Agenda and
Business Paper

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council

 

 

 

To be held on
Monday 18 September 2023

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

 

The proceedings of all Council meetings in open session, including all debate and addresses by the public, are recorded (audio visual) and livestreamed on Council’s website including for the purpose of facilitating community access to meetings and accuracy of the Minutes.

 

In addition to webcasting council meetings, audio recordings of confidential sessions of Ordinary Meetings of Council are also recorded, but do not form part of the webcast.

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ETHICAL OBLIGATIONS

Councillors are reminded of their Oath or Affirmation of Office made under Secion 233A of the Local Government Act 1993 and their obligation under Council’s Code of Conduct to disclose and appropriately manage Conflicts of Interest.

 

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.

 

 

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 18 September 2023

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE               PRECIS                                                                                       PAGE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY                                                                          2

REFLECTION                                                                                                                2

APOLOGIES                                                                                                                 2

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1           ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 4 SEPTEMBER 2023                             2

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST                                                                                    2

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1         NOTICE OF MOTION - Removal of Book from Library Collection      3

NOM-2         NOTICE OF MOTION - CALL FOR A TRIAL AND DEMONSTRATION TO FIX POTHOLES PROPERLY & FAST                                                                                   5

Reports from Staff

RP-1            2023 Local Government NSW Annual Conference - Election of Delegates and Motions                                                                     7

RP-2            FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 AUGUST 2023              11

RP-3            REQUESTS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - SECTION 356                    41

RP-4            PROPOSED LICENCE OF AIRPORT LAND TO THE BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY - PART LOT 6 DP 846849                                                                           44

RP-5            QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE                                                                      47

Committee Minutes

M-1              CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES AUDIT, RISK AND IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE - 17 AUGUST 2023                                                                                          50   

Confidential Reports

CONF-1       RFT2024-PLANT & MECHANICAL MAINTENANCE OASIS                       61

 

 

 

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 - 4 SEPTEMBER 2023       

Recommendation That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 4 September 2023 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

 

 

 

1⇩.

Minutes - 4 September 2023 Ordinary Council Meeting

62

 

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

NOM-1

 

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1           NOTICE OF MOTION - Removal of Book from Library Collection

Author:          Councillor Michael Henderson

 

 

Summary:

The purpose of this notice of motion is remove the book titled 'Welcome To Sex' from Council’s library collections.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       remove the book 'Welcome to Sex' from the library’s physical and on-line collection b       contact the Australian classification Review Board seeking a reclassification of the book 'Welcome To Sex' by Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes c        make representation to ALIA (Australian Library and Information Association), NSW State Library and IFLA (International Federation of Libraries Association), the NSW Library Act and Regulations board citing the inappropriateness of this book being in any Children's section of public libraries and associated on-line facilities.

 

This so-called educational book, targeted at 8–15-year-olds, includes graphic descriptions of sexual activities and advises children how to send nudes by cropping out their heads. It also aggressively pushes gender ideology in children, undermining the nature and importance of biological sex.

 

We know that girls experience double the rate of child sexual abuse than boys, which is exactly what this kind of material puts children at risk of.

 

A cyber safety expert and child psychiatrist have both condemned the book's dangerous advice about how to send nudes by cropping out your head, which exposes children to exploitation, criminal charges, and distorted perceptions of their bodies and their worth.

 

In any other form, or format, the content of this book would be considered grooming. That would result in criminal charges being laid against those promoting such material.

 

N/A

Wagga Wagga Code of Meeting Practice

Code of Conduct

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

NOM-2

 

NOM-2           NOTICE OF MOTION - CALL FOR A TRIAL AND DEMONSTRATION TO FIX POTHOLES PROPERLY & FAST

Author:          Councillor Richard Foley

 

Summary:

This Notice of Motion is calling for a report to conduct a comprehensive trial of the JCB Pothole Pro road repair machine.

 

 

Recommendation That Council receive a report at the next Ordinary Council Meeting that includes: a       an analysis of the JCB Pothole Pro machine and its suitability for our road network b       a comparison of the JCB Pothole Pro machine against Council’s existing plant and equipment c        a process for organising a comprehensive trial of the JCB Pothole Pro machine (along with any ancillary associated equipment) as soon as possible d       the potential for other local government areas to participate in the trial of JCB Pothole Pro machine

 

This Notice of Motion is filed in response to ongoing legitimate concerns and requests coming from our community for greater action regarding fixing potholes in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area (LGA).  By community I mean our ratepayers and our local citizens.

 

Potholes are an ongoing issue in the Wagga Wagga LGA road network. It is an issue of public safety and I contend one of a duty of care for councils to ensure that the very worst potholes are repaired ASAP and repaired properly.

 

The JCB Pothole Pro is a new machine designed to revolutionise the roadworks industry for Councils and Contractors.

 

The JCB Pothole Pro is currently being demonstrated to current and potential customers within Australia many of whom are councils. These demonstrations aim to demonstrate how the machine provides exceptional efficiencies and highlight its potential to transform road maintenance practices.

 

The repair and maintenance required by our roads means we need to find new ways of undertaking roadworks more efficiently and for longer term results.   One approach which this NOM advocates that we investigate is to invest in better more efficient machinery which in turn will give us greater productivity to fix more potholes faster and properly.

