Agenda of Ordinary Meeting of Council

Reports submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council to be held on Monday 9 March 2026.

Ordinary Meeting of Council AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPER

Monday 9 March 2026

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

CLAUSE PRECIS PAGE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY 3

REFLECTION 3

APOLOGIES 3

Confirmation of Minutes

CM-1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 23 FEBRUARY 2026 3

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1 NOTICE OF MOTION - IMPROVED RIVER ACCESS AND SAFETY AT "THE ROCKS" AT THE WAGGA BEACH PRECINCT 4

Reports from Staff

RP-1 LEP25/0002 - HOUSEKEEPING AMENDMENT - LAND RESERVATION ACQUISITION MAPS 7

RP-2 PROCESS FOR A POTENTIAL FUTURE IPART APPLICATION SPECIAL RATE VARIATION 31

RP-3 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - MANAGED SHORT-STAY AND TRANSITIONAL CAMPING SOLUTIONS AT WILKS PARK 47

RP-4 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - IMPACTS OF SYNTHETIC TURF IN PUBLIC OPEN SPACES 57

RP-5 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON LAKE ALBERT ROAD 60

RP-6 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - REVIEW OF BOURKE STREET 63

RP-7 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - TURVEY PARK AND MT AUSTIN PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS 67

RP-8 DRAFT 2026/27 AIRPORT FEES AND CHARGES 70

RP-9 REQUEST FOR WAIVER OF SPORTSGROUND FEES 76

RP-10 APPLICATIONS FOR SUBSIDY FOR WASTE DISPOSAL FOR CHARITY ORGANISATIONS 83

RP-11 2026 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA CONFERENCE - 21 - 24 April 2026 85

RP-12 CANCELLATION OF COUNCIL MEETING DATE - 27 APRIL 2026 99

RP-13 QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE 101

Committee Minutes

M-1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - WAGGA WAGGA AIRPORT SPECIAL PURPOSE COMMITTEE - 25 FEBRUARY 2026 107

Confidential Reports

CONF-1 VARIATION OF LEASE AGREEMENT WITH INLAND RAIL - PART LOT 12 DP 1136467 - CASSIDY PARADE 112

CONF-2 PROPOSED ACQUISITION OF LAND - 431B LAKE ALBERT ROAD, WAGGA WAGGA 113

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 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 23 FEBRUARY 2026

Recommendation

That the Minutes of the proceedings of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 23 February 2026 be confirmed as a true and accurate record.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Minutes - Ordinary Council Meeting - 23 February 2026

114

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

NOM-1

Motions Of Which Due Notice Has Been Given

NOM-1 NOTICE OF MOTION - IMPROVED RIVER ACCESS AND SAFETY AT "THE ROCKS" AT THE WAGGA BEACH PRECINCT

Author: Councillor Richard Foley

Summary:

That Council investigate options to improve safe river access at The Rocks, Wagga Beach, following correspondence received from former Mayor Mr. Greg Conkey OAM regarding the matter.

Recommendation

That Council receives a report from Council staff investigating options to improve river access and safety at The Rocks, Wagga Beach, including:

a potential physical improvements to access (such as installation of steel posts and chain handrails, additional cutting or hammering of steps into the rock surface, construction of a wooden step and handrail structure upstream of the existing rock formation, and any other suitable access treatments)

b appropriate consultation requirements, including engagement with Wiradjuri Elders and representatives of the Wiradjuri community, and

c an assessment of estimated costs, materials, feasibility and associated risks

d appropriate signage measures, including warning of river hazards, advising that only competent swimmers should undertake the float back to the beach, provision of information in English and other relevant languages, and consideration of Wiradjuri language and/or cultural acknowledgements in consultation with Wiradjuri Elders

e any relevant risk management, safety and policy considerations

Report

Wagga Beach is one of the City of Wagga Wagga's most popular recreational attractions, utilised by thousands of residents and visitors each year. Council staff maintain the area to a high standard, contributing to its reputation as a key community asset.

During the warmer months, hundreds of people, ranging from children to seniors, walk approximately 350 metres upstream to an area known as The Rocks and float back down the river to the main beach. This activity has been enjoyed by generations of Wagga Wagga residents and forms part of the city's cultural connection to the Murrumbidgee River.

The matter has been raised in correspondence received by Councillors from Mr. Greg Conkey OAM, former Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga (2016–2021) and longstanding community member. Mr. Conkey notes that while there are a few steps leading from the levee to the river, the rocks themselves are both difficult and dangerous to negotiate, particularly for older residents and children.

In his correspondence, Mr. Conkey proposed several low-cost options to improve access, including the installation of steel posts and chain handrails, cutting additional steps into the rock, or constructing a wooden step and handrail structure just upstream from the existing rocks. He also recommended the installation of signage warning of river hazards and advising that only competent swimmers should undertake the float back to the beach.

Cultural and Community Considerations

The Murrumbidgee River holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Wiradjuri people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Wagga Wagga is situated. Any works along the riverbank must be undertaken with respect for this enduring connection. Consultation with Wiradjuri Elders and community representatives will ensure that cultural heritage is protected and that the project proceeds in a spirit of reconciliation and mutual respect.

Furthermore, Wagga Wagga is home to a diverse multicultural community. Signage displayed in multiple languages will ensure that important safety messages are accessible to all visitors, including those from non-English speaking backgrounds.

Where appropriate, incorporating Wiradjuri language into signage would also represent a meaningful acknowledgement of the region's First Nations heritage. These concerns are consistent with Council's commitment to ensuring safe, accessible and well-maintained public spaces for all members of the community.

Improving access at The Rocks would enhance the experience of thousands of users each year and reduce the risk of injury associated with negotiating the current uneven rock surface.

It is appropriate that Council investigate the feasibility, costs and options for delivering these improvements, and report back to Councillors for further consideration.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Vibrant

Our community feels safe.

Support public safety.

Risk Management Issues for Council

· Public Safety: Current rock access presents a potential risk of injury to users. Improvements would mitigate this risk.

· Council Liability: Improved access and appropriate signage may reduce Council's exposure to liability claims.

· Cultural Safety: Consultation with Wiradjuri Elders ensures cultural heritage is protected and strengthens Council's relationship with First Nations communities.

· Reputation: Responding positively to correspondence from a former Mayor and respected community member demonstrates Council's commitment to community engagement.

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-1

Reports from Staff

RP-1 LEP25/0002 - HOUSEKEEPING AMENDMENT - LAND RESERVATION ACQUISITION MAPS

Author: Matthew Yeomans

Executive: Fiona Hamilton

Summary:

A planning proposal has been prepared to update the ‘Land Reservation Acquisition’ maps in the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010.

The current maps contain properties that are identified for acquisition but require review because the properties:

· have been acquired by Council

· have been dedicated to Council

· are no longer required for operational needs following a review of remaining identified properties.

Recommendation

That Council:

a endorse planning proposal LEP25/0002 to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010, ‘Land Reservation Acquisition’ maps

b write to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) requesting a gateway determination under s3.34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act 1979)

c on receipt of a Gateway Determination under section 3.34 of the EP&A Act 1979, Council enact all the requirements of the Gateway Determination and requirements of Schedule 1, clause 4 of the EP&A Act 1979

d delegate authority to the General Manager or their delegate of all functions under Section 3.36 of the EP&A Act 1979 to make the local environmental plan and put into effect the planning proposal

e delegate authority to the General Manager or their delegate to make any variations to the planning proposal, to correct any drafting errors or anomalies to ensure consistency with the Gateway Determination or to address any other matter that may arise during the amendment process

f should no objections be received, furnishes a copy of this report and other relevant information to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure and/or NSW Parliamentary Counsels Office, in accordance with the EP&A Act 1979, and requests the Minister for Planning (or a delegate on their behalf) undertake the appropriate actions to secure the making of the amendment to the WLEP 2010

Report

The Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP) includes various sets of legislated maps, which correspond to specific LEP clauses and assist with the implementation of the LEP. One of these map series identifies land for acquisition by Council or other authorities (‘Land Reservation Acquisition’ (LRA) maps). There are six maps in this series.

The maps identify specific portions of land (whether whole or part lots) to be acquired. Acquisition may be for a variety of reasons, including for uses such as open space and infrastructure. Since the maps were last updated, Council has acquired land, been dedicated land, and has reviewed its operational requirements and determined that whilst previously identified the land is no longer required.

The review of the acquisition maps identified that the current LRA maps contain outdated acquisition information. For example, land at Copland St, East Wagga Wagga is identified for acquisition for open space purposes; however, this land is now surplus to open space planning requirements and is recommended to be removed from the LRA mapping.

A planning proposal is required to update the LRA maps as they form part of the statutory LEP instrument. A draft planning proposal has been prepared to amend the LEP (Attachment 1). The Planning Proposal seeks to remove 20 lots/part lots and retain 14 lots/parts within the maps. These lots are proposed to be removed from the LRA map as:

· The land has already been acquired by, or dedicated to, Council.

· The land is no longer required for public purposes.

Overall, the planning proposal seeks to remove approximately 20 areas identified for acquisition and retain 14 areas for acquisition.

It is critical to update the Land Reservation Acquisition maps to ensure they are accurate – this provides Council, industry, and community with a clear understanding of where land in the LGA has been identified for acquisition by Council or other government authorities.

