and will take part in discussion and vote – “his youngest granddaughter attends the Nowra Anglican College Preschool”.

Call Over of the Business Paper

The following item were called up for debate:

SA20.103, SA20.104, SA20.105, SA20.106, SA20.107, SA20.108, SA20.110, SA20.111, SA20.112, SA20.113, SA20.114, SA20.123, SA20.124, SA20.127, SA20.128, SA20.129, SA20.130

The remaining items were resolved en bloc (Clr Proudfoot/Clr White) at this time. They are marked with an asterisk (*) in these Minutes.

Mayoral Minutes

Nil

Deputations and Presentations

SA20.104 - Notice of Motion - Southern Broadcasters - ACMA Proposal - Nowra Licence Area Plan

Gavin Flanagan

SA20.111 - Project Update - Elsie Young Memorial Reserve, Old Erowal Bay

Travis Harpley

SA20.124 - Proposed Road Closure Part Tarawara St Bomaderry

Lorrae Sampson

Lee Carmichael

SA20.129 - Cities Power Partnership Program – New Pledges and Financial Contribution

Peter McVay

Notices of Motion / Questions on Notice

SA20.103 Notice of Motion - RMS - Princes Highway / Jervis Bay Road

HPERM Ref: D20/268575

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Shoalhaven City Council write to the Members for Kiama and South Coast and the Honorable Andrew Constance MP reaffirming their position adopted in December 2018 that Council strongly supports the RMS’s concept 2 which shows a grade separated interchange to exit Jervis Bay Rd onto the highway heading north.

RESOLVED (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN20.481

That:

1. Council write to and seek a response from:

a. Regional Development Australia, Gladys Berejiklian, Member For Willoughby, Premier; Andrew Constance, Member For Bega, Minister For Transport And Roads; Gareth Ward, Member For Kiama, Minister For Families, Communities And Disability Services; Shelley Hancock, Member For South Coast, Minister For Local Government; John Barilaro, Member For Monaro, Minister For Regional NSW, Industry And Trade; Paul Toole, Member For Bathurst, Minister For Regional Transport And Roads and Stuart Ayres, Member For Penrith, Minister For Jobs, Investment, Tourism And Western Sydney, seeking their unequivocal support for the construction of a “ fly-over “ ( grade separated intersection ) at Jervis Bay Road and the Princes Highway within 2 years, and indicate the responses received to the community.

b. Jodi McKay, Member For Strathfield, Leader Of The Opposition; Chris Minns, Member For Kogarah, Shadow Minister For Transport; Jenny Aitchison, Member For Maitland, Shadow Minister For Investment And Tourism and Mick Veitch, MLC, Shadow Minister For Rural Roads, seeking their unequivocal support for the construction of a “ fly-over “ at Jervis Bay Road and the Princes Highway within 2 years or following an Opposition return to government, within 2 years of that return and indicate the responses received to the community.

c. Fiona Phillips, Member For Gilmore, seeking her unequivocal support for a “ fly-over “ at the Jervis Bay Road and Princes Highway intersection, and further that she makes every possible representation to the Federal Government for funding for the much needed project.

2. Shoalhaven City Council undertake an all-embracing media and community engagement programme in order to clearly articulate its firm desire to ensure that the “ fly-over “ is constructed by 2022. This programme will be rolled out “ immediately “ and repeated on a very regular basis. The concise message being that no obstacle can stop the project from happening!

3. The points 1 to 3 above need to stand beside the notice of motion moved by Clr John Wells in February, 2018, which has given the then RMS an opportunity to consider it’s options as well as having put our politicians on notice.

4. Council seek a letter of support from SEATS for the grade separated interchange at Jervis Bay Road

5. Council support the petition prepared by Vincentia matters by distribution in Councils admin offices, library and Holiday haven Tourist parks for signatures

6. Council write to the VRRA, the Basin Villages Forum, Huskisson Woollamia Community Voice as well as all known community organisations advising them of the Council resolution and request their support for the petition.

7. Council note that the option as pictured below is the preferred option of the Vincentia Matters.

A screenshot of a map

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CARRIED

SA20.104 Notice of Motion - Southern Broadcasters - ACMA Proposal - Nowra Licence Area Plan	HPERM Ref: D20/273767
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That Council supports an appeal by the Southern Broadcasters to the ACMA proposal to vary the Nowra licence area plan.
Note: Clr Watson left the meeting 5.59pm
RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr White) MIN20.482 That Council supports an appeal by the Southern Broadcasters to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) proposal to vary the Nowra licence area plan. CARRIED

SA20.105 Notice of Motion - L'Etape Australia 2020 - Tour de France

HPERM Ref: D20/300728

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Chief Executive Officer prepare a report on the scope and cost of road repair and rehabilitation works required to minimise risk and deliver an acceptable standard of road surface to enable L’Etape Australia 2020 to undertake the Shoalhaven leg of the Tour.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Pakes) MIN20.483

CARRIED

SA20.106 Notice of Motion - Berry Riding Club - Loan Request

HPERM Ref: D20/300733

Recommendation

That Berry Riding Club be granted a loan in the amount of $25,000 to enable the Club to acquire jumps for the Eventing Course being developed at the Berry Equestrian Centre of Excellence.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Wells / Clr White)

That Berry Riding Club be granted a loan in the amount of $25,000 to enable the Club to acquire jumps for the Eventing Course being developed at the Berry Equestrian Centre of Excellence.

CARRIED

SA20.107 Notice of Motion - Support for Local Shoalhaven Businesses

HPERM Ref: D20/319336

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. Acknowledge the hard work by all businesses in the Shoalhaven as they navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Encourage local Shoalhaven businesses to apply for any government assistance if eligible.

3. Continue to support local Shoalhaven businesses through its COVID-19 relief package.

4. Acknowledge the work already undertaken by Council’s tourism department encouraging visitors back to our region.

5. Condemn the Shoalhaven Greens for openly encouraging its members to boycott local Shoalhaven businesses (See Attachments).

6. Request the Mayor, as the most senior member of the Shoalhaven Greens on Shoalhaven City Council, apologise on behalf of the Greens for any offence to local Shoalhaven businesses.

Note: Clr Watson returned to the meeting at 6.06pm

Motion (Clr Pakes / Clr White)

That Council:

1. Acknowledge the hard work by all businesses in the Shoalhaven as they navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Encourage local Shoalhaven businesses to apply for any government assistance if eligible.

3. Continue to support local Shoalhaven businesses through its COVID-19 relief package.

4. Acknowledge the work already undertaken by Council’s tourism department encouraging visitors back to our region.

5. Condemn the Shoalhaven Greens for openly encouraging its members to boycott local Shoalhaven businesses (See Attachments).

6. Request that a member of the Shoalhaven Greens, apologise on behalf of the Greens for any offence to local Shoalhaven businesses.

Clr Guile raised a Point of Order against Clr Levett regarding comments he made about the CEO’s actions in allowing the attachments to the Notice of Motion to be included in the Business Paper..

The Chairperson ruled in favour of the Point of Order and asked Clr Levett to withdraw his comments and apologise.

Clr Levett did not withdraw the comments.

The Chairperson asked Clr Levett for a second time with withdraw his comments

Clr Levett again did not withdraw his comment

The Chairperson asked for a third time for Clr Levett to withdraw his comments.

Clr Levett refused to withdraw his comments.

Procedural Motion – motion to expel (Clr Watson / Clr Guile)

That Clr Levett be expeled from the meeting for failing to withdraw comments and apologise without resevation in accordance with the Code of Meeting Practice.

For: Clr Wells, Clr White, Clr Guile, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Clr Proudfoot

Against: Clr Gash, Clr Findley, Clr Gartner, Clr Digiglio, Clr Alldrick and Clr Levett

ABSTAINED: Stephen Dunshea (which is recorded as voting against)

PROCEDURAL MOTION CARRIED ON THE CASTING VOTE.

Clr Levett was expelled from the Meeting the time being 6.23pm

Clr Findley raised a Point of Order against Clr Watson regarding relevance to the item.

The Chairperson ruled against the Point of Order

Note: Clr Kitchener left the meeting at 6.53pm

Clr Gash raised a Point of Order against Clr Watson regarding relevance to the item.

The Chairperson ruled against the Point of Order

Note: Clr Proudfoot left the meeting at 6.55pm

Note: Clr Kitchener returned to the meeting at 6.56pm

Clr Findley raised a Point of Order against Clr Pakes for making personal reflections and imputation without evidence.

The Chairperson ruled against the Point of Order

Note: Clr Alldrick left the meeting at 7.00pm

PROCEDURAL MotioN – MOTION BE PUT (Clr Guile / Clr Gartner)

That the MOTION be PUT.

RESOLVED (Clr Pakes / Clr White) MIN20.484

That Council:

1. Acknowledge the hard work by all businesses in the Shoalhaven as they navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Encourage local Shoalhaven businesses to apply for any government assistance if eligible.

3. Continue to support local Shoalhaven businesses through its COVID-19 relief package.

4. Acknowledge the work already undertaken by Council’s tourism department encouraging visitors back to our region.

5. Condemn the Shoalhaven Greens for openly encouraging its members to boycott local Shoalhaven businesses (See Attachments).

6. Request that a member of the Shoalhaven Greens, apologise on behalf of the Greens for any offence to local Shoalhaven businesses.

For: Clr Wells, Clr White, Clr Guile, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson and Clr Kitchener

Against: Clr Gash, Clr Findley, Clr Gartner, Clr Digiglio and Stephen Dunshea

CARRIED

Procedural Motion - Adjournment of Meeting

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN20.485

That the meeting be adjourned for 30 minutes to allow for refreshments.

CARRIED

The meeting adjourned the time being 7.02pm

The meeting reconvened the time being 7.31pm

The following members were present:

Clr John Wells - Chairperson

Clr Joanna Gash

Clr Amanda Findley

Clr Patricia White

Clr Kaye Gartner – (Remotely)

Clr Nina Digiglio

Clr Andrew Guile

Clr Mitchell Pakes – returned at 7.32pm

Clr Greg Watson

Clr Mark Kitchener

Mr Stephen Dunshea - Chief Executive Officer

Reports

SA20.108 Grant Funding Offer - Bushfire Tourism Recovery Initiatives Program - AUSTRADE

HPERM Ref: D20/284945

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. Accept the funding offer of $145,000 under the Reginal Tourism Bushfire Recovery Grant Program – Stream 2

2. Accept funding for Burradise Festival if an additional funding offer is made.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Digiglio) MIN20.486

That Council

1. Accept the funding offer of $145,000 under the Reginal Tourism Bushfire Recovery Grant Program – Stream 2

2. Accept funding for Burradise Festival if an additional funding offer is made.

CARRIED

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

SA20.109 Sponsorship Request - Rotary - Shoalhaven Emergency Services Community Awards

HPERM Ref: D20/236037

RESOLVED* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN20.487

That Council:

1. Accept the invitation to be a Partner of the Shoalhaven Emergency Services Community Awards as a Silver Awards Partner ($2,000) to a date to be determined – pending COVID-19 restrictions.

2. Fund the sponsorship from the Unallocated Donations Budget for 2020/21.

CARRIED

SA20.110 Local Government Remuneration Tribunal - Determination - Councillor and Mayoral Fees - 2020/2021	HPERM Ref: D20/228313
Recommendation That Council: 1. Notes the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal’s Annual Report and Determination dated 10 June 2020. 2. Adjust the Councillor Fee to $24,320 and the Additional Mayoral Fee to $60,080 for the 2020/2021 financial year.
Note: Clr Pakes returned at 7.32pm
RECOMMENDATION (Clr Watson / Clr Guile) That: 1. Council notes the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal’s Annual Report and Determination dated 10 June 2020. 2. Council adjust the Councillor Fee to $24,320 3. Council increase the Mayoral fee by $4,000, include the new increased Councillor Fee of $24,320, the new increased Mayoral remuneration totals $77,570. For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr White, Clr Guile, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson and Clr Kitchener Against: Clr Findley, Clr Gartner, Clr Digiglio and Stephen Dunshea CARRIED

SA20.111 Project Update - Elsie Young Memorial Reserve, Old Erowal Bay

HPERM Ref: D20/167918

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Receive this report as an update of the new playground at Elsie Young Memorial Reserve, Old Erowal Bay.

2. Review the community’s future priorities for Elsie Young Memorial Reserve as part of the Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan 2021 review, so that plans and costings can be developed for key priorities in Old Erowal Bay

3. At the completion of the review, add the future priorities suitable for delivery to the capital works program in the long-term financial plan.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Digiglio) MIN20.488

That Council:

1. Receive this report as an update of the new playground at Elsie Young Memorial Reserve, Old Erowal Bay.

3. At the completion of the review, add the future priorities suitable for delivery to the capital works program in the long-term financial plan.

CARRIED

SA20.112 Status Update - Adoption of Marriott Park Master Plan & Progress to Public Exhibition for Draft Concept Design and Consultation - Livvi's Place Inclusive Playground

HPERM Ref: D20/229141

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Note the adoption of the Marriott Park Master Plan following the Public Exhibition period in accordance with MIN20.31

2. Undertake community consultation on the Draft Concept Plan – Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playspace – Marriott Park; and

a. If no significant feedback is received as part of the community consultation, the Draft Concept Plan – Variety Livvi’s Place Playground – Marriott Park be finalised and deemed adopted; or

b. If significant adverse feedback is received, update the Draft Concept Plan – Variety Livvi’s Place Playground – Marriott Park and report the outcomes of the public exhibition period to Council prior to adoption.

3. Advocate for funding to deliver Marriott Park improvements as per the adopted Marriott Park Master Plan.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr White) MIN20.489

That Council:

1. Note the adoption of the Marriott Park Master Plan following the Public Exhibition period in accordance with MIN20.31

2. Undertake community consultation on the Draft Concept Plan – Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playspace – Marriott Park; and

a. If no significant feedback is received as part of the community consultation, the Draft Concept Plan – Variety Livvi’s Place Playground – Marriott Park be finalised and deemed adopted; or

3. Advocate for funding to deliver Marriott Park improvements as per the adopted Marriott Park Master Plan.

CARRIED

SA20.113 Review of the Shoalhaven Heads Township Landscape Master Plan

HPERM Ref: D20/228452

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Commence a review of the Shoalhaven Heads Township Landscape Masterplan.

2. Undertake community consultation with the Shoalhaven Heads Community Forum and broader community to inform the review, including public exhibition of the revised Draft Shoalhaven Heads Township Landscape Masterplan for a minimum period of 28 days.

