Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting

DIRECTOR Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Reports of Assembly of Councillors	Item 2

Purpose

To present the ‘Public Record’ of those Assembly of Councillors briefings which are attended by all Councillors and generally held on Monday evenings at the City Offices Ringwood, usually two weeks prior to the formal Council Meeting, and to note the issues discussed.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015-2016) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A well governed and empowered community

Our Vision: Maroondah is an effectively empowered community that is actively engaged in Council decision making through processes that ensure their voice is heard and considered. Council provides strong and responsive leadership, ensures transparent processes and works with the community to advocate and champion their needs

Key Directions 2014 – 2015:

8.1 Provide enhanced governance that is transparent, accessible, inclusive and accountable

Background

An Assembly of Councillors, as defined under the Local Government Act 1989 [s.3], is a planned or scheduled meeting, comprising at least five (5) Councillors and one (1) member of Council staff, that considers matters that are intended or likely to be:

· the subject of a decision of the Council; or

· subject to the exercise of a delegated function, duty or power of Council

Examples of an Assembly of Councillors may include:

· Councillor Briefings (which are attended by all Councillors and generally held on Monday evenings),

· On-site inspections,

· Consultative Meetings with residents, developers, consultants,

· Panel Hearings conducted under s223 of the Act,

· Meetings with local organisations, Government Departments, statutory authorities, and local politicians

Issue / discussion

As part of decision making processes at Maroondah, it is essential that Councillors are briefed on a range of issues which come before Council for consideration. As a means of providing this information, Assembly of Councillors briefings are conducted.

Assemblies are also attended by Council Officers, and sometimes other specific advisors, to provide Councillors with a detailed knowledge and understanding of issues under consideration to a level of detail that would inhibit timely decision-making, that would not be possible in an open Council meeting, where decision-making related debate is governed by strict meeting procedures.

The intent of this report is to present the ‘Public Record’ of those Assembly of Councillors briefings which are attended by all Councillors and generally held on Monday evenings, and to note the items discussed. This information is already available to the public upon request in accordance with the Local Government Act [s.80A].

This report and attachments formally table the information items previously covered by Councillors.

The ‘Public Record’ of the Assembly of Councillors briefings held on 16, 19 May and 6, 15 June 2016 are attached for information.

The items contained therein were noted.

Financial / economic issues

Not Applicable

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

Assembly of Councillors briefings are important forums for advice and discussion, on what are often complex issues facing the municipality, in the lead up to formal decisions being made by Councillors at Council Meetings. At Assemblies, or outside them, Councillors also have the opportunity of requesting additional information to assist in the decision making process.

It is appropriate that the ‘Public Record’ of those Assembly of Councillors briefings which are attended by all Councillors and generally held on Monday evenings at the City Offices Ringwood, usually two weeks prior to the formal Council Meeting, be noted at a formal meeting of Council.

Attachments

1.⇩	2016 May 16 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record
2.⇩	2016 May 19 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record
3.⇩	2016 June 06 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record
4.⇩	2016 June 15 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

THAT COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE PUBLIC RECORD OF THE ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS BRIEFING HELD ON 16, 19 may and 6, 15 june 2016

ATTACHMENT No: 3 - 2016 June 06 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record

Item 2

2014 Maroondah Logo RGB.jpg

ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS – PUBLIC RECORD

Assembly Details:

Date: Monday 6 June 2016	Time: 6.00pm	Location: Meeting Room 4, Braeside Avenue, Ringwood

Attendees:

Councillors
Cr Natalie Thomas (Mayor)	Cr Nora Lamont	Cr Les Willmott, JP
Cr Tony Dib, JP	Cr Rob Steane	Cr Liam Fitzgerald
Cr Christina Gleeson	Cr Mary-Anne Lowe

Council Officers:
Phil Turner	Acting Chief Executive Officer
Marianne Di Giallonardo	Director Corporate Services
Trevor Welsh	Director Operations, Infrastructure & Leisure
Elaine Matthews	Team Leader Waste & Special Projects Item 1
Antonia Heward	Education Officer - Waste Department Item 1
Grant Meyer	Manager Integrated Planning Items 2, 3 & 4
Andrew Taylor	Manager Engineering & Building Services Item 2
Phil Medley	Integrated Planning Advisor Item 3
Dale Bristow	Team Leader Strategic Planning & Sustainability Item 4
Andrew Fuaux	Manager Planning, Health & Local Laws Items 5, 6 & 7
Merg Mikaelian	Team Leader Local Laws Item 5 & 6
Stephen Onans	Team Leader Governance

Apologies:
Councillors:	Cr Samantha Marks
Council Officers:	Steve Kozlowski, CEO

Conflict of Interest Disclosure:
Councillors:
Council Officers:

Matters Discussed:		## Confidential Item

1	CaLD/MUD Project Finalisation
2	Infrastructure Victoria Options Paper
3	Community Satisfaction Survey Results
4	Housing Strategy Post Exhibition
5	Fenced Dog Parks Consultation Outcomes
6	Local Law 11 Amendment
7	Update on Planning Matters - MAV Regulatory Impact Statement
8##	Microsoft Licensing Tender
9	Essential Services Commission Rate Cap Variation Outcomes
10	CCTV Bedford Road, Heathmont
11	Mayoral Charity Raffle & Mayoral Charity Ball
12	Brushy Park Hall
13	Community Assistance Fund

Record completed by:

Council Officer	Stephen Onans
Title	Team Leader Governance

DIRECTOR Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Financial Report: Ten Months Ending 30 April 2016	Item 4

Purpose

To present the financial statements for the ten months ending 30 April 2016.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in the Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015-2016) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A well governed and empowered community.

Vision Statement: In 2040, Maroondah will be an empowered community that is actively engaged in council decision making through processes that consider the needs and aspirations of all ages and population groups. Council will provide strong and responsive leadership, ensuring transparency, while working with the community to advocate for and ‘champion’ local needs.

Key Directions 2015 - 2016:

8.1 Provide enhanced governance that is transparent, accessible, inclusive and accountable.

Background

In accordance with Sections 136, 137 and 138 of the Local Government Act 1989, Council is required each quarter to consider the financial performance of the municipality against budget for the year to date (YTD). Whilst a comprehensive suite of reports is provided to the Audit & Risk Advisory Committee and Council each quarter it is considered financially prudent to provide a brief monthly report to Council in order to track performance to budget between the quarterly reports.

This requirement is not a substitute for the more frequent range of detailed financial reports that continue to be provided to Council management.

The attached financial statements contain an Income Statement (Operating Statement) and a Statement of Capital Works. The Income Statement is presented per accounting standards by nature.

The statements have been prepared on the basis of accrual accounting (i.e. including significant accruals) and non-consolidation (i.e. excludes the results of the Eastern Regional Library Corporation and Section 86 Committees of Management).

The statements provide comparisons between actual results and the YTD forecast budget.

Issue / discussion

The following is a summary of the financial position for the ten months ending 30 April 2016. A more detailed report is attached.
1.1 OPERATING PERFORMANCE

	Forecast	YTD	YTD	YTD	Adopted
	Budget	Budget	Actual	Var	Budget
	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000
Operating
Income	117,513	111,366	111,920	554	117,792
Expenses	(115,823)	(95,030)	(92,014)	3,016	(117,600)
Underlying Surplus (Deficit)	1,689	16,336	19,906	3,570	192

Capital
Grants - Capital (recurrent and non-recurrent)	9,081	3,733	3,610	(122)	3,859
Comprehensive result	10,770	20,069	23,516	3,448	4,051

For the ten months ended 30 April 2016 Council has recorded an operating surplus before capital revenue of $19.91 million, which is $3.57 million ahead of the year to date budget (This equates to a 3.04% variance on total budgeted turnover). The major contributing variances are: (See also notes to Income Statement Appendix B)

· The change from the Adopted Budget Underlying Surplus of $192k to the Forecast Budget Underlying Surplus of $1.69m, which is a result of a decrease in budgeted expense expectations of $1.78m.

· Cash Contributions are $348k above budget as a result of $388k in Public Open Space contributions above expectations.

· Statutory Fees and Fines are $155k above budget as Traffic Fines $46k and Animal Registration Fees $41k are above forecast.

· Interest Received is $89k above budget due to higher than expected investment balances during the period.

· Operating Grants (recurrent) are $42k above budget, with grants Community Health (Department of Health and Human Services Immunisation) $38k ahead of forecast.

· User Fees are ($128k) below budget with fees for Aquahub ($123k), Aged and Disability Services ($69k), Revenue Services ($43k) and Children Services ($32k) all below forecast. Sport and Recreation $100k, Karralyka $71k and Statutory Planning $32k were ahead of forecast.

· Capital Grants (recurrent and non-recurrent) are ($122k) below budget due to receipts for South Croydon Cricket Club ($35k) and North Ringwood Community Childcare ($30k) behind forecast.

· Materials and Services are ($1.57m) below budget. Expense types contributing to this include Materials ($139k), Electricity ($127k), Fleet Fuel, Oils and Running Costs ($87k), Software Maintenance ($80k) Legal Fees ($63k), Insurances ($58k), Group Training Programs ($56k), Gas ($55k), Consultancies ($53k), Fire Plug Maintenance ($51k), Communications ($43k), Advertising ($43k), Rates Special Charges ($42k), Cleaning ($35k), Furniture and Equipment – under $1k ($34k), Photocopier Lease ($33k) and Professional Services ($32k). Expenses ahead of forecast include Water $38k, Agency Staff $35k and School Focused Youth Services Flexible Funding $34k.

· Contractors are ($1.02m) below budget, with Home Care ($511k), Construction ($168k), Waste Management ($132k), City Parks – Park Maintenance ($121k), Operations ($59k) and City Parks – Bushland and Weed Management ($41k) all below forecast. Works $64k, City Parks – Tree Maintenance $53k, City Parks – Sports and Projects $46k and Corporate $34k were above forecast.

· Employee Costs are ($419k) below budget. Service areas contributing to this include Leisure ($93k), Realm ($80k), Customer Service ($50k), Community Health ($41k), Risk Management ($36k) and Children Services ($32k). Human Resources $68k and Engineering Services $39k had employee costs above forecast.

The movement between the Capital Grants Adopted Budget of $3.86 million and Forecast of $9.08 million mainly relates to:

· Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development’s National Stronger Regions Fund income of $3 million for Realm;

· Capital grant income from Vic Roads for Oban Road under the National Black Spot Program of $701k;

· Capital projects for which grant income was budgeted 14/15 but had not been received at year end, resulting in forecast variations for 15/16. This includes projects such as Mullum Reserve, Marveloo, Bedford Road Signalisation, RMAC and East Ringwood CCTV, Croydon Main St Connects and the Ringwood Station Art Project.

The movement between the net surplus Adopted Budget of $4.05 million and the Forecast of $10.77 million mainly relates to the following (Refer to detailed reconciliation in Appendix A):

· Carried forward grants net ($675k);

· New and revised grant funding net ($2.58m);

· New and revised capital grant funding $5.22m;

· Transfers to/from capital of $321k;

· Movement in restricted assets (including Public Open Space and Waste supplementary rates) of $2.34m; and

· Movement in departmental operating budgets of $2.09m.

