NOTICE OF Council MEETING
The Meeting of
Parramatta City Council will be held in the Council Chamber, Fourth Floor,
Dr. Robert Lang
Chief Executive Officer
Phone 02 9806 5050 Fax 02 9806 5917 DX 8279
ABN 49 907 174 773
www.parracity.nsw.gov.au
“Think Before You Print”
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
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The Lord Mayor Clr Antoine (Tony) Issa, OAM –
Woodville Ward |
Dr. Robert Lang, Chief Executive Officer - |
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Sue Coleman – Group Manager City Services |
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Assistant Minutes Clerk – Joy Bramham |
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Minutes Clerk – Grant Davies |
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Sue Weatherley Group Manager Outcomes & Development |
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Clr Paul Barber – Caroline Chisholm Ward |
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Clr |
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Clr Mark Lack – Elizabeth Macarthur Ward |
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Clr John Chedid – Elizabeth Macarthur Ward |
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Clr Glenn Elmore – Woodville Ward |
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Clr Scott Lloyd – Lachlan |
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Clr Pierre Esber– Lachlan |
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Clr Andrew Wilson – Caroline Chisholm Ward |
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Clr Prabir Maitra – Arthur Phillip Ward |
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Clr Andrew Bide – Caroline Chisholm Ward |
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Clr Julia Finn – Arthur Phillip Ward |
Clr Michael McDermott - Elizabeth Macarthur Ward |
Clr Paul Garrard, Deputy Lord Mayor – Woodville Ward |
Clr Chiang Lim – Arthur Phillip Ward |
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Staff |
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Staff |
GALLERY
Ordinary
Council |
23 February 2009 |
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM SUBJECT PAGE
NO
1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Ordinary Council - 22
January 2009, Regulatory Council - 9 February 2009
2 APOLOGIES
3 DECLARATIONS
OF INTEREST
4 Minutes of Lord Mayor
5 Public Forum
6 PETITIONS
7 COUNCIL MATTERS TO BE
ADOPTED WITHOUT DISCUSSION
8 City Development
8.1 2008/09
8.2 Draft
LEP for
8.3 Draft
LEP Supplementary Report
8.4 Draft
Granville Pedestrian Movement, Parking and Transport Study
9 Environment
9.1 Adoption
of the Recently Exhibited Draft Ponds Subiaco Creek Waterways Rehabilitation
and Maintenance Master Plan
10 Roads Paths Access and Flood Mitigation
10.1 Report
on Commuter Challenge
10.3 Parramatta
Traffic Committee meeting minutes held on 5 February 2009
10.4 Traffic
Engineering Advisory Group meeting minutes held on 5 February 2009
11 Culture and Leisure
11.1 Naming
of an Unnamed Public Reserve in
11.2 Proposed
Transfer of Various Parcels of Land to Council
11.3 Relationship
to Sydney Turf Club & Golden Slipper
12 Community Care
12.1 Affordable
Housing
13 City Leadership and Management
13.1 Investments
Report for November 2008
13.2 Investments
Report for December 2008
13.3 Australian
Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) Conference - 56th Annual
Conference 'Women in Leadership - The Roadmap' from 19 - 22 March 2009 in
Queanbeyan
13.4 Disclosure
of interests register
13.5 Whistleblowers
Protection Policy
13.6 2008/09
Management Plan - December Quarterly Review
14 DECISIONS FROM CLOSED SESSION
15 Closed Session
15.1 Tender
This report is
confidential in accordance with section 10A (2) (d) of the Local Government act
1993 as the report contains commercial information of a confidential nature
that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial position of the person
who supplied it; or (ii) confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the
Council; or (iii) reveal a trade secret.
15.2 Tender
27/2008 - Collection & Mapping Of Constructed Stormwater System Assets.
This report is
confidential in accordance with section 10A (2) (d) of the Local Government act
1993 as the report contains commercial information of a confidential nature
that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial position of the person
who supplied it; or (ii) confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the
Council; or (iii) reveal a trade secret.
16 QUESTION TIME
Ordinary
Council |
23 February 2009 |
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City Development
23 February 2009
8.1 2008/09
8.2 Draft LEP for
8.3 Draft LEP Supplementary Report
8.4 Draft Granville Pedestrian Movement, Parking
and Transport Study
Item 8.1 |
CITY DEVELOPMENT
ITEM NUMBER 8.1
SUBJECT 2008/09
Parramatta Economic Development Partnerships Plan - Biannual Progress Report
REFERENCE F2006/01387 - D01131523
REPORT OF Manager Economic Development
PURPOSE: In
line with Council’s Resolution in June 2007, to present to Council a biannual
update on the activities associated with Parramatta City Council’s Economic
Development Partnerships Plan. |
(a) That Council receives and notes this six-monthly update on the
activities associated with Parramatta City Council’s Economic Development
Partnerships Plan 2008/09. (b) Further, that Council gives its consideration to the Manager, Economic Development organising a separate briefing and workshop for Councillors to discuss the current local economic climate and opportunities for the 2009/10 Financial Year. That this workshop includes the new Convenor of Business Partnerships and the board of the Parramatta Chamber of Commerce. |
BACKGROUND
1. In June 2007, Councillors supported a
document called ‘The 2007/08 Parramatta Economic Development Partnerships Plan’
which outlined a series of projects to be delivered in the 07/08 financial
year.
2. This Plan steered a new focus on
greater active engagement with the business community and stronger partnerships
with other business-support organisations to leverage more skills, resources
and funds in support of Councils expenditure of the Economic Development Special
Reserve.
3. The purpose of this Economic
Development Special Reserve, which raises approximately $600,000 per annum, is
to support employment and business growth in
4. A detailed report on achievements
against the 07/08 Plan was tabled at Council and subsequently to the Audit
Committee in October 2008. Shortly after, an updated Economic Development Plan
was sent to Councillors and made public through our website outlining projects
for the 08/09 financial year (see Attachment 1).
5. Progress against these projects is
presented in Attachment 2.
6. The Quarterly Review notes overall
expenditure for the Economic Development program, but similar to last year,
detailed actual expenditures will support a full report to Council at the end
of this financial year.
7. In light of the tragic death of Serge
Markovtzev, the team is now reviewing the projects proposed for the remainder
of this financial year.
8. Planning will soon begin for the
2009/10 Partnerships Plan. As part of this process, Mr Otto Hirsch, the new
Convenor of Business Partnerships will host a number of roundtables with the
business community to help us understand their needs and aspirations. This will
give us insight into the current local economic climate and subsequently assist
in informing next years’ projects.
Michael Thomas
Manager Economic Development
1View |
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18 Pages |
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2View |
Economic Development Project Progress Report January 2009 |
4 Pages |
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REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 8.2 |
CITY DEVELOPMENT
ITEM NUMBER 8.2
SUBJECT Draft
LEP for
REFERENCE F2006/01198 - D01134263
REPORT OF Project Officer - Land Use and Transport
Planning
PURPOSE: To report to
Council’s resolution of |
In relation to 181 James (a) That an amendment to Schedule 1 of the Parramatta draft
comprehensive LEP be made, prior to
the public exhibition of the plan, to include in accordance with clause 2.5
of the draft LEP, a reference to the Costco outlet as a restricted retail
premises. (b) That Council not support
the following: (i) Increasing
the extent of retail uses permitted in the B5 Business Development zone. (ii) Increasing
the height and FSR controls to 21 metres and 2.5:1 respectively. In relation to Granville RSL
( (a) That the proponent be invited to make a detailed planning submission in relation to the request for increased height and floor space provisions for the Granville RSL site. (b) That any submission
received be considered by Council staff and reported to Council following
exhibition of the LEP. |
BACKGROUND
1. At the Council meeting of
“(a) That, consideration of this matter be deferred to the Council Meeting to be
held on 23 February 2009 and the application for rezoning submitted by
Granville RSL be considered in the meantime.……
(c) Further,
that in relation to
the land on the eastern side of James Ruse Drive presently shown as B5, that a
report be brought forward commenting on the submission which has been received
by Council resulting out of the internal discussions which have been held
between council staff, the Department of Planning and the applicant.”
2. This report provides Council with information on these rezoning submissions.
3. The rezoning submission
for
(a) permit big box bulky goods
retailing (including a Bunnings, Officeworks and Costco stores) and other
speciality retail development.
(b) increase the range of
permissible land uses in the B5 Business Development zone.
(c) increase the height and FSR
controls that apply to the site from 12m to 21m and 1.5:1 to 2.5:1
respectively.
4. Further information on the development concept is provided in Attachment 1 – detailed report.
5. The site at
6. Part of the rezoning request is consistent with land uses proposed in the B5 Business Development zone under Draft LEP 2008. However, the proposed Costco development is not permitted. The development has many parallels with conventional bulky goods retailing in that it sells goods that are predominantly large and require large floor space to accommodate there products. However, the standard LEP template does not contain a suitable definition to permit this use apart from a “retail premises” definition. It is recommended that an amendment be made to the draft plan to accommodate only the Costco development as an additional use and not allow retail premises more generally.
