Agenda of Council - 27 April 2010

Council	27 April 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ITEM SUBJECT PAGE NO

1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES - Council – 12 April and 19 April 2010

2 APOLOGIES

3 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

4 Minutes of Lord Mayor

5 Public Forum

5.1 Delegation to Chief Executive Officer for Determination of Development Applications

6 PETITIONS

7 Rescission Motions

7.1 2 Morton Street Parramatta

7.2 36 Charles Street, Parramatta (Port Bar) (Lot 1 in DP869828) (Arthur Phillip Ward)

8 COUNCIL MATTERS TO BE ADOPTED WITHOUT DISCUSSION

9 Economy and Development

9.1 Church Street Mall - Proposed Amendments to Saturday Markets & Continuation of Thursday Markets after Successful Trial Period

9.2 Outdoor Dining Policy Review - Proposed Adoption of Revised Policy

9.3 Proposal for Drainage Easement over Council Land at Talbot Street Guildford

9.4 Enforcement Policy and Parking Enforcement Policy

9.5 Securing SuperX Opportunity 2010 to 2012

10 Environment and Infrastructure

10.1 Metropolitan Transport Plan

10.2 Sydney Metropolitan Plan Review

10.3 Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre

10.4 Parramatta Cycleway Advisory Committee

10.5 Parramatta Traffic Committee meeting held on 8 April 2010

10.6 Traffic Engineering Advisory Group minutes held on 8 April 2010

11 Community and Neighbourhood

11.1 Access Advisory Committee Minutes 16 February 2010

11.2 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee meeting 23 February 2010

11.3 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee meeting 23 March 2010

11.4 Community Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes

12 Governance and Corporate

12.1 Investments Report for February 2010

12.2 Report of Audit Committee Meetings

12.3 Female employment numbers

12.4 National General Assembly of Local Government 2010 - Canberra - 14 -17 June 2010

12.5 CANCELLATION of Tender No.18/2009 Provision of Research and Community Consultation Services (Panel of Preferred Suppliers)

13 Notices of Motion

13.1 Naming of Gardens within Cox Park, Carlingford

13.2 Nomination of Brush Farm for Heritage Listing

14 Closed Session

14.1 Review of Catering Services

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.

14.2 Tender 6/2010 Stanley Lane, Ermington - Stages 1 and 2 - Kerb and Gutter, Road Reconstruction, Drainage and Associated Works.

14.3 2010 Community Grants Program

14.4 Tender 9/2010 Reid Park Valley Cycleway - Stage 1A and 1B - Parramatta River Foreshore - Park Road to Rear of No.10 South Street, Rydalmere - Construction of a Concrete Cycleway and Associated Civil and Landscape Works.

14.5 Expressions of Interest for Independent Members of the Conduct Committee

15 DECISIONS FROM CLOSED SESSION

16 QUESTION TIME

Council 27 April 2010

Item 7.1

RESCISSION MOTION

ITEM NUMBER 7.1

SUBJECT 2 Morton Street Parramatta

REFERENCE F2005/01017 - D01509449

REPORT OF Senior Project Officer

Note

To be moved by Councillors J D Finn, M Lack and A Bide:-

“That the resolution of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 12 April 2010 in relation to Item 7.3 of Economy and Development regarding 2 Morton Street, Parramatta as follows:-

That Council officers give further consideration to this matter with a view to the floor space ratio being increased to enable the proponent to fully construct the pedestrian bridge.

Be and is hereby rescinded.”

Note

This rescission motion was lodged on the morning of 15 April 2010.

PURPOSE

This report provides Council with details of the proponent’s position on the renegotiation of the draft Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) for 2 Morton Street, Parramatta.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) “That Council adopt either 1 or 2 following and advise the proponent accordingly:

EITHER

1. A revised draft Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) of which the key elements are as follows:

(i) That the cash contribution by the proponent for a pedestrian bridge be increased from $1,500,000 to $1,750,000 as offered, such increase being funded by the removal of some of the works- in-kind from the foreshore improvements referred to in paragraph 3 of this report and in addition;

(ii) That Council’s contribution to the pedestrian bridge be limited to a maximum of $1,250,000, assuming the final cost of the pedestrian bridge is $3,000,000.

2. A revised VPA of which the key elements are as follows:

(i) That the cash contribution by the proponent for a pedestrian bridge be increased from $1,500,000 to $3,000,000, such increase being funded by the redirection of works- in-kind from the foreshore improvements as referred to in paragraph 3 of this report.”

(b) Further, that Council exhibit the draft VPA along with the Planning Proposal and stand alone draft DCP for the land, should the proponent agree to Council’s adopted position above.

BACKGROUND

1. On 22 February 2010, Council received a report about the draft Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) for 2 Morton Street, Parramatta. Council staff recommended that the previously adopted draft VPA be amended by redistributing the proponent’s cash contribution of $1.5 million towards a pedestrian bridge over the Parramatta River, to a contribution towards the foreshore multi purpose path with associated works. Staff raised concerns about the commitment required from Council to fund the balance of the cost of constructing the bridge, potentially another $1.5 million. Council deferred a decision on this matter until it had received further information.

2. On 8 March 2010, Council reconsidered this report along with additional information provided by memo to Councillors dated 4 March 2010. Council resolved to renegotiate the draft VPA to require the applicant to construct the pedestrian bridge.

PROPONENT’S REVISED OFFER

3. The following is a summary of the value of the key components of the draft VPA as previously agreed by Council:

(a) Dedication of 12,600sq.m of foreshore land (original Council valuation $3.8 mill)

(b) The construction of a foreshore cycleway and pedestrian path (approximately $400,000)

(d) Construction of 3 boardwalk/viewing platforms ($183,000)

(e) Construction of a recreation area ($350,000)

(f) Construction of a foreshore road ($1,000,000 – cost revised by Council)

(g) The developer will contribute $1,500,000 cash towards a pedestrian bridge

(h) Tree planting of road reserves and maintenance for 12 months ($50,000)

(i) A turning circle at the end of Pemberton Street - $60,000

(j) Plus design fees $227,000

4. The proponent has put forward the following option for Council’s consideration in renegotiating the draft VPA (refer to attachment A). The revised option would see approximately $250,000 of works-in-kind being redirected to increase the cash contribution towards the pedestrian bridge from $1,500,000 to $1,750,000. This would reduce Council’s financial contribution to $1,250,000, if the bridge construction is $3 million. The proponent has not agreed to fully fund the construction of the pedestrian bridge over the river.

OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL IN CONSIDERING THE REVISED OFFER

Option 1

5. The proponent’s offer does respond positively to Council’s resolution, but does not remove the significant financial obligation for Council to fund the remaining cost of the pedestrian bridge. Council could choose to accept the liability of the remaining cost of the bridge up to a limit of $1.25M.

Option 2

6. Other works-in-kind items specified in the original draft VPA that could potentially be foregone to increase the proponent’s cash contribution towards the full cost of the pedestrian bridge at $3M are listed above in paragraph 3.

7. The draft VPA currently proposes a foreshore road to act as a buffer between the residential apartments and the foreshore and improve foreshore access to the public. This was envisaged as part of the original structure plan. The proposed foreshore road is located within an area designated as a high flood risk. Council’s Flood Management Policy does not exclude the construction of a road, subject to specific guidelines. However, it does have the potential to affect flood behaviour in this area and in a flood event, the lower part of this proposed roadway could be a hazard. It also creates risk management issues in terms of people having access to this area during a flood event. If the road was not provided, then its value could be redistributed towards the construction of the pedestrian bridge. This would reduce Council’s financial contribution to the construction of the pedestrian bridge considerably.

8. Council may wish to consider whether it would be agreeable to foregoing the foreshore road, or alternatively any of the other works detailed above and seeking the agreement of the proponent to this outcome. This position would need to be tabled with the proponent and agreement sought.

COMPARATIVE VALUE OF THE VPA to SECTION 94A

9. The components of the draft VPA provide substantially more value to Council than a Section 94A Contribution. It also provides for a missing link of foreshore land to become public land, to facilitate public access and improved recreation space close to the CBD. Council would otherwise have to purchase this land. These public benefits will contribute to Council’s long-term vision to activate the Parramatta foreshore.

10. The total value of the original draft VPA is approximately $7.66M comprising land dedication ($3.8M), works ($2.143M), cash contribution towards bridge ($1.5 M), and design fees ($0.227M).

11. Alternatively, a Section 94A Contribution, based on approximate construction costs of $225 million, would generate $2.25m based on the 1% levy in Council’s Section 94A Plan. This contribution could not be used to fund all works proposed in the VPA as it would need to be distributed according to the various works programs specified in the Plan.

DEDICATION OF FORESHORE LAND

12. The total value of the draft VPA includes land value of the foreshore reserve to be dedicated to Council. The proponent is offering to dedicate approximately 12,600 sq.m of foreshore land. In negotiating the draft VPA, the proponent has given thought to increasing the land dedication but as yet no formal agreement has been reached.

13. In 2004, a land valuation of the foreshore area was prepared for the purpose of Council’s previous Section 94 plan. That estimated the value per square metre at $300 and was used as the basis of the draft VPA. An updated land valuation is being prepared and will be distributed for Council’s consideration prior to the Council meeting.

TIMING AND RISKS

14. Council should consider the following in its decision relating to the draft VPA:

a) The VPA is a voluntary process and both parties must agree to the components of the VPA for it to be successfully negotiated.

b) The planning controls to rezone the land are already on public exhibition in draft form as part of the draft Parramatta LEP.

c) The Gateway process relating to the Planning Proposal, seeking to allow the rezoning to take place ahead of the draft LEP, requires the completion of the site specific LEP process within 6 months (9 Feb to 9 August). The DoP has written to Council advising that to meet the mid-August completion date, the Planning Proposal would need to be exhibited and submitted to the DoP by mid June. (Note: Council’s resolved position is that the draft VPA is to be exhibited concurrently with the Planning Proposal and draft DCP for the land.)

d) If Council is shown to be moving too slowly and not complying with the deadline set by the Gateway, the DoP could determine that Council should not be the Responsible Planning Authority for determining the Planning Proposal. Alternatively, the proponent may consider a Part 3A process to achieve the rezoning and largely remove Council from the determination.

e) The foreshore land included in the VPA is currently identified as a reservation and Council has a legal obligation to acquire the land at market value. Irrespective of the VPA, there is a monetary liability already existing.

f) If the proponent goes ahead with a “normal” S94A framework, the dedication of this land is likely to be a significant deduction and may even exceed the amount of the s94A contribution depending on the final agreed value.

Sue Stewart

Senior Project Officer

Land Use and Transport Planning

Attachments:

1View

Letter from Frasers Property re 2 Morton Street

3 Pages

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 7.2

RESCISSION MOTION

ITEM NUMBER 7.2

SUBJECT 36 Charles Street, Parramatta (Port Bar) (Lot 1 in DP869828) (Arthur Phillip Ward)

DESCRIPTION Section 96(1A) application to an approved viewing platform, outdoor eating cafeteria and amenities. Consent is sought to delete Condition 18 (relating to public access to the toilets) of the consent issued on 13th September, 1995.