1.2 CAPITAL PERFORMANCE

	Forecast	YTD	YTD	YTD	Adopted
	Budget ##	Budget	Actual #	Var	Budget
	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000
Total capital works	44,305	24,937	24,232	705	37,077

#YTD Actual expenditure includes Carried Forwards ##Forecast Budget expenditure includes Carried Forwards

The Forecast Budget includes carried forward works from 2014/15 of $3.3m and funding for new and revised projects including:

· State government funding from the Department of Transport, Planning & Local Infrastructure for the signalisation of Bedford Road and Great Ryrie Street of $1 million;

· Federal government funding from the Attorney-General’s Department for the installation of CCTV cameras in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre and East Ringwood of $400k;

· State government funding from the Department of Health and Human Services for the construction of Marveloo 2 $44k;

· Vic Roads funding for Oban Road under the National Black Spot Program $701k; and

· Future years projects brought into current year including the replacement of existing community buildings at Proclamation Park $500k and Street Lighting Improvements $370k.

For the ten months ending 30 April 2016 Council has expended $24.23 million on the capital works program, which is in line with the year to date budget. Capital program variances include: (See also Appendix C for further explanations)

· Buildings behind by $466k;

· Computers and Telecommunications behind by $104k;

· Footpaths and Cycleways behind by $75k.

1.3 FINANCIAL POSITION

		2015-16	2014-15	2014-15
	Adopted	April YTD	April YTD	June YTD
	Budget	Actual	Actual	Actual
	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000
Cash and investments	23,160	45,625	43,006	39,920

The Financial Position as at 30 April 2016 shows cash and investment balances of $45.63 million, which is $2.62 million ahead of balances this time last year. Cash and investment balances are above expectations identified in the Long Term Financial Strategy for the current period of 2015/2016.

Financial / economic issues

As presented in this report and accompanying financial statements.

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

The YTD results are favourable for this time in the financial year and provide a firm base for the achievement of Council’s 2015/2016 services and advocacy programs.

Attachments

1.⇩	27 June 2016 - Council Meeting Report - Financial report appendix 10 months 30 April 2016

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

THAT COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE REPORT ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE AGAINST BUDGET FOR THE TEN MONTHS ENDING 30 APRIL 2016

Councillor	Jan to June 2016	YTD 30/6/16
Tony Dib	$ 7,216.94	$ 7,216.94
Liam Fitzgerald	Nil	Nil
Christina Gleeson	$ 5,744.94	$ 8,867.83
Nora Lamont	Nil	$ 2,009.93
Mary-Anne Lowe	$ 4,624.00	$11,834.00 *
Samantha Marks	Nil	Nil
Rob Steane	$ 2,606.00	$ 6,597.48
Natalie Thomas	$ 6,042.02	$ 9,367.02
Les Willmott	$ 8,310.18	$ 8,310.18
TOTAL	$ 34,544.08	$ 54,203.38

DIRECTOR Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Outcomes of Maroondah Motions to the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council Meeting	Item 6

Purpose

To consider the outcomes of motions submitted and jointly supported by Council to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council Meeting held on Friday 13 May 2016.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015-2016) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose in this report.

Outcome Area: A well governed and empowered community

Key Directions 2015 – 2016:

8.1 Provide enhanced governance that is transparent, accessible, inclusive and accountable

Background

The Municipal Association of Victoria State Council Annual Meeting was held on Friday 13 May 2016. Council had previously resolved to submit four motions and support six regional motions from the other Councils that form the MAV Metropolitan East Region (Manningham, Knox, Banyule and Whitehorse).

The MAV is one of the local government sector peak body associations and together with local members of parliament, provides significant advocacy to both State and Federal Governments on behalf of Maroondah residents and ratepayers.

Issue / discussion

The four motions submitted from Maroondah together with the result of the deliberations of the State Council, are as follows:

1. Cost of Local Government Elections – consolidated motion - Carried.

2. Electoral Voting System – More Than One Vacancy - Carried.

3. Cash in Lieu of Carparking Provision for Planning Schemes – Amended motion – Carried.

4. Carparking at Railway Stations – consolidated motion – Carried.

The motions passed by the State Council Meeting together with any amendments are identified below:

Motion 1: Cost of Local Government Elections

A consolidated motion from those submitted by the municipalities of Maroondah, Colac Otway, and Whitehorse. Changes to the motion submitted by Maroondah are highlighted in italics.

Resolution: That the Municipal Association of Victoria:

· Express its dismay to the Premier of Victoria and Minister for Local Government that the average increase in VEC elections costs for conducting the 2016 Council elections will exceed the election costs in 2012 by approximately 30% and that this is happening in a year where the State Government has capped Council rate rises at 2.5%;

· Request the Premier and Minister to take action to:

- reduce the impost on Council rate for the 2016 elections to equate to the rise in CPI over the period from 2012 to 2016 and ensure election expenses be added to the allowable rate rise in 2016; or

- ensure Council election costs are funded by State Government.

· Request the Premier and Minister to review the VEC monopoly arrangement for the conduct of Council elections to ensure that future election costs are capped at CPI.

Motion 2: Electoral Voting System – More Than One Vacancy

Resolution: That the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council calls on the State Government request the Victorian electoral commission to report on the feasibility of implementing an optional preferential system based on senate reforms for elections with more than one vacancy.

Motion 3: Cash in Lieu of Carparking Provision for Planning Schemes

The motion was amended and such is highlighted in italics.

Resolution: That the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council calls on the State Government to amend the Planning and Environment Act 1987 to introduce a quick and simple "off the shelf" cash in lieu of carparking provision for planning schemes to address the long term problems of developments where adequate car parking cannot be provided onsite, and that this cash go towards public car parking improvements and/or additions in Activity Centres, to the discretion of individual Councils.

Motion 4: Carparking at Railway Stations

A consolidated motion from those submitted by the municipalities of Maroondah, and Yarra Ranges. Changes to the motion submitted by Maroondah are highlighted in italics.

Resolution: That the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council calls on the State Government to recognise that parking pressures from rail stations extend beyond rail parking facilities and impact upon land use peripheral to stations, which in turn impacts upon localised parking issues, and that in response State Government:

1. Provides additional or better parking infrastructure at stations across the metropolitan network where significant demand and insufficient parking options exist for rail commuters; and

2. Considers a strategic approach to land use around stations that:

· Improves multi modal integration and travel demand management; and

· Encourages walking and cycling for rail patrons within 2km from a station

Regional Motions

MAV Metropolitan East Region encompasses the municipalities of Manningham, Knox, Maroondah, Banyule and Whitehorse. A total of six motions from these municipalities were included on the agenda and supported by Maroondah.

The motions submitted and the outcomes from the State Council were:-

· Manningham

i) Metro Planning Levy – Carried.

ii) Victorian Civil Planning Decisions – Carried.

iii) Universal Access – Carried.

iv) Affordable Housing – Carried.

· Whitehorse

i) School Crossing Supervisor Costs – Carried.

ii) MAV – Lost – Motion lapsed for want of a seconder.

Financial / economic issues

Refer to rationale as highlighted under Issue / Discussion.

Environmental / amenity issues

Refer to rationale as highlighted under Issue / Discussion.

Social / community issues

Refer to rationale as highlighted under Issue / Discussion.

Community consultation

Council, through various forums, consultations and strategies, has engaged the Maroondah community regarding these various issues. This report further demonstrates Council’s preparedness to advocate to other spheres of government on behalf of Maroondah residents.

Conclusion

The four motions, together with the five regional motions, indicates the willingness of Council to advocate in such forums on behalf of residents and ratepayers, in addition to demonstrating Council’s continued leadership on issues within the sector.

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

THAT COUNCIL NOTES THE OUTCOME OF THE FOUR MOTIONS SUBMITTED BY COUNCIL AND THE SIX REGIONAL MOTIONS SUPPORTED BY COUNCIL THAT WERE THE SUBJECT OF CONSIDERATION AND DEBATE AT THE MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA STATE COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 13 MAY 2016.

DIRECTOR Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

acting director planning & community – ANDREW FUAUX

Adoption of Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17) and Proposed Budget 2016/17 and Declaration of Rates 2016/17

Item 7

Purpose

To enable Council to formally adopt the Draft Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17) and the Proposed Budget 2016/17, and to declare the rates and charges in respect of the year ended 30 June 2017.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015-2016) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A well governed and empowered community

Our Vision: Maroondah is an empowered community that is actively engaged in Council decision making through processes that consider the needs and aspirations of all ages and population groups. Council provides strong and responsive leadership, ensures transparency, while working with the community to advocate for and ‘champion’ local needs.

Key Directions 2013 – 2017:

8.1 Provide enhanced governance that is transparent, accessible, inclusive and accountable

8.2 Ensure responsible and sustainable management of Maroondah’s resources, assets, infrastructure and natural environment

8.3 Provide community inspired leadership in democratic governance

Background

Council Plan

The Council Plan together with Maroondah 2040: Our future together, the Annual Budget and Annual Report, are Council’s high level strategic documents which draw together the community aspirations, preferred outcomes and key directions for the future. These high level strategic documents and associated processes form part of the Maroondah City Council’s Integrated Planning Framework (shown below).

Figure 1: Council’s Integrated Planning Framework

IntegratedPlanningFramework_August2014

The Council Plan 2013-17 (Year 4: 2016/17) reflects the preferred future outcomes and key directions as identified by the community in the development of Maroondah 2040: Our future together. Priority actions identified in the Council Plan 2013-17 (Year 4: 2016/17) reflect Council’s contribution to progressing the aspirations identified in the Maroondah 2040 Community Vision. Reporting against the Council Plan and Annual Budget is undertaken annually through the Annual Report.

The Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) requires the Council Plan 2013-2017 to include the strategic objectives of the Council (outcome areas), strategies for achieving the objectives for at least the next four years (key directions), strategic indicators for monitoring the achievement of these objectives (Council Plan indicators) and a Strategic Resource Plan describing financial and non-financial resources. At Maroondah, the Council Plan is updated annually in order to identify priority actions for the forthcoming financial year to achieve the four-year strategies and to reflect current community needs and aspirations.

To respond the long-term objectives (outcome areas) and medium-term strategies (key directions) outlined in the Council Plan, a number of priority actions are identified for the forthcoming 12 month period.

The following are the priority actions for Council in 2016/17:

· Complete construction of the $1.7m Ringwood Athletics Pavilion and $1m athletics track renewal.

· Complete sportsfield reconstruction works at Belmont Reserve and Springfield Reserve.

· Undertake a strategic review of Maroondah Golf.

· Complete development of the Youth Plan 2017-2021 and present to Council for consideration.

· Undertake construction of dog parks in Maroondah.

· Develop, promote and expand the BizHub Co-Working Space and investigate opportunities for private investment to facilitate serviced office space.

· Develop innovative, accessible and responsive ways to transform the way training, events, new initiatives and programs are delivered to businesses through BizHub at Realm.