7. Allowing retail premises in the B5 Business Development zone would contravene the objectives of the zone and place pressure on the viability of existing centres. It is not recommended that Council support increased height and FSR controls which are considered excessive for the site in its context.
Granville RSL site
8. Two submissions received in relation to the Granville RSL site (Attachment 3), request that Council adopt controls which allow for a greater density of residential development on the site than that currently proposed.
9. No detailed site specific studies have been received, however, it is requested that the site be able to achieve a height of 9-12 storeys (27-36m). It is noted that the surrounding height limits proposed range between 12-20m.
10. It is acknowledged that the site benefits from good access to public transport and services, being located approximately 400m from Granville Town Centre. It is recommended that the proponent be invited to make a detailed submission during the exhibition of the LEP and that this will be further considered at this time.
11. Further discussion on the site is contained in Attachment 2 of this report.
Neal McCarry Marcelo Occhiuzzi
Project Officer – Land Use Manager Land Use and
Transport Planning
1View |
Detailed Report : Spot rezoning proposal for former Sydney Water Site
– |
9 Pages |
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2View |
Detailed report: Granville RSL |
4 Pages |
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3View |
Submissions for the Granville RSL site |
4 Pages |
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REFERENCE MATERIAL
none
Item 8.3 |
CITY DEVELOPMENT
ITEM NUMBER 8.3
SUBJECT Draft
LEP Supplementary Report
REFERENCE F2006/01198 - D01135593
REPORT OF Manager Land Use and Transport Planning
PURPOSE: This report
follows a Councillor workshop on |
(a) That
Council adopt the recommendation as contained in Manager Land Use and
Transport Planning Report as appended as Attachment 1 as previously
considered by Council at its meeting held on 15 December 2009 and
subsequently deferred to this meeting. (b) That the general agreement
reached by Councillors at the workshop on 4 February 2008, on the following
matters be considered by Council as potential amendments to the draft LEP. 1 The proposed Mixed Use B4 zone on 2 Consultation with the Department of
Housing relating to the proposed zoning regime for its land holdings in
Telopea and its relationship to its redevelopment plans to ensure a mix of
public and private housing and good urban design outcomes. 3 Consideration of replacing the proposed
Low Density R2 zone between 4 The proposed Low Density R2 zone between
John, Louis and Blaxcell Streets and The Avenue in Granville, being replaced
by a High Density R4 zone. 5. The proposed General Industrial Zone IN1
on the corners of Wellington and Clyde Roads and Rawson Road and Ferndell
Street, South Granville, being replaced by a Neighbourhood Centre B1 zone. 6 The
land between Railway Terrace, Cross Street and Swift Street, Guildford being
increased in height to 14 metres. 7 The land on the western side of 8 The High Density R4 zone in the precinct
between Pennant Street, Macarthur Street Victoria Road and the park to the
north, being replaced by a Medium Density R3 zone with corresponding height
and FSR. 9 Consideration being given to reinserting
the zoning, height and FSR controls for the Epping precinct as previously
endorsed by Council. (c) Further, that Council invite the owner(s) of land within the industrial precinct at River West Road, Parramatta, to discuss a process by which the rezoning of the land to allow a mix of uses including residential, be considered. |
BACKGROUND
Council considered a report on the finalisation and adoption
of the comprehensive
(a) That consideration of this matter be deferred to
the Council Meeting to be held on
(b) That
a further workshop be held on this issue as early
as possible in February so that Councillors who wish to raise matters have the
opportunity to do so.
(c) That Councillors raise any
concerns/issues prior to the workshop being held.
(d) Further,
that in relation to the land on the eastern side of James Ruse Drive
presently shown as B5, that a report be brought forward commenting on the
submission which has been received by Council resulting out of the internal
discussions which have been held between council staff, the Department of
Planning and the applicant.
The report previously included on the agenda and deferred, is at attachment 1.
The workshop was held on
Since that workshop, Council resolved the following at it
meeting on
(a) That Parramatta City
Council seek to address the finalisation of the Parramatta Local Environment
Plan in a most timely manner, and in order to give due consideration to all
matters pertaining to the city’s future character:
(b) That a report is requested from Council’s Property Section listing
all of Council’s properties and promoting a strategy which seeks to ensure that
community owned land in Council’s ownership is not disadvantaged, and that
scope is provided to maximise the community’s future investments.
(c) That such land will be identified and categorised so as to allow
its inclusion in the LEP, after consultation with Council.
(d) That each Council Ward will form a ‘Working Party’ of its
Councillors to review the proposed future character of each Ward, and that
where discussion is required about land adjacent to Ward boundaries, that the
Councillors of both Wards will have equal input.
(e) That each Ward ‘Working Party’ will deliver its outcomes to the
responsible officer by
(f) That after the plan is finally adopted by Council and sent to the
Department of Planning for a Section 65 Certificate to enable public
exhibition:
(g) That Council undertake an informal exhibition of the plan through
each Ward over the pursuing four month period.
(h) That a report is requested outlining the format and process of such
an informal exhibition.
(i) That for the purpose of exhibition a method of presentation be
developed by Council which will allow easy recognition and understanding of the
LEP document.
(j) Further, that the CEO convey Council’s intentions to the Department
of Planning.
Given the time lines for the preparation of reports for the Council agenda, it has not been possible to include the further feedback sought in part (e) of Council’s most recent resolution as described above. It is also understood that a report from Council’s Strategic Asset Management Unit addressing part (b) of the above resolution, will be prepared shortly for the Council’s consideration.
Marcelo Occhiuzzi
Manager Land Use and Transport Planning
1View |
Draft LEP report considered on |
19 Pages |
|
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 8.4 |
CITY DEVELOPMENT
ITEM NUMBER 8.4
SUBJECT Draft
Granville Pedestrian Movement, Parking and Transport Study
REFERENCE F2007/02318 - D01136194
REPORT OF Place Manager - City Strategy
PURPOSE: The
purpose of this report is to adopt the Draft Granville Pedestrian Movement, Parking and
Transport Study and the Draft Action Plan for public exhibition |
(a) That Council place the Draft Granville Pedestrian Movement, Parking and
Transport Study and the Draft Action Plan on public exhibition from (b) That the Draft Granville
Pedestrian Movement, Parking and Transport Study and the Draft Action Plan be
forwarded to the Traffic Committee for comment and feedback (c) Further,
that Council request the NSW Minister for Transport to
update Council on the status of the
proposed $16million upgrade to Granville Railway Station. |
1. During 2008, Greg Tucker and Associates
(GTA Consultants) undertook a comprehensive Pedestrian Movement, Parking
and Transport in the Granville Town Centre.
2. The study included extensive
traffic and pedestrian movements that are now available to Council staff for
further manipulation and analysis. Attached
is a copy of the Draft Executive Summary of the Granville Pedestrian Movement,
Parking and Transport Study (attachment 1).
A full copy of the document is available on request (209 pages).
3. A key conclusion of the study is
that vehicle traffic in Granville Town Centre is highly congested due to the
broader traffic network, particularly
Key priorities identified include:
· Provide additional on ramps from
· Cease freight train movements
across
· Provide additional bicycle parking facilities in the town centre and Interchange
· Renew and upgrade bus interchange facilities on current site
· Lobby for additional bus services
· Improve pedestrian access across the rail and throughout the Town Centre
· Provide additional parking spaces for rail commuters and town centre visitors
4. Following examination of the GTA
Study and feedback from the Granville Town Centre Committee, Council officers
have prioritised and suggested further solutions that reflect Granville Town
Centre’s changing circumstances and the priorities of Council. These actions are included in the Granville
Pedestrian Movement, Parking and Transport Study Draft Action Plan (attachments
2 and 3).
5. The Ministry of Transport (MoT) have assured Council officers that
any works undertaken in regards to the Interchange will be in full cooperation
with Council, and they will work closely with Council on the plans for the
Community Hub and its integration with the Interchange. Once Council’s plans and timeline are clear,
it is expected that the MoT will announce its final plans for the Hub site.
OPTIONS
6. It is proposed that the Draft
Executive Summary of the Granville Pedestrian Movement, Parking and Transport
Study and the Draft Action Plan go on Public Exhibition between 2 March 2009
and 30 March 2009. The draft study and
action plan will be exhibited on line, and at Council facilities, including
7. Letters will be sent to all attendees of previous Council consultation workshops, and will be advertised in the local press and on Council’s website.
8. The draft study and action plan will also be sent to the Traffic Committee for feedback before a further report to Council to consider these documents for adoption. A comprehensive summary of community comments gained from the exhibition would also be included in this report, along with any subsequent changes to the documents.
CONSULTATION
& TIMING
9. Following a Community Workshop on 6 March
2008, an early draft of the plan was workshopped with Councillors. Along with feedback regarding the findings of
the study, Councillors requested a second Community Consultation. Attendance at the 2nd consultation
held on the 21 April 2008 was excellent with over 80 community members in
attendance. Excellent feedback was
supplied by members of the community, particularly regarding parking and bus
services.
