RENMARK PARINGA COUNCIL · PDF fileRENMARK PARINGA COUNCIL ... 3.0 SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS Moved That Standing Orders be Suspended to enable Dr Muecke from the ... Obstetrics/Maternity

General Council Agenda 24th July, 2007 1

R E N M A R K P A R I N G A C O U N C I L NOTICE is hereby given that the next Ordinary Meeting of Council is to be held at the Community & Civic Centre, Eighteenth Street, Renmark on Tuesday 24th July, 2007 commencing at 7pm.

..................................................... BC Hurst

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AGENDA 1.0 OPENING BY HIS WORSHIP THE MAYOR 2.0 APOLOGIES 3.0 SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS

Moved That Standing Orders be Suspended to enable Dr Muecke from the Renmark Medical Practice and Mr Glen Cooper, CEO and Mrs Betty Heading, Chairperson, of the Renmark Paringa District Hospital Inc to discuss changes to After Hours Accident & Emergency and Obstetrics/Maternity Services. Seconded

4.0 QUESTIONS FROM THE GALLERY 5.0 MOTION OF CONDOLENCE

Moved That Council acknowledges the following recently deceased persons and formally record a motion of sympathy and condolence to the families; Seconded Webber, Murray Alexander Basey, Shelah Jessie Schumacher, Catherine Maria May Soulemezis, Dimitrios Minge, Allan John Ivanovic, Elaine Catherine Upton, Margaret Morant, Beryl Lushington Olorenshaw, Audrey Gwen Dixon, John Brian


6.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF A MEETING HELD ON 26th JUNE 2007 (refer to yellow sheets)

Moved That the Minutes of the General Meeting of Council held on 26th June 2007

be confirmed. Seconded 7.0 BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF 26/06/07 8.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF A SPECIAL MEETING HELD

ON 3rd JULY 2007 (refer to yellow sheets) Moved That the Minutes of the Special Council Meeting of Council held on 3rd

July 2007 be confirmed. Seconded 9.0 BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF 03/07/07 10.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF A SPECIAL MEETING HELD

ON 17th JULY 2007 (refer to yellow sheets) Moved That the Minutes of the Special Meeting of Council held on 17th July 2007

be confirmed. Seconded 11.0 BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF 17/07/07 12.0 QUESTIONS

12.1 Questions with Notice- Nil 12.2 Questions without Notice

13.0 COUNCIL COMMITTEES 13.1 Development Assessment Panel (refer green sheets)

Moved That the Minutes of the Development Assessment Panel Meeting held 26th June 2007 be received and noted.

Seconded

13.2 Assets Committee Moved

That the Minutes of the Assets Committee Meeting held 16th July 2007 be received and the recommendations contained therein be adopted.

Seconded

MINUTES of the Assets Committee Meeting held in the Community & Civic Centre, Eighteenth Street, Renmark on Monday 16th July, 2007 commencing at 4.00pm.


1.0 PRESENT Crs R Twyford (Chairperson), Mayor N Martinson, P Campbell & N Nattrass, B Hurst (Chief Executive Officer), R Wood (Director Corporate & Community Services) and M Bartsch (Director Infrastructure & Environmental Services)

In attendance – Crs G Daniel and L Dimou

2.0 APOLOGIES – Cr T Petersen 3.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD JUNE

18th 2007 Moved Cr Campbell That the minutes of the Council Assets Committee held June 18th 2007 be taken as read and confirmed.

Seconded Mayor Martinson CARRIED

4.0 BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF 18/06/2007 - Nil

5.0 DIRECTOR INFRASTRUCTURE & ENVIRONMENTAL

SERVICES REPORT Moved Cr Nattrass That the Director Infrastructure & Environmental Services Report be received. Seconded Mayor Martinson CARRIED

6.0 TENDER RP 5/07 – WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT -

PARINGA Moved Cr Nattrass That this matter be deferred until the conclusion of General Business at which time it be considered in confidence pursuant to the provisions of Section 90(2) and (3)(k) of the Local Government Act, 1999. Seconded Cr Campbell CARRIED

7.0 TENDER RP 6/07 – IRRIGATION EXTENSION TO THE RENMARK GOLF COURSE Moved Mayor Martinson That this matter be deferred until the conclusion of General Business at which time it be considered in confidence pursuant to the provisions of Section 90(2) and (3)(k) of the Local Government Act, 1999. Seconded Cr Nattrass CARRIED


8.0 DIRECTOR CORPORATE & COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORT Moved Cr Campbell That the Director Corporate & Community Services Report be received. Seconded Mayor Martinson CARRIED

9.0 COMMUNITY AND CIVIC CENTRE

Moved Mayor Martinson That the staff involved in the management of the new Community and Civic Centre project be congratulated. Seconded Cr Nattrass CARRIED

10.0 RENMARK INSTITUTE – RIVERLAND YOUTH THEATRE

Moved Cr Campbell That Council approve the installation of Theatre curtains and tracking by the Riverland Youth Theatre at the Renmark Institute. Seconded Cr Nattrass CARRIED

11.0 GENERAL BUSINESS

11.1 Pigeon Problem Moved Mayor Martinson

That Council contact the MDBNRM Board to ascertain if they are in a position to provide support to the community in the reduction of problem pigeons and further that a letter be sent to Ausbulk Ltd to ascertain if they have any plans to eradicate pigeons from the Paringa Silos. Seconded Cr Nattrass CARRIED