· Commence construction of the new Croydon Town Centre linking Main Street to the Croydon Transport Hub and creating a focal point for the local community.

· Develop a masterplan for buildings and open space at Wyreena Community Arts Centre.

· Commence a municipal wide vegetation review.

· Participate in a joint regional procurement process to establish a long term contract for processing of garden organics.

· Work in partnership to develop the detailed design for the Heatherdale Station Level Crossing Removal Project.

· Commence a $3m upgrade of Lincoln Road east of Dorset Road.

· Implement Council's 2016/17 community facilities improvement program including major works at Lipscombe Park Kindergarten, Wyreena Community Arts Centre, Croydon Sporting Pavilion, Brentwood Park Kindergarten (stage 2), and Knaith Road Child Care Centre.

· Complete development of the Croydon Civic Masterplan.

· Continue the upgrade of drainage in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre, including the Acacia Court and Larissa Avenue catchments.

· Commence implementation of the Maroondah Housing Strategy through the preparation of a planning scheme amendment.

· Complete construction of the $2.7m East Ringwood Multipurpose Pavilion, incorporating a home for the Victoria Chin Community.

· Complete development of a Reconciliation Action Plan and present to Council for consideration.

· Complete the upgrade and launch the new Maroondah City Council website with mobile and social functionality.

· Develop and commence implementation of the Information Communication Technology (ICT) Strategy 2017-2020 to enhance online transactions, and community engagement with Council services and activities.

· Continue to build a skilled, professional, and innovative workforce through implementation of the People, Workforce and Culture Plan 2016-2020, with a focus on ensuring an agile, community responsive and engaging employee resource base.

· Enhance delivery of customer service using state of the art technology and the implementation of an integrated service delivery model at Council Service Centres.

Budget

The 2016/17 Budget links to the achievement of the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17) as part of an integrated planning framework. The Council Plan plays a vital role in shaping the future for Maroondah over a four year period. It sets out local and regional challenges and opportunities for our community within the framework of the community’s long term vision. It also forms the basis for Council to make decisions regarding resources and priorities in response to community aspirations.

The 2016/17 Budget outlines the provision of financial resources for the next 12 months and details how these resources will be applied to meet these actions and initiatives, as well as delivering the more than 120 services and the extensive range of programs and activities that Council provides to the Maroondah community.

The 2016/17 budget contains 52 initiatives including 24 major initiatives identified in the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17). Many of these developed are in response to feedback gathered through Council’s ongoing community consultation and importantly through the extensive consultation undertaken to develop the new community vision Maroondah 2040 – Our future together.

The Annual Budget together with the Council Plan and the Annual Report are the major municipal planning and reporting documents. One of the accountability tools utilised is the Financial Statements so that the community may more readily follow strategic financial planning (in the Council Plan) through to operational financial planning (in the Annual Budget) and then be able to measure actual performance against those plans (in the Annual Report).

Proposed Mayoral and Councillor Allowances

In accordance with Section 74 of the Act Council proposes that Councillor allowance and Mayoral allowance for the four year Council term commencing November 2016 be in accordance with the levels determined by the State Government and increased on an annual basis. Such allowances are to be confirmed at a statutory meeting of Council in November 2016.

Statutory requirements

A requirement under the Act is for the draft Council Plan and Proposed Budget to be subject to a Section 223 right to make a submission. Council at its meeting held on 9 May 2016, appointed a Committee of the Council comprising Councillors Thomas, Willmott and Marks to hear submissions.

In terms of the Draft Council Plan (incorporating a Strategic Resource Plan), a number of sections of the Act are relevant:

· Section 125 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) requires Council to prepare and approve a Council Plan within the period of 6 months after each general election or by the next 30 June, whichever is later. At least once in each financial year, a Council must consider whether the current Council Plan requires any adjustment in respect of the remaining period of the Council Plan.

· Section 125 of the Act also requires Council to include in the Council Plan

(a) the strategic objectives of the Council (outcome areas);

(b) strategies for achieving the objectives for at least the next 4 years (key

directions);

Plan indicators);

(d) a Strategic Resource Plan containing the matters specified in section 126 of

the Act; and

(e) any other matters which are prescribed by the regulations.

· Section 125 of the Act also provides that Council must also follow a public consultation process prior to formal adoption of the Council Plan, including making the document available for at least 28 days after a public noticed is placed. This process commenced with a public notice by Council of the preparation of the Draft Council Plan in The Age newspaper on 12 May 2016 (with a courtesy notice in the Maroondah Leader on 17 May 2016), and included the consideration of submissions on the Draft Council Plan under Sections 125 and 223 of the Act.

· Section 126 of the Act requires Council to provide a Strategic Resource Plan of the resources required to achieve its strategic objectives over the next four financial years, including provision of prescribed statements. The Strategic Resource Plan must take into account services and initiatives contained in any plan adopted by the Council.

· Section 126 of the Act requires Council review the Strategic Resource Plan during the preparation of the Council Plan; and adopt the Strategic Resource Plan not later than 30 June each year. A copy of the current Strategic Resource Plan must also be available for inspection by the public.

In terms of the Proposed Budget a number of sections of the Act are relevant:

· Section 127 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) requires Council to prepare a budget for each financial year commencing 1 July. The 2016/17 Proposed Budget was presented to the meeting of Council held on 9 May 2016.

· Section 158 of the Act requires Council to declare, for each financial year, the amount which the Council intends to raise by general rates, service rates and service charges.

· Section 129 of the Act provides that Council must also follow a public consultation process prior to formal adoption of the Budget. This process commenced with a public notice by Council of the preparation of the Proposed Budget (incorporating its intention to declare the rates and charges embodied in that budget) in The Age newspaper on 12 May 2016 (with a courtesy notice in the Maroondah Leader on 17 May 2016), and included the consideration of submissions on the Proposed Budget under Sections 129 and 223 of the Act.

· Section 130 of the Act provides that Council must adopt its budget by 30 June each year whilst Section 158 provides that rates and charges must also be declared by the same date.

In terms of the Councillor allowance and Mayoral allowance a number of sections of the Act are relevant:

· Section 74 of the Act provides that Council must review and determine the level of the Councillor allowance and Mayoral allowance within the period of 6 months after a general election or by the next 30 June, whichever is later. This process must include the consideration of submissions under Sections 223 of the Act. The proposed Councillor allowance and Mayoral allowance levels are encompassed within the Proposed Budget and as such the Section 223 process commenced with a public notice by Council of the preparation of the Proposed Budget in The Age newspaper on 12 May 2016 (with a courtesy notice in the Maroondah Leader on 17 May 2016), and included the consideration of submissions on the Proposed Budget under Sections 129 and 223 of the Act.

Issue / discussion

Council Plan and Budget

Prior to the community submission process, the Draft Council Plan and Proposed Budget underwent an internal review by both Councillors and employees. Council resolved on 9 May 2016 to place the Draft Council Plan and Proposed Budget on public exhibition. Council commenced a public consultation process on 15 May 2015. In accordance with the Act and Council’s previous resolution the Committee of Council was convened to consider the submissions in respect of the Proposed Budget. Councillor Thomas was an apology for the meeting. After consideration of submissions, the Committee subsequently opted to recommend to Council to formally adopt the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17) and the Proposed Budget 2016/17 with no change at a meeting to be held on Monday 27 June 2016.

A summary of submissions received is contained on the attached table (Attachment 1). All submissions have been circulated to Councillors. The key issues raised by submissions with Council officer responses are also included on the table. Each submitter will receive an individual formal response to their submission.

Financial / economic issues

These are contained within the Council Plan and articulate the Council’s current directions.

The adoption of the 2016/17 Proposed Budget not only contributes to compliance with the financial planning and reporting requirements of the Act, but also provides management with an important tool to monitor and control the detailed financial performance and directions of Council.

Environmental / amenity issues

These are contained within the Council Plan and articulate the Council’s current directions.

Social / community issues

These are contained within the Council Plan and articulate the Council’s current directions.

Community consultation

Council approved the Draft Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17) for public exhibition on 9 May 2016. Public submissions were solicited, to be received until 5pm on Friday 10 June 2016.

Copies of the Draft were made available for public inspection and comment from 8.30 am on Friday 13 May 2016 and placed on display at the Customer Service Centres, at the Ringwood and Croydon Libraries, and Council’s website. The public was advised through articles in the local papers as well as in advertisements in the Maroondah Leader and The Age newspapers.

Further in accordance with Section 129 of the Act, Council gave public notice of its Proposed Budget and advised the public of its right under the Section 223 of the Act to make submissions on any proposal contained in the Proposed Budget. The required public notice was published in The Age on Thursday 12 May 2016 and a courtesy public notice was also published in the Maroondah Leader on Tuesday 17 May 2016.

The Proposed Budget was made available for public inspection and comment from 8.30 am on Friday 13 May 2016 at Council’s City Offices and Service Centres, the Ringwood and Croydon Libraries, and on Council’s website. Provision was also made for interested parties to receive the Proposed Budget and/or to obtain further information about it by appointment with Council officers. Submissions were received up to 5pm on Friday 10 June 2016.

The receipt of submissions from the public and the consideration of those submissions by Council form an integral part of the public consultation process.

At the expiration of the consultation period, Council had received three submissions on the Proposed Budget and one on the Council Plan. Some informal feedback was also received through Council social media channels in regard to the allocation of funds towards the Mayoral Charity Ball. There were no submitters who wished to appear in person in support of their submission. A Committee of Council heard and considered the four submissions received at a meeting held on Wednesday 15 June 2016.

Conclusion

The draft Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17) and Proposed Budget 2016/17 have been developed and submissions from the community considered. Both documents reflect Council’s commitment to pursue excellence, good governance and responsible management of resources for the community within the City of Maroondah.

Given Council’s legislative obligations, both the draft Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17) and Proposed Budget 2016/17 are recommended for Council adoption with no change.