REFERENCE DA/559/1995/B - Submitted 4 February 2010

APPLICANT/S Micorp Property

OWNERS T.N.T Issa Investment Group Pty Ltd

REPORT OF Manager Development Services

Note

To be moved by Councillors M Lack, J D Finn and A Bide:-

“That the resolution of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 12 April 2010 in relation to Item 12.1 of Major Applications regarding 36 Charles Street, Parramatta as follows:-

(a) That the application to delete the condition be refused on the grounds of public interest as the condition was imposed on the owner when the property was purchased and the signage relating to the toilets be reinstated.

(b) That Council request the State Government to provide toilet facilities on their own land for the ferry.

(c) Further, that the applicant be provided with the State Government’s response when received.

Be and is hereby rescinded.”

Note

This rescission motion was lodged on the morning of 15 April 2010.

REASON FOR REFERRAL TO COUNCIL

The proposal is referred to Council as the proposed deletion of Condition 18 relates to an issue where there was some degree of public interest when it was initially imposed.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

On 10^th October, 1994, Council entered into an Agreement with Stirrup Pty Ltd (the previous owner of the site) to transfer Stirrup land at the corner of Phillip and Charles Streets “to enable the company to construct upon the land an outdoor eating area and toilet facilities” adjacent to 36 Charles Street. The Agreement required a Positive Covenant to be imposed on the company to maintain the outdoor eating area and toilet facilities for public use to a suitable standard and to operate the outdoor area and toilet facilities during the hours 7:00am to 7:00pm.

Neither the land’s title nor any Positive Covenant associated with the property includes any requirement for the owner of the land to provide public toilets on the site. The requirement for the toilets to be provided for public use between the hours of 7:00am and 7:00pm was subsequently imposed as a condition of consent to DA/559/1995 at a time when Parramatta City Council was both the owner of the land and applicant for the development application. This is no longer the case and the subject site, including the toilet facilities, are in private ownership.

The current Section 96 application DA/559/1995/B seeks approval to delete Condition 18 of the consent issued on 13^th September, 1995. DA/559/1995 involved a viewing platform, kiosk (bar, kitchen & seating area) and amenities building. No conditions limiting trading hours were imposed in this consent.

Condition 18 of the consent (which is the primary subject of this application) states:

“Public access to the toilets to be provided from 7am to 7pm, 7 days per week.

Reason: To reasonably provide for the needs of users of the Charles Street wharf foreshores area.”

A submission has been received from Sydney Ferries objecting to the deletion of the condition.

It is noted that Council’s Strategic Asset Management and Open Space Management Units both oppose the deletion of Condition 18 for the reasons that there is demand for public toilets in this area, especially having regard to the proximity to Parramatta Wharf.

However, from a town planning point of view, continued imposition of this condition on a private land owner in a development consent places an unreasonable burden and legal responsibility onto the private land owner for the following reasons:

· all Sydney ferries operating to and from the wharf provide toilet facilities on board;

· the requirement for the owner of private land to provide public toilet facilities is considered to be unreasonably onerous;

· public toilet facilities are provided within the Parramatta Heritage and Visitor Information Centre, approximately 500 metres to the west of the wharf (available 9:00am to 5:00pm, Mondays to Sundays, 10:00am to 4:00pm public holidays and closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday);

· there is no other known public wharf in Sydney Harbour that has public toilets provided by private land holders; and

· Condition 18 was imposed at a time when Council was the owner of the land.

Under the circumstances, it is recommended that Condition 18 be deleted.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That Condition 18 of Development Consent No. 559/1995 be deleted.

(b) That Sydney Ferries be advised in writing of Council’s decision.

Alan Middlemiss

Senior Development Assessment Officer

Attachments:

1View	Section 96 report	10 Pages
2View	'Walk Parramatta' Locality Map	1 Page
3View	Notice of Determination DA/559/1995	5 Pages

Council 27 April 2010

Item 9.1

ECONOMY AND DEVELOPMENT

ITEM NUMBER 9.1

SUBJECT Church Street Mall - Proposed Amendments to Saturday Markets & Continuation of Thursday Markets after Successful Trial Period

REFERENCE F2006/01352 - D01425192

REPORT OF Property Asset Management Officer

PURPOSE:

This report is to outline proposed changes to the existing Saturday market and the findings from the trial of the Thursday market.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That the Thursday markets continue in Autumn subject to the submission and approval of a development application.

(b) That the proposed modifications outlined in paragraph 8 be made to the existing Saturday markets subject to the submission and approval of a development application.

BACKGROUND

1. Parramatta Farmers Market has been under Council’s management since November 2008 and has delivered a now vital element to the activation of the CBD, Church Street Mall and retail precincts.

2. Currently the Market average between 30 - 40 stalls per week and contributes an average of $5000 into Council revenues per month. These stalls sell; farm produce (live and vegetable), condiments, manufactured foods, baked goods, flowers/ plants, some handmade arts and crafts, Australian made products, imported goods and a range of international ready to eat hot foods.

3. In addition the Market has made an allowance for charities, community groups, sporting and performance groups to take advantage of the market’s presence.

4. Due to the festive nature and association with the produce/ food industry and restaurants in the area Parramatta Farmers Market has taken part in internationally recognized events such as; The Sydney Festival, Sydney International Food Festival and Crave. Participation in these events has given the market exposure to new audiences and also raised the profile of the market and the Parramatta area.

5. As the above reflects the Parramatta Farmers Market has evolved from a commercially driven venture to a more versatile, interactive, community focused, weekly event that Council can use to deliver multiple benefits for the community and its diverse population. Outlined the below are current challenges and changes required to keep the market vital and moving forward.

ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES

6. In proposing changes to the market the following factors need to be considered:

a. The market has faced the challenge of obtaining and retaining farm/ food related stalls thus earning some criticism that the market is not a pure Farmers Market.

b. Surveys undertaken have shown that the community is looking for more than just food to retain its interest and custom with this issue being addressed by introducing ‘variety goods’. However the nature of the variety goods sold made the market look similar to a bazaar style of market.

c. Not having a variety of goods will halve the number of stalls and possibly lessen interest from customers.

d. Continuing to bring in variety goods could affect the aesthetics of the area.

e. Concentrating on one theme or type of product at the market limits the appeal to the wider customer base.

f. While having only food stalls keeps the theme of the Farmers’ Market, there was a lack of interest when the markets opened in August 2008 when managed by the original market operator as a food only market.

g. As there has been an increase in the popularity and number of markets across Sydney it has become difficult to source new farmer participants while the existing stallholders need a high return to make their business worthwhile.

h. Drifting from the community focus side of the markets could mean less participation from various groups.

PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS TO EXISTING MARKET

7. The challenge is to create a balance which will hopefully continue to raise the look and profile of the area, continue to bring new and existing customers, keep the market viable and retain the sense of community focus.

8. The changes to existing Saturday and proposed Thursday Markets to be submitted in the development application are as follows:

a. Allow for change of operating hours to 9am to 3pm (existing is 8am to 1pm)

b. Allow for an increase of stall numbers from 46 (currently) to 70 and change of layout.

c. Allow for a variety of goods extending from that of just food/ food related products (without negatively impacting on existing local businesses).

d. Allow for the format of stalls to be changed depending on operational requirements.

e. Allow for amplified music to be played whilst there is no wedding/ event in the Cathedral.

f. Allow for special/ themed/ Civic events to operate in conjunction with the existing markets.

g. Allow for the formulation of market operating guidelines.

h. Allow for the market to operate as per the results of the Parramatta Visitor strategy.

CONSULTATION & TIMING FOR THURSDAY MARKETS

9. Following a decision to trial a Thursday market based on the existing model of the Saturday market, a five week trial commenced from 12^th of November to 17^th of December 2009. The following points summarize outcomes of the trial:

a. The market was well received by the public working in the CBD unable to attend the Saturday Market.

b. Smaller goods such as clothing and jewellery sold better than the produce.

c. The market was busier in the morning peak as opposed to the afternoon.

d. Hot food stalls appeared to attract more business when moved from the front of the Town Hall, as passing pedestrians bought food going to or from work.

e. The summer weather affected the market as four of the five trial days were affected by temperatures of 40+ degrees.

f. Businesses within the Church Street Mall area liked the Thursday market and some even participated by holding their own stall inside the market.

g. Traffic management worked well with the stallholders using the multi-level car parks within the CBD.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

10. An increase in the variety of goods available at the markets should increase the stall numbers and consequent income.

Adam Elliott

Property Asset Management Officer

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 9.2

ECONOMY AND DEVELOPMENT

ITEM NUMBER 9.2

SUBJECT Outdoor Dining Policy Review - Proposed Adoption of Revised Policy

REFERENCE F2004/05920 - D01425249

REPORT OF Property Asset Management Officer

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this report is to present the results of the public exhibition of the draft Outdoor Dining Policy and to make an appropriate recommendation.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That the draft outdoor dining policy as exhibited and appended as Attachment 7, and subject to paragraph 14, be adopted.

(b) Further, that those who responded with a submission be advised of Council`s decision and be forwarded a copy of this report as background to that decision.

BACKGROUND

1. In June 2009 the Outdoor Dining Policy underwent a review by a multi-disciplinary in-house committee.

2. The changes were submitted to Council when it was decided that a workshop should be held with the Councillors.

3. The recommended changes arising from the workshop were reported to Council’s meeting of 19 October 2009 where a draft policy was adopted and it was resolved to place the draft on public exhibition.

4. The draft Policy was exhibited from 16December 2009 to 18 February 2010 with six (6) submissions being received. Details of these submissions can be seen at Attachments 1 - 6.

ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES

5. The most prominent issue raised during the exhibition of the outdoor dining policy was that of smoking. Five (5) of the six (6) submissions sought a complete smoking ban within outdoor dining areas.

Other comments related to:

a. Pedestrian egress, operators being required to stay within the approved area and the hazards associated with allowing more external seating than internal seating,

b. Liquor being served to dining patrons on the street,

c. Fairness in compliance and enforcement of the outdoor dining policy,

d. Bus and Vehicular movement near outdoor seating areas.

6. Points a. and b. have been addressed within the Policy draft (Clauses 2.7, 2.31 respectively) while point c. is a matter attended to by the Regulatory Services Unit whose approach in these types of matters is to deal with the issue in a fair, consistent and equitable manner. Point d. is beyond the bounds of this policy review and the issues raised could be considered in the next review of bus routes.

7. The concerns about smoking relate to health issues with the submitters pressing for Council to eliminate this provision from the Policy.

8. It is noted that that are reports in recent times where a number of councils have banned smoking in public areas. These councils include Waverley and Manly. The Heart Foundation lists on its web site numerous councils that have introduced a full or partial ban in public areas such as roads, reserves and public pools etc. These councils include Ashfield, Bankstown, Baulkham Hills, Blue Mountains, Canada Bay, Fairfield, Gosford, Hawkesbury, Holroyd, Hornsby, Kogarah, Ku-ring-gai, Lane Cove, Leichhardt, Liverpool, Manly, Mosman, Penrith, Pittwater, Ryde, Warringah, Waverley, Woollahra and Wyong.