Financial Implications

The planning proposal may create an economic impact for Council, as Council will be expected to acquire the remaining land parcels. However, no additional parcels have been identified that have not already been considered by Council in terms of likely financial impacts.

Land that was to be acquired by Council but is now surplus to operational requirements and therefore being removed from the Land Reservation Acquisition maps should result in reduced costs to Council (as Council will no longer be required to acquire the land).

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991

Local Government Act 1993

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Good governance

Provide professional, innovative, accessible and efficient services.

Risk Management Issues for Council

An outdated Land Reservation Acquisition map series creates risks for Council. It may result in Council being required to acquire land that is no longer required for operational or community purposes. It may also make it more difficult for Council to acquire land for appropriate purposes, if the land is not clearly identified. Undertaking the proposed housekeeping amendments to correct the Land Reservation Acquisition map series mitigates these risks.

Council risks potential risks of ‘hardship claims’ under the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act in relation to land that is identified by Council have not acquired.

Internal / External Consultation

To prepare the planning proposal, Strategic Planning consulted with relevant Council directorates to ensure operational needs were considered and achieved.

The planning proposal, if granted Gateway Determination, would be placed on public exhibition. The table below identifies the likely activities that would be undertaken during that public exhibition period. These activities are subject to change, depending on the requirements set by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure through the Gateway Determination.

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Other methods (please list specific details below)

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Draft Planning Proposal - Land Reservation Acquisition Map Review

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-2

RP-2 PROCESS FOR A POTENTIAL FUTURE IPART APPLICATION SPECIAL RATE VARIATION

Author: Peter Thompson

Summary:

At its meeting on 25 August 2025, Council requested a report outlining the process for a potential future Special Rate Variation (SRV) application to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).

This report responds to that resolution and outlines the financial context, strategic considerations and proposed next steps to commence a structured review and investigation into whether Council should pursue a future SRV application.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note the information contained in this report regarding the Special Rate Variation (SRV) framework and requirements

b acknowledge the emerging financial and service delivery challenges facing Council that may require consideration of a future SRV

c endorse the commencement of a structured program of work to investigate the need, scope and implications of a potential SRV application, including:

i long-term financial modelling

ii service and infrastructure gap analysis

iii productivity and cost-containment review

iv benchmarking against comparable councils

v development of a community engagement strategy

d receive a further report outlining the outcomes of this work and recommendations on whether to proceed to formal community consultation and a potential IPART application

Report

Council at its 25 August 2025 Council meeting resolved:

25/265 RESOLVED:

On the Motion of Councillors K Subedi and A Parkins

That Council:

a note the service level reductions across Council functions if a proposed 5% funding cut was adopted, which is in response to the road renewal funding Notice of Motion

b reallocate $79,097 from various areas of Council to end of life line marking

c note the budget constraints faced by Council and request a report back from staff that details the process for a potential future IPART application for a Special Rate Variation

CARRIED

This report addresses part (c) of that resolution and sets out the legislative framework, process requirements and strategic considerations for Council.

Financial context and emerging challenges

Like many councils across NSW, Council is operating in an increasingly constrained financial environment, driven by:

· rising costs associated with infrastructure renewal and maintenance

· increasing service expectations from the community

· regulatory and compliance obligations

· construction cost escalation and supply pressures

· limits imposed by the annual rate peg

While Council continues to pursue efficiency improvements and cost-containment measures, these pressures are placing increasing strain on long-term financial sustainability and Council’s ability to maintain service levels and asset standards.

Council has previously undertaken detailed internal financial and service level modelling, including the 2025 budget review process, which examined the potential to redirect funding across Council operations.

That work demonstrated there is limited capacity to reallocate funding without directly impacting community services and confirmed increasing pressure on infrastructure renewal, maintenance budgets and long-term financial sustainability.

An SRV is one mechanism available to councils where existing revenue settings are insufficient to sustain service delivery, infrastructure renewal and long-term financial stability.

What is a Special Rate Variation (SRV)?

The SRV process allows NSW councils to apply to IPART for approval to increase general rate income above the standard rate peg.

IPART assesses applications against strict criteria, including whether Council has demonstrated:

· a clear financial need

· strong community awareness and engagement

· reasonable impacts on ratepayers

· sound long-term financial planning

· evidence of productivity improvements and cost control

· transparent exhibition of relevant council documents

These pressures are not unique to Wagga Wagga; however, they highlight the need for Council to proactively review its long-term financial sustainability and funding settings rather than respond reactively in future years.

Potential focus areas for any future SRV

Should Council determine to further investigate a Special Rate Variation, the primary focus would be on supporting long-term asset sustainability and addressing infrastructure funding pressures.

Priority areas would include reducing the infrastructure renewal backlog and strengthening ongoing maintenance funding for critical assets such as roads, footpaths, stormwater systems and other core community infrastructure.

Council also has an increasing obligation to operate and maintain major community facilities delivered in recent years. This includes assets such as the Multi-Purpose Stadium and the Pomingalarna Cycling Centre, which require sustainable funding to ensure they remain safe, functional and fit for purpose over their full asset life.

Any future SRV proposal would be informed by detailed asset and financial modelling and would clearly identify how additional revenue would be applied to priority infrastructure and service outcomes before any community consultation or application to IPART.

Timeline and process requirements

An SRV application is a multi-year process requiring:

· detailed long-term financial planning

· service and infrastructure prioritisation

· extensive community engagement

· Council resolutions at key milestones

· formal application submission to IPART (typically February)

To meet IPART timeframes, preparatory work must commence well in advance, including financial modelling, engagement planning and internal analysis.

A close-up of a timeline

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

As can be seen in the timeline above, staff need to commence the process in the middle of a calendar year in order to undertake the required community consultation prior to the application due date which is in February of each year. A Council must first pass a resolution to proceed with the SRV application to IPART.

An SRV application is a comprehensive process, that would require additional staff resources across various departments. The input across the various departments would vary, with some areas requiring additional resources to complete the application, that would need to be funded.

For Councillors information, attached to this report are the last two financial year IPART media releases on the IPART applications and outcomes.

Early commencement ensures Council retains control over timing, scope and community engagement rather than being driven by financial pressure

Proposed approach — commencing the review

The findings of Council’s previous financial and service level reviews indicate that structural funding pressures are emerging and warrant further investigation of long-term revenue options.

This report does not propose that Council proceed to an SRV application. Rather, it seeks to commence the preparatory work necessary for Council to make an informed decision at a future point.

· assess whether an SRV is required

· identify potential funding gaps

· test service and infrastructure scenarios

· review productivity and cost containment measures

· benchmark Council against comparable organisations

· develop a clear engagement framework for the community

This work will enable Council to make an informed, evidence-based decision about whether to proceed to community consultation and a future IPART application.

Resourcing implications

An SRV investigation and application process is resource-intensive and requires cross-organisational input, including:

· finance and modelling

· asset and infrastructure planning

· corporate strategy

· communications and engagement

· governance and policy

Resourcing requirements will be further detailed in a future report.

Financial Implications

There are no immediate financial implications arising from this report.

Any future SRV proposal would be subject to detailed financial modelling, Council consideration and community consultation prior to any decision.

Policy and Legislation

Local Government Act 1993 (NSW), Section 508(2) and Section 508A

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

Deliver accountable and transparent leadership.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Long-term financial sustainability

Without proactively reviewing revenue settings, Council may face increasing financial pressure over time, reducing its ability to maintain services, renew assets and respond to growth. Commencing an SRV review allows Council to understand its long-term financial position early and consider options before issues become critical.

This risk has already been identified through previous internal financial and service level reviews, which confirmed limited capacity to sustain existing service and asset commitments within current revenue settings.

Infrastructure and asset condition

Council manages a large and dispersed asset base that requires ongoing renewal and maintenance. If funding constraints continue, there is a risk of deferred works, increasing maintenance backlogs and declining asset condition, which can impact safety, reliability and community use of key infrastructure.

Service levels and community expectations

Community expectations for services and facilities continue to grow. Without sustainable funding, Council may need to reduce services, delay projects or reprioritise programs, which could affect community satisfaction and confidence in Council’s ability to deliver.

Regulatory and compliance obligations

Council must meet a range of legislative and regulatory requirements. Financial constraints may limit Council’s ability to respond to new obligations, undertake compliance works or maintain required standards, creating operational and governance risks.

Reputation and community trust

If financial challenges emerge without early planning and communication, Council may be perceived as reactive rather than strategic. Beginning the review process supports transparency and helps ensure any future decisions are informed and understood by the community.

Workforce and organisational capacity

Ongoing financial pressure can impact Council’s ability to resource projects, retain skilled staff and sustain organisational capability, which in turn affects service delivery and long-term planning.

Strategic options and timing

IPART applications require significant preparation and lead time. If Council does not begin early investigation, it may have fewer options available in the future and may be forced into more reactive decisions under tighter timeframes.

Earlier financial modelling and service reviews demonstrate that Council has already explored internal efficiencies and reallocation opportunities, reinforcing the need to consider longer-term structural solutions.

Risks associated with commencing the review

Starting an SRV review may raise community concern about potential rate increases and place additional demands on staff resources. These risks will be managed through clear communication that this stage is exploratory and does not commit Council to submitting an application.

