CANTERBURY CITY COUNCIL AGENDA · Sportsground for their Food and Wine Festival 24 and 25 January...

CANTERBURY CITY COUNCIL

A G E N D A

COUNCIL MEETING 23 JULY 2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ITEM SUBJECT PAGE NO

MAYORAL MINUTES................................................................................................5

1ABRUZZO EARTHQUAKE APPEAL....................................................................5

ADOPTION OF TRAFFIC COMMITTEE REPORT..............................................6

OFFICERS REPORTS.................................................................................................7

2FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - PELEPONNESIAN CONFEDERATION.............7

3FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 2009/10..................................................9

4INVESTMENTS AT 30 JUNE 2009........................................................................12

5LAKEMBA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RAMADAN ACTIVITIES............22

6PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION................................................................25

7REQUESTED TRANSCRIPTS FROM COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS - YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2009..............................................34

8SSROC TENDER FOR THE PROVISION AND CO-ORDINATION OF TEMPORARY STAFF...................................................................................35

9E-WASTE COLLECTION.......................................................................................39

10OPTIONS FOR CONTROL OF CATS................................................................42

11LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION - 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE46

ADVISORY COMMITTEES.....................................................................................50

12COMMUNITY SAFETY COMMITTEE.............................................................50

13ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE.................................................52

CLOSED COUNCIL..................................................................................................53

This meeting will be recorded on audio tape for minute-taking purposesas authorised by the Local Government Act 1993.

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REPORT SUMMARIES

MAYORAL MINUTES

1ABRUZZO EARTHQUAKE APPEAL

ADOPTION OF TRAFFIC COMMITTEE REPORT

OFFICERS REPORTS

2FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - PELEPONNESIAN CONFEDERATION

The Peleponnesian Confederation of NSW requested the use of Belmore Sportsground for their Food and Wine Festival 24 and 25 January 2009.

The booking was approved and payment of a fee of $7,444, including a $2,000 refundable bond, was requested.

The festival took place although no payment was made prior to the event. The Peleponnesian Confederation has requested financial assistance to assist with the

cost of the festival. The report outlines this request for financial assistance and recommends that the

request not be supported3FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 2009/10

This report summarises applications received under our Financial Assistance Program for 2009/2010 and recommends the allocation of $76,695 to projects eligible for funding under the program guidelines.

4INVESTMENTS AT 30 JUNE 2009

This report includes a Monthly Performance Report on investments. Also contained in the report is a statutory report on investments submitted pursuant to

the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005. It is recommended the report be noted.

5LAKEMBA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RAMADAN ACTIVITIES

This report responds to a request from Lakemba Chamber of Commerce seeking assistance to conduct activities in Lakemba Town Centre during Ramadan 2009.

The Chamber has also requested financial support for these activities under our Financial Assistance Program (FAP). This request is addressed in this report.

We have reviewed Risk Management, Compliance and Waste and Cleaning issues in relation to the event.

This report recommends support for this activity, conditional on a range of requirements that will ensure the success of these proposed activities.

These requirements include a detailed plan of the proposed activity area and a coordination meeting comprising Council staff, Chamber of Commerce Representatives and the local Police.

6PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

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This matter was deferred by Council on 25 June 2009 to allow for a site inspection of both the Lakemba and Punchbowl Outside School Hours Care centres (see Supplementary Information).

Following a decision by Council to relocate the Punchbowl Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) Service to Lakemba, further representations were made by the schools and parents using the service.

As a result, we agreed to continue to operate Punchbowl After School Care and undertake further consultation with all stakeholders.

This report summarises the outcomes of those consultations. The report recommends that Punchbowl After School Care be relocated to our

Lakemba service commencing in January 2010.7REQUESTED TRANSCRIPTS FROM COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE

MEETINGS - YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2009

This report provides a summary of transcripts to Councillors on particular matters debated at Council and Standing Committee meetings during the year ended 30 June 2009.

It is recommended the report be noted.8SSROC TENDER FOR THE PROVISION AND CO-ORDINATION OF

TEMPORARY STAFF

An Expression of Interest was advertised by the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC) on behalf of participating councils for the Provision and Coordination of Temporary Staff for which applications closed on 3 June 2008.

Eighteen submissions were received and, after an initial evaluation, eleven companies were invited to tender on 28 August 2008.

The selective tender closed on 30 September 2008. The Tender Evaluation Panel agreed on a panel of providers for the four established

groups of positions It is recommended that the outcomes from the SSROC tender be endorsed.

9E-WASTE COLLECTION

It was recently requested that a report be prepared examining the feasibility of providing an E-Waste Collection Service, similar to the household chemical cleanup service presently provided, to the residents of the City.

Until such time as there is a regulation in place requiring manufacturers to collect and recycle E-Waste, the provision of a collection service that diverts such waste away from landfill, would benefit the community and the environment.

It is recommended that an E-Waste drop off collection service be arranged for late 2009.

10OPTIONS FOR CONTROL OF CATS

Council resolved on 25 June 2009 that a report be prepared regarding free or subsidised cat de-sexing programs including the enlistment of vets; the possibility of belling cats; activities to reduce the number of strays; and that the report include discussion on the extent of the problem of stray and feral cats in the City of Canterbury.

We run a series of Operation Cat de-sexing programs in conjunction with the Cat Protection Society.

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We work with the Cat Protection Society to run programs to educate people about feeding stray cats.

We work with the National De-sexing Network to promote their national cat de-sexing month.

11LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION - 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

The Local Government Association (LGA) of NSW 2009 Annual Conference will be held in Tamworth from 25 to 28 October 2009.

We are required to advise the LGA of the names of our voting delegates to the conference.

The report also contains proposed motions to the conference. It is recommended that delegates be nominated to the conference and the motions be

endorsed.ADVISORY COMMITTEES

12COMMUNITY SAFETY COMMITTEE

The minutes of the Community Safety Committee meeting held on 6 July 2009 are presented for endorsement.

13ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

The minutes of the Economic Development Committee meeting held on 2 July 2009 are presented for endorsement.

CLOSED COUNCIL

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MAYORAL MINUTES

1 ABRUZZO EARTHQUAKE APPEAL

FILE NO: M-14-5, D-11-1

I have received representations from the Australian Abruzzo Earthquake Appeal Fund outlining the devastating effects of an earthquake that struck the region of Abruzzo in Italy on Monday 6 April, 2009.

By 15 May this year there were 298 people reported dead, over 1,000 people injured, 65,000 people displaced from their homes, and more than 15,000 buildings were damaged or completely destroyed.

The earthquake has affected many lives with over 48 towns in the province of Aquila affected. I am certain we were all profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of life, as well as the destruction of towns, homes, heritage and livelihoods in this historic region.

The rebuilding effort required for this level of destruction is difficult to comprehend and the impacts of this type of disaster are felt right around the world including in our own city by relatives and friends of people with links to the region.

Our Emergency Relief Program was established to assist the victims of natural disasters both in Australia and around the world, and in the past we have supported front-line relief efforts in response to earthquakes, fires and other natural events.

On behalf of the residents of the City of Canterbury and Council, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones in this disaster, and who are now still struggling to rebuild their lives and homes after the devastation.

I also recommend that an amount of $5000 be donated to the Australian Abruzzo Earthquake Appeal Fund under our Emergency Relief Program.

Cr Robert Furolo MPMAYOR

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ADOPTION OF TRAFFIC COMMITTEE REPORT

The minutes of the Traffic Committee meeting held on 6 July 2009 are provided in the Attachments. The reports submitted to the Traffic Committee have been forwarded to Councillors separately.

Council’s attention is drawn to the following proposed works to be completed and funds to be expended, as recommended by the Committee.

ITEM 2 CROYDON AVENUE, CROYDON PARK – PETITION TO ADDRESS ANTI-SOCIAL DRIVING ACTIVITIES

THAT1. A “No Stopping” zone (9.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m.) be installed on the

western (park) side of Croydon Avenue between Dunstan Street and the end, as shown on the plan included with the report.

2. A median island, parking bays and other parking restrictions be installed in Croydon Avenue, between Dunstan Street and the Cooks River, as shown on the concept plan included with the report, subject to consultation and as funds become available.

3. The cost of the work, estimated at $46,000, be included in a future works program.

4. The Police be requested to continue random surveillance of Croydon Avenue, between Dunstan Street and the Cooks River.

5. The head petitioner be advised of the decision

ITEM 7 LINCOLN STREET, (OMAHA TO ALBERT STREET/NINTH AVENUE) BELFIELD – PROPOSED TRAFFIC CALMING SCHEME; RESULTS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION

THAT1. The proposed traffic calming scheme for Lincoln Street proceed, as

shown on the concept plan included with the report.2. The cost of the work, estimated at $60,000, has been allocated in the

2009/2010 Budget.3. The residents who responded to the questionnaire be advised of the

decision.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT the report of the meeting of the Canterbury Traffic Committee held on 6 July 2009 be received and the recommendations contained therein, be adopted.

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OFFICERS REPORTS

2 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - PELEPONNESIAN CONFEDERATION

FILE NO: F-8-8

REPORT BY: DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICES

Summary:

• The Peleponnesian Confederation of NSW requested the use of Belmore Sportsground for their Food and Wine Festival 24 and 25 January 2009.

• The booking was approved and payment of a fee of $7,444, including a $2,000 refundable bond, was requested.

• The festival took place although no payment was made prior to the event.• The Peleponnesian Confederation has requested financial assistance to assist with the

cost of the festival.• The report outlines this request for financial assistance and recommends that the

request not be supported

City Plan and Budget Implications:If a reduction in fees is supported, this will have implications on our revenue due to the loss of income for hiring of sportsgrounds. The report supports our City Plan long term goal of Responsible Use of Resources.

