minutes of the ordinary monthly meeting of lockhart shire ...€¦ · council to undertake a...

MINUTES

of the Ordinary Meeting

Held 14 December 2015

Our Values: Leadership • Integrity • Progressiveness • Commitment • Accountability • Adaptability

Lockhart Shire Council Ordinary Meeting – 14 December 2015

Minutes of the Ordinary Monthly Meeting of Lockhart Shire Council held in the Council Chambers, Green Street, Lockhart on Monday, 14 December 2015 at 5.02pm.

PRESENT Cr P. Yates (Mayor), Cr R. Schirmer (Deputy Mayor), Cr J. Morgan (arrived at 5.07pm), Cr R. McDonnell, Cr G. Verdon, Cr G. Driscoll, Cr M. Day and Cr D. Douglas (arrived at 5.57pm). Also in attendance were the General Manager, Director of Engineering and Environmental Services and the Director of Corporate and Community Services. The meeting opened with a prayer.

APOLOGIES

Nil.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

297/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Verdon and Schirmer that the Minutes of the Ordinary Monthly Meeting held on Monday, 16 November 2015 as printed and circulated be taken as read and confirmed.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE Nil. DECLARATION OF PECUNIARY AND NON-PECUNIARY INTERESTS

Cr Schirmer – Non-Pecuniary Interest, Closed Session, Item 3, Australia Day Awards 2016.

MAYORAL MINUTE Nil.

This is page 2 of the Minutes of the Ordinary Monthly Meeting of the Lockhart Shire Council held in the Council Chambers, Green Street, Lockhart – 14 December 2015.

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MAYORAL REPORT

The Mayor, Cr Yates, verbally reported on activities during the past month as follows: Thurs, 19 Nov Conducted a Citizenship Ceremony in the Council Chambers, Lockhart.

Fri, 20 Nov Attended the Lockhart Central School Year 12 Formal as a special guest. Sat, 21 Nov Along with several Councillors and the General Manager, attended the

‘Rock or Bust’ Music Fest in The Rock. Wed, 2 Dec Along with the GM Rod Shaw, attended the Urana Shire Council

Christmas party. Sat, 5 Dec Together with the GM Rod Shaw, met with the Member for Wagga Wagga,

Daryl Maguire. Tues 8 Dec Along with the GM Rod Shaw, attended the REROC Board meeting in

Wagga Wagga.

In the evening attended the Yerong Creek Public School Presentation Night.

Thurs, 10 Dec Attended the Lockhart Public School Presentation Night. Fri, 11 Dec Conducted a Citizenship Ceremony in the Council Chambers, Lockhart.

Along with Crs Driscoll, Day and Morgan, met and discussed the Australia Day Awards for Lockhart Shire. GM Rod Shaw was also present.

Sat, 12 Dec Attended the public viewing of the new Wagga Rural Referral Hospital.

298/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Day and Driscoll that the Mayoral Report be received.

NOTICE OF MOTION Nil.

COMMITTEE REPORTS Nil. The Mayor called for Standing Orders to be suspended and requested Item 7 – Presentation of Council’s 2014-15 Financial Statements in the Staff Reports, be brought forward on the Agenda.

299/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Cr Driscoll and Day that the Item 7 – Presentation of Council’s 2014-15 Financial Statements in the Staff Reports be brought forward.

The Mayor invited Dannielle Mackenzie from Crowe Horwath to present Council’s 2014-15 Financial Statements to Council. The Meeting returned to Status Report/Precis of Correspondence Issued at 5.30pm.


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Status Report/Précis of Correspondence Issued

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

Officer to Action Info Action Taken

Ordinary Council Meeting held 16 November 2015 295/15 CF Closed Session – Rates – Request to Write Off

Interest a) Council to write off all interest accrued during

2014/15 rating year and all interest accrued so far in the 2015/16 rating year due to ratepayer’s compliance with previous and current arrangement and situation again be reviewed in 12 months’ time

b) No precedent be set from this decision as it’s a one-off arrangement to fit the circumstances.

Meeting with ratepayer scheduled and completed.

292/15 DW Greens Gunyah Museum – Fire Safety Services a) Council to provide funding through expected

surplus in 2015/16 to cover cost of upgrading the water meter to Greens Gunyah Museum

b) Museum Committee request Riverina Water to waive the cost of the upgrade as a community donation.

- Works being arrange with Riverina Water

- Museum committee has written to RW requesting community donation

Complete.

289/15 DW Flood Studies – Lockhart and The Rock Council to: a) Adopt changes to recommended flood mitigation

measures endorsed by respective Flood Study Committees

b) Continue with Stage 3 design works and apply for funding in next round in New Year for construction of flood mitigation measures

c) Continue to work with respective Flood Study Committees with design activities and other aspects of flood study process as previously resolved.

- Design works proceeding as per report

- Follow up The Rock meeting 8/12/2015

Complete.

288/15 DW Kerbside Waste Collection Council to:

a) Participate with WWCC in tender for waste collection contract

b) Include options in tender on collection frequency and bin sizes, as well as option for green waste/organics bin

c) Further report be brought to Council in due course following tender process.

- information provided to WWCC.

- tender to proceed in the New Year.

Complete.

283/15 CF Landfill Asbestos Tip Charge Council adopt Asbestos Tip Charge of $250.00 access fee plus charge of $50.00 per cubic metre.

Complete.

282/15 CF Quarterly Budget Review – 30 September 2015 Adjustments in income, expenditure and reserves in September 2015 Budget Review be adopted.

Complete.

280/15 RS/CF Rating Structure Workshop Further workshop be held early 2016 to firm up future rating structure options after outcomes of Fit for the Future process are known.

Another workshop to be scheduled pending FFF outcome.


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279/15 RS Fit for the Future

a) in response to the State Government’s deadline of 18 November 2015 to name preferences for mergers or to stand alone, Council’s first preference is to merge with Urana Shire. Its only other preference is to stand alone as a Rural Council as per the IPART assessment of Lockhart Shire being Fit for the Future.

b) in relation to the portal completion, the comments are • In the first box relating to our feedback on

IPART’s assessment of Council, to strongly agree with IPART’s assessment of Lockhart Shire being Fit for the Future as a Rural Council.

• In the second box relating to comments on the merger preferences, the following notations o Proposed merger enables retention of a

rural based Council with strong synergies and characteristics

o If proposed merger not suitable then only preference is to stand alone as per IPART assessment and implement Improvement Action Plan

o Eventually exploration of further boundary adjustments may be sought to strengthen longer term sustainability.

Refer further report in Dec CM. Complete.

276/15 TEDO Minutes of the Tourism/Economic Development Steering Committee Meeting – Lockhart Shire Photo Competition Annual Lockhart Shire photo competition to be held to attract visitors, engage locals and build Council’s image database.

In progress – ongoing.

275/15 TEDO Minutes of the Tourism/Economic Development Steering Committee Meeting – Volunteer Day Thank You BBQs to be held each May to coincide with National Volunteer Week.

In progress – ongoing.

273/15 TEDO Minutes of the Tourism/Economic Development Steering Committee Meeting – Wall of Fame Nominations The following nominees for the Wall of Fame be approved for inclusion in the Walk of Fame: • John Herbert “Jack” Crawford (Champion Tennis

Player) • Aubrey John Hodgson (International Rugby Player) • Judy Kelly (British Film Star) • Nancy Mary Weir (Classical Pianist) • Theodore Delwin Noffs (Founder Wayside

Chapel/Ted Noffs Foundation) • Don Kendell (Kendell Airlines) • William Norman “Bill” Peach (Television

Journalist/Presenter).

Complete. Next step is to seek funding for Wall of Fame project.