Internal / External Consultation

No community consultation is proposed at this stage.

If Council resolves to progress toward an SRV, a comprehensive engagement program would be undertaken, including:

· community forums and workshops

· rates communications and explanatory materials

· public exhibition and feedback processes

· Your Say engagement

· targeted stakeholder engagement

Attachments

1 ⇩.	2024/25 SRV Applications Media Release.
2 ⇩.	2024/25 SRV Outcomes Media Release.
3 ⇩.	2025/26 SRV Applications Media Release.
4 ⇩.	2025/26 SRV Outcomes Media Release.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-3

RP-3 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - MANAGED SHORT-STAY AND TRANSITIONAL CAMPING SOLUTIONS AT WILKS PARK

Author: Carly Hood

Summary:

This report is presented to Council in response to NOM-2 Managed Short-Stay and Transitional Camping Solutions at Wilks Park adopted at the 9 February 2026 Ordinary Council Meeting.

Recommendation

That Council receive and note the report.

Report

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 9 February 2026 Council resolved the following in response to NOM-2 Managed Short-Stay and Transitional Camping Solutions at Wilks Park being:

NOM-2 NOTICE OF MOTION - MANAGED SHORT-STAY AND TRANSITIONAL CAMPING SOLUTIONS AT WILKS PARK

26/020 RESOLVED:

On the Motion of Councillors R Foley and L Tanner

That Council receive a report by 9 March 2026 on the current arrangements for the use and management of Wilks Park, including:

a the rules, regulatory framework and restrictions that apply to the use of Wilks Park, including its operation as a 72-hour short-stay primitive camping area;

b how the site is monitored, patrolled and regulated, including the roles and responsibilities of Council staff and any partner agencies;

c Council’s current approach to managing stays that exceed the 72-hour limit, including compliance processes and escalation pathways;

d how waste and rubbish are currently managed, including collection arrangements, service frequency, costs and any constraints or issues identified;

e existing engagement and coordination with the NSW Government and relevant agencies in relation to people experiencing homelessness at or around Wilks Park; and

f any identified operational, financial, legal or risk considerations arising from the current arrangements;

g a draft letter to the Hon. Rose Jackson, MLC expressing Council’s concerns

The following responses to the Notice of Motion are summarised or grouped in sections a) through to e) for ease of reference and repeated where there is crossover.

a the rules, regulatory framework and restrictions that apply to the use of Wilks Park, including its operation as a 72-hour short-stay primitive camping area;

The area known as Wilks Park is Crown land with a reserve purpose of camping and public recreation. Wagga Wagga City Council manages the reserve as a designated primitive camping ground. The site contains an amenities block (toilets only), a dump point facility for caravan waste, municipal waste bins for site users, a BBQ shelter, picnic tables and an electric BBQ which has been destroyed and not replaced.

The regulatory framework sits under the Activity approval AA24/0308 issued under the Local Government Act 1993. This consent is currently valid until October 2029. The general condition of use is as follows on the signage on the entry:

· The maximum period of use allowed at any one time by a self-contained vehicle is 72 hours.

· Camping is only permitted within self-contained vehicles only. No camping is permitted in tents or swags.

· A minimum distance of 6 metres is required to be maintained between self-contained vehicles, including any annex attached to the vehicle.

· Self-contained vehicles are not to be unoccupied for a period longer than 24 hours.

· Setting up portable showers and toilets is prohibited.

· Fires are permitted for cooking only in portable fire pits.

The Activities Approval also places a limit on the occupancy of the site, with a maximum of 74 self-contained vehicles at any one time. As of 20 February 2026, the exact number of individual occupants at Wilks Park is unknown, but at that point in time there were 16 caravans and 30 tents set up across the site.

b how the site is monitored, patrolled and regulated, including the roles and responsibilities of Council staff and any partner agencies; and

c Council’s current approach to managing stays that exceed the 72-hour limit, including compliance processes and escalation pathways;

Council rangers attend the Wilks Park primitive campgrounds on a weekly basis, subject to priority callouts. The rangers remind campers that the site is for 72 hours use and that all campers must be self-sufficient. Regulatory enforcement options for non-compliance with conditions of use are issued under section 632 of the Local Government Act 1993 which incurs a penalty of $110 or, with court action, a maximum of 10 penalty units ($1100).

If a person is identified as a travelling visitor, Council rangers will enforce the limited stay provisions by issuing a fine, however this has not been applied to anyone in the recent past, as visitors tend to move on of their own accord.

For persons in breach of this rule who are identified to rangers as being homeless, Council’s approach for some time has been to lead with empathy. Council is aware that some occupants at the site have an identified need for support for homelessness and have been working closely with Homes NSW, which is the lead NSW Government agency regarding homelessness, as well as other agencies to support those community members. Staff do not issue them a fine, and Police generally do not issue a ‘move on’ order as there is a very high likelihood that they will have nowhere else more suitable to move on to. Council rangers do not have ‘move on‘ powers.

The site has CCTV directed at the amenities/BBQ shelter and entrance near the bins, with signage indicating the use of CCTV on the amenities block. Footage can be requested through Council’s security contractor and given to the Wagga Police if an incident occurs. In the past 12 months there have been six (6) requests to retrieve such footage.

The community are encouraged to call the Police if they have concerns over safety, anti-social behaviour or criminal activity.

d how waste and rubbish are currently managed, including collection arrangements, service frequency, costs and any constraints or issues identified;

There are eight 240L general waste bins located permanently at Wilks Park which are emptied three times per week. Council is charged approximately $4,000 per annum for this waste collection service. The signage behind the bins states that the bins are for ‘Wilks Park residents only’ and needs to be replaced to create clearer enforcement avenues. Anecdotally, the types of rubbish left next to the bins would indicate that the items are not coming solely from the people inhabiting Wilks Park.

More adequate signage, routine reporting of illegal dumping and use of CCTV can allow better enforcement of illegal dumping under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. Fines for individuals can range from $1,000 to $22,500. Staff will progress with this action, as well as continue with plans to organise a site clean-up day in collaboration with other service agencies.

Council’s Parks staff also visit the site every Monday and undertake an additional clean up around the bins, as well as picking up any rubbish that isn’t located adjacent to a person’s campsite. Staff have to be careful not to accidentally remove items that they may mistake for rubbish but which are actually a person’s private belongings.

Private property can be removed by Council rangers in the following circumstances under the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021, provided strict protocols are followed:

· Obstructing public access.

· Poses a risk to people or the environment.

· Interferes with an amenity.

· Has been in the same place for a certain period of time.

However, this is rarely enforced at Wilks Park. When action is taken, rangers proactively attempt to identify ownership and obtain compliance with the breach to prevent the Council from taking or impounding homeless individuals' possessions.

e existing engagement and coordination with the NSW Government and relevant agencies in relation to people experiencing homelessness at or around Wilks Park; and

Council is not a direct service provider but does play an active role collaborating with local non-profits, government agencies and community groups to raise awareness of homelessness and connect people with services. Council has a positive working relationship with NSW Police, which is the lead agency for crime management, and Homes NSW which oversee homelessness and housing services.

Wagga Wagga and surrounds have state-funded local service providers contracted to provide a range of homeless crisis and intervention support services.

Some of the key organisations that are specifically funded to provide services include:

· Homes NSW

· Edel Quinn (St Vincent de Paul)

· Sisters Housing Enterprises

· Eastern Murrumbidgee Youth Refuge (Mission Australia)

· Salvation Army and

· Marathon Health.

As homelessness is a very complex issue, other local social service providers such as Wellways, Wagga Wagga Recovery Hub, Verto and Legal Aid are also involved in wrap-around support services. Many charitable organisations also provide food, clothing, laundry services and other items to homeless people.

Homes NSW is the division in the Department of Communities and Justice that is responsible for:

· Delivering homelessness services

· Managing all social housing tenancies, allocations, and maintenance

· Building and repairing social and affordable homes

· Coordinating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander housing

· Managing disaster welfare for housing

Homes NSW conduct assertive outreach at Wilks Park as a part of its core business activities. This is weekly, where staffing availability allows. Homes NSW also meets with rough sleepers weekly when providing outreach at Edel Quinn.

Edel Quinn provide breakfast, lunch and showers at their service, which is within walking distance of Wilks Park. Rough sleepers attend this service daily and often engage with staff who can provide information regarding housing options. Staff from Edel Quinn attend Wilks Park when they have some extra food, sometimes twice a week, and engage with rough sleepers, including encouraging them to keep the area clean.

There is an active roster across the funded services providing homelessness outreach and food relief to the Wilks Park area on a regular basis. Wilks Park is not the only hotspot for rough sleepers or people experiencing housing vulnerabilities, and these services provide outreach across the City and wider region.

A monthly barbecue is being conducted at Wilks Park by the Salvation Army and RivMed on a rotational basis, as well as providing Christmas Day lunch. The Salvation Army also provide dinner each Tuesday night at Wilks Park.

