Ordinary
Council Meeting - 03 April 2008
AGENDA Page
1 APOLOGIES
2 PRAYER
3 DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST
4 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES — Ordinary
Council Meeting - 20 March 2008
5 DELEGATIONS—Motion to
hear Delegations
6 ASKING OF QUESTIONS WITH
NOTICE
7 QUESTIONS FOR CLOSED MEETING
WHERE DUE NOTICE HAS BEEN RECEIVED
8 General Manager Report
8.1 Outstanding
Actions and Reports
8.2 Grant
Application Status Report
8.3
8.4 Genetically
Manipulated (GM) Crops and Foods
9 Director Environment and Planning Report
9.1 Report
to Council on Online Youth Survey - Results
9.2
9.3 Protection
of the Environment Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2008
9.4 Provision
of Link from Council's Website to Carbon Credit Calculator under the
Envirosaver Program through Fieldforce Services
10 Director Engineering Services Report
10.1 Country
Energy Street Light Annual Report - Ending 30 June 2007
10.2 Waste
Management - Various
10.3 Nambucca
Heads - Breakwall - Turning Area
10.4 Tree
Maintenance
10.6
11 General Manager's Summary of Items to be
Discussed in Closed Meeting
11.1 General
Manager's Performance Agreement and Action Plan
It is recommended
that the Council resolve into closed session with the press and public excluded
to allow consideration of this item, as provided for under Section 10A(2) (a)
of the Local Government Act, 1993, on the grounds that the report contains
personnel matters concerning particular individuals.
12 MEETING CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC
13 REVERT TO OPEN MEETING FOR DECISIONS IN RELATION TO ITEMS DISCUSSED IN CLOSED MEETING.
3 April 2008 |
General Manager's
Report
ITEM 8.1 SF959 030408 Outstanding
Actions and Reports
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES: Michael Coulter,
General Manager
Summary: The following table is a report on all outstanding resolutions
and questions from Councillors (except development consents, development
control plans & local environmental plans). Matters which are simply noted or received,
together with resolutions adopting rates, fees and charges are not listed as
outstanding actions. Where matters
have been actioned they are indicated with |
That the list of outstanding
actions and reports be noted and received for information by Council. |
|
File no. |
Council Meeting |
Summary of Matter |
Action By |
Status |
||
MARCH
2007 |
|||||||
1 |
QWN19 |
01/03/07 |
Floodgates Gumma |
DES |
Halted by wet weather. The main floodgate has been installed and
has created a freshwater wetland—damaged by storms—probable revote due to
weather. Main floodgate repaired |
||
JUNE 2007 |
|||||||
2 |
NOM – SF544 |
7/06/07 |
Review of Section 94 Plans for
Macksville catchment to include an audit of public open space to ensure
current and future demands are satisfied |
GM |
Recreation
and Community Facilities Contribution Plan due for Council's
endorsement 25/05/2008 |
||
3 |
NOM – SF544 |
7/06/07 |
Review of Section 94 Plans for
Macksville include embellishment of existing public open space in |
GM |
Recreation and Community Facilities
Contribution Plan due for Council's endorsement 25/05/2008 |
||
AUGUST
2007 |
|||||||
4 |
SF699 |
2/08/07 |
Report on Town Services |
MCW |
September quarterly budget review to be
considered in Works on 14 November 2007. Defer to December after demo of “walk
behind” vacuum/sweeper cleaner. Report as part of Management Plan and
plant purchases. Report in April. |
||
5 |
QWN13 |
16/08/07 |
|
DES |
Will form part of minor improvements
program in second half of year in March 2008.
Works commenced. |
||
6 |
QWN14 |
16/08/07 |
|
DES |
Design in preparation Grate and box drain proposed. Design prepared. Construction in May. |
||
SEPTEMBER
2007 |
|||||||
7 |
SF640 |
20/09/07 |
That a purchasing policy be
developed and sustainable choice purchasing clauses be included in the policy |
DES |
Draft under review by staff. |
||
8 |
SF428 |
20/09/07 |
That Council vigorously pursue
the exclusion of the Farmland Mapping from those areas already identified for
rural residential development that are already fragmented or removed from
primary production. All affected
property owners within the quota zoning to be directly notified. |
DEP |
Department of Planning advised by letter
12/10 that all previous 1(C) zoned land and land not identified as Class 1, 2
or 3 Further discussion under Draft Rural
Residential Land Release Strategy Report in business paper. Matter to be further considered due to
impact of resolution |
||
NOVEMBER
2007 |
|||||||
9 |
QWN 3 |
01/11/07 |
|
DES |
Awaiting Fisheries approval. Excavation of sand will only be close to
ramp and not improve the channel. |
||
10 |
QWN 12 |
01/11/07 |
Charlton St Nambucca
Heads—rippling hotmix |
DES |
Contractor to replace |
||
11 |
SF452 |
01/11/07 |
Council investigate a common
fee for inert waste |
DES |
New fee for commercial trailers. |
||
DECEMBER 2007 |
|||||||
12 |
SF639 |
06/12/07 |
That the skill levels of
Council’s outdoor workforce be the subject of a further report. |
MHR |
April 2008. Now deferred until receipt of PBP Review |
||
13 |
SF791 |
06/12/07 |
Council apply to Minister and
Governor to compulsory acquire certain lands from State Forests NSW following
advice on a deed of agreement. |
GM |
Planning Manager for Forests NSW contacted
on 10/12/07. Letter seeking
confirmation of arrangements sent 12/12/07.
Follow-up letter sent 7/1/08.
SAO telephoned 29 January. GM
telephoned 8 February. With Forests
NSW legal branch. Letter to be sent to
the Minister for Forests NSW. |
||
14 |
QWN23 |
20/12/07 |
Environmental Compliance/Environmental
Management System Manual – Shire Works Depot Policy (030-031) to be
reviewed. This policy requires a
number of actions to be undertaken by Council in line with its approved
Environmental Management System Manual for the Shire Depot. The actions are listed in table 3 of the
Environmental Compliance Audit Report (Jelliffe 1996). What progress has been made on these
specific actions? |
DES/ MCW |
Further report May Works. |
||
15 |
27296/ 2007 |
20/12/07 |
Draft Tourism Strategy That following the public exhibition a
further report be submitted to Council |
GM |
Report March 2008. Deferred to April meeting as closing date
for submission is 14 March. |
||
16 |
QWN22 |
20/12/07 |
That Council recommence the
reviewing of Council policies at the first works inspection in January 08—and
then monthly |
GM |
Commenced. |
||
17 |
SF1027 |
20/12/07 |
Council defer drawing down the
$315,000 loan for the netball courts until later in financial year to allow
an assessment of available working capital. |
GM |
Report to 20 February 2008 Works No tenders accepted. Soil testing
underway. Grant advice in Feb 08 with
selective tender to follow grant notice.