12.0 MATTERS FOR CONSIDERATION IN CONFIDENCE Moved Mayor Martinson

That pursuant to the provisions of Section 90 (2) of the Local Government Act, 1999, an order be made excluding members of the public with the exception of the Chief Executive Officer, Director Community & Corporate Services, Director Infrastructure and Environmental Services and Crs G Daniel and L Dimou from attendance at the meeting in order to consider the Director Infrastructure and Environmental Services Confidential Report relating to Tender RP 5/07 – Wastewater Treatment Plant - Paringa and Tender RP 6/07 – Irrigation Extension To The Renmark Golf Course and further that Council is satisfied that on the basis of the provisions of Section 90 (3)(k) the principal that the meeting of the Council should be conducted in a place open to the public has been outweighed by the need to keep the information on discussion confidential.

Seconded Cr Nattrass CARRIED

13.0 TENDER RP 5/07 – WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT – PARINGA

Moved Mayor Martinson That the Committee subject to the approval of funding recommends to Council that the WWTP Design, Supply, Install & Commission Offer from Factor UTB as presented be accepted, with the following additions : • Initial Offer : $ 299,244 • concrete reactor tank as offered : $ 0 • hypo system as offered : $ 0 • Inclusion of the perimeter fence at an additional cost of : $ 8,484 • Inclusion of irrigation pumps & UV system :$ 63,627 • Total cost of offer + variations as above :$ 371,355 It is also recommended that the stated 12 month O&M contract sum ($ 10,560) be accepted as part of the total contract. Seconded Cr Nattrass CARRIED

Cr Twyford declared an interest in Tender RP 6/07 Irrigation Extension to the Renmark Golf Course being an employee of one of the tenderers and left the meeting at 4.43pm.

Mayor Martinson took the chair as Acting Chairperson in the absence of Cr Twyford.


14.0 TENDER RP 6/07 – IRRIGATION EXTENSION TO THE RENMARK GOLF COURSE

Moved Cr Nattrass That the Committee subject to the approval of funding recommends to Council that the Tender from River Rain Irrigation for Tender RP 6/07 – Irrigation Extension to the Renmark Golf Course for a total amount of $90,400 be accepted. Seconded Cr Campbell CARRIED

Cr Twyford resumed his chair at 4.50pm

15.0 CLOSURE –

Meeting Closed at 4.51pm

13.3 Works Committee Moved

That the Minutes of the Works Committee Meeting held 17th July 2007 be received and the recommendations contained therein be adopted.

Seconded

MINUTES of the Works Committee Meeting held in the Community & Civic Centre, Eighteenth Street, Renmark on Tuesday 17th July, 2007 commencing at 3.00pm.

1.0 PRESENT

Mayor Martinson, Crs L Dimou, G Daniel (Chairperson), T Petersen, T Hersey and M Spano, Messrs B Hurst (Chief Executive Officer) and M Bartsch (Director Infrastructure & Environmental Services)

In attendance: Cr Nattrass

2.0 APOLOGIES - Nil

3.0 ADJOURNMENT

Moved Cr Dimou That the meeting be adjourned for 30 minutes to enable an inspection of the proposed tree planting in Ral Ral Avenue, Renmark. Seconded Cr Spano CARRIED

Meeting resumed at 3.25pm

Mayor Martinson joined the meeting


4.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 19th JUNE 2007 Moved Cr Petersen That the minutes of the Works Committee Meeting held 19th June 2007 be taken as read and confirmed.

Seconded Cr Hersey CARRIED

5.0 BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF 19/06/07 - Nil

6.0 DIRECTOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Moved Cr Spano That the Director Infrastructure and Environmental Services Report be received Seconded Cr Petersen CARRIED

7.0 PEPPERCORN TREE – RAL RAL AVENUE Moved Cr Hersey That the Committee recommends that additional line marking is carried out to highlight the restriction on parking adjacent to the peppercorn tree in Ral Ral Avenue near the intersection with Renmark Avenue. Seconded Mayor Martinson CARRIED

8.0 IRRIGATION MECHANIC POSITION

Moved Cr Spano That the Committee recommends that the structure of the new Parks and Gardens team consists of: 1. Parks & Gardens Supervisor 2. Irrigation Mechanic 3. Town Mower Operator 4. Apprentice Parks & Gardens work Seconded Cr Hersey CARRIED

9.0 TREE PLANTING - RAL RAL AVENUE, RENMARK

Moved Cr Petersen That advanced London Planes be planted in two rows on the Ral Ral Avenue median to replace the Poplar trees at intervals which match the irrigation system.

Seconded Mayor Martinson CARRIED


10.0 FOOTPATH CONSTRUCTION Moved Cr Dimou That the Committee recommends that Council continue to use pavers for their new footpath construction. Seconded Cr Hersey CARRIED

11.0 INTERSECTION OF ONTARIO AND TAPALIN STREETS

Moved Mayor Martinson That Council look at improving signage at the intersection of Tapalin Street and Ontario Street and further investigate the boundary fencing alignment of adjoining properties. Seconded Cr Dimou CARRIED

12.0 GENERAL BUSINESS

12.1 Industry Road Water Drainage Moved Cr Petersen

That investigations be undertaken to temporarily drain water from Industry Road in front of Renmano Cellars, onto winery land. Seconded Mayor Martinson CARRIED

13.0 CLOSURE – 5.07pm

14.0 COUNCILLOR’S REPORTS

Moved That the Councillor’s Reports be received Seconded

Cr T Hersey Refer attachment page 1 15.0 DIRECTOR INFRASTRUCTURE & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Moved

That the Director of Infrastructure & Environmental Services Report be received.

