2014 Maroondah Logo RGB.jpg

 

 

 

Councillor

(as addressed)

 

 

 

The next Council Meeting will be held in the Council Chamber, Braeside Avenue, Ringwood, on Monday 19 September 2016, commencing at 7.30pm and your presence is requested.

 

 

Yours faithfully

 

SKozlows.jpg

 

Steve Kozlowski

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

 

 

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Council Chamber
is fitted with a Hearing Aid Induction Loop

 

Switch Hearing Aid to ‘T’ for Reception

 

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

 


 

 


 


ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.       Prayer

2.       Acknowledgment of Country

3.       Apologies  

4.       Declaration of Interests

5.       Confirmation of Minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on Monday 22 August 2016.

6.       Public Questions

7.       Officers’ Reports

Director Corporate Services

1.       Attendance Report                                                                                                    4

2.       Reports of Assembly of Councillors                                                                         6

3.       Councillor Representation Reports                                                                        12

4.       Financial Report: Two Months Ending 31 August 2016                                         18

5.       Outcomes of Maroondah Motions to the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council Meeting                                                                                                      51

6.       Eastern Regional Libraries Corporation Annual Report 2015/2016                      54

Director Planning & Community

1.       118 Exeter Road, Croydon North                                                                         158

2.       Protecting the Health and Welfare of Council Authorised Enforcement Officers 177

3.       Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16                                                 178

4.       Our Achievements: 2012-2016 Council Term                                                      412

8.       Motions to Review  

9.       Late Item    (Note: Reports on these Items were inserted after the Council Meeting)

1.       Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre Masterplan review -
Petition                                                                                                                  443

2.       Carparking - Heathmont Shopping Centre                                                           448

10.     Requests / Leave of Absence

11.     In Camera

Director Operations, Infrastructure and Leisure

1.       Tender Evaluation Report - Contract CT5183 Provision of Pavement Crack Sealing Services  

 


DIRECTOR Corporate Services Marianne Di Giallonardo

 

Attendance Report

Item 1

 

Purpose

To provide an opportunity for Councillors to report on Council activities undertaken since the last Ordinary Meeting of Council and forthcoming ward activities.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) 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 2013 – 2017:

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

Background

Not Applicable

Issue / discussion

It is intended that the Mayor and Councillors be given the opportunity to present a verbal or written report updating Council on the activities they have undertaken in their role as Councillors and forthcoming ward activities.

Financial / economic issues

Not Applicable

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

It is appropriate that Councillors formally report to Council upon the activities they have undertaken in their role as Councillors.

 

 

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE REPORTS AS PRESENTED BY

COUNCILLORS

 


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 4: 2016-2017) 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 22 August and 5 September 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 August 22 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record

2.

2016 September 05 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record

 

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

THAT COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE PUBLIC RECORD OF THE ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS BRIEFINGS HELD ON 22 August and 5 september 2016

 


ATTACHMENT No: 1 - 2016 August 22 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record

 

Item  2

 

2014 Maroondah Logo RGB.jpg

ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS – PUBLIC RECORD

 

Assembly Details:

 

 

 

 

 

Date: Monday 22 August 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 Samantha Marks

Cr Liam Fitzgerald

 

Cr Mary-Anne Lowe

Cr Rob Steane

Council Officers:

 

 

Steve Kozlowski

Chief Executive Officer

Marianne Di Giallonardo

Director Corporate Services

Phil Turner

Director Planning & Community

Trevor Welsh

Director Operations, Infrastructure & Leisure

Sherryn Dunshea

Manager Communications & Marketing           Items 2 & 3

Andrew Taylor

Manager Engineering & Building Services               Item 4

Phil Medley

Integrated Planning Advisor                                      Item 5

Stephen Onans

Team Leader Governance

 

 

Apologies:

 

 

Councillors:

Cr. Gleeson ( Leave of Absence)

Council Officers:

Nil

 

 

 

Conflict of Interest Disclosure:

 

Councillors:

Cr Steane – Item 4  Eastfield Car Parking

Reason: Cr Steane’s business is undertaking work for a business within the Shopping Centre

 

Council Officers:

Nil

 

 

Matters Discussed:

## Confidential Item

 

 

 

 

1

Council Meeting Agenda

2

Community Guide Distribution Options

3

Australia Day Award Selection Process

4

Eastfield Shopping Centre "The Mall" - Parking Investigation

5

Annual Report - Snapshot of Achievements 2015/16

6

Items of a General Nature as Raised by Councillors

 

Record completed by:

Council Officer

Stephen Onans

Title

Team Leader Governance

 


ATTACHMENT No: 2 - 2016 September 05 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record

 

Item  2

 

2014 Maroondah Logo RGB.jpg

ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS – PUBLIC RECORD

 

Assembly Details:

 

 

 

 

 

Date: Monday 5 September 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 Samantha Marks

Cr Liam Fitzgerald

 

Cr Mary-Anne Lowe

 

Council Officers:

 

 

Steve Kozlowski

Chief Executive Officer

Marianne Di Giallonardo

Director Corporate Services

Phil Turner

Director Planning & Community

Adam Todorov

Acting Director Operations, Infrastructure & Leisure

Steve McIntosh

Acting Manager Assets                                                  Item 1

Wendy King

Manager Community Services                                       Item 2

Debra Styles

Program Manager Aged & Disability Services               Item 2

Andrew Fuaux

Manager Planning, Health & Local Laws                       Item 3

Dale Muir

Manager Revenue, Property & Customer Service         Item 4

Grant Meyer

Manager Integrated Planning                                         Item 5

Stephen Onans

Team Leader Governance

Apologies:

 

 

Councillors:

Cr. Gleeson, Cr. Steane

Council Officers:

Nil

 

 

 

Conflict of Interest Disclosure:

 

Councillors:

Nil

 

Council Officers:

Nil

 

 

Matters Discussed:

## Confidential Item

 

1

HE Parker Concept Plans

2

Active & Healthy Ageing Initiatives Update

3 ##

Property Matter, Croydon North

4

ERL Annual Report & Annual Financial Report

5

Maroondah City of Wellbeing Project

6

Croydon Town Centre Preliminary Design Option

7

Major Capital Works Projects - Ward Summary

8

MAV State Council 9 September 2016 Motions

9

Community Assistance Fund

10

Items of a General Nature Raised by Councillors

 

Record completed by:

Council Officer

Stephen Onans

Title

Team Leader Governance

 


DIRECTOR Corporate Services Marianne Di Giallonardo

 

Councillor Representation Reports

Item 3

 

Purpose

To receive and note the following meeting minutes and to provide an opportunity for Council’s representative to provide a further verbal report.

