ORDINARY COUNCIL
5 FEBRUARY 2007

ITEM REPORT CONTENT PAGE

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

APOLOGIES

OPENING OF MEETING WITH PRAYER

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

1. ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 18 DECEMBER 2006

Orders Of The Day

2. Order Of The Day No. 1

SUBJECT: Council and Committee Meeting Schedule - March 2007 / Meeting in the Plaza - Saturday 24 February 2007

Corporate Services Division Reports

3. Corporate Services Division Report No. 1

SUBJECT: Information Technology Plan 2007-2011

4. Corporate Services Division Report No. 2

SUBJECT: Establishment of United Independent Insurance Pools... 8

5. Corporate Services Division Report No. 4

SUBJECT: Sustainable Purchasing................................................................... 10

Open Space and Urban Services Division Reports

6. Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 1

SUBJECT: Lane Cove Alive - Proposal for Shade Structure............... 13

7. Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 3

SUBJECT: Green Fleet Initiative - Update...................................................... 15

8. Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 4

SUBJECT: Revision of the Plan of Management for Bushland in Lane Cove......................................................................................................................................... 17

9. Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 5

SUBJECT: Lane Cove Tunnel - Status Report............................................... 19

Environmental Services Division Reports

10. Environmental Services Division Report No. 1

SUBJECT: Delegated Authority Report - November and December 2006 21

Human Services Division Reports

11. Human Services Division Report No. 1

SUBJECT: Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan (NSASP)............. 22

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

***** END OF AGENDA *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
ORDER OF THE DAY NO. 1
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

29/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Order Of The Day No. 1

Subject: Council and Committee Meeting Schedule - March 2007 / Meeting in the Plaza - Saturday 24 February 2007

Record No: SU1915 - 1956/07

Author(s): Myrna Eisenhuth

Executive Summary

Council and Committee Meeting Schedule – March 2007

March 3 Inspection Committee

March 5 Ordinary Council

Planning and Building Committee

Services and Resources Committee

March 19 Ordinary Council

Planning and Building Committee

Services and Resources Committee

Councillors are next due to meet with the public in the Plaza on Saturday 24^th February 2007 between 10:30am and 12:00 midday.

Attached is the Lane Cove Council and Committee Meeting Dates Schedule for 2007.

RECOMMENDATION

That:-

1. The Council and Committee Meeting Schedule for March 2006 be adopted.

2. Councillors nominate whom they wish to attend the Meeting in the Plaza on Saturday 24^th February 2007.

Craig Wrightson

Executive Manager

Corporate Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View

Lane Cove Council and Committee Meeting Dates for 2007.

1 Page

CNL050207OD_1.doc

***** End of Order Of The Day No. 1 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
CORPORATE SERVICES DIVISION REPORT NO. 1
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

29/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Corporate Services Division Report No. 1

Subject: Information Technology Plan 2007-2011

Record No: SU1027 - 2021/07

Author(s): Craig Wrightson

Executive Summary

This report outlines Council’s new information technology plan which has been developed to meet the internal and external information technology needs over the next 5 years. It is recommended that the plan be adopted.

Background

Council has in the last 5 – 10 years invested significant time and money into its Information Technology resources, in a bid to ensure the organisation meets its information and computer resource needs. During this time, the organisation has moved from a mainframe based system to a PC based network, which now in addition to the Civica Authority System, includes a Graphical Information System (GIS Mapping), Trim (electronic document management system), and various other desktop applications such as Autocad for engineering, Microsoft Office and the like. During this time there has also been a shift from meeting Council’s internal requirements only, to providing electronic service via the internet to the community. Council’s website was relaunched some 2-3 years ago and it has continued to grow in its capability to provide direct service to the community and more recently enhance communication with the community via the new E-Newsletter service and survey features.

Information Technology is an integral part of Council’s operations. It is no longer an optional extra or “add-on”, it is as much a part of Council’s processes as any other resource (e.g. labour, materials, technical expertise) and the management of it therefore is as important as any other.

It is important to distinguish between Information Technology as a tool or a resource to assist in achieving set goals or outcomes, and, Information Technology for its own sake. That is, while Information Technology may influence the method by which Council’s identified requirements are addressed, it should not “create” new requirements. Certainly IT can make available new opportunities for satisfying the needs of Council and its clients but it is important to avoid the situation where “artificial demand” is created simply to justify the implementation of new technology. One of the main functions of the plan therefore is to maintain the focus on the identified directions and goals. Should these major goals and directions change, then appropriate technology should be considered; not the reverse order.

To guide Council in this increasingly complex environment, a 5 year Information Technology Plan has been developed.

Discussion

The aims of the plan are to: -

• use technology which represents value for money in terms of speed, services provided, compatibility, cost and reliability.

• provide technology and systems which focus on improving or expediting the level of services to the community.