Council staff actively participate in and support the quarterly meetings of the ‘Triple H Forum’ (Housing, Homelessness and Human Services), which fosters collaboration and information sharing across these organisations. Organisations participating in the Triple H Forum include:

· Anglicare

· Argyle Housing

· BaptistCare

· Community Corrections

· Eastern Murrumbidgee Youth Refuge (Mission Australia)

· Edel Quinn (St Vincent DePaul)

· Generosity Church

· Homes NSW

· Intereach

· Justice NSW

· Karralika

· Legal Aid

· Marathon Health

· Medicare Mental Health

· Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network

· NSW Health

· Pathways Murrumbidgee

· Relationships Australia

· Salvation Army

· Services Australia

· Sisters Housing Enterprises

· Uniting Care

· Verto

· Wagga Women’s Health

· Wellways

In consultation with local support agencies, staff have developed a Can We Help Emergency Supports campaign including the development of a website wagga.nsw.gov.au/services/support-services/can-we-help which details human dignity support services available for community members experiencing homelessness. The information includes the location of showering facilities, clothes washing facilities, food relief and hot meal services. It also outlines critical emergency service options for accommodation and mental health support.

f any identified operational, financial, legal or risk considerations arising from the current arrangements;

Wilks Park is set up as a primitive short-stay campground for travellers in self-contained vehicles. That means the site does not have appropriate infrastructure to support the growing congregation of people who are camping in tents or other means for long periods of time.

Maintenance of the wastewater management system attached to the toilet block at Wilks Park is becoming problematic. Staff report that the annual average cost since 2020 is approximately $15,000 in maintenance response callouts and pump repairs. This has become more frequent and costly as long-stay inhabitants grow in numbers. In 2020 there were 20 callouts and in 2025 there were 31. The issues are generally related to clothes, syringes, rubbish, oils, fats and foreign objects being disposed of into the septic dump point, which is designed for caravan disposal only.

As mentioned in d), bins are provided for waste disposal, and this costs Council approximately $4,000 per annum. Council staff also collect additional rubbish weekly and dispose of it at the landfill at a cost of approximately $9,000 per annum.

Sharps collection bins for safe disposal of syringes are also provided in the amenities and collected as part of Council’s overarching contract for this service.

Cleaning of the amenities and general maintenance for Wilks Park is indexed annually and is currently budgeted at approximately $18,000 per annum. Actual expenditure over the past five years has averaged approximately $24,000.

Currently, there are people living in Wilks Park who need support from the NSW Government to gain access to long-term accommodation. Council’s current approach is not to try to move on those who don’t have anywhere to go to. Attempting to do so can create scenarios that cause significant stress to both the homeless person and the ranger attempting to force the issue.

Often, people experiencing homelessness face complex challenges in addition to the cost-of-living and housing crisis, which can range from drug or alcohol addiction, mental health issues, being recently released from prison or escaping domestic violence.

Council is not a social services provider, and staff who interact with such persons do not have qualifications or training to undertake the social-welfare aspect, nor do they have power to force people to ‘go elsewhere’. The expectation from some of the community to undertake this work, combined with previous hostile interactions that have occurred at the site are a risk that must be carefully managed to ensure staff are safe.

Staff from various social service agencies regularly attend the site and report to be generally well received, however these interactions are of a different nature, where they are offering friendly assistance, not acting in a regulatory capacity, which is far less welcome.

The overall perception that Wilks Park is ‘not safe’ is a contentious one. Council staff were advised by Wagga Police that in the most recent reporting period, there has been very minimal reporting from community of any criminal activities occurring at Wilks Park. North Wagga Wagga which is inclusive of Wilks Park is not an identified hot spot for crime according to Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research data (BOCSAR, 2025) which is based on reports to Police.

It is however, important to note that many crimes are under-reported. Police strongly encourage community to call 000 if you or someone you know is in danger, witnessing suspicious or criminal activity. Community members can also report non-urgent criminal activity online through the NSW Police Reporting portal.

At a recent meeting with representatives from Wagga Police Local Area Command and Homes NSW, Council staff were advised that another key challenge faced by Homes NSW, which has funding to implement case-specific solutions, was the lack of temporary and short-term accommodation available in a competitive regional market like Wagga Wagga. This is a common barrier for local homeless services when a person decides to engage with their service, to not be able to find them immediate, stable accommodation solutions.

Everyone in our community has the legal right of self-determination, and therefore, although services may offer support, individuals have the right to refuse any service. Thus, some people are essentially electing to stay at Wilks Park even if another option is available. Regardless, local social services continue to attend Wilks Park regularly, offering support and options for people experiencing homelessness, which has resulted in some positive outcomes for those individuals agreeing to accept the services being offered.

Homes NSW (Southern & Western NSW District) has not historically received, and does not currently receive, dedicated Assertive Outreach funding, unlike some other districts. Rather, Assertive Outreach is expected to be delivered within existing operational resources.

This concern has been raised as an advocacy priority in the draft letter to Hon. Rose Jackson MLC, Minister for Water, Housing, Homelessness, Mental Health and Youth as part of the response to this Notice of Motion.

g a draft letter to the Hon. Rose Jackson, MLC expressing Council’s concerns

A letter to the Hon. Rose Jackson MLC, Minister for Water, Housing, Homelessness, Mental Health and Youth, has been drafted by staff expressing Council’s concerns on homelessness and seeking additional funding for dedicated assertive outreach services to be based at the Wagga Wagga office to service the City and wider region. This letter will be issued on Wednesday 11 March to ensure any further specific issues raised by Councillors at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March are included in this advocacy letter to the Minister.

Financial Implications

All services currently being undertaken by Council staff as detailed in this report are funded in endorsed operational budgets and this report is not requesting any allocation of additional funds.

Policy and Legislation

Primitive camping on Crown Lands in NSW is regulated under the Crown Land Management Act 2016 and the Local Government Act 1993.

NSW Homelessness Strategy 2025-2035

Link to Strategic Plan

Vibrant

Reduce homelessness

Advocate for our community to access crisis accommodation and build capacity to prevent and respond to homelessness

Risk Management Issues for Council

As described in part f) of this report

Internal / External Consultation

Internal consultation was undertaken with staff from the Finance, Parks, Regulatory Services, Community Development, Facilities Management and Work Health and Safety teams to provide responses to this Notice of Motion. Staff also met with representatives from Homes NSW and Wagga Police Local Area Command to seek feedback and current advice on their service response at Wilks Park.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Draft Letter to Hon. Rose Jackson MLC

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-4

RP-4 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - IMPACTS OF SYNTHETIC TURF IN PUBLIC OPEN SPACES

Author: Joshua Walsh

Executive: Fiona Piltz

Summary:

This report responds to the Notice of Motion of 7 August 2023 in relation to the NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer’s review of synthetic turf in public open spaces and the NSW Government Guidelines for Synthetic Turf Sports Fields in Public Open Space and how these apply to Wagga Wagga City Council.

Recommendation

That Council receive and note this report.

Report

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 7 August 2023, a Notice of Motion was raised requesting that Council receive a report outlining the implications of the NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer’s review into the design, use and impacts of synthetic turf in public open spaces for Wagga Wagga City Council.

For background, this matter was formally considered by Council in August 2023 following the Notice of Motion. At that time, Council resolved to note the Chief Scientist’s report and to wait for the release of the NSW Government Guidelines before considering any change in approach. Council did not resolve to prohibit synthetic surfaces, nor did it adopt a position in favour of their removal or expansion. The NSW Government Guidelines for Synthetic Turf Sports Fields in Public Open Space were released in 2025.

The NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer’s review was commissioned to assess potential risks to the environment and human health from the use of synthetic turf in public open spaces and to consider alternative approaches and technologies. The review does not recommend the removal or banning of synthetic turf, or recommend the widespread installation of synthetic surfaces, rather it highlights the need for better planning to manage the identified risks. Key issues raised include:

· the makeup of synthetic materials,

· the long-term breakdown of plastics and infill, microplastic pollution through runoff and “walk-off”, chemical leaching into soils and waterways

· heat-related impacts for players.

The NSW Government Guidelines are similar and do not promote broader replacement of natural turf with synthetic surfaces. They provide a practical decision-making framework focusing on making site-specific decisions based on community need, environmental risk, safety, maintenance requirements and whole-of-life costs. The Guidelines only apply to outdoor public sports fields and do not cover residential areas, streetscapes or playgrounds.

The main focus and the higher-risk scenarios identified in the Chief Scientist’s review relates to large-scale 3G or 4G full synthetic football or rugby fields with rubber infill. Council does not have any facilities of this nature so Council’s exposure to the higher-risk forms of synthetic turf identified is relatively low.

Council’s existing synthetic sporting infrastructure is limited and largely sport-specific. Current assets include synthetic cricket pitches, synthetic water-based hockey fields and synthetic tennis courts.

When reviewed against the Guidelines, it is not recommended to make any changes to Council’s existing synthetic facilities. For cricket, there is currently a significant strain on resources to prepare and maintain the existing turf wickets. Replacing existing synthetic pitches with turf would have a substantial impact on the sport’s sustainability in the city. Synthetic pitches also allow for high levels of use without the wear and tear and risk of surface damage associated with turf wickets.

Synthetic water-based hockey fields are now standard for the sport, with hockey played almost exclusively on synthetic surfaces at both community and elite levels. This is acknowledged in both the NSW Guidelines and the Chief Scientist’s review noting that some sports effectively require synthetic surfaces to meet participation and competition requirements.

