Agenda of Ordinary Meeting

Order of Business

PAGE TAB

Opening

Acknowledgement of Country and Prayer

Apologies

Condolences

Confirmation of Minutes

Ordinary Council Meeting held on 26 April 2017..................................................................... 8

Declarations of Interest

Public Forum

Mayoral Report

MAYOR 01 Photographic History of Mayors and Councillors........................................... 43......... 1

Notices of Motion Of Rescission

NIL

Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel Report

IHAP 01 DA-582/2016 - Alterations and additions to a mixed use development at 420-446 Macquarie Street, Liverpool............................................................................ 45......... 2

Development Application Determination Report

NIL

Planning and Growth Report

DPG 01 Cooling the Streets.......................................................................................... 53......... 3

DPG 02 Notification of Development Applications ...................................................... 60......... 4

Chief Executive Officer Report

NIL

Community and Culture Report

DCC 01 The Mandaean Community of Liverpool - Baptismal Area on the Georges River 72 5

DCC 02 Draft Community Facilities Strategy.............................................................. 88......... 6

DCC 03 Amendments to Corporate Sponsorship (Outgoing) Policy........................... 92......... 7

DCC 04 Grants, Donations, and Corporate Sponsorship........................................... 102......... 8

DCC 05 Liverpool City Council Sporting Grants Program 2016/2017....................... 112......... 9

DCC 06 Family and Domestic Violence Workplace Support Policy.......................... 116....... 10

Business Improvement Report

NIL

Chief Financial Officer

CFO 01 Local Government NSW Annual Conference.............................................. 126....... 11

CFO 02 Investment Report April 2017....................................................................... 129....... 12

CFO 03 Mayoral Directions pursuant to Section 226(d) of the Local Government Act 1993 138 13

CFO 04 Budget Review - March 2017....................................................................... 143....... 14

City Presentation Report

NIL

Economic Development Report

NIL

Infrastructure and Environment Report

NIL

Property and Commercial Development Report

DPC 01 Closing of a Temporary Public Road between Mullumbimby Avenue and Pacific Palms Circuit at Hoxton Park and Transfer to the Original Subdivider. ...... 173....... 15

Committee Reports

CTTE 01 Minutes of Liverpool Access Committee Meeting held on 9 March 2017... 177....... 16

Questions with Notice

NIL

Presentations by Councillors

Notices of Motion

NOM 01 Electronic and Voting Systems..................................................................... 184....... 17

NOM 02 Energy Efficiency and Renewables ............................................................ 186....... 18

NOM 03 Contaminated Site Remediation Policy ....................................................... 188....... 19

Council in Closed Session

The following items are listed for consideration by Council in Closed Session with the public excluded, in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993 as listed below:

CONF 01 Ticket Parking Machine Upgrade

Reason: Item CONF 01 is confidential pursuant to the provisions of s10(A)(2)(d i) of the Local Government Act because it contains commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.

CONF 02 Report on Legal Proceedings - Moorebank Recyclers Appeal

Reason: Item CONF 02 is confidential pursuant to the provisions of s10(A)(2)(g) of the Local Government Act because it contains advice concerning litigation, or advice that would otherwise be privileged from production in legal proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege.

CONF 03 Tender ST2601 Receipt and Processing of Household Cleanup Material

Reason: Item CONF 03 is confidential pursuant to the provisions of s10(A)(2)(d i) of the Local Government Act because it contains commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.

Close

THIS PAGE IS BLANK

MINUTES OF THE Ordinary Meeting

HELD ON 26 April 2017

PRESENT:

Mayor Wendy Waller

Councillor Ayyad

Councillor Balloot

Councillor Hadchiti

Councillor Harle

Councillor Kaliyanda

Councillor Karnib

Councillor Rhodes

Councillor Shelton

Ms Kiersten Fishburn, Chief Executive Officer

Mr Chris White, Acting Director Corporate Services

Mr Stephen Joannidis, Acting Director Planning and Growth

Dr Eddie Jackson, Acting Director Community and Culture

Ms Julie Scott, Acting Director Economic Development

Mr Raj Autar, Director Infrastructure and Environment

Mr John Morgan, Director Property and Commercial Development

The meeting commenced at 6:01pm.

OPENING 6:01pm

ACKNOWLEDEGEMENT OF COUNTRY, The prayer of the Council was read

PRAYER OF COUNCIL AND by Reverend John Hall from Open

AFFIRMATION TO BE READ BY Heaven Church.

APOLOGIES Councillor Hagarty and Councillor Hadid

CONDOLENCES Nil

Confirmation of Minutes

Motion: Moved: Clr Hadchiti Seconded: Clr Ayyad

1. That the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 29 March 2017 be confirmed as a true record of that meeting.

2. The reports relating to CONF 06 (Liverpool Service Alliance Staff Survey) and CONF 07 (Proposed Organisational Structure) of the 22 February 2017 agenda be made public.

On being put to the meeting the motion (moved by Clr Hadchiti) was declared LOST.

Division called:

Vote for: Clr Ayyad

Clr Balloot

Clr Hadchiti

Vote against: Mayor Waller

Clr Harle

Clr Kaliyanda

Clr Karnib

Clr Rhodes

Clr Shelton

The following motion was then moved:

Motion: Moved: Clr Shelton Seconded: Clr Kaliyanda

That the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 29 March 2017 be confirmed as a true record of that meeting.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

Declarations of Interest

Clr Hadchiti declared a non-pecuniary, less than significant interest in the following item:

Item: DPG 05 Intermodal Committee - Expressions of Interests

Reason: Some of the members nominated are members of the Liberal Party.

Clr Hadchiti will remain in the Chambers for the duration of this item.

Clr Harle declared a non-pecuniary, but significant interest in the following item:

Item: CONF 01 Liverpool Heritage Advisory Committee - Expressions of Interest

Reason: Clr Harle knows some of the members nominated.

Clr Harle will leave the Chambers for the duration of this item.

Clr Balloot declared a non-pecuniary, less than significant interest in the following item:

Item: DPG 05 Intermodal Committee - Expressions of Interests

Reason: Some of the members nominated are members of the Liberal Party.

Clr Balloot will remain in the Chambers for the duration of this item.

Clr Rhodes declared a non-pecuniary, less than significant interest in the following item:

Item: CONF 01 Liverpool Heritage Advisory Committee - Expressions of Interest

Reason: Clr Rhodes knows some of the people nominated for the Committee.

Clr Rhodes will leave the Chambers for the duration of this item.

Clr Shelton declared a non-pecuniary, less than significant interest in the following three items:

Items: DCC 02 Grants, Donations and Corporate Sponsorships

NOM 02 Collingwood House

CONF 01 Liverpool Heritage Advisory Committee – Expressions of Interest

Reason: He is a member or otherwise associated with the Liverpool and District Historical Society Inc (which is one of the applicants which applied for funding referred to in DCC 02), The Genealogical Society Inc and Friends of Collingwood Inc. He does not however hold any offices in any of those organisations.

Clr Shelton will remain in the Chambers for DCC 02 and NOM 02 and will leave the Chambers for CONF 01.

Mayor Waller declared a non-pecuniary, less than significant interest in the following item:

Item: DCC 02 Grants, Donations, and Corporate Sponsorship.

Reason: She is a non-executive member of the Meals on Wheels organisation which is one of the applicants which applied for funding.

Mayor Waller will remain in the Chambers for the duration of this item

Clr Ayyad declared a non-pecuniary, less than significant interest in the following item

Item: DPG 05 Intermodal Committee - Expressions of Interests

Reason: Some of the members nominated are members of the Liberal Party.

Clr Ayyad will remain in the Chambers for the duration of this item.

Public Forum

Presentation – items not on agenda

1. Mr Ian Bailey addressed Council on the following item:

Domestic Waste at Multi-Unit Dwellings

2. Ms Criss Moore addressed Council on the following item:

Thank you from Casula Community

Motion: Moved: Clr Harle Seconded: Clr Hadchiti

That a three minute extension of time be given to the speaker.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

Representation – items on agenda

1. Ms Josephine Papandrea addressed Council on the following item:

CTTE 02: Minutes of Local Traffic Committee Meeting held 15/3/17

Specifically Item 6 – Hanover St, Cecils Hills (Proposed parking restrictions)

Motion: Moved: Clr Harle Seconded: Clr Hadchiti

That a three minute extension of time be given to the speaker.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

ITEM NO: DCC 02

FILE NO: 031003.2017

SUBJECT: Grants, Donations, and Corporate Sponsorship

RECOMMENDATION

That Council endorses the following recommendations:

1. The provision of $650 (GST exclusive) under Quick Response Grants (General):

Applicant Name	Project Name	Amount
Outer Liverpool Community Services Inc	National Family Day	$650

2. The provision of $ 53,967 (GST exclusive) under Community Grants:

Applicant Name	Project Name	Amount
City of Liverpool Meals on Wheels Inc.	Christmas hamper Project for Meals on Wheels	$5,000
The Junction Works Ltd (Youth)	TJW Youth Clicks Breakfast Club	$5,000
Bonnie Support Services Ltd	Milk Crate Theatre	$5,000
Miracle Babies Foundation	Nurture Group Graduate Playgroup for NICU & Special Care Families	$5,000
The Shepherd Centre	“Hear We Go” – Educative Group Program for children who are deaf or hearing impaired from Liverpool	$5,000
Liverpool Women’s Health Centre	Art Therapy Wellness Group	$5,000
Liverpool Migrant Resource Centre	Paint Liverpool REaD – CD and promotional materials.	$5,000
Police Citizens Youth Clubs NSW Ltd	Box with a Cop	$5,000
Diabetes NSW & ACT	DiaBuddies Day	$5,000
KARI	Brighter Futures Camping Materials	$4,797
Liverpool Warriors	Project 2017	$2,600
Samoa Victim Support Group Inc.	SVSG Sydney Friends of Hope Pacific youth Self Awareness Project	$1,370
City of Liverpool & District Historical Society Inc.	Flyer and Brochure Printing	$200

3. The provision of $154,669 (GST exclusive) under Matching Grants:

Applicant Name	Project Name	Amount
Child Abuse Prevention Service (CAPS (Sydney) Inc.	The Safe Children, Safe Families Program for Parents, Carers, Early Educators, and Children	$15,000
Ferrington Collaborative	Ferrington Community Park	$15,000
Liverpool Women’s Health Centre Inc.	Emergency Weekend Pack	$15,000
Diversity Arts Australia	Diverse Futures Liverpool	$15,000
Life Education NSW	Increasing the Engagement of Disadvantaged Children in Preventative Health Education	$15,000
Police Citizens Youth Club NSW	Fit for Life	$14,100
CNA Italian Australian Services and Welfare Centre Inc.	"Senior Life, Better Life" Day Care	$13,800
Creating Chances	CC's F3 – "Friday Nights, Football, Fair Play"	$13,450
The Shepherd Centre	Solar Installation and painting works at The Shepherd Centre, Casula	$13,321
City of Liverpool Meals on Wheels Inc.	Upgrade Office/Kitchen	$12,098
Liverpool City Robins Sports Club Inc.	50 Year Birthday Celebration	$ 9,900
Chipping Norton Football Club	Installation of new goal posts and picnic seating at the South Park Precinct.	$ 3,000

4. The provision of $9,000 (GST exclusive) under Corporate Sponsorship (Outgoing):

Applicant Name	Project Name	Amount
Police Citizens Youth Club	Time 4 Kids	$5,000
Wattle Grove Public School P&C Association	Wattle Grove Public School Fair	$3,000
Precedent Productions	Liverpool City Local Business Awards	$1,000

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion: Moved: Clr Hadchiti Seconded: Clr Kaliyanda

That the recommendation be adopted.

Amendment: Moved: Clr Rhodes Seconded: Clr Harle

That the recommendation be adopted with the exception of the Ferrington Collaborative which is to be deferred to the next meeting until further information is received.

On being put to the meeting the Amendment (moved by Clr Rhodes) was declared LOST.

The Motion (moved by Clr Hadchiti) was then put to the meeting and was declared CARRIED.

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel Report

IHAP 01

DA-582/2016 - Alterations and additions to a mixed use development at 420-446 Macquarie Street, Liverpool

Strategic Direction	Vibrant Prosperous City Activate the city centre and develop vibrant places that attract people to Liverpool
Key Policy	City Centre Strategy
File Ref	107961.2017
Report By	David Smith - Acting Manager Development Assessment
Approved By	Lina Kakish - Acting Director Planning and Growth

Property

420-446 Macquarie Street, Liverpool

Owner

Autus Properties Pty Ltd

Lucror Developments Pty Ltd

Applicant

Lateral Estate Pty Ltd

Executive Summary

Council has received and considered a development application DA-582/2016 proposing alterations and additions to an approved mixed use development under DA-578/2014 including construction of new residential floor space, car spaces and alterations to Building C at 420-446 Macquarie Street, Liverpool.

The proposal comprises:

· The use of the existing approved lower basement level for car parking;

· Minor changes to the existing car park arrangements;

· Alterations and additions to levels 26-28 providing new and altered residential floor space;

· Construction of two new residential floor levels (levels 29 and 30);

· Roof top swimming pool and communal open space.

The proposed development will result in an overall increase of 23 units to the previously approved development.

This application was lodged on 28 June 2016.

This application was referred to the 24 April 2017 meeting of the Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel (IHAP) as the development proposes a cumulative variation to development standards contained in the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008, being height of buildings and floor space ratio (FSR), greater than 10%.

