Agenda of Ordinary Meeting of Council

Reports submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council to be held on Monday 3 April 2023.

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 3 April 2023

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE PRECIS PAGE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY 2

REFLECTION 2

APOLOGIES 2

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 13 March 2023 2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 2

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1 NOTICE OF MOTION - SEEKING ASSURANCE FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGAINST BAIL-IN OF COUNCIL’S BANK DEPOSITS IN THE EVENT OF THE CURRENT FINANCIAL CRISIS 3

Reports from Staff

RP-1 ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES TO WAGGA WAGGA DEVELOPMENT CONTROL PLAN 2010 5

RP-2 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT IN THE NORTHERN GROWTH AREA 8

RP-3 2023/24 Airport Fees and Charges 14

RP-4 OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE REPORT - 1 July 2022 to 31 December 2022 21

RP-5 QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE 29

Committee Minutes

M-1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES AUDIT, RISK AND IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE - 23 FEBRUARY 2023 31

M-2 FLOODPLAIN RISK MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE - 16 MARCH 2023 42

Confidential Reports

CONF-1 RFT 2023-13 Placement of Insurance and Provision of Risk Advisory Services 47

CONF-2 RFQ2023-516 CITY CENTRE MASTERPLAN 48

CONF-3 RFT2023-23 WAGGA WAGGA HOUSING STRATEGY 49

CONF-4 RFT2023-022 OLD NARRANDERA ROAD UPGRADE 50

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Wagga Wagga City Council acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land, the Wiradjuri people, and pays respect to Elders past, present and future and extends our respect to all First Nations Peoples in Wagga Wagga.

We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and continuing connection with the land and rivers. We also recognise the resilience, strength and pride of the Wiradjuri and First Nations communities

REFLECTION

Councillors, let us in silence reflect upon our responsibilities to the community which we represent, and to all future generations and faithfully, and impartially, carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in us, to the best of our skill and judgement.

APOLOGIES

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 13 March 2023

Recommendation

That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 13 March 2023 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Minutes - 13 March 2023

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 3 April 2023

NOM-1

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1 NOTICE OF MOTION - SEEKING ASSURANCE FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGAINST BAIL-IN OF COUNCIL’S BANK DEPOSITS IN THE EVENT OF THE CURRENT FINANCIAL CRISIS

Author: Councillor Richard Foley

Summary:

Notice of Motion seeking that the General Manager write to the Federal Treasurer seeking a written assurance that nothing in the Banking Act 1959 or any other Commonwealth legislation extends powers to APRA to implement or authorise or direct the implementation of bail-in in respect of this council’s deposit accounts held in banks on behalf of its ratepayers.

Recommendation

That Council authorise the General Manager to write to the Federal Treasurer:

a seeking an assurance in writing that this council’s bank deposits are safe in the current crisis; and

b requesting the Federal Government strongly consider clarifying the law by making a simple amendment to the Banking Act 1959 and any other relevant legislation to explicitly exclude any deposits from being bailed in through write off or conversion into shares.

Report

Whereas it is fact that:

1. Dozens of Australian local government authorities lost hundreds of millions of dollars in the 2008 global financial crisis from investments sold by Grange Securities. These were ratepayers funds lost forever.

2. The global financial and banking system is again very unstable, as evidenced recently by several large banks collapsing in the US and Europe, with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority currently intensively supervising Australia’s banks.

3. Wagga Wagga City Council significant holdings in various banks.

4. Experts warn that a passed 2018 amendment of the Banking Act 1959 and the Financial Sector Legislation Amendment (Crisis Resolution Powers and Other Measures) Act 2018, could be used to “Bail-In” Australian bank deposits to stop banks from failing. This potentially puts tens of millions of council funds at risk.

The intent and purpose of this Notice of Motion is to seek clarity and assurance from the new Federal Treasurer that real credible concerns in the wider community regarding the safety of ratepayers bank deposits are addressed. Given the previous Morrison LNP Government's track record on retirement policy and banking policy, it's not enough to say that things are just fine.

The new Albanese ALP Government would do no harm to show that it has ordinary Australians' financial futures as its core priority and that includes local government authorities like WWCC that has large bank deposits held on behalf of their own ratepayers, who are ordinary Australians.

Provided for your information is a link to legal advice relating to Bail-in Provisions.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Wagga Wagga has strong community leadership and a shared vision for the future

Our leaders represent our community

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 3 April 2023

RP-1

Reports from Staff

RP-1 ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES TO WAGGA WAGGA DEVELOPMENT CONTROL PLAN 2010

Author: Steven Cook

General Manager: Peter Thompson

Summary:

This report recommends that Council not proceed with implementing an amendment to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010 in relation to new Employment Zones within the Wagga Wagga Local Environment Plan 2010 coming into force on 26 April 2023. Instead, it recommends that Council clarify that existing Business and Industrial zone DCP controls will continue to apply to land within Employment Zones, as they apply to land immediately prior to the commencement of the Employment Zone amendments.

