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Agenda and
Business Paper

 


Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday 10 May 2021

at 6.00pm

 

 

 

Civic Centre cnr Baylis and Morrow Streets,
Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 (PO Box 20)
P 1300 292 442
P council@wagga.nsw.gov.au


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 10 May 2021 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 10 May 2021.

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 10 May 2021

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

PRAYER                                                                                                                       2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY                                                                          2

APOLOGIES                                                                                                                 2

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1           Ordinary Council Meeting - 26 April 2021                                      2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                    2

Reports from Staff

RP-1            Planning Proposals - LEP18/0004 and LEP18/0009 - Gregadoo Road and Tallowood Crescent - Amendment to land zoning and minimum lot size requirements of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010    3

RP-2            Wagga Business Chamber - MOU performance report           17

RP-3            MAJOR EVENT SPONSORSHIP FUNDING REQUEST                              43

RP-4            ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP - APPOINTMENT OF COUNCILLORS    54

RP-5            RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - WAGGA APP                               57

RP-6            COUNCILLOR CONFERENCE - INLAND RAIL CONFERENCE                 62

RP-7            RESPONSE TO QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE                           78    

QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE                                                                       80

Confidential Reports

CONF-1       DONATION TO THE MUSEUM FOR THE RIVERINA                                 81

CONF-2       RFT2021-11 SUPPLY OF HIRED PLANT, FLEET AND EQUIPMENT         82

CONF-3       RFT2021-14 CLEANING OF COUNCIL BUILDINGS, AMENITIES & BBQ'S 83

CONF-4       Code of Conduct matter                                                                 84

 


 

 

PRAYER

 

 

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

 

 

 

APOLOGIES

 

 

 

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1              Ordinary Council Meeting - 26 April 2021         

Recommendation

That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 26 April 2021 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

 

Attachments

 

1.

Minutes - 26 April 2021

85

 

 

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1               Planning Proposals - LEP18/0004 and LEP18/0009 - Gregadoo Road and Tallowood Crescent - Amendment to land zoning and minimum lot size requirements of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Author:         Crystal Atkinson 

Director:       Michael Keys

         

 

Summary:

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 8 July 2019, Council resolved to support the planning proposals and the Council addendum and seek Gateway Determination from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

 

The planning proposals sought to rezone land from RU1 Primary Production to R5 Large Lot Residential and reduce the minimum lot size applicable from 2ha down to 4,000m2 for land on Gregadoo Road and Tallowood Crescent, Wagga Wagga.

 

The planning proposal and an associated amendment to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010 was placed on public exhibition from 27 February to 11 April 2021 (inclusive).

 

The purpose of this report is to provide feedback on the public consultation and submissions received. The report also requests adoption and gazettal of the amendment to the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 and adoption of the subsequent amendment to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       note the results of the public exhibition for planning proposals LEP18/0004, LEP18/0009 and the Council addendum

b       adopt planning proposals LEP18/0004, LEP18/0009 and the Council addendum (as exhibited) to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

c        gazette the plan and notify landowners and the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment of the decision

d       adopt the amendments to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010 and provide notification of the adoption in the local paper

 


 

Application details

Submitted proposals:

LEP18/0004 – seeks to reduce the minimum lot size of 52 and 56 Gregadoo Road from 2ha to 3,000m2.

LEP18/0009 – seeks to rezone 13 and 15 Tallowood Crescent, Lake Albert from RU1 Primary Production Zone to R5 Large Lot Residential Zone. This proposal also seeks to reduce the minimum lot size requirement applicable to several lots to the south of Gregadoo Road from 2ha to 1800m2, 3,500m2 and 5,500m2.

Applicant:

LEP18/0004 – Kerry and Cynthia Podmore (owner of 56 Gregadoo Road). Salvestro Planning has been appointed by the applicant to prepare the planning proposal.

LEP18/0009 - Stephen Jay (owner of 68 Gregadoo Road, Lake Albert). MJM Consulting has been appointed by the applicant to prepare the planning proposal.

Land Owners:

Various landowners provided under confidential cover.

Proposal

Council is in receipt of two planning proposals to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP) to the south of Gregadoo Road. Details of the proposals with supporting information are attached.

 

An assessment of the applications concluded that the planning proposals may proceed as a combined proposal and that a minimum lot size of 4000m2 be applied across the precinct. The revised proposal seeks the following:

 

1.    Rezone 11, 13 and 15 Tallowood Crescent, Lake Albert (Lot 1 DP 882899, Lot 2 DP 882889 and Lot 2 DP 1013227) from RU1 Primary Production Zone to R5 Large Lot Residential Zone as per the illustration below

 

Figure 1 – Proposed Land Zoning Changes

 

2.    Reduce the minimum lot size requirement applicable to Lots 48, 50, 52, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, 66, 68 and 70 Gregadoo Road, 1- 7 Cottonwood Close 1 – 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 Tallowood Crescent (Lot 1 DP 514671, Lot 3 DP 233523, Lot 4 and Lot 5 DP 233523, Lot 1 and Lot 2 DP 715658, Lot 5 DP 775412, Lot 8 DP 859533, Lot 7 DP 775412, Lot 15 DP 866164, Lot 2 DP 539369, Lot 3 DP 540483, Lot 9 - 13 DP 886164, Lot 1 DP 1013227, Lot 2 DP 1013227, Lot 1 and Lot 2 DP 882899, Lot 1 to Lot 8 DP 866164) from 2ha to 4000m2 as per the illustration below.

 

Figure 2 – Proposed Minimum Lot Size Changes

 

The above will provide the opportunity for landowners in the precinct to subdivide their land in the future. It will create the opportunity for approximately 130 additional lots in the precinct.

 

As a result of the outcomes sought by the planning proposal, a subsequent amendment is also proposed to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010. This will ensure that the precinct is developed in a coordinated manner and that new development integrates with its surround.

 

More specifically, the DCP requires the preparation of a staging plan, stormwater management plan, traffic impact assessment and the creation of buffer areas to adjoining rural zoned land to the south.

 

Site and Locality

The precinct is located on the south of Gregadoo Road and is partly located within the R5 Large Lot Residential Zone and in the RU1 Primary Production Zone. A minimum lot size requirement of 2 hectares currently applies under Clause 4.1 of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 to lots within the precinct.