10. The NSW Ministry of Transport (MoT)
independently began a review of the Transport Interchange at Granville
Station. GTA worked with MoT’s
consultant (SKM) to ensure coordination and coherent outcomes. A copy of the Draft Study has been sent to
MoT.
11. The NSW Attorney General’s (AG’s) Department
has undertaken a Safety Audit of the Granville Railway Station and its
surrounds. This was undertaken in
October 2008 however a report outlining the findings is not yet available.
12. This Safety Audit followed a commitment in August by the then Premier Morris Iemma to a $18million upgrade of the Granville Railway Station (see attachment 4) and a subsequent meeting between Local Police, senior staff of NSW AG’s, the Member for Granville David Borger and Council’s Granville Place Manager.
13. GTA undertook a number of meetings with key stakeholders including the Chamber of Commerce, the RTA, MoT and the Taxi Council of NSW. Two community consultation events were undertaken where community members were able to speak with the consultants and view their recommendations. Community members were very clear on there concern about the recent changes to bus routes in the suburbs of Granville and South Granville, and many expressed opposition to closing Memorial Parade and the northern end of South Street.
14. Discussions are also continuing regarding State Government funded additional commuter parking associated with the Granville Railway Station. This follows lobbying by the Lord Mayor at a Community Cabinet Meeting held on the 9 October 2008 at St Marys where the Minister for Transport committed to working with Council to resolve this matter, but not to committing any resources.
15. The Draft Executive Summary of the Granville Pedestrian Movement, Parking and Transport Study was tabled at the November 2008 meeting of the Granville Town Centre Committee for feedback and response. Feedback from the meeting assisted in the formation of many of the actions in the Granville Pedestrian Movement, Parking and Transport Study Draft Action Plan.
Neile Robinson David Gray
Place Manager Senior
Project Officer
Transport Planning
1View |
Executive Summary |
14 Pages |
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2View |
Draft Action Plan |
5 Pages |
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3View |
Aerial Map |
1 Page |
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4View |
Press Release |
1 Page |
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Details of Consultancy |
1 Page |
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REFERENCE MATERIAL
Ordinary
Council |
23 February 2009 |
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Environment
23 February 2009
9.1 Adoption of the Recently Exhibited Draft Ponds
Subiaco Creek Waterways Rehabilitation and Maintenance Master Plan
Item 9.1 |
ENVIRONMENT
ITEM NUMBER 9.1
SUBJECT Adoption
of the Recently Exhibited Draft Ponds Subiaco Creek Waterways Rehabilitation
and Maintenance Master Plan
REFERENCE F2007/02292 - D01129898
REPORT OF Acting Waterways Systems Manager
PURPOSE: This report outlines the result
of the public exhibition of the draft Ponds Subiaco Creek Waterways
Rehabilitation This and Maintenance Master Plan and recommends the document be adopted by Council |
(a) That the Ponds Subiaco Creek Waterways Rehabilitation and Maintenance Master Plan be adopted by Council. (b) That actions identified in the Plan be implemented as funds are provided in future Council Management Plans. (c) Further, that the community workshop participants be advised of the outcome of Council’s decision and thanked for their efforts in providing valuable input into master plan. |
BACKGROUND
1. Council’s adopted Rivers of Opportunity waterways strategy outlines a number of key areas for implementing waterways improvement. One of these areas is the development of Waterways Rehabilitation and Maintenance Master Plans (WRMPs). WRMPs provide a consistent, prioritised and agreed program of maintenance and restoration works for waterways. The premise behind Council’s approach is to preserve the ecological integrity of the waterway while recognising and managing the constraints provided by urbanisation at an acceptable level.
2. Council previously adopted WRMPs for Toongabbie Creek (OG 129/2002, 14 October 2002), Vineyard Creek (OG 124/2003, 20 October 2003) and Quarry Branch Creek (OG 05/2006 27 March 2006).
3. Council’s Waterways Prioritisation Assessment 2004/05, which guides the allocation of Council’s resources toward the most suitable and effective waterways for rehabilitation, identifies Ponds Subiaco as a high priority for master planning.
4. The Ponds Subiaco Creek drains an 839 hectare catchment
within the eastern section of the City of
5. The catchment is almost fully developed and is largely zoned
residential in the north with some special use and industrial development in
the south. Council’s Residential Development Strategy (RDS) has designated
areas in Carlingford, Rydalmere, East Telopea and
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
6. The cost of the consultancy to produce the Master Plan was $94,280.00 excluding GST. The Master Plan includes the main report with the scope of works, vision, objectives, description of the catchment and detailed action plan. There are a set of feature maps for identification of specific attributes of the broader catchment and a set of reach maps that contain site specific actions at a series of locations along the waterway. The Master Plan also includes accompanying special reports on the geomorphic assessment of the waterway and European and Aboriginal studies of sites within or adjacent to the creek. (The Master Plan has been supplied under separate cover).
7. The geomorphic assessment includes an analysis of the physical characteristics of the waterway, specification of stream restoration targets and identification of priority actions. The Aboriginal and European Heritage studies have been included in the master planning process to ensure that any planned waterways restoration works are considered in the context of any identified heritage sites and to minimise impacts to those sites.
8. The Master Plan identifies a range of maintenance and rehabilitation activities. These are a combination of hard and soft civil works together with a range of intensive vegetative measures. Examples include bank stabilisation, managing environmental weeds, path and track management, stormwater outlet works, protection of potential heritage items, interpretative signage and education.
9. Projected capital costs for implementation of the Master Plan over a 10 year period is from $7,700,000. The estimated annual maintenance costs for this period is from $880,000. Due to likely funding constraints and competing Council projects and services, the activities have been prioritised. A higher priority has also been placed with the upper reaches to treat issues as close to source as possible.
10. Funding
for these works is currently available through existing budgets, mainly special
rates, and may also be available through future grant funding. An increase in
budget will be needed to complete all works. Council has a $330,000 rolling
works program for Waterways Restoration, which is funded by the Suburban
Infrastructure Enhancement (Environment)
Special Rate. It is anticipated that for 2009/10 a portion of these
funds will be applied to implementing the Master Plan. Continuation of this
Special Rate is essential to the Master Plan implementation beyond 2010. The
adoption of this plan will help support Council's application to have the
Special Rate renewed.
CONSULTATION & TIMING
11. Three methods were used to engage the community in developing the
draft Master Plan. The first was a community forum on 3 April 2008
which attracted 12 people with a range of interests. The purpose of the forum
was to identify a range of community issues and values for the waterway
corridor including a ”vision” for the future. The second event was a schools
“eco-history” competition, in which three local primary schools (Year 4
students from Rydalmere, Telopea and
12. The draft Master Plan was placed on exhibition in Council’s
13. The Master Plan has been developed through collaboration between management and staff in the City Strategy Unit (Environmental Outcomes team) and Assets and Environment Unit (Natural Resources and Civil Infrastructure teams).
Alison Parr
Acting Waterways Systems Manager
There are no
attachments for this report.
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Ordinary
Council |
23 February 2009 |
|
|
Roads Paths Access and
Flood Mitigation
23 February 2009
10.1 Report on Commuter Challenge
10.3 Parramatta Traffic Committee meeting minutes
held on 5 February 2009
10.4 Traffic Engineering Advisory Group meeting
minutes held on 5 February 2009
Item 10.1 |
ROADS PATHS ACCESS AND FLOOD MITIGATION
ITEM NUMBER 10.1
SUBJECT Report
on Commuter Challenge
REFERENCE F2008/03687 - D01129990
REPORT OF Senior Project Officer - Transport Planning
PURPOSE: This report summarises the results of the Commuter
Challenge held in November 2008 and outlines the possible future of this
event as part of a proposed annual Sustainable Transport Month |
(a) That Council receive and note the
results of the Commuter Challenge including the key impact of saving 1,494 kg
of Carbon Dioxide. (b) Further,
that Council consider funding an annual Sustainable Transport Month
including the Commuter Challenge to promote and raise awareness of
sustainable transport choices to reduce the impact of privates car on the
environment, as part of the 2009/10 budget process. |
BACKGROUND
1. The Commuter Challenge was part of
Council’s SMarT (Sustainable Movement around Town) programme funded by
Department of Environment and Climate Change (
2. The Commuter Challenge ran from 17 to
3. The number of kilometres by participants
by sustainable transport was recorded as 6,872km – the equivalent of travelling
to
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
5. It has been suggested by participants, Councillors and staff that the Commuter Challenge become an annual event to raise awareness and promote sustainable transport. It has been further suggested that a Sustainable Transport Month be established incorporating existing nation and international sustainable transport initiatives including World Car-free Day 22 September, Earthride 23 September, Sydney Spring Cycle 27 September, RTA Bike Week 28 September to 2 October, Walk to Work Day 2 October and Ride to Work Day 14 October. There are Walk to School and Ride to School Days but these occur in Winter. It is proposed that the Commuter Challenge occur in the last two weeks of the Sustainable Transport Month from 5 to 16 October.