3. Report back to Council following community consultation with an update on the revised Shoalhaven Heads Township Landscape Masterplan prior to adoption.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Clr Guile) MIN20.490

That Council:

1. Commence a review of the Shoalhaven Heads Township Landscape Masterplan.

3. Report back to Council following community consultation with an update on the revised Shoalhaven Heads Township Landscape Masterplan prior to adoption.

CARRIED

SA20.114 Grant Accepted - Warden Head Lighthouse Master Plan - Funds Re-vote 2020 / 2021

HPERM Ref: D20/250231

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Receive this report for information which details the acceptance of a one-off grant of $45,000 (inclusive of GST) for the Warden Head Lighthouse Master Plan (Stage One) – Lot 290 DP 755967.

2. Approve re-voting these funds into the 2020/2021 financial year to facilitate completion of the Warden Head Lighthouse Master Plan.

3. Note that a letter conveying Council’s thanks has been sent to the Hon Bronnie Taylor MLC, Minister for Mental Health and the Government for this funding.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Pakes) MIN20.491

That Council:

1. Receive this report for information which details the acceptance of a one-off grant of $45,000 (inclusive of GST) for the Warden Head Lighthouse Master Plan (Stage One) – Lot 290 DP 755967.

2. Approve re-voting these funds into the 2020/2021 financial year to facilitate completion of the Warden Head Lighthouse Master Plan.

3. Note that a letter conveying Council’s thanks has been sent to the Hon Bronnie Taylor MLC, Minister for Mental Health and the Government for this funding.

CARRIED

SA20.115 Update and Acceptance of Grants - NSW Showground Stimulus Funding

HPERM Ref: D20/300818

RESOLVED* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN20.492

That Council:

1. Notes the Round 1 agreements that have been entered, and Round 2 grant applications that have been submitted for the NSW Government ‘Showground Stimulus Funding’ program.

2. Proceed to execute the Funding Deeds for Round 1 projects in consultation with the Management Committees and Show Societies.

3. Accepts all grant funding that is awarded for projects as identified in this report and that this is reported through the Quarterly Budget Review process.

4. Authorise the CEO to enter into grant funding agreements for any funding received under Round 2 of this program.

5. Write to The Honourable Robert Stokes MP, Minister for Planning, The Honourable Shelley Hancock MP, Minister for Local Government, and Public Spaces Department of Planning, Industry and Environment – Crown Lands to thank them for the grant funding.

CARRIED

SA20.116 House Keeping - Sussex Inlet Roads Dedication Under Sec 16 & 17 of the Roads Act 1993

HPERM Ref: D20/150535

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council resolves to dedicate the land identified in Attachment 1 (D20/172897) at the intersection of River Road, Lyons Road & Ethel Street in Sussex Inlet, as a public road in accordance with the provisions of Sections 16 & 17 of the Roads Act 1993.

CARRIED

SA20.117 Land Acquisition - Easement for Drainage - Lot 107 DP 1170860 Burralee Drive Worrigee

HPERM Ref: D20/170594

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council:

1. Acquire by agreement an easement to drain water 5 metres wide and variable-width over part of Lot 107 DP 1170860 Burralee Drive, Worrigee as shown on Attachment 1 (D20/171101).

2. Agree to pay compensation in the amount of $12,000 (excl GST) plus reasonable legal costs associated with the acquisition from Job No 75503 Forest Meadows Way Worrigee Easement acquisition, as easements were not created in favour of Council at the time of subdivision.

3. Authorise the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven be affixed to any document requiring to be sealed and delegate to the Chief Executive Officer authority to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

SA20.118 Wondalga Farm - Disaster Assistance & Fodder Production Update

HPERM Ref: D20/187739

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That in respect to the Wondalga Farm, Council:

1. Continue to produce and provide Fodder for disaster (drought and fire) affected farmers and include any other stock owners requiring feed for animals throughout the state.

2. Sell fodder, by the bale at market rates according to fodder quality as determined by the CEO (Director Assets and Works).

3. Note that a report on the sale of Fodder from Wondalga Farm, as well as the status of the operating budget, will be presented in October 2020 (end of first quarter).

4. Note that a report on the long-term commercial management of Wondalga Farm as required in Part 6 of MIN 20.215, is expected to be presented in October 2020 (end of first quarter).

CARRIED

SA20.119 Release of Drainage Easement and Restriction on the Use of Land - Molloy Street, Mollymook

HPERM Ref: D20/205649

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council:

1. Approve the release of the Easement to Drain Water 3 Wide and Restriction of Use of Land over Lot 32 DP 1190685, known as 52 Molloy Street, Mollymook;

2. Approve the release of the Easement to Drain Water 3 Wide and Restriction of Use of Land over Lot 59 DP 1204912, Part Lot 71 DP 1263187, Lots 112, 113, 114, 115 in DP 1215166, Lot 2 DP 1137611, Lot 110 DP 1215166, Lots 60 & 61 in DP 1219963 as & when Council receives applications from respective property owners;

3. Require all costs associated with the release of the easement to drain water and restriction of the use of land be met by the respective Registered Proprietor of the burdened land;

4. Require the Registered Proprietor accept the transfer of ownership and all future responsibilities, including any costs for existing infrastructure within Lot 32 DP 1190685;

5. Require all remediation works and associated costs within the easement area being the responsibility of the Registered Proprietor of the burdened land; and

6. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign any 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.

CARRIED

SA20.120 Acquisition of Crown Land - Formalisation of Main Access to Integrated Emergency Management Centre (IEMC) and Nowra Racing Complex

HPERM Ref: D20/212671

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council:

1. Resolve to compulsory acquire Lot 5 DP 1265268 in approved plan of subdivision under SF10607 (land known as Dog Track Road) from NSW Department of Planning, Industry & Environment – Crown Land;

2. Pay compensation for the acquisition including all ancillary costs, in accordance with the determination of the Valuer General under the terms and conditions of the Land Acquisition (Just Terms) Compensation Act 1991 from job number 88810;

3. Approve the making of the necessary applications for compulsory acquisition to the Minister for Local Government and the Governor;

4. Dedicate Lot 5 DP 1265268 in approved plan of subdivision under SF10607 as a public road by way of a notice published in the Gazette under Section 10 of the Roads Act 1993 at the completion of the acquisition;

5. Approve that the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven be affixed to any documents required to be sealed and that otherwise the Chief Executive Officer be authorised to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to the resolution.

CARRIED

SA20.121 Proposed Retail Lease to The Brow Collective - 37a/43 Kinghorne Street Nowra

HPERM Ref: D20/241094

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council:

1. Enter into a two (2) year lease plus one (1) year option for Part Lot 1 DP 225912; retail shop known as 37a/43 Kinghorne Street Nowra with Jessica Norman, trading as The Brow Collective, at a commencement rent of $18,000 (excl GST) pa + outgoings with annual 3% increases.

2. Agree to a three (3) month rent free period, as per industry guidelines.

3. Require each party to pay their own legal costs relating to this matter.

4. Approve the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven be affixed to any documents required to be sealed otherwise the Chief Executive Officer be authorised to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

SA20.122 Proposed Lease to Cash Stop Financial Services - 43/43 Kinghorne Street Nowra

HPERM Ref: D20/262900

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council:

1. Enter into a three (3) year lease plus three (3) year option for Part Lot 1 DP 225912; retail shop known as 43/43 Kinghorne Street Nowra with Cash Stop Financial Services Pty Ltd for the purpose of financial services and pawnbroking at a commencement rent of $20,000 (excl GST) pa + outgoings with annual 3% increases.

2. Agree to a three (3) month rent free period as per industry guidelines.

3. Require each party to pay their own legal costs relating to this matter.

CARRIED

SA20.123 Land Acquisition - Road Widening - Part Lot 2 DP 124710 - 2 Lawrence Ave Nowra

HPERM Ref: D20/276391

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That Council: -

1. Acquire by agreement 50.5m² area of land for road widening purposes over part of Lot 2 DP 276076 Lawrence Ave, Nowra, as shown on Attachment 1 (D20/276076).

2. Agree to pay compensation in the amount of $36,000 (excl GST) from the Property Reserve

4. Following acquisition, the land be dedicated as Public Road pursuant to Section 10 of the Roads Act 1993.

CARRIED

SA20.124 Proposed Road Closure Part Tarawara Street Bomaderry

HPERM Ref: D20/287620

Clr Wells – less than significant non pecuniary interest declaration – “his youngest granddaughter attends the Nowra Anglican College Preschool” – will remain in the room and will take part in discussion and vote.

Recommendation

That Council reject the application to close part of the road reserve as per attachment 1 (D20/58909) at DP2886 Tarawara Street Bomaderry, between Princes Highway and Tarawal Street adjacent to Ringbalin Crescent lots 12 – 21 DP249575. Noting that:

1. Council is keen to work with the Nowra Anglican College to obtain certainty for them and the community with any proposed changes to their site in Bomaderry.

2. The Part Tarawara Street road closure can be further considered in conjunction with the Nowra Anglican College’s future Development Applications and will not be considered as a separated standalone matter because of the implications of incremental development with compounding impacts.

RECOMMENDATION (Clr Pakes / Clr Gash)

That Council:

1. Close the unformed road reserve as per attachment 1 (D20/58909) at DP2886 Tarawara Street Bomaderry, between Princes Highway and Tarawal Street adjacent to Ringbalin Crescent lots 12 – 21 DP249575 by a notice published in the Government Gazette.

2. The CEO negotiate the sale of the closed road (if the closure proceeds) with the Nowra Anglican College in such a manner as to provide certainty as to the use of the road reserve prior to any transfer occurring.

3. Require all costs associated with the road closure be borne by the Nowra Anglican College.

4. Authorise the Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven be affixed to any document requiring to be sealed and delegate to the Chief Executive Officer authority to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to this resolution.

For: Clr Wells, Clr Gash, Clr White, Clr Guile, Clr Pakes, Clr Watson and Clr Kitchener

Against: Clr Findley, Clr Gartner, Clr Digiglio and Stephen Dunshea

CARRIED

SA20.125 Tenders - Milton Ulladulla Croquet Courts

HPERM Ref: D20/210360

RESOLVED* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN20.493

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

CARRIED

SA20.126 Tenders - Roundabout - Illaroo/West Cambewarra Rd, North Nowra

HPERM Ref: D20/309902

RESOLVED* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN20.494

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

CARRIED

SA20.127 Draft Policy for Fee Waivers - Ranger Services Unit

HPERM Ref: D20/2557

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That:

1. Council accept the Draft Policy for Fee Waivers – Ranger Services Unit

2. Council advertise the policy in accordance with the requirements of Section 610E of the Local Government Act 1993.

3. A further report be prepared for Council following the advertising period detailing any submissions made together with any suggested amendments to the draft policy.

RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Digiglio) MIN20.495

That:

1. Council accept the Draft Policy for Fee Waivers – Ranger Services Unit

2. Council advertise the policy in accordance with the requirements of Section 610E of the Local Government Act 1993.

3. A further report be prepared for Council following the advertising period detailing any submissions made together with any suggested amendments to the draft policy.

CARRIED

SA20.128 Zero Tolerance Unregistered Dogs - Attack - Policy Review Working Party - Companion Animals / Restricted / Fighting breeds / Registration / Rehoming / Assessment	HPERM Ref: D20/196752
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That Council: 1. Receive the information as provided to update on procedural actions taken to implement a zero tolerance in accordance with MIN20.264 2. Ensure these issues are included in the framework of the Responsible Pet Ownership social media project to be implemented in 2020/21, MIN20.356 3. Proceed with the creation of a working party as recommended in Part 3 of MIN20.264
Note: Clr Guile left the meeting at 7.53pm
RESOLVED (Clr Findley / Clr Digiglio) MIN20.496 That Council: 1. Receive the information as provided to update on procedural actions taken to implement a zero tolerance in accordance with MIN20.264 2. Ensure these issues are included in the framework of the Responsible Pet Ownership social media project to be implemented in 2020/21, MIN20.356 3. Proceed with the creation of a working party as recommended in Part 3 of MIN20.264 CARRIED

SA20.129 Cities Power Partnership Program - New Pledges and Financial Contribution	HPERM Ref: D20/90309
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That: 1. Council determine to select the five (5) ‘Recommended’ Action Pledges (highlighted in Attachment 1) as its new pledges under the Cities Power Partnership program. 2. Council determine to approve a $2,000 voluntary financial contribution to the Cities Power Partnership program for 2020/21 funded from the Council’s Water fund.
Note: Clr Pakes left the meeting at 7.54pm
RESOLVED (Clr Gartner / Clr Digiglio) MIN20.497 That: 1. Council determine to select the five (5) ‘Recommended’ Action Pledges (highlighted in Attachment 1) as its new pledges under the Cities Power Partnership program. 2. Council determine to approve a $2,000 voluntary financial contribution to the Cities Power Partnership program for 2020/21 funded from the Council’s Water fund. CARRIED

SA20.130 Sustainable Energy Strategy and Energy Management Update	HPERM Ref: D20/283662
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That the Committee receive the Energy Management Update report and approved Sustainable Energy Strategy for information.
Note: Clr Pakes returned to the meeting at 7.56pm
RESOLVED (Clr Gartner / Clr Digiglio) MIN20.498 That the Committee receive the Energy Management Update report and approved Sustainable Energy Strategy for information. CARRIED

SA20.131 Acquisition of Easement for Water Supply - 172B&C Pointer Road Yatte Yattah

HPERM Ref: D20/247587

RECOMMENDATION* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White)

That:

1. Council rescind MIN16.170.

2. Council acquire an Easement for Water Supply 3 wide over Lot 1 DP725956 and Lot 1 DP1244841 at Yatte Yattah, as shown highlighted and marked ‘A’ on DP1224571 and DP1244841, attached.

3. Council pay compensation of $6,000, plus GST if applicable, and reasonable legal costs associated with the acquisition in accordance with the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991, from Council’s Water Fund.

4. The Common Seal of the Council of the City of Shoalhaven be affixed to any documents required to be sealed.

CARRIED

SA20.132 Financial Assistance - Bushfires - Water Accounts

HPERM Ref: D20/270143

RESOLVED* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN20.499

That Council:

1. Affirm that applications for the Bushfire Assistance Water Usage Rebate will close 24 July 2020

2. Receive for information the summary of financial assistance provided through:

a. 2019/20 Quarter 3 Account Write-Off (properties damaged & destroyed)

b. Bushfire Water Usage Rebate

CARRIED

SA20.133 North Nowra Surcharge Main (NNSM) Replacement - Review of Environmental Factors

HPERM Ref: D20/233274

RESOLVED* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN20.500

That Council, after consideration of the Review of Environmental Factors for the Proposed Replacement of the North Nowra Surcharge Main (NNSM), dated June 2020:

1. Determine that it is unlikely that there will be any significant environmental impact as a result of the proposed works and an Environmental Impact Statement is therefore not required for the proposed activity.