Seconded

DIRECTOR INFRASTRUCTURE & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES REPORT Your Worship Mayor Martinson and Councillors I submit the following report for the General Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday 24th July 2007.


1.0 Tender RP 8/07 – Supply of Kerb & Water Table Works It is recommended that this matter be deferred until the conclusion of Motions without Notice to enable consideration of the matter being discussed in camera as the item related to the consideration of a tender for the provision of services.

Recommendation – That this matter be deferred until the conclusion of Motions without Notice at which time it be considered in confidence pursuant to the provisions of Section 90(2) and (3)(k) of the Local Government Act, 1999.

2.0 Tender RP 8/07 – Supply of Hotmix Sealing Works

It is recommended that this matter be deferred until the conclusion of Motions without Notice to enable consideration of the matter being discussed in camera as the item related to the consideration of a tender for the provision of services.

Recommendation – That this matter be deferred until the conclusion of Motions without Notice at which time it be considered in confidence pursuant to the provisions of Section 90(2) and (3)(k) of the Local Government Act, 1999.

MURRAY BARTSCH DIRECTOR INFRASTRUCTURE & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES 16.0 MANAGER COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORT Moved That the Manager Community Services Report be received. Seconded MANAGER COMMUNITY SERVICES REPORT

Your Worship Mayor Martinson and Councillors I submit the following report for the General Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday 24th July 2007.

1.0 Removal of Liquor Licence – Woolworth Liquor Correspondence has been received from Clelands Lawyers acting on behalf of Woolworth Liquor Stores Pty Ltd to remove its liquor licence from 25 Ral Ral Avenue to the proposed new premises situated at Renmark Avenue, Renmark. Given that Council has not received any community information it is recommended that Council support this request.


Recommendation: That Council write to Cleland’s Lawyers advising Council support for the removal of the liquor licence from Woolworths Liquor at 25 Ral Ral Avenue to new premises located at Renmark Avenue, Renmark.

2.0 McCormick Centre River/Mallee Botanic Garden Project &

Renmark Craft Building Project Brief background - Riverland Woodworkers: Over 2 years ago Council was approached by members of the community interested in sharing their skills and knowledge with the community in the art of woodworking. They sought a space to be able to operate from and undertake their activities. In 2005 the group were offered use of an area within the Old High School building. The group commenced with 8 members and has now grown to over 50 persons attending regularly. In 2006 the group also worked with TAFE who took dis-engaged youth to work with the woodworkers. The results were very positive and the woodworkers are keen to continue assisting persons in the community by involving them in this craft. Due to space issues the woodworkers requested Council consider obtaining the building adjacent to the Old High School. This building was purpose built many years ago and was used as a craft building for the Old High School. Negotiations have been taking place with Council regarding the building provision by the Education department. Correspondence was received recently advising that the Education department is willing to hand over the building with no conditions attached. (refer attachment page 215)

Current Status: Given the substantial amount of money required to upgrade this building it has been necessary to consider several funding bodies. It has also been necessary to consider a more collaborative approach with other community groups, agencies in order to provide Council and the community with a greater chance of success with funding.

After informal consultations with known interested groups regarding the Old Craft Building use we have 4 interested users including the Riverland Woodworkers group. Interest has been from art/craft related organisations seeking to use the space as a meeting place and one to conduct their craft sessions.


In light of the above it is suggested that the project of upgrading the Old Craft Building be considered as a collaborative project with the McCormick Centre Riverland Botanic Garden proposal. The project will then be broken into three stages.

McCormick Centre River/Mallee Botanic Art Garden Project The McCormick Centre for the Environment was established to support environmental education, eco tourism and to provide the local community with a valuable interpretive resource. This Centre provides visitors with a unique single location experience of both wetlands and mallee and it was considered that this aspect could be enriched by offering visitors with a more informative interpretive experience.

The McCormick Centre was successful in receiving funding from SA Country Arts Trust to contract consultants to develop a concept design for this idea. An open community consultation was attended by 16 local members of the community and many groups also met with the consultants. Indigenous representatives were also in attendance and some ideas discussed included an area dedicated for storytelling and performances. A draft plan was subsequently developed and this included areas:

• Improved Main Entrance • Artworks • Seasonal Calendar • Boardwalk over the wetland • Boardwalk Hides • Mud Maze and seating • Acacia Seedpod Seats • Dancing Sands – performance and storytelling area • Outdoor Laboratory

Discussions with both the McCormick Centre and the Riverland Woodworkers have decided it far more valuable to collaborate both projects to maximise external funding opportunities. Several meetings have been facilitated by Council with both groups over recent months. A copy of the proposed Old Craft Building upgrade and the McCormick Centre River/Mallee Botanic Art Garden Project is attached. The new plan is to link both buildings with a path and similar natural landscaping so that locals and visitors will be able to view both buildings and surrounds on their visit.