Recommendation

That Council:

a not proceed with notifying amendments to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010, to update references to Employment Zones throughout the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010, as resolved by Council on 22 August 2022

b continue to apply the controls of the Wagga Wagga Development Control 2010 to land following the commencement of the Employment Zone amendments, consistent with its former zoning, as it was zoned immediately prior to commencement of the amendments

Report

At the 22 August 2022 Council meeting, Council considered a number of proposed administrative amendments to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan (WWDCP) 2010.

One such amendment related to the employment zone reforms being implemented by the NSW Government. These reforms reduce the number of Business and Industrial zones in the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan (WWLEP) 2010, by transitioning and consolidating these zones into a new, smaller set of “Employment” zones.

The existing, and equivalent new zones under the WWLEP 2010 are listed below:

Current Business and Industrial Zones	Employment Zones
B1 Neighbourhood Centre B2 Local Centre	E1 Local Centre
B3 Commercial Core	E2 Commercial Centre
B4 Mixed Use	MU1 Mixed Use
B5 Business Development B6 Enterprise Corridor	E3 Productivity Support
IN1 General Industrial IN2 Light Industrial	E4 General Industrial

The amendments to the WWLEP 2010 will come into force on 26 April 2023.

The WWDCP 2010 contains a range of controls for development in business and industrial zones, spread predominantly across two chapters – Section 10 Business Development and Section 11 Industrial Development. A number of the controls in these sections apply to land based on the zone in which it is located.

The changing of zone names means that upon commencement of the amendments to the WWLEP 2010 on 26 April 2023 zone references in the WWDCP 2010 which call up the controls will be incorrect.

As part of a suite of resolutions, at the 22 August 2022 Council meeting, Council resolved to:

f adopt the changes to references to employment zones upon commencement of the Employment Zone reforms and notify the amendments to be effective 14 days from the notice being provided

The notice to give effect to the amendments has not yet been published.

The resolution has the effect of replacing all references to business zones and industrial zones, which fixes the referencing issue. The unintended consequence of this, however, is that the simultaneous consolidation of zones (along with the renaming) results in multiple sets of controls, applying to the same parcel of land, and controls that were not drafted and never intended to apply to certain land, now applying.

As such, it is considered that until such time that a new set of Employment Zone controls are developed and adopted, that Council does not proceed with notifying the amendments, and instead continues to apply the existing controls in the WWDCP 2010 to land post WWLEP 2010 amendment as it applied pre-amendment.

Financial Implications

There are no known financial implications.

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan 2010

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: Future growth and development of Wagga Wagga is planned for in a sustainable manner

Ensure sustainable urban development

Risk Management Issues for Council

Failure to provide clarity on this matter may result in confusion and disagreement over the application of DCP controls.

Internal / External Consultation

No consultation is proposed as the recommendation is to maintain the status quo.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 3 April 2023

RP-2

RP-2 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT IN THE NORTHERN GROWTH AREA

Author: Warren Faulkner

Summary:

Since the Local Infrastructure Contribution Plan 2019 - 2034 (LICP) was developed in 2019, there has been a change in the infrastructure projects required along the Pine Gully Road corridor (LICP project TT2) as identified in the Traffic Model.

Works are also required on Estella Road (which is not included in the LICP) and the scope of works for Boorooma Street (TT28) has also changed since 2019.

These changes result in changes to the project budgets, which need to be considered and reflected in the Long-Term Financial Plan (LTFP).

Recommendation

That Council:

a support the project variation and resulting budget changes to Pine Gully Road (TT2) Corridor project as explained in this report

b adopt the proposed funding methodology for rehabilitation of Pine Gully Road and Estella Road as outlined in this report

c note the roll out of roads infrastructure to manage increased traffic flows in Estella, Boorooma and Gobbagombalin in response to the NOM – Traffic Management in the Northern Growth Area

Report

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 16 March 2020, Council adopted (20/0086) to receive a high-level report to demonstrate how vehicular movement will be managed in the Northern Growth area into the future. Council resolved as follows:

That Council:

a receive a report by September 2020 presenting the methodology and solutions for traffic management in the Northern Growth Area (Estella and surrounding suburbs), and the connectivity options to the city

b write to Transport for NSW (RMS) and relevant NSW Government Ministers calling for the immediate release of the ‘Wagga Traffic Corridor Study’

c develop a communications and engagement plan to inform and present traffic management plans to the community

This report primarily addresses item (a) of the resolution.