2. Adopt and implement the proposed mitigation measures and controls outlined in the REF.

CARRIED

SA20.134 Tenders - TM20 Lake Conjola Watermain Replacement

HPERM Ref: D20/283100

RESOLVED* (Clr Proudfoot / Clr White) MIN20.501

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 Gash) MIN20.502

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.

CSA20.9 Tenders - Milton Ulladulla Croquet Courts

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.

CSA20.10 Tenders - Roundabout - Illaroo/West Cambewarra Rd, North Nowra

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)

CSA20.11 Tenders - TM20 Lake Conjola Watermain Replacement

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)

CARRIED

The meeting moved into confidential the time being 7.57pm.

The meeting moved into open session, the time being 7.58pm.

Report from confidential session

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

CSA20.9 Tenders - Milton Ulladulla Croquet Courts

HPERM Ref: D20/209954

RESOLVED MIN20.503C

That under delegated authority:

1. Council (Strategy & Assets Committee) endorses the recommendation of the Tender Evaluation Team and accepts the tender from Jirgens Civil Pty Ltd for Milton Ulladulla Croquet Courts at a total cost of $933,438.50 (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 CEO (Director Assets & Works), as the Principal’s Representative.

CARRIED

CSA20.10 Tenders - Roundabout - Illaroo/West Cambewarra Rd, North Nowra

HPERM Ref: D20/274577

RESOLVED MIN20.504C

That:

1. Council (Strategy & Assets Committee) endorses the recommendation of the Tender Evaluation Team and accepts the tender from Menai Civil Contractors Pty Ltd for Construction of a Roundabout – Illaroo/West Cambewarra Rd, North Nowra for $1,468,011.52 (excluding GST). Tender Reference 63901E

CARRIED

CSA20.11 Tenders - TM20 Lake Conjola Watermain Replacement

HPERM Ref: D20/283085

RESOLVED MIN20.505C

That under delegated authority:

1. Council accept the Tender from Killard Infrastructure Pty Ltd for the TM20 Lake Conjola Watermain Replacement at a total cost of $1,474,826.11 (GST Exclusive) being $1,622,308.72 (GST Inclusive) .

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 Group Director - Shoalhaven Water.

CARRIED

There being no further business the meeting concluded the time being 8.02pm

Clr Wells

CHAIRPERSON

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 11 August 2020

Page 1

SA20.141 Changing Demand in Sporting / Recreation Facilities as a Result of Increasing Female Participation

HPERM Ref: D20/213936

Section: Recreation Community & Culture

Approver: Jane Lewis, Acting Director Finance Corporate & Community Services

Reason for Report

To provide a comprehensive report on participation rates of girls and women in sport and active recreation in Shoalhaven in response to MIN20.207.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Accept this report as an update on MIN20.207.

2. Monitor the growth of female participation in sport and active recreation and identify the need for new, augmented or upgraded sporting facilities to accommodate growth in female participation in sport and active recreation as part of the review of the Shoalhaven Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan.

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation.

Implications: The recommendation is in accordance with MIN20.207 and ensures that where there is significant growth in female participation in sport and active recreation that warrants new, augmented, or upgraded sporting facilities it is identified in the Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan. This is the most appropriate way of accommodating forecasted growth in female participation in sport and active recreation in Shoalhaven as it will identify new or upgraded infrastructure upgrades to be built into Council’s Capital Works Program and Long-Term Financial Plan.

2. Adopt an alternative recommendation.

Implications: The alternative recommendation may require the provision of funding and resources from Council’s Community and Recreation Unit which have not been identified and may impact the delivery of other priority projects identified in the DPOP or Capital Works Program.

Background

At the Ordinary Meeting on 24 March 2020, Council considered a Notice of Motion in relation to the demand for greater sporting / recreation facilities to address the increasing participation in sport by females. In response to the Notice of Motion, Council resolved (MIN20.207):

That Council staff prepare a comprehensive report on the forecasted large increase in demand for the construction of new playing fields and general recreational facilities, as a direct result of far greater participation rates of girls and women in sport and active recreation.

This report is in response to MIN20.207 which calls for Council staff to prepare a report on the forecasted increase in demand for the construction of new playing fields and recreational facilities as a result of greater participation rates of girls and women in sport and active recreation.

Increasing Popularity in Women’s Sport

Interest in women’s sport has increased in recent times due to the establishment of A-grade female teams in various sporting codes and the increased broadcasting of women’s sport. In 2019, there were a number of notable sporting moments for women’s sport including the Matildas (Football – Soccer) who embarked on their World Cup campaign, Ashleigh Barty winning Roland Garros (French Open – Tennis) and the broadcasting of the Women’s Big Bash League season saw a 25% increase in television viewers.

However, 2020 has had the ongoing challenge of COVID-19 which has had broad impact on community and high-performance sporting codes. The impact on sports participation at a community sport level generally, and specifically for females, is still to be seen. Despite the impact of COVID-19 on community sport participation, there is potential for the increased popularity in women’s sport to result in higher participation rates for females (all ages) in community sport.

Female participation in active recreation

Ausplay data demonstrates that women are just as active as men overall, however when it comes to sport related activities, women are less active. This is reflected in the top activities for women 15 years and older being Walking, Fitness/Gym, Swimming and Athletics (Jogging and Running). It is noted that these activities are solitary in nature.

This same trend can be seen with girls aged 0-14 where similar participation rates in sport-related activities are noted, although girls have higher participation than boys in non-sport activities (i.e. active recreation, such as dancing). The top activities for girls are Swimming, Dancing (recreational), Gymnastics and Netball.

Research into increase in Female Sport Participation

As per the resolution of Council, research was undertaken to review female participation rates in sport and how they have changed over time. This research involved a review of information available through NSW Office of Sport and Clearinghouse for Sport, a government agency that provides a platform for information and knowledge sharing for Australian Sport. Additional information was provided by NSW Office of Sport in relation to female participation in specific sports which is fed from the relevant sporting organisations.

The statistics available or provided are inconsistent across the various sporting codes in terms of the years where registration of females have been analysed.

Football (Soccer)

In their 2019 National Participation Report, the Football Federation Australia reported an 11% growth in Women and Girls participation nationally from 2018. In NSW, the growth was 4% from 2018.

Football (Soccer, Australian Rules, Rugby League and Rugby Union)

A 2018 report from Roy Morgan which analysed football participation, including Soccer, Australian Rules, Rugby League and Rugby Union showed that from 2013 to 2017, women’s participation was up 4% across all four codes.

Basketball

Data on the increase over time of female participation in Basketball across NSW was unavailable; however, the proportion of female participation in Basketball in Australia is proportionally high when considering the competition which exists due to Netball.

Approximately 2% of the female population participate in Basketball. In adults, the proportion of players that are female are 29%, in children the proportion is slightly higher at 33%. It should be noted that this is Australia wide.

Motivators

Clearinghouse for Sport has identified the following motivators which are responsible for the slight increase in female participation in sport:

· Health/fitness

· Enjoyment

· Social reasons

· Psychological/mental health benefits

· To be outdoors/enjoy nature

· To lose/manage body weight

· Walk the dog

· Active transport

· Hobby

· Performance/competition

Barriers to female participation in sport

Whilst there has been an increase in popularity of Women’s Sport, it is not obvious that this is having an impact on female participation in sport. Whilst role models play a key role in driving participation, Clearinghouse for Sport and NSW Office of Sport both identify several other barriers to participation.

Clearinghouse for Sport identify the following barriers for women:

· Not enough time/too many other commitments.

· Cost (including childcare, transport, facilities, specific clothing/equipment).

· Concerns/self-consciousness about appearance, body image, skills.

· Competitive/male dominated sports culture.

· Limited media coverage/role models.

· Social stereotyping, harassment; and

· Peer pressure (to not participate).

For girls 9-14 years, the main barriers are:

· Lack of confidence (in competence/self).

· Do not like sport.

· Not enough time/too many other commitments.

· Cost of activities/transport.

For girls younger than 9 years, the primary barrier for girls is being the wrong age (too young or old) for available activities.

Clearinghouse for Sport identifies the importance of role models in motivating adolescent girls’ involvement in sport and physical activity. Although it is made clear that while professional athletes are often highlighted as role models, recent research shows that the most important role models, particularly for girls and women are family members, friends and other people close to them, such as coaches or teachers.

The NSW Office of Sport “Her Sport Her Way” Women in Sport Strategy has several initiatives focused on facilitating greater participation. These initiatives focus on four key areas, Participation, Places and Spaces, Leveraging Investment, and Leadership. Council may work towards achieving the initiatives in this strategy in order to facilitate greater participation in sport and physical activity from girls and women.

Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan

The Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan (CISP) currently identifies that the Shoalhaven has an oversupply of sportsgrounds, however the current CISP does not identify participation rates of women and girls in sport, nor their field requirements. Field usage is only defined by sporting codes and not gender.

When designing and constructing new sporting amenities, Council’s current practice involves providing facilities that cater to the entire community, focusing on unisex, accessible design and not genders. This ensures that the change facilities can be flexible in their use. Continuation of this practice will enable existing and future sporting amenities to be used interchangeably by both male and female sporting teams. It is considered that this approach is appropriate to continue to manage slight increases in female participation in sport in the Shoalhaven.

Community Engagement

As part of the research completed in response to MIN20.207, a recent survey was provided to sport user groups in the Shoalhaven in relation to female participation in their sporting clubs.

The survey asked if there had been a change in Women’s and Girls participation/involvement in sport within their club (prior to COVID-19), and if there were sufficient amenities to provide for Women and Girls to participate in sport.

To the question “Prior to COVID-19, over the last year, has there been a change in Women and Girls participation/involvement in sport?”, 45% reported there had been no change, while 27% reported an increase.

To the question “Is there currently sufficient amenities, including changing facilities to provide for Women and Girls to participate in sport?” 67% responded ‘no’.

While these questions are not in-depth, they highlight a general need for female friendly sporting facilities. Further investigation and community consultation will be required to identify specific areas of need, within different communities or within specific sporting codes. This will be considered as part of a broader review of Council’s Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 11 August 2020

Page 1

SA20.143 Clifton Park Dog Off-leash Area

HPERM Ref: D20/334962

Section: Recreation Community & Culture

Approver: Coralie Bell, Acting Section Manager - Recreation Community & Culture

Reason for Report

To identify the existing facilities at Clifton Park Dog Off-leash Area at Sanctuary Point and ways to improve the experience for dog walkers who utilise the site.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Continue to work with the Sanctuary Point Men’s Shed in relation to additional seating and agility equipment for the dog park.

2. Continue to work with the Park Care Group in relation to works at the site including the refilling of the dog waste bag dispensers.

3. Proceed to install wayfinding signage and other minor improvements which can be funded from within existing budgets

4. Develop plans and costings for additional facilities for Clifton Park Dog Off-leash Area in consultation with the user groups of the site and incorporate costings in the long-term financial plan, and seek funding through grant programs where available.

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation.

Implications: This will allow Council staff to proceed with the resolution to implement operational matters and consult with the user groups to plan the delivery of future embellishments.

2. Adopt an alternative recommendation.

Implications: Depending on the nature of the alternative recommendation, this may be inconsistent with the resolution to implement operational matters and provide future embellishments at Clifton Park Dog Off-leash Area (MIN20.398).

Background

At Council’s Strategy and Assets Committee meeting on 9 June 2020, a Notice of Motion was considered in relation to the Clifton Street Dog Off-leash Park. Council resolved (MIN20.398):

That Council

1. Provide details as to the existing facilities for the Clifton Street dog park in Sanctuary Point and provide details of future facilities to be provided in that location.

2. Staff implement improvements identified as operational matters in the interim.

Existing Facilities

Clifton Park is located in Sanctuary Point on Clifton Street as shown in Figure 1 below.

Figure 1 – Aerial Map of Clifton Park, Sanctuary Point

Clifton Park itself is a multi-user park facility complete with:

· recently installed play equipment

· fence with air lock on Clifton Street

· learn to ride facility (combined Council/community project)

· amenities block

· sheltered picnic tables (built by the Sanctuary Point Men’s Shed)

· community garden

· Men’s Shed

· car park

· footpaths

· drinking station; and

· bins.

The fenced dog off leash area is located south of the learn to ride facility at the rear of the site. There is an existing active ParkCare Group, Clifton Park Garden Club and Sanctuary Point Men’s Shed at the site who take much pride in caring for the park.

In response to the first point of the resolution, Council staff undertook a site visit on 13 July where the following facilities were noted at Clifton Park Dog Off-leash area:

· fenced area with latch gate, approximately 2,750m² in area

· a single bench seat, and

· mature vegetation, informal garden beds and shade resulting from the vegetation.

During the site visit, it was noted that large sections of the turf in the dog off-leash area was in poor condition particularly as result of recent weather conditions and trees impacting on turf growth.

Due to the minimal facilities within the park, potential improvements / additions were noted including connecting footpaths from the main entrance to the dog off-leash area, additional seats, bins. Wayfinding signage was also considered given the location of the dog off-leash area located at the rear of the park behind the existing playground and learn to ride facility. Discussion with the user groups was required in order to determine what the users of the space believe are necessary.

Current Maintenance Schedule and Operational Improvements

Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Unit undertake maintenance of the entire Clifton Park including mowing, edging and vegetation control (herbicide application) up to 15 times a year.

The existing ParkCare group also undertake edging and mowing around the playground, picnic shelter and learn to ride facility as well as general tidying up of the park.

Acknowledging the poor condition of the turf, Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Unit will work to improve this. Further liaison with the ParkCare group will occur in relation improving the turf and undertaking ongoing improvements and maintenance requirements.

Potential Future Facilities

Currently, there are no plans or allocated budgets to undertake any additional embellishments / improvements at the Clifton Park Dog Off-leash Area. However, additional improvements are programmed for this Financial Year in Clifton Park including new BBQ facilities (south of the existing picnic shelters).

In relation to point two of the resolution, Council’s Community and Recreation staff met with representatives of the Men’s Shed and ParkCare Group on 20 July to discuss the Notice of Motion and potential improvements / additional maintenance at the park. It was agreed that:

· The Men’s Shed and ParkCare do not have the funding to be able to provide dog bags, however, they are able to replace empty dispensers if Council or other group are able to provide the dog bags.

· The Men’s Shed are able to provide costings to build and install additional seating and agility equipment for the dog park, (the Men’s Shed have built and installed picnic seating near the learn to ride at the park).

· Contact details were provided for individuals who are frequent users of the space.