 

The best way that this council can make a decision on this issue is to get a demonstration of the JCB Pothole Pro underway here as soon as possible. 

 

 

 

If this demonstration can be arranged it might be of interest to our surrounding Councils. For this reason this NOM also requests that Wagga City Council reach out to our neighbouring Councils and invite them to the demonstration.  This will provide the opportunity for many Councillors representing different communities and road crew staff to see firsthand what the JCB Pothole Pro can do and where it can be used effectively.

 

N/A

Code of Conduct

Code of Meeting Practice

 

Community leadership and collaboration

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

Our leaders represent our community

 

N/A

N/A

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

RP-1

 

Reports from Staff

RP-1               2023 Local Government NSW Annual Conference - Election of Delegates and Motions

Author:          Ingrid Hensley 

Executive:    Scott Gray

         

 

Summary:

The Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Annual Conference is taking place from 12 to 14 November 2023 at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse Sydney. The purpose of this Report is to elect delegates to attend the conference and to consider submitting motions to the Conference.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       endorse the Mayor and three (3) Councillors to attend the Local Government NSW Annual Conference to be held from 12 to 14 November 2023 b       elect three Councillor delegates referred to in (a) above to attend the Conference c        note that Councillors elected to attend the conference will be Council’s voting delegates for any Local Government NSW elections for the following twelve months d       endorse submitting motions to the conference as outlined in the report

 

The 2023 Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Annual Conference will be held at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse Sydney from 12 to 14 November 2023.

The LGNSW Annual Conference will provide the opportunity to debate and discuss the key issues, to work towards a better future and participate in voting on motions, setting the LGNSW advocacy agenda for the coming year.

Motions for the Conference are now open with final motions to be submitted by 15 October 2023. Motions for inclusion at the conference are currently being called for, and should be:

·    consistent with the objects of the Association

·    relate to local government in NSW and/or across Australia

·    concern or are likely to concern local government as a sector

·    seek to advance the local government policy agenda of the Association and/or improve governance of the Association

·    have a lawful purpose (a motion does not have a lawful purpose if its implementation would require or encourage non-compliance with prevailing laws)

·    are clearly worded and unambiguous in nature, and

·    do not express preference for one or several members over one or several other members

Feedback was sought from Councillors and Executive staff with the following motion being received.

Creation of a body to supervise the decisions of Transgrid

 

Motion Wording

That LGNSW advocate to the NSW Government for the immediate establishment of a supervisory body to oversee the decisions of Transgrid and that Transgrid be prohibited from implementing a decision which the supervisory body is satisfied will cause unreasonable harm to regional communities.

 

Background

Security of power is a critical issue facing NSW with the future closure of coal fired power stations occurring in the current absence of new transmission infrastructure to source replacement power.

 

This circumstance has created an environment where Transgrid have been supported in delivering approaches to transmission which are expedient, and which cause harm to regional communities.

 

As an example, Transgrid have used a compulsory acquisition power to take a 1.8km corridor through the waste management facility serving the Wagga Wagga community and region. The effect is the sterilisation of waste management within the 1.8 km corridor which has been taken from within the facility.

 

Wagga Wagga City Council, on behalf of its community opposed the acquisition.  This was ignored by Transgrid.  Trangrid have refused to provide the document they created to convince the government to order the cessation of the waste management facility use for the local regional community in preference to the business interests being pursued by Transgrid.  Attempts to have the documentation which was given to Government to obtain the exercise of the compulsory acquisition power have been refused including a GIPA application.

 

The waste management facility was acquired by Wagga Wagga City Council by compulsory process. It beggars’ belief that one agency can stop another government agencies public service activity by compulsory process, even when the first activity was pursued by the same process.

 

The decisions of Transgrid need to be supervised to prevent future harm to communities. Transgrid holds a monopoly position, and it serves investors far distant from the communities it harms.

 

The purpose of this motion is to obtain some sort of supervision over an entity which has demonstrated a lack of respect, care, and fairness to many communities in regional NSW.   Communities and local government authorities rightly feel powerless and simply have no capacity to respond to the aggressive, ruthless and heartless action of a body with unlimited financial resourcing and access to oppressive powers.  The complete lack of transparency and honesty being delivered by Transgrid further emphasises the power imbalance.  This motion seeks a practical measure in an attempt to overcome the harm currently being inflicted on regional NSW by Transgrid.

 

In accordance with Council’s membership with LGNSW, Council have four (4) votes at the Conference, therefore it is recommended that the Mayor attend with three (3) Councillors.

Provided in this link is the 2023 LGNSW Conference Program.

The estimated cost per delegate to attend the conference is $2,123.00 per person including flights, registration at the early bird rate, accommodation and the conference dinner as below (all GST exclusive costs):

 

 

In addition, there will be further costs for travel and out of pocket expenses. The conference will be funded from the Councillors’ development, conferences and travel budget which currently has a budget allocation of $40,000 for the 2023/24 financial year, with no expenditure incurred to date this financial year.

