Minutes of the Ordinary Monthly Meeting of Lockhart Shire … · 2014. 3. 12. · Service has been invited to give a 30 minute presentation on The Rock Nature Reserve at the beginning

BUSINESS PAPER

of the Ordinary Meeting

Held 17 March 2014

The Prayer

We humbly beseech Thee to vouchsafe Thy blessings on this Council. Direct and prosper our deliberations to the glory and welfare

of the people of this Shire and throughout our country. Amen

The Council’s Charter

A council has the following charter:

- to provide directly or on behalf of other levels of government after due consultation, adequate, equitable and appropriate services and facilities for the community and to ensure that those services and facilities are managed efficiently and effectively

- to exercise community leadership

- to exercise its functions in a manner that is consistent with and actively promotes the principles of cultural diversity

- to promote and to provide and plan for the needs of children

- to properly manage, develop, protect, restore, enhance and conserve the environment of the area for which it is responsible, in a manner that is consistent with and promotes the principles of ecologically sustainable development

- to have regard to the long term and cumulative effects of its decisions

- to bear in mind that it is the custodian and trustee of public assets and to effectively account for and manage the assets for which it is responsible

- to facilitate the involvement of councillors, members of the public, users of facilities and services and council staff in the development, improvement and co-ordination of local government

- to raise funds for local purposes by the fair imposition of rates, charges and fees, by income earned from investments and, when appropriate, by borrowings and grants

- to keep the local community and the State government (and through it, the wider community) informed about its activities

- to ensure that, in the exercise of its regulatory functions, it acts consistently and without bias, particularly where an activity of the council is affected

- to be a responsible employer.

(Section 8(1) Local Government Act, 1993)

File Ref: RS:RD- C70-005 O:\2013-14\General Manager\C70-005\Bus Paper\February 2014\February 2014 Business Papers.doc 12 March 2014 The Mayor & Members Lockhart Shire Council 65 Green Street LOCKHART NSW 2656 Dear Councillors

Please Note:

Daniel Basham, Area Manager – South West Area, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has been invited to give a 30 minute presentation on The Rock Nature Reserve at the beginning of the meeting (to be confirmed).

I wish to advise that the Ordinary Monthly Meeting of Lockhart Shire Council will be held at the Council Chambers, Green Street, Lockhart on Monday 17 March 2014 commencing at 5.00pm.

Reports are appended for your consideration.

BUSINESS: Opening with a Prayer Apologies Confirmation of Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting 17 February 2014 Leave of Absence Declarations of Pecuniary & Non-Pecuniary Interest Mayoral Minute/Report Urgent Matters Notice of Motion Committee Reports Responses to Questions & Statements – 17 February 2014 (Refer Status Report) Status Report/Précis of Correspondence Issued Staff Reports

- General Manager - Director Corporate and Community Services - Director of Engineering and Environmental Services

Delegates Reports Questions & Statements Consideration of Business in Closed Session Yours faithfully

Rod Shaw GENERAL MANAGER

Lockhart Shire Council Ordinary Meeting – 17 March 2014

Mayoral Minute

Nil.

Urgent Matters

Nil.

Notice of Motion

A Notice of Motion has been received to rescind Item No. 17 Kerbside Rubbish Pickup, 17 February 2014 Business Paper, Resolution No. 32/14 which reads:

RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Douglas and Day that the 2014-15 kerbside pick-up program be replaced by Tip Vouchers provided with rate notices.

and to move the following motion:

That the kerbside pickup program continue as per previous years.

The Notice of Motion has been sponsored by Crs Paterson, Verdon and Driscoll. An attachment contains the details. Attachment (1) Notice of Motion to Rescind a Resolution.

This is page 2 of the Business Paper of the Ordinary Monthly Meeting of the Lockhart Shire Council held in the Council Chambers, Green Street, Lockhart – 17 March 2014.

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Committee Reports

1. LOCKHART & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY COMMITTEE REPORT (H15-010)


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Recommendation: That the Committee’s minutes be endorsed and that Council consider incorporating future meetings of the Committee into the normal Council meetings.

Notes:


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2. MINUTES OF THE TOURISM/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING (T26-005)

MINUTES OF THE TOURISM/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING OF LOCKHART SHIRE COUNCIL HELD AT YERONG CREEK COMMUNITY HALL, YERONG CREEK ON 5 MARCH 2014 COMMENCING AT 7.40PM. PRESENT Mrs Susan Creek, Ms Sandra Johnston, Mrs Raeleen Pfeiffer, Councillor Derek Douglas, Mr Rob Martin, Mr Greg Smith and Tourism/Economic Development Officer (Jennifer Connor). APOLOGIES Councillor G Driscoll, Mr Roger Brand. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 5 FEBRUARY 2014 The minutes of the Meeting held Wednesday, 5 February 2104, as printed and circulated be taken as read and confirmed on the Motion of S Johnson. 1. Heritage Standards within Lockhart Shire

Council’s Heritage Advisor, Peter Kabaila, has carried out an annual assessment on the heritage area in Green Street. A report of the assessment is currently be compiled and will be considered at the first TEDSC meeting following completion. Recommendation: That the assessment on the heritage area in Green Street be reviewed by the TEDSC following completion.

Notes:

2. Green’s Gunyah Museum Preservation Project

Following close of tenders on 28 February for the Green’s Gunyah Museum Preservation the project will be discussed at the March Ordinary Monthly Meeting of Council. The Lockhart Historical Committee is well organised for the commencement of works. The outdoor exhibits area has been closed to visitors due to health and safety reasons now that the shed has been removed. There was a significant increase in visitors to Greens Gunyah Museum during the 2013 trading period, with a total of 2099 people visiting the museum at this time. This is a substantial increase of 35% on 2012 numbers. 22 organised groups including 7 groups from interstate were responsible for approximately 24% of visitors. These figures confirm publicity about Lockhart Shire, the museum and the Doris Golder Gallery is steadily attracting visitors, particularly from further afield. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:

3. The Rock Museum

The Rock Museum Committee have confirmed they wish to progress with the Museum. The executives were seeking interest from any additional members prior to writing to Council request delegation as a Section 355 Committee.


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The proposed location of museum is The Rock Station Masters House which is preferred due to size and layout of the Station Masters House. The building would complement the timeline of the museum, enabling a flow of exhibitions from room to room. The Rock Railway Station was also considered however it has restricted space and parts of the station must be made available to rail passengers. The feedback regarding a lease of The Rock Station Masters House is particularly encouraging. At the moment the house is not in a condition to lease out, nor is it on a priority list to repair. However, RailTrack Corporation are prepared to look at a 10 year lease based on community rental (approximately $1,000 per year rather), with an option to renew, if Council/the committee can secure a grant of approximately $3,000 - $5,000 to rectify the problem. A longer lease may also be negotiated. The TEDO and members of the committee are meeting with RailTrack to view the premises at the next museum meeting on 20 March. As RailTrack have no current plans to rectify the problems, the timing works very well for the committee regarding establishment and progress. The TEDO will report back to the TEDSC regarding progress of the committee and proposed museum location. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:

4. Agri Tourism and Coach Tours

The TEDSC reviewed a fully detailed and costed two day agricultural tour to the Lockhart Shire, incorporating accommodation, breakfast and evening meals, farm visits, local sights and attractions. Also discussed was a 4 day tour to the Riverina as advertised by a South Coast tour operator. As seen by the increase in coach visits to the Greens Gunyah Museum, there is certainly a market for coach companies to visit Lockhart Shire. As the website is updated sample agri and tourism itineraries will be added to the tourism website, followed by sample day trips, tourism drives and sample activity tours e.g. cycling and orienteering. This inclusion of this information will allow for direct targeting of clubs, schools and associations. Recommendation: That the relevant itineraries be forwarded to agri and tour operators and tour organisers to showcase the unique and interesting attractions within Lockhart Shire.

Notes:

5. Wall of Fame

The TEDSC discussed a number of possible locations that would be suitable for the Wall/Walk of Fame. It was determined the TEDSC should visit the potential sites including the CWA Park, Green Street, Greens Gunyah Museum and Walter Day Park in order to consider firsthand the benefits and negatives of each location. It was agreed to hold the next meeting of the TEDSC in Lockhart at 5pm on 02 April to enable the visits to the sites during daylight hours. The proposed criteria guidelines will be discussed at the next meeting.

Recommendation: That the Mayor join the TEDSC on their visit to potential locations for the proposed Wall/Walk of Fame and a presentation of potential sites be made by the TEDO to Council.


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Notes:

6. Websites

The TEDO has been working on updating site content on the Tourism and Shire Council websites. Following is a breakdown of website visitor statistics to the Tourism site following a review of content by TEDO and an increase in promotion through online mediums. • During the period July to December 2013 there was an average of 400 site visitors per

month including 640 visitors in October. • January 2014 increased to an average of 600 site visitors per month while February 2014

averaged 1200 visitors per month • The number of site pages viewed each month increased from 1000 pages per month to

19,107 page visits in February alone. • The number of pages viewed each visit increased from 3 pages per visit to 16 pages per

visit in January and 52 pages per visit in February. The TEDO will continue to expand and add value to current site content. The free, online Lockhart Shire Business Directory is finally starting to get results and the new Businesses for Sale & Lease is now featured on the website, with one listing to date. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:

7. Any Other Business

A number of possible projects were discussed by the TEDSC. These are to be included on the Agenda for the April meeting. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:

The next meeting will be held at Lockhart Council Chambers, Lockhart on Wednesday 2 April 2014 at 5pm. Meeting closed 9:05pm.

Responses to Questions and Statements 17 February 2014 For responses to Questions and Statements from 17 February 2014 Council meeting, please refer to the Status Report following.


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Status Report/Précis of Correspondence Issued

Status Report: Council Resolutions and Tasks to be finalised Res. No:

Officer to Action Info Action Taken

Ordinary Council Meeting held 17 February 2014 42/14 CF Report on Council Housing

Further analysis on the houses at 13 Rockcliff Court and 1 Ferrier St to be carried out, including cost of renovations, rental and market valuations to be reported back to March council meeting.

Report in Closed Committee of agenda

39/14 CF Request for Assistance – Lockhart and District Historical Society Council to make a donation of $250 to the Lockhart and District Historical Society in the form of waiving the development application fee in recognition of the contribution the Society has made to the Shire

Complete.

38/14 DW Local Environment Plans Council to accept the Minister’s delegations and the GM be nominated to exercise these delegations under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for functions under s59 of the Act.

Complete.

35/14 DW Development Application 35/14, Milne Rd, The Rock Subdivision Consent granted for the development application subject to the conditions as detailed in the planning report

Finalising detail design and applying for CC.

33/14 DW Fairy Lights - Green St, Lockhart • Proceed with Mr Brand to install an example of the

LED strip lights on his shop front • Detailed costing and funding arrangements to be

investigated and reported to a future meeting

Letter written back to LPA.

32/14 DW Kerbside Rubbish Pickup 2014-15 kerbside pick-up program be replaced by Tip Vouchers provided with rate notices.

Nil to report.

31/14 DW Green Waste Disposal – Lockhart Council immediately close the tipping of green waste at Lockhart Tip out of tip opening hours and at Waste Services Contract renewal (in 12 mths) include option to consider having green waste bins as part of regular rubbish collection, in consultation with the community.

Green waste closed for out of hours tipping.

30/14 DW Tip Opening Hours – Sundays Tip opening hours from March 2014 onwards are to be: (i) Lockhart – each Wed 8:30am to 10:30am; every

second Sunday 8:30am to 11:30am (ii) The Rock – each Wed 1:00pm to 3:00pm; every

second Sunday 1:00pm to 4:00pm (iii) Milbrulong – each Tues 8:00am to 9:00am (iv) Yerong Creek – each Tues 1:30pm to 3:30pm (v) Pleasant Hills – each Tues 10:00am to 12:00pm.

New tip hours in operation.

28/14 DW Pesticide Use Notification Plan Proposed second edition of the Pesticide Use Notification Plan to be adopted by Council.

Complete.

26/14 CF Quarterly Budget Review to December 2013 Adjustments in income and expenditure for the December 2013 Budget Review be adopted.

Complete.


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23/14 RS Payment of Councillors and Mayoral Fees, Expenses

and Facilities Policy Council adopt the Payment of Councillors and Mayoral Fees, Expenses and Facilities Policy

Complete.

22/14 RS Recognition of Service Policy Council adopt the Recognition of Service Policy.

Complete.

21/14 RS Request from Spirit of the Land Festival Committee Council to commit funds for the next 2 years of $17,000 per annum on the understanding that the Committee will endeavour to be self-sufficient financially b that time with any further assistance after this date to be reviewed.

Letter sent – referred to budget.

20/14 RS Request for Financial Assistance – Warrangong Vintage Harvest Day in association with Headlie Taylor Header Anniversary Committee Upon being put to the vote, the motion was lost to donate an amount to the Warrangong Vintage Harvest Day – letter of advice to be sent.

Complete.

19/14 RS The Rock Nature Reserve • Initiate discussions with Local Member Daryl

Maguire to explore options to make more funding available for maintenance and development of The Rock Nature Reserve consistent with environmental considerations

• Contact NPWS to advise of our interest in the future of the Nature Reserve and to provide input into the upcoming Plan of Management Review.

Discussions held with Daryl Maguire. NPWS Area Manager invited to address Council.

18/14 RS Riverina Regional Library Mobile Library Schedule Review RRL to be informed that Council requires no changes to the current mobile library service provided.

Complete.

17/14 RS Local Government Acts Taskforce Report Sub-committee to be formed comprising Cr Yates, Cr Schirmer, Cr Day and GM Rod Shaw to consider the recommendations contained in the final report of the Local Government Acts Taskforce and to formulate a draft response in time for submission by the due date of 4 April 2014.

Refer report Mar CM.

15-16 /14

RS Independent Review Panel Report Sub-committee to be formed comprising Cr Yates, Cr Schirmer, Cr Day and GM Rod Shaw to consider the recommendations contained in the final report of the Independent Review Panel and to formulate a draft response in time for submission by the due date of 4 April 2014.

Refer report Mar CM.

11/14 TEDO Tourism/Economic Development Steering Committee Meeting – Wall of Fame

Further clarification to be sought in due course. Walk-around with the Steering Committee has been organised for 2 April with the Mayor invited to attend.


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10/14 TEDO Tourism /Economic Development Steering

Committee Meeting - Riverina Regional Tourism (RRT) TEDO to put together a fully-detailed and costed two-day agricultural tour to the Lockhart Shire incorporating accommodation, meals, farm visits, local sights and attractions, with a copy of same to be forwarded to Tourism/Economic Development Steering Committee prior to the next meeting.

Sample itineraries be loaded on website and forwarded to agri tour operators to showcase the agri industry in Lockhart Shire.

5/14 RS Police and Community Consultation Committee Meeting • Letter to be written to Senior Police, Southern Area

Command and Committee Members to seek their commitment to community consultation.

• Committee’s minutes to be endorsed.

Complete.

3/14 RS Mayoral Report Letter of appreciation be prepared by the GM to Mrs Liz Deep-Jones to thank her for attending the Australia Day Celebrations as the Lockhart Shire Ambassador.

Complete.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 11 December 2013 395/13 RS Doris Golder – Wool Art Collection

• Council accept Mrs Golder’s request for revocation of bequeathing of her wool art collection to Council and a new Memorandum of Understanding be developed to ensure each party’s interests are protected and the collection continues to be displayed locally.

Solicitor preparing MOU.

392/13 DW Additional Information – Proposal to Amend the Lockhart Environmental Plan 2012 – Council resolved to: • Reduce the minimum subdivision lot size for RU1

Primary Production land across the Lockhart Shire from 650ha to 250ha;

• Rezone ‘Area A’ to the north of Bond Street and east of Lockhart-Kywong Road, Lockhart from RU1 Primary Production to R5 Large Lot Residential with a minimum subdivision lot size of 2ha and an average lot size of 3ha;

• Rezone ‘Area B’ to the south of Federal Street and bounded to the east and west by East Street and Treasure Street, Lockhart respectively from RU1 Primary Production to R5 Large Lot Residential with a minimum lot size for any subdivision of 2ha and an average of 3ha; any existing smaller lot (i.e. 1.3ha lots) is able to be developed.

• Rezone ‘Area C’ situated in Lockhart off Harry Davis Drive, from RU1 Primary Production to IN1 General Industry;

• Amend the minimum subdivision lot size across “Area D” situated to the north of The Rock and located either side of Collingullie Road from 2ha to 2ha and an average of 4ha.

Plan amended following Council meeting and been sent to DLG for approval. Gateway approval received from Minister. Currently with RFS before goes on public exhibition.


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• Rezone ‘Area E’ situated in The Rock to the south

of Semmens Road and bounded to the east and west by Comans Street and Watson Street respectively, from RU1 Primary Production to R5 Large Lot Residential with a minimum subdivision lot subdivision size of 2ha and an average of 4ha.

• Rezone ‘Area F’ to the west of Burkes Road, The Rock from RU1 Primary Production to R5 Large Lot Residential with a minimum subdivision lot size of 2ha and an average of 5ha.

• Rezone ‘Area G’ to the west of Yerong Street and north of the Olympic Highway, The Rock from RU1 Primary Production to IN1 General Industry.

• Rezone ‘Area H’ situated to the north west of The Rock to the south of Bullenbung-The Rock Road from RU1 Primary Production to IN1 General Industry.

385/13 CF Osborne Recreation Ground Committee –Stage 3 • Council agree to provide a grant of $10,000 subject

to successfully receiving the $50,000 grant from 2013 NSW Community Building Partnership (CBP) program, to be funded from Future Infrastructure and Improvements Reserve

• Council agree to provide interest free loan of up to $40,000 repayable over four years to Osborne Recreation Ground Committee to assist with Stage 3 extensions

• If necessary, any loan agreement be authorised to be completed under Common Seal

Completed - $10,000 grant and $40,000 loan. CBP grant is yet to be paid to Council.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 18 November 2013 364/13 DW Purchase of Mowers for Community Use

• The information be noted and a further report be brought to Council early 2014

Report March 2014.

360/13 CF/DW Quarterly Budget Review 30 Sept 2013 – Follow Up • A history of the economic performance of the

Lockhart Caravan Park, over the last 5 years, be provided to the next Council meeting.

Memo to Dec 2013 Council meeting. Further detailed Report to March 2014 Council meeting.

351/13 GM/ Mayor

Proposed NBN Facility at Lockhart Recreation Ground • Subject to planning provisions being met, Crown

Lands approval being gained by provider, and a satisfactory agreement being entered into with Council, Council agree to the erection of the proposed communications tower at the Lockhart Recreation Ground and the terms of the agreement be delegated to the GM and Mayor.

Waiting response from NBN.

343/13 Minutes of the Tourism/Economic Steering Committee Meeting Item 3 – Council to continue to review and investigate the effects of changes on the heritage aspects with regards to Tourism

Ongoing.


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Ordinary Council Meeting held 21 October 2013

334/13 DW Potential Purchase of Land from Essential Energy – Council will not proceed with the purchase of the land, but will accept it if it is gifted to Council.

Letter sent to Essential Energy.

333/13 DW The Rock Subdivision – • Proceeds with design and DA submission for the 13

Lot subdivision, • Undertake works up to $305,000 for this financial

year, • Defer the decision to allocate $399,000 in 2014/15

budget to complete the subdivision to discuss at a future meeting.

• Further consider the option for sewerage.

Order given to consultant to proceed with detailed design including sewer, and submit DA to Council. DA submitted to Council (see separate report in Feb Business paper), detailed engineering drawings 95% complete. Finalising detail design (including electrical) and applying for CC.

332/13 GM Green St West and Bond St, Lockhart Residential Sub-division Development - the following marketing and presentation strategies be applied: For Both Subdivisions • Engage agents to prepare marketing plans and to

promote and sell the lots • Set a price range and floor price for each lot, and if

an offer is received within the set parameters, Mayor and GM be delegated authority to jointly accept such offers, provided regular updates are provided to Council.

For Bond Street • No longer pursue the proposed environmental

incentive pack • As an incentive, that a condition of sale be 10%

deposit with a further 12 months to complete the balance

• Subject to valuer’s advice, there may be need to reconfigure some of the blocks to make them more saleable.

• Subject to negotiations with adjoining land owner, there may be a need for a high colourbond fence along the southern boundary of two of the blocks for screening.

For Green Street West Apply some price flexibility to the three smallest lots on the eastern side of the subdivision proportionate to their size to encourage marketing.

• Agents engaged and marketing commenced

• Further report to Council needed re configuration of Bond Street blocks.

• Refer further report Mar CM

329/13 DW Greens Gunyah Museum Redevelopment – Council to: • approve Development Application 21/14 subject to

the addition of appropriate conditions, and • the fee proposal by Allen C Thompson be approved

for the preparation of tender documents, and • that following the receipt of the tender documents

that the project be advertised in accordance with the appropriate legislation, and

Order given to Thompson to proceed, produce tender docs, etc. Documents currently being prepared. Tenders called for construction works. Tenders have closed. Report to Council March 2014.


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• at the conclusion of the tender advertising period

that a list of applicants be compiled and presented to Council for the selection of the successful tenderer.

328/13 DW Swimming Pool Inspection Program – Council place the draft Swimming Pool Inspection Program on public exhibition for a period of thirty days to obtain feedback from the community in accordance with the provisions of the Swimming Pools Act 1992.

Placing on website for public information. Mail-out to known pool owners in Lockhart Shire.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 15 July 2013 208/13 DW The Rock Men’s Shed – Council to:

• purchase the proposed property for $25,000 payable over 3 years plus purchasing costs

• upon purchase negotiate a lease with the Men’s Shed Group

• advise all maintenance of the shed be the Men’s Shed Group’s responsibility

Refer March CM report Item 25, Development Application 38/14 – The Rock Men’s Shed.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 11 Dec 2013 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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DW Cr Morgan – Parking in Front of Norwood farm Machinery Centre, Lockhart – Director of Engineering to investigate.

Director of Engineering to investigate and advise

DW Cr Morgan – Letter from Henry Gorman re. Leasing Hangar at Lockhart Airstrip

Director of Engineering believes a resolution is close. Negotiations still continuing.

DW Cr Verdon – When is the Mowing of Verge to Council Land in Milne Rd going to be undertaken?

Director of Engineering advised that instruction to staff to mow this verge has been issued and expects that it will be mown shortly. Complete.