Report:BackgroundThe Peleponnesian Confederation of NSW requested the use of Belmore Sportsground for their Australian-Peleponnesian Cultural, Food and Wine Festival event held on 24 and 25 January 2009. The application was assessed and an amount of $7,444, including a $2,000 bond, was requested to cover the costs of holding the event.

The fee also included the rent for Belmore Sportsground and Peter Moore Field, inspection fees for amusement devices and food stalls and supervision by Council staff of marquee assembly and vehicular access.

The event went ahead without this payment being made and despite several requests for payment of the debt owing to Council, hiring fees of $5,444 have not yet been paid. The bond has not been included in the final amount owing as there was no damage or other issues that required use of the bond monies for rectification works following the event.

Request for financial assistanceWe have recently received a formal request for financial assistance from the Peleponnesian Confederation to cover the costs of the festival.

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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - PELEPONNESIAN CONFEDERATION (CONT.)

This was the inaugural festival and the aim was to promote the cultural, social and economic cooperation between Australia and the Peleponnesian region of Greece. Close to 30 Associations worked together to stage the event and over 3,000 people attended. By all accounts the festival achieved its aims and was very successful.

The Peleponnesian Confederation has asked that their request for financial assistance be considered based on the ‘strong’ links between the Peleponnesian Confederation and the City of Canterbury. The main member organisations of the Confederation – the Pan-Arcadian Association of NSW Ltd, Argolis Association of NSW Inc and the Pan-Korinthian Association of NSW “Apostle Paul” Ltd - are based in the City and the registered address of the Confederation itself is in Campsie. The main event, the Panigiri, was held at Belmore Sportsground and other supporting events were also held in venues within the City boundaries.

Should Council consider that financial assistance to this event is appropriate, it is suggested that the outstanding fee of $5,444 be reduced to an amount which would meet a reasonable proportion of actual costs to Council. Any reduction would result in a loss of revenue emanating from use of our sporting grounds. We have previously supported similar community based events by offering waiver of the bond.

Notwithstanding the links between the Peleponnesian Confederation and the City of Canterbury, which have been promoted by the group in support of their request, a decision to grant a reduction in fees for the Australian-Peloponnesian Cultural, Food and Wine Festival 2009 is not supported. However, should council support the request from the Peleponnesian Confederation, funds would need to be provided from the contingency account for Central Ward as no budget allocation is available to subsidise requests of this nature.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT financial assistance to the Peleponnesian Confederation of NSW Inc, by way of a reduction in the required fees to hold the Australian-Peleponnesian Cultural, Food and Wine Festival 2009, not be supported.

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3 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 2009/10

FILE NO: D-14-6 PTS 40, 41 & 42

Attachments: Recommended Allocations


Summary:This report summarises applications received under our Financial Assistance Program for 2009/2010 and recommends the allocation of $76,695 to projects eligible for funding under the program guidelines.

City Plan and Budget Implications:The Financial Assistance Program was adopted as part of the 2009/10 City Plan, with a budget allocation of $75,000 allocated to specific targeted groups within the community and a further $15,000 for decorations. Under the program, the recommended allocation of $76,695.00 is within the budget. The recommendation supports our City Plan long term goals of Access to Responsive Services and Engaged Community.

Report:The Financial Assistance Program was adopted in the 2009/10 City Plan with $90,000 allocated in the adopted budget, $15,000 of which was available for festive season decorations.

Under the Financial Assistance Program guidelines, priority has been given to non-profit voluntary organisations and innovative community development projects. Although groups are eligible for up to $2,000 and many applied for the maximum available, some assessment has been made of project costs and needs to determine reasonable contributions to projects, given the limits on funding and the program guidelines.

An attempt has also been made to provide some consistency in recommended allocations across groups for like activities within certain categories to ensure the total amount distributed is within the total budget allocated under the program. These include:• Group Social events/Christmas functions $500• Community Outing $800• Minor Non-Capital Equipment $1,000• Program Costs $1,500

Where an application sought less than the maximum available funding, the donation was provided up to the amount sought.

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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 2009/10 (CONT.)There were 77 applications submitted totalling $113,771.00. Only seven applications were unable to be funded as they did not fully meet program guidelines, e.g maximum funding already provided to the group for other projects, allocated to time frame of program, non-local groups not delivering services in the area, capital equipment, or school fees assistance. The following table provides a breakdown of the number of applications by target group and funds sought and recommended.

Included in the Attachments is a précis of the applications, with recommended allocations and comments on the projects arising from the program guidelines. In line with our Social Plan target groups, the applications are assessed according to groupings as follows: the aged, children’s services, disability projects, general community projects, multicultural projects, women’s and youth projects. All applicants are listed alphabetically within these categories.

For the first time in 2009/10, a separate allocation has been made for decorations and this is included in the table below.

Target Group Number Total fundssought

Total fundsrecommended

Decorations 2 $4,000 $4,000Aged 21 $25,550 $18,260Children 7 $11,604 $9,850Disability 8 $11,350 $7,450General 6 $9,850 $2,885Multicultural 18 $32,227 $20,300Women 4 $6,500 $6,175Youth 11 $12,690 $7,810Total 77 $113,771.00 $76,695.00

Given the objective of allocating funds across a range of target groups, most grants provide contributions to program costs. Where only part funding is provided some assessment has been made that the allocation will be adequate to support the project goals assuming contributions from members and other sources.

This year the funding will be provided to several innovative projects including:• contribution towards Seniors social outings, gentle exercises and bus trips;• purchase of equipment for childcare, playgroups and seniors groups;• assistance with health, fitness and recreational activities for people with intellectual

disabilities and their carers;• contribution towards Community Festivals celebrating Harmony Day and cultural

celebrations;• language, music, dance and sporting tuition;• youth drug education program• support for victims of domestic violence ; and• purchase of decorations to celebrate occasions of community importance.

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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 2009/10 (CONT.)ConclusionThe Financial Assistance Program provides a major contribution to the viability of many community projects that promote community development and harmony in the City of Canterbury.

The recommended allocation of $76,695.00 will contribute to a diverse range of community activities consistent with the objectives of the program.

It is recommended that the grants be presented to representatives of recipient groups at a ceremony on a suitable date in August 2009.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT1. Funds totalling $76,695.00 be granted to groups as specified in the table included in

the Attachments.2. A cheque presentation ceremony be arranged on a suitable date in August 2009.

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4 INVESTMENTS AT 30 JUNE 2009

FILE NO: I-30-9 PT3

REPORT BY: RESPONSIBLE ACCOUNTING OFFICER - (MANAGER FINANCIAL SERVICES)

Summary:

• This report includes a Monthly Performance Report on investments.• Also contained in the report is a statutory report on investments submitted pursuant to

the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005.• It is recommended the report be noted.

City Plan and Budget Implications:This report has no implications for the Budget and supports our City Plan long term goals of Healthy Finances and Effective Governance.

Report:Monthly Performance ReportManagement of our investment portfolio is a critical and complicated process, the success of which is dependent upon achieving an appropriate balance across a number of factors. Performance for this period in relation to each of these is outlined below.

Total funds available for investment this period were $41,542,500.

As a result of the difficult financial environment, investment earnings are significantly lower than expected. This trend is expected to continue and future budgets are being revised accordingly.

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INVESTMENTS AT 30 JUNE 2009 (CONT.)

Key Performance Indicator Target ActualFunds invested•• Proportion of available cash invested > 80% 95%

•• Proportion of available cash held at bank < 20% 5%

Average investment rate•• Actual rate greater than benchmark (BBSW1) > 5.3% 5.49%

•• Actual rate equal to Budget rate 6% 5%

Interest earned•• Interest earned year to date (‘000) $2,500,000 $2,318,439

•• Interest earned this month (‘000) $208,333 $204,395

Product profile•• Funds held in term deposit > 25% 29%

•• Funds held in any other one product < 40% 31%

Investment term•• Number of different product investment terms used > 5 5

•• Funds held in 360+ day term 60% 69%

Investment by institution•• Funds invested through banks > 50% 83%

•• Funds invested in any other single institution type < 20% 13%

1 Bank Bill Swap Rate

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INVESTMENTS AT 30 JUNE 2009 (CONT.)Funds Invested

June

0102030405060708090

100

Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

%

Target Min Invested Actual % InvestedTarget Max at Bank Actual % at Bank

Average Investment Rate

June

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

%

BudgetActualBBSW

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INVESTMENTS AT 30 JUNE 2009 (CONT.)Interest Earned Compared to the Annual Budget as Amended

Interest Earned Year to Date

0

500,000

1,000,000

1,500,000

2,000,000

2,500,000

3,000,000

3,500,000

4,000,000

4,500,000

5,000,000

April May JuneMonth

Am

ount Budget

Actual

Investment By Institution

Banks83%

Credit Union5%

Building Society5%

Managed Fund7%LGFS

0%

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Investment by Type

11am0% CDO

22%

CPN31%FRN

16%

MF 7%

TD19%

NCD5%

Investment By Term

120-days12%

90-days10%

0-30-Days0%

360+days 69%

180-days2%

60-days7%

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Statutory ReportClause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 stipulates that a written report is to be presented at each ordinary meeting of Council detailing all money that Council has invested under Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993.

The following information is presented in accordance with the legislative requirements.