·        Minutes of the National Local Government Drug and Alcohol Advisory Committee Meeting held 24-25 November 2015

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) 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 2013 – 2017:

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

Background

As part of Council's commitment to the principles and practice of good governance, it is appropriate that Councillors and the Community are formally updated on the actions and activities of the various organisations bodies/advisory groups upon which it is represented.

Issue / discussion

Council is represented on numerous Boards and Organisations. Appointments are made annually by Council at the commencement of the new Mayoral term in November.

 

Cr Steane is Council’s representative on the National Local Government Drug and Alcohol Advisory Committee

Financial / economic issues

Not Applicable

 

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

 

 

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

It is appropriate that Councillors and the Community are formally updated on the actions and activities of the various organisations bodies/advisory groups upon which Council is represented.

 

 

Attachments

1.

NLGDAAC Minutes - 24-25 November 2015

 

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE MINUTES OF THE NATIONAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT DRUG AND ALCOHOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING HELD 24-25 NOVEMBER 2015

 


ATTACHMENT No: 1 - NLGDAAC Minutes - 24-25 November 2015

 

Item  3

 

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DIRECTOR Corporate Services Marianne Di Giallonardo

 

Financial Report: Two Months Ending 31 August 2016

Item 4

 

Purpose

To present the financial statements for the two months ending 31 August 2016.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in the Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A well governed and empowered community.

 

Vision Statement: 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 2016 - 2017:

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 two months ending 31 August 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

127,327

89,881

89,992

111

126,863

Expenses

(123,388)

(20,550)

(18,936)

1,614

(122,046)

Underlying Surplus (Deficit)

3,939

69,331

71,056

1,725

4,817

Capital

Grants - Capital (recurrent and non-recurrent)

5,469

3,010

3,023

13

1,420

Comprehensive result

9,408

72,341

74,079

1,738

6,237

 

For the two months ended 31 August 2016 Council has recorded an operating surplus before capital revenue of $71.06 million, which is $1.73 million ahead of the year to date budget (This equates to a 1.35% 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 $4.82m to the Forecast Budget Underlying Surplus of $3.94m, which is the result of an increase in budgeted expense expectations of $1.34m, slightly offset by an increase in budgeted income expectations of $464k.

·        Cash Contributions are $423k above forecast due to $436k in favourable Public Open Space contributions, slightly offset by $33k in unfavourable Statutory Planning contribution levels.

·        Statutory fees and fines are $43k above forecast. This is the result of $39k in higher than expected traffic fines revenue.

·        User Fees are ($378k) below forecast with fees for Aquahub ($175k), Aquanation ($134k), Aged and Disability Services ($46k), Karralyka ($43k) and Revenue Services ($34k) all below expected levels.

·        Materials and Services are ($762k) below forecast. Expense types contributing to this include Materials ($72k), Software Maintenance ($58k), Insurances ($56k), Water ($50k), Electricity ($49k), Consultancies ($46k) and Consumables ($38k). Expenses for Agency Staff were ahead of forecast by $66k.

·        Contractors are ($593k) below forecast, with Home Care ($193k), Waste Management ($138k), Operations ($96k) and Construction ($94k) all below forecast. Expenses for Works were ahead of forecast by $30k.

·        Employee Costs are ($257k) below budget. Service areas contributing to this include Local Laws ($54k) and Aquanation ($49k).

 

 

The movement between the Capital Grants Adopted Budget of $1.42 million and Forecast of $5.47 million mainly relates to:

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

·        Funding for the redevelopment of the East Ringwood Pavilion of $750k ($500k in Federal funding and $250k in State funding under the Multicultural Infrastructure Fund);

·        State government funding from the Department of Transport, Planning & Local Infrastructure for the signalisation of Bedford/Great Ryrie Road of $250k;

·        Carried Forward Capital $364k; and

·        Federal funding under the Roads to Recovery program for Lincoln Road ($359k).

 

The movement between the comprehensive result Adopted Budget of $6.24 million and the Forecast of $9.41 million mainly relates to the following (Refer to detailed reconciliation in Appendix A):

·        Carried forward grants net ($224k);

·        New and revised grant funding net ($201k);

·        New and revised capital grant funding $3.68m; and

·        Movement in departmental operating budgets of ($89k).


1.2    CAPITAL PERFORMANCE

 

Forecast

YTD

YTD

YTD

Adopted

Budget ##

 Budget

Actual #

 Var

Budget

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

Total capital works

33,576

3,656

3,529

127

24,553

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

 

The Forecast Budget includes carried forward works from 2015/16 of $8.36m and funding for new and revised projects including:

·        Funding for the redevelopment of the East Ringwood Pavilion of $750k ($500k in Federal funding and $250k in State funding under the Multicultural Infrastructure Fund);

·        State government funding from the Department of Transport, Planning & Local Infrastructure for the signalisation of Bedford/Great Ryrie Road of $250k.

 

For the two months ending 31 August 2016 Council has expended $3.53 million on the capital works program, which is in line with the year to date budget. Capital program variances include:

·        Computers and Telecommunications behind by $53k;

·        Plant, Machinery and Equipment behind by $35k;

·        Drainage behind by $31k; and

·        Roads ahead by $40k.

 

 

1.3     FINANCIAL POSITION

 

 

2016-17

2015-16

2015-16

 

Adopted

August YTD

August YTD

 June YTD

 

Budget

Actual

Actual

Actual

 

$’000

$’000

$’000

$’000

Cash and investments

32,549

33,155

31,539

35,531

 

The Financial Position as at 31 August 2016 shows cash and investment balances of $33.16 million, which is $1.62 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 2016/2017.

 

 

 

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 2016/2017 services and advocacy programs.

 

 

Attachments

1.

19 September 2016 - Council Meeting Report - Financial report appendix 2 months 31 August 2016

 

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

THAT COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE REPORT ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE AGAINST BUDGET FOR THE TWO MONTHS ENDING 31 AUGUST 2016

 


ATTACHMENT No: 1 - 19 September 2016 - Council Meeting Report - Financial report appendix 2 months 31 August 2016

 

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DIRECTOR Corporate Services Marianne Di Giallonardo

 

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

Item 5

 

Purpose

To consider the outcomes of motions submitted by Council to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council Meeting held on Friday 9 September 2016.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose in 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 2013 – 2017:

 

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

Background

The Municipal Association of Victoria State Council Meeting was held on Friday 9 September 2016 and Maroondah Council had previously resolved to submit three motions for consideration. 