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Ordinary Council Meeting held 19 October 2015

268/15 DW Closed Session – Tender – Spray Sealing a) Downer EDI Works to be awarded sealing contract

for 2015/16, b) GM and DEES authorised to execute Purchase

Order and Contract

Finalising details to raise purchase order. Works being arranged with contractor, due to commence Jan 2016. Purchase orders to be raised once final works program is determined.

259/15 RS Request for Donation – Lockhart Hospital Auxiliary Council gives its support in principle, but donation decision delayed until grant application decision know.

No further advice on grant application.

255/15 RS Australia Day 2016 a) Council accepted Pleasant Hills Community

Association to host Australia Day 2016 celebrations b) Composition of Australia Day Awards Committee to

be Cr Yates, Cr Driscoll, Cr Day and Cr Morgan.

Nominations close 20 November. A meeting of committee will take place after that date with recos to go to Dec CM. Refer Dec CM. Complete.

254/15 RS December 2015 Council Meeting Date December 2015 Council Meeting date moved forward by one week from Mon, 21 Dec to Mon, 14 Dec.

Advertising of changed date in hand. Complete.

253/15 RS Economic Development Policy Councillors agreed in principle with ideas emanating from workshop with a business case for future policy to be developed on agreed strategy and draft to go to March 2016 Council Meeting.

Work in progress.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 21 September 2015 241/15 DW Drainage – East Street, Lockhart

Council to undertake a detailed investigation of the drainage in East St, Lockhart and program remedial works as required and as resourcing permits.

Investigations occurring. Some minor work undertaken.

231/15 RS/DW Sewer Extension The Rock Council to arrange appropriate consultation to inform the residents of The Rock, Yerong creek and Lockhart about its future infrastructure plans for sewer improvements within the Shire.

Work in progress – planned for end of January early Feb 2016

217/15 RS Mayoral Minute – Residents Encountering TV Reception Issues Following the Upgrade of a Telstra Communications Tower Council to strongly urge relevant authority to take appropriate action to fix issues with TV reception in Lockhart following upgrades to a Telstra tower and that required action be taken at no cost to residents.

Numerous letters sent to various responsible authorities – relevant responses forwarded to Clrs – will provide any more recent developments verbally at Oct CM. No further updates.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 17 August 2015 194/15 RS Out of School Hours Care (OOSH) Program

a) Council agreed to operate an OOSH program at the Rock and details to be progressed by the GM

b) Current working group to continue to oversee the project

Preparations continuing for a start in the new year.


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Ordinary Council Meeting held 20 July 2015

171/15 DW Fixing Country Roads Funding Council to: 1. Participate and submit an EOI for funding for Fixing

Country Roads 2. Submit applications for:

a. Grubben Rd Upgrade/Sealing b. Replacement/Upgrade of Causeways and

Bridge over Brookong Crk, Urana Lockhart Rd at Brookong

c. Seek further funding for either of these two projects in other programmes such as Heavy Vehicle Safety or Bridges Renewal if they meet the respective criteria.

Waiting advice from NSW Government to when applications open. Applications now open, close 11 December 2015. Applications being submitted as per Council Resolution 171/15.

162/15 CF Request for Financial Assistance – The Yerong Creek Tennis Club Council to donate $5,000 to the Yerong Creek Tennis Club and make available an interest-free loan of up to $5,000 on application.

Letter & cheque sent. Complete.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 22 June 2015 145/15 DW Closed Session – Milne Road, The Rock Subdivision

Decision deferred pending further investigation regarding sewering the lots.

Registration of lots occurring, which will include an easement for sewer. Next meeting of Focus group occurred. Public consultation to now occur. Electrical works contracted. Lots surveyed and pegged and Registration being arranged.

144/15 RS Closed Session – Property and Land Investments Update Council to: 1. Agree to the new asking price for 1 Ferrier St and

13 Rockliff Court. 2. Not rent the house at Rockliff Crt. 3. Acknowledge that a new marketing strategy needs

to be developed in line with the new emphasis on economic development.

4. Give further consideration to the options presented in the report to encourage activity in the Green St West development in conjunction with a workshop to discuss a new marketing strategy.

Parts 1 & 2 complete. Parts 3 &4 at October CM Workshop.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 18 May 2015 84/15 JC Minutes of the Tourism/Economic Development

Steering Committee Meeting – Billboard Advertising TEDO to proceed with the billboard project at the preferred location at Yarragundry if within budget. If above budget, TEDO to proceed with the project based on the second preference opposite Armstrong Lane.

Proceeding with Billboard project at Armstrong Lane.


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Ordinary Council Meeting held 16 February 2015

32/15 DW Swimming Pool Condition Reports – Lockhart and The Rock a) Undertake code compliance works, structural audit

of Lockhart swimming pool balance tank, and electrical audit of both pools in 2015/16

b) Gauge community support for continuing operation of two Shire swimming pool complexes

c) Consider commencing capital injection in the 2016/17 budget, undertaking Lockhart complex first and then The Rock.

Being considered in draft 2015/16 budget. Require community consultation as to demand for the pools. Preparing concept plans and documentation to discuss at community forum. Concept plans due early Dec 2015. Likely to be community consultation in Feb 2016.

13/15 RS Correspondence Sent to Councillors a) Correspondence received from the Minister for

Industry regarding Potential Diesel and Petrol Shortage (Resolution No. 309/14 – 17 Nov 14 Ordinary Council Meeting) be forwarded to Senator Bill Heffernan expressing Council’s disappointment with the Minister’s reply

b) Further letter be forwarded to GrainCorp requesting further clarification regarding The Rock to Boree Creek Rail Line.

(a) Complete. (b) Work in progress.

Letter sent. No word from Graincorp but $9M upgrade of line in progress – new sleepers and ballast being laid.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 17 November 2014 328/14 CF Request for Financial Assistance – The Rock Men’s

Shed a) Council pay $900.58 (Rates and interest balance

due as at 17 Nov 2014) b) Council request a pro-rata contribution from the

previous owner c) Suitable lease conditions be negotiated between

Council and The Rock Men’s Shed.

Rates paid – other items continuing.

321/14 RS/CF Section 355 Committee Merger Council endorsed the merger of The Rock Hall Section 355 Committee with The Rock Historical Society to create The Rock Hall and Museum Section 355 Committee.

In progress.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 14 October 2014 294/14 CF Report of Section 355 Committees - Finances

Council to endeavour to meet with all 355 Committees & Pleasant Hills Community Hotel to work with them to understand their costs and future projects

Plan being developed with correspondence to be sent. Workshop material in planning & being developed.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 15 September 2014 252/14 RS Community Strategic Plan/Delivery Program

Outcomes Proposed measures of Community Strategic Plan Outcomes endorsed - means of measurement of each outcome and establishment of baseline data for each outcome to be done as soon as practicable.

Work in progress.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 21 July 2014 172/14 RS The Rock to Boree Creek Rail Line

Council to investigate all avenues to have The Rock to Boree Creek Rail Line upgraded to Heavy Weight Rail so grain wagons can be loaded to maximum axle weight.

Letters sent – work in progress. 1st priority in our EOI for State Government $20B Infrastructure Fund.


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Ordinary Council Meeting held 19 May 2014

118/14 RS Rural Fire District Service Agreement a) Council advise Coolamon Shire that a further

meeting with the Riverina Zone Manager is required and the points raised by Coolamon be the basis for an agenda at that meeting.

b) The new Zone Agreement not be signed until adequate responses are obtained from the Zone Manager.

a) Meeting held – further meetings still required.

Motions from Councils with REROC support to be presented to LGNSW Conference. LGNSW Conference passed motion from Coolamon Council requesting a review of contributions, methodology and assets in relation to Councils.

