agenda and business papers oberon council ordinary … · 7 mar spartan event 10 mar councillor...

137 Oberon Street PO Box 84 Oberon NSW 2787 Telephone: (02) 6329 8100 Fax: (02) 6329 8142 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

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AGENDA AND BUSINESS PAPERS Oberon Council Ordinary Meeting Tuesday 17 March 2020 Commencing at 5.30pm at the Oberon Council Chambers

Oberon Council - Agenda and Business Papers – Ordinary Meeting – 17 March 2020

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Agenda Items page

1. OPENING OF MEETING ......................................................................................................... 4

2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY .................................................................................. 4

3. PRAYER .................................................................................................................................. 4

4. RECORD OF ATTENDANCE .................................................................................................. 4

5. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST ............................................................................................. 5

6. PRESENTATIONS................................................................................................................... 6

7. QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC .......................................................................................... 6

8. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES .............................................................................................. 6

9. MAYORAL MINUTE AND REPORT ........................................................................................ 7

09.01 MAYORAL MINUTE AND REPORT 7

10. NOTICES OF MOTIONS ....................................................................................................... 11

10.01 INVESTIGATION OF RATING SUB-CATEGORIES.................................................. 11

10.02 INVESTIGATION OF LIBRARY HOURS OF OPERATION ....................................... 12

10.03 OBERON COMMON MASTER PLAN ....................................................................... 13

11. COUNCILLOR AND DELEGATES REPORTS ....................................................................... 14

11.01 UPPER MACQUARIE COUNTY COUNCIL MEETING 7 FEBRUARY 2020 ................. 14

11.02 OBERON ARTS COUNCIL ....................................................................................... 18

11.03 CENTROC BOARD MEETING AND CENTRAL NSW JOINT ORGANISATION

BOARD MEETING –FEBRUARY 2020 ..................................................................... 19

11.04 COUNTRY MAYORS ASSOCIATION– 6 MARCH 2020 ........................................... 26

11.05 OBERON BUSINESS AND TOURISM ASSOCIATION MEETING ............................ 40

12. COMMITTEE REPORTS ....................................................................................................... 41

12.01 LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE .............................................. 41

12.02 TRAFFIC ADVISORY LOCAL COMMITTEE ............................................................. 46

12.03 HERITAGE COMMITTEE ......................................................................................... 51

12.04 OBERON STREETSCAPE WORKING PARTY ........................................................ 57

13. REPORTS FOR DECISION ................................................................................................... 63

13.01 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION 10.2020.11.1 –CONSTRUCTION OF A DWELLING63

13.02 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION 10.2018.92.1 – NEW DWELLING .......................... 67

13.03 WATER USAGE – DROUGHT ASSISTANCE........................................................... 83

13.04 DROUGHT COMMUNITIES PROGRAMME-EXTENSION PROJECT

PRIORITISATION ..................................................................................................... 86

14. REPORTS FOR INFORMATION ........................................................................................... 89

14.01 MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT – GENERAL MANAGER ........................................ 89

14.02 MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT – PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT ......................... 102

14.03 MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT – TECHNICAL SERVICES ................................... 108

14.04 MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT – CORPORATE SERVICES ................................. 117

14.05 STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS .......................................................................... 128

14.06 BURRAGA PEST ANIMAL MEETING 25 FEBRUARY 2020 ...................................... 132

14.07 WATER AND SEWER PLANT REPORT................................................................. 134

15. URGENT BUSINESS ........................................................................................................... 136

16. CLOSED SESSION / CONFIDENTIAL REPORTS .............................................................. 136

16.01 WATER WRITE-OFF REQUEST – ACCOUNT 12365584....................................... 136

17. CLOSURE OF MEETING .................................................................................................... 137


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1. OPENING OF MEETING

The Mayor will welcome members and declare the meeting open. This meeting is being recorded for the purpose of webcasting an audio recording of the meeting. In accordance with clause 5.19 of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice – Policy 1101 the audio recording will be available on Council’s website www.oberon.nsw.gov.au within 5 working days of the meeting being held. The audio recording of Oberon Council Meetings can be listened to on a mobile device or PC. Persons attending a Council meeting consent to the possibility that their voice may be broadcast to the public and should refrain from making any defamatory statements. Audio of Council Meetings or parts thereof cannot be copied, recorded, reproduced, reused or transmitted without the prior written consent of the General Manager.

2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Council acknowledges that this meeting is being held on the traditional lands of the Wiradjuri and Gundungurra People, and respects the history and culture of the elders both past and present.

3. PRAYER

The Meeting will be opened in prayer.

4. RECORD OF ATTENDANCE

Members Mayor Kathy Sajowitz (in the Chair) Deputy Mayor Mark Kellam Clr Don Capel Clr Kerry Gibbons Clr Brenda Lyon Clr Clive McCarthy Clr Mick McKechnie Clr Andrew McKibbin

Staff Gary Wallace, General Manager Bruce MacDonnell, Acting Planning and Development Director

Lynette Safranek, Corporate Services Director Chris Schumacher, Technical Services Director

Sharon Swannell, Executive Coordinator Leave of Absence Clr Ian Doney

http://www.oberon.nsw.gov.au/


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5. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

File No: Governance/Councillors/Declarations of Interest

A GUIDE TO ETHICAL DECISION-MAKING

(Provided by the Independent Commission Against Corruption)

Is the decision or conduct legal?

Is it consistent with Government policy, Council’s objectives and code of conduct?

What will the outcome be for you, your colleagues, the Council, anyone else?

Does it raise a conflict of interest?

Do you stand to gain personally at public expense?

Can the decision be justified in terms of public interest?

Would it withstand public scrutiny? A conflict of interest is a clash between private interest and public duty. There are two types of conflict:

Pecuniary – regulated by the Local Government Act and Department of Local Government

Non-pecuniary – regulated by codes of conduct and policy. ICAC, Ombudsman, Department of Local Government (advice only)

The test for conflict of interest:

Is it likely I could be influenced by personal interest in carrying out my public duty?

Would a fair and reasonable person believe I could be so influenced?

Conflict of interest is closely tied to the layperson’s definition of “corruption” – using public office for private gain

Important to consider public perceptions of whether you have a conflict of interest Identifying problems

1st Do I have private interests affected by a matter I am officially involved in?

2nd Is my official role one of influence or perceived influence over the matter?

3rd Do my private interests conflict with my official role? Whilst seeking advice is generally useful, the ultimate decision rests with the person concerned. When making a Declaration of Interest the reason for making the declaration should be clearly stated. Pecuniary and Non-Pecuniary Significant Interests should be managed by leaving the room while the matter is considered. Pecuniary -

Non-Pecuniary Significant

-

Non-Pecuniary Less than Significant

-


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6. PRESENTATIONS

A presentation will be provided by Lin Boswell, President of the Oberon Rotary Club regarding a local campaign to raise funds for local public schools “Principal’s Discretionary Fund”.

7. QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC

The community is to be given the opportunity to ask questions at the commencement of the council meeting, and the Mayor is to ask for questions from the gallery prior to the commencement of the ordinary meeting. Members of the public wishing to address Council are permitted to do so provided the following guidelines are adhered to. 1. The person asking the question at the Council meeting must clearly state their name and in

what capacity they are acting.

2. If the person asking the questions is acting as another person/organisation’s agent they must advise Council if they have their prior consent/authority.

Questions from the public is not an opportunity for debate with elected representatives or staff, it is an opportunity for the community to ask a question in relation to an issue or put a point of view relating to an issue that may be causing interest or concern. Due to time constraints a time frame of three minutes per speaker is allocated. All questions and comments must be directed through the Mayor and in the instance of a question, if it cannot be answered it will be taken on notice and a response given within a reasonable period of time. This is the only opportunity for a community member to address Council during an Ordinary Meeting. None received.

8. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

Ordinary Meeting 18 February 2020

ATTACHED is the Minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 18 February 2020. Recommendation:

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 18 February 2020 be confirmed. Matters Arising from the Minutes Nil


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9. MAYORAL MINUTE AND REPORT

09.01 MAYORAL MINUTE AND REPORT

File No: Governance/Meetings/Ordinary Author: Clr Kathy Sajowitz, Mayor

Summary

This report summarises the main activity for the Mayor since my last report.

Recommendation

That Report Item 09.01 is received as information.

A. Meetings

12 Feb Informal catch up with Mayors of Bathurst and Lithgow

13 Feb Traffic Advisory Local Committee Meeting

13 Feb Burraga and District Community Association Meeting

18 Feb Ordinary Council Meeting

19 Feb Meeting with Alex Muldoon and Frank Crews, Mayfield Garden (along with Deputy Mayor Mark Kellam)

19 Feb Meeting with Greg Evans

19 Feb Oberon Arts Council Meeting

20 Feb ABC Radio regarding tourism collaboration following bushfires

21 Feb 2BS Radio Interview

25 Feb Quarterly General Manager and Councillor Meeting

27 Feb Central NSW Joint Organisation Board Meeting – Weddin Shire

28 Feb 2BS Radio Interview

2 Mar Planning and Development Director Interviews

2 Mar Citizenship Ceremony

2 Mar Meeting with Derek Heath regarding Hazelgrove Road

2 Mar Oberon Streetscape Working Party Meeting

3 Mar Leanne Barlow re enquiry into bushfires and possible community meeting

3 Mar Lauren Trembath regarding Councillor roles and responsibilities

3 Mar Burraga Community Consultation Meeting LSPS, Village Plans and Signage Concepts

5 Mar Prime 7 Interview re Spartan & Council Matters (with Deputy Mayor Mark Kellam)

5 Mar Oberon Correctional Centre Graduation Ceremony (attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Kellam)

6 Mar Country Mayors Association Meeting

6 Mar 2BS Radio Interview (with Deputy Mayor Mark Kellam)

9 Mar O’Connell Community Consultation Meeting LSPS, Village Plans and Signage Concepts

10 Mar Councillor Informal Briefing Session


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B. Representation

14 Feb Black Springs Seniors Festival Function

15 Feb Burraga Seniors Festival Function

20 Feb O’Connell Seniors Festival Function

22 Feb Lodge Oberon Welcome Function for Masonic Lodge visitors

22 Feb Lodge Oberon 100 years Installation Dinner

5 Mar Country Mayor’s Association Dinner

7 Mar Spartan Event

10 Mar Councillor Tour of the Oberon Tarana Heritage Rail Precinct

C. Correspondence

13 Feb Kate Bird regarding gift which is to be donated towards the International Women’s Day event.

14 Feb David McMurray in relation to correspondence from Hardy Draheim regarding the Christmas Grotto Event.

14 Feb Ellie Winestock, Waldara seeking advice in reference to DA 10.2015.83.1, referred to Planning Department and response provided.

15 Feb Elaine Boxer, Oberon Health Council letter of thanks for the Oberon Health Council promotion in Mayoral Column and seeking an opportunity to include comments on the council webpage or Facebook page.

15 Feb Hardy Draheim in relation to a GIPA request lodged last year with Oberon Council to obtain financial data in the form of the trial balances in excel format.

17 Feb The Hon Gladys Berejiklian MP, Premier of New South Wales invitation to attend the State Memorial for those impacted by the recent bushfires.

18 Feb Keith Sullivan requesting a copy of correspondence from Hardy Draheim in relation to the Christmas Grotto event.

18 Feb The Hon Andrew Gee MP, Federal Member for Calare regarding Carlwood Road and suggesting that the Federal Government Roads to Recovery Drought Extension funding could be utilised for work on this road.

19 Feb John Hebblewhite providing an update regarding activities at the Skoda and Tatra Museum and plans to erect a new fence along the frontage in Scotia Avenue.

19 Feb The Harmony Week Team advising that in 2020, the Department of Home Affairs will lead and support Harmony Week events and activities. This year Harmony Week runs from 15-21 March.

20 Feb Marjorie Armstrong enquiry relating to Item 14.14 from February Ordinary Meeting Business Papers – Legal and Consultancy Fees and seeking clarification regarding costs, response provided.

20 Feb Tina Slattery enquiry relating to Item 14.14 from February Ordinary Meeting Business Papers – Legal and Consultancy Fees and seeking clarification regarding costs, response provided.

21 Feb Invitation to attend the 2020 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards Gala Presentation Dinner being held on Friday 20 March.

21 Feb Maree Arrow enquiry relating to Item 14.14 from February Ordinary Meeting Business Papers – Legal and Consultancy Fees and seeking clarification regarding costs, response provided.

21 Feb Correspondence forwarded to Alex Muldoon, Mayfield Garden providing contacts for upcoming events.

21 Feb Correspondence forwarded to Maree Arrow in response to enquiries about correspondence from Hardy Draheim regarding the Christmas Grotto event.

https://u5757913.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=8xfhH9JAnomyUlBXlrsF4xEzjTzq82zKqxTn5j40V5XU-2BudNpxOX9VQH7Rr0EMQfGuKK_OFI9aDNVNkACHuLVevadlbXiB63QsI5Yz2KP1zUoiy4OnwpJcKotjny8Yjpbfpjtk4YLgFR49zyORVhSqIsMs43LlFElLFc-2FhckTF15DfwLn2mF09-2FmzlGkLAKkOjIMPxdA-2BxXWwDUPUQEM37czrc6yE1BLnu4WdwJJjmfCBvt-2BlL6lVJ2aAYnjfi72ptZN7IOVrZHvEWev2MShjFspOEDax63iqbdvDQhAEoDx2xss90tLQ2t16MEqwL-2FSSY4kNVPfg81T8jKm1aJzoJkMWRHbUVCEne79zv4bIXwXL2ahBVCoL8A3VefTtHwPSBC-2FrJQyYjh0eSA8qYo1eobbrMErQ2qUIT376VAYi0yktomyv3gLA3vDHSV2bHMIBN9i91zlr6utH9v45CRSZe5sdprz-2F-2B-2FPSaRxqDrg9wqYUL1k-3D


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21 Feb Elaine Boxer forwarding a copy of the draft revised NSW Incident Management Policy for information.

22 Feb John and Maree Paine invitation to meet the 2020 Kidney Kar Rally cars when they will be in Oberon on Tuesday 18 August.

23 Feb Lauren Trembath seeking information about Councillor nominations.

24 Feb Robin Wiseman in relation to the comments about the Christmas Grotto.

24 Feb Mayor Katrina Humphries, Moree Plains Shire Council raising concern about the Great Artesian Basin Water Sharing Plan.

25 Feb Invitation to attend the LGNSW Water Management Conference 2020 from 15-17 July 2020 at The Crossing Theatre in Narrabri.

25 Feb Michelle Maunder invitation to attend the Central West Zone Library meeting being held on Wednesday 4 March 2020 in Dubbo.

26 Feb Jennifer Floyd (Western NSW LHD) update status of implementing fluoridation for Oberon.

26 Feb Julia Andrews, CSU invitation to attend and event being held on Tuesday 3 March, where NSW Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women, The Hon. Bronwyn (Bronnie) Taylor, will be visiting the University to meet staff and students and to help celebrate NSW Women’s Week.

27 Feb Local Government NSW Media Release - NSW government that it must act if we are to maintain and improve kerbside recycling options and drive down the amount of waste going to landfill.

27 Feb Kirsty Jagger, Senior Communication Coordinator NSW Office of Emergency Management regarding promotion of registration for clean up following bush fires.

27 Feb Peter Mordaunt, GI Cancer Institute regarding the Gutsy Challenge Treasure Road event.

27 Feb Gino Cavallaro, Executive Director, ePlanning providing an update on Secretary's Mandate - API Integration 2020 which is part of the program to better automate the DA process.

27 Feb Correspondence forwarded to The Hon Melinda Pavey MP, Minister for Water, Property and Housing regarding attempts from Bathurst Regional Council to access water from the currently fully allocated Fish River Water Supply scheme by way of accessing Energy Australia allocation. Copies of correspondence also forwarded to The Hon John Barilaro MP, Deputy Premier, The Hon Paul Toole MP, Member for Bathurst and Mr James McTavish, Water NSW.

3 Mar The Hon John Barilaro MP media release advising the NSW Government will provide stamp duty relief for people who lost their homes during the bushfires and who choose to purchase a replacement home elsewhere rather than rebuild.

4 Mar Economic Development Australia (EDA), the national peak body for economic development professionals advising of programs available to assist bushfire impacted communities, as they work to rebuild local economies.

4 Mar Alyse Grams, Telstra communications team at Telstra regarding filming an internal video at Jenolan Caves.

4 Mar Ben Brungs, Senior Manager, NSW Office of Emergency Management providing the Coordinated Clean-up fact sheet and link to the Lang O’Rourke NSW Bushfire Clean-up Info Hub, which is publically available https://cleanup.lnbr.com.au/

4 Mar Janet Baljeu thank you for follow up regarding roadside clean up.

4 Mar Rebecca Welsh, Tarana Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade in regard to Storz fitting initiative for Councils consideration.

4 Mar Alex Muldoon Mayfield Garden thanks and follow up after meeting.

https://cleanup.lnbr.com.au/


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4 Mar Kirsty Jagger Senior Communications Officer, NSW Office of Emergency Management advising the EPA Bushfire information page is now live and can be found at https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/news/news/2020/bushfire-information

4 Mar Invitation to attend the 2020 Ministers Award for Women in Local Government being held on Tuesday 24 March at NSW Parliament House.

5 Mar Kirsty Jagger Senior Communications Officer, NSW Office of Emergency Management providing a Donated Goods Fact Sheet for Councils.

6 Mar The Hon Michael McCormack MP Deputy Prime Minister regarding Land Transport Infrastructure Boost.

6 Mar Rebecca Welsh, Tarana Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade in regard to Water Tanks on road reservoir initiative for Councils consideration.

9 Mar Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN) providing a Coronavirus Update. WNSW PHN is assisting the provision of information, as updated by the Australian Department of Health and NSW Health.

10 Mar Fluoride Free Australia advising of its toxic fluoride advertising campaign.

10 Mar Marg Prendergast, Executive Director, Disaster Recovery advising the NSW Government has just announced that it is partnering with Andrew and Nicola Forrest’s Minderoo Foundation to ensure basic temporary accommodation is available for those in need following the unprecedented bushfire season.

10 Mar Paula Behm concerns about vegetation maintenance at Balfour Pit.

11 Mar Local Government NSW responding to a number of Councils who have been seeking advice on the COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus, and the role of local government in helping to ensure the safety of our communities.

11 Mar Media Release advising that Community Halls around regional and rural NSW and parts of southern Queensland could be eligible to receive a little extra support with the launch of the Essential Energy Community Halls Program.

Notes:


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10. NOTICES OF MOTIONS

10.01 INVESTIGATION OF RATING SUB-CATEGORIES

File No: Finance Management/Financial Reporting Author: Clr Andrew McKibbin

Motion

That Council investigate creating three subcategories of Farmland for the purposes of applying rating factors to Land Values determined by the Valuer General:

a) Subcategory 1 would be termed as “Weed Infested”. if a portion of Farmland is categorised by upper Macquarie County Council as having a Weed Biosecurity rating of 3 or 4 under the UMCC Biosecurity Compliance and Enforcement Policy for a period of 12 Months without being reduced to a rating of 1 or 2.

b) Subcategory 2 would be termed as “Non Commercial Farmland”. If a portion of land does not have either or both:

i. A dominant use, of which is for farming (that is, the business or - industry of grazing, animal feedlots, dairying, pig-farming, poultry farming, viticulture, orcharding, beekeeping, horticulture, vegetable growing, the growing of crops of any kind, forestry, or aquaculture within the meaning of the Fisheries Management Act 1994, or any combination of those businesses or industries; and/or

ii. A significant and commercial purpose or character including the purpose of making a profit on a continuous or repetitive basis (whether or not a profit is actually made).

c) All other farmland would be categorised as Farmland General.

Notes:


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10.02 INVESTIGATION OF LIBRARY HOURS OF OPERATION

File No: Community Services/Library Author: Clr Andrew McKibbin

Motion

That Council investigate the feasibility, practicality and demand for having extended Library hours including investigating feasibility, practicality and demand for 24 hr Access Card Accessibility by registered Community members.

Notes:


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10.03 OBERON COMMON MASTER PLAN

File No: Parkes and Reserves/Oberon Common Author: Clr Clive McCarthy

Motion That Oberon Council sever ties with the landscape architect from Grenfell and concentrate on completing the site shed off Curtis Street Carpark, filling of depression east of Curtis Street Carpark to cover concrete sewer hatches and grass area when completed. Also replacing old sleeper retaining wall with slab concrete all with rose garden to be implemented and replace edging around display on south east corner.

Notes:


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11. COUNCILLOR AND DELEGATES REPORTS

11.01 UPPER MACQUARIE COUNTY COUNCIL MEETING 7 February 2020

File No: Environmental Management/Meetings/Upper Macquarie County Council Author: Clr Andrew McKibbin

Summary

The most recent meeting of the Upper Macquarie County Council (UMCC) was held at the Bathurst Regional Council offices in Kelso on 7 February 2020. The UMCC meeting and the workshop were attended by Council’s delegates Clr Andrew McKibbin and Clr Don Capel

Recommendation: That the report item 11.01 is received as information.

UMCC MEETING ON 7 FEBRUARY 2020 The Meeting commenced at 2.30pm. The following summary is provided for Oberon Councillors: a) Investments as at 31 December 2019 The UMCC held $1,150,000 in Investments with Westpac Banking Corporation as at 31 December 2019 on call at interest rates varying between 1.65% and 1.10%. b) Quarterly Budget Review Statement No.2 For 2019-2020 Financial Year

The Quarterly Budget Review Statement for UMCC for the quarter ended 31 December 2019 indicated that Council's projected financial position at 30 June 2020 was a loss of $31,000 as against a budgeted profit of $3,635 however this was mainly due to the timing of the payment of expenses in the two quarters preceding 31 December 2019. The roadside spraying program had been brought forward and was the major contributor to the increased expenditure. The General Manager was confident this would rectify itself in the two remaining Quarters. The General Manager considered it was too early in the financial year to properly assess the likelihood of staging the Autumn Aerial Spray Program or not hence there were no proposals to revise the current budget. c) Delivery Program- Half Yearly Progress

The position at 31 December 2019 was as follows:

i. The business is operating within annual budget constraints and is expected to achieve a satisfactory financial result at years end. While expenditure is about $30,000 ahead of budget YTD this is only a seasonal timing-issue, primarily the result of the roadside weed spraying program being brought forward.

ii. The Council has met all of its legal duties and obligations set under the Local Government Act and the Biosecurity Act.

iii. Biosecurity property inspection activity has involved assessing weed risk on 715

iv. Properties with the result that 334 properties were found to be low-risk following Notice to Inspect, and a further 37 high risk properties were reduced to low-risk following the issue of Weed Control Notices.

v. Overall weed risk reduction from inspections during the reporting period has accounted for 22,500 ha (excluding roads).

vi. The roadside weed treatment program for local council roads progressed to control priority weeds on 59 roads extending for some 620 kms.


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vii. In spring 2019 a landholder aerial weed treatment service was undertaken involving 47 contracts with the result that priority weeds on 1,123 hectares of private land were controlled.

d) Enterprise Risk Register

The development of the Enterprise Risk Register was developed taking account of and incorporating the input from the following activities:

The UMCC, at the September 2019 Council Workshop, identifying a schedule of strategic risks

UMCC adopting a Risk Management Policy in November 2019; and

Management completing an enterprise risk management workshop with a consultant from Jardine Lloyd Thomas and the insurer Statewide in late 2019.

The General Manager noted the Enterprise Risk Register is designed to identify:

i. the key areas of inherent risk that, if uncontrolled, have the potential to impact the UMCC in ways and to an extent that it’s viability or general capacity to operate is extinguished or otherwise significantly compromised.

i. the various key treatments or controls (but not all) that are already in place and the effect that those measures are estimated to have in order to show the residual risk. If a residual risk is considered too high then additional treatments or controls should be identified.

The UMCC has in its Risk Management Policy already taken the position that residual risk of ‘high’ or ‘very high’ is generally unacceptable risk, and residual risk of ‘moderate’ or ‘low’ is generally

acceptable risk. The proposed Enterprise Risk Register (2020) provided at the Meeting was adopted by the UMCC. e) Pecuniary Interest Returns – Privacy Issues

The introduction of the New Model Code of Conduct (2018) made under the provisions of Section 440 of the Local Government Act, became the source of the requirements for managing disclosures of pecuniary interest. In September 2019 the Information & Privacy Commissioner (IPC) issued a Guideline 1 for disclosure of all information contained in the annual returns declaring the interest of councillors and designated persons under the Local Government (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW). This release highlighted the requirements to make all ‘public access information’ (particularly disclosures of interests) available on a council’s website which is an issue of security concern to the UMCC. At the 2019 LGNSW Annual Conference, it was resolved that LGNSW (1) “strongly object to the requirements for Returns of Interest Disclosures being published on any website as proposed by the IPC draft guidelines”, and (2) “urges relevant authorities including but not limited to the OLG, IPC and Ministers to reverse the IPC requirement to publish Returns of Interest Disclosures on any website and ask the Premier to intervene for the protection and safety of councillors and staff. Recent information from the Office of Local Government makes it clear that determining the minimum disclosure requirements, for the relevant council, is a matter for that Council to determine. Such determination must however be made within the context of the relevant provisions of the GIPA Act (2009). The General Manager in the context of this Office of Local Government directive undertook a risk management assessment in accordance with the Council’s Risk Management Policy, so as to provide a meaningful view of how the public interest considerations in favour of disclosure compare on a risk rated basis with the overriding public interest against disclosure.


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In considering the disclosure risks (of making returns of the interests of councillors, designated persons and delegates publicly available) the risk assessment determined as follows:

i. There has been a recent incident with the potentially of extreme consequences highlighting that information release exposes a person to a risk of harm or serious harassment or serious intimidation.

ii. Identification of staff and members through disclosure of personal information may compromise fulfilment of the Council's duty under Section 3 of the Work Health & Safety Act (2011) in terms of the principle regarding 'giving the highest level of protection against harm to their health, safety and welfare from hazards and risks arising from work'.

iii. Identification of staff and members through disclosure of personal information may prejudice the effective exercise by the authority of the authorities’ functions – through facilitating serious harassment or serious intimidation.

iv. Identification of staff and members through disclosure of personal information may prejudice the prevention, detection or investigation of a contravention or possible contravention of the law or prejudice the enforcement of the law - through serious harassment or serious intimidation.

It was concluded therefore in accordance with the Council’s Risk Management Policy and the range of duties owed to council staff and members, that the uncontrolled public release of personal information (for the above reasons) is VERY HIGH RISK. The UMCC therefore resolved that in relation to personal information contained within returns of the interests of UMCC Members and designated persons, the UMCC.

i. Notes that the roles and functions of the County Council are significantly different (in information disclosure logic terms) from local government in the context of it being a single purpose compliance and enforcement authority with no statutory planning, development or building functions and no land assets.

ii. Endorses the findings of the public interest test that the over-riding public interest against disclosure (of the personal information of staff and members) significantly outweighs the public interest considerations in favour of disclosure.

iii. Determines to not disclose the personal information of any UMCC Member or any designated staff (involved with legal compliance and enforcement decision-making)to the public by any on-line means - limiting disclosure of personal information in response to requests from persons that identify themselves and attend the UMCC offices in-person.

f) Updated Council Meeting Schedule For 2020

The updated meeting Schedule for 2020 was agreed. The first workshop for the year is scheduled for April 2020 with the key agenda Item being “Implementation of the Weed Biosecurity Compliance and Enforcement”. g) Weed Biosecurity Activity Report

i. Roads Approximately 575 kms of roadsides within 57 roads have been treated for priority weeds during the quarter ending 31 December 2019. The roadside weed treatment program has progressed at different rates depending on local environmental conditions, target weeds and contractor availability. Work was suspended in most areas late in December 2019 due to lack of rainfall. Work will continue during autumn subject to local weather conditions being suitable - with a particular focus on treating blackberry infested roads. Oberon had only 4.5 roads treated (31kms) due to weather conditions. This is half the budgeted total. Blackberry infested roads have been delayed till autumn and significant rain.


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ii. Forestry corporation Fourteen (14) Weed Control Notices (primarily in the Oberon area) have been issued to Forestry Corporation for some 2,400 ha of forest perimeters and road related areas. Discussions have been undertaken with forestry officers on commercial terms for UMCC to include forestry roads and verges spraying as part of the local council roads treatment program. These discussions and Forestry Weed control programs were suspended during the severe bushfire outbreak in NSW. UMCC has now commenced new inspections for a suite of new weed control notices to be issued for the 2020/2021 weed treatment season.

iii. Railway Corridor Treatment Program Four (4) Weed Control Notices – covering 100 inspections - have been issued to Transport for NSW for 2019-2020 accounting for some 104 kms of railway corridor. John Holland, on behalf of Transport for NSW, commenced in Spring 2019 and was well advanced until the program was suspended in December 2019 due to environmental conditions. Subsequent advice from John Holland is that it expects to have all the work completed by 30 June 2020. New inspections by UMCC will be completed for weed control notices to be issued for the 2020/2021.

iv. Property Inspections For the 6-month period from July 1st to December 31st 2019 there were 715 inspections undertaken (including 125 re-inspections) covering approximately 72,000 hectares of land and 960 kms of linear reserves as follows:

49 inspections were of public land (3,000 ha), and

85 inspections were of public high-risk pathways (960 kms/ 1,828ha) What has become obvious is that better targeting of problem properties has resulted in nearly 50% of properties inspected now being classified as a rating 3 or 4 meaning those properties pose a high biosecurity risk and major control work is required by the relevant landholders. In Oberon of the 110 inspections 52 were rated 3 or 4. This is just under 50% of properties pose a high biosecurity risk; this was 26 to 30% a year ago.

h) Next meeting and workshop;

The next meeting and workshop will be held on 17 April 2020. The meeting closed at 4.30pm.