• provide technology which enables the community to be informed, provide feedback into local services, issues and decision making.

• use technology which is energy efficient, reduces consumables, has recyclable components and is ergonomically sound.

The plan proposes three planning themes:

1. The Right Infrastructure in Place

Since the dot.com bust there has been a general contraction in the IT industry with consolidation of many hardware and software vendors. Many products have ceased to exist or have been integrated into other products under a different banner.

This key result area takes this into consideration and aims at ensuring that hardware purchased or leased by Council will be viable throughout the duration of the plan and for a minimum of three years from the acquisition date. It therefore proposes to ensure all equipment is a Tier platform carrying a minimum of a three year next day on site full warranty. To ensure this, the plan also aims to establish procedures so that purchases are not made outside of the Adopted Budget unless under exceptional circumstances. In addressing the contraction in the software industry the plan aims at ensuring:

• Council’s prior investment in its core applications is sustained by upgrading the core applications in a timely manner to versions that are supported by the vendors;

• operating systems on servers and clients support the core application; and

• desktop and other key systems used are at a version release that will allow support from vendors and software engineers.

2. The Right Practices in Place

Council’s online presence and the services it offers bring many advantages to the community. With it, also come some threats. Council is now more exposed than ever to external threats to its data and security of information. In addition it now provides more open and accessible means for the community to access data and services than ever before. The key result area is aimed at:

• putting the right practices in place to ensure a secure network and data security measures to address this threat; and

• ensuring disaster recovery procedures are clearly defined and in place to recover Council’s data and information in the event of a disaster.

Council’s current Disaster Recovery Plan is part of Council’s overall corporate document and should remain so. The Corporate Information & Technology (IT) Section will continue to review its responsibilities as part of this Plan.

To ensure that correct practices are adhered to, it is also important to address staff training needs and the role that Supervisory staff will play in ensuring that Council’s needs and expectations are met. The plan clearly defines the role of Supervisory staff and the involvement that they will play in identifying training needs of staff.

3. Quick and Easy Access to Information

Information and data is imperative to the smooth operation of any organisation. The speed and ease at which this data can be accessed will also determine the efficiency at which an organisation can operate. This key result area aims at ensuring that Council’s systems are accessible to Council staff and the community at speeds which would be considered normal for the point in time in relation to technology available. There is a need to improve the speed at which some Council staff and community are able to access data. The plan details clear steps in achieving this.

This key result area also considers the change in technology that is currently being experienced and the way that data and information is shared and/or transacted. Thus it details objectives in investigating e-business opportunities for Council.

Implementation of The Plan

This plan includes both the number of ongoing actions as well as new initiatives. The new actions will be incorporated as actions in Council’s Annual Management Plan, in a similar matter to Council’s other strategic plan such as the Sustainability Action Plan.

Conclusion

The plan will provide greater strategic direction over the next 5 years to ensure that Council’s information systems provide for cost effective business solutions across Council. It builds upon Council’s already extensive information resources and will continue to focus on providing systems which meet the information and service needs of the community via Council’s website. As this document is an internal focus document, it is not proposed to undertake formal external consultation with the community in relation to its contents.

RECOMMENDATION

That:-

1. The report “Information Technology Plan 2007 – 2011” be received and noted; and

2. Council adopt the Information Technology Plan 2007 - 2011.

Craig Wrightson

Executive Manager

Corporate Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View

Information Techology Strategic Plan for Lane Cove Council

15 Pages

CNL050207CSD_1.doc

***** End of Corporate Services Division Report No. 1 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
CORPORATE SERVICES DIVISION REPORT NO. 2
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

30/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Corporate Services Division Report No. 2

Subject: Establishment of United Independent Insurance Pools

Record No: SU1568 - 2129/07

Author(s): Craig Wrightson

Executive Summary

This report outlines the creation of a new Insurance Pool, which Council will become a member of to expand the types of insurance Council’s accesses through the pooling concept. It is recommended that Council supports an application to the Minister for Local Government under Section 358 of the Local Government Act to form United Independent Pools.

Background

Council presently manages its insurance and risk management program through Metro Pool. Metro Pool is a Local Government Mutual organisation setup in 1992 and consists of seven Councils who collectively manage their risks. Metro Pool has established a complete insurance portfolio using a variety of risk transfer methods including self insurance and bulk purchasing. This has ensured that the members have retained greater control over fluctuating insurance costs while any savings remain with the members instead of the insurance companies.

Metro Pool has always had a close relationship with another similarly structured Pool called Westpool. Both Pools regard themselves as independent, as unlike the larger version ‘statewide’, Metro Pool and Westpool manage their own affairs and market themselves direct to all of their service providers on a regular basis. In the case of Statewide, it was set up by a broker Jardines, who has a controlling interest on the Board.