 

Lots to the north of the precinct (north of Gregadoo Road) are in the R5 Large Lot Residential Zone and vary between approximately 1500m2 and 4300m2 in size. The Grange Lifestyle Village is located to the west. The land to the south is in the RU1- Primary Production Zone and land to the east is also zoned R5 Large Lot Residential.

 

Gateway Determination

The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment issued a Gateway Determination for the planning proposal on 30 September 2019 and a subsequent alteration was issued on 1 March 2021 subject to public exhibition. A copy of the Gateway Determination and alteration is provided as Attachment 1.

Public Exhibition

The addendum to the planning proposals (Attachment 2), the planning proposals (Attachments 3 and 4), Development Control Plan amendment (Attachment 5) and accompanying exhibition material were placed on public exhibition from 27 February to 11 April 2021 (inclusive).

 

During the exhibition period, one submission was received. No other submissions were received.

Financial Implications

The applications have been submitted and attracted an application fee of $15,000 (LEP18/0009) and $7,500 (LEP18/0004) in accordance with Council’s Fees and Charges Policy. The proponents have paid these fees.

 

Section 7.11 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and Council’s contributions plans enables Council to levy contributions, where anticipated development will or is likely to increase the demand for public facilities.

 

Section 64 of the Local Government Act 1993, Section 306 of the Water Management Act 2000, as well as Council’s development servicing plans enable Council to levy developer charges based on the increased demands that new development will have on sewer and/or stormwater.

The contribution and development servicing plans will apply to any future development on the land.

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

 

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

The planning proposal was subject to public consultation where one submission was received in support of the planning proposal and one submission was received against the planning proposal.

Council’s engineering and traffic departments have reviewed the recommendations of the planning proposal as a traffic impact assessment, drainage and sewer report and masterplan report were all prepared for the site, which addressed key development outcomes sought by the amendment. Further consideration of these matters will be required as part of any subsequent development application submitted for the land as required by the DCP.

Internal / External Consultation

The planning proposals and Council addendum were placed on public exhibition between 27 February to 11 April 2021 (inclusive) with engagement as per the table below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mail

Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news story

Council News advert

Media releases

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meetings

Your Say website

Community meetings

Stakeholder workshops

Drop-in sessions

Surveys and feedback forms

Social media

Email newsletters

Website

Digital advertising

TIER

Consult

 

x

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

x

 

 

The planning proposals and accompanying exhibition material were made available for viewing by the public on Council’s website and at Council’s Customer Service Counter in the Civic Centre between 27 February to 11 April 2021.

 

Notices with factsheets were provided to adjoining and affected landowners and preliminary consultation was undertaken with affected landowners, which informed the preparation of the subsequent addendum to the planning proposals.

 

During the public exhibition period, one submission was received in support of the planning proposal and one submission was received against the planning proposal. The submission is provided as Attachment 6.

 

A summary of the submissions and Council Officer response is provided below:

 

Submission

Officer Response

No. 1

i.   Support the planning proposal.

ii.  Appreciate the work done to progress the proposal.

 

Noted.

 

No. 2

Covering letter:

i.     Do not support changes to lot sizes on Tallowood Crescent and have engaged NGH to provide information that relates to concerns.

 

ii.    Have not been notified of the proposed subdivision included in the report as Figure 3 which indicates smaller lots directly behind and adjoining my property.

 

 

 

 

 

iii.   There was no indication when purchasing the property ten years ago that the current lot sizes could be reduced. Drawn to the street because of the small acreage lifestyle and walking distance to Lake Albert. There are no streetlights and more stars, no curb or guttering with rain running onto lawns and gardens and fewer cars making it safe for bike or horse riding, less noise and pollutants and a connected community.

 

iv.   There is a single-entry point to Tallowood Crescent lined with Chinese Tallows and Golden Ashes. This narrow and beautiful streetscape is green and inviting during spring and summer and a mass of colour in autumn. The width of Tallowood Crescent is not problematic for current vehicle movements, allowing future subdivision would affect the connection and health of our community.

 

v.    Investigations by NGH have estimated that further subdivision would see vehicle movements substantially increase (333%) due to the greater number of residents. This does not include traffic during development with trucks further impacting on our property.

 

vi.   The building envelopes for properties in the area are at the front of the property making residents susceptible to any increase in vehicle numbers or changes to the quiet streetscape.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

vii.  The only exit and entry point for Tallowood Crescent is on a crest on Gregadoo Road. Gregadoo Road is a busy connection between three schools, an increase in vehicles along Tallowood Crescent would create significant traffic delays.

 

viii. Have concerns that Tallowood Crescent’s tree lined vista and quiet and connected community, amenity and road safety will be at risk.

 

 

Noted. Responses to points raised within NGH report are provided below.

 

 

The current exhibition is the avenue for landowners to be notified and engaged. The proponent has prepared an indicative layout to enable the proposal to be assessed, this layout is not approved and will be subject to further consultation.

 

Planning provisions relating to subdivision are never guaranteed. The area has been identified for intensification since 2013 in the Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan. The land zoning will remain R5 Large Lot Residential with the intent to retain the existing character.

 

 

 

 

Through consideration of the proposal, it has been identified within the draft DCP controls that Tallowood Crescent be extended to connect back to Gregadoo Road. This connection will assist in managing traffic.

 

 

 

 

Gregadoo Road is currently under concept and design phase to widen the corridor and improve intersection treatments. The improvements to Gregadoo Road will assist with additional traffic within this area.

 

Noted. The Traffic Impact Assessment has identified additional traffic movements within AM peak and PM peak. With an additional connection point from Tallowood Crescent to Gregadoo Road, these additional movements would be distributed across two connections from Tallowood Crescent to Gregadoo Road.

 

See response to item (v) of submission 2 – covering letter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The physical treatment of Tallowood Crescent will be retained. See response to (vi) of submission 2 – covering letter.

 

No. 2

NGH Report:

i.          Approval of the proposal is at odds with the map and vision of the regional plan and local strategies.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ii.         The proposal only addresses some of the goals and directions of the regional plan. The NGH report discusses other relevant goals that the proposal is inconsistent with and considered important and form the basis that the proposal should not be supported.

 

iii.        The proposal has not addressed the impacts on future planning and impacts of the identified heavy vehicle transport route for development.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

iv.        The proposal is not considered to be representative of the sustainable management of development. As a key feature of the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS), the heavy vehicle transport route should be a priority and the creation of higher density rural-residential infill areas parallel to the southern bypass should be avoided and a buffer from development established.