Notes:


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11.02 OBERON ARTS COUNCIL

File No: Community Relations/Consultation/Oberon Arts Council Author: Clr Sajowitz /Mayor

Summary

Councillor Sajowitz attended the last meeting of the Oberon Arts Council (OAC) Committee.

Recommendation

That report item 11.02 is received as information.

Comment

Councillor Sajowitz attended the Ordinary Meeting of OAC held at the Oberon RSL on Wednesday February 19 2020 commencing at 6pm.

Apologies were accepted

Previous Minutes were accepted

Correspondence was accepted

Treasurers monthly report was accepted

Clr Sajowitz gave a council report which included the following:

OYC Lifeskillz Workshop to be held in April, highlighting Drivers Training Course

Update on Spartan event and call for volunteers to assist on the race ground

Abercrombie Road upgrade

Field to Forest event in April

Bushfire Community Reliance and Economic Recovery funding

IWD March 15

New signage concepts and exhibition period extension

Update on plans for Oberon Common

Oberon Street Beautification and upgrade and Tree Policy development

Arts OutWest Report:

Oberon Delegate Fran Charge noted AOW AGM to be held May or June in Blayney

Arts and Health Program:

Music in Hospitals – A harp player has been contracted by OAC to play at the MPS for five weeks; this has proved beneficial to residents and patients. Oberon Council was thanked for supporting this initiative

OAC will work with MPS residents and patients to make lanterns for the Winter

Botanica Festival in July

Lexi Kellam gave a presentation on the Winter Botanica Festival

OAC committed in kind support to the project The meeting closed. Clr Sajowitz stayed for dinner. Next Meeting: March 26 2020 commencing 6pm at the Oberon RSL Club.


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11.03 CENTROC BOARD MEETING AND CENTRAL NSW JOINT ORGANISATION BOARD MEETING –FEBRUARY 2020

File No: Government Relations/Local and Regional Liaison/Centroc Author: Mayor Kathy Sajowitz

Summary Mayor Kathy Sajowitz and General Manager Gary Wallace attended the Centroc/ CNSWJO Board Meetings held in Grenfell on February 27 2020. Full minutes of the meetings are attached for information – of which a brief summary appears below. Mr A Albury from DPC advised that the NSW Government had announced a $400million funding stream for Mobile Black Spots in an effort to improve connectivity in rural areas. This was welcomed by the meeting. Oberon has submitted proposals for towers at Black Springs, Burraga and has advocated for additional connectivity in the Tuglow/Shooters Hill area.

Recommendation: That report item 11.03 be received for information.

CNSWJO Meeting

Board members were welcomed to Weddin Shire by Mayor Leibich, there were no speakers in attendance.

Apologies were accepted

November 2019 minutes were accepted Matters in Progress – See attached minutes.

Chairpersons Minute The Chair is seeking a review of advocacy priorities with the intent of possibly refiguring the matrix. Drought and water security was high on the list of priorities, it was noted that:

Governments should meet with councils regionally not individually as water availability and solutions crossed council boundaries.

A Regional Water Strategy needs to be developed fully with town water strategies sitting underneath that, not the other way around.

It was suggested the cost of water be pursued with government but it was noted that at this point in time the cost of water is market driven.

Groundwater aquifers need to be included in water security studies – Local Government needs more information on ground water levels to assist planning processes.

As a result of Corona Virus issues in China, chemicals to treat reticulated water such as chlorine could be in short supply and councils needed to be aware of this possibility

The priority area of “freight links to ports” should include “to ports and airports bearing in mind the

development of Canberra Airport and Badgerys Creek. Climate Change Policy for Local Government – it was noted that:

Parkes Council is hosting a Climate Change Forum for local government in July 2020


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By virtue of the infrastructure boom and increased vehicle emissions, metro areas are shifting climate change responsibilities to rural areas – is this acceptable.

It should be noted what farmers are already doing to mitigate climate change, this varies.

It was agreed that councils should be monitoring their emission output and advising JO so an informed position and consensus could be reached before advocacy in the space.

It was agreed health should be on the list of priorities. Energy Programming Report – LED Rollout

It was noted that the rollout of LED Lights is ahead of schedule over one thousand lights have been replaced/installed in Bathurst and Orange. It was noted that some of the smaller villages are experiencing issues with brackets and dated infrastructure and may need new poles. JO Sustainability

It was noted that:

JO compliance to OLG is onerous and is reliant on ongoing funding. The NSW Government has not yet released a true funding model or a final JO model

Some JO’s are more advanced that others and to ensure the model is sustainable all organisations need to be “organised to the same level” CNSWJO is considered to be well ahead of the game.

Regional Transport – It was noted that:

Advocacy for a North / South Transport link needs to be ongoing

Central West and Orana Transport Plan requires work – e.g. smaller LGA’s are missing from document, appears to be concentrating on regional Centres.

Work continue on the Regional Road Transfer and NSW Road Classification Review

It was decided that instead of individual council members supporting the Vital Intermodal Transport Links Petition (as requested) in support of the $2.5bill upgrade to Gt Western Hwy, the JO would issue a media release on behalf of their members followed by a letter to Regional Roads Minister Paul Toole. (An action group has been formed in Blackheath opposing the Gt Western Hwy upgrade, the petition is aimed at opposing this groups aims)

Tourism – Visit NSW Website

It was noted by Oberon Council that the website is not functioning correctly, Oberon events are appearing on Bathurst link and accommodation options on Oberon page lead you to Tamworth and other places. This needs immediate attention which has not been forthcoming despite numerous requests for action. Mr A. Albury (DPC) took this issue on notice and the problem was fixed within a few hours. CENTROC Board Meeting

The financial statements were accepted and it was noted that the transition to the CNSWJO and subsequent wind up of CENTROC as a S355 Committee of Forbes Council is on track for June 30 2020.

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Minutes of the Central NSW Joint Organisation meeting 27 February 2020 held at Grenfell Attendees, voting members in bold.

1. Opening meeting 10.05am

2. Acknowledgement to Country by Chair

3. Welcome to Weddin – By Cr Liebich.

4. Apologies applications for a leave of absence by Joint Voting representatives Cr S Ferguson, Mr D Sherley, Mr P Devery, Mr G Tory, Mr K Boyd, Mr D Waddell, Ms C Weston.

Resolved Cr R Kidd/Cr B West

That the apologies for the Central NSW Joint Organisation Board meeting 27 February 2020 listed above be accepted.

5. Confirmation of the Minutes of the Central NSW Joint Organisation meeting 27

November 2019 in Canberra

Resolved Cr R Kidd/Cr K Keith

That the Central NSW Joint Organisation Board confirm the Minutes of the meeting 27 November 2019 held in Canberra.

6. Business Arising from the Minutes – Matters in Progress

Resolved Cr R Kidd/Cr B Bourke

That the Central NSW Joint Organisation Board note the Matters in Progress, making deletions as suggested.

10.22am - Cr P Miller and Mr S Loane arrived

7. Chairman’s Minute

Resolved Cr M Liebich/Cr B Bourke

That the Board adopt the Chairperson’s Minute on the advocacy approach for 2020 and 1. Adopt the over focus for the years to align with the Federal vision to grow the agricultural sector

to $100bn by 2030; 2. Note that this includes two priority areas of activity – these being:

1. Watering the West

Cr B Bourke Bathurst Regional Council Cr J Medcalf Lachlan Shire Council

Cr A Ewin Blayney Shire Council Cr K Sajowitz Oberon Council

Cr K Beatty Cabonne Council Cr R Kidd Orange City Council

Cr B West Cowra Shire Council Cr K Keith Parkes Shire Council

Cr P Miller Forbes Shire Council Cr M Liebich Weddin Shire Council

Mr A Cattermole Bathurst Regional Council Cr D Somervaille Central Tablelands Water

Ms R Ryan Blayney Shire Council Cr C Brown Weddin Shire Council

Mr B Byrnes Cabonne Council Mr P Evans OLG

Ms K Alberry Cowra Shire Council Mr S Harma RDA CW

Mr S Loane Forbes Shire Council Mr A Albury DPC

Mr G Wallace Oberon Council Ms J Bennett Central NSW JO

Mr G Carroll Weddin Shire Council Ms K Barker Central NSW JO

Mr G Rhodes Central Tablelands Water

2

i. leveraging raising the wall at Wyangala and ii. assuring urban water security in the CNSW region; and

2. Freight links 3. Adopt the priorities for inter-council cooperation as:

1. Reporting value to members of the operational support program; and 2. Supporting the sustainability of the broader JO network;

4. Adopt the priorities for regional prosperity as: 1. Progressing support for the visitor economy; and 2. Developing and monitoring the progress of the Regional Prosperity Subcommittee

noting the agricultural focus; 5. Adopt the changes to the Board calendar as follows:

1. 3 June Board meeting in Penrith and 4 June meeting with State representatives at Macquarie Street, Sydney including launch of the Central West NSW Food and Fibre Strategy;

2. August Board meetings in Canberra at a venue TBA; and 3. The November meeting be part of a Summit, again retaining the agricultural focus;

6. Encourage members to form or activate friendship agreements with Councils in Western Sydney; and

7. Seek feedback from members to inform policy with regard to a regional response to Climate Change.

8. Reports to Statement of Regional Strategic Priority

Priority One: Inter-council Co-operation

a. Procurement Report (Priority 1.1a)

Resolved Cr R Kidd/Cr K Boyd

That the Board note the Procurement Report and 1. approve the 12-month extension of the coldmix asphalt contract (S3_2018) with Boral Asphalt and

Civil Independence until 31 May 2021; 2. approve the 12-month extension of the compliance training contract (WHS1_2015) with Allens

Training, ATAC, Mines Rescue and TAFE until 31 March 2021; 3. approve the 6-month extension of the Asset Management Maturity Audit contract with University

of Technology, Sydney; and 4. approve a procurement process for the revaluation of water and sewer assets, including a 5%

contract management fee payable to CNSWJO.

b. Administration Update (Priority 1.2)

Resolved Cr K Keith/Cr B West

That the Board note the timeline for the implementation of the JO and adopt the logo.

c. Energy Programming Report (Priority 1.3)

Resolved Cr R Kidd/Cr K Keith

That the Board note the Energy Programming Report and 1. note the progress of the Southern Lights rollouts in Bathurst and Orange; 2. note the cost savings to members of $2.9m over 3 years achieved through the procurement

process for the supply of electricity for large market and small market sites; and 3. GMAC give consideration to the renewable energy advice from Mr David West.

d. Report on JO Chairs Forum progress including feedback to the Minister on JO

sustainability (Priority 1.4a)

Resolved Cr R Kidd/CR K Keith

That the Board note the feedback to the Minister for Local Government’s Joint Organisation (JO) Advisory Committee (the Committee) and

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1. Recognises the serious risk of JO network failure due to sustainability; 2. Endorses the advice provided to the Minister for Local Government’s Advisory Committee; 3. Commends to the Chairs of JOs Forum that the focus of effort for JO sustainability be working,

through the Minister’s Office, with State agencies on a funding framework that offers value to both JO members and the State where the value to the State is recognised by remuneration;

4. Reiterates its position that JOs should not be a fourth tier of government; 5. Notes that taking on a compliance burden has significant risks to JOs and is not supported; 6. Adopt the definition of Financial Sustainability for Joint Organisations as “A Joint Organisation will

be financially sustainable over the long term when it is able to generate sufficient funds and deliver on the Strategic Regional Priorities agreed with its members and stakeholders”;

7. Approves an amendment to the JO Chairs’ Forum’s Terms of Reference to allow for the election of a Chair and Deputy Chair for a period of 12 months; and

8. Provides feedback regarding the above to the Chairs of Joint Organisation Forum.

Priority Three: Regional Transport and Infrastructure

e. Regional Transport Advocacy Policy, Prioritisation and Freight Links Mapping.

Resolved Cr K Keith/Cr B West

That the Board note the Transport and Infrastructure Report and 1. commend to members they provide feedback on the Central West and Orana Future Transport

Regional Plan (the Plan); 2. provide the feedback to the Plan as described in the report; 3. endorse the Lithgow to Katoomba Corridor submission; 4. invite the independent panel for Regional Road Transfer and NSW Road Classification Review to

meet with the JO; 5. endorse the CNSWJO response to the Regional Road Transfer and NSW Road Classification Review

Terms of Reference; 6. adopt the Terms of Reference for the Regional Strategic Transport Group; and 7. thank respective Ministers for their support for the $2.5b upgrade to the Great Western Highway

and prepare a media release.

Priority Four: Regional Water

f. Regional Water Report

Resolved Cr P Miller/Cr B Bourke

That the Board note the Regional Water Report and 1. Seek advice from DPIE Water on project status and what the issues are holding up emergency

water projects; 2. Develop advocacy material identifying the problems and solutions in assuring urban water supply

during the unprecedented drought; 3. Advocate to the Premier, Deputy Premier, Minister for Water and respective agencies providing

advice on the challenges and solutions for this region in securing water; and 4. Note the Infrastructure Priority List 2020 and invite Infrastructure Australia to the June Board

Meeting.

9. Report to the Central NSW JO Strategic Plan and Statement of Regional Strategic

Priority 2019/2020

Resolved Cr R Kidd/Cr M Liebich

That the Board note the report to the Central NSW JO Strategic Plan and Statement of Regional Strategic Priority and

1. thank the Minister for Local Government regarding the $150K funding for CNSWJO; 2. adopt the Equal Opportunity Management Plan; 3. note the changes to the Risk Management Plan reflecting the ongoing challenges for Joint

Organisations given the increased regulatory burden and resourcing implications; and 4. approve the Alliance between SafeWork NSW and the Central NSW Joint Organisation WHS Group

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for 2020 – 2022.

10. Financial Report

Resolved Cr B Bourke/Cr B West

That the Board note the Financial Report.

12.00pm - Mr G Rhodes and Mr B Byrnes left the meeting.

11. Matters raised by members – Blayney Demondrille Line

Resolved Cr B West/Cr M Liebich

That the Board seek advice as to when the report on the Blayney to Demondrille line will be released.

The matter raised by Forbes on the Murray Darling Irrigation Desalination Proposal was moved to Confidential report 12.09pm

Resolved Cr R Kidd/Cr B Bourke

That the meeting close to the public for confidential matters.

12. Confidential Report

Energy Savings Certificates for Streetlighting

Resolved Cr R Kidd/Cr P Miller

That the Board note the confidential report on energy savings certificates for streetlighting and recommend that councils individually write to Essential Energy and National Carbon Bank of Australia (NCBA) and request that the ESCs for street lighting be created through the Essential Energy agreement.

12.11pm

Resolved Cr P Miller/Cr B Bourke

That the meeting open to the public.

Murray Darling Irrigation Desalination Proposal

Resolved Cr P Miller/Cr R Kidd

That the Board Note the advice from Forbes and include the option of linking desalinated water into considerations of priority for future water security for the region.

13. Late reports – Nil

14. Speakers to the next meeting

Penrith City Council

Various Ministers

Infrastructure Australia, Infrastructure Priority List 2020

15. The next meeting dates are Wednesday 3 June in Penrith and Thursday 4 June in

Sydney.

16. Conclusion of the meeting - Meeting closed at 12.11pm

Page 4 is the last page of the Central NSW Joint Organisation meeting 27 February 2020

Minutes of the Centroc Board Meeting 27 February 2020 in Grenfell Board Delegates in bold

Chaired by Cr John Medcalf the meeting opened at 12.11pm

1. Apologies

Cr s Ferguson, Mr D Sherley, Mr P Devery, Mr G Tory, Mr D Waddell, Mr K Boyd, Ms C Weston, Mr G Rhodes and Mr B Byrnes

Resolved Cr B West/Cr R Kidd

That the apologies for the Centroc Board meeting 27 February 2020 listed above be accepted.

2. Minutes

2a Confirmation of the Minutes of the Board Meeting 27 November 2019 at Canberra

Resolved Cr B West/Cr K Keith

That the Minutes of the Centroc Board Meeting 27 November 2019 held at Canberra be confirmed.

3 Wind up of Centroc

Resolved Mr S Loane/Mr G Wallace

That the Central NSW Councils (Centroc) Board note the report regarding the windup of Centroc as a Section 355 Committee of Forbes Shire Council.

4 Financial report

Resolved Cr R KIdd /Cr B West

That the Board note the Financial report The General Meeting of the Centroc Board closed at 12.17pm Page 1 is the last page of the Centroc Board Minutes 27 February 2020

Cr B Bourke Bathurst Regional Council Cr K Sajowitz Oberon Council

Mr A Cattermole (Acting) Bathurst Regional Council Mr G Wallace Oberon Council

Cr A Ewin Blayney Shire Council Cr R Kidd Orange City Council

Ms R Ryan Blayney Shire Council Cr K Keith Parkes Shire Council

Cr K Beatty Cabonne Council Cr M Liebich Weddin Shire Council

Cr D Somervaille Central Tablelands Water Cr C Brown Weddin Shire Council

Cr D Somervaille Central Tablelands Water Mr G Carroll Weddin Shire Council

Cr B West Cowra Council Mr P Evans OLG

Ms K Alberry Cowra Council Mr S Harma RDACW

Cr P Miller Forbes Shire Council Mr A Albury DPC

Mr S Loane Forbes Shire Council Ms J Bennett Centroc

Cr J Medcalf Lachlan Shire Council Ms K Barker Centroc


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11.04 COUNTRY MAYORS ASSOCIATION– 6 MARCH 2020

File No: Government Relations/Local and Regional Liaison/CMA Author: Mayor Kathy Sajowitz

Summary

On March 6 2020 Clr Kathy Sajowitz and GM. Gary Wallace attended the NSW Country Mayors Association (NSWCMA) General Meeting held at NSW Parliament House in Macquarie St Sydney.

Recommendation:

That report item 11.04 be received for information.

Comments

Speakers were:

The Hon. Melinda Pavey MP, Minister for Water, Property and Housing

Ms Teresa Corbin, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Communications Consumer Action Network

Mr Rob Rogers, AFSM, Deputy Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service and Rebel Talbert, Assistant Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service

Hon Jennifer Gardiner, Chairperson, NSW Local Government Grants Commission

Also attending the meeting were: Mary O’Kane and Dave Cowen from the NSW Independent Bushfire Enquiry

Chair expressed condolences on behalf of the Country Mayors Association to councils affected by the recent catastrophic bush fire event.

Minutes of previous meeting were adopted.

Business from Previous Minutes: Deferred to General Business.

Correspondence was accepted.

Financial Reports accepted.

It was resolved that Hay Shire Council be admitted to the Association. Agenda Items and summary of resolutions:

It was resolved that:

A. NSWCMA acknowledge the financial impact of the 2019/20 bush fires on many NSW councils, but in particular those in regional and rural areas and that the association writes to both the Federal and State Governments requesting an immediate review of financial assistance grants criteria in an effort to assist local government.

B. That the Country Mayors Association provides its support to the recovery initiatives of member councils.


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It was resolved that: NSWCMA follow up its correspondence dated 3 June 2019 to the Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock on Waste to Energy.


A. In relation to the additional benefits payable to NSW Local Government Super that NSWCMA write to the Chief Executive and the Board Chair of Local Government Superannuation to request a humanitarian and sensitive approach towards council struggling financially after the bushfires.

B. That a two year moratorium be placed on these additional contributions for the defined benefit plan totalling $40 million allowing NSW Councils to focus on the recent devastating natural disasters. Noting that it needs to be acknowledged that the payment of over 1% of annual rate income ($40,000,000) to Local Government Superannuation would be better spent on essential recovery initiatives.

Letter received from GP Synergy re Contact Persons in Towns for Rural Doctors It was resolved that: member councils be encouraged to respond to GP Synergy directly and nominate a suitable staff member to liaise with the organisation.


A) NSWCMA lobby both the Hon John Barilaro and the Hon Michael McCormack MP, to ensure grade separation to all State Highway crossings intersecting with the Inland Rail is achieved.

B) A working party be developed with representatives from impacted councils, in conjunction with Transport NSW staff, to progress a standardised approach on all rail crossings on private property, local, regional and state roads along the Inland Rail route.

It was resolved that: The Association follow up on issues raised with the Minister for Health and Medical Research the Hon Brad Hazzard in relation to the matter of Coronial Inquests as raised at the previous meeting (delays and updates to families).

General Business The members requested that an invitation be extended to Minister for Regional Transport and Roads the Hon Paul Toole MP to attend the May meeting regarding the study currently underway for returning regional roads to the state and how the matter is progressing. The Chair of the Canberra JO - Mayor of Yass Cr Rowena Abbey to be given time at future meetings to give updates on the Joint Organisation Chairs meetings. SPEAKERS SUMMARY Hon Melinda Pavey MP, Minister for Water, Property and Housing

Catchments are not filling up this continues to be a challenge.

There are restrictions on flood plain harvesting embargos on rivers some of which are being lifted due to the recent rain this will enable a flush of the rivers downstream. 244,000ML has already passed Walgett through Wilcannia and beyond.


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There are community concerns regarding the Murray Darling Basin Plan one of which is the lack of communication between stakeholders and various levels of government, there are steps in place to remedy this. Stakeholder consultations are to take place in March and April. However the Minister noted that the basin is in an improved condition due to the plan.

Along with the Victorian Government, New South Wales commissioned a review of the constraints of the Murray Darling Basin Authority which found that if the plan continues there is a big chance of failure. NSW supports a Royal Commission into the issue. However the basin is in a better condition due to the plan.

New meters are being rolled out throughout the State to ensure fair allocations

Minister Pavey reiterated that there are no plans to “take over” local water utilities but her department is keen to work with councils to manage water. There are ninety two water authorities in NSW compared with sixteen in Victoria………

Sydney population uses 180liters of water pp/pd whilst Orange uses 118litres pp/pd Ms Teresa Corbin, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN)

ACCAN is working to support improved communication services and its remit is to pursue issues with communication companies. The network has two hundred members across Australia. Goals of ACCN are to guarantee access for all, an equitable voice, expansion of mobile coverage and digital capacity.

Fires have damaged infrastructure which has created challenges. ACCN has been fighting hard to retain pay phones which really proved their worth during the fires. ACCN plans to make a submission to the upcoming enquiry flagging issues around - no eftpos access due to damaged infrastructure and the flow on effect of this.

Generally regional concerns include higher costs, a greater dependency on services, unreliable services, and limited mobile coverage.

A new Regional Connectivity Program is being introduced and funding is available similar to the Black Spots Program.

Round five of the Black Spots Program is about to be announced and Round six is coming up. Unfortunately these grant funds appear to be focused in areas that have existing fibre.

5G next generation for mobile phones needs more base stations so will not go everywhere in regions. 5G is not good for distance but does have increased band width therefore valuable in the spheres of education, government services etc. The 4G footprint needs to be the same as 3G before 3G is switched off in 2024.

Reliability of services in regional areas means NBN and a land line are still required in many areas. NBN Co has advised that digital literacy needed to solve technical problems remotely in regional areas is difficult. There is a website called “Teach Self Solve” that is recommended.

The NBN rollout will be finished in 2020. Mr Rob Rogers AFSM, Deputy Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service and Ms Rebel Talbert, Assistant Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service During the 2019/20 fire season twenty one councils commenced the bushfire danger period early. During September/November 2019 there were more than thirteen hundred bush and grass fires significantly impacting towns in northern NSW. During December 2019 sadly three firefighters were killed. During January 2020 fire activity intensified in southern NSW and a C130 aircraft crashed


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killing three American firefighters. February 2020 saw widespread heavy rain which eventually extinguished all blazes in the state. Some facts:

During the bush fire event there were more than two hundred days of continuous major operations

There were over eleven thousand five hundred bush and grass fires

Five point five million hectares of land equating to seven percent of NSW was burnt and more than two thousand four hundred homes were lost. But fifteen thousand homes were saved

There were unfortunately twenty five lives lost

On ground support was received from all Australian states, NZ, USA and Canada and the Australian Defence Force.

Some of the challenges have been:

Speedy payment of invoices from contractors and suppliers. Over forty five thousand seven hundred invoices were received worth $473million; thirty eight thousand of these invoices have been paid to date. Additional staff were engaged to hasten the process and although aware of the issues the RFS are required to do due diligence around the process.

Communication risks identified, NSW RFS website, Fires Near Me NSW, interagency efforts, interstate and international assistance and aviation support needs better practices, this was one of the lessons learnt from such an unprecedented fire event. There were two point seven four million new downloads of the Fires Near Me App which informs the RFS that information on the app needs to be accurate and current. There were six point four five million hits of Facebook; there have been thirty six thousand membership enquiries across the state since the fires.

Commissioner Rogers commended local councils for their assistance and support throughout the fire event and one minutes silence for those who lost their lives ensued. Hon Jennifer Gardiner, Chairperson, NSW Local Government Grants Commission

The Grants Commission recommendations go to the NSW Minister for Local Government and to the Federal Minister for Regional Services. The Commission operates under the Local Government Financial Assistance Act 1995 and the NSW Local Government Act 1993. The Commonwealth Act provides for two funding pools under FAGS - the General Purpose Component and the Local Roads Component. The Local Roads Component looks at population, local road length, and bridge length on local roads. Seventy three point nine percent of NSW FAGS distribution goes to non-metropolitan councils. The NSW Grants Commission does not determine the size of the bucket of money; this is the role of the Federal Government but divides up the bucket in an equitable and objective manner. The total grant is untied. An isolation allowance applies to non-metropolitan councils and recognises additional costs for fuel. The FAGS fund for 2019/20 was $2.537 billion. The Commission favour 1% of total revenue allocated to FAGS. Following the meeting, which concluded at 12.50pm a Panel Session on the Murray Darling Basin took place. The General Manager and I did not attend this session – a summary of speaker’s presentations follows.


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Ms Susan Madden, Board Member, Murray Darling Basin Authority

The Murray Darling Basin is home to 2.6million people, produces $24billion worth of agriculture and $8billion in tourism. It is the most complex river system in Australia. Inflows to the basin during 1895 were 28,000GL per year fluctuating over the years due to drought and flood. In 2010/11 it was 20,000GL and in 2013/15 it was 10,000GL. The Basin Plan notes guidelines for: limits on use, targets for water quality, rules for water trading, water resource planning, environmental water plan, monitoring and evaluation, sustainable diversion limit and water resource plan implementation. Before the Basin Plan 136,236GL was the average amount of water extracted from the basins rivers annually. The new SDL is 10,873GL. Water to be recovered for the environment is 2,700GL. Current issues are water sharing investigation including inflows and supply into the basin, delivery of water, water sharing and potential opportunities for enhancement. Report card water recovery - on track, SDL adjustment mechanism - at risk of delay, water resource plans - good progress, water resource plans NSW - at risk of delay, northern basin initiatives - some progress, planning and delivery of e water - good progress, compliance - good progress Dr Lindsay White, Director, Northern Basin, Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder and Mr Hilary Johnson, Director, Southern Basin, Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder

The Environmental Water Office is looking to engage more with local Councils. Healthy rivers mean healthy communities and healthy industries. In relation to water for the environment, the Department of Agriculture and Water buys the water requirement. The relevant State Governments decide how much the environment receives each year. Critical human needs include the need for the environment and what is needed for production. Environmental water is worth $3.77billion. Water management options include “use it, hold it, or trade it”. There are six local engagement offices. There are environmental success stories such as introducing fish at the local level and reinvigoration of forests at the catchment level. The recent rainfall is very welcome and is highest north of the basin. Runoff from fire affected areas is impacting Murray headwaters water quality. Basin watering priorities are Narran Lakes including maintaining habitat because it is critical water bird habitat. Mr. David Harris, Chief Executive Officer, NSW Water

WaterNSW is the States river system manager and oversees source water protection, bulk water supply, system operation, bulk water infrastructure and customer water transactions. Water NSW controls regulated rivers, and provides infrastructure solutions to optimise water releases. The WaterNSW Twenty Year Infrastructure Options Study - Rural Valleys, identifies infrastructure options and was developed with a customer focus. During drought WaterNSW change the way they do things e.g. Peel pipeline completion reduced from two and half years to nine months. Current water projects include Nyngan and Cobar Water Security, Lachlan Valley Wyangala dam raising, Macquarie Water security –development of the Macquarie Water Grid strategic business case to connect towns and major users and to build drought resilience, Bunerong drought resilience, Wilcannia weir raising, Lake Rowlands to Carcoar business case, and the Glennies to Lostock water security project. The cost to raise the wall of Wyangala Dam is $650million providing 650GL additional storage, Moll River Dam $355million to provide 100GL storage capacity and Dungowan dam $480million to provide 22.5GL storage capacity. There being no further business the meeting closed at 3.00pm.

