AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

 

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday

30 March 2020

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 30 March 2020 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.

 

 

2Peter_500px

 

Mr Peter Thompson

General Manager


WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCILLORS

 

 

Councillor G

Mayor

Councillor Greg

Conkey OAM

Councillor D

Deputy Mayor

Councillor Dallas Tout

Councillor Y

Councillor Yvonne Braid

Councillor P

Councillor Paul Funnell

Councillor D

Councillor Dan Hayes

Councillor V

Councillor Vanessa Keenan

Councillor R

Councillor Rod Kendall

Councillor T

Councillor Tim Koschel

Councillor K

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 30 March 2020.

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 30 March 2020

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE               PRECIS                                                                                       PAGE

PRAYER                                                                                                                       2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY                                                                          2

APOLOGIES                                                                                                                 2

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1           Ordinary Council Meeting - 16 March 2020                                    2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                    2

Reports from Staff

RP-1            Financial Performance Report as at 29 February 2020           3

RP-2            MARDI GRAS 2020 SPONSORSHIP PAYMENT                                        19

RP-3            RESPONSE TO QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE                           21

RP-4            Proposed Waiving of Fees and Charges                                     25

Committee Minutes

M-1              TRAFFIC COMMITTEE - MEETING HELD 12 MARCH 2020                       27   

QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE                                                                       46

Confidential Reports

CONF-1       Solar Project Variation                                                                 47

CONF-2       PROPOSED RENT ABATEMENTS FOR COUNCIL TENANTS                   48

 


 

 

PRAYER

 

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

 

 

APOLOGIES

 

Confirmation of Minutes

 

CM-1              Ordinary Council Meeting - 16 March 2020       

 

Recommendation

That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 16 March 2020 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

Attachments

 

1.

Minutes - Ordinary Council Meeting - 16 March 2020

49

 

 

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 30 March 2020

RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1               Financial Performance Report as at 29 February 2020

Author:         Carolyn Rodney 

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

         

 

Summary:

This report is for Council to consider and approve the proposed 2019/20 budget variations required to manage the 2019/20 budget and Long Term Financial Plan, and details Council’s external investments and performance as at 29 February 2020.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       approve the proposed 2019/20 budget variations for the month ended 29 February 2020 and note the forecasted balanced budget position presented

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 the details of the external investments as at 29 February 2020 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

 

Report

Wagga Wagga City Council (Council) forecasts a balanced budget position as at 29 February 2020. Proposed budget variations are detailed in this report for Council’s consideration and adoption.

 

Council has experienced a negative monthly investment performance for the month of February when compared to budget ($118,182 down on monthly budget). This is mainly to a negative return from Council’s TCorp Long Term Growth fund, with the fund down ‑3.55% (or -$59,012) for the month.


 

Key Performance Indicators

 

 

OPERATING INCOME

Total operating income is 67% of approved budget, which is on budget for the end of February (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 87%.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 64% of approved budget and is tracking within budget for the full financial year.

 

CAPITAL INCOME

Total capital income is 23% 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. This income also includes the sale of property, plant and equipment.

 

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Total capital expenditure including commitments is 60% of approved budget (including ‘Potential Projects’). Excluding ‘Potential Projects’ budgets, the capital expenditure including commitments is 66% of approved budget.

 


CURRENT LONG TERM FINANCIAL PLAN – PROJECTED SURPLUS/ (DEFICIT) BUDGET POSITION*

 

 

*The Long Term Financial Plan 10 year Surplus/(Deficit) budgets as presented in this graph, are based on the current adopted budget. It does not include any proposed adjustments for the draft 2021/30 LTFP, which will be presented to Council to go on public exhibition in April 2020.

 


 

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
1 JULY 2019 TO 29 FEBRUARY 2020

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT

 

ORIGINAL
BUDGET
2019/20

BUDGET ADJ
2019/20

APPROVED BUDGET
2019/20

YTD ACTUAL   EXCL COMMT'S 2019/20

COMMT'S 2019/20

YTD ACTUAL + COMMT'S
2019/20

YTD % OF BUD

Revenue 

Rates & Annual Charges

(69,736,893)

(63,636)

(69,800,529)

(46,548,030)

0

(46,548,030)

67%

User Charges & Fees

(28,440,057)

(69,500)

(28,509,557)

(18,287,410)

0

(18,287,410)

64%

Interest & Investment Revenue

(3,774,001)

0

(3,774,001)

(2,448,395)

0

(2,448,395)

65%

Other Revenues

(3,053,633)

(275,937)

(3,329,570)

(2,703,419)

0

(2,703,419)

81%

Operating Grants & Contributions

(14,280,296)

4,365,943

(9,914,354)

(7,273,432)

0

(7,273,432)

73%

Capital Grants & Contributions

(56,263,733)

21,094,648

(35,169,085)

(8,358,857)

0

(8,358,857)

24%

Total Revenue

(175,548,613)

25,051,518

(150,497,095)

(85,619,543)

0

(85,619,543)

57%

 

 

Expenses

 

Employee Benefits & On-Costs

46,012,119

(63,200)

45,948,419

29,502,624

60,843

29,563,467

64%

Borrowing Costs

3,587,823

(264,964)

3,322,860

1,547,138

0

1,547,138

47%

Materials & Contracts

32,357,210

9,406,631

41,764,341

21,339,868

6,785,168

28,125,036

67%

Depreciation & Amortisation

34,843,073

0

34,843,073

23,228,715

0

23,228,715

67%

Other Expenses

13,015,295

199,811

13,215,106

6,655,551

53,976

6,709,527

51%

Total Expenses

129,815,520

9,278,278

139,093,798

82,273,897

6,899,987

89,173,884

64%

 

 

Net Operating (Profit)/Loss

(45,733,093)

34,329,796

(11,403,297)

(3,345,647)

6,899,987

3,554,340

 

 

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

10,530,640

13,235,148

23,765,788

5,013,210

6,899,987

11,913,197

 

 

 

Capital / Reserve Movements

Capital Exp - Renewals

34,034,738

6,234,030

43,558,675

17,503,741

9,037,859

26,541,600

61%

Capital Exp - New Projects

42,696,132

(21,690,212)

30,259,289

7,800,904

14,592,270

22,393,174

74%

Capital Exp - Project Concepts

38,364,925

(17,300,615)

8,521,033

209,986

1,799

211,785

2%

Loan Repayments

3,380,744

(21,035)

3,359,708

2,253,829

0

2,253,829

67%

New Loan Borrowings

(21,222,532)