Offer of $175,000 made on 22 February 2008. Construction post September 2008 . |
||
18 |
SF1074 |
20/12/07 |
Draft workplace equity and
diversity strategy to be submitted to ACAC, Community Services C'tee and
Consultative C'tee for comment prior to determination by Council |
GM |
Report to Council March 2008. Now deferred to April 08. Awaiting ACAC meeting. |
||
JANUARY 2008 |
|||||||
19 |
QWN 43 |
17/01/08 |
|
DES |
Still awaiting approvals. Expected late April. |
||
20 |
QWN 48 |
17/01/08 |
DLG Report to Council |
GM |
Awaiting review of draft report by DLG |
||
21 |
SF261 |
17/01/08 |
Any communication between the
RTA and Council relating to the upgrade of the |
GM & DES |
RTA to meet |
||
22 |
SF631 |
17/01/08 |
Brief for $120,000 Master Plan
for Lower Estuary to come to Council for endorsement |
DEP |
Draft brief being prepared for
presentation to Estuary Committee. |
||
FEBRUARY 2008 |
|||||
23 |
|
07/02/08 |
Handrail at traffic lights
required |
DES |
To be done after footpath concreted. |
24 |
|
07/02/08 |
Seal |
DES |
To be considered with 2008/2009 Budget—Not
included |
25 |
QWN 48 |
21/02/08 |
|
DES |
|
26 |
QWN 49 |
21/02/08 |
Pacific Hwy/Wallace St
Intersection, patching |
DES |
|
27 |
QWN 50 |
21/02/08 |
Near |
DES |
Contractor to remove |
28 |
QWN 51 |
21/02/08 |
Riverbank erosion—Ferry St
Macksville |
DES |
Fencing to be erected |
MARCH 2008 |
|||||
29 |
QWN 56 |
06/03/08 |
Recycling Brochure on
Council's website |
DES |
Available on website. |
|
QWN 57 |
06/03/08 |
West St Development—fines
paid? |
DEP |
Contempt of Court found. Sentencing hearing April 2008. |
30 |
|
|
|
|
|
31 |
QWN 58 |
06/03/08 |
Structure Plan – awaiting census
data |
DEP |
Referred to consultant to finalise 12
March 2008 |
32 |
PRF17 |
20/3/08 |
Future of Farringdon Fields –
Deferred to look at other options for use including passive recreation,
biobanking. |
DES |
Report June 2008 |
33 |
SF529 |
20/3/08 |
Draft rural residential land
release strategy – exhibition subject to including all land which had a
previous zoning of Rural 1(c). |
DEP |
Exhibition will be dependant upon Dept of
Planning providing a certificate (endorsement) |
34 |
SF444 |
20/3/08 |
Extension of road maintenance
for |
DES |
Scheduled for 16 April 2008. |
35 |
SF708 |
20/3/08 |
Grants Officer, Ms Jennifer
Ayre to be invited to meet Councillors at Works Inspection Committee meeting |
GM |
Scheduled for 18 June 2008. (Officer commencing on 19 May 2008). |
36 |
SF1125 |
20/3/08 |
LGSA be engaged to deliver a
pre-election seminar for prospective candidates. |
GM |
Advice on a date and agenda to be
forthcoming. |
37 |
SF1125 |
20/3/08 |
Councillor Induction Training
Program to be finalised once the LGSA have revised their workshop outline. |
GM |
Advice on dates and agenda to be
forthcoming. |
38 |
5606/2008 |
20/3/08 |
Mayor and GM meet with
relevant Ministers to resolve outstanding land swap issues so the compulsory
acquisition of land owned by Forests NSW may proceed. |
GM |
Arrangements to be made. |
39 |
5606/2008 |
20/3/08 |
Council be provided with a
report on the status of the approved subdivision of Council’s land at |
GM |
Will be reported in May 2008. |
40 |
5606/2008 |
20/3/08 |
Council defer proposed
expenditure of $200,000 on |
DES |
Inspection scheduled for 16 April 2008. |
41 |
|
|
|
|
|
42 |
5606/2008 |
20/3/08 |
That Council follow up the
lease agreement for the shops in the Bowraville Theatre building. |
GM |
Report to May 2008 |
43 |
|
|
|
|
|
44 |
5606/2008 |
20/3/08 |
That a comprehensive plan and
costings be submitted to Council on the redevelopment of the Works Depot. |
DES |
Report to Council in May 2008. |
45 |
|
|
|
|
|
46 |
6298/2008 |
20/3/08 |
Councillors be advised of
potential contamination penalties which might be payable to Handybin for the
Coffs Coast Waste Service. |
DES |
Report to Council in May 2008. |
47 |
6298/2008 |
20/3/08 |
That the policy on footpath
usage be reviewed by Council. |
DES |
Report to June Works Inspection Committee. |
There are no attachments for this report.
3 April 2008 |
General Manager's
Report
ITEM 8.2 SF708 030408 Grant
Application Status Report
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES: Michael Coulter,
General Manager
Summary: At Council’s
meeting on 7 December 2006 it was resolved that there be a quarterly return
submitted to Council on grant programs.
The following table provides a report on grant programs which Council
has been made aware of; their closing date; consultation with community
groups; their current status and eventual determination by the funding body. |
That the list of grant programs and their status be
received. |
|
Grant Program |
Action |
Status |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4 |
Small Grants for Small Rural Australian Communities There are two rounds of Small
Grants per year. Closing dates are 31 March and 30 September 2007 and 2008 A program for small rural
communities will offer grants of up $50,000 to benefit people in rural and
remote Advised of new closing dates as follows: 1
May 2008 6
August 2008 27 October 2008. |
MS |
A program of the Foundation for Rural and Regional
Renewal closes on 30th March and 30th September
2008. (Warrell Creek Hall
Committee of Management lodged an application on 21 September 2007.) Information regarding the next round for 2008 has
been sent to all Section 355 Hall Committees, the Museums, the Macksville
Gift Secretary, placed on Council's website and in the Councillors Newsletter
30 October 2007. Letter sent to all Section 355 Hall Committees of Mgt
on 30 October 2007. Nambucca Entertainment Centre lodged application March 2008 for curtains & blinds. South Arm Hall lodged an application in March 2008
for water tank. Letter sent to all Section 355 Committees of Mgt 18
March 2008 for new rounds. |
5 |
Local Adaptation Pathways Program The Federal
Government has announced the "Local Adaptation Pathways Program" to
provide funding to help local government build their capacity to respond to
the impacts of climate change. The
Australian Government will provide up to $50,000 to held |
GM |
Application lodged. |
6 |
Department of Environment and Climate Change |
DEP |
Application for additional "Flood Study" to provide more accurate Flood Mapping of the Shire. Lodged 15 February 2008. Closing date 15 February 2008—announcement expected later 2008 |
7 |
Department of Environment and Climate Change – NSW
Climate Change Fund – Public Facilities Program |
GM |
$30m for water and energy saving projects in facilities open to the public eg schools, community buildings, sporting facilities, museums and art galleries. Unaware of program’s existence until raised at meeting on 7 February. Applications closed on 13 February. No applications lodged by Council. |
8 |
New Federal Environmental Programme - Still to be
announced |
GM DES DEP |
The Area
Consultative Committee (ACC) is proposing to take a lead role in putting
forward an expression of interest for a major environmental project for
Federal funding based on a “Clean Waters Model” implemented for |
There are no attachments for this report.
3 April 2008 |
General Manager's Report
ITEM 8.3 SF296 030408
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: The Nambucca Valley Visitor Information
Centre (VIC) has provided statistics for Council's information. |
That Council note
the statistical information provided by the Visitor Information Centre. |
OPTIONS:
There are no options
DISCUSSION:
The 3 page statistical
report is attached.