Country Mayors Association of NEW SOUTH WALES

Chairperson: Cr Katrina Humphries PO Box 420 Moree NSW 2400

02 6757 3222 ABN 92 803 490 533

MINUTES

GENERAL MEETING FRIDAY, 6 MARCH 2020 THEATRETTE, PARLIAMENT HOUSE, SYDNEY The meeting opened at 9.03 a.m. 1. ATTENDANCE:

Armidale Regional Council, Cr Diane Gray Bega Valley Shire Council, Cr Kristy McBain, Mayor Bellingen Shire Council, Cr Dominic King, Mayor Bellingen Shire Council, Ms Liz Jeremy, General Manager Bland Shire Council, Cr Brian Monaghan, Mayor Blayney Shire Council, Cr Scott Ferguson, Mayor Blayney Shire Council, Ms Rebecca Ryan, General Manager Cabonne Shire Council, Cr Kevin Beatty, Mayor Cabonne Shire Council, Cr Jamie Jones Deputy Mayor Clarence Valley Shire Council, Cr Jim Simmons, Mayor Coffs Harbour City Council, Mr Stephen McGrath, General Manager Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council, Cr Abb McAlister Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council, Mr Phil McMurray, General Manager Cowra Shire Council, Cr Bill West, Mayor Cowra Shire Council, Mr Paul Devery, General Manager Dubbo Regional Council, Cr Ben Shields. Mayor Edward River Council, Cr Norm Brennan, Mayor Edward River Council, Mr Adam McSwain, General Manager Forbes Shire Council, Cr Phyllis Miller, Mayor Forbes Shire Council, Cr Jenny Webb, Deputy Mayor Forbes Shire Council, Mr Steve Loane, General Manager Gilgandra Shire Council, Cr Doug Batten, Mayor Glen Innes Shire Council, Cr Carol Sparkes, Mayor Glen Innes Shire Council, Mr Craig Bennett, General Manager Goulburn Mulwaree Council, Mr Warrick Bennett, General Manager Griffith City Council, Mr Brett Stonestreet, General Manager Gunnedah Shire Council, Cr Jamie Chaffey, Mayor Gunnedah Shire Council, Mr Eric Growth, General Manager Gwydir Shire Council, Cr John Coulton, Mayor

Gwydir Shire Council, Mr Max Eastcott, General Manager Hay Shire Council, Cr David Townsend, Deputy Mayor Hay Shire Council, Mr David Webb, General Manager Hilltops Council, Cr Brian Ingram, Mayor Kempsey Shire Council, Cr Liz Campbell, Mayor Kyogle Council, Cr Danielle Mulholland, Mayor Kyogle Council, Mr Graham Kennett, General Manager Leeton Shire Council, Cr Paul Maytom , Mayor Leeton Shire Council, Ms Jackie Kruger, General Manager Lithgow City Council, Cr Ray Thompson, Mayor Lithgow City Council, Cr Steve Ring, Deputy Mayor Moree Plains Shire Council, Cr Katrina Humphries, Mayor Murray River Council, Cr Christopher Bilkey, Mayor Murray River Council, Mr Des Bilske, General Manager Narrabri Shire Council, Cr Catherine Redding, Mayor Narrabri Shire Council, Mr Stewart Todd, General Manager Narrandera Shire Council, Mr George Cowan, General Manager Narromine Shire Council, Cr Craig Davies, Mayor Narromine Shire Council, Ms Jane Redden, General Manager Oberon Council, Cr Kathy Sajowitz, Mayor Oberon Council, Mr Gary Wallace, General Manager Orange City Council, Cr Reg Kidd, Mayor Parkes Shire Council, Cr Ken Keith, Mayor Port Stephens Council, Cr Ryan Palmer, Mayor Port Stephens Council, Mr Wayne Wallis, General Manager Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council, Mr Tim Overall, Mayor Singleton Council, Cr Sue Moore, Mayor Singleton Council, Mr Jason Linnane, General Manager Snowy Monaro Regional Council, Cr Peter Beer, Mayor Snowy Monaro Regional Council, Mr Peter Bascombe, General Manager Snowy Valleys Council, Cr James Hayes, Mayor Temora Shire Council, Mr Gary Lavelle, General Manager Tenterfield Shire Council, Cr Peter Petty, Mayor Uralla Shire Council, Cr Michael Pearce, Mayor Wagga Wagga City Council, Cr Greg Conkey, Mayor Walcha Council, Cr Eric Noakes, Mayor Walcha Council, Ms Anne Modderno, General Manager Warren Shire Council, Cr Milton Quigley, Mayor Warren Shire Council, Mr Glen Wilcox, General Manager Warrumbungle Shire Council, Cr Denis Todd, Mayor Warrumbungle Shire Council, Mr Roger Bailey, General Manager Wentworth Shire Council, Cr Melisa Hendrics, Mayor Wentworth Shire Council,Mr Ken Ross, General manager Yass Valley Council, Cr Rowena Abbey, Mayor LGNSW, Cr Linda Scott, President LGNSW Ms Kylie Yates, Acting CEO

APOLOGIES:

As submitted

SPECIAL GUESTS: Hon Melinda Pavey MP, Minister for Water, Property and Housing

Ms Teresa Corbin, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Communications Consumer

Action Network

Mr Rob Rogers, AFSM, Deputy Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service and Rebel

Talbert, Assistant Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service

Hon Jennifer Gardiner, Chairperson, NSW Local Government Grants Commission

Dr Lindsay White, Director, Northern Basin, Commonwealth Environmental Water

Holder and Mr Hilary Johnson, Director, Southern Basin, Commonwealth

Environmental Water Holder

Ms Susan Madden, Board Member, Murray Darling Basin Authority

Mr David Harris, CEO Water NSW

2. Condolences and Welcome

Cr Humphries expressed condolences on behalf of the Country Mayors Association

to those Councils that were affected by the bush fires and welcomed to the meeting

Mary O’Kane and Dave Cowen from the NSW Independent Bushfire Enquiry

3. ADOPTION OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING: RESOLVED that the minutes of the General Meeting held on 1 November 2019 be accepted as a true and accurate record it being noted that Cr Reg Kidd, Mayor of Orange was in attendance (Kyogle Council / Uralla Shire Council).

4. Hon Melinda Pavey MP, Minister for Water, Property and Housing

Catchments are not filling up yet which will be a challenge. 180 litres per person are being used in Sydney versus 118 litres in Orange. There are restrictions on flood plain harvesting and there are embargos on rivers but some are being lifted with recent rain. 150 regulators are auditing. 244,000 mega litres have passed Walgett. There are concerns by communities regarding the Murray Darling Basin Plan because there has been a lack of communication but the government is trying to connect. Along with the Victorian Government, New South Wales commissioned a review of the constraints of the Murray Darling Basin Authority which found that if the plan continues there is a big chance of failure. Stakeholder consultations are to take place in March and April. However the basin is in a better condition due to the plan. New metres are being rolled out throughout the State to ensure fair allocations

5. Ms Teresa Corbin, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Communications

Consumer Action Network

The Network is working for communication services and takes issues to communication companies. There are 200 members across Australia. Fires have damaged infrastructure which has created challenges. The network has been fighting hard to keep pay phones which proved their worth during the fires. Regional concerns include higher costs, greater dependency on services, unreliable services, and limited mobile coverage. Goals of the network are guaranteed access, equitable voice, expansion of mobile coverage and digital capacity. A Regional Connectivity Program is being introduced and funding is available similar

to the Black Spots Program. The next round of the Black Spots Program is coming up. 5G next generation for mobile phones needs more base stations so will not go everywhere but will deliver data to the areas where it is providing a service. The 4G footprint needs to be the same as 3G before 3G is switched off. Reliability of services in regional areas means NBN and a land line are required in many areas. Digital literacy solving technical problems in regional areas is more difficult.

6. Membership

Resolved That Hay Shire Council be admitted as a member of the Association (Forbes Shire Council/ Kyogle Council)

7. CORRESPONDENCE Inward

(a)Mr John Cleland, Chief Executive Officer, Essential Energy, regarding Disaster Hardship provisions provided to those that have suffered a loss as a result of a natural disaster (b)Hon Matt Kean MP, Minister for Energy and Environment, regarding Disaster Hardship provisions provided to those that have suffered a loss as a result of a natural disaster (c)Mr Gary White, Chief Planner, Planning, Industry and Development, thanking him for his presentation to the 1 November meeting (d)Mr Matt Fuller, Acting Deputy Secretary, Regional and Outer Metropolitan, Transport for NSW, thanking him and Peter Ryan for their presentation to the 1 November meeting (e)Mr Rob Rogers AFSM, Deputy Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service, thanking him and Cory Shalkleton for their presentation to the 1 November meeting (f)Hon Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, requesting information on progress of the Land Negotiation Program concluded in 2017 (g)Hon Matt Kean MP, Minister for Energy and Environment, following up the reply from Andrew Lewis, Executive Director, Energy, Strategy, Planning, Industry and Environment regarding prioritization of electricity grid connections at substations (h)To all members from CR Humphries, Chairperson, CMA, regarding the recent bushfires, requesting information on what assistance CMA may be able to give to affected Council’s

Outward (a)Hon Rob Stokes, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, advising that Regional Crown Lands falls under the responsibility of the Hon Melinda Pavey MP, Minister for Water, Property and Housing and the Associations correspondence has been forwarded to her for attention (b)James Griffin MP, Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment and Veterans regarding hazard reduction and water infrastructure for bush fire management (Copy Attached) (c)Cr Linda Scott, President, Local Government NSW, regarding per capita grants Local Government Financial Assistance Grants Act 1995 (Copy Attached) (d)John Cleland, Chief Executive Officer, Essential Energy, regarding assets located beyond the customer connection point (Copy Attached) NOTED

8. FINANCIAL REPORT

RESOLVED That the financial reports for the last quarter were tabled and accepted (Tenterfield Shire Council / Singleton Council)

9. Mr Rob Rogers AFSM, deputy Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service and Ms

Rebel Talbert, Assistant Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service

In the 2019/20 fire season 21 councils commenced bushfire danger period early.

September 2019 more than 1300 bush and grass fires. October 2019 significant

impact on towns in northern NSW. November 2019 catastrophic fire danger in

many areas with fires in Port Macquarie, Taree and Foster. December 2019 three

firefighters killed. January 2020 fire activity intensifies in southern NSW and C130

crashes killing three American crew. February 2020 widespread heavy rain begins.

During these periods there were more than 200 days of continuous major

operations, over 11500 bush and grass fires, 5.5 million hectares burnt, and more

than 2400 homes destroyed. Challenges of the RFS are paying invoices,

communication risk, NSW RFS website, Fires Near Me NSW, interagency efforts,

interstate and international assistance and aviation support.

10. Hon Jennifer Gardiner, Chairperson, NSW Local Government Grants

Commission

The Grants Commissions recommendations go to the NSW Minister for Local

Government and to the Federal Minister for Regional Services, Decentralisation and

Local Government. The Commission operates under the Local Government

Financial Assistance Act 1995 and the NSW Local Government Act 1993. The

Commonwealth Act provides for two funding pools the General Purpose

Component and the Local Roads Component. The National Principles require an

assessment of Revenue Capacity and Expenditure Needs. They also contain the

key elements of Horizontal Equalisation and Effort Neutrality. The minimum grant

is based on 30% of the General Purpose component pool. All 17 minimum grants

are for metropolitan councils. The Local Roads Component looks at population,

local road length, and bridge length on local roads. 73.9% of NSW FAGS

distribution is to non metropolitan councils. The NSW Grants Commission does

not determine the size of the bucket of money but divides up the bucket in an

equitable and objective manner. The total grant is untied. The isolation allowance

applies to non metropolitan councils and recognizes additional costs for fuel. The

main disability factors are population, no of aboriginals, road length, environment,

rainfall, topography and drainage. The length of funding for future years are

unknown

11. Bush Fire Impact

RESOLVED 1. That the Country Mayors Association acknowledges the financial impact that the 2019/20 bush fires had on a number of councils, but in particular those regional and rural councils impacted in NSW and writes to both the Federal

and State Governments to ask them to immediately review financial assistance grants criteria for the benefit of regional and rural councils 2. That the Country Mayors Association provides its support as a lobbying organisation to any of its member councils initiatives during this recovery phase (Bega Valley Shire Council/Yass valley Council)

12. Waste to Energy

RESOLVED that The Country Mayors Association follow up its letter dated 3 June 2019 to the Minister for Local Government on Waste to Energy (Bellingen Shire Council/Tenterfield Shire Council)

13. Additional Contributions Local Government Superannuation

RESOLVED That Country Mayors write to the Chief Executive and the Board Chair of Local Government Superannuation and appeal to humanitarian and sensitive attitude of this organisation and seek that two year moratorium be placed on these “additional contributions” for the defined benefit plan totalling $40 million to allow NSW Councils to focus on the devastating natural disasters that need to be managed and funded. It needs to be acknowledged that the payment of over 1% of our annual rate income ($40,000,000) to Local Government Superannuation would be better spent on essential recovery focus in our destroyed and homeless communities (Goulburn Mulwaree Council/Yass Valley Council)

14. Letter from GP Synergy Re Contact Persons in Towns for Rural Doctors

RESOLVED That member councils be encouraged to respond to GP Synergy and nominate a suitable staff member to liaise with them (Kyogle Council/Kempsey Shire Council)

15. Inland Rail – Level Crossings and Grade Separation of Highway and regional

Roads

RESOLVED 1. That Country Mayors lobby both the Hon John Barrilaro MP, Deputy

Premier, and Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade and the

Hon Michael McCormack MP, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure,

Transport and Regional Development, to ensure grade separation to all State

Highway crossings intersecting with the Inland Rail is achieved, and

2. A working party be developed with representatives from impacted Councils, in

conjunction with Transport NSW Staff, to progress a standardised approach on all

rail crossings on private property, local, regional and state roads for Inland Rail route.

(Gilgandra Shire Council/Forbes Shire Council)

16. Coronial Inquests

RESOLVED That the Association follow up the Minister for Health and Medical

Research on the matter of Coronial Inquests (Leeton Shire Council/Tenterfield Shire

Council)

17. General Business

(a) an invitation be extended to Minister for Regional Transport and Roads to

present to the 29 May meeting regarding returning regional roads to State care

(b) The Mayor of Yass Cr Rowena Abbey to be given time at the 29 May meeting to

up date Country Mayors on Joint Organisation Chairs meeting

The meeting adjourned at 12.50pm for lunch The meeting resumed at 1.10pm 18. Panel Session Murray Darling Basin Ms Susan Madden, Board Member, Murray Darling Basin Authority The Murray Darling Basin is home to 2.6million, produces $24billion worth of

agriculture and $8billion in tourism. It is the most complex river system in Australia. Inflows to the basin in 1895 was 28,000GL per year fluctuating over the years due to drought and flood. In 2010/11 it was 20,000GL and in 2013/15 it was 10,000GL. The Basin Plan has limits on use, targets for water quality, rules for water trading, water resource planning, environmental water plan, monitoring and evaluation, sustainable diversion limit and water resource plan implementation. Before the Basin Plan 136,236GL was the average amount of water extracted from the basins rivers annually. The new SDL is 10,873GL. Water to be recovered for the environment is 2,700GL. Current issues are water sharing investigation including inflows and supply into the basin, delivery of water, water sharing and potential opportunities for enhancement. Report card water recovery - on track, SDL adjustment mechanism - at risk of delay, water resource plans - good progress, water resource plans NSW - at risk of delay, northern basin initiatives - some progress, planning and delivery of e water - good progress, compliance - good progress

Dr Lindsay White, Director, Northern Basin, Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder and Mr Hilary Johnson, Director, Southern Basin, Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder The Environmental Water Office are looking to engage more with local Councils. Healthy rivers mean healthy communities and healthy industries. With water for the environment the Department of Agriculture and Water buys the water requirement. The State Governments decides how much it gets each year. Critical human needs include the need for the environment and what is needed for production. Environmental water worth $3.77billion. Water management options include use it, hold it, or trade it. There six local engagement offices. There are environmental success stories such as introducing fish at the local level and reinvigoration of forests at the catchment level. The recent rainfall is very welcome and is highest north of the basin. Runoff from the fire affected areas are impacting Murray headwaters water quality. Basin watering priorities are Narran Lakes including maintaining habitat because it is a critical waterbird habitat

Mr David Harris, Chief Executive Officer, NSW Water

Water NSW is the States river system manager and looks after source water protection, bulk water supply, system operation, bulk water infrastructure and customer water transactions. Storage levels are generally low enough for coastal drought response. Water NSW controls regulated rivers, and provides infrastructure solutions to optimize water releases. The 20 year infrastructure

options study ,Rural Valleys, identifies infrastructure options and is customer focused and developed. In drought they change the way they do things eg Peel pipeline reduced from two and half years to nine months to complete. Water projects include Nyngan and Cobar Water Security, Lachlan Valley Wyangala dam raising, Macquarie Water security, Macquarie water grid a strategic business case to connect towns and major users to build drought resilience, Bunerong drought resilience, Wilcannia weir raising, Lake Rowlands to Carcoar business case, and Glennies to Lostock water security project. The cost of Wyangala dam is $650million providing 650GL additional storage, Moll river dam $355million to provide 100GL storage capacity and Dungowan dam $480million to provide 22.5GL storage capacity.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 3.00pm.

Cr Katrina Humphries Chair – Country Mayor’s Association of NSW

10 February 2020

Mrs Katrina Humphries

Chairwoman

Attention Country Mayors’ Association

[email protected]

Dear Katrina

ATTRACTING DOCTORS TO RURAL TOWNS

Further to our conversation last month, I am writing to ask if the Country Mayors’ Association members

could nominate a staff member per town that could be a ‘go to’ person for potential rural doctors to meet

and speak with when visiting rural centres with a view to future work.

GP Synergy is the largest federally funded GP training provider in Australia and is contracted to deliver the

Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) program for whole of NSW and the ACT. As part of my role, I

directly place Rural Generalist registrars with procedural skills such as anaesthesia, obstetrics and

emergency medicine into towns where their skills are needed and can be used. GP Synergy also actively

incentivises our trainees to go rural.

I have found during the seventeen years I have been involved in GP training that registrars who spend time

with locals when visiting potential towns are more likely to move to those towns for their future practice.

Those that do, talk about how they appreciated someone taking the time to meet with them over coffee or a

meal and discuss the opportunities their town could offer. GP Registrars tend to want to know about the

town’s facilities, schools, transport, real estate and recreational opportunities which all factor into their

decision regarding location of future placements.

Could the Country Mayors’ Association please consider providing me with the contact details of a staff

member per town that could meet with potential GP Registrars who wish to visit?

This list would be for our internal use only and not distributed more widely without express permission.

Yours sincerely

Ms Felicity Gemmell-Smith

Special Education Programs Manager

mailto:[email protected]


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11.05 OBERON BUSINESS AND TOURISM ASSOCIATION MEETING 12 FEBRUARY 2020

File No: Economic Development/OBTA Author: Clr Don Capel

Summary

Councillor Don Capel, General Manager Gary Wallace and Business and Tourism Development Officer, Mat Webb attended the General Meeting of the Oberon Business and Tourism Association (OBTA) held at the Oberon Golf Club on February 12, 2020.

Recommendation: That report item 11.05 be received for information.

Comments

The meeting was attended by 22 members. Lexi Kellam addressed the meeting on behalf of the Oberon Garden Club with an update on planning for the Winter Botanica Festival to be held in Oberon in July. Ms Kellam said the budget for the festival is in the vicinity of $10,000 currently being raised by offering sponsorships to local businesses. Ms Kellam asked OBTA for a letter of support to assist grant applications to which the meeting agreed as well as offering sponsorship of $2,000. Minutes of the previous monthly meeting held at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting on November 13, 2019 were accepted. Reports:

President, Justin Enright reported on the association’s finances.

Cr Capel presented a Council Report.

Mat Webb presented a Visitor Information Centre Report. General Business Barry Richard, RFS Chifley Zone Group Captain and founding member of Jenolan Caves Brigade which was formed in 1979 gave a report on the disastrous Christmas / New Year fires and the huge effort made to protect the Caves precinct. Unfortunately, some houses were lost as was the Jenolan RFS shed. The next meeting of OBTA will be held on March 11 at the Morse Group’s office.

Notes:


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12. COMMITTEE REPORTS

12.01 LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

File: Governance/Meetings/Local Emergency Management Committee Author: Rebecca Burgess, Technical Services Administration

Summary

Minutes of the Local Emergency Management Committee Meeting held on 10 February 2020 are submitted for Council’s information.

Recommendation: That the Minutes of the Local Emergency Management Committee Meeting held on 10 February 2020 are received as information.

Comment

FOLLOWING are the Minutes of the Local Emergency Management Committee Meeting held on 10 February 2020.

A summary of the Committee discussions and outcomes is listed below:

REMO Craig Bowra advised that NSW Police have been tasked with recovery following the bushfires. This will be impacted by the findings of the Royal Commission into the fires as well as the Terms of Reference decided on by the Commission for the recovery effort.

Brett Jackson introduced Tim Climo who is the new Duty Commander of the Oberon Fire and Rescue New South Wales. FRNSW have been assisting the RFS with the recent fires. The Jenolan Caves strike force was a success despite the loss of several structures one of which was the Jenolan RFS Shed. Apart from the loss of the RFS equipment in the shed there was also some irreplaceable memorabilia which was lost in the fire. Locally FRNSW have attended four (4) significant house fires.

Ambulance Service of New South Wales advised that they were heavily involved in the response to fires. Brendan Bourne is the interim Station Officer for Oberon.

Corrective Services New South Wales advised that the correctional centre was evacuated for 3 days during the bushfires. The evacuation went to plan with coaches and armed guards escorting the inmates to the Bathurst and Lithgow facilities. The bushfires have affected some of the outdoor activities due to damage to the National Park. There are currently 140 inmates at the Oberon facility.

Local Land Services advised that over the Christmas period a control centre was established for animal evacuation, this has since been stood down however the hotline based in Orange is still operational. 57 animals had to be destroyed and 330 were found deceased due to the fires. These were mainly stock. The LLS have also been providing assistance for burial/disposal of animals. Some further assistance that LLS has given landholders includes 382 properties have been assessed; 305 tonne of emergency fodder and 500kL of water has been distributed. The African Swine Flu has not yet reached Australia however ongoing monitoring is taking place.

The Oberon Hospital has had no presentations of the coronavirus however precautionary measures have been put in place. The hospital is fully staffed and has conducted an internal audit of security.


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Rural Fire Service New South Wales thanked the local community for their generosity during the fires. RFS are due to review the Bushfire Response Plan, a process which should take approx. 18 months.

Oberon Council advised that damage was sustained on the eastern side of the LGA with one bridge destroyed at Kanangra Walls (Boyd River) which will require rebuilding. The Jenolan RFS Shed was hit by a tree in October during a strong wind weather event, and during early January the remaining section was unfortunately destroyed by fire.

The next meeting of the Committee will be held on Monday 11 May 2020, commencing at 1.00pm.

It will be held at the Correctional Centre, Oberon.

Notes:

OBERON LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Page 1 of 3

Minutes of the Oberon Local Emergency Management Committee Meeting held on 10 February 2020

The Meeting was held on Monday 10 February 2020 in the SES Building, off North Street and

Albion Street Oberon. The Meeting commenced at 2.04 pm ATTENDANCE

Name Organisation

Chris Schumacher Oberon Council – Technical Services Director

Craig Bowra New South Wales Police Force - REMO

Rebecca Burgess Oberon Council – Technical Services

Al John from 2.34pm New South Wales Police Force

Andrew Sterling Corrective Services New South Wales

Brett Jackson Fire and Rescue New South Wales

Tim Climo Fire and Rescue New South Wales

Ron Gavin Ambulance Service of New South Wales

Mick Holland Rural Fire Service New South Wales

Alexandra Woods New South Wales Health

Jill O’Grady Local Land Services

1. APOLOGIES

Gary Wallace General Manager, Oberon Council

Keven Verhoeven Fire and Rescue New South Wales

Mark Simpson Local Land Services

Brendan Bourne Ambulance Service of New South Wales


Moved: Jill O’Grady Seconded: Alexandra Woods That the Minutes of the Local Emergency Management Committee meeting held 9 December 2019 be taken as read and confirmed. 3. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING

Nil 4. REMO REPORT TO CENTRAL WEST LEMC’S FEBRUARY 2020

The REMO report of February 2020 has information with regards to the bushfire activities, as well as a coronavirus update. There are some new emergency management courses on offer with further information available at www.emtraining.nsw.gov.au . 5. REPORTS FROM AGENCIES

Fire and Rescue New South Wales – Brett Jackson introduced Tim Climo who is the new Duty Commander. Tim will be attending the LEMC meetings. FRNSW have been assisting the RFS with the recent fires. The Jenolan Caves strike force was a success despite the loss of several structures one of which was the Jenolan RFS Shed. Apart from the loss of the RFS equipment in the shed there was also some irreplaceable memorabilia which was lost in the fire. Locally FRNSW have attended four (4) significant house fires since the last LEMC meeting. Recruitment at the station is ongoing. Tim toured the new Borg expansion which is significant given that Woodchem is a MHF (major hazard facility) due to the hazardous chemicals stored there.

http://www.emtraining.nsw.gov.au/


Page 2 of 3


Ambulance Service of New South Wales – Ron Gavin reports that the ambulance service was heavily involved in the response to fires. Brendan Bourne is the interim Station Officer due to John Kannes leave. Ron reminded the LEMC to be vigilant in receiving information regarding coronavirus and reminded agencies to ask the questions prior to responding to ensure their own safety.

Corrective Services New South Wales – Andrew Sterling reports that the correctional centre was evacuated for 3 days during the bushfires. The evacuation went to plan with coaches and armed guards escorting the inmates to the Bathurst and Lithgow facilities. The bushfires have affected some of the outdoor activities due to damage to the National Park. There are currently 140 inmates at the Oberon facility.

Local Land Services – Jill O’Grady reports that over the Christmas period a control centre was established for animal evacuation, this has since been stood down however the hotline based in Orange is still operational. 57 animals had to be destroyed and 330 were found deceased due to the fires. These were mainly stock. The LLS have also been providing assistance for burial/disposal of animals. Some further assistance that LLS has given landholders includes 382 properties have been assessed; 305 tonne of emergency fodder and 500kL of water has been distributed. The African Swine Flu has not yet reached Australia however ongoing monitoring is taking place.

New South Wales Health – Alexandra Woods acknowledged the efforts of hospital staff who independently undertook in raising funds for bushfire assistance as well as packaging and delivering kits and water to local firefighters. The Oberon Hospital has had no presentations of the coronavirus however precautionary measures have been put in place. The airlock installation will be complete by February 2020. The hospital is fully staffed and has conducted an internal audit of security and Alexandra hopes that NSW Police will also conduct an external audit to complement this.

Oberon Council – Chris Schumacher thanked all the agencies for their courageous effort during what has been a long and exhaustive fire season. Chris noted that communication from Green Wattle Creek Fire (Wollondilly Fire Control Centre) was problematic. The local government area sustained damage to the eastern side of the LGA with one bridge destroyed at Kanangra Walls (Boyd River) and will require rebuilding. The Jenolan RFS Shed was hit by a tree in October during a strong wind weather event, and during early January the remaining section was unfortunately destroyed by fire, Council to arrange a rebuild.

Rural Fire Service New South Wales – Mick Holland thanked the other agencies for their assistance during the fires. Mick explained that he was assigned to the Gospers Mountain Fire and he was not able to contribute to the Green Wattle Creek Fire as it was being handled from the Wollondilly Fire Control Centre. Mick reported that some communication channels were not quite as effective as they could have been. Mick thanked the local community for their generosity during the fires.

Al John arrived to the meeting 2:34pm

New South Wales Police Force – Al John reports that NSW Police had no issues to raise as a result of the fires in the Oberon area. NSW Police supported other agencies and Al commended everyone on a great effort.

6. GENERAL BUSINESS

Craig Bowra advised the Committee that NSW Police have been tasked with recovery following the bushfires. This will be impacted by the findings of the Royal Commission into the fires as well as the Terms of Reference decided on by the Commission for the recovery effort. Mick Holland advised that the RFS are due to review the Bushfire Response Plan, a process which should take approximately 18 months. RFS are waiting on a new template to be issued for this exercise.


Page 3 of 3


7. NEXT MEETING DATE AND MEETING CLOSE.

The next LEMC meeting will be held on 11 May 2020 at 1.00pm at the Correctional Centre, Oberon. The Meeting closed at 2.47 pm.


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12.02 TRAFFIC ADVISORY LOCAL COMMITTEE

File: Governance/Meetings/Traffic Advisory Local Committee Author: Rebecca Burgess, Technical Services Administration

Summary

Minutes of the Traffic Advisory Local Committee Meeting held on 13 February 2020 are submitted for Council’s information.

Recommendation:

That: 1. The Minutes of the Traffic Advisory Local Committee Meeting held on 13 February 2020 are

received as information.

2. The Traffic Advisory Local Committee approves the Spartan Oberon 2020 event in-principle, approval subject to the event organisers supplying a satisfactory TCP and subject to TFNSW providing concurrence.

3. The Traffic Advisory Local Committee approves the Tour De Cure 2020 event in-principle, approval subject to the event organisers supplying a satisfactory TCP and subject to TFNSW providing concurrence.

4. The Traffic Advisory Local Committee approves the Anzac Day March 2020, subject to TFNSW providing a road occupancy licence.

Comment FOLLOWING are the Minutes of the Traffic Advisory Local Committee Meeting held on 13 February 2020. A summary of the Committee discussions and outcomes is listed below:

The Committee reviewed the documentation supplied by the event organisers of Spartan 2020 and made the above recommendation.

The Committee reviewed the documentation supplied by the event organisers of Tour De Cure 2020 and made the above recommendation.

The Committee reviewed the documentation supplied by the event organisers of Anzac Day 2020 and made the above recommendation.

The Committee was advised that the Oberon Bike Race which was to be held in May 2020 will now be delayed, due to a number of factors.