Attachments

1.⇩	Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-17) - Final Version For Adoption
2.⇩	MCC Adopted Budget 2016-17 Final
3.⇩	Council response to Public Submissions -Council Plan 2013-17 (YEAR 4 ~ 17) and Proposed Budget 2016 17

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That

A. COUNCIL PLAN

THAT COUNCIL:

1. ADOPTS THE COUNCIL PLAN 2013 – 2017 (Year 4: 2016/17)

2. FORWARDS A COPY OF THE COUNCIL PLAN TO THE MINISTER FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AS REQUIRED BY THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1989

3. AUTHORISES OFFICERS TO ARRANGE FOR THE SUITABLE PUBLICATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE COUNCIL PLAN TO COMMUNITY GROUPS AND RELEVANT STAKEHOLDERS

B. BUDGET

THAT COUNCIL DETERMINES:

1. Budget

1.1 The submissions on the Budget be noted

1.2 The Chief Executive Officer be authorised to write to each submitter in accordance with section 223 (1)(e) of the Local Government Act 1989 advising of the purport of this Recommendation and the reasons for it

1.3 The Budget annexed to this Recommendation and initialled by the Mayor for identification ("the Budget") be adopted by Council

1.4 The Chief Executive Officer be authorised to give public notice of this decision to adopt the Budget, in accordance with section 130(2) of the Local Government Act 1989

2. Amount Intended To Be Raised

An amount of $81,342,157 (or such other amount as is lawfully raised as a consequence of this Resolution) be declared as the amount which Council intends to raise by general rates and the annual service charge (described later in this Resolution), which amount is calculated as follows:

General Rates $70,198,157

Annual Service Charge $11,144,000

3. General Rates

3.1. A general rate be declared in respect of the 2016/17 Financial Year

3.2. It be further declared that the general rate be raised by the application of differential rates

3.3. A differential rate be respectively declared for rateable land having the respective characteristics specified below, which characteristics will form the criteria for each differential rate so declared:

3.3.1. Vacant Land

Any land on which there is no building which is occupied or adapted for occupation

3.3.2. Other Land

Any land which does not have the characteristics of Vacant Land

3.4. Each differential rate will be determined by multiplying the Capital Improved Value of each rateable land (categorised by the characteristics described in paragraph 3.3 of this Resolution) by the relevant percentages indicated in the following table:

Category

Rate in the Dollar

Vacant Land

0.3359 cents in the dollar of Capital Improved Value

Other Land

0.2239 cents in the dollar of Capital Improved Value

3.5. It be recorded that Council considers that each differential rate will contribute to the equitable and efficient carrying out of Council functions, and that

3.5.1. the respective objectives of each differential rate be those specified in the Schedule to this Resolution; and

3.5.2. the respective types or classes of land which are subject to each differential rate be those defined in the Schedule to this Resolution; and

3.5.3. the respective uses and levels of each differential rate in relation to those respective types or classes of land be those described in the Scheduleto this Resolution; and

3.5.4. the relevant

(a) uses of;

(b) geographical locations of;

(c) planning scheme zonings of; and

(d) types of buildings on

the respective types or classes of land be those identified in the Schedule to this Resolution; and

3.6. It be confirmed that no amount is fixed as the minimum amount payable by way of general rate in respect of each rateable land within the municipal district

3.7. In accordance with Section 4 (4) of the Cultural and Recreational Lands Act 1963, the amounts in lieu of rates payable in respect of each rateable land to which that Act applies be the amounts respectively set out below:

Land	$
Heathmont Club Inc.	6,074.60
Bayswater North Tennis Club	1,731.45
Eastwood Golf Club	13,596.95

4. Annual Service Charge

4.1. An annual service charge be declared in respect of the 2016/17 Financial Year

4.2. The annual service charge be declared for the collection and disposal of refuse

4.3. The annual service charge be in the sum of, and be based on, the criteria specified below:

4.3.1. any land within Council's municipal district which is used primarily for residential purposes:

$207.50 per service for each land, where the service is for an 80-litre bin

$248.50 per service for each land, where the service is for a 120-litre bin

$264.00 for each second and subsequent bin supplied in respect of the land

4.3.2. any land within Council's municipal district which is used primarily for commercial purposes:

$485.00 (including GST) per service for each land, where the service is requested by the owner of the land (or the agent of the owner) and is for collection and disposal of the contents of a 240 litre bin at the frequency of once per week

$1,025.00 (including GST) per service for each land, where the service is requested by the owner of the land (or the agent of the owner) and is for collection and disposal of the contents of a 240 litre bin at the frequency of three times per week

4.3.3. any land within Council's municipal district which is used primarily for industrial purposes:

$235.00 (including GST) per service for each land, where the service is requested by the owner of the land (or the agent of that owner) and is for collection and disposal of the contents of an 80 litre bin

$278.00 (including GST) per service for each land, where the service is requested by the owner of the land (or the agent of that owner) and is for collection and disposal of the contents of a 120 litre bin

4.3.4. any land within Council's municipal district which is used primarily for other than residential purposes and has an existing commercial service or is a not for profit organisation:

$100.00 (including GST) per each 240 litre recycling bin, where the service is requested by the owner of the land (or the agent of the owner) and is for collection and recycling of the bin at the frequency of once per fortnight

5. Incentives

No incentive be declared for early payment of the general rates and annual service charge previously declared

6. Extra Instalment Options

IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 167 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1989, PAYMENT OF RATES AND CHARGES CAN BE MADE IN

· ONE (1) ANNUAL PAYMENT (DUE 15 FEBRUARY 2017),

· FOUR (4) INSTALMENT PAYMENTS (DUE 30 SEPTEMBER 2016,
30 NOVEMBER 2016, 28 FEBRUARY 2017 AND 31 MAY 2017),

· OR BY NINE (9) MONTHLY (DIRECT DEBIT ONLY) INSTALMENTS (DUE 30 SEPTEMBER 2016, 31 OCTOBER 2016, 30 NOVEMBER 2016, 31 DECEMBER 2016, 31 JANUARY 2017, 28 FEBRUARY 2017, 31 MARCH 2017, 30 APRIL 2017 AND 31 MAY 2017).

DUE DATES THAT FALL ON A WEEKEND OR PUBLIC HOLIDAY WILL BE DUE ON THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY

7. Consequential

7.1. It be recorded that Council requires any person to pay interest on any amount of rates and charges which:

7.1.1. that person is liable to pay; and

7.1.2. have not been paid by the date specified for their payment

7.2. The Chief Executive Officer be authorised to levy and recover the general rates and annual service charge in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989

C. mayoral and councillor allowances

THAT COUNCIL DETERMINES:

1. THAT MAYORAL AND COUNCILLOR ALLOWANCES:

1.1 BE PAID AT THE LEVELS DETERMINED BY THE MINISTER FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 73B LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1989 – AS AT 1 JULY 2016 COUNCILLORS $26,419 AND MAYOR $81,747;

1.2 SUCH ALLOWANCES INCORPORATES AN AMOUNT EQUIVALENT TO THE SUPERANNUATION GUARANTEE UNDER COMMONWEALTH TAXATION LEGISLATION – CURRENTLY 9.5% - AS PER ADVICE BY LOCAL GOVERNMENT VICTORIA WITHIN CIRCULAR 32/2015; AND

1.3 INCREASE BOTH THE COUNCILLOR AND MAYORAL ALLOWANCES FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE COUNCIL TERM UP UNTIL THE OCTOBER 2020 COUNCIL ELECTIONS BY THE LEVELS DETERMINED WITHIN THE ANNUAL REVIEW OF ALLOWANCES CARRIED OUT BY THE MINISTER FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT.

acting director planning & community – ANDREW FUAUX

Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey Results 2016	Item 1

Purpose

To highlight the 2016 results of the Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey conducted by an independent market research organisation on behalf of the State Government.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015-2016) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A well governed and empowered community

Our Vision: In 2040, Maroondah will be an empowered community that is actively engaged in Council decision making through processes that consider the needs and aspirations of all ages and population groups. Council will provide strong and responsive leadership, ensuring transparency, while working with the community to advocate for and ‘champion’ local needs.

Key Directions 2013 – 2017:

8.1 Provide enhanced governance that is transparent, accessible, inclusive and accountable

8.2 Ensure responsible and sustainable management of Maroondah’s resources, assets, infrastructure and natural environment

8.3 Provide community inspired leadership in democratic governance

Background

Each year the State Government coordinates and auspices a state-wide Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey across Victorian local government areas.

The main objectives of the survey are to assess the performance of Maroondah City Council across a range of measures and to seek insight into ways to provide improved or more effective service delivery.

The survey also provides local government authorities with a means to fulfil some of their statutory reporting requirements (via the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework) whilst also acting as a feedback mechanism to the State Government.

In 2016, the survey was conducted by independent market research firm, JWS Research, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning. A total of 400 community members in Maroondah were surveyed by telephone from 1 February to 30 March 2016, with the sample size enabling a 95% confidence interval. Maroondah was one of 69 Councils throughout Victoria to participate in this survey.

Maroondah was benchmarked as part of an overall Metropolitan group, with interface Councils excluded. The group comprised the following Council’s: Banyule, Bayside, Boroondara, Brimbank, Glen Eira, Greater Dandenong, Frankston, Kingston, Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Melbourne, Monash, Moonee Valley, Moreland, Port Phillip, Stonnington and Whitehorse.

The Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey is a useful tool and one of many engagement methods used by Council to track its performance and community perceptions of its service delivery. An indexed mean is used and adjusted to a base to allow comparison with other Councils.

It is important to note that the survey questions are standardised across the state which means that their wording may not always reflect the localised focus of service delivery. The survey questions also only provide limited contextual information which could mean that respondents provide ratings based on services, activities or issues that are beyond Council’s direct area of influence.

Issue / discussion

The results indicate that Council’s overall performance improved in 2016 and remains significantly higher than the state average.

Compared with 2015, there were significantly higher results in 2016 for Council’s performance in relation to recreational facilities, arts centres and libraries, customer service, emergency and disaster management, business / community development and tourism, and community consultation and engagement. There were no statistically significant rating declines in 2016.

Core measures

Performance Measures	Maroondah City Council 2015	Maroondah City Council 2016	Statewide Average 2016	Metro Average 2016	Trend*
Overall performance	66	68	59	66
Community consultation and engagement	55	58	54	58
Advocacy	57	56	53	56
Customer service	73	77	69	73
Overall Council direction	57	59	51	55
Making decisions in the interest of the community	61	61	54	59

*Statistically significant trend – result is significantly higher/lower than previous year at the 95% confidence level

In relation to Council’s overall direction: 23% of residents say “things have improved over past year”; 63% say “things have stayed the same”; just 5% say “things have deteriorated.”

Service measures

Performance Measures	Maroondah City Council 2015	Maroondah City Council 2016	Statewide 2016	Metro 2016	Trend*
Informing the community	63	61	59	63
Condition of sealed roads	69	68	54	67
Condition of local streets and footpaths	64	62	57	63
Traffic management	58	59	59	56
Parking facilities	56	56	56	54
Enforcement of local laws	68	66	63	64
Family support services	70	69	66	69
Elderly support services	68	66	68	69
Disadvantaged support services	62	60	61	62
Recreational facilities	74	78	69	73
Appearance of public areas	71	72	71	72
Arts centres and libraries	73	77	72	74
Community and cultural activities	69	71	69	71
Waste management	77	76	70	76
Business and community development and tourism	64	67	60	62
Council’s general town planning policy	58	58	52	58
Planning and building permits	55	55	50	50
Environmental sustainability	65	65	63	64
Emergency and disaster management	69	72	69	68

*Statistically significant trend – result is significantly higher/lower than previous year at the 95% confidence level

Results that are required to be reported as per the Local Government (Performance and Reporting) Regulations 2014 under the Local Government 1989 will appear in the Annual Report 2015/16 and the Know Your Council website once published by the State Government.

Financial / economic issues

Not Applicable

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

It is expected that the Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey will be repeated in 2017 to understand community perceptions of Council’s performance across the range of core and service measures. Results should be provided to Council by 30 June 2017.