The proposal will result in a cumulative variation of between 21.25% and 25% to the height of buildings development standard, and a cumulative variation of 17.99% to the floor space ratio development standard.

The IHAP recommendation was to approve the development application subject to amended conditions of consent (See Attachment 3).

RECOMMENDATION

That Council approves Development Application DA-582/2016 subject to the amended recommended conditions of consent contained in Attachment 4.

Background

The previous Sydney West Joint Regional Planning Panel (currently known as the Sydney South West Planning Panel) granted development consent to DA-578/2014 on 23 January 2015 for the excavation and construction of a staged mixed-use development consisting of three (3) buildings and containing a total of 438 units.

In granting development consent to DA-578/2014, the Joint Regional Planning Panel considered two Clause 4.6 variations which resulted in the transfer of floor space from the R4 High Density Residential zoned portion of the site to the B4 Mixed Use portion, which resulted in an exceedance of the height of buildings development standard (a variation of 14.95%-17.5%) and FSR development standard (a variation of 13.56%).

The design development phase identified the ability of the site to accommodate taller buildings with slender built form on that part of the site fronting Macquarie Street. In calculating site area for the purposes of the DA-578/2014, the area of the site zoned B4 Mixed Use and R4 High Density Residential was combined and the total gross floor area (GFA) of the development across the site was on the basis of calculating an aggregated floor space ratio for the site.

The site area for the purposes of DA-578/2014 and this DA is 6,113m² and the total approved floor space is 39,195m² across the site, resulting in an approved FSR of 6.412:1.

The maximum permitted building height on the B4 Mixed Use zoned portion of the site is 80 metres under the LLEP 2008. Building C, which is the subject of this application, was approved to a maximum height of 94.16m. This involved a variation of between 11.16m to 14.16m (13.95% to 17.70%) from the 80.0m height control. As outlined above, a further variation is sought through this application of 7.3%, resulting in a total variation of between 21.25% - 25% from the 80m height of buildings development standard.

The Council has approved modifications to the original approval as follows:

· 9 July 2015 (DA-578/2014/A) under Delegated Authority which modified the approval by amending the balcony upstand arrangements and increasing glazing to balcony upstands and replacement of precast concrete with glazing to living area apartments 20.07-28.07 (building A), increase balcony size to apartment 1906 and 1907, minor changes to Condition 21 regarding s138 application, and modification to condition 43 concerning timing of roundabout construction at Mill Road and Charles Street.

· 25 September 2015 (DA-578/2014/B) under Delegated Authority which modified the approval by the addition of one unit (438 residential units to 439 residential units), increasing the number of car parks from 507 to 509 car parks, amending Condition 1 with updated plans reflecting the changes and a revised BASIX certificate.

· 16 October 2015 (DA-578/2014/C) under Delegated Authority which modified conditions 12, 21, 22, 33 and 34(b) relating to design, approval and payment of fees associated with s138 (external) road and drainage works.

· 13 July 2016 (DA-578/2014/D) under Delegated Authority which modified the approval by including a new part basement level for storage and modifying the level 2 communal open space to provide additional toilets.

· 9 August 2016 (DA-578/2014/E) under Delegated Authority which modified the approval to extend the hours of construction work.

· 16 December 2016 (DA-578/2014/F) under Delegated Authority which modified Condition 69 to extend hours of construction works and Condition 92D regarding timing of roundabout works.

The Site

The site is identified as 420-446 Macquarie Street, Liverpool with a legal description of Lots 102, 103 and 104 in DP 1205804. The subject site is irregular in shape and has an area of 6,158m². An aerial photograph of the site is included as Figure 1 and 2 below.

Figure 1: Aerial photograph of the site (Source: Liverpool City Council)

Figure 2: Aerial photograph of the site under construction (Source: Google maps)

details of the proposal

The proposed development consists of alterations and additions to a mixed use development, specifially involving:

· The use of the existing approved lower basement level for car parking;

· Minor changes to the existing car park arrangements;

· Alterations and additions to levels 26-28 providing new and altered residential floor space;

· Construction of two new residential floor levels (levels 29 and 30);

· Roof top swimming pool and communal open space.

Pursuant to the requirements of the endorsed Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel (IHAP) Charter and Procedure, the proposal was referred to the IHAP for consideration as the proposed development includes a request to vary development standards in excess of 10%; pursuant to Clause 4.6 of the LLEP 2008.

The application is accompanied by a written request to vary Clause 4.3 Height of Buildings and Clause 4.4 Floor Space Ratio of the LLEP 2008 which prescribes the maximum building height and floor space permitted on this site.

The development proposes to increase the height of tower C from an approved height of between 91.96m and 94m to a height of between 97m and 100m (an increase in height over that approved by DA-578/2014 by up to 5.84m. This represents a cumulative variation of up 21.25% to 25 %.

The calculation of maximum FSR across the whole of the site, arising from the definition of FSR being the ratio of the gross floor area of all buildings within the site to the site area is 5.634:1 (34,428m² GFA/6,113m² site area).

DA-578/2014 was approved by the Sydney West Joint Regional Planning Panel with a GFA of 39,098m² (a variation of 13.56%).

Modification application DA-578/2014/B increased the GFA to 39,195m² (an increase of 97m² or 0.2% resulting in a cumulative variation of 13.84%).

This application proposes additional floor space of 1,426m² resulting in an increase in FSR of 0.233:1 to 6.645:1 or total floor space of 40,621m². This additional floor space results in a cumulative non-compliance with the FSR development standard of 17.99% compared with an approved variation of 13.84% (an increase of 4.15%).

the issues

The key issue identified with respect to the proposal relates to the variation to the height of buildings and floor space ratio development standards required by Clause 4.3 and 4.4 of the LLEP 2008.

A detailed assessment of these non-compliances, including the applicants Clause 4.6 LLEP 2008 written justification statements are contained within the Planning Assessment Report (Attachment 2).

In addition, and importantly, Amendment 52 to the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan applies to this site.

Amendment 52 applies to land within the Liverpool City Centre and rezones land from B3 Commercial Core to B4 Mixed Use and amends the height of buildings and floor space ratio development standards for identified land with the City Centre.

The site is identified under Amendment 52 of LLEP 2008 for potential additional height and floor space as the site is classed as an “Opportunity Site” under proposed Clause 7.5B of the LLEP 2008. The site area is 6,158m2.

This application proposes additional height and floor space compared with the development approved under DA-578/2014. This application is required to be assessed under the current LLEP 2008 development standards as Amendment 52 to the LLEP 2008 has not been gazetted as yet. However, it is important to note that Amendment 52 has received Gateway approval from the Department of Planning and Environment, has been publicly exhibited and is currently with the Department of Planning for final approval and drafting by parliamentary Counsel.

Amendment 52 to the LLEP 2008 is therefore a relevant draft Environmental Planning Instrument which must be considered in accordance with Section 79C(1)(a)(ii) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and should be afforded significant weight in the assessment of the current development application.

Amendment 52 to the LLEP 2008 provides for development of “opportunity sites” in the Liverpool City Centre that can accommodate mixed use and commercial tower development.

These sites are required to be master planned and are anticipated to allow for buildings with significant floor space ratios and heights. Whilst DA-582/2016 is not accompanied by a masterplan in the manner anticipated by Amendment 52, the development has been planned in a holistic manner under DA-578/2014 and the current DA-582/2016 and is consistent with what would be expected of a masterplan if the application was lodged once Amendment 52 was gazetted.

An extract from Amendment 52 states:

The maximum floor space of a building on a lot in “Area 8” identified on the Floor Space Ratio Map may exceed 3.0:1 if the lot size exceeds 1500 square metres and:

a) The site has multiple street or laneway/service way frontages

b) The site can accommodate tower floor space of up to 700 square metres gross floor area for residential uses or 1,000 square metres gross floor area for commercial uses

c) The site can accommodate tall buildings without significant impact on the adjacent public domain, heritage items or neighbouring sites, and

d) The applicant agrees to provide a public benefit, to the satisfaction of Council, which may include the following:

a. The proposal includes additional public car parking located in key locations in Liverpool City Centre to be dedicated to Council at no cost;

b. The proposal will, extend lanes and/or provide through-site links; or

c. Any other public benefit as defined by Council policy.

Amendment 52 therefore allows a floor space ratio on “opportunity sites” up to a maximum of 10:1 with no maximum height limit. This application proposes a FSR of 6.645:1. This is well below the maximum FSR of 10:1 permitted under Amendment 52 to the LLEP. At a maximum FSR of 10.1, the total gross floor area that may be permitted on this site is 55,280m². The proposed gross floor area is 40,621m².

This development meets the opportunity site provisions as the site has four street frontages, provides for significant tower floor space, can accommodate tall buildings and the applicant has entered into a Voluntary Planning Agreement with Council to provide a public benefit in the form of a monetary payment for upgrade works to heritage listed Collingwood House. The Voluntary Planning agreement has been executed by Council. It should be noted that the VPA will have no effect should the development application not be approved by Council.

The proposal is therefore considered consistent with Amendment 52 to the LLEP and is considered worthy of Council support.

Independent Hearing and assessment panel

At their meeting on 24 April 2017, IHAP made the following recommendation:

The Panel recommends that DA-582/2016 be approved subject to the conditions referred to in the Council officer’s report, with changes to condition 1.

IHAP recommendation	Agreed/Not Agreed	Council Officer’s comment
Condition 1 to be amended to delete the words ‘must be adhered to’ and insert instead ‘apply to this consent’	Agreed	Clearer link between approved DA-578/2014 and DA-582/2016.

Conclusion

The application has been assessed against the relevant considerations prescribed by Section 79C of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and is worthy of support. On this basis, the application is recommended for approval, subject to conditions.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	Further develop a commercial centre that accommodates a variety of employment opportunities. Facilitate economic development.
Environmental and Sustainability	Enhance the environmental performance of buildings and homes.
Social and Cultural	Regulate for a mix of housing types that responds to different population groups such as young families and older people.
Civic Leadership and Governance	There are no civic leadership and governance considerations.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Applicant and Landowners Details ⇨ (Under separate cover)

2. Council Officer's IHAP Report ⇨ (Under separate cover)

3. IHAP Recommendation ⇨ (Under separate cover)

4. Amended Recommended Conditions of Consent ⇨ (Under separate cover)

5. JRPP Officer's Report for DA-578/2014 ⇨ (Under separate cover)

6. Voluntary Planning Agreement ⇨ (Under separate cover)

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Planning and Growth Report

DPG 01

Cooling the Streets

Strategic Direction	Natural Sustainable City Lead the community to develop and implement environmentally sustainable practices
Key Policy	Integrated Environmental Sustainability Action Plan
File Ref	055619.2017
Report By	Amy van den Nieuwenhof - Strategic Planner
Approved By	Lina Kakish - Acting Director Planning and Growth

Executive Summary

This report is to update Council on the issue of urban heat, and provide information on a variety of actions and funding models that could be implemented to address this matter. The report responds to two Notice of Motions (NOMs), and incorporates elements of a third.

In particular, this report examines a current WSROC initiative and details Council’s ongoing role in this matter. It will also highlight urban heat initiatives implemented in other Western Sydney Councils, and will outline a range of funding models that could be leveraged to support future urban heat related actions that may be undertaken by Council.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Notes Council’s ongoing participation in WSROC’s ‘Turn Down the Heat’ project.

2. Requests the CEO to undertake a comprehensive study of the potential strategies to address the impacts of extreme heat in the Liverpool LGA, including the Urban Heat Island Effect and to submit a policy to Council after the completion of the ‘Turn Down the Heat’ framework.

REPORT

Notice of Motions
Notice of Motion (03) November 2016

That Council:

1. Investigates whether it is possible, formally or informally, to participate in the ‘Cool Streets’ project (or other projects with similar objectives).

2. Writes to WSROC expressing its interest in this and future projects/applications for funding of a similar nature.

3. Where as much is not already programmed to happen in any event reports to Councillors as to possible future applications, individual or joint, for ‘Building Resistance to Climate Change’ funding and more generally participation in future programs of a similar nature, as they become available.

4. Notes also the comments of the CEO with respect to this motion, and investigates the environmental levy as a funding source in the event there is a shortfall after receipt of grant funding.

Notice of Motion (01) December 2016 (in part)

That Council prepare a report which:

7. Investigates and reports budget implications and potential funding, grants and partnership sources with, but not restricted to, organisations such as WSROC.

Notice of Motion (02) March 2017

1. That Council investigate the Tree Pricing Policies adopted at Bankstown, Campbelltown, Sutherland and other Councils and report back to Council so that a similar policy might be considered for Liverpool.

Background

There is a prevailing scientific theory that global temperatures are gradually rising and that this phenomenon will result in a greater frequency of storm and extreme heat events. It is noted that 100 Resilient Cities, a global organisation that helps improve urban resilience to physical, social and economic challenges, has identified that the greatest “acute shock” threatening Sydney’s resilience is extreme weather events.

South West Sydney, by virtue of its location and geography, experiences higher temperatures than the rest of metropolitan Sydney. Areas in the south west region are, on average, 5 degrees warmer and experience more than double the number of ‘hot days’ (defined as over 35 degrees) than the metropolitan average. The effects of hotter conditions are expected to worsen over time, and this trend requires attention and proactive responses to address the consequences such as heat-related illness and damage to infrastructure.