The Committee discussed a development application by the Oberon Pre School and agreed that a “kiss and drop off” zone does not appear to be warranted given the location of the pre-school. If staff and parenting parking becomes an issue Council could consider the installation of timed parking.

The Committee noted that local signage about town is badly faded and difficult to read. Council’s Technical Services Manager to arrange for Council to do a signage audit.

The next Traffic Advisory Local Committee meeting will be held on Thursday 14 May 2020, commencing at 9.30am.

OBERON COUNCIL – TRAFFIC ADVISORY LOCAL COMMITTEE

Page 1 of 4

Page 1 Minutes of the Traffic Local Advisory Committee Meeting held on 13 February 2020

The Meeting was held on Thursday 13 February 2020, in Council Committee Room, 137 Oberon Street, Oberon. The Meeting commenced at 9.33 am. ATTENDANCE

Gary Wallace General Manager, Oberon Council

Peter Morgan Technical Services Manager, Oberon Council

Sgt Colin Sheil NSW Police, Lithgow

Tim Charge Representative for Local Member, The Hon P Toole MP

Councillor Mark Kellam Oberon Council Member - delegate

Councillor Kerry Gibbons Oberon Council Member – delegate

Jackie Barry Transport for New South Wales, Parkes

Rebecca Burgess Technical Services Administration, Oberon Council

1. APOLOGIES

Mayor Kathy Sajowitz Oberon Council Member - Mayor

Chris Schumacher Technical Services Director, Oberon Council

2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST - Nil


Traffic Advisory Local Committee meeting held 3 October 2019. Moved: Jackie Barry Second: Tim Charge That the Minutes of the Traffic Advisory Local Committee meeting held 3 October 2019 be taken as read and confirmed. 4. SPARTAN EVENT 7 – 8 MARCH 2020 The Committee reviewed the documentation supplied by the event organisers and noted that there is not a traffic control plan (TCP) supplied showing the plan for entry and egress off Abercrombie Road. As this event involves Abercrombie Road, which is a regional road, Council must seek concurrence from Transport for NSW (TFNSW) prior to approving the event. Council to write to TFNSW requesting concurrence. Recommendation: The Traffic Advisory Local Committee approves the Spartan Oberon 2020 event in-principle, approval subject to the event organisers supplying a satisfactory TCP and subject to TFNSW providing concurrence.

Moved: Sgt Colin Sheil Second: Mark Kellam 5. TOUR DE CURE 8 – 9 MARCH 2020

The Committee reviewed the documentation supplied by the event organisers and noted that although there is a detailed written outline of times and roads, there is not a traffic control plan (TCP) supplied diagrammatically showing the layout with support vehicles and the signage which will be displayed.


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As this event involves O’Connell Road, which is a state road, Council must seek concurrence from Transport for NSW (TFNSW) prior to approving the event. Council to write to TFNSW requesting concurrence. Recommendation:

The Traffic Advisory Local Committee approves the Tour De Cure 2020 event in-principle, approval subject to the event organisers supplying a satisfactory TCP and subject to TFNSW providing concurrence. Moved: Kerry Gibbons Second: Tim Charge 6. DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION PRE SCHOOL CORNER OF NORTH AND KING STREETS

The Committee reviewed the submitted documentation. As this is not within the scope of the Committee the Committee cannot make a recommendation, only a comment. Therefore, item moved to General Business for discussion. 7. ANZAC DAY 2020

The Committee reviewed the documentation supplied by the event organisers. The TCP is unchanged from last year and has been updated, and the Road Occupancy Licence from TFNSW has been applied for by Council on behalf of the event organisers. Sgt Colin Sheil noted that golf buggies will be used to allow older veterans to participate in the march. As golf buggies are unregistered vehicles they may be used only on the closed road, must be transported to and from the event and are not covered if used on a public road that is not closed. Recommendation:

The Traffic Advisory Local Committee approves the Anzac Day March 2020, subject to TFNSW providing a road occupancy licence. Moved: Sgt Colin Sheil Second: Kerry Gibbons


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8. ACTION ITEMS PROGRESS

The Committee noted the progress of the action items listed:

TALC 3 October 2019 Item Action

Oberon Bicycle Road Race Contact the Oberon Pistol Club in relation to the query raised in their submission relating to road signage. Chris Schumacher – Correct Signage is in place

Hassall Park improvements by the O’Connell Valley Community Association

Details to be forwarded to Jackie Barry at Transport for NSW. Shane Wilson

O’Connell Road corrugations on the uphill (Oberon bound) lane at The Mount

Council‘s Project Engineer to ensure appropriate signage is in place. Chris Schumacher - Council’s Project Engineer has raised this issue with Transport for NSW who advise they do not have funding for this rectification work. Signs are in place and monitored by Council, as they are prone to removal and movement.

O’Connell Arboretum Chris Schumacher - Council have written to Transport for NSW advising that it does not object to the arboretum.

9. GENERAL BUSINESS

On behalf of Council’s Tourism and Economic Development Manager Mathew Webb, Gary Wallace advised that the Oberon Bike Race which was to be held in May 2020 will now be delayed, due to a number of factors.

The Committee discussed the development application by the Oberon Pre School and agreed that a “kiss and drop off” zone does not appear to be warranted given that the location is a quiet, wide, bitumen sealed dead-end street and the age of the children attending the pre school means that they would not be dropped off but escorted into the pre school by a parent or guardian. If staff and parenting parking becomes an issue Council could consider the installation of timed parking. Should this be the case the item should come back to TALC as an agenda item for recommendation.

Kerry Gibbons asked if there is any word on the State Roads Review being conducted by TFNSW. Gary Wallace added that he was not clear on the scope and purpose of the review. Mark Kellam added that he believes the review has been driven by the unrateable land issue. The Committee agreed that a Council by Council case by case basis for the review would be most beneficial.

Kerry Gibbons noted the poor condition of “Lonely Corner” (past The Mount as you head to Bathurst form Oberon) as well as the Mayfield intersection. The Committee discussed the black spot funding program and the criteria and Jackie Barry suggested that Peter Stitt of TFNSW is


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the appropriate person to contact in relation to these road maintenance issues. Mark Kellan suggested that it would be beneficial to write to the Federal Member about these issues also.

Tim Charge noted that local signage about town is badly faded and difficult to read. Peter Morgan to arrange for Council to do a signage audit.

10. NEXT MEETING DATE AND MEETING CLOSE

The next Traffic Advisory Local Committee meeting will be held on Thursday 14 May 2020, commencing at 9.30am. The meeting closed at 10.35am.

TALC 13 February 2020

Item Action

Spartan 7-8 March 2020 1. Council to seek concurrence from Transport for NSW.

2. Council to seek from event organizers TMP and distribute this to the TALC and liaise with event organizers with any TALC feedback.

3. Council to inspect the event entry/exit location on Abercrombie Road to ascertain if the sight distance is adequate in this location.

Complete

Tour De Cure 8-9 March 2020 1. Council to seek concurrence from Transport for NSW.

2. Council to seek from event organizers TMP and distribute this to the TALC and liaise with event organizers with any TALC feedback.

Anzac Day 2020 Council to apply for ROL on behalf of event organizers. Complete

Signage Council to audit and update/replace faded signage on local roads.


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12.03 HERITAGE COMMITTEE

File: Governance/Meetings/Heritage Committee Author: Bruce MacDonnell Acting Planning and Development Director

Summary

Minutes of the Heritage Committee held on 24 February 2020 submitted for Council’s information and consideration.

Recommendation:

That: 1. The Minutes of the Heritage Committee held on 24 February 2020 received as information.

2. Council consider providing funding to erect sandstone columns at Stoney Creek Bridge on the

Carlwood Road.

3. Council to send a thankyou letter on behalf of the Heritage Committee to the staff at the Visitors Information Centre for promoting Heritage by running the recent heritage tours.

Comment FOLLOWING is the Minutes of the Heritage Committee held on 24 February 2020. This is a summary of the Committee discussions and outcomes:

The Gingkin papers have now been scanned and a copy will be available at the library as a resource tool.

Council has prioritised the fence and walking track at O’Connell from the Drought Communities project and staffs are currently scoping this project.

Members also highlighted a number of properties to go on the list of proposed Heritage items for our next LEP.

Next meeting of the Heritage Committee will be held on Monday the 25 May 2020.

Notes:

OBERON COUNCIL – HERITAGE COMMITTEE

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Minutes of the Heritage Committee Meeting held on the 24 February 2020

The Meeting on 24 February 2020 was held at the Oberon Council Chambers.

The Meeting commenced at 5.01 pm.

ATTENDANCE

Clr Clive McCarthy - Chair Councillor Representative

Ken Snowden National Trust Representative

Philippa Gemmell-Smith Community member

David Willis Community Member

Susan Willis Community Member

Tina Slattery Community Member

Bob Mills Community Member

Gary Wallace General Manager

Janet Bailey Development Control Administration Officer

APOLOGIES

Graham Williams OTHR

Clr Ian Doney Council Representative

Christopher Aitken Heritage Advisor

Bruce MacDonnell Acting Planning and Development Director

1. APOLOGIES – see Attendance and Apologies list above.

2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST - Nil 3. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MEETING - Nil REPORTS Walking Track O’Connell

Gary advised the Committee Council has resolved to prioritise the extension of the O’Connell Walking Track as one of the $1,000,000 Drought Communities projects to be completed by 31 December 2020. Council Staff are now scoping the project which will include the provision of a post and rail fence construction. Susan Willis stated that on behalf of the O’Connell people that Council be congratulated in trying to get this project completed. Clive mentioned he would like to see the timber post and rail fence replaced by concrete post and rail as it would require less maintenance, however the Committee felt if the traditional timber post and rail fence is too costly than they revert back to a traditional fence of netting and wooden posts. Gary has taken this on board and advised that Council will get quotes on all three. O’Connell Recreational Ground The purchase of the land for the O’Connell Recreation ground will be completed by mid March and funding to develop this project is subject to a grant application.


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TOWN SIGNAGE

Gary explained that the mock designs have been created to provide visuals for the Community to consider and he encourages all community members to make a submission up until the 20 March 2020. Suggestions will be tabled for the April Council meeting. Gingkin Papers

About a quarter of the Gingkin papers have now been scanned and available on USB which will be held at the Library for public viewing only, as we need to abide by Copyright Law. Philippa will discuss these requirements with the Librarian. A copy will also be given to Mr & Mrs Bailey the current owners of the papers and another copy to the Hughes family. GENERAL BUSINESS Real Estate Signs David questioned the number of for sale signs at O’Connell which relate to properties not

necessarily at O’Connell. Gary advised we will contact the Real Estate agents and ask them to be removed. Parking O’Connell David also raised the issue of cars parking on the road reserve at the little bridge near the O’Connell Pub and advised that there is plenty of parking further up the road. There was also some discussion of patrons parking across the footpath at the O’Connell Café. Gary said that they would forward a letter to Transport NSW. Oberon Visitors Centre

Ken mentioned that the Oberon Visitors Centre recently ran a Heritage Tours and the feedback has been excellent. The Centre needs to be sent a letter congratulating them on promoting heritage with our area. Recommendation

That Council on behalf of the Heritage committee thank them for promoting Heritage in their recent Heritage Tours. 81 Dart Street

Bob is going to prepare an article on the history of this building for the Oberon Review. Bob also wanted the following properties put on a Proposed Heritage list for the new LEP.

103 Oberon Street

2 and 4 Oberon Street

44-46 Oberon Street


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Philippa suggested the following:

Essington Park - 580 Sewells Creek Road

Apple grove - 22 Eaton Lane (All ready listed)

Retreat Homestead - 463 Abercrombie Road

Sweet wattle- 59 Langs Road

Mt Erin- 40-42 Oberon (All ready listed)

Bloomfield - 311 Titania Road Oberon Lot 47 (All ready listed) The Committee agreed that at some time in the future we invite property owners of proposed Heritage buildings to a meeting and explain the benefits of having their property listed. Sandy Creek

Clive mentioned there was an old concrete culvert over Sandy Creek on Carlwood Road and he would like to see some sandstone columns erected on either side. Clive presented a drawing to the Committee showing how sandstone columns could be done. The committee would like some funds from Council be put towards this project. Recommendation: Committee recommends to Council to provide funding for the installation of sandstone Columns

on Sandy Creek on the Carlwood Road O’Connell. (Drawing Attached)

BRETT WHITELEY

Gary advised the Committee that the Whiteley family would not give permission for Council to use the sketch of Nestle Brae in our advertising SUMMARY OF ACTIONS

Activity Responsibility

HERITAGE SIGNS

Liaise with Christo Aitken regarding the progress of the Black Springs Sign – Information provided by Christine Healey-ongoing

Janet and Christo

CHIMMNEY STACK BURRAGA

Request Council to place this item on our Heritage List

To Investigate options for access to the Stack

PDD

TIMBER HERITAGE WALK

The Committee source appropriate early working photos of the OTC - ongoing

Heritage Committee


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LEP Update

Committee members to provide names and address of places that have a Historical Building and are not currently listed on our LEP.

All Committee members-

SANDY CREEK

Committee to request Council to Fund the cost of erecting Sandstone columns on either side of the little bridge over Sandy Creek on the Carlwood Road.

PDD

NEXT MEETING DATE AND MEETING CLOSE

The next meeting will be held on Monday 25 May 2020 commencing at 5.00pm.

The Meeting closed at 6.20pm.


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12.04 OBERON STREETSCAPE WORKING PARTY

File: Governance/Meetings/Streetscape Working Party Author: Wallace, General Manager

Summary

Minutes of the Oberon Streetscape Working Party meeting held on 2 March 2020 are submitted for Council’s information.

Recommendation:

That:

1. The Minutes of the Oberon Streetscape Working Party meeting held on 2 March 2020 are received as information.

2. Council endorse the Terms of Reference for the Oberon Streetscape Working Party.

Comment FOLLOWING are the Minutes of the Oberon Streetscape Working Party meeting held on 2 March 2020. Further FOLLOWING is a copy of the draft Terms of Reference prepared for the working party.

A summary of the Committee discussions and outcomes is listed below:

The draft Terms of Reference were endorsed by the Working Party and submitted to Council for consideration.

LED upgrades for Oberon to be carried out in the fourth quarter 20/21.

Discussion was had indicating the need for a matrix that will consist of projects

Street paving options were considered, with quotes for cleaning and restoration being sought.

Discussion was held outlining the vast improvement in Oberon Street from the implementation of the Main Street Plan that was endorsed in 1992.

A Tree Policy being developed in combination with the beautification plan.

Clr Lyon indicated her commitment to undertake an audit of the street trees within Oberon Street.

Retaining Wall along Edith Road below Prince Street is currently being costed. The next meeting of the Committee will be held on Monday 6 April 2020, commencing at 3.00pm.

It will be held at the Correctional Centre, Oberon.

Notes:

OBERON COUNCIL – OBERON STREETSCAPE WORKING PARTY

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Minutes of the Oberon Streetscape Working Party meeting held on 3 February 2020

The Oberon Streets Upgrade & Beautification Working Party meeting was held on 2 March 2020 in the Council Committee Room, 137-139 Oberon St, Oberon. The Meeting commenced at 3:05pm. ATTENDANCE

Gary Wallace General Manager, Oberon Council (Chair)

Chris Schumacher Technical Services Director, Oberon Council

Kathy Sajowitz Mayor, Oberon Council

Brenda Lyon Councillor, Oberon Council

Clive McCarthy Councillor, Oberon Council

Andrew McKibbin Councillor, Oberon Council

Kerry Gibbons Councillor, Oberon Council

Bruce MacDonnell Acting Planning and Development Director

Sharon Swannell Executive Coordinator, Oberon Council

APOLOGIES – Deputy Mayor Mark Kellam; Councillor Mick McKechnie, Peter Morgan Technical Services Manager and Rowan Henderson Maintenance Foreman DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – Nil CONFIRMATION OF TERMS OF REFERENCE All agreed that the amended Terms of Reference as presented are good and recommended they be endorsed by Council. UPDATE OF ACTIONS FROM PREVIOUS MEETING A representative from Essential Energy will be invited to address Council. The documents Essential Energy undertook to provide haven’t arrived as yet, Chris will follow up. Council wishes to establish a firm protocol around liaising with Essential Energy when they carry out upgrade works. LED upgrades for Oberon streets are scheduled for quarter four of the 2020-21 budget period. The budget is $300,000. It is recognised that Council is required to pay for the upgrades and doesn’t own the infrastructure. There are predicted savings from the LED installation and this work could be bought forward as Essential Energy is ahead of the scheduled roll out. The LED lights have sensors that allow for better maintenance planning as there is a warning of lights that are failing. The Mayor asked if there are any issues in the villages where there are insufficient or old poles. Clr McKibbin asked that we identify any priority areas we should be looking at putting underground when Essential Energy is doing this work. Gary advised there will be an audit from energy specialist which may be of benefit and will give the ultimate cost for budget purposes in future. There are no issues in O’Connell. In Black Springs there may be an area around the playground/tennis courts that needs looking at. Clr McCarthy suggested Council should enter into a service agreement with Essential Energy to ensure there is a maximum time limit set for Essential Energy to carry out repairs. If there is an


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issue with the LED lights outside a residence this could cause major issues for residents, it was suggested any issues should be addressed within 48 hr maximum timeframe. Gary commented about environmental offsets, certificates we can purchase are available now. They are encouraging us to enter into this in the next couple of months. STREET PROJECTS The comments from the previous minutes are tying the streets into the town entrance and signage project. We have received a detailed submission from one of our Parks and Gardens staff which looked at entrances in a different way, and suggested we engage Harry Fasher and Stephen Hogan to try to create some type of Oberon branded sculpture of an art work. The cost of this would be in the vicinity of $150,000. It won’t be able to be funded as part of the town signage upgrades but for an entrance for town, however the project has some merit if we could get some kind of grant funding. A report will come back to Council as part of the overall signage project, however it is thought this won’t be able to be catered for in the first instance. Clr Lyon commented if there was a plan outlining the ideas we want to see incorporate it could be staged over time. Planting of trees may be done first so they are growing. Clr McKibbin commented it would be good to get Garry Styles to speak to the Working Party about the pros and cons of the Orange tree planting regime. The trees provide an amazing environment, colour and tourism benefits. Although there is more maintenance you get the benefit too, however we would want to mitigate or prevent any problems that can be foreseen such as where our water mains, powerlines etc. are. Street landscaping work which was suggested by Rowan and Simon at the last meeting is in progress. This includes bringing down the level of hedges in the main street gardens. The Mayor added this will need to fit in with our overall matrix, we as a group need to establish the list of priorities first. Gary provided an update regarding the pavers, the first quote tabled at the last meeting was quite substantial. Staff have found someone else in the region that can do this work and they have assessed the pavers and taken samples to carry out trials to see what effect their system would have on the pavers. The concern they had is around where the pavers are already damaged, they want to test to see if this will it create more damage. The company will provide a quote for the Working Party’s consideration. It was agreed that the pavers are the first priority in the main street. Chris tabled a copy of the Essential Energy Vegetation Management Plan. The document provides guidelines around tree planting distances etc. Chris will follow up a copy of the suggested species for planting they agreed to provide at the last meeting. Clr Lyon commented that the Oberon climate is unique and it is likely that 60% of plants on the list would not survive here anyway. Stratford Trees at O’Connell have a comprehensive list of trees that are more suitable to this climate. Clr Lyon commented that the tree near the newsagency has been trimmed and can now put more energy into the limbs that are alive, it should come back. Chris advised that staff have looked at the tree and it appears that when it was planted the asphalt pavement may not have been excavated properly. Tree roots have grown in a mat searching for moisture. There is no guarantee from our staff that it will survive. If it dies we would need to remove it and then excavate out the site and re-establish a new tree.


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Gary asked is the committee happy with the way the landscaping has been developed over the last 20 years, and happy to develop a matrix around this. There are a number of recommendations such as underground power where available that need to be incorporated. Clr McKibbin commented there has been a major improvement in the main street over the last 30 years but there is work needed for example the hedges are too high. He suggested we leave this part of the Main Street and work on other areas and entrances then as a lower priority come back and look at the main street. The Mayor agreed we should look at entrances first as the signage project is going ahead. The Tree Policy also needs to be developed as a priority, as signage rolls out we should look at the entrances and roundabouts. The Parks and Gardens staff are looking at tidying up the main street gardens in the meantime. Clr Lyon commented it was bought to Council’s notice a few years ago, all work was completed on the original main street plan and it worked well as long as it is maintained. There is colour in the shrubs and the daffodils will give colour in spring, the nandinas give a red colour. Clr Gibbons commented that there have been reports of some residents in smaller cars having issues with vision on the street corners. Cutting hedges a little lower will help and when developing tree policy we need to look at symmetry. The avenue of trees along Duckmaloi Road look great we need to fill the gaps and keep the symmetry going. Clr Gibbons commented he would like to see a sun shade installed over the bench near the Malachi Gilmore Hall. Gary advised Council would need to consider the heritage aspect as it is State Heritage listed. It was agreed that an audit of the LGA is needed to establish what is already planted in the town and also one what powerlines are located on the streets and their position. We then need to assess what space is available for tree plantings. There is a tree species list already developed and available on Council’s website which is a fairly comprehensive list of species suited to the area. For example the initial audit could focus on certain areas suck as from the RSL Club to far end of Carrington Avenue. The width of roadways would also need to be included. Clr Lyon is happy to assist with conducting the initial audit and will bring something back to the next meeting. Clr Gibbons left the meeting at 3.45pm. It was agreed that we need to work in with the town entrances for Duckmaloi, O’Connell, Abercrombie and Edith Road which is what the current signage funding is scoped for. Clr Lyon commented she had envisaged that Council would replace the signs already in place, there is stone work already in place for each of the entrances except for Edith Road, we can look at improving that, as the tree policy we want to start on the main street. Discussion was held in relation to progressing other matters whilst the tree policy is under development. It was agreed that a matrix needs to be established outlining the priority for projects. Once this is completed a budget can be set and we then know how much funding will be allocated for tree planting each year. Gary confirmed the first priority is to do our streetscape plan, there will be other projects that continued along at the same time.


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Clr McCarthy advised he would like to see a few more trees planted out, tidy along Duckmaloi Road and place shrubs along new sports ground. Clr McCarthy also advised that the new light along Albion Street has been placed in the tree. GENERAL BUSINESS Agreed Actions:

Clr Lyon will conduct an audit of the main street

Trees and shrubs policy, a copy of the existing tree species guide will be provided to the Working Party members for information to progress this matter.

Quotes are being obtained for the cleaning of the existing pavers. There is a budget allocation already provided so if the quote is within budget we will go ahead with that project immediately.

A quote will be prepared for a rock wall along Edith Road.

Garry Styles will be invited to attend the next meeting to discuss the Orange tree planting experience.

An appropriate contact person at Essential Energy will be established.

Signage strategy outcomes will be ready for the next meeting, the final designs will be presented to the April Ordinary Meeting.

It was noted that there is a lot of discussion about the Signage Concepts, and a lot of people seem to like Option 4 which is a heritage look with the see through etching. It has the ability to replace the etching with a significant item for each area such as a daffodil, the Burraga Chimney etc. A lot of discussion has also been around the stone surrounds which ties in well with stone work at the Common and Mayfield Garden, most people like the stone and the rusty iron look. There are already some heritage style signs in place in O’Connell which are a good example. Maintenance of signs needs to be kept on the agenda in the future. Clr McCarthy asked Councillors to inspect a residence in Fleming Street opposite the St Josephs School where the kerb and gutter work was carried out last year before the next meeting. The power comes along the centre, the streetlight is not on the pole that is shown on the plan. The powerline to the house is actually underground now. Clr McCarthy suggested the power could come across from Queen Street or Curtis Street and if we installed the conduit Essential Energy might supply the wire, he suggested that Councillors inspect this and then put that to Essential Energy. NEXT MEETING DATE AND MEETING CLOSE The next meeting of the Streetscape Beautification Party will be held on Monday 6 April 2020 commencing at 3pm. The meeting closed at 04.10pm.

OBERON STREETSCAPE WORKING PARTY TERMS OF REFERENCE

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Appointment and delegations The Working Party has been delegated the following powers and responsibilities:

1. To identify improvements and beautification of Oberon Streets. The working party will have the below objectives: Objectives:

a) Draft a Tree Policy for the Oberon township and associated villages.

b) Beautify and upgrade the major streets of Oberon.

c) Enhance the aesthetics of the town entrances including roundabouts.

d) Develop a strategy to place powerlines underground where practical. Note:

I. The Committee DOES NOT have any authority to incur any expenditure on Council’s behalf other than that which is to be met from the Committee’s own funds or from funds voted by Council for that purpose.

II. The Committee is covered by the Council’s Public Liability Insurance for any action taken within the ambit of the authority delegated by Council.

III. Members of the Committee, when carrying out voluntary work, are covered by an accident policy taken out by Council in respect of voluntary workers.

IV. Reports to Council

Membership This Committee consists of General Manager, Technical Services Director and 5 Councillors. Meeting Schedule The committee meets on a quarterly basis, or as needs arise. Endorsement


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13. REPORTS FOR DECISION

13.01 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION 10.2020.11.1 –CONSTRUCTION OF A DWELLING

File No: Property/PO32-32 Author: Health and Building Surveyor, Kerry Davison

Summary

A Development Application has been received for the construction of a dwelling at 32 Jenolan Street, Oberon with particular reference to Part C.5.7 – “Setback from the Street”.

Recommendation

That 1. Council vary Part C.5.7 – “Setback from the Street” of its current DCP 2001 associated to

Development Application 10.2020.11.1 for the construction of a dwelling at Lot 3 in DP 1183701, being known as 32 Jenolan Street, Oberon.

2. A division be called in accordance with Section 375A of the Local Government Act 1993.

Comment

FOLLOWING is a copy of the proposed plans. Development Application 10.2020.11.1 has been received for the construction of a dwelling at 32 Jenolan Street, Oberon within the R1, General Residential Zone. A variation to DCP 2001 is sort in relation to Part C 5.7 Part C.5.7-“Setback from the Street” associated to Residential Development requires: “The setback from a street frontage for a building, which is part of a residential development, will be determined on its merits having regard to:

(a) the provisions of any development control plan applying to the specific location; (b) the position of any existing buildings in the locality; (c) the size and shape of the allotment. (d) the effect on vehicular safety and visibility, particularly on corner sites. (e) the orientation of the allotment and the proposed dwelling with regard to the sun and

prevailing winds. (f) the proposed location of any private open space, courtyard or landscaped areas. (g) the facade of the proposed building or buildings which will face the street and the (h) proposed landscape treatment of that part of the allotment which is visible from the street. (i) the location and treatment of any car parking areas or car parking structures on the site.”

No residential building, dwelling or associated building shall be set within 3 metres of the street. Typically, a minimum 6 metre setback from the street boundary would be acceptable.”

The proposed development is for the erection of a dwelling at 32 Jenolan Street, Oberon. The dwelling is proposed to be setback 5m from the front street boundary and 4.7m from the rear street boundary. The lot is triangular in shape with two street frontages.


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The proposed dwelling will sit forward of the existing neighbouring dwelling by approximately two (2) metres, but as the neighbouring structure is two storey with their garages adjacent to the proposed dwelling it is perceived the impact would be minimal. The 5m front street setback should not detract from the existing pattern of setbacks in the area and would contribute to the general attractiveness of the streetscape. The applicant has indicated the reduced setback has been selected as the size, shape and orientation of the lot does not provide sufficient setback without compromising;

i) the dwelling’s aspect, ii) vehicular and pedestrian safety, or iii) allowing for adequate provision of private open space at the rear of the property.

Neighbour notification has been undertaken to the neighbouring properties. Submissions will close on 18 March 2020. Should any submissions be received resulting from the neighbour notification then a further report will be put to the April Ordinary Council Meeting. It is considered that the variation can be supported in this instance.


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13.02 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION 10.2018.92.1 – NEW DWELLING

File No: PR40-170 Author: Town Planner, Dylan Furnell

Summary A Development Application has been received for a New Dwelling at 170 Arkstone Road Isabella (Lot 100 in DP 1260070). The development site is under the minimum allotment size and as such the applicant is seeking a variation to the minimum allotment size of the RU1 – Primary Production zone under clause 4.6 of the Oberon Local Environmental Plan 2013. The proposed development is located in the RU1 – Primary Production zone and consists of a new dwelling to be situated on Lot 100 in DP 1260070 which is 97 hectares in size. The minimum allotment size within the RU1 – Primary Production zone is 100 hectares. The dwelling is situated 157 metres from the closest boundary and complies with all relevant clauses of the Oberon Development Control Plan 2001. The closest existing dwelling to the proposed dwelling site is over 1 kilometre away. The proposed dwelling gains access through a right of access benefitting lot 100 in DP 1260070 and burdening lot B in DP 432301. The application was notified for a period of approximately two (2) weeks to neighbouring properties. The application has subsequently received zero (0) submissions from the public.

Recommendation:

That 1. Council vary the minimum allotment size of the RU1 – Primary Production Zone by 3 percent,

at lot 100 in DP 1260070 to allow a dwelling to be permissible on 97 hectares, consistent with clause 4.6 of the Oberon Local Environmental Plan 2013.

2. Council approve Development Application 10.2018.92.1 for a new dwelling at Lot 100 in DP 1260070, being known as 170 Arkstone Road ISABELLA in accordance with Section 4.16 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and conditions contained within this

report, for the following reasons:

The development is consistent with the Oberon Local Environmental Plan 2013 if a variation to the minimum allotment size within the 10% threshold prescribed by clause 4.6 has been approved by Council.