 

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

1.         Tax Deductibility – Election Expenses - Carried – 92% for & 8% against.

2.         General Valuation – Lost – 48% for & 52% against.

3.         Responding to Youth Crime – Carried – 78% for & 22% against.


The motions are identified below:

 

Motion 1:  Tax Deductibility – Election Expenses

 

Resolution:

That the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council further writes to the Australian Tax Office seeking an urgent review of the current ceiling of $1,000 for election expenses that can be claimed by candidates for council elections.

Motion 2:  General Valuation

 

Motion (Not Carried):  

That the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council calls on the State Government to extend the frequency of general valuations from two to four years.

Motion 3:  Responding to Youth Crime

 

Resolution:  

That in response to the recent escalation in violent youth criminal offences, The Municipal Association of Victoria State Council Calls on the State Government to:

1.   Increase resources for the criminal justice system;

2.   Provide for appropriate sentencing laws for young criminal offenders; and

3.   Direct greater effort towards preventative measures, in particular, concentrating more targeted resources on highly disadvantaged individuals and families as well as establishing policing innovation hubs, as outlined in the “Victoria Police blue paper: a vision for Victoria Police in 2025”.

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. 

Conclusion

The three motions indicate 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 THREE MOTIONS SUBMITTED BY COUNCIL THAT WERE THE SUBJECT OF CONSIDERATION AND DEBATE AT THE MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA STATE COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 9 SEPTEMBER 2016

 

 


DIRECTOR Corporate Services Marianne Di Giallonardo

 

Eastern Regional Libraries Corporation Annual Report 2015/2016

Item 6

 

Purpose

To receive and note the Eastern Regional Libraries Corporation (ERLC) Annual Report for 2015/2016.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) 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 2013 – 2017:

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

Background

ERLC provides library services to Maroondah City Council, Knox City Council and Yarra Ranges Shire Council.  Together the three municipalities cover a large geographic area in the outer metropolitan area of Melbourne.  There is a diverse range of communities with a combined population of 411,788 as follows:

 

Municipality

Population

Area

Maroondah City Council

108,104

61.4 km2

Knox City Council

154,653

113.8 km2

Yarra Ranges Shire Council

149,031

2,500 km2

 

The member Council memberships are as follows:

 

Municipality

Population

Membership

%

Maroondah City Council

108,104

42,089

38.9

Knox City Council

154,653

56,385

36.4

Yarra Ranges Shire Council

149,031

43,494

29.1

 

The member Councils Equity is as follows:

 

Municipality

%

Maroondah City Council

24.89

Knox City Council

36.39

Yarra Ranges Shire Council

38.72

*  Note additional Maroondah operation expenditure (cleaning, security etc.) is $150k

The equity in ERLC is historical and reflects the resourcing each participating Council provided upon commencement of the Corporation.

Issue / discussion

ERLC was established in 1996 by the Member Councils in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989, section 196.  The Board governs the Corporation in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Local Government Act 1989, the Regional Library Agreement (as amended in 2009) and other adopted policies and procedures.

 

The Board is made up of two nominated Councillors from each of the Member Councils.  Maroondah City Council’s representatives are Cr Natalie Thomas (Chair) and Cr Mary-Ann Lowe.  The day to day management of the Corporation is the responsibility of the Chief Executive, supported by his Corporate Management Team.  The role of Chair is rotated between participating Councils on an annual basis.

 

Library membership numbers for the region have jumped to 141,968, an increase of 15,460 or 12.2% with eLibrary membership increasing to 22,583 an increase of 8,404 or 59%.  ERLC has the biggest eLibrary in Victoria

 

There were nearly 2 million visits to ERLC branches and 893,255 website hits, with 14,860 new members via the website in the first three months of this service.

Financial / economic issues

ERLC has had a successful financial year with modest increases in income and has contained expenditure in line with a tight fiscal environment.  The grants received from State Government for the period are as follows:

 

State Government Grants

 

2015/16

 

% increase

Maroondah City Council

3.0

Knox City Council

2.3

Yarra Ranges Shire Council

2.7

 

Indications by State Government for the 2016/17 financial year is that they will not be as generous and hence the Board and Management are charged with the responsibility to maintain and enhance service provision within a continually tight fiscal environment.

Social / community issues

The ERLC Annual Report outlines a wide range of positive activities across all library sites.  For Maroondah In particular we are very pleased that daily Realm attendance has exceeded the previous Ringwood Library daily visitations with numbers reported averaging in the order of 1,500 visitations per day.  An example of this overwhelming response to this new site is increased numbers for story telling in particular where extra sessions have had to be established and bookings are now required to ensure appropriate response to this increased demand.

Conclusion

Given the size and significance of this service, It is appropriate that Council and the Community are advised of Eastern Regional Libraries Corporation’s Annual Report for the 2015/2016 period.

 

 

Attachments

1.

Annual Report 2015/2016

2.

Detailed Financial Report 2015/2016

 

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That council receives and notes the eastern regional libraries corporation’s annual report 2015/2016.

 


ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Annual Report 2015/2016

 

Item  6

 

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ATTACHMENT No: 2 - Detailed Financial Report 2015/2016

 

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DIRECTOR Planning & Community Phil Turner

 

118 Exeter Road, Croydon North

Item 1

 

Purpose

The purpose of this report is for Council to consider purchasing a 1583m2 parcel of land at 118 Exeter Road, Croydon North which will add this land to the adjoining open space reserve known as Stringybark Rise Flora Reserve.

 

The land at 118 Exeter Road, Croydon North is recognised as a Site of Biological Significance in the Maroondah Planning Scheme.  A recent ecological survey of the site found significant populations of rare and endangered plants, and the purchase of this site provides Council with an opportunity to not only protect these plants but also enlarge and enhance the adjoining flora reserve.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area:  A clean, green and sustainable community

Our Vision:  In the year 2040, Maroondah will be a leafy green community with high levels of waste diversion and sustainable approaches to infrastructure development, urban design and management of natural resources. Our community is resilient and has the knowledge, capacity and resources to make sustainable lifestyle choices.

Key Directions 2013 – 2017:

4.5     Enhance Maroondah’s parklands, bushlands, gardens and open spaces

4.6     Protect and restore biodiversity and native habitat for local plants and animals on public and private land

4.8     Create and foster a culture within our community that is committed to protecting the unique features of Maroondah’s landscape, including our ridgelines, waterways, canopy vegetation, green open space and bushland reserves

Background

The land at 118 Exeter Road, Croydon North (see Attachment 1) is also known as Lot 73 on Plan of Subdivision 312890X, and was created as part of a 73 lot residential subdivision in 1992, under Planning Permit 88/383 issued by the former City of Croydon in 1989. The subdivision also created the westerly extension of Exeter Road, Mary Court, Julia Walk and part of Nangathan Way.