The opportunity to develop the grounds of the McCormick Centre as a River/Mallee Botanic Art Garden provides an invaluable extension of this public facility. Interpreting the natural environment through art and by the involvement of the local community will enable the Centre to continue to raise awareness of our Mallee and riverine environments for both locals and visitors.

The opportunity to develop the Old Craft Building into and Art/Craft Centre will provide a much needed resource and space to the Renmark Paringa community.

The proposed projects will be conducted over three stages and is expected to cost in excess of $200,000. Minimal support has been requested by Council as it is envisaged that funding will be from external sources. This project has the opportunity to achieve excellent project outcomes and in order to involve the community it is proposed to hold an open community briefing in the coming months. At this briefing an overview of the project will be discussed along with highlighting options for volunteering, community and business support.

For information

3.0 Major Council Community Grants

The major grant application process opened in March and an Information night was held to provide community groups with an overview of the application forms and assessment process.

A total of 13 applications seeking grants for projects totalling in excess of $100,000 covering the various categories were received prior to the closing date of 7th May, 2007

The Community Development Grant applications were assessed by Council’s nominated Assessment panel in accordance with the established guidelines, together with knowledge and details supplied from the applicants. A number of factors were taken into account, including perceived community benefit, capacity for self funding by the applicant body and/or other funding source opportunities and Council’s own budgetary restraints.

RECOMMENDATION: That the Manager Community Services on behalf of the Assessment Panel recommends that the level of funding as recommended within the report attached be endorsed.


COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GRANT RECOMMENDATIONS by Council Grants Assessment Panel

ORGANISATION PROJECT DESCRIPTION

RECOMMENDED GRANT $

CAPITAL GRANTS

Lions Club of Renmark & Renmark Aquatic Club Inc

New irrigation pump and sprinkler heads for Lions Park and ski reserve

$1750

Renmark Olympic Soccer Club

Soccer Club Storage and Meeting Building

$4000

Paringa-Murtho Progress War Memorial Community Centre Inc

Air Conditioning Project. Purchase and install air-conditioners for the Paringa Hall.

$4000

St Augustine Anglican Church

Church Amplification. Purchase sound system for better sound and benefit community for various weddings/funerals etc

$2500

Evening Star Quilters Renmark Paringa

Pfaff Quilting Machine to enable Quilters the opportunity to further skills and provide community with training and craft to support local charities.

$1699

Renmark RSL and District Bowling Club

Maintain well kept appearance of bowling green gardens by purchasing equipment

$1393

COMMUNITY INITIATIVE

Carols in the Gardens Committee

Carols in the Garden. Organise and run an Annual “Carols in the Garden” event in December

$4000

SEED INITIATIVES

Renmark Guide Unit ‘Returned Service Men & Women of Renmark & Paringa Recognition Project’. To place Australian Flags on burial sites.

$670


TOTAL $20,012

TRUDY VESOTSKY MANAGER COMMUNITY SERVICES

17.0 CHIEF LIBRARIAN’S REPORT Moved That the Chief Librarian’s Report be received. Seconded CHIEF LIBRARIAN’S REPORT

Your Worship Mayor Martinson and Councillors I submit the following report for the General Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday 24th July 2007.

1.0 LOAN FIGURES FOR 2006/2007 FINANCIAL YEAR

Loan rates continue to rise with loan figures for the end of the financial year indicating dramatic increases yet again. Last year library loan figures reached 98,331, the highest number of recorded loans since the library first opened in 1984. Borrowings for this year increased again with loans reaching a high of 107,313. This figure indicates an average of 429 loans per day. Extensive DVD loans have certainly contributed to this increase in loan figures with Children’s book loans also increasing by 9% on last year. Adult Fiction loans still remain as the bulk of library loans with a total of 24,399 borrowings.

LOAN FIGURES OVER THE PAST 6 YEARS

50,000

60,000

70,000

80,000

90,000

100,000

110,000

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

loans


2.0 LIBRARY STATISTICS FOR April/May/June 2007

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

loans members door count

AprilMayJune

Library Service April 2007 May 2007 June 2007 Total Loans 8,649 9,530 8,900 Average loans per day 508 414 404 Current Registered Borrowers

5,450 5,509 5,554

Stock levels 23,060 23,258 23,210 New Items 177 131 180 Internet Bookings 463 568 533 Reservations 361 350 306 Interlibrary loans 2819 422 454 Door Count 4,772 4,450 5,500

3.0 WIRELESS INTERNET ACCESS As from the 24th April Wireless Internet Access became available to residents and visitors within the Renmark Library. The service is provided in association with the State Government’s Public Libraries Automated information Network. Wireless Internet allows the public to access free Internet using a high-speed broadband connection on their laptops within the library. Through wireless access the library is able to offer extended Internet access without installing new hardware or cabling to accommodate the growing use of the Internet. To gain access, clients must have a wireless enabled laptop and a library membership card.

4.0 ONLINE TUTORING

On April 12th a new Online Tutoring service became available in all South Australian libraries. The Online Tutoring service from Tutoring Australasia connects students to expert tutors in mathematics, science, English, research-based subjects and study skills via the Internet.


The service is coordinated and funded by the South Australian public library network and is available to students in years 4 through to 12. It is a free service that is available to access from the library or from home from 4 to 8pm on Monday to Friday. The tutors are certified teachers, professional tutors, post-graduates and advanced undergraduates from top Australian universities. Students can access YourTutor within the library or from home with a library membership card.

