Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting

Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes

25 June 2019

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Alby Schultz Meeting Centre, Cootamundra
ON Tuesday, 25 June 2019 AT 6:00pm

PRESENT: Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor), Cr Dennis Palmer (Deputy Mayor), Cr Leigh Bowden, Cr David Graham, Cr Gil Kelly, Cr Penny Nicholson, Cr Doug Phillips, Cr Charlie Sheahan, Cr Craig Stewart

IN ATTENDANCE: Phil McMurray (Acting General Manager), Ganesh Ganeshamoorthy (Manager Assets), Susan Gheller (Manager of Business), Mark Ellis (Manager Civil Works), Sharon Langman (Manager Development, Building and Compliance), Andrew Brock (Manager Facilities), Tim Swan (Manager Finance), Glen McAtear (Manager Regulatory Services), Wayne Bennett (Manager Waste, Parks & Recreation Services)

1 Acknowledgement of Country

The Chairperson acknowledged the Wiradjuri people who are the Traditional Custodians of the Land at which the meeting was held and paid his respects to Elders, both past and present, of the Wiradjuri Nation and extended that respect to other Aboriginal people who were present.

ADJOURN MEETING FOR OPEN FORUM

Resolution 174/2019

Moved: Cr Leigh Bowden

Seconded: Cr Dennis Palmer

Council adjourn for Open Forum.

Carried

2 Open Forum

List of Speakers

1. Allan Mitchell – Proprietor Albion Hotel - spoke on the ongoing pigeon problem in the Cootamundra CBD area.

2. Jenna Reid – Proprietor Little Apron Coffee shop – spoke on the ongoing pigeon problem in the Cootamundra CBD area.

RESUME OPEN MEETING

Resolution 175/2019

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Charlie Sheahan

Council resume the Open Meeting.

Carried

3 Apologies

Nil

4 Disclosures of Interest

Nil

5 Confirmation of Minutes

5.1 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 28 May 2019

Resolution 176/2019

Moved: Cr Dennis Palmer

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 28 May 2019 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

6 Mayoral Minutes

6.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagement

Resolution 177/2019

Moved: Cr Leigh Bowden

Seconded: Cr Craig Stewart

The information in the Mayoral Minute be received and noted.

Carried

7 Reports from Committees

7.1 Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Thursday 13 June 2019

Resolution 178/2019

Moved: Cr Charlie Sheahan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

The Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Thursday 13 June 2019 (attached) are submitted for adoption.

Carried

7.2 Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on Friday 5 April 2019

Resolution 179/2019

Moved: Cr Charlie Sheahan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

The Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on Friday 5 April 2019 (attached) are submitted for adoption.

Carried

7.3 Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on Thursday 30 May 2019

Resolution 180/2019

Moved: Cr Charlie Sheahan

Seconded: Cr Craig Stewart

The Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on Thursday 30 May 2019 (attached) are submitted for adoption.

Carried

8 General Manager’s Report

8.1 Business

8.1.1 Gundagai Tourism Action s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 181/2019

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

1. The Minutes of the Gundagai Tourism Action s.355 Committee meetings held on 14 March, 22 May and 12 June 2019, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. Council noted the Committee recommendation regarding the road surface at Annie Pyers Drive.

3. Council set Gaol entry fee at $5 per person, children free. Gaol audio headsets to be an additional $5 each to hire.

Carried

8.1.2 Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee

Resolution 182/2019

Moved: Cr Leigh Bowden

Seconded: Cr Doug Phillips

1. The Minutes of the Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee Ordinary meeting held on 17 April 2019 and 13 June 2019, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. The Muttama Memorial Hall Masterplan and Statement of Heritage Impact for Conservation and Reconstruction Works, attached to the report, be received and noted.

3. Council noted the recommendations for building works to the Muttama Hall and allocations of funding detailed from point 1-7 in the 13 June 2019 Minutes, attached to the report.

4. Anne Last be endorsed as a member of the Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee.

Carried

8.1.3 Stockinbingal Ellwood's Hall s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 183/2019

Moved: Cr Dennis Palmer

Seconded: Cr Doug Phillips

The Minutes of the Stockinbingal Ellwood’s Hall s.355 Committee Ordinary Meeting held on 30 May 2019, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.1.4 Cootamundra Showground Users Group s.355 Committee Annual General Meeting and Membership

Resolution 184/2019

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Charlie Sheahan

1. The Minutes of the Cootamundra Showground Users Group s.355 Committee Annual General Meeting held on 15 May, 2019, attached to the report be received and noted.

2. The Minutes of the Cootamundra Showground Users Group s.355 Committee Meeting held on 15 May, 2019, attached to the report be received and noted.

3. Council note the vacant Office Bearer positions and endorse the Manager Business as the temporary Secretary/Treasurer.

4. Council endorse the new Kennel Club user group nominated member and alternate member of the Showground Users Group s.355 Committee as detailed in the report.

5. Council not support the recommendations included in the report.

Carried

8.1.5 Fees for Mayor and Councillors

Resolution 185/2019

Moved: Cr Charlie Sheahan

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The Councillor annual fee of $12,160 and the Mayoral (Additional) annual fee of $26,530 for the 2019/20 financial year be adopted.

Carried

8.1.6 Draft Code of Meeting Practice

Resolution 186/2019

Moved: Cr Doug Phillips

Seconded: Cr Leigh Bowden

The draft Code of Meeting Practice, attached to the report, be adopted.

Carried

8.1.7 Draft 2019/2020 Operational Plan

Resolution 187/2019

Moved: Cr Doug Phillips

Seconded: Cr Dennis Palmer

1. The draft 2019/20 Operational Plan, inclusive of the Revenue Policy, Fees and Charges, Long Term Financial Plan and budget, be adopted.

2. Council provide funding of $50,000 to The Art Centre Cootamundra in recognition of its ongoing cultural and economic contribution to the community for the 2019/20 financial year.

3. The Arts Centre Cootamundra enter into an Memorandum of Understanding in relation to management process and a business plan.

Carried

8.1.8 Local Government NSW Annual Conference 2019

Motion

Moved: Cr Leigh Bowden

Seconded: Cr Abb McAlister

1. Council determined the attendees for the Local Government NSW Annual Conference to be Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor), Cr Dennis Palmer (Deputy Mayor) Cr Leigh Bowden and Phil McMurray (Acting General Manager).

2. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor be nominated as Council’s voting delegates for the Local Government NSW Annual Conference

8.1.9 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia

Resolution 188/2019

Moved: Cr Charlie Sheahan

Seconded: Cr Dennis Palmer

Cr Sheahan’s report on the annual Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Local Road Congress, 2019 and attachments be received and noted.

Carried

8.1.10 Small Business Friendly Councils Inaugural Conference Report

Resolution 189/2019

Moved: Cr Leigh Bowden

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The attendance Report for the Small Business Friendly Councils Inaugural Conference by Cr Bowden be received and noted.

Carried

8.1.11 Council Meeting Action Report

Resolution 190/2019

Moved: Cr Dennis Palmer

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The updated Council Meeting Action Report, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.1.12 Requests for Sponsorship

Resolution 191/2019

Moved: Cr Doug Phillips

Seconded: Cr David Graham

1. Council donate the amount of $1000 to the Southern Sports Academy for the sponsorship of five young local athletes to participate in sports development programs.

2. Council donate $900 for three local special needs children to attend the annual Special Children’s Christmas Party, 2019 to be held in Albury.

3. Council donate $500 to assist with the Red Cross’s 100 years of service in Cootamundra celebrations.

Carried

8.1.13 Jobs For NSW Regional Pitchfest 2019

Resolution 192/2019

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

Council consider sponsorship and involvement in the Pitchfest 2020 program by becoming a grassroots partner.

Carried

8.1.14 Information Bulletin

Resolution 193/2019

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The information provided in the attachments of the Information Bulletin be noted.

Carried

8.2 Finance

8.2.1 Investment Report - May 2019

Resolution 194/2019

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Craig Stewart

The Investment Report as at 31^st May, 2019, attached to the report be received and noted.

Carried

8.2.2 Monthly Major Projects Program Report

Resolution 195/2019

Moved: Cr Leigh Bowden

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

1. The progress report on project status be received and noted.

2. The recommended changes to the project budgets as listed be adopted.

Carried

8.2.3 Monthly Finance Report for May, 2019

Resolution 196/2019

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Doug Phillips

1. The Monthly Finance Report for May, 2019 under separate cover be received and noted.

2. Dates be determined for meeting with Council to commence finance workshops.

Carried

8.3 Community and Culture

8.3.1 Cootamundra Development Corporation Memorandum of Understanding

Resolution 197/2019

Moved: Cr Dennis Palmer

Seconded: Cr Doug Phillips

Council delegate authority to the Acting General Manager to execute the Cootamundra Development Corporation’s Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

Carried

8.4 Development, Building and Compliance

8.4.1 Development applications approved may 2019

Resolution 198/2019

Moved: Cr Dennis Palmer

Seconded: Cr David Graham

The information on Development Applications Approved in May 2019 be noted.

Carried

8.4.2 Liquid Trade Waste Implementation Cootamundra Township

Resolution 199/2019

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr David Graham

Council implement a two category charge for the discharge of liquids into the Cootamundra Sewer System for all non residential land uses to align with the system currently being charged to non residential land uses that discharge liquids into the Gundagai Sewer System.

Carried

8.5 Regulatory Services

Nil

8.6 Assets

Nil

8.7 Civil Works

8.7.1 Civil Works Report - June 2019

Resolution 200/2019

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The Civil Works Update Report for the month of June, 2019 be received.

Carried

8.8 Technical Services

Nil

8.9 Facilities

8.9.1 Proposed Cootamundra Netball Court Upgrade

Resolution 201/2019

Moved: Cr Dennis Palmer

Seconded: Cr Doug Phillips

Council adopt the proposed layout on the Netball Court Site Plan, attached subject to the following amendments:

1. The court layout be located 1.5m closer to the car park,

2. The court layout be located 1.0m closer to Adam Street,

3. Dual court line marking be used to accommodate both the netball and basketball associations, and,

4. “Universal” goal posts be installed to accommodate both the netball and basketball associations.

Carried

8.10 Waste, Parks and Recreation

8.10.1 Waste Parks & Recreation Section Monthly Activity Report

Resolution 202/2019

Moved: Cr Leigh Bowden

Seconded: Cr Charlie Sheahan

The Waste, Parks & Recreation Services Sections activity report be received and noted.

Carried

8.10.2 Proposed Extended Operating hours Cootamundra Aquatic Centre

Resolution 203/2019

Moved: Cr Craig Stewart

Seconded: Cr Leigh Bowden

1. The Cootamundra Aquatic Centre operating hours review report be received and noted.

2. Council proceed with implementing the additional hours for this 2019 winter season only as presented in the report as a trial basis.

3. The additional estimated $12,250 be funded from Council’s General Fund.

4. Council staff investigate and prepare a report no later than the October, 2019 Ordinary Council for meeting the consideration of Council.

5. A comprehensive independent review of the Cootamundra Aquatic Centre and existing opportunities outlining the most effective and efficient management practices required to operate the facility and to service the projected user demands into the future will be attached to the report mentioned in 4 above.

Carried

9 Motion of which Notice has been Given

9.1 Notice of Motion - Continued Pigeon Control in the Cootamundra Central Buisiness District

Resolution 204/2019

Moved: Cr Craig Stewart

Seconded: Cr Doug Phillips

“That Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council continue to undertake efforts for the purpose of pigeon control in the Cootamundra central business district”.