The statistics were
manual records kept over the last three years and have now been collated to
give us an indication of what our tourism industry trends have been, namely:
· 2006 to 2007 showed a downward trend of visitation
· 2007/2008 showed an upward trend of visitors to the
VIC
· enquiries for the VIC for June 2007 to January 2008
are up substantially on previous years
· almost 30% of the enquiries for January and
February 2008 are for local sightseeing and things to do in the Valley
· the majority of visitors are from within
CONSULTATION:
The statistics were
gathered and produced by the Visitor Information Centre.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment—The impact that the number of visitors to the
Valley has on our environment is not measurable.
Social—The social impact is not measurable.
Economic—The economic impact to the Valley as a result
of visitors has not been measured.
However, it stands to reason that visitors equal economic growth (eg
accommodation, consumables etc)
Risk—Nil
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct
and indirect impact on current and future budgets—Nil
Source
of fund and any variance to working funds—Nil
1View |
SF296
030408 |
|
Ordinary Council Meeting - 3 April 2008 |
Attachment
1 SF296 030408
|
1. The number of enquiries at the
VIC is increasing (Data January 2005 – current). Negative numbers in grey (otherwise hard to
print on B&W printer)
Absolute numbers of enquiries per month |
Year 2005 |
Year 2006 |
Year 2007 |
Year 2008 |
Jan |
1940 |
1823 |
1640 |
2333 |
Feb |
1177 |
1177 |
949 |
1410 |
Mar |
1470 |
1240 |
1106 |
|
Apr |
1215 |
1115 |
1039 |
|
May |
989 |
1027 |
1051 |
|
Jun |
908 |
822 |
906 |
|
Jul |
1134 |
915 |
1241 |
|
Aug |
1088 |
1014 |
1194 |
|
Sep |
1291 |
878 |
1381 |
|
Oct |
1248 |
963 |
1626 |
|
Nov |
1212 |
1020 |
1273 |
|
Dec |
1405 |
1023 |
1698 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Totals |
15077 |
13017 |
15104 |
|
2. We did an evaluation of the origin of the
Visitors and the nature of their enquiries for the
Here the results:
Nature of enquiry |
Dec-07 |
Jan-08 |
Total |
in % |
local sightseeing |
231 |
378 |
609 |
14.49% |
things to do |
197 |
367 |
564 |
13.42% |
accommodation |
148 |
270 |
418 |
9.95% |
maps |
154 |
253 |
407 |
9.69% |
transport (Bus & rail timetables etc) |
78 |
92 |
170 |
4.05% |
North of Coffs Harbour |
79 |
89 |
168 |
4.00% |
Surrounding areas |
78 |
84 |
162 |
3.86% |
info |
75 |
79 |
154 |
3.66% |
Bellingen & Dorrigo |
73 |
78 |
151 |
3.59% |
Other (incl. 50 (!) due to highway closure on 04/01/08) |
45 |
104 |
149 |
3.55% |
South of Port |
67 |
78 |
145 |
3.45% |
local papers |
51 |
78 |
129 |
3.07% |
Camping - free or National Park |
43 |
78 |
121 |
2.88% |
beaches |
55 |
59 |
114 |
2.71% |
fishing & fishing licence |
44 |
48 |
92 |
2.19% |
Port |
35 |
41 |
76 |
1.81% |
Dining, restaurants |
31 |
35 |
66 |
1.57% |
phones calls-roster-organisation etc |
23 |
41 |
64 |
1.52% |
weather forecast |
21 |
35 |
56 |
1.33% |
4 wheel drives |
24 |
29 |
53 |
1.26% |
museums |
23 |
29 |
52 |
1.24% |
Internet Access |
18 |
23 |
41 |
0.98% |
Boat/Canoe Hire |
19 |
21 |
40 |
0.95% |
art & craft |
18 |
21 |
39 |
0.93% |
Accommodation with Pets |
18 |
19 |
37 |
0.88% |
Clubs & Hotels |
18 |
17 |
35 |
0.83% |
Real Estate |
18 |
15 |
33 |
0.79% |
Deliveries |
15 |
8 |
23 |
0.55% |
tide charts |
7 |
9 |
16 |
0.38% |
phone call operator/bookeasy/vacancies |
6 |
5 |
11 |
0.26% |
undercover picnic spots |
|
7 |
7 |
0.17% |
Total |
1712 |
2490 |
4202 |
|
The total does not match the total of enquiries in the first section, as
one enquirer can have more than one enquiry. (Can I have a map and where is the
beach = 2)
3. Where do the visitors come from ??
Visitors |
Dec 07 |
Jan 08 |
Total |
|
|
local |
311 |
388 |
699 |
|
|
|
284 |
628 |
912 |
|
|
north of |
184 |
211 |
395 |
|
|
south of |
64 |
36 |
100 |
|
|
rural NSW |
129 |
184 |
313 |
|
|
Total NSW (2 months) |
|
|
|
2419 |
|
|
139 |
188 |
327 |
|
|
other QLD |
149 |
142 |
291 |
|
|
Total QLD (2 months) |
|
|
|
618 |
|
VIC |
63 |
130 |
193 |
|
|
WA |
6 |
24 |
30 |
|
|
SA |
6 |
25 |
31 |
|
|
ACT |
26 |
21 |
47 |
|
|
TAS |
7 |
19 |
26 |
|
|
NT |
|
8 |
8 |
|
|
Total other States & Territories (2 months) |
|
|
|
335 |
|
Total domestic (2 months) |
|
|
|
|
3372 |
|
71 |
78 |
149 |
|
|
|
69 |
73 |
142 |
|
|
|
23 |
28 |
51 |
|
|
|
27 |
13 |
40 |
|
|
|
29 |
7 |
36 |
|
|
|
10 |
23 |
33 |
|
|
|
18 |
6 |
24 |
|
|
|
6 |
17 |
23 |
|
|
|
18 |
4 |
22 |
|
|
|
10 |
8 |
18 |
|
|
|
5 |
9 |
14 |
|
|
|
4 |
10 |
14 |
|
|
|
6 |
4 |
10 |
|
|
|
3 |
5 |
8 |
|
|
|
4 |
3 |
7 |
|
|
|
2 |
4 |
6 |
|
|
|
2 |
4 |
6 |
|
|
|
2 |
4 |
6 |
|
|
|
2 |
4 |
6 |
|
|
|
4 |
2 |
6 |
|
|
|
4 |
2 |
6 |
|
|
|
2 |
3 |
5 |
|
|
|
|
5 |
5 |
|
|
|
|
4 |
4 |
|
|
|
2 |
2 |
4 |
|
|
|
|
4 |
4 |
|
|
|
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
|
|
|
2 |
2 |
|
|
|
2 |
0 |
2 |
|
|
|
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
|
|
|
1 |
1 |
|
|
|
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
|
|
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
|
Total International (2 months) |
|
|
|
|
659 |
Overall total per month |
1698 |
2333 |
|
TOTAL 2 months |
4031 |
I hope this document provides a
general idea of what’s happening at the VIC.