 

Job consolidation number – 12080: Councillor Development/Conferences/Travelling

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

 

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We have leaders that represent us

 

N/A

Councillors and Executive team

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

RP-2

 

RP-2               FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 AUGUST 2023

Author:          Carolyn Rodney 

 

Summary:

This report is for Council to consider information presented on the 2023/24 budget and Long-Term Financial Plan, and details Council’s external investments and performance as at 31 August 2023.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       approve the proposed 2023/24 budget variations for the month ended 31 August 2023 and note the balanced budget position as presented in this report b       approve the proposed budget variations to the 2023/24 Long Term Financial Plan Capital Works Program including new projects and timing adjustments c        note the Responsible Accounting Officer’s reports, in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (Part 9 Division 3: Clause 203) that the financial position of Council is satisfactory having regard to the original estimates of income and expenditure and the recommendations made above d       note the details of the external investments as of 31 August 2023 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993 e       accept the grant funding offers as presented in this report

 

Wagga Wagga City Council (Council) forecasts a balanced budget position as of 31 August 2023.

 

The balanced budget position excludes the Wagga Wagga Airport estimated deficit result for the financial year – as previously reported to Council, any Airport deficit result will be sanctioned, and funded in the interim by General Purpose Revenue (via the Internal Loans Reserve). The deficit results will be accounted for as a liability in the Airport’s end of financial year statements and paid back to General Purpose Revenue (Internal Loans Reserve) by the Airport in future financial years. 

 

Proposed budget variations including adjustments to the capital works program are detailed in this report for Council’s consideration and adoption.

 

Council has experienced a positive monthly investment performance for the month of August when compared to budget ($343,941 up on the revised monthly budget). This is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Council’s investment portfolio as a result of the ongoing movement in the interest rate environment, as well as a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance.

 

 

 

Key Performance Indicators

 

 

 

OPERATING INCOME

Total operating income is 17% of approved budget and is on track for the month of August 2023. An adjustment has been made to reflect the levy of rates that occurred at the start of the financial year. Excluding this adjustment, operating income received is 64% when compared to budget.

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 23% of approved budget, which is tracking over budget at this stage of the financial year, this is due to the payment of annual one-off expenses such as rates and insurance during the month of August.

 

CAPITAL INCOME

Total capital income is 10% of approved budget. It is important to note that the actual income from capital is influenced by the timing of the receipt of capital grants and contributions in relation to expenditure incurred on the projects.

 

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Total capital expenditure including commitments is 17% of approved budget including pending projects. This relates to capital project carryover budgets not being finalised and reflected in these budgeted amounts, as well as some purchase orders being raised for the full contract amount for multi-year projects.  Excluding commitments, the total expenditure is 2% when compared to the approved budget.

 

WAGGA WAGGA CITY COUNCIL STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 1 JULY 2023 TO 31 AUGUST 2023
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT
	ORIGINAL BUDGET 2023/24	BUDGET ADJ 2023/24	APPROVED BUDGET 2023/24	YTD ACTUAL   EXCL COMMT'S 2023/24	COMMT'S 2023/24	YTD ACTUAL + COMMT'S 2023/24	YTD % OF BUD
Revenue
Rates & Annual Charges	(79,700,947)	0	(79,700,947)	(12,999,823)	0	(12,999,823)	16%
User Charges & Fees	(32,607,964)	7,180	(32,600,784)	(4,222,264)	0	(4,222,264)	13%
Other Revenues	(3,040,358)	0	(3,040,358)	(1,988,139)	0	(1,988,139)	65%
Grants & Contributions provided for Operating Purposes	(13,891,687)	(2,997,068)	(16,888,755)	(2,328,496)	0	(2,328,496)	14%
Grants & Contributions provided for Capital Purposes	(43,630,578)	(28,424,049)	(72,054,627)	(7,663,509)	0	(7,663,509)	11%
Interest & Investment Revenue	(4,873,916)	0	(4,873,916)	(1,504,347)	0	(1,504,347)	31%
Other Income	(1,564,445)	(22,667)	(1,587,112)	(423,800)	0	(423,800)	27%
Total Revenue	(179,309,895)	(31,436,604)	(210,746,499)	(31,130,378)	0	(31,130,378)	15%
Expenses
Employee Benefits & On-Costs	56,172,711	0	56,172,711	9,360,367	0	9,360,367	17%
Borrowing Costs	3,363,314	0	3,363,314	488,807	0	488,807	15%
Materials & Services	41,316,274	11,565,688	52,881,962	7,755,388	10,402,817	18,158,205	34%
Depreciation & Amortisation	44,291,577	0	44,291,577	7,381,929	0	7,381,929	17%
Other Expenses	1,954,429	35,245	1,989,674	305,462	46,534	351,996	18%
Total Expenses	147,098,304	11,600,933	158,699,237	25,291,953	10,449,352	35,741,304	23%
Net Operating (Profit)/Loss	(32,211,591)	(19,835,671)	(52,047,262)	(5,838,425)	10,449,352	4,610,926
Net Operating Result Before Capital (Profit)/Loss	11,418,987	8,588,378	20,007,366	1,825,084	10,449,352	12,274,435
Cap/Reserve Movements
Capital Expenditure - One Off Confirmed	33,539,246	45,320,874	78,860,120	1,582,022	18,015,261	19,597,284	25%
Capital Expenditure - Recurrent	21,649,500	10,362,526	32,012,027	694,110	5,812,833	6,506,943	20%
Capital Expenditure - Pending Projects	38,732,266	2,776,592	41,508,858	16,112	10,700	26,812	0%
Loan Repayments	7,523,436	0	7,523,436	1,087,239	0	1,087,239	14%
New Loan Borrowings	(10,609,635)	(972,614)	(11,582,248)	0	0	0	0%
Sale of Assets	(1,490,575)	(2,317,180)	(3,807,755)	(274,498)	0	(274,498)	7%
Net Movements Reserves	(12,841,071)	(35,334,529)	(48,175,599)	0	0	0	0%
Total Cap/Res Movements	76,503,167	19,835,671	96,338,838	3,104,986	23,838,794	26,943,780
Net Result after Depreciation	44,291,577	0	44,291,577	(2,733,440)	34,288,146	31,554,706
Add back Depreciation Expense	44,291,577	0	44,291,577	7,381,929	0	7,381,929	17%
Cash Budget (Surplus)/Deficit	0	0	0	(10,115,369)	34,288,146	24,172,777