12. Council has the power under S632 of the Local Government Act to ban smoking in public places. Should Council move in a similar direction to that of the councils mentioned above the Outdoor Dining Policy could be adjusted accordingly. The intention of the Draft Policy on Outdoor Dining was to provide a reasonable balance between the concerns of non-smokers and those who wished to smoke.

13. Although the submitters make a valid case against smoking especially in relation to the health issues it is considered that the Policy draft provides for choices to be made by customers in that they will be aware of which restaurants provide smoking areas through the signage and through custom and accordingly can choose to dine in those restaurants or not. Should a restaurateur decide that he/she is losing custom due to the provision of a smoking area he/she can decide to delete that provision. The market will decide.

14. Council’s Corporate Counsel has suggested minor wording changes to the draft and these have been incorporated in the Draft Policy seen at Attachment 7. The document will also need minor editing before publication.

15. It is considered that, having regard to the small number of submissions made, the draft policy as exhibited should remain unchanged, apart from the changes referred to in paragraph 14, and that Council should adopt the draft policy.

CONSULTATION & TIMING

16. The draft outdoor dining policy was exhibited for 2 months due to the exhibition falling within the holiday period. In addition a link to the draft policy was forwarded to the business community by Council’s Economic Development Team.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

17. Financial implications to Council would be indirect. The actions implemented due to the adoption of the policy would increase the amenity and profile of the area. Internally the processes will have improved, flowing onto the client/ public.

Adam Elliott

Property Asset Management Officer

Attachments:

1View	Western Sydney Regional Cancer Advocacy Network	1 Page
2View	Restaurant Operator	1 Page
3View	Business Operator	1 Page
4View	Resident Submission	1 Page
5View	Cancer Council Submission	1 Page
6View	Restaurant Operator	1 Page
7View	Outdoor Dining Policy 2009	16 Pages

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 9.3

ECONOMY AND DEVELOPMENT

ITEM NUMBER 9.3

SUBJECT Proposal for Drainage Easement over Council Land at Talbot Street Guildford

REFERENCE F2007/00230 - D01496729

REPORT OF Property Program Manager

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this report is to recommend that Council grant an easement across part of its car park at Guildford Road Guildford in order to assist a developer to meet condition concerning drainage for a development proposed at 25 Talbot Street Guildford.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That Council agree to grant an easement for drainage over part over Council`s car park, being lot 5 DP 521961 in favour of lot A DP 349926 on the following basis:

i) 1 metre wide and between about .6 to 1 metre (and to a maximum of 2 metres) long affecting an area of up to 2 square metres,as shown on plan at Attachment 1,

ii) Compensation to be as referred to in paragraphs 6 and 7 of this report

(b) Further, that the Lord Mayor and Chief Executive Officer be authorised to complete all documents including the linen plan, S88B instrument and transfer granting easement together with any other necessary supporting documentation under the seal of Council.

BACKGROUND

1. This matter first arose in 2007 when the developer approached Council with a request that Council grant him an easement to drain water over Council`s site. The site is a portion of Council`s car park at Guildford Road Guildford. A site plan is appended as Attachment 1.

2. A conditional offer was made but the matter fell into abeyance when agreement could not be reached on the compensation sought. The matter has been revived by the developer who has now agreed to the compensation now sought.

ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES

3. Development consent incorporating conditions concerning drainage was issued on following a Land and Environment Court decision on 15 November 2006.

4. The consent required that “prior to the issue of the Construction Certificate an easement to drain water 1 metre wide over the down stream property/properties” be “registered with the Department of Lands.” Council`s car park behind the Guildford shopping centre is the “downstream property” and there is a drainage pit located close to the rear of the subject property.

5. The developer sought the easement from Council and a valuation was commissioned by Council but agreement could not be reached on compensation.

6. Details of the negotiations, valuations and recommended compensation can be seen at Attachments 2(i) and 2(ii).

7. In addition to the compensation the developer would be responsible to meet Council`s valuation and legal fees (including S88B Instrument) incurred.

CONSULTATION & TIMING

8. Consultation has occurred with Council`s Development Unit and Panel Valuer.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

9. The easement compensation will provide additional revenue to Council.

Paul Burne

Property Program Manager

Attachments:

1View	Attachment 1	1 Page
2	Attachment 2(i)	2 Pages
3	Attachment 2(ii)	1 Page

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 9.4

ECONOMY AND DEVELOPMENT

ITEM NUMBER 9.4

SUBJECT Enforcement Policy and Parking Enforcement Policy

REFERENCE F2009/01489 - D01501961

REPORT OF Manager. Regulatory Services

PURPOSE:

To present to Council for consideration and adoption of the regulatory enforcement policy and parking enforcement policy.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That the draft Enforcement Policy as exhibited be adopted.

(b) That the draft Parking Enforcement Policy as amended be adopted.

(d) Further, that expressions of interest be called for persons for the adjudication panel.

BACKGROUND

1. At the meeting held on the 23^rd of March 2009 Council resolved to prepare a Parking Enforcement Policy. A draft Enforcement Policy and draft Parking Enforcement Policy were prepared and workshopped with Councillors.

2. The draft policies were reported to Council and it was resolved that a working party be formed to review the draft policies with a further report to be submitted back to Council for consideration. Three (3) working party meetings were held and the draft policies were reported to Council to be placed on public exhibition.

3. The draft policies were placed on public exhibition for 4 weeks until the 6^th November 2009. Submissions from the RTA and the Pedestrian Council of Australia were received to the draft Parking Enforcement Policy and these submissions are discussed in this report. The draft policies and the submissions were referred to Council’s General Counsel for review.

CONSULTATION & TIMING

4. At the Ordinary meeting of the 23^rd of March 2009 Council resolved to prepare a parking enforcement policy. A draft enforcement policy and parking enforcement policy were prepared, and following workshops with Councillors the policies were amended and reported to Council.

Council resolved on 28 September 2009 (Minute No. 10998);

a) That Council adopt the draft enforcement policy and the draft parking enforcement policy for public exhibition, (Completed).

b) That appropriate independent legal advice be sought after the public consultation process seeking advice on the future of the policy, (Completed via the Council’s General Counsel)

c) That a further report be prepared for Council to consider matters raised during the public exhibition, (Completed.)

d) That Council arrange a feedback system to be in place for the public exhibition ensuring that local members of the community have an opportunity to put their views across, (Completed.)

e) That a workshop be organised with the working committee of Councillors and our Council Managers after the public exhibition period to make final amendments before being adopted by Council Working Committee. As there were only two submissions a further workshop was not necessary. This was discussed with the members of the working party

f) That approval for an honorarium to be included for the independent panel be delegated to the CEO, (Completed.)

g) That the name Community Safety Officer be used in the document that will go on public exhibition, (Completed.)

h) Further, that it be noted that the above action be in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, (Completed.)

5. The public exhibition has been completed and the draft polices have been referred to Council’s General Counsel for review. The General Counsel supports the policies subject to some minor amendments to clarify intent and purpose.

PUBLIC CONSULTATION

6. The draft Enforcement Policy and draft Parking Enforcement Policy were exhibited and two (2) submissions were received on the draft Parking Enforcement Policy , from the RTA and the Pedestrian Council of Australia. The following issues were raised;

6.1 Issues raised by the RTA.

That Council officers have no power to park illegally at any time

It was detailed in the draft policy under the behaviour standards that at times staff may need to park illegally when carrying out their duties.

Comment;

The policy has been amended to clearly reflect that staff must park legally at all times.

Mobility parking Scheme RTA officers are not authorised officers to confiscate permits

The draft policy indicated that Council staff would not confiscate mobility parking permits and that Council may request the RTA officers to attend with Council and that the RTA may confiscate the permits if required.

The RTA advised that they can attend Council inspection upon request however they are not authorised officers under the legislation to inspect or confiscate permits. The RTA have requested that the reference to their officer’s confiscating permits be removed from the policy.

Comment;

The reference to RTA officers confiscating MPS permits has been removed from the policy and the reference to Council officer not to confiscate permits will remain in the policy.

6.2 Issue raised by the Pedestrian Council of Australasia

Discretion be exercised lawfully

Discretion is left in the control of the authorised officer and were an officer has failed to issue a penalty notice in circumstances were an offence has been detected may open the officer and Council to claims of damages.

Were a common law duty of care arises the officer must act to abate the harm.

Comment;

The discretion within the policy confirms this process with the additional advice regarding parking of vehicles on footpath areas with roll over kerbs and large setbacks. The policy is only a guide to provide officers with examples were Council has determined that the risk is minimal and to assist the officer in exercising the discretion.

Issuing of Warnings

It was raised that Council has no authority to direct that a warning system be implemented.

Comment;

The Policy is not directing officer to issue warning however it is providing them with options when enforcing legislation that include discretion and gives them the ability to issue a warning providing a suite of enforcement actions and tools for the education and enforcement of relevant legislation.

Review of Penalty Infringements

It has been raised that Council does not having a role in adjudication of PINS independently or not referred by the SDRO.

Advice was sought from the SDRO and Legal Counsel regarding this matter, the SDRO advised that only one representation can be made to any fine and should Council choose to offer this service then only one representation should be considered by Council.

The general advice from Legal Counsel is that any representation for a review of a penalty infringement should be made separately to an independent impartial panel with some expertise in the area.

The proposed process is to advise SDRO when a request has been received and then to have a three person independent panel review the representation. Upon completion of the review all parties will be informed of the decision. As such there are no formal changes recommended to the review process.

Overt and Covert operations

It has been raised that covert operations are an essential tool in enforcing the related road rules and that the ability to be detected by a covert operation ensures that motorists are less likely to commit an offence.

Comment;

The policy allows for covert operations only with the resolution of Council and is seen as an enforcement tool that can be used to meet the organizational requirements. As such there are no changes recommended for covert and overt operations.

7. No submissions were received to the draft Enforcement Policy which is the umbrella policy for all enforcing action. Attached to this report are the policies incorporating changes suggested by General Counsel.

ADJUDICATION PANEL

8. The adjudication panel is proposed to operate with two senior Council staff and one independent member of the public as proposed in the draft Parking Enforcement Policy.

9. It is proposed that Council call for expressions of interest from members of the community to form a panel of public representatives with an appropriate qualifications and backgrounds to serve on the Adjudication Panel.

10. To better manage the number of representations referred to the Adjudication Panel it is propose that the Manager of Regulatory Services undertake an initial review of the representation and were an error has been made in issuing the PIN the Manager will complete the review and withdraw the PIN without the need for referral to the Adjudication Panel. This will reduce the need to refer matters that do not require an independent review, approximately 77 matters were withdrawn over the 6 months trial review period.