Ordinary Council Meeting held 17 March 2014 67/14 CF Section 355 Committees

a) Consider funding for those S355 Committees currently not receiving funding

b) Communicates with each S355 Committee regarding maintenance required now and into the future

c) Review Policy 1.11 Section 355 Committee functions

a) progressing as part of budget process. Budget allocations approved. b) to be communicated when send annual information to committees. c) form part of ongoing Policy review program and work re: 294/14 above.

49/14 TEDO Minutes of Tourism/Economic Development Steering Committee Meeting - Heritage Standards within Lockhart Shire Assessment on the heritage area in Green St to be reviewed by the TEDSC following completion.

In progress.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 16 November 2015 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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RS Cr Day – Date of Official Opening of Greens Gunyah Museum Extension Enquired as to whether official opening of new extension will occur before Christmas 2015? Requested if opening could tie in with Sussan Ley coming to unveil newly restored WWI photos in the Hall?

GM advised opening will be going ahead, but not on the date planned. New date TBA.

DW Cr Driscoll – Mobile Phone Coverage in Yerong Creek Enquired as to what Council might be doing regarding poor mobile coverage in Yerong Creek?

DEES advised issue being addressed at REROC level and mapping of blackspots has been undertaken and REROC currently advocating both levels of government for funding/upgrade of coverage within Lockhart Shire and beyond. Complete.

DW Cr Morgan – Funding Application for Brookdale Hill Blackspot Enquired if Council has received any news on this funding application?

DEES advised that no news has been received to date.

DW Cr Morgan – Windsock at Lockhart Airport Advised that the windsock at Lockhart Airport is lying on the ground.

DEES advised that this would be attended to as a priority. Wind sock has been reinstalled. Complete.


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Ordinary Council Meeting Held 19 October 2015 – Councillor Questions & Statements

Cr Day Cr Day - Purchase of Old Billabong Motors Site Advised $80,000 has been pledged and some moves on purchase may be able to be made shortly. Will report back to next Council Meeting, following next Historical Society Meeting.

Refer report Dec CM. Complete.

DW Cr Douglas – Request for Installation of Community Noticeboard at Milbrulong Advised that Bruce White of Milbrulong is requesting a Community Noticeboard be installed near the water tower at Milbrulong.

DEES aware of request – will be discussed at MANEX shortly.

DW Cr Douglas – Missing Give Way Sign at Intersection of Wattles and Tinamba Lanes Advised that it appears the Give Way sign is missing at this intersection

DEES will investigate and take appropriate action. This has been investigated and warning signs to be installed.

DW Cr Schirmer – No TV Reception at Lockhart Caravan Park Advised that he has received complaints re. lack of TV reception at Lockhart Caravan Park.

DEES fully aware of issue and working on a solution.

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DW Cr McDonnell – Footpath at Lockhart Museum Enquired as to what was happening with the footpath between the old and new museum?

DEES advised waiting on advice as to what is required before undertaking any work. At this stage no work likely to be done before official opening in Dec 2015.

DW Cr Morgan – Missing Sign for Krauses Lane at intersection with Hollies Rd Advised sign is missing

DEES advised he will investigate and take appropriate action. Sign reinstated. Complete.

RS Cr Yates – The Rock and Lockhart Shows Advised he attended and was impressed with both local Shows this year and suggested Council consider sponsoring both shows at $500 each next year to support and promote the shows.

GM advised that this will be discussed s an item at the November Council Meeting.

RS Cr Yates – Spirit of the Land Festival, Lockhart Noted that attendance was good, but after being part of judging panel suggested that the criteria for art work could be widened to entice more artists to enter the competition. Also suggested the $10,000 first prize may have to rise in future to attract quality entries.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 21 September 2015 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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DW Cr Verdon – Street Light in front of Police Station, The Rock Advised that street light is out.

DW to obtain pole number and report to Essential Energy.

DW Cr Verdon - Request for Gravel in Back Lane off Mixner St, The Rock Requested some gravel on back lane off Mixner St, between Urana and Wilson Sts.

DW will investigate and take appropriate action. No action for Council at this stage. Complete.

DW Cr Driscoll – PA System, The Rock Swimming Pool Requested if a PA system could be installed at The Rock Swimming Pool

DW will investigate and advise. DW advised there is an existing PA system in place, so seeing if can get operational. New PA system has been installed. Complete.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


DW Cr Schirmer – Intersection of East St and Milbrulong Rd Enquired as to whether rumble strips could be installed approaching the intersection as there have been reports of many near misses

DW advised rumble strips not preferred, however he will look at other options to emphasise the intersection. Investigation complete. Hold line to be re-instated. Nil other actions required. Complete.

Cr Schirmer

Cr McDonnell – Refuelling of RFS Vehicles Enquired as to process and where to refuel RFS vehicles?

Cr Schirmer will investigate and advise.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 17 August 2015 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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DW Cr Verdon – Solar Power Concerned about high cost of electricity at public recreation grounds and pools within Shire and enquired if Council has considered solar power, especially for The Rock Recreation Ground?

DW has spent considerable time/gone to seminars investigating this issue and will be putting a report to Council shortly. DW will also investigate if s355 Committees could come under Council’s power supply contract to obtain a saving.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 20 July 2015 – Councillor Questions & Statements

DW Cr Schirmer – Pooling of Water on Spanish Ave (near Narrandera Rd), Lockhart Enquired as to when Council will be attending to this.

DW advised that this will be attended to as soon as weather and resourcing permits.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 22 June 2015 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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Cr Day Cr Day - Milbrulong Silos Cr Day will talk to Graincorp about Milbrulong silos and possibility of obtaining more land for bunkers – maybe eastern end of Lockhart Industrial Park?

DW Cr Day – No TV Reception at Lockhart Caravan Park Cr Day has received complaints re. lack of TV reception at Lockhart Caravan Park

DW aware of issue and is working on a solution.

DW Cr Paterson – Undedicated Roads and Rates Requested an update on the matter raised by a resident in Tootool re. undedicated roads and rates.

DW will follow up and advise.

DW Cr Verdon – Water Pooling Cnr. Wilson & Breton Sts, The Rock Advised water is still pooling cnr Wilson & Breton Sts, The Rock after rain.

DW will investigate and take appropriate action. Water appears to be getting away satisfactory. No action required at this stage. Complete.

DW Cr Schirmer – Potholes in Laneway behind Lockhart Hospital Enquired as to when the back lane to Lockhart Hospital will be repaired.

DW advised this work is on the agenda to be rectified shortly. Resealing of back lane to occurring this sealing season. Complete.

RS Cr Yates - The Rock RFS Wish to Purchase Old Brigade Pumper Advised The Rock RFS wish to purchase an old brigade pumper for $3,000 and have requested sponsorship from Council.

Will provide a report to future CM.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 20 April 2015 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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RS/CF Cr Morgan – Electronic Library of Council Meeting Minutes Can this be set up so searches can be done by subject/title – maybe merging files from a 12 mth period – e.g.2013, 2014, 2015?

RS/CF will investigate and advise Work in Progress.


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DW Cr McDonnell – Flood Markers Requested status update.

DW advised working through this.

RS/DW RSL Sub-Branch, The Rock Request support in principle for placing an armoured personnel carrier in The Avenue, The Rock. Letter has been sent to Council.

RS to provide letter of support. DW has had discussions with RSL Sub-Branch on this matter. APC has been acquired.

Ordinary Council Meeting Held 18 August 2014 – Councillor Questions & Statements

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RS Cr Verdon - Library Grant Asked if recent $16,000 Mobile Library Grant funds allocated to Lockhart Shire Council could be used to install an e-terminal in the Council Administration Building for residents to access Riverina Regional Library services?