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2023/24 Revised Budget Result – (Surplus) / Deficit	$’000s
Original 2023/24 Budget Result as adopted by Council Total Budget Variations approved to date Budget Variations for August 2023	$0K $0K $0K
Proposed Revised Budget result for 31 August 2023 - (Surplus) / Deficit	$0K

 

The proposed Operating and Capital Budget Variations for 31 August 2023 which affect the current 2023/24 financial year are listed below.

 

 

2023/24 Capital Works Summary

 

Capital Works	Approved Budget	Proposed Movement	Proposed Budget
One-off	$78,860,120	$0	$78,860,120
Recurrent	$32,012,027	$0	$32,012,027
Pending	$41,508,858	$0	$41,508,858
Total Capital Works	$152,381,005	$0	$152,381,005

 

 

 

 

Current Restrictions

 

Due to finalisation of the 2022/23 financial year figures, reserve balances have not been included in this report.

 

Investment Summary as at 31 August 2023

In accordance with Regulation 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021, details of Wagga Wagga City Council’s external investments are outlined below.

 

Institution	Rating	Closing Balance Invested 31/07/2023 $	Closing Balance Invested 31/08/2023 $	August EOM Current Yield %	August EOM % of Portfolio	Investment Date	Maturity Date	Term (months)
At Call Accounts
NAB	AA-	417,108	2,460,171	4.10%	1.06%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	5,023,605	10,710,195	4.10%	4.63%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	24,356,229	24,448,671	4.15%	10.58%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Macquarie Bank	A+	9,351,340	9,382,655	3.90%	4.06%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Total At Call Accounts		39,148,282	47,001,692	4.09%	20.33%
Short Term Deposits
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.43%	15/11/2022	15/11/2023	12
AMP	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.55%	0.87%	30/11/2022	30/11/2023	12
CBA	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.69%	0.43%	30/01/2023	30/01/2024	12
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.06%	0.43%	24/05/2023	24/05/2024	12
Australian Unity	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.44%	0.43%	8/06/2023	11/06/2024	12
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.62%	0.87%	26/06/2023	26/06/2024	12
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.65%	0.87%	30/06/2023	28/06/2024	12
Heritage and People's Choice	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.80%	0.43%	10/07/2023	10/07/2024	12
CBA	AA-	0	2,000,000	5.27%	0.87%	31/08/2023	30/08/2024	12
Total Short Term Deposits		11,000,000	13,000,000	5.22%	5.62%
Medium Term Deposits
BOQ	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.20%	0.87%	4/01/2022	4/01/2024	24
BOQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	3.78%	0.43%	1/06/2022	3/06/2024	24
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.87%	28/06/2021	29/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.80%	0.87%	15/11/2021	17/11/2025	48
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.03%	0.87%	6/11/2019	6/11/2024	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.83%	0.87%	28/11/2019	28/11/2024	60
Judo Bank	BBB-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.30%	0.43%	3/12/2021	4/12/2023	24
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.75%	0.43%	6/01/2020	8/01/2024	48
BOQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.00%	0.43%	28/02/2020	28/02/2025	60
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.20%	0.43%	1/04/2020	1/04/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.85%	0.43%	29/05/2020	29/05/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.86%	0.43%	1/06/2020	2/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.75%	0.87%	25/06/2020	25/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.75%	0.87%	25/06/2020	25/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.60%	0.87%	29/06/2020	28/06/2024	48
ICBC	A	3,000,000	3,000,000	5.07%	1.30%	30/06/2022	30/06/2027	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.42%	0.87%	7/07/2020	8/07/2024	48
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.87%	17/08/2020	18/08/2025	60
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.25%	0.43%	7/09/2020	8/09/2025	60
BoQ	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.87%	14/09/2020	15/09/2025	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	0.60%	0.43%	14/09/2021	14/09/2023	24
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	3.30%	0.43%	25/05/2022	27/11/2023	18
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.20%	0.43%	7/12/2020	8/12/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	0.95%	0.87%	29/01/2021	29/01/2026	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.08%	0.43%	22/02/2021	20/02/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.87%	3/03/2021	2/03/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.40%	0.87%	21/06/2021	19/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.87%	25/06/2021	25/06/2026	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.32%	0.43%	25/08/2021	25/08/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	31/08/2021	31/08/2023	24
AMP	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.87%	18/10/2021	17/10/2024	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.56%	0.87%	30/11/2021	29/11/2024	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.00%	0.87%	8/02/2022	10/02/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.40%	0.87%	9/03/2022	10/03/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.00%	0.87%	10/03/2022	11/03/2024	24
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.20%	0.87%	2/03/2022	3/03/2025	36
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.28%	0.87%	26/04/2022	26/04/2024	24
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.78%	0.87%	4/05/2022	6/05/2024	24