Carried

9.2 Notice of Motion - Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council continue to support the Arts Centre Cootamundra

Motion

“That Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council continue to support the Arts Centre Cootamundra with the financial contribution of $50,000 for the 2019/2020 financial year and that the contribution be reflected in the budget paper”.

At the request of the author, the Notice of Motion was withdrawn.

9.3 Notice of Motion - Council Investigate the Feasibility of the Installation of Solar Street Lighting on Middleton Drive Walk and Cycle Way

Resolution 205/2019

Moved: Cr Abb McAlister

Seconded: Cr Leigh Bowden

“That Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council investigate the feasibility for the installation of solar street lighting along the walking and cycle way, from north to south Gundagai on Middleton Drive, and through Heydon and Yarri Parks.”

Carried

10 Questions with Notice

Nil

11 Confidential Items

11 Close for Confidential Items of Open Council Meeting

Resolution 206/2019

Moved: Cr Dennis Palmer

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The Open Council meeting close for Confidential Items.

Carried

11.1 Recruitment for Position of General Manager at Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council

RECOMMENDATION

1. Item 11.2 be considered in closed Council at which the press and public are excluded in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993 and related public interest reasons detailed.

2. In accordance with section 11 (2) and (3) of the Local Government Act, 1993, the reports, correspondence and other documentation relating to Item 11.2 be withheld from the press and public.

11.2 Recruitment of the Position of General Manager for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council

Provisions for Confidentiality

Section 10A (2) (c) – The Confidential Report contains information that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.

Public Interest

It is considered that discussions of this matter in open Council would, on balance, be contrary to the public interest as it would prejudice Council's ability to secure the optimum outcome for the community.

11.2 Recruitment of the Position of General Manager for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council

Motion

Moved: Cr Charlie Sheahan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

1. Council review and consider the attached proposals for the recruitment of the position of General Manager at Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

2. Council accept the recruitment proposal, attached, from Local Government New South Wales Management Solutions for the recruitment of the position of General Manager at Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

3. The Mayor advise the selected recruitment agency of its proposal being accepted by Council.

4. The unsuccessful recruitment agencies be thanked for submitting their proposal for the recruitment of the position of General Manager at Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

11.3 Resumption of Open Council Meeting

Resolution 207/2019

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Dennis Palmer

The Open Council meeting resume.

Carried

11.4 Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions

Note: The Chairperson announced the resolutions made in Closed Council.

The Meeting closed at 9:10pm.

The minutes of this meeting were confirmed at the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 30 July 2019.

................................................... ...................................................

CHAIRPERSON GENERAL MANAGER

Extraordinary Council Meeting Minutes

8 July 2019

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Extraordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Alby Schultz Meeting Centre
ON Monday, 8 July 2019 AT 6:00 PM

PRESENT: Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor), Cr Dennis Palmer (Deputy Mayor), Cr David Graham, Cr Gil Kelly, Cr Penny Nicholson and Cr Doug Phillips

IN ATTENDANCE: Phil McMurray (Acting General Manager

1 Acknowledgement of Country

ADJOURN MEETING FOR OPEN FORUM

Recommendation

Council adjourn for Open Forum.

2 Open Forum

There was no Open Forum

RESUME OPEN MEETING

Recommendation

Council resume the Open Meeting.

3 Apology

Resolution 208/2019

Moved: Cr Doug Phillips

Seconded: Cr David Graham

That the apologies received from Cr’s Bowden, Sheahan and Stewart be accepted and leave of absence granted.

Carried

4 Disclosures of Interest

Nil

5 General Manager’s Report

5.1 Finance

5.1.1 2019-20 Rates and Annual Charges

Resolution 209/2019

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Dennis Palmer

The 2019-20 Rates and Annual Charges for the Cootamundra Area (formerly Cootamundra Shire Council) as detailed in the report be adopted.

1. ORDINARY RATES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 of the Local Government Act 1993 Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following rates and charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) A Farmland Category Rate of 0.3189 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Farmland Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 515 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $431.00 per assessment.

b) A Residential Category Rate of 0.3004 cents in the dollar, with a base amount of $182.00 per assessment, for all rateable land within the Residential Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 516 of the Local Government Act 1993, excluding land that is subject to either Residential Sub-Category – Cootamundra Township, Residential Sub-Category - Outskirts or Residential Sub-Category – Village, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016. The base amount of $182.00 for the Residential Category is estimated to realise 34.74% of the total yield of this category.

c) A Residential Sub-Category – Cootamundra Township Rate of 1.2694 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Residential Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 516 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the Cootamundra Township as defined on Map “A”, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $431.00 per assessment.

d) A Residential Sub-Category – Outskirts Rate of 0.3364 cents in the dollar, with a base amount of $182.00 per assessment, for all rateable land within the Residential Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 516 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the Cootamundra Outskirts area as defined on Map “B”, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016. The base amount of $182.00 for the Residential Sub-Category Outskirts is estimated to realise 29.04% of the total yield of this sub-category.

e) A Residential Sub-Category – Village Rate of 0.6275 cents in the dollar, with a base amount of $182.00 per assessment, for all rateable land within the Residential Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 516 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the villages of Stockinbingal or Wallendbeen, as defined on Maps “C” and “D” respectively, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016. The base amount of $182.00 for the Residential Sub-Category – Village is estimated to realise 48.71% of the total yield of this sub-category.

f) A Business Category Rate of 0.3292 cents in the dollar, with a base amount of $234.00 per assessment, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, excluding land that is subject to either Business Sub-Category - Cootamundra Township Non Central Business District, Business Sub-Category - Cootamundra Central Business District, Business Sub-Category – Industrial Aerodrome, Business Sub-Category – Industrial Barnes Street, Business Sub-Category – Industrial East or Business Sub-Category – Industrial South, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016. The base amount of $234.00 for the Business Category is estimated to realise 42.00% of the total yield of this category.

g) A Business Sub-Category – Cootamundra Central Business District Rate of 3.336 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the Cootamundra Central Business District area as defined on Map “E”, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $464.00 per assessment.

h) A Business Sub-Category – Cootamundra Township Non Central Business District Rate of 1.7436 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the Cootamundra Township Non Central Business District area as defined on Map “F”, excluding land that is subject to either Business Sub-Category – Industrial Aerodrome, Business Sub-Category – Industrial Barnes Street, Business Sub-Category – Industrial East or Business Sub-Category – Industrial South, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $464.00 per assessment.

i) A Business Sub-Category – Industrial Aerodrome Rate of 1.6922 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the Industrial Aerodrome area as defined on Map “G”, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $464.00 per assessment.

j) A Business Sub-Category – Industrial Barnes Street Rate of 1.6922 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the Industrial Barnes Street area as defined on Map “H”, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $464.00 per assessment.

k) A Business Sub-Category – Industrial East Rate of 1.6922 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the Industrial East area as defined on Map “I”, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $464.00 per assessment.

l) A Business Sub-Category – Industrial South Rate of 1.6922 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, and that is within the Industrial South area as defined on Map “J”, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $464.00 per assessment.

m) A Mining Rate of 0.310 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Mining Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 517 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $420.00 per assessment.

2. DOMESTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Sections 535, 496 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993 Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following domestic waste management and waste management outskirts charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Domestic Waste Management Charge of $410.00 per annual service for each parcel of rateable land within the Cootamundra Township as defined on Map “A” for which the service is available, excluding vacant and unoccupied land. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular weekly service of one 140 litre bin for domestic rubbish, a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for recyclable domestic rubbish and a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for green domestic waste.

b) Domestic Waste Management Village Charge of $410.00 per annual service for each parcel of rateable land within the villages of Stockinbingal or Wallendbeen, as defined on Maps “C” and “D” respectively, for which the service is available, excluding vacant and unoccupied land. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular weekly service of one 140 litre bin for domestic rubbish, a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for recyclable domestic rubbish and a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for green domestic waste.

c) Waste Management Outskirts Charge of $410.00 per annual service for each assessment of residential land outside of the Cootamundra Township as defined on Map “A”, and the villages of Stockinbingal or Wallendbeen as defined on Maps “C” and “D” respectively, for which the service is available and required. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular weekly service of one 140 litre bin for domestic rubbish, a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for recyclable domestic rubbish and a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for green domestic waste.

d) Domestic Waste Management Unoccupied Cootamundra Charge of $22.00 on each parcel of rateable land within the Residential - Cootamundra Township rating sub-category as defined on Map “A” for which a domestic waste management service is available but the land is vacant and unoccupied.

e) Domestic Waste Management Unoccupied Village Charge of $23.00 on each parcel of rateable land within the Residential - Stockinbingal or Residential – Wallendbeen rating sub-categories, as defined on Maps “C” and “D” respectively, for which a domestic waste management service is available but the land is vacant and unoccupied.

3. NON RESIDENTIAL WASTE MANAGEMENT CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following non-residential waste management charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Non-Residential Waste Management Charge of $7.80 per service for the removal of waste (one 240 litre general waste pickup weekly and one 240 litre recyclable waste pickup fortnightly) from a non-residential premises for which the service is required; payable annually in advance, or by quarterly instalments. Each chargeable “service” is a collection of one 240 litre general waste bin once per week, so multiple services will be charged for multiple bins and/or multiple collections per week.

b) Non-Residential Waste Management Village Charge of $7.80 per service for the removal of waste (one 240 litre general waste pickup per week and one 240 litre recyclable waste pickup per fortnight) from a non-residential premises within the villages of Stockinbingal or Wallendbeen, as defined on Maps “C” and “D” respectively, for which the service is required; payable annually in advance, or by quarterly instalments. Each chargeable “service” is a collection of one 240 litre general waste bin once per week, so multiple services will be charged for multiple bins and/or multiple collections per week.

c) Non-Residential Green Waste Charge of $101.00 per service per annum of the removal of green waste (one 240 litre green waste pickup per fortnight) for a non-residential premises for which the service is required; payable annually in advance or by quarterly instalments.

d) Non-Residential Waste Management Re-establishment Charge of $23.00 per service for the re-establishment of a waste management service for a non-residential premises, requested within three months of discontinuation of the service.

4. STORMWATER MANAGEMENT CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535, 496A and 510A of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following annual stormwater management charges, in respect of occupied rateable land within the urban area of Cootamundra, excepting Council owned or controlled parks, land and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Cootamundra Residential Stormwater Management Charge of $25.00 per annum per residential assessment of occupied rateable land within the township of Cootamundra as defined by Map “A”, excepting Council owned or controlled parks, lands and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, and excluding land that is part of a residential strata allotment.

b) Cootamundra Residential Strata Stormwater Management Charge of $12.50 per annum per residential Strata assessment within the township of Cootamundra as defined by Map “A” excepting Council owned or controlled parks, lands and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993.

c) Cootamundra Business Stormwater Management Charge of $25.00 for each 350 square meters of area of land or part thereof of land categorised as business, subject to a minimum of $25.00 per annum per assessment and a maximum charge of $100.00 per annum per assessment within the township of Cootamundra as defined by Maps “E”, “F”, “G”, “H”, “I”, and “J” excepting Council owned or controlled parks, lands and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993.

5. VACANT WATER ACCESS CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following annual vacant water access charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Vacant Residential Water Access Charge of $371.00 per annum per residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected.

b) Vacant Non Residential Water Access Charge of $439.00 per annum per non residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected, excepting any assessment to which a Vacant Non Residential Community Water Access Charge applies.

c) Vacant Non Residential Community Water Access Charge of $219.00 per annum per non residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Vacant Non Residential Community Water Access charges.