Synthetic tennis courts are also very common, primarily due to their durability, lower ongoing maintenance and ability to support high levels of community use throughout the year.

The NSW Chief Scientist’s review and the NSW Government Guidelines highlight key risks associated with synthetic turf across environmental, health and safety, and economic considerations. From an environmental perspective, the Chief Scientist identifies risks such as microplastic pollution from turf fibres and infill, movement of materials into stormwater systems, chemical leaching into the environment, and disposal challenges at end of life. As noted above, Council’s existing facilities present limited risk in this area due to the type of synthetic surfaces used, which are generally shorter pile and do not include rubber infill.

The reports also highlight safety considerations related to surface temperatures, with synthetic fields capable of reaching much higher temperatures than natural turf, particularly in large, open synthetic fields. Council’s existing synthetic surfaces are generally smaller, sport-specific facilities so these risks are limited.

In relation to economic considerations, both the Chief Scientist’s review and the NSW Guidelines note that while synthetic fields may offer operational benefits, they also involve significant whole-of-life costs. These include specialised maintenance, infill replacement, environmental compliance, and full surface replacement typically every eight to fifteen years.

The only future synthetic sports field currently identified in Council’s Long Term Financial Plan is Rawlings Park North, listed as a synthetic soccer facility for delivery in 2029/30. However, in recent times Council officers have been working with Football Wagga and discussions have shifted towards the delivery of two natural turf soccer fields rather than a synthetic facility (primarily due to the upfront capital cost associated with their construction). Preliminary site investigations, including soil testing and indicative cost estimates, have commenced and Football Wagga has established a project group to support planning and future delivery. Once the scope and direction of the project are confirmed, a further report will be brought to Council to update the Long Term Financial Plan. Staff are also in the early stages of reviewing the Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040 (ROSC) which originally identified the project and this will be updated as required.

Council does not currently have a standing commitment either for or against synthetic playing surfaces, which is consistent with the approach supported by the NSW Government reports. Decisions around surface type have historically been made on a case-by-case basis, informed by participation demand, field capacity, safety, heat, environmental impacts, maintenance capability and whole-of-life cost. It is recommended that this approach continue to guide future decision-making and planning of open spaces.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040

Link to Strategic Plan

Vibrant

Vibrant and activated spaces and opportunities

Plan for and provide suitable open spaces within our community

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

Attachments

1.	NSW Government - Synthetic turf sports fields in public open space - Guideline for decision makers - Provided under separate cover.
2.	NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer - Independent review into the design, use and impacts of synthetic turf in public open spaces - Provided under separate cover.
3.	Synthetic Turf Study in Public Open Space - Provided under separate cover.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-5

RP-5 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON LAKE ALBERT ROAD

Author: Henry Pavitt

Summary:

This report provides a final update on actions undertaken in response to the 25 May 2020 Notice of Motion – Pedestrian Crossing on Lake Albert Road. Since that time, investigations have been completed and a range of safety and visibility improvements have been implemented at the pedestrian crossing outside Sacred Heart Primary School. Broader planning work has also progressed to address safety at similar multi-lane crossing locations across the city.

It is recommended that the Notice of Motion now be considered resolved, with any future improvements to be considered through Council’s city-wide approach to pedestrian safety and crossability of multi-lane roads.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note the actions undertaken in response to the original Notice of Motion

b note that key safety and visibility improvements at the Lake Albert Road crossing have been implemented

c note that any further improvements will be addressed through Council’s broader city-wide pedestrian safety and active travel planning

Report

At its meeting of 25 May 2020, Council resolved:

NOM-5 NOTICE OF MOTION - PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ON LAKE ALBERT ROAD

20/180 RESOLVED:

On the Motion of Councillors D Hayes and T Koschel

That Council receives a report exploring options to improve pedestrian safety on the Lake Albert Road pedestrian crossing at Sacred Heart Primary School during hours outside of the school zone times.

CARRIED

Following the resolution, Council officers undertook site investigations and broader assessments of pedestrian crossing safety across the local government area.

Site investigations and safety review

Investigations confirmed that the issues experienced at this crossing are similar to those encountered at a number of pedestrian crossings located on multi-lane roads across the city. As a result, the assessment of this location was considered alongside a broader review of pedestrian safety treatments across similar sites.

At the Lake Albert Road crossing specifically, investigations found:

· street lighting at the crossing is adequate and meets required standards

· line marking is compliant with relevant standards and has been renewed as part of resurfacing works

· signage with poor reflectivity has been replaced

· additional larger advance warning signs have been installed to improve driver awareness.

These improvements were implemented to enhance visibility and safety for both pedestrians and motorists.

Current status

Key visibility and safety improvements at the Lake Albert Road crossing have been implemented and the site has been assessed as meeting relevant standards.

Further improvements to pedestrian crossings across the city will be considered as part of Council’s ongoing transport planning, Active Travel planning, and city-wide approach to improving safety at multi-lane crossing locations.

Given the investigations undertaken and works completed, the intent of the original Notice of Motion has been addressed.

Financial Implications

No direct financial implications arise from this report.

Any future pedestrian crossing upgrades or treatments will be subject to future budget consideration and external funding opportunities.

Policy and Legislation

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Vibrant

Our community feels safe.

Support public safety.

Risk Management Issues for Council

While improvements have been implemented at this location, pedestrian safety on multi-lane roads remains an ongoing consideration across the city.

Key considerations include:

· maintaining visibility and compliance of signage and line marking

· increasing traffic volumes across the road network

· ensuring consistent treatment of pedestrian crossings across similar locations

· balancing traffic efficiency with pedestrian safety outcomes.

These risks will continue to be managed through Council’s maintenance programs, transport planning and future capital works prioritisation.

Internal / External Consultation

Internal consultation has occurred with Council’s City Engineering and Traffic teams in relation to investigations and improvements undertaken at the site and across similar locations.

Further consultation will occur where required as part of future pedestrian safety and active travel planning initiatives.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-6

RP-6 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - REVIEW OF BOURKE STREET

Author: Henry Pavitt

Summary:

This report provides a final update on actions undertaken in response to the 28 October 2019 Notice of Motion – Review of Bourke Street. Since that time, a range of safety, traffic, lighting and road improvement initiatives have been completed or progressed. While significant works have been undertaken, it is recommended that the Notice of Motion now be considered resolved, with any further investigation or planning to be addressed through the development of a future corridor study for Bourke Street to guide long-term improvements.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note the actions undertaken in response to the original Notice of Motion

b note that further strategic work will be progressed through the development of a future Bourke Street corridor study to inform long-term planning, safety and amenity improvements

Report

At its meeting of 28 October 2019, Council resolved:

NOM-2 NOTICE OF MOTION - REVIEW OF BOURKE STREET

19/372 RESOLVED:

On the Motion of Councillors D Hayes and T Koschel

That Council receive a report that provides:

a an overview of all current projects being explored for Bourke Street

b options to improve the safety and amenity of the road for pedestrians and drivers

CARRIED

Since that time, Council staff have undertaken extensive investigations and implemented a range of initiatives in consultation with Transport for NSW and Essential Energy, noting that Bourke Street is part of the regional road network and that street lighting infrastructure is under the control of Essential Energy.

Works and actions completed

Street lighting upgrades

Essential Energy has completed upgrades to street lighting between Fernleigh Road and Red Hill Road, improving visibility and safety for motorists and pedestrians. These works formed part of the broader transition from suspended lighting to pole-mounted LED lighting across the city.

Road rehabilitation and traffic improvements

Several road rehabilitation and safety improvement works have been completed along Bourke Street, including:

· rehabilitation and widening works adjacent to Jubilee Park;

· installation of new channelised right-turn lanes at Bourkelands Drive and Jubilee Park access points;

· updated line marking and traffic arrangements to improve vehicle movements and safety.

Council has also secured funding under Transport for NSW programs to support rehabilitation of sections of Bourke Street over multiple years.

Pedestrian safety and crossability

A number of initiatives have been investigated and progressed to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility, including:

· implementation of a 40km/h school zone along key sections of Bourke Street;

· investigation of pedestrian crossing improvements, including concept designs for signalised crossings near the Tolland shopping centre;

· development of concept designs through the Active Travel planning process aimed at improving crossability of four-lane roads such as Bourke Street;

· engagement with Transport for NSW regarding corridor safety and crossing opportunities.

Traffic and safety investigations

Council officers have undertaken investigations and engagement with road users and stakeholders regarding safety concerns along the corridor, including accessibility improvements to median refuges and broader traffic movement and signage improvements.

Planning and investigation work has also been incorporated into broader strategic transport planning, including the Wagga Wagga Transport Plan and associated action items relating to corridor safety reviews and improved crossability.

Future corridor planning

While substantial works and investigations have been undertaken since 2019, Bourke Street remains a key south-north arterial corridor with ongoing traffic growth and safety considerations.

Future improvements, particularly in relation to pedestrian crossings and broader corridor functionality, will benefit from a holistic corridor study approach. A future Bourke Street corridor study would enable Council to:

· assess traffic, pedestrian and cyclist movements along the full corridor;

· identify and prioritise safety upgrades and crossing improvements;

· consider urban design, amenity and access outcomes; and

· inform future funding advocacy and capital works programming.

