Business Paper
Ordinary Council Meeting
Council Chambers, Gundagai
6:00PM, Tuesday 28th January, 2025
Administration Centres: 1300 459 689 |
Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda |
28 January 2025 |
The Mayor & Councillors
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
PO Box 420
Cootamundra NSW 2590
NOTICE OF MEETING
An Ordinary Meeting of Council will be held in the Council Chambers, Gundagai on:
Tuesday, 28th January, 2025 at 6:00PM
The agenda for the meeting is enclosed.
Roger Bailey
Interim General Manager
Live Streaming of Meetings Statement
This meeting is streamed live via the internet and an audio-visual recording of the meeting will be publicly available on Council's website.
By attending this meeting, you consent to your image and, or, voice being live streamed and publicly available. Please refrain from making any defamatory statements.
Statement of Ethical Obligations
The Mayor and Councillors are bound by the Oath/Affirmation of Office made at the start of the Council term to undertake their civic duties in the best interests of the people of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council and to faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act or any other Act, to the best of their skill and judgement.
It is also a requirement that the Mayor and Councillors disclose conflicts of interest in relation to items listed for consideration on the Agenda or which are considered at this meeting in accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct and Code of Meeting Practice.
Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda |
28 January 2025 |
AGENDA
5.1 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 10 December 2024
6.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagement
8.1.1 Country Mayors Association Meeting Minutes 15 November 2024
8.2.1 Delegations of the Mayor
8.2.2 Review of Delegations of Authority of General Manager
8.2.3 Muttama Creek Regeneration Group s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes
8.2.4 Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes
8.2.5 Information Security Policy
8.2.6 Request for donation - Muttama Hall s.355 Committee
8.3.1 Finance Update - December 2024
8.3.2 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - December 2024
8.3.3 Investment Report - December 2024
8.4.2 Bushfire Mapping update and Policy
8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - January 2025
8.6.1 Gundagai Engineering Report - January 2025
8.6.2 2024 National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress
8.7 Regional Services Gundagai
8.7.1 Gundagai RSL Commemoration Project
8.7.2 Gundagai Regional Services Works Report
8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra
8.8.1 Regional Services - Cootamundra Divisional Monthly Report to Council
9 Motion of which Notice has been Given
11.2 RFT 2024/05 Gundagai Water Treatment Plant Filter Reahbilitation and Media Replacement Tender
11.3 RFT 2025/04 Gundagai Water Treatement Plant Raw Water Intake and Chemical Dosing Upgrade Design
11.4 Resumption of Open Council Meeting
11.5 Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions
Council acknowledges the Wiradjuri people, the Traditional Custodians of the Land at which the meeting is held and pays its respects to Elders, both past and present, of the Wiradjuri Nation and extends that respect to other Aboriginal people who are present.
28 January 2025 |
REPORTING OFFICER |
Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager |
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Roger Bailey, Interim 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. |
1. Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 10 December 2024 |
The Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 10 December 2024 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting. |
Minutes Ordinary Council Meeting
Alby Schultz Meeting Centre, Cootamundra
6:00PM, Tuesday 10th December, 2024
Administration Centres: 1300 459 689 |
Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes |
10 December 2024 |
MINUTES
OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council
Meeting
HELD AT THE Alby
Schultz Meeting Centre, Cootamundra
ON Tuesday, 10
December 2024 AT 6:00PM
PRESENT: Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor), Cr Rosalind Wight (Deputy Mayor), Cr Logan Collins, Cr Les Cooper, Cr David Graham, Cr Gil Kelly, Cr Penny Nicholson, Cr Ethan Ryan, Cr Danyal Syed
IN ATTENDANCE: Steve McGrath (Interim General Manager), Matt Stubbs (Deputy General Manager - Operations), Barry Paull (Deputy General Manager - CCD), Linda Wiles (Manager Business), Zac Mahon (Manager Finance), Michael Mason (Interim Manager Sustainable Development), Greg Ewings (Acting Manager Regional Services Gundagai), (Interim Manager Engineering Cootamundra), Teresa Breslin (Executive Assistant)
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.
2 Open Forum
Nil
3 Apologies and Leave of Absence
Nil
3.2 Leave of Absence
Nil
4 Disclosures of Interest
Nil
5 Confirmation of Minutes
5.1 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 26 November 2024 |
Resolution 235/2024 Moved: Cr David Graham Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan The Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 26 November 2024 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting. Carried |
6 Mayoral Minutes
6.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagement |
Resolution 236/2024 Moved: Cr Les Cooper Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly The information in the Councillor Engagements Mayoral Minute be received and noted. Carried |
6.2 Mayoral Minute - Reconnecting River Country Program |
Resolution 237/2024 Moved: Cr Abb McAlister
That Council: 1. Write to NSW Minister for Water, Housing and Homelessness the Hon Rose Jackson MLC, and to the Federal Minister for Environment and Water the Hon Tanya Plibersek MP, requesting: a. An immediate halt in the Reconnecting Rivers Country Program. b. Stakeholders, such as landholder representative groups and Councils, are consulted at each stage of the Reconnecting Rivers Country business case and Landholder Negotiation Scheme development and are included in any review of the draft prior to submission to the Australian Government and adoption. c. Legal questions about easement proposals be clarified as a matter of urgency, particularly in relation to a guarantee that an application to the court or legislative action will not be made to change the terms of the easements in perpetuity. d. Landholder property access be guaranteed in relation to any infrastructure changes associated with the Reconnecting Rivers Country program, especially road raising and bridge building. 2. Request from NSW Minister for Water, Housing and Homelessness the Hon Rose Jackson MLC a. an audit of the LNS consultation process including Number of Landholders with reference dates and method Murrumbidgee River adjoining block landholders that have been confirmed directly consulted. b. b. an audit of the DPIE consultation process including Number of Councils with reference dates and method that have been directly consulted regarding the LNS program. Including the position held of the council representative. 3. Write to all other REROC Councils and any other Councils located on the Murrumbidgee River, seeking feedback and support for our advocacy in this matter. 4. Write to the NSW Shadow Minister for Water Steph Cooke MP, requesting an overview of her knowledge and position on this issue and seek her support in advocating for ongoing consultation for the remainder of the program. 5. Demand an unredacted copy of the Business Case which is due to the Hon Rose Jackson MLC on or before the 28th February 2025 be provided to council. 6. Request an external and independent from Government investigation from the State & Federal productivity commissioners, Peter Achterstraat AM FAICD(Life) & Danielle Wood (Chair) respectively & supply a report on the effects of the Reconnecting River Country program to Farmers and the wider community. 7. Request an external and independent from Government investigation from Senator the Hon Don Farrell minister for Trade & Tourism a report on the effects of the Reconnecting River Country program to Riverina Trade & Tourism. 8. Request an external and independent from Government investigation from the Hon Ryan Park MP minister for Health a report on the effects of the Reconnecting River Country program to health in the Riverina. Carried |
7 Reports from Committees
Nil
8 General Manager’s Report
8.1 General Manager Office
8.1.1 Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils (REROC) Meeting Minutes |
Resolution 238/2024 Moved: Cr David Graham Seconded: Cr Logan Collins The Minutes of the Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils (REROC) Board Meeting and Annual General Meeting held on 25 October 2024, attached to the report, be received and noted. Carried |
Councillor Graham requested that Council prepare and send a letter of thanks to Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Council (REROC) regarding the induction training provided, and also a letter of thanks to Julie Briggs.
8.2 Business
8.2.1 Old Mill Gundagai Redevelopment - Masterplan and Business Case |
Resolution 239/2024 Moved: Cr David Graham Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson Council support Option Two, Immersive Storytelling Experience, to be developed into a Business Case for future funding opportunities for the Old Mill Gundagai. Carried |
8.2.2 Section 355 Committee Management Manual Amendment |
Resolution 240/2024 Moved: Cr Gil Kelly Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight Council endorses the amended Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Section 355 Committee Management Manual noting that the document will be subject to consultation with the Committees and presented for final adoption by Council should substantial adjustments be required. Carried |
8.2.3 Tabling of Pecuniary Interest Returns - New Designated Person |
Resolution 241/2024 Moved: Cr Les Cooper Seconded: Cr David Graham The tabling of a pecuniary interest returns from Councillors and new designated person be noted. Carried |
8.2.4 Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes |
Resolution 242/2024 Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight Seconded: Cr Logan Collins The Minutes of the Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting held 4 November 2024, attached to the report, be received and noted. Carried |
8.2.5 Information Security Policy |
Resolution 243/2024 Moved: Cr Danyal Syed Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson The Draft Information Security Policy be deferred to a later Council Meeting after further review and collaboration has occurred. Carried |
8.2.1 Australia Day 2025 |
Resolution 244/2024 Moved: Cr Les Cooper Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan 1. Information on Australia Day Awards 2025 be received and noted. 2. Council acknowledge the overview of the Australia Day Award nominations at its 10 December workshop and also acknowledge the nominated award recipients for the 2025 Australia Day Ceremonies. 3. The submission of the Australia Day 2025 Community Grant be noted. 4. Awards be presented in three categories being Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Sportsperson / Sports Achievement. Carried |
8.3 Finance
8.3.1 Finance Update - November 2024 |
Resolution 245/2024 Moved: Cr Danyal Syed Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly The Finance Update report, be received and noted. Carried |
8.3.2 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - November 2024 |
Resolution 246/2024 Moved: Cr Les Cooper Seconded: Cr Logan Collins The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report, be received and noted. Carried |
8.3.3 Investment Report - November 2024 |
Resolution 247/2024 Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly The report detailing Council Cash and Investments as at 30th November 2024, be received and noted. Carried |
8.3.4 Lodgement of Financial Statements for year ended 30 June 2024 |
Resolution 248/2024 Moved: Cr David Graham Seconded: Cr Danyal Syed 1. The Mayor, Deputy Mayor, General Manager and Responsible Accounting Officer be delegated to sign the Statements by Council and Management for the 2024 General Purpose Financial Statements and 2024 Special Purpose Financial Statements for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council. 2. The General Manager be authorised to issue the 2024 Financial Statements upon receipt of the auditor’s report. Carried |
8.4 Sustainable Development
8.4.1 DA 2024/88 - 89 Mackay Street, Cootamundra |
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Resolution 249/2024 Moved: Cr David Graham Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly That Council resolve to approve the development application subject to conditions 1 – 51 within the Notice of Determination (Attachment 2). § Application No.: DA 2024/88 § Property: Lot: 89 DP: 1041614 89 Mackay Street COOTAMUNDRA § Development: Development for the purpose of demolition of existing outbuildings, alterations and addition to an existing dwelling house and erection of an ancillary garage and retaining walls.