Since the land subdivision in 1992 the land has remained undeveloped, and is in good ecological condition supporting large numbers of rare and locally threatened native plants.

Planning permit application M/2015/646 was lodged with Council on 30 June 2015 seeking approval for the construction of a dwelling and associated driveway at 118 Exeter Road.  The proposed building envelope would have required removal of approximately 400 square metres of native vegetation including 35 canopy trees.  It is likely the vegetation loss would have been greater over time as outside livings spaces, gardens and paths would be incrementally created for the dwelling use.

 

The planning permit application was advertised, with 5 objections being received, and the grounds of objection, in summary, were:

·        Loss of vegetation, impact of habitat value and impact on biodiversity

·        Disruption to the ridgeline and negative impact on landscape character

·        Increase in traffic

·        Insufficiency of ecological assessment

The application was refused by Council on 7 December, 2015 on the following grounds:

·        The extent of vegetation removal (canopy trees and ground cover) and the significance of the vegetation to be removed is contrary to the objectives of Vegetation Protection Overlay (Schedule) and the Significant Landscape Overlay (Schedule 3) and State and Local policy relating to vegetation protection, landscape quality and ecosystems at Clauses 12, 15 and 22.04.

·        The siting and design of the dwelling and associated driveway fails to respond to topography and protection of vegetation contrary to Significant Landscape Overlay (Schedule 3) and State and Local policy relating to neighbourhood character at Clauses 15, 21.06 and 22.02.

Following the refusal of a dwelling on the land Council planning officers met with the landowners regarding the options for locating a dwelling on the site.  In recognition of the ecological values of the site, and its strategic value adjoining the Council reserve the landowners have instead sought Councils interest to purchase the property.

Issue / discussion

The benefits of purchasing and the reserving of 118 Exeter Road, Croydon North fall into five themes:

·        Protection of the property’s intrinsic conservation and ecological values

·        Strategic benefits from synergy with Stringybark Rise Flora Reserve

·        Strategic fit within Maroondah’s policies and conservation and open space reserve systems

·        Opportunities for use of site as a Credit Offset Area for Council projects

·        With low management effort, there will be an improvement in the populations of rare plants on the site

 


Protection of the property’s intrinsic conservation values

 

Council commissioned an ecological and vegetation assessment of the site by Dr Graeme Lorimer, of Biosphere Pty Ltd.  This report is attached at Attachment 2 and provides substantial data and information on the property’s conservation values.

 

If Council determines to purchase the site the Lorimer report notes that it will ensure the security of potentially 5 rare plants which have substantial populations at the site and which are poorly reserved or absent in the rest of Maroondah’s current reserve system; and very rare in the Melbourne region. Including the following plants:

 

Tangled Guinea-flower (Hibbertia empetrifolia)

Grey Everlasting (Ozothamnus obcordatus)

Tiny Greenhood orchid (Pterostylis parviflora)

An unidentified greenhood orchid (Pterostylis species)* *Subject of id clarification.

Heath Wattle (Acacia brownii)

 

Some of these species are confined to the Exeter Ridge only and the populations located here are the largest and densest surviving populations within Maroondah and the surrounding districts. 

 

Many of these species have substantial parts of their population on 118 Exeter Road land and adjoining land at 122 Exeter Road.

 

The purchase will also protect a site of high integrity where rare plants are liberally scattered over almost the whole of 118 Exeter Rd, and as Lorimer notes “most recent survey work nearly every point on the land lies less than five metres from a known location of a rare plant.”

 

Lastly the purchase also offers an opportunity to protect and add to significant bushland habitat for echidnas, black wallabies and smaller wildlife which regularly use the site.

 

Strategic benefits from synergy with Stringybark Rise Flora Reserve

 

Inclusion of 118 Exeter Rd into Council’s reserves would make the (enlarged) reserve more ecological viable and more self-sustaining and Lorimer notes it would provide for multiple benefits including:

·        Maintaining the ecological viability of plant populations, especially given that existing plants located within the small and narrow Stringybark Rise Flora Reserve rely to a substantial degree on the flow of seeds and pollen from the three vacant Exeter Rd bush blocks.

·        Allow for the management and removal of weeds at 118 Exeter Rd which will prevent reinvasion of Stringybark Rise Flora Reserve which is now a recurring cost to Council.

·        Avoid the need for a firebreak which would be needed to protect any house constructed at 118 Exeter Road, which Lorimer notes “would destroy a substantial part of the most significant vegetation in the reserve, including many rare plants”.

 

Strategic fit within Maroondah’s policies and conservation and open space reserve system

 

Under Clause 22.04 of the Maroondah Planning Scheme, Sites of Biological Significance, a policy objective includes:

 

‘To ensure that all species of indigenous flora and fauna remain present in Maroondah’ (Clause 22.04-2).

 

The Lorimer report indicates this policy objective will be achieved because  “The populations of at least four rare plant species on 118 and 122 Exeter Rd represent a large fraction of Maroondah’s (or even the whole Melbourne region’s) total populations of those species. The security of these species in Maroondah would be significantly improved by reserving 118 Exeter Rd (and ideally no. 122 as well).

 

The 2016 Maroondah Open Space Policy recognises the ‘Increased necessity to preserve and protect natural environments as housing densities grow’. 

 

Under Policy Position 5 -

 

“Open space planning will identify opportunities for strategic land acquisitions which would improve the accessibility, connectivity, natural environment and functionality of Maroondah's open spaces.”

 

Strategy 35 then follows which:

 

“Implement a process to highlight land that could strengthen open space links or enhance existing open space when development planning enquiries or planning applications are made.”

 

Under Policy Position 12 -

 

“Open space management will actively protect and nurture the health of natural environments containing significant trees, waterways and native flora, fauna and habitat.”

 

Strategy 5 then follows which:

 

“Seek to protect key sites of biological significance and corridors of environment importance and negotiate to have these managed consistently under one land management agency, to the highest possible standard.”

 

Adding 118 Exeter Rd to Stringybark Rise Flora Reserve would achieve these open space policy outcomes and moreover help compensate for the loss of habitat locally and further afield.

 

Opportunities for use of site as a Credit Offset Area for Council projects

 

From time to time Council carries out capital works and infrastructure projects on its land which requires the removal of native vegetation. The cost of offsetting this lost native vegetation (replanting and permanent reservation of land), is built into the costs of various projects.

 

Ownership and enhancement of the land at 118 Exeter Road, Croydon North also provides an opportunity for Council to provide native vegetation offsets on this site, providing savings to future capital works and infrastructure projects.