DW Cr Paterson – Requested Council look at Parking Signage at The Rock Bowling Club not the extensions have been undertaken

Director of Engineering to investigate and advise.

DW Cr Paterson – Parking in The Rock CBD – Requested Council look at Parking in The Rock CBD as a whole

Director of Engineering to investigate and advise.

CF Cr Day – 355 Committees – Requested Council review Insurances, Funding, etc.

Director of Engineering advised Council will review and advise at a later meeting. Director Corporate Services to report to March 2014 meeting.

DW Cr Day – Old Cars on Private Property, South Lockhart

Director of Engineering advised Council staff currently looking into what can be cone about issue and a report will be brought back to the March 2014 meeting. Report in March 2014 business paper.


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DW Cr Day – Pond at Caravan Park is leaking Director of Engineering to

investigate and advise (repair will most likely require pond to be drained). Reported in February 2014 business paper. Complete.

DW Cr Yates – Horse Manure building up again on Private Property at Yerong Creek

Director of Engineering advised ongoing issue/difficult to address, but will investigate and advise. Met with one of residents pre-Xmas 2013 – joint meeting with all parties required to resolve. Currently arranging meeting between parties to resolve.

DW Cr Yates – Closed off section of Macconochie St, Yerong Creek and the keeping of the stallion

Director of Engineering to investigate and advise. Met with one of residents pre-Xmas 2013 – joint meeting with all parties required to resolve. Currently arranging meeting between parties to resolve.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 17 Feb 2014 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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GM Cr Morgan – Australia Day Requested a letter of thanks be written to Lockhart & District Little Athletics and rotary for hosting Australia Day celebrations.

General Manager will send thank you letters. Letters sent – complete.

CF Cr Morgan – 355 Committees What requirements are 355 committees required to report back to Council on?

Director of Corporate Services to report to a future meeting. Report in March agenda

DW Cr McDonnell – Flood Markers Noted that several flood markers are missing at floodways/causeways throughout the Shire – please investigate.

Director of Engineering to investigate and advise. Currently undertaking audit and will address accordingly.

GM Cr McDonnell – Advertising in The Land Impressed with advertising in The Land (lift out magazine titled ‘Great Holiday Deals, 2014 Edition) in which Lockhart and the Spirit of the Land Festival were featured.

General Manager will pass on statement to Tourism and Economic Development Officer. Complete.

GM Cr Day – Councillor Tour of Shire Can we have another tour of the Shire for all the Councillors?

General Manager discussed with Cr Driscoll post-meeting the possibility of a tour in the first week of April 2014 during school holidays (which will be 14-18 April).


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DW Cr Schirmer – Intersection of Yuluma/Boree Creek

Rds Could the placing of barrier at intersection of the Yuluma/Boree Creek Rds be considered for safety reasons as a number of people have complained about the lack of notice of an upcoming corner?

Director of Engineering will investigate and place proposal with Traffic Committee for consideration. Traffic Committee currently looking at request.

GM Cr Schirmer – Retirement of Dr Ken Mackey Could Council consider the implications of our current Doctor, Ken Mackey retiring and leaving the town of Lockhart without a doctor?

General Manager advised this item has been noted for future action if required.

DW Cr Schirmer – Anniversary of the Founding of Red Cross Could Council help celebrate anniversary of the founding of Red Cross by planting red and white flowers in flower beds throughout the shire and the flying of the Red Cross flag in 2014?

General Manager advised a letter had also been received from Red Cross with similar requests. Director of Engineering to report to future Council meeting. Report in March 2014 business paper.

DW Cr Schirmer - Matthews Street Signs Could all Matthews Street signs in Lockhart be made uniform with the correct spelling?

Director of Engineering is currently undertaking an audit of signage and this will be rectified during this process. Replacement signs have been ordered as required.

DW Cr Douglas – Give Way Sign, Albury Road/Doigs Lane A concerned ratepayer has asked why there isn’t a Give Way sign on the Albury Road/Doigs Lane tee intersection?

Director of Engineering will investigate and advise. Traffic Committee currently looking at request.

DW Cr Douglas – Boundary at Kellys Lane A ratepayer has asked if the shire boundary has changed at Kellys Lane as it appears that the Council sign is now in a slightly different location?

Director of Engineering advised LSC hasn’t moved the sign, might have been Greater Hume Shire Council. Director of Engineering to investigate and advise. GHSC moved the sign, will move back to original position. Complete.

DW Cr Douglas – Letter from Alexander Family re. Driveways on County Boundary Road

Director of Engineering to Report back at March meeting. Report in March 2014 business paper.


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DW Cr Yates – Use of Artificial Grass

Is it possible to use artificial grass in certain locations in The Rock and other towns?

Director of Engineering advised he will investigate and report back to March meeting. DE advises after consulting with staff that pavers or gravel look better and are cheaper (both short term and definitely long term). Artificial turf might look fine when it's first put down but staff have concerns about fading and wear especially in full sun, high traffic areas. Staff do not recommend use of artificial grass.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 18 Nov 2013 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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DW Cr Day – The Rock-Bullenbung Road Going to Traffic Committee. Approved by traffic committee. Signs ordered.

DW Cr Driscoll – Public Swimming Pools For future budget priority.

Cr Driscoll – Planning and Infrastructure Population Projections

For future budget priority.

GM Cr Verdon – Business Cards for Councillors In progress.

17 March 2014 Council Meeting - Correspondence Sent to Councillors

Date to Councillors

From Subject File Ref

13/2/2014 (e-mailed)

David Carter Thank You to Lockhart Shire Council for assistance given in making the ‘Mates Looking After Mates’ forum held in Henty on 18 Jan 2014

C63-015

13/2/2014 (e-mailed)

Lynette Hunt Lockhart Branch of Australian Red Cross 100 Years of Service

C45-005

14/2/14 (e-mailed)

Australian Local Government Association

ALGA News 14 Feb 2014 A75-005

17/2/14 (e-mailed)

Cr Keith Rhoades, LGNSW LGNSW Weekly 14 Feb 204, Issue #6 D14-005

19/2/14 (e-mailed)

Craig Fletcher Statement of Funds Follow-up – January 2014 Cashbook (2)

F10-010

24/2/14 (e-mailed)

Dave Agnew, Exploration & Mining Titles Consultant, Collective Experience

Proposed Briefings to Councils on Coal Seam Gas

25/2/14 (e-mailed)

Di Pritchard, Dept of Primary Industries Agriculture NSW

Agriculture White Paper discussions kick off in NSW A30-005

26/2/14 (e-mailed)

Carol Smith, Lockhart & District Little Athletics

Thank you to Lockhart Shire Council for opportunity to host recent Australia Day Celebrations

C15-005

26/2/14 (e-mailed)

The Hon Katrina Hodgkinson MP

Current drought conditions across NSW C63-005

27/2/14 (e-mailed)

Ross Woodward, Office of Local Government

Change from Division of Local Government to Office of Local Government

D14-005

3/3/14 (e-mailed)


ALGA News – 28 Feb 2014 A75-005


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4/3/14 Dr Joe Smith – Department of Health

Request for advice on licence application DIR 127 from Monsanto Australia Ltd: Commercial release of canola genetically modified for herbicide tolerance

4/3/14 (e-mailed)

Greg Finlayson Yerong Creek Cemetery – Appreciation for work done

C63-015

6/3/14 (e-mailed)

LGNSW Media Alert – LGNSW Consultation Road-Show Heads to Sydney

7/3/14 (e-mailed)

Rod Shaw Draft Community Satisfaction Survey

10/3/14 (e-mailed)


ALGA News 7 March 2014 A75-005

10/3/14 (e-mailed)

LGNSW LGNSW Weekly 21 Feb 2014, Issue #7 D14-005

10/3/14 (e-mailed)

LGNSW LGNSW Weekly 7 Mar 2014, Issue #9 D14-005

Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:


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Staff Reports General Manager 1. INDEPENDENT REVIEW PANEL RESPONSE (GM/I06-005)

Executive Summary Provision of a draft response to the Independent Review Panel’s Final Report. Report As Council is aware, the Panel’s Final report was released to the public in January following its submission to the NSW Government in October last year. The Government has set 4 April as the deadline for public submissions on the Report. Council has nominated a sub-committee to prepare a draft response to the Report – it comprises Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Clr Day and myself. In conjunction with our deliberations, REROC is also preparing a response on behalf of all the REROC Councils, and this document has been fine-tuned by both the REROC executive as well as a full REROC meeting. Generally speaking, our response follows the REROC draft, except in a few isolated cases for which the sub-committee considers the Lockhart response needs to be stated slightly differently to the position taken by REROC. These cases are highlighted in the attachment. It is my intent that Councillors be given the opportunity for further input and amendment to the draft response at the Council Meeting, and following those amendments, if any, that the final document be submitted. The only rider is that LGNSW is meeting with Councils in Wagga on the day following our Meeting to discuss the Report and if any important points arise from that meeting, they would need to be added to our submission. If that is the case, I would suggest that any changes be left to the Mayor’s and my discretion and be forwarded to Councillors for their information. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E4.2 - Plan for the long term sustainability of the shire. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment (2) Final Panel Report – Lockhart Council Submission. Recommendation: That the Draft Submission to the Independent Review Panel’s Final Report be adopted by Council subject to any amendments agreed to by Council and any further necessary amendments following the meeting with LGNSW representatives in Wagga Wagga on 18 March 2014.

Notes:


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2. LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACTS TASKFORCE RESPONSE (GM/I06-005)

Executive Summary Provision of a draft response to the Local Government Act Taskforce Final Report. Report As Council is aware, the Taskforce’s final report was released to the public in January following its submission to the NSW Government in October last year. The Government has set 4 April as the deadline for public submissions on the Report. Council has nominated a sub-committee to prepare a draft response to the Report – it comprises Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Clr Day and myself. Councillors will note that the Report is couched in strategic terms and after considering submissions and agreeing on an appropriate framework, the real job of drafting the new Act will begin. It should also be noted that any areas which might impact on the findings of the Independent Review Panel have not been included for discussion. These will be added later after the IRP’s Report has been considered by NSW Government. It will be evident to Councillors that most of the points have been agreed to by our sub-committee. This is because of the broad terms of the Taskforce’s Report. It is my intent that Councillors be given the opportunity for further input and amendment to the draft response at the Council Meeting, and following those amendments, if any, that the final document be submitted. The only rider is that LGNSW is meeting with Councils in Wagga on the day following our Meeting to discuss the Taskforce’s Report and if any important points arise from that meeting, they would need to be added to our submission. If that is the case, I would suggest that any changes be left to the Mayor’s and my discretion and be forwarded to Councillors for their information. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E4.2 - Plan for the long term sustainability of the shire. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment (3) NSW Local Government Acts Taskforce – LSC ‘Agree/Disagree/Comments’ to Recommendations Recommendation: That the Draft Submission to the Local Government Act Taskforce Final Report be adopted by Council subject to any amendments agreed to by Council and any further necessary amendments following the meeting with LGNSW representatives in Wagga Wagga on 18 March 2014.

Notes:


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3. DELIVERY PROGRAM 2013-17 REPORT (GM/I13-005) Executive Summary Provision of 6 monthly Delivery Program Report. Report Section 404 of the Local Government Act provides that a progress report on the operation of the Delivery Program be provided to Council at least 6 monthly. The progress report is attached. This is the last report that will be provided in this format. Council will recall that software was purchased recently which will allow simplified reporting of our Delivery Program and will also have the ability to provide for performance indicators and how the organisation has performed relative to those indicators. This software has now been uploaded and staff are familiarising themselves with its use. It is proposed that the next progress report will be generated from the new software. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E4.2 - Plan for the long term sustainability of the shire. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment (4) Lockhart Delivery Program 2013-17. Recommendation: That the Delivery Program progress Report be received and its contents noted.

Notes:

4. DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & INFRASTRUCTURE INFORMATION SESSION (GM/D14-010) Executive Summary The Board of the Department of Planning & Infrastructure (DPI) attended Wagga Wagga on 28 February for an exchange of views and information with local government representatives from the area. I attended on Council’s behalf along with 2 other staff members. Report The Planning Board comprises Sam Haddad, Director General as well as his executive team and is the principal decision making team for the Department. It is going through significant restructure and cultural change and is committed to delivery rather than process. Significantly for regional areas, many decisions which have in the past been taken at head office level are now being devolved to the regions which should provide faster turnaround for issues requiring consent at that level.


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Other significant items discussed at the briefing were: • DPI will be the government department that will co-ordinate infrastructure growth

planning for the whole state. To aid this, regional growth plans will be established throughout the state. It is also proposed that future infrastructure priorities will be based on the projects that will provide the best economic return for the state. (My comment : this initiative will add weight to the establishment of Joint Organisations- to replace ROC’s – and for the JO’s to provide, amongst other things, the regional planning input and interface with DPI)

• Much time at the briefing was devoted to discussion of population projections for LGA

areas previously provided by DPI which has been the source of loud condemnation in industry circles since their release. Councillors will recall that projections for Lockhart Shire are for 6% decrease by the year 2031. Other shires were projected to drop by as much as 20%. DPI made the following points o The numbers are projections, not targets o The numbers only take into account predicted changes in demographics and net

migration in each area – no attempt has been made to take into account new industry trends, tourism potential, future growth areas e.g. The Rock’s proximity to Wagga, and the like.

o New revised population projections are to be released shortly. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D3 - Vibrant rural planning and development. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Could provide some efficiencies if deliverables come to fruition. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the information be received and noted.

Notes:

5. CHANGE OF COUNCIL MEETING DATE (GM/C70-005) Executive Summary The dates when Easter falls this year necessitates a change to the date for our April Council Meeting. Report This year Good Friday occurs on 18 April and Easter Monday on 21 April. Our normal meeting day is 3rd Monday of the month, which in the case of April is Monday 21 April.


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The most viable alternative would be to bring the meeting forward a week to 14 April. This spreads our meeting dates quite well, with 4 weeks between the March and April meetings and 5 weeks between the April and May meetings. Other alternatives would be either Tuesday 15 or Wednesday 16 April. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E4 – Strong and effective leadership. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the April meeting of Council be brought forward one week to Monday 14 April due to the clash of the normal meeting date with Easter and the community be informed by the normal media outlets.

Notes:

6. TOWN AND SHIRE ENTRANCE SIGNS (GM/R40-090) Executive Summary Initial report on beautification of town approaches and shire entrances throughout the shire. Report Council has requested a report on beautification of the town approaches and shire entrances throughout the shire. I intend to approach this in two parts. The first part will deal with new signage and the second part will address other aspects of the beautification process. This report deals with new signage. The second part will be reported next month. My perusal of past council meeting agendas indicates that the subject of signage for these purposes has been an issue for at least the last couple of years seemingly without consensus. I suspect that design, type, locations and cost may have been some of the factors which inhibited decisions from being made. In approaching this issue type, locations and cost have been researched, but design has been left to a later stage. Type Research has ascertained there are many types of signs in the marketplace and their shapes, styles and sizes vary extensively. In order to narrow the options, concentration was made of surrounding shire areas and the types of sign used by both Coolamon and Tumbarumba shires seemed to be the most favoured. I shall have an example of them at the Council meeting. As mentioned before, design has not been a factor at this stage of the research. That can happen once other factors have been determined.


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Locations Decisions need to be made about which roads will have shire entrance signs, which roads will have town entry signs, and which towns will have the signs. For the purpose of this exercise, the following locations have been used: • Shire Entrances – 6 locations (regional roads and Olympic Highway) • Town Signs – major entrances to towns – 11 signs • Towns – Lockhart, The Rock, Yerong Creek • Town signs – 4 x Lockhart, 4 x the Rock, 3 x Yerong Creek. Costs As with the variety of signs available, the cost of individual signs vary extensively according to size, shapes, styles and designs. The favoured ones after the style of those used by Coolamon and Tumbarumba are typical of the prices available and are in the order of $4,500 per unit for the entrance signs, and for the smaller town signs, $3,500 per unit. For the shire entrances and 3 towns as per above criteria, costs will be: 1. Shire Entrances – 6 of (regional roads and Olympic Hwy) – 6 X $4,500 each = $27,000 2. Town signs – 4 x Lockhart, 4 x the Rock, 3 x Yerong Creek is 11 x $3,500 each =

$38,500. Total: $65,500, plus a small contingency so say $70,000 budget. If, for example, the criteria is expanded to include smaller community town entrance signs, further costs will be incurred as follows: Pleasant Hills – 3 x $3,500 = $10,500; Milbrulong - 3 x $3,500 = $10,500 Total $21,000 additional Grand Total $91,000. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference B1.1 - Manage and improve the appearance of our towns. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Potential cost as outlined above $91,000. This would all be an additional one off budget cost. It is a large cost to be incurred in one budget, but could conceivably be staged over a number of years by for example: • Y1 – shire entrances • Y2 – town signs, The Rock, Y3 – Lockhart and Y4 – Yerong Creek. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That this project be included for consideration in 2014/15 Annual Operating Plan and budget.

Notes:


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7. REQUEST TO JOIN THE TOURISM/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STEERING COMMITTEE (GM/T26-005) Executive Summary Letter from Myra Jenkyn requesting appointment as a member of the Tourism and Economic Development Committee. Report In November 2010, 13 interested residents of the community were approved to join the Tourism and Economic Development Committee, which has been very successful since its inception. Due to changes in members time and circumstances, numbers reduced. Taking this into consideration, Council resolved to invite the Chairpersons of The Rock and Lockhart Progress Associations to join the Committee, increasing current member numbers. The breakdown of current members are as follows: Councillor Gail Driscoll – The Rock Councillor Derek Douglas - Osborne Colin Weise – Milbrulong Greg Smith – Lockhart Raeleen Pfeiffer – The Rock Rob Martin – The Rock Roger Brand – Lockhart Sandra Johnstone – Lockhart Susan Creek – Pleasant Hills. The committee would benefit from additional representation from the Pleasant Hills and Yerong Creek residents, however efforts to encourage interest has been unsuccessful to date. To ensure the continued success of the TEDSC, additional members from other areas from within the Shire should also be considered. A letter has been received from Myra Jenkyn, a passionate and dedicated supporter of Lockhart Shire, requesting consideration from Council for approval to join the Tourism and Economic Development Committee. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference B3.2 – Foster a supportive business culture through networking and training. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment (5) Letter received from Myra Jenkyn.


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Recommendation: That Myra Jenkyn be approved as a member of the Tourism and Economic Development Steering Committee.

Notes:

8. REQUEST FOR LEGAL ASSISTANCE (GM/D14-010) Executive Summary LGNSW has requested all Councils to assist Canterbury City Council in a legal matter relating to the granting of an easement over community land. Report As per LGNSW’s legal assistance policy, assistance has been sought for all council’s to contribute to Canterbury City Council’s legal issue relating to the granting of an easement over community land by the Supreme Court of NSW against Council’s wishes. The Council contends that the decision could have major adverse implications for other councils by undermining their attempts to protect public recreation land from alienation for private purposes. The process of providing legal assistance to councils is a long established activity within Local Government in New South Wales. The rationale is that if a council has to defend a matter in a court and the matter is a landmark case i.e. there is no precedent for such a matter having been determined, a council may make application through LGNSW to receive legal assistance for its costs in the matter. If LGNSW determine that the matter is a case that would have ramifications for all councils then the application for legal assistance would be approved and all councils within NSW are requested to make a voluntary payment based on their calculated contribution. It is considered that this decision could have serious ramifications for all councils by the precedent that has been set to allow private use of community land for the purpose of access easements. A copy of the correspondence is attached. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference C1 - Protected biodiversity and open space. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Could have adverse planning implications if unchallenged. Budget & Financial Aspects Assistance sought is $182.55. Attachment (6) Letter received from Frank Loveridge, Legal Officer, Local Government NSW.


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Recommendation: That Council contribute on a voluntary basis the amount of $182.55 being Council’s calculated share of legal assistance for the Canterbury City Council to assist in the council’s costs to undertake a legal challenge in the Supreme Court of New South Wales.

Notes:

9. REQUEST FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE – DAVID & ANNE FELLOWS (GM/D30-005) Executive Summary Request for financial assistance received from David & Anne Fellows on behalf of their daughter Abbey. Report Abbey Fellows has been selected for the Wagga representative netball team from Under 12’s in 2009 and has continued each year to this year with the Under 17’s. Significant costs are incurred each year for travel and accommodation at carnivals both locally and metropolitan. Support has been requested to help Abbey with her sporting endeavours at representative level, however no specific amount has been suggested. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference A3.2 – Facilitate and Support our Community to Deliver vibrant and Dynamic Community Events. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Our policy objective provides that any assistance will be based on the benefit to the Lockhart Shire Council community.

Our policy statement states in part that Council will consider financial assistance to local sport and other bodies and individuals where the applicants have demonstrated a community need.

Compliance with Council’s eligibility criteria is as follows: • Be based within the Council area - Yes • Be not for profit - Yes • Not having received other funding from Council in this financial year- Yes • Agree to acknowledge Council’s contribution in publicity for the event – Not stated. Budget & Financial Aspects Budget of $20,000 - $1,821 unspent. Attachment (7) Letter received from David and Anne Fellows.


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Recommendation: That Council determine whether to provide a donation for David and Anne Fellows on behalf of their daughter Abbey.

Notes:


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Director Corporate and Community Services

10. STATEMENT OF FUNDS FEBRUARY 2014 (DCCS/F10-010)


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Recommendation: That the Statement of Funds for be received.

Notes:

11. SECTION 355 COMMITTEES (DCCS/C70-035)

Executive Summary Council resolved at its December 2013 meeting that a report be provided to Council on Section 355 Committees to review insurances and funding. Further to this at the February 2014 meeting Council requested a report on what is required of S355 Committees to report back to Council on. Report Council has a number of S355 Committees. The table below is a current list of those S355 Committees which either: - Receive funding - Charged for insurance: and/or - Have Council delegated authority.