Council staff contacted two frequent users of the facility, one of which is active on the Clifton Park Dog Park Facebook page. The frequent users suggested the following improvements / embellishments for Council’s consideration which include minor through to significant upgrades:

· Good layer of grass

· Tidy up of existing vegetation

· Removal of vegetation that is on or close to fencing to prevent damage

· Dog bags and dispensers

· Bin

· Water bowls for dogs (separate to the existing drinking station utilised by small children).

· Additional seating with shelters (potential to relocate existing seat within the park at the previous playground)

· Increased off-leash area (potentially a separate area for large dogs with the existing to be utilised for small dogs), and

· Agility equipment.

The above list has been compiled with the two frequent members and also informed by a recent poll on the Facebook page (by the community member) which asked what you would like to see at the dog park.

Based on the above discussions and advice from the community, the following embellishments are recommended to be implemented in the next 12 to 24 months.

Wayfinding signage

Council staff see the benefit of the inclusion of wayfinding signage to be provided within the park signalling the direction of the dog off-leash area from the car park at Clifton Street. Council staff are undertaking final costings; generally, signage of this type is approximately under $1,000 and this can be accommodated within existing budgets.

Additional seating

Council staff will investigate relocating the existing seat within the park at the previous playground site to the off-leash area. This can be undertaken utilising existing budgets.

Provision of shade will need to be investigated and costed.

Agility equipment

Incorporating dog agility equipment in the park will encourage greater activity and use of the space. Council have requested costings from the Men’s Shed for inclusion of agility equipment including dog ramps, tunnels, and hurdles.

In addition, Council staff have also spoken with the Bay and Basin Community Resources Shed, and they have advised that they have two jump-throughs which they are able to donate, excluding installation.

Dog bags, dispenser, and bins

Dog bags and dispensers as identified by Council Minute (MIN13.1205) are provided by community groups throughout the city. Council could install the bag dispenser on the dog fence from within existing budgets, and the ParkCare Group have given support to refill the dispenser with bags as required; however as noted in this report they do not have the budget or capacity to fund the replacement of the dog bags. There are many dispensers throughout the region, all community funded. Should Council agree to fund this service, in this location, there is a potential that many other community groups will request this same level of support.

An additional bin can be provided within the off-leash area. This can be utilised to mount the dog bag dispenser on. The cost of one bin is approximately $2,700 which includes the bin surround and sulo bin, plus the bin-mounted dog bag dispenser is approximately $150.

Footpaths

The addition of further footpaths from the main entry to the park to the dog off-leash area will improve the accessibility of the space for all users. Design and costings will need to be developed and done in consideration of the significant trees and vegetation in the park. Footpaths are on average $320 per linear metre and the distance from the park to connect to the path at the amenities is approximately 75 metres, it is estimated that this could equate to $24,000.

An option for a circuit within the off-leash area could also be considered. The length of the circuit is approximately 140m which would equate to $44,800.

Council staff will investigate the above inclusions in consultation with the user groups.

Community Engagement

Since Council’s resolution, Council staff have liaised with members of the Men’s Shed, Community Garden, ParkCare Group, and users of the dog park.

Council will continue to work with the community to seek the community input and develop and install the additional infrastructure for the dog park.

Financial Implications

Operational improvements to the site including improving the existing turf, installation of the wayfinding signage, and relocating the seat from the previous playground location to the dog off-leash area will be managed by Community and Recreation’s existing minor improvements budget.

The embellishments identified in this report including wayfinding signage, dog bag dispenser and bin and footpaths is estimated to cost upwards of $72,650. It is noted that this cost is exclusive of cost of agility equipment to be costed by the Men’s Shed. Further consultation with the user groups will determine what additional facilities are provided at the site and their cost.

At present these improvements are unfunded, however in partnership with the community, these works could be considered alongside budget bid submissions for inclusion in the long-term financial plan in future years and through seeking grant funding opportunities.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 11 August 2020

Page 1

SA20.144 June 2020 Quarterly Budget Report

HPERM Ref: D20/345291

Section: Finance

Approver: Jane Lewis, Acting Director Finance Corporate & Community Services

Attachments: 1. Attachment 1 - June 2020 Quarterly Budget Report (under separate cover) ⇨

2. Attachment 2 - June 2020 Quarterly Budget Review Statement (under separate cover) ⇨

Reason for Report

In accordance with Regulation 203(1) of the Local Government (General) Regulation (2005), the responsible accounting officer must prepare and submit to Council a budget review statement after the end of each quarter. This has been carried out for the fourth quarter of the 2019/20 financial year.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council

1. Note the updated net impact of Council’s response to and recovery from the Currowan bushfire, the flood event and COVID-19 in 2019/20 financial year is a loss of $6.6 million (increase from $3.9 million reported in March QR).

2. Note the financial impact of COVID-19 Financial Assistance to the ratepayers on the General, Water and Sewer funds:

Fund	Estimated (‘000)	Actual (‘000)	Variance (‘000)
Domestic Waste	$2,335	$1,963	$372
Water	$4,669	$3,076	$1,593
Sewer	$2,918	$2,601	$317
General Fund (unrestricted cash)	$7,588	$6,334	$1,254
Total:	$17,510	$13,974	$3,536

3. Note that in accordance with the Australian Accounting Standard, AASB 137 - Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets, the $13.974 million of the COVID-19 financial assistance was booked as a liability in 2019/20 financial year.

4. Note that year end working capital position of the general fund remains above the benchmark ($11.8 million actual vs. $11.4 million benchmark).

5. Adopt the Revotes (Uncommitted), as recommended in the June Quarterly Budget Review document.

Options

1. Adopt the recommendation

Implications: Nil

2. Adopt an alternate recommendation

Implications: Staff will need to rework the quarterly budget review in accordance with the alternative resolution.

Quarterly Budget Review

Section 404 of the Local Government Act 1993 requires the General Manager (Chief Executive Officer) to provide progress reports to the Council with respect to the principal activities detailed in the Delivery Program (Operational Plan) at least every 6 months. Furthermore, all Councils must continue to consider a Quarterly Budget Review report.

Clause 203 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 requires the Responsible Accounting Officer (Chief Financial Officer) to prepare and submit to the Council a Quarterly Budget Review Statement that shows, by reference to the estimates of income and expenditure set out in the Operational Plan, a revised estimate of the income and expenditure for the full financial year.

The Responsible Accounting Officer is also required to report as to whether or not they believe the financial position of the Council is satisfactory, having regard to the original estimate of income and expenditure.

The June 2020 Quarterly Budget Report and Quarterly Budget Review Statement (QBRS) include an analysis of the year to date result and the reasons for the major variances from the previously adopted Budget.

The June 2020 Quarterly Budget Report also provides budgetary details for each fund and group and commentary on progress against the budget. Any proposed changes to the budget are included in the attached June Quarterly Budget Review Statement.

Disaster / Pandemic Relief and Recovery – Financial Impact Update

The 2019/20 financial results of the Shoalhaven City Council were significantly impacted by two natural disasters (Currowan bushfire, and February floods) and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen Council businesses temporarily close, staff working from home and the organisation adjusting to new ways of doing business. Whilst some Council businesses remain closed (Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre for example), other businesses have reopened with assorted changes (reduced operating hours at the library or customer limits in public halls or leisure centres). Not only does this have an impact on our community which we serve, but also to the direct and indirect revenue streams of Council.

The estimated impact of $3.9 million loss was reported to the Council in the March Budget Quarterly Review report and as the 2019/20 financial year comes to an end, management have updated the impact of these events based on the actual figures. In addition to the loss of revenue reported during the March QR, further financial analysis indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic is having a broader indirect impact on all revenue streams of the Council such as inspection fees, Development Application fees, fines, and has caused further loss of Bereavement Services income. The actual financial data shows the net cost to Council is $6.6 million ($2.7 million higher than previously reported in the 3^rd quarter).

Additional losses identified are summarised below:

Loss of Revenue

- Cemeteries – increased by $454K (due to COVID-19 restrictions only limited services allowed)

- Environment Service fees – $260K (due to decrease of food safety and other inspections)

- Fines – $150K (reduction in parking fines issued)

- DA fees – $490K (overall reduction in number of development applications)

- Fee Waivers – increased by $210K (resulting from Council resolutions)

Operating Costs

- Increase in unrecoverable reconstruction costs – $80K

- Reduction is savings due to closure of facilities – $685K (savings for swim and fitness and bereavement services decreased)

- COVID-19 administrative and staff redeployment costs – $518K (this includes overheads associated with processing COVID-19 financial assistance applications, extra media costs, additional IT expenditures and staff redeployment costs).

Below is a summary table outlining the financial implication of the three events. It is important for the Councillors to note that this represents the impact on 2019/20 financial results only. In addition, a summary below outlines financial implication that can be measured and estimated.

Impact on Operational Expenses and Revenue

	Currowan Fire	Flood Event	COVID-19	Total
Loss of Revenue
Tourist Parks	3,140,000	50,000	2,842,924	6,032,924
Cemeteries	15,000		504,000	519,000
Swim, Sport and Fitness			1,425,046	1,425,046
Entertainment Centre			453,257	453,257
Room and Venue Hire			49,000	49,000
Rental			145,088	145,088
Libraries			103,458	103,458
Fee Waivers	164,125		111,747	275,871
Inspection fees (Env and Food Safety Act)			260,000	260,000
Fines			150,000	150,000
Application and Inspection fees for DAs			490,000	490,000
	3,319,125	50,000	6,149,519	9,518,644
Operating Cost
Section 44 expenses	2,319,016			2,319,016
Emergency Repairs	757,390	393,178		1,150,568
Reconstruction	371,618	418,301		789,919
Council funded costs	454,250		48,750	503,000
Dept Justice / Office Emergency Management	152,229			152,229
Facility closures	(100,000)	(5,000)	(1,147,466)	(1,252,466)
Blaze Aid	62,950			62,950
COVID-19 admin. and staff deployment costs			517,813	517,813
	4,017,453	806,479	(580,903)	4,243,029
Additional repairs and works to be funded from grants and other external funding
Disaster Assistance Rebuild
Toomboolomobah Bridge	472,056			472,056
Wheelbarrow Rd Bridge	199,348			199,348
School Creek Bridge	674,393			674,393
Yerriyong Bridge	43,996			43,996
Road asset data collection	149,210			149,210
	1,539,002			1,539,002

Bushfire Recovery Funding (Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements Category 3)	1,416,667			1,416,667

Total Expected Cost	10,292,246	856,479	5,568,616	16,717,342

Amount Expected to Recover
Bushfire recovery phase funding (DRFA)	757,390	393,178		1,150,568
Bushfire reconstruction phase funding (DRFA)	371,618	418,301		789,919
Dept Justice / Office Emergency Management Claim (est.)	152,229			152,229
Insurance Claim (est.)	1,700,000			1,700,000
Section 44 Claim (est.)	2,154,610			2,154,610
Disaster Assistance Rebuild	1,539,002			1,539,002
Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements Category 3	1,416,667			1,416,667
Local Government Early Childhood Education & Care			48,750	48,750
Blaze Aid	62,950			62,950

Operational Savings Identified			1,067,756	1,067,756

Total Expected Recovery and Savings	8,154,466	811,479	1,116,506	10,082,451

Net Cost	2,137,780	45,000	4,452,110	6,634,891

Unrestricted cash drawn down at March QR				3,400,000
Remaining deficit covered by the general fund cash surplus as at year end (includes savings on capital and operational projects and phasing adjustments)				3,234,891
Net Impact on unrestricted cash (no change from March QR adjustment):				(3,400,000)

As summarised in the table above, the actual losses to the Council increased from $3.9 million to $6.6 million. However, $3.2 million of costs were absorbed by savings achieved in the capital and operating budgets. As such, the net general fund movement for the 2019/20 financial year remains $3.4 million (unfavourable).

It is important for the Councillors to note that $3.2 million of savings are resulting from the completed projects and review of phasing of the capital projects which had no impact of capital works program.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues in 20/21 financial year, management will continue monitor the situation and exercise prudent financial management to achieve reasonable budget savings to mitigate revenue losses.

COVID-19 Financial Assistance Update

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 26 May 2020, Council resolved to provide relief to ratepayers of $300 per property in the 2020-2021 financial year. 46,705 (80%) out of 58,386 ratepayers applied for the financial assistance (73% of applications were submitted online, 21% via post and 6% over the phone).

The financial impact of COVID-19 financial assistance on the 2019/20 financial results is outlined below:

Fund	Estimated (‘000)	Actual (‘000)	Variance (‘000)
Domestic Waste	$2,335	$1,963	$372
Water	$4,669	$3,076	$1,593
Sewer	$2,918	$2,601	$317
General Fund (unrestricted cash)	$7,588	$6,334*	$1,254
Total:	$17,510	$13,974*	$3,536

*Council continues to process late applications and the actual amount that will be drawn down from the general fund will insignificantly increase.

Processing of applications resulted in administrative overheads of $130K ($2.78/application) which includes staff costs, postage, and IT expenditures. Management engaged available redeployed staff to assist in processing applications.

It is important for the Councillors to note that in accordance with the Australian Accounting Standard, AASB 137 – Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets, the $13.974M of the COVID-19 financial assistance was booked as a liability in 19/20 financial year and recognised as Other Expenditure in 2019/20 budget. The $6.3M of the general fund component was quarantined in the special reserve.

As such, actual net unrestricted cash movement of $7.3M (unfavourable) for the year includes $6.3M transferred from unrestricted cash to the special reserve.

Year-End Working Capital Assessment

Despite the significant negative financial impact of two natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, Shoalhaven City Council finished 19/20 financial year having a healthy working capital position of $11.78M which is $339K above the benchmark of $11.4M.

The estimated year end working capital position was foreshadowed in the COVID 19 & Economic Crisis Financial Assistance to the Ratepayers report. Council’s reported estimate was based on the assumption of the $6M net loss due to bushfires, floods and COVID-19 and $7.6M reduction in unrestricted cash to fund COVID-19 financial assistance.

However, the actual impact of natural disasters and the COVID-19 in 2019/20 financial year (net of savings) is $3.4M (details provided in Disaster / Pandemic Relief and Recovery – Financial Impact Update section of this report) and $6.3M of unrestricted cash was drawn down to fund financial assistance to the ratepayers (details provided in COVID-19 Financial Assistance Update section of this report) which brings Council to a better working capital position than anticipated.

The table below represent actual year-end working capital position and compares it to the estimate.