1,887,999

(19,334,533)

0

0

0

0%

Sale of Assets

(1,502,910)

(1,745,414)

(3,248,324)

(541,067)

0

(541,067)

17%

Net Movements Reserves

(15,174,931)

(1,694,548)

(16,869,479)

0

0

0

0%

Total Cap/Res Movements

80,576,166

(34,329,796)

46,246,370

27,227,393

23,631,928

50,859,321

 

 

 

ORIGINAL
BUDGET
2019/20

BUDGET ADJ
2019/20

APPROVED BUDGET
2019/20

YTD ACTUAL   EXCL COMMT'S 2019/20

COMMT'S 2019/20

YTD ACTUAL + COMMT'S
2019/20

YTD % OF BUD

Net Result after Depreciation

34,843,073

(0)

34,843,073

23,881,746

30,531,915

54,413,661

 

 

Add back Depreciation Expense

34,843,073

0

34,843,073

23,228,715

0

23,228,715

67%

 

Cash Budget (Surplus)/Deficit

0

0

0

653,031

30,531,915

31,184,946

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 




Revised Budget Result - Surplus/(Deficit)

$’000s

Original 2019/20 Budget Result as adopted by Council

Total Budget Variations approved to date

Budget Variations for February 2020

$0

$0

$0

Proposed Revised Budget result for 29 February 2020

$0

 

The proposed Budget Variations to 29 February 2020 are listed below:

 

Budget Variation

Amount

Funding Source

Net Impact

Fav/ (Unfav)

1 – Community Leadership and Collaboration

 

Traineeships Sponsorships

$1K

Traineeships Labour Hire ($1K)

Nil

As part of Council’s commitment to Vocational Education and Training (VET) and its own trainees and apprentices, Council officers are recommending sponsorship to the value of $600 for the 2019 NSW Training Awards. The Riverina Murray Presentation Evening is an important element in demonstrating our commitment to further education for our staff and the importance of VET in the community. There will be 2 complimentary tickets provided as part of the sponsorship and it is suggested that one council staff member and one councillor attend the event and represent Council. It is proposed to support the event for 3 years and the variation be funded from existing traineeships budgets.

 

Maxwell RFS Toilet

$28K

Rural Fire Service Contribution ($28K)

 

Initial funding advice has been received from the Rural Fire Service (RFS) for the installation of a stand-alone self-contained toilet at the Maxwell Rural Fire Station.

Estimated completion: 30 June 2020

 

5 – The Environment

 

Kooringal Road Urban Asphalt

$175K

Urban Asphalt ($85K)

Pavement Rehabilitation ($90K)

Nil

Council is undertaking works to construct the Equex Kooringal Road exit. As part of this project, it is agreed to improve the quality of the 100m segment of Kooringal Road at the intersection with Parson Street by removing the existing railway track and reinstate the pavement with 200mm thick asphalt mix. It is proposed to fund the required works from existing Urban Asphalt and Pavement Rehabilitation Roads budgets.

Estimated Completion: 30 June 2020

 

Stormwater Asset Revaluation

$78K

Stormwater Levy Reserve ($78K)

 

Council is required to undertake asset revaluations on a rolling 3-5-year schedule. This is a requirement of the Office of Local Governments Code of Accounting Practice and the valuation needs to comply with the relevant Accounting Standards. For the 2019/20 financial year, Council is required to undertake valuations for its Stormwater Network. To perform this valuation Council requires the assistance of an asset management consultant to guide and lead internal staff through the process. It is proposed to fund the engagement of the consultant from the Stormwater Levy Reserve as permitted under Section 5.7 of the guidelines.

Estimated Completion: 30 June 2020

 

Kooringal/ Narrung STP PFAS Testing

$40K

Sewer Reserve ($40K)

Nil

In order to continue beneficial reuse of biosolids produced at Narrung Street and Kooringal Sewage Treatment Plants monthly testing for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) must now occur. The PFAS test results will be included in the monthly Biosolids Reuse Report. The expense of PFAS testing is not included in the Design Build Operate (DBO) Contract between Council and Downer Australia Pty Ltd. To demonstrate due diligence Council is required to fund the PFAS testing at an estimated $40K per annum. It is proposed to fund the variation from the Sewer Reserve.

 

SURPLUS/(DEFICIT)

$0K

 


 

Current Restrictions

 

 

RESERVES SUMMARY

29 FEBRUARY 2020

 

CLOSING BALANCE 2018/19

ADOPTED RESERVE TRANSFERS 2019/20

BUDGET VARIATIONS APPROVED UP TO COUNCIL MEETING 24.2.2020

PROPOSED CHANGES for Council Resolution

REVISED BALANCE

 

 

 

 

 

 

Externally Restricted

 

 

 

 

 

Developer Contributions - Section 7.11

(23,836,289)

3,427,074

(5,794,902)

 

(26,204,116)

Developer Contributions - Section 7.12

97,487

(32,500)

134,012

 

198,999

Developer Contributions – S/Water DSP S64

(6,551,347)

2,579,329

(1,276,930)

 

(5,248,947)

Sewer Fund

(31,115,819)

155,636

6,190,376

40,000

(24,729,807)

Solid Waste

(21,521,767)

2,164,970

(1,836,399)

 

(21,193,196)

Specific Purpose Grants

(4,044,299)

0

4,044,299

 

0

SRV Levee

(3,853,286)

(3,211)

1,708,696

 

(2,147,801)

Stormwater Levy

(3,699,109)

2,758,808

(2,276,703)

78,000

(3,139,004)

Total Externally Restricted

(94,524,428)

11,050,106

892,450

118,000

(82,463,872)

 

 

Internally Restricted

 

Airport

(442,321)

(522,440)

(54,281)

(1,019,042)

Art Gallery 

(33,971)

(6,865)

0

(40,836)

Ashmont Community Facility

(7,500)

(1,500)

0

(9,000)

Bridge Replacement 

(601,972)

0

(601,972)

CBD Carparking Facilities

(884,968)

110,302

666,796

(107,870)

CCTV 

(84,476)

18,000

0

(66,476)

Cemetery Perpetual 

(107,717)

(133,730)

16,519

(224,928)

Cemetery 

(448,951)

110,164

(47,707)

(386,494)

Civic Theatre Operating 

(125,471)

8,327

29,240

(87,904)

Civic Theatre Technical Infrastructure 

(82,706)

10,000

65,000

(7,706)

