AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

 

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday
28 August 2017

AT 6.00pm

 

 

 

Cnr Baylis and Morrow Streets,
Wagga Wagga NSW 2650
PO Box 20, Wagga Wagga

 

Phone: 1300 292 442
Fax: 02 6926 9199
Website: www.wagga.nsw.gov.au


NOTICE OF MEETING

In pursuance of the provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993 and the Regulations there under, notice is hereby given that an Ordinary Meeting of the Council of the City of Wagga Wagga will be held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Corner Baylis and Morrow Streets, Wagga Wagga, on Monday 28 August 2017 at 6.00pm.

 

Council live streams video and audio of Council meetings. Members of the public are advised that their voice and/or image may form part of the webcast.

 

 

Mr Robert Knight

General Manager

 


WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCILLORS

 

 

Mayor

Councillor Greg

Conkey OAM

Deputy Mayor

Councillor Dallas Tout

Councillor Yvonne Braid

Councillor Paul Funnell

Councillor Dan Hayes

Councillor Vanessa Keenan

Councillor Rod Kendall

Councillor Tim Koschel

Councillor Kerry Pascoe

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

QUORUM

The quorum for a meeting of the Council is a majority of the Councillors of the Council who hold office for the time being who are eligible to vote at the meeting.


COUNCIL MEETING ROOM

 

 

 

 


Reports submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council to be held on Monday 28 August 2017.

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 28 August 2017

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE               PRECIS                                                                                            PAGE

PRAYER                                                                                                                       2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY                                                                          2

APOLOGIES                                                                                                                 2

CONFIRMATIONS OF MINUTES

CM-1           Ordinary Council Meeting - 24 July 2017                                        2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                    2

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1         NOTICE OF MOTION - RED HILL ROAD - LOCAL ARTICULATED TRANSPORT 2

Reports from Staff

RP-1            Adoption of Council's Policies                                                       2

RP-2            POL 081 Business Continuity Policy                                                2

RP-3            POL 001 Asset Management Policy                                                  2

RP-4            POL 101 Legislative Compliance Policy                                         2

RP-5            POL 033 Weed Management Policy and Delegations                  2

RP-6            POL 109 PUBLIC ART POLICY AND PUBLIC ART PLAN REVIEW             2

RP-7            POL 078 - Donations Under Section 356 of the Local Government Act                                                                                                                  2

RP-8            Contaminated Land Management Policy                                      2

RP-9            Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040                                                                  2

RP-10          Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy                    2

RP-11          Draft Activation Strategy 2040                                                      2

RP-12          PROCESS OF PROCEDURAL MOTION - EN GLOBO                                 2

RP-13          Financial Performance Report as at 31 July 2017                     2

RP-14          Juvenile Diabetes Walk - Section 356 donation                          2

RP-15          Bears of Hope - Section 356 Donation                                            2

RP-16          Dunns Road                                                                                            2

RP-17          Kincaid St - Centre of Road Parking - Review of Trial             2

RP-18          Economic Development Grants Program 2016/2017 - Final Round - Recommendations of assessment panel                                      2

 

 

RP-19          Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Annual Report                       2

RP-20          Response to Questions with Notice                                               2

RP-21          PROPOSED ROAD CLOSURE APPLICATION - HAREFIELD                      2

RP-22          PROPOSED LEASE TO THE AUSTRALIAN CLAY TARGET ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED                                                                                       2

RP-23          CHANGE OF LESSEE ENTITY - WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL CROWN RESERVES RESERVE TRUST LEASE - RESERVE 1037368 AT TARCUTTA (LOT 16 DP1189207)                                                                                               2

RP-24          LAKE ALBERT STORMWATER HARVESTING                                           2  

Committee Minutes

M-1              Traffic Committee Minutes and Summary - 13 July 2017            2

M-2              Floodplain Risk Management Advisory Committee Meeting - 4 July 2017                                                                                                           2   

QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE                                                                         2

Confidential Reports

CONF-1       RFT 2017/32 AIRPORT TAXIWAY UPGRADE STAGE 1                              2  

 


PRAYER

 

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

 

 

APOLOGIES

 

 

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1              Ordinary Council Meeting - 24 July 2017       

 

Recommendation

That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 24 July 2017 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

Attachments  

1.

Minutes - 24 July 2017

2

 

 

  

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                     NOM-1

 

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1           NOTICE OF MOTION - RED HILL ROAD - LOCAL ARTICULATED TRANSPORT

Author:          Councillor Paul Funnell

 

Analysis:

Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Paul Funnell in accordance with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council receive a report on options to manage local articulated transport on the section of Red Hill Road between the Olympic Highway and Glenfield Road.

 

Report

For a number of years there have been ongoing concerns with the methodology regarding the restrictions in place for Red Hill Road, from the Olympic highway intersection to the intersection of Glenfield Road. This problem continues to be brought up at community meetings such as Collingullie and Galore as well as ongoing numerous phone conversations with affected members of the community.

 

The current signage, limits traffic movements to vehicles under 15m. There is a logical historical reason for this, being that Council and the community did not want Red Hill road to end up as a quasi-city by-pass. That said, in discussions over the past three years, a number of excuses have been presented, from the structural integrity of the pavement to saying the RMS didn’t support any larger movements.

 

The intention of this report is to explore options that would allow traffic movements of local heavy vehicles along this section of road. By allowing such movements on a limited basis, for example, ’19.5m limit, local traffic only’, this would reduce wear and tear on other roads and infrastructure and improve safety in the city streets. There are current heavy transport traffic movements on this section of road which is limited to operators of the quarry located on Red Hill Road. All other traffic movements outside the 15m limit are forced to travel down Glenfield Road and then through residential and school zone precincts, thus creating increased unnecessary congestion and potential safety issues. This type of movement and onerous traffic management increases maintenance requirements due to the screwing of heavy-laden vehicles on city streets and roundabouts.

 

This report is not limited to changing the signage; this was just one potential option as an example. Other options that have been discussed could be a permit system; however, that could increase red tape for both council and the local operators. The report would be required to look at all potential management solutions and report to council for discussion and decision.

Financial Implications

N/A


Policy and Legislation

N/A

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We have leaders that represent us

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

No specific issues identified.

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

 

  

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1                             Adoption of Council's Policies

Author:                        Ingrid Hensley

General Manager:    Robert Knight

         

Analysis:

Adopt all Council policies within 12 months of the Local Government Election.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       adopt the list of Council policies as outlined in the body of this report

b       rescind the following policies:

·     POL 014 – Local Orders Policy

·     POL 027 – Support in Community Disasters Policy

·     POL 073 – Tree Management Policy

·     POL 098 – Internal Audit Policy

·     POL 099 – Good Governance Policy

·     POL 116 – Mayoral Discretionary Fund Policy

c        delegate authority to the General Manager to make minor amendments to policies as required (as outlined in the report)

 

Key Reasons

Over the course of the past year a comprehensive review of Council’s policies has been undertaken to ensure that all policies are appropriate to the current strategic, operational and legislative environment in which Council operates.

 

Report

 

The Policies of Council express the overarching intent of Council on matters of broad significance and provide guidance for the management of those matters. These policies have a range of instigation and review mechanisms including legislative compliance, Office of Local Government directives, local requirements and good practice in the various disciplines within which Council operates. Council currently has in excess of 80 policies covering a diverse range of areas.

 

As indicated, over the past 12 months Council staff have undertaken an extensive and thorough review of Council policies to ensure they:

 

·    are consistent with Council’s strategic objectives, legislation and other influences e.g. Office of Local Government directives

·    seek to represent the views of Council and the community

·    clearly state intended outcomes

·    can be effectively implemented and administered.

 


As a result of the review process each policy was categorised into one of three areas:

 

·    Those which did not require material changes i.e. were compliant, with no industry changes nor State Government directives (e.g. OLG directives)

·    Those which required changes requiring public exhibition and Council adoption which have been reported to Council throughout the past 12 months

·    Those which were identified as requiring rescission

 

A full list of Council policies is as follows:

 

Policy Reference

Policy Name

POL 001

Asset Management Policy

POL 002

Restricted Access Vehicle Management

POL 003

Works In Kind Agreement Policy

POL 004

Wagga Wagga Art Gallery – Collection Management Policy

POL 005

Wagga Wagga Art Gallery – Exhibition Policy

POL 006

Liquid Trade Waste Policy

POL 007

Visitor Access to Staff- Only Areas of Council Policy

POL 008

Activities in Public Road Reserves Policy

POL 009

Smoke-Free Outdoor Areas Policy

POL 010

Loans to Community Organisations Policy

POL 011

Signs As Remote Supervision Policy

POL 012

Enforcement and Prosecution Policy

POL 013

Return on Investment Council Businesses Policy

POL 015

Community Facility Direction Signs Policy

POL 016

Replacement of stolen kerbside collection bins Policy

POL 019

External Loan Borrowings Policy

POL 020

Internal Loan Borrowings Policy

POL 021

Financial Reserves for future expenditures Policy

POL 022

Grants and Partnership/Sponsorship provided to Council Policy

POL 023

Commercial Advertising at Council Policy

POL 024

Community Gardens Policy

POL 025

Payment of Expenses and Provision of facilities to Councillors Policy

POL 026

Use of Council Logo and Coat of Arms Policy

POL 028

Plaques Policy

POL 029

Wagga Wagga Asbestos Policy

POL 033

Noxious Weeds Policy

POL 036

Sewer Policy

POL 037

Stormwater Policy

P0L 038

Leasing and Licensing Policy

POL 039

Wagga Wagga Cemeteries Policy

POL 041

Activities on Footpath Policy

POL 042

Condolences and Memorials for staff and Councillors Policy

POL 043

Councillors Records Management Policy

POL 046

Processing Development Applications lodged by Councillors, Staff and individuals Policy

POL 047

Road and Suburb Naming Policy

POL 049

Swimming Pool Safety Policy

POL 050

Awnings Policy

POL 051

Security Deposits Interest Payments Policy

POL 052

Budget Policy

POL 055

Parks Naming Policy

POL 056

Unreasonable Complainant and Contact Policy

POL 058

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Policy

POL 060

Delegations Policy

POL 061

Hiring a Council Community Centre or Hall Policy

POL 063

Livestock Marketing Centre Quality Policy

POL 071

Welcome to Wagga Wagga Signs Policy

POL 074

Museum of the Riverina Collection Management Policy

POL 075

Investment Policy

POL 076

Executive and Leaseback  Vehicles

POL 077

Use of Plant and Equipment Policy

POL 078

Donations Under Section 356 of the Local Government Act Policy

POL 079

Risk Management Policy

POL 080

Work Health and Safety Policy

POL 083

Child Protection Policy

POL 085

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

POL 086

Petitions Management Policy

POL 087

Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship Policy

POL 088

Community Sharps Management Policy

POL 089

Provision of information to and interaction between Councillors and Staff Policy

POL 090

Media Policy

POL 091

Lobbying of Councillors Policy

POL 092

Events Support Policy

POL 093

Subsidy for waste disposal by Charitable organisations Policy

POL 095

Privacy Policy

POL 096

City of Wagga Wagga Planning Agreement Policy

POL 097

Public Interest Disclosure Policy

POL 100

Fraud and Corruption Policy

POL 101

Legislative Compliance Policy

POL 102

Financial Hardship Policy

POL 103

Complaints Handling Policy

POL 107

Gifts and Benefits Policy

POL 108

Public Access to Information Policy

POL 109

Public Art Policy

POL 110

Procurement and Disposal Policy

POL 112

Conflicts of Interest Policy

POL 113

Councillor Training and Development Policy

POL 117

Appointment of Organisation, Community and Individual Citizen Members to Council Committees Policy

 

(Please note that the policy reference numbers are not in consecutive order, as a result of policies being rescinded, adopted separately or in draft format).