SECTION 355 COMMITTEE LIST 2013/2014 Council Insurance Delegated

Subsidy AuthorityCommittee Name ResolutionBidgeemia Public Hall 1,500.00$ 891.00$ 414/12Lockhart & District Historical Society Museum Committee 1,409.00$ 414/12Lockhart Recreation Ground Committee 9,000.00$ 2,227.00$ 414/12Lockhart Showground & Racecourse Committee 2,339.00$ 414/12Milbrulong Hall & Recreation Ground Committee 1,500.00$ 980.00$ 414/12Osborne Recreation Ground Committee 7,500.00$ 1,743.00$ 414/12Pleasant Hills Public Hall Committee 3,000.00$ 1,860.00$ 414/12Pleasant Hills Recreation Reserve Committee 460.00$ 99.00$ 414/12The Rock Public Hall Committee 5,000.00$ 2,821.00$ 414/12The Rock Recreation Ground Committee 9,000.00$ 1,757.00$ 414/12The Rock Showground and Golf Course Committee 552.00$ 414/12Tootool Recreation Reserve Committee 414/12Yerong Creek Public Hall Committee 3,000.00$ 414/12Yerong Creek Recreation Ground Committee 2,680.00$ 627.00$ 414/12Urangeline Peace Hall 1,500.00$ The assets these S355 Committees manage are significant and aging. With the review of maintenance required for buildings as part of Council’s Asset Management it would be recommended Council initially write to each committee seeking their feedback of maintenance required and priorities with an offer to meet onsite to discuss in more detail if required.


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S355 Committees are covered by Council Policy 1.11 “Section 355 Committee Functions”. Clause 2.4 Accountability details the requirements to Council for a S355 committee.

2.4 Accountability The committees need to be aware that accountability is required to Council, user groups and the general community. To facilitate this accountability, the committees are required to: (a) Hold an Annual General Meeting annually that is advertised. (b) Provide reports and minutes of all meeting to Council. (c) Ensure that affected persons are aware of the committee meeting details. (d) Provide end of financial year summaries of income, expenditure, assets, liability

and equity. It should be noted that this Policy needs to be reviewed. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference A1 - An active and engaged community. A1.1.2 - Within financial means, support and fund Section 355 Committees to manage and maintain Council assets. Action A1.1.2.a - Provide an annual financial allocation to support the maintenance of community managed Council assets, and provide information and support to ensure that all maintenance is conducted safely, sustainably and responsibly. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects As determined by Council. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That Council: a) consider funding for those S355 Committees currently not receiving funding. b) communicates with each S355 Committee regarding maintenance required now and

into the future. c) Review Policy 1.11 Section 355 Committee Functions.

Notes:


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Director of Engineering and Environmental Services 12. ENGINEERING REPORT (DEES/T10-005)

Executive Summary Monthly report on engineering matters. Report (a) Works Report: Long term repairs of roads following March 2012 storm event are now

completed. All three grader crews are undertaking reconstruction projects, being at Albury Road at Urangeline East, County Boundary Road at Milbrulong, Plunkett Street at Yerong Creek, as well as Section 70 Albury Road near Pleasant Hills Road. Other major projects still to be undertaken this financial year are Osborne-Yerong Creek Road, with preliminary and drainage works being currently undertaken. Programme ‘snap shot’ is included in the attachments. Contract sealing scheduled to commence mid February 2014 and is now complete. Drainage works in Day Street, Lockhart to be undertaken with in-house staff, and has now commenced. This drainage will reduce the effect of local stormwater runoff impacting along the kerb & gutter in the CBD and is expected to take two months to complete.

(b) Flood Claim: Works on the programme for 2013/2014 for the March 2012 Local Roads is set to be wrapped up in March 2014. Meeting was held recently with RMS to work through total works undertaken and costs. Final approval of the works/payment to be resolved March /April 2014.

(c) Flood Studies: Draft final report has been received by Council and is being reviewed

by staff and Office of environment & Heritage (OEH). There is still some work to be undertaken to have the reports satisfactory before presentation to the respective flood committees and going on public exhibition.

(d) Road Safety Officer: Nil to report.

(e) Traffic Committee: The committee is currently assessing applications for improved

signage at Boree Creek/Yumula Roads, as well as Doigs Lane.

(f) Lockhart Local Emergency Management Committee: Minutes attached for LEMC meeting held 14 February 2014.

(g) Fleet: The new light truck for Lockhart P&G has been delivered, with new body

currently been manufactured.

Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D3.1 – Develop infrastructure for our community. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects Will be conducted within Council’s allocated budget.


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Attachments (8) 1. Updated Works Programme. 2. Minutes of LEMC Meeting held 14 February 2014. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:

13. NOXIOUS WEEDS (DEES/N10-025)

Executive Summary Monthly report on Noxious Weeds. Report Property Inspections Targeted inspections have been carried out for properties at Tootool and along the Tootool Mittagong Road as well as those that have had a change in ownership. The weeds most commonly found have been Horehound and Bathurst burrs. Most landholders have been quick to enforce control which is very encouraging. Locally, Silverleaf Nightshade has been evident in the Tootool area, although mainly in small quantities.

No. 1st Inspections

No. Re-inspections

required

No.2nd Inspections

No. Sect 18A’s issued

No.3rd Inspections

No. Section

18’s issued 28 5 3 2

A proposed Section 20 was also issued in order to obtain control of a variety of weeds on a property at The Rock. Satisfactory control has not been obtained at this stage. Spray Program Priority for spraying has been given to the control of Silverleaf nightshade in the Shire, along with Bathurst burrs and Prairie ground cherry. Council’s Spray Operator and Noxious Weeds Inspector are spot spraying throughout the Shire. Horehound is also being targeted following recent rains which have improved the chances of successful control with herbicides. Council’s Spray Operator has also sprayed back lanes in Lockhart, The Rock and Yerong Creek. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference C1 – Protected biodiversity and open space. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects Will be conducted within Councils allocated budget. Attachment Nil.


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Notes:

14. PARKS AND GARDENS REPORT (DEES/P10-005)

Executive Summary Monthly report on Parks & Gardens. Report General Maintenance Regular duties include inspections of parks and public facilities to remove litter, clean BBQ’s, check for damage or vandalism, clear footpaths and empty public and roadside bins. Most areas undergo inspections twice per week, including Galore Hill, where crews also clean and check the toilet facilities. Contract cleaners attend to the public toilet facilities in Lockhart, The Rock and Yerong Creek. The bird aviary at Hodgson Park is cleaned weekly and display branches are also replaced. Playgrounds in the shire are being inspected regularly as per Australian Standards, with any maintenance being noted and completed as necessary. CWA Park - Old Admin Building Site Planting to complete the garden bed behind the lawn will be scheduled shortly. The garden beds on the naturestrip will also be refurbished and plants lost over summer will be replaced. Plunkett Street, Yerong Creek Shrubs and grasses which grow to approximately 500mm in height will be chosen for the refurbished islands. Foliage colour and texture will be used to create contrast and interest throughout the year. Although the island will be irrigated with drippers, hardy, drought tolerant species will be used due to the harsh aspect and to reduce future undermining of the road surface. Caravan Park – Cabin Decks Quotes have been called for to construct decks of steel and modwood for the two newest cabins. The decks will give the cabins a completed look, making them more inviting for holiday makers/long term stays. The decks will also include a roof to provide shade from the westerly sun in summer. Pleasant Hills Preschool/Community Hall Playground A grant of $25000 has been received to replace the current playground equipment at the Pleasant Hills Hall. Council staff are currently consulting with the Preschool staff and management to assess their requirements and make recommendations. Quotes will be sort in the near future. Lockhart Recreation Ground Playground A grant of $20,000 has also been received to refurbish/upgrade the playground at the Lockhart Recreation Ground. Refurbishment of aged playgrounds like this often includes replacement or upgrading of parts or equipment to bring them up to current standards, replacement of faded plastic panels and components, addition of roof/shade structures and the painting of faded/scratched steel poles and components. Quotes are being sort.


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Lockhart Bird Aviary The aviary is currently attended by Lockhart Park & Gardens staff twice a week, during these visits the aviary is cleaned and the display branches are replaced. A local volunteer attends to the feeding of the birds and checks their water regularly on behalf of Rotary. The aviary has required some extra attention this year due to the poor health of the birds and unfortunately there have been some loses, especially amongst the larger parrots. The Ring-necked Doves appear to be suffering from a lice infestation and have been treated three times. Research suggests that the Ring-necked Dove is particularly susceptible to lice infestation and that the lice are species specific. The Doves do currently appear healthier but further treatment may be necessary. A major clean has also been conducted, with bamboo screening and hessian used to line the walls being removed to make future cleaning of the aviary easier. There are currently only two Little Corella and one Galah in the large parrot aviary. The Galah’s health is suffering, presumably due to loss of its mate, the last the Sulphur Crested Cockatoos’ was displaying similar behavior after the loss of its mate and eventually had to be put down. More birds will need to be purchased to insure the future health and happiness of the current residents and to warrant the current maintenance costs. Inbreeding amongst the smaller species is becoming evident. The Doves especially breed quite happily in captivity; in 2008 seven birds were given away to enthusiast when numbers got too high, leaving ten Doves in the Aviary. At last count there were 32 Doves, so once healthy they will again be offered to local enthusiast. There are currently only nine Budgies, which have to compete with the Doves for breeding boxes, once the Dove numbers are culled new Budgies will need to be introduced to reduce the chance of deformities causes by inbreeding. The cost of running the Aviary in 2012/13 was $8700, current cost for this financial year are at $5900 with $1150 License fee due in May and weekly maintenance costs of approximately $115.00. Pools Both pools close Sunday 16 March. Maintenance of the pool facilities will once again be the responsibility of the Parks & Gardens crews. Mowing and Slashing Mowing of irrigated areas is being conducted fortnightly or as required. Scheduled Autumn slashing of town streets and facilities has commenced, including Yerong Creek Cemetery and highway, Osborne Recreation Ground and Lockhart Showground prior to the Truck and Antique Show. Pleasant Hills Recreation Ground will be mowed before their annual cricket match. Other scheduled mowing includes the Airstrip, Munderwaddery Cemetery and Milbrulong Recreation ground and streets. Trees Recently planted trees have been watered once a week. Annual pruning of the Peppercorns in Lockhart’s Green St, Ferrier St, Drummond St, Matthews St, Showground and Recreation Ground, The Rock’s Wilson St and Recreation Ground and Pleasant Hills’ Crawford and Edgehill St will commence shortly. Pruning of the Kurrajongs in The Rock’s Urana St Islands will also start shortly and some of the other larger street trees will also require pruning if they have the potential to impede traffic. Formative pruning of juvenile specimens will be carried out throughout Autumn and Winter.


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Parks and Gardens Routine maintenance is being conducted including regular weeding, spraying, pruning, watering and mulching. Whippersnipping and edging of irrigated areas is being conducted fortnightly. Most irrigated lawns have been fertilized; the rest will be completed shortly. Crews are currently using a rotary hoe to break up the existing compacted softfall in the shires playgrounds. New softfall is being added where necessary to unsure the depth meets Australian Standards. Checks and maintenance will be carried out on all irrigation systems throughout the warmer months. Weed Control Regular weed control is being conducted on Council property including hand spraying and weeding of gardens. Extra attention has been required to control catheads and khaki weed at many council properties and on roadsides within town limits. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D1 – Infrastructure that facilitates an active community. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects Will be conducted within Council’s allocated budget. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:

15. RED CROSS 100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY (DEES/C45-005)

Executive Summary Lockhart Red Cross, in conjunction with Australian Red Cross is celebrating 100 years of operation in 2014. The Lockhart Red Cross has written to Council requesting assistance in various forms.

Report The Lockhart Red Cross is celebrating 100 years of operation in 2014. It has planned activities to mark the anniversary and has requested assistance from Lockhart Shire Council with these celebrations. Refer to attached letter from Lockhart Red Cross dated 11 February 2014. These activities/ideas include: - Fly Red Cross flag for 30 Days as from 8th May, World Red Cross Red Crescent Day - Plant red and white flowers in planter boxes in Green Street at Lantern Crossing


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- Planting Red Cross roses in Walter Day Park with plaque, provided by Lockhart Red Cross, to commemorate 100 years of service to the Lockhart community.

- Volunteers Week recognise Red Cross members and volunteers for their service - Street parade in August, anniversary of formation of Lockhart Branch - Parade of floats along Halliday Street highlighting 100 years of service by Lockhart

community - Red and white Day, encourage all to wear red and white - BBQ lunch to wind up proceedings in Walter Day Park. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference A1 - An active and engaged community. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects The cost of requests could be accommodated in the 2014/15 Budget, except for any road closures required for street parades. Attachment (9) Letter from Lockhart Red Cross dated 11 February 2014. Recommendation: That Council supports Lockhart Red Cross 100 Year celebrations in the form of: (a) Fly the Red Cross Flag for one week (week of 8th May 2014) in lieu of Council’s flag (b) Plant red and white flowers in planter boxes in Green Street (c) Renew the current red roses in the rose garden in Walter Day Park with Red Cross

roses, and place a plaque similar to the Country Women’s Association (CWA) in the garden

(d) Approve use of BBQ facilities at Walter Day Park (e) Meet with members of the Lockhart Red Cross committee to discuss options for street

parades.

Notes:

16. PLUNKETT STREET UPGRADE, YERONG CREEK (DEES/T10-015)

Executive Summary Council is currently upgrading Plunkett Street, Yerong Creek with Roads to Recovery (R2R) Funding as set in the 2013/14 budget. Report Council has set aside $278,000 to upgrade Plunkett Street, as well as $15,600 from PAMPS Program to upgrade cycleway from Stan Galvin Park to Finlayson Lane in the 2013/14 budget. Council has recently diverted some additional funds as applicable under R2R Funding guidelines to allow replacement of all kerbing, which was not previously budgeted.


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Some of the community has approached Councillors to include upgrade of footpath on the southern side of Plunkett Street, from the old Hotel to the old shops, to “finish the job”. In addition the owner of the old Hotel has also approached Council to “upgrade” the footpath under the verandahs as they see them as a safety issue. None of these works are budgeted and have an estimated cost of $12,000. Staff believes the footpaths are of satisfactory condition and are acceptable, however can see if additional monies are spent then would enhance the current works being undertaken. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference: B1 - Well-planned landscaping, streetscape and infrastructure. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects The additional works are unbudgeted and there are insufficient funds in the current budget to cover the costs. Options for funding ($12,000) include: (a) Obtain funds at quarterly budget review if available (b) Use infrastructure reserves (c) Include in a future budget (d) Do nothing and leave-as-is.

Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That Council see if funds ($12,000) are available at next quarterly budget review and if so undertake the footpath works.

Notes:

17. STREET TREES POLICY (DEES/T35-010)

Executive Summary Council has recently removed two significant trees in The Rock due to risk management concerns. Report Council has recently removed two significant trees in The Rock due to risk management concerns. This has brought upon complaints from various parties as to why these trees were removed. Unfortunately Council has received complaints about these trees and in particular due to health reasons of the residents. These trees are known and proven to cause chronic asthma and the property owner has made representation that these trees are causing health issues, and Council has received doctor’s advice to confirm this. This issue has been ongoing for nearly 12 months and Council made the decision to remove these trees due to the risks involved. This has also been explained to the neighbours. Trees (and the removal of) are a very sensitive issue and extremely difficult one for Council to manage, with a lot of the time no one being satisfied with the outcome(s). The decision to cut down trees is not taken lightly by Council staff, and certainly not just because an individual complains. Tree removal


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is an operational decision based on risks and staff considers the best position of Council at all times. In saying this, a way forward to improve how tree removal is handled would be to develop and enhance Councils current Street Tree Policy to include guidelines and parameters on street tree removal. The current policy is silent on street tree removal. The guidelines would provide a more stringent and robust procedure with dealing with complaints and tree risks, in the hope that it could reduce the physical and emotional impact of any street tree removal. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference B1 - Well-planned landscaping, streetscape and infrastructure. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects The cost of removal trees is generally included in annual maintenance budgets, and also considered in conjunction of it overall risks management. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That Council enhances its Street Tree Policy to include parameters and guidelines on street tree removal, and for this policy to be endorsed by Council and go on public exhibition.

Notes:

18. LOCKHART CARAVAN PARK (DEES/C05-005)

Executive Summary At the September 2013 quarterly budget review (November 2013) Council requested that a history of the economic performance of the Lockhart Caravan Park, over the last 5 years, be provided to the next Council meeting. Report The history of the economic performance of the Lockhart Caravan Park is as follows:


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2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009as at Feb 14

5540-1150-0000 Caravan Park Rent - Short Stay 23,381$ 29,653$ 14,632$ 12,423$ 13,973$ 11,938$ 5540-1160-0000 Caravan Park Rent - Long Stay 2,760$ 2,009$ 2,140$ 4,277$ 3,675$ 5540-1170-0000 Caravan Park - Washing Machine 724$ 513$ 131$ 40$ 224$ 179$

TOTAL INCOME 26,865$ 32,175$ 16,903$ 12,463$ 18,474$ 15,791$

5540-2255-0000 Caravan Park - Electricity Charges 6,536$ 11,252$ 5,144$ 5,265$ 5,249$ 5,122$ 5540-2275-0000 CARAVAN PARK - Rates 2,938$ 2,688$ 2,914$ 6,870$ 4,534$ 5,453$ 5540-2280-0000 CARAVAN PARK-Water 1,155$ 4,067$ 1,224$ 663$ 3,801$ 5540-2290-0000 Caravan Park - Caretakers Commission 15,246$ 24,522$ 21,278$ 14,560$ 15,120$ 11,480$ 5540-2330-0000 Caravan Park - Repairs and Mntce 22,896$ 31,105$ 29,515$ 11,462$ 10,338$ 10,431$

TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 48,771$ 73,633$ 60,075$ 38,819$ 39,042$ 32,486$

NET RESULT 21,906$ 41,458$ 43,172$ 26,356$ 20,569$ 16,695$

GRANTS5540-1400-0000 ECON A-Car Park Ament Buid Grant Cap 12,500$ 5540-1405-0000 CARAVAN PARK- Cabin Cap Grant 20,000$ 5540-1410-0000 CARAVAN PARK- Camp Kitchen Cap Grant 14,990$ It can be seen that over time the economic performance of the caravan park has deteriorated. This has been due to a number of reasons, mainly due to the Floods and monies spent of the upgrades of cabins and amenities. The Caravan Park Manager has recently resigned and is due to complete contract on 26 March 2014. A new manager is currently being advertised. In line with engaging a new contractor to manage the park a review of ALL aspects of the operation of the caravan park is being undertaken. This includes fees and charges (and comparing with similar parks), facilities provided (i.e. linen for cabins), solar panels for electricity supply, repairs and maintenance expenses (what can be done to minimise), and use of technology (i.e. online bookings, EFTPOS facilities). Councils Tourist and Economic Development Officer is reviewing advertisement and promotion of the park to improve patronage. It is believed that the changes to be implemented over the next three to nine months will greatly improve the economic sustainability of the park. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference B5.3 Develop infrastructure to support our tourist sector. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects Current budgets include the operation of the Lockhart Caravan Park. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:


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19. SEWERAGE, THE ROCK (DEES/S15-041)

Executive Summary In line with the subdivision at The Rock, Council is currently undertaking feasibility study of possible implementation of sewerage on the east side of The Rock. Report Council has previously indicated that sewering the east side of The Rock would provide opportunities for development and growth within the Shire. As part of the recently approved subdivision on Milne Road in The Rock, Council is currently undertaking a feasibility study of installing sewerage capabilities on the east side of The Rock. The study will report on all aspects including engineering feasibility, construction costs, likely cost implications for residents, and transport implications if significant development occurs. Following the feasibility study the community will be surveyed as to their views on the having sewerage capabilities installed on the east side of The Rock, including likely cost implications. It is expected the report will be made available to Council by May 2014 meeting. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D3.1 - Develop infrastructure that supports growth within our community. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Planning and zoning in accordance with new LEP. Budget and Financial Aspects Cost of feasibility study included in budget for Milne Road subdivision. Cost of sewerage facilities or to the community yet to be determined. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:

20. MOWING BY COMMUNITY GROUPS (DEES/P28-005)

Executive Summary As reported in Council Meeting November 2013 community groups in both Yerong Creek and The Rock have requested Council to supply mowers and equipment to allow the community groups to undertake some mowing of the townships. Report The Yerong Creek Parks & Gardens Committee undertakes some mowing of the Yerong Creek township on behalf of Council (namely the Olympic Highway, Cole Street, Plunkett Street, recreation ground and cemetery). In return Council has provided it with a larger tractor mower for use as well as $600 per annum to assist covering of costs. The Committee has recently requested an increase in its annual allocation to cover increase in costs (looking


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at its expenditure would be required to be increased to approximately $1,600 per year), as well as $5,000 contribution for purchase of smaller ride on mower in addition to the larger ride mower provided by Council. Total contribution by Council, including replacement and purchase of mowers, fuel, training, etc. is $4,865 per year. The Rock Men’s Shed has also indicated that it would like to assist people in The Rock with mowing nature strips and has requested a mower be provided for community use. At this stage Council Staff currently accommodate the mowing of four (4) nature strips of elderly residents as per 2012 Council Resolution. The main issues facing Council now, under the WHS Act 2011 is that volunteers are now treated the same as employees when it comes to safety aspects. This means the volunteers must comply with traffic control requirements, PPE, and training as well as maintenance records of the equipment. There is an increasing risk implication that Council must manage. Council staffs believe that the mowing of Yerong Creek areas undertaking by the community groups could be accommodated with some changes to staffing, with a Lockhart P&G personnel undertaking the mowing on average 2 days per month. This would then ensure that the levels of service are consistent between all the towns. Although staff appreciate and like having community groups undertake mowing on behalf of Council, the risk and cost to Council is now outweighing the benefits the groups provide. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference B1 - Well planned landscaping, streetscape and infrastructure. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects Nil cost impact to the budget with a restructure in P&G personnel. Mowing can be accommodated with current Council budgets. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That Council staff undertake the mowing of areas in Yerong Creek, The Rock and Pleasant Hills in lieu of community groups.

Notes:

21. DRIVEWAY ENTRANCES – COUNTY BOUNDARY ROAD (DEES/R40-085) Executive Summary As raised in Questions and Statements by Cr Douglas at the Council Meeting 17 February 2014 the Alexander family has written to Council regarding maintenance issues of their driveways on County Boundary Road, Milbrulong. Report Some time ago Council upgraded County Boundary Road and in doing so changed the physical geometry of the driveways to some of the properties. The Director of Engineering acknowledges that the reconstruction works of the road have left the entrances at less than


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desirable, and maybe could have been better designed/constructed at the time. As indicated by Mr Alexander, Council has sealed these entrances, in which this seal has deteriorated over time. Whilst Council policy is that driveway access is the responsibility of the property owner and any maintenance of driveways by Council could set a precedent, the Director of Engineering believes in this case there is an obligation on Council to assist in some maintenance as the problem was created by Council by the construction works. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D2 - Improved transport safety and accessibility. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Budget and Financial Aspects (a) To have the driveways resealed/patched by Council Jetpatcher the cost is estimated to

be $1,500. This could be accommodated in current local roads maintenance budget. This would need to be repeated every 4-5 years to keep the driveways in a satisfactory condition.