The development is consistent with all relevant controls of the Oberon Development Control Plan 2001.

Overall the impact of the new dwelling is negligible on the subject land and the locality.

3. A division be called in accordance with Section 375A of the Local Government Act 1993

Comment

The plans relevant to this application FOLLOW. 1. PROPOSAL

The development consists of a dwelling and associated on site waste water system at 170 Arkstone Road ISABELLA (Lot 100 in DP 1260070, was Lot 27 in DP 753035). The dwelling features 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 ensuite and 1 laundry. The development features a two tiered foundation but is not two storeys.


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2. SUMMARY

The development of a new dwelling on the 97 hectare allotment will be permissible on the land should Council approve the variation to the Oberon Local Environmental Plan 2013. The impact of the dwelling on the locality is negligible and the 3% difference between the minimum allotment size and the subject lot is not likely to increase any negative impacts. The development is compliant with all relevant Oberon Development Plan 2001 controls. Overall the proposal warrants a LEP variation in this instance and subsequent development consent. 3. LOCATION OF THE PROPOSAL The proposal is located at 170 Arkstone Road ISABELLA (Lot 100 in DP 1260070, was Lot 27 in DP 753035). The development is located approximately 157 metres from western boundary and 645 metres from the southern boundary. The effluent disposal location is proposed to be located to the south-west of the dwelling. 4. ZONING

The site is zoned RU1 – Primary Production with surrounding land both RU1 – Primary production and RU3 – Forestry land. 5. PERMISSIBILITY The allotment is currently under 100 hectares in size but over 90 hectares. A 10% variation is allowable at Council discretion under section 4.6 of the LEP at the written request of the applicant. If Council elects to approve the variation, the development of a dwelling on the land known as Lot 100 in DP 1260070 will be permissible. 6. EXISTING CONSENTS THAT RELATE TO THE LAND

No existing consents impacting on the development site. 7. CONNECTION OF SERVICES

On consolidation of lots power will be available to the northern portion of the site. This is however approximately 500m from the site. The dwelling is proposing to use solar power and be self sufficient of the power grid. 8. BUSH FIRE The development is located approximately 70 metres from the nearest bushfire prone vegetation as measured on site. The vegetation is dry sclerophyll forest and the effective slope of the vegetation is 10 degrees. The BAL according to the vegetation type, slope and distance from vegetation is calculated to be BAL 12.5. 9. HERITAGE

No heritage items located nearby or on the site and not within a heritage conservation area. 10. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

No contributions payable for this development. 11. STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING POLICIES

No SEPP’s apply to this development.

12. OBERON LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN 2013

Permissibility

The development is not permissible unless a request to Council to vary the minimum allotment size within the RU1 zone is approved under clause 4.6 of the Oberon Local Environmental Plan 2013. The development site is approximately 97 hectares which is just short of the 100 hectares required.


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Objectives of the Zone

The development meets the objectives of the zone. Whilst the allotment is slightly smaller than the 100 hectares required in the RU1 zone, the dwelling is not considered an overdevelopment of the site. The development will not reduce the potential for agricultural uses on the site.

4.2B – Erection of Dual Occupancies and Dwelling Houses on land in Zone RU1 and Zone R5

The original application had permissibility for a dwelling as an original holding. This would require consolidation of all allotments as the total holding was greater than 100 hectares. The application consolidated two allotments to create a new 97 hectare allotment. There the allotment does not have permissibility without an LEP Variation being sought by the applicant under section 4.6.

4.6 – Exceptions to development standards

1. It is considered unreasonable in regard to cost and effort to enforce the minimum allotment

size in this instance. The development of a dwelling will not burden the locality.

2. A variation of 10 percent is allowable under this clause.

3. A written request has been received by the applicant which states the following reason for

the request: Undertaking a boundary adjustment to gain 3 hectares would be unnecessary

in that there is no impact whatsoever on adjoining properties and would be unreasonable in

regard to cost and time. There are also sufficient planning grounds to support the variation

to the standard.

4. It is considered that in this instance the request has adequately addressed subclause (3)

and the development is consistent with the objectives of the zone.

5. It is not considered that this matter is of state or regional environmental significance and

will not negatively impact on the public.

6. The variation applies to only one lot which is 3% less than the minimum allotment size

which complies with the subclause.

7. A record will be maintained consistent with the subclause.

8. The development does not contravene a complying development standard and is not

connected to BASIX or clause 5.4 of the LEP.

The development is consistent with clause 4.6(6)(b) which requires that the lot will not be less than 90% of the minimum allotment size (90 hectares). The allotment is 97 hectares which is 97% of the minimum allotment size. The 3% reduction from the minimum allotment size is not likely to increase the impact of any dwelling on neighbouring properties and will not allow and increase in dwellings permissible in the locality. It is considered unreasonable and unnecessary in this instance to enforce the development standard as the development of a dwelling will not impact on neighbouring properties.

6.1 – Earthworks

The development does not seek to excavate or fill the land at levels inconsistent with the Exempt and Complying Development Codes.

6.3 – Riparian Land and Watercourses

The development site includes a watercourse to the north. This is not likely to be impacted as it is situated approximately 800 metres from the development site.


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13. OBERON DEVELOPMENT CONTROL PLAN 2001

A.2.1 – General Policy

The development is consistent with the general policy of the Rural Development section of the DCP. The development whilst on an allotment slightly under the 100 hectares required will not unreasonably impact on the land in regard to its agricultural potential. The location of the dwelling will not reduce the useability of the land and will no increase pollution on the land outside of the immediate area of the proposed OSWW. The development of the dwelling will increase the potential for farming on the land by introducing a residence to the site.

A.2.6 – Specific Aspects

a) The development will not unreasonably impact on the prime crop and pasture land.

b) The dwelling will not concentrate non agricultural uses.

c) The dwelling will have adequate water supply and will sufficiently dispose of waste. Access

is legal and practical via a right of access.

d) The development is not likely to exacerbate land degradation.

e) Water tanks are sited appropriately.

f) No buffers apply.

A.3 – Hazards

The risk of flooding at the development site is minimal. The dwelling is not located in close proximity to waterways or in a low area. The risk of fire is considerable and addressed in further detail in this report. It will be conditioned to be compliant with BAL 12.5 conditions.

A.4 – Other Aspects

The development is compliant with setback requirements to the roads.

B.14.12.9 - Buffers

The development complies with the 150 metre setback required on all boundaries and therefore does not require a buffer to be implemented.

F.5.4 – Residential Parking

The development meets the requirements for parking and access.

H.3 – Community Consultation – Development Applications

The development was notified to neighbouring properties due to the lot being slightly under the minimum allotment size. No objections were received during the two weeks notification period.

14. ASSESSMENT

Context and setting The development site is consistent with the majority of allotments in the locality. Allotments in the locality range from under the minimum allotment size to much larger than the minimum allotment size. Whilst the allotment is slightly under the minimum size it is not considered that the dwelling will impact on the locality to a greater degree than if the allotment was 100 hectares. The location of the dwelling on site ensures that vegetation blocks the view of the dwelling when viewed from most areas of neighbouring properties.


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Access, transport and traffic The development site has access via a right of access which has been implemented over lot B in DP 432301. This access connects to Connection Road which is a public road. An all weather driveway is already constructed over this access to the dwelling site. Public domain No impact. Utilities The development will have solar power and access to mains if required. The waste water will be treated and disposed on site, whilst clean water will be captured roof water in rain water tanks. Heritage The development is not within a heritage conservation area or within close proximity to a heritage listed item. Other land resources The development is not likely to impact on other land resources due to the location of the dwelling. Water The development will not impact on watercourses within the nearby locality. The development will utilise rainwater and is generally compliant with the BASIX requirements for water. Soils No impact to soils from the development outside of the immediate development site. Air and microclimate The air and microclimate is not likely to be impacted from the development. Flora and fauna No impact to flora or fauna. No vegetation proposed to be removed. Waste General waste will be removed at the property owners own cost. OSWW to be utilised. Energy The development will use solar power and meets the BASIX requirements for energy. Noise and vibration The development is not likely to produce noise or vibration which is considered excessive or unreasonable. Natural hazards The development has a bushfire hazard. The BAL is calculated at 12.5 and will be conditioned accordingly in any consent. Technological hazards Minimal agricultural hazards which are not likely to unreasonably impact on the dwelling. Safety, security and crime prevention The development is considered appropriate in design in relation to security. Social impacts in the locality The development will have minimal impact socially.


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Economic impact in the locality The development will have minimal impact economically outside of the initial construction. Site design and internal design The dwelling is located appropriately on the land and is design reasonably. Construction Minimal impacts likely to affect construction. Cumulative impacts No cumulative impacts likely. 15. SITE SUITABILITY Does the proposal fit in the locality? The development proposal is consistent with what is found within the existing locality. The development will not be an overdevelopment of the site or the locality. Are the site attributes conducive to development? The site is conducive of the development. 16. SUBMISSIONS

Public submissions The development was notified to surrounding properties for a period of two weeks. The application received no submissions against the proposed dwelling. Submissions from public authorities The development was not referred to any public authorities. 17. PUBLIC INTEREST The proposal is generally considered to be in the public interest. 18. CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATION

The development of a new dwelling on the 97 hectare allotment will be permissible on the land should Council approve the variation to the Oberon Local Environmental Plan 2013. The impact of the dwelling on the locality is negligible and the 3% difference between the minimum allotment size and the subject lot is not likely to increase any negative impacts. The development is compliant with all relevant Oberon Development Plan 2001 controls. Overall the proposal warrants a LEP variation in this instance and subsequent development consent. The following is the reasons for consent.

The development is consistent with the Oberon Local Environmental Plan 2013 and a

variation to the minimum allotment size within the 10% threshold prescribed by clause 4.6

has been approved by Council.

The development is consistent with all relevant controls of the Oberon Development Control

Plan 2001.

Overall the impact of the new dwelling is negligible on the subject land and the locality.


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19. RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS OF CONSENT

CONDITIONS OF CONSENT

1. Approved plans

The development is to be carried out generally in accordance with the approved stamped plans except as otherwise provided by the conditions of this determination.

(Note:- modifications to the approved plans will require the lodgement and consideration by Council of a modification pursuant to Section 96 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act). Reason:- To confirm and clarify the terms of Council’s approval.

2. Submission of a Construction Certificate

Site works are not to commence until such time as Council has received a construction certificate for the proposed works. Council or an Accredited Certifier may issue construction certificates. Note: Only the person who appointed the PCA may be the applicant for the Construction Certificate. Reason:- To comply with the requirements of Section 81A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. 3. Compliance with Planning for Bushfire Protection 2006 and Australian Standard AS3959 The following bush fire protection measures are to be implemented in accordance with Planning for Bushfire Protection and Compliance with the BAL-12.5 as detailed in AS3959-2009. Asset Protection Zone

A 30m Inner Asset Protection Zone is to be provided and maintained. Water and Utilities

The water source shall be made available or located within the inner protection area (IPA) and away from the structure.

A hardened ground surface for truck access is to be supplied up to and within 4 metres for the water source.

A 65mm metal Storz outlet with a gate or ball valve shall be provided.

In recognition that no reticulated water supply exists, a static 20,000 litre water supply shall be provided for fire fighting purposes.

Above ground tanks are manufactured of concrete or metal and raised tanks are to have their stands protected. Plastic tanks shall not be used.

Plan Title Prepared/Drawn by Date/reference

BASIX Certificate Kim Gerrish Building Design Cert No: 1026505S_04 Dated: 12 September 2019

Statement of Environmental Effects

Kim Gerrish Building Design Reference: SOEE001

Plans and Elevations Kim Gerrish Building Design Reference: 19063 Dated: 30 August 2019

Effluent Disposal Investigation Calare Civil Reference: 20161027 Dated: 31 October 2019

Certificate of Accreditation NSW Government Health Issued: 17 April 2018 Cert No: STCW 020

Proposed Plan of Drainage Kim Gerrish Building Design Reference: DD001-002


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The gate or ball valve, pipes and tank penetration are adequate for full 50mm inner diameter water flow through the Storz fitting and are metal.

All associated fittings to the tank shall be non combustible.

Pumps are to be shielded from the direct impacts of bush fire.

An ‘SWS’ marker shall be obtained from the local NSW Rural Fire Service and positioned for ease of identification by brigade personnel and other users of the SWS. In this regard:

Markers must be fixed in a suitable location so as to be highly visible; and

Markers should be positioned adjacent to the most appropriate access for the static water supply.

Gas cylinders kept close to the building shall have release valves directed away from the building. Connection to and from gas cylinders are to be metal. Polymer sheathed flexible gas supply lines to gas meters adjacent to buildings are not to be used.

Access

Property access roads shall comply with section 4.1.3 (2) of ‘Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006’. Design and Construction The building is subject to a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) of BAL-12.5. The building is to be constructed in accordance with BAL-12.5 Construction Standards; Australian Standard 3959-2009, Construction of buildings in bush fire prone areas. Landscaping

Landscaping to the site is to comply with the principles of Appendix 5 of ‘Planning for Bush Fire Protection 2006’. Reason:- To meet the requirements of; section 79BA the Environmental Planning and

Assessment Act 1979, the NSW Rural Fire Service Planning for Bushfire Protection Guidelines and the Oberon Development Plan 2001 in relation to the protection of life and property against the threat of bushfire. PRIOR TO COMMENCEMENT OF WORKS 4. Notice of commencement

At least two (2) days prior to the commencement of building works, the applicant is required to submit to Council the attached “Notice of Commencement of Building or Subdivision Works and Appointment of Principal Certifying Authority”. Reason:- To meet the requirements of Section 6.6 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment

Act 1979. 5. Protection of adjoining areas A temporary hoarding or temporary construction site fence must be erected between the work site and adjoining lands before the works begin and must be kept in place until after the completion of the works if the works: (a) could cause a danger, obstruction or inconvenience to pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or (b) could cause damage to adjoining lands by falling objects, or (c) involve the enclosure of a public place or part of a public place. Reason:- To ensure the public’s safety.

6. Toilet facilities Prior to the commencement of works, temporary toilet facilities shall be provided on site for the use of builders or tradespersons during the construction works.


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Reason:- To ensure adequate standard of amenities are available to workers on site.

7. Builders Waste

All building rubbish, including that which can be wind blown, shall be suitably contained on site, until disposed of at Council’s Solid Waste Disposal Depot. Reason:- To ensure the building site and surroundings are kept in a clean and tidy condition and to

prevent a nuisance to surrounding premises. 8. Run-off and erosion controls

Run-off and erosion controls must be implemented to prevent soil erosion, water pollution or the discharge of loose sediment on the surrounding land by: a) diverting uncontaminated run-off around cleared or disturbed areas, and

b) erecting a silt fence and providing any other necessary sediment control measures that will prevent debris escaping into drainage systems, waterways or adjoining properties, and

c) preventing the tracking of sediment by vehicles onto roads, and

d) stockpiling top soil, excavated materials, construction and landscaping supplies and debris within the lot.

Reason:- To prevent the movement of soil and sediment.

9. Site Identification

A sign is to be erected in a prominent position at the entrance of the work site, stating that unauthorised access is prohibited, and showing the name and contact phone number of the person or company in charge of construction on the site. Reason:- To identify the site and builder, and prevent unauthorised access.

DURING WORKS 10. Hours for construction Construction may only be carried out between 7.00 am and 5.00 pm on Monday to Saturday and no construction is to be carried out at any time on a Sunday or a public holiday. Reason:- To ensure building works do not cause noise nuisance to surrounding premises after hours and on Sundays and public holidays. 11. Compliance with plans Works must be carried out in accordance with the plans and specifications to which the development consent relates. A copy of the approval and plans shall be kept on site at all times. Reason:- To ensure a copy of the approval is available for builders/tradespersons on site. 12. Maintenance of site

1) All materials and equipment must be stored wholly within the work site unless an approval to store them elsewhere is held.

2) Waste materials (including excavation, demolition and construction waste materials) must be managed on the site and then disposed of at a waste management facility.

3) Any run-off and erosion control measures required must be maintained within their operating capacity until the completion of the works to prevent debris escaping from the site into drainage systems, waterways, adjoining properties and roads.

4) During construction: a) all vehicles entering or leaving the site must have their loads covered, and


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b) all vehicles, before leaving the site, must be cleaned of dirt, sand and other materials, to avoid tracking these materials onto public roads.

5) At the completion of the works, the work site must be left clear of waste and debris. Reason:- To ensure that the building site and adjoining public areas are maintained in a clean

condition and do not impact on the amenity of the area. 13. Drainage disposal

All roofed and paved areas are to be drained and the water from those areas and from any other drainage conveyed to Council’s drainage system or alternatively in rural areas, roof water storage tank. Reason:- Because the character of the development is such that storm water run off will be increased and must be safely conveyed to the storm water drainage system. 14. Earthworks, retaining walls and structural support 1) Any earthworks (including any structural support or other related structure for the purposes of

the development): a) must not cause a danger to life or property or damage to any adjoining building or structure

on the lot or to any building or structure on any adjoining lot, and b) must not redirect the flow of any surface or ground water or cause sediment to be

transported onto an adjoining property, and c) that is fill brought to the site—must contain only virgin excavated natural material (VENM)

as defined in Part 3 of Schedule 1 to the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997, and

d) that is excavated soil to be removed from the site—must be disposed of in accordance with any requirements under the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2005.

2) Any excavation must be carried out in accordance with Excavation Work: Code of Practice (ISBN 978-0-642-785442), published in July 2012 by Safe Work Australia.

3) Retaining walls exceeding 600mm in height will require the submission of an engineered footing design.

Reason:- To retain the soil and prevent it from causing structural damage.

15. Compliance with the Requirements of BASIX All building works associated to this development consent must be carried out in accordance with the nominated BASIX commitments. Furthermore in order to determine compliance with the BASIX requirements evidence to the satisfaction of Councils Planning and Development Director is to be submitted and deemed appropriate prior to occupation. Note: the attached BASIX certification form is to be completed and returned to Council with the request to occupy the building. Reason:-To ensure all BASIX commitments are complied 16. Colour scheme

The exterior of the building is to be constructed of non-reflective materials. Reason:-To ensure the external appearance of the development is not obtrusive or offensive and

does not degrade the visual quality of the surrounding area.

https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/#/view/act/1997/156

https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/#/view/act/1997/156

https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/#/view/regulation/2005/497

https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/#/view/regulation/2005/497


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17. Building not to be adapted for another use

The building is to be used for as a private dwelling and is not to be used for tourist accommodation. Reason:- The building has only been approved for this use only.

18. Occupation certificate The applicant is to obtain an Occupation Certificate pursuant to Section 109C of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, from either Council or an accredited certifying authority prior to occupation of the building. Reason:- Because it is in the public interest that an Occupation Certificate be issued prior to

occupation of the building. PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS OF CONSENT

The following conditions are known as “Prescribed Conditions” and are required by the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 to be imposed as part of any development consent whether or not they are relevant to the development approved under this consent. Please do not hesitate to contact staff in Council’s Development Department who will be happy to advise you as to whether or not the conditions are relevant to your consent.

1. All building work must be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the Building Code of Australia (as in force on the date the application for the relevant construction certificate or complying development certificate was made).

Reason:- So that the development complies with the requirements imposed under Clause

98 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

2. In the case of residential building work for which the Home Building Act 1989 requires there to be a contact of insurance in force in accordance with Part 6 of the Act, that such a contract of insurance is in force before any building work authorised to be carried out by the consent commences.


98 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

3. Residential building work within the meaning of the Home Building Act 1989 must not be carried out unless the principal certifying authority for the development to which the work relates (not being the Council) has given the Council written notice of the following information:

in the case of work for which a principal contractor is required to be appointed: (i) the name and licence number of the principal contractor, and (ii) the name of the insurer by which the work is insured under Part 6 of the Act, in the case of work to be done by an owner-builder: (i) the name of the owner-builder, and (ii) if the owner-builder is required to hold an owner-builder permit under that Act, the number of the owner-builder permit. Reason:- So that the development complies with the requirements imposed under Clause

98B of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.


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4. A sign must be erected in a prominent position on any site on which building work, subdivision work or demolition work is being carried out:

showing the name, address and telephone number of the principal certifying authority for the work, and

showing the name of the principal contractor (if any) for any building work and a telephone number on which that person may be contacted outside working hours, and

stating that unauthorised entry to the work site is prohibited.

Any such sign is to be maintained while the building work is being carried out and must be removed when the work has been completed.

Note: This condition does not apply to building work that is carried out inside an existing building that does not affect the external walls of the building.


98A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

5. Any development that involves an excavation that extends below the level of the base of the footings of a building on adjoining land, the person having the benefit of the development consent must, at the person’s own expense:

protect and support the adjoining premises from possible damage from the excavation, and

where necessary, underpin the adjoining premises to prevent any such damage.

NOTE: The condition referred to in sub clause (1) does not apply if the person having the benefit of the development consent owns the adjoining land or the owner of the adjoining land has given consent in writing to that condition not applying. Reason:- So that the development complies with the requirements imposed under Clause

98E of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000. ADVISORY NOTES Roof and Frame The roof and frame of the structure are to comply with a ground snow load of 1.90 kPa.

Notes:


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13.03 WATER USAGE – DROUGHT ASSISTANCE

File No: Water Supply/Monitoring/Water Standpipe Author: Gary Wallace, General Manager

Summary

This report outlines the take up of drought assistance (water usage) for the period 9 November 2019 to 6 March 2020 and provides a summary of the drought assistance provided to the Oberon community since its introduction on 16 May 2018.

Recommendation:

That: 1. Council note the continued take up of the drought assistance (water usage) program and

extend the assistance to rural and non residential ratepayers through potable drinking water, for use only within the Oberon Local Government area,

2. Given the current continued decline in the Oberon Water Supply and impending Level 3 restrictions the rate for access to non residential users to be aligned with current rates for residential users currently being $2.97/kl.

3. Should the water supply levels reach Level 4 restrictions Council further consider its position.

Comment

Council has previously resolved to assist the rural and non residential ratepayers through potable drinking water, for use only within the Oberon Local Government Area. At its February 2020 Ordinary Council Meeting Council resolved to extend this subsidy for a further three months. Under normal seasonal conditions August to December have the highest estimated daily pasture growth rates on the Central Tablelands. Oberon continues to receive well below average rainfall. Higher than normal rainfall is needed now to replenish subsoil moisture profiles to support pasture growth and replenish dams. To accommodate this concern Council continues to assist by reducing the cost of potable water to the rural and non residential users subject to monthly tracking. Below is a table of usage from residents in the Oberon LGA from 8 February 2020 to 7 March 2020.

Date Amount (Litres)

Purpose (Domestic/Stock)

Cost to Consumer

($) 0.67c/1000

L

Normal Residential

Rate ($) $2.97/1000 L

Normal Standpipe Purchase

Rate ($) $5.80/1000 L

11/02/2020 18,000 Domestic 12.06 53.46 104.40

17/02/2020 100,000 Domestic 67.00 297.00 580.00

18/02/2020 10,000 Domestic 6.70 29.70 58.00

18/02/2020 90,000 Domestic 60.30 267.30 522.00

18/02/2020 50,000 Domestic 33.50 148.50 290.00

25/02/2020 21,000 Domestic 14.07 62.37 121.80

25/02/2020 25,000 Livestock 16.75 74.25 145.00


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Date Amount (Litres)

Purpose (Domestic/Stock)

Cost to Consumer

($) 0.67c/1000

L

Normal Residential

Rate ($) $2.97/1000 L

Normal Standpipe Purchase

Rate ($) $5.80/1000 L

28/02/2020 75,000 Domestic 50.25 222.75 435.00

3/03/2020 20,000 Livestock 13.40 59.40 116.00

3/03/2020 50,000 Domestic 33.50 148.50 290.00

Total 459,000 308.00 1,363.00 2,662 00

Since the introduction of the drought water subsidy in May 2018 a total of 11,453,500 litres of water has been purchased. The total spent under the assistance program to date is $7,282.00 from a potential residential water charge of $33,745.00. The total fee that would have been collected under the standard fees and charges for water from the standpipe (being $5.80 per thousand litres) the cost would have been $66,430.00. The total savings to the community since the introduction of this policy is. $59,148.00.

Month Amount Litres

Number of Customers

Cost to Consumer ($)

Normal Residential Rate ($)

Normal Standpipe Purchase Rate ($)

Jun-18 560,000 21 308.00 1,635.20 3,248.00

Jul-18 157,000 6 86.35 458.44 910.60

Aug-18 738,000 24 405.90 2,154.96 4,280.40

Sep-18 50,000 2 27.50 146.00 290.00

Oct-18 147,000 7 80.85 429.24 852.60

Nov-18 206,000 5 113.30 601.52 1,194.80

Dec-18 105,000 3 57.75 306.60 609.00

Jan - Feb 19 171,500 7 94.33 500.78 994.70

Mar-19 299,000 8 164.45 873.08 1,734.20

Apr-19 316,000 10 173.80 922.72 1,832.80

May-19 127,000 5 69.85 370.84 736.60

Jun-19 340,000 10 187.00 992.80 1,972.00

Jul-19 50,500 3 27.78 147.46 292.90

Aug-19 403,000 13 270.01 1,176.76 2,337.40

Sep-19 118,000 7 79.06 344.56 684.40

Oct-19 580,000 21 388.60 1,693.60 3,364.00

Nov-19 1,070,000 33 716.90 3,124.40 6,206.00

Dec & Jan 20 5,556,500 183 3,722.86 16,502.81 32,227.70

Feb-20 459,000 10 308.00 1,363.00 2,662.00

Total 11,453,500 378 7,282.00 33,745.00 66,430.00

As at Tuesday 10 March 2020 the capacity of Lake Oberon was 26.1%. Level 3 water restrictions would be implemented on the residential consumer once the capacity of the supply went under 25%. This restriction applies to the residential user only as there is limited capacity to monitor use in the rural and non residential areas.


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Since the implementation of the assistance the residential consumer has been subsidising this assistance package and with further restrictions imminent it is considered that Council should look to review this current subsidy. As has been mentioned above over 11M/l of water has been distributed to the non residential customer over the past 21 months. Given the restrictions currently in place for the residential customer it is considered that Council should now look to equalise this subsidy. Increasing the access charge at the standpipe, equivalent to that of the residential consumer, would continue to provide a subsidy to the non-residential/rural user whilst also recognising the impacts on that of the existing residential customer, given the increasing decline in supply at Lake Oberon. Staff continue to lobby the State (Water NSW) for the introduction of additional protections for Oberon’s only water supply and will continue to look at opportunities for alternate supplies. However given the current decline it is considered that the recommendations within this report should be considered by Council.

Notes:


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13.04 DROUGHT COMMUNITIES PROGRAMME-EXTENSION PROJECT PRIORITISATION

File No: Governance/Grants Author: Gillian Salmon Grants Coordinator

Summary

At Councils February 2020 Ordinary Meeting, Council prioritised eight projects to be submitted in the application for the $1 000,000 allocated to Oberon from the Drought Communities Programme – Extension Round 2. Council has since been advised that one of the projects, the Smart Water Meters project could be considered ineligible under the DCP guidelines. A total of twelve projects valued at $1,000,000 have now been scoped and costed by Council staff from the priorities Council resolved at the February 2020 Ordinary Meeting. This report seeks Council’s endorsement of the projects detailed in this report to be submitted to the DCP.

Recommendation:

That Council: 1. Endorse and submit the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science the twelve projects

prioritised Council projects in this report to be submitted as one application to the Drought Communities Programme Round 2.

2. Pursue alternate grant opportunities for the implementation of a Smart Water Metering program.

Comment

Immediately following the February 2020 Council meeting, a list of the eight projects prioritised by Council was sent to the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science for assessment of the eligibility of each of the projects. On 04 March 2020 Council was notified by the program delegate AusIndustry that the Smart Water Meter project was not eligible for funding under the DCP guidelines. This project proposed to purchase and install an integrated water metering solution to manage and analyse water supply and consumption and related activities across Council’s treated water network which would include individual water customers and the installation of the metres of private property. AusIndustry argued that the DCP guidelines state in Section 5.2 that eligible activities must directly relate to the project and can include:

repairs, maintenance, upgrading or building new community facilities

repairs, maintenance, upgrades, construction and fit-out of community spaces According to AusIndustry, the emphasis here is clearly on community spaces and facilities. Any activities taking place on private property are deemed to be ineligible under this program. While it can be seen that the Smart Water Meters project has some benefits across the broader community, the primary and direct benefit accrues to individual private landowners concerned.


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Further, the assessment panel had already deemed a similar application from a neighbouring council to be ineligible, setting a precedent for the DCP assessment process. Council staff are of the opinion that the project meets the intent of the program and sent a reply email vigorously defending the Smart Water Meters project eligibility for funding from the DCP and requesting a reconsideration of the projects eligibility. Whilst this project (currently prioritised by Council) was defended by staff AusIndustry was steadfast in their opinion. As a result and considering the outcome of Council’s communications with AusIndustry it is recommended that the Smart Water Project be withdrawn from the application and replaced with approximately $350,000 worth of other projects included in the list of prioritises from the February 2020 meeting. Council staff have now scoped and costed a total of twelve projects that meet the criteria of Section 5.2 of the guidelines. The following table summarises the scope of works and cost estimates of each of these projects. From those projects requiring further consideration the footpath project within O’Connell required Council consideration for fence types along O’Connell Road. Further, Councils Heritage Committee has sought cost estimates for a number of options supporting the need for further consideration. These include:

1. Post and Rail fencing 2. Post and Rail fencing (using a concrete substitute to reduce maintenance) 3. Traditional rural fencing including timber posts, netting and black stays.