Whilst Transport for NSW have not released the full “Wagga Traffic Corridor Study”, a summary of outcomes for the Wagga Wagga Urban Highway Study formed Appendix A of the Transport for NSW Wagga Wagga Transport Plan that was released in 2022.

Council has a specific project for the Pine Gully Road Corridor on its webpage. It is proposed that this webpage will be updated to reflect this report post the Council meeting to be the means of informing the community on Councils plan for the management of traffic on the local road network within the suburbs of Boorooma, Estella and Gobbagombalin.

Background

Prior to significant subdivision development occurring in the northern growth areas of Boorooma and Gobbagombalin, the local road primary distribution network consisted of Old Narrandera Road, Pine Gully Road, Harris Road, Estella Road, Farrer Road and Boorooma Street.

In rezoning the Local Environmental Plan to establish the northern growth areas of Boorooma, Estella and Gobbagombalin, the Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan was updated to collect contributions from developers to upgrade existing road infrastructure to adequately service the growth.

The 2019-2034 Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan (LICP) has three (3) road corridors that identify infrastructure works within them to cater for the development in the northern growth areas of Boorooma, Estella and Gobbagombalin. The three (3) corridors are referenced as TT2, TT4 and TT28 and are described as follows:

The LICP did not identify any infrastructure works for Harris Road as the Development Control Plan for this area required the road to be closed to vehicular traffic. Other than an intersection treatment at the western end of Estella Road (as part of the Pine Gully Road Corridor works – TT2), no other works were proposed on Estella Road.

Since the LICP was adopted in 2019, a new school has been developed on Estella Road. Additionally, all traffic leaving the school is required to exit onto Estella Road and travel east to Boorooma Street.

No provisions for an intersection treatment at the Estella Road and Boorooma Street intersection were allowed for in the LICP. Subsequently, due to additional traffic volumes on Estella Road because of the traffic generating nature of the school, Estella Road now requires upgrading, in particular road widening and upgrade at the western end of the road and a roundabout installed at the eastern end at its intersection with Boorooma Street to provide a satisfactory level of service for vehicles turning at the intersection, in particular during AM and PM school zone times.

Pine Gully Road

· The LICP is non-definitive in what the actual treatment is for each intersection upgrade along Pine Gully Road.

· When the LICP was developed, Council had a traffic model but there was not the expertise required to make use of it.

· The model has now been used to to determine what the optimal treatment at each intersection is for when the northern growth area is fully developed as well as the timing required for the installation of the treatment.

Based on the traffic model the following intersection treatments (sub-projects) are required:

o Pine Gully Road and Estella Road – traffic lights

o Pine Gully Road and Avocet/Cootamundra Blvd – roundabout

o Pine Gully Road and Muttama Parade – roundabout

o Pine Gully Road and Old Narrandera Road – intersection upgrade in the short term followed by a roundabout when the River Road development occurs

· The current sub-project budgets as at 2022/23 are as follows in the Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP):

· The changes in the sub-projects have resulted in changes to the budgeted cost of the Pine Gully Road corridor (LICP TT2).

· A cross directorate team from Infrastructure, Finance, Strategy and Projects and Regional Activation has come together to work on the Pine Gully Road Corridor project. The team endorses the changes to the scope of the sub-projects and proposes the following budget changes:

o The current total budget for TT2 as per the LTFP is $6.7m (current LTFP).

o The total proposed budget for the intersection works to be funded from the Section 7.11 Reserve is $6.7m as at March 2023.

o The road corridor works will be funded by grant funding.

· The following table shows the estimated sub-project costs.

· The scope of the Pine Gully Road corridor project now includes an additional intersection treatment at Pine Gully Road and Muttama Parade and the rehabilitation and upgrade of the entire carriage way between Old Narrandera Road and Estella Road.

· The inclusion of an additional intersection treatment at Pine Gully Road and Muttama Parade has increased the corridor costs by approximately $1.3m. However, with the changes in the scope of the sub-projects at the intersections as well as the amendment of the S7.11 plan for the River Road subdivision, the LICP contributions will still cover the intersection treatments.

· Due to the additional traffic volumes that are now on Pine Gully Road between old Narrandera Road and Estella Road, rehabilitation and shoulder widening of the pavement is now required.

· Rehabilitation and upgrading of the Pine Gully Road carriageway was not in the original scope in the LICP. The estimate to rehabilitate and upgrade the shoulders on Pine Gully Road is $3.5m and is proposed to be funded by applying for grants such as Fixing Local Roads in the future.

· The future plan for Pine Gully Road is shown on the staging plan attached.

Estella Road

· Works required on Estella Road is a result of the Estella Public School being constructed on the road.