Working Capital Position as of June 30, 2020 (General Fund)

($’000)	Estimate	Actual	Variance
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	16,655	9,792	-6,863
Investments	35,540	69,000	33,460
Receivables	11,671	11,473	-198
Non-current assets
Investments	21,255	24,022	2,767
Current liabilities
Payables	-14,736	-19,908	-5,172
Net Assets	70,385	94,379	23,994
Adjustments for Restrictions
External and Internal Cash Restrictions	-68,901	-91,984	-23,083
Restrictions in receivables
Grant receivables	-4,321	-1,400	2,921
Domestic waste not received	-1,463	-942	521
Restrictions in payables
Domestic Waste and Recycling Contract	615	5,188	4,573
Deposits, retentions, and bonds	3,440	3,440	0
Restricted capital creditors at YE	2,933	3,100	167
Working Capital Available (Net Assets plus adjustments)	2,688	11,781	9,093
Unrestricted Cash Balance (Total cash and investments less restricted cash)	4,549	10,830	6,281

Working Capital Benchmark (current receivables and inventories less restrictions)	7,977	11,442	3,465
Additional Working Capital Required to meet the benchmark	-5,289	339

Management continues to monitor working capital position of the Council and is in process of developing Liquidity Contingency Plan.

Preliminary General Fund Year End Results and Quarterly Review Movements

The net operating result before capital grants and contributions of the General Fund as at the 30 June 2020 QBR was a deficit of $22.5M, a $12.3M unfavourable variance to forecasted $10.2M deficit. These unfavourable variances are largely driven by the $8.3M provision booked for COVID-19 financial assistance to the ratepayers (waste and general fund).

The unrestricted cash balance decreased by $7M mainly due to $6.3M of the general fund being restricted for COVID-19 financial assistance to the ratepayers and loss of revenue due to natural disasters and pandemic.

The following table presents a high-level summary of the budget and movements for the General Fund for 2019/20.

$'000	Original Budget	Current Adopted Budget	June QR Adjustments	Proposed Carry Forward / Revote	June QR Revised Budget	June Actuals
Operating Result	18,024	14,125	9,645	(15,314)	8,456	(3,873)
Operating Result before Capital Grants and Contributions	(3,209)	(14,483)	6,244	(2,006)	(10,245)	(22,503)
Net Cash & Investments Movement	(2,000)	(30,941)	7,319	9,479	(14,143)	(16,163)
Unrestricted Cash Movement	(0)	(3,480)	(6,245)	2,680	(7,045)	(7,038)

The detailed analysis of preliminary financial results is documented in the Attachment 1 – June 2020 Quarterly Budget Report.

Preliminary Water Fund Year End Results and Quarterly Review Movements

The net operating result before capital revenue of the Water Fund is a $3.6M deficit when comparing to the forecasted surplus of $457K. The main reason for this unfavourable variance is $3.1M provision booked for COVID-19 financial assistance to the ratepayers (water fund).

The net cash and investments movement is positive in 2019/20 financial year due. All cash held by the water fund is restricted.

$'000	Original Budget	Current Adopted Budget	Proposed Carry Forward / Revote	June QR Revised Budget	June Actuals
Operating Result	1,222	1,707	0	1,707	(1,756)
Operating Result before Capital Grants and Contributions	722	457	0	457	(3,584)
Net Cash & Investments Movement	(12,032)	(716)	2,664	1,948	2,993

Preliminary Sewer Fund Year End Results and Quarterly Review Movements

The net operating result before capital revenue of the Sewer Fund was $7.7M (surplus), a $682K unfavourable variance comparing to the forecasted surplus of $8.4M. This is principally due to $2.6M provision booked for COVID-19 financial assistance to the ratepayers which was partially offset by under expenditure, in particular materials and contracts, additional income received for private works.

$'000	Original Budget	Current Adopted Budget	Proposed Carry Forward / Revote	June QR Revised Budget	June Actuals
Operating Result	8,769	9,611	227	9,838	9,755
Operating Result before Capital Grants and Contributions	8,019	8,161	227	8,388	7,706
Net Cash & Investments Movement	(2,887)	(20,497)	4,848	(15,649)	(8,121)

Proposed Uncommitted Revotes

According to the Local Government Regulation 2005 – Reg 211 Authorisation of Expenditure, Council is required to approve carry forward of uncommitted expenditures (revotes).

The Uncommitted projects (below) do not have an existing contractual obligation and Council has an option to adopt all revotes listed below or to revote selected projects only.

Summary of proposed revotes (uncommitted):

Program	Job Description	Amount to Revote	Comment
Buildings and Property	Berry Showground Entry Road	80,000	Waiting on DA approval prior to commencing
	Contact Centre Modifications	164,381	Due to Bushfires & COVID emergencies work not completed and to supplement funding that was cut this year
Commercial Undertakings	Cabin Maintenance- Kangaroo	25,000	Delays in finalising quotes
	Environmental - Bendalong	22,960	Environmental Management - awaiting assessment. Unable to get Land Council to oversee works due to other commitments
Community and Culture	Arts Board COVID-19 Support Grant Prog	25,000	MIN20.352 - Additional support to Arts Sector due to COVID-19
	Future Storage Options Study	50,000	Project approved per MIN20.221, but unable to be carried out due to COVID restrictions
	In Memory	6,971	This was going to deliver a book. Costing did not align we are looking to do online platform
Environmental Management	Sustainable Futures	56,192	Awaiting human resources to manage this project. Expected to be expended 2020/21
Governance and Civic	Council Donations	37,811	These relate to donations for events/ proceeds that did not proceed due to Bushfires/ COVID - A report to go to Council next month outlining requests from community to make use of these funds
	Proudly Inclusive Business Pilot Program	3,000	Nowra CBD Revitalisation
Internal Corporate Services	Risk Management Initiatives	7,580	Contractor has been engaged to assist with Risk Projects over 6 months from June 2020
	Councillors Equipment	8,400	Due to Bushfires & COVID emergencies work not completed and to supplement funding that was cut this year
	It Administration Equipment	127,098	Due to Bushfires & COVID emergencies work not completed and to supplement funding that was cut this year
	It Support Services	67,019	Due to Bushfires & COVID the upgrade to the Cyber Secure SOPHOS Firewall could not be completed
Open Space, Sport and Recreation	Nowra Gateway Park	35,686	Job on hold until Nowra Bridge design completed
Roads and Transport	Comerong Ferry Overhaul	382,509	Funds identified in 10year capital works program to partly fund replacement of ferry.
	Streetscapes	11,162	Funds intended to repair items provided to Council at no cost for installation on other projects.
	Revotes Total:	1,110,769

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 11 August 2020

Page 1

SA20.149 6-Month Update - BlazeAid activities in the Shoalhaven

HPERM Ref: D20/331269

Section: Projects & Technical Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director Assets & Works

Attachments: 1. Testimonial 1 - Josh & Nikki McLaren ⇩

2. Testimonial 2 - Greg Sutcliffe ⇩

3. Testimonial 3 - Ian & Kym - Conjola Hill ⇩

4. Testimonial 4 - Gary McGuire ⇩

Reason for Report

Provide Council with an update on BlazeAid activities to date within the Shoalhaven LGA.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council:

1. Acknowledge the fantastic work undertaken by BlazeAid over the past six months in the wake of the 2019-2020 bushfire crisis.

2. Note the following description by Josh & Nikki McLaren as:

“It has been a wonderful experience having Blaze Aid at our property. Not only have they helped relieve such great stress from our lives by erecting quality fences, but it has been an absolute delight working with such a lovely group of people.”

3. Note the following summary of the Blaze Aid activity across the Shoalhaven:

Milton Showground Camp

· 190 farms registered

· 44 farms completed

· 3 farms currently active

· 13 farms in “urgent” category

· Total cleared – 37 km

· Total refenced – 34.36 km

Kangaroo Valley Satellite Camp

· 63 Farms registered

· 50 farms started

· 38 farms completed

· 8 farms incomplete

· Total cleared – 30.15 km

· Total refenced – 35.47 km

4. Write to Blaze Aid expressing Council’s deepest gratitude for the magnificent work Blaze Aid volunteers have done across the Shoalhaven in helping so many of our citizens and businesses recover from the devastating effects of the Currowan Fire over the summer of 2019/20.

Options

Nil

Background

Council at its January 2020 Ordinary Meeting resolved, as part of the bushfire recovery program (MIN20.12) to:

1. Invite BlazeAid Inc to establish basecamps along the south coast of NSW and that at least one be within Shoalhaven.

2. Make a financial contribution as negotiated by the Chief Executive Officer (Economic Development) to establish a Shoalhaven basecamp.

3. Supports, through the various media platforms, the integration of local community support for south coast BlazeAid Inc basecamps.

4. That the operation be centred initially at Ulladulla.

Milton Showground Camp

As a result of the above BlazeAid was invited to set up in the Shoalhaven and a camp was established at the Milton Showground in late January 2020 with the support of both the 355 Management Committee and the Milton Show Society. Council in conjunction with the appointed BlazeAid co-ordinator sourced articles and resources required to support volunteers arriving at the Showground in early February inclusive of site office, portable cool room, shipping containers, signage, washing machines and dryers, chest freezers, waste bins, catering and food accounts at Milton IGA and South Ulladulla Meat Market P/L and access to the basketball stadium amenities and kitchen to name a few. Simultaneously BlazeAid established accounts, contacts and supplies for various fencing supplies and other essential items not covered by Council.

Farm registrations commenced 1 February and have continued to climb to the current 190 registrations as at the time of writing this report.

No sooner had the camp been established than it was then relocated to the Holiday Haven Ulladulla Headland Tourist Park the first week of March for 9 days to allow the Milton Show to proceed.

Over the past six months the type of volunteer at the camp has transitioned from 100 percent grey nomad in the warmer months to now 95 percent backpacker given the colder temperatures and the change in Federal Government regulations relating to backpacker working visas.

Examples of extremes in terrain faced by volunteers

Statistics

· 190 farms registered

· 44 farms completed

· 3 farms currently active

· 13 farms in “urgent” category -

These are properties that either have livestock currently escaping, are income producing properties that cannot function without fences (for example, cattle from next door or a few doors down are getting into crops, rather than getting out), or are properties where BlazeAid help would enormously improve the mental wellbeing of the property owner.

Total cleared – 37 km / Total refenced – 34.36 km

Total days volunteered – 3,431 days

Kangaroo Valley Satellite Camp

Once farm registrations commenced in Milton it did not take long to recognise the need for a second camp in the northern area of the Shoalhaven and, given the impact on farms in Kangaroo Valley and the number of registrations for help in this location being received at the Milton Camp, it was the obvious place for a satellite camp.

In mid-February an assessment the Kangaroo Valley Showground highlighted that it did not meet the criteria required for the establishment of a BlazeAid camp. To this end an affected property owner in Tallowa Dam Road offered up his property free of charge for the BlazeAid camp. As there were no services to the property Council undertook the process of providing water, portable toilets, showers and power generator, fuel, together with the standard items required such as site office, shipping container, food and the like.

By the time the satellite camp was ready for volunteers there were some 50 farms registered for assistance in the Kangaroo Valley and Budgong locales which grew to 63 by mid-May.

Statistics

· 63 Farms registered

· 50 farms started

· 38 farms completed

· 8 farms incomplete

Concurrent to the volunteers from the KV camp a group of North Nowra local residents have concentrated on the Budgong locale for fencing activities, completing 17 farms to date.

Total cleared – 30.15 km / Total refenced – 35.47 km

Tractor work

Total days volunteered – 1,051 days

Volunteers at work

Community Engagement

There has been no direct community engagement from Council other than through the 355 Committee and Show Society at the Milton Showground. However, a number of farmers have provided the following testimonials:

Attachment 1 - Testimonial 1 – Nikki & Josh McLaren (D20/334804) 424 Woodburn Rd, Morton

Attachment 2 – Testimonial 2 – Greg Sutcliffe (D20/334837) 225 Woodburn Rd, Morton

Attachment 3 – Testimonial 3 – Ian & Kym (D20/334851) – Conjola Hill

Attachment 4 – Testimonial 4 – Gary McGuire (D20/334864)

Policy Implications

Not applicable

Financial Implications

Council spend:

On 13 February Council received approval from the Office of Emergency Management (now Office of Resilience) for funding assistance under the NSW Disaster Guideline C.3 (funding for large scale, out of area volunteer groups). The initial financial provision was up to $50k and for the period 28 January to 28 March 2020 for the Milton camp. This was subsequently upon request extended in March to $85k and 28 July 2020.

On 18 March Kangaroo Valley camp financial assistance was also increased to $85k and for the period up to 3 September, notwithstanding it closed on 9 June.

Funding of this nature is by way of reimbursement of actual expenses on the provision of eligible services. Reimbursement is by way of suppling copies of paid invoices.

Current BlazeAid costs both Milton and Kangaroo Valley camps:

· 2019/20 financial year - $62,950

· 2020/21 year to date - $5,901

· Total to date both camps - $68,851

· Average cost both camps per month for 6 months - $11,475

· Milton camp 90% of above cost

At the time of writing this report a submission had been made to the Office of Resilience to extend the Milton camp assistance for a further 6 months to 28 January 2021 and increase the financial provision by $35k to a total of $120k.

BlazeAid Spending in the local economy:

· $2,500/month on local mechanics, hardware, supercheap auto, Bunnings and Milton fuel;

· $20k to $60k/month on fencing supplies (COVID-19 is the main cause of the fluctuation);

· $2,500/month on incidentals by volunteers – coffee, presents, pizza, group dinners at local cafes, pub visits, fuel for sightseeing.

If you take an average for fencing supplies at $40k/month, it equates to approximately $45k/month spent by BlazeAid in the local economy or approximately $270,000 plus over the 6 months to date.

Risk Implications

All BlazeAid activities are covered by BlazeAid’s own WHS policies/procedures and insurance.

You never know where fencing will go Loan vehicle from South Nowra Toyota

What goes up must go down

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 11 August 2020

Page 1

SA20.150 Pedestrian / Cyclist Access - Erowal Bay Road

HPERM Ref: D20/2692

Section: Projects & Technical Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director Assets & Works

Attachments: 1. Concept Plan - Erowal Bay Road Shared User Path Bridge ⇩

Reason for Report

To allow the Council to consider its preferred option for providing a safe pedestrian and cycle access across Erowal Creek and the priority for the design of its preferred option.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Adopt the separated Shared User Path (SUP) Bridge (Option 2) as its preferred option to provide safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists to cross Erowal Creek, at an estimated cost of $790,000

2. Allocate the following design funding in the 10 Year Capital Listing for shared user path bridges to put Council in a good position to pursue construction funds in future years:

a. 2021/2022 Hillcrest Ave, South Nowra $40,000

b. 2022/2023 Lake Conjola Entrance Rd, Lake Conjola $40,000

c. 2023/2024 Princes Highway, Ulladulla $40,000

d. 2024/2025 Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley $40,000

e. 2025/2026 Erowal Bay Road, Erowal Bay $40,000

Options

1. As recommended

Implications: Providing funding for detailed design and investigation for the various SUP bridge projects will allow Council to develop options that are shovel ready and presents the best chance to successfully apply for grant funding opportunities in future funding years.