(b) To reconstruct the driveways to a more satisfactory geometric design, reducing maintenance costs, where the property owner would be responsible for all maintenance is estimated to be $18,000 (subject to watermain location).

Attachment (10) Letter from Alexander family and photos of the affected driveways. Recommendation: That Council: (a) Reseal the driveways with Council Jetpatcher immediately. (b) Further investigate reconstructing the driveways and consider in future budget(s) (c) This work should be considered as a one-off, not be classed as a precedent under

Council’s Policy.

Notes:

22. ROAD NAMING – COUNCIL SUBDIVISION, THE ROCK (DEES/R40-055) Executive Summary It is necessary to assign a street name to the road in the new residential subdivision at The Rock. Report As part of the registration process of Council’s subdivision at The Rock it is necessary to assign street addressing to each lot. As part of this it is necessary to name the newly created road. At this point in time Council has only one name suggested for any road at The Rock, this being Tinnock, a former long-serving mechanic in The Rock. Once a road name has been selected it must be advertised for a period of 28 days, calling for public submissions.


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Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference B1 – Well planned landscaping, streetscape and infrastructure. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Road name to be in accordance with Geographical Names Board. Budget and Financial Aspects Included in budget allocation for the subdivision. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That: a) an item, calling for suggestions from the public, be place in Council’s next newsletter b) a list of submissions be compiled and included in a further report to Council’s April

meeting.

Notes:

23. DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS (DEES/P25-010)

The following development applications were approved, with conditions, from 5 February 2014 to 5 March 2014.

DA No Development Applicant/Owner Site of Development 46/14 Shed John Griffin 5 Yerong St, The Rock 47/14 Shed B & D Taylor 12 Cole St, Yerong Creek 49/14 Shed Ian Burkinshaw 94 Drummond St, Lockhart 50/14 Installation of shipping

container V Karm 6 Edgehill Road, Pleasant Hills

35/14 Subdivision Lockhart Shire Council

Milne Road, The Rock


Notes:

24. UNTIDY BLOCKS IN URBAN AREAS (DEES/E30-015)

Executive Summary From previous meetings, Councillors have raised concerns regarding the untidiness of blocks within the urban areas of the Shire, with particular relevance to abandoned cars.


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Report Unfortunately, there are limitations to the actions that Council can pursue to enforce removal of car bodies, unless they pose a significant threat to health of neighboring residents, or act as potential habitat for vermin or threat of environmental impact. To this end, since the issue was raised, Council has created a catalogue of blocks in the major villages that may be causing such an issue, and have requested that any affected property owners undertake what is required to alleviate the issue. As a form of encouragement, rather than to promote a pre-determined outcome, Council has noted in correspondence the value of selling car bodies as scrap metal for cash, and highlighted that, should they not want to take this action, Council can accept such items at the Lockhart and The Rock waste facilities. Furthermore, and as an alternative to removing car bodies that may have sentimental value, the benefits of erect natural (trees, shrubs) or manufactured (color bond fencing) screens have also been suggested. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference C3.2 – Utilise effective waste management throughout the community. Legislative & Planning Implications Nil. Limited actions Council can pursue. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

Notes:

25. DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION 38/14 – THE ROCK MEN’S SHED (DEES/C45-051) Executive Summary Council is the applicant for a development application to subdivide land described as Lot B DP327347 and Lot 2, Section 5, DP758971, located at the corner of Ford Street and Burke Street, The Rock to create an allotment of 582.5m2 to be purchased by Council for the intended use of The Rock Men’s’ Shed committee to enable the construction of a new shed for their activities. Report Council resolved at its meeting of 15 July 2013 (Resolution 208/13) to purchase the proposed new allotment to enable The Rock Men’s Shed Committee to use the land for the future intended purpose of constructing a new shed to be utilised for the Men’s Shed activities subject to the Men’s Shed Group entering into a lease agreement with the Council. As a result of this resolution a Surveyor was engaged to prepare a plan of subdivision to allow for registration of the proposed lot with the Land Titles Office. The plan has now been completed and a copy is provided.


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The acquisition of land by Council is subject to certain provisions of the Local Government Act 1993 with regard to the classification of the land as Operational or Community. Section 31(2) of the Act provides that a Council may before it acquires land or within three months after it acquires it may by resolution classify the land as Community or Operational land. It would be proposed that the subject land be classified as Operational. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D3.2 – Land use that supports the development of our community. Legislative & Planning Implications The DA is assessed under the provisions of Section 79C of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The Registration of the title of the proposed lot will be undertaken through the NSW Land Titles Office. Budget & Financial Aspects Council has previously considered the budgetary implications for the subdivision and subsequent purchase of the land. As provided for in the report to Council at the 15 July 2013 meeting an amount of $8,000 was indicated to cover all incidental expenses for the survey and registration/transfer of the land. It is expected that these processes will be completed within this amount. Attachments (11) a) Plan of proposed lot b) Planning Report. Recommendation: That consent be given for the subdivision of land described as Lot B DP327347 and Lot 2 Section 5 DP758971 to create an allotment of 582.5m2 (proposed Lot 1), to be purchased by Council for use by The Rock Men’s Shed, and that the proposed Lot 1 upon acquisition be classified as Operational Land in accordance with Section 31(2) of the Local Government Act 1993.

Notes:

26. SWIMMING POOL INSPECTION PROGRAM (DEES/S55-025)

Executive Summary This report is to obtain Council’s endorsement to adopt a swimming pool inspection program, which has been on public exhibition, and is essential to meet the requirements of recent amendments to the Swimming Pools Act. Report The Swimming Pools Act 1992 was amended in 2012 to introduce new requirements for pool owners to register their pools, including spa pools, on a central on-line facility developed by the Division of Local Government. As part of the new arrangements Councils are required to develop a swimming pool inspection program in consultation with their local community. A draft swimming pool inspection program is now developed for Lockhart Shire and has been on public exhibition to receive any input from the local community. No submissions have been received.


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Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E2 - Accessible and responsive service delivery. Legislative & Planning Implications Local councils are the relevant regulatory authority under the provisions of the Swimming Pools Act. While the swimming pool database will be maintained by the Division of Local Government, councils have a role in ensuring compliance with the Act, the issuing of certificates in relation to swimming pools and any required enforcement actions to make sure pool owners maintain their pools in accordance with the Act. Budget & Financial Aspects Any swimming pool inspections would be carried out within the existing operational budget. The amendment to the Swimming Pools Act has introduced the ability for Councils to charge a fee for inspections. Council’s fees in the current year fees and charges are set at $70.00 for an inspection and compliance certificate and no specific fee for a re-inspection. The new maximum fees set by the legislation are $150.00 for an initial inspection and $100.00 for a re-inspection. It would be suggested that Council review their fees and charges prior to adopting the 2014/2015 fees and charges and in the interim period charge $70.00 for all inspections. Attachment (12) Draft Swimming Pool Inspection Program. Recommendation: That Council adopts the draft Swimming Pool Inspection Program.

Notes:


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Delegates’ Reports

Delegates Report Riverina Water 1. Meeting held 26 February 2014. 2. New Director of Engineering Mr Bede Spannagle has commenced work. 3. Council endorsed the recommendation of the Performance Review committee in respect of

General Manager. (satisfactory). 4. Motion to pay a dividend to member Councils was defeated. 5. Given disruptions in Engineering area there will likely be a significant underspend in Capital

Works. 6. Council is considering a number of Financial Scenarios to pay for new Water Treatment Plant

and other Capital Expenditure. 7. Council is preparing a submission to Review Panel findings. Greg Verdon

Questions and Statements Cr Morgan Changes to Rural and Urban Addressing a) Why would urban residents be consulted as to the addressing of property and not the rural

residents? b) Could there be some form of correspondence to property owners to allow them to reply to

this very important matter? Response – Director of Engineering a) Both rural and urban residents are consulted when necessary to resolve addressing issues. b) Rural addressing was allocated across the Shire in the mid 1990's. Most rural addressing is

reasonably straight forward. Where there is the possibility of dual or ambiguous addressing, this will indeed be done in consultation with ratepayers, by telephone in the first instance, where possible, and then confirmed in writing. When any rural address query is received either by phone or in writing, the assigned address is confirmed in writing and a note added to the Rates System. Ratepayers are given the option of having an orange marker post installed. In cases where an orange marker is already in place, a letter is not necessarily sent out. The following is what appeared in Council's newsletter: The rise of electronic communication mediums has seen an increase in demands from a wide variety of sectors to obtain relevant, accurate and timely addressing information to suit a range of needs including navigation, emergency response, service delivery and statistical analysis.

Addresses are important navigation tools; not only for residents but for councils, emergency services and mapping services. In 2013 new Australian Standards for Rural and Urban Addressing were released. The use of lot numbers, RMB’s or property names is no longer acceptable.


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Council, as the addressing authority for Lockhart Shire, has been tasked, by Land & Property Information NSW (LPI) to bring all property addresses within the Shire into line with these new standards. Accordingly, over the coming months Council will be assigning addresses to rural dwellings and will work with residents in urban areas to correct incorrect numbering where it occurs. In cases where there are two dwellings on one holding, secondary addresses will be assigned. All assignments and corrections will be forwarded to LPI NSW who will, in turn, notify the Valuer General. This information will also be integrated with Australian Electoral Commission and Australia Post address data. Rural ratepayers may notice the addition or adjustment of the primary property address on your rate notices. Any changes to urban addressing will be done in consultation with the affected residents. If you would like more information on the new standards, both rural and urban, go to the NSW Geographical Names Board website, http://www.gnb.nsw.gov.au/addressing. Here you’ll find fact sheets and other useful information on how and why this is important project is being undertaken.

Cr Verdon NBN Can Council provide an update on the provision of NBN to The Rock and the remainder of the Shire? Cr Schirmer Council Work Wear Is it appropriate for council workers working in heat we experience in our shire during summer, to be made to wear long sleeved shirts and long trousers?


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http://www.gnb.nsw.gov.au/addressing

Attachment 1 to the Business Paper of the Ordinary Monthly Meeting held 17 March 2014

NOTICE OF MOTION – NOTICE OF MOTION TO RESCIND



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ITEM 1 – FINAL PANEL REPORT – LOCKHART COUNCIL SUBMISSION


Fiscal Responsibility

No. Recommendation Comments

1 Establish an integrated Fiscal Responsibility

Program, coordinated by DLG and also involving

TCorp, IPART and LGNSW to address the key

findings and recommendations of TCorp’s

financial sustainability review and DLG’s

infrastructure audit (5.1 and 5.3)

• LGMA or IPWEA should be involved, or

both.

• Should be outcomes focused, it should not

be about what process is used but what is

achieved.

2 As part of the program:

• Adopt an agreed set of sustainability

benchmarks (5.1)

• Introduce more rigorous guidelines for Delivery

Programs as proposed in Box 9 (5.2)

• Commission TCorp to undertake regular follow-

up sustainability assessments (5.3)

• Provide additional training programs for

councillors and staff (5.3)

• Require all councils to employ an appropriately

qualified Chief Financial Officer (5.3)

• This is being covered by the DLG’s

benchmarks’ project

• Box 9 – what if a councillor and mayor don’t

both sign off on the Delivery Program –

sign off should be by as resolution of

council.

• CFOs – what qualifications should they

hold? A qualification should be able to be

replaced by substantial experience in LG.

• Joint Organisations could employ a CFO to

share across a number of councils.

Councils should be able to employ a CFO if

they want to.

3 Place local government audits under the aegis of

the Auditor General (5.4) • Agreed however it must be cost neutral to

councils and pegged to agreed price/cost

index.

4 Ensure that the provisions of the State-Local

Government Agreement are used effectively to

address cost-shifting (5.5)

• There must be greater recognition of cost-

shifting and the past impacts of the practice

by the Panel.

Notes: Require a definition of Councils at Risk – asserting that populations of less than 10,000 are at risk without giving any reasons behind it is not good enough. Councils require better reasoning than a “populate or perish” mentality.


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Strengthening Revenues

No. Recommendation Comments 5 Require councils to prepare and publish more

rigorous Revenue Policies (6.1) • Councils are supposed to do this anyway,

including providing the reasoning behind the

decisions.

6 Commission IPART to undertake a further

review of the rating system focused on:

• Options to reduce or remove excessive

exemptions and concessions that are contrary

to sound fiscal policy and jeopardise councils’

long term sustainability (6.2)

• More equitable rating of apartments and

other multi-unit dwellings, including giving

councils the option of rating residential

properties on Capital Improved Values, with a

view to raising additional revenues where

affordable (6.3)

• Has to take into account individual

circumstances

• Differences between

o Rural and regional

o Metro

o Coastal

7 Either replace rate-pegging with a new system

of ‘rate benchmarking’ or streamline current

arrangements to remove unwarranted

complexity, costs, and constraints to sound

financial management (6.5)

• New rate benchmarking proposal is

acceptable

• SRV must be easier to obtain and less

complex to prepare. Where the SRV is in line

with the CSP outcomes this should carry

weight, otherwise what is the point of IP&R.

• The 5% increase proposed is acceptable.

8 Subject to any legal constraints, seek to

redistribute federal Financial Assistance

Grants and some State grants in order to

channel additional support to councils and

communities with the greatest needs (6.6)

• FAGs has decreased in real terms, this

should be addressed. Proposal just cuts the

pool up differently there isn’t sufficient

quantum of funds.

• No growth tax, LG is stuck with indexation

and this does not keep up with costs.

• What should be the measures of need?

Mediocrity shouldn’t be rewarded.

• Some LGAs will never raise sufficient rates or

own source funds to meet the costs of running

their LGA. There needs to be recognition of

this in the grants’ process.


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• Joint Organisations should not be able to

access FAGs – there is not enough money in

the pool now so it would just reduce money

going to councils.

• FAGs are a Commonwealth process so

structural changes to distribution needs to be

addressed by the Commonwealth.

9 Establish a State- borrowing facility to

encourage local government to make

increased use of debt where appropriate by:

• Reducing the level of interest rates paid by

councils

• Providing low-cost financial and treasury

management advisory services (6.7)

• It should be desirable for councils to have an

operating surplus, it should not be seen as a

retrograde step. Federal and State

governments set fiscal goals for surplus

budgets, LG should be able to do the same.

• Agree with the establishment of the borrowing

facility.

• It is important that councils have access to

low interest rates

• Councils will only borrow when they are

confident that they have the capacity to pay

back the funds.

• South Australian model should be adopted

10 Encourage councils to make increased use of

fees and charges and remove restrictions on

fees for statutory approvals and inspections,

subject to monitoring and benchmarking by

IPART (6.8)

• Productivity Commission Report indicated that

the use of fees and charges by LG had

“topped out” and that there was little scope to

generate more funds this way.

• Rural and regional councils have small

population bases and there is little or no

scope to raise revenue through the use of

fees and charges.

Meeting Infrastructure Needs

No. Recommendation Comments 11 Factor the need to address infrastructure

backlogs into any future rate-pegging or local

government cost index (7.1)

• Agree

12 Maintain the Local Infrastructure Renewal

Scheme (LIRS) for at least 5 years, with a focus

• Support the LIRS however the term of the

loans needs to be longer to better reflect the


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on councils facing the most severe

infrastructure problems (7.2)

type of infrastructure that is being funded. 10

years is too short a period for the loan – this

limits the size of the infrastructure that can

be funded.

13 Pool a proportion of funds from the roads

component of federal Financial Assistance

Grants and, if possible, the Roads to Recovery

program in order to establish a Strategic

Projects Fund for roads and bridges that would:

• Provide supplementary support for councils

facing severe infrastructure backlogs that

cannot reasonably be funded from other

available sources

• Fund regional projects of particular economic,

social or environmental value (7.2)

• Councils should be able to choose to pool

funds if they want to but not be forced to do

so. It should not be mandatory.

• It should be new money that is spent under

the direction of the JO not a redirection of

existing funds.

• Councils have no spare funding and

therefore are not in a position to give funds

away without reducing expenditure to

compensate for the loss.

• Need to find out more about how the

Queensland model works

• Any supplementary support for councils

must come from new money not a

redistribution of existing funds.

• Councils with significant but not severe

infrastructure backlogs should not lose funds

in order to meet the needs of councils with

severe backlogs.

14 Require councils applying for supplementary

support from the Strategic Projects Fund to

undergo independent assessments of their

asset and financial management performance

(7.2)

• Agree

15 Carefully examine any changes to development

(infrastructure) contributions to ensure there are

no unwarranted impacts on council finances and

ratepayers (7.3)

• Individual councils should be able to set their

own charges

• Should not set by the State Government

16 Adopt a similar model to Queensland’s Regional

Roads and Transport Groups in order to

improve strategic network planning and foster

ongoing improvement of asset management

expertise in councils (7.4)

• Find out how the model actually works.


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17 Establish Regional Water Alliances as part of

new regional Joint Organisations proposed in

section 11 (7.5)

• This issue should be dealt with as part of the

formation of a JO. The member councils

should be able to determine if this is the best

result for the members and the organisation

– there must be flexibility which should

include retention of county councils.

• MOUs between county councils exist now.

Improvement, Productivity and Accountability

No. Recommendation Comments 18 Adopt a uniform core set of performance

indicators for councils, linked to IPR

requirements, and ensure ongoing performance

monitoring is adequately resourced (8.1)

• Providing that the information is used for

positive purposes not to hammer councils.

• Focus on improvement

19 Commission IPART to undertake a whole-of-

government review of the regulatory,

compliance and reporting burden on councils

(8.2)

• This must result in tangible outcomes being

put forward that lead to action.

• Agree with the second stage review

proposal.

20 Establish a new sector-wide program to

promote, capture and disseminate innovation

and best practice (8.3)

• Yes, but who is doing it and how it is paid for

• A role for LGNSW?

21 Amend IPR Guidelines to require councils to

incorporate regular service reviews in their

Delivery Programs (8.4)

• Agree

22 Strengthen requirements for internal and

performance auditing as proposed in Box 17

(8.5)

• Not necessary for smaller Councils

23 Introduce legislative provisions for councils to

hold Annual General Meetings (8.6) • Don’t believe that this will achieve anything

concrete.

24 Develop a NSW Local Government Workforce

Strategy (8.7) • Agree

25 Explore opportunities for the Local Government

Award to continue to evolve to address future

challenges facing the sector and changing

operational needs

• Agree


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Political Leadership and Good Governance

No. Recommendation Comments 26 Amend the Local Government Act to

strengthen political leadership:

• Require councils to undertake regular

‘representation reviews’ covering matters such

as the number of councillors, method of

election and use of wards (9.1)

• Before their nomination is accepted, require

all potential candidates for election to local

government to attend an information session

covering the roles and responsibilities of

councillors and mayors (9.1)

• Amend the legislated role of councillors and

mayors as proposed in Boxes 19 and 21, and

introduce mandatory professional development

programs (9.2 and 9.3)

• Provide for full-time mayors, and in some

cases deputy mayors, in larger councils and

major regional centres (9.3)

• Amend the provisions for election of mayors

as proposed in Box 22 (9.3)

• How is this achieved?

• Representation Reviews should be part of the

IP&R process and align with the Strategic

Plan.

• How is this achieved?

• Yes to 2 year terms for Mayors

• PD should be encouraged but shouldn’t be

mandatory. PD should be accessible both

financially and through multiple delivery

channels.

• Councils should not be forced to have elected

mayors. It should be council choice

regardless of the size of councils

• Do not agree that the Mayor nominates the

Deputy Mayor. This should be a matter for the

council as a whole

• The Mayor’s role should be to “advise,

oversight and provide strategic direction…”

not “manage”.

27 Increase remuneration for councillors and

mayors who successfully complete recognised

professional development programs (9.2-9.4)

• The base remuneration for councillors should

be increased

• PD programs should provide a pathway to

increased remuneration for councillors – an

increase on the base remuneration.

Participation should be a matter of choice.

28 Amend the legislated role and standard

contract provisions of General Managers as

proposed in Boxes 23 and 24 (9.5)

• The no summary dismissal in the first 6

months proposal needs to include a provision

for dismissal where there is evidence of gross

misconduct.

• Completion of a tailored GM Induction – who

would be responsible for this? How would it

work in practice?


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29 Amend the provisions for organisation reviews

as proposed in section 9.6 • Amend the first point in 9.6 to read “ the

governing body must consider the advice of

the Mayor and GM” current use of “must act”

implies “must accept”.

• Point three in 9.6 Agreed. That the only

specified roles should be those that are

reporting directly to the GM. Act must be clear

on this.

30 Develop a Good Governance Guide as a basis

for ‘performance improvement orders’ and to

provide additional guidance on building

effective working relationships between the

governing body, councillors, mayors and

General Managers (9.7)

• In principle agreed.

Advance Structural Reform

No. Recommendation Comments 31 Introduce additional options for local

government structures, including regional Joint

Organisations, ‘Rural Councils’ and Community

Boards, to facilitate a better response to the

needs and circumstances of different regions

(10.1)

• Support JOs and support the flexible

approach to their establishment. Councils

should be able to choose what activities the

JO undertakes and this should be based on

what is the best outcome for the councils.

• Councils should be able to choose which JO

they join. This should be re-affirmed by a

council during the 5th year of membership.

• Councils should be able to choose to

become an Associate Member of a JO.

• Assertion in 10.2 Table 4 that there is a

“weak link” between regional collaboration

and efficiencies and economies of scale and

Strategic Capacity is not supported by

REROC’s experience.

• JOs should be required to regularly speak to

each other and collaborate where

appropriate.

32 Legislate a revised process for considering • This is pre-emptive, if the JO is operating


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potential amalgamations and boundary

changes through a re-constituted and more

independent Boundaries Commission (10.3)

properly then this should negate the need for

amalgamations.

• Boundaries Commission should be able to

undertake independent assessments that are

initiated by councils and remain confidential

to the councils that initiated them.

33 Encourage voluntary mergers of councils

through measures to lower barriers and provide

professional and financial support (10.4)

• If councils want to merge they should be

supported to do that.