5.0 OUTREACH PROGRAMS OFFERED TO THE COMMUNITY

Mad Hatters School Holiday Program A school holiday program offering storytelling and craft activities on a Mad Hatters Theme was held during the April School Holidays with 119 children attending.

Easter Programs On Tuesday the 10th of April children from the School Learning Assistance Program attended the library, with their helpers, for Easter stories, activities and morning tea in the park and an Easter program for preschoolers was held on Wednesday 4th April with 26 children attending.

Preschool Storytelling Preschool storytelling and craft activities are held every Wednesday morning during the school term. The following table indicates sessions held and numbers attending.

April 2007 May 2007 June 2007 2 Preschool sessions Attendance 38

5 sessions Attendance 85 children

4 sessions Attendance 68 children

MAXINE HODGSON CHIEF LIBRARIAN

19.0 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT Moved That the Chief Executive Officer’s Report be received Seconded

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT Your Worship Mayor Martinson and Councillors I submit the following report for the General Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday 24th July 2007.


1.0 Strategic Plan – Update Council’s Strategic Plan 2005-2009 provides guidance in the direction that we aim to move with our service to the Renmark Paringa community. To implement the directions determined under the Strategic Plan it is necessary for the objectives and strategies within the Plan to be matched with the relevant work areas and senior staff to be delegated responsibility for determination and implementation of relevant actions.

Included within the agenda papers is a Quarterly Report providing a progress report on actions taken to date. (Refer attachment pages 3-48)

Recommendation – That the July quarterly Strategic Plan progress report be received.

2.0 Council Policy

Council has a number of Codes and Policies which guide its day to day operations and decision making. Some of these are required by the Local Government Act (statutory) and a number are internal (Council).

Under the Local Government Act it is necessary to review the “statutory” policies at legislated times while the “Council” policies are usually done on an annual basis in August. It is prudent to review all policies on a regular basis and having an annual review ensures that policies are kept up to date. Accordingly over the next two months I will be presenting both the required “statutory” codes and policies and the “Council” policies for review and endorsement.

It is proposed to review the “statutory” codes, policies and procedures this month as necessary and to review all “Council” policies at the August meeting.

The following table shows the “statutory” documents and their suggested review date.

Document Statutory Review

Due Suggested Date

Code of Conduct – Elected Members

12 months after election

July 2007

Code of Conduct – Employees


July 2007

Elected Members – Training and Development Policy

Anytime July 2007

Internal Review of Council Decisions Procedures

Anytime July 2007


Procurement and Disposal (inc. Contracts and Tenders) Policy

Anytime July 2007

Public Consultation Policy Anytime July 2007 Code of Practice – Access to Council Meetings


July 2007

Elected Members – Allowances and Support Policy

Immediately after election then annually

October 2007

Order Making Policy Anytime July 2007

In preparing its “statutory” policies Council has previously adopted a form recommended by the LGA of SA and their legal advisers with minor amendments to localise them. We are therefore assured that they meet the statutory requirements and will stand up to a challenge.

The following reports will address each of the Policies as required and Councillors attention is drawn to the copies of current policies etc which were distributed to you after the November election. Those documents will become redundant once these new policies etc. are adopted this month. Following the acceptance of Items 3 to12 below, Councillors will be reissued with a new full Policy Manual.

3.0 Code of Conduct – Elected Members

It is a requirement of the Local Government Act, 1999 that the Council adopt a code of conduct for its elected members and that within twelve months of each general election it undertakes a review of that code of conduct. It is also permitted to alter or substitute a new code at any other time.

The Code of Conduct – Elected Members which is included as an attachment (refer attachment pages 49-56) undertook a major amendment in July 2005 with the inclusion of a clause relating to “Gifts and Benefits” and remains in my view very relevant. It has only had a minor amendment relating to this review date.

I understand that the Office of State and Local Government Relations are considering changes to the “Code of Conduct” provisions in the Local Government Act and that may result in a need for a further review or amendments but that is unlikely to be this year.

I recommend its review without change.


Recommendation – That pursuant to Section 63 (2) of the Local Government Act, 1999, Council complete its review of the Code of Conduct – Elected Members and endorse the Code in its existing form.

4.0 Code of Conduct – Employees

It is a requirement of the Local Government Act, 1999 that the Council adopt a code of conduct for its employees and that within twelve months of each general election it undertakes a review that code. It is also permitted to alter or substitute a new code at any other time.

The Code of Conduct – Employees which is included as an attachment (refer attachment pages 57-60) undertook a major amendment in July 2005 with the inclusion of a clause relating to “Gifts and Benefits” and remains in my view very relevant. It has only had a minor amendment relating to this review date.

I recommend its review without change.

Recommendation – That pursuant to Section 110 (2) of the Local Government Act, 1999, Council complete its review of the Code of Conduct – Employees and endorse the Code in its existing form.

5.0 Elected Members – Training and Development Policy

It is a requirement of the Local Government Act, 1999 that Council adopt a training and development policy for its members to assist them in the performance and discharge of their functions and duties.