 

 

 

 

v.         The draft proposal provided no indication of buffers with adjoining rural land with the proposed reduced minimum lot size.

 

 

 

vi.        Seniors housing and previous subdivisions should not be used as precedence to support this proposal as these were approved prior to the introduction of the 2010 LEP and development of the concept of the southern bypass.

 

vii.       Endorsement of the proposal will set a precedent for infill development and potential flow on effects of further proposals and loss of agricultural land in the immediate surrounds. The proposal does not promote sustainable use of natural assets and agricultural resources.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

viii.      No buffer to rural lands has been provided or retained. Impacts from farming in the form of complaints or restriction on use of machinery and introduction of weeds and pests may result. This will inhibit the use of diverse and productive agricultural land.

 

ix.        Infill development within a known area of significant overland flow is not seen to reduce the community’s exposure to natural hazards. Response from DPiE floodplain management has not been exhibited nor has a Stormwater Management Plan.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

x.         The proposal has not addressed impacts on future planning and impacts of the identified heavy vehicle transport route on the development.

 

xi.        The proposal has not considered the adverse impacts on the lifestyle that the landowner and existing residents enjoy, a key reason that the affected landowner purchased their property. These impacts have not been sufficiently explored and the proposal should not be supported without further addressing these impacts.

 

xii.       The proposal is inconsistent with the LSPS for the following reasons:

 

a)   Reduction in minimum lot size is not considered a form of protection of natural areas.

 

b)   The biodiversity certification has expired, and the proposal should consider impacts on any threatened species up front.

 

 

 

 

c)   Reducing the minimum lot size in an area of land subject to natural overland flow is not considered to work towards the principle of increasing resilience to natural hazards and land constraints nor has it fully considered the climate change implications and would have an adverse impact for the community.

 

d)   Although infill development is encouraged, the proposed development is ad-hoc as not all landowners support the proposal, therefore it should not be supported. The impacts on existing landowners has not been fully addressed.

 

e)   Reducing the minimum lot size will create conflict with the location and operation of a bypass. The bypass is a critical consideration in respect of the subject land and has not been addressed.

 

f)    The infrastructure assessment is inadequate with respect to the LSPS requirements for a precinct-wide assessment that considers other similar approved and future rezoning and need for assessment of the remaining infrastructure capacity.

 

 

 

g)   Approving greater density on the edge of the city does not align with the LSPS principle to promote a healthy lifestyle.

 

h)  The proposal does not align with the LSPS principle of providing for a diversity of housing as the likely housing will be free standing 3-4 bedroom dwellings.

 

xiii.      The proposal fails to acknowledge impacts of smaller lots on landowners in the precinct who do not want to subdivide who prefer a semi-rural setting.

 

xiv.      The proposal is considered inconsistent with the LEP for the following reasons:

 

a)   Has the potential of needing a greater buffer from the potential southern bypass resulting in further fragmentation of rural lands.

 

b)   Reducing the minimum lot size is not supported as it will affect existing landowner amenity and inhibit the enjoyed environmental and social values of the area.

 

c)   There is no green / open space areas indicated in the concept plans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d)   Rezoning from RU1 to R5 is inconsistent with the aims of the LEP.

 

 

 

e)   Smaller agricultural lots within the proposal area and adjoining have potential as small boutique or specialised agriculture to target high end markets or more intensive uses. How has the potential impacts on this use been considered?

 

f)    What precedent for subdivision will the proposal set and would it add to further loss of agricultural land? Approval would set precedent for infill development and would not promote sustainable use of the natural assets and agricultural resources.

 

g)   How will the proposal promote sustainability of the natural assets, choices and opportunities in relation to those resources, and environmental values.

 

xv.       Spot amendments to the LEP, even this size, are not considered to provide a co-ordinated development and roll out of public infrastructure and services. New services and upgrades to the existing systems have been flagged but not sufficiently investigated to meet the LSPS requirements.

 

xvi.      The impact on servicing and amenity to existing dwelling has not been considered with the area currently experiencing low water pressure, rural style drainage, no street lighting, narrow road, traffic congestion on Gregadoo Road and increased traffic from other subdivisions.

 

xvii.     The proposal is inconsistent with the zone objectives:

 

a)    Reduction in lot size would impact the character and rural setting.

 

 

 

b)    Increase in number of dwellings is unreasonable and an adverse change.

 

 

c)    The draft masterplan fails to acknowledge the impacts of smaller lots on landowners who are not interested in subdividing.

 

d)    Increases in dwellings has potential to cause conflicts to adjacent farmers.

 

xviii.    It is not considered reasonable to infringe on the amenity and lifestyle of existing properties.

 

xix.      The blanket minimum lot size does not provide choice if all lots are the same size.

 

 

xx.       The proposal does not include a social and economic impact assessment or the potential amenity impacts.

 

xxi.      Reduced privacy would result from the proposal.

 

 

xxii.     Change to the landscape and streetscape character of the area and loss of rural lifestyle.

 

xxiii.    A noise impact assessment has not been completed to assess the impact of additional dwellings and occupants.

 

 

 

 

xxiv.    Increased traffic will add to the unwanted change to noise character.

 

xxv.     No visual assessment has been completed.

 

xxvi.    Decline in property value due to the change in character.

 

 

 

xxvii.   The proposal should not be supported as the impacts on landowners amenity and enjoyment of their land, existing dwelling and current character of the area has not been fully considered.

 

xxviii.  There is no biodiversity study.

 

 

xxix.    There is no aboriginal heritage report, the land is within 200m of an overland flow path and would not be avoided by future development.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

xxx.     Overflow impacts are a concern as cost implications for damage would impact the community. Wait for the Major Overland Flow Study of 2011 to be completed to ensure potential impacts can be fully considered. Overland flow depths reach 800mm along Gregadoo Road and the proposed change to minimum lot size is inappropriate.

 

xxxi.    The proposal will result in a significant increase in traffic volumes that will reduce existing amenity, increase noise odour, and reduce air quality.

 

The proposal is consistent with the regional plan and local strategies as it proposes to increase residential development and make better use of infrastructure and services in a large lot area. The Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013 identified the area for potential intensification.

 

Noted, these are addressed further below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The area is an existing R5 Large Lot Residential area on the southern fringe of the city. The proposed southern bypass corridor is indicative and subject to further long-term investigation. It is located south of this area and if it proceeds the route will need to be located to prevent significant impacts on existing residences south of Gregadoo Road. 