CONSULTATION & TIMING
7. The idea of a Sustainable Transport Month has been discussed among relevant officers and Council’s Green Team and would allow existing events to be consolidated under one banner with additional events to create a strong image of transport sustainability. In 2008, Council held Walk to Work and Ride to Work events and has in the past been involved with the Sydney Spring Cycle and RTA Bike Week. It is estimated that $10,000 is required to undertake a Sustainable Transport Month with the funding mainly to be used for promotional material and catering at individual events. Some of the events could be held in Epping, Westmead and Granville in addition to being held in the city centre. Westmead Children's Hospital already holds their own Ride to Work Day event funded by the Children’s Hospital.
8. Should Council consider this initiative worthy of further assessment, then staff will prepare a detailed funding bid for Council’s consideration as part of it’s 2009/10 budget preparation process.
David Gray
Senior Project Officer - Transport Planning
Land Use & Transport
Planning
There are no
attachments for this report.
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 10.2 |
ROADS PATHS ACCESS AND FLOOD MITIGATION
ITEM NUMBER 10.2
SUBJECT
REFERENCE F2004/08023 - D01132340
REPORT OF Manager City Assets and Environment
PURPOSE: To recommend the
re-establishment of the Street Furniture Contract Sub-Committee which was
established in March 2008. This is
necessary as two of the three original sub-committee members are no longer on
Council. The only remaining member of
the sub-committee is Councillor Andrew Wilson. The purpose of the
sub-committee is to oversee the implementation of the street furniture
upgrade in the next stage of the contract with Adshel Pty Ltd. |
That
Council re-establish the Street Furniture Contract Sub-Committee and appoint
three Councillors to the sub-committee. |
BACKGROUND
1. In June 1998 Council entered into
a twenty year Contract with Adshel Street Furniture Pty Ltd for the supply of a
range of street furniture items, such as bus stops and bins. Adshel supplied the furniture and made an
up-front capital payment to Council. In return, they receive revenue from
advertising on selected items of street furniture.
2. The Contract allows for an update
of the street furniture in year 11 of the contract, at Adshel’s cost. The capital value of the upgrade will be in
the order of $1.6 - $1.9m.
3. On 25 March 2008, Council
resolved, in part, the following:
(b) That
Council establish a Street Furniture Contract Sub-Committee of Councillors
consisting of Councillors Brown,
4. The Sub-Committee subsequently
met in May 2008, and agreed that officers should continue discussions with
Adshel Pty Ltd, aimed at clarifying and resolving outstanding contractual
items, prior to the development of the program of upgrades due in 2009.
5. Councillor Andrew Wilson is the
only member of the sub-committee who remains on Council following the September
2008 Council elections.
6. Since the initial sub-committee
meeting various outstanding items have been resolved, which are now able to be
referred to the sub-committee.
7. To be able to report on the
current status and consider the future direction of the upgrade, it is
necessary that the Street Furniture Contract Sub-Committee be re-established.
8. The recommendations of the
sub-committee will be reported to Council in due course.
Tom O’Hanlon
Manager City Assets and Environment
There are no
attachments for this report.
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 10.3 |
ROADS PATHS ACCESS AND FLOOD MITIGATION
ITEM NUMBER 10.3
SUBJECT Parramatta
Traffic Committee meeting minutes held on 5 February 2009
REFERENCE F2008/05091 - D01132363
REPORT OF Manager Traffic and Transport
PURPOSE: That Council give consideration to the minutes of the Parramatta Traffic
Committee meeting held on Thursday, 5 February 2009. |
(a) That the
minutes of
the Parramatta Traffic Committee meeting held on 5 February 2009 be
adopted. (b)
Further, that the PTC
reports only be provided to Councillors prior to the PTC meeting and not be
included in the Council meeting agenda. |
The reports for the PTC meeting are printed and
distributed to Councillors 7 days prior to the PTC meeting as well as in being
included in the Council meeting agendas.
To eliminate this duplication it is proposed that the reports only be
provided to Councillors prior to the PTC meeting. If a Councillor misplaces the reports a
replacement may be obtained from the Service Manager, Traffic and
Transport. The minutes of the PTC
meeting will continue to be included in the Council meeting agenda.
Marcelo Occhiuzzi
Manager – Land use and Transport Planning
1View |
Parramatta Traffic Committee Meeting Minutes held on 5 February 2009 |
8 Pages |
|
2View |
Item 1 - Proposed One-Way restriction and changes to access and
parking layout in the Service Road at the intersection of Mobbs Lane and
Mulyan Avenue, Carlingford |
4 Pages |
|
3View |
Item 2 - Proposed ‘ |
2 Pages |
|
4View |
Item |
3 Pages |
|
5View |
Item 4 - Investigation of Traffic Conditions - Spurway Street, between
|
2 Pages |
|
6View |
Item 5 - 2008/2009 Traffic and Transport Works Program |
5 Pages |
|
7View |
Item 6 - Proposed Installation of Speed Humps and Rumble Bars in |
3 Pages |
|
8View |
Item 7 - Proposed 3-tonne load limit restriction in |
8 Pages |
|
9View |
Item |
8 Pages |
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10View |
Item |
5 Pages |
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REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 10.4 |
ROADS PATHS ACCESS AND FLOOD MITIGATION
ITEM NUMBER 10.4
SUBJECT Traffic
Engineering Advisory Group meeting minutes held on 5 February 2009
REFERENCE F2008/05098 - D01132373
REPORT OF Manager Traffic and Transport
PURPOSE: That Council give
consideration to the minutes of the Traffic Engineering Advisory Group
meeting held on Note that Item 5
relates to the prioritisation, funding and design of traffic works. This report, if approved, will result in a
more transparent process for selecting which traffic works should be
undertaken and sets out how projects will be ranked. Traffic calming projects would be
prioritised based on their potential to reduce reported collisions and
cost. For a proposal to be included in
the list it would need to have the support of the majority of residents in
the street. The report also addresses
issues relating to the use of landscaping and speed humps in traffic calming. |
(a) That the minutes of the Traffic Engineering Advisory Group
meeting held on (b) Further, that the TEAG reports only be
provided to Councillors prior to
the TEAG meeting and not be included in the Council meeting agenda. |
BACKGROUND
The reports for the TEAG meeting are printed and
distributed to Councillors 7 days prior to the TEAG meeting as well as in being
included in the Council meeting agendas.
To eliminate this duplication it is proposed that the reports only be
provided to Councillors prior to the TEAG meeting. If a Councillor misplaces the reports a
replacement may be obtained from the Service Manager, Traffic and
Transport.' The minutes of the TEAG
meeting will continue to be included in the Council meeting agenda.
Marcelo Occhiuzzi
Manager – Land use and Transport Planning
Attachment 1 – TEAG
Mins of 5 February 2009 – 7 pages.
Attachment 2 – Item
1 – Guidelines for the Use of No Stopping
- Taxis Excepted – 4 pages.
Attachment 3 – Item
Attachment 4 – Item
3 – B Double –
Attachment 5 – Item
4 – Traffic Conditions near
Attachment 6 –
Prioritisation, design and funding Traffic Calming – 4 pages.
Attachment 7 –
Traffic Conditions –
Attachment
Attachment 9 – Item
8 – PTC and TEAG Meeting Dates – 1 page
Attachment 10 – Item
9 – Outstanding correspondence – 1 page
Attachment 11 – Item
10 – Outstanding work instructions – 2 pages.Attachments:
1View |
Attachments 1 to 11 |
29 Pages |
|
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Ordinary
Council |
23 February 2009 |
|
|
Culture and Leisure
23 February 2009
11.1 Naming of an Unnamed Public Reserve in
11.2 Proposed Transfer of Various Parcels of Land
to Council
11.3 Relationship to Sydney Turf Club & Golden
Slipper
Item 11.1 |
CULTURE AND LEISURE
ITEM NUMBER 11.1
SUBJECT Naming
of an Unnamed Public Reserve in
REFERENCE F2008/01238 - D01066683
REPORT OF Recreation Planner
PURPOSE: To name the
currently unnamed reserve located on the western side of |
(a) That the unnamed public reserve
on the western side of Campbell Hill Road (adjoining Woodville Golf Course)
in Guildford be
endorsed in principle as Waddangalli Woodland, and it be
referred to the Geographical Names Board of NSW for formal assignment under
the Geographical Names Act 1966. (b) That if approval is granted by the Geographical Names Board, a
park name sign be erected at the reserve, to be funded from Parks Improvement
Project number 13535. (c) Further, that any persons who lodged a submission in relation to the proposed name be advised of Council’s decision. |
BACKGROUND
1. Ms K Mealing from
the Friends of Duck River Bushcare Group has requested Council to name the
unnamed public reserve located on the western side of
2. A report recommending the name Wadigora
Reserve was submitted to Council on the 26 May 2008. However, as the word
‘Wadigora’ is of Aboriginal origin, Council deferred the matter pending further consultation
with relevant Aboriginal organisations.