The costs of these options range from $17,000 to $34,000. Quotes received for the O’Connell Footpaths project were lower than expected so the total project cost has been revised downwards to $140,000.The cost estimates for the fencing component depends on the style of fencing chosen. The heritage style post and rail fencing options either in hardwood timber or concrete post and rail that looks like timber are the most expensive options at around $ 34,000. A simpler style of post and rail fence with 1 rail and wire would cost about $17,000.The total cost estimate for the project in Table 1 includes the more expensive 3 rail post and rail option. This will need to be resolved by Council. The development of an Adverse Events Plan (AEP) is a mandatory activity and must be included in the list of projects in the application although no funding will be allocated to this project. The AEP will be developed in house by Council staff. This has the ability of allowing additional projects to receive funding. With the priority projects now scoped consideration for the support of the recommendation is requested. Upon endorsement of the priority projects the next step is to lodge the application with the Federal Government and look to undertake the projects accordingly upon approval. All projects are required to be undertaken by 31 December 2020.

Oberon Council Drought Community Progamme Round 2 Projects

Project No Project Name Proponent Project Scope Estimated Cost Comments1 Stage 2 Footpaths and Fencing at O'Connell Oberon Council Construct 525m of crushed garnite footpaths 140,000.00$ Project cost depends on style of fencing

and 200m of fencing at O'Connell. chosen. Ranges from $17K-$34KPedestrian access gate into Rec ground area Estimate allows $100k for footpathsCouncil to provide traffic control and $40 k fencing and gate.

2 Replace Toilets at Black Springs Hall Oberon Council Replace male and female toilets and provide 100,000.00$ Two quotes obtained one accessible toilet at Black Springs Hall

3 Burraga Hall Upgrades Burraga District Community Association Renoval kitchen,make safe timber floor and 85,500.00$ Information provided by BDCAsand entire floor,replace lights fixtures,stabilise water tank, repair damaged iron roofrepair damaged internal ceiling, paint inernal walls

4 Toilet at Oberon Skate Park Oberon Council Install a single accesible toilet cubicle at Oberon 40,000.00$Skate Park

5 Swimming Pool Upgrade Stage 4 Oberon Council and the Y Repurposing of amenities and multi purose room 182,500.00$ Fitout and structure will require engineeringAmenities and Recreation Room and to support a dedicated training / party room reports to outline additional strucutralupgraded pool liners Provide 4 male toilsts ands showers, 4 female toilets requirements however not considered to

and showers one accesible toilet and shower, 2 rinse exceed the project scope projected.showers and continous hot water system.

6 Equestrian Centre Yards and Facilities Upgrade Oberon Pony Club Renew horse yards and expand the number of yards 50,000.00$ Informaton provided by Oberon Pony ClubImprove truck loading rampFormalise a non-horse zone parking area andresealingNew signage

7 Parking Bay at Oberon Skate park Oberon Council Provide a 18 x 5m parking bay off Dudley Street 20,000.00$ Construction will be in accordance withConcrete roll top kerb and gutter around perimeter AS for car park requirements.Bitumen spray sealTop soil and grass seed around edges of car parking bay

8 Infrastructure Upgardes at Oberon Pool Oberon Council and the Y Exhaust fan in kitchen, Air conditioning in Staff Room 82,000.00$ Information provided by the YReplace scum gutters in both pools, shade structure overBBQ area, new PA system. Pool relining for both pools.

9 Boat Ramp extension at Reef Reserve Oberon Council Extend existing concrete boat ramp at Reef Reserve by 40,000.00$ approx 100 m.

10 Rotary Look Out Stage 2 Oberon Rotary Club Construct additional stairs to new viewing platform at 50,000.00$Falls Hill Lookout . Install hand rails on stairs.

11 Shade Shelters over playgound at Black Springs Oberon Council Provide additional shade shelters over existing adventure 80,000.00$and Oberon Common playground at Oberon Common and new playgound at

Black Springs Recreation Reserve12 Addition works at Burraga Dam Burraga Recreation Reserve Committee Fencing , lighting, picnic shelters and seating 40,000.00$ Works from proposed by Burraga community13 Adverse Events Plan Oberon Council Develop Mandatory Adverse Events Plan no cost Plan to be developed by Council staff

Project Contingency and Project Management Approx 10% of total project cost 90,000.00$Total 1,000,000.00$


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14. REPORTS FOR INFORMATION

14.01 MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT – GENERAL MANAGER

File No: Governance/Meetings/Ordinary Author: Gary Wallace, General Manager

Summary

This report item summarises the main activity by the General Manager since the February 2020 Council Meeting. Items include Human Resources, Workplace Health & Safety, Community Activity, Regional Issues, Executive Management Team Meetings and planned activities.

Recommendation:


Commentary

1. PLANNED ACTIVITY FOR MARCH and APRIL SIGNAGE STRATEGY – A report was tabled to the December meeting highlighting the next phase of the signage strategy. Work is continuing in engagement with community groups being undertaken during March. The final options for decision will be tabled at the April Ordinary Meeting after the exhibition period has closed on 20 March 2020. REGIONAL ROADS AND ROAD CLASSIFICATION REVIEW - In February 2019, the NSW Government announced the transfer of up to 15,000 kilometres of regional roads to the State as part of a broader package of support for local councils to better manage and maintain the rural road network. Future Transport 2056 identifies the NSW Road Classification Review (Classification Review) as a key initiative to make adjustments to the classification policy framework and update the road network to align with the ‘Hub and Spoke’ Transport Network Model and the ‘Movement and Place’ Framework. Staff have looked at the Terms of Reference for the review and are of the opinion that they provide a generic scope that will allow ongoing representations for specialist ratings for our local roads that are subject to continual damage by large timber haulage vehicles. LAND PURCHASES & SALES – Council are looking to finalise the purchase of strategically important land that has been earmarked for some time. This land purchase is to be finalised by the end of the week being 13 March 2020. Further, staff are also currently in discussions with potential purchasers of industrial land off Albion Street. INDEPENDENT LIVING UNITS – Work is continuing on the establishment of six new independent living units in Curtis Street. All slabs and retaining walls are in place with the structure commencing in the near future. It is envisaged that the units will be completed in the first quarter of the new financial year. 2. ACTIONING COUNCIL DECISIONS

Following each Council Meeting the General Manager and Directors review the decisions and agree on a priority for actioning these decisions. Each Director has been requested to provide an update in the Monthly Activity Report, as well as reporting on actions to the General Manager.


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Minute Number Summary/Progress

15 August 2017 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

32 150817

Land Sale – Operational Land Abercrombie Road

1. Council determine the sale of 2.1267ha of road reserve fronting 1300 Abercrombie Road, Oberon.

2. Council determine an appropriate price for the sale of the land in accordance with the valuation of OPTEON Group Pty Ltd.

3. The General Manager and Mayor be delegated authority to sign relevant legal documents associated with the transfer of the land.

Action: In Progress

Reported to November Ordinary Meeting.

Contract exchanged and signed, awaiting LPI sign off.

Issues continue to delay the finalisation of this matter. The General Manager is in constant communication with the purchasers who are aware of the issues.

Amended survey plans were required, now received ready for lodgement with LPI for finalisation of the matter.

Plans lodged with LRS, upon registration the matter can be finalised.

Matter ongoing

15 May 2018 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

16 150518

Oberon Bicentennial Tapestries

That Council provide $1,000 from the General Fund to undertake repairs to the Oberon Bicentennial Tapestries. Cleaning and repair currently in progress.

Matter ongoing

31 150518

Purchase of Land O’Connell

1. Council reconsider the delegation granted the General Manager with respect to negotiations related to land purchases for a recreation ground at O'Connell.

2. Necessary funds be sourced from land bank reserves. Contracts for the land have been exchanged awaiting settlement. Finalisation of the exchange will occur in the week ending 13 March 2020. Conditions within the contracts have been met which should finalise the settlement.

Matter ongoing

19 March 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

05 190319

Tree Policy

That Oberon Council develop a tree policy. The policy is being developed as part of the Terms of Reference of the Oberon Streetscape Working Party. Terms of Reference reported to March Council Meeting.

Matter closed


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32 210519

Oberon Sports Complex

That Council together with Borg develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining the obligations of each party in the development of the new Oberon Sports Facility in accordance with the report. Initial meeting held April 2018.

The design and associated documentation completed with community consultation undertaken seeking comments ending 31 January 2019

GM and Mayor meeting with Borg representations on 14 February to discuss submissions and next steps. Nothing further will occur without an additional resolution of Council.

Meeting with State Government allocated $2,000,000 in incubator funds if re-elected. Commitment confirmed after re-election in May.

Council resolved at the May Ordinary Meeting that Council together with Borg develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining the obligations of each party in the development of the new Oberon Sports Facility in accordance with the report.

Draft MOU prepared – further meeting currently being arranged with Borg to progress the matter.

Meeting with Borg held to discuss moving the project forward. Finalised draft MOU. Council to lodge a DA for the proposal in the coming weeks.

Matter ongoing

16 July 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

10 160719

Central Tablelands Alliance Internal Audit Committee

That the General Manager report back quarterly on the progress of rectifying the deficiencies identified in Centium Audit. Quarterly report provided in February Business Paper.

Matter ongoing

17 September 2019

ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

05 170919

Plaques for Living Treasures

That Council explore the feasibility of transposing the “Living Treasures” portraits currently housed at the Robert Hooper Community Centre onto a weatherproof medium for permanent display at the Common and that a report be made to the November Council Meeting for consideration. Quote obtained to be reported back to Common Working Party.

Matter ongoing

15 October 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

10 151019

Conduct of the 2020 Local Government Election

1. Pursuant to S296(2), (3) and (5A) of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) (“the Act”) that an election arrangement be entered into by contract for the Electoral Commissioner to administer all elections of the Oberon Council.

2. Pursuant to S296(2), (3) and (5A) of the Act, as applied and modified by S18, that a council poll arrangement be entered into by contract for the Electoral Commissioner to administer all council polls of the Oberon Council.

3. Pursuant to S296(2), (3) and (5A) of the Act, as applied and modified by S18, that a constitutional referendum arrangement be entered into by contract for the Electoral Commissioner to administer all constitutional referenda of the Oberon Council.


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General Manager and Mayor met with Deputy Premier to discuss concerns around election costs increases. A response has been received advising the costs are provided and work with the EO to reduce the costs. Council has entered into a contract and is actively working with EO to minimise the total cost of holding the election.

Matter closed

11 November 2019

FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING

02 111119

Town Improvement Levy Allocation

That the matter be held over until: a) A trial of 90 days be carried out of CCTV cameras which are planned to be

installed at the Oberon Common.

b) A scope of works be prepared detailing the proposed expenditure of the $85,670 including location of cameras, necessary cabling and justification for what security measures it will bring to the identified areas.

A scope of works is being developed.

Matter ongoing

19 November 2019


22 191119

Road Management Audit, Implementation and Resourcing of Project

1. That Council acknowledge the progress of the Road Management Audit and endorse the further funding allocation outlined in the report sourced from the Road Maintenance Program to undertake the project.

2. That Council endorse the Morrison Low proposal to undertake the Audit.

3. The General Manager draft terms of reference for the steering group for endorsement by Council.

Terms of Reference have been prepared for the Steering Committee which consists of Council staff and Councillors McKibbin, Gibbons and Kellam. The initial meeting confirmed the direction of the audit and Morrison & Low are now undertaking the review. The Steering Committee will be meeting again in early March. The timeline for completion of the project is April 2020. Updated minutes from the March Steering Committee Meeting provided to the March Ordinary Meeting including Terms of Reference and an update on the progress of the audit.

Matter ongoing

24 191119

Urgent Business – Land at O’Connell

That the General Manager be delegated authority to negotiate in accordance with the confidential memo issued by the Mayor dated 19 November 2019. Action undertaken in accordance with direction.

Matter closed

05 171219

Request for Information Forestry Corporation

That Oberon Council write to Forestry Corporation of NSW asking of their intended haul road of the plantation boarded by Abercrombie Road, Mozart Road and Murrays Lane due to the report that Mozart Road is not considered a haul road. Also ask what their intended access to Council Road will be. After verbal communication with Council’s TSD the General Manager provided a written request to Forestry Corporation relating to the matter. No response has been received at this point in time.

Matter ongoing


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07 171219

Central NSW JO Meeting

That the Report from the Board meetings for Centroc and Central NSW Joint Organisation Meeting held 27 November 2019 and the round table discussion with Ministers at Parliament House 28 November held in Canberra be noted and; 1. Councillors and staff be asked to take the tourism data survey for the region;

and

2. Council receive a report on joining the Murray Darling Association.

1. Council staff have been encouraged to take the survey

2. Awaiting report from JO in relation to the benefits of joining the Murray Darling Association.

Matter ongoing

18 February 2020


08 180220

Kerb & Gutter Policy Review

That Council: 1. Approve amended Policy 4105 for public exhibition for a period of 28 days;

2. Endorse the wording within page 53 of the draft policy.

3. Endorse Policy 4105 should no submissions be received during the exhibition period otherwise a further report be tabled at the first available meeting after the exhibition period.

Policy currently on public exhibition.

Matter ongoing

12 180220

Town Signage Concepts

That Council extend the exhibition period for the mock place branding and town signage design concepts to the 20 March 2020. Exhibition period extended and village meetings arranged.

Matter ongoing

13 180220

Drought Communities Program Extension

1. Prioritise projects for assessment by the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science (the administering entity).

Project No. Description Indicative Cost

4 Stage 2 Footpaths and Fencing at O'Connell 184,000

7 Replace Toilets at Black Springs Hall 100,000

8 Burraga Hall Upgrades 80,000

5 Toilet at Oberon Skate Park 40,000

16 Swimming Pool Upgrades - Stage 4 Amenities and Upgrades

177,000

11 Equestrian Centre yards and facilities upgrade 50,000

9 Parking Bay at Oberon Skatepark 22,000

2 Smart Water Metres 714,096

2. Scope the works for priority projects and report back to Council in March the

cost estimates for each prioritised project. Scope of works provided to March Ordinary Meeting for consideration.

Matter closed


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21 180220

Water Usage - Drought Assistance

The General Manager report back to the March Ordinary Meeting about the impact of Level 3 Water Restrictions on the residents across the Oberon Local Government Area. Report provided to the March Ordinary Meeting for consideration.

Matter closed

30 180220

Bushfire Recovery Funding

1. Council note the information provided in the report.

2. Council liaise with the Oberon Business and Tourism Association.

3. Support the tourism revival initiatives proposed for funding highlighted within the report.

4. Support the Community Resilience event initiative as outlined in the report.

5. Council lodge an application under the Regional Tourism Bushfire Recovery Grant Program to develop Outdoor Week into a month long festival.

Application lodged awaiting outcome. Matter ongoing

With respect to outstanding actions from previous Council Meetings the General Manager will review these with the Mayor and the Directors on at least a monthly basis. If any Councillor requires an update on a specific item they should contact the General Manager or the relevant Director, or submit a Councillor Request Form to the Executive Coordinator. 3. WHS/RISK MANAGEMENT

Month: Feb 20

Oberon Council Related Hours

Average employees 83

Total hours worked Outdoor 6993.83

Total Hours worked Indoor 4026.80

Total Hours worked 11020.63

Safety statistics

Incidents/Accidents reported 03 Hazards reported 04

Near Miss 01 Breaches 00

First Aid injuries 03 Medical treatment injuries 02

Lost Time injuries 01 Restricted work injuries 02

Total days ‘lost time’ 01 Total days ‘restricted duties’ 10

Incidents reported to regulator 00 Details: 00

Corrective Action Recommendations

03 (Many more after vehicle audit)

WHS Meetings 02

Workplace inspections 02 Toolbox/Safety meetings

47


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Event Hazard/Risk Management Plan completed

00 Major Plant Daily Inspections

135

Personnel Claims active at 29 Feb 19

03 Chem Application Records

04

Property Claims active 03 Site Inspections 04

Employee Inductions 00 Ergo Assessments 00

K9 Kube fitted to Animal Control Vehicle

Depot Manifest finalised

Outdoor Staff Safety Meeting

Three staff qualified as Parks and Facilities Routine Inspectors

Two staff qualified as Parkes and Facilities Operational and Comprehensive Inspectors/Auditors

Five staff qualified in Confined Spaces

Seven staff qualified in Working at Heights

Eight staff qualified in Traffic Control and Traffic Control Plans

Thirteen staff re-qualified in Traffic Control and Traffic Control Plans

Two staff qualified in Drug and Alcohol Testing

Defibrillators and cabinets purchased for Visitor Information Centre, Community Centre and Library

4. HUMAN RESOURCES

a) EMPLOYEE RECORD

Month Employee Separation

New Employee

P P T Casual Full Time Salary Total

November December January February

2 1 1 0

0 1 1 0

8 8 8 8

10 9 9 9

66 67 67 67

1 1 1 1

83 83 83 83

b) TRAINING

An update on WHS related training undertaken this month is covered in the WHS Coordinator’s report. The majority of employees are up to date with their online training requirements in ELMO. A centralised training and development budget is being prepared for 2020/21, to be managed by HR. c) RECRUITMENT

Interviews are being held in early March for Water & Sewer Operator and for Director Planning & Development. In addition, recruitment is under way for the following positions:

Community Services & Youth Coordinator

Apprentice Mechanic

Survey & Design Engineer

Cadet Engineer

Signs Maintenance & Repair Labourer

d) OTHER HR MATTERS The new online Performance Management system (through ELMO) will be set up and developed over the next few months. A communication plan will then be developed for all staff.


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5. TOURISM & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES

BUSINESS Business Impact Survey

The TEDM team have been rolling out the business impact survey to access the recent impacts of the NSW Bushfire period (Dec 19 – Jan 20). Thirty nine local business responded to the survey, which provides a good insight into the loss of trade encountered during this time. The survey results have been used to update other government agencies of the challenges encountered during this period and utilised in asking for economic recovery assistance. Some of the key figures to date are highlighted below. A summary of the report is attached for reference. Overall

- Sales or trade o 70% responders indicated sales have decreased compared to the same time last

year - Impact

o 46% responders indicated the bushfire period has had a significant impact on the business.

Accommodation Providers

- Loss in Revenue: o $10,001 - $20,000 – 28.57% responders o $20,001 - $50,000 – 28.57% responders

Retail Trade - Sales or trade

o 80% responders indicated sales have decreased compared to the same time last year

EVENTS Spartan Oberon 7 – 8th March

The Tourism and Economic team worked closely with Initiative Events to deliver Oberon’s first hosting of Spartan Race Oberon. Oberon’s hosting of Spartan included two race formats for the Adults - 5km Sprint (20 Obstacles) and 21km Beast (31 Obstacles) and Spartan Kids – 1.8km (12 Obstacles) and 2.8km (18 Obstacles).The participant and spectator numbers are currently being compiled for the final event report, the event was well attended across the weekend. Early indications from local businesses has been positive with accommodation providers and retailers reporting a large bump in bookings and sales across the weekend. The local RFS also benefited from participating in the event with nearly $5,100 raised across the weekend to help with future endeavours and recovery from the recent fires. Field to Forest 2020

The Visitor Centre continues the promotion and sales for the second hosting of the Field to Forest Festival. The festival aims to leverage the interest in foraging to drive PR Coverage, Visitation, and branding. Some of the key initiatives delivered to date include:

Marketing o Creation of festival flyer o Launch of social media campaign o VisitNSW Website loading

Media o Media Kit and Press Release


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MARKETING PR Coverage Secured:

- Prime 7 coverage of Spartan Race Oberon and Field to Forest Festival.

a) Social Media – Facebook

Month Likes Followers Growth (Followers)

People Reached

November 2019 3,245 3,323 1% 39,068

December 2019 3,257 3,338 5% 15,515

January 2020 3,302 3,381 1% 24,011

February 2020 3,330 3,413 1% 54,481

b) Instagram – @visitoberon

Month Followers Posts Growth (Followers)

October 189 6 5%

November 195 8 3%

January 2020 210 2 7%

February 228 2 8%

6. EXECUTIVE SUPPORT

Council Page in the Oberon Review was prepared each week during December and January with advertising and information. Notices included the Mayoral Column, Council Website and Council Facebook Page updated with media releases and relevant articles. “Good News Week” newsletters were issued to Councillors and staff on 7, 14, 21 and 28 February 2020. 7. COMMUNITY ACTIVITY, REGIONAL ISSUES and OTHER MEETINGS

(FEBRUARY and MARCH 2020) The following is a summary of meetings attended by the General Manager. 12 Feb Teleconference with McArthur re Planning and Development Director recruitment

12 Feb Oberon Business and Tourism Association Meeting

12 Feb Teleconference Greater Sydney Regional Recovery Committee General Managers Working Group

13 Feb Traffic Advisory Local Committee Meeting

13 Feb Inspection of Oberon Tip with staff

13 Feb Teleconference Greater Sydney Region Infrastructure, Waste and Environmental Recovery Subcommittee

18 Feb CPD Accreditation Forum

18 Feb Ordinary Council Meeting

19 Feb Teleconference Greater Sydney Regional Recovery Committee Meeting

20 Feb Chris Milne & Shane Fitzsimmons re Community Fitness Centre

20 Feb Shane Fitzsimmons, YMCA Proposal for 2020


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20 Feb Water NSW Macquarie Valley Drought Relief Strategy Meeting

20 Feb Consultative Committee Meeting

24 Feb On site meeting at Recreation Ground Grandstand with Clr McCarthy

24 Feb Heritage Committee Meeting

25 Feb Teleconference Greater Sydney Regional Recovery Committee

25 Feb Quarterly Meeting with General Manager and Councillors

26 Feb Skype Meeting – EPA Bushfire Waste Management at Oberon LGA

26 Feb Teleconference Greater Sydney Regional Recovery Committee General Managers Working Group

27 Feb Central NSW Joint Organisation Board Meeting – Weddin Shire

2 Mar Planning and Development Director Interviews

2 Mar Oberon Streetscape Working Party Meeting

3 Mar Teleconference Greater Sydney Region Recovery Committee Business Tourism & Industry subcommittee meeting

3 Mar Burraga Community Consultation Meeting – LSPS, Village Plans and Signage Concepts

4 Mar Local Government Professionals Preparing Councils General Managers for Elections Workshop

5 Mar Greater Sydney Customer Advisory Group Meeting – Sydney

5 Mar Country Mayors Association Dinner

6 Mar Country Mayors Association Meeting

9 Mar O’Connell Valley Community Group Meeting – consultation for LSPS, Village Plans and Signage Concepts

10 Mar Councillor Tour of Oberon Tarana Heritage Railway precinct

10 Mar Councillor Informal Briefing Session

Notes:


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14.02 MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT – PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

File No: Governance/Meetings/Ordinary Author: Gary Wallace, General Manager

Summary

This report item summarises the main activity in the Planning and Development Department since the February 2020 Council Meeting.

Recommendation:


Commentary

1. PLANNED ACTIVITY FOR MARCH and APRIL

COMPLIANCE – compliance issues in development activity and building control matters are investigated when they arise, however compliance has been high over the past month. STRATEGIC PLANNING – Work on the Local Strategic Planning Statement is detailed within two separate reports, with Department of Planning Industry & Environment providing assistance with resourcing the preparation prior to community consultation in March 2020. It is expected that the consultation will be undertaken in conjunction with Town Signage and Village Plan development. Upon the extension of the exhibition period for the town signage project work is also being undertaken to undertake pre development consultation with Villages in order to start preparing for Village Plans for Burraga, Black Springs and O’Connell. Consultation in Oberon will take the form of a pop-up on 11 March and a meeting at the Robert Hooper Community Centre on 25 March 2020. PROJECTS – The construction of the Indoor Fitness Centre has seen erection of the main building with the external cladding now completed. A Project Manager has been engaged to finalise all trades to complete the project. This is seen as a priority, as the project had halted over the Christmas period due to the engagement of trades requiring coordination and availability of trades during this period. On site meetings will be held in March with plumbing, electrical, mechanical, carpenter and truss contractors to brief them on works and obtain quotes. The covered Grandstand at the Recreation Ground is now complete with additional works now underway to provide guttering to the roof structure. Additional stops and headwalls have been completed. The construction of six Independent Living Units has commenced with slabs and retaining walls now complete. It is anticipated that the units will be completed in July 2020. 2. ACTIONING COUNCIL DECISIONS Following each Council Meeting the General Manager and Directors review the decisions and agree on a priority for actioning these decisions. Each Director has been requested to provide an update in the Monthly Activity Report, as well as reporting on actions to the General Manager.


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Minute Number Action Taken


07 210519

Oberon Dog Off Leash Area

That the matter be deferred pending consideration of alternate locations including the Amphitheatre at the Oberon Dam, Buckley Crescent Park land and the land to the northern side of the entrance to the Oberon Tip and a further report be bought back to Council.

Alternate locations being considered.

Matter ongoing


17 & 18 200819

Stronger Country Communities Fund Round Three

Council select a priority list of projects for submission under the Round Three of the Stronger Country Communities Fund. Council’s priority list is as follows: a) O’Connell Recreation Ground Stage 1,

b) Spartan Support program,

c) Shade Shelter at Black Springs and Oberon Common Playgrounds,

d) Fitness Program for youth at new indoor fitness centre,

e) Community Hub or facilities for youth at the library Grant applications submitted, announcement pending.

Matter ongoing

17 September 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

12 170919

Heritage Committee Meeting

2. A tree planting programme be developed for Warego Lane road reserve at O’Connell.

Matter ongoing

17 December 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

10 171219

Heritage Committee Meeting

1. The Minutes of the Heritage Committee held on 25 November 2019 be received as information.

2. The Committee request Council to consider including the following works when the next drought funding becomes available to:

Construct a gravel footpath from the O’Connell café to the new recreation ground.

Install a post and rail fence around the new recreation ground at O’Connell.

Items to be considered under drought funding.

Matter closed

11 17219

DA 10.2018.61.1 – Release of Positive Covenant

That Council authorise the General Manager to release the positive covenant under Section 88E(7) of the Conveyancing Act 1919, requiring the establishment and maintenance of an


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appropriate vegetation buffer as detailed in DP1063280 burdening Lot 1 DP 866310 and Lot 21 DP1234374. Item completed.

Matter closed

14 171219

Local Strategic Planning Statements (LSPS)

That Council endorse the amended schedule in the delivery of the Local Strategic Planning Statement as detailed within this report. Revised schedule noted

Matter ongoing

18 February 2020 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

09 180220

DA10.2020.7.1 – Carport

Council vary Part C.5.5 – “Building Height Plane” and Part C6.4 – “Carports and Garages” of its current DCP 2001 associated to Development Application 10.2020.7.1 for construction of a carport at Lot 67 in DP 2364 Section B being known as 20 Scotia Avenue, Oberon. Consent issued

Matter closed

10 1802220

DA10.2019.81.1 - Extension to Existing Shed

Council vary clause C.6.4 – Carports and Garages of the Oberon Development Control Plan 2001 associated DA 10.2019.81.1 for a proposed extension to existing shed resulting in over 60m2 in total garage and carport area on Lot 7 in DP 758805, Section 62, 47 Bligh Street OBERON. Consent issued

Matter closed

11 180220

DA10.2019.81.1 – New Shed

Council vary clause C.6.4 – Carports and Garages of the Oberon Development Control Plan 2001 associated DA 10.2019.81.1 for a proposed extension to existing shed resulting in over 60m2 in total garage and carport area on Lot 101 in DP 1040347, 18B Blenheim Avenue OBERON. Consent issued

Matter closed

With respect to outstanding actions from previous Council Meetings the General Manager will review these with the Mayor and the Directors on at least a monthly basis. If any Councillor requires an update on a specific item they should contact the General Manager or the relevant Director, or submit a Councillor Request Form to the Executive Coordinator.

3. PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT MATTERS

DETERMINATIONS – February 2020

10.2011.51.2 11.2011.51.2 19.2011.16.2

Modification to Development Application 10.2011.51.1 Construction Certificate 11.2011.51.1 On Site Waste Water 19.2011.16.1 New Dwelling

116 Gingkin Road EDITH NSW 2787


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Total fees for Applications during February 2020 were $11,193. The year to date income is $94,686 which is 95.6% of the total income ($99,000) estimated. Copies of determinations are available for inspection at Council’s Administration Centre. Applications for the calendar year are being provided in a table form to give an outline of applications being lodged against those of the previous year.