The Urban Heat Island Effect (UHIE) is a phenomenon unique to urban areas. Specifically, it causes temperature spikes in cities and built-up locations as a result of factors including, but not limited to, the prevalence of hard and non-reflective surfaces that trap heat (e.g. asphalt), hot emissions from cars and air-conditioning units, and a lack of vegetation to assist in evapotranspiration. Coupled with the effects of climate change, the UHIE leaves cities at risk of serious health impacts and businesses exposed to productivity declines.

The UHIE intensifies hotter conditions experienced in built up areas such as the Liverpool City Centre. Urgent attention must be given to this phenomenon, particularly in light of the anticipated population increases in this and other centres within the city.

Consequences of ongoing and extreme heat in Liverpool include:

· An increase in health-related illnesses and mortalities, resulting in a greater demand on health services, noting that the growing elderly cohort are the most vulnerable to these impacts;

· An increased use and reliance on air-conditioning leading to pressure on peak energy demand, higher energy prices and a greater likelihood of power-outages;

· Damage to key infrastructure leading to outcomes such as train delays and traffic jams;

· Poorer air quality; and

· A drop in productivity.

Urban Heat Projects

Cool Streets

NOM 03 requested Council officers to investigate options to participate in the ‘Cool Streets’ initiative. ‘Cool Streets’ is a project initiated by Dr Libby Gallagher that facilitates community engagement to increase community receptiveness to, and involvement in, street tree planting. The project is specifically targeted at culturally diverse communities, and in 2015 was piloted in a residential street in Blacktown Council. A larger joint project involving WSROC and a number of Western Sydney Councils was planned, however the application to secure government grants to fund the project was unsuccessful. As a result, the initiative is not being progressed at present and WSROC has no immediate plan to re-apply.

It is noted that the initiator of the Cool Streets project, Dr Libby Gallagher, was engaged by Liverpool Council to prepare a street tree strategy for the City Centre. It is intended to bring this draft strategy to a subsequent Council meeting. The adoption of this strategy will contribute significantly to mitigation of the UHIE in the City Centre.

Council has the option of implementing its own ‘Cool Streets’ project. The estimated cost is $30,000 per street, subject to a range of factors, including the amount of community consultation undertaken and the types of trees planted. The project would involve selecting a street, undertaking community consultation regarding the importance and impact of trees, and holding a community tree planting day.

Development of a ‘Cool Streets’ programme in Liverpool would help to change cultural attitudes towards street trees and contribute to the greening of our streets. While the project is an innovative social solution to urban heat, it focusses on just one element of a bigger issue. Council’s overall approach to urban heat mitigation must be comprehensive, and any projects or actions should form part of a coordinated and wide-ranging commitment to addressing urban heat.

Turn Down the Heat (WSROC)

WSROC has developed the ‘Turn Down the Heat’ initiative, aimed at preparing a region-wide ‘framework for action’ on urban heat. It is expected that this framework will be prepared by a steering group by September 2017, and a formal commitment to the framework from Western Sydney Councils is anticipated. The aim of the framework will be to call for a multi-stakeholder approach that implements a broad spectrum of changes to address urban heat issues in Western Sydney.

Liverpool City Council is already a participant of the working party for ‘Turn Down the Heat’, a role which involves meeting regularly with WSROC and other Council representatives, scoping the direction of the framework, and identifying any projects or funding that may further advance the aim of the framework. Council officers assisted in the organisation of the ‘Turn Down the Heat’ forum, held on 2 March 2017 and Liverpool Council donated $1,000 towards expenses incurred by WSROC. It is expected that Council will maintain its involvement in the working group, and there is no need to formally write to WSROC to do so.

Liverpool Council’s ongoing involvement in the group will enable us to participate in future joint projects with WSROC, and/or other Western Sydney Councils. There is also potential to partner with Western Sydney University or University of Wollongong on this subject.

Other Councils

Throughout Western Sydney, a number of Councils have taken proactive steps towards mitigating UHIE impacts. Some examples are discussed below:

Parramatta City Council has developed a program called ‘Cool Parramatta’ which has implemented a wide range of initiatives to recognise and counter the effects of hot conditions. The program includes a suite of initiatives such as partnerships with local businesses to provide relief via discounted services on ‘really hot days’ (over 35 degrees), and ‘Heat Buddies’ to encourage residents to connect with vulnerable residents on hot days.

Penrith City Council have completed a ‘Cooling the City Strategy’, which outlines more than fifty actions towards addressing urban heat. These actions are broad ranging, and include policy change, community engagement, and water-sensitive urban design requirements.

Blacktown Council, in addition to piloting a ‘Cool Streets’ program, has held a number of community meetings on how to prepare for very hot days and has facilitated open forums to discuss ways to keep urban areas and houses cool.

Funding

Liverpool Council Environmental Levy

The environmental levy raises approximately $1,500,000 per year, which goes towards a range of projects including bush regeneration; support for local environmental groups, community engagement and education, staffing, and environmental audits and surveys. The levy will undergo a 10 year review this year. The use of these funds is strictly limited to bush regeneration projects. It is noted, however, that appropriately located regeneration projects can assist in mitigating heat impacts.

Other Council funds that might be leveraged include the City Development Fund, Section 94 contributions and Voluntary Planning Agreements.

Grant Funding

The ‘Building Resilience to Climate Change’ program was a collaboration between Local Government NSW (LGNSW) and the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) that funded innovative projects seeking to mitigate climate change risks and vulnerabilities. It was from this program that WSROC sought to fund their joint ‘Cool Streets’ project. The LGNSW and OEH have not accepted any applications to the ‘Building Resilience to Climate Change’ program this year.

Funding opportunities from federal, state or independent sources arise regularly, and it is anticipated that there will be further opportunities for Liverpool Council (independently, or as part of a joint project) to seek external funding for urban heat related projects in the future.

Tree Pricing

What is ‘Tree Pricing’

Trees perform important ecological functions, including absorption of carbon dioxide, moderating the climate, circulating air, holding soils together, maintaining ground water levels, minimising soil salinity and preventing erosion. Trees also provide shade in urban areas, keep streets and pedestrian areas cool, provide an appealing landscape, contribute positively to property values and help to form part of the identity of an area.

Tree pricing acknowledges the value that trees provide and models have been designed to estimate the economic value of a tree or trees. These policies provide a financial incentive for property owners and developers to maintain naturally vegetated areas. This is particularly relevant in growth areas, such as Austral and Edmondson Park, where former rural holdings are often heavily vegetated prior to urban development.

Values can vary significantly depending on the factors taken into account during the analysis, which can include the age, species and location of the tree, what ecological benefits are accounted for and the value given to each of these services. Such valuations can price trees from $100 to over $100,000. Although the more modest amounts do not reflect the true ecological value of trees, they do broadly acknowledge their importance in maintaining healthy environments and create a financial incentive to retain trees without placing heavy burdens on developers/owners where removal is required.

How can Tree Pricing be implemented?

A tree pricing strategy is typically administered alongside a replacement policy. This type of tree pricing (effectively a contribution-in-lieu of tree replacement) has been successfully implemented in Sutherland Shire, Campbelltown and Canterbury-Bankstown Councils.

The specific details of tree pricing policies vary between Councils. For example, physical replacement ratios are set at a maximum of 1:4 in Sutherland, and 1:3 in Canterbury-Bankstown, and 1:1 in Campbelltown. In all cases, the developer is given the option of replacing the tree themselves, or paying Council to do so at a cost ($100 per tree in Sutherland Shire, and $1000 per tree in Canterbury-Bankstown). If the resident/ developer pays Council a replacement fee, then the policy of all three Councils is to replace the trees in a location decided by Council (often in parks or open spaces identified in a landscape or revegetation strategy).

Tree Pricing and Urban Heat

The implementation of a tree pricing policy in Liverpool Council would be a positive step towards addressing urban heat issues. Implementing this kind of policy would signal Council’s commitment to maintaining canopy cover and ensuring adequate green coverage throughout the LGA to combat the increasingly regular occurrence of hot conditions.

Importantly, however, the development of a tree pricing policy should form part of a broader response to urban heat, acknowledging that the full impacts of increased tree planting will not be felt for at least twenty years – possibly up to seventy years. Other actions that could complement this could include: enhanced protection of vegetation in backyards, policies to achieve a net gain in vegetative cover across the city, heat mapping and monitoring via smart technology, utilization of reflective building and construction materials, promotion of sustainable active and passive cooling techniques, adaptive strategies for extreme heat events, public awareness campaigns, and the development of a transport strategy that prioritises active and public transport methods.

Conclusion

Urban heat is a significant concern across Sydney, particularly so in the South West suburbs. Within Liverpool, an important contribution to mitigating the effects of urban heat is our involvement in WSROC’s ‘Turn Down the Heat’ initiative. Participation in this program has the potential to catalyse policy development and social change within Council, and provides continuing opportunities for participation in joint urban-heat projects.

Actions that could be taken by Liverpool Council itself to address this issue include the piloting of a ‘Cool Streets’ program, the development of a tree pricing policy, and the review and adoption of the City Centre Street Tree Strategy. Crucially, these actions should form part of a broader change in attitude and policy throughout Council that explores and actively promotes the comprehensive measures needed to address urban heat.

This report recommends therefore that Council should continue its participation in joint heat mitigation initiatives and continue to pursue grant options as they come available. It also recommends that Council staff should develop a comprehensive strategy to address the mitigation of and adaption to extreme heat events.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	Enhance the environmental performance of buildings and homes.
Environmental and Sustainability	Manage air, water, noise and chemical pollution. Enhance the environmental performance of buildings and homes. Raise community awareness and support action in relation to environmental issues.
Social and Cultural	Preserve and maintain heritage, both landscape and cultural as urban development takes place.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Act as an environmental leader in the community. Foster neighbourhood pride and a sense of responsibility. Encourage the community to engage in Council initiatives and actions. Actively advocate for federal and state government support, funding and services.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Turn Down the Heat Forum Outcomes ⇨ (Under separate cover)

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Planning and Growth Report

DPG 02

Notification of Development Applications

Strategic Direction	Liveable Safe City Deliver an efficient planning system which embraces sustainable urban renewal and development
Key Policy	Urban Development Plans
File Ref	110455.2017
Report By	David Smith - Acting Manager Development Assessment
Approved By	Lina Kakish - Acting Director Planning and Growth

Executive Summary

At its Ordinary meeting of 29 March 2017, Council resolved following a Question with Notice from Councillor Harle that:

Council investigate and report back to Council on the possible updating of the Council’s current Notifications of DA’s Policies based on distances, and consider possibly changing the policy to be measured in the number of people contacted, to ensure in all circumstances the number of residents that have been notified about an impending development, is in accordance with Council’s consultation obligations and the IHAP Objection criteria, noting that the IHAP criteria was recently changed from a minimum of 3 to a minimum of 5 people.

The current Notification of Development Applications Policy has been reviewed, and it is considered that the current policy which requires notification of certain types of development applications to the community based on distance from the development site, is the most appropriate method of consultation considering the potential impacts of development.

Under the current Notification of Development Applications policy, the minimum number of properties notified of a development application is eight (8) for applications which require notification to opposite and adjoining neighbours and significantly more for applications which require notification based on distance.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council receives and notes this report.

REPORT

Council’s Notification of Development Applications Policy is contained within Part 1, Chapter 18 of the Liverpool Development Control Plan 2008 (LDCP 2008).

The policy provides guidance to Development Assessment staff, the development industry and the general community on the notification and exhibition requirements for Development Applications lodged with Liverpool City Council.

The objectives of Council’s Notification Policy, as outlined in the LDCP are:

a) To provide the opportunity for the community to view and have input into the assessment process prior to Council or its delegate, making a decision to determine the application.

b) To provide a reasonable time for inspection of plans and the preparation of submissions on applications, while recognising the obligations of the Council to determine applications within the prescribed periods as set by the relevant legislation.

c) To match notification and exhibition standards to the complexity of the application and development risk.

There are four (4) levels of public consultation that a development application may be subject to under the notification policy. These are:

1. Notified Development – this is where Council notifies adjoining property owners and occupants in writing advising of the lodgement of a development application and invites submissions within 14 days. The minimum number of properties notified is eight (8) (refer to Figure 1);

2. Advertised Development – this is where Council, in addition to notification, places an advertisement on the Council’s website and in a local newspaper and a sign on the subject land advising of the lodgement of a development application. The exhibition period is usually 14 days, except for Nominated Integrated Development and Designated Development under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act and Regulations which requires the period of advertising to be 30 days;

3. No consultation – this only applies to certain development applications where no notification or advertising is necessary in circumstances where the likely impacts of the development are considered insignificant and/or is consistent with the zoning applying to the land; and

4. Development not defined – this is where development is not defined in Table 10 of the Notification Policy. In these instances, notification or advertising is not necessary, unless the assessment officer considers otherwise by using the discretionary notification provisions within the notification policy.

Table 10 of the Notification policy outlines the level of notification required for specific types of development. Certain low intensity and low impact development applications require notification only to opposite and adjoining properties, whereas other development proposals require wider notification due to their potential impacts. The notification distances in these instances range from 50m to 1km from the development site, which encompass many properties.

For development applications that require notification to opposite and adjoining properties, Figure 1 identifies the 8 properties required to be notified.

Figure 1: Notification to opposite and adjoining neighbours

The current Independent Hearing Assessment Panel Charter requires Development Applications which have received five or more unresolved objections to be reported to IHAP. In all instances, more than five properties are notified of development applications which require notification and/or advertising.