This work will be progressed as part of Council’s forward transport planning and capital works prioritisation.

Significant investigation and improvement works have been undertaken in response to the 2019 Notice of Motion, addressing key safety, lighting and traffic concerns raised at that time.

It is therefore appropriate that the Notice of Motion now be considered resolved, with any further strategic planning and improvement works to be addressed through future corridor planning and capital works programs, including the preparation of a Bourke Street corridor study.

Financial Implications

No direct financial implications arise from this report. Any future works associated with the preparation of a Bourke Street corridor study or implementation of identified improvements will be subject to future budget consideration and external funding opportunities.

Policy and Legislation

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Vision for the future

Adopt a sound approach to strategic planning to ensure that we are preparing for future growth requirements of the city.

Risk Management Issues for Council

While a number of safety and infrastructure improvements have been delivered along Bourke Street since 2019, the corridor continues to function as a major north–south arterial road carrying significant traffic volumes.

Key ongoing risks and considerations include:

· pedestrian safety and crossability across multi-lane sections of the corridor;

· increasing traffic volumes associated with growth in surrounding residential areas;

· the need to balance traffic efficiency with safety and accessibility outcomes; and

· dependency on Transport for NSW and other external agencies for approval and delivery of certain treatments on the regional road network.

These matters will be more comprehensively considered through the preparation of a future Bourke Street corridor study and through Council’s broader city-wide approach to improving safety at four-lane pedestrian crossing locations.

In the interim, Council will continue to monitor safety and operational matters and implement improvements where feasible through existing maintenance and capital works programs.

Internal / External Consultation

External consultation has occurred progressively since 2019 with Transport for NSW and Essential Energy in relation to lighting, traffic management and corridor safety improvements along Bourke Street. Further consultation will be undertaken as part of any future Bourke Street corridor study.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-7

RP-7 RESPONSE TO NOTICE OF MOTION - TURVEY PARK AND MT AUSTIN PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

Author: Henry Pavitt

Summary:

This report provides an update on actions undertaken in response to the Notice of Motion regarding pedestrian safety improvements in Turvey Park and Mt Austin and outlines further work proposed to improve pedestrian crossing safety at key locations and across the wider road network.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note the pedestrian safety improvements delivered to date in Turvey Park and surrounding areas, including new pedestrian refuge islands and accessibility upgrades

b note that further pedestrian safety enhancements will be considered through the development of Council’s new Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP)

Report

At the Council Meeting on 26 July 2021, Council resolved the following:

NOM-1 NOTICE OF MOTION - TURVEY PARK AND MT AUSTIN PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

21/220 RESOLVED:

On the Motion of Councillors D Hayes and T Koschel

That Council receive a report outlining:

a any possible pedestrian safety improvements along Mitchelmore Street and Northcott Parade

b investigate improvements for pedestrian access to the Botanic Gardens facilities along Macleay Street from Urana Street and Hodson Avenue

c consideration of any improvements to be included in any grant or funding opportunities and additions to future works plans

CARRIED

Since adoption of the Notice of Motion, staff have undertaken investigations and progressively implemented a range of pedestrian safety improvements across Turvey Park and surrounding areas, with a focus on Mitchelmore Street, Fernleigh Road and key pedestrian routes to the Botanic Gardens and local shopping precinct.

Key actions delivered to date include:

· installation of two pedestrian refuge islands at the intersection of Mitchelmore Street and Fernleigh Road

· installation of 19 pram ramps across Turvey Park in July 2024, including along Blamey Street, to improve mobility access and pedestrian connectivity

· development of concept options for further pedestrian safety treatments, including an additional refuge at the Mitchelmore Street and Blamey Street intersection

· preparation of a broader plan identifying potential pedestrian refuge locations to support safer crossing of multi-lane roads across the city

· submission for State Government funding opportunities to support delivery of pedestrian safety infrastructure.

These works have improved accessibility and pedestrian safety outcomes within Turvey Park and have informed a broader, city-wide approach to identifying and prioritising crossing improvements.

Multiple site improvements have now been implemented in response to the original Notice of Motion. Further safety enhancements will be considered through the development of Council’s new Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP), currently in preparation and due for completion in the 2025/26 financial year. The PAMP will identify, prioritise for delivery of future pedestrian safety and accessibility improvements across the local government area.

Financial Implications

Works delivered to date have been funded through existing capital works programs and external grant funding, including the State Government Local Small Communities Allocation.

Future pedestrian safety improvements will be subject to Council budget processes, prioritisation within the capital works program and identification of external funding opportunities.

Policy and Legislation

Wagga Wagga City Council Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Vibrant

Our community feels safe.

Support public safety.

Risk Management Issues for Council

Failure to continue improving pedestrian crossing safety may increase risk to community safety and expose Council to reputational and operational risks.

Progressive delivery of pedestrian infrastructure improvements and a coordinated, city-wide planning approach assists in mitigating these risks.

Internal / External Consultation

Internal consultation has been undertaken with City Engineering, Strategic Recreation, Property and Planning teams in developing concept options and identifying priority locations.

External consultation will occur as required for future design development, funding applications and delivery of pedestrian infrastructure works.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-8

RP-8 DRAFT 2026/27 AIRPORT FEES AND CHARGES

Author: Carolyn Rodney

Summary:

The proposed Airport fees and charges for the 2026/27 financial year have been developed and are proposed to be placed on public exhibition. The Airport Fees and Charges are presented to the community earlier than other Council fees and charges, and this is due to the notification notice period required from airlines.

Recommendation

That Council:

a place the draft 2026/27 Airport Fees and Charges on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 11 March 2026 to 7 April 2026 and invite public submissions during this period

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

i addressing any submissions made in respect of the draft 2026/27 Airport Fees and Charges

ii proposing adoption of the 2026/27 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 2025

Report

The Wagga Wagga Airport is a vital regional transport, economic, and social hub for NSW, with approximately 200,000 passengers passing through the regional airport annually.

Councils must adopt their fees and charges on an annual basis. This is a requirement mandated by legislation under the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW). This annual process also ensures transparency, accountability, and community consultation in the councils financial planning.

In order for airport users to be provided with adequate notice of the change in fees and charges for the 2026/27 financial year, a three (3) month notification period is required for airlines to enact this change.

The draft 2026/27 Airport fees were provided to the Airport Special Purpose Committee on 25 February 2026. At this Committee meeting, it was noted that a comprehensive review of all fees and charges at the Airport will be undertaken during the 2026/27 financial year, ready for commencement at the start of the 2027/28 financial year.

Financial Challenges at the Airport

· Current terminal is not fit for purpose and is in a very poor physical condition

· The draft lease document requires a Plan of Management to be adopted by Council and approved by Defence, which commits Council to initial capital works and major capital works. Neither of these capital works have been identified in the lease this time. It serves to emphasis however the need for Council to have the financial resources to deliver the capital works anticipated by Defence.

For Councillors information, to assist with the financial sustainability of the Wagga Airport into the future, at the 13 February 2023 Council meeting, Council resolved to increase the passenger service charge by a minimum of $2.00 (GST exclusive) each year.

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 increases to the passenger service charge for the 2026/27 financial year are reflective of this previous resolution of Council.

Financial Implications

For the Airport business to return to surplus and to part fund any future capital spend at the Airport, the proposed yearly minimum increase in fees and charges is required.

There is uncertainty about the level of Council co-contribution required for any successful grant funding for capital projects at the Airport. The required terminal upgrade has identified that users of the Airport will be required to contribute more than their current fees and charges.

Further reports will be presented to both the Airport Special Purpose Committee and Council as staff progress with grant applications.

Policy and Legislation

Local Government Act 1993 (NSW)

POL 013 – Return on Investment Council Businesses Policy

POL 021 – Financial Reserves for Future Expenditures

POL 052 – Budget Policy

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Ethical Leadership

Deliver accountable and transparent leadership.

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

If Council resolve to place the draft Airport Fees and Charges on public exhibition, the following methods of consultation will be utilised:

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

After the public exhibition period and Council’s consideration of any public submissions received, direct correspondence will be provided to the Airport users outlining Council’s decision.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

2026.27 Draft Airport Fees and Charges.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-9

RP-9 REQUEST FOR WAIVER OF SPORTSGROUND FEES

Author: Ben Creighton

Executive: Fiona Piltz

Summary:

This report outlines Wagga Touch Association’s request for a one-off waiver of the Winter Sportsground User Fee for the 2025/26 season.

Recommendation

That Council:

a approve the request from Wagga Touch Association for a one-off waiver of the Winter Sportsground User Fee for the 2025/26 season valued at approximately $15,000

b note that Council officers have undertaken a review of the application of seasonal Sportsground User Fees, policies and procedures and a service review will be completed during 2026/27 to ensure best practice within Council’s booking processes

c approve the budget variation as noted in the financial implications section of this report

Report

Wagga Touch Association (WTA) is a long-standing not-for-profit sporting organisation that delivers touch football competitions and representative programs in Wagga Wagga.

Council applies Sportsground User Fees in accordance with Council’s adopted Fees & Charges. The fees are charged on a seasonal basis (Summer and Winter), as outlined in the Sportsground Licence Agreement, and are calculated as a per-person, per-season fee. This approach is intended to provide a consistent and transparent way of managing sportsground access across sporting codes.