 

With low management effort, there will be an improvement in the populations of rare plants on the site

 

As noted earlier in this report, the site has remained vacant and mostly unattended which has meant that environmental weeds have not been managed.  These weeds which are limited to some middle storey species (mainly immature Radiata Pines, Sweet Pittosporums and Sallow Wattles) and located on the lower slopes and could be easily managed.

 

Lorimer notes that the removal and management of weeds on the site “would improve the ecological condition of the habitat for other flora and fauna (and) which could be easily undertaken by Council’s Bushland Team.”

 

As such the purchase and management of the site would result in rapid improvement in the populations of rare plants and the ecological values of the site.

Financial / economic issues

Council has obtained a valuation report for the land by Westlink Consulting.  The current land owners have agreed with this valuation and should Council determine to approve the land purchase this would be the agreed sale price for the land.

 

Council is able to use monetary open space contributions that are reserved to purchase or improve open space land for the community.

Environmental / amenity issues

The land at 118 Exeter Road, Croydon North forms part of a Site of Biological Significance, Site 50 “Exeter Ridge” in the Maroondah Planning Scheme, which is shown on the map below and described as: 

 

This site (#50) is very variable, but can be broadly subdivided into three parts: the western slope (currently undeveloped but subdivided for urban development); the ridge top (a Council reserve); and the steep, long-settled eastern slope.

 

…By contrast with the east-facing Fairview Avenue area, the ridge-top and western slopes are more exposed and have never been used for housing. Within this site, there are two unoccupied subdivisions on the western slope, leaving Council reserves on the ridge top (two allotments) and in a narrow band along the edge of the Hakea Avenue embankment around the north and west of Lot 73.

 

…The ridge is a major visual feature of the north-east quarter of the municipality, and its tree cover is important to the vista of land for several kilometres around. Maintaining a continuous cover of native trees and shrubs on the ridge has desirable effects on visual amenity and movement of native birds. Birds such as Gang-gang Cockatoos and Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos are seen migrating along the ridge and foraging in this site, Hochkins Ridge Flora Reserve, and more Council reserves to the south at least as far as Warrien Reserve.

SSITES OF BIOLOGICAL SI

 

The land and adjacent Stringybark Rise Flora Reserve are also located directly south of the much larger, existing flora reserve, known as Hochkins Ridge Flora Reserve (separated by Exeter Road).

 

Hochkins Ridge Flora Reserve is primarily owned by the State Government (Department of Environment and Primary Industries). The reserve has also been supplemented on the eastern and western sides by public open space reserves obtained by Council in the course of subdivision of the adjoining residential land. These abutting parcels are in Maroondah Council ownership.

 

Hochkins Ridge Flora Reserve (18.6 hectares of dry forest), is situated at the most southern extremity of the Great Dividing Range. It is the largest and most botanically diverse flora reserve in the City of Maroondah.

Social / community issues

The purchase and reservation of 118 Exeter Road, Croydon is consistent with the community vision contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017).

Community consultation

The purchase and reservation of 118 Exeter Road, Croydon will meet the key community expectations and directions contained in Maroondah 2040 Our Future Together, in that the following community directions will be achieved:

Key Directions 2013 – 2017:

4.5     Enhance Maroondah’s parklands, bushlands, gardens and open spaces

4.6     Protect and restore biodiversity and native habitat for local plants and animals on public and private land

4.8     Create and foster a culture within our community that is committed to protecting the unique features of Maroondah’s landscape, including our ridgelines, waterways, canopy vegetation, green open space and bushland reserves

Conclusion

There are a broad range of benefits for the environment and community should Council decide to purchase and the reserve the land at 118 Exeter Road, Corydon North.  These benefits include:

·        Protection of the property’s intrinsic conservation and ecological values;

·        Strategic benefits from synergy with Stringybark Rise Flora Reserve;

·        Strategic fit within Maroondah’s policies and conservation and open space reserve systems;

·        Opportunities for use of site as a Credit Offset Area for Council projects; and

·        With low management effort, there will be an improvement in the populations of rare plants on the site.

 

 

Attachments

1.

Locality Map

2.

Lorimer Report

 

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

THAT COUNCIL

1.       ENDORSES THE PURCHASE and reservation OF THE PROPERTY AT 118 Exeter road, croydon North (Lot 73 on Plan of Subdivision 312890X)

2.       AuthoriseS the chief executive officer to enter into a contract of sale to purchase 118 Exeter road, croydon North (Lot 73 on Plan of Subdivision 312890X) AS PER ITS VALUATION and provide for a 10% deposit and settlement within 60 days or earlier by agreement

3.       signs and seals the transfer of the land

 


ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Locality Map

 

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ATTACHMENT No: 2 - Lorimer Report

 

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DIRECTOR Planning & Community Phil Turner

 

Protecting the Health and Welfare of Council Authorised Enforcement Officers

Item 2

 

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to request that Council advocates to the state government for changes to legislative reform to increase the protection of Authorised Officers against violence in their everyday duties.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area:  A well governed and empowered community

Our Vision:  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:

8.10   Work in partnership to advocate for and champion the needs and aspirations of the community to other levels of government, service providers and the business sector.

8.14   Work in partnership to deliver services that recognise and are responsive to the interests and needs of the community.

Background

Sector wide concerns are held regarding the current lack of legislative protection afforded to authorised officers against violence.  There is a substantial need to enhance the level of protection afforded as there are an increased number of instances where Council appointed authorised officers have been assaulted in carrying out their duties.

 

Section 10AA of the Sentencing Act 1991 (Vic) (Sentencing Act) specifies terms of imprisonment to be imposed in relation to crimes committed against emergency workers who are on duty.  It also sets minimum non-parole periods.  It does not, however, extend to authorised officers of Council. Nor is there any other similar legislative protection that applies to authorised officers in Victoria.

 

Whitehorse Council in November 2015 commissioned Maddocks Lawyers to prepare a submission to advocate for an offence provision (or provisions) to be introduced into the Local Government Act 1989 (Vic) to apply to crimes committed against council appointed authorised officers when carrying out their duties.

Issue / discussion

The issue of a lack of protection and lack of an adequate penalty was highlighted recently.  In November 2014 a Whitehorse City Council Authorised Officer was seriously injured as a result of an attack by a motorist.  The officer’s injuries required hospitalisation and long-term rehabilitation.

 

While the police laid three charges against the defendant, the Magistrate in her deliberation, dismissed two charges and found the charge of causing serious injury proved.  No conviction was recorded; the defendant was placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond, ordered to pay $500 to the court fund and was encouraged to continue counselling.  Given the criminal nature of the incident, and Council not being a party to the prosecution (i.e. being the employer) Council was unable to appeal. 

 

The sentence falls significantly short of those provisions provided to Emergency workers as defined within the Background section to this report and in the following paragraphs.