Had discussions with State library reps – currently being considered by them Grant approved – e-terminal to be installed. Installation complete Complete.

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

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DW Cr Paterson - Horse in Yerong Creek Resident in Yerong Creek has approached Cr Yates about the horses in Yerong Creek.

Meeting held with horse owner. Resolution reached. Waiting for fences to be moved. Some work has been completed. Still more to be done. Following up with landowner. Still ongoing. Some progress has been made. Some animals have been removed. Main complaint now is regarding smell/odour.

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

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

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

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

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DW Cr Paterson – Requested Council look at Parking Signage at The Rock Bowling Club now the extensions have been undertaken

Director of Engineering to investigate and advise.

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

Director of Engineering to investigate and advise.

14 December 2015 Council Meeting - Correspondence Sent to Councillors Date to Councillors

From Subject File Ref

12/11/15 The Hon Paul Toole MP, Minister for Local Government

Re. Opportunity for Final Consultation – FFF Reforms I06-005

13/11/15 (e-mailed)

ALGA News Editor ALGA News – 13 November 2015 A75-005

13/11/15 (e-mailed)

Cr Keith Rhoades, LGNSW President of LGNSW Weekly Update S20-007

13/11/15 (e-mailed)

Cr Keith Rhoades, LGNSW LGNSW Weekly #45 – 13 Oct 2015 S20-007

16/11/15 (e-mailed)

Cr Keith Rhoades, LGNSW LG Reform FAQs S20-020

17/11/15 (e-mailed)

Rod Shaw, General Manager

Media Release – Fit for the Future Decision by Lockhart Shire

I06-005

23/11/15 ALGA News Editor ALGA News – 20 November 2015 A75-005


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(e-mailed) 23/11/15 (e-mailed)

Cr Keith Rhoades, LGNSW LGNSW Weekly #46 – 20 Nov 2015 S20-007

23/11/15 (e-mailed)


23/11/15 (e-mailed)

Cr Keith Rhoades, LGNSW LGNSW Message to Members: Update S20-020

27/11/15 (e-mailed)

Cr Keith Rhoades, LGNSW LGNSW Weekly #47 – 27 Nov 2015 S20-007

27/11/15 (e-mailed)


27/11/15 (e-mailed)

ALGA News Editor ALGA News – 27 November 2015 A75-005

1/12/15 (e-mailed)

Sonia Casanova, Riverina Regional Tourism

Riverina Tourism 2014/15 Annual Report E05-020

7/12/15 (e-mailed)

ALGA News Editor ALGA News – 4 December 2015 A75-005

7/12/15 (e-mailed)

Cr Keith Rhoades, LGNSW LGNSW Weekly #48 – 4 Dec 2015 S20-007

7/12/15 (e-mailed)


8/12/15 (e-mailed)

Tim Reardon, Transport for NSW

Grain Harvest Management Scheme R40-065

Recommendation: That the information be noted.

301/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Cr Verdon and Morgan that the information be noted.


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Staff Reports General Manager 1. FIT FOR THE FUTURE (GM/I06-005)

Executive Summary Update on recent events. Report Our last Council Meeting was held 2 days prior to the deadline set by the State Government for Council’s to nominate preferred merger partners or to stand alone in the FFF process. As you are all aware, Council resolved to nominate a merger with Urana as its first preference with its only other preference being to stand alone as a rural council as per the IPART assessment of our Council being deemed FFF. It is now history that Urana Council resolved to merge with Corowa Council as its first preference with no other preference nominated. I understand that Corowa Shire reciprocated Urana as their preference. Since then, not a lot has happened. The State Government has promised that each Council will know prior to Christmas where they stand, but when that will be is anybody’s guess. No announcements have come forward from the Government about the FFF program since the 18 November deadline for nomination of merger preferences. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E4.2 - Plan for the long term sustainability of the shire. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Multiple depending on decisions made by Council and the State Government. Budget & Financial Aspects Unknown but possibly substantial again depending on decisions made by Council and the state government. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: For Council’s information.

302/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Schirmer and Day that the information be noted. 2. CONTRIBUTION TO RURAL FIRE SERVICE (GM/B35-065)

Executive Summary Excessive proposed increase in 2016/17. Report Recent discussions and meetings with RFS by the Councils within the Riverina Bush Fire District have indicated excessive increases in our annual contribution, well beyond normal CPI tolerance. Each of the Councils in the District have indicated their displeasure at the amount of the increases, but we are bound by the NSW Bushfires Act to pay whatever is decided at State and Regional level.


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To be fair to our Regional staff, the estimates they prepare only make up about half the total budget. The other half is made up of Head Office Overheads (called VASS), over which the Regional Office has no control. VASS charges regularly escalate at a higher rate than CPI, which means that in order to keep the contributions down at a regional level, savings need to be made in the regional budget. The regional budget is closely scrutinised by Regional staff as well as the Bush Fire Management Committee and contains no discernible fat. It covers regional staff costs, all the costs of catering for volunteers, and the cost of the large items such as new fire sheds and replacement tankers and appliances. Replacement programs are in place and approved by the Management Committee and are strongly scrutinised on an annual basis. If savings are to be found, they would come at the expense of the funds available for the needs of volunteers, which is highly undesirable. There are a number of ways to address these unsustainable cost increases foisted on us by the State Government. 1. Resolve to write to State Government outlining our displeasure at the unsustainably high

increase requested as our contribution when our own budget is restrained by rate pegging. Note that LGNSW passed a resolution sponsored by Coolamon Shire at the recent State conference to request Government to completely review the Bush Fires Act and its relationships with local government. Need to emphasise to Government this is just another form of cost shifting.

2. Request our large item replacement program to be pushed back so that our current contribution

will be reduced. The downside here is that tankers will get older and replacements more expensive, and in relation to sheds, construction standards imposed by the State Government are set to escalate within the next couple of years. We only have two to do, so it would make sense for that program to be completed prior to the new standards being implemented.

3. Resolve to only pay last year’s contribution plus rate pegging as our contribution next financial

year. This would only be a short term solution as we are bound to pay the contribution by the Bush Fires Act. It would, however show the State Government that we are serious about the issue. This option would also need broad support from other REROC Councils as well as other regional councils throughout the state if it was going to be effective.

At REROC this week, this issue was discussed, and a resolution was passed with the following affect: “REROC write to local members, Premier, Minister for Emergency Services, Leader of the Opposition and LGNSW about the significant and constant increases in RFS charges and the continued reduction in the VASS reimbursements.” Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E4.2 - Plan for the long term sustainability of the shire. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Multiple depending on decisions made by Council and the State Government. Budget & Financial Aspects Our current contribution is $126K which is forecast to increase to $146K in 2016/17, an increase of 16%. The VASS component will increase from $717K to $821K, an increase of 14.5%. In other words, almost the entire increase is attributable to the Sate controlled head office overheads. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: For Council’s determination.

303/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Driscoll and Morgan that Council support REROC’s resolution by writing to the State Government outlining our displeasure at the unsustainably high increase requested as our contribution when our own budget is restrained by rate pegging.


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The Mayor requested Item 1 – Proposal to Purchase Lockhart Building in the Closed Committee Reports be brought forward on the agenda.

304/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Douglas and Day that Item 1 – Proposal to Purchase Lockhart Building in the Closed Committee Reports be brought forward on the Agenda.

CLOSED SESSION

305/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Day and Driscoll that Council close the meeting to the public as per section 10(A)(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993.