If you
have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind
regards,
Maita
van Stockum
Nambucca
Visitor Information Centre
Ph: 02 6568 6954
Fax: 02 6568 5004
NAMBUCCA
HEADS NSW 2448
email nambuccatourism@nambucca.nsw.gov.au
web www.nambuccatourism.com.au
3 April 2008 |
General Manager's Report
ITEM 8.4 SF757 030408 Genetically
Manipulated (GM) Crops and Foods
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES: Michael Coulter,
General Manager
Summary: Council has received correspondence
requesting support for motions in relation to genetically manipulated crops
and foods. Advice has been sought from
the Australian Government’s Office of the Gene Technology Regulator which is
attached to the report. It is a
complex subject both in terms of the science and ethics for which Council
staff have no specific expertise. For this
reason it is recommended that the information be received. However the purposes of the Local Government Act 1993 and Council’s
Charter under the Act leave open a role for Council in relation to this
issue, particularly if the issue of GMOs is linked to the overall obligation
of ensuring ecologically sustainable development. |
That the
correspondence from gene ethics be received. |
OPTIONS:
Council can adopt the
recommendation; all of the motions recommended by the gene ethics organisation;
some of the motions recommended by the gene ethics organisation; or different
proposals.
DISCUSSION:
Council received the attached letter from “gene ethics” on
12 February 2008. The letter sought
Council’s support for a number of motions in relation to genetically modified
organisms.
In relation to the
claims made, advice was sought from the Australian Government’s Gene Technology
Regulator and the response from that office is attached.
Council staff have no
specific expertise in relation to the issues raised (both the science and the
ethics) and the motions proposed by gene ethics. There is also limited time available for
Council staff to investigate the issues given the existing pressures on local
government. For this reason only, it is
recommended that the correspondence from gene ethics be received.
However the purposes of
the Local Government Act 1993 and Council’s Charter under the Act leave open a
role for Council in relation to this issue, particularly if the issue of GMOs
is linked to the overall obligation of ensuring ecologically sustainable
development.
CONSULTATION:
There has been
consultation with the Australian Government’s Office of the Gene Technology
Regulator.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment
Unknown.
It is understood that the Victorian and NSW Governments have agreed to
allow GM canola.in each state.
Social
Unknown.
Economic
Unknown.
There is dispute in the media as to the potential markets for GM crops.
Risk
Unknown.
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator and the Primary Industry
Departments in each of the States are principally responsible for identifying
the risks attached to the release of GMO’s.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct
and indirect impact on current and future budgets
Should Council adopt the proposed motions
there will be implications for Council’s budget.
Source
of fund and any variance to working funds
The recommendation has no implication for
working funds.
1View |
Request to consider GM crops |
7 Pages |
2View |
Response on behalf of Dr Meek |
6 Pages |
Ordinary Council Meeting - 3 April 2008 Genetically Manipulated (GM)
Crops and Foods |
Attachment
1 Request
to consider GM crops |
Ordinary Council Meeting - 3 April 2008 Genetically Manipulated (GM)
Crops and Foods |
Attachment
2 Response
on behalf of Dr Meek |
3 April 2008 |
Director Environment &
Planning's Report
ITEM 9.1 SF1044 030408 Report to
Council on Online Youth Survey - Results
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES: Vicki Fernance,
Youth Development Officer
Summary: The Nambucca Shire Online Youth Survey was commissioned by Nambucca Shire Council to complement a community satisfaction survey being conducted by Council at around the same time (November 2007). The youth survey was designed to capture the views of residents aged 12-24, test assumptions about their behaviour, attitudes and interests, and gain ideas on how they would like to see the Shire progress. It was conducted as an online poll accessible through the Nambucca Shire Council website home page. The survey was publicised widely through local schools and media, at Council libraries and by Shire Council officers in their regular contact with local youth. To help maximise participation, respondents were offered the chance to win one of ten $50 surf wear vouchers from local retailers. Despite the wide publicity given to the online survey, significant time invested by Council staff (YDO) and the generous incentive, only 101 young people (from a possible 2,550 residents aged 12-24, source ABS Census 2006) chose to complete it. This low response means that the results of the survey cannot be deemed to be the views across the wider youth community. That said, the results do provide an interesting “snapshot” of opinion that partially achieves the project’s original objectives and will complement our other consultation initiatives: forums, Resilient Young People’s Program. The difference between the community survey and online youth survey was that residents were phoned and asked questions whereas the online youth survey required young people to take the initiative to complete it. A lot of time was taken, by the author, to promote and inform young people about the survey. It was an interesting exercise and something to keep in mind for future consultation processes. The results, though disappointing, have given an insight into what issues are important to young people in the Nambucca Shire. |
1 That Council note the findings of
the online Youth survey conducted in November 2007 and note that the results
will be used to support applications for funding, planning programs and
guiding activities as appropriate. 2 That Council note that the findings
of the online Youth survey will also be referred to the Community Services
Committee for their information. |
OPTIONS:
1 That Council endorse the recommendations
2 That Council endorse the recommendations with amendments
3 That Council does not endorse the recommendations
4 The report is for information
DISCUSSION:
The report of
findings from the Youth survey are attached, however, for Council’s information
a brief overview of results follows.
Over half of respondents to the online Youth Survey were aged 12-15, over 70% at school, 63% were female and 12% were Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
The top 3 responses for the question “what they would most like to see from Council” were: bringing more entertainment options to the Shire (59%), more job opportunities for youth (53%) and the building of a skateboard park at Nambucca Heads (42%).
As Council would be aware the DA for the skateboard park in Nambucca Heads was passed recently and work will be starting on this in the near future.
In regard to entertainment options, Council provides a comprehensive school holiday program, youth week events and educational workshops throughout the year as well as partnerships with other organisations to stage activities for young people in the Nambucca Shire. The survey doesn’t stipulate what type of “entertainment” options are wanted, and these could cover a range of different activities, ie, live music, dance parties, skateboard competitions, sporting events, ten pin bowling, swimming, etc. The range of activities that Council provide is wide and all activities are well attended by young people. Some activities, such as, live music nights and dance parties, are probably outside Council’s traditional role and is usually a demand met by private enterprise.
For more job
opportunities for young people,
In other response areas 30.3% of respondents also wanted it to be safer at night (more street lighting, security, etc) and 29.3% wanted a Youth bus service, although when respondents answered the questions about transport, it appears that, apart from travel to and from school, young people would “prefer other transport” (34%) over buses. 27% responded that there was “not enough frequency” and 25% responded “cost” as being reasons for not using buses.
Sport is a huge focus for young people who responded to the survey, with 72% saying they played one or more. Over half responded that they play their favourite sport all year round. Football (soccer), swimming, netball, tennis, rugby league and cycling were the most common sports played.
Almost three in ten of those surveyed, claimed to use a Council library at least once a month, with 13% saying they visited the library weekly or more. 56% said they used the library for borrowing, while 39% said they did homework/research at the library. 62% of young people who responded said they use library computers for research. Nambucca and Macksville libraries are currently in the process of making the young adult sections more “youth friendly” to promote increased usage by young people.
A question was asked about blogging and chat sites, and nearly 62% of respondents said they used MySpace, a popular internet site. Council’s Youth Development Officer is looking into using MySpace as a contact point for young people in the Nambucca Shire, with forums, topics of interest, information, etc, available to replace the Youth Network.