 

The key reasons there should be legislative reform to increase the protection of authorised officers against violence are as follows:

·        There are ongoing instances where council authorised officers have been assaulted in carrying out their duties (i.e. - assault of two regional council officers and the aforementioned matter);

·        Authorised officers are not currently covered by Section 10AA of the Sentencing Act or collectively protected against violence under Victorian legislation; and

·        There should be equal protection for authorised officers and emergency workers because they are very similar, particularly in terms of their vulnerability in performing their duties.

Currently, Section 10AA of the Sentencing Act expressly mandates terms of imprisonment be imposed in relation to crimes committed against emergency workers who are on duty, and sets minimum non-parole periods.

 

As advised previously, the provision does not apply to authorised officers.  Nor is there another provision in the Sentencing Act that prescribes minimum sentences for offences against authorised officers.  As such, it is only the standard assault provisions in the Crimes Act 1958 (Crimes Act) that apply to assaults against authorised officers in the same way they apply to assaults against other individuals.

 

Section 10AA also prescribes a minimum term of imprisonment for the offence of causing injury intentionally or recklessly against an emergency worker.

 

The definition of emergency worker under Section 10AA of the Sentencing Act includes the following persons:

·        A police officer or protective services officer;

·        An operational staff member within the meaning of the Ambulance Services Act 1986;

·        A person employed or engaged to provide or support emergency treatment to patients in a hospital;

·        An officer, employee or volunteer of the Metropolitan Fire Board, or the Country Fire Authority;

·        A person employed in the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning with emergency response duties;

·        A member or employee of the State Emergency Service;

·        A voluntary emergency worker;

·        Any person required or permitted under the terms of their employment or contract for services with the Crown or a government agency to respond to an emergency or provide services or perform work in relation to an emergency; and

·        Any person engaged by the Crown or a government agency to provide services or perform work in relation to a particular emergency.

Authorised Officers are excluded from this definition.

 

Council should note that this matter is being bought to Council as a separate report rather than part of the current review of the Local Government Act.  The new Act is not due to come into part operation until 2018 and the remainder in 2020.  A degree of urgency is associated with the matter of protection of the sector’s authorised officers and action is sought urgently.

Financial / economic issues

Not Applicable

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Council firmly believes that when a person assaults a Local Government Authorised Officer while in the execution of their duties, they should be subject to the same mandatory sentencing arrangements as those persons who assault police, emergency workers, hospital staff, fire fighters etc.

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

Council’s authorised officers manage legislation on behalf of the State as well as their local community.  Council believes that they should be afforded the same protection as other personnel working within the Emergency and Enforcement environments.  It is proposed that Council advocate to seek the introduction of mandatory sentencing for Authorised Officers of Local Government under Section 10AA of the Sentencing Act 1991.

 

 

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council advocate to the State Government that for the purpose of protecting the health and welfare of Council authorised enforcement officers, there is an urgent need to amend and insert in the Local Government Act 1989 the following:

1.       A specific offence provision(s) within the Act that applies to causing serious injury or the death of a council appointed authorised officer. Specifically, the offence(s):

i.        To reflect the current offences to which section 10AA of the Sentencing Act applies, such as:

-      Intentionally causing serious injury or the death of an authorised officer performing their duties, in circumstances of gross violence

-      Recklessly causing serious injury or the death of an authorised officer performing their duties, in circumstances of gross violence

-      Intentionally causing serious injury or the death of an authorised officer performing their duties

-      Recklessly causing serious injury or the death of an authorised officer performing their duties

ii.       The penalty for the offence(s) to be a significant fine or imprisonment, or both

iii.      The offence provision to include a subsection that makes it clear that it has effect in addition to, and not in derogation from, any Act or law relating to civil or criminal liability. This will ensure that the offence provision will not limit other criminal and civil proceedings that may be brought

2.       a definition of ‘serious injury’ that refers to the definition currently contained within section 15 the Crimes Act

3.       That upon conviction, Local Governments have a capacity to recover all costs associated with the incident including additional work cover premiums from the defendant

 


DIRECTOR Planning & Community Phil Turner

 

Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

Item 3

 

Purpose

To consider the Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 prior to submission to the Minister for Local Government and release to the community.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) 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

Background

The Annual Report provides a comprehensive report on Council operations to meet its commitment of open, responsive, consultative and accountable government. Within this report, Council meets all its statutory obligations under the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act).

 

The Annual Report is Council’s highest-level comprehensive report to the community outlining how Council has met its annual objectives as articulated in the Council Plan Annual Budget. For Council’s report on operations for the 2015/16 financial year, these objectives are derived from Maroondah 2040: Our future together and Council’s long-term financial plan.

 

The primary objective of the 2015/16 Annual Report is to inform the Maroondah community and stakeholders of Council’s performance during the 2015/16 against the objectives and priorities outlined in the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 3: 2015/16). Council’s achievements, challenges and future directions are considered under each community outcome area.

 

Key features of the Annual Report as required by section 131 of the Act, include the following matters:

·        A report of Council’s operations during the financial year;

·        Audited financial statements for the financial year;

·        Performance Statement prepared under section 132 of the Act;

·        VAGO report on the Performance Statement prepared under section 133 of the Act;

·        Inclusion of relevant performance indicator results and checklist items from the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework as required by the Act.

Council is also required to provide a range of other statutory information through this report. This information can be found within the Corporate Governance and Statutory Information sections of the report.

 

The Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16: Part 1 – Report of Operations and the supplementary ‘Our Achievements 2015/16’ summary document were both presented and subsequently endorsed at the Council Meeting on 22 August 2016. Council at its meeting on 22 August 2016 also approved in principle the 2015/16 financial statements as required by the Act.

 

This Council Report presents the full Annual Report 2015/16, incorporating audited financial statements with unqualified certification on the standard statements and performance statement provided by the Victorian Auditor General’s Office (VAGO).

Issue / discussion

Pursuant to section 131(6) of the Act, Council is required to prepare and submit an Annual Report to the Minister within three months of the end of each financial year. 

 

Submission of the Annual Report to the Minister and subsequent public exhibition of the document will follow this Council meeting. Statutory advertising is to be undertaken as required by the Act. Copies of this Annual Report will be made available from Council service centres and libraries and on the Council website.

 

Council at its meeting on 22 August 2016 approved in principle the 2015/16 financial statements as required by the Act. These have been signed unqualified by the Victorian Auditor General with statements included in this 2015/16 Annual Report.

 

Section 134 of the Act also requires Council to hold a meeting to formally consider the report within one month of submission to the Minister and such meeting is to be advertised. The report will be formally considered at a Special Council Meeting to be held on Wednesday 19 October 2016 at 6.00pm.