6. WATER ACCESS CHARGES

The annual water access charges as identified below are charged quarterly in arrears.

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following annual water access charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Residential Water Access Charge on residential land to which the water supply is available and connected, excluding land that is part of a residential strata allotment, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the land as follows;

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$371.00
25mm	$579.00
32mm	$949.00
40mm	$1,483.00
50mm	$2,316.00
80mm	$5,930.00
100mm	$9,266.00

b) Residential Strata Water Access Charge of $371.00 per annum per residential Strata assessment for which the water supply is available and connected.

c) Non Residential Water Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which the water supply is available and connected, excepting any parcel of land to which a Non Residential Community Water Access Charge applies and/or excluding land that is part of a strata allotment, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the parcel as follows (excluding fire service meters);

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$439.00
25mm	$685.00
32mm	$1,122.00
40mm	$1,755.00
50mm	$2,740.00
80mm	$7,015.00
100mm	$10,961.00

d) Non-Residential Strata Water Access Charge of $439.00 per annum per non-residential Strata assessment for which the water supply is available and connected.

e) Non Residential Community Water Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which the water supply is available and connected, and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Non Residential Community Water Access charges, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the parcel as follows (excluding fire service meters);

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$219.00
25mm	$343.00
32mm	$560.00
40mm	$877.00
50mm	$1,369.00
80mm	$3,508.00
100mm	$5,481.00

7. VACANT SEWER ACCESS CHARGES

a) Vacant Residential Sewer Access Charge of $227.00 per annum per residential assessment to which sewerage services are available but not connected.

b) Vacant Non Residential Sewer Access Charge of $227.00 per annum per non residential assessment to which sewerage services are available but not connected, excepting any parcel of land to which a Vacant Non Residential Community Sewer Access Charge applies.

c) Vacant Non Residential Community Sewer Access Charge of $113.50 per annum per non-residential assessment to which sewerage services are available but not connected, and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Vacant Non Residential Community Sewer Access charges.

8. SEWER ACCESS CHARGES

The annual sewer access charges as identified below are charged quarterly in arrears.

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following annual sewer access charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Residential Sewer Access Charge of $454.00 per annum per residence to which sewerage services are available and connected.

b) Non Residential Sewer Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which sewerage services are available and connected, excepting any parcel of land to which a Non Residential Community Sewer Access Charge applies, in accordance with the number and size of the water service meters connected to the land as follows (excluding fire service meters);

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$267.00
25mm	$417.00
32mm	$684.00
40mm	$1,068.00
50mm	$1,669.00
80mm	$4,272.00
100mm	$6,675.00

c) Non Residential Community Sewer Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which a sewerage service is available and connected, and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Non Residential Community Sewer Access charges, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the land as follows (excluding fire service meters);

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$133.00
25mm	$210.00
32mm	$342.00
40mm	$535.00
50mm	$833.00
80mm	$2,136.00
100mm	$3,338.00

d) On-Site Sewerage Management Administration Charge of $45.00 per annum per assessment to which on-site sewerage services are available and connected.

e) The minimum total annual charge for combined sewerage access charges and sewer usage charges for a Non Residential property, other than property to which a Non Residential Community Sewer Access or Vacant Non Residential Community Sewer Access Charge applies, shall be $454.00 per annum per assessment.

9. WATER CONSUMPTION CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 502 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following water consumption charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Residential Water Usage Charge on all residential land connected to the water supply based on actual usage of $2.25 per kilolitre (including water supply by fire service meters).

b) Non Residential Water Usage Charge on all non residential land connected to the water supply, excepting any land to which a Non Residential Community Water Usage Charge applies, based on actual usage of $2.47 per kilolitre (including water supply by fire service meters).

c) Non Residential Community Water Usage Charge on all land connected to the water supply, and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Non Residential Community Water Usage charges, based on actual usage of $1.86 per kilolitre (including water supply by fire service meters).

10. SEWER USAGE CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 502 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following sewer usage charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Sewer Usage Charge on all non residential land connected to the sewerage service of $2.58 per kilolitre of the volume of sewerage discharged (including water supply by fire service meters).

The volume of sewerage discharged shall be calculated by multiplying the volume of water measured at the water meter(s) connected to the property, based on actual usage per kilolitre, by the sewerage discharge factors (SDF) for the predominant use of the property as follows:

PROPERTY USE	SDF
Shops, offices or similar	95%
Council maintained Parks & Gardens	30%
Community Use (as defined in Community Based Not For Profit Organisations)	50%
Non Residential Other- including Industrial	85%

The minimum total annual charge for combined sewerage access charges and sewer usage charges for a Non Residential property, other than property to which a Non Residential Community Sewer Access or Vacant Non Residential Community Sewer Access Charge applies, shall be $454.00 per annum per assessment.

11. INTEREST ON OVERDUE RATES AND CHARGES

In accordance with Section 566(1) of the Local Government Act, 1993 Council set the interest rate on overdue rates and charges for the 2019/20 rating year at 7.5% per annum, calculated on a daily basis.

12. COMMUNITY BASED NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS

Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the assessments shown below as being those assessments to which the Non Residential Community Water Access Charges, Non Residential Community Sewer Access Charges, Non Residential Community Water Usage Charges and Non Residential Community Sewer Usage Charges shall apply:

Assessment		Name of Occupier (to whom water is billed)	Use of Land

Religious Organisations
10013423	Salvation Army		Minister's residence
10029320	Salvation Army Prop Trust		Place of worship
10029445	Uniting Church		Religious teaching
10029478	Uniting Church		Place of worship
10039766	Australasia Conference (7th Day Adventists)		Place of worship
10001451	Convent of Mercy		Minister's residence
10001477	Catholic Church Trustees		Place of worship
10001485	Catholic Church Trustees		Minister's residence
10008142	Presbyterian Church		Place of worship
10013340	Jehovahs Witnesses Congregations		Place of worship
10015444	Church of Foursquare Gospel		Place of worship
10015832	Baptist Church of NSW		Place of worship
10017119	Anglican Church of Australia		Minister's residence
10017135	Anglican Church of Australia		Place of worship

Local Sporting and Charitable Community Groups
10030450		Town Tennis Club [owned by Crown (Council)]	Sporting facility
10030468		Rugby League Club and others [owned by Crown (Council)]	Sporting facility
10039865		Elouera Association	Not for profit organisation
10033223		Pre-School Kindergarten	Community facility
10035780		Cootamundra Lions Club [owned by Crown (Council)]	Community group
10039246		Cootamundra Health Care Co-operative (Nursing Home)	Community facility
10008399		Boy Scouts Association	Community group
10008431		Ex-Servicemens and Citizens Club	Community facility
10008845		Australian Red Cross Society House	Public charity
10009660		Showground Users Group [owned by Crown (Council)]	Community facility
10010320		The Cootamundra Country Club	Community facility
10011955		Retirement Village	Community facility
10012060		Elouera Association School	Not for profit organisation
10015725		Girl Guides Association	Community group
10046159		Elouera Association Office	Not for profit organisation
10045698		Strikers Soccer	Sporting facility
10017556		Cootamundra Squash Association	Sporting facility
10010882		CADAS Coota West	Community group
11000080		State Emergency Service	SES Shed

Council Community Assessments
10034288		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Bradman/Memorabilia Cottages
10030443		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Sports Stadium
10030476		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Nicholson Park
10031094		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Bradman Oval
10012656		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Ex-Baby Health Centre (Elouera)
10012896		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Swimming Pool
10017945		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Stratton Park
10032480		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Kantara-Dillon Ave tree-space
10032969		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Jubilee Ave Parklet
10033272		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Southee Circle Park
10042158		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Rural Fire Service
10033751		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Kingston Playground
10036499		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Albert Park
10037232		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Country Club Oval
10046134		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Jubilee Park
10046969		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Clarke Oval
10002533		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Fisher Park
10009918		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Harold Conkey Park (Pinkstone Ave)
10011088		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Heritage Centre
10018612		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Town Hall
10018646		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	War Memorial Library
10018794		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Creative Arts & Cultural Centre
10046084		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Wallendoon Street Toilet Block
10047330		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Cemetery
10030674		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Garden Meters (inc Apex Park)
10002426		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Murray Street Carpark
10016830		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Mitchell Park
10018232		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Harley Estate Park
11000650		Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council	Muttama Creek Walkway

Carried

Resolution 210/2019

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The 2019-20 Rates and Annual Charges for the Gundagai Area (formerly Gundagai Shire Council) as detailed in the report be adopted.

13. ORDINARY RATES

a) A Farmland Category Rate of 0.4227 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the

Farmland Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 515 of the Local Government Act, 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July, 2016, with a minimum amount of $332 per assessment.

b) A Residential Category Rate of 0.6551 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Residential Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 516 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $332 per assessment.

c) A Business Category Rate of 1.1566 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $537 per assessment.

d) A Mining Category Rate of 0.413 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Mining Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 517 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $325 per assessment.

14. SPECIAL RATES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 AND 495 of the Local Government Act 1993 Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following rates and charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) A Town Improvement District (TID) Rate of 0.3582 cents in the dollar, for all rateable land within the Gundagai Town Improvement District as defined by resolution No. 210 of the Council Meeting of 14 April 1998, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2016, with a minimum amount of $224 per assessment.

15. WASTE MANAGEMENT CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Sections 535, 496 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993 Council hereby resolves to make the following domestic waste management and waste management charges for the 2019-20 rating year:

a) Residential Domestic Waste Management Charge of $436.00 per annual service for each parcel of rateable residential land within the Gundagai Scavenging area for which the service is available, excluding vacant and unoccupied land. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular weekly service of one 120 litre bin for domestic rubbish and a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for recyclable domestic rubbish.

b) Non-Residential Waste Management Charge of $436.00 per annual service for each parcel of non-residential rateable land within the Gundagai Scavenging area for which the service is available, excluding vacant and unoccupied land. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular weekly service of one 240 litre bin for domestic waste and a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for recyclable waste. Non-residential rateable land within the central business district area is provided with a bi-weekly collection service and levied a minimum charge of 2 services per week.

c) Organics Charge of $58.00 per annual service for each parcel of rateable residential land within the Gundagai Scavenging area for which the service is available, excluding vacant and unoccupied land. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for green domestic waste.

d) Domestic Waste Management Unoccupied Gundagai Charge of $23 on each parcel of rateable land within the Gundagai Scavenging area for which a domestic waste management service is available but the land is vacant and unoccupied.

e) Rural Waste Charge of $62 on each parcel of rateable land outside the Gundagai Scavenging area. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to dispose of domestic waste and domestic recyclables at one of the 4 transfer stations located at Coolac, Muttama, Nangus & Tumblong villages.

16. STORMWATER MANAGEMENT CHARGE

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535, 496A and 510A of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following annual stormwater management charges, in respect of occupied rateable land within the Town Improvement District area of Gundagai, excepting Council owned or controlled parks, land and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, for the 2019-20 rating year:

a) Stormwater Management Charge of $25.00 per annum per assessment of occupied rateable land within the Town Improvement District area, excluding land that is part of a residential strata allotment.

b) Strata Stormwater Management Charge of $12.50 per annum per residential Strata assessment within the Town Improvement District area.

17 UNCONNECTED WATER ACCESS CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following annual unconnected water access charges for the 2019-20 rating year:

a) Unconnected Residential Water Access Charge of $230.00 per annum per residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected.

b) Unconnected Non Residential Water Access Charge of $230.00 per annum per non-residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected.