 

The policies listed below are currently on public exhibition or are subject to a separate report in this business paper to be placed on public exhibition. Although these policies are in the process of amendment, it is proposed that Council adopt these policies in their current form so that the current council has reviewed and adopted all Policies within 12 months of the election. A further report in relation to the adoption of theses policies will be provided to Council at the conclusion of each exhibition and submission periods.

 

·    POL 097 Public Interest Disclosures Policy

·    POL 087 Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship Policy

·    POL 001 Asset Management Policy

·    POL 033 Noxious Weeds Policy

·    POL 078 Donations Under Section 356 of the Local Government Act Policy

·    POL 101 Legislative Compliance Register Policy

·    POL 109 Public Art Policy

 

 

The Business Continuity Policy (POL 081) is also subject to a separate report in this business paper and is recommended for adoption following the public exhibition.

 

It should also be noted that the new Draft Related Parties Disclosures Policy (POL 031) is also currently on public exhibition with a further report to be provided to Council for adoption at the conclusion of the exhibition and submissions period.

 

Rescission of Council Policies

 

As a result of the review process, six policies have been identified by the respective policy owners for rescission. The policies to be rescinded, together with the reasons for their proposed rescission, are outlined below:

 

POL 014 - Local Orders Policy

 

The review has identified a duplication of policy content with the Local Orders Policy with the Enforcement and Prosecution Policy. It is, therefore, recommended that the Local Orders Policy be rescinded by Council, as the policy scope and objective are captured within the Enforcement and Prosecution Policy (POL 012).

 

POL 027 - Support in Community Disasters Policy

 

The review of the Support in Community Disasters Policy has identified that whilst a previous requirement existed for the Policy, that requirement no longer remains and is therefore recommend that the Policy be rescinded based on the following:

 

·     Currently Council’s Emergency Risk Management Framework has been developed in line with AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009.

·     Wagga Wagga’s Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) has implemented a Local Emergency Management Plan (LEMP).

·     Under the LEMP the LEMC address the requirements of Prevention, Planning, Response and Recovery (PPRR) for the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area.

 

It can also be noted that:

 

·     When Council submitted an application for funding for the 2016 flood event, there was no requirement for Council to have a Support in Community Disasters Policy in place.

·     Council have recently carried out an Emergency Management Health Check and one of the outcomes was that Council did not require a policy to be in place for supporting the community in disasters.

·     The Emergency Management Health Check required the LEMC to have an LEMP in place.

 

POL 073 - Tree Management Policy

 

The review of the Tree Management Policy has identified that the contents of this policy have now been included in Councils Development Control Plan (DCP), Section 5 “Natural Resource and Landscape Management”. Due to this inclusion, the Tree Management Policy (POL 073) is no longer required as a stand-alone policy and it is recommended that it be rescinded.

 


POL 098 – Internal Audit Policy

 

The Internal Audit Policy was created in 2007 to provide a guide to Internal Audit at Council. The review benchmarked against other councils, industry and considered contemporary practices and recommends that the Internal Audit Policy be rescinded and replaced with Internal Audit Charter.  This has been made in consultation with the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee who recommends to Council that POL 098 Internal Audit Policy be rescinded and replaced by the Internal Audit Charter.

 

POL 099 – Good Governance Policy

 

The Good Governance Policy was created in 2007 to provide a guide to governance at Council at that time. Industry research and benchmarking identified that the approach to governance has evolved with the need for the policy superseded by Council’s development of a number of associated frameworks and procedures such as Good Governance, Fraud and Corruption, Risk Management, Complaints and Legislative Compliance. It is, therefore, recommended that the Good Governance Policy be rescinded.

 

POL 116 - Mayoral Discretionary Fund Policy

The Mayoral Discretionary Fund Policy was created in 2008 to provide the Mayor with an opportunity to provide a rapid response to requests for assistance. The policy as it stands is inconsistent with Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993, as it’s a non-delegable function of Council except where it is part of an approved program. Donations under the Mayoral Discretionary fund should be undertaken in accordance with approved budget and programs, consistent with IP&R objectives. A separate report has been developed to amend the Donations Under Section 356 of the Local Government Act Policy (POL 078).

 

 

Given the volume of policies referred to in the above Schedule of Council Policies, they have not been printed for inclusion in this report. They are, however, accessible via Council's website (http://www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/city-of-wagga-wagga/council/policies), the Councillors' Boardpad, or by making enquiry to the General Manager. It is noted that hardcopies of regularly used policies were provided to Councillors as part of their induction manual and any major changes to those policies or the addition of new policies have been reported through Council since that time.

 

It is noted that in the coming months a number of policies will be required to be amended and reported to Council. This will occur as a result of legislative requirements and alignment to operational projects that are scheduled. Council policies, by their nature, are “live” documents in that they often undergo amendment as a result of Office of Local government (or other State Government) directives, legislative change or compliance requirements.

 


Minor Amendments to Policies

 

During the term of Council or between review periods, policies may require minor administrative amendments to ensure currency of policies.

 

Minor amendments include:

 

·        Changes to the format of the Policy

·        Changes to grammar, spelling and context

·        Changes to the Policy number

·        Changes to the Policy owners as a result of a change in the organisational structure

·        Changes to the way the Policy is administered or implemented that do not result in financial implications or impact the community

 

To limit the number of policies being presented to Council for only minor amendments as indicated above, it is recommended that the General Manager be delegated authority by Council to make minor amendments given the amendments do not:

 

·        Change the intent of the Policy

·        Impact on the community

·        Result in a conflict with any existing Policy

·        Have legal or financial implication

 

Policy amendments, which cannot be described as minor in accordance with the provisions above, are considered a major amendment. Any major amendment must follow Council’s endorsed internal review and approval process and be reported to Council for consideration to be placed on public, as required and adopted by Council.

 

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Council policies are essential to ensure transparent legal, fair and consistent decision-making across the Council. They support Council in achieving its corporate objectives and provide a critical guide for staff, Councillors and other stakeholders. In the absence of effective policies there is a greater risk of inconsistency, confusion and inefficiency.

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

No specific issues identified.

Internal / External Consultation

·        Council Staff and Executive

·        Corporate Review Committee

·        Audit and Risk Committee where applicable

·        Office of Local Government

·        Policy stakeholders

 

  

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-2

 

RP-2                             POL 081 Business Continuity Policy

Author:                        Ingrid Hensley

General Manager:    Robert Knight

         

Analysis:

Amendments to POL 081 Business Continuity Policy are presented to Council for adoption following placement on public exhibition.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       notes that there were no submissions received during the exhibition period for POL 081 Business Continuity Policy

b       adopts POL 081 Business Continuity Policy

 

Key Reasons

Council, at its meeting of 26 June 2017, resolved:

 

That Council:

a       endorse the draft POL 081 Business Continuity Policy, that is to be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 27 June 2017 to 25 July 2017 and invites public submissions until 8 August 2017 on the draft Policy

b       receive a further report following the exhibition and submission period:

i        addressing any submissions made in respect of the proposed POL 081 Business Continuity Policy

ii       proposing adoption of the Policy unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

 

This Policy was placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days. This exhibition period concluded on 25 April 2017 and submission period concluded 8 August 2017 with no submissions being received. Accordingly, it is recommended to Council that this Policy be adopted as exhibited.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

POL 081 Business Continuity Policy

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

No specific issues identified.

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

 

Attachments  

 

1.

Draft POL 081 Business Continuity Policy

 

 

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                                               RP-2

 









Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-3

 

RP-3               POL 001 Asset Management Policy

Author:          Tristan Kell

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

         

Analysis:

Amendments to POL 001 Asset Management Policy are presented to Council for endorsement and placement on public exhibition.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       endorse the draft POL 001 Asset Management Policy, that is to be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 29 August 2017 to 26 September 2017 and invites public submissions on the draft Policy

b       receive a further report following the public exhibition and submission period:

i.        addressing any submissions made in respect of the proposed POL 001 Asset Management Policy

ii        proposing adoption of the Policy unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

 

Report

The purpose of the Policy is to ensure adequate provision is made to ensure the community’s assets deliver an agreed level of service to the best of the organisation’s ability. This Policy has been reviewed in line with subject matter experts across the organisation.

 

The proposed changes have resulted in updates to the following:

 

·        The references to the link between Asset Management Plan and the Community Strategic Plan, the Long Term Financial Plan, the Workforce Plan, the Delivery Program and the Operational Plan have been strengthened throughout the Policy.

·        The responsibilities of Managers, the Executive and Councillors have been updated.

·        The Policy has been reviewed and changes have been made to ensure the communication is as clear as possible.

 

To allow community feedback on the Policy, it is recommended that the draft Policy be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days seeking public submissions.

 

Financial Implications

The Council has a significant number of assets that it manages on behalf of the community.


As at 30 June 2016, the Council’s Balance Sheet reflected the following amount by asset class:

 

Asset Class

$’000

Transport

518,285

Sewer

251,831

Stormwater

203,355

Land

176,867

Other

81,717

Buildings

79,967

Recreational assets

17,840

Plant and Equipment

14,087

TOTAL

1,343,949

 

Council’s Long Term Financial Plan includes provision for the maintenance of Council’s assets at the current maintenance program level. Anything above the current maintenance program levels is unfunded, and would need to be approved by Council.

Policy and Legislation

POL 001 Asset Management Policy

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We are informed and involved in decision making

Outcome: Everyone in our community feels they have been heard and understood

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

This Policy assists in maintaining the current residual risk of the following item identified in Council’s Risk Register as this forms part of the existing controls that the Council has in place:

 

Item

Number

Risk Description

Current Residual Risk

S50

Lack of confidence in data and lack of implementation and integration of the Asset Management Plan with the suite of IP&R documents leading to assets not being adequately maintained and renewed and not reaching maximum useful life resulting in cost implications to the community

High

Internal / External Consultation

The Council’s Community Engagement Strategy and IAP2 considers the community to be “any individual or group of individuals, organisation or political entity with an interest in the outcome of a decision….”

 

Council officers have consulted with relevant Officers, Managers, the Corporate Review Committee, and the Executive Team in the review of this Policy.

 

Attachments  

 

1.

POL001- Revised Asset Management Policy -2017

 

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                                               RP-3

 















Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-4

 

RP-4                             POL 101 Legislative Compliance Policy

Author:                        Ingrid Hensley

General Manager:    Robert Knight

         

Analysis:

Amendments to POL 101 Legislative Compliance Policy are presented to Council for endorsement and placement on public exhibition.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       endorse the draft POL 101 Legislative Compliance Policy, that is to be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 29 August 2017 to 26 September 2017 and invites public submissions until 10 October 2017 on the draft Policy

b       receive a further report following the public exhibition and submission period:

i         addressing any submissions made in respect of the proposed POL 101 Legislative Compliance Policy

ii        proposing adoption of the Policy unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

 

Key Reasons

POL 101 Legislative Compliance Policy has been reviewed and updated in line with new Australian Standards AS ISO 19600:2015 Compliance management systems – Guidelines and the NSW Treasury Guide for Audit & Risk Committees – Compliance Management (May 2017).

 

The purpose of the Policy is to set out principles that aim to identify and respond to compliance breaches, promote a culture of compliance and assist Council in achieving the highest standards of governance.