The meeting moved into Closed Session at 6.15pm. The Mayor acknowledged the delegation from The Lockhart and District Historical Society in attendance for this item and invited Heather Trevaskis, President to address Council regarding this item. Council adjourned for dinner at 7.24pm. Council meeting reconvened at 8.22pm.

OPEN SESSION

307/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Morgan and Schirmer that Council move into Open Council. The meeting moved into Open Session at 8.25pm. 3. BBQ’S AT GALORE HILL (GM/P10-020)

Executive Summary Installation of gas BBQ’s at Galore Hill. Report Two grants have been received under the Public Reserves Management Fund Program (PRMFP) for improvements to Galore Hill totalling $46,756 excluding GST. These funds have enabled substantial works at Galore Hill including the replacement of the tower flooring with metal non slip flooring; replacement of all the old wooden seating with long life aluminium seat and table sets; repairs to the existing BBQ shelters including replacement of all wooden facias and beams, re-roofing of the shelters and installation of concrete floor slabs; installation of directional signage including information boards and directional arrows to identify walking routes; repairs to the front entrance and ramps; and, the upgrade of the walking tracks between the Summit and the Saddle, to Morgan’s Caves and a circular Summit walk. Unfortunately, the funding does not cover the full cost to complete all works at Galore Hill. Following discussions with the Department of Primary Industries Land, the installation of 2 x all weather gas BBQs, at a total cost of $12,088, has not been included in the works being undertaken as they have advised Work Health and Safety issues such as the tracks, seating and shelter take a higher priority.


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The current BBQ’s at Galore Hill are in disrepair, can only be used for limited dates throughout the year and are potential fire hazards. The installation of stainless steel gas BBQ’s under the existing shelters at the Summit and the Saddle would be of year round benefit to the local community and would actively encourage visitation to Galore Hill by local, regional and passing visitors. It is proposed the cost for the purchase of the BBQ’s be funded from the Prichard Galore Hill Trust, which currently has a balance of $42,500 plus interest of $500 per year. These funds have not been used for quite some years, and the enhancement of picnic areas is one of the purposes specified in the Trust Deed. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference A2.1 – Provide, or partner to provide, welcoming and well maintained community spaces and facilities. B5.2 – Better use of our natural strengths and assets to build our tourist sector. D1.2 – Strategically plan for our sports and recreation infrastructure. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Prichard Galore Hill Trust - $12,088 for purchase of 2 x stainless steel gas BBQ’s. Attachment 1. Agreement – Prichard Galore Hill Trust Committee Agreement. Recommendation: That 2 x stainless steel gas BBQ’s be purchased for installation at Galore Hill with costs to be funded by the utilisation of the Prichard Galore Hill Trust.

308/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Cr Morgan and Driscoll that 2 x stainless steel gas BBQ’s be purchased for installation at Galore Hill with costs to be funded by the utilisation of the Prichard Galore Hill Trust.

4. CHRISTMAS OFFICE CLOSURE (GM/S30-005)

Executive Summary Details of proposed normal Christmas office closure. Report Council normally closes its office for the three working days between Christmas and New Year. Staff work up the time for these days through time accrued for rostered days off. Council’s office will be closed from Friday, 25 December 2015 until Friday, 1 January 2016 and will re-open for business on Monday, 4 January 2016. As is routinely the case, staff will be available to cover for any emergencies which may occur over this period. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E6.3 - Provide responsible people management. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment Nil.


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Recommendation: That Council be informed of the normal three working days closure of the Council Office between Christmas and New Year as provided by industrial arrangements.

309/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Morgan and Schirmer that Council be informed of the normal three working days closure of the Council Office between Christmas and New Year as provided by industrial arrangements.

5. CHANGE OF COUNCIL MEETING DATE (GM/C70-005)

Executive Summary Determine the date of the February 2016 Council meeting. Report Next year the February Council Meeting is scheduled to be held on Monday, 15 February 2016. The Mayor has requested that this meeting be brought forward by one week to Monday, 8 February 2016. This is a good suggestion because of the long time lapse between the December 2015 and February 2016 meetings, due to there being no Council meeting held in January. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E.6.1.1 – Meet all governance and regulatory requirements in the conduct of Council’s operations. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Nil. Budget & Financial Aspects Nil. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the February 2016 meeting of Council be brought forward one week to Monday, 8 February and the community be informed by the normal media outlets.

310/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Douglas and McDonnell that the February 2016 meeting of Council be brought forward one week to Monday, 8 February and the community be informed by the normal media outlets.


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Director Corporate and Community Services 6. STATEMENT OF FUNDS NOVEMBER 2015 (DCCS/F10-010)


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Recommendation: That the Statement of Funds for November 2015 be received.

311/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Douglas and Verdon that the Statements of Funds for November 2015 be received.

Please Note: The following item was dealt with earlier in the meeting, after Committee Reports. 7. PRESENTATION OF COUNCIL’S 2014-15 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DCCS/A65-010)

Executive Summary Report to Council on Audited Financial Statements for 2014-15. Report Council’s Auditors, Crowe Horwath Auswild, have completed the audit of Council’s Financial Statements for year ending 30 June 2015. The Financial Statements and audit reports form part of Council’s Annual Report. In accordance with Section 419 (1) of the Local Government Act 1993 Council must present its Audited Financial Statements, together with the auditor’s reports, at a meeting of the Council. In accordance with Section 418(3) of the Local Government Act 1993 public notice was given in the Eastern Riverina Chronicle that the Audited Financial Statements and Auditor’s Report would be presented at the Council meeting to be held on 14 December 2015. Summary of Financial Statements Operating surplus before capital grants and contributions: $1.2M Surplus (2014 – $2.03M Surplus). Operating Revenues (excl. capital grants & contributions) 2.7% to $9.81M Operating Expenses 14.6% to $8.6M Cash and Investments 0.1% to $7.53M (2014 - $7.54 million). Revenue from Rates and Annual Charges 3.1% to $2.94M This represents 29.6% of Council’s total Income from Continuing Operations. User Charges and Fees 35.6% to $381,000 Interest on Investments 25.4% to $250,000 Loans $885,000 balance of loan Land Development $54,000 spent on developing Council’s real estate holdings. Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment $3.05M spent on Roads, Culverts & Footpaths. $693,000 spent on Plant & Equipment.


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Council’s Net Operating Result for 2014/15 before Grants and Contributions provided for Capital Purposes has reduced from $2.03M (2013/14) to $1.2M. The reduced Operating Result is due mainly to an increase in Depreciation. As Depreciation is a non-cash item, the reduction in Operating Result has not impacted on Council’s Cash & Investments. With the extensive work Council has undertaken on its Asset Management Plans over the past 12 months it has become more evident that Councils depreciation on its Roads Infrastructure is lower than industry average for Councils of similar size and roads network. (Supported by comparative data from LG Solutions and attendance at Jeff Roorda & Associates Asset Management workshops.) As a result of Council’s Roads Infrastructure being revalued for 2014/15, Council has moved fully to using BizeAssets software for its Roads Infrastructure asset management and valuation. From this BizeAssets now produces depreciation reports with amounts which better align with industry average. The result being a $480,000 increase to Roads depreciation. While any changes to depreciation do not effect Council’s Budget Surplus/Deficit as depreciation is a non cash transaction, changes to depreciation do effect the Net Operating Result in Audited Financial Statements. Even with the increase to depreciation as recorded in 2014-15 Audited Statements, Council maintained a surplus Net Operating Result and roads depreciation is still below industry average for Councils of similar size. Changes to depreciation will also impact on Council’s Asset Management Plans around the forecasts of amounts required to be spent each year to maintain council’s assets is a satisfactory condition. User Charges & Fees experienced a significant increase, due to Council undertaking some roads maintenance works for a neighbouring Shire. Interest and Investment Revenue incurred another reduction with interest rates continuing to decline from the previous year. It should be noted that while Grants & Contributions provided for Operating Purposes increased by $141,000 from the previous year, the actual makeup changed significantly. Notes 3 (e) Grants & (f) Contributions, in the General Purpose Financial Statements details the split-up of Grants and Contributions. The Financial Assistance Grant (FAG) for the comparative 2013/14 year reflects a one off timing difference, being a reduction. The FAG ceased being paid in advance in 2013/14, by up to 50%, as had occurred in previous years. The Financial Assistance Grant received in 2014/15 is Council’s true and correct allocation in amount and timing. In 2014/15 Council received $1.46M less in Specific Grants and $1.78M more in FAGs. For Council’s other operating activities they have remained relatively unchanged from the previous year. The 2014/15 Operating Result has seen Council maintain its strong financial position, which has been supported in IPART assessing Lockhart Fit for the Future. A detailed analysis of Council’s Financial Statements can be found in the Audited Financial Statements, pages 78-87. A representative of Crowe Horwath Auswild will be in attendance at Council’s December meeting to elaborate on their report and to respond to any questions. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference E4.2.1 Advocate and prepare for the long term sustainability of our Shire. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Local Government Act Section 419 Presentation of the council’s financial reports Budget & Financial Aspects Report on 2014-15 Financial Year Attachment Nil.