3. Council staff have now undertaken further
consultation with members of the Parramatta Aboriginal Advisory Committee and
the Darug Peoples Advisory Committee (DPAC) regarding the interpretation and
suitability of the proposed name. DPAC has recommended the alternative name
Waddangalli as it is considered more appropriate for the reserve. (Attachment 3)
4. The name Waddangalli has been selected as it is in recognition of the abundance of native Acacia decurrens (Green Wattle)
occurring in the understorey of the vegetation at this site. The tree exudes a
sweet edible gum/liquid from its trunk. The name is derived from the following:
a. ‘Wadda’ meaning gum or sweet liquid;
b. ‘ng’ referring to an object (in this case the gum/liquid)
c. ‘al’ meaning power and ‘li’ meaning action
(refers to how the gum comes out of the tree under its own accord);
5. This tree grows to 15 metres in height and has
bright yellow flowers in early spring. It was important to the Aboriginal peoples who originally inhabited the
area as it had a variety of uses including:
a. Gum – food / medicinal treatments;
b. Bark – contains a high level of tannin used
for tanning skins. It was also dropped into small pools to poison fish;
c. Seeds - ground to make a flour or paste;
d. Wood - flexible timber that was often used
to make hatchet handles.
Acacia
decurrens was also heavily
exploited in colonial times as a source of tannin for tanning hides, and the
bark was also used as a tea substitute.
6. The vegetation in the reserve is remnant
Shale Plains Woodland, a sub-group of Cumberland Plain Woodland. This is
classified as an Endangered Ecological Community under the NSW Threatened
Species Act 1995, and has been zoned Environmental Protection. Council
undertakes a number of revegetation and regeneration activities in the reserve
under its annual Bushland Management Project.
7. The unnamed reserve is part
of John Thomas Campbell’s original 1825 land grant of 1000 acres, which he
called ‘Quid Pro Quo’. John Thomas Campbell (1770 – 1830) was appointed
secretary to Governor Macquarie from 1810 – 1820, and was also the Provost
Marshal from 1812 to 1822.
8. During the mid-1800s the
area contained a number of orchards, and it was also renowned as being overrun
by a large number of wild dogs. The nearby
9. ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
10. John
Thomas Campbell has already been recognised for his contribution to the local
area, as both Campbell Hill Pioneer Reserve and
11. The proposed ‘Waddangalli Woodland’ name is supported in view of the
significant number of this native species within the reserve. It also complies
with the NSW Geographical Names Board’s ‘Guidelines for the Determination
of Place Names’, which states that “Names of Aboriginal origin or with a
historical background are preferred.”
12. A number
of other parks and reserves within Parramatta Local Government Area have been
assigned names of Aboriginal origin, and several of these names are associated
with significant local native plant species found within them. In view of the
size and significance of this public reserve it is appropriate for it to have a
formal name.
13. Council generally assigns
the title of ‘reserve’ to names for open space areas managed as bushland.
However, consultation with local Aboriginal organisations has indicated that
there are significant negative connotations associated with the use of the word
‘reserve’ for Aboriginal people. As this reserve is significant to the local
Aboriginal community, and contains a woodland vegetation community, it is
considered appropriate to use ‘
14. CONSULTATION & TIMING
15. As the name is of a botanical
nature, Council’s Natural Resources staff were consulted regarding this
proposal. They verified the significant
population of Acacia decurrens occurring
within this reserve and fully support the proposed Waddangalli Woodland name.
16. This
alternative Aboriginal name was also discussed with Council’s Aboriginal staff,
Ms K Mealing and all respondents who provided comments on the Wadigora name.
These people have all confirmed they are supportive of the alternative
Waddangalli name.
Troy Holbrook
Recreation Planner
1View |
Attachment 1 - Wadigora Naming Proposal Letter |
1 Page |
|
2View |
Attachment 2 - Map of Proposed Waddangalli Woodland |
1 Page |
|
3View |
Proposed |
1 Page |
|
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 11.2 |
CULTURE AND LEISURE
ITEM NUMBER 11.2
SUBJECT Proposed
Transfer of Various Parcels of Land to Council
REFERENCE F2007/01298 - D01132933
REPORT OF Property Program Manager
PURPOSE: The purpose of this report is inform Council of a
proposal by the Department of Planning (DOP) to transfer ownership of a
parcel of land to Council, that is currently under the care, control and
management of Council and to seek Council`s approval to execute the relevant
documentation under seal. |
That following the
finalisation of the deed Council accept the transfer in fee simple of lots 1 and 2 DP986628
(part of Woodville Golf Course) from the Department of Planning and that all
relevant documentation be completed under the seal of Council.
|
PURPOSE
1. The purpose of this report is inform
Council of a proposal by the Department of Planning (DOP) to transfer ownership
of a parcel of land to Council, that is currently under the care, control and
management of Council and to seek Council`s approval to execute the relevant
documentation under seal.
BACKGROUND
2. There are about 130 parcels of land
currently under care, management and control by Council on behalf of the Department.
The vast majority of these parcels are used as all or part of reserves or
sports grounds. It is understood that the DOP has embarked on a project to
transfer these types of parcels to various councils across the State.
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
3. The list of parcels
applicable to this Council is under examination at present and a further report
will be submitted to Council at a later date addressing these parcels. There
are two (2) parcels, however, being lots 1 and 2 DP986628, which require earlier
attention. These parcels are an integral part of Woodville Golf Course,
containing several fairways and holes plus work shed, and are the remaining
parcels not in Council’s ownership. The opportunity should be taken to gain
ownership, albeit subject to conditions of use. In addition these parcels are affected by Sydney Water`s Rosehill
Recycled Water Scheme. Sydney Water advises that this scheme involves the
construction of a new water recycling plant and distribution system to supply
highly treated recycled water to 13 key industrial sites and irrigation
customers in
4. Council officers were first
approached about the scheme in mid 2007 and, as the proposal firmed,
Councillors were informed of it in March 2008.
5. The water storage reservoir
is proposed to be located near the work shed off
6. The DOP has developed a
standard deed of transfer which would impose, by way of S88D instrument,
various restrictions on the use of the land. These restrictions would need to
be negotiated so that they don`t impact on either the proposal for the
reservoir or the current use as a golf course or for recreation purposes. A copy of letter
outlining offer of transfer of lot 1 and 88D terms is attached for information
purposes as attachment 2.
CONSULTATION & TIMING
7. This matter has been
progressed in consultation with Council`s City Assets and Environment Unit and
legal advice has been sought when necessary.
Paul Burne
Property Program Manager
1View |
Plan of Land Parcel |
|
|
2View |
Copy of Letter of Offer |
|
|
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 11.3 |
CULTURE AND LEISURE
ITEM NUMBER 11.3
SUBJECT Relationship
to Sydney Turf Club & Golden Slipper
REFERENCE F2005/01920 - D01134351
REPORT OF Acting Service Manager - Major Events and
Sponsorship
PURPOSE: To report to Council on the
current state of Council’s relationship with the Sydney Turf Club and plans
for Council involvement in the 2009 Golden Slipper Festival. |
That Council receive and note the report |
BACKGROUND
1. At
its meeting of 24 September 2007, Council resolved in part:
“That a report be prepared, once
the epidemic has passed, examining the possibility of a joint promotion with
the STC along the lines of Council’s successful joint promotion of the Golden
Slipper.”
2. This
request was reiterated by Council at its meeting of 12 May 2008:
“That
Council:
Call for a report on Council’s
previous motion at the time of the equine flu focused on the concrete actions
taken by the Administrative officers regarding a joint promotion with the STC.”
3. Council
has a long history of supporting the Golden Slipper Festival at Rosehill
Racecourse, working collaboratively with the Sydney Turf Club (“STC”).
4. This
history, and the event itself, were disrupted in 2007 and 2008 by the outbreak
of equine influenza (“EI”).
5. On
30 June 2008, the Federal Minister for Agriculture announced
6. On
25 December 2008, the Minister announced that
7. The
2009 Golden Slipper Festival begins on March 21 and the feature race is
scheduled for April 4.
Meetings with STC
8. Representatives of the Events team met
with Marketing and Promotions Officials of the STC in September 2008. The
activities undertaken in previous years were reviewed. These activities have included a local
“launch”, barrier draw, programs for local residents and CBD workers including
various activities in Church Street Mall, and the placement of marketing collateral throughout
the CBD.
9. The
10. Subsequently, the
11. A second discussion between officers of
Council and the
12. The STC has indicated that it is looking
at a package of opportunities for Councillors and other community leaders to
attend the Parramatta Cup (February 21) the Silver Slipper (February 28) and
the Golden Slipper (April 4). Details of this should be available shortly.
Logistics
13. In contribution to the media event,
Council proposes to erect a stage (or fashion catwalk) in the Church Street
Mall for the media event. Council will
also assist in providing street banners on banner poles throughout the City.