Carried |
8.5 Engineering Cootamundra
8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - December 2024 |
Resolution 250/2024 Moved: Cr Logan Collins Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan The Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of December 2024 be noted. Carried |
8.6 Engineering Gundagai
8.6.1 Gundagai Engineering Report - December 2024 |
Resolution 251/2024 Moved: Cr David Graham Seconded: Cr Les Cooper The Gundagai Engineering Report for the month of December 2024 be noted. Carried |
8.7 Regional Services Gundagai
8.7.1 Gundagai Long Stay RV Park- Crown Land Management |
Resolution 252/2024 Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight That Council request formal approval and support from Local Land Services (LLS) for Council to make application to Crown Lands for the Change of Purpose or Acquisition of lot 7010, DP1028790 being the current Travelling Stock Reserve on which the Gundagai Long Stay RV Park off Pope Street is situated. Carried |
8.7.2 Gundagai Regional Services Works Report |
Resolution 253/2024 Moved: Cr David Graham Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson The Gundagai Regional Services Department, Monthly works report be received and noted. Carried |
8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra
8.8.1 Regional Services - Cootamundra Divisional Monthly Report to Council |
Resolution 254/2024 Moved: Cr Logan Collins Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan The Regional Services Cootamundra Department Monthly Works Report be received and noted. Carried |
9 Motion of which Notice has been Given
Nil
10 Questions with Notice
Nil
11 Confidential Items
11.1 Closed Council Report |
Resolution 255/2024 Moved: Cr Logan Collins Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight 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. Carried |
Resumption of Open Council Meeting
Resolution 256/2024 Moved: Cr Les Cooper Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan The Open Council meeting resume at 6:54pm. Carried |
Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions
Note: The Chairperson announced the resolutions made in Closed Council.
11.2 Request for Land Owners Consent - Tumblong Landfill |
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Resolution 257/2024 Moved: Cr David Graham Seconded: Cr Les Cooper 1. That Council grant landowner’s consent to the operator of the existing waste management facility, allowing the lodgement of a Development Application (DA) or a Section 4.55(2) application to modify the existing development consent (DA 2019/143), as appropriate, for the proposed changes to the waste management facility located on Council owned land Lot 7004, DP 1028797 and Lot 7003, DP 1149008, in accordance with the request for owner consent and scope of proposal provided on 21 November 2024. 2. That Council enter into discussions with MH Earthmoving Pty Ltd regarding changes to the existing lease agreement. No change to the agreement shall be implemented unless there has been a positive determination of the relevant development consent.
Carried |
The Meeting closed at 6:57pm.
The minutes of this meeting were confirmed at the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 28 January 2025.
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CHAIRPERSON |
GENERAL MANAGER |
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
427155 |
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Abb McAlister, Councillor |
REPORTING OFFICER |
Abb McAlister, Councillor |
Nil |
To keep the community aware of Councillor and my engagements, on behalf of Council I intend to provide regular updates through my Mayoral Minutes.
The information in the Councillor Engagements Mayoral Minute be received and noted. |
Crs Wight (Deputy Mayor), Cooper, Graham, Nicholson, and I, Cr McAlister (Mayor) attended an update briefing from the Dog on the Tuckerbox developers.
5 December 2024
Crs Cooper and I, Cr McAlister (Mayor) attended a briefing on the Reconnecting River Country Program and the draft Landholder Negotiation Scheme (LNS) Regulation in Junee.
10 December 2024
Crs Wight (Deputy Mayor), and Cooper, attended the Cootamundra Public School Annual Presentation Day Awards Ceremony.
I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended a meeting with Michael McCormack to discuss immortalising achievement of local Victoria Cross recipient.
Crs Wight (Deputy Mayor), Collins, Cooper, Graham, Kelly, Nicholson, Ryan, Syed and I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended an Ordinary Council Meeting in Cootamundra.
11 December 2024
Cr Cooper attended the Sacred Heart Catholic School Annual Presentation Day Awards Ceremony.
Cr Cooper attended the Stockinbingal Public School Annual Presentation Day Awards Ceremony.
12 December 2024
I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended a meeting with the Office of Local Government (OLG) and Interim General Manager.
I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended the Lindley’s Last Ride premiere.
I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended the REROC Farewell function for Julie Briggs.
Cr Wight (Deputy Mayor), attended the Staff Development Day proceedings.
Cr Cooper attended the Elouera Special School Annual Presentation Day Awards Ceremony.
13 December 2024
I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended a Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Council (REROC) board meeting.
I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended the Gundagai High School Annual Presentation Ceremony.
Crs Wight (Deputy Mayor) and Cooper attended the Official Opening of the Cootamundra Library Refurbishment.
14 December 2024
Crs Wight (Deputy Mayor), Cooper, Kelly, Syed and I, Cr McAlister (Mayor) attended the community protest of the proposal to close the Cootamundra pathology lab.
16 December 2024
Cr Cooper attended the E.A Southee Public School Annual Presentation Ceremony.
Cr Graham and I, Cr McAlister (Mayor) attended a meeting with the Interim General Manager.
Cr Collins attended a meeting with the Interim General Manager.
Cr Wight (Deputy Mayor) and Cooper attended the Cootamundra High School Annual Presentation Ceremony.
17 December 2024
Cr Wight (Deputy Mayor) and Cooper attended the Wallendbeen Public School Annual Presentation Ceremony.
I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended the Gundagai South Public School Annual Presentation Ceremony.
19 December 2024
Cr Cooper attended a meeting with the Interim General Manager.
Cr Wight (Deputy Mayor) attended a meeting with the Interim General Manager.
20 December 2024
Cr Nicholson attended a meeting with the Interim General Manager.
4 January 2025
I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended a site inspection of the Wallendbeen Bridge and detours with Local Member, Steph Cooke MP.
6 January 2025
The Interim General Manager, Deputy General Manager, and I, Cr McAlister (Mayor), attended a zoom meeting with the Hon. Jenny Aitchison (NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads), and Local Member, Steph Cooke MP.
Cr Kelly attended a meeting with the Interim General Manager.
8 January 2025
Cr Ryan attended a meeting with the Interim General Manager.
Cr Syed attended a meeting with the Interim General Manager.
28 January 2025 |
Nil
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
426273 |
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REPORTING OFFICER |
Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager |
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AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager |
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RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
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FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Financial implications associated with this report. |
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LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Legislative implications associated with this report. |
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POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Policy implications associated with this report. |
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1. CMA Minutes 15-Nov-2024 ⇩ |
The Minutes of the Country Mayors Association Meetings held on 15 November 2024, attached to the report, be received and noted. |
The Minutes and supporting documentation of the Country Mayors Association Meeting held 15 November 2024, are attached for the information of Council and the community.
Financial
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
This report does not conflict with the guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
428069 |
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REPORTING OFFICER |
Anne Chamberlain, Governance Officer |
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AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
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RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
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FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Financial implications associated with this report. |
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LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
Compliance with Sections 225, 226, 351 and 377 of the Local Government Act, 1993. |
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POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Policy implications associated with this report. |
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Nil |
Pursuant to Sections 351,377 of the Local Government Act, 1993 Council delegate to the Mayor the authority to: 1. Appoint a person to the position of Acting General Manager temporarily whilst the General Manager is incapacitated; or during such time as there is a vacancy in the position until a temporary appointment can be determined by the Council. 2. Approve the attendance of the General Manager at conferences, seminars and courses at Council’s cost. 3. Approve leave of absence for the General Manager in accordance with his Contract of Employment. 4. Approve expenses incurred by the General Manager on Council’s behalf. 5. Manage complaints regarding the General Manager. |
Introduction
Following a local government election a new council must be sworn in and a Mayoral Election is held. A council is traditionally elected for a four-year term.
Under s377 of the Act, The Mayor of an area is the person elected to the office of mayor by:
a. The councillors from among their number, unless there is a decision in force under the Division which provides for the election of mayor by the electors, or
b. The electors, if such a decision is in force.
Under s230 of the Act The term of an elected mayor is two years, or the 4 year if elected by the electors. A second mayoral election is held at the end of the two-year term of the term of council or earlier in the occurrence of a casual vacancy in the office.