Civil Projects 

(155,883)

24,000

(10,133)

(142,016)

Community Amenities 

(76,763)

(214,928)

25,000

(266,691)

Community Works 

(86,412)

(32,217)

63,020

 

(55,609)

Council Election 

(343,408)

(83,163)

0

(426,571)

Economic Development 

(500,000)

(80,000)

90,000

(490,000)

Emergency Events 

(191,160)

(50,000)

90,420

 

(150,740)

Employee Leave Entitlements

(3,585,224)

 

0

 

(3,585,224)

Environmental Conservation 

(115,206)

 

(42,725)

 

(157,931)

Estella Community Centre 

(230,992)

 

0

 

(230,992)

Family Day Care 

(245,192)

93,442

0

 

(151,750)

Fit for the Future

(1,785,102)

266,703

(3,054,537)

 

(4,572,935)

Generic Projects Saving

(816,377)

20,000

31,130

 

(765,248)

Glenfield Community Centre 

(21,704)

(2,000)

0

 

(23,704)

Grants Commission 

(5,256,259)

 

5,256,259

 

0

Grassroots Cricket 

(70,992)

 

0

 

(70,992)

Gravel Pit Restoration 

(797,002)

 

3,546

 

(793,456)


 

 


 

RESERVES SUMMARY

 

29 FEBRUARY 2020

 

CLOSING BALANCE 2018/19

ADOPTED RESERVE TRANSFERS 2019/20

BUDGET VARIATIONS APPROVED UP TO COUNCIL MEETING 24.2.2020

PROPOSED CHANGES for Council Resolution

REVISED BALANCE

Gurwood Street Property 

(50,454)

 

0

 

(50,454)

Hampden Bridge

(107,198)

 

107,198

 

0

Information Services

(775,938)

(222,792)

222,315

 

(776,415)

Infrastructure Replacement 

(335,497)

(30,192)

0

 

(365,689)

Insurance Variations 

(100,246)

 

0

 

(100,246)

Internal Loans 

(660,754)

260,962

(1,910,123)

 

(2,309,915)

Lake Albert Improvements 

(28,338)

(21,515)

(158,608)

 

(208,461)

LEP Preparation 

(2,667)

 

0

 

(2,667)

Livestock Marketing Centre 

(3,311,635)

972,792

(2,618,629)

 

(4,957,471)

Museum Acquisitions 

(39,378)

 

0

 

(39,378)

Oasis Building Renewal 

(320,759)

65,000

28,529

 

(227,230)

Oasis Plant 

(1,239,132)

857,486

(441,652)

 

(823,298)

Office Equipment/Building Projects

(159,030)

 

156,530

 

(2,500)

Parks & Recreation Projects

(206,102)

30,148

75,954

 

(100,000)

Planning Legals

0

(40,000)

0

 

(40,000)

Plant Replacement 

(3,550,033)

660,253

1,055,919

 

(1,833,861)

Playground Equipment Replacement 

(95,290)

(165,727)

0

 

(261,017)

Project Carryovers 

(2,453,184)

518,327

1,934,858

 

0

Public Art 

(198,922)

30,300

45,594

 

(123,028)

Robertson Oval Redevelopment 

(92,151)

 

0

 

(92,151)

Senior Citizens Centre 

(17,627)

(2,000)

0

 

(19,627)

Sister Cities 

(46,328)

(10,000)

0

 

(56,328)

Sporting Event Attraction

(169,421)

 

110,000

 

(59,421)

Sporting Event Operational

(100,000)

 

0

 

(100,000)

Stormwater Drainage 

(158,242)

(100,000)

50,000

 

(208,242)

Strategic Real Property 

0

 

(395,000)

 

(395,000)

Street Lighting Replacement 

(56,549)

 

43,288

 

(13,261)

Subdivision Tree Planting 

(702,868)

(20,000)

90,000

 

(632,868)

Sustainable Energy 

(527,244)

389,333

(43,545)

 

(181,456)

Unexpended External Loans 

(431,337)

 

36,485

 

(394,852)

Workers Compensation 

(93,251)

 

(133,461)

 

(156,712)

Total Internally Restricted

(33,127,305)

2,706,471

1,383,198

0

(29,037,637)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Restricted

(127,651,734)

13,756,577

2,275,648

118,000

(111,501,509)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Unrestricted

(5,725,794)

0

0

0

(5,725,794)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments

(133,377,528)

13,756,577

2,275,648

118,000

(117,227,303)

 

 


 

Investment Summary as at 29 February 2020

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

 

Institution

Rating

Closing Balance
Invested
31/01/2020
$

Closing Balance
Invested
29/02/2020
$

February
EOM
Current Yield
%

February
EOM
% of Portfolio

Investment
Date

Maturity
Date

Term
(mths)

Short Term Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AMP

BBB+

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.10%

1.40%

2/12/2019

1/06/2020

6

AMP

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.00%

0.70%

13/11/2019

11/05/2020

6

AMP

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.10%

0.70%

2/12/2019

1/06/2020

6

MyState

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.75%

0.70%

1/04/2019

1/04/2020

12

NAB

AA-

1,000,000

1,000,000

1.67%

0.70%

28/08/2019

3/03/2020

6

ICBC

A

1,000,000

1,000,000

1.67%

0.70%

29/08/2019

28/08/2020

12

NAB

AA-

2,000,000

2,000,000

1.65%

1.40%

30/08/2019

6/03/2020

6

Macquarie Bank

A+

2,000,000

2,000,000

1.75%

1.40%

2/09/2019

2/03/2020

6

NAB

AA-

1,000,000

1,000,000

1.70%

0.70%

10/09/2019

11/05/2020

8

Total Short Term Deposits

 

12,000,000

12,000,000

1.91%

8.41%

 

 

 

At Call Accounts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAB

AA-

255,734

1,308,795

0.75%

0.92%

N/A

N/A

N/A

CBA

AA-

1,523,952

2,034,934

0.75%

1.43%

N/A

N/A

N/A

CBA

AA-

11,971,261

14,988,976

1.60%

10.51%

N/A

N/A

N/A

Total At Call Accounts

 

13,750,948

18,332,705

1.44%

12.85%

 

 

 

Medium Term Deposits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RaboBank