In 2003, Westpool and Metro Pool decided to work more closely together through a joint administration and this has led to a number of mutual partnerships which have brought benefits to both Pools. In an effort to formalise this strategic alliance both Pools decided to create an umbrella organisation called United Independent Pools (U.I.P).

U.I.P’s charter was to investigate insurance/ risk products which would benefit all 14 members and singularly manage our joint service provides. U.I.P will also be responsible for managing strategic issues like marketing and training.

The first major product of U.I.P was to establish an insurance pool to cover properties and assets for the 14 members. This was established in July 2005 and has been running successfully for 18 months. The collective buying power of the U.I.P members has also facilitated the establishment of self insured fidelity guarantee insurance, and a variety of other cost effective insurance products.

Members are proud of the fact that Westpool and Metro Pool and now U.I.P are regarded as excellent examples of Local Government Strategic Alliances and today their range and financial strength is stronger than ever.

Discussion

In 2006 while formulating the legal structure of U.I.P members became aware that under section 358 of the Local Government Act comment was required by the Minister to form a corporation or other entity. Because both Westpool and Metro Pool were established well before this provision, consent was not required, however, in the case of U.I.P it was considered the members should obtain consent. An application was prepared and a delegation of both boards met with the Minister for Local Government in December 2006.

The delegation was well received and the Minister was impressed with both Westpool and Metro Pools past achievements. The Minister is a strong supporter of strategic alliances and it was anticipated that consent would be granted subject to it being processed by the legal branch of the Department of Local Government. The Executive Officer of the Pools has continued to provide all the necessary details to the legal branch, however, they now seek formal resolutions from each Council supporting an application to the Minister.

No formal resolution has been moved previously to make application to the Minister for U.I.P, because both Pools considered their delegates on the Board had delegated authority to make application to the Minister. Nevertheless, before the Department will finalise the application they require formal resolution sanctioning the application to the Minister.

A copy of the submission to the Minister and additional paperwork relating to the application is attached for information as it provides further detail on the Pools and the services they provide.

Metro Pool has requested that each member Council move the following resolution to enable this application to proceed.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council supports an application to the Minister for Local Government under Section 358 of the Local Government Act for the formation of United Independent Pools and the endorsement of the existing strategic alliances between Westpool and Metro Pool.

Craig Wrightson

Executive Manager

Corporate Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View

United Independent Pools - A Local Government Strategic Alliance

16 Pages

CNL050207CSD_2.doc

***** End of Corporate Services Division Report No. 2 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
CORPORATE SERVICES DIVISION REPORT NO. 4
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

31/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Corporate Services Division Report No. 4

Subject: Sustainable Purchasing

Record No: SU2075 - 2233/07

Author(s): Craig Wrightson

Executive Summary

This report outlines actions in relation to the development of a Sustainable Purchasing Policy and recommends that Council join the new Local Government and Shires Association’s Sustainable Choice Program.

Background

Council’s 2006-2009 Management Plan contains two (2) actions in relation to sustainable purchasing. Firstly, to adopt a Sustainable Purchasing Policy for all Council’s purchases and secondly to ensure that sustainability objectives are part of Council’s tendering policy. Work has been progressing on reviewing Council’s tendering and quotations procedures to reflect this and a draft policy has also been prepared. Council is now in receipt of correspondence from the Local Government and Shires Association of NSW inviting Council to participate in the Sustainable Choice Purchasing Program which has the same objectives as Council’s, in terms of integrating sustainability criteria into the purchase of goods and services. It is therefore appropriate to consider joining the program.

Discussion

Sustainable Purchasing Policy

Council’s staff have attended training in relation to the development of a Sustainability Purchasing Policy and have developed a draft policy which is included as Attachment 1. The policy demonstrates Council’s commitment to the incorporation of sustainability principles into purchasing with a view to minimising the impact that the purchase and use of products and services has on the environment. Prior to being further considered by Council it is proposed to review the Policy in light of the material provided by the Sustainable Choice Program and refer it to Council’s Sustainability Action Committee for their comments.

Sustainable Purchasing Program

The Local Government and Shires Association’s Sustainable Choice Program is designed to encourage councils to purchase sustainable products, that is, those that save water and energy, reduce pollution, contain recycled content and minimise waste, can help Council improve efficiency and cut costs.

The Program is free for councils to join and aims to assist councils by: -

· Providing information on sustainable products and suppliers;

· Providing practical support to councils in ensuring to help make the transition towards sustainable procurement easier; and

· Facilitating information sharing and staff peer education.

Part of the program requires the incorporation of sustainable purchasing principles into Council’s purchasing policies and systems and this will provide an excellent mechanism for the review of the work done to date on incorporating sustainable purchasing in the Councils Tendering Quotations and Procedures.

Included as Attachment 2 is a copy of the Background Briefing Paper on the program produced by the Local Government and Shires Association.