Financial / economic issues

The cost of printing Council’s 2015/16 Annual Report is met within the current budget. A relatively small number of Annual Report copies will be printed on recycled stock to meet statutory, administrative and community needs.  The Annual Report will also be made available on Council’s website for download.

 

A small print run of the Our Achievements 2015/16 document will enable circulation of this summary to relevant stakeholders, Council service centres and libraries. The cost of printing this supporting document is met within the current budget.


Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

Pursuant to section 131 of the Act:

·        Following the submission of the Annual Report to the Minister, Council must give public notice that the Annual Report has been prepared and can be inspected at the Council Offices.

This consultation process will follow Council’s consideration of the full Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16 at its meeting on 19 September 2016.

 

Pursuant to section 134 of the Act, Council must:

·        Consider the Annual Report at a meeting of the Council

·        Advertise the report at least 14 days before the meeting is held

·        Note the locations from which copies of the Annual Report can be obtained

·        Keep the Council meeting open to the public while the Annual Report is discussed

In accordance with these provisions of the Act, a Special Council Meeting to formally consider the Annual Report will be held on Wednesday 19 October 2016 at 6.00pm.

 

Public notices will be placed in The Age and the Maroondah Leader newspaper providing formal notice of this meeting. Copies of the endorsed Annual Report 2015/16 will be made available to the public for inspection at the City Offices, Council’s Customer Service Centres, and Council’s website.

Conclusion

The Annual Report 2015/16 confirms that Council has made significant advances towards achieving the community vision articulated in Maroondah 2040: Our future together whilst maintaining responsible and sustainable management of Maroondah’s resources, assets, infrastructure and the natural environment. The report also outlines how Council has continued to meet its legislative responsibilities under the Local Government Act 1989.

 

 

 

Attachments

1.

Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

 

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That council

1.       NOTES THE PREPARATION OF THE 2015/16 ANNUAL REPORT

 

2.       ENDORSES THE 2015/16 ANNUAL REPORT FOR SUBMISSION TO THE MINISTER FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT

 

3.       ENSURES COPIES OF THE 2015/16 ANNUAL REPORT ARE MADE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION FROM 22 SEPTEMBER 2016 AT COUNCIL SERVICE CENTRES AND ON COUNCIL’S WEBSITE

 

4.       CONVENES A SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING ON WEDNESDAY 19 OCTOBER AT 6:00PM TO FORMALLY CONSIDER THE 2015/16 ANNUAL REPORT IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 134 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1989

 


ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

 

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ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

 

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ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

 

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ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

 

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ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

 

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ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

 

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ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Maroondah City Council Annual Report 2015/16

 

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DIRECTOR Planning & Community Phil Turner

 

Our Achievements: 2012-2016 Council Term

Item 4

 

Purpose

To note some of the achievements of Maroondah City Council during the 2012-2016 Council Term.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) 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

Background

Over the 2012-2016 Council Term, Maroondah City Council has delivered a wide range of projects and service outcomes which are summarised in the attached ‘Our Achievements: 2012-2016 Council Term’ document.

Among these achievements, Maroondah City Council during this period has:

·        Constructed and opened Aquanation, including the sourcing of $10 million in Federal Government funding

·        Engaged with the community, constructed and opened Realm; including securing $3 million in Federal Government funding and $950,000 in Victorian Government funding

·        Successfully advocated and facilitated over $1.1 billion in private sector investment, including Costco, and Queensland Investment Corporation’s redevelopment of Eastland, in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre

·        Secured $66 million in funding and partnered with the Victorian Government to redevelop Ringwood Station, including securing the inclusion of lifts, ramps and escalators as part of the development

·        Introduced Changing Places to Australia, opened the first Changing Places toilet in Australia at Ringwood Lake, and secured an agreement for the establishment of these toilets at Realm and in the Eastland redevelopment

·        Developed and launched our new community vision - Maroondah 2040: Our future together

·        Secured a lease and redeveloped the former Parkwood Secondary College site to provide a new home for the North Ringwood Community House, the Ringwood Men’s Shed and four other community groups

·        Constructed and opened the Norwood Family and Children’s Centre

·        Established BizHub and a Centre for Regional Knowledge and Innovation at Realm

·        Worked with Queensland Investment Corporation to open and activate the new Ringwood Town Square

·        Been accredited as an Age Friendly City by the World Health Organisation

·        Completed the Kevin Pratt Sporting Pavilion at Mullum Mullum Reserve in Ringwood, incorporating a new home for Ringwood U3A

·        Secured funding and completed the Croydon Connects project to create better linkages between the Main Street retail precinct, the Croydon transport interchange, X Space and Y Space in Croydon Park, and the Civic Precinct

·        Commenced construction of the East Ringwood Multi-purpose Pavilion, to include community facilities for local Chin residents

·        Established a new community hub for the Australia Chin Community at Hughes Park in Croydon North

·        Concluded the Bayswater North Community Renewal Project and successfully handed over initiatives to community groups

·        Completed flood mitigation works in the Croydon Civic Precinct; Bridget Court in Warranwood; and Lee Ann Crescent in Croydon

·        Commenced flood mitigation works in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre (Acacia Court and Larissa Avenue catchments) and Power Street, Croydon North

·        Developed structure plans for Ringwood East and Heathmont

·        Secured a land swap arrangement with the Victorian Government placing ownership of portions of Parkwood and the former Croydon South Primary School with Council

·        Awarded a new Hard Waste Collection Tender

·        Implemented a new concierge customer service model at Realm

·        Launched Council Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube profiles, with 17 social media channels now operational

·        Appointed two new Honorary Freeman of the City

·        Celebrated Maroondah City Council’s 20th Birthday

·        Received a range of sector and industry awards and recognition

Issue / discussion

This ‘Our Achievements: 2012-2016 Council Term’ document updates an earlier version that was presented to Councillors at a workshop held in March 2016 to capture some of the achievements for the balance of the 2015/16 financial year.

Financial / economic issues

Not Applicable

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

The ‘Our Achievements: 2012-2016 Council Term’ document highlights some of the significant advances made by Council over the past four years towards achieving the community vision articulated in Maroondah 2040: Our future together.

 

 

Attachments

1.