· These works to Estella Road are not included in the LICP.

· The upgrade of the section of Estella Road to the west of the school is estimated to cost $700,000. Estella Road to the east of the school is satisfactory.

· It is proposed to make an application to the next round of the Fixing Local Roads program in September/October 2023 to fund this project.

· If the funding application is successful, this road will be upgraded in January 2025 (School Holidays).

· Please see the attached staging map for further details.

Boorooma Street

· The upgrade of Boorooma Street is included in the LICP (project TT28). The project is to widen the street. This project does not include any intersection upgrades. The project budget is $2.8m (in the LTFP).

· As a result of the Estella Public School, an upgrade to the Estella Road and Boorooma Street intersection is required to provide a satisfactory level of service.

· It is proposed to construct a roundabout at this intersection as shown on the staging map attached.

· It is expected this project will be delivered in 2024/25.

· This increases the budget in the LTFP ($2.8m) by $1.6m to $4.4m to cover the cost of the roundabout.

· Boorooma Street has been identified as a road which will be impacted by traffic from the Northern Growth Area identified in the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) (the area to the north of Boorooma). The upgrade will be included as a project in the Section 7.11 contribution for the LSPS Northern Growth Area to recover the additional costs.

· As the school has had an impact on the additional traffic load of Boorooma Street, Council is currently in negotiations with the Department of Planning and Environment regarding a contribution towards the cost of the roundabout.

Financial Implications

The proposed budget adjustments to the overall sub projects are outlined within this report.

Policy and Legislation

Wagga Wagga Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan 2019-2034

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 – Sections 7.11 & 7.12

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing Economy

Objective: Wagga Wagga is a thriving, innovative and connected regional capital city

Improve, maintain and renew transport networks and building infrastructure to provide safe, affordable, efficient, and reliable transport connections for our community

Risk Management Issues for Council

The identification of Traffic Signals at the Pine Gully Road and Estella Road intersection requires the approval of Transport for NSW as all traffic signals in NSW are managed and maintained by Transport for NSW. Council is working with Transport for NSW to gain their concurrence for traffic signals at this intersection.

Internal / External Consultation

Internal consultation with relevant stakeholders and the Council has occurred in developing this report.

External consultation has been occurring and is on-going with developers either side of Pine Gully Road, as well as with Transport for NSW and School Infrastructure NSW.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Estella Intersection Upgrade and Rehabilitation Staging Plan

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 3 April 2023

RP-3

RP-3 2023/24 Airport Fees and Charges

Author: Zachary Wilson

Executive: Carolyn Rodney

Summary:

The proposed Airport fees and charges for the 2023/24 financial year have been on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, from 14 February 2023 to 14 March 2023. This report proposes adoption of those fees and charges.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note that there was one public submission received during the exhibition period for the 2023/24 Airport fees and charges

b adopt the Airport Fees and Charges for the 2023/24 financial year, to commence from 1 July 2023

c commence the new Passenger Service Charges from 1 August 2023

Report

Council, at its meeting of 13 February 2023, resolved:

That Council:

a note the poor financial position of the Airport Reserve

b place the draft 2023/24 Airport Fees and Charges on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 14 February 2023 to 14 March 2023 and invite public submissions during this period

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

i addressing any submissions made in respect of the draft 2023/24 Airport Fees and Charges

ii proposing adoption of the 2023/24 Airport Fees and Charges unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

iii proposing that the new Passenger Services Charges rates commence from 1 August 2023

d note that due to the Airport passenger charge base rate fee being frozen for the past five (5) financial years, each future financial year increase will be set at a minimum $2.00 GST exclusive amount, which will assist in the financial sustainability of the Wagga Wagga Airport into the future

The proposed Airport fees and charges for the 2023/24 financial year were placed on public exhibition from 14 February 2023 until 14 March 2023 and Council invited public submissions during this period. One (1) public submission was received during this period.

Airport User Notification

In order for airport users to be provided with adequate notice of the change in fees and charges for the 2023/24 financial year, a three (3) month notification period is required for Airlines to enact this change.

On adoption of the proposed fees and charges, Council staff will commence the notification process to airport users. Based on the required notification period, it is proposed to commence the increased Passenger Service Charges from 1 August 2023.

These adopted fees and charges will subsequently be incorporated into Councils Operational Plan for consideration and adoption by Council in its entirety in June 2023.

Financial Implications

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the financial position of the Wagga Airport has declined significantly over the past few financial years. This impact, along with the freezing of the passenger service charge from 2018/19 to 2022/23 inclusive, has resulted in the Airport reserve being reduced to a $0 balance as at 30 June 2022.