 

The proposed changes have resulted in updates to:

 

·       reference Council’s risk appetite in relation to compliance risk

·       confirm practices against the Policy

·       align the Policy to the updated Standards and Treasury Guide

 

To allow community feedback on the Policy, it is recommended that the Policy be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days with a 42 day submission period.

 

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

POL 101 Legislative Compliance Policy

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

No specific issues identified.

Internal / External Consultation

Council has consulted with the Corporate Review Committee, Executive Team and the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee.

 

Attachments  

 

1.

Draft POL 101 Legislative Compliance Policy

 

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                                               RP-4

 







Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-5

 

RP-5               POL 033 Weed Management Policy and Delegations

Author:          Carly Hood

Director:       Janice Summerhayes

         

Analysis:

The creation of the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 and subsequent repeal of the NSW Noxious Weeds Act 1993 requires Council to amend its Noxious Weeds Policy and issue new delegations to staff who are authorised under the new legislation.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       receive the draft POL 033 – Weed Management Policy

b       endorse the draft POL 033 – Weed Management Policy and place on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 4 September 2017 to 1 October 2017 and invite public submissions on the draft Policy

c        receive a further report following the public exhibition period:

(i)      addressing any submissions made in respect of the proposed policy

(ii)     proposing adoption of the policy unless there are any recommended  amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period.

 

Report

The NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 (the Act) commenced on 1 July 2017. On commencement of the new legislation, the NSW Noxious Weeds Act 1993 was repealed and Councils as well as County Councils are thereby established as the local control authorities (LCAs) under Section 370 of the new Act.

 

The introduction of the NSW Biosecurity Act has triggered a review of Council’s Noxious Weeds Policy (POL 033) and requires new delegations to be issued to the General Manager and staff.

 

Section 371(1) of the Act prescribes the functions of LCAs in relation to weed management:

 

(a) the prevention, elimination, minimisation and management of the biosecurity risk posed or likely to be posed by weeds,

(b) to develop, implement, co-ordinate and review weed control programs,

(c) to inspect land in connection with its weed control functions,

(d) to keep records about the exercise of the LCA’s functions under this Act,

(e) to report to the Secretary about the exercise of the LCA’s functions under this Act.

Section 375 of the Act provides for a LCA (Wagga Wagga City Council) to delegate to any officer or employee of the LCA (in this case the General Manager) any function conferred on the LCA by the Act, or the regulations, other than this delegation.

The General Manager is then able to sub-delegate these functions to the appropriate operational staff to ensure Councils functions under the Act are carried out.

The draft Weed Management Policy (POL 033) has been amended to align with the changes to the Act and is recommended to be placed on public exhibition for comment.

 

Financial Implications

The proposed adjustments contained within the draft policy POL033 Weed Management Policy does not result in a change to the current operational budget for weed management.

Policy and Legislation

POL 033 Noxious Weeds Policy has been reviewed and the new draft policy POL033 Weed Management Policy is presented with this report for endorsement.

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: We create a sustainable environment for future generations

Outcome: We demonstrate sustainable practices

Risk Management Issues for Council

Wagga Wagga City Council needs to follow the delegation process and review of policy in order to comply with the new legislation.

Internal / External Consultation

The amendments to the policy have been workshopped with Councillors on 10th July 2017. Internal consultation has occurred with Council’s Corporate Review Committee, Council’s Executive Team and the delegations under the new Act have been discussed with Council’s Governance team.

 

Attachments  

 

1.

POL 033 - Weed Management Policy

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                                               RP-5

 











Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-6

 

RP-6               POL 109 PUBLIC ART POLICY AND PUBLIC ART PLAN REVIEW

Author:          Madeleine Scully

Director:       Janice Summerhayes

         

Analysis:

Out of the 26 June 2017 Ordinary Council meeting resolution for the Public Art Policy POL109 and revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017- 2021, a Councillor workshop was held on Monday 7 August 2017. Following that workshop, staff have amended both the Public Art Policy POL109 and the Enliven Plan to reflect Council’s changes to the funding allocation for public art projects. The amendments also include a reference to the Community Works Reserve Fund process. Staff are now seeking to place POL 109 and the Enliven Plan on public exhibition to seek further public feedback prior to presenting the documents to Council for adoption. A separate report will be presented to Council addressing the establishment of the Community Works Reserve Fund after Council adopts the revised Public Art Policy.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       thank the community and key stakeholders for their input into the development of the draft Public Art Policy POL109 and revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017- 2021

b       receive the amended draft Public Art Policy POL109 and revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017- 2021

c        place the draft Public Art Policy POL109 and revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017- 2021 on public exhibition for a period of 28 days and invite public submissions on the draft documents

d       receive a further report following the public exhibition period:

(i)      addressing any submission made in respect of the Public Art Policy POL 109 and revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017- 2021

(ii)     proposing adoption of the Public Art Policy POL109 and revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017-2021 unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

 

Report

Council resolved on 26 June 2017:

That Council:

a       continue collecting 1% of all capital works funded by GPR (excluding sewer, grants, contributions, developer contributions, pure acquisition budgets)

b       the first $50,000 raised annually to go to the public art reserve

c        establish a community works reserve where any funds over and above the $50,000 can be held

d       report back to Council with a scoping document which includes the ability for art projects to apply for funding from this community works reserve

e       amend the draft POL 109 Public Art Policy to reflect the above changes and place on public exhibition

 

Following the 26 June 2017 Ordinary Council meeting resolution, staff have amended both the Public Art Policy POL109 and the Enliven Plan to reflect Council’s changes in the funding allocation for public art.

 

Based on the resolution staff have consulted and worked with the Public Art Advisory Panel (PAAP) to determine a reduced public art schedule of works now detailed in the revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017 – 2021.

 

The amendments also include a reference to the Community Works Reserve Fund process within the Public Art Policy POL109, so that art projects seeking funding outside of the public art policy parameters are aware of that opportunity.

 

Staff are now seeking to place the documents on public exhibition to seek further public feedback prior to presenting the documents to Council for adoption. Placing the draft documents on public exhibition provides a final opportunity for community members and key stakeholders to review both documents and to provide submissions.

 

At the 26 June 2017 Ordinary Council meeting it was resolved to establish a Community Works Reserve fund. A Councillor workshop was held on Monday 7 August 2017 to discuss the establishment of such a reserve and the terms of reference that the fund would operate against. Following the public exhibition period and adoption of the Public Art Policy POL109 and the revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017-20121, a separate report will be presented to Council detailing the establishment of the Community Works Reserve Fund and its commencement date after Council adopts the revised Public Art Policy.

 

Financial Implications

 

2017/18

2018/19

2019/20

2020/21

Estimated Opening Reserve Balance*

($173,283)

 ($142,983)

($112,683)

 $82,383)

Public Art Annual Allocation

($50,000)

($50,000)

($50,000)

($50,000)

Enliven Public Art Projects

Living Spaces

$35,000

$35,000

$35,000

$35,000

Living Communities

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

$10,000

NightLights Civic Centre Projections

$20,200

$20,200

$20,200

$20,200

BrightLights Youth Civic Centre Projections

$10,100

$10,100

$10,100

$10,100

River Life

$ 0

 $0

$0

 $52,083

Administration Fee

$5,000

$5,000

$5,000

$5,000

 

Total Projects

$80,300

$80,300

$80,300

$132,383

 

Estimated Closing Balance

 ($142,983)

 ($112,683)

 ($82,383)

$0

*The opening balance for 2017/18 may change with the finalisation of the audited 2017/18 financial statements

Policy and Legislation

POL 109 Public Art Policy

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Place and Identity

Objective: We are proud of where we live and our identity

Outcome: We have a strong sense of place

Risk Management Issues for Council

Without a designated public art funding stream the plan will not be able to be delivered over the 2017-21 period, and any other public art beyond that period for the City.

Internal / External Consultation

Extensive community consultation has been undertaken including data collected during the development of the Community Strategic Plan 2040, Wagga View. An online survey and a stakeholder workshop was conducted from 4 – 24 May 2017. One on one meetings with community members and Councillors occurred. Stakeholders and community members also directly phoned, mailed or emailed Council with feedback. The community consultation process overall indicated that there was a strong sense of support for public art and for Council to fund public art as part of the annual budget allocation process. Whilst the consultation aimed to gauge ideas and expectations from the community regarding public art four survey respondents out of one hundred and ten respondents were not supportive of public art in any form. The engagement report was tabled at the 26 June 2017 Ordinary Council meeting.

 

A further workshop with Councillors was held on Monday 7 August 2017 to determine the Community Works Reserve Fund process. Staff have consulted and worked with the PAAP to determine a revised Public Art Schedule of Works 2017-2021 as detailed in the revised Enliven Public Art Plan 2017-2021 document due to the reduction in   funding towards public art.

 

Attachments  

 

1.

POL 109 - Public Art Policy

 

2.

Final - Enliven Public Art Plan 2017-2021 - Provided under separate cover

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                                               RP-6

 








Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-7

 

RP-7               POL 078 - Donations Under Section 356 of the Local Government Act

Author:                        Scott Gray

General Manager:    Robert Knight

         

Recommendation

PLEASE NOTE A LATE REPORT ON THIS MATTER IS TO BE FINALISED FOR INCLUSION AT THE 28 AUGUST 2017 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING.

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-8

 

RP-8               Contaminated Land Management Policy

Author:          Crystal Golden

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

         

Analysis:

This report provides Council with the Contaminated Land Management Policy for adoption after the public exhibition period.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       notes that there were no submissions received during the exhibition period for the draft Contaminated Land Management Policy

b       adopts the Contaminated Land Management Policy

 

Report

Effective management of contaminated land is necessary in the context of managing the risk of harm that land contamination potentially poses to human health and the environment.

 

The Riverina and Murray Regional Organisation of Councils (RAMROC) and the Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils (REROC) made a joint application to the Regional Capacity Building Program, under the Contaminated Land Management Program administered by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) as funded by the NSW Environment Trust.

 

A project was established utilising this funding to provide capacity and assistance for the management of contaminated sites in regional and rural NSW. The objectives of the program are:

 

·       To improve the management of non-regulated contaminated sites in regional areas of NSW

·       To improve access to contaminated site expertise and increase the technical capacity of local government in regional areas

 

Wagga Wagga City Council is the EPA’s main partner in preventing and dealing with legacy contamination. The appropriate management of contaminated land is critical to maintaining a healthy environment and healthy community. Whilst the EPA already supports a number of initiatives to develop skills, there are still resource gaps due to resourcing and knowledge limitations, particularly for small regional councils, in providing informed responses to land contamination issues.

 

Councils are planning and consent authorities and are thereby expected, in relation to the management of contamination, to act in “good faith” in accordance with the requirements of the CLM Act. “Good faith” provisions also extend to the subordinate State Environmental Planning Policy No. 55 – Remediation of Land (SEPP 55), and its planning guideline.

 

 

 

Councils have responsibilities under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (EP&A Act) in regard to the early identification of contaminated sites, the consideration of land contamination issues in planning functions, data and information management regarding land contamination and informing the public on contamination matters (e.g. Section 149 planning certificates).

 

Under the CLM Act, the EPA regulates contaminated sites where the contamination is significant enough to warrant regulation. Contaminated sites that are not regulated by the EPA are managed by local councils through the land use planning processes.

 

The Policy outlines the requirements relating to the use and/or development of land that is or may be contaminated. The Policy has been developed in accordance with the provisions of the CLM Act, SEPP 55 and the Managing Land Contamination – Planning Guidelines. The Policy will ensure that change of land use, or new development proposals will not increase the risk to human health or the environment, will avoid inappropriate restrictions on land use and provide information to support decision-making and to inform the community.