2. Council receive the report for information only, a suitable resolution being:

That:

1. Council note the separated Shared User Path (SUP) Bridge (Option 2) to provide safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists to cross Erowal Creek, would cost of the order of $790,000.

2. The CEO (Director Assets and Works) arrange a Councillor workshop to discuss the following Shared User Path projects

a. Hillcrest Ave, South Nowra $40,000

b. Lake Conjola Entrance Rd, Lake Conjola $40,000

c. Princes Highway, Ulladulla $40,000

d. Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley $40,000

e. Erowal Bay Road, Erowal Bay $40,000

Implications: The report is received for information only and no further action is taken.

Background

At the Strategy & Assets Meeting on 23 July 2019 the Committee resolved as follows: (MIN19.479):

That a report come back to Council from appropriate Staff on the feasibility, options and costings of providing safe pedestrian and cycle access across the creek at the western end of Erowal Bay Road where it meets Naval Parade at the entrance to Erowal Bay Village.

For the purpose of this report the cycleway and pedestrian crossing of the creek at the western end of Erowal Bay Road where it meets Naval Parade at the entrance to Erowal Bay Village (Erowal Creek) will be considered in the following sections:

· Section 1: From Kalaroo Road (entrance to Erowal Bay Village) to 30m west of the creek (approximately 200m in length)

· Section 2: From 30m West of Erowal Creek to 30m East of Erowal Creek (including subject bridge)

· Section 3: From 30m East of Erowal Creek to start of straight section of Erowal Bay Road (approximately 180m in length or 1.4km from Naval College Road)

Section 1 along Naval Pde generally sees cyclists and pedestrians using the road edge then moving off the road onto a narrow unsealed verge to avoid passing traffic. A shared user path connection would be considered a feasible solution from Kalaroo Road to the new bridge.

Section 2 will consider two options where no such opportunity exists to move off the road when crossing the existing bridge:

OPTION 1 - Replacing the existing bridge with a wider bridge that can accommodate cyclists and pedestrians. Using the half bridge demolition and construction method recently used for Crookhaven River Bridge, Culburra Road, given the narrow road reserve over Naval Pde

And

OPTION 2 - Constructing a separated shared user path (SUP) bridge beside the existing road bridge. With 30m SUP connections leading to either side of the bridge.

Section 3 along Erowal Bay Road, consists of 7m pavement width comprising 0.3m sealed shoulders, which cyclists may use and pedestrians mainly traverse the unsealed verge to avoid passing traffic. Given the higher speed and rural nature of Erowal Bay Road this section would consider widening the shoulders as a feasibly option.

Status of Current Bridge

The current bridge is over Erowal Creek at the junction of Erowal Bay Road and Naval Parade.

Constructed in 1980, the bridge has a design life of 80 years and based on current inspection data the bridge is currently estimated to be replaced in 2062 (42 years).

The bridge spans approximately 8.5m across the creek with a width of 7.4m comprising two travel lanes. However, there is inadequate width on the existing bridge to effectively separate pedestrians and cyclists from traffic.

The like-for-like replacement cost of the bridge would be approximately $800,000.

Current Pedestrian and Cyclists Usage

A Traffic and Pedestrian study was conducted at this location on the Australia Day long weekend 25 January 2020 (D20/30622). This indicated relatively low pedestrian and cyclist activity even on a public holiday, with a total of 12 pedestrians and cyclists between 9:30am and 5:30pm. They appeared to prioritise the northern side of the bridge as a travel lane.

Estimated Construction Costs

Option 1: Reconstruct the existing bridge and make it wider.

Section 1: $100,000

Section 2: $1,000,000

Section 3: $90,000

Total $1,190,000

Option 2: Separated SUP Bridge

Section 1: $100,000

Section 2: $600,000

Section 3: $90,000

Total $790,000

Community Engagement

Council has a Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP) strategy, and a Bike Plan. Both strategic documents identify and prioritises the construction of new paths and bicycle facilities across the city.

Both the PAMP and Bike Plan currently show an on-road cycleway facility for Erowal Bay Road and Naval Parade. This means that when the road is progressively upgraded over time, or the bridge is ultimately replaced, the provision would then be made for cyclists in the way of wider sealed shoulders and/or additional width across a new bridge.

Extensive community consultation was originally undertaken in 2000 and 2005 (when the PAMP was adopted and updated) and in 2013 (when the Bike Plan was adopted); however, there has been no specific community engagement in relation to the concept of a separate shared user path bridge at the junction of Erowal Bay Road and Naval Parade.

If the project becomes funded, comprehensive community consultation would then be undertaken as part of the development and delivery of the project.

Policy Implications

Nil

Financial Implications

Recent studies conducted at various hotspots across the LGA, identified:

· The Springs Rd, Swan Lake Sussex Inlet bridge having a total of 149 pedestrians and cyclists crossing the bridge between 9:30am and 5:30pm during Australian Day on Saturday in 2020. Design is currently underway, for this bridge.

· Hillcrest Ave bridge between John Purcell Way and Princes Hwy comprises vulnerable school kids and parents crossing the bridge on‑road during very busy peak traffic conditions, to satisfy requests from the Youth Council and community to improve children safety, a separated SUP bridge would be necessary.

· A Traffic and Pedestrian study was scheduled for Lake Conjola Entrance Rd bridge, Lake Conjola but was abandoned due to impacts of bushfire. However, the community has expressed the need for a separated SUP bridge, to cater for the exceptionally high seasonal pedestrian and traffic conflicts on the existing narrow bridge.

· The Princes Highway, Ulladulla where 225 pedestrians and cyclists crossed the bridge between 9:30am and 5:30pm during an Australian Day Saturday, 25 January.

· There has been community interest in a SUP bridge in Kangaroo Valley along Moss Vale Road to eliminate the current need to cross Moss Vale Road twice.

· Erowal Bay Rd bridge with a total of 12 pedestrians and cyclists between 9:30am and 5:30pm indicating relatively low pedestrian and cyclist activity on the same public holiday as other locations.

This confirms the low priority of the Erowal Creek crossing and thus no funding has been provided for this work in the next 10 years.

Up until 2019, grant funding was sought for survey and design development of shared user path bridges e.g. the Moona Moona Creek and Chris Creek SUP Bridge projects and the Swan Lake Inlet SUP Bridge project.

However, when the NSW Government released the new “Walking and Cycling Program” guidelines on 21 November 2019 (replacing the former NSW Active Transport program), the new guidelines no longer allowed funding for design. The program now only considers projects for construction, so projects are meant to be construction-ready when nominated.

Accordingly, going forward, it will be up to Councils now to fully fund the survey/design development of their projects in conjunction with other locations across the LGA. Therefore, Council should consider allocating design funds to a prioritised a list of shared user path bridge projects as outlined above.

The delivery of the project once design and investigations are completed would be sought via grant funding opportunities in future years; which once identified, may be wholly funded or may require some contribution from Council and will be considered at that time.

Risk Implications

N/A

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 11 August 2020

Page 1

SA20.151 L'Etape Australia 2020 - Tour de France

HPERM Ref: D20/326921

Section: Works & Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director Assets & Works

Reason for Report

To allow Council the opportunity to consider its preferred option for pavement and vegetation management to provide for the proposed Shoalhaven Leg of the L’Étape Australia 2020 cycle event.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

Given the importance of this prestigious event being held in the region, that Council:

1. Adopt Option 1 for the pavement treatment and associated vegetation management along the Shoalhaven leg of the L’Étape Australia 2020 and immediately commit to undertaking the necessary works at an estimated cost of $665,780.

2. Receive a further report in conjunction with the first quarterly budget review for 2020/21 outlining a funding strategy for the works and noting any impact on the now adopted 2020/21 Capital Works Program.

Options

1. Council adopts the recommendation at a cost of $665,780.

Implications: This will allow L’Étape Australia 2020 to undertake the Shoalhaven leg of the Tour, improve the ride quality and provide safer route. The adopted method with this option is to undertake road rehabilitation works through the method known as “road stabilisation”, with only minor asphalt patching, which would increase the design life of the road asset to 15 years.

2. Council adopt Option 2 at a cost of $429,280. Wording for this option would be:

That Council adopt Option 2 (estimated design life of 2-3 years) for the pavement treatment and associated vegetation management along the Shoalhaven leg of the L’Étape Australia 2020 at an estimated cost of $429,280 and note that the funding for this works will be considered in the first quarterly budget review for the 20/21 financial year.

Implications: This will allow L’Étape Australia 2020 to undertake the Shoalhaven leg of the Tour, improve the ride quality and provide a safer route. The adopted method with this option is to undertake road rehabilitation works through the method known as “asphalt patching” which would only increase the design life of the road asset to a maximum of 2 to 3 years.

3. Do Nothing. Wording for this option would be

That Council note the pavement treatment and associated vegetation management options presented for the Shoalhaven leg of the L’Étape Australia 2020 and take no action.

Implications: This would be detrimental to Council’s reputation in this high-profile event that has been voted the best Tourism Event and best Regional Event in 2017 and 2018.

Background

L’Étape Australia by Tour de France is planned be held on 27 & 28 November 2020. The event comprises two bicycle rides. The foremost is the Race, an event which replicates a mountainous stage of the Tour de France over 136 km and involving three mountain climbs of an aggregate height of 2,770 metres. The Ride is shorter and involves only one climb. Hundreds of cyclists will compete in these rides.

Starting in Kiama, the Race will travel southwards to Gerringong, thence to Shoalhaven Heads. It then turns westwards along Coolangatta Road, through Berry, up Berry Mountain then across Tourist Road. Thence across Kangaroo Valley, up to Fitzroy Falls, across to the Illawarra Highway, then northward to Robertson. It then swings eastward down to Jamberoo, up Saddleback Mountain and back into Kiama as shown on the map below.

As can be seen, a very significant and picturesque part of the route is in the Shoalhaven and presents a wonderful opportunity to showcase our beautiful city.

The event, voted the best Tourism Event and best Regional Event in 2017 and 2018, will be televised live nationwide via the SBS Network who, together with the Tour de France itself and Destination NSW, support the organiser/owner Lateral Events Management. There will also be considerable international interest and coverage.

As part of its due diligence and risk management, L’Étape event management has inspected road conditions along the entire route and has notified Shoalhaven Council of sections of roads that are potholed or of an unacceptable condition as shown in Table 1.

Table 1: L’Étape notice of roadworks required

At the Strategy and Assets Meeting on 21 July 2020 Council resolved as follows: (MIN 20.483):

“That the Chief Executive Officer prepare a report on the scope and cost of road repair and rehabilitation works required to minimise risk and deliver an acceptable standard of road surface to enable L’Etape Australia 2020 to undertake the Shoalhaven leg of the Tour.”

The Works and Services team has inspected the cycle route to assess the scope for the road repair and rehabilitation work and the estimates in this report to Council have been prepared on these assessments and are summarised below.

Table 2: Detailed scope and cost for Asphalt Patching

Road	Locality	CH	Pavement Repair	Length (m)	Width (m)	Estimated cost
Wharf Road	Berry	0.3	AC patch	20	7	$14,671
Wharf Road	Berry	0.68	AC patch	30	3	$10,610
Kangaroo Valley Rd	Berry	0.36	AC patch	50	2	$13,622
Kangaroo Valley Rd	Berry	1.3	AC patch	35	1.5	$6,876
Kangaroo Valley Rd	Berry	1.56	AC patch	8	1.5	$3,065
Kangaroo Valley Rd	Berry	1.56	AC patch	100	1.5	$14,933
Kangaroo Valley Rd	Berry Mountain	2.18	AC patch	70	2	$14,671
Kangaroo Valley Rd	Berry Mountain	6.14	AC patch	10	2	$3,274
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	6.06	AC patch	30	2	$7,073
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	4.94	AC patch	12	1	$3,065
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	4.96	AC patch	5	1	$2,881
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	4.98	AC patch	12	2.5	$3,649
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	4.6	AC patch	2	2	$2,855
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	4.06	AC patch	30	5	$14,933
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	3.82	AC patch	7	5	$3,668
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	3.78	AC patch	23	5	$14,015
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	3.72	AC patch	5	1	$2,881
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	3.7	AC patch	2	1	$1,427
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	3.7	AC patch	6	1.5	$2,986
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	3.66	AC patch	30	4	$14,146
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	3.48	AC patch	50	5	$28,555
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	1.44	AC patch	45	2	$13,360
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	1.44	AC patch	8	2	$3,170
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	0.4	AC patch	50	2	$16,372
Cambewarra Lookout Rd	Beaumont	0.92	AC patch	100	2	$21,744
					TOTAL	$238,500

Table 3: Detailed scope and cost for Road Stabilisation and Asphalt Patching technique

Road	Locality	Treatment	Area	Rate	Cost
Wharf Rd	Berry	Asphalt patches	350	138	$48,300
Kangaroo Valley Rd	Berry	Stabilised pavement repairs	1610	47.5	$76,475
Kangaroo Valley Rd	Berry	Asphalt patches	651	138	$89,838
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	Stabilised pavement repairs	1950	47.5	$92,625
Tourist Rd	Beaumont	Asphalt patches	110	138	$15,180
Cambewarra Lookout Rd	Beaumont	Asphalt patches	700	138	$96,600
Kangaroo Valley & Tourist Rd	Berry	Pothole patching & shoulder repairs	498	112.5	$56,025
				TOTAL	$475,043

Vegetation management

Council’s tree Management staff carried out a general visual inspection on 24 July 2020 of trees overhanging the road corridor on the following roads:

· Cambewarra Mountain Lookout Road,

· Kangaroo Valley Road; and

· Tourist Road.

The estimated cost of tree work required along the sections of the road that the L’Étape event is traversing is $152,780.

The works involve removing dead or dying trees, Acacias in decline and deadwood over the roads. This is over many kilometres on these three roads. A low percentage of the tree work is to clean up each side of the road in the ‘high vista’ or ‘significant views’ area both sides of Tourist Road.

The estimated cost of traffic management is $38,000, based on a total of 40 days of tree management works and a rate for a traffic crew and plant of $950 per day.