During the 2020/21 and 2021/22 financial years, the Airport business did not generate an adequate surplus to transfer funds into the Airport reserve and as a result of this, Councils internal loans reserve has funded a total of $1.6M in deficits from this business activity. For the Airport business to return to surplus and to fund any future capital spend at the Airport, the proposed yearly minimum increase in fees and charges is required.

Policy and Legislation

Local Government Act 1993, Sections 610F

Integrated Planning and Reporting Guidelines

Link to Strategic Plan

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Wagga Wagga City Council leads through engaged civic governance and is recognised and distinguished by its ethical decision-making, efficient management, innovation and quality customer service

Ensure transparency and accountability

Risk Management Issues for Council

Without adequate revenue to cover the costs of operating the Wagga Wagga Airport, the Airport will not be financially sustainable into the future and will not meet the expectations of the community.

Internal / External Consultation

The draft 2023/24 Airport fees and charges were placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, from 14 February 2023 to 14 March 2023 with one (1) public submission being received. The submission received is attached and below is a summary, along with response from staff.

ID	Submitter	Submission Summary	Officers Response
FC-1	Geoff Breust – Wagga City Aero Club	Wagga City Aero Club supports the proposed CPI based increases to the Airport Fees and Charges.	Council staff appreciate the support of the Wagga City Aero Club in regard to the proposed fees and charges.

Direct correspondence will be provided to the Airport users outlining Council’s decision.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

2023/24 Airport Fees and Charges

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 3 April 2023

RP-4

RP-4 OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE REPORT - 1 July 2022 to 31 December 2022

Author: Jacqueline Martin

General Manager: Scott Gray

Summary:

This report provides details of Council’s performance against the Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2022/2023 as at December 2022.

Recommendation

That Council receive and note the Operational Performance Report 2022/23 six-monthly progress update for the period 1 July 2022 to 31 December 2022.

Report

In accordance with the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) framework, Council is required to report its progress against the Delivery Program at least every six months.

The Operational Performance Report 2022/23 six-monthly progress update provides an overview of Council’s activities and performance between 1 July 2022 to 31 December 2022. Through this report, we look at what we’ve accomplished throughout the first half of the financial year and the progress we’ve made in implementing Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2022/23.

The five strategic directions as set out in the Community Strategic Plan 2040 provide the structure for the report demonstrating our commitment to achieving our long-term objectives and ultimately our community’s vision for the future.

In addition to the Capital project performance July to December 2022 (included in the report), project reports have been provided on a regular basis through the monthly finance report and through the bulletin.

Summary of Performance

Actions are assigned a status (as per the following table) to identify their level of completion against expected outcomes for the financial year.

Status Key and summary

0	8 Not scheduled to commence	Indicates that an action was not due to commence during the reporting period
n	0 Off track / 6 On hold	Indicates that an action is at risk, and generally relates to the target for the reporting period not being met or the action is on hold
n	22 Monitor	Indicates that an action may be at risk if issues are not addressed, and generally relates to the target for the reporting period not being met
n	239 On track / 9 Completed	Indicates that an action is on track or has been completed this financial year and generally relates to the target for the reporting period being met

While there are some areas requiring attention, progress of the large majority of actions identified in the Operational Plan are progressing according to schedule, with 248 (87.3%) of the actions having a status of ‘n On track / Completed’.

Summary of Actions reported requiring attention

To assist Councillors below is a summary of the 28 actions identified within the report with a status of ‘n Off track / On hold’ or ‘n Monitor’.