 

The Policy, upon adoption, will replace the following internal operating processes:

 

·        SCS.SP.68 Management of Contaminated or potentially contaminated land in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area

·        SCS.DA.26 Update of Contaminated Land Register

 

The adoption of a Contaminated Land Management Policy including procedures will facilitate effective management of contaminated land and management of the risk of harm to human health and the environment.

 

As part of the Policy, the contaminated land register will be updated to ensure information contained within the register for the 695 potential items is accurate. Once the information contained within the register is checked for accuracy, there is potential to make the register publicly available.

 

The draft Contaminated Land Management Policy and Procedure was placed on public exhibition from 1 July 2017 with submissions being received until 8 August 2017. During this time, no submissions were received.

 

It is recommended that the Contaminated Land Management Policy be adopted as exhibited.

 

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

·        Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

·        Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulations 2000

·        Contaminated Land Management Act 1997

 


Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: We create a sustainable environment for future generations

Outcome: We demonstrate sustainable practices

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

Council’s Risk Register includes the following item:

 

Item

Number

Risk Description

Current Residual Risk

E55

Contaminated land controlled by Council not identified in existing Contaminated Land Register

High

The relevant controls outlined in the risk register associated with the above risk includes:

·        Contaminated Land Register

·        Complying with legislation

The Risk Register also included further actions required to mitigate risk that include:

·        Continued monitoring

The adoption of the Contaminated Land Management Policy that incorporates procedures ensures that there is a consistent process applied, and in effect, provides an additional control to mitigate the risk.

 

The adoption of the Contaminated Land Management Policy will ensure the effective management of contaminated land in the context of managing the risk of harm that land contamination poses to human health and the environment.

Internal / External Consultation

The Council’s Community Engagement Strategy and IAP2 considers the community to be “any individual or group of individuals, organisation or political entity with an interest in the outcome of a decision….”

 

The production of the Policy was administered by the RAMROC and REROC with an Executive Committee that oversaw its development and a Contaminated Land Working Group for which Wagga Wagga City Council was part of this group.

 

Internal consultation has been undertaken with the Environment and Development Services Divisions along with being presented to the Corporate Review Committee for feedback.

 


A Councillor workshop was held on 5 June 2017 with the following Councillors in attendance:

 

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Dallas Tout (Deputy Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Tim Koschel

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

 

External consultation was undertaken as part of a 28-day exhibition period with comments accepted for a period of 42 days.

 

Attachments  

 

1.

Contaminated Land Management Policy - Provided under separate cover

 

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                         RP-9

 

RP-9               Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040

Author:          Tristan Kell

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

         

Analysis:

After consideration of the significant community engagement process and the public submissions received, the Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040 is presented to Council for adoption.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       notes that the community engagement process and public submissions received have been utilised to develop the Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040

b       thanks the community and key stakeholders for their input into the development of the Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040

c        adopts the Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040

d       approves an additional $250,000 for 2017/18 to be allocated from the Fit for the Future Reserve for those items identified to commence in Year 1 of the Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040.

 

Report

The development of the Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040 (WWITS 2040) has been a significant journey for the community and Council as a whole. There has been a substantial amount of community engagement throughout the process, which has been invaluable in developing the final document.

 

The final WWITS 2040 document is a blueprint for transport in Wagga Wagga that reflects the needs and expectations for the community, leaving a legacy for future planning and projects with the goal of creating an active, safe, healthy and vibrant city that enhances Wagga Wagga’s position as a leading regional city.

 

The document is integral to the development of the Recreation and Open Space Strategy and the Activation Strategy (formerly known as the Residential Strategy), which are also being considered by the Council at this meeting for public exhibition.

 

Each of these strategy documents will inform Council’s Development Control Plan and Local Environmental Plan and Contribution Plans, which are critical to the future of the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area.


Financial Implications

Development of the WWITS 2040 has a $248,000 budget allocated for technical and independent reports, summary documents and costs associated with the consultation processes. 

 

Costs incurred to 30 June 2017 totalled $239,981.55, and with minimal final costs incurred in 2017/18, there is an estimated saving of approximately $8,018.45 for the overall project.

 

The items contained within WWITS 2040 that are intended to commence in Year 1 include the following:

 

Item No.

Description

Cost

Funded Amount

Funds Required

ILU3.3

Initiate detailed design plans for Farrer Road improvement

$126,354

$126,354

Nil

ILU3.4

Review layouts of key routes and intersections in the northern growth area

$30,000

Nil

$30,000

ILU4.1

Prepare a CBD structure plan

$200,000

$100,000

$100,000

ILU4.2

Investigate streets within CBD area for “road diets”

$35,000

Nil

$35,000

ILU4.3

Review operation / design of roundabouts within the CBD area

$25,000

Nil

$25,000

RN4.3

Investigate streets within urban areas for “road diets”

$40,000

Nil

$40,000

AT5.3

Implement programs to encourage cycling and walking for specific user groups

$20,000

Nil

$20,000

TOTAL

 

$476,354

$226,354

$250,000

 

In order for WWITS 2040 to commence successfully, it is paramount that the Year 1 amounts are incorporated into the 2017/18 budget with the funds are sourced from the Fit for the Future Reserve.

Policy and Legislation

Wagga View: Community Strategic Plan 2040

Development Contributions Plans (Section 94, 94A and 64)

Planning Agreements Policy 2006

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013-2043

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing Economy

Objective: We are a Regional Capital

Outcome: We have complete and accessible transport networks, building infrastructure, improving road travel reliability, ensure on-time running for public transport

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

Council’s Risk Register includes the following item:

 

Item

Number

Risk Description

Current Residual Risk

CR41

Planning strategies not resourced and developed in a timely manner leading to delayed or inappropriate (ad hoc) development, out of sync development and poor provision of infrastructure and poor reputation for Council, and poor community, liveability and environmental outcomes

High

The relevant control outlined in the risk register associated with the above risk includes:

·        2008 Transport Strategy

The Risk Register also included further actions required to mitigate risk that include:

·        Complete the Integrated Transport Strategy

·        Conduct community engagement as part of the Strategies identified

·        Undertake Masterplanning

 

The finalisation of the WWITS 2040 and inclusion of a budget allocation for the Year 1 items assists to further mitigate the risk associated with item CR41 outlined above.

 

While there may be a perception that some community feedback has not been considered if it has not been expressly included in the WWITS 2040, it should be noted that not all submissions supported the same outcome. The WWITS 2040 that has been presented has taken into account the majority views where possible.

Internal / External Consultation

The Council’s Community Engagement Strategy and IAP2 considers the community to be “any individual or group of individuals, organisation or political entity with an interest in the outcome of a decision….”

 

Given the significance of the WWITS 2040, the Council is ‘involving’ the community in its development, which is outlined in the Community Engagement Strategy in the IAP2’s Public Participation Spectrum as follows:

 

INVOLVE

Public Participation Goal

To work directly with the public throughout the process to ensure that public issues and concerns are consistently understood and considered.

Promise to the Public

We will work with you to ensure that your concerns and issues are directly reflected in the alternatives developed and provide feedback on how public input influenced the decision.

 

 

Example Tools

·    Workshops

·    Deliberate polling

 

The City Strategy Division has undertaken both individual meetings as well as holding numerous workshops with Councillors during the development of this document, with the following in attendance:

 

20 December 2016

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Vanessa Keenan

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Tim Koschel

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

 

13 February 2017

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Paul Funnell

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Tim Koschel

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

 

3 April 2017

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Vanessa Keenan

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

·        Cr Paul Funnell

 

18 April 2017

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Dallas Tout (Deputy Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Vanessa Keenan

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Tim Koschel

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

·        Cr Paul Funnell

 


 

8 May 2017

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Dallas Tout (Deputy Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

 

Extensive public consultation has occurred to inform the WWITS 2040 with community engagement to date including the following:

 

·        Community Engagement

o   Stakeholders Visioning Workshop – November 2015

o   Speak Out – December 2015

o   Survey and Interactive Mapping – January 2016

·        Technical Report – March 2016

·        Moving Forward Together: What Matters to You? – March / April 2016

·        Active Travel Plan: Cycling – September 2016

·        Peer Review and Summary of Findings on the independent technical report – February 2017

·        A key stakeholder briefing regarding the Peer Review report occurred on 14 February 2017

·        Five key stakeholder workshops were held over 22 and 23 March 2017

·        90 submissions were received relating to the independent technical report and peer review documents including 271 suggestions

·        A public petition with 1332 signatures was received from Ronda Lampe titled “This petition is against the acceptance of the Integrated Transport Report to Wagga Wagga City Council but we do need an extension to the Gobbagombalin Bridge within the next 10 years”.

 

During the exhibition period from the 23 May to 30 June 2017, 58 submissions were received – 37 through the Your Say website and 22 letters/emails. Of the 58 submissions, 83 topics were raised. Below is a breakdown of the topics addressed:

 

·        59% Bypass (28 against southern bypass, 17 for northern bypass, 2 support southern bypass, 2 support any bypass)

·        11% support active travel (6 support cycle ways, 3 support footpaths)

·        7% CBD Parking (6 suggestions for CBD parking options)

·        4% Against the report and process (3 general complaints)

·        4% Northern Growth Area (3 suggestions for inclusion)

·        Additional topics that received a single submission include; health precinct, general support, Sturt Highway upgrades, Kincaid Street parking, public transport, bus stops, caravan parking, Olympic Highway upgrades, Glenfield Road, Gobbagombalin Bridge, lack of connection to Forest Hill.

 

The majority of complaints made against the southern bypass where directly related to the bypass passing through their property. Individual letters were sent to residents in July 2017 to indicate that the WWITS 2040 was not proposing a route for a southern heavy vehicle bypass, but that it was seeking an investigation into an alternate vehicle route from the Sturt Highway to the Olympic Highway. Council further indicated that the NSW Government would lead any investigation into an alternate vehicle route but that Council would ensure that we play a key role as an important stakeholder and that it involves consultation with the community.

 

The City Strategy Division has also met with Industry and State Government Agencies whereby positive feedback has been received.

 

Attachments  

 

1.

Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040 - Provided under separate cover

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                       RP-10

 

RP-10            Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy

Author:          Ben Creighton

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

         

Analysis:

Following extensive community and stakeholder engagement, staff have prepared a draft Recreation Open Space and Community Strategy to provide strategic direction for the planning, development, management and use of community spaces over the next 20 years.

 

Staff are now seeking to place the document on public exhibition to seek further public feedback prior to presenting the document to Council for adoption.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       thanks the community and key stakeholders for their input into the development of the draft Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy

b       receives the draft Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy

c        places the draft Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 29 August to 26 September 2017, and invite public submissions on the draft document

d       receives a further report following the public exhibition period:

(i)      addressing any submission made in respect of the proposed Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy

(ii)     proposing adoption of the Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

 

Key Reasons

Placing the draft Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy (ROSC) on public exhibition provides a final opportunity for community members and key stakeholders to review the strategy and implementation plans and to provide submissions.

 

This process will allow for consideration of the submissions received ensuring that Council is provided with a clear direction prior to consideration of the final ROSC.

 

The final ROSC document is a blueprint for the planning, development, management and use of community spaces over the next 20 years and reflects the needs and expectations as identified by the community.

 

The strategy has been prepared in conjunction with other integral strategies including Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040 (WWITS 2040) and the draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040.

 


Each of these strategy documents will inform Council’s Development Control Plan and Local Environmental Plan, which are critical to the future of Wagga Wagga; along with assisting with the review of Section 94 Projects to be incorporated into the Contributions Plans. These documents are all currently under review, however will be aligned with all other strategic documents and the Long Term Financial Plan.