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.99%	0.87%	4/05/2022	5/05/2025	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	3.76%	0.43%	23/05/2022	23/05/2024	24
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.95%	0.87%	6/06/2022	6/06/2024	24
Australian Unity	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.15%	0.87%	8/06/2022	11/06/2024	24
Suncorp	A+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.40%	0.87%	22/06/2022	14/12/2023	18
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.45%	0.87%	29/06/2022	28/06/2024	24
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.50%	0.43%	7/07/2022	7/07/2025	36
CBA	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.25%	0.43%	12/08/2022	12/08/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.55%	1.30%	29/08/2022	29/08/2025	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.55%	0.87%	2/09/2022	2/09/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.40%	0.43%	9/09/2022	9/09/2025	36
BoQ	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.43%	4/10/2022	4/10/2024	24
AMP	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.87%	21/10/2022	21/10/2024	24
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.87%	21/10/2022	21/10/2025	36
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.75%	0.43%	15/11/2022	14/11/2024	24
AMP	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.80%	0.43%	21/11/2022	20/11/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.87%	16/12/2022	16/12/2024	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.04%	0.87%	15/02/2023	17/02/2025	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.94%	0.87%	14/03/2023	14/03/2025	24
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.87%	14/03/2023	15/03/2027	48
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.87%	31/03/2023	31/03/2025	24
Auswide	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.87%	13/04/2023	13/04/2026	36
P&N Bank	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.87%	20/04/2023	20/04/2027	48
P&N Bank	BBB	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.43%	26/05/2023	26/05/2026	36
ING Bank	A	0	2,000,000	5.37%	0.87%	21/08/2023	21/08/2025	24
Total Medium Term Deposits		105,000,000	105,000,000	3.06%	45.42%
Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt
Westpac	AA-	2,534,993	2,514,833	BBSW + 88	1.09%	16/05/2019	16/08/2024	63
Suncorp	A+	1,251,913	1,256,985	BBSW + 78	0.54%	30/07/2019	30/07/2024	60
ANZ	AA-	2,022,186	2,006,350	BBSW + 77	0.87%	29/08/2019	29/08/2024	60
HSBC	AA-	2,518,872	2,528,977	BBSW + 83	1.09%	27/09/2019	27/09/2024	60
ANZ	AA-	1,507,886	1,514,261	BBSW + 76	0.65%	16/01/2020	16/01/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,010,126	2,018,520	BBSW + 77	0.87%	21/01/2020	21/01/2025	60
Newcastle Permanent	BBB	1,112,178	1,103,280	BBSW + 112	0.48%	4/02/2020	4/02/2025	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	2,023,880	2,009,317	BBSW + 84	0.87%	12/02/2020	12/02/2025	60
BOQ Covered	AAA	558,309	553,805	BBSW + 107	0.24%	14/05/2020	14/05/2025	60
UBS	A+	1,496,851	1,504,181	BBSW + 87	0.65%	30/07/2020	30/07/2025	60
Bank of China Australia	A	1,500,551	1,506,947	BBSW + 78	0.65%	27/10/2020	27/10/2023	36
CBA	AA-	1,999,368	2,008,413	BBSW + 70	0.87%	14/01/2022	14/01/2027	60
Rabobank	A+	1,991,101	2,000,088	BBSW + 73	0.87%	27/01/2022	27/01/2027	60
Newcastle Permanent	BBB	992,322	984,930	BBSW + 100	0.43%	10/02/2022	10/02/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,413,353	2,397,144	BBSW + 72	1.04%	25/02/2022	25/02/2027	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	BBB+	1,662,542	1,669,619	BBSW + 98	0.72%	17/03/2022	17/03/2025	36
ANZ	AA-	2,030,821	2,015,529	BBSW + 97	0.87%	12/05/2022	12/05/2027	60
NAB	AA-	1,722,693	1,708,709	BBSW + 90	0.74%	30/05/2022	30/05/2025	36
Suncorp	A+	910,963	903,526	BBSW + 93	0.39%	22/08/2022	22/08/2025	36
ANZ	AA-	2,563,191	2,543,875	BBSW + 120	1.10%	4/11/2022	4/11/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,555,663	2,535,576	BBSW + 120	1.10%	25/11/2022	25/11/2027	60
Suncorp	A+	1,117,413	1,121,491	BBSW + 125	0.49%	14/12/2022	14/12/2027	60
CBA	AA-	2,027,975	2,037,457	BBSW + 115	0.88%	13/01/2023	13/01/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB	1,929,188	1,911,870	BBSW + 155	0.83%	22/02/2023	22/02/2027	48
Bendigo-Adelaide Covered	AAA	1,009,521	1,014,206	BBSW + 115	0.44%	16/06/2023	16/06/2028	60
CBA	AA-	0	2,511,001	BBSW + 95	1.09%	17/08/2023	17/08/2028	60
Total Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt		43,463,861	45,880,890		19.85%
Fixed Rate Bonds
ING Covered	AAA	672,392	675,494	1.10%	0.29%	19/08/2021	19/08/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.00%	1.30%	24/08/2021	16/12/2024	40
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.50%	1.30%	24/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
BoQ	BBB+	1,719,131	1,740,076	2.10%	0.75%	27/10/2021	27/10/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.87%	6/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.50%	0.43%	14/07/2021	15/12/2026	65
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.30%	0.87%	29/04/2021	15/06/2026	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.87%	30/11/2020	15/12/2025	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.00%	0.43%	20/11/2020	15/12/2025	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.87%	21/10/2020	15/12/2025	62
Total Fixed Rate Bonds		18,391,523	18,415,570	1.30%	7.97%
Managed Funds
NSW Tcorp	NR	1,899,734	1,894,480	-0.28%	0.82%	17/03/2014	1/08/2028	172
Total Managed Funds		1,899,734	1,894,480	-0.28%	0.82%
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		218,903,401	231,192,632		100.00%
LESS: RIVERINA REGIONAL LIBRARY (RRL) CASH AT BANK		2,525,508	2,520,922
TOTAL WWCC CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		216,377,893	228,671,710