Discussion
Under s226 of the Act, the role of the mayor is as follows:
a. to be the leader of the council and a leader in the local community,
b. to advance community cohesion and promote civic awareness,
c. to be the principal member and spokesperson of the governing body, including representing the views of the council as to its local priorities,
d. to exercise, in cases of necessity, the policy-making functions of the governing body of the council between meetings of the council,
e. to preside at meetings of the council,
f. to ensure that meetings of the council are conducted efficiently, effectively and in accordance with this Act,
g. to ensure the timely development and adoption of the strategic plans, programs and policies of the council,
h. to promote the effective and consistent implementation of the strategic plans, programs and policies of the council,
i. to promote partnerships between the council and key stakeholders,
j. to advise, consult with and provide strategic direction to the general manager in relation to the implementation of the strategic plans and policies of the council,
k. in conjunction with the general manager, to ensure adequate opportunities and mechanisms for engagement between the council and the local community,
l. to carry out the civic and ceremonial functions of the mayoral office,
m. to represent the council on regional organisations and at inter-governmental forums at regional, State and Commonwealth level,
n. in consultation with the councillors, to lead performance appraisals of the general manager,
o. to exercise any other functions of the council that the council determines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
428070 |
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REPORTING OFFICER |
Anne Chamberlain, Governance Officer |
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AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
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RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
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FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Financial implications associated with this report. |
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LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
To comply with s.380 of the Local Government Act (1993) |
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POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Policy implications associated with this report. |
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Nil |
1. Following the review of the delegations of the General Manager in accordance with section 380 of the Local Government Act 1993, the General Manager, or the person who acts in that position, continue to be granted all of the functions, powers, duties and authorities of the Council that it may lawfully delegate under the Local Government Act 1993, any other Act, regulation, instrument, rule or the like (including any functions, powers, duties and authorities delegated to the Council by any authority, body, person or the like) except those functions prescribed in section 377(1) of the Local Government Act 1993. 2. The General Manager, or the person who acts in that position, be granted the additional delegation to authorise urgent works and other expenditures outside of the adopted budget up to an amount of - Unlimited. |
Introduction
Section 380 of the Local Government Act, 1993 requires that Council review all its delegations during the first 12 months of each term of office.
Discussion
Section 377 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the “Act”) provides:
(1) A council may, by resolution, delegate to the general manager or any other person or body (not including another employee of the council) any of the functions of the council under this or any other Act, other than the following--
(a) the appointment of a general manager,
(b) the making of a rate,
(c) a determination under section 549 as to the levying of a rate,
(d) the making of a charge,
(e) the fixing of a fee,
(f) the borrowing of money,
(g) the voting of money for expenditure on its works, services or operations,
(h) the compulsory acquisition, purchase, sale, exchange or surrender of any land or other property (but not including the sale of items of plant or equipment),
(i) the acceptance of tenders to provide services currently provided by members of staff of the council,
(j) the adoption of an operational plan under section 405,
(k) the adoption of a financial statement included in an annual financial report,
(l) a decision to classify or reclassify public land under Division 1 of Part 2 of Chapter 6,
(m) the fixing of an amount or rate for the carrying out by the council of work on private land,
(n) the decision to carry out work on private land for an amount that is less than the amount or rate fixed by the council for the carrying out of any such work,
(o) the review of a determination made by the council, and not by a delegate of the council, of an application for approval or an application that may be reviewed under section 82A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 ,
(p) the power of the council to authorise the use of reasonable force for the purpose of gaining entry to premises under section 194,
(q) a decision under section 356 to contribute money or otherwise grant financial assistance to persons,
(r) a decision under section 234 to grant leave of absence to the holder of a civic office,
(s) the making of an application, or the giving of a notice, to the Governor or Minister,
(t) this power of delegation,
(u) any function under this or any other Act that is expressly required to be exercised by resolution of the council.
(1A) Despite subsection (1), a council may delegate its functions relating to the granting of financial assistance if--
(a) the financial assistance is part of a specified program, and
(b) the program is included in the council's draft operational plan for the year in which the financial assistance is proposed to be given, and
(c) the program's proposed budget for that year does not exceed 5 per cent of the council's proposed income from the ordinary rates levied for that year, and
(d) the program applies uniformly to all persons within the council's area or to a significant proportion of all the persons within the council's area.
(2) A council may, by resolution, sub-delegate to the general manager or any other person or body (not including another employee of the council) any function delegated to the council by the Departmental Chief Executive except as provided by the instrument of delegation to the council.
(3) A council may delegate functions to a joint organisation only with the approval, by resolution, of the board of the joint organisation.
These delegations are however subject to the following limitations:
1. The General Manager is entitled to carry out any functions delegated to the Council by the Departmental Chief Executive or the Minister, subject to any express limitations imposed by the Departmental Chief Executive or Minister;
2. The delegation to the General Manager is limited in accordance with Council’s adopted policies in force from time to time, and must be performed in accordance with such policies.
3. The delegated power, authority, duty or function being performed in accordance with the Law.
Further, if a function is conferred or imposed on an employee of the Council under any other legislation, the function is deemed to be conferred or imposed on the Council and is delegated to the General Manager.
In order to optimise the functioning and operations of Council it is recommended the maximum allowable delegations continue to be provided to the General Manager. Accordingly, it is proposed that the General Manager, or the person who acts in that position, continue to be granted all of the functions, powers, duties and authorities of the Council that it may lawfully delegate under the Local Government Act 1993, any other Act, regulation, instrument, rule or the like (including any functions, powers, duties and authorities delegated to the Council by any authority, body, person or the like) except those functions prescribed in section 377(1) of the Local Government Act, 1993 (as referred to and listed earlier in this report).
It should also be noted that the General Manager formerly received delegation to authorise urgent works and other expenditures outside of the adopted budget up to an amount of - unlimited. In order to ensure there is sufficient scope for such approvals in extraordinary circumstances it is recommended that this delegation be granted.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
427801 |
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REPORTING OFFICER |
Anne Chamberlain, Governance Officer |
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AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
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RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
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FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
There are no financial implications associated with this report. |
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LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Legislative implications associated with this report. |
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POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
To comply with the Section 355 Committee Management Manual. |
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1. MCRG - 8 October 2024 ⇩ |
The Minutes of the Muttama Creek Regeneration Group s.355 Committee meeting held 8 October 2024, attached to the report be, received and noted. |
Introduction
The attached Minutes of the Muttama Creek Regeneration Group s.355 Committee meeting held on 8 October 2024, is submitted for the information of council and the community.
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
The objective of this report does not conflict with guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
428494 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Anne Chamberlain, Governance Officer |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Financial implications associated with this report. |
|||
LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Legislative implications associated with this report. |
|||
POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
To comply with the Section 355 Committee Management Manual. |
|||
1. CHCMC Minutes - 2 December 2024 ⇩ |
The Minutes of the Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting held 2 December 2024, attached to the report, be received and noted. |
Introduction
The attached Minutes of the Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee meeting held on 2 December 2024, are submitted for the information of Council and the community.
Financial
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429519 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Linda Wiles, Manager Business |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
1. Information Security Policy ⇩ |
The Draft Information Security Policy attached to the report be adopted. |
Introduction
Information is a strategic asset which underpins many functions of Council, and the security of this information is crucial in delivering efficient, effective services to the community.
Discussion
This policy applies to all information and information assets owned, managed or operated by Council and incorporates all procedures implemented to ensure the integrity of information held and how it is managed by users.
Financial
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
The objective of this report does not conflict with guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429951 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Linda Wiles, Manager Business |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
$5,000 available through Community Events budget |
|||
LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Legislative implications associated with this report. |
|||
POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Policy implications associated with this report. |
|||
1. Muttama Hall s355 request for donation ⇩ |
Council approve allocation of $5000 from Community Events Budget to the Muttama Hall s.355 Committee to contribute to event cost for the 100-year Celebrations of the Muttama Hall. |
Introduction
Muttama Hall Management Committee is a Section 355 Committee of Council, tasked with undertaking the care, control and management of Muttama Hall, Muttama.
Discussion
Council has been contacted by the Chairperson of the Muttama Hall s.355 Committee, requesting a donation, or interest free loan to assist the committee in paying for events planned to celebrate the 100 Year anniversary of the Muttama Hall.
100 Year celebrations will take place over the weekend of 17 and 18 May 2025.
Road closures and safety signage requirements for the weekend have been reported to the CGRC Traffic Committee previously. As further details of the event are confirmed, they will be presented to Council in a separate report.
Financial
$5,000 available through Community Events budget.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429031 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Zac Mahon, Manager Finance |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
Nil |
The Finance Update report, be received and noted. |
Report
The December Finance Update has been reviewed and no issues have been detected.
Operations
Income
The operational income is at 54% when comparing actual to budget, with the annual rates already being recognised as income but becoming due and payable quarterly throughout the year.