Code	Action	Comment	Primary Responsibility	YTD Status	Traffic Light
1.1.1.1.2	Coordinate and facilitate Sister City Community committee meetings and events	The Sister City Community Committee is on hold pending a Councillor workshop to consider Sister City arrangements including the Committee. A workshop will be held when we have staff in the area.	Executive Support	On hold	n
1.1.2.4.1	Manage the delivery of Council's Capital Works Program in accordance with Council's Project Management Framework and project plans	Post Covid “hangover” and cost increases due to international pressure have pressured delivery. Delivery is again picking up speed and delivery is envisaged as accelerating in 1st half 2023. Progress: % YTD Actual $8,670,899 vs Approved Budget $86,772,611 = 10%. Project status summary (life of project) 135 projects: 0 Not scheduled = 66 n Off track = 3 n Monitor = 40 n On track or completed = 26 See ‘Capital project performance report 01 July 2022 - 31 December 2022’ in this document for further information per project.	Project Management	Monitor	n
1.3.1.3.2	Provide independent assessment and research of current Internal Audit best practice and advice to the Executive and audit committee	Resourcing deficiencies during the reporting period impacted the ability to undertake consultation and monitoring of these activities. However, reporting was still completed during the period, with Internal Audit Update reports provided to each Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee meeting, in addition to other reports relating to the roles and functions of the Committee.	Internal Audit	Monitor	n
1.3.2.3.1	Roll-out the Organisational Culture Survey and implement actions to support alignment with Council’s values-based organisational culture	In 2021 Council participated in an Organisational Culture survey with the University of South Australia which benchmarked against other councils. Results were presented to the Executive Team and communicated to all staff. The survey was completed by 308 staff members. Overall staff are generally satisfied with their job and their role. Likewise, the overall current climate of the Council is seen as generally positive as were Organisational Citizenship Behaviours. Several key areas were identified for improvement which included workload, retention and equity. Feedback was received by staff about this particular survey method and Council is considering what method or tool to use in the future to ensure greater participation and value.	People and Culture	On hold	n
1.3.2.7.4	Manage operational fleet and plant to provide safe, fit for purpose and legislatively compliant assets in accordance with IPWEA best practice standards for fleet	A review of the current processes surrounding plant hire and internal utilisation numbers is underway. A proposed change within the fleet structure has determined the short fall within the division which will turn the numbers around moving forward (when in place). Utilisation of heavy plant is currently tracking 20.21% under the national benchmark targets due to staff numbers down / annual leave days being taken during the reporting period.	Fleet Services	Monitor	n
1.3.2.7.5	Manage plant and equipment hire to support ongoing service delivery and operational requirements and meet critical functions of Council	Plant Hire is currently operating as a reactive service. While a high level of service is being maintained for internal stakeholders, this service should be primarily operating to identify areas of utilisation inefficiencies and place corrective measures on the plant and equipment hire service to reduce the need for external hire functions. This is currently being monitored with new strategies being implemented to evolve the service to better align with available resources.	Fleet Services	Monitor	n
3.1.1.5.1	Continue to implement the Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP)	Reviewing and updating the PAMP is in progress.	Roads and Footpaths	Monitor	n
3.1.1.7.2	Develop and implement programs for construction and maintenance of sealed roads, pavements, shoulders, bridges, culverts and table drains, including the replacement of aged infrastructure	The 2022/23 recurrent capital works program for sealed roads was presented to Council as part of the response to the Wagga Roads NOM in November 2022. Flooding and wet weather has prevented implementation of the program before Christmas. Plans are in place to deliver the Program in the second half of the 2022/23 financial year (subject to favourable weather conditions).	Roads and Footpaths	Monitor	n
3.1.1.7.3	Develop and implement programs for construction and maintenance of unsealed roads, culverts, bridges and table drains, including the replacement of aged infrastructure	Due to flooding and unfavourable weather conditions over the first six months of the 2022/23 financial year, the gravel resheeting program has been delayed. Maintenance grading of unsealed roads, replacement and renewal of culverts, maintenance of bridges and cleaning out of table drains has been on-going as required.	Roads and Footpaths	Monitor	n
3.2.2.1.1	Continue to implement the Regional Activation Strategy	Regional Activation Strategy framework has been developed - due to internal staffing draft is still in development stage.	Economic Development	Monitor	n
3.2.2.3.2	Review and update the Livestock Marketing Centre Strategic Master Plan to reflect the current and future needs of the livestock market industry	Review has commenced at an internal level with the view to go to market seeking a comprehensive project scope and business planning document with the intention it will form the body of a report to Council seeking support to undertake a current and comprehensive Strategic Master Plan for the LMC.	Livestock Marketing Centre	Monitor	n
3.3.1.1.1	Review and monitor local planning instruments to ensure they support development of facilities and services in appropriate locations	Implementation of the LSPS principles is ensuring planning decisions prioritise the development of services and facilities in locations that support neighbourhood amenity and connectivity. A revised timeline for all strategic planning initiatives was provided to Council in December 22 in response to a notice of motion from Councillors.	Strategic Planning	Monitor	n