34 Provide and promote a range of options to

maintain local identity and representation in

local government areas with large populations

and/or diverse localities (10.5)

• Support options approach.

• Don’t support community boards raising local

levies.

Regional Joint Organisations

No. Recommendation Comments 35 Establish new Joint Organisations for each of

the regions shown on Maps 2 by means of

individual proclamations negotiated under new

provisions of the Local Government Act that

replace those for County Councils(11.5)

• Defer establishment of JOs in the Sydney

metropolitan region, except for sub-regional

strategic planning, pending further

consideration of options for council mergers

(11.5)

• Enter into discussions with 2-3 regions to

establish ‘pilot’ JOs (11.5)

• Re-constitute existing County Councils as

subsidiaries of new regional Joint

Organisations, as indicated in Table 5 (11.2)

• Establish Regional Water Alliances in each JO

along the lines proposed in the 2009

Armstrong-Gellatly report (11.3)

• Set the core functions of Joint Organisations

by means of Ministerial Guidelines (11.6)

• “Scrap the Maps” councils should be able to

determine which JOs they join.

• Councils should be able to choose a Primary

JO and a secondary JO (for which they

would be an Associate Member).

• Support the individual proclamations

approach as it will provide great flexibility.

1.

• No comment on JOs in Sydney

• REROC to nominate to pilot

2.

• The issue of how county councils and Water

Alliances are dealt with in the new structure

should be left to the councils to decide. Lot

more exploration of the proposal is required.

County councils in the eastern Riverina are

working well and this should be taken into

account. Do not support the proposal for the

automatic re-constitution of the County

Councils.

3.

• A suite of functions should be suggested but


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• Seek federal government agreement to make

JOs eligible for general-purpose FAGs (11.6)

it should be up to councils to determine

which functions they actually adopt

• Do not support the distribution of FAGs to

JOs – the quantum of funds is already

insufficient to cover LG needs, this will dilute

funding further.

36 Identify one or more regional centres within

each Joint Organisation and:

• Create a network of those centres to drive

development across regional NSW (11.7)

• Consider potential mergers of councils to

consolidate regional centres, as indicated in

Table 6 (11.7)

• The Regional Centre should reflect the

community of interest of the member

councils

• The role of the Regional Centre should be up

to the membership and the regional centre

council.

• It is a matter for the councils to determine if a

merger is in the best interests of their

community.

37 Develop close working partnerships between

Joint Organisations and State agencies for

strategic planning, infrastructure development

and regional service delivery (11.8), and

• Add representatives of Joint Organisations to

State agency Regional Leadership Groups

(11.8)

• Give particular attention to cross-border issues

and relationships in the operations of Joint

Organisations and in future regional strategies

(11.9)

• Supported

• Supported

4.

• Supported

Rural Councils and Community Boards

No. Recommendation Comments 38 Establish a working party as part of the

Ministerial Advisory Group proposed in section

18 to further develop the concept of ‘Rural

Councils’ for inclusion in the re-written Local

Government Act (12.1)

• MAG should be established as a long term

committee (at least 5 years) to provide

advice to the Minister. It should have a

balanced membership – rural, regional and

coastal as well as GMs and councillors.

• Why not sitting or former councillors – they


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have an understanding of LG gained first

hand.

39 Include provisions for optional Community

Boards in the re-written Act, based on the New

Zealand model, but also enabling the setting of a

supplementary ‘community rate’ with the

approval of the ‘parent’ council (12.2)

• There is more research required on the

Community Boards proposal before it is

written into the Act.

• This proposal is pre-emptive; it assumes

that the Model will be adopted when there is

a lot more work to be done.


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Metropolitan Sydney & Hunter, Central Coast and Illawarra

No. Recommendation Comments 40 Strengthen arrangements within State

government for coordinated metropolitan

planning and governance, and to ensure

more effective collaboration with local

government (13.1)

Not applicable

41 Seek evidence-based responses from

metropolitan councils to the Panel’s proposals

for mergers and major boundary changes,

and refer both the proposals and responses

to the proposed Ministerial Advisory Group

(section 18.1) for review, with the possibility

of subsequent referrals to the Boundaries

Commission (13.3)

Not applicable

42 Prioritise assessments of potential changes to

the boundaries of the Cities of Sydney and

Parramatta, and

• Retain a separate City of Sydney Act to

recognise its Capital City role

• Establish State-local City Partnership

Committees for Sydney and Parramatta along

the lines of Adelaide’s Capital City Committee

(13.4)

Not applicable

43 Pending any future action on mergers,

establish Joint organisations of councils for

the purposes of strategic sub-regional

planning (13.5)

Not applicable

44 Maximise utilisation of the available local

government revenue base in order to free-up

State resources for support to councils in less

advantaged areas (13.6)

Agreed

45 Continue to monitor the sustainability and

appropriateness in their current form of the

Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains and Wollondilly

local government areas (13.7)

Not applicable

46 Promote the establishment of a Metropolitan Not applicable


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Council of Mayors (13.8)

47 Seek evidence-based responses from Hunter

and Central Coast councils to the Panel’s

proposals for mergers and boundary

changes, and refer both the proposals and

responses to the proposed Ministerial

Advisory Group (section 18.1) for review, with

the possibility of subsequent referrals to the

Boundaries Commission (14.1 and 14.2)

Not applicable

48 Defer negotiations for the establishment of a

Central Coast Joint Organisation pending

investigation of a possible merger of Gosford

and Wyong councils (14.2)

Not applicable

49 Pursue the establishment of Joint

Organisations for the Hunter and Illawarra in

accordance with Recommendation 35 (14.1

and 14.3)

Not applicable


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Rural & Regional Councils

No. Recommendation Comments 50 Explore options for non-metropolitan councils

in Group A as part of establishing the Western

Region Authority proposed in section 16 (15.1)

• Not applicable - no comment.

51 Refer councils in Groups B-F to the

Boundaries Commission in accordance with

Table 11 and the proposed timeline (15.1)

• If JO and other initiatives should be

implemented first and then an assessment

made.

52 Complete updated sustainability assessments

and revised long term asset and financial

plans for the 38 councils identified in Table 11

by no later than mid-2015 (15.2)

• This proposal is not in alignment with the rest

of the Report.

• Audits should be outcomes focused – what is

the purpose of the audit, what actions need to

be taken as a result of the audit – it is too

process driven

Far West

No. Recommendation Comments 53 Agree in principle to the establishment of a Far

West Regional Authority with the functions

proposed in Box 39 and membership as

proposed in Figure 9 (16.3)

Not applicable

54 Adopt the preferred new arrangements for local

government set out in Box 40 as a basis for

further consultation (16.4)

Not applicable

55 Establish a project team and reference group

of key stakeholders within the DPC Regional

Coordination Program to finalise proposals

(16.5

Not applicable


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State-Local Government Relations

No. Recommendation Comments 56 Use the State-Local Agreement as the basis

and framework for a range of actions to build

a lasting partnership, and negotiate

supplementary agreements as appropriate

(17.2)

• There needs to be underpinning service and

financial agreements that support relationships

and service delivery.

• Relies on the State Government changing its

attitude towards its dealing with LG

57 Introduce new arrangements for collaborative,

whole-of-government strategic planning at a

regional level (17.3)

• Agreed. State must become a real partner in

the process of regional planning, must be

prepared to engage at a local level.

58 Amend the State Constitution to strengthen

recognition of elected local government (17.4)

• Agreed

59 Seek advice from LGNSW on the measures it

proposes to take to meet its obligations under

the State-Local Agreement (17.5)

• This is a two-way street. It’s not just about

LGNSW taking measures, the State must also

take measures to meet its obligations.

60 Strengthen the focus of DLG on sector

development and seek to reduce its workload

in regulation and compliance (17.6)

• Agreed


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Driving and Monitoring Reform

No. Recommendation Comments 61 Establish a Ministerial Advisory Group and

Project Management Office (18.1 and 18.2) • MAG should be established as a long term

committee (at least 5 years) to provide advice

to the Minister. It should have a balanced

membership – rural, regional and coastal as

well as GMs and councillors.

• Why not sitting or former councillors – they

have an understanding of LG gained first

hand.

62 Refer outstanding elements of the Destination

2036 Action Plan to the Ministerial Advisory

Group (18.1)

• Agreed

63 Adopt in principle the proposed priority initial

implementation package set out in Box 42, as

a basis for discussions with LGNSW under the

State-Local Government Agreement (18.3)

• There should be an implementation package

but this should be developed after responses

close and to reflect the Minister’s

implementation goals.

64 Further develop the proposals for legislative

changes detailed in Boxes 43 and 44, and

seek to introduce the amendments listed in

Box 43 in early 2014 (18.5)

• Support legislation to allow implementation of

JOs. All other amendments should wait until

further progress is made.

• REROC is ready to support and pilot the

introduction of JOs.

65 Adopt in principle the proposed

implementation timeline (18.6)

• Not agreed


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ITEM 2 – LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACTS TASKFORCE – LSC ‘AGREE/DISAGREE/COMMENTS’ TO RECOMMENDATIONS


NSW Local Government Acts Taskforce – 16 October 2013

Recommendations by the Taskforce Topic Agree/Disagree/Comments

3.0.0 – Approach and Principles for the Development of the New Act

Agree

3.1.0 – Structure of the New Local Government Act

Agree

3.1.1 – Purposes of the Local Government Act

Agree

3.1.2 – Role and Guiding Principles of Local Government

Agree

3.1.3 – Constitution of Councils Agree 3.1.4 – Roles and Responsibilities of Council Officials

Agree – not considered because of implications of IRP recommendations

3.2.1 – Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR)

Agree

3.2.2 – Community Engagement Agree – new solution sounds complex but careful reading makes it apparent that it is largely what we are already doing

3.2.3 – Performance of Local Government Some proposed recommendations by the Taskforce have been deferred pending outcome of IRP recos. Part 4 is not supported as it doesn’t seem to be any better or worse than current provision.

3.2.4 – Technology Agree 3.3.1 – Elections Agree 3.3.2 – Meetings Agree 3.3.3 – Appointment and Management of Staff

Agree

3.3.4 – Regional Strategic Organisations of Councils and Formation and Involvement in Corporations and Other Entities

Agree

3.3.5 – Protection from Liability Agree – no changes proposed 3.3.6 – Code of Conduct Agree – no changes proposed 3.3.7 – Pecuniary Interest Part 1 is good. Part 2 is not supported on privacy

grounds 3.3.8 – Delegations Part 1 ok. Part 2 is not supported as there is a

need for Council approval to be gained in these matters to achieve balanced decisions.

3.3.9 – Financial Governance Agree 3.3.10 – Procurement Agree 3.3.11 – Capital Expenditure Framework Agree 3.3.12 – Public Private Partnerships (PPP) Agree – but at this stage not relevant to Council’s

operations 3.3.13 – Acquisition of Land Agree – it should also include a proviso that

precludes identification of individual parcels of land to prevent escalation of selling prices

3.3.14 – Public Land Agree – recommendations are still complex but will simplify dealing with these issues if approved.

3.3.15 – Approvals, Orders and Enforcement Agree 3.3.16 – Water Management Agree – being dealt with in other reviews 3.3.17 – Tribunals and Commissions Agree 3.3.18 – Other Matters Agree


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ITEM 3 – LOCKHART DELIVERY PROGRAM 2013-17


STRATEGIC DIRECTION A: A CONNECTED AND RESILIENT COMMUNITY

WHAT OUR COMMUNITY TOLD US

• Our identity is strong and we are proud of our sense of community

• We think we live in a friendly, safe and welcoming shire

• Our community groups need support to remain sustainable long term

• It is important that our community knows what is going on and has access to community information

• Being part of a rural community means we often have to respond to challenging times, and it is important we are prepared and supported for this

• Events and activities are an important and enjoyable way for us to come together

• Our children, young people and older residents should be encouraged and supported to participate in community life

NSW STATE GOVERNMENT PLAN LINKS

• Goal 24: Make it easier for people to be involved in their communities

• Goal 25: Increase opportunities for seniors in NSW to fully participate in community life

• Goal 27: Enhance cultural, creative, sporting and recreation opportunities

• Goal 28: Ensure NSW is ready to deal with major emergencies and natural disasters

OUR DIRECTION


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Outcome A1: An active and engaged community

Strategic Objective A1.1: Build capacity, capability and partnerships to encourage sustainable community groups and clubs

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A1.1.1 Provide information and advice that supports the sustainability and long term focus of community groups and clubs.

Council

State Government

RDA * * * *

Action A1.1.1.a Collaborate cross-functionally to maintain current insights on the needs of community groups and clubs, and the internal and external funding and training opportunities available to community group members.

Director Corporate Services

All Council Departments and Functions

* Information is shared through Council

Information relative to funding opportunities is centrally stored and shared through Council functions.

Grants relevant to community groups are communicated via letter and/or email. Community groups have access to Council funded grants writer.

Action A1.1.1.b Deliver information and advice to community groups and clubs with a view to satisfying sustainability and governance needs.


All Council Departments and Functions

* The relevant community members receive information relative to community groups and clubs. Annual training program developed, promoted and delivered

2013/14 whole-of-Council Communications Schedule developed and implemented

Community groups and clubs find Council to be approachable, accessible and supportive

A program is being developed which will include key aspects of running a community group and/or club.


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Strategic Objective A1.1: Build capacity, capability and partnerships to encourage sustainable community groups and clubs

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A1.1.2 Within financial means, support and fund Section 355 Committees to manage and maintain Council assets.

Council Community * * * *

Action A1.1.2.a Provide an annual financial allocation to support the maintenance of community managed Council assets, and provide information and support to ensure that all maintenance is conducted safely, sustainably and responsibly.


* Annual financial allocation made to community committees within the first two months of the financial year

All works carried out community halls to a high standard

Maintenance occurring as required and within budget.

A condition assessment of all assets occurring which will drive future budgets.

Operational Plan subsidies to Recreation Group Management Committees & Hall Management Committees

Strategic Objective A1.2: Ensure the community is informed by improving access to information

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A1.2.1 Enable mechanisms that ensure that information can be accessed in ways that meet the needs of the community.

Council * * * *

Action A1.2.1a Collaborate internally to simplify access to all Council information and advice.


Director Engineering

Director Environmental Services

* All Council staff have a good understanding of the organisational mission, values and objectives

Council staff have an understanding of all other functions and their role in serving the community

Establish IT Working Group to review and make recommendations on Council’s information systems.

Action A1.2.1.b Ensure that the communication channels used by Council meet the needs of the community.




* Council have a clear understanding of how their community like to access information

Council’s Newsletter is recognised by the community as an effective communication channel.


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Strategic Objective A1.2: Ensure the community is informed by improving access to information

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures

Information is shared through Council

Action A1.2.1.c Ensure that all information and communications are co-ordinated, accessible, and timely.




* Community is kept informed through relevant communication

Achieved predominantly via computerised storage systems, manual filing system and mail distribution system.

Strategic Objective A1.3: Support community driven projects

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A1.3.1 Facilitate and support partnership programs and projects within the community


Action A1.3.1.a Deliver a financial support program that promotes partnership programs and projects within the community.

Director Corporate Service

Economic Development Officer * Financial allocations made

to community management committees within two months of the start of the financial year

100% return rate of financial acquittal information from community management committees

Achieved where management have provided monthly GST returns.

Yet to be achieved, continue to work with management committees to improve.

Action A1.3.1.b Continue to support the Lockhart Historical Society through the provision of a facility and support of the exhibits program.


Economic Development Officer * Increase in visitation at the

Lockhart museum by 10%

35% increase in visitors during 2013

Action A1.3.1.c Increase volunteering opportunities and participation throughout the Shire


Economic Development Officer * Volunteer information

appears on Council’s website and in every newsletter edition.

Encouraging community members to join Progress Associations and Shire Committees


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Strategic Objective A1.4: Work with stakeholders to ensure our community is safe and well prepared to respond to adversity

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A1.4.1 Ensure that Lockhart Shire is well prepared to respond to adversity

Council

Emergency Management Office

State Government * * * *

Action1.4.1.a Ensure that the Lockhart Shire Emergency Management Plan is current and that emergency response services are well placed to support our community

Council


State Government * Review of the Lockhart Shire Emergency Management Plan

Lockhart Emergency Management Plan signed off at regional level and endorsed by LEMC.

Action1.4.1.b Foster effective detection and suppression of bush fires by maintaining well-equipped fire brigades with adequately trained personnel.



State Government * * * * All bushfire tankers maintained as requested by RFS

Accurate compliance with the RFS – Service Level Agreement

Full compliance with the Rural Fires Act

Fire trails maintained, in conjunction with RFS.

Open communication occurring with RFS.

A1.4.2 Support the community’s preparedness for socially and economically challenging times.

NSW Department of Health

NSW Farmers Association

Lockhart Shire Council

Council


Action A1.4.2.a Collaborate with relevant agencies and organisations to support their work within the Lockhart Shire.

General Manager Director Engineering



* Successful communication established and maintained with appropriate services and authorities

Through LEMC and networking with individual agencies

A1.4.3 Provide education and training in Mental Health First Aid and suicide/depression awareness through community forums and school based activities.

NSW Department of Health

Schools

Council

Community * * * *


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Strategic Objective A1.4: Work with stakeholders to ensure our community is safe and well prepared to respond to adversity

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A1.4.4 Strengthen mechanisms that support access and inclusion for our community.

Council

Community groups

Businesses * * * *

Action A1.4.4a Develop the Lockhart Shire Council Access and Inclusion Strategy.

Council

Community groups

Businesses

Lockhart and District Community Services

* Access and Equity Committee meets regularly.

Committee not formed at this stage.

Action A1.4.4.b Encourage improved accessibility to community facilities for aged and disabled people.

Director Engineering Services

Director Environmental Services * Upgrade works to improve

disabled access completed on one building

New 5 year PAMPS program in place which aims to improve access with towns, particularly for the elderly and disabled.

Council buildings to be assessed for disability access.

A1.4.5 Promote community safety initiatives within the community.

NSW Police Council

Community * * * *

Action A1.4.5.a Support agencies and organisations in the promotion of community safety initiatives.


* 2 community safety initiatives promoted each year

Promoted via Council Newsletter.

Action A1.4.5.b Ensure effective management of animal control and companion animal issues.


* Action on 90% of animal complaints within 5 days

Minimal complaints received.

A1.4.6 Advocate for adequate police and emergency services in the shire.

Council

Community

Local safety agencies

Neighbouring shires * * * *

Action A1.4.6.a Ensure Council participation on local safety committees to advocate for adequate police service within the Shire.

General Manager * Through Police Consultative Committee meetings held 3 or 4 times a year


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Outcome A2: Vibrant community places

Strategic Objective A2.1: Provide, or partner to provide, welcoming and well maintained community spaces and facilities

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 12/13 13/14 14/15 15/16 Measures A2.1.1 Plan, develop and maintain recreational parks and gardens, open spaces, and facilities that respond to the needs of the community.

Council

Engineering Services

Sporting clubs

Community and service clubs

* * * *

Action A2.1.1.a Use observation and research to gain insight into the community space and facility needs of the community


Facilities Officer

* Council knows how their spaces and facilities are used by the community. Council understands the recreation and facility needs of the community.

Staff responding to the needs of the community as required.

Action A2.1.1.b Plan all new spaces using place making principles


Facilities Officer

* New spaces become great community hubs

The new CWA Park is a new “meeting place” within the Shire.

Action A2.1.1.c Work with Committees of Management and Facility Managers to understand and balance maintenance and improvement needs of Council assets.


Facilities Officer

* Long term construction and improvement program developed for public conveniences throughout the shire and incorporated into the budget process All recreation areas, parks and gardens and open space areas maintained to an appropriate standard to ensure community satisfaction

Staff working on grants for replacement/additions to public toilets, as well as continued improvement of the open spaces for recreational use.

A2.1.2 Ensure the Shires cemeteries are well planned, managed and maintained with support and involvement from stakeholders

Council

* * * *


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Strategic Objective A2.1: Provide, or partner to provide, welcoming and well maintained community spaces and facilities

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 12/13 13/14 14/15 15/16 Measures Action A2.1.2.a Maintain and improve the appearance of cemeteries and liaison with stakeholders.

Director Engineering * All cemeteries maintained to an appropriate standard within budget Regular mowing and maintenance conducted on time. Improvement plan developed for each cemetery.

Cemeteries being maintained and gradually improved in its aesthetics.

Action A2.1.2.b Manage cemeteries in accordance with statutory requirements.

Director Engineering * * * * All burial and monument works are approved. All cemetery records are current and accessible.

All burials in accordance with statutory requirements.

Outcome A3: Diverse range of community activities.

Strategic Objective A3.1: Provide, or partner to provide, diverse cultural and sporting opportunities

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A3.1.1 Provide support and spaces to facilitate diverse sporting opportunities

Council

Sporting and community groups

Community

* * * *

Action A3.1.1.a Provide flexible infrastructure to enable sporting groups to share facilities


Facilities Officer

* Appropriate feasibility studies undertaken to explore facility sharing options.

Both pools within the

Sporting facilities maintained to standard acceptable to the communities. Assistance given wherever possible.


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Strategic Objective A3.1: Provide, or partner to provide, diverse cultural and sporting opportunities

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures shire operated and maintained to a high standard, with minimal complaints

A3.1.2 Provide support and spaces to facilitate diverse cultural opportunities.

Council

Community * * * *

Action A3.1.2.a Increase the offering of cultural activities in the community including activities that celebrate our indigenous cultural heritage.

General Manager

Services Providers

Community

Community groups

Churches

Schools

* Financial support provided to the Eastern Riverina Arts program

10% participation increase in Eastern Riverina Arts programs.

Budget provision for Eastern Riverina Arts Program, Indigenous participation encouraged in Spirit of the Land Art competition, Council purchase of indigenous art

Action A3.1.2.b Continue to facilitate and support the provision of Library services throughout the Shire.

General Manager Regional Library * Ongoing provision of the Mobile Library Service by Riverina Regional Library in the towns of Lockhart, Yerong Creek, Pleasant Hills, Milbrulong and The Rock

Mobile library services provided, RRL now provides a range of e services accessible to all members


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective A3.2: Facilitate and support our community to deliver vibrant and dynamic community events

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A3.2.1 Provide support to events held within the community.

Council

Community groups

Community groups, schools, businesses Riverina Tourism * * * *

Action A3.2.1a Provide limited financial and in-kind support to community events.