The young people who did respond to the survey, were very clear about what they liked most about the Shire: the beach culture, natural beauty, sense of community and friendliness. On the downside, they were primarily concerned about being harassed – particularly at night – and the lack of employment.
The findings of the online Youth survey give an insight into the opinion of some young people in the Shire and will help in identifying future issues, challenges and priorities for funding and programs.
CONSULTATION:
Manager Community and Cultural Services
SUSTAINABILITY
ASSESSMENT:
Environment
There is no impact to the environment
Social
There could be improved social implications for young people
Economic
No economic impact
Risk
There are no risks
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct and indirect impact on
current and future budgets
$500 for 10 x $50 vouchers ($250 from Youth
Development budget; $250 from Business Development Budget.
Source of fund and any variance to
working funds
None
Circularised
The Youth Survey Results Report is circularised to Councillors only.
There are no attachments for this report.
3 April 2008 |
Director Environment &
Planning's Report
ITEM 9.2 SF433 030408 Scotts
Head Caravan Park and Lease of
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: Council considered a report at its meeting
on 15 December 2005 which included a detailed survey
plan identifying the position of all structures of the above park and issues of non compliance in relation to the
structures located on the Council owned lands leased to the operators of the
caravan and camping ground at Scotts Head. Further correspondence was submitted to Council on 3 January 2006 requesting a delay in complying with Council’s proposed order due to the imminent expiry of the lease agreement in July 2006, raising the following concerns:- 1 The uncertainty of ongoing use of the area, and 2 Costs associated with complying with the proposed order. Confirmation of the Trust Manager’s request was provided on the 5 January 2005 by Council’s General Manager with the issuing of the order delayed until 9 May 2006. The key issue of concerns with this matter is the safety of occupants in the event of fire within any of the structures within the park and its spreading to other structures. The following attachments are provided for Councils information when considering this report:- · Plan of the site being referred to in this report, · Correspondence from the Trust Manager to Council raising issues in relation to the Council’s Notice of Intent to issue an order on the park, Correspondence
from Terry Perkins solicitor drawing Council’s attention to potential legal
issues and the need to address the fire safety issues within the park. |
That the following actions be undertaken to ensure
that suitable outcomes are put in place to reduce the potential fire safety
risks to occupants and their property within the Scotts Head Caravan &
Camping Ground on part Lot 104, DP 622709 Adin Street Scotts Head:- (a) Have a
Consultant Fire Engineer inspect the site and prepare an options report on
alternate solutions to
implement upgrades to the park or structures to provide adequate fire safety measures to protect the life of
occupants. (b) The
Trust Manager be advised that Council is seeking further options and looking
at alternate solutions to
overcome the fire safety issues at the park. (c) Terry
Perkins Solicitor be advised of Council’s decision. (d) The
Park and Trust Manager be notified the need to comply the Local Government (Manufactured Homes, (e) Any
further improvements to Lot 104, DP 622709 under the lease agreement will
require a formal development
application prior to undertaking any such works or improvements. (f) Request
that the Park Management notify all lessees of the current position with the
fire safety issues within the
park and that options are being looked at to reduce the public safety issue |
OPTIONS:
There are a number of options available to
Council and the Caravan Park Operator/Management to look at having all or some
of the main non compliance issues rectified.
1 Serve notice on the park operator to
have the area of Scotts Head Caravan and
2 Withdraw
the operating approval for this section of the park until actions are taken to
resolve the issues. This again is not
considered to be a viable option due to potential legal issues between management, Council and individual
lessees.
3 Have
the park inspected by a Fire Engineer and provide a report on alternate
solutions available to the park operators
to have the fire safety issue upgraded without necessarily having the park
layout comply with the regulation.
Council would then consider the report and look at options it considers appropriate to resolve the fire safety issues
at the park. Verbal estimate of between $1500 to $2500 to carry out an inspection and prepare a full options report.
4 Have
the park management advise all occupants/lessee of structures located in part
5 Advise
the park management the need to ensure that any future works, improvements to
utility services or park layout are
to be notified to Council and the appropriate approvals obtained.
6 Ensure
all future modifications, upgrades or new installations for structures, rigid
annexes and associated structures
within this area of the park must comply with the provisions of the Local Government (Manufactured Homes Estates,
7 Do
nothing, this option is not considered an option under the circumstances as
public safety and property damage is a
potential consequence if nothing is done to address the issues identified at
the park. Due to Council’s
regulatory role there is considered to be some potential liability if this
issues is not addressed and a fire
event was to occur.
8 Withdraw
the area from any lease arrangement and give notice for all occupants to remove
their structures and vans from the
site. This is considered to be a last resort if options 3, 2 & 1 can not resolve
the fire safety issues.
9 Not
renew the lease with the Department of Lands for this portion of community land
under Council’s control. This would
leave Council with the option of either resolving the issues as the land owner or considerable legal expenses in
trying to resolve the matters with individual lessees once control of the land was resumed. Again
not an option that is recommended as this area of the park can not be operated independently of the
main caravan park as access to the amenities is required by occupants and day to day management
issues would provide additional costs to Council.
DISCUSSION:
There are several non compliance issues that were identified in 2004 when
renewing the section 68 approval for the caravan park under the provisions of
the Local Government Act 1993.
Discussions were commenced with the Trust
Manager to look at options to address the key safety issues which lead to a
notice being issued to have the following works undertaken in May 2006.
· Clearly mark and identify the
individual sites located on part
· Have structures comply with Part
3, Division 3, subdivision 2 clause 91 relating to separation of the vans and
structure,
· Identify resident’s and visitor
parking areas on the site, this was primarily to ensure access lanes/roads
within the area are kept free for any emergency vehicles should an emergency
arise,
· Upgrade Fire Hydrant and hose reel
system for the sites and provide Council with a plan of the proposed works.
Further compliance work with the order was
deferred waiting upon the finalising of discussions between Council and the
Department of Lands relating to Reserve Management issues, management of
Council’s
Council has very
limited records that relate to the development of
The following issues have complicated this matter over the past years:
· No record of any approval being issued by Council for the development of Part Lot 104 as a caravan park and camping area,
· The land has been listed as community land, but is being used as operational land under the provisions of the current Local Government Act,
· Structures located on the land do not comply with the current regulation and previous legislation relating to separation distances, certification and plating of structures and notification to Council upon each structure being placed in the park,
· Structures within the park have been on sold between tenants and up graded over the years without the operators and Council requiring compliance with the regulations,
· Lease agreements between individual site occupants and park management may exceed the length of the lease arrangements between Council and the Park operators, this aspect would need to be verified with the current park management.
· Council as the approving authority has continued to issue an operating licence to the park over the past 20 years and not taken opportunities with the changes to legislation which control caravan & camping grounds to have the non compliant issues rectified.
CONSULTATION:
Discussions have been held with the Trust
Manager, Department of Lands, local community and Legal representatives in
relation to the following aspects:-
· Management Pans for the reserve and community lands at Scotts Head.
· Draft plans to revise entry point to the park,
· Proposed lease renewal
· Public meetings to discuss community lands issues
These discussions have been ongoing between
various levels of staff from Council and the organisations and community in an
endeavour to finalise lease, land use and regulatory issues.