 

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 51% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 20%, with Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) around 20%, fixed rate bonds around 8% and growth funds around 1% of the portfolio.

 

 

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

 

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

 

Investment Portfolio Balance

 

Council’s investment portfolio balance increased over the past month, up from $216.38M to $228.67M. This is reflective of the first quarter rates instalment being due at 31 August 2023.

 

 

Monthly Investment Movements

 

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed the following investment security during August 2023:

 

 

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment securities during August 2023:

 

 

Rollovers – Council did not rollover any investment securities during August 2023.

 

Monthly Investment Performance

 

Interest/growth/capital gains/(losses) for the month totalled $706,773, which compares favourably with the budget for the period of $362,832 - outperforming budget for the month by $343,941.

 

Council’s outperformance to budget for August is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Councils investment portfolio as well as a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance. This is a result of the ongoing movements in the cash rate made by the Reserve Bank of Australia, with the latest increase in early June 2023 bringing the cash rate to 4.10% from a record low of 0.10% in April 2022.

 

Council’s Floating Rate Note portfolio experience a positive movement during the month of August, with the principal value of this portfolio increasing by $12,089 (or +0.03%). Councils Fixed Rate bond portfolio also experienced a positive movement during the month, with the principal value of the portfolio increasing by $24,071 (or +1.01%).

 

Council experienced a negative return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of August, with the fund returning -0.28% (or -$5,254) as international (-2.50%) and domestic (-2.08%) shares detracted during the month.

 

 

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* of 4.39% (annualised), Council’s investment portfolio returned 3.48% (annualised) for the month of August. This underperformance against the benchmark for the month is mainly due to lower returns on fixed deposits and bonds due to a proportion of these being locked in prior to the unexpected RBA rate hikes. Cash and At‑Call accounts returned 4.10% (annualised) for the month. These funds are utilised for daily cash flow management and need to be available to meet operating and contractual payments as they fall due.

 

Over the past year, Council’s investment portfolio has returned 3.31%, marginally underperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by -0.23%. Councils investment portfolio has continued to outperform the AusBond Bank Bill Index* over the longer-term time period, returning 2.04% per annum over the past 3 years – outperforming the benchmark by 0.79% over this time.

 

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

Report by Responsible Accounting Officer

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

 

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

 

Local Government Act 1993

Section 625 - How may councils invest?

 

Local Government (General) Regulation 2021

Section 212 - Reports on council investments

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

 

 

1⇩.

Capital Works Program 2023/24 to 2032/33

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

RP-2

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

RP-3

 

RP-3               REQUESTS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - SECTION 356

Author:          Carolyn Rodney 

 

Summary:

Council has received one (1) fee waiver request which is detailed for Council’s consideration.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       in accordance with Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993, provide financial assistance to the Rotary Club of Wagga $335.00 b       note the proposed budget available for financial assistance requests for the remainder of the 2023/24 financial year

 

One (1) financial assistance request is proposed for consideration at this Ordinary Council meeting. Details of the request are shown below:

1.   Rotary Club of Wagga – Request for fee waiver of Council Meeting Room hire for the Rotary Shine Awards – $335.00

Alan Lean, Chair of the Rotary Shine Committee in the attached email requests:

Dear Cassandra,

 

The Rotary Club of Wagga wishes to apply for a fee waiver of $335.00 for hire of the Council Meeting room on Thursday 30th November.

 

The Council's support is recognised in all promotion material as a major sponsor.

 

We thank the council for this very helpful support as the facility adds significantly to the formal recognition of the nominees.

 

Yours sincerely, Alan Lean

Chair - Rotary Shine Committee

 

 

The above request aligns with Council’s Strategic Plan “Community Place and Identity” – Objective: Our community feel welcome, included and connected”

 

The Rotary Club of Wagga have not received any other financial assistance from Council this financial year.