A+

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.16%

0.70%

5/06/2017

6/06/2022

60

BOQ

BBB+

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.10%

1.40%

7/07/2017

7/07/2020

36

AMP

BBB+

2,000,000

0

0.00%

0.00%

2/08/2018

3/02/2020

18

Rabobank

A+

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.20%

0.70%

25/08/2016

25/08/2021

60

Westpac

AA-

3,000,000

3,000,000

1.99%

2.10%

10/03/2017

10/03/2022

60

Auswide

BBB

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.95%

1.40%

5/10/2018

6/10/2020

24

BOQ

BBB+

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.35%

1.40%

3/01/2018

4/01/2022

48

Police Credit Union

NR

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.05%

1.40%

29/10/2018

29/10/2020

24

Australian Military Bank

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.95%

0.70%

29/05/2018

29/05/2020

24

BOQ

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.50%

0.70%

1/06/2018

1/06/2022

48

Westpac

AA-

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.02%

1.40%

28/06/2018

28/06/2021

36

Westpac

AA-

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.88%

1.40%

28/06/2018

29/06/2020

24

ING Bank

A

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.86%

1.40%

16/08/2018

17/08/2020

24

BOQ

BBB+

3,000,000

3,000,000

3.25%

2.10%

28/08/2018

29/08/2022

48

ING Bank

A

3,000,000

3,000,000

2.85%

2.10%

30/08/2018

14/09/2020

24

P&N Bank

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.10%

0.70%

16/10/2018

18/10/2021

36

Westpac

AA-

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.05%

1.40%

13/11/2018

15/11/2021

36

Police Credit Union

NR

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.07%

0.70%

20/11/2018

20/11/2020

24

P&N Bank

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.30%

0.70%

20/11/2018

21/11/2022

48

ING Bank

A

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.93%

1.40%

29/11/2018

30/11/2020

24

NAB

AA-

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.01%

1.40%

30/11/2018

30/11/2021

36

Bendigo-Adelaide

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

3.25%

0.70%

30/11/2018

30/11/2022

48

CUA

BBB

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.02%

1.40%

5/12/2018

7/12/2020

24

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

2,000,000

2,000,000

3.05%

1.40%

8/02/2019

8/02/2022

36

ING Bank

A

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.82%

0.70%

22/02/2019

22/02/2021

24

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.70%

1.40%

23/04/2019

26/04/2022

36

BoQ

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.40%

0.70%

22/05/2019

23/05/2022

36

BoQ

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.15%

0.70%

8/07/2019

10/07/2023

48

Judo Bank

NR

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.30%

0.70%

16/07/2019

16/07/2021

24

Auswide

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

1.95%

0.70%

12/08/2019

12/08/2022

36

Judo Bank

NR

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.15%

0.70%

20/08/2019

19/08/2021

24

Australian Military Bank

BBB+

1,000,000

1,000,000

1.76%

0.70%

20/08/2019

20/08/2021

24

Judo Bank

NR

1,000,000

1,000,000

1.90%

0.70%

10/09/2019

9/09/2022

36

Auswide

BBB

1,000,000

1,000,000

1.72%

0.70%

3/10/2019

4/10/2022

36

ICBC

A

2,000,000

2,000,000

2.03%

1.40%

6/11/2019

6/11/2024

60

ICBC

A

2,000,000

2,000,000

1.83%

1.40%

28/11/2019

28/11/2024

60

Judo Bank

NR

1,000,000

1,000,000

2.20%

0.70%

5/12/2019

3/12/2021

24

ICBC

A

1,000,000

1,000,000

1.75%

0.70%

6/01/2020

8/01/2024

48

BOQ

BBB+

0

1,000,000

2.00%

0.70%

28/02/2020

28/02/2025

60

Total Medium Term Deposits

 

60,000,000

59,000,000

2.72%

41.37%

 

 

 

Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AMP

BBB+

1,006,441

1,002,824

BBSW + 135

0.70%

24/05/2016

24/05/2021

60

Suncorp-Metway

A+

1,011,883

1,008,935

BBSW + 97

0.71%

16/08/2017

16/08/2022

60

NAB

AA-

2,020,687

0

0.00%

0.00%

10/11/2017

10/02/2023

63

Bendigo-Adelaide

BBB+

503,179

504,563

BBSW + 105

0.35%

25/01/2018

25/01/2023

60

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

1,524,292

1,519,739

BBSW + 140

1.07%

6/02/2018

6/02/2023

60

Westpac

AA-

2,019,854

2,021,851

BBSW + 83

1.42%

6/03/2018

6/03/2023

60

UBS

A+

2,015,214

2,018,940

BBSW + 90

1.42%

8/03/2018

8/03/2023

60

Heritage Bank

BBB+

1,411,425

1,413,439

BBSW + 123

0.99%

29/03/2018

29/03/2021

36

ME Bank

BBB

1,610,205

1,613,270

BBSW + 127

1.13%

17/04/2018

16/04/2021

36

ANZ

AA-

2,028,216

2,020,818

BBSW + 90

1.42%

9/05/2018

9/05/2023

60

NAB

AA-

2,026,898

2,019,601

BBSW + 90

1.42%

16/05/2018

16/05/2023

60

CBA

AA-

2,030,222

2,023,042

BBSW + 93

1.42%

16/08/2018

16/08/2023

60

Bank Australia

BBB

757,199

754,345

BBSW + 130

0.53%

30/08/2018

30/08/2021

36

CUA

BBB

606,602

607,647

BBSW + 125

0.43%

6/09/2018

6/09/2021

36

AMP

BBB+

1,501,885

1,505,192

BBSW + 108

1.06%

10/09/2018

10/09/2021

36

NAB

AA-

2,025,383

2,027,483

BBSW + 93

1.42%

26/09/2018

26/09/2023

60

Bendigo-Adelaide

BBB+

1,006,169

1,008,076

BBSW + 101

0.71%

19/10/2018

19/01/2022

39

CBA

AA-

3,057,630

3,061,077

BBSW + 113

2.15%

11/01/2019

11/01/2024

60

Westpac

AA-

3,056,403

3,060,611

BBSW + 114

2.15%

24/01/2019

24/04/2024

63

ANZ

AA-

2,554,660

2,543,143

BBSW + 110

1.78%

8/02/2019

8/02/2024

60

NAB

AA-

2,035,781

2,027,829

BBSW + 104

1.42%

26/02/2019

26/02/2024

60

Bank of China Australia

A

1,506,774

1,511,450

BBSW + 100

1.06%

17/04/2019

17/10/2022

42

Westpac

AA-

2,528,245

2,520,608

BBSW + 88

1.77%

16/05/2019

16/08/2024

63

Suncorp-Metway

A+

1,248,637

1,252,058

BBSW + 78

0.88%

30/07/2019

30/07/2024

60

ANZ

AA-

2,012,360

2,006,085

BBSW + 77

1.41%

29/08/2019

29/08/2024

60

HSBC

AA-

2,506,635

2,511,111

BBSW + 83

1.76%

27/09/2019

27/09/2024

60

Bank Australia

BBB

1,504,832

1,506,263

BBSW + 90

1.06%

2/12/2019

2/12/2022

36

ANZ

AA-

1,503,750

1,504,711

BBSW + 76

1.06%

16/01/2020

16/01/2025

60

NAB

AA-

2,004,972

2,006,766

BBSW + 77

1.41%

21/01/2020

21/01/2025

60

Newcastle Permanent

BBB

0

1,104,086

BBSW + 112

0.77%

4/02/2020

4/02/2025

60

Macquarie Bank

A+

0

2,001,797

BBSW + 84

1.40%

12/02/2020

12/02/2025

60

Total Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt

 

50,626,432

51,687,360

 

36.24%

 

 

 

Managed Funds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NSW Tcorp

NR

1,661,239

1,602,227

-3.55%

1.12%

17/03/2014

1/02/2025

130

Total Managed Funds

 

1,661,239

1,602,227

-3.55%

1.12%

 

 

 

TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH
EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS

 

138,038,618

142,622,293

 

100.00%

 

 

 

LESS: RIVERINA REGIONAL LIBRARY (RRL) CASH AT BANK

 

4,100,277

3,929,595

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL WWCC CASH ASSETS, CASH
EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS

 

133,938,341

138,692,698

 

 

 

 

 

 

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 50% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 13%, with Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) around 36% 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 Authorised Deposit-Taking Institutions (ADIs) (being BBB- or higher), with a smaller allocation to unrated ADIs.

 

 

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

 

Investment Portfolio Balance

 

Council’s investment portfolio balance has increased from the previous month’s balance, up from $133.9M to $138.7M. This is reflective of the third quarter rates instalment being due at the end of February 2020.

 

 

Monthly Investment Movements

 

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed/sold the following investment securities during February 2020:

 

Institution and Type

Amount

Investment

Term

Interest

Rate

Comments

AMP Bank Term Deposit

$2M

18 months

3.00%

This term deposit was redeemed on maturity due to credit quality issues in the BBB rating allocation that were reported during January.

NAB Floating Rate Note

$2M

5.25 years

BBSW + 80bps

This floating rate note was sold prior to maturity, with funds reinvested in a new 5-year Macquarie Bank floating rate note (see below). Council recognised a capital gain of $12,900.

 

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment securities during February 2020:

 

Institution and Type

Amount

Investment

Term

Interest

Rate

Comments

BOQ Term Deposit

$1M

5 years

2.00%

The BOQ rate of 2.00% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this investment term. This term was chosen to allow Council to lock in an attractive longer-term rate, given the likelihood of further interest rate cuts.

NPBS Floating Rate Note

$1.1M

5 years

BBSW + 112bps

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

Macquarie Bank Floating Rate Note

$2M

5 years

BBSW + 84bps

Council’s independent Financial Advisor advised this Floating Rate Note represented fair value with a highly rated institution.

 

Rollovers – Council did not rollover any investment securities during February 2020.

 

Monthly Investment Performance

 

Interest/growth/capital gains for the month totalled $180,068, which compares unfavourably with the budget for the period of $298,250, underperforming budget for the month by $118,182.

 

Council’s underperformance of budget for February was mainly due to a negative return from Councils TCorp Long Term Growth fund, with the fund returning -3.55% (or -$59,012) for the month as both domestic and international equities were sold off due to ongoing concerns from the Coronavirus (COVID-19). During the month of February, global and domestic shares suffered corrections of -8.53% and -7.69%.

 

 

The longer-dated deposits in the portfolio, particularly those locked in above 3.00%, continue to anchor Council’s portfolio performance. It should be noted that Council’s investment portfolio includes 16 investments yielding 3.00% or above. As these investments mature, it is inevitable that they will be reinvested at lower prevailing rates. To reduce this reinvestment risk, Council staff and Council’s Independent Financial Advisor will continue to identify opportunities to lock in higher yielding investments as they become available.

 

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* (1.30%), Council’s investment portfolio returned 1.56% (annualised) for February. Cash and At-Call accounts returned 1.44% (annualised) for this period. These funds are utilised for daily cash flow management and need to be available to meet operating and contractual payments as they fall due.

 

Over the past year, Councils investment portfolio has returned 2.61%, outperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by 1.31%.

 

* 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 29 April 2019.

 

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

Section 625 - How may councils invest?

 

Local Government (General) Regulation 2005

Section 212 - Reports on council investments

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 


 

Risk Management Issues for Council

While this report is up to the end of February, at the time of writing this report during March, officers are aware of some negative financial impacts as a result of Coronavirus (COVID‑19). Advice was sought and provided by Council’s Insurer in relation to whether Council’s current insurance policy will cover some of the impact of revenue loss given the business interruption. Confirmation was received stating that the insurance policy “does not cover any costs incurred due to the enforcement of any law or ordinance with which the Member was legally obligated to comply prior to the time of the actual spread of communicable disease.” The advice went further to indicate that “the actual presence of the disease and restriction of access are both required to be satisfied to trigger coverage”. Council’s insurance policy will therefore not provide coverage for the reduced revenue as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

 

With the closure of the Civic Theatre and cancellation of programs at the Oasis, there will be a known loss of revenue from 18 March 2020. The Facility Managers are currently working through what financial impact this may have for the 2019/20 results.

 

This report is a control mechanism that assists in addressing the following potential risks to Council:

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

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

Internal / External Consultation

All relevant areas within the Council have consulted with the Finance Division in relation 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 30 March 2020

RP-2

 

RP-2               MARDI GRAS 2020 SPONSORSHIP PAYMENT

Author:         Peter Thompson 

         

 

Summary:

Following the recent cancellation of the Mardi Gras event, staff are seeking Council approval to finalise the sponsorship payments to HC Events PTY LTD as detailed in this report.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       will not be seeking reimbursement for the first payment of $10,000 for the Mardi Gras event as per the Mardi Gras events sponsorship agreement

b       approve the final payment of $10,000 to HC Events PTY LTD for the Mardi Gras 2020 event as per the Mardi Gras events sponsorship agreement

 

Report

This report is seeking Council approval to make the final sponsored payment of $10,000 to HC Events PTY LTD as the organisation nominated in the Wagga Mardi Gras Sponsorship Agreement.