18. WATER ACCESS CHARGES

The annual water access charges as identified below are charged quarterly in arrears. In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following annual water access charges for the 2019-20 rating year:

a) Residential Water Access Charge of $230.00 per annum per residential assessment to which the water supply is available and connected.

b) Non Residential Water Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which the water supply is available and connected, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the parcel as follows;

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$230.00
25mm	$360.00
40mm	$922.00
50mm	$1,441.00
63mm	$2,287.00
75mm	$3,239.00
100mm	$5,760.00

19. UNCONNECTED SEWER ACCESS CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following annual unconnected sewer access charges for the 2019-20 rating year:

a) Unconnected Residential Sewer Access Charge of $126.00 per annum per residential assessment to which sewerage services are available but not connected.

b) Unconnected Non Residential Sewer Access Charge of $126.00 per annum per non residential assessment to which sewerage services are available but not connected.

20. SEWER ACCESS CHARGES

The annual sewer access charges as identified below are charged quarterly in arrears. In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following annual sewer access charges for the 2019-20 rating year:

a) Residential Sewer Access Charge of $800.00 per annum per residence to which sewerage services are available and connected.

b) Non Residential Sewer Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which sewerage services are available and connected, in accordance with the number and size of the water service meters connected to the land as follows;

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$210.00
25mm	$328.00
40mm	$839.00
50mm	$1,311.00
63mm	$2,080.00
75mm	$2,947.00
100mm	$5,241.00

The minimum total annual charge for combined sewerage access charges and sewer usage charges for a Non Residential property shall be $800.00 per annum per assessment.

21. WATER CONSUMPTION CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 502 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following water consumption charges for the 2019/20 rating year:

a) Residential Water Usage Charge on all residential land connected to the water supply based on actual usage;

	Usage Charge/kL
0-300kL	$1.70
301-500kL	$2.30
500+kL	$3.95

b) Non Residential Water Usage Charge on all non residential land connected to the water supply, based on actual usage of $2.30 per kilolitre.

22. SEWER USAGE CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 502 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following sewer usage charges for the 2019-20 rating year:

a) Sewer Usage Charge on all non residential land connected to the sewerage service of $3.17 per kilolitre of the volume of sewerage discharged. The volume of sewerage discharged shall be calculated by multiplying the volume of water measured at the water meter(s) connected to the property, based on actual usage per kilolitre, by the sewerage discharge factors (SDF) for the predominant use of the property as follows:

PROPERTY USE	SDF %
Concrete Plant, Park Watering	2
Pool	10
Bowling Green, Clubhouse	20
Caravan Park	60
School, Church	50
Hospital, Motel	85
General business, RLPB, Pharmacy, Medical Centre, Bakery, Restaurant/Hotel/Club, Takeaway food, McDonalds, Service Station, Dentist, Butcher, Hairdresser, Supermarket, Carwash	95
Sewer Well	100

The minimum total annual charge for combined sewerage access charges and sewer usage charges for a Non Residential property shall be $800.00 per annum per assessment.

23. TRADE WASTE CHARGES

The annual trade waste charges as identified below are charged bi-annual in arrears. In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 502 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following trade waste charges for the 2019-20 rating year:

a) Trade Waste Annual Fee on non residential land connected to the sewerage service of $231.00 where liquid trade waste is discharged.

b) Trade Waste Usage Charge on (Category 2) non residential land connected to the sewerage service of $4.00 per kilolitre of the estimated volume of liquid trade waste discharged to the sewerage system with prescribed pre-treatment. The volume of liquid trade waste discharged shall be calculated by multiplying the volume of water measured at the water meter(s) connected to the property, based on actual usage per kilolitre, by the trade waste discharge factors (TWDF) for the predominant use of the property as follows:

PROPERTY USE	TWDF %
Concrete Plant, Park Watering & Sewer Well	1
Pool, Bowling Green, Clubhouse & General Business	10
RLPB, Pharmacy, Medical Centre	20
Caravan Park, School, Church & Bakery	25
Motel, Restaurant, Hotel, Club	30
Takeaway food	50
McDonalds	62
Service Station	70
Dentist	80
Hospital	85
Butcher, Hairdresser, Supermarket, Carwash	90

24. INTEREST ON OVERDUE RATES & CHARGES

In accordance with Section 566(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, Council set the interest rate on overdue rates and charges for the 2019-20 rating year at 7.5% per annum, calculated on a daily basis.

Carried

The Meeting closed at 6:11pm.

The minutes of this meeting were confirmed at the Extraordinary Council Meeting held on 30 July 2019.

................................................... ...................................................

CHAIRPERSON GENERAL MANAGER

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

30 July 2019

8.9 Facilities

8.9.1 Update on the Status of the Dog on the Tuckerbox

DOCUMENT NUMBER

307781

REPORTING OFFICER

Andrew Brock, Manager Facilities

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Phil McMurray, Acting General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A prosperous and resilient economy: we are innovative and 'open for business'

2.3 Tourism opportunities are actively promoted

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

The information contained in the Dog on the Tuckerbox report be noted.

Introduction

Previous discussions relating management of the Dog on the Tuckerbox site included the arrangement for interim lessees to manage the site. Part of this arrangement was the execution of a lease between Council and the approved lessees to formalise the administration the site. The lease will come into effect from 1^st August, 2019 for a twelve (12) month period and will be subject to review at the conclusion of the lease.

Discussion

Prior to the commencement of the above mentioned lease arrangement Parks and Gardens staff will be undertaking some ground maintenance and building repairs to bring the facility to an acceptable standard to hand over to the lessees.

The toilet facilities will be refreshed with new paint work, plumbing and the installation of new fixtures so they are compliant with Australian standards of public toilets.

The souvenir building will have work undertaken in the kitchen area to address compliance issues and receive some general maintenance. The external timber pergola will be removed due to dry rot damage and is not being replaced. The new lessee will be responsible for the repainting of this building and has submitted some designs for a mural and a colour pallet which have been approved by Andrew Brock, Manager of Facilities.

The work being undertaken at the Dog on the Tuckerbox is within Council’s annual budget and no additional funding will be required.

8.10 Waste, Parks and Recreation

8.10.1 Establishment of a Cootamundra Sports Council

DOCUMENT NUMBER

305804

REPORTING OFFICER

Wayne Bennett, Manager Waste, Parks and Recreation Services

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Phil McMurray, Acting General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

1. A vibrant and supportive community: all members of our community are valued

1.1 Our Community is inclusive and connected

1. A vibrant and supportive community: all members of our community are valued

1.2 Public spaces provide for a diversity of activity and strengthen our social connections

3. Sustainable natural and built environments: we connect with the places and spaces around us

3.2 Our built environments support and enhance liveability

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

1. The report relating to the establishment of a Cootamundra-Gundagai Sport and Recreation Council be received and noted.

2. Council approve and support the establishment of a Cootamundra-Gundagai Sport and Recreation Council.

3. The Waste Parks and Recreation Manager develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will set the Terms and Conditions associated with facilitating the Cootamundra-Gundagai Sport and Recreation Council.

4. Council endorse Council’s Manager Waste Parks and Recreation to Chair the Committee for the first 12 month period.

5. That the Cootamundra-Gundagai Sport and Recreation Council be made up of the following

· Manager Waste Parks & Recreation (Chair)

· Councils Recreation Officer

· Councils Public Open Space Parks Supervisor

· 1x Councillor, and

· 1x representative from each and every registered sport and recreation association.

6. The Cootamundra-Gundagai Sport and Recreation Council meets at minimum Quarterly with the Minutes of the meetings reported to Council for information.

7. Council endorse an annual membership fee to be determined at the inaugural meeting of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Sport and Recreation Council.

8. The nominal membership fee be recorded in the Minutes as a recommendation for the consideration of Council.

Introduction

Local Government is the major provider of recreation and sport facilities in NSW. For the most part, Local Councils plan for, and manage their facilities on an individual Council basis. However, there is a growing need for Councils to work more collaboratively together and with other key stakeholders including State Government and Local and State Sporting Organisations to ensure that sporting and Recreational groups and local communities have access to well-planned and located facilities that are fit for purpose, sustainable and meet the needs of users.

Discussion

In addition to identifying the need for sporting, schools and recreation groups and associated resources to address a range of challenges, and a realisation that a “Time for Fundamental Change” has highlighted that Council has created more assets than they can sustain and are now grappling with ageing facilities and inefficient provision. Compounding the asset situation is a concern that it is becoming increasingly difficult to raise the capital required to deliver new infrastructure.

A number of strategic responses to these challenges are recommended:

· Asset Management: Develop policy and guidelines that guide the appropriate provision of sport and recreation facilities and ongoing asset management.

· Planning: Undertake strategic planning that achieves a spread of multi-functional and regional facilities across the region and determines the appropriate provision of local facilities.

· Funding: Provide appropriate funding to enable implementation of planning and strategic asset management.

· Partnerships: Establish strong partnerships between local government and other levels of government (schools), state bodies and other local stakeholders to collectively achieve desired outcomes.

A well-appointed and managed Sports/Recreation Council with agreed outcomes and determined performance targets can assist Council in delivering identified community expectations.

Role of the Sports Council

The objective of a Sports Council and these associated guidelines is to assist Council and provide a platform for improved planning and decision making that will ultimately provide Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council and the community with better places to play sport and encourage people to participate.

The overriding issue for sport and all levels of government is the ability to continue to provide and maintain minor and major sport and recreation facilities to the level required by the community and sporting organisations.

Currently there exists a number of key challenges faced in the region for providing sports infrastructure, including;

· Facilities Are Ageing - and in need of major redevelopment or in some cases replacement to remain fit-for-purpose, affordable and sustainable to operate and maintain.

· Inefficient Provision And Duplication – traditionally Councils and communities have focused on providing facilities within their respective Council areas, which has been a contributing factor to the duplication of facilities and services within regions.

· Increasing Expectations - increasing pressure from sporting bodies and the general community on Councils to provide higher-standard facilities.

· Pressure On Open Space - increasing pressure on open space due to an ever increasing demand for housing supply close to population and activity centres.

· Increasing Budget Pressures - becoming increasingly more competitive and difficult to raise the capital required to deliver new infrastructure.

Given there is limited sources of revenue and many other social, environmental and financial responsibilities it is difficult to balance these competing demands when planning for sports facilities.

What is required is a totally new and holistic approach to the provision, management and resourcing of regional facilities that is strategic, sustainable and supported by all stakeholders. To create infrastructure of the future we need to look beyond individual, local and Council boundaries and find better ways to collaboratively plan, deliver and manage a strategic spread of recreation and sport facilities.

Promote a collaborative approach to the planning, delivery and operation of ‘Local & Regional Level’ sporting facilities

1) THE AIMS

• Provide strategies and processes for Councils to work across planning and ownership boundaries to deliver shared ‘Local & Regional Level’ sport & recreation facilities.

• Four fundamental objectives have been identified that set the foundation for these Guidelines:

1) The need for more collaborative planning;

2) Sharing of information to inform better decision making;

3) Strategically targeted resources, and

4) Design and management practices that ensure sustainable facilities and operations

2) THE PLANNING GUIDELINES

The following eight critical steps have been identified to support the successful delivery of local & regional facilities.

1) Project Readiness Criteria

2) Governance

3) Strategic Intent

4) Understanding and Meeting Needs

5) Partnerships

6) Design

7) Cost and Funding Sources

8) Management

7) Why we need Sport Club / Recreation Guidelines

Across NSW, sport, government, community, education and commercial sector stakeholders are collectively responsible for providing opportunities for residents and visitors to participate in and enjoy recreation and sport.