Sponsorship
14. At this stage, an amount of $8000 has
been reserved for the Golden Slipper promotion from within the existing General
Events budget.
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
15. The STC’s focus on maximizing media
opportunities aligns with and adds value to Council’s promotional and tourism
strategies.
16. The STC’s relationship with Events NSW
and the development of the Autumn Racing brand strengthen Parramatta City
Council’s relationship with Events NSW and the present promotion of Parramatta
through the NSW Master Events Calendar with specifically includes Riverbeats,
and other events with which Parramatta is associated such as Sydney Festival,
Australia Day, the Sydney Morning Herald International Food Festival, and the
Sydney Writers Festival.
17. In the future,
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
18. That Council
receive and note the report
George
Mannix
Acting Service Manager, Major Events & Sponsorship
There are no
attachments for this report.
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Ordinary
Council |
23 February 2009 |
|
|
Community Care
23 February 2009
12.1 Affordable Housing
Item 12.1 |
COMMUNITY CARE
ITEM NUMBER 12.1
SUBJECT Affordable
Housing
REFERENCE F2004/06029 - D01128480
REPORT OF Manager - Social Outcomes
PURPOSE: The purpose of this report is to advise Council of the results of an Affordable Housing needs assessment (see Attachment 1). It recommends that an updated Affordable Housing Policy be prepared along with an implementation plan that will align with Council’s strategic plan (Parra 2025), long term financial plan and strategic asset management plan. |
(a) That, Council note (b) Further that, Council resolve to develop a detailed Affordable Housing Policy 2009 with an implementation mechanism and this be reported back to Council in May 2009 for consideration. |
BACKGROUND
1. Housing is affordable when households, renting or purchasing, are able to pay their housing costs and still have sufficient income to meet other basic needs such as food, clothing, transport, medical needs and education (Housing NSW).
2. Low to moderate income earners are said to be in housing stress if they are paying over 30% of their gross income on housing.
3. When housing is unaffordable residents’ basic human needs are compromised - family life, privacy, freedom of movement, healthcare, growth and development.
4. Affordability problems also lead to wider social impacts which is a concern for Council - reduction in social mix can lead to residential areas becoming increasingly homogenous and intolerant; social polarisation results in concentrations of advantaged and disadvantaged communities; dislocation of people from their local support networks places a greater burden on support services; the labour force is affected when lower paid key workers leave their community to find cheaper housing.
5. PCC has adopted a Draft Parramatta Affordable Housing Scheme 2003. This now requires revision as the options for intervention have grown and the level of housing stress in the LGA has increased (as demonstrated by the following data).
6. Over
7,140 households (14%) were in housing stress in
7. Those most affected In Parramatta are low to moderate income earners who are renting, mainly couple households with young children (under 15), older one person households (65+) and middle aged one person households (45 – 64yrs).
AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPTIONS
8. PCC has limited capacity on its own to minimise rental housing stress. A partnership approach is required with State and Federal government and non government sectors.
9. There are 3 intervention approaches available to Council. All have merit and are worthy of consideration as part of a holistic Council response:
Maintaining community capacity to afford – a) Social programs enabling greater economic capacity of stressed minorities, b) Protecting existing low cost housing stock through planning regulation.
Promoting affordable housing provision by the private sector – a) Social planning b) Land Use planning regulations to promote affordable housing development – eg Negotiating Voluntary Planning Agreements with developers for the creation of affordable housing units.
Direct intervention in housing policy / provision through advocacy and leadership - a) Research and advocacy for legislative/policy change, b)Dedication of existing land holdings / capital, c) Leadership in project initiation, d) Creation of new housing organisations, e) Developing and administering housing stock.
10. An updated affordable housing policy and subsequent actions should be cost neutral or have the capacity to earn income for Council, align with asset management plans, and meet the needs of those most vulnerable to housing stress in our community.
POTENTIAL FUTURE ACTIONS
11. One strategy that appears promising is the development of an ‘Affordable Housing Bank’ through the private sector. In the right location and within an appropriate urban design context, PCC could negotiate a Voluntary Planning Agreement with developers for the creation of affordable housing units to be transferred to Council, in addition to obligations under Section 94. Tenancies could be managed by a Community Housing Provider. Not only will this meet the social need, but it has capacity to raise regular income from tenancies, and longer term contribute income through property sales.
NEXT STEPS
12. An up to date Affordable Housing Policy is required to confirm Council’s approach, with a subsequent implementation plan to translate policy into action.
Megan Dephoff
Manager Social Outcomes
1View |
Affordable Housing in |
53 Pages |
|
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Ordinary
Council |
23 February 2009 |
|
|
City Leadership and
Management
23 February 2009
13.1 Investments Report for November 2008
13.2 Investments Report for December 2008
13.3 Australian Local Government Women's
Association (ALGWA) Conference - 56th Annual Conference 'Women in Leadership - The
Roadmap' from 19 - 22 March 2009 in Queanbeyan
13.4 Disclosure of interests register
13.5 Whistleblowers Protection Policy
13.6 2008/09 Management Plan - December Quarterly
Review
Item 13.1 |
CITY LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
ITEM NUMBER 13.1
SUBJECT Investments
Report for November 2008
REFERENCE F2008/01474 - D01118879
REPORT OF Manager - Finance
PURPOSE: To inform Council of the investment portfolio performance
for the month of November 2008. |
RECOMMENDATION That Council
receives and notes the investments report for November 2008. |
BACKGROUND
1. In accordance with clause 212 of the Local Government
(General) Regulation 2005, a report setting out details of all money invested
must be presented to Council on a monthly basis.
2. The report must include a certificate as to whether or not
the investments have been made in accordance with the Act, the Regulations and
the investment policy of Council.
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
3. The Council’s investment portfolio stood at $86.9 Million as
at
4. Council invests directly with Local Government Financial
Services (LGFS), various term deposit providers and with funds managers
utilising the services of CPG Research & Advisory Services. There are also
investments with the Commonwealth Bank for loan offset funds.
5. The average interest rate on Council’s investments for the
month compared to the Bank Bill Index is as follows:
Monthly Annualised
Total Portfolio
0.01% 1.01%
Funds Managers
-0.32% -2.50%
Bank Bill Index
0.54% 6.83%
NB: Annualised rates are calculated on a compounding basis assuming that
the interest returns are added to the initial investment amount and reinvested.
6. After allowing for Council’s loan offsets and at call funds,
Council recorded an annualised return of 1.01% for the month of November for
its total investment portfolio. The return recorded by Council was below the
Bank Bill Index of 6.83%. Fund managers recorded a negative annualised rate of
-2.50%.
7. The amount of funds invested at the end
of November increased from the
previous month by 9.4 Million. This increase was due to cash inflows from the
second rates instalment which was due by
8. Overall, November was another month dominated by government and
central bank initiatives after economic data continued to weaken.
9. A volatile environment
domestically and internationally caused some panic selling in global and equity
markets, sparking various government funded relief packages in the
10. Domestically the Reserve Bank of
Australia (RBA) slashed the official cash
rate by 75bp in its November meeting, and followed this up with a further cut
of 100bp in December, taking the official cash rate to 4.25%. The RBA is trying
to avert a recession such as is currently being experienced in the
11. Parramatta City Council experienced
negative returns for the month of November on the Managed funds section of its
portfolio. The major reason for this outcome was the poor result of the
Blackrock Diversified Credit fund which is currently liquidating and the CFS
Global Income Fund. These funds had a combined mark to market loss for November
of approximately $420k.
12. Council has been able to partially cushion some of the current
losses from managed funds by positioning approximately 80% of the overall
portfolio in Term deposits, Cash at call and other fixed return products.
However the current magnitude of loss on Blackrock and CFS Global has had a
major effect on councils overall performance.
13. Grove Investment and Advisory (Council Advisors) maintain that
the CFS Global fund and other longer term Equity linked products should be
maintained with a view to longer term recovery, however council will continue
to review this with Grove on a monthly basis.
14. The following details are provided on the attachments for
information:
Graph – Comparison of average funds invested with
loans balance
Graph – Average interest rate comparison to Bank
Bill Index
Graphs – Investments and loans interest compared
to budget
Summary of investment portfolio
15. The Certificate of Investments for November 2008 is provided
below:
Certificate of Investments
I hereby certify
that the investments for the month of November 2008 have been made in
accordance with the Act, the Regulations and Council’s Investment Policy.
16. There
is no standard report attachment - detailed submission - attached to this
report.
Jenny Fett
Finance Manager
1View |
Investments & Loans - Performance |
1 Page |
|
2View |
Summary of Investments Portfolio |
2 Pages |
|
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 13.2 |
CITY LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
ITEM NUMBER 13.2
SUBJECT Investments
Report for December 2008
REFERENCE F2008/01474 - D01124196
REPORT OF Manager - Finance
PURPOSE: To inform Council of the investment portfolio performance for the month of December 2008. |
That Council receives and notes the investments report for December 2008. |
BACKGROUND
1. In accordance with clause 212 of the Local Government
(General) Regulation 2005, a report setting out details of all money invested
must be presented to Council on a monthly basis.