Council adopted such a policy in July 2006 and a copy of that Policy is included as an attachment (refer attachment pages 61-64). I have made one amendment and that is to the time frame in the first paragraph of the section on “Procedures”. I feel that the previous six months is to short a time with everything else that is thrust before new members on election and it does not give enough time to assess the needs of members. That is the only alteration.

Council may from time to time alter its policy or substitute a new policy. There is no statutory requirement for any review however I believe it is good governance to review all policies at least annually.


I recommend its review with the minor alteration.

Recommendation – That Council having reviewed its “Elected Members Training and Development Policy” endorse it with the minor amendment referred to in the Chief Executive Officer’s Report.

6.0 Internal Review of Council Decisions Procedures

It is a requirement of the Local Government Act, 1999 that Council establish procedures for the review of the decisions of Council, its employees or persons acting on behalf of Council.

Council adopted such a policy in August 2005 and a copy of that Policy is included as an attachment (refer attachment pages 65-70). I have made one amendment to the last sentence of the last paragraph on the second page stating that a Committee “will be immediately established when a request is received” rather than establishing a Committee which has never been required to meet in the past five years as no such requests have had to go to a formal review process, having been dealt with in the normal course of Council’s business.



Recommendation – That Council having reviewed its “Internal Review of Council Decisions Procedures” endorse them with the minor amendment referred to in the Chief Executive Officer’s Report.

7.0 Procurement and Disposal (inc. Contracts and Tenders)

Policy It is a requirement of the Local Government Act, 1999 that Council have a Contracts and Tenders Policy. In March 2006 Council reviewed its then policy and consolidated two then existing policies into a new “Procurement and Disposal Policy” which includes its Contracts and Tenders Policy.

As this policy was the subject of a major overhaul last year I believe it still remains a relevant statement which requires no further amendment. I have attached a copy of that Policy (refer attachment pages 71-86) for your perusal.




Recommendation – That Council having reviewed its Procurement and Disposal Policy (including Contracting and Tendering Policy) endorse it without amendment.

8.0 Public Consultation Policy

It is a requirement of the Local Government Act, 1999 that Council prepare and adopt a Public Consultation Policy. Unlike our other statutory policies the Act also requires public consultation on any alterations (unless minor).

In September 2006 Council undertook a major review of its Public Consultation Policy and at the time provided the community with an opportunity to comment upon it before formally endorsing it at a meeting on the 26th September 2006. A copy of that Policy with minor grammatical alterations is attached for your perusal (refer attachment pages 87-98). I suggest that Council not comply with the requirement to consult on the basis that the amendments are of only minor significance that would attract little or no community interest.

As the Policy undertook a major review last year and public comment was invited at the time I do not believe further amendment is necessary.


I recommend its review with the minor alterations.

Recommendation – That Council having reviewed its Public Consultation Policy and only made amendments of minor significance, endorse it as presented.

9.0 Code of Practice – Access to Council Meetings

It is a requirement of the Local Government Act, 1999 that the Council adopt a code of practice relating to access to Council meetings, committee meetings and Council documents and that within twelve months of each general election it undertakes a review of that code. It is also permitted to alter or substitute a new code at any other time. (refer attachment pages 99-108)


In May 2006 Council undertook a major review of this Code as part of a “governance audit” and I don’t believe that further amendment is necessary apart from some minor administrative changes.

I recommend its review with the minor amendments.

Recommendation – That pursuant to Section 92 (2) of the Local Government Act, 1999, Council complete its review of the Code of Practice for Access to Council Meetings, Council Committees and Council Documents” and endorse the Code in its existing form.

10.0 Order Making Policy

It is a requirement of the Local Government Act, 1999 that Council adopt an Order Making Policy to guide the operations of the “Order” provisions of the Act.

Council adopted such a policy in March 2001 and a copy of that Policy is included as an attachment (refer attachment pages 109-114). The current document meets all the requirements of the Act and covers any operational requirements we may have without any amendments.


I recommend its review.

Recommendation – That Council having reviewed its “Order Making Policy” endorse it.

11.0 Governance Statement

The previous Council adopted a Governance Statement to demonstrate a commitment to good governance and to outline the steps it would take to provide such to the community. While all of the previously considered Codes and Policies are required under the Local Government Act there is no requirement to make a “governance statement”. However Council may consider it is a worthwhile action to demonstrate its commitment to the community.

The “Governance Statement” included has been updated to reflect the current statutory requirements and probably be more reflective of the current time. (Refer attachment pages 115-148)


I recommend its adoption by Council.

Recommendation – That Council adopt the Governance Statement 2007 as included in the agenda for this meeting.

12.0 Public Relations and Communication Plan

Council has also previously adopted a Public Relations and Communication Plan which in a simple way outlines the steps it will take in representing its community and communicating with it.

Again it is not a “statutory requirement” to adopt such a Plan but it does give the community some guidance on how Council will deal with these two important responsibilities. It is not all inclusive and should Council consider at a later time to add other activities to address these responsibilities then it is free to do so. The attached Plan has been modified to reflect today’s practices. (Refer attachment pages 149-156)

I recommend its adoption.

Recommendation – That Council adopt the Public Relations and Communication Plan 2007 as included in the agenda for this meeting.

13.0 Delegations Register

Under the various legislation which we act, Council has the power to make a number of delegations to the Chief Executive Officer to enable the day to day operations of Council to take place. The Chief Executive Officer in turn has the power to sub delegate to other officers certain powers to enable them to undertake their day to day responsibilities.