Participation is vital to the health and well-being of people and the levels of social connectivity and economic benefit of the local communities in which we live, work and visit. Providing the right level of support, user experience and venue amenity is a major influencing factor to whether people participate once, twice or for life. There is diversity in the range of recreation and sport facilities currently provided across the Council area. However, there is increasing pressure on facility owners to ensure that these facilities continue to meet and evolve with user and community expectations, while remaining affordable and sustainable to operate and maintain. In trying to identify the greatest areas of impact that stakeholders can have in supporting greater levels of participation in a mix of quality facilities. The Local Government Recreation Forum, the Local Government Association of NSW and the Office for Recreation and Sport have identified a need for a sustainable network of Local & Regional Level recreation and sports facilities that meet the needs of stakeholders and communities. Local Sport, Recreation and government stakeholders tell us that many are ageing, or no longer meet the standards required or the changing needs of local and regional communities. There is now a gap emerging in meeting provision and quality expectations and it is the industry’s collective responsibility to build on and improve the existing network of Local & Regional Level facilities, plan better for the future and communicate to the industry and stakeholders what we believe contributes to delivering successful and sustainable projects and infrastructure.

In doing this, four fundamental objectives have been identified that set the foundation for these Guidelines:

· the need for more collaborative planning;

· quality research and sharing of information to inform better decision making;

· strategically targeted resources, and

· design and management practices that ensure sustainable facilities and operations.

The proposal to establish a Sports/Recreation Council bring fresh thinking to the planning, provision and delivery of local & regional facilities in a way that sport, recreation, local government and community stakeholders can all benefit. The proposed Sports/Recreation Council will also allow Council to make a positive contribution towards the alignment of stakeholder objectives for a common purpose and vision, and encourage stakeholders to identify priorities that focus on increasing participation, make a contribution to local, regional and economic growth and deliver sustainable assets that are well used by all local community members and our visitors.

8) Key government stakeholder responsibilities

In adopting collaborative approaches to the planning, provision, development and funding of Local & Regional Level recreation and sport facilities, it is important to clarify the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders in the process.

8.1) State Government - the Office for Recreation and Sport (ORS) is the lead agency for the State Government for sport and active recreation. Through ORS, the State Government supports sport and recreation organisations and local government through facility planning and development advice and government funding to deliver sustainable, inclusive, and functional and fit for purpose active recreation and sport facilities that meet the current and future needs of the Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council community.

8.2) Federal Government - the Federal Government plays a critical role in project funding and general support for Regional Level projects and development across NSW. Engagement via Regional Development Australia (RDA) will be central to meeting broader government objectives and aligning projects with wider regional priorities.

8.3) Local Government - as the primary provider of Local & Regional Level sporting facilities, Councils have a leadership role in advocating for a more collaborative and coordinated approach to the planning, funding, development and on-going operation of facilities. This includes, working with key stakeholders to identify and understand the current and future demand for facilities to ensure that communities have access to the widest range of appropriate, sustainable and quality sporting opportunities possible. Councils also have a responsibility for managing facilities post development, including their financial oversight, asset condition, promotion and event / user attraction are also critical functions of Local Government to ensure they deliver sustainability for the largely volunteer driven community.

9) Key non-government stakeholder responsibilities

9.1) Local, State and National Sporting Organisations - Local, State and National Sporting Organisations are responsible for setting individual policy and strategic directions as they relate to their sport. They play a key role in ensuring local and regional needs can align with stakeholder objectives (particularly land owners and facility providers/ facility managers) and in generating local & regional project leadership, advocacy and funding. In the case of larger organisations (where greater capacity exists), sporting organisations can also provide technical support and advice, as well as project management functions. All sports also have a growing obligation to produce accurate participation and project benefit information to support business cases, planning submissions and to clearly articulate the sport and community opportunities available. They also have a pivotal role in facilitating collaboration between local communities, clubs, and associations, other sporting organisations (where shared outcomes can be achieved) and with Local and State Government.

9.2) Local Clubs and Associations - local sporting clubs and associations are responsible for scheduling, programming, identifying needs and managing utilisation of venues. They are well placed to initially identify trends and changes in local and regional needs and in raising issues and awareness of growing facility provision and quality gaps. A structure to enable local clubs, associations and leagues to engage in State Sporting Organisation and Local Government planning processes is essential to achieving successful regional project outcomes. Local capacities do however vary significantly and structured engagement is required.

9.3) Commercial Sector - the commercial sector already plays a key role in contributing towards the managing/sponsoring Regional Level facilities to meet customer, service and sustainability needs. Continued partnership work with Local Government and Sporting Organisations in this area is a key role for commercial groups. The provision of potential funding, sponsorship and initiation of Public Private Partnership arrangements are also key opportunities for both the commercial sector and local communities.

9.4) Industry Bodies - industry bodies such as Sport NSW, Parks and Leisure Australia, Recreation NSW all play a role in guiding the discussion around recreation and sport needs, and particularly regarding stakeholder collaboration and coordination. As part of their advocacy and support role to their related industry/ies and representatives, the promotion and championing of best practice planning is paramount. In ensuring long-term sustainability of Local & Regional Level facilities, industry bodies could play an active role in peer support and may where and when required, review of facility plans and projects to ensure they are meeting not only local and regional objectives, but considering the wider industry trends and benefits as well.

9.5) Schools and Education Sector - schools play a key land owner and provider role and can assist regional scale projects by acting as a key partner in facility planning, providing access to school land and facilities, acting as core user or anchor tenant of a facility or being the lessee and manager of local & regional facilities. In all these instances, strong collaboration and partnerships with local government and sporting clubs will be critical to maximising benefit for all users and stakeholders. Greater flexibility in the design and access to school and/or community facilities will lead to greater realisation of shared costs and benefits.

10) Guiding Principles

The results for Local & Regional Level recreation and sport facilities are achieved through a shared vision, strong collaboration, and quality data and targeted resourcing. To this end, the following four principles have been identified.

10.1) Targeted Investment

10.1.1 Provide collective investment towards priority projects. 3.2 Target stakeholder resources that will grow a sustainable network of Regional Level facilities that promote increased use and benefit to their local and regional communities.

10.2) Professional Approach

10.2.1 Adopt a professional approach to planning, design and management functions that focus on understanding the sport and user context. 4.2 Engage with the sport, commercial and government sectors and ensure customer servicing is a priority. 4.3 Professional management will support more efficient operations and access, responsible venue management, proactive asset management and renewal of Regional Level facilities.

10.3) Working Collaboratively

10.3.1 Government, sport, education, community and commercial sectors will come together to adopt and promote a shared vision for Regional Level recreation and sport infrastructure. 1.2 Partners will commit to aligning planning processes and objectives to effectively provide, deliver and manage existing and future Regional Level facilities.

10.4) Information Sharing

10.4.1 Recognise and respond to the unique and changing environments and communities across individual regions. 2.2 Prioritise the consistent collection and sharing of data that will support the identification of specific local and regional needs. 2.3 Collectively use and interpret information to promote better decision making around the planning, provision, use, design and management of Regional Level facilities.

11) Regional Facility Definition & Local Facility Attributes-

There is no one size fits all definition of a Local Level recreation and sports facility. Project partners and stakeholders however all firmly believe that a defined set of parameters within an overall agreed recreation and sporting facility hierarchy is an essential element to managing expectations and achieving a consistent approach to future Local Level facility development and improvement. To facilitate this, the following definition has been developed based on input from across the sector: “A recreation and sport facility (either single purpose or community sporting hub) of Local & Regional Level significance which because of its location and characteristics attracts users from a large Council area and/or across multiple Council areas and meets the standards required to host major Regional/State level competitions, events and/or training.”

The key attributes that both Local and Regional Level sporting facilities ‘have and provide’ include: Key attributes include:

· Accommodate a range of sport participation activities and outcomes (community, competition, events and high performance).

· Fit for purpose facilities for one or multiple activities.

· Caters for a catchment of one large local Council area or multiple areas.

· Offers flexibility of use.

· Delivers high quality amenity, service and management

12) When to use the guidelines

Who are the guidelines important to?

These Guidelines are intended to support Council, sport and regional stakeholders to appropriately scope, plan, design, and budget and deliver a network of quality and sustainable Level recreation and sports facilities across the Cootamundra Gundagai region. Stakeholders involved in the planning, investment, management and operation of local Level recreation and sport facilities should refer to the Guidelines when initiating new projects or planning the improvement or redevelopment of existing facilities. The recommended approaches and references made and examples used are provided as ‘best advice’, and stakeholders should also consider unique local requirements, planning standards, environments and site specific conditions when using the Guidelines to implement initiatives.

The Guidelines are provided primarily for Council and the proposed Sports Council (as the predominant land owner and manager of Local Level recreation and sports facilities).

A core function of the Guidelines is to educate stakeholders on how to develop quality projects and generate collaborative outcomes regarding Local Level recreation and sport facilities. A number of great examples already exist (Stronger Community Grants) where these guidelines would have been of benefit and as a result now need to build on and learn from, but improving together will be a measure of future success. It will be important for these Guidelines to also be read and implemented in conjunction with existing Local, State and Federal Government legislative requirements, policy, planning and funding guidelines, sporting code requirements and associated standards, as well as end-user preferences to ensure Local Level facilities are maximised for recreation, sport and community use and benefit.

While Clubs and Associations play a critical role in local facility provision, use and management, the Guidelines are provided to support the provision of Local Level facilities that seek to provide a broader role within the regional context. Other key stakeholders and users of the Guidelines will include industry networks, funding bodies, schools, planners, consultants, developers, venue managers and operators and State Government departments.

Under Section 355 and 377 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council is able to delegate some of its functions to a Committee of Council. Council uses this delegation and appoints community people to manage facilities or functions through a Section 355 (S355) Community Committee. Community Committees are formed to encourage active resident participation in Council decision making. The aim of the Committee should be to accurately reflect both the present and future needs of the community/clubs/organisations they represent.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

30 July 2019

8.10.2 Classification of Cootamundra Gundagai Public Open Spaces

DOCUMENT NUMBER

305805

REPORTING OFFICER

Wayne Bennett, Manager Waste, Parks and Recreation Services

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Phil McMurray, Acting General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

1. A vibrant and supportive community: all members of our community are valued

1.2 Public spaces provide for a diversity of activity and strengthen our social connections

3. Sustainable natural and built environments: we connect with the places and spaces around us

3.2 Our built environments support and enhance liveability

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

1. The report on the classification of Council’s Public Open Spaces be received and noted.

2. Council endorse the public open space classifications system, and classify the public open spaces throughout the Cootamundra-Gundagai Region into the following categories:

· Ornamental Open Space (OOS)

· Open Zone Open Space (OZOS)

· Urban Nature Open Spaces (UNOS)

· Sportfield Open Space (SOS)

· Urban Streetscapes Open Space (USOS)

3. Council authorise the Manager Waste, Parks & Recreation & Manager of Facilities to categorise each public open space under Councils control to its relevant category as detailed in this report and be registered into Council’s Asset Management System accordingly.

Introduction

The use of consistent terminology for public open space is incredibly important. Our ever expanding communities require open spaces for sport and recreation at a time when populations and living pressures are increasing. In rural areas of Australia we have always taken the abundance of space for granted. Now, more than ever, careful planning and maintenance of our streetscapes, playing fields and parks is required to ensure communities are active and able to enjoy a quality mix of structured and natural environments. This planning must be undertaken across areas, with all stakeholders sharing a common understanding of both open space function and terminology.