General Manager * Development of an ‘Events Contribution Policy’

No Events Contribution Policy in place at this stage. Currently facilitated via Councils Donation Policy.

Action A3.2.1b Provide non-financial support to events held in the community.

General Manager * All events held within the Shire are delivered in accordance with relevant legislation and regulations

Event organisers understand event delivery requirements

Risk Management Plan including traffic coordinated by Council for events. Also access to Tourism & Economic Development Officer and Directors for support and advice.

A3.2.2 Deliver a vibrant calendar of events

Economic Development Officer

* * * *

Action A3.2.2a Pursue the attraction of key events, touring groups and arts and cultural experiences to the shire.


* The attraction of 2 key events to the shire each year

Annual events supported – Spirit of the Land, Road & Retro, Yerong Creek Farmers Picnic

Continual sourcing of new events - Backyard Ashes premiering in Lockhart in March, Country Halls Tour performing in Pleasant Hills in April.

Action A3.2.2b Work cross-functionally to develop and distribute a calendar of events


* All events held within the Shire are delivered in accordance with relevant legislation and regulations

Working with RDA, REROC and Eastern Riverina Arts to ensure selection of events.

Advertising events on Destination NSW, Riverina Regional Tourism, Lockhart Shire Tourism and in ads / advertorials.

Providing neighbouring Councils with


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective A3.2: Facilitate and support our community to deliver vibrant and dynamic community events

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures event information for promotion in newsletters and in Visitor Information Centres.

Outcome A4: Supported, inclusive and engaged communities

Strategic Objective A4.1: Ensure that our services are accessible to all of our community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A4.1.1 Services are accessible to all relevant community members

Services providers Council,

Community groups * * * *

Action A4.1.1a All services are provided from safe and accessible facilities.

Services providers Council * All maintenance carried out on budget and to a satisfactory level

Maintenance as required on Council owned facilities, use of legislation to ensure safe and accessible facilities are provided by other service providers

Action A4.1.1.b Service information is communicated to the community.


* Distribute information as per Council’s Communication schedule.

General information is communicated via Council Newsletter and specific information may be sent directly to relevant community groups/clubs.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective A4.2 Support our children and young people

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures A4.2.1 Understand and respond to the development and support needs of young people and children within the Shire.

Council

Schools

Churches

Community * * * *

Action A4.2.1.a Work with appropriate organisations to remain abreast of the needs of local young people and children

Youth worker * Work is progressing is establishing a Youth Council. Regular visits to schools. Participate in REROC Youth Volunteer program.

A4.2.2 Develop and Implement the Early Years and Youth Development Plan

Youth Worker * * * *

Action A4.2.2.a Use insights to develop an Early Years and Youth Development Plan that responds to the needs of children and young people.

Youth Worker * Young people are

engaged in local decision making

Council staff and Youth Officer are developing a structured program which will be incorporated into Youth Development Plan.

Action A4.2.2.b Support the delivery of a Youth Officer within the Shire in partnership with neighbouring Councils.


* Youth Officer employed

via joint arrangement with neighbouring Councils

Council’s Youth Officer is shared with Urana & Greater Hume Shire Councils.

A4.2.3 Provide facilities for early years and young people

* * * *

Action A4.2.3.a Develop facilities that encourage the wellbeing of young people and children.

Youth Worker * More spaces available to

run activities for children and young people

Achieved by the use of current facilities within the shire, with the long term goal to develop a Youth Centre.

Action A4.2.3.b Advocate for the extended use of school and community facilities for early years and youth activities

General Manager * More spaces available to run activities for children and young people

Youth Action Plan being developed and implemented.

Action A4.2.3.c Deliver and maintain safe and fun playgrounds

Director Engineering * No accidents due to unsafe playground equipment within the shire

Nil incidents reported.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective A4.2 Support our children and young people

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures ActionA4.2.3.d Continue to manage the Youth Flats to assist in meeting the housing needs of young people in the Shire.


* All repairs carried out on the Youth flats done so in a timely manner and within budget

Currently being achieved within budget, with 35% of budget remaining.

Strategic Objective A4.3: Provide support and opportunities to celebrate our older residents

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/2015 15/16 16/17 Measures A4.3.1 Provide opportunities for older residents to come together and interact

Council

Churches

Community groups

State Government

Emily Gardens

Woodhaven

* * * *

Action A4.3.1.a Support the implementation of structured groups and activities that support opportunities for older people to socialise

Council Lockhart and District Community Services

Senior Citizens

Men’s Shed

* Consistent numbers in community groups that provide social opportunities for older people

Council support for numerous community events

Action A4.3.1.b Encourage the planning and inclusion of older people in all community activities, events and projects to encourage their participation.


Lockhart and District Community Services

Senior Citizens

* Information provided to 2 community groups, organisations, etc. to support the inclusion of

Communicate information via Newsletter. Provide financial support to Men’s Sheds in The Rock & Lockhart.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


STRATEGIC DIRECTION B: A DYNAMIC AND PROSPEROUS ECONOMY

WHAT OUR COMMUNITY TOLD US • It is important for our future that we attract new businesses and industry to our

Shire

• Transport options, including rail, would improve our ability to move freight through our Shire

• Tourism is important to us and an opportunity to increase jobs and spending

• Access to employment and education will improve our future, especially for our young people

• It is important that we have diversity and quality in the retail sector of our communities

• We need to ensure we continue to market and promote our Shire

• Reliable broadband and mobile phone access is a big issue throughout the Shire


• Goal 1: Improve the performance of the NSW economy

• Goal 3: Drive economic growth in regional NSW

• Goal 6: Strengthen the NSW skill base

OUR DIRECTION


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome B1: Well-planned landscaping, streetscape and infrastructure

Strategic Objective B1.1: Manage and improve the appearance of our towns

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B1.1.1 Develop and implement a long term town beautification plan for each of the shires towns

Council

Community

Progress associations

Retailers

* *

Action B1.1.1.a Develop a long term beautification plan for Lockhart and The Rock

General manager * Beautification plans developed for Lockhart and The Rock

Plan being developed for the all town entrances.

Action B1.1.1.b Undertake planning and scoping for the development of long term beautification plans for Milbrulong, Yerong Creek, and Pleasant Hills

General Manager * Scoping for the beautification plans for Milbrulong, Yerong Creek, and Pleasant Hills

Plan being developed for the all town entrances.

B1.1.2 Provide clean and aesthetically pleasing streets

Council

Businesses

Community

* * * * Streets clean and maintained in accordance to service agreement and budget allocations.

Action B1.1.2.a Implement the annual maintenance program within each town and ensure that services including litter bin collection and street cleaning are conducted during peak periods at a level that is acceptable to the community


Works Officer

* Implementation of the annual maintenance program

Garbage collection and street cleaning occurring as per service agreement


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B1.2: Improve the convenience and amenity of our towns

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B1.2.1 Ensure that there is sufficient and accessible parking for cars and trailers in the centre of each town.

Council Businesses

Roads and Maritime Services

* * * * Parking under review in Lockhart, The Rock and Yerong Creek townships to better improve and make more accessible.

B1.2.2 Better understand the retail and commercial sector to assist and support a response to filling service gaps

Economic Development

RDA

Retail and commercial businesses, * * * * Meeting with local businesses to

ascertain concerns and successes

Action B1.2.2.a Undertake a bi- annual retail and commercial audit of the shire to better understand the commercial and retail mix


* Audit completed Audit to be undertaken following completion of adding Shire businesses to the online Business Directory

Action B1.2.2.b Utilise accurate economic insights to support the establishment of businesses that respond to identified retail and commercial service gaps


* * * * Reviewing information provided by RDA and Reroc.

Reviewing available business opportunities within the Shire including shop fronts for sale, lease options and gaps in the market

Providing potential businesses with data.

B1.2.3 Co-ordinate activities and services in town to attract local shoppers and visitors to town centres


Council * * * *

Action B1.2.3.a Support and promote the business community in projects that aim to attract locals and visitors to shop within the town centres


* Promotion of Lockhart Town as open for business on the weekend Encourage businesses to work with key event organisers and to take advantage of key dates, Working on a “Buy Locally Campaign” Ensuring businesses register for the online business directory Encouraging businesses to look at simple online opportunities in the first instance e.g. Facebook to promote themselves and sales items etc.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B1.3: Advocate for the improvement of infrastructure that supports our rural business

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B1.3.1 Improve television, mobile and internet coverage throughout rural areas

State and Federal agencies

Council * * * *

Action B1.3.1.a Advocate on behalf of the Lockhart Shire community for improved television, mobile and internet coverage throughout the shire, in particular in the rural areas of our shire

Council

General Manager

* Appropriate representation made to relevant authorities’ to improve telecommunications

NBN being rolled out at The Rock and a new wireless tower to be erected in Lockhart

B1.3.2 Increase the use of rail for agricultural transportation

State agencies Council

NSW Farmers Federation

* * * *

Action B1.3.2.a Continue to advocate on behalf of the Lockhart Shire community to support long term, sustainable and responsive use of the rail for agricultural transportation

General Manager

* Continued advocacy for the rail needs within the shire

Advocacy as required and requested.

Outcome B2: An available skilled labour work force

Strategic Objective B2.1: Develop the skills and employment opportunities of our residents

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B2.1.1 Encourage a culture of lifelong learning.

Community Schools

Council

Service providers

* * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B2.1: Develop the skills and employment opportunities of our residents

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action B2.1.1.a Promote community stories that celebrate academic achievements via Council’s publications and communications


* Community pride in lifelong learning

Congratulating HSC achievements throughout the Shire in the Daily Advertiser Column, The Eastern Riverina Chronicle and on Facebook.

Action B2.1.1.b Support and promote community groups, organisations and services that deliver learning and education opportunities


* Increased community learning opportunities throughout the shire

Encouraging application of available grants supporting learning and education

Liaising with REROC & Compact regarding the Local Government Work Inspiration Model Recruitment Strategy and encouraging course related work experience

B2.1.2 Support improve pathways to employment for young residents (apprenticeships, traineeships etc.), and for long-term unemployed residents.

Department of Education and Training

Employers

Centrelink

Council

* * * *

Strategic Objective B2.2: Attract skilled people to the region

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B2.2.2 Attractively promote the shire and available skilled and professional positions throughout the region, in particular health and medical based positions

Employers

Community

Health Services

Council

RDA * * * *

Action B2.2.2.a Through the implementation of Council’s Marketing Strategy, regularly promote the shire as a positive place to live and work


* Implementation of Council’s Marketing Strategy

Promoting Lockhart Shire’s facilities, services, events and activities in print and online

Promoting Lockhart Shire through Country Change


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome B3: Supported small to medium enterprises

Strategic Objective B3.1: Improve businesses’ ability to access information and support

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B3.1.1 Increase the knowledge of local businesses within the shire


RDA, Community * * * *

Action B3.1.1.a Maintain and provide an up-to-date database of local businesses in the Lockhart Shire


* Business database is available internally

Creation of online business directory and updating of same

B3.1.2 Support the ongoing development and sustainability of businesses within the shire

Economic development

RDA

Businesses * * * *

Action B3.1.2.a Work with relevant stakeholders to provide reliable and relevant information on business support activities to local businesses.


* Increased promotion and delivery of business support and professional

Develop opportunities for business owners within the shire

Liaising with RDA, Reroc, Riverina BEC and other key stakeholders to provide relevant information to businesses electronically and in newsletters

Determining areas which would benefit from workshops and training

Distributing workshop and training opportunities to businesses

B3.1.3 Support the availability of economic and community insights to better inform business development.


RDA * * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B3.1: Improve businesses’ ability to access information and support

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action B3.1.3.a Make information such as economic profile and key trends publicly available from Council.


* ID profile information available on Council’s website

Update of Lockhart Shire economic profile on Shire website and Country Change website.

Include results of The Regional Wellbeing Survey when released in May 2014.

Strategic Objective B3.2: Foster a supportive business culture through networking and training

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B3.2.1 Initiate and actively participate in local business association meetings


Businesses


Action B3.2.1.a Investigate the need and feasibility of establishing local business association groups within each town.


* Key business groups have been consulted

Encouraging in the first instance businesses to join the local Progress Associations

Action B3.2.1.b Ensure Council representation and support for the Tourism and Economic Development Committee


* Continuation of the Tourism and Economic Development committee

The Tourism and Economic Development Committee is well represented by Council and Community representatives

B3.2.2 Foster and promote strong and effective leadership within local businesses associations


Businesses


Action B3.2.2.a Support strong business and community leadership


* 2 individuals supported to take on leadership roles

Tourism and Economic Development Committee represented by community


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B3.2: Foster a supportive business culture through networking and training

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures within the Tourism and Economic Development committee

within the Tourism and Economic Development committee

and businesses throughout Shire. Pleasant Hills and Yerong Creek under represented. Further nominations being sought.

B3.2.3 Partner with stakeholders in the delivery of business development programs and events


RDA

Businesses * * Liaising and meeting with RDA, Reroc

and businesses

Strategic Objective B3.3: Strengthen business relations

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B3.3.1 Regularly communicate with local businesses to understand how to improve Council’s services, business confidence, and identify inhibitors to development.


Businesses

RDA * * * *

Action B3.3.1.a Continue to offer a variety of opportunities for businesses to communicate with Council, including both formal and informal methods


* 10 businesses engaged in communication with Council annually

Visit to all shop front businesses in Lockhart and The Rock including owners of 2 new shops to open pre June 2014.

Telephone contact with businesses in Yerong Creek and Pleasant Hills

Over 30 businesses registered for online business directory

Action B3.3.1.b Maintain strong and regular contact with major businesses within the Shire.


* Good satisfaction rating from local businesses

Regular contact with shop front businesses

Emailed support re grants, workshops to businesses

Action B3.3.1.c Maintain Council owned shops and offices in good order and condition


* Council owned offices and shops maintained to a satisfactory standard and

Any maintenance requests have been acted on and within budget.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B3.3: Strengthen business relations

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures on budget

B3.3.2 Celebrate business excellence within the shire

General Manager RDA * * * *

Action B3.3.2.a Continue to recognise and reward business excellence by communicating local success in marketing materials


* 2 key stories/marketing strategies to celebrate business excellence annually

Regular promotion of Lockhart Shire as open for business on the weekend – Lockhart weekly and The Rock during the markets.

Recognition in print and online of new businesses

Recognition in print and online of expansion of existing businesses

B3.3.3 Continue to employ a Tourism/Economic Development Officer to implement economic priorities.

General Manager * * * *

Action B3.3.3.a Support ongoing financial allocations to ensure the ongoing sustainability of the Economic Development officer position.

General Manager * Permanent position in organisation structure


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B3.4: Work in partnership with stakeholders to attract new businesses to our Shire

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B3.4.1 Provide strong strategic direction for economic development within the shire

Council Businesses

RDA * * * *

Action B3.4.1.a Implement the Lockhart Shire Economic Development Strategy


* Lockhart Shire Council Economic Development Strategy developed

Promotion of new and existing businesses with in the Shire

Continued assistance and support of businesses

Promotion of the new release Industrial Park

Action B3.4.1.b Develop and implement a destination marketing strategy for Lockhart Shire


* Lockhart Shire Council Destination Marketing Strategy Developed

Continual promotion of Lockhart Shire within and outside of the region

Promotion of events and activities

Updating of the Lockhart Shire Tourism website to enhance and expand on information

B3.4.2 Continue to support the growth of the business and industry sector within the shire

Council

Businesses

State and Federal Government

Community

* * * *

Action B3.4.2.a Provide incentives to new businesses to start up in Lockhart Shire, including reduction of red tape at all levels of government, and availability of serviced Industrial land.




* 1 new business attracted to the Lockhart Shire annually

Economically viable real estate with low start-up costs

Promotion through Country Change

Promotion of businesses for sale or lease

Action B3.4.2.b Actively work to attract industries that add to our agriculture sector




* 1 new business attracted to the Lockhart Shire annually

Promotion of the new blocks at the Industrial Park

Liaison with Lockhart Ag Bureau

Researching farm stays

Action B3.4.2.c Support businesses establishing within the shire with


Director Engineering * 1 new business attracted to the Lockhart Shire

Ongoing support, provision of information, available for one to one


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B3.4: Work in partnership with stakeholders to attract new businesses to our Shire

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures appropriate information and contacts to facilitate their establishment


annually meetings

B3.4.3 Improve the retail mix within the shire to respond to the communities and visitors needs and tastes

Businesses

Council * * * *

B3.4.4 Promote positive images of the Lockhart Shire as a dynamic and versatile community

Council

Community

Businesses

RDA * * * *

Action B3.4.4.a Work to ensure that a professional image of the Lockhart Shire is presented through media and throughout publicity campaigns.

General Manager Economic Development Officer

* Professional image of Lockhart Shire promoted.

Well written editorials and adverts supported by high quality images

Action B3.4.4.b Continue to develop the Lockhart Shire Council photographic database.



* Annual increase of 20% in the photographic database

Photographic competition in conjunction with Spirit of the Land

Engagement of professional photographer and discussion regarding required images

Requested high quality images through Facebook


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome B4: A strong and resilient agriculture sector

Strategic Objective B4.1: Strive to assist development of strong farming businesses

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B4.1.1 Improve and support the skills of in home farm management


Council * * * *

B4.1.2 Regularly consult with landowners to accurately understand their changing needs


Council * * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome B5: A thriving tourist economy

Strategic Objective B5.1: Improve the image of the Lockhart Shire for tourists

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B5.1.1 Promote the Lockhart Shire outside of the region as an attractive tourist destination


RDA

Riverina Regional Tourism

Businesses

* * * *

Action B5.1.1.a Develop and implement a tourism marketing campaign to promote the shire.


Director Corporate Services * Tourism Marketing

campaign brief established to focus on promoting the Lockhart Shire

Enhancement and additions to the Lockhart Shire Tourism page plus increased online presence on Destination NSW, Riverina Regional Tourism, Tripadvisor and other sites have resulted in an increase in visits to the Lockhart Shire Tourism page.

The average number of online visitors per month in 2013 was 450. This has increase from December to 650 online visitors in January 2014 and 1250 online visitors in February 2014.

Print campaigns will run from March to October with an increase in free editorials

Slogan “Linger Longer in Lockhart Shire” will feature

Action B5.1.1.b Promote Lockhart Shire throughout the region.


Director Corporate Services * Annual increase of 10% in

tourist numbers in the shire

“Open for business on the weekend” is key to attracting regional visitors. Businesses have advised an increase of through traffic sales.

Print campaigns will run from March to October with an increase in free editorials.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B5.1: Improve the image of the Lockhart Shire for tourists

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B5.1.2 Ensure high quality signage throughout the shire

Director Engineering * * * *

Action B5.1.2.a Develop a signage strategy that ensures all directional and tourism signage is consistent, clear and maintained in an appropriate manner

Director Engineering Economic Development Officer * Signage Strategy

developed Working with Tourism Office to develop sign strategy. Existing signage being maintained.

Strategic Objective B5.2: Better use of our natural strengths and assets to build our tourist sector

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B5.2.1 Promote Lockhart Shire as a place of great environmental diversity and interest


RDA


CMA Murray

* * * *

Action B5.2.1.a Explore promotional publications that focus on showcasing the environmental diversity and opportunities within the shire.




* Annual external publication review is undertaken

An increased number of online sites are being utilised to promote The Rock Hill Nature Reserve and Galore Hill. Outdoor activities, natural fauna and flora are being actively promoted.

Action B5.2.1.b Ensure that Council promotional material references our Shire’s key tourism benefits.




* 2 major promotional campaigns focusing on environmental diversity and interest each year

Online information on The Rock Hill Nature Reserve and Galore Hill has been revised and expanded on.

Outdoor activities, natural fauna and flora are being actively promoted.

B5.2.2 Explore tourism opportunities, developments and partnerships that are based on our natural assets such as eco-tourism activities and cycle tourism


Businesses

RDA


* * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Action B5.2.2.a Actively pursue opportunities for the establishment of eco-tourism ventures within the shire.


Local business * Contact with at least five eco-tourism operators ion first year

Opportunities for eco-tourism and additional opportunities for outdoor pursuits including walking, orienteering, cycling, abseiling and rock climbing are being researched including the promotion of walking and orienteering in Brookong State Forest and Milbrulong State Forest. Cycling in Pleasant Hills and Yerong Creek would be enhanced by the introduction of Rail Trails in NSW. Information will be distributed to relevant active clubs state wide.

Action B5.2.2.b Maintain current insights on the eco-tourism industry.


* A good working knowledge of our macro environment

Meeting with the Chairman of Bird Trails of the Riverina and South West Slopes of NSW who is also active in fauna and flora preservation. Agreed to issue extensive details to enable updating of tourism website.

B5.2.3 Ensure that all infrastructure within our reserves, including parking, signage and walkways, is maintained to a high standard


Council * * * *

Action B5.2.3.a Annually inspect all infrastructure within Council reserves to assess maintenance and upgrade needs.


Facility Officer

Works Officer * Appropriate inspections

undertaken Regular inspections occurring and maintenance undertaken as required.

Action B5.2.3.b Maintain a schedule of works to maintain and upgrade infrastructure within Council’s reserves.


Facility Officer

Works Officer * Schedule of works implemented

on time and on budget Schedule of works being developed and undated, in accordance with service agreements and budget allocation.

Action B5.2.3.c Support maintenance of reserves and public open space that is not owned or managed by Council


Facility Officer

Works Officer * All maintenance need

information passed to the appropriate authorities’/land holders within 5 days

Coordination with other stakeholders occurs as required.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B5.3: Develop infrastructure to support our tourist sector

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B5.3.1 Explore opportunities to develop tourism beds within the shire.


Private Developers * * * *

Action B5.3.1.a Undertake a feasibility review to explore the accommodation gaps, needs and opportunities within the shire relating to Council owned facilities




* Annual feasibility undertaken.

Extensive accommodation gaps. Possibility of Farmstays / B&Bs has potential, as does yurt / high end camping / bunk style accommodation for active holidays, particularly at The Rock.

Action B5.3.1.b Ensure that the caravan park is operated and maintained to provide a clean, convenient and attractive facility for tourists and longer stay patrons


* High levels of satisfaction with the maintenance of the Caravan Park

Caravan park being maintained. Currently under review as how the level of service and facilities can be improved to attract more usage of the park.