• Record of Cash InvestmentCash investments which are required to be reported under Clause 212(1)(a) to 212(1)(b) of the General Regulation are:

Purpose of Investment Amount ($) Percentage of Total

General Fund 1,500,000 3.61%Domestic Waste Management 7,121,000 17.14%Unexpended Grants 7,073,000 17.03%Developer Contributions - General 10,808,664 26.02%Employees Leave Entitlement 3,371,000 8.11%Constructions & Buildings 85,000 0.20%Election Funding 668,170 1.61%Open Space Property Acquisition 416,000 1.00%Infrastructure Maintenance 1,396,266 3.36%Property Development 2,013,689 4.85%OH & S Compliance 53,489 0.13%Infrastructure Renewal Levy 811,000 1.95%Plant & Vehicle Replacement 5,438 0.01%Organisational Development 203,961 0.49%S94 Council Contributions 1,228,410 2.96%Car Park Provisions 2,150,413 5.18%Builders Security Deposits 1,243,000 2.99%Committed Works 779,000 1.88%Computers System Upgrade 165,000 0.40%Recreation Facilities Redevelopment 450,000 1.08%

Total 41,542,500 100%

• Investment Details

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With Whom Deposit Type Invested On Maturing On Days Yield Amount

($)BankWest TD 13/05/09 11/08/09 90 4.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Bendigo Bank Ltd NCD 4/02/09 7/07/09 153 4.50% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Imb Society Ltd TD 7/04/09 15/07/09 99 4.25% 2,000,000

Total 2,000,000Credit Union Australia TD 19/05/09 18/08/09 90 4.22% 1,000,000Credit Union Australia TD 3/06/09 3/09/09 90 4.30% 1,000,000

Total 2,000,000LGFS MF 30/06/09 31/07/09 30 3.00% 1,000,000LGFS Call 30/06/09 1/07/09 1 2.90% 42,500

Total 1,042,500Macquarie Investments MF 30/06/09 31/07/09 91 4.00% 2,000,000

Total 2,000,000

Longreach Series 17 Capital

Protected Notes

3/05/06 3/05/12 2194 5.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Alpha Financial Products CDO 20/09/05 20/03/12 2373 7.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000

Longreach Series 23 Capital

Protected Notes

28/02/07 10/2/12 1808 2.25% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Nexus CDO 28/03/03 23/06/15 1827 8.87% 1,500,000

Total 1,500,000Phoenix (Aphex Pacific Capital) CDO 14/08/07 10/11/11 3653 5.10% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Deutsche Australia Infrastructure Security FRN 30/05/06 30/05/11 1826 5.74% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Magnolia Finance ‘Flinders ‘ CDO 10/12/03 20/03/12 1837 4.51% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Callable Range Accrual Notes FRN 19/01/06 31/01/11 1838 5.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000S.H.I.E.L.D Pty Ltd Capital 24/03/04 28/02/11 2532 6.26% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000

All Season Notes Capital

Protected Notes

29/06/06 29/08/14 2983 5.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Aphex Pacific Capital ‘Glenelg’ CDO 13/06/06 22/12/14 1105 4.27% 1,500,000

Total 1,500,000

Longreach Series 26Capital

ProtectedNotes

7/06/07 7/06/14 2557 6.00% 2,000,000

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($)Total 2,000,000

Corsair (Jersey No.2 Newport ) CDO 8/02/06 20/03/13 1044 4.01% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Investec NCD 7/04/09 6/07/09 90 3.48% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000

Octagon Ltd ‘Emu Notes’

Capital Protected

Notes 25/10/05 30/10/15 3657 6.77% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000


Protected Notes

28/06/07 27/06/14 2556 5.00% 2,000,000

Total 2,000,000


Protected Notes

2/03/06 7/03/12 2196 5.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000


Protected Notes

28/09/07 29/09/14 2558 5.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Prelude Europe Limited‘Credit SAIL 1’ CDO 15//11/05 30/12/11 2236 5.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Callable Range Accrual Notes FRN 15/12/05 16/12/10 1827 5.00% 500,000

Total 500,000Echo Funding Series ‘Amber’ CDO 17/11/04 20/12/09 1824 3.86% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Obelisk Trust Keolis Notes FRN 27/07/06 24/08/13 2557 6.00% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Gemini Trust-Global Property Notes FRN 15/09/06 15/09/12 2193 6.31% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000

Athena Finance‘Camelot’

Capital Protected

Notes27/02/07 28/11/11 1462 6.25% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000

Credit Suisse Sydney-P3 Notes

Capital Protected

Notes 27/02/07 28/11/11 1462 6.25% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Orion Trust-Principle Protected Ethical Notes FRN 5/07/06 5/7/12 2192 6.25% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000ANZ FRN Transferable Deposit FRN 22/04/08 22/04/13 1826 8.50% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000

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($)State Government Employees TD 20/05/09 18/08/09 90 3.84% 1,000,000

Total 1,000,000Newcastle Building Society TD 2/06/09 2/09/09 90 3.80% 2,000,000

Total 2,000,000Grand Total 41,542,500

• Income Performance

ActualInterest Received 1,439,056Interest Accrued 879,383Interest Income to date 2,318,439Estimated Interest for the Year 2,500,000Y.T.D. Budgeted Interest 2,500,000Interest Surplus (Deficit) Actual -to- Budget -(181,561)Percent Increase (Decrease) Over Budget -(7.27)%

• Investment by Maturity

No. of Investment

Amount Invested ($)

% of Investment

No. of Days less than 30 1 42,500 0.10%No. of Days between 30 – 60 2 3,000,000 7.22%No. of Days between 61 – 90 3 4,000,000 9.63%No. of Days between 91 – 120 4 5,000,000 12.04%No. of Days between 121 – 150 0 0.00 0.00%No. of Days between 151 – 180 1 1,000,000 2.41%No.of Days between 181-360 0 0.00 0.00%No. of Days 360+ 26 28,500,000 68.60%

Total 37 41,542,500 100%

• Investment by Institution

Amount Invested ($)

% of Investment

BankWest 1,000,000 2.41%IMB Society Ltd 2,000,000 4.81%LGFS 1,042,500 2.51%Macquarie Bank 2,000,000 4.81%Longreach Series 17 1,000,000 2.41%Bendigo Bank 1,000,000 2.41%Alpha Financial 1,000,000 2.41%Nexus Bonds 1,500,000 3.61%Deutsche Australia Infrastructure Security 1,000,000 2.41%Aphex Pacific Capital ‘Glenelg’ 1,500,000 3.61%

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INVESTMENTS AT 30 JUNE 2009 (CONT.)Amount

Invested ($)% of

InvestmentPhoenix –Aphex Pacific Capital 1,000,000 2.41%Investec 1,000,000 2.41%Magnolia Finance “Flinders” 1,000,000 2.41%S.H.I.E.L.D Pty Ltd Series 21 1,000,000 2.41%Callable Range Accrual Notes 1,000,000 2.41%All Season Notes 1,000,000 2.41%Longreach Series 28 2,000,000 4.81%Echo Funding Series ‘Amber’ 1,000,000 2.41%Corsair (Jersey No 2) Ltd Newport 1,000,000 2.41%Gemini Notes 1,000,000 2.41%Octagon Ltd ‘Emu Notes’ 1,000,000 2.41%Longreach Series 26 2,000,000 4.81%Prelude Europe Limited-‘Credit SAIL1’ 1,000,000 2.41%Callable Range Accrual Notes 500,000 1.20%Longreach Series 16 1,000,000 2.41%Longreach Series 23 (Strim) 1,000,000 2.41%Orion Trust-Principle Protected Ethical Notes 1,000,000 2.41%State Government Employees 1,000,000 2.41%Obelisk Trust-Keolis Notes 1,000,000 2.41%Athena Finance –‘Camelot’ 1,000,000 2.41%Credit Suisse Sydney –P3 Notes 1,000,000 2.41%Longreach Series 29 1,000,000 2.41%Newcastle Building Society 2,000,000 4.81%ANZ Transferable Deposit 1,000,000 2.41%Credit Union Australia 2,000,000 4.81%

Total 41,542,500 100%

Report on Council's Investments – Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993I hereby certify that investments have been made in accordance with the Act, the Regulations and Council’s Investment Policy.

Record of QuotationsA separate record of quotations is kept.

D. CumingResponsible Accounting Officer

RECOMMENDATION:THAT the report be noted.

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5 LAKEMBA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RAMADAN ACTIVITIES

FILE NO: C-256-6


Summary:

• This report responds to a request from Lakemba Chamber of Commerce seeking assistance to conduct activities in Lakemba Town Centre during Ramadan 2009.

• The Chamber has also requested financial support for these activities under our Financial Assistance Program (FAP). This request is addressed in this report.

• We have reviewed Risk Management, Compliance and Waste and Cleaning issues in relation to the event.

• This report recommends support for this activity, conditional on a range of requirements that will ensure the success of these proposed activities.

• These requirements include a detailed plan of the proposed activity area and a coordination meeting comprising Council staff, Chamber of Commerce Representatives and the local Police.

City Plan and Budget Implications:This report has implications for the Budget to the value of $7,800. It is recommended that funds to meet this cost be allocated from the West Ward contingency account. This proposal supports our City Plan long term goal of an Attractive City and a Stronger Community.

Report:Ramadan is the Islamic month of fasting, where participating Muslims refrain from eating, drinking and smoking from sunrise until sunset. As it is based on the lunar calendar, the dates for Ramadan vary each year. In 2009, Ramadan occurs between 22 August and 21 September.

The Lakemba Chamber of Commerce would like to attract families to Lakemba during this period, have local restaurants and shops open later and be able to attract customers up until 11pm. They have requested the following specific support:• More regular street cleaning and extra bins• Street beautification including lights in trees down Haldon Street• Additional seating, or permission for seating on the footpaths between 6pm and 11pm• Permission for heaters on the footpaths between these hours• Permission for street decorations

A response to these individual requests is detailed in this report.

In principle, it is recommended that this activity be supported. A variety of conditions will need to be put in place to address issues such as pedestrian safety, security, cleanliness and the amenity of surrounding residents and businesses.

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LAKEMBA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RAMADAN ACTIVITIES (CONT.)

It is recommended that a specified area of Haldon Street be defined as a Special Event Precinct for the duration of the activity, with appropriate signage and notification to residents and businesses of the proposed activities.