 

Financial Implications

The total estimated cost of implementing the identified outcomes of the strategy would be approximately $96 Million.

 

Projects identified within the strategy and implementation plans are NOT to be considered in isolation of detailed project planning. All identified projects and actions will require a detailed business case to confirm project feasibility, project cost estimates and allow for their consideration against all other Council priorities. 

 

It is important to note that the adoption of this strategy is not approving dedicated budgets for the projects listed within the strategy. As mentioned above, detailed business cases will be undertaken to confirm each project’s feasibility. If the project is seen as feasible and if Council officers are recommending for a budget allocation to be included in Council’s Long Term Financial Plan, this will be reported to Council in a subsequent report.

Policy and Legislation

While not policy or legislation, the following strategies are relevant:

 

·        Recreation and Open Space Strategy 2005-2015

·        Playground Strategy 2016-2036

·        Draft Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040

·        Public Art Plan

·        Draft Activation Strategy

·        Development Control Plan

·        Local Environment Plan

·        Disability Inclusion Plan

 

The Community Engagement Strategy is also relevant; particularly the IAP2 Spectrum of how the community should be engaged in this process is relevant to this next public exhibition stage.

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Safe and Healthy Community

Objective: We promote a healthy lifestyle

Outcome: We promote participation across a variety of sports and recreation

 


Risk Management Issues for Council

Council’s Risk Register includes the following items:

 

Item

Number

Risk Description

Current Residual Risk

CR41

Planning strategies not resourced and developed in a timely manner leading to delayed or inappropriate (ad hoc) development, out of sync development and poor provision of infrastructure and poor reputation for Council, and poor community, liveability and environmental outcomes

High

CR43

Council’s inability to maintain, renew and upgrade existing infrastructure at appropriate levels which could lead to accelerated decline in infrastructure condition or possibly catastrophic infrastructure failure

Extreme

The relevant control outlined in the risk register associated with the above risk include:

·        Recreation and Open Space Strategy (CR41)

The Risk Register also included further actions required to mitigate risk that include:

·        Complete the Recreation, Open Space and Community Facility Strategy (CR41)

·        Conduct community engagement as part of the Strategies identified (CR41)

·        Undertake Masterplanning (CR41)

·        Improve integration of Asset Management Plans, Strategic Plans and the LTFP (CR43)

·        Improved strategic planning (CR43)

 

The development of a revised Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy therefore assists to further mitigate the risk associated with both items outlined above.

 

By placing the ROSC on public exhibition, the community and industry can have additional input into the final strategy document. Given the amount of community feedback to date, one of the risks may include the perception that some community feedback has not been considered if it has not been expressly included in the draft strategy. While not all feedback supported the same outcomes, the draft strategy has taken into account the majority views where possible.

Internal / External Consultation

The Council’s Community Engagement Strategy and IAP2 considers the community to be “any individual or group of individuals, organisation or political entity with an interest in the outcome of a decision….”

 

Given the significance of the ROSC document, the Council is ‘involving’ the community in their development which is outlined in the Community Engagement Strategy in the IAP2’s Public Participation Spectrum as follows:

 

INVOLVE

Public Participation Goal

To work directly with the public throughout the process to ensure that public issues and concerns are consistently understood and considered.

Promise to the Public

We will work with you to ensure that your concerns and issues are directly reflected in the alternatives developed and provide feedback on how public input influenced the decision.

Example Tools

·    Workshops

·    Deliberate polling

 

The City Strategy Division has undertaken both individual meetings as well as holding with workshops with Councillors during the development of this document, with the following in attendance:

 

20 March 2017

Progress Update on Strategic Planning

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Dallas Tout (Deputy Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Vanessa Keenan

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Tim Koschel

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

 

13 June 2017

Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Dallas Tout (Deputy Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Vanessa Keenan

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

 

Other consultation and engagement has occurred through the following mechanisms:

 

·        Community Strategic Plan – 3000+ submissions

·        Suburb and village consultations

·        Industry and stakeholder consultations

·        Wagga View rural area questionnaire

·        Councillor sessions (one-on-one)

·        State Government department consultations

·        Attendance at markets and festivals

·        Disability Inclusion Forum

·        Online survey

·        Stakeholder workshops held on 7, 8 and 9 August 2017

·        A workshop with school children was held on 11 August 2017

 

 

Attachments  

 

1.

Draft Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy - Provided under separate cover

 

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                       RP-11

 

RP-11            Draft Activation Strategy 2040

Author:          Tristan Kell

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

         

Analysis:

Staff have prepared a draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040 in response to the development of the Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan. Feedback received during the development of the Spatial Plan and the Community Strategic Plan - Wagga View 2040, along with all other community engagement sessions has been incorporated and staff now seek to place the document on public exhibition to seek further feedback prior to presenting the document to Council for adoption.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       receives the draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040

b       places the draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040 on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days from 1 September to 28 September and invite public submissions on the draft strategy

c        receive a further report following the public exhibition period:

i         addressing any submission made in respect of the draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040

ii        proposing adoption of the Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040 unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

 

Report

Placing the draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040 on public exhibition provides a final opportunity for community members, including businesses, developers and landowners to review the strategy and to provide submissions.

 

This process will allow for consideration of the submissions received ensuring that Council is provided with a clear direction prior to consideration of the final strategy.

 

The draft strategy will provide the city a blue print to accommodate an additional 20,000 people by 2040. Providing direction for residential growth and building upon our existing built and natural environment.

 

 This new approach will:

 

·        promote healthy choices through the provision of increased density the central business district

·        promote improved connectivity with surrounding neighbourhoods, villages and rural areas

·        encourage infill development in connected and accessible locations

·        protect and improve our natural ecological systems

·        preserve our heritage and cultural values

·        ensure that urban release areas promote liveability and sustainable outcomes

·        preserve key agricultural areas and sustainable growth of rural communities

 

While this document was formerly intended to be a Residential Strategy, a Rural Strategy and a Village Strategy, the community’s guiding principles of thriving, connected, innovation and inclusive were seriously considered when developing this strategy. Hence, the change in name in a conscious effort to demonstrate that Council is assisting to drive activation across all areas of the local government area within one key document. The title itself forms a strategic statement that demonstrates Council is aligning not only with the community’s principles, but also to the strategic statements that are required within the context of the NSW Planning Framework.

 

The strategy has been prepared in conjunction with other integral strategies including Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040 and draft Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy.

 

Each of these strategy documents will inform the Council’s Development Control Plan and Local Environmental Plan which are critical to the future of Wagga Wagga. It will also assist with a review of Section 94 Projects to be incorporated into the Contributions Plans; these documents are all currently under review, however will be aligned with the strategic documents and the Long Term Financial Plan.

 

To allow community feedback on the Strategy, it is recommended that the Strategy be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days with the public invited to provide submissions during this time.

 

Financial Implications

Adoption of the final Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040 will require resources to implement actions identified in the strategy however, these will be identified during the 2018/19 budget process.

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

 

While not policy or legislation, the following strategies and plans are relevant:

 

·    Riverina Murray Regional Plan

·    Development Control Plan

·    Local Environment Plan

·    Spatial Plan

·    Draft Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040

·    Draft Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy

·    Public Art Plan

·    Disability Inclusion Plan

·    Airport Master Plan

·    LMC Strategic Master Plan

·    Bomen Strategic Master Plan

·    Riverside Strategic Master Plan

The Community Engagement Strategy is also relevant; particularly the IAP2 Spectrum of how the community should be engaged in this process is relevant to this next public exhibition stage.

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: We plan for the growth of the city

Outcome: We have sustainable urban development

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

Council’s Risk Register includes the following items that are relevant to the Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040:

 

Item

Number

Risk Description

Current Residual Risk

F3

Developer levies do not adequately fund the infrastructure required for population growth

High

F6

A reduction in Federal and State funding results in reduced capacity to deliver community / social and cultural operations and services

High

CR41

Planning strategies not resourced and developed in a timely manner leading to delayed or inappropriate (ad hoc) development, out of sync development and poor provision of infrastructure and poor reputation for Council, and poor community, liveability and environmental outcomes

High

CR43

Council’s inability to maintain, renew and upgrade existing infrastructure at appropriate levels which could lead to accelerated decline in infrastructure condition or possibly catastrophic infrastructure failure

Extreme

S45

Insufficient capacity for the city to grow due to lack of availability and appropriately zoned land

High

S46

Inability to maintain / increase employment base of the LGA leading to adverse socio/economic consequences

Medium

S52

Lack of enabling infrastructure driving economic growth of the city will lead to the inhibiting of current and future growth within the city

High

E59

Increased impact of urban salinity as a result of inadequate development controls in place

High

The relevant controls outlined in the risk register associated with the above risk include:

·        Strategic plans are maintained and delivered to a high level of quality and resilience (F6)

·        Continued lobbying for funding to State and Federal MPs (F6)

·        Assessment continues in accordance with current planning documents and resources (CR41)

·        Spatial Plan 2013 (CR41)

·        2010 LEP (CR41)

·        2010 DCP (CR41)

·        Retail Strategy (CR41)

·        2008 Transport Strategy (CR41)

·        S64 and S94 Plans (CR41)

·        Recreation and Open Space Strategy (CR41)

·        Spatial Plan (S45)

The Risk Register included further actions required to mitigate risk that include:

·        Ensuring infrastructure is appropriate to allow suitable freight movement throughout the region (F3)

·        Develop masterplans for growth areas identifying infrastructure needs (F3)

·        Advocacy by staff and councillors to lobby the State and Federal Government for sustainable funding (F6)

·        Complete the Residential Strategy (CR41)

·        Complete the Rural Lands Strategy (CR41)

·        Conduct community engagement as part of the Strategies identified (CR41)

·        Undertake Masterplanning (CR41)

·        Improve integration of Asset Management Plans, Strategic Plans and the LTFP (CR43)

·        Improved strategic planning (CR43)

·        Undertake an analysis of residential supply and demand and use this to continually monitor land release to prioritise timing of projects (S45)

·        Engage with development of the city’s growth strategy (S46)

·        Clear strategy to be developed to protect industrial zones from growth in residential and other incompatible land uses (S52)

·        As part of the residential strategy address constraints to land will be approached and zone accordingly as part of the LEP review (E59)

The draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040 combines the residential, rural and village strategies that were referred to formerly. The development of a strategy that will activate all of these areas not only takes a more inclusive and connected approach, but aims to further mitigate the risk associated with all items outlined above.