Department |
Income Actual |
Income Budget |
Variance |
Result |
Comment |
Building Department |
$383,061 |
$445,000 |
86% |
J |
Fees from new development in Cootamundra received |
Business Department |
$50,598 |
$240,000 |
21% |
J |
|
Engineering Cootamundra |
$1,130,235 |
$6,570,489 |
17% |
J |
|
Engineering Gundagai |
$101,983 |
$2,600,488 |
4% |
J |
|
Executive Department |
$73,994 |
$216,000 |
34% |
J |
|
Finance Department |
$4,485,691 |
$9,049,795 |
50% |
J |
|
Rates Cootamundra |
$6,801,789 |
$7,028,139 |
97% |
J |
|
Rates Gundagai |
$4,407,916 |
$4,532,162 |
97% |
J |
|
Services Cootamundra |
$3,212,689 |
$3,623,750 |
89% |
J |
|
Services Gundagai |
$1,131,480 |
$1,620,000 |
70% |
J |
|
Sewer Cootamundra |
$908,085 |
$2,910,807 |
31% |
J |
|
Sewer Gundagai |
$186,019 |
$768,442 |
24% |
J |
|
Water Cootamundra |
$876,088 |
$3,267,356 |
27% |
J |
|
Water Gundagai |
$440,438 |
$1,629,444 |
27% |
J |
|
Total |
$24,190,066 |
$44,501,872 |
54% |
J |
|
Expenditure
Operational Expenditure is at 46% when comparing actual to budget.
Department |
Expense Actual |
Expense Budget |
% Spent |
Result |
Comment |
Building Department |
$792,547 |
$1,763,902 |
45% |
J |
|
Business Department |
$1,792,663 |
$3,499,405 |
51% |
J |
|
Engineering Cootamundra |
$5,208,981 |
$9,716,544 |
54% |
J |
|
Engineering Gundagai |
$3,404,017 |
$5,350,819 |
64% |
J |
|
Executive Department |
$1,024,161 |
$2,340,938 |
44% |
J |
|
Finance Department |
$7,373,791 |
$18,571,707 |
40% |
J |
|
Services Cootamundra |
$2,784,357 |
$5,472,546 |
51% |
J |
|
Services Gundagai |
$1,209,505 |
$2,608,306 |
46% |
J |
|
Sewer Cootamundra |
$370,153 |
$1,581,694 |
23% |
J |
|
Sewer Gundagai |
$315,120 |
$784,319 |
40% |
J |
|
Water Cootamundra |
$935,993 |
$2,812,625 |
33% |
J |
|
Water Gundagai |
$350,116 |
$1,210,655 |
29% |
J |
|
Total |
$25,561,404 |
$55,713,460 |
46% |
J |
|
Capital
Income
Capital income is at 18% of budget when comparing actual to budget.
Asset Category |
Total YTD. |
Budget |
%Received |
Result |
Comments |
Plant & Equipment - Cootamundra |
$169,404 |
$473,550 |
36% |
J |
|
Plant & Equipment - Gundagai |
$189,373 |
$498,950 |
38% |
J |
|
Property Disposal – Cootamundra |
$0 |
$1,000,000 |
0% |
J |
|
Property Disposal – Gundagai |
$0 |
$0 |
0% |
J |
|
TOTAL |
$358,777 |
$1,972,500 |
18% |
J |
Expenditure
Capital expenditure is at 38% of budget when comparing actual to budget.
Asset Category |
Total YTD |
Budget |
% Spent |
Result |
Comments |
Cootamundra Land |
$150,840 |
$301,785 |
50% |
J |
Oliver Selwyn purchase to be reimbursed by insurance |
Cootamundra Plant |
$1,847,342 |
$2,142,264 |
86% |
J |
|
Cootamundra Roads |
$559,681 |
$3,697,854 |
15% |
J |
Works schedule to be completed by EOFY |
Cootamundra Building |
$485,546 |
$1,059,556 |
46% |
J |
|
Cootamundra Recreation |
$393,717 |
$594,117 |
66% |
J |
|
Cootamundra Waste |
$185,298 |
$242,000 |
77% |
|
|
Cootamundra Bridges |
$0 |
$0 |
0% |
J |
|
Cootamundra Water |
$796,247 |
$1,036,527 |
77% |
J |
|
Cootamundra Sewer |
$570,078 |
$3,070,300 |
19% |
J |
|
Gundagai Building |
$201,261 |
$931,858 |
22% |
J |
|
Gundagai Recreation |
$144,731 |
$1,071,273 |
14% |
J |
|
Gundagai Waste |
$30,825 |
$720,000 |
4% |
J |
|
Gundagai Bridges |
$1,364,810 |
$1,480,757 |
92% |
J |
|
Gundagai Plant |
$783,534 |
$1,300,000 |
60% |
J |
|
Gundagai Roads |
$1,231,173 |
$2,815,746 |
44% |
J |
|
Gundagai Water |
$286,151 |
$3,241,336 |
9% |
J |
|
Gundagai Sewer |
$161,364 |
$633,000 |
25% |
J |
|
IT |
$0 |
$50,000 |
0% |
J |
|
Total |
$9,192,598 |
$24,388,373 |
38% |
J |
|
Financial
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429060 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Zac Mahon, Manager Finance |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
Nil |
The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report, be received and noted. |
Report
The restricted cash figures have been reconciled to 31 December 2024 as shown in the below table.
Internally Restricted Reserves |
Bal 30 June 2024 |
Transfers To |
Transfers From |
Bal 31 Dec 2024 |
Aerodrome Bitumen Resurfacing |
$165,588 |
|
|
$165,588 |
Bradman's Birthplace |
$94,337 |
|
|
$94,337 |
Cootamundra Caravan Park |
$213,037 |
|
$5,185 |
$207,852 |
Heritage Centre |
$27,490 |
$930 |
$0 |
$28,420 |
Development - Land & Buildings |
$1,767,204 |
|
|
$1,767,204 |
Employee Leave Entitlements |
$1,798,460 |
|
|
$1,798,460 |
Quarries & Pit Restoration |
$476,387 |
|
$111,085 |
$365,302 |
Bangus Landfill |
$329,938 |
$147,536 |
|
$477,474 |
Plant Replacement |
$3,720,480 |
$1,863,033 |
$2,645,584 |
$2,937,929 |
Cemetery |
$133,710 |
$156,535 |
$186,816 |
$103,429 |
Southern Phone |
$586,464 |
|
|
$586,464 |
Waste Management |
$500,000 |
|
|
$500,000 |
Total Internal |
$9,813,095 |
$2,168,034 |
$2,948,670 |
$9,032,459 |
Externally Restricted Reserves |
|
|
|
|
Domestic Waste |
$1,334,928 |
$670,859 |
$931,577 |
$1,074,210 |
Water Supply |
$7,826,732 |
$2,187,217 |
$2,708,292 |
$7,305,657 |
Sewerage Service |
$5,172,930 |
$1,324,409 |
$1,204,914 |
$5,292,425 |
Stormwater Infrastructure Renewal |
$389,985 |
$63,500 |
|
$453,485 |
Developer Contributions |
$1,310,465 |
$49,933 |
|
$1,360,398 |
General Fund Unspent Grants & Contributions |
$5,633,377 |
|
$1,464,616 |
$4,168,761 |
Total External |
$21,668,417 |
$4,295,918 |
$6,309,399 |
$19,654,936 |
TOTALS |
$31,481,512 |
$6,463,952 |
$9,258,069 |
$28,687,395 |
Restricted Cash Reconciliation
Restricted Cash |
$28,687,395 |
Cash at 31 Dec 2024 |
$31,058,822 |
Unrestricted Balance |
$2,371,427 |
Grant Debtors Outstanding |
$393,101 |
Balance |
$2,764,528 |
Financial
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429384 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Zac Mahon, Manager Finance |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
Council’s cash and investment portfolio increased $2,527,107.63 from $28,531,714.77 as at 30th November 2024 to $31,058,822.40 as at 31st December 2024. |
|||
LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
Council investments comply fully with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021. |
|||
POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
Investments comply fully with the Council’s Investment Policy. |
|||
Nil |
The report detailing Council Cash and Investments as at 31st December 2024, be received and noted. |
Introduction
A report on Council’s Investments is required to be presented for Council’s consideration in accordance with Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.
Council’s cash and investment portfolio increased $2,527,107.63 from $28,531,714.77 as at 30th November 2024 to $31,058,822.40 as at 31st December 2024.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.
Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda |
28 January 2025 |
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council’s investment portfolio outperformed the relevant BBSW Index benchmark by 11.33%. The average weighted yield for December was 4.93%, over an average weighted term of 89 days, with a benchmark of 4.42%.
$31,058,822 |
Monthly Interest Received $128,024 |
Weighted Average Term 89 Days |
Total Value $31,058,822 |
Yearly Interest Received $769,069 |
Weighted Average Yield 4.93% |
Credit Quality Compliance
Council’s investment portfolio was compliant with policy in terms of S&P long term rating credit quality limits, as displayed below.
Counter Party Compliance
As at the end of December, Council was compliant with policy. It is worth noting that capacity limits are affected by changes in the on-call account balance compared to the total portfolio balance.
Term to Maturity
Council’s investment portfolio maturities shown graphically below were also compliant with policy requirements. All of the investments are short term to deal with liquidity and to be prepared for the demerger split.
Declaration
I hereby certify that investments listed in the report have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and Council’s Investment Policy.
Signed
Zac Mahon
Responsible Accounting Officer
28 January 2025 |
8.4.1 DA2024/122 - 91-97 Wallendoon Street, Cootamundra - Installation of columns to support existing awning
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
428004 |
||||||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Laura Schweiger, Town Planner |
||||||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
||||||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
||||||
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. |
||||||
1. Development application assessment report ⇩ 2. Draft Notice of Determination ⇩ |
That Council approve the following development application, subject to the conditions of consent detailed in the draft Notice of Determination: § Application No.: DA 2024/122 § Property: Lots 1 and 2 SP 82001 91-97 Wallendoon Street COOTAMUNDRA NSW 2590 (Including the footpath area adjacent to this property) § Development: Commercial premises (alterations and additions) – the installation of columns to support the existing footpath awning. |
Introduction
The above development application has been lodged with Council, seeking the erection of a number of columns, to support the existing awning at 91-97 Wallendoon Street, Cootamundra. The existing awning is a cantilever-style awning attached to the building and located over the footpath in Wallendoon Street and Cooper Street.