4.1.6.2.1	Review and monitor local planning instruments to ensure they support the development of strong and resilient village and neighbourhood communities	Undertaking Rural Land and Village planning, whilst not an immediate priority, is being considered as part of the Local Housing Strategy project. Preparation work is commencing to enable rural and village planning to progress when resourcing is available.	Strategic Planning	Monitor	n
5.1.1.1.1	Continue to implement the Local Strategic Planning Statement 2040	Work is continuing to develop the Local Housing Strategy, CBD Master Plan and Northern Growth Area Structure Plan. Through planning processes and assessment of planning proposals, the LSPS principles continue to be implemented.	Strategic Planning	Monitor	n
5.1.1.3.1	Assess and determine development applications, construction certificates, complying development applications and manage risks through monitoring their compliance	Total of 589 DA's Determined, 215 were within 40 Days. Of the 589 Determined there were 39 Commercial and 503 Residential developments, remainder being other development categories. Total 103 BIC applications determined. 65 determined within 27 calendar days. Total of 243 CC’s Determined, 122 were within 40 Days. Total 61 CDC’s determined. 19 determined within 20 calendar days. Total 241 S68 applications determined. 201 determined within 7 business days. Total 761 DD applications processed. Timeframes are dependent on amount of investigation required if property is commercial. Timeframe for reporting being changed from 3 to 7 calendar days to capture realistic statistics. Total 1,209 10.7 applications processed. 829 within 5 business days. During this period there was a change in Legislation that required the document template to be amended, due to this there was delays in issuing the Certificates resulting in a poorer result.	Development Assessment and Building Certification	Monitor	n
5.1.1.4.2	Assess and determine subdivision development applications and subdivision works certificates ensuring compliance with engineering standards and development conditions	2 out of 5 Subdivision Works Certificates applications completed within the target of 20 business days. 17 out of 23 Subdivision Certificates were issued within 10 business days of being received.	Subdivisions	Monitor	n
5.1.1.5.1	Present planning proposals to Council within six months of lodgement	Council continues to receive pressure for complex planning proposals. Due to complexity of issues to be considered, some proposals are not being reported to Council within 6 months of being lodged. These include Brunslea Park and Southern Growth Area.	Strategic Planning	Monitor	n
5.1.1.6.2	Review and update flood management provisions in the Development Control Plans (DCP) consistent with Council’s adopted flood risk management plans and studies	The adoption of revised Riverine and Overland Flow flooding studies requires the DCP provisions to be updated. Preliminary work has commenced to bring the controls in line with the recommendations of the revised studies, however, resourcing constrains the timeframes for this work being completed.	Strategic Planning	Monitor	n
5.1.1.7.4	Update the Sewer Development Servicing Plan	On hold pending a Sewer Capacity Model being developed.	Strategic Planning	On hold	n
5.1.1.7.5	Update the Stormwater Development Servicing Plan	On hold pending a Stormwater Model being developed.	Strategic Planning	On hold	n
5.3.1.3.4	Provide, renew and upgrade sewer assets in accordance with the Sewer Management Plan	The sewer rehabilitation program has been developed and will commence in February 2023. Capital Works are lagging a little and are being reviewed for delivery.	Sewer, Stormwater and Flood Maintenance	Monitor	n
5.3.1.3.5	Provide, renew and upgrade stormwater assets in accordance with the Stormwater Management Plan	Council has three stormwater projects listed in this year's budget - Jubilee Park, Murray Street & Tarcutta. An open drain has been closed in as part of the system leading into Jubilee Park. Feasibility of options is being investigated for Murray Street. The Tarcutta Drainage upgrade and supplementary levee has not commenced.	Sewer, Stormwater and Flood Maintenance	Monitor	n
5.3.2.1.1	Manage Council’s Street Trees and deliver a sustainable proactive street tree maintenance program to monitor the health and risk aspects of our tree assets	Staff levels in the Tree Crew have been the most challenging factor. The have this year received over 1,500 Customer Requests (CR's) with only four full time employees in the Crew. CR's that haven't been completed within the specified timeframe have been responded to and have had notes added within five days. Tree Preservation Orders – the team have been using iAuditor to complete these now and since its inception this process has a 100% completion rate within the time frame and has done so for the last three months. The above continues, the CR's will increase with the increase of strong winds and rain related to storm activity. Approx 700 Street Trees have been planted during this period.	Parks and Strategic Operations	Monitor	n
5.4.5.2.2	Review and update environmental impact assessment process	This action is currently on hold due to staff resourcing. The Environmental Project Officer in Project Management Office will be advertised early 2023, this role will assist with RFIs and environmental investigations across the projects in the organisation.	Project Management	On hold	n
5.4.5.3.3	Undertake remediation works at the former Wiradjuri Landfill	A Remediation Action Plan for the site has been finalised, and consultation with local residents on a new playground design has been undertaken. A tender process will be implemented to undertake the remediation works over the next few months.	Environmental Management	Monitor	n
5.4.5.4.1	Deliver kerbside waste collection services	Kerbside waste collection services delivered as per contract. Target of < 4% contamination rate was achieved in October 2022. Due to the wet conditions at the processing site contamination rate screening was not possible and details for November 2022 % have not been supplied. Target of < 4% contamination rate was not achieved in December 2022.	Waste Management	Monitor	n
5.4.5.4.6	Manage the Leachate system	Site Leachate is being continually monitored with current leachate management and storage practice being reviewed for possible improvements. Three onsite leachate discharges reported in Nov and Dec 2022.	Waste Management	Monitor	n