Strategic Objective B5.4: Develop partnerships that support our tourism industry

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures B5.4.1 Continue involvement in appropriate regional and state tourism bodies

General Manager


REROC

RDA


* * * *

Action B5.4.1.a Ensure appropriate Council representatives are involved in regional and state groups and bodies


General Manager

* Consistent representation

of Lockhart Shire’s needs within Regional Tourism

Regular attendance and participation at Regional and State meetings

B5.4.2 Partner with neighbouring shires to facilitate the promotion of the region

General Manager

Riverina Tourism

REROC

Neighbouring shires

* * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective B5.4: Develop partnerships that support our tourism industry

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action B5.4.2.a Partner with Riverina Tourism and neighbouring Councils to promote the region.


General Manager * One annual tourism campaign within the region that showcases Lockhart Shire and its communities

10% increase in visitation by regional people at key events within the shire

Listing of key events on Destination NSW and Regional Riverina Tourism.

Extensive promotion from May to October to tie in with the Spirit of the Land Festival but showcasing the array of attractions throughout the Shire.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


STRATEGIC DIRECTION C: AN ENVIRONMENT THAT IS RESPECTED AND PROTECTED

WHAT OUR COMMUNITY TOLD US

• Our community has a valuable resource in our natural environment

• The Rock Hill and Galore Hill are fantastic nature reserves that should be shared with the community

• It is important to our community that environment is protected and enhanced by the community, visitors, farmers, government and businesses


• Goal 22: Protect our natural environment

• Goal 23 Increase opportunities for people to look after their own neighbourhoods and environments

OUR DIRECTION


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome C1: Protected biodiversity and open space

Strategic Objective C1.1: Provide excellent nature reserves and protected areas within our community

Comments


C1.1.1

Continue to manage the biodiversity of Galore Hill and The Rock Hill, through plantings and pest management

Director Engineering State authorities * * * *

Action C1.1.1.a

Undertake annual inspections and spraying of noxious weeds in Galore Hill.


Noxious Weeds Inspector * Decrease in noxious

weeds in Galore Hill Regular inspections occurring and action taken as required.

Action C1.1.1.b

Undertake annual inspections and treatment as necessary of feral pests in Galore Hill.


Noxious Weeds Inspector * Decrease in feral pests in

Galore Hill reserve Regular inspections occurring and action taken as required

Action C1.1.1.c

Continue to provide ongoing information to State authorities regarding reported or identified pest and weed outbreaks within The Rock Hill reserve.

Director Engineering * All reported cases of weed and pest outbreaks reported to appropriate authorities within 10 days

Regular inspections occurring and notification sent as required.

C1.1.4 Promote the protection of our water catchment and riparian zones


CMA

* * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective C1.1: Provide excellent nature reserves and protected areas within our community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action C1.1.4.a Prepare vegetation studies and associated management plans for roadside and other significant areas


Director Engineering Services * Successful

implementation of the Lockhart Roadside Remnant Vegetation program

Programs in place and continually being updated and grants become available.

Action C1.1.4.b Support environmental health of our Shire’s waterways


Director Engineering Services * Improvement in the

effluent discharge quality into our creeks

Wastewater treatment plants discharge in accordance with licence requirements.

Stormwater runoff maintained. Action C1.1.4.c Liaise with relevant groups and agencies to ensure that all parties are kept up to date in regards to current programs



Landcare

* Increase in the number of community people involved in Landcare and environmental projects

Limited assistance groups to assist in environmental projects. Those who do participate as supported as required.

C1.1.5 Protect the environment by continual monitoring to detect possible breaches of relevant legislation or standards


Action C1.1.5.a Promptly investigate and report on matters considered as having significant environmental impact


* All significant environmental matters investigated and reported upon as required by legislation

Nil to report this period.

Strategic Objective C1.2: Increase the amount of native flora throughout the shire

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C1.2.1 Encourage native plant choices throughout the community

CMA


Community

* * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective C1.2: Increase the amount of native flora throughout the shire

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action C.1.2.1.a Provide regular information to the community via Council’s communications and publications encouraging native plant choices.


Director Corporate Services * Regular information

provided to the community regarding native plant choices

Nature strip guidelines developed for residents within towns.

C1.2.2 Increase the native plants used in community areas throughout the shire

Director Engineering Department of Environment and Conservation

* * * *

Action C1.2.2.a Develop a policy that plans for native vegetation use throughout all Council property.


Director Environmental Services * Policy developed Continued use of natives by staff as per

Council policy.

Action C1.2.2.b Continue to assess the most appropriate street trees for planting in Lockhart Shire and where appropriate reflect native choices in the Shire’s Street tree planting plans.

Director Engineering Director Environmental Services * Increase in native plant

choices in Council planting by 20%

Review of street trees undertaken and new list of “approved” species developed.

Strategic Objective C1.3: Support the protection of endangered and threatened plant and animal species

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C1.3.1 Increase plantings of food sources for threatened and endangered species

CMA

State Government

Council * *

C1.3.2 Protect habitat for threatened and endangered species

CMA

State Government

Council * *

C1.3.3 Map local populations of threatened and endangered plant species and protect where practicable.

CMA

State government

Council * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective C1.4: Decreased occurrence, spread and impact of weeds and pests throughout our shire

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C1.4.1 Implement weed management practices in response to outbreaks throughout the Shire and actively work to prevent outbreaks

Noxious Weeds Community, CMA * * * *

Action C1.4.1.a Provide information and advice to farmers and the community about weed control and prevention on their properties

Noxious Weed Officer

CMA

State Government * Annual information

distributed to all landholders within the shire regarding the control and prevention of weeds on property

Regular inspections and notices issued to farmers.

Action C1.4.1.b Continue to respond appropriately to outbreaks of weeds throughout the shire

Noxious Weed Officer

Director Engineering * Decrease the number of outbreaks of noxious weeds on Council controlled property

Generally weeds control well throughout the Shire by all stakeholders.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome C2: Responsible energy use

Strategic Objective C2.1: Ensure that Councils buildings and facilities are environmentally sensitive

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C2.1.1 Where practical improve the energy efficiency of Council buildings throughout the shire



* * * *

Action C2.1.1.a Ensure all new Council buildings and facilities incorporate energy efficient design.

Director Engineering Facilities Officer * Energy efficient design incorporated into new facilities

Staff continually reviewing ways to improve energy use of Council buildings.

Action C2.1.1.b Ensure that all retrofitting works on existing Council buildings and facilities incorporate energy efficient design where practicable

Director Engineering Facilities Officer * Energy efficient design options implemented where affordable in retrofitting and upgrade works

Staff continually reviewing ways to improve energy use of Council buildings.

C2.1.2 Develop and implement a strategy that works towards Lockhart Shire being a carbon neutral Shire.


Council

Community *

C2.1.3 Investigate installation of new energy efficient street lighting.

Director Engineering Electricity Provider * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective C2.2: Explore opportunities to utilise renewable energy

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C2.2.1 Investigate programs and initiatives that promote renewable energy options for Council, households and industry.


State Government

Community *

Strategic Objective: C2.3: Ensure responsible development practices are exercised

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C2.3.1 Through the Lockhart Local Environment Plan, incorporate environmentally sustainable design principles into all new residential, rural and commercial developments and subdivision plans.

Director Engineering State authorities

Community

Businesses

Developers

* * * *

Action C2.3.1.a Ensure accurate and consistent implementation of the Lockhart Shire Local Environment Plan


* All land development within the Shire in line with the LEP

LEP under review and updated with new legislation.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome C3: Sustainable water, waste and transport

Strategic Objective C3.1: Improve water saving and re-use practices

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C3.1.1 Promote initiatives that support water wise practices and products throughout the community

Riverina Water


CMA

Council * *

C3.1.2 Continue to explore the feasibility of water conservation practices throughout all Council works, and incorporate water saving and reuse features to all Council building and retrofitting projects


Action C3.1.2.a Conduct a review of water use practices within Council works and identify areas for potential savings and reuse

Director Engineering * 10% savings in water use by Council

Council reviews water usage quarterly=y to monitor usage and changes to reduce water consumption.

C3.1.3 Lobby for the effective use of farming water and responsible water allocations.

Farmers

CMA

Council * * * *

Action C3.1.3.a Continue to remain up to date on issues relating to water allocations within the shire.

General Manager * Understanding maintained of water allocation issues within the shire

Information perused and distributed as it comes to hand

C3.1.4 In co-operation with Riverina Water, undertake a feasibility study on the use of recycled water on all the shire’s sporting grounds and parks

Council

Riverina Water

Sporting clubs * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective C3.2: Utilise effective waste management throughout the community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C3.2.1 Provide efficient and sustainable waste management practices

Council State and Federal Government

Community

* * * *

Action C3.2.1.a Develop and implement a Waste Management Strategy for the shire that includes strategies for waste, recycling and roadside litter removal



Community

* Strategy Developed Waste strategy continually being revised and updated, to reduce amount waste to landfill.

Action C3.2.1.b Ensure satisfactory collection and disposal of waste and litter at approved sites in accordance with legislative requirements, thus providing a healthy environment for the community

Director Engineering * Minimal complaints received regarding the garbage service provided throughout the shire

Regular waste collection occurring as per service agreement. Very minimal complaints received.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome C4: Environmental engagement

Strategic Objective C4.1: Work in partnership with stakeholders to ensure strong environmental relations

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C4.1.1 Develop and implement a community education program to encourage residents and visitors to minimise their impact on the environment

CMA Council

Schools

Businesses

*

Strategic Objective C4.2: Foster the communities’ pride in its natural assets

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures C4.2.1 Investigate opportunities to promote community pride in Lockhart Shire’s natural assets


Community * *

Action C4.2.1.a Where appropriate provide support and information to community members who are involved in environmental projects and endeavours


* * 2 community based environmental projects supported each year

Support projects upon application to council.

Action C4.2.1.b Encourage formation of community groups that actively protect and promote our natural assets


* * Ensure that community group allocation meets the needs of the community.

Encourage community participation in projects


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


STRATEGIC DIRECTION D: INFRASTRUCTURE FOR THE LONG TERM NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY

WHAT OUR COMMUNITY TOLD US • Our roads need to be planned and maintained to support travel throughout our

shire

• Some of our buildings and facilities are hard to access by people with a disability

• Our community would like the option to connect to natural gas

• It is very important that our community infrastructure is maintained for the future

• The appearance of our towns should be clean, well maintained and welcoming

• Drainage needs to be improved to prevent flooding

• Our community spirit is strong and we have mixed views about mining in our community


• Goal 10: Improve road safety

• Goal 19: Invest in critical infrastructure

• Goal 20: Build liveable cities

• Goal 21: Secure potable water

OUR DIRECTION


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome D1: Infrastructure that facilitates an active community

Strategic Objective D1.1: Plan for the sustainable use of transport in townships

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D1.1.1 Continue to implement the Lockhart Shire Pedestrian and Mobility Plan that plans for the future maintenance and development of pathways throughout the shire

Director Engineering State government

Community

* * * *

Action D1.1.1.a Construct shared walking and cycling paths that link key community, retail and residential areas of Lockhart and The Rock

Director Engineering Manager Works

Outdoor Staff * Paths being constructed in accordance

with PAMPS program. This is a five year program.

Action D1.1.1.b Continue to improve the number of walking and cycle tracks throughout the Shire – particularly those that link key tourist areas and sites


Outdoor Staff * Walking tracks maintained and

improved as per 5 year PAMPS program.

Action D1.1.1.c Continue to maintain the existing footpath network


Outdoor Staff * Footpaths maintained as required.

Action D1.1.1.d Develop a schedule of works for pathway development for the next 5 years


Outdoor Staff * Schedule developed Five year program developed.

D1.1.2 Promote connected trails and on-road paths for improved community use



Bicycle NSW, community * * * *

Action D1.1.2.a Ensure that all tourist and related promotional material reference the shire’s trails and pathway network


* Trail and pathway network promoted in all appropriate marketing/promotional

Revised Sculpture and Heritage Trail brochure to be downloadable from the website

Introduction of a “touring route” that


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective D1.1: Plan for the sustainable use of transport in townships

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures material encompasses Lockhart , The Rock,

Yerong Creek and Pleasant Hills, supported by sights and attractions on the way. To be promoted on the website, online and to be downloadable.

Action D1.1.2.b Provide information to local accommodation and tourist bodies to support the promotion of the shire’s trails and pathway network

Economic development

* Regional tourism partners and accommodation providers to by supplied with information promoting trails and pathways.

Action D1.1.3 Provide effective street lighting within the villages of the Shire to support safety and security for pedestrians and vehicular traffic

Country Energy Council * * * *

Action D1.1.3.a Assess and initiate requests for improved or additional street lighting

Director Engineering * Continued increase in the quality and quantity of street lighting throughout the shire

Street lighting maintained as per service agreement with Essential Energy.

Strategic Objective D1.2: Strategically plan for our sports and recreation infrastructure

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D1.2.1 Ensure appropriate provision, planning and use of all open space and recreation provisions through the shire


Sporting clubs

Community,

Sport and Recreation NSW

Schools

* * * *

Action D1.2.1.a Develop the Lockhart Shire Strategic Recreation and Open Space Master Plan

Director Engineering * Lockhart Shire Strategic Recreation and Open Space Master Plan developed

Plan being developed in conjunction with stakeholders.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective D1.2: Strategically plan for our sports and recreation infrastructure

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action D1.2.1.b Support the development of the Lockhart Gym

General Manager Economic Development Officer

* * Project not proceeding – a private gym now operating

Action D1.2.1.c Continue to actively seek funding for the future upgrade of our Shire’s pools




* * Asset condition of the pools being determined as well as community expectations for the pools.

Action D1.2.1.d Improve the standard of sport and recreation facilities throughout the shire


* * Priority improvement plans developed for all sport and recreation facilities throughout the shire

Existing recreational facilities being maintained or improved as funding allows.

Outcome D2: Improved transport safety and accessibility

Strategic Objective D2.1: Improve the safety of people on our roads

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D2.1.1 Support safe and easy travel throughout the shire

Council

Roads and Maritime Services

* * * *

Action D2.1.1.a Develop and implement a Road Strategic Plan that contributes to making travel throughout the Shire easier and safer

General Manager

RTA

* Road strategic plan developed

80% of maintenance and construction programs implemented on time and on budget

Shire roads being maintained as per service level agreements and budget allocations.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective D2.1: Improve the safety of people on our roads

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D2.1.2 Continue to address road trauma on our roads by participating in road safety education, and efficient use and planning of the road network

RTA Council

NSW Police

Ongoing

D2.1.3 Provide and maintain efficient and safe bridge infrastructure throughout the shire

Council Roads and Maritime Services * * * *

Action D2.1.3.a Prepare and implement a works program for the repair, maintenance and replacement of bridges

Director Engineering * Works program for bridges throughout the shire developed

All bridge work implemented on time and on budget

Maintenance program being developed. Nil replacement of bridges required at this stage.

Action D2.1.4 Ensure maintenance, accessibility and safety of the aerodrome

Council


* * * *

Action D2.1.4.a Regularly maintain the aerodrome

Director Engineering * All works completed at aerodrome on time and on budget

Regular inspections of the airstrip occurring and maintenance as required.

Strategic Objective D2.2: Advocate for public transport options within our shire

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D2.2.1 Explore the feasibility of community and public transport options within our shire

Transport providers

Community

NSW Health

State Government

Community,

Service clubs

Council

* * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome D3: Vibrant rural planning and development

Strategic Objective D3.1: Develop infrastructure that supports growth within our community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D3.1.1 Provide and maintain efficient sewage systems that allows for current and future community demands

Council Water authorities * * * *

Action D3.1.1.a Maintain an accurate condition based sewage asset register and asset management plan and fund all necessary maintenance and renewal works

Director Engineering * Accurate condition based sewage asset register maintained

Assets condition assessment occurring.

System maintained as required.

Action D3.1.1.b Ensure all new development has efficient sewage systems included at initial stages

Director Engineering * All new developments have efficient sewage systems at initial stages

New developments assessed for adequate sewerage facilities

Action D3.1.1.c Maintain existing infrastructure to treat and dispose of effluent

Director Engineering * Implementation of annual maintenance program for each sewage system within budget allocation

Maintenance programs are occurring and licence conditions being met.

D3.1.2 Ensure quality town water supply that is sustainable in line with potential growth

Riverina Water Water authorities * * * *

D3.1.3 Ensure guttering and drainage infrastructure are planned, maintained and developed to meet the demands of the community

Council


Action D3.1.3.a Complete flood studies for Lockhart and The Rock

Director Engineering * Flood studies for Lockhart and The Rock completed

Flood studies nearing completion.

Action D3.1.3.b Complete storm water plans for Lockhart and The Rock

Director Engineering * Storm water plans for Lockhart and The Rock completed

Stormwater plans being developed in conjunction with the Flood Studies.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective D3.1: Develop infrastructure that supports growth within our community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action D3.1.3.c Develop and maintain a condition based drainage asset register/asset management plan and fund necessary maintenance and renewal works

Director Engineering * Completion of a condition based drainage asset register/asset management plan

Condition assessment of stormwater is occurring. Maintenance being undertaken as required.

Action D3.1.3.d Complete an annual maintenance program for storm water drainage within the shire within budget

Director Engineering * Implementation of the annual maintenance program within budget

Maintenance being undertaken as required and within budget allocations.

Action D3.1.3.e Maintain existing kerb and guttering to an acceptable standard

Director Engineering * Maintenance of K&G occurring and replacement occurring as per budget allocations

D3.1.4 Support the provision of natural gas to The Rock and Lockhart communities

Private Gas Community

Council

State Government

* * * *

Strategic Objective D3.2: Land use that supports the development of our community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D3.2.1 Clearly define land use requirements and developments in line with State Government Regulations

Council


Action D3.2.1.a Continue to implement the Lockhart Shire Council Local Environment Plan and review where necessary


* Accurate implementation of the Lockhart Shire Council Local Environment Plan

Timely review of the Lockhart Shire Council Local Environment Plan

LEP currently undertaking review/update.

Action D3.2.1.b Continue to administer and review Council’s

General Manager * Accurate implementation of the Lockhart Developer

Subject to ongoing scrutiny


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective D3.2: Land use that supports the development of our community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Contribution Plan Contribution Plan

Timely review and update of the Lockhart Developer Contribution Plan

Action D3.2.1.c Ensure the construction and maintenance of buildings and other structures within the Shire comply with appropriate standards.

Director of Corporate Services

* Inspections conducted on all appropriate new and established buildings within the shire

Condition assessment of all buildings currently being undertaken.

D3.2.2 Continue to remain updated on potential mining and quarry developments within the Shire and ensure that all mines, quarries and pits operate in accordance with relevant legislation and development approvals.

Mining taskforce

Community

Council


* * * *

Action D3.2.2.a Participate in relevant and appropriate discussions and reviews that relate to the exploration and development of mining industries within the shire.

General Manager * All appropriate meetings and/or discussions attended by Council

Attend appropriate meetings and discussions and provide Councillors with pertinent information

Action D3.2.2.b Ensure that all operational quarries, mine and pits have development consent.

Director Engineering * 100% compliance with development consent for all quarries, mines and pits throughout the shire

Mines plans updated in accordance with Mines requirements.

Action D3.2.2.c Operate Council’s gravel quarries in an effective and environmentally sound manner to obtain road making materials.

Director Engineering * * * * Effective management of Council’s gravel quarries

Minimal use of gravel pits this year.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome D4: Infrastructure that supports our community identity

Strategic Objective D4.1: Provide a public art experience that reflects our community identity

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D4.1.1 Develop a public art strategy that plans for the acquisition and installation of public art.

Council Community

Local Artists

Businesses

* * * *

Action D4.1.1.a Develop the Lockhart Shire Public Art Strategy


Community * Development of the Lockhart Shire Public Art Strategy

To be researched.

Action D4.1.1.b Investigate opportunities for funding public art development and installation throughout the Shire


Community * Discussions with Eastern Riverina Arts, Arts Council and review of available grants.

Liaison with Spirit of the Land. D4.1.2 Develop public community art throughout community facilities including schools, community centres and recreation reserves.

Schools

Community groups

Council * * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective D4.2: Advocate for the protection our historic buildings and landmarks

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D4.2.1 Investigate options to restore and utilise historic buildings and landmarks throughout the Shire to ensure they remain a valuable asset.

Community

Council * * * *

D4.2.2 Investigate opportunities to increase understanding and appreciation of the cultural and historical significance of the Shire’s landmarks and buildings.

State Government

Community groups

Community

Business

Council

* * * *

Strategic Objective D4.3: Ensure township identities are consistent

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures D4.3.1 Complete consistent entrance statements for all access points to our towns

Council

Services Clubs

Community * * * *

Action D4.3.1.a Implement consistent entrance points as part of each towns beautification strategy

Director Engineering * Town entrances maintained to current level of service. Strategy being developed to possibly improve entrances.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


STRATEGIC DIRECTION E: STRONG LEADERSHIP AND SERVICES

WHAT OUR COMMUNITY TOLD US • Our community appreciates a strong, open and honest relationship with Council

and would like to continue to have a say in the decisions that affect their lives and their communities

• It is important that the community has access to health, education and emergency services that are adequately planned for our current community, but also our future community

• It is important the needs and characteristics of our community are represented at higher levels of government

• The long term sustainability of the shire is very important to our residents


• Goal 11:Keep people healthy and out of hospital

• Goal 12: Increase opportunities for people with a disability by providing supports that meet their individual needs and realise their potential

• Goal 15: Improve education and learning outcomes for all students

• Goal 16: Prevent and reduce the level of crime

• Goal 32: Involve the community in decision making on government policy, services and projects

OUR DIRECTION


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome E1: A community that is passionate and engaged in its future Strategic Objective E1.1: Utilise effective community engagement processes

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E1.1.1 Increase community engagement practices with the community.

General manager * * * *

Action E1.1.1.a Develop the Lockhart Shire Community Engagement Strategy to support ongoing and appropriate engagement with the community.

General Manager * Successful development of the Lockhart Shire Community Engagement Strategy

Contained within the body of Council’s Community Strategic Plan.

Action E1.1.1.b Continue to improve and expand the use of technology in Council’s communication with its community


* Expanded online presence of Council

Maintaining council’s website, emails to community groups.

Action E1.1.1.c Continue to develop and distribute Council’s community newsletter.


* Council newsletter delivered to every household within the shire

Achieved.