Internal / External Consultation

Extensive public, internal and agency consultation has occurred to inform the draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040 with community engagement to date including the following:

 

·        Suburb and Village Consultation – Community Strategic Plan – Wagga View:

-        Humula – 30 May 2016

-        Tarcutta – 30 May 2016

-        Uranquinty – 31 May 2016

-        Mangoplah – 31 May 2016

-        Oura – 1 June 2016

-        Cartwrights Hill – 1 June 2016

-        North Wagga Wagga – 1 June 2016

-        Ladysmith – 2 June 2016

-        Gumly Gumly – 2 June 2016

-        Forest Hill – 2 June 2016

-        Currawarna – 3 June 2016

-        Estella – 3 June 2016

-        Charles Sturt University – 3 June 2016

-        San Isidore – 8 June 2016

-        Collingullie – 8 June 2016

-        Galore – 8 June 2016

 

·        Wagga View rural area questionnaire – August 2016

-        Distributed to over 3,000 households

 

·        Village and suburb consultation:

-        Currawarna – 31 January 2017

-        Ladysmith – 8 February 2017

-        Uranquinty – 14 February 2017

-        Galore – 21 February 2017

-        Tarcutta – 2 March 2017

-        Humula – 6 March 2017

-        Mangoplah – 15 March 2017

-        Collingullie – 22 March 2017

-        Oura – 29 March 2017

-        Ashmont – 5 April 2017

-        Glenfield Park – 3 May 2017

-        Tolland – 10 May 2017

-        Lloyd – 17 May 2017

-        Bourkelands – 24 May 2017

-        Mount Austin – 7 June 2017

-        Turvey Park – 14 June 2017

-        Tatton – 21 June 2017

-        Kooringal – 28 June 2017

 

·        Individual meetings have been held with Councillors on a variety of occasions along with Councillor workshops being held on the following dates with the following in attendance:

 

20 March 2017

Progress Update on Strategic Planning

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Dallas Tout (Deputy Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Vanessa Keenan

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Tim Koschel

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

 

13 June 2017

Activation Strategy

·        Cr Greg Conkey OAM (Mayor)

·        Cr Dallas Tout (Deputy Mayor)

·        Cr Yvonne Braid

·        Cr Dan Hayes

·        Cr Vanessa Keenan

·        Cr Rod Kendall

·        Cr Kerry Pascoe

 

·        Key stakeholder workshops were held with industry on 7, 8 and 9 August 2017

 

·        A workshop with school children representing three schools was held on 11 August 2017

 

·        Internal staff sessions:

-        Planning / Subdivisions – Monthly strategic sessions

-        Updates at Executive Team Meetings

-        Social Planning – 15 February 2017

-        Planning and S94 Project Officer – 9 March 2017

-        Staff briefing – 7 April 2017

-        Events and Marketing – 18 May 2017

-        Director Community and staff – 27 June 2017

-        Director Commercial Development – 2 August 2017

 

·        Ongoing engagement with Department of Planning and Environment

 

·        NSW Housing workshop – 7 February 2017

 

·        Committee 4 Wagga – 24 March 2017

 

·        HIA Information Night – 4 May 2017

 

·        Department of Education – 31 May 2017

 

Attachments  

 

1.

Draft Wagga Wagga Activation Strategy 2040 - Provided under separate cover

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                       RP-12

 

RP-12            PROCESS OF PROCEDURAL MOTION - EN GLOBO

Author:                        Ingrid Hensley

General Manager:    Robert Knight

         

Analysis:

Review and consideration of applying the Procedural Motion of En Globo to confidential items in Open Council.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council continue with the current procedural motion of En Globo in accordance with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice.

 

Report

Council at its meeting held 24 July 2017, adopted the following resolution regarding the process of Englobo during an Ordinary Meeting of Council.

 

That council receive a report to englobo confidential motions at the same time as open session motions.

As outlined in Section 16(4) of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, the Procedural Motion of En Globo is used to enable Council to expedite consideration of its business. Council may, by resolution, deal with its business En Globo through the following procedure:

 

·    During consideration of “Reports from staff”, the Mayor requests Councillors to nominate any exclusions from the agenda. This process currently only includes Open Reports from Staff and Committee Minutes.

·    A Councillor then moves a Procedural Motion that Standing Orders be varied for the meeting as set out hereunder:

-    Items where no Councillors wish to speak;

-    Items where Councillors wish to speak;

-    Confidential items;

-    Matter of Urgency (if any);

-    Closure of Meeting

·    A Councillor then moves that those items where no Councillor(s) wishes to speak, be adopted as recommended in the business paper.

 

Through Councillor Hayes’ Notice of Motion, review of the inclusion of confidential reports in this process has been explored. It is noted and acknowledged that although the proposal to en globo confidential matters at the beginning of the meeting has merit concerning staff time, consideration is required to assess the impact to proceed with this practice and potential exposure of confidential matters being considered in Open Council.

 

Advice was sought from the Office of Local Government and Council’s Legal Panel solicitors with the following advice received:

 

·    The Local Government Act 1993 (the Act), the Local Government Regulations 2005 and the Office of Local Government Meeting Practice Note 16 are silent on the specific practice of En Globo.

 

·    Raising and ultimately adopting confidential items at the beginning of the Open Council meeting through the En Globo Procedural Motion provides the opportunity for confidential reports and potentially the entire confidential business paper to be considered in Open Council by the nature of its consideration at that time. The fact that reports are being discussed even only through report numbers, is still ultimately considering the matter.

 

In addition, difficulties may arise where Councillors wish to enter into discussion about why some items should be included in the En Globo items and where there is incidental and unintended disclosure.

 

Should Council have an appetite to En Globo confidential items at the same time as open items, an option has been identified, whereby Council will need to resolve into Closed Council, recommended confidential items for En Globo, resolve back into Open Council and adopt those confidential items immediately after resolving back into Open Council.

 

In summary, adopting the above approach would result in Council entering into a Closed Council at least twice during the meeting – once early in the meeting, to Englobo Confidential items, and again later in the meeting, to discuss the remainder of the Confidential Reports. It would also meant that there would need to be two separate reports of the proceedings of Closed Council.

 

This will mean that Council will progress through the open agenda until “Reports from Staff”, Council will then:

 

·    Consider open items for En Globo and adopt those items

·    Resolve into Closed Council

·    Consider confidential items for En Globo and recommend items for adoption

·    Resolve into Open Council

·    Immediately adopt confidential En Globo items and read each item to the gallery

·    Continue through the open and closed agenda as per normal order of business

 

This process, although achievable would disrupt the flow of the meeting including impact to the public gallery and livestreaming. Furthermore, if the items are adopted as part of Englobo Items in Open Council it contradicts the nature of the Reports being drafted as Confidential items as specified under Section 10A of the Act. Even though these reports would not be individually considered, it nonetheless means they are being adopted in Open Council that is in direct opposition to the intent and reasons specified under the legislation.

 

Therefore, it is recommended to continue with Council’s current process and order of business as outlined in Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, as the risk to Council of potential release of confidential information in the public domain along with timing and disruption issues outweigh resourcing matters, which can be managed through operational processes.

 

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Code of Meeting Practice

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

Potential release of confidential information in the public domain along with timing and disruption issues to the public in the gallery and through livestreaming.

Internal / External Consultation

·        Office of Local Government

·        Council legal panel solicitors

·        Council staff

 

  

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                       RP-13

 

RP-13            Financial Performance Report as at 31 July 2017

Author:          Carolyn Rodney

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

         

Analysis:

This report is for Council to consider and approve the proposed 2017/18 budget variations required to manage the 2017/18 budget and Long Term Financial Plan, and details Council’s external investments and performance as at 31 July 2017.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       approve the proposed 2017/18 budget variations for the month ended 31 July 2017 and note the balanced budget position as presented in this report

b       note the Responsible Accounting Officer’s reports, in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 (Part 9 Division 3: Clause 203) that the financial position of Council is satisfactory having regard to the original estimates of income and expenditure and the recommendations made above

c        note details of the external investments as at 31 July 2017 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

 

Key Reasons

Wagga Wagga City Council (Council) forecasts an overall balanced budget position for July 2017. Proposed funded budget variations are detailed in this report for Council’s consideration and adoption. 

 

Council has experienced a positive monthly investment performance for the month of July that is mainly attributable to Council’s Floating Rate Note (FRN) portfolio having a slight increase in growth for the period. It should be noted that many of these investments continue to trade at a premium. Council also continues to have a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance and continued strong portfolio returns.


Financial Implications

 

 

OPERATING INCOME

Total operating income is 8% of approved budget, which is tracking to budget for the end of July (this percentage excludes capital grants and contributions). An adjustment has been made to reflect the levy of rates that occurred at the start of the financial year. Excluding this adjustment, operating income received is 59%.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 9% of approved budget and is tracking to budget for the full financial year.

 

CAPITAL INCOME

Total capital income is 12% of approved budget. It is important to note that the actual income from capital is influenced by the timing of the receipt of capital grants and contributions relating to projects.

 

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Total capital expenditure including commitments is 26% of approved budget. The RIFL Stage 1 contract commitment has been raised for $8M. Excluding this amount, the total capital expenditure is 12% of approved budget.


 

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
1 JULY 2017 TO 31 JULY 2017

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT

 

ORIGINAL
BUDGET
2017/18
$'000

BUDGET ADJ
2017/18
$'000

APPROVED BUDGET
2017/18
$'000

YTD ACTUAL   EXCL COMMT'S 2017/18

COMMT'S 2017/18
$'000

YTD ACTUAL + COMMT'S
2017/18
$'000

YTD % OF BUD

Revenue

 

Rates & Annual Charges

(63,090,002)

0

(63,090,002)

(6,614,871)

0

(6,614,871)

10%

User Charges & Fees

(25,947,798)

45,469

(25,902,329)

(1,244,932)

0

(1,244,932)

5%

Interest & Investment Revenue

(3,154,163)

0

(3,154,163)

(357,104)

0

(357,104)

11%

Other Revenues

(2,984,954)

(6,005)

(2,990,959)

(140,413)

0

(140,413)

5%

Operating Grants & Contributions

(13,910,429)

(90,000)

(14,000,429)

(84,939)

0

(84,939)

1%

Capital Grants & Contributions

(13,704,984)

0

(13,704,984)

(1,053,740)

0

(1,053,740)

8%

Total Revenue

(122,792,330)

(50,536)

(122,842,866)

(9,495,998)

0

(9,495,998)

8%

 

 

Expenses

 

Employee Benefits & On-Costs

42,477,309

(5,000)

42,472,309

3,092,642

59,456

3,152,098

7%

Borrowing Costs

3,591,092

0

3,591,092

0

0

0

0%

Materials & Contracts

4,278,502

16,200

4,294,702

23,612

732,548

756,159

18%

Depreciation & Amortisation

34,477,729

0

34,477,729

2,873,144

0

2,873,144

8%

Other Expenses

34,989,806

136,746

35,126,552

3,263,932

1,277,492

4,541,424

13%

Total Expenses

119,814,437

147,946

119,962,383

9,253,329

2,069,496

11,322,825

9%

 

 

Net Operating (Profit)/Loss

(2,977,893)

97,410

(2,880,483)

(242,669)

2,069,496

1,826,827

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Operating (Profit)/Loss before Capital Grants & Contributions

10,727,091

97,410

10,824,501

811,070

2,069,496

2,880,567

 

 

 

Cap/Reserve Movements

Capital Exp - Renewals

24,012,536

0

24,012,536

353,335

3,643,367

3,996,702

17%

Capital Exp - New Projects

17,520,887

346,574

17,867,461

157,522

10,239,843

10,397,366

58%

Capital Exp - Project Concepts

11,800,337

0

11,800,337

7,916

76,368

84,284

1%

Loan Repayments

2,474,343

0

2,474,343

206,195

0

206,195

8%

New Loan Borrowings

(7,215,980)

0

(7,215,980)

0

0

0

0%

Sale of Assets

(4,678,401)

0

(4,678,401)

0

0

0

0%

Net Movements Reserves

(6,458,101)

(448,219)

(6,906,320)

0

0

0

0%

Total Cap/Res Movements

37,455,621

(101,645)

37,353,976

724,969

13,959,579

14,684,547

39%

 

 

Net Result after Depreciation

34,477,728

(4,235)

34,473,493

482,299

16,029,075

16,511,374

 

 

 

Add back Depreciation Expense

34,477,729

0

34,477,729

2,873,144

0

2,873,144

 

 

 

Cash Budget (Surplus)/Deficit

(0)

(4,235)

(4,235)

(2,390,845)

16,029,075

13,638,230

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 




Revised Budget Result - Surplus/(Deficit)

$’000s

Original 2017/18 Budget Result as adopted by Council

Total Budget Variations approved to date

Council report variations not included above – 24 July 2017 Council Meeting:

·  RP-7 Lease renewal to Wagga Mini Mix & Precast Concrete Pty Ltd

Budget variations for July 2017

$0

$0

 

 

$4K

($4K)

Proposed revised budget result for 31 July 2017

$0

 

The proposed Budget Variations to 31 July 2017 are listed below:

 

Budget Variation

Amount

Funding Source

Net Impact

Fav/ (Unfav)

1 – Community Leadership and Collaboration

REROC Annual Contribution

$7K

Operational Budget Savings ($3K)

($4K)

Council has recently received the annual contribution invoice from the Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils (REROC) and it is $7K more than what Council had budgeted for. The 2016/17 contribution was $47K, and this years contribution is $54K. At REROC’s 1 June 2017 Board meeting, it was resolved to increase REROC’s total 2017/18 membership contribution by $10K, in addition to the usual 1.5% increase. The distribution of this increase to the member Council’s is based on both a base amount and on population - with Wagga City Council’s increases from 2016/17 being one of the largest.