Staff delegations specifically exclude the determination of a development application on land-owned or controlled by Council, and accordingly, the application has been referred to Council for determination.
Discussion
Plans of the proposed work are contained in the attached development application assessment report (Pages 2, 3 and 4). Specifically, the works would involve:
§ the installation of twenty-two (22) new support columns under the existing awning,
§ columns to be located approximately 1.9 metres from the face of the existing kerb and gutter,
§ columns to be setback approximately 0.5 metres behind the face of the existing awning,
§ installation of a new support beam beneath the awning,
§ retention of existing awning framing truss, and above awning steel suspension rods,
§ beams and columns to be painted in Taubman’s Albion Park.
The assessment report concludes that the proposed development is compatible with the existing character, heritage, and amenity of the locality, with no adverse impact anticipated on the streetscape, public domain, or surrounding infrastructure. The design and positioning of the columns are appropriate, ensuring minimal disruption to pedestrian access and safety, while also preserving the integrity of the Heritage Conservation Area. The development would not result in increased traffic, parking demand, or negative social, environmental, or economic impacts. Additionally, it does not affect utilities, land resources, or the natural environment, and would have no impact on the local community, flora, or fauna. The works are designed to improve the structural safety of the awning and would be carried out with necessary conditions to manage construction impacts, including traffic control and waste management. Overall, the development aligns with planning objectives and would contribute positively to the locality without any identified cumulative impacts.
Accordingly, approval is recommended subject to the conditions contained in the attached draft Notice of Determination.
Financial
Nil impact.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
Nil conflict.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
428277 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Lauren Dawes, Senior Building Surveyor |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Barry Paull, Interim Deputy General Manager - CCD |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
1. Draft Bushfire Prone Land Mapping Policy.pdf ⇩ 2. Draft Bushfire Prone Land Maps for Exhibition.pdf ⇩ 3. Guideline for Councils to Bushfire Prone Area Land Mapping ⇩ |
1. That Council resolve to: (a) Publicly exhibit the proposed Bushfire Prone Land Map attached to this report for a period of not less than 28 days. (b) Ensure that the public exhibition process is advertised and promoted through appropriate channels, including local newspapers, Council’s website, and community noticeboards, to inform our community of the proposed changes and how they can make submissions. (c) Receive a further report following the conclusion of the public exhibition period, to consider submissions received and formal endorsement of the proposed Bushfire Prone Land Map. 2. That Council resolve to: (a) Publicly exhibit the Draft Bushfire Mapping Policy provided attached to this report for a period of not less than 28 days. (b) Ensure that the public exhibition process is advertised and promoted through appropriate channels, including local newspapers, Council’s website, and community noticeboards, to inform our community of the proposed changes and how they can make submissions. (c) Receive a further report following the conclusion of the public exhibition period, to consider any submissions received and to seek formal endorsement of the policy. |
Introduction
This report is presented to Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council to seek approval for the public exhibition of the draft amended Bushfire Prone Land Map for the region. The amended map reflects updated bushfire risk in line with mapping guidelines and published by the NSW RFS. The amended map has been prepared by NSW Rural Fire Service in consultation with Council staff. The public exhibition of the draft amended map is a voluntary step in the endorsement process, proposed to ensure that our community is aware of proposed changes and is provided with an opportunity to comment before the map is formally endorsed and sent to the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Commissioner for implementation.
In addition, this report introduces a new Bushfire Mapping Policy, for public exhibition. The purpose of the policy is to formalise the Council’s commitment to regularly review and update the Bushfire Prone Land Map every five years, in line with legislative requirements and best practice risk management. The policy will ensure that the Council continues to meet its obligations to provide an accurate and up-to-date bushfire prone land map, safeguarding the community and improving resilience to bushfire risks.
Discussion
Legislative Requirements Relating to Bushfire Prone Land Map
Section 10.3 Bush fire prone land of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (The Act) requires that Council review the designated bushfire prone land map which applies to its local government area every 5 years and request that the Commissioner of the NSW RFS certify any amended map as a Designated Bushfire Prone Land Map.
Additionally, the provisions of this section provide for the Commissioner of the NSW RFS to review the designation of land on a bush fire prone land map for an area at any time and does not necessitate the agreement or consultation of Council.
In preparing and reviewing the Designated Bushfire Prone Land Map, Council and the Commissioner of the NSW RFS must consider the requirements of mapping guidelines published by NSW RFS – currently Guide for Bush Fire Prone Land Mapping Version 5b, November 2015 (attached).
Purpose of Designated Bushfire Prone Land Map
The Designated Bushfire Prone Land Map serves to identify areas at risk of bushfire, enabling effective planning, risk management, and safety measures. Its key purposes are:
1. Risk Identification: The map highlights regions prone to bushfire, based on factors like vegetation, topography, and climate, guiding informed planning and development.
2. Planning and Development Controls: This information is used to inform land-use policies such as Local Environmental Plans and act as a trigger for consideration of Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019 under Section 4.14 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979. The map doesn’t detail the extent of any bushfire control measures required to be implemented for a development but does identify if consideration of bushfire risk is required.
3. Emergency Response and Preparedness: The map aids emergency services in planning firefighting efforts and evacuation routes, improving disaster response.
4. Community Safety: It raises public awareness about bushfire risks, encouraging residents to take proactive safety measures.
5. Environmental Considerations: The map supports environmental planning by considering bushfire impacts on natural landscapes and wildlife.
Overall, the map helps mitigate bushfire risks by guiding development, enhancing safety, and supporting emergency management.
Current Bushfire Prone Land Map
The current bushfire-prone land map for the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council area was adopted in 2002/2003, following the introduction of the Rural Fires and Environmental Assessment Legislation Amendment Act 2002. This Act amended both the Rural Fires Act 1997 and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, including the addition of Section 10.3, which addresses bushfire-prone land.
Since its adoption, the map has not undergone any review or update as required by Section 10.3. The existing map identifies only Category 1 and Category 2 Vegetation, omitting Category 3 Vegetation. The requirement to include Category 3 Vegetation was introduced in 2015, with a three-year transition period during which councils were instructed to review and update their mapping accordingly. The expectation was that all councils would have incorporated Category 3 Vegetation by the end of 2018.
For reference the vegetation categories are:
· Category 1 - is the highest risk for bush fire. Areas of forest, woodlands, heaths (tall and short), forested wetlands and timber plantations.
· Category 2 - is a lower bush fire risk than Category 1 and Category 3 but higher than the excluded areas. This vegetation category has lower combustibility and/or limited potential fire size due to the vegetation area shape and size, land geography and management practices. Vegetation Category 2 consists of rainforests and remnant vegetation.
· Category 3 - is medium bush fire risk vegetation. It is higher in bush fire risk than category 2 (and the excluded areas) but lower than Category 1. This category consists of grasslands, freshwater wetlands, semi-arid woodlands, alpine complex and arid shrublands.
Draft Bushfire Prone Land Map
The primary difference between the current endorsed Designated Bushfire Prone Land Map and the draft version is the inclusion of Category 3 Bushfire Prone Vegetation, which significantly broadens the scope of areas identified as bushfire prone. This key update reflects the growing bushfire risks associated with land types that were previously not mapped, particularly grassland areas, which are widespread across the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council area.
The draft map now includes grasslands, which cover grazing lands and areas used for farming of curable crops such as wheat, canola, barley, and oats. These crops, when they dry out, can significantly increase fuel loads and heighten bushfire risk. While non-curing crops like broccoli and strawberries, which do not dry out, are less common in the region and may be rotated with curing crops, the updated map reflects the higher bushfire risk posed by the majority of crop lands due to their potential to dry out and add to fire fuel loads.
It is important to note that the actual bushfire risk of these areas would still be assessed on a case-by-case basis at the time of a development application, ensuring a tailored approach to each property.
Another important update in the draft map is the adjustment of many areas of remnant vegetation. Previously classified as Vegetation Category 2, many areas have now been reclassified as Vegetation Category 3 due to the ongoing loss of remnant vegetation and its transformation into grassland over time. This reflects both natural changes and land use practices in the region, highlighting the increasing bushfire risk in these areas.
As a result of including grasslands and reclassifying vegetation, the draft map now covers a larger portion of rural land, particularly outside of town and village areas. While this expansion reflects the broader bushfire risk posed by grassland and agricultural zones, it is important to emphasize that not all land within the mapped areas would pose an equal risk. The actual bushfire risk for specific properties would still be evaluated during the development application or CDC process, with consideration given to the type of vegetation, land use, and proximity and slope of the vegetation.
Benefits of Amending the Designated Bushfire Prone Land Map
Amending and exhibiting the Designated Bushfire Prone Land Map provides several key benefits to Council, the community, and applicants, ensuring better alignment with legislative requirements and improved clarity in development processes. These benefits include:
· Legislative Compliance: Amending the map ensures Council meets its obligations under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and aligns with current bushfire mapping guidelines. This process helps Council remain compliant with state-level requirements while addressing evolving bushfire risks.