 

Due to circumstances outside the reasonable control of HC Events PTY LTD the Mardi Gras event was cancelled the day before the event was to be held on March 14, 2020. This cancellation was made following a meeting with the event organiser in relation to COVID-19 circumstances and mass gathering information that had been made available to Council and the Local Member for Wagga Wagga. Shortly after this decision there was a National ban put in place for mass gatherings being held outside with over 500 participants, of which the Mardi Gras is one of those events.

 

It is considered that the above-mentioned circumstances effecting the cancellation of this event has been outside the reasonable control of HC Events PTY LTD. Therefore, staff are recommending that Council:

 

·     will not be seeking reimbursement for the first payment of $10,000 already issued under the Mardi Gras events sponsorship agreement, and

·     approve the final payment of $10,000 to HC Events PTY LTD as referenced in the Mardi Gras events sponsorship agreement

 

Due to the above-mentioned circumstances it is acknowledged that there has been a financial impact on this event organiser, and substantial costs already incurred. Therefore, staff are recommending Council honour the full sponsorship payments totalling $20,000. 

Financial Implications

Council approved sponsorship of the Mardi Gras event to the full amount of $20,000. As per the Mardi Gras event sponsorship agreement the first payment of $10,000 has already been paid and it is proposed to not seek reimbursement for this payment due to the circumstances outlined in this report. The final payment of $10,000 is included in this 2019/2020 budget from the Major Events Sponsorship cost centre. If Council approves the remaining $10,000 sponsorship payment this will be funded from the current available budget.

Policy and Legislation

Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship Policy

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing Economy

Objective: We are a hub for activity

Outcome: We have vibrant precincts

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

The cancellation of the Mardi Gras Event was based around health and safety considerations for the general public and event organisers. There is reputational risks for both Council and the event organiser.

Internal / External Consultation

Consultation has been held with the event organiser and with relevant internal staff.

 

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 30 March 2020

RP-3

 

RP-3               RESPONSE TO QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE

Author:                        Scott Gray 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

This report is to provide responses to Questions/Business with Notice arising from previous Ordinary Council Meetings.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Report

The following is in response to Questions/Business with Notice raised at previous Ordinary Council meetings.

 

Councillor D Hayes requested advice COVID-19 in particular:

 

·        What ways are Council preparing for COVID-19 in line with NSW Health

·        Is the Senior Citizens Centre operational?

·        Noting Council’s position on flexible working arrangements and protections in place for of vulnerable workers, has Council activated its Disaster Recovery Framework?

·        Do we need to lift curfews on supermarket delivery times?

·        What delegation of authority is available to the Mayor and General Manager between meetings for time sensitive matters?

·        What is Council’s position on future Council Meetings and potential quorum issues?

·        Have Council asked its contractors of essential services of the strategies they have in place to manage COVID-19 in the services they provide?

General Manager, Peter Thompson, Director Operations Caroline Angel and Director Community, Janice Summerhayes provided a verbal update on what actions Council have taken to date including:

 

·        Adopting NSW Government approach for all Council staff

·        Ensuring health services are available and assist to slow the spread of the virus

·        Cancellation of major events in accordance with direction of NSW Health

·        Developing uniformed plans of Council’s essential services in conjunction with regional Joint Organisations

·        Reviewing with a focus to deliver essential services, facilities and operational needs to the community

·        Lobbying State Government for legislative change so that Councillors can attend meetings remotely

 


 

 

Councillor D Hayes requested advice on if Council are providing a submission on the NSW 20 Year Waste Strategy Issues Papers and Plastics Plan Discussion Paper?

Yes, Council plans to provide a submission.

 

 

Councillor V Keenan requested advice to be provided to Councillors prior to the next Council meeting on what Council’s plan is in the event a quorum cannot be met at a future Council meeting, to ensure continuity of business at the Councillor level.

The Office of Local Government NSW advised on 23 March 2020 that is working on measures to allow councils to continue to meet during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Code of Meeting Practice contains a safety and welfare provision for cancelling a meeting, which can be utilised if there is a lack of quorum, as well as other provisions.

 

Councillor V Keenan requested Council lobby the NSW Government to consider amendment to legislation and the Model Code of Conduct to allow remote participation of Councillors at a Council Meeting.

The Office of Local Government NSW advised on 23 March 2020 that is working on measures to allow councils to continue to meet during the COVID-19 outbreak. Local Government NSW has also lobbied the Minister for Local Government in relation to amending the legislation to support ‘social distancing’ measures.

 

As at 24 March 2020, the COVID-10 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures) Bill 2020 is also before Parliament. The Bill includes amendments to the Act, including removing the need for people to attend council meetings in person and enabling them to be held remotely.

 

 

Councillor R Kendall requested the Mayoral Honour Board in the Historic Council Chambers be updated.

Contractors have been engaged to update Council’s Honour Boards in the Historic Council Chambers and the Civic Centre.

 

Councillor R Kendall requested information on Council’s position and future consideration of disability transport and easily accessible pick up and movement spots.

Wagga Wagga City Council’s Disability Inclusion Plan (Items 2.13, 2.21 and 2.31) addresses community transport and accessible parking space issues. Council’s Senior Traffic Officer has done a great deal of work to trial and retain access points in and around high usage areas.  Additionally, Council’s Social Planner, as a member of the Wagga Access Reference Group, is advocating for increased transport options for people on the NDIS. A key focus at present is for better access and inclusion for people with disabilities with the local taxi service. This is an important ongoing process.

 

 

Councillor T Koschel thanked and expressed appreciation to the Mayor, Greg Conkey OAM, General Manager, Peter Thompson, Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr and Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras event  organiser Holly Conroy for the press conference held on Friday 13 March 2020, including the livestreaming of the press conference, in announcing the cancellation of the 2020 Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras in the wake of COVID-19. He also extended thanks and appreciation to Holly Conroy for her organisation and contribution of the Mardi Gras event and the manner in which she conducted herself in cancellation of the event.

Comments by Councillor T Koschel noted.

 

Councillor T Koschel requested advice on if Council has a policy on Notice of Motions and timeframes for reporting back to Council.

Council’s Code of Meeting Practice outlines the process for Councillors to submit a Notice of Motion to Council. The adoption of the Notice of Motion and subsequent resolution of Council including the status of action taken is provided to Councillors through regular Resolutions Registers provided on the Councillors Hub.