This proposed framework is designed to achieve that consistency and reduce confusion. The challenge now is to not only continue to provide for our existing population, rather to ensure a legacy of public open space for generations to come. The existence of all the magnificent street and park trees, that complement our urban areas today, is evident of how professional open space planning from previous generations has greatly improved liveability today.

Public open spaces (POS) can increase aesthetic appeal, amenity and value of a neighbourhood, suburb or regional area. Aside from providing places to play and be active or relax, public open spaces afford many benefits. Environmental benefits can be gained through protecting local biodiversity and visual landscapes, retaining ecological systems and linkages, and management of urban water. Social benefits can be gained through community interaction and activation of places for formal and informal sport and recreation. Cultural benefits can be gained through recognition and interpretation of Indigenous and historic values. Economic benefits can be gained through the provision of services supporting visitation for sport, recreation and tourism.

It is intended that the classification framework will:

· Encourage planning and management sections and authorities to adopt common terminology and enable comparative assessments of open space provision and function, both locally and regionally.

· Inform high level policy and urban planning practice.

· Inform, review and revision of open space elements in “Liveable Neighbourhoods Guidelines” (LNG).

Within this document, POS refers to urban green spaces: streetscapes, parklands, play areas, playing fields, bushland, greenways, major water courses, and other similar spaces people use for recreation, native habitat protection, sport and social interaction.

Discussion

Public open space (POS) is generally described as land set aside for the purpose of public enjoyment and protection of unique, environmental, social and cultural values for existing and future generations. Allocation of open spaces is most often determined by a Council and/or state government authority through urban development processes.

Under current Council public open space management there are only two levels of hierarchy which includes Sporting Fields and Parks and Gardens.

Descriptive guidelines in Landscape National Guidelines (LNG) include relatively little discussion regarding the need to consider diversity of open space function within neighbourhood planning. In addition, the application of LNG has resulted in an imbalance in favour of smaller open spaces and those of an appropriate size to accommodate organised sport or other various recreation activities.

Current practice in Council within its criteria appears only to relate to activity. When purpose or function is considered, "active" is used to describe areas designed and maintained for structured, organised sport, and "passive" used to describe areas designed and managed for recreation and more informal activity (Parks & Gardens). It is also recognised that current categories of open space area can be nested within one another. For example, Parks & Gardens categorised as district because of size, infrastructure or use and may also act as a local or neighbourhood open space for nearby residents.

Provision of good quality POS involves shared professional understanding of key aspects of open space allocation and design. Planning, development and management of POS involves professionals in urban planning and design, community development, health and fitness, engineering, landscaping and horticulture/arboriculture.

Research commissioned by Parks and Leisure Australia in 2010 identified increasing concerns about the lack of clear and consistent terminology and descriptions that enabled comparable classification and shared understandings of POS. While many of the same terms were commonly used (particularly active or passive, local, neighbourhood, district and regional open space), there was confusion regarding how each was defined and interpreted by professionals in different disciplines. The development of cross industry accepted terminology to describe fundamental form and function of different types of POS is a critical step in reducing confusion.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this framework is to define terminology that can be universally used throughout Council to describe POS. Agreed understanding of what constitutes different types of open space form and function is considered essential to developing well designed and maintained community focused open space networks.

The framework classifies open spaces where community access is encouraged and explicitly managed. While it is acknowledged that substantial recreation activities occur in other areas of publicly accessible space, the framework is not intended to apply to areas where the primary purpose or function is identified as:

· Preservation and restoration of natural features and values such as Bush Forever estate, conservation reserve, nature reserve, state forest or similar.

· Residual land or land set aside as urban deferred or for road reserve or similar purpose.

Further, it is not intended that the descriptions contained in this framework be interpreted as a set of prescriptive standards for POS design or for the provision of infrastructure such as car parking or community buildings. Specific guidelines for design and infrastructure provision will depend on local needs and are most appropriately articulated by the relevant Local Government Authority (LGA) within their own suite of policies.

This proposed open space classification framework is developed through extensive experience from working in local government, open space management and is recognised within the professional industry groups.

Application of the framework

This framework contains five levels of hierarchy:

Hierarchy /Classification

Ornamental Open Spaces

1. Open Zone Open Spaces (OZOS)

2. Sportfield Open Spaces (SOS)

3. Urban Nature Open Spaces (UNOS)

4. Ornamental Open Spaces (OOS)

5. Urban Streetscapes Open Spaces (USOS)

Public Open Space Functions (primary use activities)

Open Zones Open Spaces (OZOS)

Open Zone spaces provide a setting for informal play and physical activity, relaxation and social interaction.

Recreation Spaces:

· Open Zone Spaces enhance physical and mental health through activity that provides relaxation, amusement or stimulation.

· Open Zone Spaces can be accessed by all to play, socialise, exercise, celebrate or participate in other activities that provide personal satisfaction or intrinsic reward.

· Open Zone Spaces include, open parklands, corridor links, amenity spaces, community use facilities, civic commons or squares.

· Open Zone Spaces around sport play spaces for spectators (commonly known as outfields) who attend with the express purpose of watching the game.

Sportfield Open Spaces (playing area only) (SOS)

Sport Spaces provide a setting for formal structured sporting activities.

Sportfield Spaces:

· Sport spaces provide a venue for formal structured sporting activities such as team competitions, physical skill development and training.

· Sport spaces are designed to accommodate playing surface, buffer zones and infrastructure requirements of specific or general sporting activity.

· Players and spectators attend with the express purpose of engaging in organised sporting activity, training or competition.

· Most sport spaces can also be accessed by community members for informal sport and recreation.

Urban Nature Zone Open Spaces (UNZOS)

Urban nature spaces provide a setting where people can enjoy nearby nature and protect local biodiversity and natural area values

Urban Nature Zone Open Spaces:

· Nature spaces provide opportunity for low impact recreational activities, such as walking, cycling, picnicking, playing, watching or exploring natural features.

· Nature spaces may include bushland, creeks, wetlands and riparian habitats, and geological and natural features.

· Sites are managed to enable recreational access while protecting local ecological and biodiversity values.

Ornamental Open Space (OOS)

Ornamental Open Spaces provide a setting for informal play and physical activity, relaxation and social interaction and sculptural art and horticultural/arboriculture garden displays.

Ornamental Open Spaces:

· Ornamental Open Spaces enhance physical and mental health through activity that provides relaxation, amusement or stimulation.

· Ornamental Open Spaces can be accessed by all to play, socialise, exercise, celebrate or participate in other activities that provide personal satisfaction or intrinsic reward.

· Ornamental Open Spaces include ornamental gardens and open parklands, community gardens, corridor links, amenity spaces, community use facilities, civic commons or squares.

· Ornamental Open Spaces can be used for education.

Urban Streetscape Open Spaces (USOS)

Urban Streetscape Open Spaces provide a setting for relaxation and social interaction and sculptural art and horticultural/arboriculture garden and tree displays. They provide as place to gather with friends and reinforce a quality of life and displays a town’s success. They help stimulate a vibrant community and support businesses and tourism opportunities. They give a town an opportunity to displays its uniqueness and strength of character.

Public Open Space Hierarchy Descriptive

Open Zone Open Space (OZOS)

Is usually small to medium parklands that service the recreation needs of the immediate residential population. OZOS is primarily used for recreation and may include small areas of nature space. OZOS is unlikely to be used for any formal or informal sport or ornamental purpose.

Access: Within 400 metres or 10 minute walk

OZOS Location and design should:

· Be usually located within a 5 minute walk from surrounding residences Include accessible, safe pedestrian and cycling connections

· Form part of an overall pedestrian and cycling network to connect key destination points

· Support good passive surveillance

· Can be responsive to natural site features Build on sense of place

· Assist to preserve local biodiversity and natural area values.

· Surround sport play areas.

OZOS activities may include:

· Children's play, dog walking, picnics, friends and family gatherings Relaxation and rest spots

· Casual team activities

· Walking, running or cycling.

· Green corridors within urban built areas.

Open Zone Open Spaces can provide numerous community benefits, particularly within an inner urban context. The inclusion of small parks (less than 0.4ha) in Greenfield residential developments is not generally considered optimal unless purposeful function can be demonstrated.

They serves as the recreational and social focus of a community. Residents are attracted by the variety of features and facilities and opportunities to socialise. They may be used for junior sport or sports training if appropriate space is available.

Sportfield Open Space (SOS)

Sport Open Space (SOS) is principally designed to provide for organised formal sport. SOS will very likely include substantial recreation space. SOS can serve several neighbourhoods/villages & schools with players and visitors travelling from surrounding districts.

Is restricted to the play zone only, and doesn’t include what is commonly known as the out fields.

SOS is primarily used for active recreation and may include small play areas of open grass land. SOS is primarily used for organised sports by organised clubs and schools.

Most are located within the 50km areas of town but may/could be located on the outskirts of town.

SOS Location and design

This should be:

· Associated with schools to create a community hub be large enough to enable different activities and uses to occur simultaneously.

· Usually located within an easy walk from surrounding residences Include accessible, safe pedestrian and cycling connections.

· Form part of an overall pedestrian and cycling network to connect key destination points.

· Support good passive & active surveillance.

· Responsive to health improvement and child physical development.

· Play a major role in the improving the liveability of an area and business and tourism growth.

· Be located central to the catchment to maximise accessibility.

· Accommodate the recommended dimensions and supporting amenity for formal sport and recreation

· Located on district distributor roads with good passive surveillance.

· Serviced by public transport networks where practicable.

· Include accessible and safe pedestrian and cycling connectors.

SOS activities

SOS include associated sport facilities, depending on ability to accommodate desirable field dimensions and necessary supporting amenity.

· Children's play, dog walking, friends and family gatherings.

· Casual/organised team activities

· Walking, running or cycling.

· Allowing for a very diverse arrangement of sporting and recreational activities.

Sport Open Spaces can provide numerous community benefits, particularly within an inner urban context. They serves as the recreational and sporting focus of a community. Residents are attracted by the variety of activities and facilities and opportunities to socialise. They may be used for junior/senior sport or sports training.

Urban Nature Open Zone (UNOS)

Usually located along creek/waterways, undisturbed natural areas within an urban area or regenerated areas of open spaces set aside for environmental sustainability and reintroduction of local indigenous plant and animal’s species. They can also be set aside or located in areas where they can be used for educational purposes. E.g. schools.

They can assist to engender sense of place and protect specific conservation values through assisting in the retention of nature spaces.

UNOS Location and design may also (Urban Context)

· Be close to surrounding neighbourhoods or within the 50 Km Urban Zone

· Include accessible, safe pedestrian and cycling connections

· Form part of an overall pedestrian and cycling network to connect key destination points Support good passive surveillance

· Be responsive to natural site features build on sense of place

· Assist to preserve local biodiversity and natural area values.

· Natural spaces within the Urban Areas that are not usually maintained.

UNOS activities may include:

UNOS location and design should may include a combination of open parkland and bushland with activity spaces for casual play. The main purpose is to retain or regenerate local native areas for the purpose of protecting a natural environment, educational purposes and or for the protection of wildlife and plant species.

Ornamental Open Space (OOS)

Ornamental Open Space (OOS) may accommodate important recreation and community spaces as well as significant Conservation, Horticultural, Arboriculture and/or Environmental features. OOS may provide substantial facilities for organised family and community activities, play, social interaction, relaxation and enjoyment of nature and gardens, plants and trees.