· Transparency and Community Involvement: While community consultation is not legally required for the map amendment, Council’s decision to publicly exhibit the draft map demonstrates a commitment to transparency and engaging the community in the process. This offers an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to provide input and ensures a fair and inclusive approach to decision-making. Importantly, the NSW RFS has indicated a willingness to amend the map directly if Council does not take action to incorporate grasslands into the current mapping.
· Consistency and Certainty for Development Applications: Amending the map will provide greater clarity for applicants and Council staff when assessing development proposals. The Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019 guidelines must be considered for all mapped bushfire-prone areas under Section 4.14 of the EP&A Act. However, unlisted properties, especially those in grassland areas not currently captured on the map, often create uncertainty for applicants. In these cases, the Section 4.15 Evaluation under the EP&A Act requires still Council to assess bushfire risk, leading to unexpected delays and confusion. The benefits of updating the map include:
o Faster Development Assessment: With an up-to-date map, developers and Council staff will have clearer guidance, reducing delays in processing applications.
o Reduced Costs for Applicants: Applicants would avoid unforeseen expenses related to bushfire risk mitigation measures that may arise unexpectedly during the assessment process. By identifying the bushfire risk early in the process, design measures can be applied at the initial stages of a development. This provides opportunity for decisions to be made that reduce cost implications of bushfire protection measures from the outset such as window locations, setbacks from boundaries and proximity to vegetation and/or steep slopes and building materials can all be considered to balance and reduce costs. By contrast, the lack of Category 3 Vegetation on the current bushfire prone land map can result in instances where the risk and need to address Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019 is only identified during assessment after the location and design of a proposed development has been finalised, reducing opportunity for such matters to be considered from the outset or resulting in increased fees associated with plan amendments.
o Consistency in Decision-Making: Staff would have clearer, more consistent criteria for applying the Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019 guidelines, minimising confusion and ensuring consistent and more predictable outcomes for applicants.
· Consistency with Councils in the Region: Surrounding councils, including Goulburn-Mulwaree, Yass Valley, Wagga Wagga City, Griffith City, Edward River, and Albury, have adopted updated bushfire-prone land mapping that incorporates Category 3 Vegetation in accordance with current guidelines. Aligning with these councils ensures consistency in how bushfire hazards are addressed, fostering a cohesive approach across the region. This benefits applicants by providing clarity, reducing complexity when navigating development requirements, and promoting equitable treatment across jurisdictions. Such consistency also enhances regional preparedness and compliance with state planning and bushfire risk management strategies.
· Compliance with CGRC Rural Land Strategy: The Rural Land Strategy was adopted by Council in June 2020. Under Considerations of Directions Issued by the Minister (Section 9.1 Directions) of the Strategy Council made a commitment to undertake a “review of the bushfire mapping for the local government area will be undertaken in the near future”.
Benefits of Adopting a Policy for Bushfire Mapping
The proposed policy aims to ensure that Council fulfills its legislative obligation of Section 10.3 of The Act to review bushfire-prone land mapping every five years. It also provides for a transparent process that includes community consultation and engagement. Additionally, the draft policy ensures that any impending changes to the Designated Bushfire-Prone Land Map are publicly accessible and that details of these changes are included on Section 10.7 Planning Certificates. This approach informs potential purchasers of pending updates, acknowledging that a delay may occur between the map's endorsement by Council and its certification by the NSW RFS Commissioner.
Financial
No financial impacts for Council.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
No impact identified.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429543 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Julie Buckley, Operations Support Officer |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Matt Stubbs, Deputy General Manager - Operations |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
Nil |
The Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of January 2025 be noted. |
Introduction
The Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of January 2025 is submitted for the information of Council and the community.
Discussion
Fixing Local Roads
Pavement works on the Hovell Street rehabilitation are expected to commence early February 2025 and it is anticipated that the project will be completed late May 2025.
State Roads
The annual resealing program has commenced and will be completed in late January / early February.
Shoulder widening south of Cootamundra at Yarrowee is planned to commence in February 2025.
Council’s RMCC crew are currently undertaking routine maintenance and spraying works on the State Roads.
Local Roads & Community Infrastructure R4 Footpaths
Footpath replacement works on Cooper Street (Wallendoon to Mackay Streets) are progressing and are expected to be completed by the end of January, weather permitting.
Water and Sewer
- Water Main Replacement Cootamundra – completed. Final invoices pending, awaiting WAE drawings to finalise contract requirements.
- Res 1 & 2 Chlorination Upgrade - design phase underway, currently working through easement and electrical supply. Ongoing.
- Betts Street Rising Main
o 90% Detail Design Completed. Detailed cost estimate expected from GHD December, Tender expected to be opened December close and confirmed January 25. Ongoing.
- Vent Shaft Replacement Program
o 8 x Sewer Vent Shafts scheduled to be replaced. Materials Procured. Works commenced on 6 January and completed on 15 January 2025.
General Works
Crews undertook a cleanup of Sutton Street, prior to the completion of resealing works on Sutton Street between Campbell and Mackay Street and Hovell Street between Mackay and Temora Streets.
Gravel patching and maintenance grading has been carried out on Rawilla Road, Ingolds Lane and Wavehill Road, Muttama.
Jet patching has been carried out at various locations throughout the shire including Old Gundagai Road, Jugiong Road and Berthong Road.
Cleaning of surface drains has been undertaken in the Cootamundra township.
Crews have carried out patrols of roads after the recent storms, looking for damage and undertaken the necessary clean-ups.
Financial
Projects funded from various funding sources, as noted above.
Maintenance works funded from the General Fund.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429580 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Belle Mooney, Operations Support Officer |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Matt Stubbs, Deputy General Manager - Operations |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
Nil |
The Gundagai Engineering Report for the month of January 2025 be noted. |
Introduction
The Gundagai Engineering Report for the month of January 2025 is submitted for the information of Council and the community.
Natural Disaster Reconstruction Works
The Bundarbo Causeway is now complete and open to traffic with the signage installed and the temporary road removed early December.
This project was completed as part of the Natural Disaster funding
provided to Council from the Federal government.
Rural & Regional Roads
Muttama Road has undertaken heavy patching with gravel overlay and stabilising being completed by Council staff in various locations and finished with a two coat seal. Additional locations along Muttama Road are currently undertaking heavy patching where identified throughout January. Line marking will occur on the completed locations once all rehabilitation works are completed.
Hillas Creek Bridge
Following the determination from the Fisheries Permit in early December, construction has begun onsite by the contractors for the reconstruction of Hillas Creek Bridge. The installation of piles has been completed and the pouring of pre-cast concrete elements has commenced offsite. The approach structures are expected to be installed in the coming weeks with an expected completion date of the project to be in May 2025.
Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCI)
Sheridan Street Block 3 Stage 2 upgrade:
Sheridan Street upgrade is now in the final stages of construction. The completion of paving and sealing of roadway was completed in December and the contractor is now installing handrailing. The streetlights are currently being prepared for installation and landscaping and the installation of garden beds is set to be completed by Council staff as soon as the contractor has completed the handover of the site.
General Works
Maintenance grading has been completed on Bundarbo Road and various roads within the Bundarbo and Nanangroe area. Council staff continued to complete various earthworks and maintenance jobs within town streets and work through vegetation clearing where required.
Slashing and weed spraying has been completed on various roads including:
- Threeways Road
- Nanangroe Road
- O’Briens Road
- Edwardstown Road
- Adelong Road
- Happy Valley Road
Council’s tar patching team have completed pothole repairs where required.
Water and Sewer
Telemetry upgrades have now been completed in Gundagai by the contractor 360 Engineering. Programming of the equipment has been finalised and Council staff have completed the required training.
Council Water and Sewer staff are undertaking required water and sewer maintenance of the treatment plants as well as mains maintenance and new connections as required.
The assessment of the submitted tenders for the Gundagai WTP Filtration and the Gundagai WTP Intake has been completed with the recommendation being submitted to Council for a decision.
Work, Health and Safety
Following from SafeWork NSW advice, SWMS are being reviewed with the intention to update and make improvements to the Sewer Treatment Plant.
Training providers are being sourced to assist with training for Outdoor staff in Situational Awareness. This training will potentially assist with the number of incidents that occur within the workplace. Additionally, training providers are being sourced for various training to ensure all staff are kept updated with all training requirements and renewals.
Financial
Projects funded from various funding sources, as noted above.
Maintenance works funded from the General Fund.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429635 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Matt Stubbs, Deputy General Manager - Operations |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager |
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RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
1. National Congress Communique ⇩ |
The 2024 National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress Report be received and noted. |
Introduction
The 2024 National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress was held across 2 days from 3rd – 4th December 2024 at Margaret River, WA. The 2024 conference had a significant focus on road safety, asset management and emergency resilience. Council representatives, Matt Stubbs, Deputy General Manager of Operations and Councillor Logan Collins were in attendance along with representatives from Councils throughout the nation.
Discussion
The Congress provides a forum for local government leaders across the country to gather and discuss important matters impacting Council Roads and Infrastructure. The 2024 Congress had a significant focus on Road Safety, recognising the key role local governments play in addressing the unacceptable national road toll.
A sentiment that was consistent across those in attendance was the need for continued lobbying to achieve sustainable funding models that will enable Councils to improve the condition, safety and productivity of Australia’s road network, of which 75% is maintained by Councils.
The Congress Communique is attached to this report which provides an executive summary of the discussions and actions moving forward.
Financial
Nil
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
No conflict.