As part of an overall approval for a special event, it is suggested that a designated area be allocated with permission to use additional seating and heating devices, with some special conditions. These would include:• a detailed plan of proposed seating/heating areas being provided to Council with

information provided as to where additional seating and heating devices would be placed during the evening event and where they would be stored during non-operational hours

• appropriate insurance policy of $20 million public liability insurance being held by the Chamber of Commerce, with Council noted on the policy and a copy of the Certificate of Currency to be provided to Council

• an event coordinator/liaison person from the Chamber of Commerce being designated to address issues that arise during each evening event session

To commence this process and to manage specific issues it is suggested that a meeting be convened including Chamber of Commerce representatives together with the local Police, Council staff from Waste/Cleaning, Events, Risk Management, Rangers/Compliance and Town Centres/Economic Development. This group would be requested to provide update reports as necessary.

• Street Cleaning and Waste IssuesFor both street cleaning and waste removal, the current level of servicing would be sufficient to address the town centre during Ramadan. Street cleaning and waste removal is undertaken on a daily basis throughout the Town Centre area with services commencing from 11.30pm. It will be imperative that all items of additional furniture are removed from the footways each evening in order for this cleaning/waste removal schedule to proceed.

This current provision could be re-assessed once activities commence with additional bins or cleaning services added, if necessary.

• Compliance IssuesGenerally, individual restaurants must seek approval for outdoor dining as per Council’s Development Control Plan 44 (DCP 44) – Activities in Public Places. In this instance, it would appear that the best approach is to obtain an outline of the restaurants that would be providing additional seating and heating and to deal with them as a single application by the Chamber of Commerce.

It is recommended that:- additional seating/heating areas only be provided adjacent to restaurants within

the Lakemba Town Centre with the areas designated on a plan of the area- only food prepared within the local restaurants be able to be consumed in the

footway seating areas- food prepared elsewhere or the preparation of food on footways be specifically

prohibited

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LAKEMBA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RAMADAN ACTIVITIES (CONT.)It is recommended that Council Rangers monitor the operation of the event area. This is judged to be necessary to ensure the proper removal of furniture and other items from the footways, to ensure that the event area does not extend beyond the agreed boundaries and to ensure the amenity of neighbouring residents is protected. It is expected that the Chamber of Commerce liaison officer would work with the Rangers to ensure these issues are addressed.

• Decorations and lightingThe Chamber of Commerce have requested street beautification, lighting and permission for street decorations during this period.

The decorations requested are those which were specifically referred to and included in the options for funding in this year’s Financial Assistance Program (FAP).

This is the first application by the Lakemba Chamber of Commerce with regard to Ramadan activities in the Lakemba Town Centre. No budget allocation has been provided to cover the costs associated with this event which are estimated at $7800. Should Council support the event, it is recommended that funds be allocated from the West Ward contingency account.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT 1. Ramadan Activities proposed by the Lakemba Chamber of Commerce be supported in

principle.2. Funds be allocated from West Ward contingency account to cover the costs associated

with the event.3. All requirements for the event as outlined in the report and as may be requested by the

local Police and coordination group in consultation, be met by the Chamber of Commerce as the organisers of the event.

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6 PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

FILE NO: C-72-806


Summary:

• This matter was deferred by Council on 25 June 2009 to allow for a site inspection of both the Lakemba and Punchbowl Outside School Hours Care centres (see Supplementary Information).

• Following a decision by Council to relocate the Punchbowl Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) Service to Lakemba, further representations were made by the schools and parents using the service.

• As a result, we agreed to continue to operate Punchbowl After School Care and undertake further consultation with all stakeholders.

• This report summarises the outcomes of those consultations.• The report recommends that Punchbowl After School Care be relocated to our

Lakemba service commencing in January 2010.

City Plan and Budget Implications:Should a decision be made to close our Punchbowl After School Service, this would result in recurrent net savings of at least $71,260. The report supports our City Plan long term goal of Access to Responsive Services and Engaged Community.

Report:Council considered a report in November 2008 and recommended that Lakemba and Punchbowl After School Hours Services be combined due to continued under-utilisation at both services. It was proposed that the Punchbowl Service would operate from our Lakemba After School care premises at Lakemba Public School.

Families utilising our service at St Jerome’s Punchbowl were notified in November 2008 of our decision to transfer the service to Lakemba after the end of Term 1 2009, providing 5 months notice. Representatives of each school involved were also notified.At that time, we received two complaints from families about our decision. Subsequently, we have also received a letter signed by representatives of local schools and the St Jeromes parish objecting to the closure of the service.

Due to the concerns raised, a commitment was made to further consult with all stakeholders regarding the decision, and to continue to operate Punchbowl After School care during this process.

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PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION (CONT.)ConsultationFurther consultation and individual discussions were held during April 2009 with the principals of each school, Lakemba Public School, Punchbowl Public School and St Jeromes Primary School, as well as the priest of St Jeromes parish and all families using the Punchbowl After School Care service.

A survey was also delivered to all families of children who have utilised our service on a regular or casual basis in the past 18 months. These surveys were either hand delivered at the centre or sent by post to those who were not currently using the service.

Consultation with families, users and non users was also undertaken by the Parents and Friends Committee of St Jeromes School.

Consultation with Local SchoolsSenior staff met with each of the three school principals and the parish priest individually. They were all asked to describe the issues and concerns they had regarding the closure and relocation of Punchbowl After School Care. These concerns are summarised below as well as some suggestions that were put forward to Lakemba Public School some 2 km away.

• Children’s safetyThe safety of children being transported to an alternative venue for after school care was the main issue raised. There is a concern that children will be left unattended in the school playground while waiting for the bus to pick them up; there is already heavy traffic at that time of day and a bus transport service would add to the congestion. Busy roads are a safety concern and having children transported is not as popular with some families. A question was also raised about children arriving back late to school from sport and possibly missing the pick up bus.

In addition, if families choose not to use the service, the safety of children may be compromised if they find their own way home, walk in unsafe areas, are “latch key kids”, or being left with carers who may lack the skills to care for and protect them adequately.

ResponseWe currently provide transport services from local schools to our services at Punchbowl, Clemton Park and Lakemba. Our service includes a vehicle driving to other schools parking nearby and staff meeting the children at a designated pick-up point.

We have been running a transport service for over 12 years and there has not been any significant issues affecting the timeliness and safety of children. Teachers from the pick-up schools are aware of our service and support the supervision of children if and when required.

If families are unable to use our service, there are private outside school operators in close proximity to St Jerome’s that can provide an alternative service. Ultimately parents must make their own decisions about the best way to manage the safety of their children.

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PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION (CONT.)

• TransportConcerns were also raised regarding transportation time and the amount of time spent picking children up from various schools was seen as “wasted”. Also there are some families who walk to St Jeromes and it would be more difficult for them to get to Lakemba.

ResponseWhile transporting children is not a preferred use of children’s time it is an inevitable requirement to guarantee their proper supervision and safety. We are also conscious of the need to transport children in a timely manner to their after school care venue.

Unfortunately some families may find the distance to Lakemba prohibitive however alternate private providers who offer comparable fee subsidies are available in this area.

• Social responsibilityOther issues of social responsibility were mentioned, particularly in regard to disadvantaged families and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) families in the area and access and equity of services. It was suggested that more mothers are returning to work, largely part time, as fathers were losing jobs and becoming carers of children. It was also suggested that many families with limited English or knowledge of our systems may be unaware of services and the real costs to them, after Child Care Benefit (CCB). Lakemba and Punchbowl were mentioned as areas of priority and a social responsibility to improve the lives of children and families.

ResponseCouncil recognises its social responsibility and therefore it will continue to support this local community including Punchbowl through the provision of a service in Lakemba. We are conscious of the specific issues that face CALD families and provide a range of services to ensure they have adequate information to access programs and activities both in Punchbowl and in nearby communities such as Lakemba and Riverwood.

• Transparency of costsA school principal and parish priest requested information regarding the costs of providing the service and numbers in attendance and this has been provided. We have also received a request for information under Section 12 of the Local Government Act from a parent.

ResponseThe costs associated with providing After School Hours Care at Punchbowl are substantially higher than those incurred at Lakemba due to higher rental costs, staffing and equipment storage costs. Our net result is also affected by utilisation levels.

Even with the additional space required for the proposed increase in numbers at Lakemba, this venue provides a more financially sustainable option than continuing both services separately.

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Summary income and expensesPunchbowl and Lakemba After School Care

for the year ended 30 June 2008Punchbowl - $ Lakemba - $ Total - $

Income 31,530 49,455 80,985Expenses 102,790 80,218 183,008Net Result -71,260 -30,763 -102,023

These figures are itemised below.

Detailed income and expensesPunchbowl and Lakemba After School Care

for the year ended 30 June 2008Punchbowl - $ Lakemba - $

IncomeFeesGrants

7,56723,96331,530

17,31032,14549,455

ExpensesEmployee costsRentEquipmentUtilitiesCateringCleaningCash collectionPrint/stationeryComputer costsSubscriptionsExcursionsSundry

82,7729,0313,2411,599

8762,7871,551

280244342

0 67102,790

70,6502,444

999413731

2,2251,320

170229320

0 71780,218

Net Result -71,260 -30,763

• Additional suggestionsSuggestions were offered to address issues of under-utilisation of the service and the impact of a decision to close the service.

With regard to under-utilisation, it was suggested that as some families had received notification that Punchbowl After School care was definitely closing, they were not using the service anymore; there is high unemployment in this area or only one parent working so there is less need to use the service; that there are some families who do not understand the Child Care Benefit system.

Suggestions for increasing numbers included promotion of the service in the school newsletter, specific marketing and better explanation of the Child Care Benefit system to families, particularly for newly arrived migrant families; and picking up children from other schools such as Hampden Park, Lakemba.