Conclusion

Council has received positive results from the 2016 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey. These incorporate an increased rating of overall performance along with significantly higher results compared with 2015 results for Council’s performance in relation to recreational facilities, arts centres and libraries, customer service, emergency and disaster management, business / community development and tourism, and community consultation and engagement. There were no statistically significant rating declines in 2016.

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That Council noteS the 2016 results from the state government auspiced Local Government Community Satisfaction survey

acting director planning & community – ANDREW FUAUX

Local Law 13 to amend Local Law 11 Clause 30.1 Incinerators and Burning	Item 2

Purpose

To initiate the statutory procedures for Maroondah City Council to give notice of its intention to make a local law to amend Local Law No 11 Clause 30.1 that currently regulates incinerators and burning practices in the City of Maroondah.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015-2016) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A Safe, Healthy and Active Community
A Well Governed and Empowered Community

Our Vision:

In 2040, Maroondah is a safe, healthy and active community with local opportunities provided for people of all ages and abilities to have high levels of social, emotional and physical wellbeing.

In the year 2040, Maroondah will be an effectively empowered community that is actively engaged in Council decision making through processes that ensure their voice is heard and considered. Council provides strong and responsive leadership, ensures transparent processes and works with the community to advocate and champion their needs.

Key Directions 2013 – 2017:

A SAFE COMMUNITY

1.1 Work in partnership to address community safety issues, with a focus on activity centres, public spaces, roads and public transport

1.2 Plan and advocate for the application of community safety principles that facilitate a safe built environment

A WELL GOVERNED COMMUNITY

8.1 Provide enhanced governance that is transparent, accessible, inclusive and accountable

8.2 Ensure responsible and sustainable management of Maroondah’s resources, assets, infrastructure and natural environment

8.4 Foster a Council culture of innovation, cooperation, commitment, communication and continuous improvement that positions Maroondah as a leader in local government

AN EMPOWERED COMMUNITY

8.7 Ensure that all community members have access to and are informed on matters that affect them, including the provision of tailored information for under-represented and hard-to-reach groups

8.8 Undertake inclusive engagement and consultation using accessible and tailored approaches to consider the needs and aspirations of different age and population groups

8.9 Create opportunities for shared decision making through active community involvement

8.11 Foster a Council culture of collaboration and partnerships with individuals, community groups, businesses, service providers and other levels of government

8.13 Encourage individuals, groups and organisations to proactively connect with and contribute to their local community

8.14 Work in partnership to deliver services that recognise and are responsive to the interests and needs of the Community Plan and advocate for the application of community safety principles that facilitate a safe built environment

Background

Maroondah City Council’s Local Law 11 came into effect on 1 January 2016.

The objectives of this Local Law are to:

· provide for and assure equitable, orderly and enjoyable use by people of community facilities, including roads;

· protect Council Property and other community assets from loss or unnecessary or avoidable damage;

· support provision by Council of a safe, clean and healthy environment in areas under its control and management; and

· provide generally for the peace, order and good government of the Municipal District.

Among other things this local law removed the previous allowance in Local Law 9 for fires to be lit and maintained in the open air for heating purposes following ongoing amenity and health complaints received from the community.

With the onset of cooler weather in May 2016 Council further promoted the requirements of Local Law 11 Clause 30 Incinerators and Burning, noting that residents were unable to burn fires in the open air for the purpose of heating.

Council received significant feedback that the change meant that many people, who appropriately managed open air fires for heating purposes and were not impacting on others, were being unreasonably disadvantaged by Local Law 11 Clause 30.

It was suggested by a number of residents that Council should look to enforce more stringent requirements on how residents managed open air fires, rather than remove this allowance due to the poor fire management actions of others.

Given this community feedback Council commenced a process to garner further community feedback on whether it should consider making a change to Local Law 11 Clause 30, to allow open air burning for heating purposes, but with clear requirements for safe amenity protection. This feedback indicated substantial support for change, the specifics of which are outlined in the Local Law Community Impact Statement (LLCIS) at Attachment 2.

Issue / discussion

When reviewing possible changes to any local law it is best industry practice in Victoria to publish a Local Law Community Impact Statement (LLCIS). This industry standard tool was used to consider and review the proposed Amendment to Local Law 11 Clause 30 Incinerators and Burning and is located at Attachment 2.

The LLCIS addresses a broad range of issues pertaining to this proposed change, including how the amendment relates to other legislation, the risks involved and the measures of success.

The amendment to Local Law 11 Clause 30.1 Incinerators and Burning involves redrafting the provisions of the clause. This clause will have the effect of providing for open air burning for heating purposes and is proposed to take the following form:

1. INSERTION OF NEW CLAUSE 30.1

Clause 30.1 of the Principal Local Law is deleted and the following is inserted in its place:

30.1 A person must not light, allow to be lit, or allow to remain alight any fire:

30.1.1 in the open air or in an Incinerator unless the fire is authorised or directed to be lit under the provisions of any Act or Regulations or the Municipal Planning Scheme; or

30.1.2 in an Incinerator unless authorised by, and managed under and in accordance with, a Permit issued under Clause 30.2; or

30.1.3 in the open air unless the fire is in a permanent or portable Barbecue that is being used for the exclusive purpose of cooking food in the open air for human consumption; or

30.1.4 in the open air unless the fire is in a properly constructed and safe device the purpose of which is for outdoor heating, and the device is being used for outdoor heating,

and unless it is appropriately located and managed so as to not cause a nuisance to occupiers of neighbouring properties.

PENALTY: MAXIMUM TWENTY (20) PENALTY UNITS

The proposed Local Law 13 is provided at Attachment 1 to this report, and it, along with the LLCIS at Attachment 2, provides detail for every change proposed.

Financial / economic issues

Not Applicable

Environmental / amenity issues

The new Clause 30.1 has been drafted in such a manner that environmental issues are addressed by firstly requiring burning in the open air to take place in a properly constructed and safe outdoor heating device; this means that the spread of ash, fire or smoke to the environment will be minimised. Secondly the requirement that the burning to be only for heating purposes means that the burning of material not normally used for heating purposes, and deleterious to the environment, would not be allowed.

The amendment of Local Law 11 Clause 30.1 has also been drafted in such a manner that reasonable amenity for residents can be maintained, as the provision will be linked to the existing requirement that all open air burning covered by the local law to be appropriately located and managed so as to not cause nuisance.

On the basis of the above Council is able to ensure that community expectations for the maintenance of environmental values, amenity and safety are met.

Social / community issues

The proposed Local Law 13 is intended to provide a reasonable framework to allow open air burning and the purpose of heating and, in turn, support the recreational and social activities of residents.

Consideration has been given to ensuring there is no breach of the Charter of Human Rights and that the proposed local law does not conflict with other legislative provisions. Legal opinion has also been sought regarding drafting of clauses to ensure that proposed changes are unambiguous and enforceable.

Community consultation

Council commenced a process to garner community feedback and sentiment on whether it should consider making a change to Local Law 11 Clause 30, to allow open air burning for heating purposes, but with clear requirements for safety and amenity protection. This feedback was able to be provided via an anonymous on-line or hard copy survey, via email or direct mail. This feedback indicates that there is substantial community support for change, the details of further outlined in the Local Law Community Impact Statement at Attachment 2.

Importantly it is now recommended that formal consultation with the community now be conducted in accordance with section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989, which requires Council to give public notice and subsequently receive and consider written submissions.

The community consultation process for the proposed Local Law 13 will include:

· Public exhibition of the proposed Local Law 13 and the Local Law Community Impact Statement on Council's website and available for viewing at the City Offices, Braeside Avenue Ringwood, at Council's Service Centre in Croydon and Realm.

· Advertisements in the Victoria Government Gazette, The Age and Maroondah Leader.

Parties who also wrote to Council providing contact addresses on the initial phase of consultation and other authorities such as the Metropolitan Fire Brigade and Country Fire Brigade will be notified.

Conclusion

The amendments to Local Law 11 Clause 30.1 as outlined within the proposed Local Law No 13 at Attachment 1 aim to achieve a balance between residents’ reasonable expectation to have open air fires for heating purposes, and the reasonable amenity expectations of neighbours.

Attachments

1.⇩	Draft Local Law 13
2.⇩	Community Impact Statement

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That COUNCIL:-

1. ACTING UNDER section 111 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1989 (‘tHE ACT’) GIVES NOTICE OF ITS INTENTION TO MAKE A LOCAL LAW IN THE FORM OF THE DRAFT LOCAL LAW ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT (‘THE PROPOSED LOCAL LAW’) FOR THE PURPOSES OF AMENDING THE CURRENT LOCAL LAW NO 11 CLAUSE 30.1 THAT REGULATES INCINERATORS AND BURNING

2. PROVIDES PUBLIC NOTICE OF ITS INTENTION IN THE VICTORIA GOVERNMENT GAZETTE AND THE AGE AND MAROONDAH LEADER NEWSPAPERS, SEEKING SUBMISSIONS ON THE PROPOSED LOCAL LAW IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTIONS 119 AND 223 OF THE ACT

3. PROMOTES ITS INTENTION VIA COUNCIL WEB SITE AND DIRECT MAIL TO PREVIOUSLY INTERESTED PARTIES, INVITING ANY PERSON TO MAKE A WRITTEN SUBMISSION

4. NOTES THAT A COPY OF THE PROPOSED LOCAL LAW WILL BE ON PUBLIC EXHIBITION AT THE CITY OFFICES, BRAESIDE AVENUE RINGWOOD, CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES, REALM AND THE WEBSITE OF COUNCIL.

5. in accordance with section 223 of the act:

i. appoints a committee comprising councillors ………………, ………………….. and ……………… to hear any person wishing to be heard in support of their submission, on a date to be determined

ii. SHALL consider all written submissions AT A SUBSEQUENT MEETING OF COUNCIL, including a written report on the proceedings of any committee hearing conducted, following which it will determine whether or not to make local law no. 13

6. FURTHER NOTES THAT IF NO SUBMISSIONS ARE RECEIVED, COUNCIL SHALL CONSIDER A RECOMMENDATION TO MAKE THE PROPOSED LOCAL LAW LOCAL LAW AT ITS MEETING TO BE HELD ON 22 AUGUST, 2016

7. authorises the director planning & community to undertake the administrative procedures necessary to enable council to carry out its functions under section 223 of the act in relaTION TO THIS MATTER

acting director planning & community – ANDREW FUAUX

Housing Strategy - Public Exhibition Submissions and Adoption of the Strategy	Item 3

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to advise Council of submissions received following the recent public exhibition of the draft Maroondah Housing Strategy. In response, the report outlines proposed modifications and recommends that Council adopts the Maroondah Housing Strategy.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015-2016) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: An attractive, thriving and well built community

Our Vision: In 2040, Maroondah will be an attractive community with high quality urban form and infrastructure that meets the needs and aspirations of all ages and abilities. A diverse range of housing options are available and thriving activity centres provide a broad range of facilities and services that meet community needs. The character of local neighbourhoods continues to be maintained while also accommodating population growth.