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Recommendation: That Council endorse the 2015 Audited Financial Statements and Auditor’s Report as presented which have been included in Council’s Annual Report for 2015.

300/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Schirmer and Day that Council endorse the 2015 Audited Financial Statements and Auditor’s Report as presented which have been included in Council’s Annual Report for 2015.


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Director of Engineering and Environmental Services 8. ENGINEERING REPORT (DEES/T10-005)

Executive Summary Monthly report on Engineering Matters. Background Information (a) Works Report: All three grader crews and two contractors are working on planned construction

projects including Woodend Five Ways Road rehabilitation, The Rock Bullenbung Road shoulder widening, Boree Creek Road rehabilitation, and The Rock Road Upgrade at The Rock. Next projects to commence after that list above are MR543 shoulder widening and MR370 rehabilitation near Wide Lane.

An updated 12-month programme will be presented at the meeting. Gravel winning and crushing is well advanced providing gravel for our projects this financial year. Concrete crew is undertaking various miscellaneous culvert and footpath works around the Shire, including commencing the 2015/16 PAMPS programme. This crew will also be undertaking culvert extension works for shoulder widening road projects occurring later in the year. The construction disabled bus stops on Urana Street, either side of the new toilet block has commenced, with delivery of the new bus shelters complete. The bus stops will have two new shelters, pedestrian crossings and full disabled access. Minor disruptions will be expected within this area.

(b) Flood Mitigation: The Rock Flood Study committee meeting was held Tuesday 8 November

2015 to discuss further modelling results for mitigation options in The Rock. (c) Road Safety Officer: Shelagh has undertaken road safety inspections of intersections at

Tinamba & Wattles Lanes. (d) Traffic Committee: Traffic committee has approved changed parking outside The Rock Central

School to accommodate parents picking up and dropping off for the OOSH. It is expected new signage will be installed in readiness for the new school year.

(e) Lockhart Local Emergency Management Committee: The Wagga EOC has been on standby

with recent high bush fire conditions, with DEES being on call as required. (f) Fleet: Plant and equipment replacement, as per 2015/16 Operational Plan, with all minor plant

and vehicles been delivered. Major plant orders placed with delivery still some months away. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D3.1 – Develop infrastructure for our community. Budget and Financial Aspects Will be conducted within Council’s allocated budget.


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Attachment 1. Updated 12 Months Works Programme (handed out separately at meeting). Recommendation: That the information be noted.

312/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs McDonnell and Day that the information be noted. 9. NOXIOUS WEEDS (DEES/N10-025)

Executive Summary Monthly report on Noxious Weeds. Report Property Inspections Inspections have occurred on both rural properties and residual properties. The majority of these properties were targeted due to change of ownership, or the presence of weeds seen from the roadside or neighbours’ properties. The weeds most commonly found were Horehound (Marrumbium vulgare), Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides), Privet (Ligustrum sp.), Prickly Pear (Opuntia sp.) and African Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum). Other weeds found in lower frequency were Green Cestrum (Cestrum parqui), Wild Radish (Raphanus raphanistrum), Lippia (Phyla canescens), Athel Pine (Tamarix aphylla), Bathurst Burr (Xanthium spinosum), Mexican Poppy (Argemone mexicana) and Giant Reed (Arundo donax).

No. 1st Inspections

No. Re-inspections

required

No.2nd Inspections

No. Sect 18A’s issued

No.3rd Inspections

No. Section 18’s issued

5 1 12 5 3 0 Two fourth inspections, one sixth inspection and one seventh inspection also occurred. Correspondence with these properties owners is continuing to ensure complete control is achieved. The majority of these properties have absentee owners. Correspondence has occurred with John Holland Rail in regards to controlling St John’s Wort infestations, as well as Local Land Services and control on Travelling Stock Reserves. Spray Program Priority for spraying has been given to the control of St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum), Silverleaf Nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium) and Horehound (Marrubium vulgare) on Shire roads. Silverleaf Nightshade Management Field Day On 11 November, the noxious weeds inspector attended the Silverleaf Nightshade Best Management Practice Field Day, held at Cookardinia by the Holbrook Landcare Network. Speakers included Hanwen Wu (NSW DPI Weeds Research Scientist), Karen Herbert (Murrumbidgee Landcare Silverleaf Nightshade Project Officer) and Phil Bowden (Murrumbidgee Landcare Agronomist). Attendees included noxious weed professionals from many difference shires as well as landholders. Points of interest included: • Silverleaf Nightshade is listed within the top ten worst weeds of the world. • During excavation for soil profiles, silverleaf nightshade roots have been found as deep as 4

metres. • Cultivation of silverleaf nightshade sites must be avoided as much as possible. Root fragments

of 5 centimetres long are optimal for regeneration but fragments as small as 1cm can germinate. This is also true for stem fragments.

• 2500 seeds are produced by each plant per year, yet the majority of germination occurs from the roots.


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• Spraying is recommended when flowering has begun, to control seed set, and around March to control regrowth.

• It is recommended that a low chemical rate is used when controlling silverleaf nightshade. Using the low chemical rate promotes a slow kill and enables translocation of the chemical to the root system. If higher doses are used, the plant goes into toxic shock, where the plant dies quickly but the roots remain alive, therefore enabling regeneration.

Although very few locations within the Lockhart Shire have silverleaf nightshade, vigilance in monitoring and controlling this weed is essential. The presentation is available on the Holbrook Landcare Network website as well as project updates. Invitations have been offered to councils and landholders to become involved in these research projects. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference C1.4 – Decreased occurrence, spread and impact of weeds and pests throughout the Shire. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Inspections and associated activities carried out in accordance with the Noxious Weeds Act 1993. Budget and Financial Aspects Will be conducted within Council’s allocated budget. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

313/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Morgan and Douglas that the information be noted.