Council’s eplanning portal also allows the community to access all development applications lodged with the Council, including documentation such as plans and reports. This tool allows the community to review applications that may be of interest and to lodge a submission with Council. The planning page on Council’s website also links with the eplanning portal and lists development applications that are on public exhibition with a link to Council’s online submission form and contains details of how to lodge a submission online, by email, or via post.

For potentially controversial applications, notification or advertising is generally required based on distances from the development site. It is also noted that in certain areas of the LGA, community action groups exist which allows for wider communication to their members of certain development applications.

It is therefore considered that the current Notification of Development Applications Policy is considered appropriate and allows the community to be informed of development applications that may have an impact.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	There are no economic and financial considerations.
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	There are no social and cultural considerations.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Liverpool Development Control Plan Notification Policy ⇩

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Community and Culture Report

DCC 01

The Mandaean Community of Liverpool - Baptismal Area on the Georges River

Strategic Direction	Healthy Inclusive City Celebrate and respect Liverpool’s rich cultural and social diversity and embrace the opportunities it provides
Key Policy	Recreation Strategy
File Ref	206409.2016
Report By	James Flinn - Coordinator Community Planning
Approved By	Eddie Jackson - Acting Director Community & Culture

Executive Summary

At the 28 October 2015 Council Meeting - Mayoral Minute 4, Council resolved the following:

“Commits to helping the Mandaean Community establish a place to perform baptism rituals in Liverpool on the banks of the Georges River”.

At a subsequent Councillor briefing held on the 25^th August 2016, members agreed that further advice should be sought from those State Agencies with responsibility for associated regulatory powers, including health and water quality.

This Report provides the outcomes of research undertaken by Council staff regarding this matter.

The Mandaean baptism ritual would fall within the category of ‘religious service’ under the NSW Local Government Act 1993. Section 68 of the Act requires the Mandaean Community to seek approval to carry out their ritual on public land. In accordance with s89 of the Act, Council in determining an application, must consider the public interest including protection of the environment, risks to public health, safety, and convenience, and any cultural or heritage significance that might be affected.

A major concern with the activity is the general water quality of the Georges River for primary contact recreational activities, which may present a range of risks to both participants and Council. It is recommended that Council do not proceed based on the evidence highlighted.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Defer a decision until risks to the public, identified in this report, are addressed; the real time monitoring of water for indicator organisms is in place; and until such time sufficient evidence is available to confirm the adequacy of water quality in the Georges River for primary contact recreational activities;

2. Install signage along the river to highlight potential dangers of primary contact recreational activities;

3. Report back the findings of this report to the Mandaean community and the outcome of Council’s decision;

4. Ensures the Mandaean community is made fully aware of the potential dangers of primary contact recreation in the Georges River; and

5. Advocate to Federal and State Governments for a collaborative approach to improving water quality in the Georges River at Liverpool in order to allow primary contact recreational activities in the long-term.

REPORT

At the 28 October 2015 Council Meeting, A Mayoral Minute was put forth discussing:

“As a council that supports the multiculturalism of Australia, fostering people’s right to practice their cultural beliefs while assimilating into our country, Liverpool should encourage the Mandaean people to have a baptismal area along the Georges River”

Council subsequently resolved the following:

1. Commits to helping the Mandaean community establish a place to perform baptism rituals in Liverpool on the banks of the Georges River.

2. Congratulates the Sabaean Mandaean Association in Australia for the charitable works in the community.

3. Acknowledges the long standing traditions and practices of Mandaean culture and religion tracing back over 2000 years.

4. Include a transcript of the speeches made by Mr Adam Farhan and Ms Yassman Yahya during the Public Forum section of this meeting in these minutes. The transcript begins on the next page (page 15 of these minutes).

This report deals with point 1 of the Resolution only. At the time, no budget was set aside to investigate the action, including any necessary research (e.g. water quality testing for public health risks). Therefore information provided here is based on a desktop assessment of available information, site inspections and consultations with key stakeholders.

At a Councillor Briefing Session held on 25 August 2016, members present were advised of some of the issues related to the proposal. Members agreed that further advice should be sought from those State Agencies with responsibility for associated regulatory powers, including health and water quality.

There remain two main contentions. The first is the overall suitability of the Georges River for primary contact recreational activities in and around Liverpool, and the second is the site selection and related quantum of costs required to construct enabling infrastructure.

Methodology

The research areas included undertaking the following steps:

· Consideration of recreation planning principles.

· Research on the Mandaean Community and baptism ritual process.

· A review of relevant legislation to determine permissibility and required approvals.

· Consultations with internal and external stakeholders to assist in determining major issues related to the activity occurring in the Georges River.

· Risk assessment.

· Identification and comparison of three potential sites to locate such an activity.

· Site inspections by Council staff in conjunction with the President of the Sabian Mandaean Association of Australia, two priests and one other representative of the Mandaean Community. The Mandaean representatives were inclined towards site 2 at Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre (CPAC) as their preferred location.

· An estimate of upfront financial costs and ongoing resources required by Council to service the activity.

· An overall assessment of the three potential sites with recommendations.

General Recreation Planning Principles

As a general principle, Council provides open space and recreation facilities that are accessible to all residents and visitors. Funding new infrastructure should be targeted at promoting the widest possible shared use. Providing facilities that meet the needs of a single religious group creates equity issues for all religious groups and a potentially ongoing large financial liability to Council if requests from all these groups (and any other groups for that matter) were addressed in this manner. Therefore caution should be exercised in regard to setting a precedent.

The Mandaean Community and the Baptism Ritual

Mandaeans are a closed ethno-religious community, practicing Mandaeism, a Gnostic religion (Buckley J. (2002) The Mandaeans: Ancient Texts and Modern People).

According to the website of the Mandaean Synod of Australia, baptism is the principal ceremony of the Mandaean religion. Mandaeism baptisms are not an initiatory event, but rather repeated immersions that mark preparations and rehearsals for entry into the ‘Lightworld’ (Buckley J. (2002) The Mandaeans: Ancient Texts and Modern People).

Mandaeans must be baptised or baptise themselves in fresh running water every Sunday. In addition, baptisms are encouraged on the five Holy Days of Pronia/Banjah. Mandaean baptisms are administered by a bishop (ganzevra) with the assistance of priests (tarmidi) and deacons (ishkandi) and ceremonies are conducted in the Mandaean Aramaic language (http://mandaeansynod.org.au/aboutus.html).

The baptisms consist of two main parts which are:

1) The actual baptismal rite, including immersion, signing of the forehead with water, a gulp of water, the “crowning” with a small myrtle wreath and the laying on of hands by the priest.

2) The second part takes place on the banks of the river and consists of the anointing with sesame oil and the communion of bread and water.

The Mandaeans have a number of indoor and outdoor facilities in which to practice baptisms. They are currently permitted by Penrith City Council to undertake baptisms in the Nepean River, which being water catchment fed, is significantly cleaner than the Georges River, whilst the Sabian Mandaeans have also established a private facility in Wallacia.

Legislation

Local Government Act 1993

The Mandaean baptism ritual falls within the category of ‘religious service’ under the NSW Local Government Act 1993. Section 68 of the Act requires the Mandaean Community to seek approval to carry out their ritual on public land. In accordance with s89 of the Act, Council in determining an application, must consider the following:

· Whether the activity complies with the requirements of any relevant legislation.

· The principles of ecologically sustainable development.

· The public interest including protection of the environment, risks to public health, safety, and convenience, and any cultural or heritage significance that might be affected.

In addition, land classified for community purposes is required to be used and managed in accordance with the following:

· The plan of management applying to the land.

· Any law permitting the use of the land for a specified purpose or otherwise regulating the use of the land.

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Any proposed works in the water way or adjacent to river bank require the usual assessment of environmental impacts and concurrence from NSW Office of Water, Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries), and NSW Roads and Maritime Service.

Guidelines for Managing Risks in Recreational Water 2008

The guidelines have been developed to ensure that recreational water environments are managed as safely as possible so that as many people as possible can benefit from using the water. The primary aim of the guidelines is to protect the health of humans from threats posed by the recreational use of coastal, estuarine and fresh waters.

The guidelines are not mandatory. Rather, they have been developed as a tool for state and territory governments to develop legislation and standards appropriate for local conditions and circumstances.

The guidelines utilise a three-level monitoring system, with each of the major hazard groups being dealt with at each level of monitoring. The suggested levels are:

· Surveillance mode (green level): this level involves routine sampling to measure contaminants (e.g. physical, microbial, cyanobacterial and algal).

· Alert mode (amber level): this level requires investigation into the causes of elevated contaminant levels, and increased sampling to enable a more accurate assessment of the risks to recreational users.

· Action mode (red level): this level requires the local government authority and health authorities to warn the public that the water body is considered unsuitable for recreational use.

Social Justice Policy 2011, A place for people – building a fair and sustainable Liverpool

This Policy recognises that some individuals and groups face disadvantage and do not enjoy the same opportunity as others. The Policy provides guiding principles for Council to support integrated and equitable decisions and actions, particularly for individuals and groups that face barriers in accessing resources and opportunities. The policy extends to factors such as race, ethnicity and religion.

Nine principles underpin Council’s approach to social justice and are applied in its activities. Whilst all are relevant, principles 1, 2, 8 and 9 are most pertinent.

1. Access: Council is committed to providing and advocating for services and facilities that are available to all regardless of background, ability or capacity.

2. Equity: Council is committed to fairness in providing services, making decisions and distributing resources particularly for those in need, so all members of the community benefit.

8. Safe and healthy communities: Council is committed to creating a city which is safe and healthy and recognises that a safe and healthy community improves wellbeing for all.

9. Evidence based approach: Council recognises the importance of evidence based solutions. It is committed to being informed about what does and doesn’t work, based on research and the experiences of others. Council is also committed to monitoring and evaluating actions and strategies to ensure continuous improvement and effective and efficient service delivery.

Consultation process

Consultation with Mandaean Community

It is important to note that there are two main Mandaean groups in the Liverpool area; The Sabian Mandaean Association in Australia, and The Mandean Spiritual Council of Australia. The Sabian Mandaean Association requested Council to undertake baptisms on the Georges River. The Mandaean Spiritual Council of Australia has not approached Council to undertake river baptisms in Liverpool but are known to do so on occasion.

Discussions with representatives of the The Sabian Mandaean Association in Australia revealed the following important issues:

· Baptism rituals are currently occurring on the Nepean River at Regentville near Penrith which has been difficult for community members to attend due to the distance.

· Baptisms will generally occur on Sundays, the five Holy Days, and Australia Day where a large baptism ceremony for the Mandaean children is conducted.

· That the age range of participants is between 5-90 years.

· That half body baptism may be acceptable and that a small amount of water may be placed on the lips and in the mouth.

· That privacy is a key concern for their community due to previous negative interactions with other community members who are unaware of their practices and beliefs.

· That a range of amenities was requested including toilets, changing room, shade, and shelter.

· That on special occasions up to 250 persons may be in attendance.

· The preference is for an accessible ramp into the water rather than a staircase to cater for the broad age range.

· A nominal sum of $20,000 could be raised by the members of their community to help assist funding of any required infrastructure.

Further discussions with the Sabian Mandaean Association indicated that they would indemnify Council for any legal action, and that a staircase into the water would be acceptable.

Consultation with Internal Stakeholders

Council Unit	Issues raised
Governance	· Requires approval under Section 68 Part D 6 of the Local Government Act 1993. · A development application is necessary for an "event" which is any organised activity that takes place wholly or partly on public land, such as the proposed Mandaean baptismal ceremonies. · Council only owns up to the mean high water mark. Landowners consent for the works and activity are required from Crown Lands.
Risk Management	· A sewerage treatment plant is sited at Glenfield discharging into the Georges River a few kilometres upstream of CPAC. · NSW Fisheries has signposted the Georges River at Liverpool indicating that due to pollution fish caught in the area are unsuitable for human consumption. · Bull Sharks are present below the weir. · The only area of the Georges River that could potentially have suitable water quality would be upstream in the Campbelltown LGA area around Simmo's Beach. · Any area below the notional top flood mark is not land vested in Council but is State Crown Land. · Council’s insurances would not cover the activity and therefore if any incidence arose, it would be a direct cost against Council. Council’s insurance arrangements would therefore require that the Mandaean Community undertake their own risk assessment, imdemnify Council, provide evidence of Public Liability Insurance of $20million, and seek the appropriate approvals directly. · Consideration needs also to be given to the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 as Council has an obligation to members of the public as persons other than employees. · Caged stairs with lockable gate providing access to the water. Council would require indemnity from the Mandaean Community.
Legal Services	· If a purpose built facility is constructed, Council is obliged to ensure that it is safe for use by anyone who could foreseeably use it for any foreseeable purpose.
City Presentation	· Staff are not equipped or trained to undertake works in water.
Environment	· Individuals of the Mandaean community are often seen at Lighthorse Park, baptising, cleaning cooking equipment and washing clothes in the river. · Above the weir, the water quality is highly variable, affected by faecal coliforms from sewerage flows following heavy rainfall events. During dry times, high nutrient levels are present making algae blooms possible. · There are no monitoring regimes for public health risks. No funding is currently available. · There is no known testing of river sediment. · There is a gap in knowledge and education on variable water quality. · Safe access is an issue as the steep banks of the Georges River make accessibility a major issue. Below the weir around Chipping Norton Lakes is more suitable for the activity. · Any infrastructure is likely to be affected by flooding, sediment deposit and collect debris.
Infrastructure & Environment	· CPAC amphitheatre is subject to flooding with regular rain and flash flooding during heavy rains · The idea of having a river baptism area around the amphitheatre is not feasible due to costs involved with excavating and clearing in order to comply with accessible requirements in accordance to Australian Standard (AS1428.1). · Haigh Park is more suited with comparatively less investment as other facilities are included such as benches, toilets, shelters and barbeques, which will meet the needs of the community and the proposed baptism ceremony. However, a shark net would be required. Further investigation and feasibility on the shark net would be required by an expert consultant if works are to proceed.