To join the program, the key actions are for Council to pass a resolution to join (the model resolution suggested is included as a recommendation to this report) and establish a team within Council to drive the process. This team will be established in the coming weeks should Council proceed to join the program.

RECOMMENDATION

That:-

1. The report be received and noted.

2. The draft Sustainable Purchasing Policy be referred to the Sustainability Committee for comment prior to further consideration from Council.

3. Lane Cove Council agrees to become a member of the Sustainable Choice Program by:-

a. Accepting in writing the Local Government and Shires Association’s invitation to join the program.

b. Establishing a team with responsibility to co-ordinate sustainable purchasing in Council.

c. Developing, adopting and implementing sustainable purchasing policy principles

d. Integrating sustainable purchasing principles into Council’s existing purchasing processes.

e. Establishing a tracking system to monitor the scope and level of purchasing activity.

f. Council participation in the Sustainable Choice annual reporting questionnaire to record the scope and level of sustainable purchasing taking place in NSW local Government.

g. Staff participation in peer education forums, (workshops, etc) to facilitate increased levels of awareness of the benefits of sustainable purchasing.

Craig Wrightson

Executive Manager

Corporate Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View	Draft Sustainable Purchasing Policy	1 Page
AT‑2 View	Sustainable Purchasing Choice Background Briefing Paper	8 Pages

CNL050207CSD_4.doc

***** End of Corporate Services Division Report No. 4 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
OPEN SPACE AND URBAN SERVICES DIVISION REPORT NO. 1
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

23/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 1

Subject: Lane Cove Alive - Proposal for Shade Structure

Record No: SU1800 - 1680/07

Author(s): Wayne Rylands

Executive Summary

The (artificial) grass area in front of the rotunda in the Plaza has become a very popular area for people to congregate during the daytime. During the heat of the day there is no shade in this area which creates problems for the community.

This report details the need for a shade structure to be installed to this area to provide some relief for the community from the sun, particularly during the summer months. To provide immediate benefit for the remainder of this summer period it is proposed that the shade structure be installed as a matter of urgency.

Background

The Lane Cove Alive Strategic Action Plan identifies the Plaza as the central area for leisure activity and public space in the Lane Cove Village. The Plan also identified that the grass area was constantly worn out and that seating was placed in unshaded spaces.

In 2006, Council replaced the turf lawn with artificial grass. This was due to the continual maintenance that was required with the turf and associated high costs for replacement. On average the turf was being replaced two to three times every summer season.

The Lane Cove Alive Leadership Group has now approached Council with a proposal to erect a shade structure over the grassed area in the Plaza. A copy of their correspondence and proposal is provided as Annexure 1.

Discussion

Since the installation of the artificial turf to the Plaza, it would appear that usage of the area has increased markedly. A number of benefits have evolved from the installation of the artificial turf. These are:

· Improved community connectivity with an area that is usable all year round.

· Reduced maintenance, saving staff time, replacement costs of the turf, and watering cost to try and maintain the old turf area.

· A higher quality public space.

However, the higher usage that has occurred as a result of these benefits has identified the increased need for shading of the area, particularly during the hot summer months.

It has been estimated that the erection of a shade structure, as proposed by the Lane Cove Alive Leadership Group, would cost in the vicinity of $20,000 to $25,000. As detailed in the Alive Group’s submission, this structure could also be relocated to another area in the future should major reconstruction occur in the Plaza and the structure is no longer required there.

It is not considered that the erection of the structure would have any detrimental effect on the adjoining businesses, and would even encourage greater usage of the area with possible flow on effects for those businesses.

Discussions with Council’s Development Assessment branch would indicate that the land where the shade structure is to be installed is an unzoned road. Council’s LEP does not specify in the Zoning table what can be built in an unzoned area. The advice therefore is that no approval is required for the shade structure. Not withstanding this, it is proposed that Council notify the adjoining shop owners of the proposal and post copies of the proposal around the Plaza area prior to installing the structure.

Conclusion

A shade structure over the grassed area of the Plaza will provide a significant community benefit, particularly during the hotter summer months of the year.

It is considered appropriate to arrange for the immediate installation of the structure to the grassed area and the community be advised immediately of this initiative, and the fact the idea was developed by the Lane Cove Alive process.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council approve the installation of a shade structure to the Lane Cove Plaza as detailed in the plan prepared by Johannsen & Associates Architects, dated 11.12.06, to be funded from the Plaza Improvements Capital budgetary allocation.