Key Directions 2013 – 2017:

6.1 Encourage high quality urban design that provides for a healthy, attractive and desirable built form

6.7 Plan and facilitate the development of a community where everyone can live, work and play locally

6.9 Encourage high density development in activity centres where there is access to high quality facilities, services and amenities

Priority Action 2015-2016:

Complete development of the Maroondah Housing Strategy.

Background

New residential zones were implemented into the Maroondah Planning Scheme in 2014 courtesy of Amendment C093. The application of the new residential zones was principally based on a neutral translation that sought to protect the well accepted and defined landscape character as identified by the Significant Landscape Overlays. In giving his approval the Minister for Planning did so on the understanding that Council would commit to undertake the preparation of a revised Housing Strategy. Following its adoption, the Housing Strategy is expected to provide the strategic justification to inform future zoning considerations.

Ministerial Direction16 (MD16) requires councils in metropolitan Melbourne to use a housing strategy to inform the application of the new residential zones, as well as to evaluate and monitor the implications of the new residential zones within two years of their gazettal into a planning scheme.

The introduction of MD16 indicates that future substantial reviews of the approved residential zones will need to be supported by a housing strategy.

As has been previously reported to Council at its meetings of 14 December 2015 and 18 April 2016 Council commenced its preparation of the Maroondah Housing Strategy in 2014. A significant body of evidence has been established since that time. This has included the development of the following background papers:

· Maroondah Municipal Housing Strategy 1997 Review (2014)

· Housing Supply Analysis (Charter Keck Cramer, May 2015)

· Housing Demand Study (Spatial Economic, May 2015)

· Physical and Community Infrastructure (May, 2015)

· Housing and Environmental Sensitivities (May, 2015)

· Sustainable Communities (2015)

· Opportunities for residential development (Swinburne University and Maroondah City Council, February 2016)

Council has been assisted in the preparation of this work through independent peer review at key milestones in the project.

As advised in the Council Report of 14th December 2015 extensive community engagement was undertaken to help identify the issues and options that the revised Housing Strategy would need to address.

The outcome of this evidence based and community engagement was the development of a draft Maroondah Housing Strategy. This sought to ensure that the places we live have high qualities of liveability and included the following vision:

In 2040, Maroondah will have high quality housing environments in appropriate locations that meet the community‘s diverse and changing needs. There will be a wider range of living options and housing will increasingly be revitalized in affordable, sustainable and well-designed ways. Maroondah‘s activity centres will be more accessible and provide a broader range of services that meet community needs. In partnership with the community, Council will continue to plan for housing growth strategically backed by a strong evidence base.

Following the Council meeting of 18 April 2016 the draft Housing Strategy was placed on public exhibition for four weeks from 20 April 2016 until 18 May 2106. The exhibition period involved:

· Stakeholder workshop on 27th April 2016

· Listening posts at:

- Realm 28, 29,30 April 2016

- Heathmont Farmers Market 1 May 2016

- Croydon Farmers Market 14 May 2016

· Online feedback tool: theplaceswelive.com.au

· Website survey

· Written submissions

· Attendance upon invitation at Ringwood Rotary Club as well as presentations to Council advisory committees.

During the exhibition the draft Strategy was made available to view on Councils website, at each of the service centres as well as at Realm and Croydon libraries.

The exhibition of the draft Housing Strategy was promoted in That’s Maroondah, through media releases and on Council’s Facebook page.

During the exhibition period Council received:

· 30 formal written submissions

· A petition with 350 respondents from residents of Ruskin Park and Wonga Park

· A petition with 163 respondents from residents of Jubilee Park

· 34 respondents to the online survey

· 224 comments at theplaceswelive.com.au website from 66 respondents

· Stakeholder feedback through workshop discussions

· Informal feedback through listening post activities.

Issue / discussion

A summary of the submissions received during the public exhibition and officers’ response is provided at Attachment 1 to this report. The common themes arising through the submissions are provided below.

It should be noted that no submitters challenged the evidence base of the Strategy.

Theme: Re-zoning of Ruskin Park and Wonga Park Precincts

A petition signed by 350 respondents and 32 comments were received seeking the re-zoning of the Ruskin Park and Wonga Park precincts from General Residential Zone to the Neighbourhood Residential zone.

The Petition

Signatories to the petition have stated they:

Strongly support the Maroondah Housing Strategy priority action 5.2d to: Prepare a planning scheme amendment for the rezoning of residential land in the Ruskin Park and Wonga park precincts from GRZ to NRZ.

Submitter’s Comments

Many submitters expressed reservations at the amount and quality of the development that has occurred in recent times. This has in their view compromised the cherished green leafy environment.

Of note concerns were raised by some parties during the community consultation for the Draft Housing Strategy about the impact any such rezoning may have in terms of constraining land supply for the municipality.

Officer’s Response

Action 5.2d of the draft Housing Strategy is in response to the Council motion introduced at its meeting of 23^rd November 2015 that sought assistance from the Minister for Planning in addressing development pressures within the Ruskin Park precinct. In responding to Council the Minister for Planning’s advice was:

...the best way forward is to expedite the housing strategy so that an amendment process can follow to implement planning controls, particularly for Ruskin Park. A public amendment process will provide the rigour and test to ensure that the controls proposed for this area are appropriate........I encourage Council to engage the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (The Department) for any future amendments affecting the Ruskin Park area. Where possible, the Department will assist any amendment to implement the housing strategy by expediting the authorisation process as well as by pre-setting panel dates for the amendment.

It is noted that this action did not receive any objection from residents within the Ruskin Park or Wonga Park precincts.

As the action is already included within the draft Housing Strategy no change is deemed necessary.

Theme: Heritage and Zoning concerns in the Jubilee Park/Federation Estate Precinct

A petition signed by 163 residents was received by Council from residents of the Jubilee Park/Federation Park area expressing concern about the impact of recent residential developments within their area.

The Petition stated:

“We, the residents of the middle Jubilee Park, call upon the Mayor of Maroondah City Council, Cr Natalie Thomas, and our Mullum ward councillors, Cr Nora Lamont, Cr Mary-Anne Lowe and Cr Samantha Marks, to make changes to the draft Housing Strategy that introduces a Neighbourhood Residential Zone to this area (see map) and a Neighbourhood Character Overlay to suitable streets (Haig, Ellison, Kendall, James, Caroline, Henry). Without this amendment to the Housing Strategy 2016 this special pocket of Ringwood will forever lose its value.

Why we Demand Rezoning and Protection of Neighbourhood Character

In the last 2 years, we have noticed a rapid increase in development activity within Jubilee Park as we suffer the ‘spill-over’ effects of growth zones within the Activity Centre. Without formal recognition of the unique neighbourhood character, heritage and vegetative nature of middle Jubilee Park surrounding Federation Estate and Jubilee Park Ovals, this pocket of Ringwood will lose its character, which is valued by both residents and the broader community. Under General Residential Zone, we will continue seeing new developments go up that do not respect the neighbourhood character and heritage of this unique area. Under General Residential Zone, we will continue fighting inappropriate proposals that waste the time of residents, developers and council staff. We need better protective controls for this area so that any new developments remain modest and are in keeping with neighbourhood character.”

Submitter’s comments

Submissions stressed the importance of protecting the built character and heritage of the Jubilee Park/Federation Park precinct and questioned the appropriateness and ability of the precinct to accommodate higher density development.

Whilst outside of the proposed area subject to the petition, a submission was received seeking higher density development within the Jubilee Park precinct due to the proximity of the location to a high level of amenities and transport connections.

Officer’s response

Officers note that it was considered beyond the scope of the draft Housing Strategy to address in detail matters of heritage and neighbourhood character. Owing to the importance of such matters it was the intention that they be the subject of further strategic studies by Council. Also, due to other commitments made in the draft Housing Strategy it is not possible to undertake a study on a municipal wide scale. However an action is proposed in the Strategy to undertake a study of the heritage and character of the area subject to the petition with a view to considering the most appropriate form of planning controls. In addition, wording in the Housing Strategy will reflect existing Council support for the protection and enhancement of heritage and neighbourhood character.

Theme: Protecting Canopy Vegetation in Residential Areas

Excluding precinct specific matters, the greatest number of submissions received was in regard to issues concerning the green and bushy feel and in particular the perceived loss of vegetation due to development. 6 formal written submissions and 44 comments were concerned with the removal and protection of vegetation.

Submitter’s comments

It is evident from the submissions and indeed throughout the process of preparing the Strategy that many people are concerned at the loss of tree canopy cover arising from development. Frustrations were aired about treeless developments. Qualified support was given to the actions of the Strategy but it was noted that all areas not just special quality areas were deserving of attention and actual implementation across all teams of Council would be required to address the loss of vegetation.

Officer’s response

Officers note the submissions received and will look to address such matters in the implementation of Action 3.1a which proposes a Municipal wide vegetation review is undertaken which is to recommend revisions to the planning controls.

Theme: Concerns relating to Over Development and Urban Design

Many submissions raised concerns regarding the quality of recent developments, densification, the lack of quality in urban design and resulting detrimental impacts on general amenity.

Submitter’s comments

There was a general acknowledgement of the value of seeking higher density housing in activity centres combined with the need for supporting infrastructure to keep pace with residential development. Some submitters questioned the architectural value of recent residential development referring to them as bland. Some also viewed subdivisions as diminishing the character rather than enhancing amenity and the appearance of their areas.

Officer’s response

Whilst urban design as a theme is beyond the scope of the draft Housing Strategy it acknowledges the inefficient use of land and poor design outcomes that can occur from some existing practices. To partly address such concerns the Strategy is investing Council effort in the project, Greening the Greyfields. Through this project it is envisaged that better design outcomes can be achieved that respect neighbourhood character and deliver improved community infrastructure benefits, whilst unlocking additional housing capacity. Another initiative in the Strategy that will assist in responding to the concerns raised include establishing an annual forum with developers at which Council will be able to promote improved urban design outcomes locally. It must however also be acknowledged that the evidence gathered for the Housing Strategy demonstrates a need for a greater diversity of dwelling types if we are to meet the changing needs of the community (eg ageing population, smaller households, changing lifestyle patterns).

Theme: Support for Environmentally Sustainable Housing

There was a general agreement amongst submitters that Council should be expecting residential development to be informed by the principles of ecologically sensitive development.

Submitter’s comments

Submissions were received from developers seeking to pursue environmentally sustainable housing projects locally. They encouraged Council to provide leadership in this respect. Others encouraged consideration be given to the impacts of climate change and how housing can be developed to incorporate alternative power sources such as solar panels, greywater recycling etc.

Officer’s response

The interest of developers to pursue sustainable housing projects is noted and supported. Officers are aware that the Minister for Planning has, during the period of preparing the draft Housing Strategy, authorised a Planning Scheme amendment for five Councils in Melbourne to introduce an environmentally sensitive design local policy into their Planning Schemes. Council is of the view that such policy should now be statewide and intends to join the Council Alliance for Sustainable Built Environment to help advocate for such a move and additionally acquire tools to help assess the environmental sustainability of land use and development proposals during the statutory planning process.