Summary of costs to service the 2020 L’Étape Australia by Tour de France

Scope of Works	Costs
Road Rehabilitation
Option 1 – Stabilised pavement repairs and in combination with asphalt patches in smaller localised sections. The proposed treatment is an economical solution, value for money as the design life will be 15 years.	$475,000
Option 2 - Asphalt patching section of roads (localised patching) that requires immediate repair works. The proposed treatment has a reduced design life of 2 – 3 years.	$238,500
Option 3 – Do nothing.	Nil
Traffic management for road rehabilitation – included in above costs
Tree Management
Removal of dead or dying trees, Acacias in decline and deadwood over the roads.	$152,780
Traffic management - estimated 40 days of tree management work at a cost of $950 per day.	$38,000
Totals
Option 1 – Stabilised pavement repairs, tree management & traffic management & minor asphalt patching	$665,780l
Option 2 – Asphalt patching, tree management & traffic management	$429,280
Option 3 – Do nothing	Nil

Community Engagement

L’Étape Australia has uploaded the event details on the website (www.letapeaustralia.com) for registration and route information such as distance and elevation. The website has the community page and contact email for general pubic to obtain further information. Council’s Traffic and Event Management team will manage the public consultation process, informing the stakeholders and community of the event.

Road restrictions will be advertised two weeks prior to the event on the website and local newspapers. Community event information kit will be distributed to participants, spectators, local residents, and anyone attending the event.

If the works are approved then consultation will need to be undertaken, via a letter drop, as road closures will need to be in place for segments of the road affected whilst works are undertaken.

Policy Implications

Council’s Event Policy document has been issued to L’Étape Australia and Council’s Event Management team will ensure organisers are aware of the regulations and processes associated with holding an event and necessary permits are obtained prior to issuing the permit. Hence, there are no adverse policy implications.

Financial Implications

No funding has been specifically provided for this work in the 20/21 financial year.

Council’s Long-Term Capital Plan includes the following items

$24,180 has been allocated in 20/21 for design works on Tourist Road.

$317,000 has been allocated in 20/21 for Black spot program for Kangaroo Valley Road

$483,600 has been allocated in the draft 20/30 Capex Working Document for 2022

$500,000 has been allocated in the draft 20/30 Capex Working Document for 2023

In view of the above, Option 1 ($665,780) is most suitable and appropriate for this event and delivery method to meet the timeline, subject to funding commitment. The improvement works will enhance the road, improve the service level, and will have the acceptable standard of wearing surface to enable L’Étape Australia 2020 to undertake the Shoalhaven leg of the Tour.

If Option 1 were to be adopted the implications of the 10 Year Capital Listing would be:

$~~24,180 has been allocated in 20/21 for design works on Tourist Road.~~

$317,000 has been allocated in 20/21 for Black spot program for Kangaroo Valley Road

$~~483,600 has been allocated in the draft 20/30 Capex Working Document for 2022~~

$500,000 has been allocated in the draft 20/30 Capex Working Document for 2023

This the net impact of the 10 Year Capital Listing would be an additional $158,000.

(i.e. $665,780-$24,180-$483,600)

If option 2 and 3 were to be adopted there would be no “saving” in the 10 Year Capital Listing

Risk Implications

As part of its due diligence and risk management, L’Étape has inspected road conditions along the entire route and has notified Council of sections of roads that are potholed or of an unacceptable condition. The participating LGAs – Kiama, Shoalhaven and Wingecarribee – have been asked to address and attend to necessary repair works to enable the staging of the event. In Shoalhaven’s case, 12 locations have been identified where repairs and surface rehabilitation have been suggested.

It is to be noted that the event organisers have reaffirmed with Council staff that the identified road defects are not critical to the performance of the course and are not major impacts on safety. Failing the improvement of any road defects, the event organisers have committed to provide additional temporary warning signage for the participants’ benefit and to indicate oncoming road conditions.

There is also risk in not obtaining a contractor within the required time frame to undertake the works prior to mid November 2020 if a decision is not made to approve the required works in August 2020.

It should also be noted that a mature eucalypt tree on Tourist Road recently crushed a car in June with two occupants in it, Fortunately the two were uninjured and were assisted out of the car by residents with heavy machinery.

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 11 August 2020

Page 1

SA20.152 Shoalhaven Materials Recovery Facility

HPERM Ref: D20/238860

Section: Commercial Services

Approver: Phillip Perram, Section Manager - Commercial Services

Attachments: 1. GHD Peer Review of Business Case (under separate cover) ⇨

Reason for Report

This report responds to additional items raised in MIN19.947C (Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) proposal - Business Case) at Council’s Strategy & Assets Committee meeting of 10 December 2019.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council authorise the CEO (Group Director Assets and Works) to proceed with the development of a Materials Recovery Facility to be located at West Nowra, noting that:

1. Council commissioned GHD to undertake a peer review of the business case undertaken by Talis Consultants (October 2019) and this review is supportive of the business case.

2. The conservative business case shows that, for the base case, the Materials Recovery Facility operation will be paid back in 11.67 years with an NPV of $5 million.

3. The estimated capital cost is $23 Million which has been provided for over the 20/21 and 21/22 financial years in Council’s 10-year Capital Plan

4. The risks with the proposal are summarised as

Factor	Risk ranking	Mitigation
Gate fee	Low	Lower rate than other regional alternatives
Commodity sales	Low	Commodity prices based on conservative market interrogation. Positive benefit in processed glass sales.
Capital	Medium	Tender process and ongoing application for additional grant funding
Operating cost	Medium	Estimate based on industry expertise with opportunity to share resources with the broader facility at West Nowra

Option Summary

1. Accept the recommendation as drafted

Implications: Council will continue the process of developing a Materials Recovery Facility at West Nowra to be commissioned in 18 to 24 months.

2. Reject the recommendation and resolve to invite tenders for the provision of a Materials Recovery Facility to process Council kerbside collected recyclables from July 2022.

Implications: This is not recommended. The significant financial, logistical and agility advantages for Council to conduct recyclable materials processing in-house will be absent, and unless a new MRF is constructed in the LGA the materials will be sent out of the area for processing.

Background

At Council’s Strategy and Assets Committee meeting of 10 December 2019, Council resolved (MIN19.947C) to:

1. Adopt the business case to establish a best practice Materials Recycling Facility (Talis Consulting October 2019) at its existing West Nowra Waste Management Precinct to process commingled recycling, in Principle. The features of the business case being;

• Maximum operational capacity: up to 24,000 tonnes per annum (or 15 tonnes per hour).

• Availability considering scheduled (and unscheduled) downtime: 95%.

• Equipment and internal stockpiling area: 4,500m²;

• Building area: 7,500m²;

• Building Height: 9.5m (gutter height);

• Fully enclosed operations including receival hall and bunker;

• Sealed roads;

• Community education and viewing platform; and

• Fire protection and control system.

• A payback period with a $10million grant will be 6.83 years, but should Council not receive the grant and must fund the full amount through loans, the payback period will be 11.67 years.

2. The CEO (Director Assets and Works) seek public comment on the proposal to establish a best practice Materials Recycling Facility (Talis Consulting October 2019) at its existing West Nowra Waste Management Precinct to process commingled recycling and conduct an independent peer review of the Business Case and report back to an Ordinary Council Meeting as soon as possible with the outcome of those processes and recommending a way forward.

This report documents the independent business case peer review and the public consultation process.

Peer review of business case

Council commissioned GHD to undertake a peer review of the business case undertaken by Talis Consultants. The GHD report is attached, with recommendations as follows:

· Upgrade the business case so that it meets NSW State Government requirements – this will enable it to be used for seeking grant funding support, if required

· Continue to seek grant funding to improve the financial aspects of the project for Council

· Review the delivery timelines – they seem to be more suited to a situation where a building is already available rather than a green field development

· Prepare a financial model of the project for Council to use, to enable further sensitivity analysis to be undertaken, and enable a real-life model of the project to be developed (see comments below)

o Assess the project as a base case with no grant funding (currently the base case has a $10m grant included)

o Undertake further sensitivity analysis to assess the impacts of adverse changes to multiple variables

o Test the financial situation of the project with the same rates that the nearest MRFs offer their customers (i.e. competitor gate fees), to see what the outcome is

· Engage a quantity surveyor to provide an estimate for construction costs

In the Talis business case the financial model yielded a pay-back period of 6.83 years with a Government grant of $10 million. Since then the grant funding application was unsuccessful and the revised financial model (no grant funding) yielded a pay-back period of 11.67 years.

There are multiple variables that affect the payback period and financial viability of the project. Further sensitivity analysis has been undertaken as recommended by GHD to provide a broad scale picture of potential risk. The original financial model prepared by the Paxon Group has been used as the basis to calculate outputs for different input variables. These are shown in the table below:

New Assumptions (no external grant funding)
Variable	Sensitivity	NPV ($)	Pay-back Period (years)
Gate Rate	As in local MRF tender	30,245,625	7.17
Gate Rate	As in new contract	17,273,969	8.92
Revenue	20%	15,594,226	9.17
Capex	-20%	12,724,896	9.42
Opex	-20%	10,874,300	10.17
BASE CASE	0	5,097,010	11.67
Discount Rate	5%	2,031,503	11.67
Base Rate Finance	3.80%	3,571,882	12.17
Tonnes	-20%	-91,427	13.17
Base Rate Finance	5.80%	349,989	13.42
Opex	20%	-1,836,459	14.02
Capex	20%	-4,056,448	14.67
Revenue	-20%	-4,503,378	15.17

Risk of being worse than the base case

The modelling shows that the business is highly sensitive to revenue, capital, and operating costs.

Revenue estimates have been based on the gate fee and commodity sales prices.

· Gate fee – Following the recent tender for MRF services the modelled gate fee is extremely competitive. There is potential for increasing the gate fee without losing market. A 20% increase in gate rate alone will increase the NPV by $7.5 million and reduce the payback period by 1.75 years.

· Commodity sales – the commodity prices have been set at a very conservative low base, gained from market interrogation in a depressed market. The value for sorted recyclables fluctuates greatly which makes it the highest potential risk in the MRF business. This has been clearly evident in the last two years following the global recycling crisis (precipitated by the China Sword). Recyclables commodity prices suffered similar falls during the Global Financial Crises of 2008/2009. A chart showing prices of recyclables over the last three years (ref Recovered Resources Market Bulletin, Mar-29; Victorian Market Intelligence Pilot Project (edition #01)) is shown below.

Recyclable commodity prices June 2017 to March 2020

· The glass processing plant will produce a high-quality glass sand with an expected price of $30/t, increasing NPV by $3.1 million and reducing the payback time by 0.75 years. Expected markets include abrasive blasting, insulation aggregate, pipe bedding, landscaping drainage medium, asphalt aggregate, concrete aggregate, and filter systems.

Capital and Operating Costs have been provided to Council by experts in the industry, a contractor who owns and operates their own MRF and who has designed and constructed 13 other MRFs in Australia as well as upgrading other MRF facilities.

· Capital – There is a risk that some capital items may be more costly, especially if they are imported from Europe where Council is subject to the vagaries of the exchange rate. The capital risk is partly mitigated by the early construction of the glass washing and processing plant, reducing the glass component of the MRF design to simple removal. Further mitigation may be achieved if Council were to be able to attract Grant funding for the project. For each $1 million of grant funding received for the project the NPV will increase by an additional $1.5 million and the payback period will reduce by about half a year.

· Operating – The operating cost risk is reduced by the fact that the facility will be co-located at the West Nowra site, where Council already employs staff, plant and machinery, that are able to back up the MRF operation in times of excess (Christmas holidays).

In summary, the risk of being worse than the base case:

Factor	Risk ranking	Mitigation
Gate fee	Low	Lower rate than other regional alternatives
Commodity sales	Low	Commodity prices based on conservative market interrogation. Positive benefit in processed glass sales.
Capital	Medium	Tender process and ongoing application for additional grant funding
Operating cost	Medium	Estimate based on industry expertise with opportunity to share resources with the broader facility at West Nowra

A Council owned MRF in the Shoalhaven will provide a range of additional benefits including but not limited to valuable employment opportunities, improve Council’s landfill diversion rate, and assist in the transition towards a circular economy. Council has access to a suitable location for the MRF, available source of feedstock, a strong understanding of what MRF technology is required and the current industry conditions to establish a best practice facility through a detailed procurement process. With contracted recycling fees on the rise and in the essence of time, the waste services team is ready to mobilise and enact the implementation plan to establish the MRF ready for operation by early 2022.

The establishment and inclusion of a MRF, to complement the proposed Bioelektra facility, will define the West Nowra WMF and Council as a leader in waste management being at the forefront of innovation and the implementation of a circular economy.

Public Consultation

Council resolved to seek public comment on the proposal to establish a best practice Materials Recycling Facility. In response a “Get Involved” post was created and advertised on the Council Website, going live on 20 May 2020. On the same day, all CCBs were advised by email.

The Get Involved post is ongoing and continuing. The site had 101 visits in the first four weeks, with no questions, calls or emails.

Community Engagement

Council’s website “Get Involved” post with all CCBs were advised by email, as described above.

Policy Implications

This project falls under the Capital Projects Guidelines exemption and doesn’t need to be reported to Division of Local Government because it related to domestic waste.

The following is an extract from the Guidelines.

Financial Implications

The cost impact on the community through the annual domestic waste management charge is unlikely to be affected. A lower gate fee was used for the business case than the current price Council is currently paying a contractor to process the material. This provides confidence to support that no additional charges will be applied to ratepayers.

The conservative business case shows that, for the base case, the MRF operation will be paid back in 11.67 years with an NPV of $5 million

The estimated capital cost is $23 Million which has been provided for over the 20/21 and 21/22 financial years in Council’s 10-year Capital Plan

Risk Implications

The primary risks are related to Gate fee, commodity sales, capital costs and operating costs. The risks are summarised in the table with ranking and mitigation:

Factor	Risk ranking	Mitigation
Gate fee	Low	Lower rate than other regional alternatives
Commodity sales	Low	Commodity prices based on conservative market interrogation. Positive benefit in processed glass sales.
Capital	Medium	Tender process and ongoing application for additional grant funding
Operating cost	Medium	Estimate based on industry expertise with opportunity to share resources with the broader facility at West Nowra

Strategy and Assets Committee – Tuesday 11 August 2020

Page 1

SA20.155 DA17/2044 Request for Connection to Town Sewerage System

HPERM Ref: D20/339286

Section: Water Asset Planning & Development

Approver: Robert Horner, Acting Director Shoalhaven Water

Reason for Report

To consider the connection of an approved caravan park development (DA17/2044) on rural zoned land (RU2) to the adjacent sewerage system currently under construction to serve SF10425.