Wayne Rylands

Executive Manager

Open Space and Urban Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View

Lane Cove Alive corresponsdence, schematic picture and plan of the proposal

3 Pages

CNL050207US_1.doc

***** End of Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 1 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
OPEN SPACE AND URBAN SERVICES DIVISION REPORT NO. 3
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

24/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 3

Subject: Green Fleet Initiative - Update

Record No: SU2326 - 1813/07

Author(s): Wayne Rylands

Executive Summary

Council’s ‘Greener, Safer Fleet’ initiative has been a huge success in its’ first year. Council has reduced costs and greenhouse gas emissions, and improved air quality. Staff have adopted smaller, more environmentally friendly vehicles over those that made up the majority of the fleet prior to the initiative. Over the next year, Council will investigate adopting the use of greener, cleaner fuels for both our light and heavy vehicles. Ethanol blends will be offered to staff in the light vehicle fleet whilst biodiesel blends will be utilised in Council’s truck fleet. This will involve the installation of above ground storage tanks at Council’s Lane Cove West Depot. The tanks will be environmentally sound and meet Australian Standards for the storage of flammable liquids.

Background

In November 2005, Council endorsed the implementation of a ‘Greener, Safer Fleet’. This initiative added sustainability and safety components in determining the composition of the Council’s light vehicle fleet. Council’s staff was enthusiastic in their adoption of the new fleet. Vehicles such as the hybrid-electric Toyota Prius, the clean-diesel Volkswagen Golf and LPG capable Holden Commodores and Ford Falcons were offered to and taken up by staff. This report provides an update on the new composition of the Council’s light vehicle fleet, the sustainability and financial benefits that have been gained to date, and an insight into future initiatives to be utilised by Lane Cove Council in keeping to the forefront of sustainability with its’ light and heavy vehicle fleets.

Discussion

In October 2005, Council’s vehicle fleet consisted predominantly of Holden Commodores. All up, nineteen (19) of the forty-seven (47) vehicles that make up the fleet were Commodores. By October 2006, Council only possessed six (6) Commodores. The replacement vehicles have consisted mainly of Volkswagen Golfs and Subaru Imprezas. Other vehicles replacing the Commodores have included the Toyota Prius, Subaru Liberty and Forester, and Toyota Grande and Sportiv. Summaries of the vehicle fleet compositions in October 2005 and October 2006 is provided as a spreadsheet in Attachment 1.

This spreadsheet also details the fuel and greenhouse gas savings that were achieved between October 2005 and October 2006 with the new vehicle fleet composition. It can be seen that Council has saved approximately $10,000 in reduced fuel usage, and prevented 37.6 tonnes of greenhouse (CO₂) gases. It is now considered that Council should take the next step in further ‘greening’ our light and heavy vehicle fleets. Over the past 18 months, Council has maintained contact and held regular discussions with an alternate fuel company that can provide ethanol fuel blends and biodiesel fuel blends. These discussions have identified further opportunities for Council to test the advocacy of ethanol and biodiesel as more environmentally sound fuel blends versus current unleaded fuel and diesel that are utilised by our vehicles and the general public.

The use of these fuel blends are supported by documents prepared by the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition in America, and a Submission to the Taskforce on Biofuels prepared by Dr Ray Kearney. A copy of this document is provided as Attachment 2. This documentation supports the notion that ethanol and biodiesel are cleaner fuels than the unleaded and diesel blends currently sold by the major petroleum companies. Dr Kearney advocates that ethanol and biodiesel will result in improved health scenarios for the general community. This stance is supported by the Australian Medical Association (AMA).

It is proposed that Council undertake the necessary investigations to trial ethanol and biodiesel fuel blends with our light and heavy vehicle fleets respectively. This will involve installing fuel tanks at the Depot and providing the necessary conversions to the vehicles to be involved in the trial. The fuel tanks will meet all necessary environmental and regulatory standards, and the required development process will be undertaken.

Conclusion

Council’s ‘Greener, Safer Fleet’ initiative is considered to have been a great success over the first 12 months of its’ operation. However, it is considered that there are still further initiatives that can be adopted that will further enhance its’ sustainability. The initiative that Council wants to concentrate on over the next 12 months is the use of ethanol and biodiesel fuels for its’ vehicles. It is acknowledged that this will involve considerable work, but it is considered to be a very valuable initiative worthy of this attention and providing a clear message to the Lane Cove community that Council is at the forefront of sustainability with its’ vehicle fleet.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:-

1. Receive and note the update report from the Executive Manager, Open Space & Urban Services on the progress of the ‘Greener, Safer Fleet’ initiative.

2. Supports the proposed initiative to provide ethanol and biodiesel fuel blends respectively for its’ light and heavy vehicle fleets.

Wayne Rylands

Executive Manager

Open Space and Urban Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View	Vehicle Fleet Comparison Spreadsheet	2 Pages
AT‑2 View	Dr Kearney's Submission to the Taskforce on Biofuels	16 Pages

CNL050207US_3.doc

***** End of Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 3 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
OPEN SPACE AND URBAN SERVICES DIVISION REPORT NO. 4
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

29/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 4

Subject: Revision of the Plan of Management for Bushland in Lane Cove

Record No: SU2219 - 2023/07

Author(s): Timothy Matheson

Executive Summary

A requirement of the Plan of Management for Bushland in Lane Cove is to review the plan every 5 years. Council officers, BMAC and the public have been provided the opportunity to review and suggest amendments. Changes to the plan have focussed on tightening up management objectives regarding companion animals and cyclists in bushland.