2. The report must include a certificate as to whether or not
the investments have been made in accordance with the Act, the Regulations and
the investment policy of Council.
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
3. Council’s investment portfolio stood at $86 Million as at
4. Council invests directly with Local Government Financial
Services (LGFS), various term deposit providers and with funds managers
utilising the services of CPG Research & Advisory. There are also
investments with the Commonwealth Bank for loan offset funds.
5. The average interest rate on Council’s investments for the
month compared to the Bank Bill Index is as follows:
Monthly
Annualised
Total Portfolio 0.36% 4.50%
Funds Managers 0.23% 3.05%
Bank Bill Index
0.43% 5.13%
NB: Annualised rates are calculated on a compounding basis assuming that
the interest returns are added to the initial investment amount and reinvested.
6. After allowing for Council’s loan offsets and at call funds,
Council recorded an annualised return of 4.50% for the month of December for
its total investment portfolio. The return recorded by Council was below the
Bank Bill Index of 5.13%. Fund managers recorded an annualised rate of 3.05%.
7. The amount of funds invested at the end
of December decreased from the
previous month by $900k. This minor decrease was due to
8. The favourable returns received
by Council for December 2008 can mostly be attributed to a more stable
performance from Councils Managed Funds. With the exception of the Blackrock
Diversified Fund, all other funds showed a positive return.
9. Overall, the bleak outlook for
the global economy did not spark a major sell-off that has occurred over the
past few months. Financial markets were more resilient to some of the weak
economic news that was revealed during the month.
10. Domestically the Reserve Bank of
Australia (RBA) sliced another one percentage point off the official cash rate to 4.25% in its
December meeting, bringing the cuts since September to 3%. This has proven to
be the most aggressive Australian monetary policy action since the mid 1980s.
11. Council has placed approximately 80% of the overall portfolio
in Term deposits, Cash at call and other fixed return products. This strategy
will help cushion some of the volatile market outcomes. However the current
realised losses and possible future losses on the Blackrock Diversified
treasury Fund during this period of liquidation will continue to effect
Councils overall reported returns.
12. Grove
Investment and Advisory (Councils Advisors) have announced a merger with The
Counterpoint group to become CPG Research and Advisory. The CPG research team
is now twelve strong and has senior researchers for each of the main Classes of
assets including; Australian equities, overseas equities, Bonds, Cash and Fixed
Interest, Property, and Private equity alternatives. The strengthening of the
research team will improve Councils ability to make prudent investment
decisions.
13. After discussions concerning Councils current portfolio of
managed funds, CPG maintain that the CFS Global fund and other longer term
Equity linked products should be maintained with a view to longer term
recovery. Council will however continue to review this with CPG on a monthly
basis and will continue to place all new funds in term deposits or cash at
call.
14. The following details are provided on the attachments for
information:
Graph – Comparison of average funds invested with
loans balance
Graph – Average interest rate comparison to Bank
Bill Index
Graphs – Investments and loans interest compared
to budget
Summary of investment portfolio
15. The Certificate of Investments for December 2008 is provided
below:
Certificate of Investments
I hereby certify
that the investments for the month of December 2008 have been made in
accordance with the Act, the Regulations and Council’s Investment Policy.
16. There
is no standard report attachment - detailed submission - attached to this
report.
Jenny Fett
Finance Manager
1View |
Investments & Loans - Performance |
1 Page |
|
2View |
Summary of Investments Portfolio |
2 Pages |
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REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 13.3 |
CITY LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
ITEM NUMBER 13.3
SUBJECT Australian
Local Government Women's Association (ALGWA) Conference - 56th Annual
Conference 'Women in Leadership - The Roadmap' from 19 - 22 March 2009 in Queanbeyan
REFERENCE F2004/06887 - D01127913
REPORT OF Service Manager - Council Support
PURPOSE: This report is
placed before Council to seek the appointment of three (3) to five (5)
Councillors to attend the Australian Local Government Women’s Association
(ALGWA) Conference 56th Annual Conference ‘Women in Leadership –
The Roadmap’ from 19 - 22 March 2009 in Queanbeyan. |
(a) That Council nominate three (3)
to five (5) Councillors i.e. the Lord Mayor (or nominee) plus any other nominated
Councillors to attend the Australian
Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) Conference 56th
Annual Conference ‘Women in Leadership – The Roadmap’ from 19 - 22 March 2009
in Queanbeyan . |
BACKGROUND
1. The
conference organising committee has developed an exciting program of recognised
experts in areas concerning women and women’s issues within Local Government.
2. This
year’s theme ‘Women in Leadership – the Roadmap’ will look at issues facing
women in Local Government on the road to getting things done.
3. Delegate
registration, accommodation, flights and out-of-pocket expenses total the
approximate amount of $1,400.00 per delegate.
4. This
is a Category A Conference as outlined in Annexure 1 of the conference
categories from the Civic Office Expenses and Facilities Policy. Category A of this policy permits the
attendance of three (3) to five (5) Councillors i.e. the
Lord Mayor (or nominee) plus any other nominated Councillors to attend.
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
5. A
copy of the conference program and conference guest speakers is appended as
Attachment 1.
Graeme Riddell
Service Manager – Council Support
1View |
2009 ALGWA Conference Brochure Queanbeyan |
8 Pages |
|
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 13.4 |
CITY LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
ITEM NUMBER 13.4
SUBJECT Disclosure
of interests register
REFERENCE F2004/07102 - D01128911
REPORT OF Policy Review Officer
PURPOSE: To table completed
Pecuniary Interest Returns lodged under the provisions of Section 449 of the
Local Government Act, 1993 for newly elected Councillors |
That
the section 449 returns for newly elected Councillors be tabled at the
meeting. |
BACKGROUND
1. Section
449(1) of the Local Government Act
1993 requires that a councillor
or designated person complete and lodge a section 449 disclosure within 3
months of becoming a councilor or designated person.
2. Under
the provisions of Section 450A of the Local Government
Act, 1993 the General Manager must arrange for the tabling of all Pecuniary
Interest Returns at the first meeting of the Council after the last day of the
period for lodgment.
3. Section 449(4) provides that those
councillors who have lodged a return within 3 months of 30 June in the year of
lodgement, need not lodge a further return.
Accordingly, returns were not required for returning Councillors.
4. This register is a public register within the terms of Schedule 3 to the Local Government Act 1993 and is
available for inspection, in accordance with the provisions of Section 12.
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
5. All
returns for newly elected Councillors were completed and received within the
required timeframe.
Erin Lottey
Policy
Review Officer
There are no
attachments for this report.
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 13.5 |
CITY LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
ITEM NUMBER 13.5
SUBJECT Whistleblowers
Protection Policy
REFERENCE F2009/00449 - D01131168
REPORT OF Manager Service Audit and Review
PURPOSE: To report on the
operation of Council’s Whistleblowers Protection Policy in response to Council
Resolution of |
That
Council receive and note the report of the Manager Service Audit &
Review. |
BACKGROUND
1. At
its meeting of 24 November 2008 Council resolved (Minute 10360):
That the CEO provide a comprehensive report
to Council on the Whistleblower Protection Policy as identified at page 40 of
the PCC 2006/2007 Annual Report. It is requested that the following be
included:-
(a) Adoption or utilisation of Department of
Local Government Model Internal Reporting Policy as set out in DLG Circular
97/8 and the date of implementation.
(b) The number of Protected Disclosures made
pursuant to the Protected Disclosures Act 1994 and the Whistleblower Protection
Policy. Can this graphed year on year?
(c) Include copies of memos, brochures, and
posters disseminated to staff and stakeholders advertising the Whistleblower
Protection Policy used to promote the program.
(d) Information on how to reach the
Whistleblower Protection Policy via the ParraCity Intranet.
(e) Provide a full copy of the Whistleblower
Protection Policy.
(f) Provide details of the whistleblower
hotline if one exists.
(g) Provide a confidential report on an actual
case without names, and final results.
2. This
report provides details of the operation of Council’s Whistleblowers Policy and
current actions aimed at reviewing the operation of the Policy.
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
3. Council
adopted its current Whistleblowers Protection Policy on 12 July 2005 (Minute
7967). The current Policy is based on
the NSW Ombudsman’s “Model Internal Reporting Policy for Councils” contained in
the Protected Disclosures Guidelines (5th Edition, May 2004). This document supersedes the previous policy
based on the DLG Circular 97/8. The
Policy is currently subject to review in conjunction with the Code of Conduct
and a number of other governance policies.
4. The Protected Disclosure Act, 1994 provides
protection for persons making disclosures concerning suspected corruption,
maladministration, or serious or substantial waste in accordance with
conditions defined in the Act.