 

A key component of sustainable management of development withing the LSPS is to ensure we allow for infill and intensification in areas where there is available infrastructure capacity to better utilise our infrastructure. As this area is an existing large lot residential area, any southern bypass will need to be located south of this and consider impacts on current and future residential areas.

 

The minimum lot size of 4,000m² provides adequate lot sizes that can provide a separation between residential dwellings and the farmland to the south.

 

Each planning proposal is assessed on merit and not based on past precedence.

 

 

 

 

 

The Wagga Wagga Local Strategic Planning Statement provides a balance between growth, natural resources and infrastructure with the aim to achieve an appropriate balance and mix of protection for our natural resources, growth and sustainable infrastructure provision. The proposal will facilitate more efficient use of existing infrastructure whilst creating lots of a size that facilitate separation between residential dwellings and farmland to the south.

 

See response to item (v) of submission 2 – NGH report.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The planning proposal area has a small portion of the south-eastern corner identified as flood fringe within the 1% AEP flood event identified within the currently exhibited 2021 Major Overland Flow Study. Development of the scale proposed can ensure overland flows are not exacerbated through the placement of dwelling and fencing style. The study identifies that development in flood fringe areas would not be likely to have a significant effect on the pattern of flood flows and/or flood levels.

 

See response to item (iii) of submission 2 – NGH report.

 

 

 

 

See response to item (iii) of submission 2 – covering letter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The planning proposal area is an existing R5 Large Lot residential area.

 

Correct, all development will need to comply with the requirements of the Biodiversity Conservation Act. In addition, the DCP contains controls with respect to vegetation for lots that are greater than 2,000m².

 

See response to item (ix) of submission 2 – NGH report.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The proposal will enable staging of development. Landowners are not forced to subdivide, but the opportunity will be there when or if it is chosen to be taken up.

 

 

 

See response to item (iii) of submission 2 – NGH report.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sewer and stormwater capacity assessment has been provided with the application. It is anticipated that sewer pump station upgrades will be required. The DCP provisions require the development to provide reticulated sewer mains to all allotments, including pump stations where required.

 

The planning proposal is in an area with access to existing recreation facilities to support a healthy lifestyle.

 

The planning proposal will result in additional housing to meet the needs of a growing population.

 

 

See response to item (xii)(d) of submission 2 – NGH report.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See response to item (iii) of submission 2 – NGH report.

 

 

 

 

See response to item (xvii)(a) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy identifies the recreation needs for Lake Albert with adequate space provided within the suburb. The existing spaces can accommodate the additional population and growth proposed.

 

 

The lot proposed to be zoned from RU1 to R5 is currently used for large lot residential purposes and is not used for primary production purposes.

 

The area is an existing large lot residential area where more intensive use as small boutique or specialised agriculture may not be appropriate irrespective of the proposed changes to the minimum lot sizes.

 

 

The adoption of the Wagga Wagga Local Strategic Planning Statement sets the vision and principles for planning proposals. This will guide and help council determine whether proposals can be supported.

 

 

The area is an existing large lot residential area. The reduction in minimum lot size will not result in inappropriate development of natural areas.

 

 

The area identified as part of the planning proposal is the extent of the area that can be considered for changes as part of this planning proposal. It enables a coordinated approach to infrastructure provision relevant to this catchment.

 

See response to item (v) of submission 2a in response to traffic. Development will need to ensure adequate servicing is provided to all new lots and upgraded where existing capacity is not adequate to ensure services to existing residences are maintained or improved.

 

 

 

The retention of the R5 Large Lot Residential zone and applying a 4,000m² lot size will facilitate the retention of the rural character of the area.

 

Noted. Increasing dwellings in an area with available infrastructure is consistent with adopted local strategies.

 

See response to item (iix)(d) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

 

 

See response to item (v) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

 

Noted.

 

 

The minimum lot size is considered appropriate in ensuring the existing amenity is retained.

 

See response to item (xvii)(a) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

 

 

The general provision of the DCP will still apply with respect to managing privacy impacts.

 

See response to item (xvii)(a) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

 

This scale of development within a large lot residential area is not considered to exceed noise criteria or trigger the requirements for a noise impact assessment.

 

See response to item (xxiii) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

 

See response to item (xvii)(a) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

Property values are not a planning consideration or grounds for refusing a planning proposal.

 

See response to item (xvii)(a) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

 

 

 

 

 

See response to item (xii) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

The area is identified as having the potential for an aboriginal site. At development application stage, the applicant will need to undertake due diligence with respect to aboriginal heritage. As the area is already developed for residential purposes, this would have also been completed for development of the existing lots.

 

See response to item (ix) of submission 2– NGH report.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See response to item (v) of submission 2 – covering letter.

 

 

 

Attachments

 

1.

LEP18/0009 - Gateway Determination - Provided under separate cover

 

2.

LEP18/0009 - Addendum to Planning Proposal - Provided under separate cover

 

3.

Planning Proposal - LEP18/0009 - Provided under separate cover

 

4.

Planning Proposal - LEP18/0004 - Provided under separate cover

 

5.

LEP18/0009 - Development Control Plan Amendment - Provided under separate cover

 

6.

LEP18/0009 - Submissions - Provided under separate cover

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-2

 

RP-2               Wagga Business Chamber - MOU performance report

Author:         Dominic Kennedy 

Director:       Michael Keys

         

 

Summary:

This report provides an update on the first 12 months as required for the MOU between Wagga Wagga City Council and the Wagga Wagga Business Chamber (Chamber). Although heavily impacted by COVID, the Chamber were able to achieve 40 of their 48 objectives and develop a four-year Strategic Plan that supports Wagga’s small business community and Council objectives.

 

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a       receive and note findings of this report

b       approve modifications to the Schedule of Activities as outlined in the report

 

 

Report

Background

 

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Council and the Wagga Wagga Business Chamber (Chamber) was endorsed at the 20 January 2020 Ordinary Council meeting. The two-year MOU was signed by both parties February 2020 and is scheduled for an extension review in the third quarter of the second year (2021).

 

The purpose of the MOU is to define the key objectives, funding administration and management of a partnership between Council and the Chamber. The five key objectives of the MOU are to:

 

·    promote, lobby and advocate for the Wagga Wagga business sector broadly at the regional, state and federal levels;

·    jointly seek, promote and advocate for major funding (from all levels of government) and projects within the LGA;

·    engage the local business sector in revitalising the commercial and industrial areas of the Wagga Wagga region through increased commercial activity;

·    advocate for the creation of new businesses in the LGA, the relocation of existing businesses to the LGA and the attraction of government services to the LGA; and

·    build the economic development capacity of the Chamber through increased funding and membership.