10. PARKS AND GARDENS REPORT (DEES/P10-005) Executive Summary Monthly report on Parks and Gardens. Report General Maintenance Regular duties include inspections of parks and public facilities to remove litter, clean BBQ’s, check for damage or vandalism, clear footpaths and empty public and roadside bins. Most areas undergo inspections twice per week, including Galore Hill, where crews also clean and check the toilet facilities. Contract cleaners attend to the public toilet facilities in Lockhart, The Rock and Yerong Creek. Playgrounds in the shire are being inspected regularly as per Australian Standards, with any maintenance being noted and completed as necessary. Pools Council staff cleaned both pools, conducted regular vacuuming and water testing, attended to the amenities buildings, gardens and lawns before the facilities were handed over to the contractors, Sophie Driscoll and Megan McKenzie, Monday 10 November and opened for business on the Tuesday. Council staff will continue to assist the contractors where necessary. New compliance signage has been installed due to changes to the Australian Standards. The Rock facility had not had a PA System for many years; upon request from the contractor a new system has been installed which not only assists communication with patrons but allows music to be played for water activities and social events. Sculpture Trail Stuart Spragg’s ‘Dance Hall Days’, kindly donated by Daryl and June Wade has been relocated from its previous position outside Lockhart Roadhouse to Walter Day Park.


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The ‘Spirit of the Land’ kangaroos donated by Lockhart and District Community Bank have been permanently secured in their current location by Brookong Lagoon. To simplify maintenance around the installation a layer of mulch will be spread and native grasses planted randomly amongst the Roos. ‘Inland Pelicans’ by Bob Teasdale, has been moved to its permanent position in the newly landscaped EE ‘Curly’Heckendorf Memorial garden at Hodgson Park. ‘Rain Dragon’ will be relocated to the Albury Road entrance to welcome visitors from The Rock and Albury; the relocation will include landscaping to increase its prominence. ‘Rusty Cocky’, 2015 National Farm Art Sculpture Award winner and future winners will be displayed in Rain Dragon’s current position at the front of the caravan park. Caravan Park A new Caravan Park entrance sign has been installed; this sign provides a professional and welcoming first impression to visitors as they enter the park. The signage provides some basic information for visitors including the Park Managers contact number and has been designed so that information can be changed periodically without having to replace the whole sign. The powered sites have been formally numbered and identified with new signage as well, this should simplify the booking of sites for the manager and make locating sites easier for patrons especially over the busy Spirit of the Land weekend. Parks and Gardens The Rock crews worked hard to have the whole town at its best for the recent Rock or Bust festival held in the Urana Street Islands. The focus for both The Rock and Lockhart crews is to have all parks and public spaces mowed, edged and sprayed before the Christmas and New Year break. A skeleton crew will be on over this period to ensure these areas are kept tidy, BBQs are clean, bins are emptied and watering done. The shires roses are in full bloom, dead heading is being conducted regularly to keep them at their best. Irrigation systems are being checked and maintained regularly. Routine garden maintenance is being conducted including regular weeding, spraying, pruning, watering and mulching. Mowing and Slashing Mowing and edging of most irrigated areas is being conducted fortnightly, some areas however, including Lockhart Recreation Ground and the Urana Street Islands at The Rock are being mow weekly due to various factors causing quick growth. Slashings has been undertaken recently at Pleasant Hills, Mundawaddery Cemetery, Osborne Recreation Ground Milbrulong, Lockhart Airstrip and Showground with attention to fire restrictions and weather conditions. Urban streets and entrances of The Rock, Yerong Creek and Lockhart are now the focus leading up to Christmas. Weed Control Regular weed control is being conducted on Council property including hand spraying and weeding of gardens. Spraying of broadleaf weeds in irrigated lawns has begun. Khaki and cathead are coming into season, known problem areas will be monitored throughout the warmer months. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D1 – Infrastructure that facilitates an active community. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil.


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Budget and Financial Aspects Will be conducted within Council’s allocated budget. Attachment Nil. Recommendation: That the information be noted.

314/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Verdon and Driscoll that the information be noted. 11. CONCRETE WORKS – DISPLAYS AT THE ROCK (DEES/P10-035)

Executive Summary Council is required to undertake concrete works to assist with installation of new permanent displays in The Rock. Report Community groups in The Rock have been fortunate enough to secure two permanent displays for The Avenue in The Rock, being (i) ANZAC Gallipoli Scene sculpture, and (ii) an Armoured Personnel Carrier. The ANZAC Gallipoli sculpture, made of multiple layers of steel, features a historic scene from Gallipoli. As per the attached image, the left represents the past; the troops storming the beaches of Gallipoli at Anzac Cove, with the right representing the present; a current soldier paying respect to the soldiers who have fallen in battle, with the added touch of the iconic poppies. The centre emptiness symbolises loss. The sculpture is quite large, being 9m in length, 3 m wide and 2m tall, and will be placed immediately in front of the western wall of the new toilet block in Urana Street. The location will camouflage the back wall of the toilets while creating an impressive tourist attracting befitting its location in the Avenue of Honour. The sculpture is a joint effort between The Rock Progress Association and Lockhart Shire Council, at a cost of $2,000 and with a value of $10,000. Due to the design and size of the sculpture, which includes numerous layers of steel, the most appropriate installation method for the sculpture is on a concrete pad. Unfortunately The Rock Progress funds do not allow enough for the concrete pad and installation. The Armoured Personnel Carrier has been sourced by The Rock RSL Sub branch by tender and the grant funding includes purchase and placement. It is to be installed on the eastern side of the Cenotaph. Again, unfortunately, funding is insufficient to cover cost of concrete pad and surround. Both of these displays will greatly enhance the tourism potential of The Rock and be fantastic additions to the main street. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference B5.4: Develop partnerships that support our tourism industry. Legislative Policy and Planning Implications Nil.


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Budget and Financial Aspects • Funding that has been sourced/provided to date for the acquisition only is:

(i) ANZAC Gallipoli Scene costs: $2,000; (ii) Carrier - $12,000.

• Costs to construct concrete pads and assist installation: (i) Gallipoli scene - $14,450; (ii) Carrier - $9,090.

• This work is currently unbudgeted. Attachment 1. ANZAC Gallipoli Scene design. Recommendation: That Council staff construct the concrete pads and assist with installation of the two new permanent displays in The Rock with up to $25,000 in costs to be incorporated at next quarterly budget review.

315/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Driscoll and Morgan that Council staff construct the concrete pads and assist with installation of the two new permanent displays in The Rock with up to $25,000 in costs to be incorporated at next quarterly budget review.

12. FLOOD STUDIES – THE ROCK (DEES/F20-032)

Executive Summary Following the devastating floods of 2010 & 2012 Council has undertaken Flood Study of The Rock township to investigate what mitigation measures could be installed to assist in preventing re-occurrence. Report Following the devastating floods of 2010 & 2012 Council has undertaken Flood Study of The Rock township to investigate what mitigation measures could be installed to assist in preventing re-occurrence. Summary of the main recommendations from the Flood Risk Management Plan & Study for the construction of mitigation measures are listed below: The Rock: (i) Option N4/D2/U1 – levee at Nicholas Street and improved drainage downstream as well

improve culverts at Urana Street on Braithwaites Creek (ii) Option S4/DD2 – upgrade the drainage underneath the Great Southern Rail Line and Olympic

Highway, and replace private access bridge as well as new drainage channel on Davidson Street

(iii) Option ED3 – increase drainage capacity on Emily Street. Stage 3 of the Flood Study process is the design of the recommended flood mitigation works. Council’s design consultant has undertaken detailed investigations and concept design work for the recommended flood mitigation measures listed above. At the Flood Study Committee’s meeting held 8 November 2015 a presentation was made on additional modelling undertaken on an alternative proposal in Streven Street, The Rock. This modelling proved quite successful in reducing flooding impacts in the area around Olympic Highway and Mangoplah Road. Therefore there have been some major variations made to the original Flood Study recommendations due to this Streven Street option providing significant benefits and reducing the flows that enter the town from the east. The notable changes are: The Rock: (iv) Option N4/D2/U1 – levee at Nicholas Street and improved drainage downstream as well

improve culverts at Urana Street on Braithwaites Creek – This system will now be of reduced size and capacity, with Nicholas Street levee now becoming a bund and diversion channel. Also the upgrade of culverts under Railway opposite Hill Street no longer required and has been deleted.