Consultation with Government Agencies

Agency	Issues raised
NSW Health – Public Health	· Water quality of the Georges River does not meet potable or recreational (primary) water standards. · Low to medium risk of gastrointestinal, skin, ear, nose and throat diseases following exposure to the river water. · Risk increases during and after rains due to storm and sewerage overflows. · Risk may be reduced by limiting immersion times, ingesting smaller quantities of water, and avoiding the rituals during and after heavy rains. · Regular monitoring of water for indicator organisms (Coliforms, E.Coli) would assist Council and the community making decisions about minimising risks. · Individuals prone to infection such as the young, aged and persons with chronic disease, immunocompromised conditions may consider using a cleaner water body elsewhere. · After baptism, it is important to monitor the health of individuals and seek early medical advice if required. · Do not oppose on health grounds as long as the community is aware of risks and the steps that may be taken to minimise these.
Crown Lands	Formal written comment was requested by email on three occasions – no response received.
Office of Environment and Heritage – Beachwatch	Beachwatch monitors the lower reaches of the Georges River closer to the ocean. There is no plan or funding available to conduct monitoring of water quality for recreational purposes at Liverpool.
Road and Maritime Services (RMS)	Proposed activity may not require an aquatic licence as the activity is unlikely to affect any boating operations. People/group applying need to undertake their own risk assessment which will need to be forwarded along with licence application. RMS may undertake an environmental assessment prior to release of any licence.

Risk Assessment – Known and Unknown Risks

A major concern with the proposed activity is the general water quality of the Georges River, which may present a range of major risks to both participants and Council, and cannot be readily resolved. The Georges River is heavily affected by storm water pollution and sewerage overflows from the Glenfield Sewerage Treatment Plant during high rainfall events. What is unknown is the length of time the water quality takes to fall within acceptable limits after such an event, and whether other contaminants (e.g. PCBs, dioxins, heavy metals, chemicals etc.) exist in river sediment or water and are within tolerable limits for users facing chronic exposure.

The proposal presents a range of risks to both participants and Council. These can be broadly summarised as:

Poor water quality

The Georges River is impacted by major sewerage overflows during high rainfall events. During dry weather, the treated effluent is pumped to Malabar. However during wet weather, flow rates to the system can exceed the design capacity of the sewers with treated effluent discharged into the Georges River (National Advisory Body on Scheduled Wastes, 1998, Monitoring of PCBs in Australia). Previous studies have found that some fish around Chipping Norton Lake had concentrations of PCBs above the maximum permissible concentration. As a result, NSW Fisheries continues to signpost the Georges River area indicating that, due to pollution, fish caught in the area are unsuitable for human consumption.

The Georges River also suffers from occasional illegal dumping of chemicals into drains flowing into the river (http://www.smh.com.au/environment/water-issues/mystery-chemical-triggers-massive-fish-kill-in-georges-river-20150218-13ihxu.html).

The Georges River Catchment Combined Councils undertakes water quality monitoring as part of their River Health Program. However this only relates to parameters for ecological health. Phone consultations with relevant government bodies confirmed that no agency currently tests the water quality of the Georges River in the Liverpool area with respect to risks to public health.

In 2015, water quality testing of the Georges River was undertaken by Council to ascertain the risk to public health from primary and secondary contact with water. The testing found that water quality was generally within acceptable limits for secondary contact of water (e.g. kayaking) during fine weather, however extremely high rates of faecal coliform and E.Coli (indicative of sewerage overflow) occurred after a wet weather event. No follow up testing was undertaken to understand how long it takes for the rate of faecal coliform and E.Coli to fall within acceptable limits. This severely limits Council’s understanding of an appropriate length of time required to restrict public access to the river after a wet weather event.

River sediment

Industrial and urban development along the Georges River has increased the amount of chemicals entering into the river. Unknown at this stage is the risk to participants from potential contaminants (e.g. PCBs and dioxins etc.) accumulated in river sand and mud that could be exposed through participants stirring up river sediment.

Submerged objects

Unknown is whether there are any submerged objects (broken glass bottles, syringes, rusted metal, branches etc) at any of the three sites. There is no system in place to detect and remove dangerous objects in the river.

Flooding

The Georges River is subject to flooding with flash flooding occurring during heavy rain events and strong currents for some time thereafter. There is no warning system in place to alert the Mandaean community to rising river levels. During the most recent flood event to occur at the end of March, members from the Mandean Spiritual Council of Australia used Lighthorse Park and the jetty to conduct baptisms during the five Holy Days of Pronia/Bajah. No prior application for use of the facility by this group was made to Council.

There are no life-saving buoys in place at Lighthorse Park to assist in the event of an emergency.

Cyanobacteria and algae

Cyanobacteria (or blue-green algae) are a common and naturally occurring component of most recreational water environments. Blue-green algae blooms are known to occur in the Georges River upstream of the weir. Typically, these blue-green algae blooms occur during extended dry and hot spells

They are a public health concern because some types produce toxins that can have a harmful effect on recreational water users. Furthermore, production of toxins is unpredictable, making it difficult to quantify the toxicity of waters and define the restrictions that should be placed on their use.

From time to time, the Georges River above and below weir is prone to excessive growth of algae.

Sharks

Bull Sharks are present in the Georges River below the Liverpool Weir. The bull shark is known for its aggressive nature, predilection for warm shallow water, and presence in brackish and freshwater systems including estuaries and rivers. Although the risk from injury or death from shark attack downstream of the weir is low, deaths and attacks have been recorded of persons and animals swimming or wading in knee-deep water in the Georges River around Chipping Norton. Council staff have confirmed sightings of bull sharks at Chipping Norton Lakes and have signposted that area accordingly.

Legal

If any type of facility or structure is created, Council is obliged to ensure that it is safe for use by any member of the public who could foreseeably use it for any foreseeable purpose. Therefore the design of and signage at any such facility must take into consideration the needs of residents with low English or literacy skills, as well as undertaking steps to minimise vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

Council Insurance Requirements

Council’s current insurance policy will not cover water based activities. Council’s Risk Management Coordinator has advised that Council’s insurance arrangements would require that the Mandaean Community undertake their own risk assessment and seek the appropriate approvals directly and provide evidence of Public Liability Insurance ($20million). The Mandaean community would also be required to indemnify Council for their activities as Council’s insurance cover would not cover any incident that may occur. Given that there are multiple Mandaean groups operating in the area, each group would be required to undertake their own risk assessment, provide evidence of Public Liability Insurance ($20million) and indemnify Council for their activities.

Approval of activities should be conditioned to stop the operation of such facilities in and after any wet weather event until such a time that all the water quality parameters associated with recreational use of water fall below the guideline value. The facility should also be immediately stopped from operation when any potential water quality risk that can have impact on human health during recreational use of the water is identified. As there is no real time monitoring process in place or adopted risk management process, further investigations and commitment of ongoing funding is required to achieve this.

Site Comparison

The two sites identified were 1) CPAC River amphitheatre and 2) Haigh Park. Mandaean community representatives subsequently identified a third site, located slightly south of the CPAC River amphitheatre area as their preferred site. All sites were jointly visited by Council staff and several representatives of the Mandaean community where potential options and issues for each were discussed.

Haigh Park is the preferred option to pilot the activity from recreation planning, environmental, engineering and financial perspectives. Haigh Park is relatively flat, has fresh running water, beach access, and existing amenities that support the activity. This negates the need for heavy and costly infrastructure requirements, and supporting amenities (e.g. parking, picnic shelter, and toilets). The adjacent Satyam Ghat used by Sikhs, Hindus, and Buddhists creates a cultural ‘flavour’ to the park, which could be furthered by establishing Haigh Park as a cultural destination park that would help promote Liverpool’s regional identity (a key objective in the Draft Recreation, Open Space, and Sports Strategy). A concept landscape plan for Haigh Park would guide development in this space, including elements for use by the Mandaean and general community alike, and could be delivered over time. In regard to Haigh Park, toilets would require an upgrade to comply with relevant standards. Apart from the netting, no other infrastructure is required.

Access to the amphitheatre located at CPAC is currently provided by a relatively steep, uneven dirt path at a distance of approximately 75m to the accessible path at the top of the bank. The river’s edge is a further 15m from the amphitheatre with an even steeper gradient. An initial assessment of both CPAC options indicate that the proposed activity is not feasible due to costs involved with excavating and clearing of trees in order to comply with accessibility requirements (AS1428.1).

There are currently no external toilets or changing rooms at CPAC. Should Council approve this site for the activity, Council could potentially allow the Mandaean community to access CPAC’s internal toilets and showers before the current Sunday opening time. As a security guard would need to be present for the 3-4 hours before opening time, this cost would need to be borne by the Mandaean community.

A map of each site is shown overleaf.

Sites 1 and 2

Site 3 – Haigh Park

The following table provides a summary comparison of the sites and their relative merits with respect to the needs of the Mandaean community and Council’s considerations.

	Site 1: CPAC River Ampitheatre	Site 2: South of CPAC River Ampitheatre	Site 3: Haigh Park
Fresh water	ü	ü	ü The priest tasted the water and indicated that the water was sufficiently fresh (i.e. not saline)
Privacy	ü CPAC is an isolated site offering privacy from residential areas.	ü CPAC is an isolated site offering privacy from residential areas. The dense vegetation provides the best privacy of the three sites.	ü Haigh Park offers privacy from residents, however is often used by other people visiting the park. Improved privacy for participants may be achieved through future landscaping and planting of vegetation.
Shade	ü	ü	X Limited shade is available. Increase in both artificial and natural shading is advisable.
Toilets	X There is potential to provide access to CPAC from 6am on Sundays.	X There is potential to provide access to CPAC from 6am on Sundays.	ü Renewal of existing toilets and shelters in Haigh Park would need to be sought in future years.
Change rooms	X	X	X
Ability to accommodate up to 250 persons	X	X	ü
Shelter	X No shelter exists	X No shelter exists	ü Renewal of existing toilets and shelters in Haigh Park would need to be sought in future years.
Adequate car parking	ü 55 parking spots currently available at CPAC. Accessible parking spots are available at the building entrance.	ü 55 parking spots currently available at CPAC. Accessible parking spots are available at the building entrance.	ü Over 40 spaces are available.
Access – water way	X Conformance to BCA standards cannot be met due to steep gradient	X Conformance to BCA standards cannot be met due to steep gradient. Any works here may have significant detrimental effects on two very large gum trees.	ü Sand beach provides easy access. No work required.
Access – pathway to ramp	X Conformance to BCA standards may not be able to be met due to steep gradient. Up to 10 trees will have to be removed.	X Steep riverbank requires accessible ramp. Acceptable gradient may not be achievable. More than 10 trees will have to be removed.	ü Paths and grassed area provides accessible path to water. No work required.
Potential risk from shark attack	ü No sharks present south of weir.	ü No sharks present south of weir.	X Sharks are present below the weir. A small netted area will negate this risk.
Ongoing Maintenance levels	X A ramp perpendicular to the river is very likely to catch floating debris and will require periodic cleaning requiring additional resourcing.	X A ramp perpendicular to the river is very likely to catch floating debris and will require periodic cleaning requiring additional resourcing.	ü Low level of maintenance required including periodic replacement of netting. Approximately $15k per year for cleaning and repair.
Risk to public health from river pollution	X High levels of faecal coliform and E.Coli are present in the water after a wet weather event.	X High levels of faecal coliform and E.Coli are present in the water after a wet weather event.	X High levels of faecal coliform and E.Coli are present in the water after a wet weather event. However, during the site inspection, the water quality here was visually clear. This area of the river is most likely cleaner than sites 1 and 2 due to tidal flush cleansing in this part of the river.
Estimated Costs (approx.)	$90,000 for ramp and steps into river only. If toilets and changing rooms are required then an additional $200k-$500k will be required.	Not feasible due to unacceptable impact on habitat.	$133,000 to install 40m of shark netting. The total amount of netting required will be determined by Mandaeans needs and tidal levels.
Ranking	2	3	1

In summary, the issues raised are varied, complex and cannot be readily resolved. Council appreciates the significance of baptism ritual to Mandaean community. Nevertheless, Council must take cognisance of risks in coming to a determination on the matter.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	Should Council choose to pursue options 1, 2 or 3 costs will be in the realm of $90k to $500k for capital works component. A further $55k-$60k per annum will be required to establish a regular water quality monitoring regime and to undertake ongoing maintenance works.
Environmental and Sustainability	Manage the environmental health of waterways. Protect, enhance and maintain areas of endangered ecological communities and high quality bushland as part of an attractive mix of land uses. Raise community awareness and support action in relation to environmental issues.
Social and Cultural	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities. Promote community harmony and address discrimination. Support access and services for people with a disability.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Act as an environmental leader in the community. Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes. Deliver services that are customer focused. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Community and Culture Report

DCC 02

Draft Community Facilities Strategy

Strategic Direction	Leading Proactive Council Provide business excellence and financial sustainability to deliver services that meet community expectations
Key Policy	Community Facilities Strategy
File Ref	025812.2017
Report By	James Flinn - Coordinator Community Planning
Approved By	Eddie Jackson - Acting Director Community & Culture

Executive Summary

Council’s community facilities provide accessible and affordable space for a range of activities that benefit the Liverpool community. Council currently operates 41 community facilities across Liverpool, many of which are ageing and single use in nature. To date, there is no strategic document that provides guidance to the organisation regarding the planning, delivery, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of facilities.