Background

Council is required to prepare a plan of management for bushland under the Local Government Amendment (Community Land Management) Act, 1998. A plan of management for bushland is also required to be prepared under clause 8 of SEPP 19 Bushland in Urban Areas.

Council first adopted a plan of management for its bushland areas in 1990. Councils Bushland Management Advisory Committee, along with the general public, has been given the opportunity to revise this latest plan.

This plan sets out objectives and management policies for bushland as well as management actions for each reserve. The plan addresses such issues as bushland management, recreational values of bushland, weed invasion, bushfire hazard reduction and Bushcare volunteers.

Discussion

Public submission regarding the plan was open for 28days, with no formal submissions received. However the Bushland Management Advisory Committee has recommended a number of changes and modifications which Council have duly considered.

Changes to the plan have not been substantial, but some of the more notable modifications include:-

· Changes to the wording of the Aim to reflect the conservation of more diverse, natural and cultural values.

· An updated history regarding the Bushcare program, the Bushcare Officer position, and the bush regeneration program in the 1960s and 70s,

· Improved management objectives and actions of the companion animals and cyclists in bushland reserves.

A final draft of the plan was completed and Councillors were provided a copy to comment.

Conclusion

The 5yr review which allows Council Officers, BMAC and the general public to comment is an important process during the life of this management plan. It ensures the most current and pertinent bushland management practises are incorporated and adopted in Lane Cove. This plan of management continues to be an integral document that provides Council and the community with a clear outlook of how bushland areas are managed in Lane Cove.

Changes under this review have been minor but have allowed for some important amendments.

A copy of the final plan can be provided to Councillors on request.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council accepts the revised changes and adopts the current version of the Plan of Management for Bushland in Lane Cove, shown attached.

Wayne Rylands

Executive Manager

Open Space and Urban Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View

Plan of Management for Bushland in Lane Cove

85 Pages

CNL050207US_4.doc

***** End of Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 4 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
OPEN SPACE AND URBAN SERVICES DIVISION REPORT NO. 5
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

30/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 5

Subject: Lane Cove Tunnel - Status Report

Record No: SU1495 - 2077/07

Author(s): Wayne Rylands

Executive Summary

The Lane Cove Tunnel Status Report notes that there has still been no advice provided from Connector Motorways or the State Government about the likely opening date of the Lane Cove Tunnel. Council will recall that earlier indications of a 10 December 2006, then a 18 February 2007 opening date have obviously passed by (with the required 4 week notification period).

It is also noted that since the last Tunnel Status Report, $25 million compensation has been paid to Connector Motorways by the State Government for delaying the implementation of the Epping Road surface works by an additional five months after the Tunnel is opened.

There has also been ongoing discussion between Council, Connector Motorways, the RTA and Ministry of Transport officials on various outstanding issues relating to the Stage 2 works proposed for Epping Road and the proposed Bus Interchange and associated Pedestrian Overbridge.

Discussion

Tunnel Opening Date

Council is concerned about the lack of transparency regarding the opening date of the Tunnel. No official date for opening the Project has been provided by Connector Motorways to Council. Council is becoming increasingly concerned that the proponents will not comply with another condition of consent that requires them to provide a minimum of four (4) weeks notification to all relevant authorities prior to opening of the Project (Condition 2).

$25 Million Compensation

On 8 December 2006, the NSW Minister for Roads, Hon Eric Roozendaal, issued a media release detailing that the State Government was compensating Connector Motorways $25 million to stage the surface road works over an 11 month period after the project opens. Under the original contract, all surface road works were required to be completed within 6 months of the tunnel opening. Thus, for a further five month delay, the Government has paid Connector Motorways $25 million or equivalent to some 9.6 million vehicle trips (at a $2.60 toll that was advocated at the time of the announcement). These would be trips by toll avoiders in that five month period. This equates to over 60,000 toll avoiding vehicles per day, 7 days per week in that five month period. It is considered that this is not very likely, and indeed 30,000 toll avoiding vehicles per day would be considered high. In other words, it is considered that the Government has paid compensation to Connector Motorways for at least a year’s worth of toll avoiding vehicles. This is money that could have been better spent on providing filtration to the Tunnel.

Epping Road – Stage 2 Works & Sub-Plan C:

Since the previous Lane Cove Tunnel Status Report in October 2006, Council staff has had numerous meetings and discussions with Connector Motorways, the RTA and staff regarding progress of the planning for the Epping Road Stage 2 Works and Sub-Plan C. Council is again concerned about the lack of detail and/or incorrect detail in these plans, and the fact numerous concerns raised by Council staff have either not been addressed or discounted without thorough explanation.