28 January 2025 |
8.7 Regional Services Gundagai
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429631 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Matt Stubbs, Deputy General Manager - Operations |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager |
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RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
Costs associated with ongoing maintenance of memorial. |
|||
LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Legislative implications associated with this report. |
|||
POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Policy implications associated with this report. |
|||
1. Correspondance from Gundagai RSL ⇩ |
1. Council provide a letter of support for the Gundagai RSL Sub Branch regarding their grant application for the commemoration project recognising the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral and the actions of Private Richard Norden, VC, DCM. 2. Should funding be obtained, Council provide a suitable location for construction of the memorial and commit to the ongoing maintenance of the structure. |
Introduction
Gundagai RSL, in partnership with RSL NSW, intends applying for Federal funding support through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs ‘Saluting Their Service’ Commemorative Grants Program. The final round for applications for this grant in FY 24/25 closes on 5 February 2025.
The Gundagai RSL Club has approached Council requesting a letter of support for this project along with provision of a suitable location and commitment to ongoing maintenance.
Discussion
The award of Private Richard Norden’s Victoria Cross was announced by the Governor General, Her Excellency Sam Mostyn, AC on Remembrance Day, 11 November 2024.
A meeting was held at the Gundagai Services Club on Wednesday 11 December, attended by RSL Gundagai committee members, the Honourable Michael McCormack MP (Federal Member for Riverina), and Mayor Abb McAlister (Cootamundra- Gundagai Regional Council CGRC). At the meeting it was proposed that a memorial and life-sized bronze statue be erected in Gundagai displaying the action at Fire Support Base Coral in which Private Norden won his bravery awards.
The memorial would provide an overview of the battle and then describe the particular action which resulted in the bravery awards won by Private Norden saving the life of his badly wounded Section Commander, Lance Corporal (Joe) Kelly.
The proposed statue would show Lance Corporal Kelly being supported and carried by Private Norden, as described by two eyewitness members of their platoon (veterans Stan Barrett and Platoon Commander Chris Forde). The Fire Support Base Coral battle and the two soldiers would be collectively commemorated, with the story told through the statue, information plaques and audio/visual technology.
Preliminary discussions with Council staff and the Gundagai RSL Sub Branch have discussed Carberry Park as a potential location for the memorial should Council wish to proceed.
Financial
Capital works would be covered by the grant sought by the Gundagai RSL Club. Ongoing maintenance of the structure would be considered minimal with the construction anticipated to consist of concrete paving, a bronze sculpture and minor landscaping.
Council has access to external grants for the maintenance of commemorative infrastructure.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
No conflict.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
430024 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Greg Ewings, Acting Manager Regional Services Gundagai |
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AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Matt Stubbs, Deputy General Manager - Operations |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
Nil |
The Gundagai Regional Services Department, Monthly works report be received and noted. |
Introduction
The report aims to provide an overview of the varied works undertaken by the Gundagai Regional Services Team over the previous month and intends to give an update on the ongoing works and projects.
Discussion
This report covers the Regional Services projects and works over the month of December 2024, detailing the operational activities, information on the progress of projects and the routine duties of this division.
Gundagai Parks & Gardens Section – Parks, Reserves, Sporting Fields, and Playgrounds - Achievements for the month include:
· Preparation of the streets and parks for the holiday period.
· Spraying of town streets and roadside drainage structures.
· Line marking in preparation for sporting events.
· Hedging and crown lifting in Sheriden Street and parks.
· Mowing, edging, and watering of parks and gardens.
· Swimming pool grounds and preparation works.
· Irrigation repairs to Sheridan Street Gardens.
Cemeteries – North Gundagai Lawn & Monumental, South Gundagai, Tumblong, Coolac, Mount Adrah, Muttama, Adjungbilly, Nangus, Wagragobilly (Darbalara). Cemetery happenings this month include:
· Council have had six interments for the month of December.
· Irrigation repairs were completed at North Gundagai Lawn Cemetery.
· CCNSW have advised of the decision on GST associated with burial rights has with final GST determination released December 2024. The determination removes the GST from the CCNSW levy and the interment right portions of the cost of an interment. Staff have worked on the breakdown of the cost with the necessary GST amendments to the be introduced by March 1st, 2025.
Biosecurity -
· Applications for the 2024/2025 WAP funding has opened with staff currently preparing the 2024/2025 application and are in communication with DPI staff in the process.
Spray Records for the month of December 2024
Gundagai
Public & Council Facilities:
Sherwood Forest –
The flood damage rehabilitation works to Sherwood Forest continued in December with the dry river bed being completed, Top soil and new plants installed.
Outdoor furniture is yet to be installed around the precinct.
Gundagai Pool Amenities Refurbishment –
· External concrete pathways and drainage installed.
· New turf laid.
· Internal and external painting continued.
Gundagai RV Park Income December 2024
· 01/12/24 – 31/12/24 - Total Income $239.40
Gundagai Transfer Station Key November 2024
· 01/12/24 – 31/12/24 - General Income $60.00
Gundagai Landfill/Transfer November 2024
· 01/12/24 – 31/12/24 - General Income $3734.57
Gundagai Saleyards December 2024
Income from the Saleyards Truck wash for the month of December.
Note* Figures are GST inclusive.
|
Avdata Payments /Council Income |
Usage -Customers /Account Holders |
||
GST Incl. |
||||
2024 |
July |
$ 3,157.14 |
35 |
|
2024 |
August |
$ 2,123.91 |
35 |
|
2024 |
September |
$ 3,313.23 |
30 |
|
2024 |
October |
$ 2,418.47 |
28 |
|
2024 |
November |
$ 2,277.33 |
30 |
|
2024 |
December |
$ 3,435.11 |
32 |
|
2025 |
January |
|||
2025 |
February |
|||
2025 |
March |
|||
2025 |
April |
|||
2025 |
May |
|||
2025 |
June |
|||
2024/2025 |
Totals |
$ 16,725.19 |
190 |
Compliance:
Compliance with the Companion Animals Act 1998
Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 – Reg 217(1)(f)
· One instance of roaming stock ( Sheep) was reported on Slate Quarry Road with the stock being returned.
· Two instances of Illegal dumping have occurred with investigations ongoing.
Financial
There are no further financial implications as all work has been carried out as per the approved 23/24 budget allocations.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
There are no implications to the guidelines.
28 January 2025 |
8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429259 |
|||
REPORTING OFFICER |
Steven Lowe, Acting Manager Regional Services Cootamundra |
|||
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Matt Stubbs, Deputy General Manager - Operations |
|||
RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
|
|||
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. |
|||
Nil |
The Regional Services Cootamundra Department Monthly Works Report be received and noted. |
Introduction
This report has been prepared to inform Council of the activities undertaken by the Regional Services – Cootamundra Department over the month of December 2024.
Discussion
Saleyards
Ongoing weed maintenance has been conducted to keep the yards at a manageable level. No sheep sales have occurred.
The saleyard’s holding paddocks are in good condition and holding up well, the agistment will finish at the end of January. This has been helping manage excess feed in the paddocks, reducing future fire risk and generating income.
Claron Estate land is on a 12-month lease contract. The fire risk has been reduced significantly with the use of sheep to graze the bulk of the fodder.
Reinstatement of the stolen and damaged cameras was completed in December.
Truck Wash
The truck wash during December recorded 106 transactions, invoicing a total of $5,363.95.
Truck wash area wash cleaned and emptied, removing approximately 10 tonne of animal faeces. The pumping system required repairs and modifications to move the excess water from the pits and now runs automatically with reduced maintenance required.
Cemeteries
December saw five burials and one ashes interment at Cootamundra Lawn Cemetery. Additionally, four plaques at the cemetery were reaffixed and one lawn niche affixed.
Council staff met with members of the Stockinbingal Community Association and have voted on the headstones for the new Lawn beam at the Stockinbingal Cemetery. The community voted unanimity to move away from the plaques and move to the etched headstones.
There has been no update on the Biodiversity Conservation Trust grant for Stockinbingal and Wallendbeen Cemeteries.
Regulatory Services
During the month of December four dogs were seized. One of the dogs was microchipped and registered and returned directly to its owner. Two dogs were impounded and later reclaimed by their owner after relevant fees were paid were released. One dog was surrendered to Council for rehoming. Five dogs headed off to new homes or rescue organisations. One is waiting currently waiting for a new home.
During the month of December twelve cats were seized. One cat was impounded and later reclaimed by their owner after relevant fees were paid were released. Seven cats headed off to new homes or rescue organisations. Seven are waiting currently waiting for a new home.
Council Rangers collaborated with the RSPCA to assist in 4 callouts.
Total registration fees collected for December amounted to $846.00.
Council Rangers are monitoring multiple vehicles for breaches of the NSW Public Spaces Act.
Council Rangers are working with the local Police regarding straying goats at the Stockinbingal Village. Council Rangers have issued 1 PIN in relation to this matter.
An extra waste station was erected in Wallendoon Street following feedback from the Community.
Council Rangers had one call in relation to overgrown land in Cootamundra, landowners have since cleaned up the land in response to Ranger’s request.
Cootamundra’s Council Ranger has competed her microchip course.
Parks and Gardens
Mowing maintenance was a main priority for the early part of December – sports fields, surrounds, irrigated small spaces, villages of Stockinbingal and Wallendbeen and town open spaces. Cootamundra received approximately 100mm of rain at the end of November early December – with the warm conditions and moisture the staff were busy mowing and whipper snipping.