These delegations have previously been brought together in to a Delegations register which was last reviewed in March 2006, a copy of which was also distributed to each member after the November election. During the time since Council has authorised some variations to the Delegations Register, mainly committee terms of reference etc, and the CEO has also made some amendments to his sub-delegations, mainly through staff changes.

A new updated Delegations Register has been compiled and now requires the endorsement of Council. In endorsing the Register, Council will effectively formalise all delegations contained therein.


Recommendation – That Council having reviewed its delegations pursuant to Section 44 (6) of the Local Government Act 1999 and all other relevant Acts formally endorses the delegations contained in its Delegations Register 2007.

14.0 Register of Interest – Ordinary Return

In the past two weeks all members should have received blank Register of Interest -0rdinary Return forms in the post. If you did not it is important that you obtain these forms from me as soon as possible.

You are all reminded that you are required to complete these forms and submit them to me no later than the 29th August 2007.

It is also a requirement of the Local Government Act that the Chief Executive Officer also complete Register of Interest returns. Council may also declare other officers to be the subject to the operations of the Local Government Act in this regard. In view of the level of responsibility and delegation that the two Directors have it is probably prudent, particularly from a community perception point of view, that they also be required to complete the Register of Interest returns.

Recommendation – That pursuant to the provisions of Section 111 of the Local Government Act, 1999, Council declare that the persons holding the position of Director – Corporate and Community Services and Director – Infrastructure and Environmental Services be subject to the requirements of Division 2 of Part 4, Chapter 7 of that Act.

15.0 Renmark Traders

Further to the meeting facilitated by Council earlier this year to discuss town centre developments, a new Traders Group has been formed. The new group will be a sub group of the Renmark Paringa Development Network however will concentrate on promoting town traders. (refer attachment page 157)

I am pleased to report that the traders who have been attending meetings appear to be very positive about the opportunities that could come to the town centre through the opening of the new shopping centre and are proposing to position themselves to take advantage of any such opportunities. The formation of the Town Traders Group is to be commended and they should be wished well in their endeavours.


It will also be an opportunity to have a collective voice to call upon when consulting on issues relating to the town centre i.e. urban design framework implementation.

Recommendation – That the RPDN Traders Group be congratulated on their formation and wished well in their endeavours to promote Renmark and Paringa businesses.

16.0 Local Government Finance Authority of SA

Notice has been received that the Local Government Finance Authority of SA (LGFA) will be holding their annual general meeting on the 19th October. Council has previously nominated Mayor Martinson as its delegate to that meeting with Cr Dimou as proxy.

The LGFA is a wholly owned enterprise of Councils in the state and provides both investment and lending services to Councils in SA, both at rates better than the other financial institutions.

The LGFA is one of several very successful enterprises initiated by the LGA approximately 20 years ago to provide cost benefits to Councils in SA. The others are the LGA Mutual Liability Scheme, Local Government Workers Compensation Scheme and Local Super and through Local Government Risk Services we receive very competitive general insurance.

17.0 Riverland Regional Food Scorecard

I attach hereto a copy of information received from PIRSA on the value of food production to our region. (Refer attachment pages 159-161).

The attachment is only provided for information and no action is required by Council.

18.0 Comparative Performance Measurement Results

Council has participated in an LGA facilitated performance measurement project for a number of years and the results for the 2005-2006 year have recently been released and will in the near future be made available through the LGA.net Web site.

The survey results are gathered from a range of sources including the ABS, Grants Commission and the telephone survey conducted in April/May each year. (Refer attachment pages 163-206)


They can be a useful tool for Council in assessing its position in relation to other Councils however caution also needs to be taken as there may be local influences which reflect differently from Council to Council which are not isolated in this project.

19.0 New President of the LGA of SA

Councillors will be aware that Mayor Joy Baluch, currently Mayor of the City of Port Augusta, has been appointed President of the LGA of SA and assumed that role on the 1st July.

Mayor Baluch is probably better known for her colourful approach to life however she is a very committed person to the cause of local government and I feel sure that we will see our causes well represented over the coming two years.

The issue of waste levies and infrastructure funding are two issues at both the State and Federal level which Mayor Baluch will be taking up on our behalf. (refer attachment page 207)

20.0 Water Restrictions

Following previous discussions at Council I have been seeking advice from both the Minister and the Renmark Irrigation Trust in relation to the impact of water restrictions on our industrial estate users.

I have received advice from the Minister’s office in relation to industrial users, however at the time of writing this report I have not received any information from the Renmark Irrigation Trust. (refer attachment pages 209 & 210)

It will be noted, from the Ministers advice, that industrial users will be required to prepare water efficiency plans to identify how they can save water and they will also be the subject of the same restrictions as households in relation to watering lawns and gardens.

As soon as advice is received from the RIT we will take the necessary action and liaise with our water users in the industrial estate.

At the present time we have no formal arrangements with water recipients in the industrial estate so we are investigating options to formalise those arrangements. I expect to be able to provide more advice to the next meeting on this issue.


21.0 Urban Design Framework – Town Centre Improvement Council has previously agreed that a workshop be held to consider priorities for the implementation of the urban design framework. With the budget preparation etc. completed we are now in a position where this can be addressed.