11. The Adjudication Panel will review all other representations and in particular will consider all representations where there is a request for Council to consider the particular circumstances of the person, and this may include requests for leniency, compassionate or a persons financial situation and were no obvious errors have occurred that warrant the withdrawal of the PIN.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

12. There are 2 areas where there may be financial impacts to Council; additional street signage for school zones and the operation of the Adjudication Panel for all representations of Parking Infringement Notices

12.1 Additional Signage for School Zones

A preliminary costing has been provided by the Service Manager of Traffic & Transport for the signs at $120.00 per sign installed with a total cost of $18,000.00 for the LGA. Should Council recommend to provide additional signage at School Zones it is requested that additional funding be provided for the proposed signage.

12.2 Review panel for representations of Penalty Infringement Notice.

The draft Parking Enforcement Policy provides the mechanism for Council to formally review representations made by the public. During the exhibition period Council has been trialling the process..

13. From September 2009 to March 2010 over a 6 month period, a total of 453 penalty notice reviews have been undertaken. Of this number 89 have been found to warrant a caution in lieu of the penalty, 287 have been found that the penalty is to stand and 77 have been withdrawn.

14. It has identified that each review takes approximately 1.5 to 2 person hours (depending on the complexity of the review). The work flow for the review process is attached.

15. Using the minimum time frame of 1.5 hours this equates to approximately (453 x 1.5 hours) 652.5 person hours over 6 months. This is the equivalent of one person working full time.

16. Currently this role is shared amongst the Community Safety Officers resulting in reduced staff undertaking active parking patrols with a reduction in revenue. It is requested that Council consider additional funding to maintain the administrative support role and active parking patrols.

Laurie Whitehead

Manager Regulatory Services

Attachments:

1View	Enforcement Policy	15 Pages
2View	Parking Enforcement Policy with amendments shown via tracked changes	20 Pages
3View	Penalty Infringement Review process	1 Page

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 9.5

ECONOMY AND DEVELOPMENT

ITEM NUMBER 9.5

SUBJECT Securing SuperX Opportunity 2010 to 2012

REFERENCE F2009/01568 - D01507639

REPORT OF Manager Economic Development

PURPOSE:

To seek approval from Council to help to secure the SuperX Australasian Championship events for 2010, 2011, and 2012.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That Council consider the business case for the attached proposal to help secure a three-year event and to maximise the promotional opportunities associated with the Supercross event to be held at Parramatta Stadium in 2010, 2011, and 2012.

(b) Further, that Council agree to sponsor the 2010 event with an option for commitment through to 2012, dependent upon an assessment of economic value be undertaken post the event, planning approval be secured for future events, and that the Special Rate continuation be agreed to by the Minister for Local Government.

BACKGROUND

1. SuperX is planning to host one of its Australasian competitions in Parramatta on 27 November, 2010, with an expected visitation to Parramatta of 10,000 people.

2. Planning approval for this event was granted to Parramatta Stadium in 2008 by the NSW Planning Minister and is valid until 7 October 2011. This will mean that any commitment by Council is dependent upon further approval being secured.

3. SuperX was held Parramatta in 2009 with the economic impact assessed to be at least $1.3 Million. ATTACHMENT 1.

4. Over half a million television viewers watch the event via Foxsports, Fuel TV and Network Ten in Australia. It is also shown on TVNZ in New Zealand and Australia Network in Asia.

BUSINESS CASE

5. A number of Councillors have raised their concerns about the local restaurant, café and accommodation sectors which have been experiencing a downturn in their businesses in the current economic climate. This event did have, and will have a positive direct and ongoing economic impact on these sectors.

6. An analysis undertaken by SuperX (ATTACHMENT 1) estimates the economic impact of the 2009 event totalled nearly $1.4 Million. This is slightly higher than what the Economic Development Team estimated in June 2009 - $1.1 Million - when it sought approval from Council.

7. Actual validation for this positive impact comes from feedback from two of Parramatta’s major hoteliers who indicated that the 2009 event contributed to between 30% and 40% of their occupancy and turnover during the evening of the event. This equates to approximately $20,000 in direct expenditure. Extrapolating this further to the 11 Parramatta establishments which provide accommodation of 15 plus rooms would indicate a potential significant boost to this sector alone. It is also reasonable to expect the same impact on restaurants and cafes.

8. Media Monitors notes an advertising value for the Parramatta SuperX event at $344,000. This does not include overseas exposure which was secured through Sky and other international channels.

9. Further direct and ongoing positive economic impact will be achieved due to the broader coverage Parramatta will experience. This is presented in summary in ATTACHMENT 2.

10. The Economic Development Team will undertake a post-event assessment of economic impact and report back to Council on its findings.

11. In addition, the Lord Mayor will have the opportunity to invite special guests to the event through the corporate box. This would offer an excellent opportunity to engage with business leaders to discuss current issues and plans.

ISSUES/OPTIONS

12. There was some opposition raised in 2008, particularly concerning noise. In response to this, it should be noted that as this is a night event it will not conflict with day activities of the park and will only present a small inconvenience, if any, to residents within earshot. Council is not aware of any complaints arising from the Supercross event which was held in 2008 or 2009.

13. Support of this proposal commits to an expenditure of $75k over 3 years but this will be contingent upon Council securing an ongoing Economic Development Special Rate.

14. Some of the sponsorship options require some further expenditure e.g. catering, sign production. We will seek to keep these expenses below $5k.

Michael Thomas

Manager Economic Development

Nick Murphie

Manager Communications and Marketing

Rebecca Grasso

Manager Culture Tourism and Recreation

Attachments:

1View	Economic Impact of 2009 SuperX	42 Pages
2View	Summary Sponsorship Benefits	3 Pages
3View	Letter of Support from the Director of Parramatta Stadium Trust	1 Page

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 10.1

ENVIRONMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE

ITEM NUMBER 10.1

SUBJECT Metropolitan Transport Plan

REFERENCE F2008/01549 - D01506995

REPORT OF Senior Project Officer - Transport Planning

PURPOSE:

To seek Council endorsement of a submission to the NSW State Government responding to the Metropolitan Transport Plan.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That this Council report forms the submission to State Government responding to the Metropolitan Transport Plan including objection to the deferment of the West Metro and the Parramatta to Epping Rail Link and the establishment of the Sydney Metropolitan Development Authority.

(b) That Council develops a 25 year sustainable transport vision for Parramatta expanding the draft Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre.

(d) That Council applies for the Metropolitan Transport Plan Cycle funding to complete the Parramatta Valley Cycleway and other routes to the city centre.

(e) That Council investigates Federal Government funding and or assistance to improve transport to Parramatta as the gateway to Western Sydney.

(f) Further that, Council holds a transport forum as part of the Destination Parramatta Campaign for better transport to Parramatta.

BACKGROUND

1. The Metropolitan Transport Plan was released by the NSW State Government on 21 February 2010 and is on public exhibition until 30 April 2010. The plan sets out the transport plan for Sydney with very brief details beyond the first 10 years. The Plan will be incorporated into the Metropolitan Strategy later this year and be expanded to cover 25 years.

2. In terms of Parramatta, the key elements of the Plan are:

· Western Express, a Western Rail Line improvement project with works planned to start from 2015.

· North West Rail Link (Epping to Rouse Hill) with works planned to start from 2017 and a service starting from 2024.

· Sydney Metro deferred until at 2020.

· Parramatta to Epping Rail Link deferred until 2020.

· 1000 extra buses for Metropolitan Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong and the Central Coast.

· Complete Sydney’s strategic bus corridors.

· Funding for missing links in the strategic cycle network.

· Additional road capacity.

· New trains.

· Integrated electronic ticketing from 2012.

· Future projects including the M4 East Motorway.

· Establishment of a Sydney Metropolitan Development Authority to drive development in existing areas.

METROPOLITAN TRANSPORT PLAN IN OUTLINE

3. There are three significant concerns with the Metropolitan Transport Plan:

1. The lack of support for Parramatta as “the second city”.

2. The plan provides funding for projects over a 10-year period only, which in the context of urban development is far too short.

3. The creation of the Sydney Metropolitan Development Authority (SMDA) creates further layer of bureaucracy rather than reforming the governance of metropolitan Sydney.

Lack of Support for Parramatta as “the Second city”

4. The Metropolitan Transport Plan makes numerous comments and statements purporting to support the Metropolitan Strategy of a City of Cities. It nominates these cities as Liverpool, Penrith, Parramatta and Sydney city. It also notes and repeats on several occasions that Parramatta is the nominated second city of Sydney. On this basis, it would be considered that considerable effort would be placed on creating a Metropolitan Transport Plan which recognises the current and, more importantly, the future importance of Parramatta. The future of Sydney and its capacity to accommodate growth population of 1.7 million over the next 30 years will be dependant upon creating real and sustainable cities outside Sydney city which become hubs of an interconnected transport system.

5. Managing growth will also depend on a real commitment to employment locations outside the city centre. A number of key transport projects have been announced previously by the current State Government which would support the future development of Parramatta. These projects are largely ignored in the current plan.

6. Parramatta City Council would argue that this transport plan does not integrate or recognise the importance of the Metropolitan Strategy and will do nothing to enhance the importance of Parramatta in the short or long term.

10-years is too short

7. A 10-year funding strategy is simply short-sighted. The planning, approval and tendering process for major infrastructure projects is a long term matter. For example, the planning for the Parramatta to Chatswood Rail Link commenced in the mid 1990’s, construction did not commence until 2002 and the system was not opened until 2009. Even at that time it was only half built. This is close to a 10-year program. Therefore, to allow only 10-year funding strategy to underpin the future growth of Sydney is short sighted and inadequate.

8. To continue to deliver sustainable transport in Sydney in the long term, there must be a rolling program of concept design, approval and delivery. This would mean that one third of the rolling program would be in one of these three phases. There should be a 10 year rolling works program with a 30 to 50 year vision.

Governance Reform in metropolitan Sydney

9. Due to the failings of the current governance framework for the planning and delivery of infrastructure and services in Sydney, another layer of bureaucracy is proposed by the plan.

10. The role of the SMDA is defined as the following:

(a) be responsible for delivering the Metropolitan Plan.

(b) define and recommend areas that will benefit from renewal.

(d) apply new transport oriented development and rapid rezoning tools to drive urban renewal, new residential housing, employment land and transport infrastructure.

(e) consider options for funding

(f) attract private sector investment in urban renewal areas.

(g) be answerable to the Ministers for Planning and Transport & Roads.

11. The creation of the SMDA does not solve the problems of infrastructure and urban renewal delivery. It simply creates additional cost to the community and tax payers of New South Wales. Much of the justification of the SMDA is the inability of the local government to deliver on major urban renewal projects. However, there are many overseas and Australian examples where local government delivers these projects in a co-ordinated and efficient way. Rather than creating another layer of bureaucracy, perhaps it is time to ask what reforms are required to local government to ensure local government has the capacity to deliver on these important urban development outcomes.

12. Small, financially unsustainable, parochial local governments have difficulty in delivering on major infrastructure projects and urban renewal outcomes, so perhaps it is time, to address the need for local government reform and reducing the size of State Government as a consequence. Both the Metropolitan Strategy and the draft Metropolitan Transport Plan identify the key cities in Sydney. These should be the starting point for any major reform to local government. These cities should be the focus of strong local governments in Sydney and New South Wales that can deliver regional local infrastructure and manage large scale urban renewal projects that would deliver the outcomes necessary to ensure growth in Sydney is sustainable. There is an opportunity for discussion on the necessary local government reforms to deliver this.