Theme: Housing Affordability - a Key Issue for the Community

Housing affordability and affordable housing was a significant issue raised during community engagement for the Housing Strategy, particularly by younger members of the community. Many personal stories of difficulties in accessing housing were provided to Council representatives at the listening posts.

Submitter’s comments

It was identified by many that there is a need to provide shelter for all residents, particularly those who are vulnerable. Issues of homelessness, housing tenure, working with not for profit affordable housing providers and disassociating affordable housing with the notion of poor quality housing were amongst the comments received. Some however questioned the ability of Council to influence such matters, and in some instances, at the cost of preserving neighbourhood character.

Officer’s response

There are many limitations on the ability of Council, and particularly through its planning functions, to respond to issues of housing affordability. However it has been demonstrated by some Councils that local government can play a role. Of note, the State Government’s Plan Melbourne Refresh Document has a particular focus on addressing affordable housing. The Strategy does respond to the need to be innovative and to work with practitioners in the sector, as the evidence is clear that the issue is not only serious but also of one of growing concern. It should also be noted that no one direction should be read in isolation to other sections of the Strategy and housing affordability is relevant to all.

Theme: Protecting Neighbourhood Character

The Ruskin Park, Wonga Park and Jubilee Park submissions were in a large part triggered by concerns relating to the desire to protect neighbourhood character. However this concern was not restricted solely to residents of these precincts.

Submitter’s comments

There is a strong sense of pride in the quality and appearance of the areas that many submitters live. There is also a strong perception that the quality of these areas is being diminished by recent development, is under threat from further change and neighbourhood character policies are not being strictly adhered to by Council or reflected in VCAT decisions.

Others acknowledged that if Melbourne is to house its increasing population there will be a need to accommodate some change or otherwise be subject to increased urban sprawl in outer areas of Melbourne.

Officer’s response

Focus Area 1 in the Housing Strategy seeks to direct an increasing proportion of development to be within the activity centres of Ringwood, Croydon, Ringwood East and Heathmont. In these areas development is influenced through the more detailed design controls provided by Structure Plans. It is also anticipated that this policy will temper the rate of change within other residential areas across the balance of Maroondah.

Evidence gathered as part of the development of the Housing Strategy stressed the role of ongoing infill development, as this represents the most significant source of further residential development. It is acknowledged that this must be achieved in a careful and sensitive manner. Council’s Neighbourhood Character Study is a major body of work that has a significant influence on the outcomes of development applications within Maroondah. The Study was prepared in 2004 and is anticipated to be a future area of work for Council to review. It should also be noted that Maroondah is in a transition period from the old residential zones to the more recently introduced State Government reformed residential zones. It is anticipated that in the next few years developments will be more reflective of the current zoning controls.

Theme: Requests to Rezone Properties

In addition to the request for precinct scale rezonings at Ruskin Park and Wonga Park and Jubilee Park, six submissions were received requesting individual properties be rezoned.

Submitter’s comments

One request sought rezoning from NRZ to GRZ, another GRZ to RGZ. Two submissions sought to rezone GWAZ to GRZ, whilst one sought an amendment to the NRZ 3 schedule and another to subdivide in a NRZ1.

Officer’s response

The Housing Strategy is a high level strategic planning document that identifies key housing issues and measures Council will take to address these issues. It is not appropriate to review or recommend any changes to specific properties within the Housing Strategy. Consideration of all rezoning requests will be deferred to until the Maroondah Housing Strategy is adopted and then to be considered in the context of the adopted Strategy. Notwithstanding it is generally considered that further strategic work (e.g. a vegetation review and further evidence about land supply) will be required before determining the desired outcome of any requests. It is also noted that two of the requests were received for rezoning of land that is outside of the Urban Growth boundary. In such circumstances Council is unable to consider such requests, as this is a matter requiring the approval of both houses of State Parliament.

It should also be noted that submissions included comment on a number of other issues, such as the condition of footpaths, Council rates and community safety. These are beyond the scope of the Housing Strategy and thus are not reported here but can be viewed in Attachment 1. Comments were also received requesting that greater levels of community engagement and promotion of the exhibition should have been undertaken. In response, Council, within available resources, undertook a detailed community engagement campaign associated with the Strategy that provided a range of ways for people to provide input.

Implementation Plan

Following the adoption of the Housing Strategy Council will commence the implementation of the actions identified within the Strategy. The Housing Strategy is for the period 2016 – 2040 and will require a significant amount of work to implement its identified actions. Clearly this cannot be achieved all at once so actions have been prioritised as outlined in the Implementation Plan at Attachment 3. For example initial efforts will be focused on:

· Proceeding with developing the Greening the Greyfields project.

· Prepare planning scheme amendments to introduce the Housing Strategy, Maroondah 2040, and rezoning of residential land in the Ruskin Park and Wonga park precincts from GRZ to NRZ into the Maroondah Planning Scheme.

· Undertaking a review of heritage and neighbourhood character controls within the Jubilee Park precinct

· Undertaking a municipal wide vegetation review and ensuring the consistency of supporting planning controls

It should be noted that a number of issues identified in the Strategy are likely to be influenced by imminent State Government initiatives including the Plan Melbourne Refresh, the recommendations of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Managing Residential Development as well as the State Government’s response to the Infrastructure Victoria Discussion Paper. Council will await these and other reports and make assessments on the implications for the Housing Strategy accordingly.

Financial / economic issues

Within existing project budget.

Environmental / amenity issues

It is expected that through the implementation of the actions contained within the Housing Strategy there will be more effective controls for protecting and enhancing the natural environment as well as local amenity.

Social / community issues

It is expected that through the implementation of the actions contained within the Housing Strategy there will be greater diversity and choice of housing for the community.

Community consultation

Details on the community engagement associated with the Draft Maroondah Housing Strategy have been provided earlier in this report. Through the implementation of the actions contained within the Housing Strategy there will be ongoing community and stakeholder engagement in the management of Maroondah’s future residential development.

Conclusion

Council’s Housing Strategy has been prepared based on a robust evidence base, with the views of the community at its heart consistent with Council policy and State Government planning objectives. The draft Strategy has now been on public exhibition with all submissions / comments subsequently reviewed.

Whilst some concerns have been expressed about the form of current development there is broad agreement and support for the Focus Areas and Key Directions included in the Strategy.

An additional action relating to undertaking a study of the heritage and neighbourhood character of the Jubilee Park precinct is included within Focus Area 3.

In summary, the Maroondah Housing Strategy represents a strong basis from which Council can confidently plan and manage residential over the next 25 years. Council is well placed to manage the balance of meeting the changing lifestyle and demographic needs of our community whilst at the same retaining the high quality environment that residents currently enjoy.

It is recommended that Council adopt the Housing Strategy as presented at Attachment 2.

Attachments

1.⇩	Council’s response to Housing Strategy submissions
2.⇩	Maroondah Housing Strategy
3.⇩	Housing Strategy Implementation Plan

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That COUNCIL:

1. NOTEs THE SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED DURING EXHIBITION OF THE DRAFT MAROONDAH HOUSING STRATEGY AND ENDORSEs OFFICERS RESPONSEs TO THE SUBMISSIONS AS PROVIDED IN ATTACHMENT 1.

2. NOTEs THE REVISED WORDING OF THE MAROONDAH HOUSING STRATEGY AS PROVIDED AT ATTACHMENT 2

3. adopts the maroondah housing strategy and accompanying IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

4. THANKs ALL PARTIES THAT PROVIDED FEEDBACK AND COMMENT ON THE maroondah HOUSING sTRATEGY

acting director planning & community – ANDREW FUAUX

Fenced Dog Parks for Maroondah	Item 4

Purpose

To update Council on the public consultation and other work completed to investigate the provision of two fenced dog parks in Maroondah. And given the positive community feedback from this consultation, the report is also seeking approval to commence work on specific site consultations, designs and costs for the development and the management of such facilities at two recommended locations within Maroondah.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015-2016) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A safe, healthy and active community

In 2040, Maroondah is a safe, healthy and active community with local opportunities provided for people of all ages and abilities to have high levels of social, emotional and physical wellbeing.

Our Vision: Maroondah will be a vibrant and diverse city with a healthy and active community, living in green and leafy neighbourhoods which are connected to thriving and accessible activity centres contributing to a prosperous economy within a safe, inclusive and sustainable environment

Key Directions 2013 – 2017:

A HEALTHY COMMUNITY

1.17 Promote healthy eating and physical activity by supporting education initiatives and providing a diverse range of accessible open spaces, and recreation facilities and services

AN ACTIVE COMMUNITY

1.18 Enhance and maintain an integrated and connected network of passive and active open space to promote community health and wellbeing

1.19 Provide a range of integrated recreation and leisure facilities that meet the needs of all ages and abilities

1.21 Support and empower local community groups, sporting clubs and special interest groups across Maroondah

AN INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY

7.8 Support all ages and population groups to be valued, connected, supported and empowered within their local community through the provision and coordination of accessible services, programming and facilities

A DIVERSE COMMUNITY

7.11 Ensure the needs of community members from all ages, backgrounds and lifestyles are considered in planning for local services, programs and infrastructure

Background

A report was presented to Council at its meeting of 7 September 2015 outlining a proposal for one or two fenced dog parks within Maroondah.

That report proposed that Council consider the development of one or two sites in the near term to cater for the increasing community demand and to ensure ease of geographic access for as many users as possible. These sites would ideally be situated in the north and south of the municipality, and by providing more than one site, there is flexibility in Council’s ability to provide varying sizes and attributes of each park being developed, ie. a larger regional park and a smaller and more basic local park.

The report considered several sites within Maroondah and recommended that two sites were preferred options. These sites were Eastfield Park for a larger regional facility and Quambee Reserve for a smaller more basic park. Further recommendations were to consult with the community regarding the suitability of the preferred parks and what attributes were wanted in a fenced dog park.

A further report was recommended to be provided to Council with the outcomes of the community consultation with the options and implications for progressing the construction of such facilities.

Issue / discussion

Council undertook formal consultation through direct discussions at the Maroondah Festival Café Consult tent, via an on-line survey and by mailout to sporting clubs and other community groups who are key users of the Quambee Reserve and Eastfield Park.

The data was categorised into 3 themes:

· Dog park – Supported/Not supported

· Attributes – What attributes should be in a dog park

· Location – Quambee Reserve and or Eastfield Park

A total of 301 submissions were received following this consultation and have been grouped into the following three categories which are shown below.

Online survey = 92 Submissions

Café Consult = 184 Submissions

Written correspondence = 25 Submissions

Refer to Attachment 1, 2 and 3 for Survey questions, the letter sent via mail and the Overlay Plans of a concept dog park within Eastfield Park.

Following is a breakdown of the submissions received as per the 3 themes shown above.

Dog Park supported/not supported – Supported 289 / Not supported 12

Those people who supported a park informed the following;

· Dog parks can be a great social outlet for dogs and their owners.

· A dog park would provide a better exercise space

· Eastfield would be great as there is lots of space and facilities available and would reduce the mess through the walking areas and on ovals.