Nicholson Park drainage has been completed, the area will now be maintained by staff to get the turf to a playable standard for the Touch Football Carnival in early January. Extra water and maintenance has been allocated to showcase Nicholson Park to the multiple out of town visitors.
Installation of a Discus Safety cage at Albert Park sporting facility has been completed, a collaboration of a local Engineering company and Council to complete the task for Cootamundra Little Athletics and Local Schools.
Muttama Creek vegetation removal was undertaken by Council Staff to remove the exotic trees growing in and on the edge of the Muttama Creek as part of the Muttama Creek Regeneration Group project to revegetate and care for the Muttama Creek.
Several storms ravaged the region over December – the Parks Team was busy clearing and cleaning up the Town and the villages to be respectable for the Christmas Break.
The Town Christmas tree was erected on the Wallendoon/Parker Roundabout. A local family facilitated the decorations and wanted to remain anonymous. Council Staff appreciate the input and assistance in the decoration of the tree.
The Sparkling Street Christmas Party was held – Parks Staff provided assistance with the set up. Each internal team of Regional Services Cootamundra provided information packs and flyers relating to each section – Bio Security, Companion Animals.
The Parks team planted the yearly annuals early December in the main street and also maintained the hedges and gardens to provide a pleasant main street for the Christmas period.
Bio Security
General and WAP Activity December 2024
Activity |
Location |
Km/Count |
Date |
Regional Inspection Program - Inspection of High-Risk Pathways (roadsides) (Inspection) (Inspection) 1000km |
North Jindalee Rd |
6.2 |
12/12/24 |
Jugiong Rd |
5.5 |
18/12/24 |
|
Kilrush Rd |
6.1 |
19/12/24 |
|
Old Gundagai Rd |
11.4 |
19/12/24 |
|
Yammatree Rd |
5.3 |
20/12/24 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL: 34.5km |
|
|
Inspection of High-Risk Sites- Travelling Stock Reserves (TSRs) (Inspection) 35 TSR CGRC ≥ 1 inspection every 3 years. Target 30 |
Yammatree TSR |
1 inspection |
20/12/24 |
Herrings TSR |
1 inspection |
20/12/24 |
|
Crowley’’s TSR |
1 inspection |
20/12/24 |
|
|
|
|
|
Private Property Inspections. Target 120 |
North Jindalee Rd |
1 inspection |
12/12/24 |
|
TOTAL: 41/60 |
|
|
Provide landholders with education, training & technical advice & support on weed management (Extension)
|
Coolatai information package. |
10 units |
19/12/24 |
Chilean needle information package. |
10 units |
19/12/24 |
|
Serrated tussock information package. |
10 units |
19/12/24 |
|
Riverina weed ID Booklet |
10 units |
19/12/24 |
|
Engage in public awareness events for new weeds incursion reporting & promote land tenure Biosecurity Act 2015 obligations (Extension). Target 1 Henty |
Cootamundra street stall event |
1 event |
19/12/24 |
Other |
|||
Spot Spray Local Roads – Local priority weeds |
Back Brawlin Rd |
Spot Spray |
2/12/24 |
Brawlin Rd |
Spot spray |
13/12/24 |
|
Ryans Lane |
Spot spray |
15/12/24 |
|
Boundary Rd |
Spot spray |
20/12/24 |
|
Pioneer Park Entry |
Spot Spray |
2/12/24 |
|
Cootamundra Cemetery |
Spot Spray |
18/12/24 |
|
Stockinbingal Cemetery |
Spot Spray |
18/12/24 |
General Comments:
- Lack of Summer rainfall reducing weed vigor and suitability for spraying (heat/moisture stress).
- Few Johnson grass incursions in table drains of several roads prioritised.
- Spray unit out of working order (seized pump).
- Section A Weed Action Program funding completed and sent to Gundagai for review.
Facilities
General building maintenance has been undertaken throughout December as per the work schedule.
The new automated chemical dosing system and acid tank has been installed at the Cootamundra 50m pool. This was an unexpected expense that required urgent action to ensure compliance with NSW Health.
A water leak in the air conditioning units at the Cootamundra sports stadium was promptly repaired to ensure the units could be used.
Capital Works Projects
The Ellwood’s Hall new toilet block was tiled and fitted out, with only the painting left to be done early in the new year.
Waste Services
The Landfill second hand tip shop was opened to the public. Currently the shop is open on Saturdays and staff are trying to keep the shop stocked full of bargains.
The Southwest Regional Waste Management Group undertook the tender evaluation process to award the new haulage contract. The new contract will commence at the start of February providing the service ability to meet the demand for an increase in haulage loads.
The crushed concrete product is continuing to be popular with over 1,900 tonnes being sold to date. The compost and mulch sales are steady with 298 tonnes of compost and 46 tonnes of mulch being sold this financial year.
Financial
All areas of expenditure relating to the operations within Regional Services – Cootamundra are in most part within the allocated budgets.
OLG 23a Guideline consideration
No impacts associated with this report.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429993 |
REPORTING OFFICER |
Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager |
AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager |
QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE
The following ‘question with notice’ from Mayor McAlister has been received with the response from Council officer provided respectively:
Cr Abb McAlister – Could Council staff provide an update on the efforts being made to review and possibly remove the Section 88b covenant on the Bourke Estate Subdivision in Gundagai?
Background:
Some years ago, Council developed land in Gundagai. This development was done in stages and, unfortunately, at the time a very restrictive covenant was placed onto these lands that restricted the material that could be used to clad walls on structures within the subdivisions. This is a restriction that Council is required to enforce.
With regard to the first two stages of the subdivision in DP 851885 (item (3)(e)) and DP 110255 (item (2)(d)), the covenant provides:
(d) That no building shall be erected on the land with external walls or walls of materials other than brick, stone, concrete, glass, timber or any combination of the sale PROVIDED THAT timber shall not be used in external walls except as in-fill in conjunction with all or any of the other materials above referred to and the proportion of timber so used shall not exceed fifteen per cent (15%) thereof FURTHER PROVIDED THAT nothing in this covenant shall preclude or prohibit a building having an inner framework of its external walls constructed of timber or other materials with an external brick face.
The latest stage within DP 1173450 (item (3)(d)) provides slightly different wording largely to the same effect.
(d) That no building shall be erected on the land with external walls or walls of materials other than brick, stone, concrete, glass, timber or any combination of the same PROVIDED THAT timber shall not be used in external walls referred except as in-fill in conjunction with all or any of the other materials above referred to and proportion of timber so used shall not exceed fifteen per cent (15%) thereof FURTHER PROPOVIDED THAT nothing in this covenant shall preclude or prohibit a building having an inner framework of its external walls constructed of timber or other materials with an external brick face. Texture coated fibrous cement sheeting may be used as external walls, provided that all sections of such building below any finished floor level re-erected using brick, stone, concrete or any combination of the same, PROVIDED THAT the framework of any building constructed of timber or other materials with external walls as texture coated fibrous cement sheeting has frame width of at least 160mm and that any window inserted into such frame is recessed a minimum of 80mm from the external face of the cement sheeting.
It was my understanding that the covenant was to apply to houses within the subdivision, however as you can see by the wording the covenant states ‘no building shall be erected with external walls….’. Thus, the restriction is being applied to all buildings, which I believe is an unintended consequence and is far too restrictive.
To further complicate the issue Council is restricted by the wording of the LEP. The matter that we are dealing with here is set out in clause 1.9A of the LEP:
1.9A Suspension of covenants, agreements and instruments
(1) For the purpose of enabling development on land in any zone to be carried out in accordance with this Plan or with a consent granted under the Act, any agreement, covenant or other similar instrument that restricts the carrying out of that development does not apply to the extent necessary to serve that purpose.
(2) This clause does not apply—
(a) to a covenant imposed by the Council or that the Council requires to be imposed, or
(b) to any relevant instrument within the meaning of section 13.4 of the Crown Land Management Act 2016, or
(c) to any conservation agreement within the meaning of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, or
(d) to any Trust agreement within the meaning of the Nature Conservation Trust Act 2001, or
(e) to any property vegetation plan within the meaning of the Native Vegetation Act 2003, or
(f) to any biobanking agreement within the meaning of Part 7A of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, or
(g) to any planning agreement within the meaning of Subdivision 2 of Division 7.1 of the Act.
(3) This clause does not affect the rights or interests of any public authority under any registered instrument.
(4) Under section 3.16 of the Act, the Governor, before the making of this clause, approved of subclauses (1)–(3).
Hence, subclause (1) allows Council to suspend covenants, except in those circumstances outlined in (2)(a). Which is the case here.
It should be emphasised that Council works under the standard LEP required by the NSW State Government, thus it cannot change the wording of the LEP.
I am aware that staff have been seeking advice on dealing with this and to help the community understand the situation an update of this matter would be appreciated.
28 January 2025 |
DOCUMENT NUMBER |
429640 |
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REPORTING OFFICER |
Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager |
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AUTHORISING OFFICER |
Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager |
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RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN |
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FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Financial implications associated with this report. |
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LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS |
To facilitate compliance with sections 10 and 11 of the Local Government Act 1993. |
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POLICY IMPLICATIONS |
There are no Policy implications associated with this report. |
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Nil |
Note
Council’s Code of Meeting Practice allows members of the public present to indicate whether they wish to make representations to the meeting, before it is closed to the public, as to whether that part of the meeting dealing with any or all of the matters listed should be closed.