I seek Councils consideration of a suitable date for such a workshop with either the 7th or 14th August suggested or another date which may be more suitable to members.

Recommended – That Council conduct an informal workshop on ………….. to consider implementation priorities for the urban design framework for Renmark.

. 22.0 National General Assembly of Local Government

The Australian Local Government Association will be holding the National General Assembly from Monday 26th November to Thursday 29th November 2007.

The 2007 Assemble is being held in Darwin, only the second time it has been held outside Canberra.

Council is usually represented at this conference by the Mayor and Chief Executive Officer and until 2005 by an additional two delegates when costs where minimised by travelling to Canberra by car. Registrations for the General Assembly are now open and it is important that we register early to ensure travel and accommodation arrangements can be confirmed.

I seek Council direction on whether additional delegates are to be sent to this years Assembly.

Recommendation – That the Mayor and Chief Executive Officer represent Council at the 2007 National General Assembly of Local Government.

23.0 Community Wastewater Management Schemes – Funding

I confirm earlier advice to Council that as part of a LGA of SA application for national Water Smart Australia Program funding we are likely to receive funding support for our two CWMS projects i.e. the Renmark extension to the Golf Club and the new treatment plant at Paringa.


The LGA have been successful in gaining $20 million in funding after lodging an application for $30 million. The application proposed that the Federal Government would provide 30% funding to a list of some 69 Council projects across the State. The LGA are now working with the Federal Government agency to determine the final details of the grant however it is likely that while we will not receive the full 30% we originally sought. However, we should still receive a reasonable level of funding, particularly as we are so advanced in the planning for our two projects.

It may be a few weeks before we know full details on the funding distribution however I hope to have more information to share at the meeting.

This is great news and will reduce the amount we proposed to borrow or draw from reserves in our budget. It will also reduce the impact of charges on CWMS users.

24.0 Tourism Signage

Council has received a suggestion that more tourism promotion signage is needed on the approaches to Renmark and an offer has been made to provide a photograph of the river vista for two further large signs on the entrance to Renmark. (refer attachment page 211)

I draw Councils attention to the provision within the budget and the work underway to design two new signs promoting the PS Industry.

With the existence of the “Rose Festival” signage and the proposed “PS Industry” signage I do not believe that further signage is necessary and it is possible that further signage may in fact detract from the entrances to the town. The suggestion of a river vista however may be one worth retaining for the future should it become necessary to replace the existing and proposed signs.

It is possible that Mr James is unaware of the proposed PS Industry signs. It is suggested that Council not accept Mr James’s offer however thank him for his suggestion advising him of Councils actions to promote the PS Industry, and therefore the riverfront.

Recommendation – That Mr James be thanked for his offer however be advised that as Council is already proposing new signage to attract people to the PS Industry, further signage will not be considered.


25.0 District Bushfire Prevention Committee Council has previously appointed a representative of the Renmark Irrigation Trust as a member of the District Bushfire Prevention Committee. We have recently received advice from the Trust that they have appointed Mr Peter Burne as their representative with Mr Barry Schier as the proxy.

It is a requirement that Council formally appoint these people to the Committee.

Recommendation – That pursuant to Section 75(2)(b)(v) of the Fire and Emergency Services Act, 2005 Council appoint Mr Peter Burne as the Renmark Irrigation Trust representative on the District Bushfire Prevention Committee and Mr Barry Shier as the proxy representative.

26.0 Renmark Irrigation Trust

Councillors may be aware that the Renmark Irrigation Trust held their AGM on the 12th July 2007.

Advice has been received as to the outcome of the election of Board members which indicates a significant change in composition of the Board. (Refer attachment page 213)

With the water issues the district is currently facing the new Board members will face some challenging times.

Recommendation – That Council congratulate the continuing and new board members of the Renmark Irrigation Trust on their election and wish new Chairman Peter Duggin and his fellow Board members well for the future.

BARRY HURST CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

20.0 ADVISORY CORRESPONDENCE (refer to blue sheets) Moved That the Advisory Correspondence be received and noted. Seconded Ref No. Correspondent Particulars

A1/0707 Marcus Drogemuller Letter of thanks for Youth Sponsorship received

A2/0707 Rod Thomas Thank you for card sent after being awarded OAM


A3/0707 Alan Smith Thank you for card send after being awarded OAM

A4/0707 Olivewood Estate Thank you for donation of 2 chairs to display at Olivewood

A5/0707 SA Local Government Grants Commission

Commission News – June 2007

A6/0707 Department for Environment & Heritage

Pre-planning for River Murray Parks Management Plan

A7/0707 SA MDB NRM Board Communique – May 2007

A8/0707 SA MDN NRM Board Communique – June 2007

A9/0707 Renmark to the Border Local Action Planning Association

Community News Winter 2007

A10/0707 SA MDB NRM Board On the Ground Edition 3, June 2007

A11/0707 Riverland Tourism Association

Minutes – July meeting of Marketing Committee

A12/0707 Murray Darling Association Region 5

Minutes of AGM held 2nd July 2007

A13/0707 Government of SA SA’s Strategic Plan 2007 Summary of Targets

21.0 LATE AGENDA ITEMS

Moved That the Late Agenda items as listed be accepted Seconded

22.0 MOTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE 23.0 MATTERS FOR CONSIDERATION IN CONFIDENCE 24.0 CLOSURE