 

Councillor P Funnell acknowledged and congratulated Graeme Falconer and organisers of the Blackdog Institute Ride for a very successful event held over the weekend.

Comments by Councillor P Funnell noted.

 

Councillor P Funnell expressed his disappointment to the organisers of the beach party facilitated following the cancellation of the Mardi Gras, posted on Facebook.

Comments by Councillor P Funnell noted.

 

The Mayor, G Conkey OAM extended his thanks and appreciation to the Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras event organiser Holly Conroy, for the outstanding leadership she showed in the press conference held on 13 March 2020, during an extremely difficult time for her with the cancellation of the 2020 Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras event. He stated that he was very impressed with her statements on that day and future correspondence he has had with her.

Comments by the Mayor, Councillor G Conkey OAM noted.

 

The Mayor, G Conkey OAM commented on the difficult time being experienced by the community and Council due to COVID-19 and the cancellation of major events in the City now and in the coming months. He stated the significant flow on effect and economic impact to the community over an extended period to come.

Comments by the Mayor, Councillor G Conkey OAM noted.

 

 

The Mayor, G Conkey OAM expressed this thanks and appreciation to staff for the organisation of the Council Meeting in the Historic Council Chambers to commemorate the 150th Anniversary.

Comments by the Mayor, Councillor G Conkey OAM noted.

 

 

 

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 have leaders that represent us

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

 

 

  


RP-4               Proposed Waiving of Fees and Charges

Author:          Natalie Te Pohe 

      

Summary:

This report is recommending a number of fee and charge waivers for the upcoming 4 weeks - for those areas of the community that may be impacted by COVID-19, and highlights to Councillors the potential estimated financial impact.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a          note the considerable current and future financial impact the community is facing in light of the COVID-19 pandemic

b          approve the proposed amendments to the 2019/20 fees and charges as specified in this report on a four-week basis, commencing 31 March 2020

c          authorise fee amendments until 30 June 2020, to be extended each four weeks by the General Manager, in consultation with the Mayor

d          provide public notice of the proposed fee amendments in accordance with sections 356, 610 and 611 of the Local Government Act 1993

e          implement the fee changes in the event no public submissions are received 

f            if public submissions are received in opposition to the proposed fee changes, the matter is to be considered by Council at the next available Council meeting

g          note the potential likely financial impact of the fee amendments will be budgeted for in a future Council meeting report, which includes the proposed funding sources for the variations to Councils budget, where possible

h          note the significant likely negative financial impact on Council’s investments due to COVID-19, noting that Council will be provided with a further update at a future Council meeting

i            note that Council Officers are reviewing the current draft 2020/21 Long Term Financial Plan that was distributed and discussed with Councillors during recent workshops, which includes the proposed fees and charges for the 2020/21 financial year

 

 

 Report

Due to COVID-19 Council officers have reviewed all current 2019/20 Fees and Charges and Management are recommending that Council to amend specific fees for rolling 4-week period commencing from 31 March 2020 and ending 30 June 2020.

The attachment to this report lists the specific fees for a 4-week period to be either:

·               Waived – across the board

·               Reduced – across the board

·               Waived – on application

             * for small businesses and residential premises

             * for individuals

 

It is recommended that the approval be given for the rest of the financial year with each subsequent 4-week period to be confirmed by the General Manager, in consultation with the Mayor.

Area

Potential Estimated Reduced Income over 4-week period

Indicative Funding Source – to be adopted at a later date once actual amounts are known

Airport

Up to $200,472*

Airport Reserve

Environmental Health

$14,000

General Purpose Revenue (GPR)

Companion Animals

$2,500

GPR

Civic Theatre

$250

GPR

Finance

$17,000

GPR

Gregadoo Waste Management Centre (GWMC)

$20,795

Solid Waste Reserve

Bob Osborne Skills Centre

$1,100

GPR

Riverina Regional Library

$1,769

RRL Reserve

Civic Centre

$1,000

GPR

Cemetery

$1,500

Cemetery Reserve

Sewer

$1,000

Sewer Fund

Activities in Road Reserves

$1,000

GPR

City Development#

Unknown at this stage

GPR

*The potential estimated reduced income for the Airport category does not take into account the potential likely reduction in flights due to COVID-19.  The estimated amount shown in the above table is the maximum amount, assuming usual flight patterns.

#Definition of small business for fees requested for waiver under Council’s City Development Planning Section: A small business (as defined by the Australian Taxation Office) is any business that has an aggregated turnover of less than $10 million.

Assistance to Property holders experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19:

Included in the fee waivers (on application), is the proposed waiving of interest on overdue rates for property holders who are deemed to be experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19. 

Along with waiving interest, Council officers are continuing to offer all property holders the ability to enter into payment arrangements that suit both the property holder and Council.  Property holders can contact Council’s Finance staff to discuss their account and work together on a payment plan that is achievable in the current environment. 

Council officers are in the process of compiling a fact sheet to property holders which describe the assistance available. 

Property holders can contact Council’s Finance section to discuss their account on 1300 292 442 or via email at accountsreceivable@wagga.nsw.gov.au

Council’s investments

At the time of writing this report (27 March 2020) Council officers have seen a reduction in the principal value of its floating rate note and managed funds portfolio of $914K from those reported in Councils investment report at 29 February 2020. As a result of the effects of COVID-19 being felt globally and domestically, financial markets have been sold-off sharply over the past 4-5 weeks. This has been highlighted by equities falling around 30-35% since mid-February 2020.

Due to the unpredictable nature of financial markets at this time, Council officers are unable to forecast what may occur for the remainder of the financial year and into the new financial year. It should be known that we do not expect any loss of capital payments (face value) as the banks that Council hold in its floating rate note portfolio continue to maintain high capital buffers as regulated by APRA (Australian Prudent Regulation Authority).

Proposed Rent Abatements for Council Tenants - CONF-2 Council Report

Included in this Council meeting is the proposed rent abatements for council commercial tenants for a two-month period, totalling $35,384 in reduced income for Council.  As the Commercial tenant report mentions, a future review will take place after the two-month period, or as further advice becomes available.

2020/21 Rates and Charges and the 2020/21 Long Term Financial Plan

Council Officers are re-reviewing the current draft 2020/21 Long Term Financial Plan that was distributed and discussed with Councillors during recent workshops, which includes the proposed fees and charges for the 2020/21 financial year.  Councillors will be provided further information over the next few weeks.