 

In order to achieve these objectives, the Chamber hired a full-time business manager to complement and significantly expand upon the efforts of the volunteer Board of Directors. Other investments made possible through Council’s funding include a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system that will be rolled out in 2021.

 

 


 

Performance report

 

Following the first 12 months of the MOU being in effect, the Chamber developed a report detailing performance against each Key Performance Indicator (KPI) listed in the Schedule A, 2020 Activities document.

 

It is important to note that approximately one month after the endorsement of the MOU, COVID-19 began to impact our community, which significantly affected the Chamber’s ability to deliver on some of the activities identified. Despite these impacts they were still able to meet 40 of the 48 objectives set out in the MOU. A majority of the eight items that were not met were related to the tourism section of the MOU. The hospitality sector continues to be one of the most heavily impacted COVID related industries in Australia.

 

Of the missed metrics; the Chamber were required to host two workshops. Although two were planned, one regarding Council’s procurement did not take place. However, a Business After Hours event for the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) was able to proceed and was well attended. Short videos for the LSPS and also the Special Activation Precinct were also recorded as part of these workshops to further support community engagement on these strategically significant pieces of work.

 

The Chamber have not yet developed the required case studies. However, they will be looking at developing a series of case studies promoting the region over the next 12 months. These will be identified in the Strategic Plan.

 

While the Chamber were unable to submit monthly media releases, they were active in the media through commenting on local news articles weekly and also promoting Wagga Wagga and the region. Due to the community engagement being more effectively achieved through comments and supporting positive media stories, the Chamber seek to have this Schedule of Activities item as part of the MOU modified as an objective.

 

Another requirement of the Chamber as detailed in the Schedule of Activities is to host a monthly Drop in event. December and January are generally not good months for this type of event, so the Chamber is requesting that the requirement be reduced to 10 Drop in events per year.

 

Highlight of 2020

 

The Golden Crow awards is the Chamber’s signature event with over 300 people from the local small business community gathering each year for a gala dinner to celebrate industry successes. With COVID restrictions, this event was at risk of cancellation, however a major shift by the Chamber Board to a modified format allowed it to proceed and resulted in one of its most successful events ever. The awards not only acknowledged and celebrated the achievements of businesses in what was a challenging year, it also saw community involvement with over 13,000 votes received and a reach of over 30,000 on Facebook. The event also encouraged the community to support local retailers and hospitality on the night which gave a valuable boost to the local economy.

 

The modified format meant that the Chamber were unable to run all the award categories, including: Outstanding Young Employee & Outstanding Business Leader, and Outstanding Young Entrepreneur. While COVID did have its impacts on other events throughout the year, the Chamber were still able to deliver 22 online and 23 face to face events.

 

2021 will see the Chamber pushing the agenda on decentralisation, continue to support local business through education, information, programs and networking. They will also be:

-     addressing the outstanding MOU items

-     implementing a new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system that will help connect members, provide them an online presence, and provide a community directory

-     continuing work in advocacy and making the region a priority

-     continuing to support initiatives of Council

 

Strategic Plan

 

A deliverable from the MOU is for the Chamber to develop, and present to Council, a four-year Strategic Plan that details how they will achieve their established priorities and KPIs through until 2025. A copy of this Strategic Plan is attached.

 

Financial Implications

Council and the Chamber are in the second year of the two-year MOU. A report about a potential third year extension will be submitted for consideration in quarter 3 of 2021 (July-September 2021).

 

The MOU includes a cost to Council of $59K per year.

Policy and Legislation

N/A

 

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing Economy

Objective: There is growing investment in our Community

Outcome: There is government investment to develop our community

 

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

Various discussions have been held between the Chamber and Council regarding the MOU and performance against the metrics. A workshop was held with Councillors on 15 March 2021.


 

 

Attachments

 

1.

Business Chamber Strategic Plan - 2021-2026

 

2.

MOU 2020

 

3.

MOU Schedule A

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

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Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

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Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

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Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-3

 

RP-3               MAJOR EVENT SPONSORSHIP FUNDING REQUEST

Author:         Emma Corbett 

Director:       Janice Summerhayes

         

 

Summary:

Council is in receipt of two requests for event sponsorship through the COVID-19 Fast Track Event Sponsorship Program.

The funding request are for a Men’s Health Toolbox forum scheduled for 16 June 2021 and the Wagga Wagga Trail Marathon to be held on 14 August 2021.

Applications to the COVID-19 Fast Track Event Fund closed on 30 April 2021.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council authorise the General Manager or their delegate to enter into an agreement to sponsor the following events through the 2020/21 Events Sponsorship budget:

a        Wagga Wagga Road Runners Incorporated for the 2021 Wagga Wagga Trail Marathon to the amount of $7,918

b        Men Talking With Men (Auspiced by Centacare Southwest NSW) for a Men’s Health Toolbox forum to the amount of $2,274

 

Report

Council is in receipt of two applications for the COVID-19 Fast Track Event Sponsorship Program.

 

The applications and recommended sponsorship funding amounts are summarised as follows:

 

 

Organisation

Event

Amount Requested

Funding Recommended

1

Wagga Wagga Road Runners Incorporated

2021 Wagga Wagga Trail Marathon

$7,918

$7,918

2

Men Talking With Men (Auspiced through Centacare Southwest NSW)

Men’s Health Toolbox Forum

$5,000

$2,274

 

Event Details:

 

1.         2021 Wagga Wagga Trail Marathon

 

The organiser is seeking $7,918 funding to assist in the delivery of the 2021 Wagga Wagga Trail Marathon, which includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10km, 5km and a mountain bike race.

 

 

Event Organiser

Wagga Wagga Road Runners Incorporated

Date

14 August 2021

Expected attendance

600

Visitors to Wagga Wagga

30% (180)

Duration

One day

Venue

Wagga Wagga Boat Club/Bosley Park, Lake Albert

Total event cost

$24,800

Total amount requested

$7,918

 

The funding requested will pay for the following event costs:

 

Traffic management consisting of 5 x road closures required due to the relocation of this event to Riverside this year due to capital works underway at Pomingalarna

$4,480

Covid-19 signage and hand sanitiser stations

$1,100

6 x additional toilet facilities

$918

Light tower

$403

Generator

$317

Waste management

$600

Venue booking fee

$100

Total amount requested

$7,918

 

If successful in securing the requested amount the applicant will acknowledge Council’s funding through logo placement on all advertising material and an invitation will be extended to the Mayor to speak at the event.