To this end, a draft Strategy has been developed to provide a long-term vision for Council’s community facilities. This report seeks Council’s endorsement to place on public exhibition, the Draft Community Facilities Strategy.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Places the draft Community Facilities Strategy on public exhibition for at least 28 days seeking general community feedback;

2. Utilises the District Forums (June quarter) as a mechanism to provide feedback on the Draft Strategy; and

3. Brings forth a report in August noting feedback received and any changes made to the document in line with community feedback.

REPORT

Background

At the October 2014 meeting Council resolved the following:

Council to provide a report addressing the following points:

a) The status and function of all Council Community and Facilities and buildings.

b) Identify from the list in (a) above those in need of significant works in the next 12 months.

c) Costs of such work, possible liabilities or consequences if works are not completed.

d) Plans currently in place for works on Community Facilities, their cost and source of funds to be committed.

e) Identify grant and other sources that could be used to complete works.

f) Estimates of the cost to the community if these facilities are lost, and how many residents/users would be affected. Information regarding the range of Community uses for our facilities.

g) Works completed since 2008 on Community facilities, funds expended and the source of such funds.

Given that Council currently operates 41 community facilities, many of which are ageing, and that no strategic document exists governing the planning, delivery, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of facilities, it was determined by the former CEO in consultation with senior staff that an overarching strategy was required to not only address the above issues, but more importantly, provide future strategic direction to the organisation regarding community facilities.

Purpose of the Draft Strategy

The aim of the Draft Strategy is to transform Council’s ageing stock of community facilities into a world-class network of modern facilities that are attractive, flexible, address community need, and become a hub for community interaction – a focal point for community life.

The Draft Strategy identifies four major challenges to the future operation of community facilities, which if left unaddressed, may result in the needs of the community being unmet and a missed chance to create strong communities. These challenges are:

· Meeting the needs of a growing population;

· Managing an ageing stock of facilities;

· Funding and financing of new facilities and renewal/upgrade works;

· The timely delivery of new facilities in the release areas.

Governance and Methodology

A cross-disciplinary Project Control Group was established to oversee strategy development and included representatives (including Directors and senior staff) from Community & Culture, Property Services, Infrastructure & Environment and Planning & Growth. Staff responsible for respective aspects of the facilities have been consulted on a number of occasions with feedback received used as the general basis for strategy content. Furthermore, a number of Project Working Groups consisting of staff across the same four directorates have been established with the aim to improve communication, coordination and community outcomes.

Development of this Strategy involved the following tasks:

· Review of relevant NSW Government and Council documents relating to community facilities;

· Analysis of key demographic trends likely to drive activities, programs and services that are offered through community facilities;

· Mapping of community facilities to determine the distribution of facilities across the LGA;

· Assessment of usage rates to determine the current and future level of usage;

· Review of financial performance to assess the level of income and expenditure associated with community facilities;

· Assessment of building age and condition to assess and rate the current state of community facilities across Liverpool;

· Design of a hierarchy system for prioritising community facilities;

· Review of literature relating to community facilities;

· A review of examples of best practice;

· Consultation with key internal stakeholders.

Timeframe and alignment with Council’s delivery plan

The Draft Strategy, having a 20 year time frame, is a long-term framework for decision making. The Draft Strategy will be monitored quarterly using indicators and will over time be aligned with the district forums and linked to Council’s Delivery, Operational, Long-term Financial, and Asset Management Plans. The Draft Strategy will be reviewed every four years to ensure consistency with Council’s long term vision for the future.

This report seeks Council’s endorsement to place on public exhibition the Draft Community Facilities Strategy which outlines a long-term vision for a re-invigorated network of facilities. The Draft Strategy supports the central concept that an efficient and effective network of quality and appropriate community facilities are essential to the health, social, and economic wellbeing of the Liverpool community. To this end, the Draft Strategy envisages that a ‘community hub’ model be applied to all community facilities, and where appropriate, with consolidation of existing assets to provide new modern facilities. In the first instance, the Draft Strategy proposes two pilot areas, Lurnea and Miller, through which a demonstration effect may be achieved.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	Facilitate economic development.
Environmental and Sustainability	Enhance the environmental performance of buildings and homes.
Social and Cultural	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities. Support community organisations, groups and volunteers to deliver coordinated services to the community. Support access and services for people with a disability. Deliver high quality services for children and their families.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Foster neighbourhood pride and a sense of responsibility. Deliver services that are customer focused.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Community Facilities Strategy May 2017 ⇨ (Under separate cover)

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Community and Culture Report

DCC 03

Amendments to Corporate Sponsorship (Outgoing) Policy

Strategic Direction	Proud Engaged City Engage and consult with the community to enhance opportunities for communication and involvement
Key Policy	Events Strategy
File Ref	098214.2017
Report By	Daniel Collins - Community Development Worker (Funding and Support)
Approved By	Eddie Jackson - Acting Director Community & Culture

Executive Summary

Council is committed to strengthening and celebrating Liverpool’s unique community identity. One way of achieving this is to provide financial assistance in the form of corporate sponsorship to organisations facilitating programs and events within the Liverpool Local Government Area (LGA). The Corporate Sponsorship (Outgoing) Policy provides the framework for delivering Council’s sponsorship program.

The draft policy has been reviewed with reference to the best practice principles of grant making and grants administration as outlined by the Australian Institute of Grants Management. The draft policy describes the key elements and proposed improvements to Council’s Corporate Sponsorship Program to develop a more effective, coordinated and robust program aimed at delivering positive outcomes to benefit the Liverpool community and to grow the value of the Liverpool Council brand.

The draft policy is presented to Council with this report for adoption. There is provision of $100,000 towards the Corporate Sponsorship Program in the 2017/18 draft budget.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council adopts the amendments to the Corporate Sponsorship (Outgoing) Policy.

REPORT

The responsibility for administration of Council’s Corporate Sponsorship (Outgoing) Policy has been transferred from the Communications team to the Community and Culture directorate to better align with Council’s grant management processes. Key units across Council have been consulted including Governance & Legal Services, Community Development and Planning, Economic Development and Events.

Council’s staff have evaluated the feedback received and subsequently Governance and Legal Services have reviewed the draft policy in full. Their recommendations have been incorporated into the policy to ensure this mechanism operates as is allowable for Council under the Local Government Act 1993 Section 356.

Assessment Criteria (Section 4):

Previously, the main determinant used by Council in assessing the value of any sponsorship awarded was the attendance rate. Whilst other benefits to Liverpool Council and the community are addressed in the policy, they were not used as an assessment criteria.

Under the proposed policy changes, a request for sponsorship will need to address at least one of the policy statement priorities under section 4. Applicants will be able to request up to $5,000 regardless of the estimated attendance, with the internal assessment panel to use the policy statement priorities and Community Strategic Plan to determine a recommendation to Council for funding.

Economic Development, Community Development and Events provided additions to the priorities and they have been updated as follows:

§ Economic benefit - creates employment opportunities within the community.

§ Community, cultural, and social development - creates opportunities for education and information exchange between Council, the community and delegates.

§ Local charity event support - ensure funds are not used for direct fundraising including the purchase of tickets or tables at a fundraising event. The applicant must also show proof of registration with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission.

Program Timeframe (Section 6):

The program will be open, with applications assessed upon receipt of all relevant supporting documentation. Applicants should make a submission at least three months prior to their event taking place to allow for the assessment process and recommendations to be submitted to Council for endorsement.

Eligibility (Section 7):

Eligibility criteria has been tightened to ensure applicants are either a registered business or an incorporated organisation. Charities are required to be registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission for fundraising activities.

Council’s Ethical Framework has been included to ensure applications are in line with Council promotion of ethics to the community.

Application Process (Section 9):

Applicants who are seeking support for an event will need to show evidence that they have first made contact with Council’s Events team to ensure any necessary approvals have been sought prior to submitting a request for sponsorship.

Standing Resolutions (Section 9.3):

Council’s current standing sponsorship resolutions are now detailed under section 9.3.1 of the draft policy. Neither of the standing resolutions detail an end date or indexation of resolved amounts.

Acquittal Process (Section 9.5):

Applicants who have been successful in obtaining sponsorship for a charity event will be required to show proof of funds raised and provided to each charitable recipient to ensure consistency with the application and funding agreement.

In addition to the above changes, a number of content formatting revisions have been applied throughout the document to enable it to be more easily read by the audience.

The draft policy is presented to Council with this report for adoption. There is provision of $100,000 towards the Corporate Sponsorship Program in the 2017/18 draft budget.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	There is provision of $100,000 towards the Corporate Sponsorship Program in the 2017/18 draft budget.
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities. Support community organisations, groups and volunteers to deliver coordinated services to the community. Promote community harmony and address discrimination. Support access and services for people with a disability. Deliver high quality services for children and their families.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Encourage the community to engage in Council initiatives and actions. Deliver events that are community focused. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Corporate Sponsorship Policy May 2017 ⇩

101

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Community and Culture Report

DCC 04

Grants, Donations, and Corporate Sponsorship

Strategic Direction	Healthy Inclusive City Foster social inclusion, strengthen the local community and increase opportunities for people who may experience barriers
Key Policy	Donations Policy
File Ref	111210.2017
Report By	Daniel Collins - Community Development Worker (Funding and Support)
Approved By	Eddie Jackson - Acting Director Community & Culture

Executive Summary

Council is committed to building strong and resilient communities in Liverpool and to maximising social wellbeing for all residents. One way of achieving these goals is to provide financial assistance in the form of grants and sponsorships to individuals and groups to develop leadership skills, increase participation in community life and address identified social issues.

This report presents the funding recommendations for the Sustainable Environment Grants Program for Council’s consideration.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council endorses the provision of $27,820 (GST exclusive) under Sustainable Environment Grants:

Applicant Name	Project Name	Amount
Busby West Public School	Sustainable Schools	$5,000
Liverpool Women’s Health Centre	Where Women Grow	$5,000
Wheels “Towards Independence” Inc.	Water Sustainability Program	$5,000
Australian Foundation for Disability	Sustainable Recycling for Lurnea Community Participation Day Program	$5,000
St Therese Primary School	Aboriginal/Indigenous Nature Garden	$5,000
All Saints Catholic Primary School	Veggie for You	$2,000
Outer Liverpool Community Services Inc.	The Thirsty and Hungry Community Garden	$ 820

REPORT

The Grants and Donations program has nine categories:

a) Community Grants

b) Kick-Starter Grants

c) Quick Response Grants

d) Sporting Grants

e) Sporting Donations

f) Community Matching Grants

g) Sustainable Environment Grants

h) Community Facilities Fee Reductions

i) Disaster Relief Donations

Applications to the Sustainable Environment Grants are accepted on an annual basis. Applications are reviewed by an internal working group, comprised of Council staff members responsible for the management of each respective grants program or independent assessors as required.

This report presents the funding recommendations for the Sustainable Environment Grants Program for Council’s Consideration.

Sustainable Environment Grants

Seven applications were received for the Sustainable Environment Grants Program this year and all met the program criteria, which can be found as an attachment to this report. A summary of the requests received are shown in the table below.

Applicant Name and Organisation Status

Project Name/ Description

Beneficiaries

Amount Requested

Amount Recommended

Busby West Public School

Organisation Status:

NSW Government School

Sustainable Schools

Objective:

Establishing a recycling program through the purchase of compost bins.

Outcomes:

· To engage students by educating them on recycling reusable products.

· Cross curricular focus on sustainability in every day practices.

· Promote awareness and responsibility for the type of environment they can shape within the school and more broadly in the community.

480 students will participate in the composting project.

$5,000

Liverpool Women’s Health Centre Incorporation (LWHC)

Organisation Status:

Public Benevolent Institution

Where Women Grow

Objective:

Establish a kitchen/herb garden at the centre through the purchase of plants and an irrigation system.

Outcomes:

· Health education workshops demonstrating techniques in sustainable gardening.

· Provide examples of healthy and nutritious fruits, vegetables and herbs.

· Promote the value of sustainable water use and waste minimisation with a focus on food production/preparation and consumption.

Over 1,200 service clients taking part in the programs.

$5,000

Wheels “Towards Independence” Incorporation

Organisation Status:

Public Benevolent Institution

Water Sustainability Program

Objective:

Purchase of a watering system, installation of water tanks to sustain the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program.

“National Program aims to change the way children think about food”.

Outcomes:

· The garden will be maintained and watered especially during the school closure periods.

· Enables students to enhance their social development skills.

· Sustains the hospitality program run by student’s “Canteen Day”.

· Provides the children and local community with freshly grown garden produce.

· Students enhance their social development and hospitality skills.

78 children K-12 with severe disabilities

Families of the students attending the school as well as the broader community will benefit from the supply of fresh produce from the student run canteen day.

$5,000

Australian Foundation for Disability

Organisation Status:

Registered Charity

Sustainable Recycling for Lurnea Community Participation Day Program

Objective:

Establishing a recycling education program for clients with disabilities and high support needs.

Purchase of compost bins, worm farm and water tank.