SOS can assist to protect biodiversity conservation and environmental values through retention of bushland, wetlands and other natural features in association with ornamental amenity.

Access is usually within approximately 2 km, or 5 minute drive, from the main CBD area. Usually located in high profile areas of town and villages.

OOS location and design should:

A public Ornamental Park is a public open space area set aside to maintain a collection of plants for the purposes of public education and enjoyment. They can also be developed for research, conservation, and higher learning. High quality ornamental Public gardens are best staffed by professionals trained in their given areas of expertise and maintain active plant records systems.

These ornamental parks may also include: Botanical gardens, arboretum, ornamental gardens, sculpture gardens, natural areas.

The following public garden definitions are utilized by some of these entities.

Botanical Garden

"A place where a wide variety of plants are cultivated for scientific, educational and ornamental purposes, often including a library, a herbarium and greenhouses; an arboretum

"A garden may contain greenhouses for the culture, study, and exhibition of special plants —also called botanic garden."

Arboretum

"A place where trees and plants are grown in order to be studied or seen by the public."

DOS activities may:

· Consist of sufficient space to accommodate a variety of uses, including children's play, picnicking, social gatherings and individual activities.

· Include a combination of bushland, open parkland for casual play and space for large scale horticultural and arboriculture activities and displays. Accommodate multiple user groups, clubs and relevant associations.

Urban Streetscape Open Space (USOS)

Originally Urban Streetscapes were developed on the basis of human needs – e.g. creating areas for business, movement, activity, play, rest and places to meet. We build streetscapes that enhance integration and create memorable experiences and improved liveability.

Streetscape also refers to urban roadway design and conditions as they impact street users and nearby residents. Streetscaping recognises that streets are places where people engage in various activities, including but not limited to motor vehicle travel.

Streetscapes in most part included:

· Landscaping within the streetscapes and surrounds

· Paving & Concreting

· walls and retaining walls

· lighting throughout

· Building entrances, balustrades, street furniture etc.

· sculpted works

· gardens & trees

USOS Location and design may also

· Areas around the main CBD areas of a town and village

· Be close to surrounding neighbourhoods or within the 50 Klm Urban Zone

· Include accessible, safe pedestrian and cycling connections form part of an overall pedestrian and cycling network to connect key destination points Support good passive surveillance

· Be responsive to local architecture and creating a sense of place

· Assist to preserve local biodiversity and natural area values.

· Natural spaces within the Urban Areas that are not usually maintained.

Urban design can significantly influence:

• the economic success and socio-economic composition of a locality – whether it encourages local businesses and entrepreneurship; whether it attracts people to live there; whether the costs of housing and travel are affordable; and whether access to job opportunities, facilities and services are equitable;

• the physical scale, space and ambience of a place. As such, it affects the balance between natural ecosystems and built environments, and their sustainability;

• the social and cultural nature of a locality: how people interact with each other, how they move around, and how they use a place.

USOS objectives and activities may include that:

• It feels comfortable to walk through, sit, stand, play, talk, read, or just relax and contemplate.

• It is not too exposed to unpleasant noise, wind, heat, rain, traffic or pollution.

• You can freely use the place, or at least part of it, without having to pay.

• You can be yourself and feel included as part of the community.

• It caters for people with various physical capabilities, the old and the young Vibrant, with people around .

• You can see that there are other people around.

• People are enjoying themselves and each other’s company.

• There are places to meet and interact, play, explore, recreate and unwind.

• It is a place you want to visit, experience, or live in Safe Feels safe.

• It feels safe and secure, even at night or on your own.

• There aren’t signs of decay such as graffiti, rubbish, weeds or derelict buildings and places.

• Roads and paths are safe for adults and children to walk or ride their bikes i.e. Walkable and Enjoyable - easy to walk and bicycle around.

• It prioritises people walking or riding before vehicles.

• It is easy to get around on foot, bike, wheelchair, pushing a pram or wheeling luggage.

• Buildings and streets feel like they’re the right size and type for that place.

• It encourages physical activity and social interaction, and promotes a healthy lifestyle.

Budget Structure.

This new Public Open Space Hierarchy also allows for a more detailed and priority focus on where operational costs can be best focused. The categorisation of community open space allows argument for funding to be based on community and business needs.

The Urban budget protocol is intended for anybody who has an interest in our built environment. Broadly, there are two audiences for this Protocol:

Community and whose actions and interests affect the way Council needs to manage and maintain urban environment, including:

· Elected representatives and officers in Council,

· Businesses, consultants and tourism whose work has an impact on urban design requirements, including planning, development, architecture, landscape architecture, engineering, and finance.

These audience should make particular reference to the model processes for creating high quality urban environments, and the outcomes that these processes are seeking to achieve within a limited funding capability.

The general public (individuals and community groups) who have an interest in urban management and maintenance and or may be affected by decisions about the built environment delivers. This audience should make specific reference to the outcomes that is, the aims and principles described in this document and the finances required to achieve them.

the following financial breakdown is proposed as follows and will be addressed in more detail in a later report to Council. It also includes the other main areas of open space management activities, being urban street trees, public amenities & Irrigation.

Example Only

Parks & Gardens Division Budget (Cootamundra, Gundagai & Villages) 2020/2021 Budget Proposal Park Classification
Expenditure
Ornamental Open Spaces	Previous Budget	Proposed Budget	Job Number
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation
Sportfield Open Space
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation
Open Zones Open Space
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation
Urban Nature Open Space
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation
Streetscape Open Space
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation
Urban Street Trees
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation
Rural Street Trees
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation
Public Amenities
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation
Open Spaces Irrigation Maintenance
Wages/Salaries
Plant & Equipment
Materials
Administration/On Costs
Rates & Charges
Utilities
Depreciation

This budget classification will allow both staff and Council to allocate budget on adopted and supported mythologies, principals and reliable data. It will also allow budgets to be carefully managed and monitored with full accountability.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

30 July 2019

Name of policy

Policy Approval and Distribution

1. Approved by	2. Council resolution or General Manager for internal organisational policies.
3. Responsible Officer	4. Manager Waste Parks & Recreation
5. Council Service Unit	6. Parks & Gardens
7. Next Review Date	8. 18 May 2019

Version Control

9. Ref	10. Date
11. 1.0	12. 18 May 2019
13.	14.
15.	16.

Purpose

To preserve and enhance the Region’s attractive streetscapes and ecological sensitive systems whilst at the same time recognising the responsibility to minimise risk to the public, property, native vegetation and habitat.

To ensure that all actions relating to related street tress and vegetated areas as outlined in this policy, are professionally assessed and determined in association with Section Manager/s, delegated staff will be suitably qualified in the areas of the Plant and or Environmental Sciences. All assessments will be carried as determined and in accordance with the relevant Policies and or Regulations/Act.

To provide clear guidelines on the correct removal and pruning of trees located in/on streets, roads and open space/road reserves that are in the care and control of Council.

Scope

1. Section 124 of the Local Government Act 1993, Sections 88 and 107 of the Roads Act 1993, the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the Native Vegetation Act 2003, the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 No.63 and Section 45 and 48 of the Electricity Supply Act 1995 are relevant to this policy.

2. The General Manager, Manager Facilities and or Manager Waste Parks & Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s have the authority to determine applications and other matters under this policy;

3. All measures should be taken to retain trees in public places within the towns and villages. Council recognises that this may require a higher level of maintenance or replacement of infrastructure but it is considered that the conservation of trees should take precedence. Measures that may be adopted to ensure the retention of trees include the replacement of footpaths and road pavement on a more frequent basis where the tree is causing root damage or redesign of the project around existing trees.

4. Trees within the CBD’s may only be removed or pruned for one or more of the following purposes where all alternate methods have been examined that would allow the retention of the tree:

· The tree is dangerous (as determined by a risk assessment including consideration of the ‘clear zone’ as defined by RTA guidelines);

· An emergency situation as declared by state of emergency under section 33 of the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act.;

· Minor pruning shaping for street sweeper, garbage truck

· As part of bushfire control or prevention in native vegetation areas both rural and urban areas;

· The tree is limiting the field of vision of a motor vehicle, is obstructing traffic or is causing a traffic hazard;

· For the purposes of constructing or maintaining roads, drains, buildings or any other asset that is owned and or maintained by Council as there are no considered appropriate alternatives;

· Where Essential energy consider the tree to be a risk to power supply infrastructure;

· For the purposes of preventing damage to any roads, drains, buildings or any other asset that is owned and or maintained by Council;

· The removal or pruning of the tree is identified in an approved management strategy, environmental approval or decision of Council relating to the subject land.

· Where the tree may be required to be removed to enable construction of a fence on a private property boundary providing that disturbance is kept to a minimum and an appropriate assessment by qualified Council Staff is undertaken. (Note that if a tree is located on the fence line it shall be taken to be within private land and not be subjected to this policy when clearing for fences).

The investigation of the alternate measures will need to be demonstrated as part of assessment of the tree removal application and approved by the Manager Waste Parks & Recreation, Manager Facilities and or relevant Section Manager/s.

5. Trees shall not be removed or pruned solely for the purpose of obtaining or retaining scenic views from residential, commercial or industrial properties. Nor shall trees be removed solely for routine road maintenance works or for the purpose of gaining access to a site.

6. Trees shall not be removed or pruned on Council owned or controlled land (including street trees) without permission under this policy and approval of the Manager Waste Parks & Recreation and or Manager Facilities in association with the relevant Section Manager/s.

Trees located in any heritage & or nature conservation zones within the LGA are to be managed in accordance with the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

For those trees located on public land not requiring a DA, Council is bound to undertake an assessment under Part V of the EP&A Act 1979 which requires the preparation of a Review of Environmental Factors (REF). The REF will be completed in conjunction with the tree assessment for all tree removals.

7. Applications for removal or pruning of trees by other Government Authorities, the general public, businesses or ratepayers shall be made via the application form and works request attached either by lodging a works request or including with a letter/notice to Council. Any approvals will be subject to conditions as indicated on the form and as determined by the General Manager, Manager Facilities or Manager Waste Parks & Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s. Tree removal for emergency purposes in streets and parks will not require a formal tree removal application. However, verbal permission from the Council (delegated staff member) or SES is required.

Essential energy is exempt from the application process only when there is a need to manage a tree/s which is considered as emergencies works and outside what is normal routine maintenance works.

8. When working/clearing of larger areas of native vegetation is required for the purposes of infrastructure construction, Council may require approval under the Biodiversity Conservation Act, 2016. In these instances, Council needs to consult with the branch of the local Land Services.

9. Vegetation removed should be replaced in a suitable location with appropriate numbers and species of vegetation as determined by Council’s qualified staff (delegated staff member).

10. New and existing trees planted or maintained as of the adoption date of this policy on roadways, footpaths etc. are to have a clear zone around the tree base of no less than 1.5M from the Centre of the tree base. No sealing or hard surfaces are to join a tree truck.

11. Significant tree/s as determined by the Manager Facilities, and or Manager Waste Parks and Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager that are causing structural damage to property/infrastructure as a result of root invasion are not to be touched until inspected by the Manager Facilities or Manager Waste, Parks & Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s. The Manager Facilities or Manager Waste Parks & Recreation is to inspect and prepare a report on what measures can be undertaken to minimise the need to remove the tree/s. If there is no remedial action that can save the tree the Manager Facilities or Manager Waste Parks and Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s is to authorise the trees removal in accordance with this policy.