February 2020

02468

1012141618

Jan

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y

Feb

ruar

y

Mar

ch

Ap

ril

May

Jun

e

July

Au

gust

Sep

tem

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Oct

ob

er

No

vem

ber

Dec

emb

er

Nu

mb

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f ap

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atio

ns

Month

Number of Applications Lodged

2020 Applications

2019 Applications

18.2020.1.1 19.2020.4.1

New Dwelling, Shed and On Site Waste Water

30 Bolton Lane O'CONNELL NSW 2795

10.2020.3.1 11.2020.3.1

New Patio 119 Bosworth Falls Road O'CONNELL NSW 2795

10.2019.85.1 19.2019.37.1

New Dwelling and On Site Waste Water

297 Abercrombie Road OBERON NSW 2787

11.2019.21.1 20.2019.16.1

Construction of 6 Units, Retaining Wall and Connection to Sewer

114 Curtis Street OBERON NSW 2787

10.2020.8.1 Demolition of Existing Dwelling 49 Balfour Street OBERON NSW 2787

10.2020.2.1 11.2020.2.1 19.2020.2.1

New Dwelling and On Site Waste Water

2072 Edith Road OBERON NSW 2787

19.2020.6.1 Operate On Site Waste Water 2716 Beaconsfield Road WISEMANS CREEK NSW 2795

10.2019.81.1 11.2019.81.1

Additions to Existing Shed 47 Bligh Street OBERON NSW 2787

10.2019.79.1 11.2019.79.1

New Shed 18B Blenheim Avenue OBERON NSW 2787

18.2020.2.1 New Farm Shed 1212 Abercrombie Road OBERON NSW 2787

10.2019.86.1 Spartan Obstacle Course 463 Abercrombie Road, OBERON NSW 2787


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CERTIFICATES ISSUED

During the Conveyancing process, normally as part of the sale of a property, various Certificates are applied for by Solicitors, Real Estate Agents or by the public. In February 2020 the following Certificates were issued:

CERTIFICATES – February 2020

SECTION 10.7 PLANNING CERTIFICATES Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

28

SECTION 735A CERTIFICATES AS TO NOTICES Local Government Act, 1993.

4

SECTION 121ZP CERTIFICATES AS TO ORDERS Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

5

SECTION 6.26 BUILDING CERTIFICATES Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

0

Certificates for the calendar year are being provided in a table form to give an outline of certificates being lodged against those of the previous year.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

Jan

uar

y

Feb

ruar

y

Mar

ch

Ap

ril

May

Jun

e

July

Au

gust

Sep

tem

ber

Oct

ob

er

No

vem

ber

Dec

emb

er

Certificates for 2020

Sec 6.26

121ZP

735A

Sec 10.7

Total certificates 2019


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OBERON ANIMAL POUND The following are details of activity at the Animal Pound in February 2020.

DOG DECLARATIONS February 2020

Notice of Intention to Declare a Dog Dangerous 0

Notice to Declare a Dog Dangerous 0

Notice of Intention to Declare a Dog Menacing 0

Notice to Declare a Dog Menacing 0

Notice of Intention to Declare a Dog Nuisance 0

Notice to Declare a Dog Nuisance 0

MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS Various inspections, including building inspections, health inspections, environmental inspections and complaints were conducted during February 2020.

TYPE OF INSPECTIONS February 2020

Building Inspections 31

Food Inspections 0

Environmental Inspections (Air, Noise and Water Pollution) 0

Subdivisions Certificate Inspections 0

Complaints (Including Animal Control) 14

Building Maintenance Inspections 0

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

Jan

uar

y

Feb

ruar

y

Mar

ch

Ap

ril

May

Jun

e

July

Au

gust

Sep

tem

ber

Oct

ob

er

No

vem

ber

Dec

emb

er

Nu

mb

er

of

An

imal

s

Month

Number of Cats and Dogs impounded 2020

2020 Carried Over

2020 Dogs

2020 Cats

2019 Cats & Dogs total


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14.03 MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT – TECHNICAL SERVICES

File: Governance/Meetings/Ordinary Author: Chris Schumacher, Technical Services Director

Summary

This report provides a summary of the completed works for February 2020 and proposed works in the Technical Services area for the month of March 2020.

Recommendation:

That report item 14.03 be received as information.

Comment

1. COMPLETED & UPCOMING/PLANNED WORKS

The following capital project works will continue during the month of March 2020. ROADWORKS – Following the recent heavy rainfall on 11 February 2020, several roads throughout the LGA sustained significant water damage. Staff are working on a priority basis to restore roads and unblock drainage culverts and debris build up lodged in drains, piped culverts and bridge structures. A flood damage assessment has been carried out and an application has been made to the Office Emergency Management (OEM) for funding assistance to help restoration of badly damaged roads under the Natural Disaster Fund. Materials are being sought for the reinstallation of traffic calming devices (speed humps) for Curtis Street. The recent kerb and gutter works completed between Raleigh Street & Dudley Streets required removal of the speed humps and work continues to replace the deteriorated devices. Vegetation work to remove the under canopy trees on Hazelgrove, Old Shooters Hill and Arkstone Roads was delayed during February, due to the storm damaged road repairs and priority resourcing. It is now anticipated to commence this work during March into April. Due to the wet weather bitumen resealing delays have occurred. Bitumen Sealing contractor Fulton Hogan have advised they will return during March to complete the road resealing Program on Burraga, Sewell’s Creek, & Gingkin Roads. Following on from the reseal program, line markers will be engaged to replace line marking lost to the bitumen process. Quotation is being sought from providers to assist Council with footpath paving correction works for Oberon Street. Quotes are also being sought for Council consideration with respect of high pressure cleaning options and pavement rejuvenation works. TfNSW has recently sought project interest from Oberon Council in relation to a road upgrade project on the Castlereagh Highway, approx. 3-5km north of the Capertee Village. Should TfNSW approve the work proposal/submission, it is expected that preparation work may commence late March with majority work to follow post Easter break, mid April 2020 and expected for completion by 30/06/2020.


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PARKS AND GARDENS – As a result of the recent rainfall Parks and Gardens staff will continue

vegetation and mowing maintenance works on Oberon and the LGA village areas.

Staff have been requested to give attention to Oberon Street garden beds as they are showing signs of stress due to the ongoing drier then average conditions. A water truck continues to water gardens and village trees across the LGA in an effort to minimise drought effects.

ROAD PATCHING – Following recent wet weather staff will continue with repairs of road pavement across town streets, rural roads and including both the O’Connell & Duckmaloi Roads as a priority. WATER AND SEWER – Staff to commence laying new water main into Links Close during March as per water mains renewal program 2019/20. 2. ACTIONING COUNCIL DECISIONS

The actions resulting from previous Council Meetings to be undertaken by the Technical Services Director are summarised as follows:


15 200218

Dog Rocks Road Compulsory Acquisition of Forestry Corporation NSW Land

1. Council authorise the compulsory acquisition of the land shown within the attached Deposited Plan (DP 1235365) Lot 101 1.055Ha to be purchased and consolidate into the existing Dog Rocks Road as additional Road Reserve.

2. Council authorise an application to be made to the Minister for the Compulsory Acquisition of the land.

3. Council agree to the terms and conditions of the ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ between the Forestry Corporation of New South Wales and Oberon Council dated 23 December 2016.

4. That the General Manager be duly authorised to execute legal documents on Councils behalf for the purchase and transfer of this compulsory land acquisition.

5. Oberon Council pay Forestry Corporation NSW the amount of $2,900.00 for the transfer of land to Oberon Council, in accordance with the licenced valuation completed by Opteon 22 March 2017.

6. That Council puts survey marks on each corner to highlight the concerned area.

The application for Compulsory Acquisition of land is currently with the Minister. Council solicitor is pursuing the matter. The Ministers Office has advised that all current applications are stalled and pending a review of internal policies.

Matter ongoing


15 170718

Oberon Street Upgrade and Beautification Working Party

1. Council Establish a working party consisting of Councillors and Council Staff, to develop ideas for Oberon Streets and make recommendations to Council in regards to the proposed amenity, improvements to the existing area.

2. Upon investigation a report be submitted to Council outlining costs for improvements recommended for further consideration.

Nomination email sent to Councillors 03/10/2019 seeking participants for the Oberon Street Upgrade & Beautification Working Party.


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Meetings have been held 18 December 2019 and 3 February 2020 with Terms of Reference endorsed by the Working Party. See report to March Ordinary Meeting for endorsement of Terms of Reference and Minutes.

Matter closed

20 NOVEMBER 2018 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

13 201118

Future of East Oberon Sewerage Project

1. Until Council received instruction as to the funding allocation for the entire project any decision for the Oberon East Sewerage Project development be deferred.

2. No further expenditure be undertaken on the Oberon East Sewerage Project until a decision is made regarding the project.

3. Council adopt proposed design flow projections for Oberon STP. The population figures for the STP have been forwarded to Western Research Institute (WRI) for collation of a report for Department of Industry Water (DoI Water) Review. WRI Report on population growth and projection (endorsed STP Working Party) has now been furnished to DOI Water at a meeting held 5 December 2019. Installation of sewer monitoring equipment data collection currently being sort in conjunction with HH20.

Matter ongoing

12 MARCH 2019 WORKS COMMITTEE MEETING

07 120913

Smart Water Network Metering

1. The Smart Water Network Metering report be received as information.

2. That Council commence investigation options on the available smart water metering devices and provide a presentation on features and options for upgrading the Oberon water reticulation to smart metering.

Investigation Report has been scoped. Funding will be required to undertake such a project. The scope is ready for any future funding application. A presentation will be provided to Council should funding become available.

Matter ongoing

16 APRIL 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

26 160419

Road Closure – Portions of Edith Road

1. Council approve the revised proposal to close those parts of public road located on Edith Road shown as Lot 1 and Lot 2 (Land) in the Plan for First Title Creation and Road Closing pursuant to section 38A of the Roads Act 1993 (NSW);

2. That upon closure the Land be classified as operational land;

3. That upon closure, Council approve the sale of those parts of public road located on Edith Road shown as Lot 1 and Lot 2 in the Plan for First Title Creation and Road Closing for the agreed sum

4. That all costs associated with the legal, survey and registration of


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the land parcels be borne by the applicant who is the adjoining landowner.

5. That the General Manager be delegated authority to undertake the notification process required under section 38 of the Roads Act 1993 (NSW) and to execute all documents associated with giving

effect to the above resolutions of Council. RMS has objected to the road closure. Council’s Technical Services Director is investigating options to finalise the matter. Further correspondence forwarded to RMS during February escalating the matter and requesting a further review onsite to determine a preferable outcome that will satisfy both parties. Awaiting response.

Matter ongoing

18 June 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

16 180619

Water Treatment Plant – Tender (T2019/3) Fluoridation Plant Room & Hardware Implementation

1. Council nominate the Open Tendering method as prescribed in accordance with Clause 166(a) of the Local Government Regulation 2005 for the construction of a new fluoride plant, hardware and commissioning to Oberon Council township drinking water supply. (T2019/3).

2. At the conclusion of the Tendering period a report will compiled and brought to the next available meeting of Council recommending the successful tenderer and seeking approval to proceed with fluoride augmentation work at the Oberon Water Treatment Plant.

New flow meter installed and information required to inform the Form 1 application has been provided to DoI. Once Public Works receives approval from DoI Water, the final design & tendering brief can be completed to allow commencement of the project. Council received advice at the end of February that the ‘Form 1’ submission to fluoridate Council water system has now been formally approved by the State Government. This now allows the process to move forward with the finalisation of the technical information (specification and design). Councils consultant (Public Works) indicates that the total works shall not exceed the $250,000 limit for tendering, therefore allowing an EOI to be prepared as due process to selecting a suitable contractor for its construction. It is anticipated draft documents will be prepared for review week ending 20 March 2020.

Matter ongoing


33 160719

Road Closure – Parcels on Abercrombie Road

1. Council approve the proposal to close those parts of public road located on Abercrombie Road shown as Lots 4 and 13 in the Plan for First Title Creation and Road Closing pursuant to section 38A of the Roads Act 1993 (NSW); and

2. Upon closure the Land be classified as operational land; and

3. Upon closure, Council approve the sale of those parts of closed public road located on Abercrombie Road shown as Lots 4 and 13, in addition to the sale of Council operational land shown as Lots 5 and 6 in the Plan for First Title Creation and Road Closing pursuant to section 38A of the Roads Act 1993 (NSW) for the agreed sum;


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and

4. Council approve to dedicate as public road those parts of Council operational land located on Abercrombie Road shown as Lots 3 and 11 in the Plan for First Title Creation and Road Closing pursuant to section 38A of the Roads Act 1993 (NSW).

5. Council approve to acquire Lots 1, 2 and 10 as shown in the Plan for First Title Creation and Road Closing pursuant to s177 and 178 of the Roads Act by agreement with the landowners pursuant to s30 of the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991 (NSW).

6. The General Manager or his nominated representative be delegated authority to undertake the notification process required under section 38 of the Roads Act 1993 (NSW) and to execute all documents associated with giving effect to the above resolutions of Council.

Council have received the updated plans and administration sheets from Central West Survey. Once signed and returned these will be lodged at the LRS by Central West Survey on behalf of Council. The final plans will allow Council to progress the notification process for road closing of Lots 4 and 13 in the plan. Plans have been lodged at the LRS for registration which will allow the matter to progress.

Matter ongoing


15 200819

Roadside Vegetation Management Plan

That the final version of the Roadside Vegetation Management Plan be deferred to allow further consultation with Upper Macquarie County Council and others in relation to the effect this plan may have on operations undertaken by Upper Macquarie County Council relating to roadside weed and native vegetation management. Council waiting on response from local weeds authority (UMCC) re: Final draft of the RVMP before consideration by Council for its adoption can occur. Meeting held with General Manager on 12 December. Further discussion within UMCC and partners will be undertaken to seek a regional approach to this issue.

Matter ongoing

23 200819

Chain Of Responsibility Gap Analysis by Consultancy Mass Management

1. Implement the recommendations identified in the Mass Management Report and provide $17,000 from Councils Plant Management Fund to undertake the recommendations.

2. Implement a program to install a GPS system on its heavy vehicle fleet to meet the future needs of heavy vehicle management for trucks 4.5 tonne GVM and greater and that this be funded from Councils Plant Management Fund.

Mass Management have delivered Chain of Responsibility documents and training procedures/policy for Oberon Council staff 27 September


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to 3 October 2019. GPS System review of the Chain of Responsibility Policy has been presented to the Consultative Committee Meeting held 20 Feb. The implementation process is now in progress.

Matter ongoing

15 October 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

29 151019

Land Purchase Request Brien Road, Oberon

That:

1. Council agree to close the 1,944sq/m of surplus road reserve and sell it off to the adjoining property owners of Lot 20 in DP 860460 in accordance with the attached Valuer Generals price guide of $6.41sq/m.

2. The 1,944sq/m shall be consolidated into Lot 20 DP 860460, and shall not be permitted to have any separate building entitlement.

3. The land anomaly located on the north eastern corner of Lot 20 that protrudes into Councils existing road reserve be dedicated to Oberon Council by the owner of Lot 20 in collaboration to the sale of the 1,944sq/m of existing road reserve.

4. All costs associated with survey, Title amendments and legal expenses be at the applicants full cost.

5. That confirmation by way of survey be provided to verify the location of the bore is within the boundary of the land.

Director of Technical Services has advised the applicant of the resolution. The applicant is pursuing estimates of costs and will advise Council if they wish to go ahead. No further correspondence has been received from the applicant in relation to pursuing this matter. It is therefore considered the matter is closed.

Matter closed

11 November 2019 WORKS COMMITTEE MEETING

09 111119

Road Closure Hazelgrove Road

That Council: 1. Endorse the proposal to close the parts of public road located on

Hazelgrove Road shown as Lots 4 and 5 in the Plan of Subdivision and Road Closing pursuant to section 38A of the Roads Act 1993

(NSW).

2. That the General Manager be delegated authority to undertake the notification process.

The notification process is complete and the matter is progressing.

Matter ongoing

19 November 2019 ORDINARY MEETING

12 191119

Fixing Local Roads Program

That Council endorse:

Campbell’s River Road,

Arkstone Road &

Burraga Roads


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as the priority roads for grant funding applications under the Fixing Local Roads Program. ‘Fixing Local Roads’ application submitted 2 December pending assessment outcome.

Matter ongoing

17 December 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

19 171219

Road Asset Maintenance Works

1. Council remove Harvey’s Road from resolution 24 170919 as it is not within the traffic route for the quarry operations.

2. Council endorse the capital work improvements undertaken for road repairs and bitumen spray re-seals for maintenance and repair will be undertaken upon Hargraves Quarry Rd, Old Shooters Hill Rd, Intersection Old Shooters Hill Rd & Edith Rd and Titania Road.

Work/s completed.

Matter closed

20 171219

Sporting Grounds – Water Restrictions

That Council permit the use of its fixed sprinkler systems for the purpose of watering its sporting grounds every second day (2-hours intervals) during the hours 8pm and 7am only. Council’s sporting and recreation grounds are currently being watered in line with the water restrictions policy.

Matter closed

33 171219

Fixing Country Roads – Campbells River Road Deviation

That Council re-submit an application for the Campbell’s River Road Deviation project under Tranche 2 of the Fixing Country Roads should funding be unsuccessful in Tranche 1 as outlined in the report. Application submitted. Council has been advised that the Tranche 1 application for this project was not supported by the Federal Government.

Matter ongoing


33 180220

Asset Management – Transport Infrastructure Revaluation

That Council:

1. Accept the Transport Asset Revaluation quotation from Assetic,

2. Approve a budget adjustment in the third quarter of 2019/20 for $160,000 to allow this work to be undertaken immediately, and

3. Give the General Manager delegation to engage Assetic. Scope of work being refined to carry out condition rating assessment. Works on schedule to be completed for the 2019/20 financial year.

Matter closed

3. WORKS ON LOCAL ROADS, BRIDGES AND PARKS

MAINTENANCE GRADING – Maintenance grading has been completed on Mt Olive, Felled Timber, Carlwood, Chatham Valley, Gingkin, Keith Armstrong, Sheep Station Forest and Cranfield Roads.. ROAD PATCHING – Councils Jet Patcher has been busy repairing potholes on O’Connell, Duckmaloi, Mutton Falls and Burraga Roads. Further patching repairs work has been completed


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on Abercrombie, Arkstone, O’Connell, Duckmaloi, Campbell’s River, Jeremy, Burraga, Mt David, Hazelgrove, Lowes Mt and Rutter’s Ridge Roads together with Albion Street.. ROAD SIGNAGE – signs have been repaired or replaced on O’Connell, Bosworth Falls, Arties, Abercrombie, Lowes Mount, Duckmaloi, Burrows Crossing and Hazelgrove Roads together with Rupert Street and Cantwell Lane, Duckmaloi Road, Burroughs Crossing Road and Hazelgrove Road. DRAINAGE & TREE CLEARING WORK – Drainage and Tree clearing has been completed on Mt Olive, Abercrombie, Beattie, Hazelgrove, Duckmaloi, Dreves, Chain of Ponds, Phil’s Falls, Arties, Burraga, Junction, Bloom Hill, Jerrong and Felled Timber Roads. Additional clearing has occurred within the Oberon Cemetery due to the recent weather conditions. PARKS AND GARDENS – Mowing has been completed on Robinson Park, The Oberon Recreational Ground, The Common, Hassel Park, Oberon Cemetery, Apex Park, Abercrombie Verges, Titania East and Dudley Street verges and Black Springs Recreational Ground. Gutter cleaning in North Street, Scotia Ave and Carrington Street has been completed. WATER AND SEWER – Pump repairs at the WTP were completed during February as a result of aging infrastructure. Water meter repairs and leaking water meter repairs completed in Dillion Street Water Meter readings have been progressing throughout Oberon. Sewer works in Albion Street in preparation of installation of flow monitoring equipment has been implemented. This monitoring work has now commenced. A water meter service in Albion Street and Tasman Street has been repaired as well as a water main in Ross Street. Sewer Chokes in Dart Street, Springfield Street, Hawkes Drive and Taranna Cres have been attended to. 4. WORKS ON TOWN IMPROVEMENTS

OBERON STREET FOOTPATHS – Quotes for cleaning of the Oberon Street footpaths on both the southern and northern sides of the main CBD area and including in front of the RSL Club and toilet amenity blocks. Comparative quotes are currently being sought from qualified paver cleaning/repair businesses to carry out the restoration works. 5. RMCC WORKS FOR TRANSPORT FOR NEW SOUTH WALES (TfNSW)

Bitumen resealing works were completed on various sections to both Duckmaloi Road and O’Connell Road during 18/02/2020 and 19/02/2020. These works are part of continuing maintenance upgrades to State Road infrastructure as directed and approved by TfNSW. Line marking will follow during early March to finalise the new sealing works.

During late February Council staff and including contractor engagement (stabilising equipment) assisted with the completion of 6,400sq/m of ‘Heavy Patching’ repair work on the Duckmaloi Road between the Fish River Bridge & Titania Road intersection at a project cost to TfNSW $285,000. Further heavy patching works was also completed on the approaches to both sides of the second bridge crossing of Fish River Bridge near property ‘River Bend’. Bitumen sealing work was finalised on the 3 & 4 March and now waiting on the completion of line marking reestablishment by contractors.

Routine Road Maintenance Work will continue on both the O’Connell and Duckmaloi Road in accordance with RMCC contract requirements and directive of TfNSW.


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6. ATTENDING EXTERNAL MEETINGS

The Technical Services Director attended the following during February 2020: 03/02/2020 Oberon Street Upgrade & Beautification Working Party 04/02/2020 Chifley Bush Fire Management Committee – Kelso Fire Control Centre 04/02/2020 TfNSW Monthly RMCC Meeting – Routine Maintenance & Projects 11/02/2020 Oberon Common Working Party Meeting 11/02/2020 Information Briefing Meeting 18/02/2020 Ordinary Meeting Council 20/02/2020 WaterNSW Drought relief studies for the Macquarie Valley 20/02/2020 Consultative Committee Meeting

Notes:


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14.04 MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT – CORPORATE SERVICES

File No: Governance/Meetings/Ordinary Author: Lynette Safranek, Corporate Services Director

Summary

This report provides a summary of work within the Corporate Services Department during February 2020, plus planned activities for the upcoming months.

Recommendation:


Comment 1. PLANNED ACTIVITIES FOR MARCH AND APRIL

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MAYORAL LUNCH, SUNDAY 15 MARCH

The Mayor, Kathy Sajowitz, will be holding the Oberon International Women’s Day Mayoral Lunch on Sunday 15 March 2020 at the Robert Hooper Community Centre at 12.30pm. The guest speaker will be Jan Lanser, Oberon 2019 Citizen of the Year. YOUTH WEEK: APRIL 2020

Youth Week events being promoted during April this year include:

How to Adult Workshop on 4-5 April with practice sessions on budgeting (Glen Stewart), prioritising and adding value to employment (Gavin Carnegie), car care and maintenance, bush tucker at Mayfield gardens, and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) at the CTC

Job Ready sessions at the CTC on 17 April

Safe Driver Awareness Course on 18 April. WASTE 2 ART: 6-8 MAY 2020 Waste 2 Art is a community art exhibition and competition open to all local residents who reside in the NetWaste region. It engages the community and showcases creative works made from reused and recyclable waste materials. Oberon Council is hosting the Oberon local Waste 2 Art competition in May, with the winning artworks to be transported to the Regional Exhibition which will be hosted by Coonamble Shire Council. The theme for 2020 is Steel and Aluminum Cans. Waste 2 Art aims to challenge peoples’ perceptions about ‘rubbish’ and to celebrate the reuse and recycling of waste through arts and crafts. Waste 2 Art provides an innovative approach to waste education, invites schools and community groups to take up the challenge and create a new life for materials that would otherwise be thrown into landfill. 2020 dates:

Tuesday 21 April – School Holiday Workshop, Oberon Library

Saturday 18 April - Community Workshop – Colin Fenn

Wednesday 6 May – Judging of art by Sarah Gurich, Director, Bathust Regional Art Gallery; and Christine Galloway, Architectural Ceramicist and Sculptor

Exhibition Dates:

Opening night on Wednesday 6 May from 6.00pm

Exhibition open to public on 7-8 May from 10am-4pm

Exhibition open to public on 9 May from 9am – 1pm


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2. STATUS OF COUNCIL DECISIONS

Following each Council Meeting the General Manager and Directors review the decisions and agree on a priority for actioning these decisions. Each Director has been requested to provide an update in the Monthly Activity Report, as well as reporting on actions to the General Manager.

Minute Number Summary/Progress

9 April 2019 FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING

03 090419 Community Transport Carport

1. Council provide in principle support for LiveBetter Oberon Community Transport to house a bus on the land currently occupied by Oberon Community Transport, at their own cost.

2. Council consult with LiveBetter to provide an appropriate location for the carport for their consideration.

LiveBetter is obtaining quotes for construction of carport to house bus. Matter ongoing

17 September 2019 ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING

14 170919 Black Springs Community Hall Committee

2. Investigate costing and a funding source, including possible grant funding, to purchase 30 new tables and 500 chairs for use across community facilities.

Costing and funding source being investigated. Matter ongoing


04 180220 Oberon Youth Council Meeting

It was noted that the Minutes of the Oberon Youth Council Meeting held on 23 October 2019 require the following amendment: c) Sponsorship of a Local Youth “The Oberon Council Mayor Kathy Sajowitz has requested the Oberon Youth Council to consider assisting Cody Francis.”

OYC considered request and provided Cody Francis with sponsorship. Completed

05 180220 CTA ARIC Meeting

That Council: 1. Receive for information and note the Minutes of the CTA Audit Risk and

Improvement Committee (ARIC) Meeting held on 3 December 2019. 2. Appoint Councillor Kellam to be a voting member on the ARIC

Committee. Note: the content of Oberon Councils submission in relation to the ARIC framework and note that the OLG proposal for ARIC is functionally divisive, expensive and provides no guarantees at all that outcomes will be improved under this approach.

Completed

06 180220 Oberon Community Services Committee Meeting

1. Receive report 12.04 as information. 2. Allocate funding for the Oberon Community Christmas Celebrations

from Council’s community services events budget, instead of Town Improvement, from 2020/21 financial year, allowing greater flexibility for the Committee to spread the celebrations to the local villages within the Oberon LGA in future years.

3. Expand the Community Services Committee Working Party to at least 10 members, with invitations to Oberon Business and Tourism Association, Oberon Christmas Carols Committee, CanAssist, local church representatives, local businesses, and Council staff.

4. Instruct staff to send letters of thanks to the following businesses and community members who provided in-kind support: Oberon Men’s Shed, Spark Electrical, Peter Perrott, Marks Signage, Barkers Butchery, 1327 Media, Oberon Mitre10, Ross Street Saddlery, Oberon


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Craft Centre, Highland Pine, Malcolm Voerman, Warren Gilding, Brett Crichton, Denny Bennett, Oberon Pies & Pastries, and Hills Grammar College on behalf of the Community Services Committee and Council.

5. The Community Services Committee asks Council to accept the nomination for Lin Boswell to become a member of the Committee as the Oberon Rotary representative.

Ongoing

07 180220 Investment Policy Review

1. Approve Investment Policy 2211 in accordance with report 13.01 for public exhibition for a period of 28 days.

2. Endorse Policy 2211 should no submissions be received during the exhibition period otherwise a further report be tabled at the first available meeting after the exhibition period.

On public exhibition – Matter ongoing

32 180220 Water Write Off Fee - 12365584

That the matter be deferred to the March 2020 Ordinary Meeting pending further information.

Report to March meeting – Matter ongoing

34 180220 Legal and Consultancy Fees

Council note that the funding for Crennan Legal in relation to a ratepayer code of conduct complaint be reclassified to an Internal Complaint and further it be noted that the independent investigator has determined that Council has no case to answer in relation to the matter.

Completed

With respect to outstanding actions from previous Council Meetings the General Manager will review these with the Mayor and the Directors on at least a monthly basis. If any Councillor requires an update on a specific item they should contact the General Manager or the relevant Director, or submit a Councillor Request Form to the Executive Coordinator. 3. FINANCE

Debt Collection by Custom Commercial Services

Rates Collections: 83 cases closed $ 519,897.14 Value of debt sent to CCS $ 231,768.88 Value of debt collected by CCS

Council’s current arrears on rates stand at $251,990.11 which is 12.4% of the overall outstanding balance for rates

Water Collections: 50 Cases Closed $88,495.97 Value of debt sent to CCS $45,496.59 Value of debt collected by CCS

Council’s current arrears on water stand at $129,310.33 + Interest of $16,937.74

Council staff are positive with the outcome of the collections. What we have to remember is that whilst we are collecting arrears, balances that are current can become arrears.


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Rate Payments Below are the rates and annual charges received for the period ended 29 February 2020.

Rates and Charges collected by Rating Category February 2019

Rate Category Farmland Residential Rural

Residential Non Urban

Centre Business Total

Brought forward 30/06/18 191,056.07

334,194.01 68,991.25

20,725.79

57,431.50 $672,398.62

Current Levy 18/19 FY 2,179,442.81

2,374,394.44 710,786.26

184,392.03

640,613.95 $6,089,629.49

Payments, Concessions and interest

-$1,649,114.31 -

$1,809,465.94 -

$545,442.63 -

$141,999.83 -$520,391.08

-$4,666,413.79

Rates Balance outstanding

$721,384.57 $899,122.51 $234,334.88 $63,117.99 $177,654.37 $2,095,614.32

% of Rating Category outstanding

34.4% 42.9% 11.2% 3.0% 8.5% 100.0%

Paid February 2020 254,879.78 250,633.73 67,093.94 18,754.43 69,968.47 $661,330.35

Overpayments/Prepayments -$68,232.44

Legal Charges $699.21

Total rates outstanding $2,028,081.09

Total Levy adjustment (95) $0.00

GL Balance as @ 01/03/2019

$2,028,081.09

Rates Certificates Issued

Ageing % $ Value

Urgent 603 1

Previous FY & Prior 12.4% $251,990.11

603's 19

2019-20 Instalment 1 4.6% $92,284.21

Special Water Reads 4

2019-20 Instalment 2 6.1% $123,198.08

2019-20 Instalment 3 21.6% $438,493.66

2019-20 Instalment 4 55.3% $1,122,115.03

TOTAL 100.0% $2,028,081.09

Audit Office Report on Local Government 2019 The Auditor General, Margaret Crawford, presented her third report to the Parliament on the 2019 audits of local government councils in New South Wales. The report notes that unqualified audit opinions were issued on the 2018–19 financial statements of 134 councils and 11 joint organisations. The opinion for one council was disclaimed and three audits were yet to completed at this time of release of this report. The report also highlights pleasing improvement indicators in financial reporting and governance arrangements across councils. Fewer errors were identified. More Councils have audit, risk and improvement committees and internal audit functions. Risk management practices, including fraud control systems, have also improved. A copy of this report can be found at https://www.audit.nsw.gov.au/our-work/reports/report-on-local-government-2019.

https://www.audit.nsw.gov.au/our-work/reports/report-on-local-government-2019

https://www.audit.nsw.gov.au/our-work/reports/report-on-local-government-2019


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2019/20 External Audit The annual engagement plan for the year ending 30 June 2020 has been finalised between Council and the Audit Office. John O’Malley from Intentus will be the Audit Principal for this years external audit. The audit team with examine, update and report on the status of issues raised in last year’s Engagement Closing Report and Management Letters.