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(v) Option S4/DD2 – upgrade the drainage underneath the Great Southern Rail Line and Olympic Highway, and replace private access bridge as well as new drainage channel on Davidson Street – due to physical constraints this system is to be replaced by a drainage system to the east of Streven Street, taking water from the east of town directly to Burkes Creek rather than through town. Upgrade to culverts under Olympic Highway, Railway and private property is still to occur as planned

(vi) Option ED3 – increase drainage capacity on Emily Street – this system is now no longer required and is deleted.

The respective Flood Study Committees have endorsed these changes to the flood mitigation measures. In addition, Council was advised early December 2015 that it has been successful with further OEH Funding for: - Commencement of Voluntary Purchase of homes in Lockhart and The Rock - Supply and installation of flood early warning equipment in both Brookong and Burkes Creek’s

upstream of the respective townships. It is expected that these works will commence early in 2016. Integrated Planning and Reporting Reference D3.1.3a - Complete Flood Studies for Lockhart and The Rock. Legislative Policy & Planning Implications Flood Planning Ares for the new LEP. Budget & Financial Aspects (a) The cost of the Stage 3 of the Flood Studies is $220,000, funded 6:1 ratio with grants from

Office of Environment & Heritage (OEH) and Council own money which has been already included in 2015/16 budget.

(b) The cost to construct the flood mitigation measures is unknown at this stage. It is likely that OEH will again fund the construction works at 6:1 ratio, depending on the benefit to the community.

Attachments 1. Proposed drain, Streven Street, The Rock. 2. Modified diversion bund at Nicholas Street, The Rock. Recommendation: That Council: (a) Adopts the changes to the recommended flood mitigation measures endorsed by respective

Flood Study Committees; (b) Continues with the Stage 3 design works and apply for funding in the next round in the New

Year for the construction of the flood mitigation measures; and (c) Continue to work with respective Flood Study Committees with design activities and other

aspects of the flood study process as previously resolved.

316/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Verdon and Driscoll that Council: (a) Adopts the changes to the recommended flood mitigation measures endorsed by

respective Flood Study Committees; (b) Continues with the Stage 3 design works and apply for funding in the next round in the

New Year for the construction of the flood mitigation measures; and (c) Continue to work with respective Flood Study Committees with design activities and

other aspects of the flood study process as previously resolved.


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13. DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS (MES/P25-010)

The following development applications were approved, with conditions, from 1 November 2015 to 30 November 2015. DA No Development Applicant/Owner Site of Development 14/16 Subdivision D Hallman 485 Illets Lane, Wrathall,

2642 15/16 Installation of a shipping

container R Swift 18 Queen Street, The Rock

16/16 In-ground Swimming Pool G Newton 2400 Olympic Hwy, The Rock 17/16 Transportable Dwelling S Ross 30 Macconichie St, Yerong

Creek 18/16 In-ground Swimming Pool A Price 50 Mangoplah Rd, The Rock CDC19/16PC In-ground Swimming Pool B & C Hamson 79 Hamsons Lane,

Urangeline CDC20/16 New Dwelling House M Basham 126 Collingullie Rd, The Rock

Recommendation: That the information be noted.

317/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Verdon and Douglas that the information be noted.

Delegates’ Reports The following verbal delegates report was given at the meeting: Riverina Water County Council 1. RWCC is currently doing a cost comparison on capital works. 2. RWCC has noted the imposition of an administrative charge on rural water connections. Cr Greg Verdon

Questions and Statements

Cr Day Nil.

Cr Verdon Nil.

Cr Driscoll

(i) Rock or Bust Music Fest – Thank you to all the Rock or Bust Music Fest supporters! Advised the committee hopes to be able to put an event on next year to promote the shire and town.

Cr Douglas (i) Request for Shade Trees on East Side of Lockhart Swimming Pool – Enquired as to

whether Council could plant trees on the nature strip on the east side of the Lockhart Swimming Pool for shade for car parking?

Response – Director Engineering and Environmental Services DEES advised that he would investigate and advise.


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Cr Schirmer

(i) Mowing Program in Lockhart Township – Congratulations to staff on the mowing in Lockhart, it looks great!

Cr McDonnell

(i) Pat Gleesons Lane at Western End – Advised there appears to be no delineation to prevent vehicles from running through the T-intersection at the western end of Pat Gleesons Lane.

Response – Director Engineering and Environmental Services DEES advised that he would investigate and take appropriate action.

Cr Morgan (i) Krauses Lane Sign – Advised that the sign for Krauses Lane on the Wagga Road is missing

again. Response – Director Engineering and Environmental Services DEES will investigate and take appropriate action.

(ii) Rockliff Court House – Enquired as to whether Council will rent the house on Rockliff Court? Response – General Manager The General Manager advised that he will report to Council at the February 2016 Council Meeting.

(iii) Dangerous Intersection – Advised that he considered the Lockhart-The Rock Road intersection with the railway crossing at The Rock as dangerous due to the angle of approach when driving a truck. Response – Director Engineering and Environmental Services DEES advised that this has been investigated previously and was assessed as satisfactory due to the slow speed of both traffic and trains, as well as visibility leading up to the intersection.

Cr Yates (i) Parking on Nature Strips – Enquired as to Council position of parking on nature strips?

Response – Director Engineering and Environmental Services DEES advised Council staff assess this issue on a case by case basis.

(ii) Damage to Sealed Pavement on Plunkett Street, Yerong Creek – Cr Yates noted damage to sealed pavement on Plunkett Street, Yerong Creek was caused by his truck during harvest. Response – Director Engineering and Environmental Services DEES advised he is aware of the damage and has undertaken some temporary rectification works.


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON


CLOSED SESSION

318/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Verdon and Douglas that Council close the meeting to the public as per section 10(A)(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993.

The meeting moved into Closed Session at 9.18pm.

321/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Verdon and Day that Council move into Open Council. The meeting moved into Open Session at 9.44pm.

OPEN COUNCIL The following resolutions of Council, while the meeting was closed to the public, were read to the meeting by the Mayor. 1. PROPOSAL TO PURCHASE LOCKHART BUILDING (GM/H15-010)

306/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Verdon and Douglas that Council agrees in principle to the proposal to purchase the Billabong Motors land and buildings, however prior to any formal decision being made, appropriate due diligence, with satisfactory outcomes, is required including survey, valuations and contamination issues.

2. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (GM/E05-020)

319/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs Verdon and Driscoll that Council accept the proposal from Crowe Horwath to carry out feasibility studies for industrial lot utilisation in Lockhart and reinvigoration of the commercial area at The Rock. In conjunction, a business case for future policy and strategy for economic development continue to be developed internally to be informed by the outcomes of the Crowe Horwath consultancy.

Cr Schirmer vacated the Chambers during discussion and voting for the following item. 3. AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS 2016 (GM/C15-005)

320/15 RESOLVED on the motion of Crs McDonnell and Verdon that Council endorse the recommendations of the Australia Day Committee for the Awards for Australia Day 2016.

The meeting concluded at 9.46pm. Confirmed Chairman of the Ordinary Meeting of Lockhart Shire Council held Monday, 14 December 2015 at which meeting the signature was subscribed hereto.

CHAIRMAN


_________________________ CHAIRPERSON

minutes of the ordinary monthly meeting of lockhart shire ...€¦ · council to undertake a...

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