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PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION (CONT.)It was suggested that there would be increased costs to Council in combining both services. Lakemba Public School advised that they would need to make available an additional space and charge for use of this when numbers at this service increased. St Jeromes advised that they would be likely to increase the cost of rent for vacation care to compensate for lost income if we withdraw our after school service, and we would be required to renegotiate storage and hiring costs associated with continuing our vacation care program at the school.

ResponseWe have been offering services in the Punchbowl area for many years and sustained marketing and promotion of the service has been critical to securing the utilisation we have achieved. This includes extensive promotion of the fee relief system in community languages.

The suggestion to collect children from other schools is already being undertaken with pick up services from Hampden Rd Public School which has been provided since we withdrew from a service from there in the mid 90s. There are two other services including Jenday Long Day Care Service in Arthur Street, Punchbowl and Colonial Preschool from Roselands that also transport children from local schools in the area.

Additional costs of rental for the change of service would need to be factored into the new budgets for the co-located service, but the relocation of the Punchbowl service to Lakemba will still result in overall substantial cost reductions.

Survey of families using Punchbowl After School Care A survey of all families using Punchbowl After School Care was undertaken. A total of 32 surveys were delivered either by hand or by mail to both casual and permanent users of our service in the past 18 months. Ten responses were received. Two parents said they did not have a car and would need to take the train to Lakemba, two families indicated that Lakemba was too far away and they would look for alternate care providers. One parent indicated that their job would be affected by the change. In terms of bus pick-up service, six parents indicated that they were not happy with the proposed change because it was more difficult for pick up and involved more travel.

ResponseUnfortunately the transfer of children does involve some inconvenience to some families, however we believe the quality of service will be maintained at Lakemba and offer some improvements for small group programming. We have been providing transport from other schools unable to sustain a service on-site and despite initial reservations families have accepted these arrangements.

For those families unwilling or unable to transfer to Lakemba, alternative options are available in our local community.

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PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION (CONT.)Consultation with all families of St Jeromes and Punchbowl Public School Consultation with families attending both Punchbowl Public and St Jeromes Primary Schools was undertaken by St Jeromes Parents and Friends Committee. These results were sent to us on 7 May 2009. The correspondence we received included tables of prospective numbers for before school care and after school care and suggestions for increasing numbers. This survey of all families in the school indicated some interest in taking up places, on average between 26 and 35 children.

ResponseWhilst the survey has indicated some interest in creating higher utilisation we have been promoting the service and encouraging this outcome for many years and have been unable to achieve a consistent and sustained level of utilisation.

The feedback from the Committee did not include the questions asked nor indicate the level of commitment from respondents to actually take up these places. Our experience has been that on average only half of this number of children have actually taken up the available care.

Options now available to CouncilThere are a number of options available to support the need for After School care services in this community.

• Continue to provide the service as per the current modelIn the long term, this option is considered unsustainable due to the financial disadvantage of providing the service at St Jeromes for a small number of families.

• Provide time for the service to increase numbersUnderutilisation of this service is not a recent issue and substantial promotional activites have been undertaken in recent years to promote the service and encourage families to use it in an effort to generate the required average attendance numbers. Further time could be provided to better promote the availability of the service (with our assistance) and attendances could again be monitored however, our past experience shows that even with this effort, better utilisation of the service has not occurred.

• Support the Parents and Citizens Committee or an independent community-based committee to establish their own program at St Jerome’s There are nine other after school hours care providers within the City, many of which are run by school Parents and Citizens Committees. These school communities have shown a strong commitment to supporting a service within their school. Should St Jeromes wish to continue to provide an after school care service at their school, we can provide assistance with accreditation, support for applications to funding bodies for Child Care Benefit and perhaps some direct seed funding. This option has not been discussed with the school and would require some negotiation as to whether they would be prepared to take on this responsibility.

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PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION (CONT.)There is a level of interest in the community by not for profit organisations to establish after school services in the area, and with the school’s support Council could also play a role in supporting external providers establish a new program in the school. This could form part of the development of transitional arrangements up to the closure of a Council service – if this was to be finalised by the end of 2009.

• Transfer the Punchbowl After School care Service to LakembaThis is the preferred option to continue to provide an after school care service in this local community and in a more cost effective manner for a larger number of families. We would recommend that the change to Lakemba not occur until January 2010 to enable students and parents to complete the current school year in the existing service and provide adequate notice for alternate care arrangements to be made by parents.

ConclusionFollowing Council’s previous decision, we have further consulted with current and past users of Punchbowl After School Care, school representatives, the Principals of each local school and the Parish Priest.

We will provide priority access to an after school care service through Lakemba for those families that wish to continue to utilise a council service and there are alternatives for affected families in the form of private providers of after school care services in the vicinity of the school.

The concerns mentioned are valid however they affect only a small number of families – too small to make the centre sustainable in the longer term on its own. We have been committed to providing these services and tried over many years to promote them and increase attendance, but numbers have remained quite low.

We already provide a bus pick up service for Lakemba After School Care and staff ensure the safety of children at all times. Issues concerning child safety and transport outside schools are carefully managed and there has been no incident in the 12 years we have been providing this program to other schools in our city.

The numbers at our Lakemba service are also low and to continue to provide an economically viable and sustainable service we should look to combine both services. The costs associated with providing the service at the Lakemba venue are much lower (even with the additional space required) than those incurred at Punchbowl.

The numbers required in order for each service to continue and achieve close to break even costs would be 27 at Punchbowl and 25 at Lakemba. These numbers would have to be consistent every day of each school term in order to achieve this result. Despite significant effort over the years and resulting increases on some days, we have not managed to achieve this goal at either centre.

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PUNCHBOWL OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE REVIEW - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION (CONT.)Attendance figures for 2008 at Punchbowl indicate a gradual increase over the year. While the highest average in one week was 18, with an overall average of 14, these numbers are still very low. There has been a continued increase in Term 1 2008, with an overall average in Term 2 at both centres of 19 children. The highest weekly average was 25 and the lowest was 11. In the first half of the term, numbers ranged between 10 and 21, with 21 reached on one day only. In the second term, numbers ranged from 18 to 25, again with 25 reached on one day only.

The net cost of both services for the year 2007-2008 is $102,023, with Punchbowl costing $71,260 and Lakemba $30,763.

On balance, continuation of the service at Punchbowl is not as cost-effective as combining the service delivery to a single venue at Lakemba. Alternate service providers in the immediate area mean that a service of this nature is still available to the community and we may be able to work with other providers to establish a new community based service at the school. In addition there is the potential for existing families to transfer to our Lakemba site securing the longer term viability of this service to the area.

Supplementary Information:Council on 25 June 2009 resolved as follows.

“THAT 1. The item be deferred pending a site inspection of both the Lakemba and

Punchbowl Outside School Hours Care centres.2. A report be prepared detailing any other community service providers

interested in providing a community based outside school hours care service in Punchbowl.”

An on-site inspection of the Lakemba and Punchbowl OSHC centres was held at 5.30pm on 20 July 2009.

In the week of Monday the 15 June, 2009 the Director of Riverwood Community Centre, Ms Pauline Gallagher contacted Council staff to express interest in the possibility of the centre playing a role in providing a service to families at St Jeromes and Punchbowl Public School. Although the matter had not been discussed formally with the Board of the Community Centre, the Parish or the school, Ms Gallagher subsequently indicated that two options to support families from the schools could be offered:• Negotiations could take place with the school to establish a service at the school,

although financially real concessions would need to be made by the parish concerning hall rental and other costs.

• Alternatively, a transport service to Riverwood Community Centre Before and After School program could be established that would provide ready access to an existing program. Although this would be similar to what Council was offering at Lakemba, this would provide another option for parents that would not require families to travel across King George’s Rd.

Ms Gallagher has indicated that she has not entered discussions with any other party until Council had made a decision about its service.

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RECOMMENDATION:THAT 1. The previous decision to close Punchbowl After School Care and relocate to Lakemba

be endorsed and the Punchbowl service cease to operate from January 2010.2. In consultation with the school, approaches be made to external providers to gauge and

support the level of interest to establish a community-based service at St Jerome’s School commencing in 2010.

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7 REQUESTED TRANSCRIPTS FROM COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS - YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2009

FILE NO: C-123-22 PT2


Summary:

• This report provides a summary of transcripts to Councillors on particular matters debated at Council and Standing Committee meetings during the year ended 30 June 2009.

• It is recommended the report be noted.

City Plan and Budget Implications:This report has no implications for the City Plan and Budget.

Report:In accordance with the Policy on ‘Audio Recording of Council Meetings’ adopted by Council on 23 March 2006, a summary follows of transcripts provided to Councillors on particular matters debated at Council or Standing Committee meetings during the past financial year.

Transcript No. 2/2008 – Requested by Councillor AdlerBeginning portion of ‘questions/business without notice’ during the Council meeting held on 28 August 2008.

Transcript No. 3/2008 - Requested by Councillor SalehDebate regarding election of Deputy Mayor at the Extraordinary Council meeting held on 9 October 2008.

Transcript No. 4/2008 - Requested by Councillor SalehDebate regarding ‘questions without notice’ asked by Councillor Hawatt about Councillor Saleh at the Council meeting held on 27 November 2008.

Transcript No. 1/2009 - Requested by Councillor SalehDebate regarding management of Punchbowl multi-purpose community centre at the Council meeting held on 25 June 2009.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT the report be noted.

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8 SSROC TENDER FOR THE PROVISION AND CO-ORDINATION OF TEMPORARY STAFF

FILE NO: S-36-35 (E)


Summary:

• An Expression of Interest was advertised by the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC) on behalf of participating councils for the Provision and Coordination of Temporary Staff for which applications closed on 3 June 2008.