12. If immature tree/s are to be removed they should be conserved if appropriate and practical and offered to the community for use if they are not to be transplanted by Council

13. An assessment shall be completed by appropriately qualified persons (Arborist/Horticulturist) for all proposed tree removals or major pruning according to the procedures in Tree Rating Procedure for Trees on Council Owned or Controlled Land (TRP).

14. The following notifications shall apply to all tree removal or major pruning in:

a) Urban Areas:

· Affected owners shall be notified in writing at least 7 days prior to work commencing (where practicable)

· Where the works are classed as Moderate impact removal, the General Manager or Manager Waste Parks & Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s will circulate a memo within 2 days of notice to all Councillors outlining details on the proposed works, providing a minimum of 7 days for feedback/comment. A Councilor may request to the General Manager for a hold on the works and seek submission of a report to Council.

· If the tree/s is located in a heritage and or conservation zone compliance with the Biodiversity Conservation Act, 2016 must be observed.

· Routine Street tree pruning or removal works by Essential Energy or Integral Energy shall be advertised in the local media by the relevant electricity supplier. Council is to be informed at least 2 weeks prior to the works commencing.

· In accordance with Sections 45 & 48 of the Electricity Supply Act 1995.

b) Rural Areas

· Notifications where managed by the Parks and Gardens Section in association with the relevant Section Manager/s of Council will be undertaken when the works are classed as having a Moderate impact removal or High impact removal unless the removal is required for road construction purposes in which case the the relevant Section Manager/s where considered appropriate will circulate a memo to all Councillors & adjoining landowners outlining details on the proposed works, providing a minimum of 7 days for comment. A Councilor may request to the General Manager for a hold on the works and seek submission of a report to Council.

· Street tree pruning or removal by Essential Energy or Integral Energy must seek Council approval prior to any works commencing and shall be advertised in the local media by the relevant electricity supplier. Council is to be informed by the service provider at least 4 weeks prior to works commencing and provided with a copy of the programmed work schedule and utilities environmental impact assessment for consideration as a joint determining authority.

15. The General Manager, Manager Facilities or Waste Parks & Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s will prepare a report for Urban High impact removals for submission to Council for consideration.

16. The General Manager, Manager Facilities, or Waste Parks & Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s shall take into account any comments deciding whether or not to proceed with the work. If an agreement between all interested parties cannot be reached, the matter will be reported to Council for determination.

17. In rural areas where trees do not pose any possible threat to dwellings and it is ascertained that a tree is dead, has a precarious lean or is burnt out, it may be removed only if there is a real possibility of it causing damage to persons or property (this does not include rural fencing).

18. Any Council controlled tree that is considered may have cultural value/significance e.g. Scare Trees etc. must be inspected by a qualified Arborist/Archeologist prior to removal.

19. Council does not undertake routine inspections of trees in rural areas for the purpose of identifying trees that may require removal. If a resident has concerns about a specific tree, on land under Council control, are to provide Council with specific location details (road name, distance from nearest cross road, side of road, species, etc.). Council staff will then undertake an assessment and if removal is required will program removal when time and resources permit. Council will not be held accountable for compensation and or repairs for rural trees located along road reserves that fall and or drop limbs onto adjoining landowners fencing for whatever reason.

20. Notification and assessment requirements will not apply to: -

· Minor Pruning;

· Emergency works;

· Works authorised by the Fire Control Officer in accordance with the Bush Fires Act 1949, dependent on scale and location;

· Pruning and regrowth removal in regularly maintained gardens or regularly cleared easements and road reserves

· A tree that must urgently be removed or pruned that is obstructing traffic, is causing a traffic hazard or is creating a dangerous situation where persons or property are likely to be damaged or at risk.

21. During tree removal or pruning, WH & S requirements shall be observed and reasonable care taken to avoid any damage to persons, property or any adjacent infrastructure e.g. water mains, sewerage lines, power lines Telstra cables gas services etc.

22. Only those trees which are under Essential Energy or Integral Energy power lines, which constitute a traffic / pedestrian hazard, or for the health of the tree require pruning, are to be pruned. A list of proposed trees and/or streets to be pruned by external parties is to be provided to Council at least 2 weeks prior to pruning. The Contractor performing the pruning shall comply with this policy.

23. To minimise Council risk of litigation, the requirements of AS 4373 – 2007” Pruning of Amenity Trees” shall be observed for all pruning activities. Trees shall only be pruned and or supervised by persons (Arborist/Horticulturist) with recognised skills and qualifications that ensure they are capable of complying with this standard.

24. The costs associated with removal or pruning shall be determined as follows:

· If a tree is dangerous or dead or leaning badly it is to be removed at Council cost;

· If a tree is causing asset damage it is to be removed at Council cost (exempt rural fence lines);

· If a tree is on an approved street program in future years but a resident wishes to have the tree removed earlier, then the resident pays 50% of the cost associated with advancing it on the program;

· If a property owner requests the removal of an apparently healthy tree which, in the opinion of the property owner, represents a threat to a dwelling, and where Council concurs with the removal of the tree, the removal of the tree may be if considered appropriate by Council be at the expense of the property owner, unless Council, upon the advice of the General, Manager Facilities, or Manager Waste Parks & Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s determines otherwise.

· All tree management works undertaken by an Energy authority e.g. Essential energy is to be at the full cost of that energy authority. No tree/s are to be removed without first notifying Council and Council approval.

· That Council and the relevant power authority enter into an agreement whereby a 10 year strategic plan is prepared and approved by both parties with the objective to remove all trees located under power lines that are no longer considered appropriate, with the aim that after 10 years there will be no need to prune or a best minimal pruning required of trees located under power lines. That the Strategic Plan include the identification, pruning/removal and planting of new appropriate species with the costs shared between the two parties. The costs are also to include a 3 year new tree establishment period.

25. This Policy does not include trees located on private lands or any other lands not under the trusteeship or maintained by Council.

26. The Policy applies to all Council activities, all Council’s staff & contractors and consultants, the general public and ratepayers.

27. This policy excludes weeds declared as Priority Weed under the Noxious Weeds under the Biosecurity Act 2016.

28. Should the requester disagree with the tree assessment by the Council nominated qualified person, the requester may obtain a secondary opinion from a qualified arborist (at the requester’s expense). This assessment will be reviewed and considered before a final decision is made. The General Manager, Manager Facilities, or Manager Waste Parks & Recreation in association with the relevant Section Manager/s reserves the right to make the final decision.

29. Council may direct property owners, who have planted trees within the road reserve or Council property, and where these trees represent an obstruction or risk as defined in this policy, to remove or prune the tree at their cost. If said works are not completed within one month of notification, Council will remove or prune the tree and recover costs from the owner. This includes overhanging branches that obstruct/obscure footpaths, signs etc.

30. Trees that are removed or poisoned on Council controlled lands (including street trees) may incur a fine from Council. Under the Local Government Act 1993 (Section 629) it is an offence to remove Plant / Animal / Rock / or Soil from a public place without lawful excuse. This offence attracts a m minimum fine of $220.00

31. Private trees that have roots that have invaded Council’s underground services may be held responsible for the full cost, associated with the servicing/repairing of said services where Council considers appropriate e.g. water and sewerage mains.

TREE RATING PROCEDURE FOR TREES ON COUNCIL OWNED OR CONTROLLED LAND

INSPECTION REQUESTS

“Requests for Service” (inspections) will be processed as follows:

1. All requests originating from the public or internal sources will be received and processed by the Waste, Parks & Recreation and or Facilities Sections of Council.

2. The qualified person will carry out an initial inspection and will complete a “Tree Inspection” form substantially in the form of the attachment to this policy.

3. Trees will be assessed and rated as per the procedures below.

Definitions

Affected Owners	Means the owners of properties abutting the location of the tree(s), and includes all other owners the qualified person or appropriate staff deems to be affected.
Appropriate Staff	Means the General Manager, Manager Waste Parks & Recreation, Section Manager/s or delegated staff member, Parks Supervisor, Parks & Gardens Arborist/Horticulturist or any other staff that is a qualified Arborist/Horticulturist or equivalent and any staff as assigned by the General Manager or Manager Waste Parks & Recreation. Councils qualified staff members are: Manager Waste Parks & Recreation (Degree in the Plants & Environmental Sciences) Steve Lowe (Horticulture) & Stuart Moorby (Arborist)
Scar Trees	Are trees which have had bark removed by indigenous Australians for the creation of bark canoes, shelters, shields and containers, such as coolamons. They are among the easiest-to-find archaeological sites in Australia. An Aboriginal scarred tree, probably used to make a coolamons (Parramatta, NSW). Bark was removed by making deep cuts in a tree with a stone pickaxe or other similar tool. The area of bark removed is typically regular in shape, often with parallel sides and slightly pointed or rounded ends, and the scar usually stops above ground level. Australian native Eucalypt species such as box and red gum were commonly used, and the scars remain in trees that are often over 200 years old. It can be rectangular, square, diamond, etc.
Qualified Person	A person working for or contracted by Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council that provides advice on tree removal, tree diagnosis or pruning and has appropriate qualifications and or experience in performing an assessment (Minimum Trade “Level 4” Certificate in Arboriculture) from a recognised institution. For sensitive or legislative issues the assessor must have at minimum a degree in one of the Plant Sciences and or Environmental sciences. Councils qualified staff members are: Manager Waste Parks & Recreation (Degree in the Plants & Environmental Sciences) Steve Lowe (Horticulture) & Stuart Moorby (Arborist)
Significant Trees	Ø The tree is a large tree in good condition and good vigour that dominates the local landscape normally with longer life expectancy. Ø A large tree or tree of substantial age that is botanically rare Ø A large tree or tree of substantial age that is remnant or indigenous to the location and important to the local ecology. Ø A medium or large tree that is listed as threatened or endangered species by legislation Ø Heritage Listed tree Ø A tree that has noted cultural or heritage values Ø A group or patch of smaller trees or large shrubs that are listed as threatened or endangered species by legislation.

Project	Amount	Commentary / Recommendation
Cootamundra Water Mains Replacement	$1,068,777	To be funded from the Water Reserves until the budgeted loan proceeds are drawn down. The water reserve balance at 30 June 2018 was $5,872,000

APP. NO.	PROPOSED BUILDING	STREET NAME
DA2018/084	New Commercial Kitchen	Wallendoon Street
DA2019/058	Retaining Wall	Sheridan Street
DA2019/064	Change of Use	King Street
DA2019/069	Change of Use	Punch Street
DA2019/071	New Shed	Landon Street
DA2019/076	New Shed	Ursula Street

VALUE OF WORK REPORTED TO THIS MEETING:			$136,000.00
VALUE OF WORK REPORTED YEAR TO DATE :			$29,055,502.00
THIS TIME LAST YEAR:
VALUE OF WORK –June 2018 - $ 2,712,115.00
VALUE OF WORK – YTD 2018 - $ 22,560,884.00

REPORTING OFFICER	Marianne McInerney, Personal Assistant to the General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Phil McMurray, Acting General Manager
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS	There are no Financial implications associated with this report.
LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS	There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.
POLICY IMPLICATIONS	There are no Policy implications associated with this report.
ATTACHMENTS	1. Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 25 June 2019

DOCUMENT NUMBER	307507
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Phil McMurray, Acting General Manager
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil

REPORTING OFFICER	Teresa Breslin, Governance Officer
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Phil McMurray, Acting General Manager
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS	There are no Financial implications associated with this report.
LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS	There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.
POLICY IMPLICATIONS	There are no Policy implications associated with this report.
ATTACHMENTS	1. Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on Thursday 27 June 2019