Some examples include:

· The impact of the proposed cycleway on a number of driveways on Epping Road, between Coxs Lane and Centennial Avenue.

· The over proliferation of signage and delineation of the cycleway/pedestrian footpath.

· Unsatisfactory detail provided on the proposed treatment for Kimberley Avenue/Longueville Road.

· No detail on the trees to be protected in the bushland adjacent to Epping Road, between Sam Johnson Way and the Shell Service Centre.

Some of the more interesting plans issued to Council by Theiss John Holland will be tabled for the Councillors perusal at the meeting.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council receive and note the Lane Cove Tunnel Status Report.

Wayne Rylands

Executive Manager

Open Space and Urban Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

There are no supporting documents for this report.

CNL050207US_5.doc

***** End of Open Space and Urban Services Division Report No. 5 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DIVISION REPORT NO. 1
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

19/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Environmental Services Division Report No. 1

Subject: Delegated Authority Report - November and December 2006

Record No: SU1863 - 1479/07

Author(s): Michael Mason

During the month of November a total of 42 Development Applications were determined under delegation by staff. In addition 12 Construction Certificates and 15 Privately Certified Construction Certificates were issued. There were 4 Complying Developments approved in November.

During the month of December a total of 33 Development Applications were determined under delegation by staff. In addition 6 Construction Certificates and 20 Privately Certified Construction Certificates were issued. There were 2 Complying Developments approved in December.

RECOMMENDATION

That the report ‘Delegated Authority Report – November/December 2006’ be received and noted.

Michael Mason

Executive Manager

Environmental Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View	List of Development Applications determined in November 2006	6 Pages
AT‑2 View	List of Development Applications determined in December 2006	5 Pages

CNL050207ES_1.doc

***** End of Environmental Services Division Report No. 1 *****

ORDINARY COUNCIL
5 FEBRUARY 2007

Ordinary Council at the Meeting 5 February 2007

25/01/2007 to Ordinary Council

Human Services Division Report No. 1

Subject: Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan (NSASP)

Record No: SU1648 - 1881/07

Author(s): Eric Poulos

Executive Summary

This Report brings the Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan (NSASP) to Council for formal adoption. Council considered the draft Plan at its Ordinary Meeting of 21 August 2006 and resolved to place the draft on display for 28 days until 19 September 2006. The other Councils involved in the preparation of this Plan have either also placed the Plan on public exhibition or consulted through their local networks. If adopted tonight, Lane Cove Council will be the second Council to complete the display and adoption process as Pittwater Council recently endorsed the Plan. This Report recommends changes suggested while the Plan was on public exhibition across Northern Sydney Councils.

The suggested amendments are based on four responses made during the public display period which covered a period from August 2006 to November 2006 across the Northern Sydney Councils. By adopting this Plan, Council will meet all its mandatory Social Plan target groups in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 1999. The Plan for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people makes up the seventh and final target group, adding to Council’s Social Plans done for Children and Families, Young People, Seniors, Women, People with Disability and People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities. It also allows Council to plan for Indigenous Australians within the Lane Cove community and promote a richer understanding of social issues and Aboriginal heritage.

Background

All Councils in NSW are obliged by the State Government to produce a Social Plan covering the key target groups of Aboriginal People, Children and Families, Seniors, People with Disability, People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds, Women and Youth. Council in 2005 adopted the Lane Cove Social Plan covering the above six target groups, not including Aboriginal people. Due to the dispersion of Aboriginal people across Northern Sydney, in 1999 an agreement was reached between the Northern Sydney Councils to prepare and conduct the Aboriginal Social Plan on a regional basis. Lane Cove Council participated in the development of the first NSASP released in September 2000. A Project Officer was employed to further develop the plan. The Plan being brought back for adoption is the second NSASP.

Discussion

The NSASP has been through an extensive consultation and drafting process. Consultations have been held with stakeholders and key Aboriginal agencies including Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Lands Council, The Aboriginal Heritage Office, the Lane Cove’s Social Development Group (SDG), Lane Cove Residents for Reconciliation and Aboriginal community members on an Aboriginal Advisory Committee. The other Northern Sydney Councils have each gone through their public consultation processes in their own areas.

Four written responses were received across all the Councils and included submissions from a community member of the SDG, Lane Cove Residents for Reconciliation and the Manly Warringah Aboriginal Support Group and a letter from the Local Government and Shires Association (LGSA). The full set of submissions has been circulated to Councillors in hard copy. The LGSA letter states:

“The Associations commend Council on this initiative and the development process of the Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan and acknowledge the great effort in the consultation process with various organisations and the Aboriginal community”.