WTA has submitted a request under Council’s Policy 1.4.2 – Waiving of Council Fees and Charges, seeking a one-off waiver of the Winter Sportsground User Fee for the 2025/26 season. The request is based on WTA’s view that its competitions utilise Council sportsgrounds for only a portion of the winter season, while the Sportsground User Fee is applied as a full seasonal rate.

WTA has advised that part of its competitions extend approximately 5–6 weeks into the winter season due to factors such as school holidays, representative commitments and the need to avoid clashes with other sports, and Council acknowledges this overlap. It is also noted, based on Council booking records, that WTA competitions typically start around 5–6 weeks before the formal Summer season. As a result, WTA’s use of sportsgrounds sits outside the defined Summer seasonal dates at both the start and end of the season.

In mid-2025, WTA enquired about the potential for a waiver of the Winter Sportsground User Fee and was advised that any such request would need to be submitted through Council’s formal fee waiver process. Around the same time, Council officers, through a misinterpretation of how the fees should be applied, advised that a per-booking fee model may be an option and looked into this further.

At that point, the booking system was set up with multiple touch fields grouped together as a single bookable space. This produced an indicative cost that appeared significantly lower than the usual seasonal Sportsground User Fee. Based on the information provided by Council, WTA reasonably proceeded on the understanding that the per-booking model may apply and updated its seasonal bookings accordingly.

Following further internal discussion and review, it was clarified that under the current policies and processes this type of booking would require the seasonal Sportsground Licence Agreement rather than a per-booking fee model. It was also identified that this situation arose due to:

· errors in the existing booking system setup

· the booking function was transitioning from the Parks Operations to City Growth team at the time

· ambiguity in the wording of some of the fees and charges and booking documentation

WTA was advised of this clarification, including that incorrect advice had been provided during earlier discussions and that the seasonal Sportsground User Fee is the correct framework to apply. This occurred prior to any invoicing.

For clarity, the $50,000 figure referenced in WTA’s correspondence reflects the difference between the typical combined seasonal user fees and the indicative cost generated under the incorrectly configured per-booking model.

It is acknowledged that incorrect advice was provided during this process and that WTA acted in good faith based on the information available at the time. Given this it is recommend approving a fee waiver outside the adopted framework for the value of approximately $15,000. This amount has been estimated based on the previous five years of seasonal user fees with consistent player numbers.

It is also acknowledged that sporting codes use facilities in different ways and that the sporting landscape continues to evolve. These differences may, over time, require greater flexibility in how Sportsground User Fees are applied.

To ensure best practice in the booking function some immediate changes will be made to policy and procedures to clarify any ambiguity, and a service review will be undertaken during 2026/27.

Financial Implications

The revenue received for sportsground usage fees is currently budgeted for in the annual budget.

If Councillors resolve to waive the $15,000 in fees, the Parks & Recreation Reserve is suggested as a funding source, noting that this will reduce the funds available to improve recreational facilities across the local government area.

Policy and Legislation

POL 078 – Financial Assistance Policy

Link to Strategic Plan

Vibrant

Sport and recreational opportunities

Support participation in sport and recreation.

Risk Management Issues for Council

There is the potential to set a precedent for other sporting groups if this fee waiver was supported by Council.

Internal / External Consultation

Council staff have liaised with the Wagga Touch Association regarding this Fee Waiver request.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Wagga Touch Association - Request to Waive Fees.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-10

RP-10 APPLICATIONS FOR SUBSIDY FOR WASTE DISPOSAL FOR CHARITY ORGANISATIONS

Author: Andrea Baldwin

Executive: Fiona Piltz

Summary:

This report has been prepared for an application submitted to Council by an individual seeking an extension of relief from fees for the disposal of waste at Council’s Gregadoo Waste Management Centre (GWMC) for the 2025/26 financial year, on the basis that they are providing a benefit to the community.

Recommendation

That Council endorse the request for additional Financial Assistance funding, being supplementary to the previously approved grant allocation, to provide a further waste disposal subsidy of $250 for the 2025/26 financial year to the individual listed below.

Report

Council’s Financial Assistance Policy (POL 078) along with the Delivery Program and Operational Plan contain a deliverable which refers to the waiving of Gregadoo Waste Management Centre Fees and outlines a budget allocation of $10,300 for the 2025/26 financial year.

As part of this program, individuals, registered not-for-profit, non-government registered charities or community groups located in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area are eligible to apply for a waiver or subsidised waste disposal fees. There are two types of waivers or subsidised waste disposal fees that may be applied for:

1. An annual waiver or reduction to a maximum value of $1,000, or

2. A waiver or fee reduction for a single, specific project up to a maximum value of $250. This may be for advertised events such as Clean-Up Australia Day or the Adopt-A-Road Program.

Council at its 23 June Council meeting resolved to provide $5,700 in waste subsidies for nine (9) groups/individuals and at its 21 July Council meeting resolved to provide a further $650 in waste subsidies for an additional two (2) groups/individuals for the 2025/26 financial year, leaving a remaining budget of $3,950 for Council to consider further applications.

The applicant for additional financial assistance and associated subsidy requested are listed below:

No.	Name of Applicant	Approved Financial Year Subsidy	Current Spend Financial Year Spend	Additional Requested Subsidy
1	Peter Dolden	$250	$253	$250

The above listed organisation is well known to Council for providing valuable charitable and social services that benefit the community of Wagga Wagga.

It is recommended to approve this extension application and given that there are over 150 registered charities listed in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area, it is proposed that a remaining budget amount of $3,700 be retained to fund any further applications for subsidised fees that may be received during the 2025/26 financial year.

Financial Implications

An allowance of $10,300 for subsidised waste disposal has been made in the Solid Waste budget for 2025/26, funded from the Solid Waste Reserve. $5,700 was approved for waste subsidies at the 23 June 2025 Council meeting, leaving a budget remaining of $4,600 and a further $650 was approved for waste subsidies at the 21 July 2025 Council meeting, leaving a budget remaining of $3,950. The approval of this report for $250 will leave $3,700 for Council to consider any further applications received for the remainder of the financial year.

Job consolidation 70035 - Charity Subsidies for Waste Disposal

Policy and Legislation

Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993

Financial Assistance Policy- POL 078

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: Wagga Wagga is sustainable, liveable, and resilient to the impacts of climate change

Educate and engage our community in sustainability

Risk Management Issues for Council

No risk management issues were identified in respect to the provision of subsidised waste disposal fees provided they are applied as per the Policy.

Internal / External Consultation

Internal consultation with the relevant sections within Council is undertaken to ensure the operators of the landfill and finance staff are advised of the subsidy to ensure it is applied correctly and monitored appropriately.

The applicants will be advised of the resolution of Council regarding their application for subsidised disposal fees, how the subsidy will be applied and the conditions of entry into the landfill.

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-11

RP-11 2026 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA CONFERENCE - 21 - 24 April 2026

Author: Kori West

Executive: Scott Gray

Summary:

The purpose of this report is to nominate a delegate to attend and represent Council at the 2026 Floodplain Management Australia National Conference Gold Coast Queensland from 21 – 24 April 2026.

Recommendation

That Council:

a attend the 2026 Floodplain Management Australia National Conference to be held at the Gold Coast from 21 to 24 April 2026

b appoint one (1) Councillor as Council’s delegate to the 2026 Floodplain Management Australia National Conference

Report

The 2026 Floodplain Management Australia National Conference will be held at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) from 21 to 24 April 2026. The theme of the Conference is From Risk to Resilience: Advancing Flood Management.

The FMA Conference has been held annually for over 60 years and is the most respected flood risk management event held in Australia.

The Conference is for anyone interested in making our communities more flood safe. It will bring together over 400 flood professionals and community members with interests in flood risk management. Attendees will include Commonwealth, State and Local Government representatives, research organisations and education providers as well as consultants, engineers, land-use planners, emergency responders and community volunteer organisations.

The Conference will include outstanding Australian and International speakers, plenary and concurrent presentations, field trips addressing floodplain issues in the Gold Coast and surrounding areas, as well as great networking events. Optional Conference workshops on topical issues will be held on the Tuesday.

The 2026 Floodplain Management Australia National Conference Program is provided for your reference as an attachment to the report.

Financial Implications

The registration cost per delegate is $1,350. Transport, accommodation and incidentals are estimated at approximately $2,178 per delegate, bringing the total estimated cost to attend this conference to $3,528 per delegate.

This conference will be funded from the Councillors’ Development, Conference and Travel budget, which has a total allocation of $8,000 per Councillor for the 2025/26 financial year.

The expenditure and remaining budget for each Councillor is detailed in the table below.

Councillor	Amount spent YTD 2025/26	Remaining budget 2025/26
Allana Condron	$ 5,230.15	$ 2,769.85
Georgie Davies	$ 0.00	$ 8,000.00
Richard Foley	$ 0.00	$ 8,000.00
Jenny McKinnon	$ 5,784.99	$ 2,215.01
Amelia Parkins	$ 7,368.97	$ 631.03
Karissa Subedi	$ 1,543.60	$ 6,456.40
Lindsay Tanner	$ 3991.22	$ 2,438.24
Dallas Tout	$ 999.31	$ 7,000.69

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

If Council resolves to appoint more than one (1) Councillor as a delegate, the additional costs will be met from the same Councillor Development, Conference and Travel budget allocation.