 

Section 356 Budget Summary
2023/24 Budget available for requests received during financial year	$42,060.00
Total of fee waivers approved to date	($8,195.00)
Revised Balance of Section 356 fee waiver financial assistance	$33,865.00
1)   Rotary Club of Wagga Wagga	($335.00)
Subtotal Fee Waivers included in this report – proposed to be funded from the Section 356 Budget	($335.00)
Balance of Section 356 fee waiver financial assistance budget for the remainder of the 2023/24 Financial Year	$33,530.00

 

Job consolidation number: 13619 Section 356 Donations/waiving of Council fees and charges

POL 078 – Financial Assistance Policy

Community Place and Identity

Objective: Our community feel welcome, included and connected

Activate community spaces to promote connectedness

 

N/A

Cross Directorate consultation has been undertaken as required.

 

 

1⇩.

Rotary Club of Wagga Wagga - Section 356 Request

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

RP-3

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

RP-4

 

RP-4               PROPOSED LICENCE OF AIRPORT LAND TO THE BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY - PART LOT 6 DP 846849

Author:         Matthew Dombrovski 

Executive:    John Sidgwick

        

 

Summary:

Council has received a request from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) to enter into a formal sublease or licence over land located at the Wagga Wagga Airport. This report provides details as to the proposed arrangement.

 

 

Recommendation That Council: a       authorise the General Manager or their delegate to negotiate entry into an agreement with The Bureau of Meteorology over land located at Don Kendall Drive, Wagga Wagga (being Part Lot 6 DP 846849) b       delegate authority to the General Manager or their delegate to complete and execute any necessary documentation on behalf of Council c        authorise the affixing of Council’s common seal to all documents relating to this matter as required

 

Background

 

An initial report concerning this matter was provided to Council on 22 May 2023. Consideration of the initial report was deferred by Council, pending a meeting between Council representatives and representatives of the Department of Defence during the week of 13 June 2023 whilst Council representatives were attending the ALGA conference. This report is provided to Council for further consideration, following those discussions.

 

Request from Bureau of Meteorology

 

Council has received a request from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) to enter into a formal sub-lease or licence agreement over land located at the Wagga Wagga Airport. This would serve to formalise the current informal arrangement Wagga City Council has with BOM over two sites located within the Wagga Airport precinct where BOM has built infrastructure on the land.

 

The two proposed sites are outlined as follows:

 

1.   The first site is the main fenced area consisting of a building, radar tower and enclosure. The proposed licence area is approximately 12,500sqm.

2.   The second site is for the anemometer mast. The proposed licence area is approximately 12sqm.

 

See below at Figure 1 an indicative site map, showing the two proposed areas marked with an orange outline and a red pin marker respectively.

Figure 1: Proposed sub-lease sites

 

It is noted that the current headlease for the Airport is due to expire on 30 June 2025, and Council has been in negotiations with the Commonwealth of Australia for an extended period in relation to the granting of a new lease. Whilst BOM are preferably seeking a long term lease, pending finalisation of the negotiations for the head lease, Council staff have advised that Council can only offer a tenure until 29 June 2025. BOM is prepared to proceed on that basis.

 

BOM has requested, due to the benefits the equipment provides the community, that they pay a nominal fee of $1.00 if demanded. It is noted that Clause 10.1.6 of the headlease for the airport provides that Council will “grant from time to time sub-leases or licences for nominal consideration that … the Bureau of Meteorology reasonably requires for the purpose of establishing, providing, maintaining, modifying or operating meteorological facilitates and associated equipment…” In light of this obligation contained within the head-lease, the request from BOM is considered reasonable.

 

It is noted that consent will need to be obtained from the Commonwealth of Australia for the grant of an interest over the leased land. In light of the conditions imposed by the headlease, this is not anticipated to be an issue.

 

Councillors would also be aware that in June 2023 Council obtained NSW Government funding for the development of a business case for the Wagga Wagga Airport. The business case will recommend the required terminal facilities, airside facilities, health transport services and strategic improvements to ensure the airport is fit for now and into the future. The business case will also assess the layout/spatial requirements and location of the terminal and associated services and infrastructure.

 

Given that the licence agreement is only proposed to extend for the duration of the headlease (ie to 30 June 2025) it is not anticipated that the agreement will compromise the preparation of the business case or any proposed future development on the site. Council will have an opportunity to renegotiate the licence arrangement with BOM once the headlease issue has been resolved, and once the business case planning has been completed.

 

Taking into account the above, it is recommended that Council resolve to enter into a formal arrangement with BOM over such land where the infrastructure is located as depicted in Figure 1 above, at the nominal rate of $1.00 (if demanded) and on the basis that any such licence will terminate on 29 June 2025. 

Nominal income will be generated by the sub-lease. It is proposed that any costs associated with the preparation of the sub-lease agreement would be borne by BOM in accordance with Council’s adopted Acquisition, Disposal and Management of Land Policy POL 038..

Local Government Act 1993

Acquisition, Disposal and Management of Land Policy POL 038

 

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

 

Council has a responsibility to meet its obligations in relation to the headlease with the Commonwealth of Australia. Failure to grant the licence to BOM would leave Council in breach of its obligations under the headlease.