All members of the Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan Funding group made up of the Northern Sydney Councils and the Aboriginal Programs Officer of the Department of Community Services (DoCS) met at Ku-ring-gai Council on 24 November 2006 to discuss responses received and what should be incorporated into the Plan from these responses. All relevant amendments have been incorporated. The LGSA letter was received and noted very positively. It was agreed at the meeting that once final changes were made, each Council was to adopt the plan independently, as early as possible in the New Year to facilitate its printing, distribution and promotion. It is expected that this should be completed by the first quarter of 2007.

Amendments Made to the NSASP

The majority of amendments were minor in nature, included explaining acronyms, changes made to improve factual accuracy and other semantic changes relating to making the document flow. In summary, most of the suggestions from a community member of the Social Development Group were accepted. This included: listing acronyms that were not fully explained (eg. NAIDOC means National Aborigines and Islander Day Observance Committee), amending graphs and tables which were inconsistent and typographical errors pointed out. Comments about the future planning and the length of the document were also addressed. This will be done by having a work plan and job description developed for the Aboriginal Project Officer once the plan is adopted by the Northern Sydney Councils. The suggestion for a community brochure as made by the Lane Cove Residents for Reconciliation (LCRR) will also be followed up which will outline key information in what is a very comprehensive document at present.

The Lane Cove Residents for Reconciliation submission included much valuable information which was incorporated. It refers to DoC’s Aboriginal Community Programs Officer, “for his inspirational leadership and untiring commitment to the NSASP”. The DoC’s Aboriginal Community Programs Officer who is a well regarded, by community groups, Aboriginal groups and by Council Officers, and who is an active member of the Indigenous community was present at the 24 November 2006 meeting of the Northern Sydney Councils where the submissions were discussed. Where an issue required the sensitivities of an Aboriginal person, the DoC’s Aboriginal Community Programs Officer was deferred to for his input. For example, he suggested that the Reconciliation Groups be acknowledged as part of the NSASP consultation process and for their continued commitment to the plan. He suggested that the Day of Healing be referred to as the Sorry Day of Healing. In other instances, he advised against controversial changes suggested. For example, he said that it was not necessary to include the Aboriginal Land Rights Act definition of an Aboriginal, that it was not possible to commit to a permanent full-time position as this is dependent of ongoing funding, that it was not necessary to make reference to Australia’s First People as people understood both the terms Aboriginal or Indigenous, and that settlement was a more acceptable term than invasion and colonisation. Other than the above highlighted issues, suggestions made by LCRFR were incorporated including: adding the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Lands Council, the Historical Society and LCRR to the management of the Woodford Bay Reconciliation Memorial Ceremony, adding the latest Councils such as North Sydney and Mosman to the list of Councils which had signed Principles of Co-operation, correcting the title and explanation for the Northern Sydney Region Reconciliation Network and referring to the Australian Constitutional change. The points of suggestion from the LCRR Aboriginal Committee members were all acknowledged as valuable to follow up in the future. By way of clarification, the Northern Sydney Aboriginal Advisory Group referred to in the NSASP does not meet on a regular basis and was a group of Indigenous Australians who were asked to make input on the plan by the previous Project Officer.

In relation to the issues raised by the Manly Warringah Aboriginal Support Group, the reference to the Reconciliation Groups (as also raised by LCRR) was changed to make it clear that they have Indigenous members as well as non- Indigenous. Mention of the RNS Health kit was not included nor was it seen as necessary to state the membership requirements of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Lands Council. Issues to do with the role of the Project Officer were to be addressed as previously stated in a future work plan and job description.

Conclusion

Though it has been a long and at times difficult process, given the wide consultation undertaken, the highly positive nature of the comments received during the course of preparing the NSASP and the support of stakeholders such as the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Lands Council, The Aboriginal Heritage Office, the LGSA, the Lane Cove Residents for Reconciliation and the Social Development Group, it is suggested that the Plan will go a long way to meeting Aboriginal People’s social needs. As such, it is recommended for adoption by Council. When each Council has adopted the plan, which is expected to happen in the first quarter of 2007, it will then be made ready for printing, distribution and promotion. Its adoption will provide a basis to move forward and develop a strategic work plan in co-operation with other Northern Sydney Councils to assist Council meet the needs of the Aboriginal community into the future.

RECOMMENDATION

That:-

1. Council resolve to adopt the document ‘Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan 2007- 2011’ as amended.

2. All relevant stakeholders be informed of Council’s adoption of the Plan and be urged to support its implementation.

3. Council place the ‘Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan 2007 – 2011’ on its website.

4. In line with the process following with the Cultural; Social and Sustainability Plan – once all Councils have adopted the Plan, that it be printed and made available to all interested stakeholders and community members via hard copy and via the production of a CD-ROM disc.

Jane Gornall

Executive Manager - Human Services

Human Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View

Northern Sydney Aboriginal Social Plan 2007-2011 with amendments adopted

102 Pages

CNL050207HS_1.doc

***** End of Human Services Division Report No. 1 *****

***** END OF AGENDA *****