Outcomes:

· A weekly program at the centre with a focus on education about recycling and water harvesting.

· Therapist support empowering the team leader, staff and volunteers including other community participants in the program.

· Engaging participants through innovative and hands-on educational workshops and videos.

40 clients with disabilities, their family members, carers and multiple community groups and volunteers.

$5,000

St Therese Primary School

Organisation Status:

Sydney Catholic School

Aboriginal/Indigenous nature garden

Objective:

Creation of an Aboriginal garden “Yarning Circle”.

Purchase of garden materials, hardware, pavers and native plants.

Outcomes:

· Authentic learning experience for students across the curriculum.

· Engage local Aboriginal community elders to share their invaluable skills and knowledge.

· Build communication and relations with the Aboriginal community so students develop a sense of belonging and purpose for the elders.

283 students and their families by promoting community understanding on the importance of sustainability.

Aboriginal community elders will benefit by engaging students with their Aboriginal heritage.

$5,000

All Saints Catholic Primary School

Organisation Status:

Sydney Catholic School

Veggie for You

Objective:

Re-invigorate the gardens with new plants, purchase of garden tools and compost bins.

Outcomes:

· Students who do not have access to a yard can engage in the experience of gardening and growing fruit and vegetables.

· Encourage students to care for the environment and enjoy being outdoors.

· Empower students with the knowledge to create their own little gardens on their family balcony.

A number of the school’s students live in units with very little outdoor space.

Families of students will be encouraged to take the fresh herbs and vegetables home for use, encouraging healthy eating.

$2,000

Outer Liverpool Community Services Incorporation

Organisation Status:

Incorporated Not for Profit

The Thirsty and Hungry Community Garden

Objective:

Purchase of two tumble compost bins to reduce waste for their established community gardens and a water tank to catch excess water.

Outcomes:

· The compost bins with handles will enable the clients with disability to participate in the community garden program.

· Supports the social inclusion program being run weekly.

· Minimisation and recycling of waste to make compost.

· Supporting and promoting sustainable gardening and recycling.

· The weekly program encourages social development, inclusion and a sense of belonging.

Partnerships with “Australian Foundation for Disability” who bus up to 12 clients including their carers to the gardens as part of a weekly program.

Isolated residents in Austral access the gardens as a social meeting point and work the gardens to ensure they are maintained for the program.

$3,100

$820

As this organisation has previously received a grant for installation of a water tank, a lesser amount has been recommended to support the remaining elements of this application.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	Sustainable Grants Program A budget allocation of $75,000 was adopted by Council in its 2016/2017 Operational Plan for the purpose of Council’s Sustainable Environment Grants Program. There is currently $75,000 remaining in the budget. If the recommended amount of $27,820 is endorsed the remaining balance will be $47,180.
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities. Support community organisations, groups and volunteers to deliver coordinated services to the community.
Civic Leadership and Governance	There are no civic leadership and governance considerations.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Sustainable Environment Grants Criteria

111

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Community and Culture Report

DCC 05

Liverpool City Council Sporting Grants Program 2016/2017

Strategic Direction	Healthy Inclusive City Improve health and wellbeing and encourage a happy, active community
Key Policy	Recreation Strategy
File Ref	123017.2017
Report By	Mark Westley - Sports Development Officer
Approved By	Eddie Jackson - Acting Director Community & Culture

Executive Summary

At its meeting held on 15 February 2010, Council approved funding which established the Liverpool City Council Sporting Grants Program to provide sporting grants to the sporting clubs of Liverpool.

The total amount of available grant funds for the 2016/2017 financial year is $30,000 with $5,000 of this total targeted at applications that support sports participation by people with a disability.

This report recommends the allocation of sporting grants as per the recommendations of the Liverpool Sports Committee grants assessment panel.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council approves the following recommendations for the allocation of the $30,000 sporting grants funding, as determined by the Liverpool Sports Committee grants assessment panel:

Club	Project Description	Proposed Grant Amount
Austral City Bears Rugby League Club	Electrical and PA System upgrades and purchase of line marking equipment	$3,282
All Saints Junior Rugby League Football Club	Maintenance equipment, sporting equipment and coach education courses	$4,647
Fairfield Liverpool Cricket Club	Sporting equipment and player development clinics	$5,000
Greater West Junior Oztag	Purchase of sporting equipment	$1,444
Moorebank Baseball Softball Club	Construction of a shelter for the batting cage zone	$5,000
Moorebank Rugby League Club	Purchase sporting equipment	$2,000
Prestons Robins Little Athletics Centre	Purchase of line marking equipment	$2,253
PCYC Liverpool - Miller	Electrical and PA system upgrades and purchase of line marking equipment	$3,522
Special Needs Ability Program Providers	Purchase of sporting equipment	$2,852
	Total	$30,000

REPORT

A total of $30,000 has been allocated within Council’s 2016/2017 budget for distribution to sporting clubs through the Liverpool City Council Sporting Grants program. Of the $30,000, $5,000 is allocated to applications that support sports participation by people with a disability. The maximum grant is limited to $5,000 per applicant.

Applications are assessed against the following criteria:

a) Clubs must be located in Liverpool City Council Local Government Area and provide activities for Liverpool residents.

b) Grants must be spent within 12 months of receiving funds.

c) Proof of costs must be provided.

d) Applications must be received before the closing date.

e) Applications must be signed by Club Office Bearers.

f) Clubs must not have received funding under the previous year’s grants program.

g) Projects must meet Council’s construction and safety standards.

h) Projects must address one of the following six categories:

- Sports Development, e.g. Coaching clinics, sports camps, training and development.

- Ground Development, e.g. Minor capital improvements.

- Maintenance Equipment, e.g. Line marking and ground maintenance equipment.

- Sporting Equipment, e.g. Kits, bags, balls etc., first aid and safety equipment. *Note* Equipment must remain the property of the club to be eligible.

- Education, e.g. First aid training, coaching education programs, safe play.

- Club diversity, e.g. Introduction of additional sports, expansion of club to include greater community involvement.

Council received 11 applications from 10 sporting organisations requesting a total of $34,678 including GST in grants assistance. Applications were assessed by a panel of representatives from the Liverpool Sports Committee.

The following allocation of grants under the general category of the grants program were recommended by the assessment panel:

Club	Project Description	Proposed Grant Amount
Austral City Bears Rugby League Club	Electrical and PA system upgrades and purchase of line marking equipment	$3,282
All Saints Junior Rugby League Football Club	Maintenance equipment, sporting equipment and coach education courses	$4,647
Fairfield Liverpool Cricket Club	Sporting equipment and player development clinics	$5,000
Greater West Junior Oztag	Purchase of sporting equipment	$1,444
Moorebank Baseball Softball Club	Construction of a shelter for the batting cage zone	$5,000
Moorebank Rugby League Club	Purchase sporting equipment	$2,000
Prestons Robins Little Athletics Centre	Purchase of line marking equipment	$2,253
	Total	$23,626

The following allocation of grants under the disability category of the grants program were recommended by the assessment panel:

Club	Project Description	Proposed Grant Amount
PCYC Liverpool - Miller	Electrical and PA System upgrades and purchase of line marking equipment	$3,522
Special Needs Ability Program Providers	Purchase of sporting equipment	$2,852
	Total	$6,374

The details of the one application that was not recommended for funding by the assessment panel is as follows:

Club	Project Description	Requested Grant Amount	Panel Assessment
Moorebank Sports Soccer Club	Purchase of a shipping container for storage	$4,000	Council’s Planning Unit confirms that the placement of shipping containers on sporting fields does not satisfy the aesthetic requirements within the DA approval process. Council has for a number of years stopped approving sporting club requests for shipping containers at sporting fields.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	Funding of $30,000 has been allocated within the 2016/2017 budget to fund the Liverpool Sporting Grants Program. The proposed allocations above would exhaust the total amount of the fund.
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	Support community organisations, groups and volunteers to deliver coordinated services to the community.
Civic Leadership and Governance	There are no civic leadership and governance considerations.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

135

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Chief Financial Officer

CFO 02

Investment Report April 2017

Strategic Direction	Leading Proactive Council Provide business excellence and financial sustainability to deliver services that meet community expectations
Key Policy	Long-Term Financial Plan
File Ref	120163.2017
Report By	Christian Hope - Senior Financial Accountant
Approved By	Vishwa Nadan - Manager Financial Services

Executive Summary

This report details Council’s Investment portfolio.

At 30^thApril 2017, Council held investments with a market value of $172 million.

The portfolio yield to the end of April 2017 is 111 basis points above the AusBond Bank Bill index and 119 basis points above the BBSW benchmark for the same period.

	AusBond Bank Bill Index	BBSW
Benchmark	1.90%	1.82%
Portfolio yield	3.01%	3.01%
Performance above benchmarks	1.11%	1.19%

Return on investment year to date was $1.03 million higher than budget.

Council’s investments and reporting obligations fully comply with the requirements of Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation

RECOMMENDATION

That Council receives and notes this report.

REPORT

Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 requires that the Responsible Accounting Officer must provide Council with a written report setting out details of all money that Council has invested under section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993.

Council’s Portfolio

At 30^thApril 2017, Council held investments with a market value of $172 million. Council’s investment register detailing all its investments is provided as an attachment to this report. In summary, Council’s portfolio consisted of investments in:

As at end of April 2017, the ratio of market value compared to face value of various debt securities is shown in the table below.

Asset Class	April-17	Jun-16
Senior Debts(FRN's & TCD's	100.86%	100.00%
MBS( Reverse Mortgage Backed Securities)	61.28%	65.00%
T- Corp Unit Trust – Strategic Cash Fund	100.65%	98.57%

* A TCD stands for Transferrable Certificate of Deposit; it is a security issued with the same characteristics as a Term Deposit however it can be sold back (transferred) in to the market prior to maturity. A floating TCD pays a coupon linked to a variable benchmark (90 days BBSW).

Council is fully compliant with the requirements of the Ministerial Investment Order including the grand fathering provision in regards to its investment portfolio holdings. The grand fathering provision states that Council continues to hold to maturity, redeem or sell investments that comply with previous Ministerial Investment Orders. Any new investments must comply with the most recent Order. Council continues to closely monitor the investments in its portfolio to ensure continued compliance and minimal exposure to risk.

Portfolio Maturity Profile

The table below shows the percentage of funds invested at different durations to maturity.

Market Value by Issuer and Institution Policy limit as per Investment Policy

Overall Portfolio Credit Framework compliance to Investment Policy

Portfolio Performance against relevant market benchmarks

The AusBond Bank Bill Index (ABBI) and Bank Bill Swap Rates (BBSW) are two key benchmarks used in Australia to measure return on investment on cash and fixed interest securities. The ABBI represents average daily yield of a parcel of bank bills and the BBSW represents daily lending rates between the banks. There is also a notable correlation between changes in the cash rate and impact on both these benchmarks. For reporting and benchmarking purposes, Council is using annualised average ABBI and a 90-day average BBSW.

The portfolio yield to 30 April 2017 exceeded the AusBond Bank Bill index by 111 basis points (3.01% against 1.90%).

The portfolio yield to 30 April 2017 exceeded the Bank Bill Swap Rate by 119 basis points (3.01% against 1.82%).

Council continues to achieve a solid outcome despite ongoing margin contraction and significantly lower deposit yields on offer. Return on investments is expected to slowly decrease as old investments in Council’s portfolio mature and are replaced with investments yielding lower returns.

Comparative yields for the previous months are charted below:

Performance of Portfolio Returns against Budget

Council’s investment income year to date to April 2017 exceeded budget by $1.03 million mainly due to higher actual monthly average portfolio holdings compared to budgeted monthly average portfolio holdings for the year.

Investment Portfolio at a Glance

Portfolio Performance

The portfolio yield to 30 April 2017 exceeded the AusBond Bank Bill index by 111 basis points (3.01% against 1.90%)

The portfolio yield to 30 April 2017 exceeded the Bank Bill Swap Rate by 119basis points (3.01% against 1.82%)

Annual Income vs. Budget

Council’s investment interest income exceeded budget by $1.03 million as at 30 April 2017 mainly due to higher actual monthly average portfolio holdings compared to budgeted monthly average portfolio holdings for the year

Investment Policy Compliance

Legislative Requirements		Fully Compliant.
Portfolio Credit Rating Limit		Fully Compliant.
Institutional Exposure Limits		Fully Compliant.
Term to Maturity Limits		Fully Compliant

Economic Outlook – Reserve Bank of Australia

The Reserve Bank has left the official cash rate on hold at 1.5 per cent in its 2^nd May 2017 meeting. The current 1.5 per cent cash rate is at a historically low level and impacts returns on investment. Returns on Term Deposits and Floating Rate Notes have significantly dropped since the last twelve months. The average market returns on term deposits are:

· Longer term deposits (> 3years maturity) – 3% to 3.5% p.a.

· Medium term (2 to 3 years to maturity) – 2.5% to 3% p.a.

· Short term deposits rate (less than one year to maturity) – ranges from 2.3% to 2.5% per annum.