METROPOLITAN TRANSPORT PLAN IN DETAIL

13. The objectives of the Metropolitan Transport Plan are to:

· Reduce congestion on our roads

· Increase capacity on public transport

· Improve pedestrian and cycle links

· Improve customer service

· Improve governance structures

14. The Plan highlights Parramatta as an important regional city but fails to identify any significant transport improvements. The NSW State Plan (2010) has a mode split target of 50% of work trips to Parramatta city centre by public transport by 2016. This target will be very difficult to achieve from a base of 38% (2007).

15. The detailed criticisms of the Plan as are follows:

· A lack of forward transport planning focused on Parramatta city centre.

· The deferment of the West Metro and the continued deferment of the Parramatta to Epping Rail Link, which has been deferred since 2003.

· The Western Express project will marginally reduce journey times 5 minutes between both Penrith and Parramatta and Parramatta and Sydney. This will have a negligible impact on public transport use with the works not planned to start for 5 years.

· The North West Rail Link will bypass Parramatta, the closest regional city for those living in the North West. The service is not due to start for at least 14 years.

· The 1000 extra buses promised will have a negligible benefit for Parramatta as they will be shared across Metropolitan Sydney and between Newcastle, Wollongong and Central Coast which are outside of the scope of this Sydney Metropolitan Transport Plan.

· It is difficult to assess the completion of the strategic bus corridors as there has never been a detailed plan.

· It is difficult to understand why State Government proposes to fund roads by $23bn, compared to $18bn on public transport, when the Plan recognises that “we can not build our way out of congestion” and that “Public transport alternatives must be available for as many journeys as possible”. The Plan again funds schemes outside of the Metropolitan area.

· There are no details of the proposed integrated electronic ticketing system.

· It is difficult to understand how State Government can justify future motorway schemes such as the M4 East when the West Metro has the ability to move significantly more people and reduce traffic congestion than the M4 East. It appears roads schemes such as the Iron Cove Bridge duplication, M2 and M5 widening as fait accompli without any apparent need for integrated transport planning by the State Government. An obvious alternative to the M2 is the North West Rail Link.

· There is no planned program or funding for pedestrians despite one of the objectives of the plan being to improve pedestrian and cycle links.

PROPOSED FUTURE PARRAMATTA TRANSPORT VISION

16. Council’s draft Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre (ITP) sets the future direction for the city centre for the next 10 years and is subject to a separate Council Report on 27 April 2010.

17. It is recommended that Council develops a 25 year sustainable transport vision for Parramatta outlining sustainable transport links to Parramatta as Sydney’s second centre, and the nearest regional city for most of Western Sydney’s current and planned population growth. This vision would extend the 10 year draft ITP transport strategy. The objectives for 25 year plan, based on the ITP, are:

· Promote and support walking, cycling and sustainable travel change.

· Provide a legible city with improved access and amenity.

· Support and facilitate public transport use.

· Manage traffic to minimise its adverse impacts especially car commuters and through traffic.

18. The following key transport improvements projects are suggested and warrant further investigation and analysis within the context of the Metropolitan Plan.

Rail

19. The key rail improvement needed to support Parramatta’s growth, and Western Sydney’s increased residential population, is the Parramatta to Epping Rail Link. This will provide a direct link to jobs in Macquarie Park and North Sydney, while equally provide increased access from the Central Coast and the North Shore to jobs in Parramatta and Western Sydney. A second key project is the West Metro which will significantly reduce journey times from parts of the Inner West and create new travel opportunities.

20. Longer term, it is suggested that a Parramatta to Castle Hill Rail Link be investigated once the North West Rail Link has been implemented. This link will support the expected significant increase in travel demand to Parramatta from the North West Growth Sector and provide relief to the NW T-way. A second project is a tram line from Parramatta to Bankstown via Granville to Chester Hill and then to Bankstown. A second line from Olympic Park to Cabramatta could also be considered.

21. Summary rail recommendations:

· Parramatta to Epping Rail Link.

· West Metro.

· Cumberland Line - Restore the service to half hourly.

· Western Line - Western Express rail improvement project.

· Future considerations

o Parramatta to Castle Hill Rail Link - Suggested service from NW Sydney to SW Sydney.

o Parramatta to Bankstown Tram - Suggested service from North Parramatta to Bankstown via the city centre and Granville replacing existing bus & rail services.

Bus

22. It is suggested that additional bus priority be provided. The Windsor Road corridor is a high priority as it has the potential to significantly reduce journey times from the Hills to Parramatta. It will also encourage the high number of car commuters from this area to consider changing modes. Additionally, park & ride facilities on the South West T-way, with a suggested site near the Great Western Highway to reduce car travel and parking demand in Parramatta city centre, would be beneficial.

23. Summary bus recommendations:

· Additional bus priority - Including on Victoria Road, Windsor Road, Pitt Street and the Carlingford and Chatswood corridors

· South-West T-Way - Park & Ride on the Great Western Highway

Ferry

24. The immediate priority is to secure ongoing funding for the Parramatta ferry service. Current State Government funding for the River Express service is for 2 years only with no certainly beyond November 2011, when the existing incarnation of the service began.

25. A second priority is a commuter ferry service to Parramatta from the Inner West with new modern vessels. The Parramatta River is a natural infrastructure corridor from Sydney via the growing high densities suburbs of Drummoyne, Abbotsford, Cabarita, Meadowbank and Rhodes, which need a direct public transport link to Parramatta.

26. Summary ferry recommendations:

· Secure continued funding - the River Express is only funded for 2 years

· Commuter ferry service - to Parramatta from the Inner West

Walking and Cycling

27. The draft Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre (ITP) recommends a 40kph city centre pedestrian & cycle amenity zone to enhance amenity and safety. This is supported by Council’s free city centre bus service, the Loop, which connects the key destinations together for city centre employees, residents and visitors. It is noted that the Transport Minister announced on 19 March 2010 additional funding for the State funded Wollongong free bus and yet still refuses to fund Parramatta’s. It is recommended that Council continue to lobby State Government for funding for the free city bus.

28. It is recommended that Council apply to State Government’s cycling funding to complete the Parramatta Valley Cycleway and implement regional radial routes to the city centre within a 5km to 10km radius.

29. Summary walking and cycling recommendations:

· Walking & Cycle Amenity Zone – As per ITP recommendation.

· Council continue to lobby State Government to contribute funding to the free city bus service, the Loop.

· Council to apply for the Metropolitan Transport Plan’s cycle funding – to complete the Parramatta Valley Cycleway and other routes to the city centre.

Car

30. The draft ITP recommends a city ring road around the city centre using the existing road network to encourage traffic to circumnavigate the pedestrian & cycle amenity zone and provide better access to existing car parks (Hunter Street and Wentworth Street) and the proposed peripheral multi-storey car parks (Macquarie Street and Fennel Street).

31. The draft ITP also recommends a regional ring road using the existing road network to encourage regional traffic to bypass Parramatta rather than cross the city edge on roads such as Great Western Highway-Parkes Street and Church Street-O’Connell Street. This would require intersection improvements (grade separation and new exit and entry ramps) on the M4, James Ruse Drive and Cumberland Highway.

Summary walking and cycling recommendations:

· City and Regional Ring Roads – As per ITP recommendation.

Funding

32. The Metropolitan Transport Plan contains no allocated funding for any of the recommended projects. It is recommended that Council investigate the possibility of Federal funding or assistance to establish the necessary public transport improvements to support the future growth of Parramatta and Western Sydney.

FINANICAL IMPLICATIONS

33. Developing a 25 year sustainable transport vision, lobbying NSW State Government and holding a transport forum involves in-kind staff costs. It is estimated that hosting a half day transport forum for 100 patrons will cost in the order of $5,000.

OTHER CONSULTATION

34. The draft Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre which was on public exhibition from 4 November to 1 December 2009 and is subject to a Council Report on 27 April 2010. The ITP contains the following transport improvements: Parramatta to Epping Rail Link, West Metro, Cumberland Line, Additional bus priority (Victoria Road, Windsor Road), Commuter ferry service, Walking & Cycle Amenity Zone, Lobby State Government to contribute funding to the Loop, City Ring Road and Regional Ring Road.

David Gray

Senior Project Officer, Transport Planning

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

REFERENCE MATERIAL: Metropolitan Transport Plan NSW Government (2010)

Council 27 April 2010

Item 10.3

ENVIRONMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE

ITEM NUMBER 10.3

SUBJECT Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre

REFERENCE F2006/01143 - D01493350

REPORT OF Senior Project Officer - Transport Planning

PURPOSE:

This report was deferred from the Council Meeting held on 22 March 2010.

To seek Council adoption of the Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta city centre following the exhibition of the draft in November and December 2009.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That Council adopts the Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta city centre considering the comments received following the public exhibition.

(b) That Council notes in the State Government’s Metropolitan Transport Plan the loss of the Sydney Metro and the continued deferment of the Parramatta to Epping Line, and their retention in the Integrated Transport Plan as essential public transport improvements.

(c) That Council considers the projects contained within the Plan during the 2010/11 budget bid process and subsequent financial years.

(d) Further that, Council forwards a copy of the Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta city centre to local State and Federal MPs and the relevant State Government agencies.

BACKGROUND

1. The Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre was on public exhibition from 4 November to 1 December 2009. It is in response to the Parramatta City Centre Plan (2007) which sets out the planning framework for an additional 30,000 jobs and 20,000 residents by 2031. This planned growth will generate significant travel demand to Parramatta city centre. The Integrated Transport Plan recommends a strategy plan to manage the existing and future sustainable transportation. Moving away from the reliance of car use towards sustainable transport of walking, cycling and public transport use, is the key issue addressed in the draft Plan.

2. The key elements of the Plan are:

(a) Ongoing lobbying for NSW State Government commitment for improved public transport including the Parramatta to Epping Rail Link, Parramatta to Castle Hills Rail Link, commuter ferry service from the Inner West to Parramatta, within a more acceptable timeframe than the current policy.

(b) A Pedestrian & Cycle Amenity Zone in the city centre to improve pedestrian and cycle accessibility and safety through new facilities and a lower speed limit.

(d) Relocating commuter car parking to the periphery of the city centre and development of park & ride facilities.

3. The Plan sets out possible future transport planning policy for the next 5 years. There are a number of recommended strategies that require additional budget beyond Council’s existing programs and can be considered at the appropriate time by Council as is the normal budget process.

RECENTLY ANNOUNCED CHANGES TO TRANSPORT

4. The Metropolitan Transport Plan was announced on 20 February 2010 and deferred the West Metro until 2020 along with the Parramatta to Epping Rail Link. The loss of these two projects will have a significant impact on Parramatta and its ability to grow and expand without the continued reliance on the private and the existing traffic congestion. The Integrated Transport Plan retains both these projects. Council’s submission to State Government responding to the Metropolitan Transport Plan will be considered by Council at its meeting on 27 April 2010.