Depending on any recommendations from the consultants report further consultation may be required with legal counsel, Park Management and individual property owners to have works undertaken on the site.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment The
potential impacts are on the built environment being caravans and structures
within the
Social The
caravan park has provided a very important role in tourism and social
interaction between the occupants over many years at the park. One option would
be to withdraw the operating approval for this section of the park which would
have a major impact on the social sustainability of this portion of the caravan
park operation. This could also involve all parties in lengthy legal arguments to
try and get a suitable resolution to the issues.
Economic There
is expected to be some expenditure required on Council’s behalf to have a
consultants report prepared to look at alternate solutions to the fire safety
issues. Other costs associated with any future upgrade works for individual
structures or park layout are expected to be met by owners and the park
management.
Risk The
potential risk is loss of life and property damage should a fire occur within
this section of the park due to non compliance issues relating to caravan and
buildings separation. Further to this there is potential legal cost and
liability factors that may also be proportioned to Council in any ensuing legal
action following such an event.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Short term costs in an effort to resolve the
long term non compliance issues are considered insignificant to any potential
costs that may be incurred should a fire event occur in the park and there be
any loss of life and/or property from such an event and any ensuing legal
actions.
Direct and indirect impact on
current and future budgets
Direct impact is to fund a consultants report
to look at the possible alternate solutions to over come the potential fire
safety issues within the park. Other direct costs could be legal expenses
should there be a fire event within the park.
Indirect costs to Council’s insurance
premiums should there be any claim against Council for any fire event and
professional liability.
Source of fund and any variance to
working funds
Council has not allocated any funds in the current budget to cover the cost of a consultants report estimated to cost between $1500 - $2500 which should come from its entrepreneurial or land development funds. If these funds can not be found within the current operation budget then an additional vote will be required.
1View |
Response regarding Lease to Scotts Head Reserve
Trust |
|
2View |
Advice and response from Scotts Head Reserve
Trust regarding Notice of Intention to give an Order in relation to
compliance issues and works program |
|
3View |
Scotts Head Reserve Trust map showing section of
caravan park subject of proposed order |
|
3 April 2008 |
Director Environment &
Planning's Report
ITEM 9.3 SF578 030408 Protection
of the Environment Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2008
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: The Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW (DECC) reviewed the Noise Control Regulations with the aim of updating it to provide simple, straightforward and enforceable noise controls that match community expectations. As required by statute, DECC prepared a Regulatory Impact Statement to assess the economic, social and environmental costs and benefits associated with the revised Regulation and consider the alternatives. The Regulatory Impact Statement demonstrated the revised Regulation would provide the greatest net benefits to the community compared with possible alternatives. In June and July 2007, DECC sought community comment on the draft Regulation and considered the submissions received before finalising the new Regulation. DECC is grateful to the many stakeholders who provided feedback. The new Regulation commenced on 1 March 2008 and controls noise from motor vehicles and marine vessels and sets community standards on acceptable noise intrusion in homes from appliances such as intruder alarms, music amplifiers, air conditioners and powered garden tools. A few provisions commence later to give the community time to make any necessary changes. In most circumstances the amendments to the regulations are matters that would be dealt with by authorised officers other than Council Officers. |
The report
be received and noted |
OPTIONS:
This report is for information only.
DISCUSSION:
This report summarises changes to the way noise will be regulated under the Protection of the Environment Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2008. The new Regulation commenced on 1 March 2008, except where otherwise specified.
During community consultation, the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) received a total of 227 submissions on a draft of the Regulation. While the vast majority of these supported the proposed changes, some additional amendments have been made as a result of the comments received.
Key changes to the regulation of noise are detailed below.
For more detailed information on the changes, visit DECC’s website at
www.environment.nsw.gov.au/noise/index.htm
Motor
vehicles
· Phasing in over two years the stationary exhaust noise limits set for vehicles certified to Australian Design Rule 83/00, generally pushing noise down 2-3 decibels in drive-by tests
· Requiring the opinion of police and other authorised officers to be ‘reasonable’ when determining whether a vehicle’s noise control equipment is defective and emitting exhaust noise above the prescribed limits
· Extending maximum limits on vehicle noise emissions to road-related areas, such as car parks, but providing a defence in the case of authorised motor sport events
· Requiring noise control equipment on vehicles to be ‘securely in place’ and restricting the use of ‘temporary noise reduction devices’, which are sometimes used to cheat noise tests
· Removing unnecessary restrictions on the number of mufflers
· Reducing the time a vehicle alarm may sound before a higher penalty is incurred and phasing out the current defence which allows alarm time limits to be exceeded in some circumstances
· Adopting the national testing procedures for motor vehicle noise testing
Marine
vessels
· Making it an offence for all marine vessels to emit ‘offensive’ noise
· Requiring the maintenance of noise control equipment on marine vessels
· Prohibiting the emission of ‘offensive’ noise from a musical instrument or sound system on a vessel
Noisy
articles
· Restricting the playing of loud musical instruments and sound systems that disturb neighbours after 10 pm Sunday to Thursday, rather than after 12 midnight
· Controlling the noise from heat pump water heaters to minimise their impact on neighbours
· Reducing the time a building alarm may sound before a higher penalty
is incurred
CONSULTATION:
Nambucca Shire Council compliance staff
and manager
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment
Reduced noise pollution
Social
Improved neighbourhood relations and
comfort for individuals
Economic
There is no immediate economic impact expected as a result of the amendments to the regulation.
Risk
Nil
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct and indirect impact on
current and future budgets
The Protection
of the Environmental Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2008 will have
very little direct or indirect impact on current budgets, although there may be
some future income from Penalty Notices issued in response to noise complaints.
Source of fund and any variance to
working funds
Nil
1View |
Review of the Protection of the Environment
Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2000 - Information sheets providing summary
of new provisions |
|
3 April 2008 |
Director Environment &
Planning's Report
ITEM 9.4 SF1075 030408 Provision
of Link from Council's Website to Carbon Credit Calculator under the
Envirosaver Program through Fieldforce Services
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: Council has been approached by FieldForce
Services (Registered Private Company) to have a website link to a carbon
calculator on Council’s website that will allow ratepayers to undertake self
assessments of their carbon emissions. The enviro saver program is being rolled
out as part of the Federal Government’s proposed carbon credit trading scheme
and considerable work has already been undertaken within the local community
by FieldForce Services and other providers in retro fitting households with
low energy light globes The company has offered to meet all costs
associated with setting up the link and offers payment of $1.00 for each
Greenhouse Friendly Certificate issued through the website link. Any agreement with Council would allow
Council’s logo to be used on promotional material to be provided by the
company to Council and the public. The company has been conducting public
awareness programs throughout NSW within shopping centres and have signed up
with a number of local The company was proposing to have the
carbon credit calculator up and operating by March this year but this has
been postponed to a date to be notified. The following Councils have indicated they
have agreed to participate in the scheme:- · Port Macquarie/Hastings Council · Taree · Kempsey Shire Council |
1 That
Council grant permission for a link to be provided on the Nambucca Shire
Website to the carbon
calculator as proposed by Field Force Environmental for the issuing of Greenhouse Friendly Certificates,
once the carbon credit calculator is operational 2 That
approval be granted for the use of Council's logo to be placed on the Enviro
Saver brochure. 3 That approval be granted
to any other private company seeking similar opportunity. 4 That Council reserves the right to
withdraw its approval for the Field Force website link and the use of
Council's logo with two weeks written notice. |
OPTIONS:
The two options available to Council are:-
1 Take
part in the enviro saver program,
2 Not take part in the enviro saver
program.