 

Staff are recommending this event is supported for the following reasons:

 

·     The event is held in a quiet period for the city with one other visitor event held during this time (Australian Clay Target Association - Sporting Clay Nationals).

·     The event aligns to Council’s Community Strategic Plan objectives to promote a healthy lifestyle and provide assistance to local sporting bodies in the delivery of events.

·     The event provides benefit to both the community and local business, particularly addressing COVID-19 impacts and the resulting cancellation of many of the city’s larger events

·     The organiser demonstrated a commitment to deliver a COVID safe experience and will improve public confidence in participating in events and activities in the current Covid-19 recovery phase.

·     The event organisers are contributing $16,882 cash toward the delivery of this event

 

While this event falls outside of the COVID-19 Fast Track Event Sponsorship Program’s timeline for event delivery before 30 July 2021, this event is recommended for funding as it will bring visitors to the city and will be delivered an event in the City during August 2021 a traditionally quiet time of year.

 

2.         Men’s Health Toolbox Forum

 

The organiser is seeking $5,000 to assist in the delivery of their Men’s Health Toolbox Forum to be held during Men’s Week in June 2021.

 

This forum is targeted at industry professionals from local health organisations and will include five guest speakers.

 

Event Organiser

Men Talking With Men, auspiced by Centacare Southwest NSW

Date

16 June 2021

Expected attendance

70 (3.5)

Visitors to the City

5%

Duration

Half day

Venue

The Rules Club Wagga Wagga

Total event cost

As per the attached request it is estimated that this particular event will cost $5,000

Total amount requested

$5,000

 

The funding requested will be used for:

 

Morning tea and venue hire

 

$1000

Information packs/bags

 

$1120

Videography

$2880

 

Total amount requested

$5,000

 

If successful in securing the requested funding the applicant will acknowledge Council’s funding through logo placement and inclusion on materials in information packs.

 

A recommendation to part fund this request to the amount of $2,274 is made for the following reasons:

 

·           The event aligns to Council’s Community Strategic Plan objectives to promote a healthy lifestyle.

·           The event provides benefit to both the community and local business, particularly addressing COVID-19 impacts and the resulting cancellation of many of the city’s larger events.

·           The event organiser has confirmed with staff that the forum will still progress with part funding as they will seek other sponsorship support.

 

Financial Implications

2020/21 Covid-19 Fast Track Events Sponsorship budget

$100,000

Less previously approved Council sponsorship and budget allocations:

 

·    Murrumbidgee Turf Club (Southern District Racing Association’s Country Championships)

($11,000)

·    Kylie Biltris, Arts Start Here (auspiced through Murray Arts – Wagga Village Creative Event of Workshops)

($7,818)

·    Ladysmith Tourist Railway Inc. (Ladysmith Railway Centenary Celebration)

($4,000)

·    Catherine van der Rijt (auspiced through Eastbourne Road Pty Ltd – The Drive, 12-minute short film)

($10,000)

·    MerinoLink (MerinoLink 2021 Conference)

($10,000)

·    Pinnock Watts Family Trust (FitzFest)

($20,000)

·    Greg Pritchard (auspiced through Auspicious Arts – Marrambidya River Festival)

($6,990)

·    Scott Howie (auspiced through Eastern Riverina Arts – Interesting)

($10,000)

·    Riverina Conservatorium of Music (Live at Lunch)

($10,000)

    Total previously approved Council Sponsorship

($89,808)

2020/21 Covid-19 Fast Track Events Sponsorship current budget available

$10,192

·    Wagga Wagga Road Runners Inc (Wagga Wagga Trail Marathon)

($7,918)

·    Men Talking With Men (auspiced through Centacare Southwest NSW)

($2,274)

Proposed 2020/21 Covid-19 Fast Track Events Sponsorship budget available for the remainder of this financial year

$0

Policy and Legislation

POL087 – 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

Potential financial risk if sponsored events are not successful, mitigated through controls in sponsorship contracts with staged payments based on Key Performance Indicator targets.

 

In order to report to Council at the 10 May 2021 ordinary meeting of Council and notify event organisers of Council’s willingness to sponsor their events, there was not adequate time available to convene the Major Events Film and Festivals Sponsorship assessment panel. Instead, an internal review by staff of both applications occurred to ensure they met the criteria of the Fast Track Funding Guidelines.

Internal / External Consultation

 

Mail

Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news story

Council News advert

Media releases

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meetings

Your Say website

Community meetings

Stakeholder workshops

Drop-in sessions

Surveys and feedback forms

Social media

Email newsletters

Website

Digital advertising

TIER

Consult

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Involve

 

 

 

x

 

x

 

 

 

x

x

x

Collaborate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

Attachments

 

1.

Wagga Wagga Trail Marathon Funding Request Letter 2021

 

2.

Riverina Traffic Services Quote

 

3.

MEN Talking With MEN Funding Request

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-3

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-3

 

 


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-3

 





Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-4

 

RP-4               ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP - APPOINTMENT OF COUNCILLORS

Author:                        Ingrid Hensley 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

Councillor Tim Koschel has tendered his resignation from the committees, panels and working groups as outlined in the report leaving a vacancy for a Councillor representative for each.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council:

a        receive and note Councillor Tim Koschel’s resignation from the following Committees, Panels and Working Groups:

·      Southern Regional Planning Panel

·      Crime Prevention Working Group

 

·      Annual Grants Panel

 

·      Sporting Hall of Fame Panel

 

·      Loans to Community Organisations Steering Committee

 

·      Honours Committee

 

b       appoint Councillor representation to fill the vacancy on the Crime Prevention Working Group

c        endorse attendance by alternate Councillor representatives for the Southern Regional Planning Panel and the Annual Grants Panel

 

Report

Councillor T Koschel tendered his resignation on 3 May 2021 on the following Committees, Panels and Working Groups:

 

·    Southern Regional Planning Panel

 

·    Crime Prevention Working Group

 

·    Annual Grants Panel

 

·    Sporting Hall of Fame Panel

 

·    Loans to Community Organisations Steering Committee

 

·    Honours Committee

 

Vacancies have arisen due to the resignation by Councillor Tim Koschel with Council to consider Councillor representation of each of the above for the remainder of the Council term being 3 September 2021.