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 3 April 2023

RP-4

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

NSW Local Government Act 1993

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

Internal consultation has been undertaken with responsible officers, managers and directors.

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

Collaborate

Attachments

Operational Performance Report - 1 July 2022 to 31 December 2022 - Provided under separate cover

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 3 April 2023

RP-5

RP-5 QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE

Author: Scott Gray

Summary:

This report is to list questions with notice raised by Councillors in accordance with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice.

Recommendation

That Council receive and note the report.

Report

The following questions with notice were received prior to the meeting, in accordance with the Code of Meeting Practice.

Councillor R Kendall requested the Mayor, seek from each candidate in the upcoming State Election, their policy in relation to the ‘red fleet’ being removed from Local Government financial reports.

An email was sent to the candidates on 17 March 2023.

Councillor A Parkins requested additional information regarding signage at the Wiradjuri Wetlands regarding dogs on leads with concern being raised is birds within the wetlands.

Staff have previously recorded observations that there are a number of dogs being exercised off-leash at the Marrambidya Wetland. This area is not a designated off-leash area and therefore all dogs must be on-leash and under the control of their owner.

Council installed signage in 2022 at the three entrances to the Marrambidya Wetland, to remind community members that dogs are required to be on a leash. Two of these signs have since disappeared and are in the process of being reinstalled. Staff will also undertake an education campaign and targeted patrols of the wetland area to ensure dogs are on leash.

Councillor D Hayes requested advice on if Council, will write to the new Premier, requesting the return of funds spent on the old ambulance station? If so, when will this happen?

A response will be provided at the next Council Meeting.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Our community is informed and actively engaged in decision making and problem-solving to shape the future of Wagga Wagga

Ensure our community feels 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 3 April 2023

M-1

Committee Minutes

M-1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES AUDIT, RISK AND IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE - 23 FEBRUARY 2023

Author: Ingrid Hensley

Executive: Scott Gray

Summary:

The Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) is an advisory committee of Council. This Report seeks that Council endorse the recommendations made by the Committee at the meeting on 23 February 2023.

Those recommendations relate to the role of the Committee in providing independent assurance and assistance to Council on financial reporting, risk management, internal controls, governance, and internal and external audit and accountability responsibilities.

Recommendation

That Council endorse the recommendations contained in the minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting held on 23 February 2023.

Report

The minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting held on 23 February 2023 are presented to Council for adoption.

Financial Implications

Council has granted certain authorities to the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee within the scope of its role and responsibilities, as defined within its Charter. As an advisory committee to Council, the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee has no authority to action items that may have a budget and/or resource implication outside of this authority unless Council resolves to adopt the recommendations.

Policy and Legislation

Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Charter

Link to Strategic Plan

Community leadership and collaboration

Ensure transparency and accountability

Risk Management Issues for Council

The NSW Audit Office provided an overview of the high-risk items identified in the NSW Audit Office Management Letter on the Final Phase of the Audit for the year ended 30 June 2022.

Internal / External Consultation

The ARIC Chairperson Report was distributed to Councillors on 10 March 2023.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

ARIC Minutes - 23 February 2023

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 3 April 2023

M-2

M-2 FLOODPLAIN RISK MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE - 16 MARCH 2023

Author: Phil McMurray

Summary:

The Floodplain Risk Management Advisory Committee (FRMAC) is an advisory committee of Council. This Report seeks that Council endorse the recommendations made by the Committee at its meeting held on 16 March 2023.

Recommendation

That Council receive the minutes of the Floodplain Risk Management Advisory Committee Meeting held on 16 March 2023.

Report

The Minutes of the Floodplain Risk Management Advisory Committee Meeting held on 16 March 2023 are presented to Council for consideration of recommendations below.

The Committee received one report in relation to:

· Implementation Status of remaining projects

· Reconnecting River Country Flood Data

· DPE 2023-24 Floodplain Management Program

· Advice regarding applying for a grant to incorporate DPE Reconnecting River Country data into our existing flood model (option 11 EWS project)

Senior Civil and Water Resource Engineer, Andrew Morris, from Royal Haskonning DHV, presented an introductory presentation about the Uranquinty Levee Upgrade - Investigation and Design project.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

The outcomes from the various studies will be critical in the terms of future amendments to the Council Local Environmental Plan and its Development Control Plan.

Link to Strategic Plan

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Wagga Wagga has strong community leadership and a shared vision for the future

Our leaders represent our community

Risk Management Issues for Council

No specific issues identified.

Internal / External Consultation

NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPIE) (previously the Office of Environment and Heritage) has been heavily consulted throughout the process of planning and executing these projects. DPIE is the responsible funding body and receives quarterly status update reports.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

FRMAC - 16 March 2023