• Eighteen submissions were received and, after an initial evaluation, eleven companies were invited to tender on 28 August 2008.

• The selective tender closed on 30 September 2008.• The Tender Evaluation Panel agreed on a panel of providers for the four established

groups of positions • It is recommended that the outcomes from the SSROC tender be endorsed.

City Plan and Budget Implications:Funds are provided for the provision and coordination of temporary staff in the budget. Endorsement of the tender outcomes supports our City Plan long term goals of Healthy Finances and Efficient Services.

Report:BackgroundAn analysis of the potential of an SSROC contract for the Provision and Coordination of Temporary Staff was undertaken by the Supply Management group and SSROC.

It was agreed significant financial savings could be made across participating SSROC councils by:1. Securing a more competitive pricing structure to deliver better value for money

services compared to existing arrangements;2. Securing supplier/s able to service all member councils; and3. Ensuring a high level of consistent capability from the service providers.

For these reasons the SSROC advertised an Expression of Interest.

Invitation to TenderFollowing the call for expressions of interest by SSROC in June 2008, eighteen submissions were received, and after an initial evaluation, eleven companies were invited to tender in August 2008.

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SSROC TENDER FOR THE PROVISION AND CO-ORDINATION OF TEMPORARY STAFF (CONT.)

The selective tender closed on 30 September 2008. Bankstown City Council agreed to act as the host council for receipt and stewardship of the tender submissions. Tender submissions were received from the following companies:• Spectrum Employment Solutions Ltd• Vedior• IPA• Adecco• All Staff Australia• McArthur Management Services• Recruitment Edge• DFP Recruitment Services• Protech Personnel• Local Government Appointments• Commensura

Tender Evaluation PanelA tender evaluation panel was formed to assess the tender submissions, prepare a tender report and make recommendations to SSROC councils. The panel comprised representatives from:• SSROC• Sutherland Shire Council• Bankstown City Council• Marrickville City Council

Evaluation CriteriaIncluded in the Conditions of Tender was advice informing prospective tenderers of the criteria upon which each tender would be assessed. All tenderers were required to meet the mandatory criteria.

Mandatory Criteria(a) Conformity with tender/quotation submission requirements(b) Financial and Commercial Trading Integrity(c) Occupational Health and Safety Systems

An evaluation of desirable (quality) criteria was applied to the tenders. As not all the criteria were of equal importance and in order to provide a more precise evaluation, weighting factors, as shown in the table below, were used in the assessment process.

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Desirable Criteria Weighting (%)Proven Capacity to meet contract based on past performance and capacity to meet current service

30%

Delivery and Performance Standards 20%Proposed service methodology and customer service 30%Quality assurance programs 8%Adherence to Environmental Management and Procurement Guidelines 1%Appropriate consideration of sustainability issues 1%References 10%Total 100%

The cost of each tender was assessed and a value ratio calculated considering the following:(a) Prices for the Goods/Services;(b) Prices for travel, where applicable;(c) Discounts offered, where applicable; and(d) Any other charges forming part of the tender.

Tender Evaluation Panel’s ReportThe tender evaluation panel agreed it would be inappropriate to select only one tender as the ranking of prices frequently varied from one position to another. Furthermore, they felt it inappropriate to look at each position in isolation. It was therefore decided to establish four distinct groups of positions to ensure consistency in pricing. These were:• Group 1 – Clerical/Administration/Support• Group 2 – Trades and Operational• Group 3 – Professional Officers – Engineering/Planning/Environment• Group 4 – Professional Officers – Finance/Child Care/Librarians

Following the assessment process, the tender evaluation panel listed a panel of suppliers for each group of positions as shown below, and recommended SSROC councils enter into an agreement with suppliers as appropriate.

Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4AdeccoAll StaffSpectrumIPAMcArthur Management Services

SpectrumIPAAll StaffAdeccoRecruitment Edge

All StaffSpectrumProtech

All StaffAdeccoSpectrum

The tender evaluation panel recommended the contract be awarded for two years with an option to extend for a further one year across the four groups. Furthermore, it was recommended no other temporary staff providers be engaged outside the contract in relation to this tender, unless:• the panel of providers cannot fulfill the required position with both suitable candidates

and within suitable timeframes required by council, and• any current temporary staff agency contracts in place will continue until expiry (and

will not usually be extended), and will then convert to new contracts.

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CommentSSROC have advised a comparison of normal rates charged by the suppliers show the tender prices for the cheapest rate quoted provided savings in a range of 0% to 19%. For the more expensive rates within the four panels of suppliers, the savings range from 5% to 17%, compared to their normal rates.

It is understood savings will vary from council to council and from position to position. However, the SSROC have proposed a saving of approximately 14% on current rates for like positions based on feedback from six councils who utilise temporary staff.

Of the combined annual expenditure of $10,000,000 across fourteen SSROC councils, SSROC expect to save up to $1,000,000 across the region. We can expect that by using the preferred suppliers listed for the provision and coordination of temporary staff, significant financial savings will be made.

It is recommended that the outcomes from the SSROC Tender be endorsed.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT the panel of suppliers proposed following evaluation of the SSROC tender for the provision and coordination of temporary staff be endorsed.

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9 E-WASTE COLLECTION

FILE NO: W-53-1 PT2

REPORT BY: DIRECTOR CITY WORKS

Summary:

• It was recently requested that a report be prepared examining the feasibility of providing an E-Waste Collection Service, similar to the household chemical cleanup service presently provided, to the residents of the City.

• Until such time as there is a regulation in place requiring manufacturers to collect and recycle E-Waste, the provision of a collection service that diverts such waste away from landfill, would benefit the community and the environment.

• It is recommended that an E-Waste drop off collection service be arranged for late 2009.

City Plan and Budget Implications:No provision has been made in the 2009/10 Budget to provide an E-Waste drop off collection service. The estimated cost of providing a single service is $23,000 and it could be funded from the Domestic Waste Reserve in which there is sufficient funds. The collection of E-Waste supports our City Plan Stronger Community, Healthy Environment and Improving Organisation themes.

Report:Council at the meeting held on 28 May 2009, resolved:

“THAT a report be prepared to examine the establishment of an E-Waste drop off service, similar to the household chemical cleanup, so residents can dispose of old televisions, computers and other electrical equipment. The report should also examine opportunities to re-use equipment where possible and make it available to community organisations.”

BackgroundThe Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 has strengthened Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) provisions for manufacturers/retailers to resource the recovery, disposal and recycling of E-Waste. Under Part 4 of the Act provision has been made for the implementation and operation of EPR schemes in NSW, however, to date, the Minister has not imposed a regulated EPR scheme for E-Waste. The NSW Government’s preference is not to regulate for EPR if an effective, national voluntary scheme can be developed.

The Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) in their Extended Producer Responsibility Priority Statement 2007, lists 16 “wastes of concern”; the main waste priorities include computers, mobile phones and televisions.

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E-WASTE COLLECTION (CONT.)Despite the listings of various products containing hazardous waste in Priority Statements since 2004, no voluntary national waste recovery schemes have yet been established, however, some businesses such as DELL and Hewlett Packard do take back computers and a number of retailers take back used cartridges.

This Council takes part in the Cartridges for Planet Ark and Mobile Muster Programs, which provide resources and support for the collection and recycling of used printer cartridges and mobile phones in the local area. These are voluntary linked industry schemes which only target a small part of the E-Waste problem.

In 2007 a report was considered by the Committee in response to a request from the Total Environment Centre Inc that we join with a growing number of other NSW Councils in calling for a solution to the problem of the disposal of toxic computer waste. This Council submitted a motion to the 2007 Local Government Association Conference calling on the NSW Government to require manufacturers to collect and recycle waste computers.

This report is a further investigation of the options available to safely collect and dispose of E-Waste in light of the situation that EPR is not yet a regulated or mandatory requirement for manufacturers and the fact that DECC has made no apparent progress in establishing EPR in NSW.

CommentElectronic Waste (E-Waste) is defined as most consumer electrical and electronic equipment. This includes, but is not limited to, televisions, computers and monitors and their associated accessories, video/DVD players, radios, stereos, mobile phones, portable equipment, laptops and cordless appliances.

Increasingly in Australia during the last decade, our reliance on these appliances, and our subsequent disposal of old appliances, has created large amounts of this new type of waste. The 2005 Benchmark Survey into Electronic Waste in Households found that 1.4 billion major electronic appliance and equipment were contained within Sydney homes; 99% of households had one or more televisions and 66% had one or more computers. An amazing 1.2 million of the above items were estimated to be not in working order and stored. With the phasing out of analogue TVs by 2010 it is expected that there will be a greater number of these appliances disposed of over the next 12 months.

E-Waste Disposal OptionPGM Refiners Pty Ltd is an Australian technology company which focuses on the upgrading of electronic scrap metal. It is a 100% subsidiary of Chemmet Pty Ltd, which is a family owned company and is the largest shareholder of Hydro Met Corporation Ltd. PGM is continually developing new technologies to treat the hazardous material contained in E-Waste and also to recover other recyclable material such as metal concentrates.

Working in partnership with PGM Refiners, is Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association (PRA), a “not for profit” social enterprise group. PRA’s social enterprise computer re-use facility located at West Ryde, provides a hands on approach to computer reuse and creates employment for disadvantaged workers. In addition, PRA provides affordable recycled technology to the wider community and shows leadership in dealing with electronic waste.

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E-WASTE COLLECTION (CONT.)The proposal submitted to us by PGM Refiners and PRA provides for the collection, refurbishment and recycling of up to 95% of E-Waste collected in Canterbury. Typical components recovered include metals, plastics, cables, glass, batteries, circuit boards and packaging. Reporting of the outcomes of each collection can be provided and includes a Certificate of Recycling.

An E-Waste drop off collection service provided by Council utilising PGM Refiners Pty Ltd and PRA will assist us to meet our social, environmental and economic objectives.