 

Council would need to consider the licence agreement as part of its management of the business case process. However, given that the licence is only for the balance of the headlease (ie to 30 June 2025), it is not anticipated that this will create any practical issues. Council will have the ability to negotiate with BOM its future location on the site, and consultation with BOM as a key stakeholder will occur as part of any future development on site.

Internal consultation has been undertaken with Council’s Airport Management team.

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 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.

 

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

 

Councillor R Foley asked if there is any avenue to work with a third party such as Landcom in light of the Federal Government’s recent announcement in relation to land releases etc.

Council has met with representatives from Landcom and has offered to advise them of any potential land development opportunities if any become available. Council has also met with the proponents of the Southern Growth Area and has enquired whether they would be interested in working with Landcom. Councill will reach out to Landcom as and when future land opportunities become available.

 

Councillor R Foley requested a response on the following matters relating to Edmondson Bridge, Wagga Wagga: ·   Is there is a current Engineers Report on Edmondson Bridge and if so, can it be made publicly available, if there is not one, can Council get one and make available to the public? ·   If Edmondson Street Bridge was to fail, who would hold liability if anyone were injured or killed? ·   Councillor Foley noted that the NSW Labor Government promised $100,000 in funding to go towards repairs of this bridge. Is there any reason that Council should not consider approaching the Government to get the funding to fortify this bridge from further dilapidation?

Council engaged Xeros Piccolo Consulting Engineers to give a professional assessment of how to minimise further deterioration of the failure of the southern approaches to the bridge whilst ensuring public safety.  Xeros Piccolo recommended a couple of measures such as sealing of environmental cracks in the tar and construction of a diversion bund to prevent water from the road pavement running into the failure area. Both these measures have been implemented and the approaches and bridge are regularly assessed by our Engineers, the last assessment being last week.    The Edmondson Street Bridge structure immediately above the rail line is owned by Transport for NSW and maintained by their appointed Country Rail Network contractor.  The road approaches to the bridge (where the current failure is) are owned by Council.  If the bridge was to fail, Transport for NSW and/or its maintenance contractor would most likely hold liability for loss.  If the loss is because of failure on the road approaches, then Council most likely holds the liability.   Last month, Council was invited by the State Government to make application for $100,000 (promised as part of the Labor Party election commitments to Government for the Wagga Wagga electorate) in funding to repair the slip failure on the south bound approach to the Edmondson Street bridge as part of program they have called the Local Communities Small Allocation grant. Council is in the process of making this application and it is thought that again the Government may make an announcement about this funding when they hand down their first State budget on the 19 September 2023.

 

Councillor D Hayes requested information on the review into the hierarchy of service levels for our parks, has this occurred? if not when will this be undertaken?

The following action has been included in the 2023/24 Operational Plan:   “Evaluate and review Council’s resource and service level distribution across the current hierarchy and classification of parks and open space”

 

Councillor A Parkins requested confirmation of requirements in the submission a development application in the planning portal, does the applicant need to be the landowner?

The applicant does not need to be the owner of the land; however the application requires the consent of the owner before the application will be processed.

 

Councillor M Henderson asked if there was still an ATM at the Wagga Wagga Airport and if payment for car parking accepts both debit and credit cards?

Previously there was a Hume Bank ATM available within the Wagga Airport terminal. This was removed by Hume Bank in November 2021 due to lack of use.   The current carparking payment machine located within the terminal of the Wagga Airport accepts cash payments, credit cards, and also visa/mastercard debit cards.  The machine notes “No debit card accepted”, which is referring to the inability of the machine to process cards that are not a visa/mastercard debit card.    The two boom gate payment terminals accept credit card and visa/mastercard debit card payments.  The machine notes “only use credit card” and this is referring to these payment methods.   Due to the age of the current card readers in the machine located within the terminal and the two boom gate payment terminals, digital wallet payments (cards on phones etc) are unable to be accepted.  The ability to accept digital wallet payments would require a significant upgrade to the card readers on these machines.

 

N/A

 

Code of Meeting Practice

 

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

 

N/A

N/A

 

 

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

M-1

 

Committee Minutes

M-1                 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES AUDIT, RISK AND IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE - 17 AUGUST 2023

Author:         Melinda Conolly 

General Manager:    Peter Thompson

         

 

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 17 August 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 17 August 2023.

 

The minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting held on 17 August 2023 are presented to Council for adoption.

 

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.

 

At the meeting on 17 August 2023, the Committee considered the 2022/23 Financial Statements – External Audit Interim Management Letter and Council Response.

Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Charter

 

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

 

The Committee considered matters relating to their role in providing independent assurance and assistance to Council on risk management, as outlined in the attached Minutes and which included consideration of Council’s Fraud and Corruption Control Risk Register and Action Plan 2023-2026.

 

The ARIC Chairperson Report was distributed to Councillors on 8 September 2023.

 

 

 

1⇩.

Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Minutes 17 August 2023

 

 

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

M-1

 

  

 

Report submitted to the Confidential Meeting of Council on Monday 18 September 2023

CONF-1

 

Confidential Reports

CONF-1         RFT2024-PLANT & MECHANICAL MAINTENANCE OASIS

Author:         Ben Creighton 

Executive:    John Sidgwick

 

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.