· Cash & Cash At Call accounts range from 1.5% to 2.15%

· 31 Days’ Notice Account 2.3%

Certificate of Responsible Accounting Officer

The Manager Financial Services, as Responsible Accounting Officer certifies that the investments listed in the attached report have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 and Councils Investment Policies at the time of their placement. The previous investments are covered by the “grandfather” clauses of the current investment guidelines issued by the Minister for Local Government.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	Council’s investment interest income exceeded budget by $1.03 million as at 30 April 2017 mainly due to higher actual monthly average portfolio holdings compared to budgeted monthly average
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	There are no social and cultural considerations.
Civic Leadership and Governance	There are no civic leadership and governance considerations.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Investment Portfolio Details

141

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Chief Financial Officer

CFO 04

Budget Review - March 2017

Strategic Direction	Leading Proactive Council Provide business excellence and financial sustainability to deliver services that meet community expectations
Key Policy	Long-Term Financial Plan
File Ref	133801.2017
Report By	Earl Paradeza - Senior Management Accountant
Approved By	Vishwa Nadan - Manager Financial Services

Executive Summary

In June 2016 Council adopted its 2016/17 operating budget with projected revenue of $246.5m and expenditure of $164.8m. In terms of net operating result before grants and contributions provided for capital purposes, Council budgeted for a surplus of $1.1million.

For the two quarters ended 31 December 2016, Council approved adjustments through resolutions and budget review process, resulting in a revised revenue target of $238.6m and expenditure of $167.9m. This translated to net operating deficit before grants and contributions provided for capital purposes of $0.7m.

The review of Council's budget at 31 March 2017 identified further adjustments and if approved will result in a $1.9m net operating deficit before grants and contributions for capital purposes for 2016/17 (Ref attachment 1 – Note G). The deficit of $1.9m is the accumulation of the Original Budget of $1.0m, Q1 adjustment of -$0.7m, Q2 adjustment of -$0.9m, other budget resolutions -$0.1m and the proposed Q3 adjustment of -$1.2m (Ref attachment 1 – Note C).

Fit For the Future net operating results will also change from a surplus of $61k to $2.9m deficit (Ref attachment 1 – Note H).

The Quarter 3 budget review for 2016/17 has also resulted in a net $22.6m (Ref attachment 1 – Note F) decrease in Council’s capital expenditure program.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council approves the identified budget variations in accordance with this report.

REPORT

Legislative Requirements

Clause 203(1) of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 requires the Responsible Accounting Officer to provide a quarterly budget review not later than two months after each quarter's end. This report provides an overview of the results on the financial review for the quarter ended 31 March 2017.

Commentary

Operating Budget

A comprehensive budget review conducted at third quarter ended 31 March 2017 has resulted in further operating budget adjustments, as detailed in Attachment 2. As part of the Budget Review, managers have conducted a review of their programs with a view to providing a revised forecast for the financial year ended 30 June 2017. Managers take into consideration events that have occurred to date and/or information that has become available since the adoption of the original budget and the impact of which provides the basis for the budget adjustments.

The review has resulted in $7.5m (Ref attachment 1 – Note A) decrease in total revenue mainly in capital contributions due to delays in s94 acquisitions and developer works and an offsetting increase in other revenue. Total expenditure is also projected to increase by $3.2m (Ref attachment 1 – Note B) to $171.1m.

The proposed budget changes will result in a $1.9m deficit net operating result before grants and contributions for capital purposes for the year ending 30 June 2017 (Ref attachment 1 – Note G) and a net operating result before grants & contributions for capital purposes for Fit For the Future at a deficit of $2.9m (Ref attachment 1 – Note H).

Capital Budget

In June 2016, Council approved its $115.8m capital works program for 2016/17. Council subsequently approved carryover of projects valued $9.6m that were planned but not completed in 2015/16. Council also approved $0.4m for acquisition of land through resolutions.

The third quarter budget review for 2016/17 has resulted in $22.6m decrease (Ref attachment 1 – Note F) to Council’s capital expenditure program mainly due to delays in s94 acquisitions and developer works.

At 31March 2017, Councils revised capital expenditure program stands at $92.2m. Note at 31 March 2017 YTD capital expenditure was $46.3m.

The Table 1 below provides summary of the budget results:

Details of the proposed budget changes are provided in the attachments.

Attachments 1 - Quarter 3 Budget Review Summary (QBRS): This report presents a summary of Council's budgeted financial position at end of the quarter. The key indicators include:

1. The revised budgeted income and expenditure for the year against the original estimate of annual income and expenditure as shown in Council’s Operational Plan

2. Changes following Quarter 3 budget review

3. The proposed revised budget for 2016/17 financial year

Attachments 2 – This report provides details of operating budget adjustments

Attachments 3 – This report provides details of capital budget adjustments

Attachment 4 & 5 – Grants Status Report: Has two components, first listing all annual grant submissions and second, listing all grants that have been applied for during the quarter detailing the project title, amount sought, funding body and status of the application. Council officers are continually seeking alternate sources of funding as opportunities arise

Attachment 6 - Cash and Investments Statement: Providing a reconciliation of restricted and unrestricted funds to the level of Cash and Investments held as at 31 March 2017

Attachment 7 - Key Performance Indicators

Attachment 8 - 9 Contracts and Other Expenses Statement.

As the Responsible Accounting Officer, it is the Manager Financial Services opinion that the short term financial position of Council is considered satisfactory.

This Report recommends that Council receives and notes the report and votes the budget variations in accordance with this report.

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	The revised budget net operating result before Grants and Contributions for Capital Purposes following Quarter 3 Budget Review and Council resolutions to March 2017 will be a deficit of $1.9m.
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	There are no social and cultural considerations.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Deliver services that are customer focused. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.

ATTACHMENTS

1. QBRS - Consolidated Financial Results ⇩

2. Operating Budget Adjustments ⇩

3. Capital Budget Adjustments ⇩

4. Grant Status Report - Applications ⇩

5. Grant Status Report - Received ⇩

6. Cash & Investment Report ⇩

7. Key Performance Indicators ⇩

8. Consultancy & Legal Expenses Budget Review Statement ⇩

9. Contracts & Other Expenses Statements

171

Ordinary Meeting 31 May 2017

Property and Commercial Development Report

DPC 01

Closing of a Temporary Public Road between Mullumbimby Avenue and Pacific Palms Circuit at Hoxton Park and Transfer to the Original Subdivider.

Strategic Direction	Accessible Connected City Provide safe and easy travel with a high quality road and traffic management network
Key Policy	Traffic and Transport Plan
File Ref	125896.2017
Report By	Ornella Sordi - Property Officer
Approved By	John F Morgan - Director Property & Commercial Development

Executive Summary

Council has received a request to close and transfer a temporary public road back to the Original Subdivider. The temporary road is identified as Lots 40 & 50 in Deposited Plan 1074539 and is located between Mullumbimby Avenue and Pacific Palms Circuit in Hoxton Park.

Alternate dedicated public road access is now available and therefore the temporary public road is no longer required.

In accordance with Division 2, Sections 39 & 40 of the Roads Act 1993, the temporary public road is closed by notification in the NSW Government Gazette and the land is then transferred to the Original Subdivider.

This Report recommends that Council closes the temporary public road over Lots 40 & 50 in Deposited Plan 1074539 and transfers the title back to the Original Subdivider, being AV Jennings Properties Limited.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Close the temporary public road identified as Lots 40 & 50 in Deposited Plan 1074539, located between Mullumbimby Avenue and Pacific Palms Circuit in Hoxton Park.

2. Transfer Lots 40 & 50 in Deposited Plan 1074539 to the Original Subdivider, being AV Jennings Properties Limited.

3. Authorises its Delegated Officer to execute any documentation, under Power of Attorney, necessary to give effect to this decision.

REPORT

In 2005, the subdivision of land registered as Deposited Plan 1074539 created Lots 40 & 50 as a temporary public road. This temporary public road is located between Mullumbimby Avenue and Pacific Palms Circuit in Hoxton Park.

Council has received a request from AV Jennings Properties Limited (AV Jennings) for the closure of this temporary public road and the transfer of its title back to AV Jennings who is deemed to be the Original Subdivider.

Alternate dedicated public road access is now available and therefore the temporary public road is no longer required.

The Location Map below shows the subject land bounded in red;

Section 39 of the Roads Act 1993 provides that Council may by Notice published in the NSW Government Gazette close a temporary public road if the road does not give access to an isolated road. On publication of the Notice, the temporary public road ceases to be a public road and the rights of passage and access that previously existed are extinguished.

Section 40 of the Roads Act 1993 provides that Council must convey or transfer the land, comprising the former temporary public road, to an Applicant if satisfied that the Applicant is the Original Subdivider or the Original Subdivider’s successor in title.

The Original Subdivider is the person or entity who owned the land comprised in the temporary public road immediately before the land was subdivided to create the temporary public road.

Council has received advice to confirm that AV Jennings Properties Limited is deemed to be the Original Subdivider.

Council’s Land Development Section and Council’s Traffic and Transport Section were consulted and have no objection to the closure of the temporary public road, as alternate dedicated public road access is now available.

AV Jennings will be required to carry out any works to Council’s satisfaction and will be responsible for all costs associated with the closure and transfer of title.

details of original subdivider

Registered Name	AV Jennings Properties Limited ACN 004 601 503
Registered Address	Level 4, 108 Power Street Hawthorn VICTORIA 3122
OFFICE HOLDERS
Directors	Suburb & State
Sandra A Vogiatzakis	Glen Waverley VIC
Stenio C Orlandi	Ryde NSW
Matthew D McCallum	Frankston South VIC
Peter K Summers	Abbotsford VIC
Larry WC Mahaffy	Eaglemont VIC
Company Secretaries	Suburb & State
Sandra A Vogiatzakis	Glen Waverley VIC
Carl D Thompson	South Melbourne VIC

CONSIDERATIONS

Economic and Financial	Deliver a high quality local road system including provision and maintenance of infrastructure and management of traffic issues. There are no financial implications resulting from this Report as the Applicant will be responsible for all costs associated with the closure and transfer.
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	There are no social and cultural considerations.
Civic Leadership and Governance	There are no civic leadership and governance considerations.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Sport	Nominated Delegate
Archery	Alistair Dobson
Baseball	Fiona Heath
Dog Training	Monica Anastasi
Football (Soccer)	Ron Hughes
Hockey	John Scott
Netball	Kath Whitely
Remote Control Car Racing	Adrian Rumiz
Softball	Tony Jackson
Tennis	Daniel DiLucca
Delegate representing all sports with less than 100 participants	Brian Martin

127
CFO 01	Local Government NSW Annual Conference
Attachment 1	Conference information from Local Government NSW

139
CFO 03	Mayoral Directions pursuant to Section 226(d) of the Local Government Act 1993
Attachment 1	Mayoral Direction - RAID funding for legal expenses

Strategic Direction	Leading Proactive Council Position Council as an industry leader, delivering best practice and innovation
Key Policy	Workforce Management Plan
File Ref	127545.2017
Report By	Derek Tweed - Community Development Worker (Youth)
Approved By	Eddie Jackson - Acting Director Community & Culture

Economic and Financial	A budget allocation of $5,000 for the 2017/18 budget and an annual budget thereafter of $5,000 plus CPI increases for Family and Domestic Violence leave is required.
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities. Support policies and plans that prevent crime.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.

125
DCC 06	Family and Domestic Violence Workplace Support Policy
Attachment 1	Draft Family and Domestic Violence Workplace Support Policy

Economic and Financial	Costs in the order of $1,500 per delegate for registration and meals.
Environmental and Sustainability	Raise community awareness and support action in relation to environmental issues.
Social and Cultural	Raise awareness in the community about the available services and facilities.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Act as an environmental leader in the community. Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct. Actively advocate for federal and state government support, funding and services.

Economic and Financial	$50,000 to be released to the Moorebank Residents Against Intermodal Development (RAID).
Environmental and Sustainability	Raise community awareness and support action in relation to environmental issues.
Social and Cultural	Preserve and maintain heritage, both landscape and cultural as urban development takes place.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Act as an environmental leader in the community. Encourage the community to engage in Council initiatives and actions. Provide information about Council’s services, roles and decision making processes. Deliver services that are customer focused. Operate a well-developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.

143
CFO 03	Mayoral Directions pursuant to Section 226(d) of the Local Government Act 1993
Attachment 2	Mayoral Direction - appointment of community membership of the Liverpool Heritage Advisory Committee

153
CFO 04	Budget Review - March 2017
Attachment 3	Capital Budget Adjustments

159
CFO 04	Budget Review - March 2017
Attachment 4	Grant Status Report - Applications

161
CFO 04	Budget Review - March 2017
Attachment 5	Grant Status Report - Received

169
CFO 04	Budget Review - March 2017
Attachment 6	Cash & Investment Report

167
CFO 04	Budget Review - March 2017
Attachment 7	Key Performance Indicators

169
CFO 04	Budget Review - March 2017
Attachment 8	Consultancy & Legal Expenses Budget Review Statement

177
CTTE 01	Minutes of Liverpool Access Committee Meeting held on 9 March 2017
Attachment 1	Liverpool Access Committee Minutes 9 March 2017

Economic and Financial	Costs to be provided in the future Council report on this matter.
Environmental and Sustainability	There are no environmental and sustainability considerations.
Social and Cultural	There are no social and cultural considerations.
Civic Leadership and Governance	Deliver services that are customer focused. Operate a well developed governance system that demonstrates accountability, transparency and ethical conduct.

Strategic Direction	Natural Sustainable City Reduce adverse environment impacts for present and future generations
Key Policy	Integrated Environmental Sustainability Action Plan
File Ref	136393.2017
Author	Nathan Hagarty - Councillor

Strategic Direction	Liveable Safe City Create clean and attractive public places for people to engage and connect
Key Policy	Urban Development Plans
File Ref	137262.2017
Author	Geoff Shelton - Councillor