E-Waste Collection ProposalA suitable site for the collection of E-Waste would be at the northern end of the Shakespeare Street car park at the rear of the Administration building and adjacent to Lofts Gardens. This car park comfortably allows for two lanes of traffic at a time and has easy entry/egress. The car park has been previously used on Household Chemical Collection days without incident.

Council staff would regulate traffic flow into and out of the site while PGM and PRA staff would assist residents to unload the E-Waste from vehicles and sort material suitable for recycling or reuse.

The estimated cost of providing the drop off collection service (staffing, traffic control, hiring containers, advertising etc) is $23,000; $10,000 of this amount is a payment to PGM Refiners who incur costs in recovering and treating the hazardous material contained in the E-Waste. The service could be provided at the end of National Recycling Week (generally the second week in November). This would allow ample opportunity to promote the new service.

If a collection system is implemented, on the collection day, residents would be surveyed to identify their postcode area, how they found out about the service, what E-Waste was being disposed of, how they previously disposed of E-Waste and whether they would use the service again if it was offered in the future.

ConclusionRecent advice received from the Waste Management Association of Australia (WMAA) on Extended Producer Responsibility is that the mandatory recycling of electronic equipment is likely to be introduced next year. Goods such as computers, televisions, printers and mobile phones would be included in a scheme aimed at eliminating E-Waste from landfill where the leaching of lead, arsenic, copper, beryllium, mercury and zinc toxins have the potential to contaminate soil and ground water.

Further information on this proposal is likely to become available in November; there appears to be a strong community willingness to pay for recycling programs and with the impending switch from analog to digital television in late 2010, this move is timely.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT the proposal to provide an E-Waste drop off collection service in late 2009, utilising the services of PGM Refiners Pty Ltd and PRA to collect, repair and recycle waste where possible, be approved, and that $23,000 be voted from the Domestic Waste Reserve for the purpose.

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10 OPTIONS FOR CONTROL OF CATS

FILE NO: C-62-2

REPORT BY: DIRECTOR CITY PLANNING

Summary:

• Council resolved on 25 June 2009 that a report be prepared regarding free or subsidised cat de-sexing programs including the enlistment of vets; the possibility of belling cats; activities to reduce the number of strays; and that the report include discussion on the extent of the problem of stray and feral cats in the City of Canterbury.

• We run a series of Operation Cat de-sexing programs in conjunction with the Cat Protection Society.

• We work with the Cat Protection Society to run programs to educate people about feeding stray cats.

• We work with the National De-sexing Network to promote their national cat de-sexing month.

City Plan and Budget Implications:Adoption of this report’s recommendation may have financial implication for the City Plan if we elected to subsidize the cost of de-sexing of animals for health care card holders.

Report:Council resolved on 25 June 2009:

“THAT1. A report be supplied to the next Council meeting on a program to offer free

and/or subsidized de-sexing of cats in Canterbury as a way to reduce the number of stray and domestic cats occupying areas like Lakemba and Belmore shopping centres. Consideration is to be given as to whether to offer free cat de-sexing to just low income earners and pensioners, or, to the whole community. Possibly free cat de-sexing may be given over a 6 months period and continue with subsidized cat de-sexing for high income earners and free for pensioners and low income earners.

2. Vets and animal welfare organisations who are prepared to provide the service at a reasonable cost be enlisted to the program whether in or outside the LGA.

3. The report should also examine the possibility of Council requiring all cats being belled so that they warn native animals and birds of their presence.

4. Other activities that could reduce the numbers of strays to be included in the report.

5. The report should also include discussion on the extent of the problem with feral and stray cats in the City of Canterbury.”

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OPTIONS FOR CONTROL OF CATS (CONT.)Free or Subsidised De-sexing of Cats in CanterburyCouncil, as a stand alone organisation, is not in a position to offer a go-it-alone program for free or subsidised de-sexing of cats as we do not have the resources or experience to assess correctly and independently applications for assistance.

The general costs associated with de-sexing a cat from a local vet are $170 for a female and $88 for a male plus any other associated costs that may be applicable. It is unknown how many cats are housed in the City of Canterbury but an estimate could be as many as 10,000.

To offer free or subsidised de-sexing of cats for all our residents would be cost prohibitive and no provision has been made in the 2009/2010 budget to provide such a service. There are a number of welfare organisations that offer discounted de-sexing of cats to pensioners and other people on low incomes.

The National De-sexing Network (NDN) is a nationwide referral system for discounted de-sexing made available to pet owners in financial need. Their goal is to end pet overpopulation by making this service more affordable to those who might not otherwise be in a position to de-sex their pets. The NDN was established in 2005 as a program of the Animal Welfare League of Queensland.

The NDN has a nationwide network of more than 168 participating veterinary clinics. Veterinarians in the program calculate their own prices according to what they find acceptable. Generally, they offer de-sexing at 20-50% less than the regular price.

In August each year the NDN organises National De-sexing Month. During this month, welfare organisations, veterinarians, pounds and councils are encouraged to raise awareness about pet overpopulation and promote de-sexing as a humane method of solving it.

We intend to work with the NDN in August 2009 to promote their de-sexing month.

The NDN have an application form available on their website and assess applications from anywhere in Australia and require that the recipients of the subsidised cat de-sexing are pensioners or those who can demonstrate that they cannot otherwise afford to have their companion animal de-sexed and are screened by the staff from NDN. Applicants are mailed a referral certificate to take to their veterinarian who honours the agreed fee. The discounted service is then paid for by the client at the time of their visit.

The Cat Protection Society runs a subsidised de-sexing program called “Operation Cat”. In the past we have promoted this program in conjunction with the Cat Protection Society, this however was a little time ago. We have had discussions with the Cat Protection Society to again run an “Operation Cat” program although the Society currently has difficulty with their pick up and delivery service. On this basis we will be picking up the cats from a designated drop off point and delivering them to the assigned veterinary service and then picking up the next day.

Between the NDN and the Cat Protection Society’s network of vets that offer discounted or subsidised de-sexing of animals, there are suitable facilities available for those in genuine need to obtain assistance to have their cats de-sexed.

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OPTIONS FOR CONTROL OF CATS (CONT.)We will continue to promote de-sexing of pets through the distribution of literature at our festivals, on our web page and through our column in local newspapers.

Stray and Un-owned CatsThe Cat Protection Society believe the problem of un-owned cats is not tackled by low cost de-sexing programs. People feeding stray cats do not see themselves as ‘owners’ and so don’t present the cats for de-sexing. A successful education program is aimed at getting the message across that feeding strays promotes feline overpopulation.

We have a number of problems with some colonies of stray cats at some centres in the City. These colonies are usually fed food scraps provided by members of the public who see this feeding as being responsible. Whenever possible we trap these stray cats and if they are able to be re-socialised, the pound purchases the animal from us and places them through its network of voluntary groups such as Sydney Animal Rescue to re-home them.

We are proposing to have information sheets in relation to feeding of stray cats translated into relevant community languages and then work with the education officer from the Cat Protection Society who would do presentations for children particularly at our libraries as the children can be important influencers at home. We would also offer these advisory sessions at our festivals in conjunction with the Cat Protection Society.

Trap Neuter and Release (TNR)We have a problem with a few cat colonies that are around the commercial centres of Lakemba, Belmore and Campsie in car parks and laneways.

A TNR program involves trapping the cats and having them checked by a vet, neutered, one ear clipped (so as to identify that the cat has been neutered) and then released. As the cats are de-sexed the colony eventually dies off.

We could run a TNR program in these areas however there would be a cost to this program of about $15,000 which would include staff costs, veterinary care and de-sexing costs of $60 for a male cat and $135 for a female cat.

This type of program has not been included in the budget for 2009/2010 and we would need to allocate funds for such a program in the 2010/2011 budget.

Cats in Bushland AreasAs there is a problem with cats entering the bushland areas, we will send information kits to the houses adjoining these areas detailing the problems that occur by free ranging cats and providing information on how to minimise these problems and contain their cats.

Belling of CatsWe have no legislative power to require that all cats be belled so that they warn native animals and birds of their presence. A number of studies have shown that the provision of bells on cats does not effectively provide a warning to native animals and birds as cats are very capable predators and use their stealth to overcome the bell.

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OPTIONS FOR CONTROL OF CATS (CONT.)ConclusionTo endeavour to minimise the impact of stray cats, we will run an education program and Operation Cats program in partnership with The Cat Protection Society to educate people about feeding stray cats and to provide support for the de-sexing and microchipping of cats. We will also work with the NDN in August to promote their National De-sexing Month.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT 1. We partner with the Cat Protection Society in a series of Operation Cat de-sexing and

educational programs to promote the use of their services to assist low income people to have their cats de-sexed and to utilise their education officer in the education and advisory options to ensure responsible cat ownership.

2. We work with the National De-sexing Network in August to promote their National De-sexing Month.

3. We continue to run our advertising campaigns in local papers and on our website to remind our residents of their obligations for responsible cat ownership.

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11 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION - 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

FILE NO: L-42-1 2009

REPORT BY: GENERAL MANAGER

Summary:

• The Local Government Association (LGA) of NSW 2009 Annual Conference will be held in Tamworth from 25 to 28 October 2009.

• We are required to advise the LGA of the names of our voting delegates to the conference.

• The report also contains proposed motions to the conference.• It is recommended that delegates be nominated to the conference and the motions be

endorsed.

City Plan and Budget Implications:Funds have been included in the 2009/10 Budget to cover the costs associated with the Conference. This report supports our City Plan long term goal of Effective Governance.