Policy and Legislation

Local Government Act 1993

Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy (POL 025)

Councillor Induction and Professional Development Policy (POL 113)

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing

Education and skills

Enhance education and skill development offerings within our Local Government Area

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

Attachments

1 ⇩.

2026 FMA National Conference Program

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-12

RP-12 CANCELLATION OF COUNCIL MEETING DATE - 27 APRIL 2026

Author: Kori West

Executive: Scott Gray

Summary:

This report seeks Council’s endorsement to cancel the Council Meeting scheduled for 27 April 2026 following the declaration of a new public holiday on that date. Having regard to operational impacts and the proximity of adjacent Council meetings, it is considered appropriate that the meeting be cancelled rather than rescheduled.

Recommendation

That Council cancel the Council Meeting scheduled for Monday, 27 April 2026, due to the declaration of a new public holiday on that date and determine that no alternative meeting date be scheduled.

Report

Council, at its meeting held on 27 October 2025, adopted the schedule of Ordinary Council Meetings for the period January 2026 to December 2026.

An Ordinary Council Meeting is currently scheduled for Monday, 27 April 2026.

Subsequent to the adoption of the meeting schedule, a public holiday has been declared for Monday, 27 April 2026. As a result, a clash now exists between the declared public holiday and the scheduled Ordinary Council Meeting. In light of this, it is proposed that the Ordinary Council Meeting scheduled for Monday, 27 April 2026 be cancelled.

Council will continue to meet in accordance with the adopted 2026 schedule, subject to any further resolution of Council.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Local Government Act 1993

Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Good governance

Provide professional, innovative, accessible and efficient services.

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 March 2026

RP-13

RP-13 QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE

Author: Scott Gray

Summary:

This report is to respond to 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 L Tanner

Can Council explain how the prioritisation methodology for the Footpath Renewal Program is applied, specifically how the allocation of funding (including the $200,000 renewal component) balances asset condition ratings (particularly paths rated Condition 4–5) against other prioritisation criteria such as proximity to schools, aged-care facilities, and areas of higher pedestrian vulnerability?

Further, how are these factors weighted or correlated to determine the final renewal program each year?

The approach taken integrates both quantitative asset condition data and qualitative risk‑based criteria to ensure that renewal funding is allocated where it delivers the greatest community benefit and risk mitigation.

Asset condition, as captured through the Overall Condition Index (OCI), remains a major input. Footpath sections rated OCI 4–5 typically indicate defects or surface degradation of warranting renewal. However, condition alone does not fully capture the operational risk associated with each location, particularly where usage patterns and user vulnerability amplify the consequences of defects.

It is important to note that the OCI values currently on record for the network represent large areas of footpath, not a standardised footpath segment length.

Because these enlarged segments bundle multiple slabs and sometimes entire blocks into a single OCI score:

· The rating does not accurately reflect localised failures or trip hazards within the segment.

· Slabs with significantly different conditions are averaged into a single number, masking variability.

· This prevents true like‑for‑like comparison with other footpath assets across the network.

For these reasons, OCI data alone could not be used as the primary decision‑making tool for this funding round, and additional risk‑based criteria were required.

The $200,000 footpath renewal allocation represents a new initiative introduced this financial cycle.

As this is the first year of targeted renewal funding of this nature:

· There was no pre‑existing, dedicated prioritisation framework specific to this allocation.

· Staff were required to develop an interim approach using available data, best‑practice asset principles, and risk‑based assessment.

· Developing a fully standardised, detailed, repeatable process requires resourcing, time, and data improvements (including segment normalisation), which are planned but not yet available.

This resourcing constraint meant the prioritisation process had to rely on a combination of condition data, safety considerations, and network importance to produce a defensible and transparent program in the interim.

Locations near schools, aged care facilities, childcare centers, and recreational assets were prioritised due to:

· A higher proportion of vulnerable users (children, elderly residents)

· Increased likelihood of incidents during high‑traffic periods (school drop‑off/pick‑up, aged‑care movements)

· A need for a higher standard of serviceability in these environments

Even where individual slabs within these segments scored better on condition, the overall user‑risk profile elevated the priority rating. Staff also considered whether the footpath forms part of a strategic pedestrian link, for example, connections to the CBD, schools, shopping centers, and community facilities. Paths with high network importance warrant proactive renewal to maintain functionality, continuity, and compliance with accessibility objectives.

Each of the selected locations has a documented history of customer requests relating to uneven surfaces, tripping hazards, or accessibility concerns. This indicates both:

· Confirmed defects not always fully reflected in OCI scores (as OCI assesses slabs, not holistic network performance)

· Demonstrated community impact and dissatisfaction.

In practice, the prioritisation involved correlating the three criteria, asset condition, pedestrian vulnerability, and network importance, to identify locations where the combination of moderate-to-poor condition and high user risk justified advancing renewal works.

For example:

· Bardia Street / Ashmont Block – Serves two schools, aged care, child‑care, church and retail: very high user vulnerability and movement volumes.

· Hampden Avenue – Primary school frontage with concentrated daily foot traffic.

· Urana St / College Ave – Supports aged care and event precinct movements.

· Menzies Ave – High‑school frontage with large student pedestrian flows.

· Main St (Lake Albert) – Key connector between school and recreation precinct.

· Morrow St – Strategic CBD link supporting high daily use.

Across these areas, condition was one factor, but not the sole determinant. Sections with some acceptable condition panels were still prioritised where the broader risk and network considerations significantly increased the likelihood or consequence of pedestrian incidents.

The renewal program represents a risk‑based, evidence‑driven process that blends asset condition data with community safety, network performance, and complaint history. This ensures limited funding is directed to locations where renewal will have the greatest impact on safety, accessibility, and community benefit.

Councillor R Foley

Does council have a written contingency plan or some form of plan that details the steps to be taken to recover funds or protect access to term deposits in the event of a bank collapse

The below response has been provided by Council’s independent Financial Advisor:

As with any investment, in order to receive some form of return, investors need to take some form of risk. If an investor is strongly concerned about investing in term deposits issued by APRA regulated ADIs (authorised deposit-taking institutions), then it should simply just place its money on-call (overnight cash) and receive very little return on investment with little diversification.

Bank term deposits in Australia are issued by banks regulated by:

· Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA)

· Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)

Australian banks (including the domestic four major banks) are among the most tightly regulated in the world, with strict capital and liquidity requirements. The four major banks are considered systemically important and heavily supervised.

Government guarantee (Financial Claims Scheme)

Term Deposits are still currently protected under the Financial Claims Scheme (FCS). This scheme is administered by APRA and guarantees:

· Up to $250,000 per account holder per authorised deposit-taking institution (ADI)

This means:

· If a bank collapses, the Australian Government guarantees deposits up to $250,000 per person per bank

· Payments are typically made within days

What would have to happen for a collapse?

For a term deposit to fail and Council to lose money, all of the following would need to occur:

1. The government does not honour the Financial Claims Scheme (FCS) up to $250,000 per ADI i.e. the government guarantee level

2. Referring to the Bank Capital Structure chart below, the order of payments in a bank failure would mean that all equity holders lose 100% of their money

3. All hybrid holders would lose 100% of their money

4. All subordinated debt holders would lose 100% of their money

5. All senior, unsecured debt holders would lose 100% of their money

6. Only then would senior secured debt (including term deposit) holders would incur some sort of loss

Regulators globally are ensuring that bank collapses are avoided, imposing strong capital requirements through ongoing severe stress tests e.g. pandemic period. In the very unlikely severe case of a bank failure, governments would manage these problems via mergers and well-managed exits.

Deposit and senior secured debt represent the highest ranked liabilities (ex-APRA) in a bank’s capital structure. The return payoff for bank liabilities will be dependent upon its position within the capital structure of a bank. While un-guaranteed exposures represent some risk, for Australia’s banks, this is completely offset by their strong capital position and robust prudential regulatory framework. Australia’s banks remain highly capitalised with strong balance sheets.

Councillor L Tanner

When will the Pedestrian Access Mobility Plan be presented to Council?

The Pedestrian Access Mobility Plan is due to be reviewed at the end of this financial year and will then be presented to Council.

Councillor McKinnon

Would it be feasible for Wagga Council to conduct a trial of extended library opening hours on the same days that free pool entry is offered, with a view to making this a permanent arrangement on days of 41deg or more if the extended library service is well-received?

A response will be provided to Councillors at its next Ordinary Meeting held 23 March 2026.

Councillor Parkins

A tree recently fell outside the Conservatorium of Music and the Board were wondering if this tree can be replaced. They have requested one that does not drop limbs.

Council has assessed the site outside the Conservatorium of Music following the recent tree loss and determined that replanting in the same location is not feasible due to the substantial remaining root plate after stump grinding, and the tree’s position above a stormwater drain. An alternative location was also considered, however as it operates as a loading dock and pedestrian crossing point, it is not suitable for planting. Council is committed to replacing trees wherever practicable although in this instance, existing infrastructure and site conditions prevent replanting at these particular locations.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Regional Leadership

Good governance

Provide professional, innovative, accessible and efficient services.

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

N/A