Disclosures have been received from staff, Councillors and the
ICAC. The number of disclosures that have
been accepted by the General Manager as protected disclosures over the past
four (4) years is:
2004/05 6
2005/06 4
2006/07 1
2007/08 4
5. Following
adoption of the current policy, workshops were conducted with managers and
staff during 2006 and 2007 covering the Code of Conduct and its related
Whistleblowers Policy. At these workshops,
all managers were provided with comprehensive policy folders containing the
Whistleblowers Protection Policy.
Additionally staff were provided with condensed versions of the policy
as shown at Attachment 1.
6. Prior
to commencing duty, all new Council staff are provided a copy of the
Whistleblowers Protection Policy together with a number of other complete
Council policies. Additionally,
condensed versions of the Policy are provided to new staff at Orientation
Training where the Whistleblowers Protection Policy and other conduct policies
are workshopped. Promotional postcards
from the ICAC (see Attachment 2) are
also provided to staff at Orientation Training.
7. Council’s
Whistleblowers Policy is available on Council’s Intranet and in Council’s Policy
Register held in the Electronic Document Management System TRIM. Access to the Policy on TRIM and the Intranet
can be gained through the respective search bars by entering “whistleblower” or
“protection”. The Policy can also be
accessed by page search on the Intranet by side-bar menu under CEO, Service
Audit & Review, SAR Policies.
8. A
full copy of Council’s current Whistleblowers Protection Policy is shown at Attachment 3 and provided under
separate cover to Councillors and senior staff. A copy of the document can be
obtained by contacting Mr Michael Quirk on 9806 5235.
9. Council
does not currently host a complaints or whistleblowers hotline however the
provision of such services is being considered in the current policy review.
10. Details
of a Protected Disclosure Enquiry conducted excluding, personal information,
will be provided to Councillors under separate confidential cover.
CONSULTATION & TIMING OF REVIEW
11. The
current policy was subject to a compliance review in 2007 and is currently subject
to a more comprehensive review in conjunction with the Code of Conduct.
12. The
current policy review is examining possible changes to the policy framework to
enhance staff confidence in the policy and its implementation. The review is assessing the viability of
establishing a hotline service for disclosures as well as other methods of
improving the speed and accuracy of referrals to the Chief Executive Officer.
13. Following
staff consultation, the revised policy will be submitted to Council for
consideration by May 2009. Following
adoption of a revised policy, a comprehensive staff training and awareness
program will be undertaken.
Michael Quirk
Service Manager – Audit and Review
1View |
Condensed Whistleblowers Policy |
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|
2View |
ICAC Promotional Postcard |
|
|
3View |
Whistleblowers Protection Policy |
23 Pages |
|
REFERENCE MATERIAL
Item 13.6 |
CITY LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
ITEM NUMBER 13.6
SUBJECT 2008/09
Management Plan - December Quarterly Review
REFERENCE F2008/04591 - D01134135
REPORT OF Manager - Finance
PURPOSE: 1. Section 407 of the Local Government Act 1993 requires the
General Manager (Chief Executive Officer) to report to the Council within 2
months after the end of each quarter as to the extent to which the
performance targets set by the Council’s Management Plan have been achieved
during that quarter. 2. Clause 203 of the Local Government
(General Regulation) 2005 requires that the Responsible Accounting Officer
(Manager Finance) prepare and submit to the Council, not later than 2 months
after the end of each quarter, a budget review statement that shows, by
reference to the estimate of income and expenditure set out in the Management
Plan, a revised estimate of the income and expenditure for that year. The
Responsible Accounting Officer is also required to include with the budget
review statement, a report as to whether or not the Responsible Accounting
Officer believes that the statement indicates that the financial position of
the Council is satisfactory, having regard to the original estimate of income
and expenditure, and if that position is unsatisfactory, recommendations for
remedial action. |
(a) That Council adopt the Chief Executive Officer’s
December 2008 Quarterly Review of the 2008/09 Management Plan and Budget. (Attachment
1). (b) That Council note and approve the actual results and
variations to the previously adopted budget estimates for the 2008/09
financial year as detailed in Attachment 1. (c) Further, that Council adopt the Responsible
Accounting Officer’s report on the financial position of the Council. |
BACKGROUND
1. The attached December 2008 Quarterly Review contains the
Chief Executive Officer’s report, detailing the extent to which the performance
targets set by the Council’s 2008/09 Management Plan have been achieved on a
Program basis.
2. The Review also details at pages 13-14 and 72 the actual
income, expenditure and proposed budget adjustments for 2008/09 with
comparisons to the budget previously adopted by Council.
3. The December 2008 Quarterly Review was submitted to
Council’s Program Panels’ meeting on
ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES
Report of the
Responsible Accounting Officer
As
noted earlier in this report the Responsible Accounting Officer is required, as
part of the Quarterly Management Plan Review, to report on the financial
position of the Council.
Operating
Statement result
Council is required to produce a financial
statement in accordance with statutory accounting standards and generally
accepted accounting principles. This Operating Statement does not include funds
transferred to and from reserves and includes depreciation and the profit/loss
on disposals of assets.
Council’s original budget, adopted in June
2008 as part of the 2008/09 Management Plan, was to deliver a balanced
operating result.
The December review has resulted in the
forecast year end result being a balanced budget, in line with the original
budget proposed in the Management Plan.
This has been achieved despite some significant challenges created by
reduced investment income and some increases in employee costs. These have been offset by additional income
and with interest costs reducing borrowing costs are also forecast to
decline. Council is holding positions
vacant to contain employee costs and ensure that the forecast can be met.
Increasing electricity costs, both for this
year and forecast for next financial year are presenting a challenge; therefore
it is recommended that Council retain Street Lighting at its current percentage
of Greenpower (10%). This provides an
estimated saving of $70K this year. The
move to 100% Greenpower would cost considerably more than this.
Operating surplus/(deficit)- movements
during the year
Original
Budget adopted with Management Plan
Nil
Revised
Budget following 30 June re-votes
Deficit $1.6M
September
Review forecast Surplus $0.26M
December
Review forecast Nil
The major areas
that have contributed to the revised forecast operating result are:
REVENUE
Rates and Annual Charges
Additional $271K in rates and annual charges
following supplementary rates being levied and other rates related income
increases.
Parking Stations revenue
Additional revenue of $182K.
Riverside Theatres
Additional revenue of $218K is offset by
increases in expenses. (After these offsets and the transfer from reserve of
grant funds, the net increase in cost for the year is $33K.)
Parking fines
Additional revenue of $100K is forecast.
Capital Grants
Increase of $458K mainly due to the
inclusion of the Roads to Recovery grant that has been received in the current
year following additional work. The
project expenditure was revoted from 2008/09.
Investment income reduction
A $1.4 million reduction is expected annual
investment income resulting from the global financial crisis. (Impact to the net
services result is $718K after reducing corresponding transfers to reserves by
$697K)
Profit on sale
of assets
There is a
reduction of $121K due to a loss incurred on sale of land
EXPENSES
Employee costs
Increase of $1,019K due to –
· Workers compensation
premiums - increase of $404K
· Riverside
Theatres cost increases $418K (offset by additional income as noted above)
· Employee on costs
including maternity leave provisions and rehabilitation costs
Interest expense
A $913K reduction
due to the drop in interest rates on variable loans. (The impact on the net
services result is $174K after reducing relevant transfers from
Depreciation
expense
Increase of $530K
following the revaluation of assets.
Street Lighting expenses
Council should note that while it was
Council’s preference to source 100% of street lighting electricity from
Greenpower, it has been necessary to provide for only 10% in the budget due to
increases in energy costs and current and future budgetary pressures.
Projects Summary
At this
December Review the total Projects budget has been revised to $43.8 million, a net increase of $800K
from the September review. This is made up of operating projects $4.7 million
and capital projects $39.1 million.
Original Budget
adopted with Management Plan $30.465M
Revised Budget
following re-votes
$40.7M
September Review
forecast
$43.0M
December Review
forecast
$43.0M
Additional
budget allocations are required for:
2. Land Acquisition $580K funded from property
reserve
4. Doig Street Cycleway $138K funded from RTA
grants.
5. Fish ladders
Expenditure forecasts are reduced however for the following:
2. Blackspot Program $75K reduced grant
3. Flood plain property acquisition $350K, delay
in acquisitions and funds returned to reserve
4. Neighbourhood Improvement Granville $160k
moved to next year
One project has
been moved from being a capital project ( 12601 –Arts Facilities and Cultural
Place) and recreated as an Operating
Project to better match the nature of the spend and accord with accounting
standards.
Roads to Recovery
funds of $619K have been transferred to other Projects.
Responsible Accounting Officer’s Statement
Following a review of the attached December
2008 Quarterly Review, it is considered that the financial position of the
Council for the remainder of this financial year is satisfactory.
Jenny Fett
Manager Finance – Responsible Accounting Officer
December 2008 Quarterly Review of the Management Plan (Copies
distributed to Councillors and Senior Staff Only ) |
|
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REFERENCE MATERIAL