Report:ConferenceThe Local Government Association’s (LGA) Annual Conference will be held in Tamworth from Sunday 25 October to Wednesday 28 October 2009. The conference consists of the Executive Committee of the Association and a number of voting delegates from each council. The number of voting delegates for each council is determined by its population. Our population falls within the 100,000 to 150,000 category, therefore we can be represented by up to five voting delegates. Delegate voting cards will be issued to our voting delegates at the conference on registration.

The theme for the 2009 conference is “Tough Times, Smart Solutions” and the program is typical of the broad range of issues and activities that take place each year. These include:• Address by the Premier of NSW Nathan Rees MP• Ministerial addresses from:

- The Hon. Barbara Perry MP (Minister for Local Government)- The Hon. Kristina Keneally MP (Minister for Planning)- The Hon Tony Kelly MP (Minister for Police, Land and Rural Affairs)- The Hon Michael Daley MP (Minister for Roads)- The Hon Phillip Costa MP (Minister for Water and Regional Development)

• Addresses by:- The Hon Barry O’Farrell (Leader of the NSW Opposition)- The Hon Chris Hartcher MP (Shadow Special Minister of State, Inter-

Governmental Relations)• Consideration of motions• Interactive workshops on governance and sustainability matters

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION - 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE (CONT.)

Nomination of DelegatesAs mentioned earlier, we are entitled to nominate five delegates to the conference, and in 2008 our voting delegates were the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Saleh and Councillors Adler, Kebbe, Kritharas and Robson. Attendance by senior staff will be at the discretion of the General Manger in accordance with delegated authority.

Conference MotionsCouncil is able by notice, to bring any matter before the conference for opinion, statement and additions or amendments to LGA policies. The following draft motions are proposed for submission to the conference.

Motion 1THAT the Local Government Association makes representations to the Attorney General’s Department concerning the need to allocate additional funding for Community Safety and Crime Prevention initiatives to resource a broader range of crime prevention initiatives in each area.

Notes from CouncilFunding allocations from the NSW Attorney General’s Department is crucial in the delivery of community safety and crime prevention initiatives. The Community Safety Compact guidelines were amended in 2008 and this has seen a limited focus on two prominent crime categories; compared with a more open range of issues relevant to local needs that was funded prior to the amendments.

The Compact directs our community safety and crime prevention programs for three years. Focusing on two crime categories over this period limits the use of state government resources to a narrow range of crime categories. Additional funding would enable Councils to address a broader range of crime issues and better resource our capacity to respond to emerging concerns. Additional funding is required to enable more councils to participate in the program and to support other priority crime prevention initiatives where appropriate.

Motion 2THAT the Local Government Association makes representations to the Premier’s Department concerning the need to announce the funding formula to apply to the distribution of State government funding for NSW public libraries.

Note from CouncilIn April 2008 the Report of The Review of Public Library Funding was released. The report made recommendations relating to the implementation of a new funding strategy for public libraries, but no specific details were released at that time.

Councils received notice in June 2008 that implementation of the new strategy would occur in 2009/10 but there has been no indication as yet relating to how the funding is to be distributed and what formula is to be used.

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION - 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE (CONT.)Motion 3That the Local Government Association calls on the State Government to ensure the first stage (five year) review of the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport is completed and that results of the review are made publicly available.

Note from CouncilThe Disability Transport Standards require that a review of their effectiveness and efficiency be carried out within five years of commencement by the Minister for Transport and the Illawarra, in consultation with the Attorney-General. The Disability Transport Standards were formulated under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and came into operation on 23 October 2002. A review is now due. Access to public transport is vital to the ability of people with disability, their families and carers, to participate fully in community life. The Standards also benefit many older Australians and parents with infants in prams who use public transport services. It is important that the five year review is completed and released to councils to demonstrate the extent to which discrimination has been removed according to the compliance requirements, and whether any amendments to the Standards are required.

Motion 4That the Local Government Association supports Federally-funded initiatives to increase the employment of people with disabilities as a means to address the high rate of unemployment and under-employment of people with disabilities in our community.

Note from CouncilSection 15 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 relates to employment provisions and requires employers to “Offer equal employment opportunities to everyone. This means that if a person with a disability can do the essential activities or "inherent requirements" of a job, he or she should have just as much chance to do that job as anyone else.”

The Commonwealth Department of Employment and Workplace Relations has withdrawn funding for the Employer Demand and Flexible Workplace strategy which supported the placement of people with disabilities in the workforce. The aim was to provide innovative strategies that would increase workplace participation including workplace modifications and on-the-job support. No replacement program has yet been proposed.

People with disabilities have a much higher rate of unemployment and under-employment in the community. Contributing to this are workplaces that do not provide the required access for people who have a mobility problem or do not provide adaptive equipment for people with vision and hearing impairment. Government instrumentalities and major employers no longer have affirmative action policies in place to address this inequity, effectively placing people with disabilities in a position where they are required to compete for employment opportunities without Federal funding to support these placements.

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION - 2009 ANNUAL CONFERENCE (CONT.)Motion 5That the Local Government Association make representations to the New South Wales Government and particularly the Department of Planning, requesting greater time frames for Local Government to respond to legislative, policy and operational changes.

Note from CouncilAdvice from State Government requesting Council’s feedback or response to changes in legislation (or general policy/procedure) is inadequate in many cases. Council requires more time for policy amendments which affect the processes council must follow. The Department of Planning needs to take into consideration Council’s meeting cycle to allow matters to be reported and formally considered.

Council is frequently given minimal opportunity to reasonably and realistically consider and respond to significant changes to policy and procedure. Two recent examples relate to Planning Circulars 09-015 and 09-018 issued by the Department of Planning.

Planning Circular 09-015 advised councils on the day that amendments had to be made to wording used in Planning Certificates issued under Section 149 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. Planning Circular 09-018 advised councils of amendments made to State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 four days after that Policy had been amended. The late nature of these circulars gave Council minimal opportunity to amend its processes to accommodate these changes.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT 1. The draft motions contained in the report be endorsed for submission to the 2009

Local Government Association of NSW Annual Conference.2. Delegates be nominated to attend the 2009 Local Government Association of NSW

Annual Conference.3. Other Councillors interested in attending the conference (as non-voting delegates) be

authorised to do so and indicate their wishes to the General Manager.

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ADVISORY COMMITTEES

12 COMMUNITY SAFETY COMMITTEE

FILE NO: C-245-2 PT18

Attachments: Minutes of the meeting held on 6 July 2009


Summary:The minutes of the Community Safety Committee meeting held on 6 July 2009 are presented for endorsement.

City Plan and Budget Implications:The activities of the Community Safety Committee are met by the specific Budget allocation and support our City Plan long term goals of Engaged Community and Safety and Health.

Report:The minutes of the Community Safety Committee meeting held on 6 July 2009 are provided in the Attachments. The following recommendations are highlighted as they have financial implications or pertain to policy matters.

Proposed allocation of Community Safety Committee 2009/10 BudgetTHAT1. The following proposed allocation of the Committee’s 2009/10 Budget be endorsed.

$15,000 Community Safety Grants ($5,000 contribution to local community based projects targeting the three priorities of drug/alcohol abuse prevention, domestic violence prevention and child protection)

$15,000 Community Safety Inspections (for ‘Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design’ improvements not covered in general works or maintenance program)

$2,000 Signage (no loitering, alcohol free zone/alcohol ban, and walk safe)$4,000 Resource Development (translation into main community languages)$2,000 Committee Resource (such as vehicle number plate locking screws)$5,000 Fire Safety (SABRE - Smoke Alarm and Battery Replacement for the

Elderly program)$2,000 Graffiti Management Strategies (materials for Probation and Parole

Community Service Order project)$5,000 Youth Development Strategies (to connect ‘at risk’ young people to local

youth services as a deterrent to antisocial activity)2. An update on expenditure to date be submitted the Committee in February 2010.3. A report on total expenditure be submitted to the Committee in June 2010.

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COMMUNITY SAFETY COMMITTEE (CONT.)Protocol for communication with NSW Police Campsie Local Area Command on the Issuing of Noise Abatement directionsTHAT1 The amended protocol be endorsed.2. A copy of the protocol be forwarded to Ashfield Local Area Command for their

information and seeking a similar protocol arrangement.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT the minutes of the Community Safety Committee meeting held on 6 July 2009 be endorsed.

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13 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

FILE NO: T-17-12 PT4

Attachments: Minutes of the meeting held on 2 July 2009


Summary:The minutes of the Economic Development Committee meeting held on 2 July 2009 are presented for endorsement.

City Plan and Budget Implications:The activities of the Economic Development Committee are met by the specific Budget allocation and support our City Plan long term goals of Engaged Community and Prosperous Local Economy.

Report:The minutes of the Economic Development Committee meeting held on 2 July 2009 are provided in the Attachments.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT the minutes of the Economic Development Committee meeting held on 2 July 2009 be endorsed.

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CLOSED COUNCIL

In accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993, it is proposed that the press and the public be excluded from the meeting when the following report is to be considered for the reasons specified below.

ITEM 1 DRAINAGE RESERVE DISPOSAL PROGRAM: AREA BOUNDED BY CHEVIOT, CRIEFF, HARMONY AND HAY STREETS - AGREEMENTS REACHED FOR PARTICULAR SALES

This report is being considered in closed council in accordance with Section 10A (2) (c) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it contains information that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. Disclosure of the information is not in the public interest as it would affect Council’s commercial position in the matter.

RECOMMENDATION:THAT1. Council move into closed council to consider reports, together with any late reports

tabled at the meeting.2. Pursuant to section 10A (1)-(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and

public be excluded from the meeting on the basis the business to be considered is classified confidential under the provisions of section 10A(2) as outlined above.

3. The correspondence and reports relevant to the subject business be withheld from access to the media and public as required by section 11(2) of the Local Government Act 1993.

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CANTERBURY CITY COUNCIL AGENDA · Sportsground for their Food and Wine Festival 24 and 25 January...

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