 


 

The following arrangements for each Committee are relevant in relation to the current resignation:

 

·    Crime Prevention Working Group

 

There is one scheduled meeting before the end of term of Council, on 21 June 2021. There is no alternate member, therefore a Councillor is required to be appointed to this Working Group.

 

·    Southern Regional Planning Panel

 

Southern Regional Planning Panel meetings are arranged on an ‘as needs’ basis. Therefore, it is not certain as to how many meetings there will be before the end of this term of Council. Councillor Dallas Tout (expires 30 September 2021) and the Mayor, Councillor Greg Conkey OAM (expires 4 June 2021) are the current alternate representatives.

 

·    Annual Grants Panel

 

Councillor Tim Koschel is currently on the Annual Grants Panel and scheduled to assess applications for the following categories on the dates below:

 

·     Rural Halls – 17 June 2021

·     Events – 17 June 2021

·     Community Programs/Projects – 18 June 2021

·     Local Heritage – 25 June 2021

·     Small Business – 25 June 2021

 

There may be some flexibility in the above dates  to accommodate any new representative, as they were scheduled based on the availability of the Councillor representative at that time.


The current alternate Councillor members are Councillors Dallas Tout and Dan Hayes.

 

 

·    Sporting Hall of Fame Panel

 

The current alternate Councillor member is Councillor Yvonne Braid. There are currently no scheduled meetings, with meetings arranged on an ‘as needs’ basis.

 

·    Loans to Community Organisations Steering Committee

 

There are currently no scheduled meetings.

 

·    Honours Committee

 

This Committee is comprised of all Councillors. There are currently no scheduled meetings.

 

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Floodplain Risk Management Committee Terms of Reference.

 

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

 

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-5

 

RP-5               RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - WAGGA APP

Author:                        Scott Gray 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

This report is a response to the Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Koschel regarding a call for a report on options of developing an app or web-based application that provides a single point of reference for residents and visitors to the city.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council receive and note this report.

 

Report

Introduction

 

The Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Koschel asked Council Officers to consider options for developing a native app or a web-based application that provides a single reference point for residents and visitors to use. It was suggested such an application would act as a one stop shop for all things Wagga and could include elements such as the following:

 

·    what’s happening this week in Wagga (might be able to sell advertising space)

·    things to do in Wagga e.g. major attractions

·    online service functions e.g. customer requests, complaints, rates

·    council news

·    feedback

·    waste management education and training on new kerbside bin system

·    notifications/reminders e.g. bin night, council works

 

Native Apps vs Web Apps

 

Native Apps

 

Native apps are developed specifically for a particular mobile device and are installed directly onto the device itself. Users download the app via app stores such as Apple Store, Google Play store, etc.

 

Native apps are built for specific mobile operating systems such as Apple iOS or Android OS. An app made for Apple iOS will not work on the Android OS or Windows OS. If an app is to work across all major mobile operating systems, separate apps must be built and maintained for each operating system.

 


 

Below are a list of the pros and cons of building a native app:

 

Pros

Cons

·    They can be used offline, which makes them faster to open and be accessed anytime.

·    Performance can be faster because information can be stored locally will only synchronise with the server after the user is done using the app.

·    Native apps get the approval of the app store they are intended for, which means most of the time the user can be assured of the security of the app.

·    Direct access to device hardware that is either more difficult or impossible with a mobile web app

·    More expensive to develop, especially when the app needs to be compatible with multiple mobile operating systems, thus multiplying the development costs.

·    Cost of app maintenance is higher (especially if this app supports more than one mobile platform).

·    Getting the app approved for the various app stores can prove to be long and tedious for the developer

·    Use of the app is contingent on the user's willingness to download and install the app onto their mobile device

·    Maintaining and updating the app can be difficult and expensive. This has been evident with previous apps being utilised by Council where the developer has ceased supporting the platforms e.g. Wagga Waste app.

 

 

Web Apps

Web Apps are basically internet-enabled web pages/sites that are accessible via the mobile device's Web browser. Users don't need to download and install the app onto a mobile device in order to access it.

 

Pros

Cons

·    They are instantly accessible to users via a browser across a range of devices

·    They are much easier to update or maintain. If you want to change the design or content of a mobile web app, you simply publish the update to the server and the changes are immediately visible.

·    They are much easier for users to discover since their pages can be displayed in search results and listed in common search engines.

·    Visitors to the website can be automatically sent to the mobile rendered version based on the device they are using

·    Just like a standard website, mobile websites / web app can be developed as database-driven web applications that act very much like native apps.

·    The development is considerably more time and cost-effective than development of a native app, using programming languages and technologies that are more commonly understood and have a much larger developer base.

·    Mobile Web apps only have limited scope as far as accessing a mobile device's features is concerned

·    They are not listed in 'App Stores'. So if someone is looking for your app in the app store, they will be unable to discover it though such means.

·    No push notifications directly to the device

·    Users are usually required to login each time they go the site

 

 

 

Current Websites

 

Council Website

 

In July 2020 Council finalised a redesign of the current website. The scope of works for the project was broken down into the following two phases:

 

Phase One - Information Architecture (IA)

A full review into Council’s information architecture with whole of business stakeholder

engagement and the design, migration and implementation of a new, user centric, information architecture.

 

Phase Two - Design and Implement New Look and Feel

Utilise Council branding to design and implement a fresh look and feel for the Wagga Wagga City Council website.

 

The site was designed with our audience in mind and meets international accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1, Level AA accessibility standards). The site is also responsive, so it adjusts how it is displayed on mobile devices, for maximum usability.

 

We have also implemented a more vibrant application of Council’s brand, utilising a cooler spectrum of colours from the corporate palette in a more primary way. Subtle ‘borders’ help frame content across this design, referencing visual language from other Council brand applications. Brand blues have also been used as a primary foundation colour across this design, anchoring key content elements.

 

Online Services

 

Council currently has an “Online Services” functionality that sits as a subdomain of our main website. The site allows users to undertake tasks such as searching for property information, submitting and tracking applications, lodging and tracking customer requests, making payments and viewing development applications that have been lodged or approved.

 

The site is intended to be a “self-service” centre for residents and businesses of Wagga Wagga, but there are significant usability and user experience issues within that site that have hindered it from being utilised to its full extent.