DISCUSSION:
The program being proposed by FieldForce
Services is purely to provide a link from Council’s website to the company’s
carbon calculator, but will lead to the company issuing a certificate for
carbon credits claimed from the public who would benefit from the retrofit of
light globes within their premises.
Ultimately the company would use the certificates to trade carbon credits under any future National and/or International trading scheme.
No formal approach has been made to
Council by any other company in relation to future trading of carbon credits or
establishing such a link to a companies website at this stage but no doubt this
will eventuate and the recommendation addresses this.
CONSULTATION:
Discussions have been held with Council's Manager of Information Technology and he has expressed concerns about providing links to commercial sites where there may be other commercial competitors
SUSTAINABILITY
ASSESSMENT:
The program has been developed to encourage building owners to look at retrofitting their buildings with water saving devices (shower heads) and light globes to reduce energy consumption.
The company has
been active within the Mid North Coast region through their program at shopping
centres and have already considerable signings within the
Environment This program is a genuine attempt to reduce green house gas emissions through a carbon credit program that is to be developed by the Federal Government in the future.
Social The provision of a link from Councils website to the carbon calculator and Field Force's website has a commercial benefit to the company but also a recognised benefit to the environment.
Economic There is a very small monetary return to Council if the program as proposed is adopted by Council and the website link permitted.
Risk There is no risk to Council apart from other companies making similar requests at a later date.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct and indirect impact on current
and future budgets
There is expected to be no immediate impact
on Council's budget, apart from a very small amount of income being derived
from the certificates that may be issued as a result of people being introduced
to the scheme via the website.
Source of fund and any variance to
working funds
Any variation to working funds would be positive relating to income.
1View |
Fieldforce Services Carbon Calculator Proposal |
|
2View |
Carbon Neutral Communities Fieldforce Services
brochure |
|
3 April 2008 |
Director of Engineering
Services Report
ITEM 10.1 SF616 030408 Country Energy Street Light Annual Report - Ending 30
June 2007
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: The reporting of street light faults often
comes through Council as Country Energy has not had night patrols for
years. An annual report has now been
received that states that night patrols have been progressively introduced
which is a positive step. |
The Council note
the Annual Street Light Report Ending 30 June 2007. |
OPTIONS:
No options.
DISCUSSION:
Country Energy has
increased their consultation with Council and this includes an annual report on
the street lighting network.
It is pleasing to note
that night patrols have been implemented to check on street lights as this
becomes a significant issue for Council staff, at times. Reporting street light faults to Country
Energy can be done on 132080 or online at www.countryenergy.com.au.
Some 114 street light
faults were reported from all sources from July 2006 to June 2007.
A copy of the full
report is attached.
CONSULTATION:
Report from Country
Energy.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment
None as a result of the report. Lamp recycling proposed.
Social
The moves by Country Energy will improve
customer service which includes Council.
Economic
Improved value for money as annual fees apply
whether lights are on or not.
Risk
Improved public safety.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct
and indirect impact on current and future budgets NIL
Source
of fund and any variance to working funds NO CHANGE
1View |
Country Energy Street Light Annual Report ending
30 June 2007 - Attachment |
|
Ordinary Council Meeting - 3 April 2008 Country |
Attachment
1 Country
Energy Street Light Annual Report ending 30 June 2007 - Attachment |
3 April 2008 |
Director of Engineering
Services Report
ITEM 10.2 SF450 030408 Waste Management - Various
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: Three items have been discussed with the
Coffs Coast Contract Committee and the contractor as follows: 1 Kitchen
bin liners Extra
cost of $30 makes the option too expensive. 2 Weekly
red bin Changes are not supported by the
staff of the three Councils. Service
levels must remain the same for the three areas. 3 Administration Change The current change by Coffs Harbour
City Council will not be increased and will remain at $4.55 per household per
year. |
1 That Council not pursue the provision
of kitchen bin liners because of the extra cost. 2 That
Council note that the weekly red bin should not be introduced without the
agreement of the three Councils and contract changes. 3 That
Council note that the administration fee for contract administration of the
waste collection and processing contracts will remain at $4.55 per household
per year for 2008/2009. |
OPTIONS:
1 Provide acceptable bin liners at $30 per year.
2 No change possible to bin collection schedule.
3 disagree with Coffs Harbour City Council on the
administration fee.
DISCUSSION:
A number of matters
relating to waste management have been pursued resulting in the following
positions:
1 Biodegradable liners for the kitchen tidies.
This has been assessed
by both the Mid North Waste Group and Handybin.
One of the issues has
that this bag be readily identifiable as biodegradable and allowed to be placed
in the "green" bin. The most
likely solution is printing the bag with green stripes.
The cost of providing a
years supply is $30 per household based on average use. This extra cost would need to be borne by the
householder and is considered to be too great an extra cost.
2 Weekly "red" bin
The concept of a weekly
"red" bin service offset by changing one of the other services has
been discussed at a contracts meeting.
(a) The collection contractor is able to
provide any extra service provided the contract is amended.
(b) The impact on the services with the three
Councils however, was negative.
· The "yellow" recycling bins are generally
well used and cannot be reduced
· The "green" bin is for organic material
and changing to fortnightly would create health issues
· A weekly "red" bin service sends the
wrong message as this is source of landfill material. Some of the "red" bin is processed
into compost with the remaining inert component sent to landfill.
3 Administration Charge
Council pays $4.55 per
household per year as an administration fee to manage the contracts of kerbside
collection, recycling and organics processing to Coffs Harbour City Council
Justification of this
cost was sought for the 2008/2009 year.
Coffs Harbour Council
accept that this is a contentious issue for Nambucca Shire Council and will h
old the $4.55 charge for 2008/2009.
CONSULTATION:
Waste Management
Contracts Committee comprising the three Councils and the contractor.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment—NO CHANGE
Social—NO CHANGE
Economic—NO CHANGE
Risk—NO CHANGE
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct
and indirect impact on current and future budgets
No changes recommended. No new costs.
Source
of fund and any variance to working funds
No new funds.
There are no attachments for this report.
3 April 2008 |
Director of Engineering
Services Report
ITEM 10.3 SF734 030408 Nambucca Heads - Breakwall - Turning Area
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: The Department of Lands has no objections
to Council constructing and funding a turning area adjacent to the breakwall
to allow emergency vehicles to turn around. |
That Council not
construct a turning area adjacent to the Nambucca Heads breakwall. |
OPTIONS:
Fund in 2008/2009.
Not proceed.
DISCUSSION:
A recent fatality at
Wellington Rock resulted in Council approaching the Department of Lands on the
issue of providing a turning area towards the end of the breakwall for
emergency vehicles such as the ambulance.
A site inspection was
held that resulted in the formal response as per the attached letter.
The Department of Lands
will allow the turning area to be built as per the site plan. Council will be responsible of the cost and
future maintenance including the restoration of any damage resulting from
breakwall maintenance.