 

It is proposed to fund this from the additional $4K income reported at the 24 July 2017 Council Meeting, and $3K operational budget identified savings. 

 

 

 

2 – Safe and Healthy Community

Tarcutta Fire Station Construction

$250K

Rural Fire Service Contribution ($250K)

Nil

The Rural Fire Service (RFS) have requested Council to project manage a new bushfire shed construction for Tarcutta RFS. The works will include a two bay fire shed and tanks with the capacity to store 60,000 litres of water. These works are funded by the RFS.

3 – Growing Economy

Wiradjuri Walking Track

$100K

Internal Loans Reserve ($100K)

Nil

To complete the section of the Wiradjuri Walking Track from Wiradjuri Bridge to the Marrambidya Wetlands, it is proposed to bring forward the $100K allocated in 2018/19 out of the concepts list and into the 2017/18 budget. This will be forward funded from the Internal Loans Reserve with repayment back to the reserve in 2018/19.

5 – The Environment

Civic Centre Southern Lift Control

$98K

Upgrade Air Conditioner Civic Centre ($27K)

Air Conditioner Treatment System ($21K)

Section 94 Reserve ($50K)

Nil

The Civic Centre Southern Lift Control upgrade is included in the 2017/18 Long Term Financial Plan for completion this financial year with a budget of $102K. Quotations have been sought, and due to the current lift system now no longer supported and parts being unavailable, further funds are now required to replace the whole control system. This will bring the total budget to $200K.

 

It is proposed to fund the variation from recently identified savings in existing Air Conditioning capital works projects and CR-2 Civic Centre Recoupment 2006-2019 Section 94 Plan.

Fernleigh Road Blackspot Traffic Project

$131K

Fernleigh Road Blackspot Grant Income ($131K)

Nil

Council has been successful with a Federal Grant Application under the Blackspot Program to improve traffic safety on Fernleigh Road from Pinaroo Drive to Glenfield Road (600m section). This section has a high incidence of accidents and RMS have requested the project delivery be treated as a high priority.

Gregadoo Waste Management Centre CCTV System Upgrade

$50K

Solid Waste Reserve ($50K)

Nil

The existing CCTV system at GWMC requires replacement and expansion to new areas that have no video coverage. This will bring the system in line with best practice and compliance with the Environment Protection Licence (EPL) 6671. The recent Internal Audit Report on cash handling at GWMC also recommended that CCTV coverage be installed in the weighbridge, which is included in the quotation specifications. It is proposed to fund the variation from the Solid Waste Reserve.

Council Roadside Reserves

$88K

LG NSW Grant Income ($88K)

Nil

Council has been successful with a Local Government NSW Grant for Council Roadside Reserves. Council’s project entitled ‘Best Management Practice of Roadside Reserve Corridors’ involves the assessment of roadside vegetation and the development of a Roadside Vegetation Management Plan. The project will be delivered over two financial years with a budget allocation of $70K in 2017/18 and $18K in 2018/19.

Waste Education & Communication Campaign

$530K

NSW EPA Grant ($100K)

Contractor Contribution ($50K)

Solid Waste Reserve ($380K)

Nil

At the 24 July 2017 Ordinary Council Meeting, Council resolved for RFT 2017-24 Waste, Recyclables and Organics Collection Service to award the tender to JJ Richards & Sons Pty Ltd and for the service to commence in April 2018.

 

One of the requirements of the $1M NSW EPA grant, under the ‘Waste Less Recycle More’ program, was for an education and communication campaign, which has now been approved by the EPA. The two (2) year detailed campaign totalling $530K is partly funded by $100K from within the $1M grant; a $50K contribution from JJ Richards & Sons Pty Ltd, and $380K funded from the Solid Waste Reserve.

 

More details of the education campaign requirements have been provided under separate cover.

 

SURPLUS/(DEFICIT)

 

 

($4K)

 

Current Restrictions

Due to the finalisation of the 2016/17 financial year figures, Reserves balances have not been included in this report.

Investment Summary as at 31 July 2017

In accordance with Regulation 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, details of Wagga Wagga City Council’s external investments are detailed below: 

 

Institution

Rating

Closing Balance
Invested
30/06/2017
$

Closing Balance
Invested
31/07/2017
$

July
EOM
Current Yield
%

July
EOM
%
of Portfolio

Investment
Date

Maturity
Date

Term
(mth)

Short Term Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Police Credit Union

NR

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.87%

0.90%

6/12/2016

6/12/2017

12

Banana Coast CU

NR

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.80%

0.90%

2/06/2017

1/06/2018

12

AMP

A

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.80%

1.80%

2/06/2017

1/06/2018

12

BOQ

BBB+

2,000,000

0

0.00%

0.00%

7/12/2016

7/07/2017

7

Bank of Sydney

NR

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.75%

1.80%

30/09/2016

29/09/2017

12

CUA

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.80%

0.90%

9/02/2017

5/01/2018

11

AMP

A

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.00%

1.80%

2/08/2016

2/08/2017

12

ME Bank

BBB

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.80%

1.80%

16/12/2016

16/10/2017

10

CUA

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.75%

0.90%

3/03/2017

2/03/2018

12

Suncorp-Metway

A+

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.60%

1.80%

7/06/2017

3/01/2018

7

NAB

AA-

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.49%

1.80%

9/06/2017

8/09/2017

3

Suncorp-Metway

A+

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.50%

1.80%

9/06/2017

9/10/2017

4

Suncorp-Metway

A+

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.55%

1.80%

9/06/2017

6/11/2017

5

Total Short Term Deposits

 

22,000,000

20,000,000

2.71%

17.97%

 

 

 

At Call Accounts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAB

AA-

1,059,154

1,672,964

1.50%

1.50%

N/A

N/A

N/A

NAB

AA-

13,468,445

11,492,716

2.19%

10.33%

N/A

N/A

N/A

AMP

A

181,513

181,833

2.15%

0.16%

N/A

N/A

N/A

Beyond Bank

BBB+

148,279

148,401

1.00%

0.13%

N/A

N/A

N/A

CBA

AA-

44,692

44,649

0.00%

0.04%

N/A

N/A

N/A

Total At Call Accounts

 

14,902,083

13,540,563

2.08%

12.17%

 

 

 

Medium Term Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RaboBank

A+

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.16%

0.90%

5/06/2017

6/06/2022

60

BOQ

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

6.30%

0.90%

22/08/2012

22/08/2017

60

ING Bank

A

3,000,000

3,000,000

6.00%

2.70%

24/08/2012

24/08/2017

60

Hume Building Society

NR

1,009,123

1,009,123

4.10%

0.91%

21/08/2014

21/08/2017

36

ME Bank

BBB

2,000,000

2,000,000

4.28%

1.80%

2/09/2014

2/09/2019

60

Rabobank

A+

1,000,000

1,000,000

4.10%

0.90%

5/12/2014

5/12/2019

60

Beyond Bank

BBB+

990,000

990,000

3.70%

0.89%

4/03/2015

4/03/2018

36

Beyond Bank

BBB+

990,000

990,000

3.70%

0.89%

11/03/2015

11/03/2018

36

AMP

A

1,000,000

0

0.00%

0.00%

13/07/2015

13/07/2017

24

BOQ

BBB+

0

2,000,000

3.10%

1.80%

7/07/2017

7/07/2020

36

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.00%

0.90%

12/08/2016

12/08/2019

36

Rabobank

A+

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.20%

0.90%

25/08/2016

25/08/2021

60

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.00%

0.90%

31/08/2016

30/08/2019

36

Police Credit Union

NR

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.90%

0.90%

8/09/2016

10/09/2018

24

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.00%

1.80%

10/02/2017

11/02/2019

24

Westpac

AA-

3,000,000

3,000,000

3.10%

2.70%

10/03/2017

10/03/2022

60

Total Medium Term Deposits

 

20,989,123

21,989,123

3.87%

19.76%

 

 

 

Institution

Rating

Closing Balance
Invested
30/06/2017
$

Closing Balance
Invested
31/07/2017
$

July
EOM
Current Yield
%

July
EOM
%
of Portfolio

Investment
Date

Maturity
Date

Term
(mth)

Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bendigo-Adelaide

BBB+

1,000,670

1,003,940

BBSW + 93

0.90%

17/09/2014

17/09/2019

60

BOQ

BBB+

2,003,380

2,009,860

BBSW + 110

1.81%

5/08/2014

24/06/2019

58

BOQ

BBB+

1,006,720

1,009,740

BBSW + 107

0.91%

6/11/2014

6/11/2019

60

BOQ

BBB+

1,006,720

1,009,740

BBSW + 107

0.91%

10/11/2014

6/11/2019

60

ME Bank

BBB

1,003,760

1,006,060

BBSW + 100

0.90%

17/11/2014

17/11/2017

36

ME Bank

BBB

1,003,760

1,006,060

BBSW + 100

0.90%

17/11/2014

17/11/2017

36

Teachers Mutual

BBB

1,003,100

1,005,360

BBSW + 105

0.90%

4/12/2014

4/12/2017

36

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

1,003,540

1,005,790

BBSW + 110

0.90%

27/02/2015

27/02/2018

36

Macquarie Bank

A

2,017,840

2,025,780

BBSW + 110

1.82%

3/03/2015

3/03/2020

60

ANZ

AA-

757,875

756,030

BBSW + 82

0.68%

17/04/2015

17/04/2020

60

Heritage Bank

BBB+

1,004,770

999,990

BBSW + 115

0.90%

7/05/2015

7/05/2018

36

NAB

AA-

1,006,110

1,010,290

BBSW + 80

0.91%

3/06/2015

3/06/2020

60

Heritage Bank

BBB+

1,004,770

999,990

BBSW + 115

0.90%

9/06/2015

7/05/2018

35

CBA

AA-

1,012,200

1,010,310

BBSW + 90

0.91%

17/07/2015

17/07/2020

60

Westpac

AA-

1,011,390

1,009,520

BBSW + 90

0.91%

28/07/2015

28/07/2020

60

Bendigo-Adelaide

BBB+

1,005,010

1,008,570

BBSW + 110

0.91%

18/08/2015

18/08/2020

60

Credit Suisse

A

1,006,720

1,010,340

BBSW + 105

0.91%

24/08/2015

24/08/2018

36

Bendigo-Adelaide

BBB+

1,005,010

1,008,570

BBSW + 110

0.91%

28/09/2015

18/08/2020

59

Westpac

AA-

2,022,780

2,019,040

BBSW + 90

1.81%

30/09/2015

28/07/2020

58

Suncorp-Metway

A+

1,017,150

1,014,740

BBSW + 125

0.91%

20/10/2015

20/10/2020

60

Westpac

AA-

4,066,720

4,058,520

BBSW + 108

3.65%

28/10/2015

28/10/2020

60

AMP

A

1,811,988

1,817,964

BBSW + 110

1.63%

11/12/2015

11/06/2019

42

CBA

AA-

1,020,670

1,016,800

BBSW + 115

0.91%

18/01/2016

18/01/2021

60

Rabobank

A+

2,051,780

2,061,980

BBSW + 150

1.85%

4/03/2016

4/03/2021

60

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

1,005,580

1,009,460

BBSW + 160

0.91%

22/03/2016

22/03/2019

36

CUA

BBB

2,011,020

2,016,660

BBSW + 160

1.81%

1/04/2016

1/04/2019

36

ANZ

AA-

1,015,230

1,019,850

BBSW + 118

0.92%

7/04/2016

7/04/2021

60

Suncorp-Metway

A+

1,022,520

1,020,380

BBSW + 138

0.92%

21/04/2016

12/04/2021

60

AMP

A

1,016,260

1,020,600

BBSW + 135

0.92%

24/05/2016

24/05/2021

60

Westpac

AA-

1,016,540

1,021,400

BBSW + 117

0.92%

3/06/2016

3/06/2021

60

CBA

AA-

1,022,800

1,019,640

BBSW + 121

0.92%

12/07/2016

12/07/2021

60

ANZ

AA-

2,034,260

2,042,960

BBSW + 113

1.84%

16/08/2016

16/08/2021

60

BOQ

BBB+

1,513,290

1,507,320

BBSW + 117

1.35%

26/10/2016

26/10/2020

48

NAB

AA-

1,015,390

1,012,870

BBSW + 105

0.91%

21/10/2016

21/10/2021

60

Teachers Mutual

BBB

1,509,345

1,501,455

BBSW + 140

1.35%

28/10/2016

28/10/2019

36

Bendigo-Adelaide

BBB+

1,005,220

1,008,130

BBSW + 110

0.91%

21/11/2016

21/02/2020

39

Westpac

AA-

1,016,000

1,013,300

BBSW + 111

0.91%

7/02/2017

7/02/2022

60

ANZ

AA-

1,009,000

1,013,240

BBSW + 100

0.91%

7/03/2017

7/03/2022

60

CUA

BBB

748,185

751,628

BBSW + 130

0.68%

20/03/2017

20/03/2020

36

Heritage Bank

BBB+

602,676

599,694

BBSW + 130

0.54%

4/05/2017

4/05/2020

36

Teachers Mutual

BBB

1,000,480

1,003,610

BBSW + 142

0.90%

29/06/2017

29/06/2020

36

NAB

AA-

0

3,016,620

BBSW + 90

2.71%

5/07/2017

5/07/2022

60

Total Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt

 

51,418,229

54,483,801

 

48.95%

 

 

 

Managed Funds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NSW Tcorp

NR

1,291,183

1,286,402

-0.37%

1.16%

17/03/2014

1/07/2022

99

Total Managed Funds

 

1,291,183

1,286,402

-0.37%

1.16%

 

 

 

TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH
EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS

 

110,600,618

111,299,889

3.72%

100.00%

 

 

 

LESS: RIVERINA REGIONAL LIBRARY (RRL) CASH AT BANK

 

2,246,632

3,479,103

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL WWCC CASH ASSETS, CASH
EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS

 

108,353,986

107,820,787

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wagga Wagga City Council’s portfolio is dominated by Floating Rate Notes (FRN’s) at approximately 49% across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 12% of Council’s portfolio with Term Deposits around 38% and growth funds around 1% of the portfolio.

 

 

Council’s investment portfolio is well diversified in complying assets across the entire credit spectrum. It is also well diversified from a rating perspective. Credit quality is diversified and is predominately invested amongst the investment grade ADIs (BBB- or higher), with a smaller allocation to unrated ADIs.

 

 

All investments are well within the defined Policy limits, as outlined in the Rating Allocation chart below:

 

 


During May 2017, rating agency Standards & Poor’s (S&P) downgraded credit ratings for 23 banks. The two key downgrades were Bank of Queensland (BoQ) and Bendigo-Adelaide Bank, changing credit ratings from A- to BBB+. The downgrade of these two banks has resulted in the BBB/NR rating allocation being near full capacity. Council has 11.29% of its portfolio invested in these two banks. Council staff will continue to be mindful of these allocation capacities when investing funds in the future.

 

Investment Portfolio Balance

 

Wagga Wagga City Council’s investment portfolio balance has decreased slightly from the previous month’s balance, down from $108.4M to $107.8M.

 

 

 

MONTHLY INVESTMENT MOVEMENTS

 

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed the following investment securities during July 2017:

 

Institution and Type

Amount

Investment

Term

Interest

Rate

Comments

AMP Term Deposit

$1M

2 years

3.10%

This term deposit was redeemed for cash flow purposes.

 

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment securities during July 2017.

 

Institution and Type

Amount

Investment

Term

Interest

Rate

Comments

NAB Floating Rate Note

$3M

5 years

BBSW + 90

Council’s independent Financial Advisor advised this Floating Rate Note represented good value.

 

Rollovers – Council rolled over the following investment securities during July 2017:

 

Institution and Type

Amount

Investment

Term

Interest

Rate

Comments

Bank of Queensland Term Deposit

$2M

3 years

3.10%

This term deposit was a seven (7) month investment at 2.80% and was rolled at maturity into a 3-year term deposit at 3.10%. This investment term was chosen to fill a maturity gap in July 2020.

MONTHLY PERFORMANCE

 

Interest/growth/capital gains for the month totaled $351,476, which compares favourably with the budget for the period of $235,087; out performing budget for the July month by $116,389. This is mainly attributable to Council’s Floating Rate Note (FRN) portfolio having a slight increase in growth for the July period. It should be noted that many of these investments continue to trade at a premium.

 

The capital market value of these FRN investments will fluctuate from month to month and Council continues to receive the coupon payments and the face value of the investment security when sold or at maturity.

 

It is also important to note Council’s investment portfolio balance has consistently been over $100M, which is tracking above what was originally predicted. This is mainly due to timing of some of the major projects that are either not yet commenced or not as advanced as originally predicted. It is anticipated that over the 2017/18 financial year the portfolio balance will reduce with the construction of major projects.

 

 

Council’s portfolio performance continues to be anchored by the longer-dated deposits in the portfolio, particularly those locked in above 4% yields. It is to be noted the average deposit yield will inevitably fall as some of the longer-dated deposits mature throughout the 2017 calendar year.

 

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* (+1.79%pa), Council’s investment portfolio in total returned 3.72% for July. Short-term deposits returned 2.71%. These funds are utilised for daily cash flow management and need to be available to meet operating and contractual payments as they come due.

 

 

* The AusBond Bank Bill Index is the leading benchmark for the Australian fixed income market. It is interpolated from the RBA Cash rate, 1 month and 3 month Bank Bill Swap rates.

Report by Responsible Accounting Officer

I hereby certify that all of the above investments have been made in accordance with the provision of Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993 and the regulations there under, and in accordance with the Investments Policy adopted by Council on 26 August 2013.

 

Carolyn Rodney

Responsible Accounting Officer

Policy and Legislation

Budget variations are reported in accordance with Council’s POL 052 Budget Policy.

 

Investments are reported in accordance with Council’s POL 075 Investment Policy.

 

Local Government Act 1993

 

625   How may councils invest?

(1)  A council may invest money that is not, for the time being, required by the council for any other purpose.

(2)  Money may be invested only in a form of investment notified by order of the Minister published in the Gazette.

(3)  An order of the Minister notifying a form of investment for the purposes of this section must not be made without the approval of the Treasurer.

(4)  The acquisition, in accordance with section 358, of a controlling interest in a corporation or an entity within the meaning of that section is not an investment for the purposes of this section.

 

Local Government (General) Regulation 2005

 

212   Reports on council investments

(1)  The responsible accounting officer of a council:

(a)  must provide the council with a written report (setting out details of all money that the council has invested under section 625 of the Act) to be presented:

(i)  if only one ordinary meeting of the council is held in a month, at that meeting, or

(ii)  if more than one such meeting is held in a month, at whichever of those meetings the council by resolution determines, and

(b)  must include in the report a certificate as to whether or not the investment has been made in accordance with the Act, the regulations and the council’s investment policies.

(2)  The report must be made up to the last day of the month immediately preceding the meeting.

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

Risk Management Issues for Council

Council’s Risk Register includes the following items:

 

Item

Number

Risk Description

Current Residual Risk

F4

Loss of investment income or capital resulting from ongoing management of investments, especially during difficult economic times

Medium

CR26

Failure to demonstrate to the community that its funds are being expended in an efficient and effective manner

High

The relevant controls outlined in the risk register associated with the above risks include:

·        Investments are to be regularly monitored and reported to Council monthly.

·        Council monitors its financial position monthly and quarterly, and reports annually to the Division of Local Government.

This report is therefore a control mechanism that assists in maintaining the current residual risk of these items.

Internal / External Consultation

Council’s Community Engagement Strategy and IAP2 considers the community to be “any individual or group of individuals, organisation or political entity with an interest in the outcome of a decision….”

 

All relevant areas within the Council have consulted with the Finance Division in regards to the budget variations listed in this report.

 

The Finance Division has consulted with relevant external parties to confirm Council’s investment portfolio balances.

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                       RP-14

 

RP-14            Juvenile Diabetes Walk - Section 356 donation

Author:          Carolyn Rodney

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

         

Analysis:

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) has requested Council’s consideration to the waiving of $79.00 fees associated with the use of Wollundry Lagoon open space and stage as part of a fund raising event.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council donate $79.00 to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in accordance with Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

Report

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) has requested Council’s consideration to the waiving of $79.00 fees associated with the use of Wollundry Lagoon open space and stage as part of a fund raising event “Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes Walk” event to be held on 23 September 2017.

 

JDRF is the leading global organisation funding Type 1 Diabetes research. The “Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes Walk” aims to connect people affected by Type 1 Diabetes in their local community.

 

Financial Implications

The Section 356 donation budget for the 2017/18 financial year is $45,064, of which $40,826 is already committed in the adopted Delivery and Operational Plan 2017/18 along with $1,636.86 approved at the 24 July Council meeting. This leaves $2,601.14 available for additional fee waiver requests received for the remainder of the 2017/18 financial year.

 

This is the first of two requests received for Council’s consideration at the 28 August 2017 meeting:

 

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

$     79.00

Bears of Hope

 $     85.00

Total Section 356 Donation Requests – 28 August 2017 Council                       Meeting

$   164.00

 

If the above two donation requests are approved, there will be $2,437.14 budget available for Section 356 donation requests for the remainder of the 2017/18 financial year.

Policy and Legislation

·    Council Policy POL 078 Donations Under Section 356 of the Local Government Act

·    Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Safe and Healthy Community

Objective: We have access to health and support services that cater for all our needs

Outcome: We have services that support us

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

No specific issues identified.

Internal / External Consultation

Council’s Community Engagement Strategy and IAP2 considers the community to be “any individual or group of individuals, organisation or political entity with an interest in the outcome of a decision….”

 

Relevant internal stakeholders were consulted in the assessment of this request.

 

Attachments  

 

1.

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) - Section 356 donation request

 

 

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                                                                             RP-14

 




Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 28 August 2017.                            &nbs