5. Other significant changes include the Department of Transport & Infrastructure’s new ticketing system “MyZone” to be introduced on 23 April 2010. New Hopkinsons’ bus services are also scheduled to be introduced from 22 March 2010.

PUBLIC EXHIBITION RESPONSES RECEIVED

6. A total of twelve (12) submissions were received mostly from State and Local Government and one each from a resident, car share provider, transport interest group and a consultant.

7. The majority of submissions from the State Government agencies raised minor corrections to facts. There was a significantly number of respondents who were generally supportive of the measures to encourage sustainable transport while reducing the reliance on private car use, particularly the local Council submissions. A summary of the key comments and their response, are shown below.

Comment	Response
Support decreasing reliance on car use and increased use of sustainable transport.	Support noted.
Revised 2009 State Plan has set a target of 50% of journey to work trips to Parramatta city centre by public transport by 2016.	Noted and included.
That a Transport plan be prepare for all local centres.	A Transport Plan for Granville has been adopted. A draft Transport Plan for Westmead has been prepared and the recommendations will be incorporated into the Vision document for Westmead which will also include land use and urban design work. A Transport Plan for Epping is linked to the DoP’s funding to undertake joint planning work with Hornsby Shire Council.
The importance of additional transport links to the North West, particularly public transport. Considering that approximately of 5% of residents in the Hills LGA use the bus to travel to work in Parramatta and the planned residential growth is 100,000 by 2031. Also recognising the importance of Parramatta as the closet regional city.	Highlight the importance of bus lanes on Windsor Road and inclusion of a Parramatta to Castle Hill Rail Link connecting to the North West Rail Line to Rouse Hill.
Support for additional bus priority measures and cycle routes.	Noted.
Completion of the Parramatta to Epping Rail Link.	Noted.
Support for additional bus priority.	Noted.
Improvements to bus stops.	Noted.
Additional pedestrian guard railing within the Interchange.	This is an operational issue for RailCorp who manages the Interchange. This is supported
The proposed Pedestrian & Cycle Amenity Zone needs careful consideration and may diminish the outcomes for public transport	Noted.
No support for cross-city bus services at present.	This was discussed with State Government and bus operators at a meeting in January 2010. It also discussed the decreasing capacity of bus layover spaces and the suggestion of cross-city bus services as solution to this problem. The meeting noted that the eastern layover (Station St) operates overcapacity but just about manages to operate satisfactory at most times as Charles Street (leased by the RTA from Council) is used as a spill-over layover. One of the operators present was opposed to cross-city services while another was supportive of further exploration, neither of whom made a submission. State Government agencies at acknowledged the need to investigate the issue and recognised that cross-city routes was one solution.
Lack cycle infrastructure is the biggest factor to overcome to encourage cycling.	Noted.
Revised 2009 State Plan has set a target for Metropolitan Sydney of 5% of trips by bicycle by 2016.	Noted and included.
Need to develop better connections to the North West. Extend the Carlingford Line to Granville rather than Parramatta and to the North West rather than Epping.	Highlight the importance of bus lanes on Windsor Road. Parramatta is the preferred western alignment for the Carlingford Line extension as it is a regional city with a significant number of jobs as opposed to Granville which is town centre. Epping is the preferred eastern alignment as it provides a direct route to jobs in Macquarie Park and Sydney. A new rail link from Parramatta to Castle Hill has been added. It is suggested that service could be provided from Rouse Hill to Leppington via Castle Hill, Parramatta and Liverpool.
Against proposal to convert one-way streets to two-way as it will reduce traffic speeds.	The aim of the two-way streets scheme is support the 40kph Pedestrian & Cycle Amenity Zone and increased vehicle accessibility within the city centre that the current one-way streets restricts.
Suggest operating buses on east-west streets of Philip St, George St and Macquarie St to avoid the use of Church St due to the noise and pollution.	The noise and pollution of buses has decreased as the regulations on emissions increases. It is best practice to operate two-way bus routes rather than one-way to better understand the bus network. Sydney Buses and Hillsbus bus routes were investigated in depth over 4 years and the current arrangement is the outcome of that process which included several irritations. In additional to run bus from the north and north-east along the east-west streets and avoiding using Church St would significantly increase the bus operating costs.
Lack of spatial analysis.	Noted. Consultant promoting skills and services.
Strong support for cycling.	Noted.
Increase car sharing spaces.	Noted. Council has invited car share operators to identify and apply for additional locations.
Continue to limit the provision of car parking within the city centre.	Noted.
Further investigation of proposed new traffic signals.	Noted. This is part of the normal due process.
Use of CCTV to enforce bus lanes requires change of legislation.	Noted and included.
Road network improvements on State roads require detailed traffic modelling and funding support.	Noted. This is part of the normal due process.
Plan should identify a framework to monitor performance of the road network and identify schemes and funding to improve the network	Council has limited funding to monitor traffic flows and implement road improvements. The RTA is best placed to monitor traffic flows using its network of CCTV cameras in the city centre and also the RTA controls traffic signals which are key to the road network performance. Increasing road network performance in isolation will induce additional traffic flows, against the key object of the Plan which is decreased car reliance and increased use of sustainable transport.

OTHER CONSULTATION

8. The draft Summary Plan was circulated to Councillors for comment as a Green Paper on 27 August 2009, no comments were received. The draft Integrated Transport Plan (October 2009) was considered for public exhibition on 19 October 2010 and adopted with objective E3 removed. The draft Integrated Transport Plan (March 2010) was considered by Council on 22 March 2010 and deferred for one month.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

9. Budget bids as per the recommendations of this report have been lodged through Council’s budget preparation process. These will need to be assessed against competing demands

David Gray

Senior Project Officer, Transport Planning

Attachments:

1View

Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre Detailed Report

4 Pages

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Copies of the “Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre” (full report) and “Summary Integrated Transport Plan for Parramatta City Centre” will be distributed to Councillors and senior officers under separate cover. Further copies of the full report and summary report can be obtained from David Gray.

Council 27 April 2010

Item 11.1

COMMUNITY AND NEIGHBOURHOOD

ITEM NUMBER 11.1

SUBJECT Access Advisory Committee Minutes 16 February 2010

REFERENCE F2005/01944 - D01503436

REPORT OF Community Capacity Building Officer.Community Capacity Building

PURPOSE:

The Access Advisory Committee met on 16 February 2010. This report provides a précis of the key discussion points of that meeting for Council’s consideration.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That the minutes of the Access Advisory Committee meeting on 16 February 2010 (Attachment 1) be received and noted.

(b) Further, that Council note there is no request for additional expenditure in this report.

BACKGROUND

1. Parramatta City Council’s Access Advisory Committee continues to meet bi-monthly since resuming with new members in accordance with the Council Resolution of 28 September 2009.

MAIN DISCUSSION POINTS

The main issues discussed at this meeting are outlined below:

2. The Committee discussed proposed plans for the International Day for People with Disabilities. It is being proposed to run two separate activities, the traditional Day that brings public awareness and facilitates networking between services, and a workshop/forum held over two ½ days leading up to the Day to look at ways to address the theme/issue of employment and disability. Two working parties have been established to plan and run these activities.

3. The Committee was informed that letters to CityRail and Westfield have been drafted as per the recommendations made at the previous Committee meeting. These will be provided to the Committee for review of the Committee upon adoption of recommendations by Council at the next Council meeting on 22 February 2010.

4. The Committee was informed that Council Officers require further information as to the specific nature of the issue raised at the previous Committee meeting concerning the corner of Harris and Crown Streets, Harris Park. The Council Officers had physically checked the site, and contacted Council’s Senior Project Officer-Transport, but were unable to see where problems may arise. A Committee member will endeavour to bring more information to the April meeting.

5. The Committee discussed the difficulty of reading and understanding technical documents in general, and the Review of Public Domain Details for Disability Access Draft Design Proposals specifically. The Council Officer undertook to organise a meeting between Committee members and Kati Westlake and/or Eric Martin at a mutually convenient time over the coming two weeks to discuss the Draft Design Proposals.

6. The Committee discussed arrangements for people using wheelchairs who are using rooms above ground floor and are unable to exit Council Chambers using the lifts during an emergency or other reasons. The Council Officer present advised that she was awaiting a response from the Security Coordinator who is on leave regarding Evac Plus Chairs, which assist in making exits down fire well stairs, and will get provide the Committee with information at the April meeting.

7. A member of the Committee raised concerns around being prevented by security from taking her purchases in a shopping trolley from Westfield into the Interchange. The Committee discussed possible reasons as to why this was the case, and the Council Officer undertook to clarify existing laws and policies around trolleys being used beyond the Westfield Parramatta premises. Based on the results of this, whether it is a policy Westfield and/or Council, and if such action is then appropriate, the Committee resolved to ask that Council write to Westfield Parramatta and seek flexibility for people with mobility issues to use trolleys to transport their shopping to the bus interchange.

8. A member of the Committee raised the issue of often not having assistance available to disembark from trains at Parramatta and Lidcombe stations. The Committee discussed possible reasons as to why this may occur, and provided suggestions to assist with communication.

9. The Committee discussed the design and marketing of cars for people with disabilities.

10. The Committee discussed pedestrian crossings at traffic lights and the capacity for affecting crossing access.

11. The Council Officer advised the Committee that Council had received funding to improve access to public buildings under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program. As the funding received was $58,000 of the $123,000 asked for, the Committee was asked to review Council’s submission and make recommendations to prioritise works to be completed with the funding available, and that could inform future work as more funding becomes available. The Committee discussed and agreed upon an order of priority for works to be funded.

ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES

12. There are no issues / options / consequences to Council at this time.

CONSULTATION & TIMING

13. There is no consideration for consultation at this time.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

14. There are no financial implications to Council.

Attachments:

1View

Access Advisory Committee Minutes 16 February 2010

5 Pages

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 11.2

COMMUNITY AND NEIGHBOURHOOD

ITEM NUMBER 11.2

SUBJECT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee meeting 23 February 2010

REFERENCE F2005/01941 - D01500530

REPORT OF Community Capacity Building Officer

PURPOSE:

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee met on 23 February 2010. This report provides a précis of the key discussion points of that meeting for Council’s consideration.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That Council write to the Hon. David Campbell, Minister for Transport and Roads requesting his support in advertising NAIDOC week.

(b) Further, that Council note there is no request for additional expenditure in this report.

BACKGROUND

1. Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee meets monthly and comprises 15 members.

2. Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee met on 23 February 2010. This report provides a summary of the key discussion points of that meeting for Council’s consideration.

MAIN DISCUSSION POINTS

3. The main issues discussed at the meeting are outlined below:

4. Housing NSW

Ms Webb, Housing NSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior Client Officer Specialist, Mid Western Sydney, addressed the Committee providing a brief background on her role.

5. Resignation of Committee member Anne Castles

Committee members were informed that correspondence had been received from long term member, Anne Castles, advising that she had resigned from the Committee and thanking members for their assistance particularly in relation to placing a plaque at Lake Parramatta in memory of her husband Peter Castles.