Council has not provided
funding for this work and will need to consider whether a priority exists. The Department of Lands advised it will not
make a contribution towards the work.
Council should not be solely responsible for fund the work. It should be noted that there are many
factors in response time to emergency call out and the additional time to
reverse along the breakwall being one of many factors.
CONSULTATION:
Department of Lands.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment
Some damage to the dune to accommodate the
width needed fore the turnaround.
Social
Ambulance Service requested the improvement
through Cr Duffus to improve the time response.
Economic
No significant impact.
Risk
Water related emergencies are likely at a
breakwall. The widening improves the
response time.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct
and indirect impact on current and future budgets
No provision in the budget for
construction, broad cost would be $5,000
to level the area, provide rock protection, backfill with pavement material,
relocate fencing and signage.
Annual cost would be minor except if damaged
during breakwall works.
Source
of fund and any variance to working funds
Need to provide $5,000 in current or future
budget for the initial construction cost.
1View |
Nambucca Heads Breakwall - Attachment |
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Ordinary Council Meeting - 3 April 2008 Nambucca Heads - Breakwall -
Turning Area |
Attachment
1 Nambucca
Heads Breakwall - Attachment |
3 April 2008 |
Director of Engineering
Services Report
ITEM 10.4 SF444 030408 Tree Maintenance
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: Six trees have been identified as in poor
condition and representing a risk to public safety. It is proposed to remove the trees as part
of the annual maintenance program. |
That Council note
the removal of the six trees identified under the tree maintenance program. |
OPTIONS:
Not include any
individual tree.
DISCUSSION:
There have been six
trees identified from inspections and resident reports of dangerous trees. The full list is as follows:
1 E J Biffin Playing Fields—two large trees with dead branches
to be removed.
2 Young Street,
Bowraville—large Tallowood with dead branches near the school and church to be
removed.
3 Charlton Street, Nambucca
Heads—large Scribbly Gum tree that regularly drops branches to be removed. A replacement street tree will be planted.
4 Bellwood Foreshore—two
large street trees with termite damage and unstable roots to be removed.
Photographs of the trees are available from the Director Engineering Services for viewing.
CONSULTATION:
Parks Supervisor.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment
The removal of the trees will not impact on
the availability of suitable habitat as alternative trees exist at each
location.
Social
The trees are regarded as a safety threat to
the people that use and congregate around them.
Economic
Council provides an annual budget for tree
maintenance.
Risk
The removal of the trees is recommended on the
basis that the structure and condition of each tree has already resulted in the
dropping of limbs and this will increase as the trees age. They are unsuitable for urban areas.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct
and indirect impact on current and future budgets
Quotations will be sought for the contractor
for each tree prior to engagement.
The total cost is expected to be some
$10,000.
Source
of fund and any variance to working funds
The annual budget for tree maintenance is
sufficient to meet the cost.
This is a recurring budget.
There are no attachments for this report.
3 April 2008 |
Director of Engineering
Services Report
ITEM 10.5 SF834
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES:
Summary: Council sought background details on The Road and Traffic Authority (RTA) at
this time will accept a public road dedication over their land for |
That Council
retain the finalisation of |
OPTIONS:
Defer to future years.
DISCUSSION:
The RTA owns the land
known as the North Macksville Playing Field and has appointed Council as the
Reserve Manager.
The park was originally
constructed by Council while the turning lanes and intersection works were
funded by the RTA.
Over the years
approaches have been made to obtain ownership of the playing fields as the loss
of this area would greatly impact on the sports using the land which is mainly
soccer. The RTA has advised that once
planning approval has been obtained for the Macksville Bypass it will
investigate a marketing strategy for the disposal of the subject land.
The RTA, in a letter on
10 May 2007, asked what Council intended to do about
As mentioned above,
Council is the land manager in recognition of the playing field so this is not
an issue. To address
Reference is also made
by the RTA that adjacent development cannot legitimately connect to
The 2008/2009 budget has
a provision of $17,000 to finalise the legal costs and land purchase to convert
CONSULTATION:
Surveyor
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment—NO CHANGE
Social
No change for residents if the road remains
open.
Economic
Risk
There is a possibility that the RTA could sell
the land that includes the playing fields and
Creating a public road over
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct
and indirect impact on current and future budgets
Council currently maintains the road and
playing fields. There is an extra cost
to establish the public road. There will
be a future cost to purchase the playing fields.
Source
of fund and any variance to working funds
Council has provided $60,000 to finalise
land matters including $17,000 for
A copy of the RTA's draft plan is attached.
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Ordinary Council Meeting - 3 April 2008 |
Attachment
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3 April 2008 |
Director of Engineering
Services Report
ITEM 10.6 SF306 030408 Bowraville Folk Museum - Assets Report
AUTHOR/ENQUIRIES: Mark Spry, Mr
Summary: Council had also agreed to supply a 100mm
water service to the building. Originally the cost of this service was
thought to be in vicinity of $5,000. Council’s plumber has since quoted the
work, GST and on cost exempt at $11,000. |
That Council install the 100mm water service as required and the funds be obtained from a) Public Halls Sundry Expenses No 2270-025 $6,000. Original allocation of $5,000 + $1,000 additional funding. b) Mains upgrading No 71019-000 $5,000. Additional funding. |
OPTIONS:
1. Install sprinkler system and water service as proposed.
This
has the potential to save the museums heritage items with little damage, save
the museum building and greatly reduce the risk to adjoining buildings and the
risk of injury or loss of life.
2. Do not install sprinkler system and water service.
This
will most likely result in the partial or entire loss of heritage items, the
building and adjoining properties and places people at risk of injury or loss
of life.
3. Maintain essential services – Fire extinguishers, Fire blankets,
Emergency lighting and exit signs.
This
has the potential to protect people from injury or loss of life but a high
probability of the loss of heritage items and property still exists.
4. Install a fire detection system with back to base capability
This
option would be impractical due to the distances needed to be travelled by
emergency services and would still have the potential to result in the loss of
heritage items, the building and adjoining buildings and still poses risk of
injury or loss of life.
DISCUSSION:
Discussion regarding the provision of the
100mm water service and the available funding has been between the General
Manager, Russ Tredennick,(Committee President) Chubb Fire and Safety, Manager
Civil Works, Director Engineering Services, Manager Water And Sewer and
Technical Officer Assets.
CONSULTATION:
Information relating to pricing has been
gained from the Manager Sewer and Water, Plumbing staff, and suppliers.
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT:
Environment
Toxins
from fire entering local waterways and the atmosphere.
Social
Loss of
community amenity, loss of irreplaceable heritage items.
Economic
Replacement
cost of building or cost of building insurance premium and potential rise in
future premiums.
Risk
Potential
loss of all heritage items, building, adjoining buildings and risk of injury or
loss of life.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Direct
and indirect impact on current and future budgets
Insufficient
funds in current job allocation due to updated estimate.
Source
of fund and any variance to working funds
Funds for the provision of the water service
can be obtained from Public Halls Sundry Expenses No 2270-025 $6,000. Original
allocation of $5,000 + $1,000 additional funding.
Mains upgrading No 71019-000 $5,000. Additional funding.
There are no attachments for this report.