 

Financial Implications

The total potential financial impact to Council of COVID-19 is unknown at this stage, and changes on a daily basis.  This report provides indicative figures on the potential loss of revenue due to proposed adjustments to fees and charges, along with the potential negative impact to Council’s investment income.

 

Council will be provided with regular updates from Council officers when information becomes available.

Policy and Legislation

Local Government Act 1993 – Sections 610, 611 and 356

Council’s Financial Hardship Policy – POL068

 

Attachments

 

1.

Fees and Charges proposed to be reduced for next 4 week period

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 30 March 2020

RP-4

 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 

Do not delete this line


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 30 March 2020

M-1

 

Committee Minutes

M-1                 TRAFFIC COMMITTEE - MEETING HELD 12 MARCH 2020

Author:         Bill Harvey 

Director:       Caroline Angel

         

 

Summary:

The Local Traffic Committee met on 12 March 2020. At this meeting, Traffic Committee considered 16 reports.

 

The Minutes of the meeting are attached for Councillors’ reference.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       receive the minutes of the Traffic Committee Meeting held on 12 March 2020

b       endorse the recommendations of the Traffic Committee

 

Report

The table below provides a summary of each item’s risk and budget implications in particular:

 

No.

ITEM

UNMITIGATED RISK RATING

ESTIMATED

COST

FUNDING SOURCE

APPROVAL

RP1

Tolland Open cycling meeting

High

$0

N/A

Approved under staff delegation

RP2

NSW Junior State Cup – traffic impacting Eevent

High

Unknown

Overall event budget managed by organiser

Approved under staff delegation

RP3

Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras

High

Unknown

Overall event budget managed by organiser

Approved under staff delegation

RP4

Light Horse Association on-street event

High

$700

Road Closures for Events

Approved under staff delegation

RP5

Farrer Road Upgrade design

Nil

$0

N/A

Seeking Council endorsement

RP6

Edward Street parking restriction between Best Street and Fox Street

High

$250

Lines and Signs Budget

Seeking Council endorsement

RP7

Forsyth Street parking restriction at number 160

Medium

$250

Lines and Signs Budget

Seeking Council endorsement

RP8

Baylis Street loading zone at Victoria Hotel

Nil

$150

Lines and Signs Budget

Seeking Council endorsement

RP9

Sturt Street loading zone near Henley Lane

Medium

$200

Lines and Signs Budget

Seeking Council endorsement

RP10

Travers Street – advance warning where horses cross

Medium

$0

N/A

Seeking Council endorsement

RP11

Fitzmaurice Street – extending bus zone near Johnston Street

Nil

$0

TfNSW funding

Seeking Council endorsement

RP12

Macleay Street – bus zone at TAFE

Nil

$0

TfNSW funding

Seeking Council endorsement

RP13

Estella Road – traffic management around proposed public school site

Very High

$0

NSW Government

Seeking Council endorsement

RP14

Bourke Service Road – changes to controls

High

$1,500

Lines and Signs Budget

Seeking Council endorsement

RP15

Southern Exit Road and Kooringal Road – intersection design

High

N/A

Project Budget

Seeking Council endorsement

RP16

BMW Riverina Food and Wine Festival

High

N/A

Event Organiser

Approved under staff delegation

 

Items of Particular Interest

 

RP-6 Edward Street Parking Restriction Between Best Street and Fox Street

 

A letter was received from a resident who had been made aware of the proposal to remove the very short length of permissible parallel parking space on this length of kerb after the Traffic Committee business paper was distributed to members but before the meeting. Members were shown a copy of the letter and they considered the suggested ramifications that were outlined in the letter.

 

Members were concerned about the safety of all vehicle users who drive on this length of Edward Street. The available parking space is not wide enough to be compliant with the Australian Standard. Residents have off street parking via driveways. There is adequate nearby on-street parking.

 

RP-13 Estella Road – Traffic Management Around Proposed Public School Site

 

There was considerable discussion about this matter that is related to the construction of a new public school on Estella Road opposite the intersection with Gunn Drive. The proximity of the intersection to what is likely to be a Children’s Crossing was a topic of discussion with the ability of the location to meet the requirements of such a facility in question. Several other issues were raised by members that could not be answered in that meeting. Members recommended that the matter be considered at a further meeting at which the developer’s project manager and traffic planner and designer might be invited to attend.

 

RP-14 Bourke Service Road – Changes to Controls

 

There was discussion about the implications that might be caused by the implementation of the recommendation. While unforeseen situations may arise as a result the recommended changes, members are of the opinion that reducing vehicle traffic on the Bourke Service Road around Turvey Park Public School and at the intersection of Jack Avenue, Bourke Service Road and Bourke Street will reduce the potential for road trauma.

 


 

Financial Implications

The below table shows the budget required, and the current available budget for the proposed funding source for each of the items requiring funding:

 

Item

Total Budget Required

Proposed Funding Source

Current Proposed Funding Source Budget

Current Funding Source Expenditure including commitments as at 19 March 2020

Current Available Budget

RP4

 

$700

 

Event Road Closure

$40,000

$11,972

$28,028

RP6, RP7,

RP8,

RP9,

RP14

$250

$250

$150

$200

$1,500

$2,350

Lines & Signs

$360,514

$227,752

$132,762

 

Policy and Legislation

N/A

 

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

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

The Traffic Committee consists of a Councillor, NSW Police, Transport for New South Wales, and a representative of the Local Member of Parliament. Representatives from Council’s Infrastructure and Planning staff provide advice to the Committee. Representatives from other agencies and entities may be invited to attend meetings as required.

 

Attachments

 

1.

Traffic Committee Minutes 12 March 2020

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 30 March 2020

M-1

 















  

 


Reports submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council to be held on Monday 30 March 2020.

 

QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE


Report submitted to the Confidential Meeting of Council on Monday 30 March 2020

CONF-1

 

Confidential Reports

CONF-1         Solar Project Variation

Author:         Thomas Lemerle 

Director:       Caroline Angel

 

This report is CONFIDENTIAL in accordance with Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, which permits the meeting to be closed to the public for business relating to the following: -

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

 

 


Report submitted to the Confidential Meeting of Council on Monday 30 March 2020

CONF-2

 

CONF-2         PROPOSED RENT ABATEMENTS FOR COUNCIL TENANTS

Author:          Dianne Wright 

Director:       Michael Keys

 

This report is CONFIDENTIAL in accordance with Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, which permits the meeting to be closed to the public for business relating to the following: -

(d) (ii)    commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council.&nb