In accordance with Council’s Rural Wastewater Connection policy (POL16/95) a property not paying the sewer availability charge will only be considered for connection to Council’s sewerage system if it is not possible to manage wastewater by on site treatment. Approval in this situation is subject to Council resolution.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Council approve DA17/2044 to connect to the future sewerage system, subject to the applicant making application to modify the Development Application Notice issued for DA17/2044 to include:

1. Payment of the Section 64 Sewerage Headworks Charge, and

2. Augmenting the approved future sewerage system for SF10425 to ensure capacity for the overall caravan park development at their full cost, and

3. Installation of a suitably sized pressure sewer unit and associated infrastructure, to support the overall caravan park development, at the developer’s full cost, and

4. Design and installation of a suitably sized emergency storage tank to cater for power outages, planned and unplanned, at the developer’s full cost.

Options

1. As recommended.

Implications: Other surrounding lands may seek to connect to the future sewerage system.

2. Refuse the application for connection to the adjacent future town sewerage system.

Implications: This is not recommended as all parties have negotiated an acceptable outcome, as outlined in the Recommendation.

Background

Council has received an application to connect DA17/2044 on Lot 4 DP 568283, No. 15 Golfcourse Way Sussex Inlet to the adjacent future sewerage system to be constructed for SF10425 (Sussex Inlet Golf Village). Lot 4 DP 568283 Golfcourse Way Sussex Inlet is not levied the sewer availability charge.

Lot 4 DP 568283 is a rural zoned (RU2) lot and connection to a town sewerage system requires compliance with Council’s Rural Wastewater Connection Policy (POL16/95) and Council consent.

The owners of Lot 4 DP 568283 have received Council consent on 20 February 2019 for a caravan park with associated infrastructure (DA17/2044) under two stages. The overall development comprises a total of fifty-six (56) caravan sites and a community building.

Condition No. 82 of the consent for DA17/2044 requires each dwelling site to be connected to the approved pump-out effluent management system with an operational approval issued under s68 of the Local Government Act 1993. However, the developer of the caravan park has seen a potential opportunity to connect to the adjacent future sewerage system (currently under construction).

The sketch plan below shows in general, the sewer infrastructure under construction within Lot 100 DP 1247844 for SF10425 (yellow lot) and the proposed sewer infrastructure within Lot 4 DP 568283 for DA17/2044 (blue lot).

Sketch Plan of Planned Sewerage Infrastructure

Development DA17/2044

DA17/2044 is for the creation of a 56 site caravan park and community building in two stages (with stage 1 split in two parts):

Stage 1A: Dwelling sites 1 – 20 (20 dwelling sites),

Stage 1B: Dwelling sites 21 – 41 (21 dwelling sites), and

Stage 2: Dwelling sites 42 – 56 (15 dwelling sites) and community building.

Consent for the development has expressly stated that for Stage 2 to proceed the whole development must connect to Council’s reticulated sewerage system.

If the applicant for DA17/2044 does not progress with Stage 2 and also not connect to the adjacent future town sewerage system, then they must provide an approved pump-out effluent management system for the whole of Stage 1.

Assessment under Council’s Rural Wastewater Connection Policy (POL16/95)

Section 3.2 of the policy outlines the criterion that an application must adhere to; these are:

· Where capacity exists in the existing system, and

· Where the current levels of service can be provided, and

· Where the property is paying the wastewater availability charge.

Properties not paying the wastewater availability charge will only be considered for connection to Council’s sewerage system if it is not possible to manage wastewater by on site treatment. Approval in this situation is subject to Council resolution.

Where capacity exists in the existing system, and

Currently a new sewerage system is under construction. This new sewerage system was approved by Shoalhaven Water to serve the Sussex Inlet Golf Village subdivision development (under SF10425 – Stage 1 being 79 lots).

The developer of DA17/2044 has had discussions with the developer of SF10425 (Taliac Pty Ltd) and they have entered into agreement to allow Lot 4 DP 568283 to connect to the future sewerage system. The pressure sewer main has been upsized to ensure that it can support the caravan development. Hence, capacity exists within this proposed new sewerage system to support the whole of DA17/2044.

Where the current levels of service can be provided, and

Shoalhaven Water’s Customer Service Plan for sewerage services (refer to Appendix A) relate to:

- Sewer overflows to customer properties, and

- Sewer odour complaints, and

- Effluent quality from Sewage Treatment Plants.

The connection to the proposed new sewerage system would be by a pressure sewer system as Lot 4 DP 568283 is unable to drain by gravity to the gravity sewerage system under construction.

A pressure sewerage system would be designed by the applicant and installed by Shoalhaven Water within Lot 4 DP568283, at the developer’s full cost, and handed over to Council at completion of the project. This pressure sewerage system would connect to the approved pressure sewerage system within SF10425 (refer to above sketch plan). DA17/2044 will be required to ensure that it has provided adequate emergency storage in the event of power failure or where the sewerage system is accessed for planned or unplanned maintenance/repair/upgrade.

Where the property is paying the wastewater availability charge

Lot 4 DP 568283, No. 15 Golfcourse Way Sussex Inlet, is not levied the wastewater availability charge. The policy notes that properties that do not pay the sewer availability charge will only be considered for connection to Council’s sewerage system if it is not possible to manage wastewater by on site treatment. Approval in this situation is subject to Council resolution.

No assessment has been undertaken into whether it is not possible to manage wastewater by on site treatment. The consent for DA17/2044 outlines that the development is to install an approved pump-out effluent management system.

The property owner of Lot 4 DP 568283, No. 15 Golfcourse Way Sussex Inlet has recognised potential to connect to a proposed/future nearby town sewerage system. In addition, stage 2 of DA17/2044 would not be able to progress without a connection to the town sewerage system.

Pressure Sewer System

The developer of DA17/2044 will be required to prepare an appropriate pressure sewerage system design including appropriately sized tank, pumps and emergency storage. The approved infrastructure would be installed by Council at the developer’s full cost. The installation of the emergency effluent storage tank and associated components will be undertaken by the developer at their full cost.

The developer of DA17/2044 has entered into agreement with the developer of SF10425 to augment the town pressure sewerage system within SF10425 to fully support the caravan park development. This amended pressure sewer design is currently being undertaken.

Community Engagement

No community engagement has taken place, other than with the applicant.

Policy Implications

The subject land is zoned rural (RU2) and in accordance with the Rural Wastewater Connection Policy (POL16/95), Council is to determine the application.

Financial Implications

There are no negative financial implications for Council. Council will receive contributions and revenue from the caravan park development in the form of:

- Section 64 (Sewerage Services) Charge, and

- Annual sewer availability charge (based on the water meter size), and

- Sewer discharge fee (based on the volume of water used).

The caravan park development’s Section 64 Charges are assessed as follows:

Stage	No. of Dwellings	No. of ETs	No. of ETs reduced under POL20/22	Sewer S64 Charge/ET (2020/21)	Amount Payable (2020/21)
A	B	C	D	E	F (D x E)
1A	20	8.00	3.50	$8,339.00	$29,186.50
1B	21	8.40	4.20	$8,339.00	$35,023.80
2	15	6.00	3.00	$8,339.00	$25,017.00
TOTAL					$89,227.30

All works, fees and charges will be paid by the developer of DA17/2044.

Theme	Progress snapshot
Resilient, safe and inclusive communities	84% actions completed or on track
Sustainable, liveable environments	86% actions completed or on track
Prosperous communities	67% actions completed or on track
Responsible governance	87% actions completed or on track

(a) The money (if any) that the council paid for the acquisition of the land	$0.00	land dedicated as public road at no cost to council
(b) The money that the council has spent on the construction of the road	$0.00	the road was constructed at no cost to council
(c) The money that the council has spent in erecting or constructing, in, on or over the road, any conduits, poles or structures for use in connection with any water, sewerage or drainage work of, or any trading undertaking carried on by, the council, which, at the time of the acquisition by the Crown, were owned and used by that council in connection with any such work or trading undertaking	$0.00	there are no conduits, poles or structures for use in connection with any water, sewerage or drainage work of, or any trading

Licensor:	The Council of the City of Shoalhaven as Crown Land Manager – R180065 – Thomson Street Sporting Complex. Administration Building 42 Bridge Road, Nowra, NSW, 2541 Tel: 02 4429 3111 Fax: 02 4422 1816 Email Council@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au
Licensee:	NSW State Emergency Service ABN: 88 712 649 015 93-99 Burelli St WOLLONGONG NSW 2500 Telephone: 02 4247 8094 Contact: Chiara Spencer Mobile: 0437 580 971 Email: chiara.spencer@ses.nsw.gov.au
Premises:	Part Lot 159 DP 42824
Reserve Number	R180065 Gazette Notice 30/12/1994 Public Recreation & Community Purposes
Licence Term:	1 year
Commencing date:	TBA
Terminating date:	TBA
Licence preparation fee:	Waived
Rent:	Waived
Fee review	Not applicable
Outgoings:	Not applicable
Permitted use:	Storage “cube” for emergency response equipment for Community Purposes.
Limit of liability under insurance:	$20 Million

Issue	Use of the whole Thomson St Complex Buildings
Council response	The objector was incorrectly advised by a member of the public that Council was issuing a licence over the existing buildings in the complex. Council staff explained that the proposal is for a ground licence only. The applicant will be using the space for the placement of a “cube” for storage solutions (similar to a shipping container).
Issue	Ill-considered proposals, decisions and developments that impact negatively on the amenity of the complex. There is deep concern that over the past decade there has been a considerable deterioration of the standard and consistency of construction and materials of building in the complex and the maintenance thereof.
Council response	This application does not include the construction of a building nor modifying an existing building. Advice contained in the correspondence is that this issue has been raised with Council under separate correspondence.
Issue	Provision of sandbags by SES has been discussed both at past Forum Meetings and in Sussex Inlet and District Strategic Action Working Party meetings. Those meetings suggested other sites such as near the Sewerage Treatment plant or at the Waste Depot.
Council response	Following representation by Councillor Watson the Sewerage Treatment Plant was investigated by Shoalhaven Water and not supported due to WHS risk to SES workers and volunteers. In addition, in the event of an emergency the STP pump station would likely be at full capacity requiring extra staff and monitoring. It would not be appropriate to manage visitors to the site at this time. Council’s WHS Unit supported this opinion.
Issue	Even when painted, shipping containers would not be welcome at the complex to add to the number of extra sheds and buildings being erected and construction of miss-matched buildings; some side by side. It is becoming to appear more and more industrial in nature. Where does this type of development begin and end?
Council response	The proposal is for temporary storage “mini cube” with signage to assist the residents in times of storm events particular flooding events. The proposal is for the community and should be central and accessible to all residents in times of emergency.

Lessee	Applied Connections Pty Ltd trading as Glue Pot Shoe Repairs
Lessor	Shoalhaven City Council
Premises	Lot 2 DP 591885 known as 5/3 Schofields Lane Nowra
Area	35sqm unsurveyed
Permitted Use	Shoe Repairs, leather work, sewing, book binding & related services
Commencement	1 September 2020
Initial Term	3 years
Options	3 + 3 years
Rent	$16,000 pa + GST Paid by monthly instalments of $1,333.33 + GST Plus Outgoings
Rent Free Period	Three (3) months
Increases	3% per annum upon lease commencement date
Market Review	At the end of each 3 year term (years 3, 6 & 9)
Outgoings (recouped from the Tenant by Council)	100% Garbage Management Fees Trade Waste (if required) Backflow Prevention (if fitted) Electricity & gas Any charges that solely relate to the lessee’s use of the premises other than Council rates, land tax & water rates. Fire equipment maintenance & servicing – AFSS 10% Of all other Outgoings as proportionate building share: Council rates Land tax Lessor’s building Insurance Water / Water Usage / Sewer Availability Sanitary Electricity – common areas Cleaning - common areas & stock supply *Note these costs are on top of rent
Operating Costs (Direct costs to the Tenant)	Own business running costs Utilities – Electricity & Gas Grease Trap / Trade Waste (if installed throughout the lease term) Air Conditioning servicing (if Council Unit provided) Pest Control Cleaning Security
Security Deposit / Bank Guarantee	$1,466.66 incl GST (1 months’ rent)
Insurance	Public Risk Insurance - Twenty Million Dollars ($20,000,000.00) Plate Glass insurance (if applicable) Noting Shoalhaven City Council as Interested Party

Total Capital cost over life of Asset (10% of the total for the whole building)	$	161,600
Design Life of Major Asset:		60 years
Depreciation - Amortising capital cost	$	4,373
Annualised Operating Costs	$	3,000
Annualised M&R	$	1,000
Total Annualised (Depreciation, Operating & R&M)	$	8,373
Proposed Annual rent	$	16,000
(-) Subsidy/ Profit to Council	$	7,627
ROI		4.72%

Lessee	Shannyn McCarthy trading as Hair by Shannyn McCarthy
Lessor	Shoalhaven City Council
Premises	Lot 2 DP 591885 known as 1/3 Schofields Lane Nowra
Area	35sqm unsurveyed
Zoning	B3 – Commercial Core
Permitted Use	Hairdressing & related hair product sales
Commencement	1 September 2020
Initial Term	1 year
Options	2 years
Rent	$15,600 pa + GST Paid by monthly instalments of $1,300 + GST Plus Outgoings
Rent Free Period	Three (3) months
Increases	3% per annum upon lease commencement date
Market Review	At the end of each term
Outgoings	100% Garbage Management Fees Trade Waste (if required) Backflow Prevention (if fitted) Electricity & gas Any charges that solely relate to the lessee’s use of the premises other than Council rates, land tax & water rates. Fire equipment maintenance & servicing – AFSS 10% Of all other Outgoings as proportionate building share: Council rates Land tax Lessor’s building Insurance Water / Water Usage / Sewer Availability Sanitary Electricity – common areas Cleaning - common areas & stock supply *Note these costs are on top of rent
Operating Costs	Own business running costs Utilities – Electricity & Gas Grease Trap / Trade Waste (if installed throughout the lease term) Air Conditioning servicing (if Council Unit provided) Pest Control Cleaning Security
Security Deposit / Bank Guarantee	$1,430.00 incl GST (1 months’ rent)
Insurance	Public Risk Insurance - Twenty Million Dollars ($20,000,000.00) Plate Glass insurance (if applicable) Noting Shoalhaven City Council as Interested Party

Tenderer	Location
MMA Pty Ltd	43 Hubert Street, Leichhardt, NSW, 2040
Hisway Pty Ltd	13A Investigator Street, Nowra NSW 2541
Gongues Construction Pty Ltd	110 Stenhouse Drive, Cameron Park NSW 2285
FB Contracting Pty Ltd	Building 1, 57 Tourle Street, Mayfield North NSW 2304
Dekort Systems Pty Ltd	18 Trafalgar Street, Wodonga VIC 3690