Officer’s note:

Peter Castles was a member of Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee until his death in June 2005. In 2006, the Committee organised a plaque in his memory to be placed at a site in Lake Parramatta.

6. Council resolution regarding Executive membership

Members were advised of Council’s resolution regarding the Committee’s selection of Executive members i.e. that membership of the Executive not be through genetics but by wisdom and leadership. Members agreed to defer their consideration of the matter pending further discussion and in the meantime, Bruce Gale and Gil Saunders remain as Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson respectively.

7. Railcorp’s decision not to display NAIDOC posters

(a) The Committee further discussed the issue of Railcorp refusing to put up NAIDOC posters and their rationale for this: i.e. their policy not to advertise any events. Members provided further information on their sightings of a number of advertisements on railway stations for a range of events.

(b) Members were advised that no letter from Railcorp had been received in reply to Council’s Major Events Team’s correspondence to Railcorp Executive requesting an explanation to their decision not to display NAIDOC posters.

(c) The committee therefore determined to progress the decision they made at their meeting of 24 November 2009: that if no reply had been received from Railcorp by 23 February 2010, Council write to the relevant Minister highlighting the fact that Railcorp will display commercial posters but not those promoting NAIDOC and seeking his support in reversing this decision.

8. Workcover inspection of Parramatta Correctional Centre

(a) Members were advised that a letter from the General Manager Parramatta Correctional Centre had been received by the Lord Mayor, in reply to his letter of December 2009, expressing his concerns regarding the reported temperatures reached in the cells.

(b) Members were also advised of Council’s decision on 22 February 2010, to request Workcover conduct inspections of the cells.

9. Lake Parramatta

Members were advised that, as requested, Gary Carter would be invited to a future meeting.

10. Council’s Natural Heritage Document

(a) Members discussed the Natural Areas Restoration Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Remediation Works Program for 2010 which had previously been forwarded to them. Members discussed their priorities for particular works.

(b) Members recommended that projects relating to Lake Parramatta be undertaken as a matter of priority.

11. Council Officer’s project report

Shanene Hogg, Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project Officer, provided details of her work including an update of the Draft Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country Policy.

12. Local Government Aboriginal Network (LGAN) Conference 2010

(a) Committee members discussed a number of issues regarding the upcoming LGAN Conference including: the Conference theme; sponsorship; possible venues; workshops and tours.

(b) The Committee resolved to invite the Conference organisers, Epic, to attend the next meeting of the Committee.

13. General Business and Information Sharing

(a) Committee members shared information and discussed a number of issues including: Link Up Family Service’s call for carers of young Aboriginal children; the Northern Territory Emergency Response; the recently held National Indigenous Education Conference and the Senate Inquiry on Indigenous Education.

(b) Committee members were also advised by Deputy Chairperson Gil Saunders, of discussions held with Parramatta Leagues Club and Eels players regarding a Domestic Violence Against Kids Campaign and the Committee recommended that a letter be sent from Council supporting the Campaign.

Officer’s comment:

At the time of writing, 31 March 2010, contact by Council Officer, Maggie Kyle, with Parramatta Leagues Club and Eels Community Relations Officer, have not resulted in the identification of a contact person within the Club for this project, or the provision of any further information about planned activities. Therefore, this recommendation has not been included in this report. Further information will be sought from Mr. Saunders and referred back to the Committee.

(c) The Committee were advised that Council had appointed a new Manager Human Resources and that they would be invited to attend the Committee’s April 2010 meeting.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

14. There are no financial implications to Council.

Maggie Kyle

Community Capacity Building Officer

Attachments:

1View

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee minutes 23 February 2010

6 Pages

Council 27 April 2010

Item 11.3

COMMUNITY AND NEIGHBOURHOOD

ITEM NUMBER 11.3

SUBJECT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee meeting 23 March 2010

REFERENCE F2005/01941 - D01501032

REPORT OF Community Capacity Building Officer

PURPOSE:

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee met on 23 March 2010. This report provides a précis of the key discussion points of that meeting for Council’s consideration.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That this report be received and noted.

(b) Further that Council note there is no request for additional expenditure in this report.

BACKGROUND

1. Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee meets monthly and comprises 15 members.

2. Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee met on 23 March 2010. This report provides a summary of the key discussion points of that meeting for Council’s consideration.

MAIN DISCUSSION POINTS

3. The main issues discussed at the meeting are outlined below.

4. Local Government Aboriginal Network Conference (LGAN) 2010

(a) Matt Wingrave; Epic Conference and Events, provided information to the Committee on the work being undertaken to deliver the 2010 LGAN Conference.

(b) The Committee considered the information presented on three possible venues and determined that the Sebel Parramatta was the selected venue based on its significantly cheaper price, location and ease of access.

(c) The Committee identified possible keynote speakers and workshop presenters and requested they be invited to be involved.

(d) Members also identified possible sponsors and stall holders. It was noted that LGAN Executive and Council would need to be notified and to approve any sponsors.

(e) The Committee determined that three day trips would be organised for LGAN Conference participants: Prospect Hill, Parramatta Girls Training School and Lake Parramatta.

5. Executive Membership of the Committee

The Committee discussed Council’s resolution of 22 February 2010, regarding membership of the Executive Committee. Councillor Lim explained that as the mover of the particular motion, it was clear that Executive members needed to be Indigenous due to any sensitive cultural issues that may need to be discussed and that his difficulty had been with the recommendation that ‘all’ Indigenous members be Executive members. The Committee decided to defer their consideration of this matter until the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson were present.

6. Aboriginal Employment Strategy

(a) The Committee discussed the employment of Indigenous staff members by Council including: the suggestion, by Councillor Lim, that all Council positions should be sent to Aboriginal Recruitment Agencies; the perception that Council’s Aboriginal staff turn over quickly and a suggestion that Committee involvement in recruitment may assist in selection.

(b) The Committee was informed that Council’s new Manager Human Resources had been invited to its April 2010 meeting.

7. General Business and Information Share

Committee members shared information and discussed a number of issues including: the Mount Druitt and District Reconciliation Group upcoming event, Mount Druitt Walk and Concert and the Indigenous Education Action Plan.

8. NAIDOC Week 2010

The Committee discussed the most appropriate planning process to progress NAIDOC 2010 and determined that a sub committee be established that would meet separately to work on the events and report back to the Committee.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

9. There are no financial implications to Council.

Maggie Kyle

Community Capacity Building Officer

Attachments:

1View

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee minutes 23 March 2010

7 Pages

Council 27 April 2010

Item 11.4

COMMUNITY AND NEIGHBOURHOOD

ITEM NUMBER 11.4

SUBJECT Community Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes

REFERENCE F2004/07575 - D01501992

REPORT OF Community Capacity Building Officer.Community Capacity Building

PURPOSE:

The Community Advisory Committee met on 3 December 2009 and 2 February 2010. This report provides a précis of the key discussion points of these meetings for Council’s consideration.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That the minutes of the Community Advisory Committee meeting on 3 December 2009 and 2 February 2010 (Attachments 1 and 2) are received and noted.

(b) Further, Council note there is no request for additional expenditure in this report.

BACKGROUND

1.1. Parramatta City Council’s Community Advisory Committee began meeting under its new Terms of Reference (TOR) on 3 December 2009 in accordance with the Council Resolution of 28 September 2009 to accept new member recommendations for the Advisory Committee. The new TOR provides for Committee meetings on a 6 weekly basis as well as four LGA-wide Issues Forums over a year and Neighbourhood Issues Forums to be rotated across the LGA Wards.

MAIN DISCUSSION POINTS – 3 December 2009

2.2. The election of a Chair and Deputy Chair was held over to the next meeting as there was an absence of a quorum.

3. The Council Officer present provided a review of the Committee’s purpose and TOR, and this was followed by a discussion of the LGA-wide Issues Forums and Neighbourhood Issues Forums. It was explained that Committee members would take a strategic role in identifying the priority issues to be addressed at these forums drawing on their own knowledge of community concerns and priorities and briefings provided by Council Officers. In addition, Committee members would Chair/facilitate these Forums, and then assist Council Officers to identify key issues raised at the Forums to report back to Council.

4. The Committee discussed the need for and difficulty of attracting more members to reflect the large geographical area and diversity of communities in the LGA, and it was expressed that the Forums may attract people to become members by seeing how the Committee operates.

5.5. The Committee discussed other possible ways for residents to participate who could not attend forums.

MAIN DISCUSSION POINTS – 2 February 2010

6. Phillip Russo was nominated as a Pro Tem Chair Person, with the official Chair Person to be elected when the Committee is further established.

7. The Committee decided to use the name of Community Forums instead of the Terms of Reference name of Issues Forums.

8. The Committee reviewed a calendar of proposed meetings and Forums, and decided to plan for 3 Neighbourhood Community Forums to be delivered throughout the year rather than 6, and to delay the first one until after running and debriefing on the first LGA-wide Community Forum (LGA Forum).

9. The Committee discussed a format for the running of the Forums, with a proposal to have a 2 hour LGA Forum beginning with one hour of identified Council Officers speaking on clearly defined topics followed by one hour of open discussion. It was anticipated that the Neighbourhood Forums would likely include less formal presentation of information.

10. A list of possible topics for the first LGA Forum was tabled for member consideration, and the Committee discussed these and raised others as potential relevant topics. Topics discussed ranged from Housing NSW’s Renewal Projects to change in the LGA affecting families, neighbourhoods and organisations, and to improving links between different agencies and the community. The Committee identified the parameters for the choice of the first LGA forum topics, including being an engaging subject for the community.

11. The Committee decided that the broad topic for the first LGA Forum would concern the communities’ access to council services. The Committee suggested that speakers could present on such specific topics as home support, hard infrastructure, and the Local Environment Plan.

12. The Committee determined to hold the first LGA Forum in the Jubilee Room at the Town Hall, 7 – 9pm on either March 17 or 18, 2010. They also determined that the Forum would be publicised through such channels as local newspapers and networks of the Community Capacity Building Team and Committee members.

13. Phillip Russo and Chris Bertinshaw agreed to co- Chair the Forum

14. Council Officers Tanya Owen and Maggie Kyle agreed to organise speakers and draft a flyer and program for feedback from the Committee.

~~15.~~15. The next meeting for the Committee would be immediately prior to the LGA forum at 6pm

~~16.~~16. Council Officers’ Note: The LGA-Wide Community Forum was held on 18 March 2010 at the Town Hall, with the most recent Committee meeting occurring immediately prior to this to finalise preparations for the Forum, discuss potential issues for a Neighbourhood Forum, and set a date for the next meeting. In accordance with the Advisory Committee’s TOR, the Forum proceedings will be discussed by the Committee at its next meeting (28 April 2010), where the Committee will identify the key issues to be reported back to Council. Hence, this information will be provided in the next report to Council.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

17. There are no financial implications to Council.

Attachments:

1View	Community Advisory Committee Minutes 3 December 2009	4 Pages
2View	Community Advisory Committee Minutes 2 February 2010	5 Pages

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 12.1

GOVERNANCE AND CORPORATE

ITEM NUMBER 12.1

SUBJECT Investments Report for February 2010

REFERENCE F2009/00971 - D01490490

REPORT OF Manager Finance

PURPOSE:

To inform Council of the investment portfolio performance for the month of February 2010.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council receives and notes the investments report for February 2010.