General purpose and special purpose financial statements

Audit team attends CTA ARIC Committee meeting to present the AEP 19 March

Audit team emails Engagement Information Request to CFO 26 May

Audit team starts interim audit 9 June

Audit Office issues management letter detailing issues from the

interim audit By end of June

Council gives financial statements and supporting working papers listed in the Engagement Information Request to the audit team for the:

general purpose financial statements

special purpose financial statements 17 August

Audit team starts audit of financial statements 19 August

Audit clearance meeting 21 August

Council approves financial statements for referral to the Audit Office and the Mayor, a Councillor, the General Manager and the Responsible

Accounting Officer sign the statement 15 September

The audit team may suggest the council reapprove the financial statements and re-sign the statement when the final statements differ to those originally presented for audit, or where substantial time

has elapsed 15 September

Audit Office issues Engagement Closing Report 22 September

Council signs and gives Management Representation Letter to

Audit team 24 September

Audit Office issues the Council and the Secretary of the Department

of Planning, Industry and Environment:

Independent Auditor’s Report on the general purpose financial statements

Report on the Conduct of the Audit 25 September

Audit Office issues Independent Auditor’s Report on the special purpose financial statements for the Council’s declared business activities and Special Schedule ‘Permissible income for general rates’

to Council and the Secretary of the Department 25 September

Audit Office reports any identified significant issues to the Minister in accordance with section 426 of the LG Act 31 October

Council gives the audit team final version of draft Annual Report to

review for consistency with the financial statements 31 October

Audit team attends the CTA ARIC to discuss financial statements

and Engagement Closing Report TBA

Council presents audited financial statements and the Independent

Auditor’s Reports at the Council meeting 17 November

Audit Office issues final Management Letter Prior to 30 Nov


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Other audits and acquittals

Application for Payment of Pensioner Concession Subsidy

Council gives the Application and supporting work papers listed

in Engagement Information Request to the audit team 17 August

Audit team starts audit of the Application 17 August

Council signs and gives Management Representation Letter to

audit team By 30 September

Audit Office signs the Independent Audit Report By 30 September

Roads to Recovery Program

Council gives the Statement and supporting work papers listed

in Engagement Information Request to the audit team 17 August

Audit team starts audit of the Statement 17 August

Council signs and gives Management Representation Letter to audit team By 31 October

Audit Office signs the Independent Audit Report By 31 October

4. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Council’s IT/GIS Coordinator attended the Local Government Cyber Security Forum in Sydney. Hosted by Cyber Security NSW (a business unit of the Department of Customer Service), the aim of the forum is to increase awareness of cyber security issues within the local government sector. Cyber Security NSW have developed a set of guidelines which are compulsory for NSW Government Agencies and are strongly recommended as best practice for local councils. The forum is a great source of information and resources and a networking opportunity for local government IT professionals. We have had two kick-off workshops to outline the strategy of the Office 365 rollout. Data#3 will set up the “back office” aspects of the system and a pilot group of six employees. The members of the EMS Working Party have volunteered to pilot this rollout. Council’s IT/GIS Coordinator attended a five-day course for the administration of Office 365. This course gave great insight into the enhanced functionality of the system and how it could be used to strengthen cyber security and increase productivity in the workplace. OutcomeX came on-site to do a further survey of the sites to be used for their “Internet of Things” pilot project. In addition to the bin sensors at the Reef Reserve and people counters at some public toilets, they have offered to include some other sensors in the pilot. These include an air quality sensor, some vehicle tracking sensors and a parking sensor. The parking sensor will be installed in the disabled parking spot outside the IGA to determine its level of usage. The CCTV system was checked weekly over February. No faults were found.


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5. OBERON LIBRARY

Month Visits Loans New

Members New

Items* Program

attendance eLoans CTC

troubleshooting

Jul 2019 1,510 977 9 146 143 100

Aug 2019 1,505 981 6 198 207 93

Sep 2019 1,348 828 7 116 84 80

Oct 2019 1,772 873 14 239 149 131 5

Nov 2019 1,719 925 2 106 132 107 12

Dec 2019 1.170 712 9 79 59 112 7

Jan 2020 1.414 1,059 9 143 52 95 6

Feb 2020 1,597 927 23 176 103 103 12

Total 2019/20 12,035 7,282 79 1,203 929 821 42

Total 2018/19 17,570 11,566 166 1,437 1,131 - -

Programs in the Library Summer Reading Club

SUMMER READING CLUB wrapped up on 29 February. In total, the registered participants read 450 books. An awards ceremony and afternoon tea will be held on Thursday 5 March. The most books read by an individual child was 110 books, read by Isabella, age 11years.

SCHOOLS February has been all about the library’s ongoing connection with local schools. On Monday 24 February, 46 students from St Josephs visited the library for Library tours. Black Spring’s Public school was visited on Thursday 27 February and a visit to Hampton Public School took place on Friday 28 February. The library continues to be a safe and welcoming after school destination for the students in Oberon. STIG LIVE Children’s entertainer and performer Stig Weymss is visiting the Central West Zone in March. Oberon Library is bringing Stig to Oberon on 19 March when he will perform to years 2-6 children in the hall at Oberon Public School. Stig narrates the Andy Griffiths and many other popular children books and encourages children to become library members. FOOLS Friends of Oberon Library held their book sale on the 28-29 February. The attendees seemed to enjoy the array of books on offer and hundreds of items were sold. The Friends group also took the opportunity to hold their first meeting for the year during the sale. Community groups who met at the library during February were the Wrap with Love knitting group, the Reading Enthusiasts and Book Chat Club, Columbia Village and the first of the Crafternoons groups.


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Crafternoons is a community initiative encouraging knitters and crocheters to produce “squares” to yarn bomb the trees in Oberon’s main street, trees at O’Connell, Black Springs and Burraga during the Winter Botanica festival. Interested community members gather at the library on Friday afternoons to pick up patterns and wool to make the squares.

6. COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY CENTRE

Tech Savvy Seniors sessions have commenced at the CTC. On Tuesday 18 February six people attended the session on Introduction to Smartphones. The sessions are being promoted on the Oberon Council Website, the Oberon Council Facebook Page, on notice boards, in the library and in the Oberon Review. Upcoming sessions include:

Introduction to iPads

Introduction to on-line banking

Introduction to Cybersafetty

Introduction to the internet

Five people attended the U3A Scams and Internet Banking session at the CTC on Saturday 22 February. This session was presented by Glen Stewart from the Commonwealth Bank.

On 11 February, the CTC Coordinator provided assistance for a hearing impaired resident to sit and watch two classes in Auslan, to participate in Tech Savvy. He completed 3 classes and a lesson on computer and technology terms in sign language. The classes covered:

Introduction to the Internet part 1

Introduction to the Internet Part 2

Introduction to Social Media Found at: https://deafsociety.org.au/auslan_resources/page/tech-savvy

Twelve people attended the Troubleshooting Sessions during February, assisted by the volunteers and the CTC Coordinator. Residents received support with issues such as problems with Windows 10 notebook, WiFi issues, Instagram account, email accounts and

computer software programs.

New Classes Proposed for the CTC Captain Kevin from the Oberon Fire Station approached the CTC with an expression of interest to run SLR Photography classes at the CTC. An expression of interest survey is to be promoted to determine interest in the number of classes and time (day or evening). Details to be finalized during March. The CTC has started communications with the Bathurst Gunthers Lane, the emerging technology community hub sponsored by Reliance Bank. An initial introduction and the possibility of an interaction between Gunthers Lane and the CTC were discussed. The CTC has offered the CTC space and invited Gunthers Lane staff to come to Oberon to present a session for Oberon Residents to experience technology. CTC Coordinator Training

The CTC coordinator joined “Be Connected” and completed the “Online Mentor Course”. The CTC is looking to join Be Connected as part to become a provider of Be Connected Courses.

https://deafsociety.org.au/auslan_resources/page/tech-savvy


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Publishing assistance provided to community groups and Council during February included:

Scanning of photos for a resident and assistance with PowerPoint presentation

Scanning and digital colouring of Mapping for the Oberon Museum. Design and assistance with layouts of information for Oberon Library for:

Summer Reading Club certificates

Tech Savvy Sessions Poster

Crafternoons Poster

W2Art Poster and Cans Wanted poster

Story Time Poster. Assisted the Communications Coordinator with the design of Council’s Facebook Cover Image and February Seniors Week Facebook design.

Assisted the Community Services Department with the design of:

Oberon International Women’s Day Poster

Oberon Youth Council Youth Week Poster

Safer Drivers Course Poster.

Oberon and Surrounding Villages Community Newsletter

The February 2020 issue of the CNL was the first issue of 2020. It displayed the theme of the Oberon Show, with a thank you to the RFS and emergency services.

2,108 hard copies were mailed to Oberon LGA residents, with 250 copies distributed at

Council facilities and local retail premises.

271 copies were emailed to e-subscribers.

The advertising income total for February Newsletter was $430. 7. COMMUNITY SERVICES

Seniors Festival

Oberon Council and community groups hosted activities for seniors during 12-23 February. The Malachi Gilmore Memorial Hall hosted a ‘Malachi Movie Classic’ where residents from all over the Oberon region came to enjoy ‘Born Free’. This was last played at the Malachi in 1966. Black Springs Community Association hosted a morning tea at the Black Springs Community Hall, with over 60 seniors from the region, including a bus load from Columbia Village, gathering to listen to stories about Black Springs and entertained by the children of Black Springs Public School.


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O’Connell café provided senior residents a chance

to catch up, enjoy delicious scones and other

offerings, listen to some entertaining local history

stories.

Lunch was held at Burraga which was well

attended.

Council took a bus full of seniors for morning tea at Mayfield Gardens.

Well over 100 residents participated in the senior

events.

Oberon Pharmacy Walking Group and U3A also

opened their regular events for senior members

of the community to get involved and experience

the various groups.

Attendance at Council Facilities for February was:

Robert Hooper Community Centre 622

Ross St Conference Room 222

Black Springs Community Hall 84 OBERON YOUTH COUNCIL


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Last year’s Youth Mayor, Baily Nielsen stepped down from his position in February to make way for another youth councillor to be elected as Youth Mayor. Over the term of Bailey’s reign he has seen the introduction of the new Skate Park, attending NSW Youth Week Forum at State Parliament, lead the youth through many social activities, and achieved the Oberon Youth Australian of the Year Award. Bailey leaves us to take up a position at Charles Stuart University in Wagga to commence veterinary studies. The Youth Council wishes him well and we look forward to catching up with Bailey when he returns to Oberon.

Malcom Voerman was elected the new OYC Mayor with Susannah Curnuck and Ian Gaiser sharing the role of Deputy Mayor. The Youth Council will start with year with a project to replace plastic bags in Oberon businesses with paper bags during 2020, as well as planning for the 2020 How to Adult Youth Week workshops.

8. COMMUNITY AND TOURISM EVENTS FOR 2020

Staff have developed a draft 2020 community and tourist events calendar which is circulating around community groups for their input. Once this is completed, the calendar will be published and events/activities placed on the Community Calendar on Council’s website for everyone to access.

Note that any community member is able to enter activities or events onto this calendar.

Notes:


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14.05 STATEMENT OF INVESTMENTS

File No: Financial Management/Investments/Register Author: Lisa Koleda, Management Accountant; Theresa Boyd, Chief Financial Officer

Summary

This report provides Council with the Statement of Investments as at 29 February 2020.

Recommendation

That Council receive report item 14.05 as information.

Comment

Interest received on matured investment for February 2020 came to $13,728 whilst interest accrued on active investments for February 2020 came to $24,942 with an average interest rate of 1.99% performing above the average 90 day Bank Bill Swap Rate of 0.89% Year to date interest accrued at the end of February 2020 on active Term Deposits sits at $221,918. Total year to date interest receipted on matured investments is $274,703. This includes quarterly interest receipt for three induvial 5 year floating term deposits with CBA which mature in 2021. At the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) meeting on 3 March, the board decided to lower the cash rate by 25bp to 0.50%. RBA Governor Philip Lowe has made the following statement: “The global outbreak of the coronavirus is expected to delay progress in Australia towards full employment and the inflation target. The Board therefore judged that it was appropriate to ease monetary policy further to provide additional support to employment and economic activity. It will continue to monitor developments closely and to assess the implications of the coronavirus for the economy. The Board is prepared to ease monetary policy further to support the Australian economy”.

In addition to today's rate cut, Prime Minister Morrison indicated fiscal stimulus may follow: “The Treasury is working closely together with the relevant agencies of government to address the boost that we believe will be necessary, which I will have more to say about once we have worked through the details. It will be a targeted plan, it will be a measured plan, it will be a scalable plan”.

The US Federal Reserve, for the first time since the financial crisis has also cut rates in between its scheduled meetings. The Fed noted that the coronavirus poses material risk to the global economy. APRA, performs stress testing on authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) intends to consult with industry in the second half of 2020 on a prudential practice guide on stress testing to promote industry better practice and consistency. As an integral part of risk management, stress testing helps enhance the readiness of institutions to withstand adversity by improving their understanding of risk, enhancing capital management, informing recovery planning and reducing the likelihood of failure and resolution. Focus areas will be placed on governance, scenario development and the use of stress testing, with the desired outcome being that of ensuring ongoing improvement among ADIs.


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At 29 February Council had $15,800,000 invested, with Oberon Council’s total cash at call being $17,926,014.43:- below is a summary of Council’s Cash at Call:

Institution Date of

Investment Interest

rate Date of Maturity Value

Cash at Call

CBA Business Online Saver 1,005,881.98

CBA Business At Call 1,011,659.19

NAB Business Online Saver 108,473.26

Total $2,126,014.43

Active Term Deposits

Auswide Bank LTD 19/06/2019 2.20% 11/03/2020 500,000.00

Auswide Bank LTD 19/06/2019 2.20% 25/03/2020 500,000.00

Bank Vic 04/04/2019 2.61% 08/04/2020 500,000.00

G & C Mutual Bank 17/04/2019 2.55% 08/04/2020 500,000.00

Bank Vic 04/04/2019 2.61% 22/04/2020 500,000.00

Judo Bank 08/05/2019 2.70% 23/04/2020 500,000.00

ME Bank 08/08/2019 1.70% 06/05/2020 500,000.00

Australian Unity Bank LTD 30/04/2019 2.40% 20/05/2020 500,000.00

ME Bank 20/08/2019 1.65% 04/06/2020 500,000.00

AMP Bank LTD 16/07/2019 2.20% 17/06/2020 500,000.00

My State Bank Limited 04/09/2019 1.60% 16/07/2020 500,000.00

Bank of Queensland 26/07/2018 3.00% 22/07/2020 1,000,000.00

Family First Credit Union 29/08/2019 1.80% 26/08/2020 500,000.00

My State Bank Limited 04/09/2019 1.60% 27/08/2020 500,000.00

AMP Bank LTD 09/09/2019 1.80% 08/09/2020 500,000.00

AMP Bank LTD 18/09/2019 1.80% 22/09/2020 500,000.00

NAB Ltd 28/11/2019 1.35% 07/10/2020 500,000.00

Macquarie Bank LTD 09/10/2019 1.45% 21/10/2020 500,000.00

NAB LTD 28/11/2019 1.35% 21/10/2020 500,000.00

NAB LTD 02/12/2019 1.35% 04/11/2020 500,000.00

BNK Banking Corp LTD 23/01/2020 1.80% 18/11/2020 500,000.00

BNK Banking Corp LTD 02/12/2019 1.75% 16/12/2020 500,000.00

Judo Bank PTY LTD 26/02/2020 2.00% 30/12/2020 500,000.00

AMP Bank LTD 14/02/2020 1.70% 17/02/2021 500,000.00

Commonwealth Bank (5yr TD) 30/06/2016 2.79% 30/06/2021 500,000.00

Family First Credit Union 07/08/2019 1.90% 07/08/2021 500,000.00



Bank of Queensland 22/08/2019 1.70% 20/08/2021 500,000.00

Bank of Queensland 06/09/2019 1.90% 06/09/2023 500,000.00

Total $15,800,000.00

Total Cash at Call $17,926,014.43


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Investments matured in February 2020:

Institution Date

invested Rate Maturity

date Amount Interest earned

AMP Bank LTD 19/07/2019 2.15% 12/02/2020 500,000 6,126.03

Judo Bank PTY LTD 19/07/2019 2.50% 26/02/2020 500,000 7,602.74

Total Interest earned $13,728.77

Investments placed in February 2020:

Institution Date

invested Rate Maturity

date Amount Interest at

Maturity

AMP Bank LTD 14/02/2020 1.70% 17/02/2021 500,000 8,593.15

Judo Bank PTY LTD 26/02/2020 2.00% 30/12/2020 500,000 8,438.36

Total Interest due $22,757.53

Maximum holdings for rating categories

BBB+

BBB/BBB-

NR

AA

A+

Actuals = 41%

16%

19%

21%

3% 100%

Limits = 65%

55%

20%

100%

85%

Current Holdings

Maximum $MIL holdings

AMP LTD BBB+ 2,000,000

2.0 Australian Unity LTD BBB+ 500,000

2.0

Auswide Bank LTD BBB 1,000,000

1.5 Bank of Queensland LTD BBB+ 2,000,000

2.0

BNK Banking Corp NR 1,000,000

1.0 Commonwealth Bank AA- 1,800,000

2.0

Family First Credit Union NR 1,000,000

1.0 G & C Mutual Bank BBB- 500,000

1.5

Judo Bank NR 1,000,000

1.0 Macquarie Group LTD A+ 500,000

2.0

Members Equity Bank LTD BBB 1,000,000

1.5 MyState LTD BBB+ 1,000,000

2.0

Nation Australia Bank LTD AA- 1,500,000

2.0 Police Financial Services LTD BBB+ 1,000,000

2.0

15,800,000


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Councils February 2020 investments placed at time of maturity in 2020/2021 will see a drop in interest revenue of $3,477. Total reduction YTD on ‘new’ term deposit interest earnings at maturity for 2020/2021 is currently sitting at $76,047. In addition to these current reductions, Council has already received feedback on two ADIs who have materially reduced their interest rates base on the current economy; so more is yet to come which will mean a greater reduction on YTD interest revenues for 2020/2021. The last two weeks of February saw larger cash deposits come in from various income sources being RMS, Financial Assistant Grants, together with the financial settlement for Council land sold on Maher Drive. New additional investments are scheduled to be placed in the first week of March. I certify that the investments have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulations 2005, and Council's Investments Policy. Lisa Koleda Management Accountant

Notes:


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14.06 BURRAGA PEST ANIMAL MEETING 25 February 2020

File No: Governance/Meetings/Other Author: Clr Andrew McKibbin

Summary

The Burraga community held a meeting on 25 February at 7.00pm to discuss wild dogs attacking stock in the area. Rural landholders from around the district were invited to the meeting. The meeting was attended by Clr Andrew McKibbin in his capacity as a landholder in the area and as a Councillor.

Recommendation: That report item 14.06 is received as information.

The Burraga Pest Animal Meeting 25 February 2020

The Meeting commenced at 7pm in the Burraga Sports and Recreation Club. It was attended by a large number of landholders from the area including landholders from across the Abercrombie in Peelwood and surrounding areas. The following is a summary of the Meeting’s presentations and outcomes: a) Mark Simpson the LLS Biosecurity Officer Bathurst

Mark Simpson opened the meeting and explained how the LLS had been working with landholders on coordinated pest management plans. In particular the LLS had been working with the Wild Dog groups north of Bathurst in a cooperative and coordinated pest control program using a combination of baits, trapping and aerial culling of feral animals. b) Emma Sawyers of NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI)

Emma gave an overview of apps using phones, tablets and computers so landholders could notify LLS and landholders in their pest group of wild dogs or other feral animals. The Feral Scan app could use mobile and GPS satellite to identify the location and this location information and photos could be saved on the phone until it was in range or in a Wi-Fi area to download to the LLS site. Emma also explained the range of stationary cameras available for use in the field to photograph wild dogs, deer and pigs. She also explained the field of vision of the cameras and the means by which the cameras could be activated by the pests. c) High Tech Pig traps and Aerial Baiting; Liam Orrock

LLS had a number of new tools to detect and destroy feral animals. There were a series of new pig traps that could be monitored by camera and the gate could be closed by use of a mobile phone or tablet using GPS and the 3G network. Under questioning it was revealed the traps cost about $6000. There are also new military type drones that are using thermal imaging which can identify pests even through a dense tree canopy. The State Governments provision of increased funding for feral animals following the bushfires and the resultant destruction of native animals had meant that the LLS aerial baiting and culling programme could be ramped up in affected national parks and surrounding areas.


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d) Casey Proctor Senior LLS Officer Cowra

Casey commented that he was responsible for protecting local endangered species which required feral animals to be controlled as they were predators of these endangered species. He was targeting areas around the Abercrombie River due to certain endangered frog species being in that area and had been working with landholders in that area. e) Pest Management in National Parks; Jules Bros NSW NPWS

Jules explained the actions being taken by National Parks and two baiting programs were being undertaken each year combined with some trapping. The issue with trapping is there were few trappers and they were expensive. Currently one was being used at $85 to $90 per day. There was some increased funding resulting from the bushfires to tackle feral pests. NPWS is using cameras to identify the location of pests and where baits and traps should be located. The cameras were also very useful in identifying issues with native fauna being inadvertently attracted to traps or potential baiting locations. This allowed the location of baits and traps to be more appropriately located. f) Malcolm Healey President Turondale Dog Group

The problems with wild dogs have been an issue for at least six years north of Bathurst. Initially the LLS were unhelpful. The landholders formed a Wild Dog Group so that all landholders were acting in concert. The LLS came on board and of all the control treatments undertaken aerial baiting was and has been the most effective. Experience indicates that at least 70% of the wild dogs need to be eradicated to control the problem. LLS had in recent years been excellent. In 2017 on Malcolm’s property the lambing dropped from an expected 2800 lambs to 600. In 2018 and 2019 the aerial baiting program conducted by LLS meant minimal deaths due to wild dogs. Malcolm stated that if the Burraga Community was series a Wild Dog group needed to be established with committed members and assistance from LLS. Paul Gibb of LLS indicated that probably 70% of the Pest budget was spent on wild dog control and this had been a huge expenditure in last few years. PEST MANAGEMENT IN BURRAGA The meeting resolved to form a Pest Management Group which would be looking at the control of all pests with an emphasis on wild dogs. The following Officeholders were elected:

President; Neil Francis

Vice President: Peter Dobson

Secretary: Linda Jeffrey

Committee: Christian Houlihan, Rob McGrath, Mark McGraw The issue of whether there would be a financial contribution to the new Group/Association was discussed. It was resolved incorporation would be required if a contribution of members was required due to the liability of the Officers of the Association. Incorporation may also be necessary for the Group to be in a position to receive grants from both Federal and State Governments. The President would investigate the issue and ascertain whether grants could be sourced through the Burraga Ag Bureau. The President will nominate a date and time for the newly formed Pest Management Group Committee to meet. The meeting closed at 9.20pm.


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14.07 WATER AND SEWER PLANT REPORT

File: Governance/Meetings/Ordinary Author: Chris Schumacher, Works and Engineering Director

Summary

This report provides a brief summary of water consumption and sewerage treatment processes for the township of Oberon and WaterNSW Oberon Dam Raw Water Quality Report for the month of February 2020.

Recommendation:


Comment 1. WEEKLY OBERON DAM LEVELS

The following is a weekly dam level recording for Oberon Dam predominately for the month of FEBRUARY results supplied by WaterNSW: 03-02-20 -27.1% 11-02-20 -26.9% 17-02-20 -26.8% 25-02-20 -26.4% 28-02-20 -26.3%

2. WATER CONSUMPTION IN ML FROM WATERNSW OBERON DAM 01/02/2020 – 07/02/2020 = 15.965 ML 08/02/2020 – 14/02/2020 = 13.359 ML 15/02/2020 – 21/02/2020 = 13.461 ML 22/02/2020 – 30/02/2020 = 12.782 ML The total consumption of raw water for February 2020 = 55.576 ML

The January 2020 Average Consumption for the Township was 62.15 ML

Note: The Average Daily Water Consumption trend during January 2020 was 2.004 ML/day

The Average Daily Water Consumption during February 2019 was 2.4 ML/Day, consumption decreased 0.484 ML p/d to the same time last year.

REPORTS OF WATER ISSUES

There were no reports of dirty water, supply issues, water odour or taste issues logged in Council’s complaints system during April 2019 3. SEWER PLANT – WEEKLY PLANT kL INTAKE FOR TREATMENT OF WASTE WATER 01/02/2020 – 07/02/2020 = 6,798 kL 08/02/2020 – 14/02/2020 = 8,742 kL 15/02/2020 - 21/02/2020 = 6,307 kL 22/02/2020 – 30/02/2020 = 8,515 kL

Total Waste Water volume into Oberon STP during February 2020 = 30,362 KL


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4. PLANT FAULTS & UPGRADES

Water Treatment Plant

An electrical brown out occurred Saturday 1st February 2020 due to hot weather-power outage

Wild weather and high winds cut power supply and connectivity to WaterNSW Dam for 6 hours

while repairs were carried out

The pump and batching rooms were also flooded

Compressor water drain pipe shattered and makeshift repairs carried out

New electric motor fitted to blower

Ongoing repairs to find further hot spots in electric wiring

Waste Water Treatment Plant

Pump no.1 at pump station needed to be lifted out and unblocked with rags PLANT UPGRADES AND PRO-ACTIVE MAINTENANCE Water Treatment Plant:

The following activities were carried out as proactive maintenance during the month of April.

Preventative maintenance on all pumps.

Online instruments all calibrated

End of month routine maintenance completed

Cleaned building gutter of leaf litter in front of office

General routine property maintenance i.e. Grass & whipper Snipper

Waste Water Treatment Plant:

The following activities were carried out as proactive maintenance during the month of April.

Trickling filter arms have been cleaned of rubbish and greased

Preventative maintenance on all pumps around the site

Cleared rubbish from the inlet screen extractor

Monthly maintenance complete

Monthly Water Samples sent to Australian Laboratory Service (A.L.S)

General routine property maintenance i.e. Grass & whipper Snipper

5. PUMP STATION

Routine rag removal and daily inspection of pumps and run them in manual. All other pump station checked and all ok.


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15. URGENT BUSINESS

Summary In accordance with Clause 241 of the Local Government (General) Regulations 2005 business may be transacted at a meeting of Council even though due notice of the business has not been given to the Councillors. However, this can happen only if:

a) A motion is passed to have the business transacted at the meeting: and b) The business proposed to be brought forward is ruled by the Chairperson to be of great

urgency.

Recommendation:

That Council consider the following matters as they are considered to be of an urgent nature requiring immediate consideration by Council

16. CLOSED SESSION / CONFIDENTIAL REPORTS

Summary In accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, in the opinion of the General Manager, the following business is of a kind as referred to in Section 10A(2) of the Act, and should be dealt with in a part of the meeting closed to the media and public. Set out below is Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993 in relation to matters which can be dealt with in the closed part of a meeting. The matters and information are the following:

(a) Personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than Councillors)

(b) The personal hardship of any resident or ratepayer

(c) Information that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business

(d) Commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed:

(i) Prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it, or

(ii) Confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council, or

(iii) Reveal a trade secret

(e) Information that would, if disclosed, prejudice the maintenance of law

(f) Matters affecting the security of the Council, Councillors, Council staff or Council property

(g) Advice concerning litigation, or advice that would otherwise be privileged from production in legal proceedings on the grounds of legal professional privilege

(h) Information concerning the nature and location of a place or an item of Aboriginal significance on community land.

16.01 WATER WRITE-OFF REQUEST – ACCOUNT 12365584

File No: Governance/Ordinary/Confidential Author: Lynette Safranek, Corporate Services Director

This item is classified CONFIDENTIAL under Section 10A (2) (d) of the Local Government Act 1993, which permits the meeting to be closed to the public for business relating to the following: Section 10A (2) (b) the personal hardship of any resident or ratepayer.


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17. CLOSURE OF MEETING

The Mayor will declare the meeting closed. The next Ordinary Meeting of Oberon Council will be held on: Tuesday 21 April 2020 commencing at 5.30pm in the Oberon Council Chambers 137 – 139 Oberon Street, Oberon.

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