Action E1.1.1.d Involve staff in regular community engagement and community project initiatives.

General Manager * Community engagement participation incorporated into all relevant position descriptions

No action to date, incorporated into positions descriptions (PD) on review of PD.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective E1.2: Actively seek strong involvement in State planning for the region

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E1.2.1 Advocate for the appropriate representation of the needs of the Lockhart Shire community at a state level

Council * * * *

Action E1.2.1.a Continue strong representation on appropriate state planning and reference committees.

General Manager

* * * * Accurate community information considered at a state and regional level

Attendance at regional and state forums as required


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome E2: Accessible and responsive service delivery

Strategic Objective E2.1: Represent and acknowledge of the needs, challenges and characteristics of our communities

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E2.1.1 Remain updated and informed on current demographic and social data pertaining to the Lockhart Shire communities

Council State Government * * * *

Action E2.1.1.a Develop relationships with service providers, organisations and other levels of government that support the sharing of demographic and social data pertaining to the Lockhart Shire.


* A social demographic data database developed

Review of the extensive Regional Well Being Study, with full details to be released in March.

Attended Australian Bureau of Statistics table builder workshop which allows extensive data searches

Accessing Australian Business Register for data

Action E2.1.1.b Actively seek new and updated information relating to the population of the Lockhart Shire to inform future planning


* New information regularly added into the social demographic data database

Attended Australian Bureau of Statistics table builder workshop which allows extensive data searches

E2.1.2 Continue to lead and advocate on key social and community issues

Council State and Federal Government

Community

Services providers

* * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective E2.1: Represent and acknowledge of the needs, challenges and characteristics of our communities

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action E2.1.2.a Remain up to date on key social and community issues that relate to the shire and its communities and ensure appropriate advocacy to represent the needs of the residents of the shire.

General Manager Director Corporate Services

Economic Development Manager

* Continued role in ensuring Council is up to date on significant issues that impact on the community

Through networking, feedback and community involvement

E2.1.3 Regularly provide up to date and accurate community information to relevant program and services providers

Council * * * *

Action E2.1.3.a Ensure that accurate community information is passed on to service providers as it becomes available to Council


* Service provider database established

General information communicated via Newsletter and sending specific information to relevant service provider.

Strategic Objective E2.2: Improve understanding of the services available for people within the community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E2.2.1 Regularly promote services and programs throughout the community.

Council

State Government

Community * * * *

Action E2.2.1.a Develop an accessible database of programs, services and service providers that is accessible by the community.

General Manager Director Corporate Services

Economic Development Manager

* Database developed Partially developed on Council’s website.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Strategic Objective E2.3: Provide, and advocate for, services that are best placed to meet the needs of our community

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E2.3.1 Provide improved health and medical services to meet the long term needs of the community including aged care, after hours medical care and mental health services.

State Government Federal Government

Council * * * *

E2.3.2 Undertake a feasibility study to explore the establishment of an aged service hub within the Lockhart Shire.

State Government Council

* * * *

E2.3.3 Provide protection from crime, fire, anti-social behaviour and other threats to community safety.

State Government Community Services

Community Groups * * * *


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome E3: Productive and beneficial relationships

Strategic Objective E3.1: Provide opportunities for relationship building and development

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E3.1.1 Strong and beneficial relationships between local government and service providers, other levels of government and community

REROC

Council

* * * *

Action E3.1.1.a Ensure Council staff develop networks and relationships with service providers and relevant government bodies.

General Manager * Regular involvement with appropriate networks

Staff encouraged to network with service providers and attend briefings, conferences and so on for professional development

Action E3.1.1.b Ensure prompt, courteous service and advice to all Council customers.


* * * * Zero complaints regarding customer service of Council staff

Achieved with courteous, professional front counter staff.

E3.1.2 Ensure Council staff and Councillors participate regularly in professional development to support high quality customer service and professional skills

Council

Private educators

State Government

LGMA

* * * *

Action E3.1.2.a Ensure attendance at training sessions by Councillors as required by the Division of Local Government following each ordinary election.

General manager * Attendance by all Councillors at required training sessions

Councillors regularly updated on training available

Action E3.1.2.b Ensure that all professional Council staff attend at least one professional development course per annum.

General Manager * All Council staff attend 1 professional development session

Training plan activated and personal encouragement for staff to be proactive about these attendances


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


Outcome E4: Strong and effective leadership

Strategic Objective E4.1: Ensure a collaborative approach to the provision of services and support

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E4.1.1 Provide high level support to the delivery of local services


Council * * * *

E4.1.2 Support in the attraction of funding to facilitate identified priorities

RDA

State Government

Council * * * *

Strategic Objective E4.2: Plan for the long term sustainability of the shire

Comments


E4.2.1 Advocate and prepare for the long term sustainability of our Shire


Action E4.2.1.a Develop and regularly report on long term financial plans for Council


* Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP-10 year) developed and reported on quarterly

LTFP is prepared annually and reported to council and community quarterly via Operational Plan as per Integrated Reporting & Planning Guidelines.

Action E4.2.1.b Present a professional image of Council in all corporate and civic settings

General Manager All staff * All Council functions planned and delivered in a professional manner

Self and all staff who represent Council required to present a professional image

Action E4.2.1.c Set a detailed annual program of works for within the

Director Engineering Manager Works * Detailed schedule of works developed and

Annual works program included in annual budget.


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Strategic Objective E4.2: Plan for the long term sustainability of the shire

Comments


shire and ensure such works are scheduled within the budget and appropriate work plans

incorporated into budget Plan being undertaken with time and budget allocation.

E4.2.2 Increase the participation of local people in local government

Community State Government

Council * * * *

Action E4.2.2.a Promote and encourage participation in local government throughout Council’s publications – in particular in the lead up to Council elections

General Manager * 4 stories promoted throughout the shire that detail the Council elections in 2012

Through our monthly newsletter and networking generally.

Outcome E5: A supportive and inclusive community

Strategic Objective E5.1: Improve access to quality health, medical, and life-stage relevant services

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E5.1.1 Continue to ensure quality medical services are available to the community.

Local Medical Centres

NSW Health

Council * * * *

E5.1.2 Retain existing health and emergency services at the Lockhart Hospital.

NSW Health

Lockhart Hospital

State Government

Council

Community * * * *

E5.1.3 Advocate on behalf of the shire’s communities in regards to health planning at a regional level.

Council

Services Providers

NSW Health * * * *


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Strategic Objective E5.1: Improve access to quality health, medical, and life-stage relevant services

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures Action E5.1.3.a Make appropriate representation on behalf of the community as issues arise.

General Manager * Continued participation with local health service providers

Continued participation in the submission of local information to inform health service planning

Awareness of issues through networking and attendance at appropriate forums and raising issues with service providers and/or government as required

E5.1.4 Provide young residents with greater access to youth services

Schools

Churches

NSW Health

Council * * * *

E5.1.5 Continue to offer pre-school, playgroup and childcare services within the community

NSW playgroups

Childcare providers

Schools

Preschool

Community

Council * * * *

E5.1.6 Continue to ensure families are well supported

Churches,

NSW Health

Council * * * *

E5.1.7 Continue to ensure that our aged residents can access all the services required for their wellbeing


Service providers

Council * * * *

E5.1.8 Continue to provide high quality services and accommodation to our aged population and plan for the future needs of our ageing population


Council * * * *

E5.1.9 Provide support for people with a disability

NSW Health Community * * * *


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Strategic Objective E5.2: Ensure our residents can access a high quality education experience

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E5.2.1 Improve schools through greater parental involvement, providing life skills, involving young people in the community, providing inter-school opportunities, and offering support for talented young people.


Schools

Community * * * *

E5.2.2 Provide support for families who cannot afford to support education for their children.


Schools * * * *

E5.2.3 Advocate for all our Shire’s primary schools to stay open.

Primary schools Department of Education and Training

Community

* * * *

Action E5.2.3.a Continue to advocate for the long term sustainability of the small schools within the shire.

General Manager Economic Development Officer * Support provided as

required Representations as required

E5.2.3 Provide local education support for long-term unemployed.


Council * * * *

Strategic Objective E5.3: Maintain access to all service providers

Comments

Strategic Action Lead Agency Partners 13/14 14/15 15/16 16/17 Measures E5.3.1 Ensure that all services are provided from safe and accessible facilities.

Services providers Council * * * *


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ITEM 7 – LETTER RECEIVED FROM MYRA JENKYN



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ITEM 8 – LETTER RECEIVED FROM FRANK LOVERIDGE, LEGAL OFFICER, LOCAL

GOVERNMENT NSW



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ITEM 9 – LETTER FROM DAVID AND ANNE FELLOWS



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ITEM 12 – UPDATED WORKS PROGRAMME

MINUTES OF LEMC MEETING HELD 14 FEBRUARY 2014



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Lockhart Local Emergency Management Committee Minutes of the Meeting held Friday, 14 February 2014 at 11:00am

1. Welcome

1.1 LEMO David Webb declared the meeting open and welcomed all attending. 2. Attendance & Apologies

2.1 Meeting Attendees:

Lockhart LEMO – David Webb

Lockhart Shire Council – Sarah Jones

NSW Police – Peter McLay

Murrumbidgee CMA – Lisa Castleman

SES – Tony McPhail

RFS – Scott Conlan

NSW Police – Matt Couldrey

NSW Ambulance – Luke Jones

Australian Red Cross – Kate Johannson

Lockhart Red Cross – Mary Irons

2.2 Apologies:

REMO – Owen Plowman

NSW Fire & Rescue – Jamey Anderson

NSW Fire & Rescue – Daryl Manson

SES – James McTavish

Lockhart Hospital – Karen McPherson

NSW Police – Amy Couldrey

NSW Police – Inspector Mark Murphy

NSW Ambulance – Eamonn Purcell 3. Previous Minutes

3.1 The minutes were taken as read and confirmed. 4. Previous Minutes – Business Arising

4.1 Nil. 5. Events (Response/Recovery) 5.1 Flood – Council has completed most minor flood mitigation works in both Lockhart

and The Rock.


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5.2 Recovery – Lockhart Interagency Group established to assist with recovery,

particularly with networking contacts to assist the community post emergency/disaster. The Group will meet three times per year immediately prior to each LEMC meeting.

6. Flood Studies Update

6.1 Draft final report due next week. Study now getting close to completion which, when adopted, will drive any mitigation measures recommended.

7. Agency Reports

7.1 RFS

– Significant activity since last meeting. A number of events pre and post-Christmas across NSW, including a Section 44 declaration which included Lockhart LGA.

– Still on heightened alert due to climatic conditions.

7.2 Fire & Rescue

– No report.

– Bushfire hazard complaints can be entered via the RFS website. The two areas of concern raised at the October meeting were:

a. Rail Corridor in Lockhart – letters have been sent to John Holland Rail requesting action be taken.

b. Lockhart Common north of Galore Street, Lockhart – Council undertook works on behalf of the Commons Trust.

7.3 The Rock SES

– Tony McPhail provided update.

– Members were sent to assist in other areas.

7.4 Hospital

No report.

– Open Day for Hospital upgrade to be held 22 February 2014.

7.5 Red Cross

Mary Irons provided update.

– Australian Red Cross and the Lockhart Branch celebrating 100 years in 2014.

7.6 NSW Police

Peter McLay provided update.

– Inspector Peter Robinson oversees Southern Command section which includes Lockhart LGA.


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7.7 REMO

David Webb provided update in Owen Plowman’s absence.

– See attached notes.

– Details of upcoming emergency management training to be emailed to L Castleman for the information of the Local Land Services.

7.8 Local Land Services (LLS)

Lisa Castleman provided update.

– LLS officially in place and functioning as of 1 January 2014, with 80 staff.

– LLS staff assisted with recovery after recent fires in the region.

7.9 Ambulance Service of NSW

– Fourth officer to commence 8 March 8. Planning Emergency Risk Management

8.1 Lockhart Shire Council EM Plan has been endorsed by the REMC 9. EOC Preparedness

9.1 EOC SOP’s are now included in Lockhart Shire Council EMPLAN. 10. General Business

10.1 Fire Mitigation – Community Protection Plan for Pleasant Hills and Village Protection Plans. RFS to co-ordinate plans. ONGOING

10.2 Fire Alerts – What can residents expect to receive and what do they mean. See RFS website. David Webb to put note in Council newsletter. COMPLETE

10.3 Lisa Castleman noted latest research is suggesting not retaining crop stubble. This may lead to a change in practices, back to burning, over the next few years.

10.4 Scott Conlan raised maintenance issues at the Lockhart EOC building. RFS and Council will investigate who is responsible and have work undertaken.

11. Next Meeting

11.1 The next meeting will be held Friday, 13 June 2014 at Lockhart Shire Council at 11:00am.

12. Meeting Close

12.1 LEMO David Webb thanked everyone for their participation and declared the meeting closed at 12:00pm.


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ITEM 15 – LETTER FROM LOCKHART RED CROSS DATED 11 FEBRUARY 2014



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ITEM 21 – LETTER FROM ALEXANDER FAMILY AND PHOTOS OF THE AFFECTED

DRIVEWAYS



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ITEM 25 – PLAN OF PROPOSED LOT

PLANNING REPORT



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PLANNING REPORT DA 38/14 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: SUBDIVISION APPLICANT: LOCKHART SHIRE COUNCIL LAND DESCRIPTION: LOT B DP 327347 & LOT 2 SECT. 5 DP 758971 BURKE STREET, THE ROCK OWNER DETAILS: RJ & EL BLAKE Section 79C considerations: (a) the provisions of: (i) any environmental planning instrument: Comment: Lockhart Local Environmental Plan 2012 applies to the land. The land is zoned RU5 Village and the proposed subdivision is permissible with Council consent. State Environmental Planning Policy – 44 Koala Habitat Protection (SEPP) applies to all land within the Lockhart Shire Council area. The SEPP identifies tree species including Red Gum species that are Koala Habitat. Such species would be evident along the Burkes Creek, which is in close proximity to the development site. The site is generally clear of any potential habitat trees and is a former industrial site. It is considered that the development site does not require any further investigation with regard to Koala Habitat. (ii) any proposed instrument that is or has been the subject of public consultation under this Act and that has been notified to the consent authority (unless the Director-General has notified the consent authority that the making of the proposed instrument has been deferred indefinitely or has not been approved): Comment: There are no proposed instruments affecting the land. (iii) any development control plan. Comment: There are no DCPs applying to the land. (iiia) any planning agreement that has been entered into under section 93F, or any draft planning agreement that a developer has offered to enter into under section 93F. Comment: There are no planning agreements applying to the proposed development. (iv) the regulations (to the extent that they prescribe matters for the purposes of this paragraph). Comment: There are no specific requirements for this proposal. (v) any coastal zone management plan (within the meaning of the Coastal Protection Act 1979), that apply to the land to which the development application relates. Comment: N/A (b) the likely impacts of that development, including environmental impacts on both the natural and built environments, and social and economic impacts in the locality. Comment: The proposed development at this stage is a simple boundary adjustment to facilitate a land purchase for future community purpose in the form of a men’s shed, therefore will have negligible impacts.


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http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/xref/inforce/?xref=Type%3Dact%20AND%20Year%3D1979%20AND%20no%3D13&nohits=y


(c) the suitability of the site for the development, Comment: The site is suitable for the proposed future uses that are not part of this current application. The proposed allotment to be purchased is next to the current men’s shed, which is located in an old disused industrial building. The land is designated as Bushfire Prone Land and as such would normally be subject to an Integrated Approval from the NSW Rural Fire Service for a Section 100B Fire Safety Authority under the Rural Fires Act 1997. Clause 45 (1) (h) of the Rural Fires Regulation 2013 provides that an exemption exists in the case of a subdivision for “subdivision of land used or proposed to be used for industrial purposes on which the erection of a dwelling related to the industrial use of the land (such as a manager’s residence) is permitted”. In the circumstances of this application it is considered reasonable to rely on this clause to not refer the application for an Integrated Approval, on the basis that the intent of the subdivision is not to create a parcel of land for any residential or special purpose use as defined in the Rural Fires Act. (d) any submissions made in accordance with this Act or the regulations, Comment: The proposed subdivision is not advertised development and as such no submissions have been received. The proposal was initially instigated by representations from the local men’s shed organisation. (e) the public interest. Comment: The proposed development will make available a parcel of land for the future development of The Rock men’s shed and therefore would be considered to have a beneficial impact for the local community. Name of Assessing Officer: Brent Livermore Date of assessment: 3 March 2014 Recommendation: It is considered that the proposed development may be given consent without conditions.


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ITEM 26 – DRAFT SWIMMING POOL INSPECTION PROGRAM


LOCKHART SHIRE COUNCIL Swimming Pool Inspection Program Date: 21 October 2013 This inspection program is relevant to all swimming pools regulated under the Swimming Pools Act 1992. A reference to a swimming pool in this document also includes a spa pool. The inspection program is designed to provide measures to identify non-compliant swimming pools, ensure upgrade works are carried out and in the process raise swimming pool safety awareness. An inspection of a swimming pool is to be carried out by Council, where any of the following circumstances exist: 1. Complaints On receipt of a complaint by Council concerning an alleged defective swimming pool barrier, a written request will be forwarded to the owner of the swimming pool to arrange access for an inspection. Where a complaint is substantiated after an inspection, a Notice of Proposed Direction will be issued to the owner of the swimming pool. 2. Certificate of Compliance Applications Section 22D of the Act provides for a swimming pool owner to make application to Council or an Accredited Certifier for a Certificate of Compliance. On receipt of an application and payment of the inspection fee, Council will undertake an inspection of the swimming pool. Where the application form indicates that it relates to the sale or lease of the premises, the inspection will be undertaken within ten (10) business days after receiving the application and inspection fee. Where a defective barrier has been identified, a Notice of Proposed Direction will be issued to the swimming pool owner. After a period of fifteen (15) calendar days, a final Direction will be issued to the swimming pool owner if the required upgrade works have not been completed. A re-inspection will be undertaken by Council and the appropriate re-inspection fee will be paid by the swimming pool owner. A certificate of compliance will be issued in respect of a swimming pool that is registered on the Department of Local Government Swimming Pools Register and that complies with the requirements of Part 2 of the Act. 3. Exemption Applications Section 22 of the Act provides for a swimming pool owner to make application to Council for an exemption from all or any of the requirements of Part 2 of the Act, in certain circumstances. On receipt of an application and the appropriate fee, Council will undertake an inspection of the swimming pool. After determination of the exemption application, where further works are necessary to make the swimming pool barrier compliant, Council will issue a Notice of Proposed Direction to the swimming pool owner. 4. Other Inspections at Request of Owner Section 22C of the Act provides for a swimming pool owner to make application to Council for an inspection, which includes advice about swimming pool compliance. On receipt of an application and payment of the inspection fee, an inspection of the swimming pool will be undertaken. Where a defective barrier is identified a Notice of Proposed Direction will be issued to the swimming pool owner.


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5. Notices Issued by an Accredited Certifier Section 22E of the Act requires that an Accredited Certifier must provide a Notice to the owner of a swimming pool after inspection, if not satisfied that the swimming pool is compliant. A copy of the Notice is required to be provided to Council. On receipt of a notification from an Accredited Certifier, a written request will be forwarded to the owner of the swimming pool to arrange access for an inspection to be undertaken and payment of the inspection fee in accordance with 22F of the Act. Where a defective barrier is identified, a Notice of Proposed Direction will be issued to the swimming pool owner. 6. Tourist and Visitor Accommodation Tourist and Visitor accommodation, means a building or place that provides temporary or short term accommodation on a commercial basis and includes any of the following:- backpacker’s accommodation, bed and breakfast accommodation, farm stay accommodation, hotel or motel accommodation, but does not include camping grounds, caravan parks or eco tourist facilities. These categories of premises are to be inspected at least once every three years. A written request will be forwarded to the owner of the swimming pool to arrange access for an inspection to be undertaken and payment of the inspection fee in accordance with Section 22F of the Act. Where a defective barrier is identified, a Notice of Proposed Direction will be issued to the swimming pool owner. 7. Random Audit Where inspection resources permit, the swimming pool register will be reviewed to identify swimming pools where there is not a valid Certificate of Compliance or a relevant Occupation Certificate in existence and Council has not carried out an inspection of the swimming pool in the past five (5) years. A written request will be forwarded to the owner of the swimming pool to arrange access for an inspection to be undertaken and payment of the inspection fee in accordance with Section 22F of the Act. Where a defective barrier is identified, a Notice of Proposed Direction will be issued to the owner of the swimming pool.

• Notice of Proposed Direction Where a defective swimming pool barrier is identified, the non-compliant aspects will be notified to the swimming pool owner initially as a Notice (covering letter) with a copy of a draft Direction. The purpose of the Notice is to encourage the swimming pool owner to bring the swimming pool into compliance with the Act, before a formal Direction is subsequently issued. After a period of fifteen (15) days from the issue of the Notice, Council will forward the final Direction to the swimming pool owner. The Direction is a legally enforceable document and provides the swimming pool owner with a right of appeal to the Land and Environment Court.

• Inspection and re-inspection fees Section 22F of the Act allows Council to charge an inspection fee for all inspections carried out under Division 5 of the Act. An initial inspection fee will be payable by the swimming pool owner at the time of making an application or request to Council for an inspection of a swimming pool. An application will not be taken as being lodged until payment of the inspection fee has been received by Council. Where Council has initiated the need for an inspection in accordance with this program, other than for a complaint, an invoice will be forwarded to the owner of the swimming pool.


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Where a re-inspection is necessary, a once only re-inspection fee will be payable by the swimming pool owner. In such cases Council will issue an invoice to the swimming pool owner. All inspection fees charged will be in accordance with Council’s schedule of fees and charges as advertised in its Operational Plan for the relevant year.

• Penalty Infringement Notices There are a range of Penalty Infringement Notices (on the spot fines) that may be issued by Council for non-compliance with the requirements of the Act. Such penalties are not used as an initial response by Council but rather as a deterrent for continued failure to comply. Any fines collected through this process will be directed towards the funding of this swimming pool inspection program.


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Closed Session Agenda

The following Item/s are listed for consideration by Council on 17 March 2014:

1. REPORT ON COUNCIL HOUSING (DCCS/C80-030)

2. BOND STREET SUBDIVISION (GM/C80-005)

3. GREENS GUNYAH MUSEUM REDEVELOPMENT (DEES/T20-005)


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