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 closing balance of Council’s investment portfolio as at the 28^th February 2010 was $81.2M (Previous Month $80.4M).The weighted average Funds held throughout the period was approximately $79.7M.

4. Council holds a diversified range of investment products which include:

· Managed Funds

· Term Deposits (including Investment – Loan Assets)

· Floating Rate Notes

· Cash at call

· Equity Linked and Principal Protected Notes

· Senior Debt bonds

Council engages CPG Research and Advisory for assistance in all investment matters relating to advice, risk and portfolio weighting.

5. The weighted average interest rate on Council’s investments for the month of February 2010 versus the Bank Bill Index is as follows:

Monthly Annualised

Total Portfolio 0.40% 4.76%

Funds Managers 0.28% 3.41%

Bank Bill Index 0.38% 4.60%

NB: Annualised rates are calculated on a compounding basis assuming that the interest returns are added to the initial investment amount and reinvested.

6. Council’s marginal return above the Bank Bill Index can mostly be attributed to the Term deposit section of the portfolio which currently stands at $34M. These fixed return funds have maturity time lines from 3 to 9 months and are locked in at interest rates ranging from 5.00% to 6.28%.

7. Council’s managed fund portfolio performed less favourably for the period. The CFS Global Credit income fund which holds approximately 11% of the total portfolio only managed 0.48%(annualised) for February 2010. It is important however to recognise that managed fund returns should be measured over longer time horizons of at least 12-18mths. The CFS year to date performance currently stands at 10.02%.

8. 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

9. The Certificate of Investments for February 2010 is provided below:

Certificate of Investments

I hereby certify that the investments for the month of February 2010 have been made in accordance with the Act, the Regulations and Council’s Investment Policy.

10. There is no standard report attachment - detailed submission - attached to this report.

Alistair Cochrane

Manager Finance

Attachments:

1View	Investments & Loans - Performance -	1 Page
2View	Summary of Investments Portfolio -	2 Pages

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 12.2

GOVERNANCE AND CORPORATE

ITEM NUMBER 12.2

SUBJECT Report of Audit Committee Meetings

REFERENCE F2008/02951 - D01496387

REPORT OF Service Auditor

PURPOSE:

This report provides a summary of the discussions at the Audit Committee meetings of November 2009 and February 2010.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That the Minutes of the Audit Committee meeting held on 26 November 2009 (Attachment 1) be received and noted.

(b) That the Minutes of the Audit Committee meeting held on 25 February 2010 (Attachment 2) be received and noted.

BACKGROUND

1. Following a Resolution of Council on 25 February 2008 an Audit Committee was established comprising three Councillors and two independent Community Representatives. The Charter of the Audit Committee was adopted by Council on 25 March 2008 with further amendments adopted by Council on 9 February 2009.

2. The current members of the Audit Committee include Councillors, A Wilson, J. Finn and M McDermott. At its meeting of 14 April 2009 Council appointed its current independent Community Representatives to the Audit Committee being Mr Neil Adams and Mr Mike Barry. The Chief Executive Officer, Council’s auditors and other Council officers are invited to Audit Committee meetings consistent with the Guidelines issued by the department of Local Government.

MAIN DISCUSSION POINTS

3. The main issues discussed at the meeting of the Audit Committee held on 26 November 2009 include:

(a) The Committee considered the updated Internal Audit Plan and Service Audit Review Unit Charter of Operations. The Committee requested that future audit program to be developed based on Council’s Enterprise Risk profile.

(b) The Committee considered the report of audits finalised in the reporting period including Credit Card, Cabcharge and Contract Management.

(d) The Committee reviewed and considered the assessment of the operations of the Committee using the Department of the Local Government Guidelines for Internal Audit as a compliance template. The Committee requested a self assessment to be performed annually on the operations of the Committee.

4. The main issues discussed at the meeting of the Audit Committee held on 25 February 2010 include:

(a) The Committee considered resourcing of Manager Service Audit & Review and requested the position description to be audit function focussed.

(b) The Committee considered the risk assessment of the Civic Place Redevelopment and requested future briefing on the issue.

(c) The Committee considered the status of the Core IT Replacement and Councils Online Contract and requested future briefing on the matter.

(d) The Committee considered the current Internal Audit work in relation to Procurement, Cash Control at Swimming Pools and Council’s Online Syndicate Audits. A number of aspects of the Council resolution Compliance audit were discussed with the Committee recommending broader issues raised be addressed to ensure performance meets the expectation of Councillors.

(e) The Committee reviewed and considered the changes to the Audit Committee Charter. The Committee requested that the suggested changes to the Charter be submitted to Council for approval.

5. The Minutes of the meetings and the revised Audit Committee Charter are submitted for consideration.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

6. There is no financial implication.

Emily Tang Maurice Doria

Service Auditor General Counsel

Attachments:

1View	Minutes of Audit Committee 26 November 2009	7 Pages
2View	Minutes of Audit Committee 25 February 2010	7 Pages
3View	Audit Committee Charter (version 3.1)	8 Pages

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 12.3

GOVERNANCE AND CORPORATE

ITEM NUMBER 12.3

SUBJECT Female employment numbers

REFERENCE F2009/01127 - D01496969

REPORT OF Manager Human Resources

PURPOSE:

This report responds to Councillor Maitra’s request of 8 March 2010 concerning the number of female staff employed at all levels within Council and the steps being taken to minimise any disparities that may exist.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council note the report.

BACKGROUND

1. Parramatta City Council is committed to recruitment practices that are fair and equitable. This is achieved by ensuring that:

· Recruitment is based on the applicant's ability to perform the job;

· Our employees practice equal opportunity for employment; and

· All applicants are treated in a professional and ethical manner throughout the entire recruitment process.

2. We are confident that these processes are working effectively (see Appendix A)

3. Table 1 (below) shows that the proportion of women at different management levels compares favourably to public service and local government averages. On balance this suggests a strong talent pipeline of future female leaders. Noting the good relative position we still need to focus on increasing the number of women in level 4 and 5 roles.

Table 1: Management Only

Headcount	% Female Staff in PCC	Public Services Average	Local Government Average	Similar Organisation Size Average
Level 1	0%	20%	8%	23%
Level 2	50%	20%	20%	23%
Level 3	27%	20%	31%	23%
Level 4	36%	52%	41%	66%
Level 5	46%	52%	41%	66%
Level 6	71%	52%	41%	66%

ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES

4. As well as proposed talent management and succession programs, the Council is also preparing a Workforce Plan which will aim to ensure a sustainable supply of talent in light of demographic and other workforce trends and issues. We continue to increase our investment to improve the metrics which enable us to track progress in a number of areas (age, gender, length of service, resignation and recruitment rates for different groups etc). One key metric already in the draft pack is “women in management” which will be shown as a time series and well as in relation to splits across major business units.

5. Therefore the results of internal research do not support the notion that there are systemic disparities on the basis of gender at different grade levels in PCC.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

6. Nil – managed within existing budget allocations.

Ian Fitzgerald

Manager, Human Resources

Attachments:

1View

Recruitment and Selection Policy

4 Pages

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Council 27 April 2010

Item 12.4

GOVERNANCE AND CORPORATE

ITEM NUMBER 12.4

SUBJECT National General Assembly of Local Government 2010 - Canberra - 14 -17 June 2010

REFERENCE F2010/00130 - D01504531

REPORT OF Manager - Council Support

PURPOSE:

This report is being placed before Council to seek the appointment of three (3) Councillors ie Lord Mayor or nominee plus two (2) other Councillors, to attend the National General Assembly of Local Government 2010 in Canberra from 14^th – 17^th June 2010 and to invite the submission of motions for consideration at the NGA.

RECOMMENDATION

(a) That in line with Council Policy for a Category ‘B’ conference, three (3) Councillors ie Lord Mayor or nominee plus two (2) other Councillors, be nominated to attend the National General Assembly of Local Government 2010 in Canberra from 14^th -17^th June 2010.

(b) Further, that Council give consideration to the submission of motions for consideration at the National General Assembly.

BACKGROUND

1. The NGA is the major event on the Annual Local Government calendar and typically attracts more than 700 mayors, councillors and senior officers from councils across Australia.

2. The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has identified three themes for the NGA. These themes reflect the key priorities identified by the Australian Government in the recently released third Intergenerational Report and aim to build upon existing ALGA and Local Government policy priorities.

3. A copy of the conference program is appended in Attachment 1.

4. In addition, the Australian Local Government Association has invited Council to submit motions for consideration at the NGA (copy of correspondence appended as Attachment 2 and previously forwarded with Councillors Info Folder Dated 1 April 2010). The themes for any motions to be submitted are as follows:-

Population

* Demographics.
* Migration
* Planning;
* Major cities; and
* Transport

Participation
* Workforce
* Employment – Under employment
* Skills shortage

Productivity

* Economic Development
* Broadband
* Climate Change

5. Motions must be received by the Australian Local Government Association by 5pm, Friday 30 April 2010.

ISSUES/OPTIONS/CONSEQUENCES

6. This report has been put up to this meeting to allow ample time to organise and pay for the conference and to submit any motions lodged by Councillors.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION FOR COUNCIL

7. The cost for attendance at this conference including registration, accommodation, travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be approximately $2295.00 per delegate.

Graeme Riddell

Manager – Council Support

Attachments:

1View	Conference program for National General Assembly 2010	5 Pages
2View	Call for Motions	1 Page

REFERENCE MATERIAL

Sue Coleman – Group Manager City Services			Assistant Minutes Clerk – Joy Bramham
Gregory Smith – Group Manager Corporate			Minutes Clerk – Grant Davies
Sue Weatherley–Group Manager Outcomes & Development

Clr Paul Barber – Caroline Chisholm Ward			Clr Lorraine Wearne, Lachlan Macquarie Ward
Clr Mark Lack – Elizabeth Macarthur Ward			Clr John Chedid – Elizabeth Macarthur Ward
Clr Glenn Elmore – Woodville Ward			Clr Scott Lloyd – Caroline Chisholm Ward
Clr Pierre Esber– Lachlan Macquarie Ward			Clr Andrew Wilson – Lachlan Macquarie Ward
Clr Prabir Maitra – Arthur Phillip Ward			Clr Andrew Bide – Caroline Chisholm Ward
Clr Julia Finn – Arthur Phillip Ward	Clr Michael McDermott - Elizabeth Macarthur Ward	Clr Antoine (Tony) Issa, OAM – Woodville Ward	Clr Chiang Lim, Deputy Lord Mayor – Arthur Phillip Ward

1View	Draft Commentary on Metropolitan Strategy Review	8 Pages
2View	Metropolitan Strategy Review 2036 Discussion Paper	30 Pages