· Will provide a reduction in travel to locate fenced dog parks outside the municipality

· A fully fenced dog park will provide a safer environment for smaller dogs

· Many dogs that currently use this area would enjoy the wonderful new facilities proposed in the dog park

Those people who did not support the park raised the following issues:

· Parks should not be limited to single use

· Plenty of places for dog owners to exercise their dogs in Eastfield Park and throughout Croydon without the need for a formal fenced area specifically for this purpose

· More information would be of assistance on the proposed exact location of the dog park at Quambee reserve

· What advantage would offering a fenced park at Eastfield given the associated costs and the existing facilities currently offered

Attributes – The top five attributes that the community wanted in a dog park were;

· Water fountains

· Shaded areas

· Bins

· Seating

· Open Spaces

Location – Quambee Reserve and or Eastfield Park

27 submissions were received on Location from those parties Council wrote to directly.

· Quambee Reserve – 7 submissions received in favour,3 against.

· Eastfield Park – 14 submissions received in favour, 3 against

The following summarises the sentiment of the 7 submissions that support Quambee Reserve:

· I think it is a very suitable location being off the main road, and I believe there is a desperate need for a fully-fenced area for dogs to be exercised in Ringwood, particularly considering how the size of the average backyard is rapidly shrinking with all the higher density development that is taking place.

· The proposal of building a dog park is an excellent idea and I personally hope it goes ahead. Being a fenced area I feel it would be a safe area for my small dog and my 15 year old daughter to be in. I would like to suggest that you erect a sign stating owners must pick up after their dogs and where the drinking taps will be, can you place some form of permanent drinking bowl for the dogs?

· As a daily dog walker at Quambee Reserve I would love to be able to have a secure fenced off area for our dogs to exercise. It is a beautiful place to walk your dogs however there are some areas where a dog off lead can disappear and quickly be in the dam or on Tortice drive (chasing rabbits or trying to get ducks.)

The following summarises the sentiment of the 3 submissions against Quambee Reserve:

· Before providing any feedback it would be useful to know which area of Quambee might be looked at? I can't see anywhere up there where a park like this would fit.

· The reserve is already an off leash dog reserve, there is no advantage or point of adding a dog park

· The reserve is already used by a lot of dogs and dog owners. Having a dog park would increase the dog traffic even more and this will compromise the quiet aspect of the reserve and will affect the residents around the reserve.

· There is a lot of barking nuisance happening in the area as dog owners walk their dogs on the trails nearby leading to the reserve. This is already quite disturbing now and this will only get worse if the dog traffic is increased by the presence of a dog park.

· The Quambee reserve also hosts a horse and pony club. The horses present on a regular basis and I am concerned that a high traffic of dogs would disturb the horse shows and the well being of the horses/ponies.

The following comments reflect the sentiment of the 14 submissions supporting Eastfield Park:

· As a regular visitor to the Eastfield Park I would love to see a dog friendly area where I could play with my large dog and feel safe and relaxed knowing that he was interacting with other dogs in a controlled environment. I love this park and although it would be convenient for me it is really needed in this part of Croydon.

· I believe that Eastfield Park would be an ideal site for the proposed dog park, I frequent this area often and there are many dogs including my own that would enjoy the wonderful new facilities.

· Fantastic! My sister in Forest Hill makes daily use of the fenced dog park there and I can't wait to use this one. I always thought the Eastfield Park site was under-utilised and this idea seems wonderful.

· We all believe that this would be an excellent idea and that it would greatly benefit the area. The park has remained clear and open for a very long time and while it is certainly a very nice area to walk your dog (which we do there every day) the introduction of a fenced off area for dogs would be a major improvement.

The following summarises the sentiment of the 3 submissions against Eastfield Park:

· There are plenty of places for dog owners to exercise their dogs in Eastfield Park and throughout Croydon without the need for a formal fenced area specifically for this purpose. It would quarantine a lovely wide open area of the Park which should be for the use of all to enjoy, and limit its use for one section of the community only.

· I'm a local resident who uses Eastfield Park each day with my dog, twice on weekends and holidays, and have done so for the past 12 years. I value it enormously, it's a beautiful park which offers space, peace, tranquillity and the beauty of the natural bush and extensive open park-like spaces. If the council deems it necessary to have such a fenced area with all the ongoing associated costs but I truly cannot see what it offers that is not already basically available throughout the park.

Financial / economic issues

Not Applicable

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

There are numerous benefits from the provision of fenced dog parks for both dogs and their owners and some of these include:

· Adding to the diversity of recreational opportunities for residents

· A social environment where a variety of people and their dogs can recreate together

· Provide a meeting place and activity hub for people and families

· Provide older people and people with restricted mobility/disabilities with an accessible and safe place to exercise their dog

· Encourage people to exercise

· Dogs and their owners can be separate from people who do not want to interact with dogs

· Provide a venue for people to be able to socialize their dogs with other dogs

· Provide a focal point for community education and training around responsible pet ownership

· Can provide a separate and safe space for dogs that does not conflict with other park activities

· Allows dogs access to parkland but protects sensitive environments such as bushland areas

Community consultation

Council consulted with the community in three formal ways. The first was in the Cafe Consult Tent at the Maroondah Festival in November 2015, where the Local Laws team presented a survey and example plans of a dog park overlayed into a picture of Eastfield Park. The survey asked the community what attributes they wanted within a dog park and a comments section for further suggestions.

A second stage of community consultation took place via an online survey through Council’s website asking the same questions as the festival survey. People were also afforded an opportunity to write or email Council should they not wish to use the survey tool. This survey and opportunity for feedback was promoted on Council’s web site, social media and reported in traditional media (local papers).

Finally, Council also wrote directly to the sporting clubs and other community groups who are key users of the Quambee Reserve and Eastfield Park, and also to the surrounding residents adjoining the parks to seek their feedback either via the online survey, email or mail.

Conclusion

It is recommended that the next step in this process to provide for fenced dog parks in Maroondah is to commence work on specific park designs for both Eastfield Park as a larger regional facility and Quambee Reserve for a smaller more basic park. Such designs would incorporate community feedback and would importantly allow further and more specific consultation with park user groups and surrounding residents.

Once this process is complete a further report would be presented back to Council to consider the local community feedback (i.e. user groups and nearby residents), the construction plans and associated construction costs and timelines.

Attachments

1.⇩	Dog Park Survey Questions
2.⇩	Dog Park Overlay Plan Eastfield Park
3.⇩	Letter to Community

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That COUNCIL

1. APPROVES THE DESIGN AND CONSULTATION AND OF 2 FENCED DOG PARKS, ONE AT EASTFIELD PARK AS A REGIONAL FACILITY, AND A SECOND AT QUAMBEE RESERVE AS A SMALLER MORE LOCALISED FACILITY.

2. CONSIDERS A FURTHER REPORT ON THE RESULTS OF THE DESIGN, CONSULTATION AND COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CONSTRUCTION OF 2 FENCED DOG PARKS, TOGETHER WITH THE TIMING OF THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPENING OF THE 2 FENCED DOG PARKS AT A FUTURE COUNCIL MEETING.

City Offices	Braeside Avenue, Ringwood, 3134
Postal	PO Box 156, Ringwood 3134 DX 38068, Ringwood
Telephone	1300 88 22 33
Facsimile Email Web Service Centres	Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS): 131 450 National Relay Service (NRS): 133 677 (03) 9298 4345 maroondah@maroondah.vic.gov.au www.maroondah.vic.gov.au Croydon: Civic Square Ringwood: Realm 179 Maroondah Highway Ringwood

Matters Discussed:		## Confidential Item

1	Council Meeting Agenda
2	Amended Development Application 42/58 Nelson Street, Ringwood (Verbal)
3	Transition to CHSP & NDIS Update
4	Flood Management Plan for Maroondah City Council and Melbourne Water
5	Community Sports Infrastructure Fund 2017/2018
6##	Ringwood Athletics Track - Tender Update

DIRECTOR Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Attendance Reports	Item 1

Assembly Details:

Date: Monday 16 May 2016	Time: 6.00pm	Location: Meeting Room 4, Braeside Avenue, Ringwood
Attendees:

Councillors
Cr Natalie Thomas (Mayor)	Cr Nora Lamont	Cr Les Willmott, JP
Cr Tony Dib, JP	Cr Rob Steane	Cr Liam Fitzgerald
Cr Christina Gleeson (Entered 6:23pm)

Council Officers:
Phil Turner	Acting Chief Executive Officer
Marianne Di Giallonardo	Director Corporate Services
Grant Meyer	Acting Director Planning & Community
Trevor Welsh	Director Operations, Infrastructure & Leisure
Andrew Fuaux	Manager Planning, Health & Local Laws Item 2
Wendy King	Manager Community Services Item 3
Debra Styles	Acting Program Manager Aged & Disability Item 3
Andrew Taylor	Manager Engineering & Building Item 4
Tim Cocks	Manager Leisure Items 5 & 6
Stephen Onans	Team Leader Governance

Others:	Nil

Apologies:
Councillors:	Cr Mary-Anne Lowe & Cr Samantha Marks
Council Officers:	Steve Kozlowski, CEO

Conflict of Interest Disclosure:
Councillors:	Nil
Council Officers:	Nil

Assembly Details:

Date: Thursday 19 May 2016	Time: 5.30pm	Location: Council Chamber, Braeside Avenue, Ringwood
Attendees:

Councillors
Cr Natalie Thomas (Mayor)	Cr Les Willmott, JP	Cr Liam Fitzgerald (entered at 5:57)
Cr Tony Dib, JP	Cr Mary-Anne Lowe
Cr Christina Gleeson	Cr Rob Steane

Council Officers:
Phil Turner	Acting Chief Executive Officer
Marianne Di Giallonardo	Director Corporate Services
Trevor Welsh	Director Operations, Infrastructure & Leisure
Andrew Fuaux	Manager Planning, Health & Local Laws
Stephen Onans	Team Leader Governance

Apologies:
Councillors:	Cr Nora Lamont, Cr Samantha Marks
Council Officers:	Steve Kozlowski, CEO

Conflict of Interest Disclosure:
Councillors:	Nil
Council Officers:	Nil

Matters Discussed:		## Confidential Item

1	Local Law No. 11 Discussion

Assembly Details:

Date: Wednesday 15 June 2016	Time: 7.00pm	Location: Council Chamber, Braeside Avenue, Ringwood
Councillors – Committee Appointees
Cr Les Willmott, JP (Chairman)	Cr Samantha Marks

Councillors in Attendance
Cr Tony Dib, JP	Cr Liam Fitzgerald	Cr Mary-Anne Lowe

Council Officers:
Steve Kozlowski	Chief Executive Officer
Marianne Di Giallonardo	Director Corporate Services

Apologies:
Councillors:	Cr Natalie Thomas (Mayor)
Council Officers:

Conflict of Interest Disclosure:
Councillors:	Nil
Council Officers:	Nil

Matters Discussed:		## Confidential Item

1	Consideration of Submissions to 2016/17 Proposed Budget & Draft Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016/17)

DIRECTOR Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Councillor Representation Reports	Item 3

DIRECTOR Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Councillors Professional Development Report - January to June 2016	Item 5