 

Some of these issues include:

 

·    Non user-friendly forms

·    Jargon and confusing text

·    Menu structure and layout that is difficult to navigate

·    Outdated information

 

The majority of users of the site are solicitors and real estate agents for conveyancing purposes e.g. planning and rating certificates, GIPA applications etc.

 

During the 2019/20 Financial Year, the Online Services platform had 396,803 pageviews and 248,088 unique pageviews, with the most frequently access section of the site the “property search” functionality.

 

Visit Wagga

 

The Visit Wagga website is a digital platform for visitors to find out what’s on both within the Local Government Area and wider region, things to see and do, where to eat and places to stay.  The website is supported through our publications including the Visitor Guide, Top Spot maps, Trail map and What’s On publication.

 

The Visit Wagga website was migrated to the Council’s Squiz platform in 2017/18 at which time the event’s calendar was integrated to the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse for the automatic publishing of events in Wagga Wagga.

 

In addition to the Visit Wagga website visitor information is provided through social media channels, Instagram (12.7K following on Visit Wagga Wagga), Visit Wagga Facebook and for major events and other Wagga Wagga Facebook event pages. In addition to the Council managed social media pages there are numerous community-run pages. 

 

During COVID-19, Council launched the Scavify app to promote our cycleways and pathways to residents.  This app has subsequently been used for the COVID-19 safe delivery of Spring Jam in 2020 and the Summer/Autumn 2021 Picnic Collective Campaign.

 

Customer Request Native Apps

 

Native apps such as Snap Send Solve and iCouncil are promoted on Council’s website to encourage members of the community to submit customer requests through these apps. While these apps are relatively easy to use for the customer, they don’t integrate with Council’s systems and rely on manual processing by staff. This manual processes increases the potential for errors resulting in a poor experience for the customer.

 

Digital Refresh (Stage 2) Project

 

As part of the Digital Refresh Stage 2 Project Council is seeking the following outcomes:

 

·    Complete a full review of the online services platform

·    Make it simpler to find, understand and access local government services

·    Make it easy for customers to contact Council

·    Develop new ways to provide information and services to the community

·    Provision of exceptional online service delivery

·    Enhance mapping and location-based search

·    Be an exemplar of innovation, embracing digital solutions to improve the efficiency and customer experience of our program delivery function

·    Transform the end user experience utilising digital and smart technologies

·    Deliver a web user experience that is fit-for-purpose

·    Incorporate WCAG into the platform

 

Conclusion

 

To respond to consumer trends staff are currently developing a business case to include the development of online shopping functionality that will be integrated with Visit Wagga to support local produce sales through the Visitor Information Centre, interactive maps to promote itinerary building and day tripping for visitors and stronger cross-promotion to social media platforms.

 

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Meeting Practice

 

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

 

N/A

 

 

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-6

 

RP-6               COUNCILLOR CONFERENCE - INLAND RAIL CONFERENCE

Author:                        Scott Gray 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

Summary:

The Inland Rail Conference will be held on the 25 to 27 May 2021 in Albury.

 

 

Recommendation

That Council endorse the Mayor to attend the 2021 Inland Rail Conference to be held in Albury on 25 to 27 May 2021.

 

 

Report

The Inland Rail Conference will be held in Albury on the 25 to 27 May 2021. The Mayor has expressed interest to attend the event as Council’s representative.

 

The 2021 Inland Rail Conference will focus on the theme Connecting Region and Building Australia and will explore the Inland Rail project, a nationally significant 1700km infrastructure rail line, to transform the movement of freight in Australia.

 

Representatives from 400 rail industry and supply chain leaders, operators, customers, ports representatives and regional community leaders will attend the conference to discuss what the landmark inland rail project means for the freight industry and the benefits it will deliver for national freight customers.

 

The conference will also explore how Inland Rail plays its part in boosting the economy and future-proofing Australia’s supply chain.

 

Financial Implications

The registration cost per delegate is $990.00. Transport, Accommodation and incidentals estimated at approximately $400.00 per delegate additional to the registration costs, bringing the total estimated cost for this conference to $1390.00.

 

The Conference and associated costs will be funded from the Councillors’ Conference budget, which has a budget allocation of $20,000 for 2020/21 with $375 currently expended as at 3 May 2021 leaving a budget remaining of $19,625.

 

$19,625 – Councillors’ Conference remaining budget available

($ 1,390) – Total estimated cost for conference

 

$18,235 – estimated remaining budget after endorsement

Policy and Legislation

POL 025 - Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities to Councillors.

 

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

 

Attachments

 

1.

2021 Inland Rail Conference Program

 

  


Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-6

 















Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

RP-7

 

RP-7               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 staff investigate possible improvements and maintenance of footpaths and pedestrian access connecting Ashmont and South City in particular the area of the rail crossing on Fernleigh Road.

Following inspection of the Fernleigh Road and Pinaroo Drive footpath to South City, repairs have been requested for the footpath at 30 Pinaroo Drive and outside the car yard on Fernleigh Road. 

 

Paths requiring pram ramps for wheelchair and mobility scooter access in Ashmont are being identified for inclusion in updating the Pedestrian Access Mobility Plan (PAMP) targeted for next financial year as well as PAMP funding applications.

 

An e-mail has been sent to ARTC asking if there is any proposed upgrade to the pedestrian crossing to be more accommodating for mobility scooters.

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


Reports submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council to be held on Monday 10 May 2021.

QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE


Report submitted to the Confidential Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

CONF-1

 

Confidential Reports

CONF-1         DONATION TO THE MUSEUM FOR THE RIVERINA

Author:         Madeleine Scully 

Director:       Janice Summerhayes

 

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) (iii)   commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, reveal a trade secret.        

 

 


Report submitted to the Confidential Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021.                                                   CONF-2

 

CONF-2         RFT2021-11 SUPPLY OF HIRED PLANT, FLEET AND EQUIPMENT

Author:          David Butterfield 

Director:       Natalie Te Pohe

 

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.        

 

 


Report submitted to the Confidential Meeting of Council on Monday 10 May 2021

CONF-3

 

CONF-3         RFT2021-14 CLEANING OF COUNCIL BUILDINGS, AMENITIES & BBQ'S

Author:         Sylvester Otieno 

Director:       Warren Faulkner

 

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 10 May 2021

CONF-4

 

CONF-4         Code of Conduct matter

Author:                        Ingrid Hensley 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

 

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: -

(i)           alleged contraventions of any code of conduct requirements applicable under section 440.        

 

 


Reports submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council to be held on Monday 10 May 2021.