Maroondah City Council Achievements 2012-2016

 

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That COUNCIL NOTES THE ‘OUR ACHIEVEMENTS: 2012-2016 COUNCIL TERM’ DOCUMENT THAT RECOGNISES SOME OF THE KEY ACHIEVEMENTS OF MAROONDAH CITY COUNCIL OVER THE PAST FOUR YEARS

 


ATTACHMENT No: 1 - Maroondah City Council Achievements 2012-2016

 

Item  4

 

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DIRECTOR Planning & Community Phil Turner

LATE ITEM

 

Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre Masterplan review - Petition

Item 1

 

Purpose

To inform Council of a petition dated 30 June 2016 consisting of 219 signatories opposing the extension of the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre (MAC) south of Station Street.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) 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

Background

A priority of the Victorian Government’s blueprint for Melbourne’s growth, Ringwood is a designated Metropolitan Activity Centre.  Metropolitan Activity Centres (MACs) are important elements of the State Government’s long-term plan to encourage and manage the sustainable growth of Melbourne’s suburbs.  They are the highest priority areas for commercial and residential development and renewal outside of the Central Business District.

 

In 2004 Maroondah City Council introduced the Ringwood Transit City Urban Design Masterplan (Ringwood Masterplan). The Masterplan promotes Ringwood as a key commercial, retail, industrial and residential location, strategically located within the expansive transport network of eastern Melbourne.  The Masterplan identified Council’s vision for Ringwood and set in place a planning framework to encourage the realisation of its vision.

 

A Masterplan aspires to create diverse, compact and well-connected communities that are rich in local jobs, transport, services, culture and affordable housing. Protecting valuable natural and historical features, as well as using land more efficiently, are also important aspects of Masterplans.  Masterplans set out a blueprint for balanced development and investment that will occur over many years.

Since the release of the Ringwood Masterplan, significant levels of regeneration, development, investment and change have occurred in Ringwood.  Ringwood is continuing to change and transition towards becoming a modern town centre rich with development opportunities that, if well managed, will be an exemplar activity hub for the local and sub-regional communities.

 

A petition, dated 30 June 2016, was submitted to Council concerned that the Ringwood MAC boundary will be extended to the south of Station Street.  The petition has been signed by 219 signatories who state they would oppose changes to the boundary and any rezoning of land to allow for higher density housing.

 

The petition states the following:

 

 

The lead petitioner received a reply from Council on 18 July 2016 advising that the contents of the petition would be considered as part of the development of the revised Ringwood MAC Masterplan.

Issue / discussion

Council is working in partnership with the Victorian Planning Authority to undertake a review of the 2004 Ringwood Transit City Masterplan.  The development of the revised Masterplan is in its initial phase and background work is continuing to be undertaken, to inform an Issues and Opportunities Paper. 

 

Developing the Issues and Opportunities Paper has involved undertaking various studies such as commercial land use supply analysis; transport and movement analysis; and community engagement.  The community engagement was from April 28, to July 1, 2016 and the community was engaged in three ways;

 

1.       Visual Display - at the Realm foyer and provided information on what has happened within the Ringwood MAC since the 2004 Masterplan was developed

2.       Vision exercise - asked the community to use three words to describe their vision for the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre in 2030? 

 

3.       Online survey - also included the Vision question and focused on the following themes; Land use, Urban design and Transport and movement

 

It is anticipated that the background work will soon be completed, and preparation of an Issues and Opportunities Paper will be presented to Council for consideration.  Community engagement is an important component in the development of the revised Masterplan and there will be further opportunity for community engagement.

 

A revised boundary has not yet been considered by Council at this stage.

Financial / economic issues

These will be fully considered in the development of the revised Masterplan

Environmental / amenity issues

These will be fully considered in the development of the revised Masterplan

Social / community issues

These will be fully considered in the development of the revised Masterplan

Community consultation

Council will undertake a program of community consultation on the revised Ringwood Masterplan, in accordance with its Community Engagement Policy, early in 2017.

Conclusion

The 2004 Ringwood Transit City Masterplan is undergoing a review.  As part of this review Council will continue to work in partnership with the Victorian Planning Authority.  This petition will be considered as part of the development of the revised Masterplan.

 

 

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council

1.       recieves and notes the petition opposing the extension of the Ringwood metropolitan activity centre (MAC) south of station street

2.       considers its content as part of the development of the revised Masterplan for THE RINGWOOD METROPOLITAN ACTIVITY CENTRE

3.       advises the lead petitioner accordingly

               

 


ACTING DIRECTOR Operations, Infrastructure & Leisure
ANDREW TAYLOR

LATE ITEM

 

carpark – heathmont shopping centre

Item 2

 

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to table a petition received by Council in relation to carparking at the Heathmont Shopping Centre.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Year 4: 2016-2017) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area:  An accessible and connected community.

Our Vision:  In 2040, Maroondah is an accessible community for all ages and abilities with walkable neighbourhoods, effective on and off-road transport networks, and access to a range of sustainable transport options.

Key Directions 2013 – 2017:

5.2     Work in partnership to provide improved accessibility and safety for transport users across all modes.

Background

Council received a petition on 19 September 2016 tabled by representatives of Heathmont Shopping Centre traders.  The petition calls for the provision of additional parking for the Heathmont Shopping Centre.

 

The prayer of the petition reads:

 

We the undersigned residents/ratepayers do not accept the proposed Heathmont Activity Centre Structure Plan because it will reduce available parking while increasing the demand for parking in the Shopping Centre.  The plan needs to address and resolve the problem of insufficient parking at the Heathmont Village Shopping Centre as a priority.  Because this is the major community issue, we require the Maroondah Shire Council to provide additional parking for the Shopping Centre in the next few years.

 

The Heathmont Shopping Centre has continued to experience strong demand for parking.  The petition highlights that the shopping centre is popular and the demand for parking exceeds the supply.

 

The petition also states that the Heathmont Activity Centre Structure Plan proposed by Maroondah Council does not address the parking supply issue and on this basis the signatories to the petition do not accept the proposed structure plan.

 

 

 

 

Issue / discussion

The Heathmont Shopping Centre is located on Canterbury Road to the east and west of the Belgrave railway line.

 

The Heathmont Shopping Centre can be described as being broken into three distinct sections being:

1.       South of Canterbury Road between Allens Road and Railway bridge (related to the petition received)

2.       North of Canterbury Road between Campbell Street and 103 Canterbury Road

3.       North of Canterbury Road to the west of the Railway line through to 165 Canterbury Road

The petition received relates to shopping precinct number one (above) which is the main shopping centre in the precinct and contains approximately 37 commercial properties.  These properties located within the shopping centre share the publicly available parking at the front of the premises with rear laneway access to the shops also providing access to on-site private parking and for deliveries.  The formal car parking facilities in proximity to the shopping centre currently provides for ##:

 

An aerial view of the shopping centre is shown in Figure 1 below.

 

 

Figure 1 – Aerial view of the Heathmont Shopping Centre (south of Canterbury Road)

In April 2011 Council endorsed a recommendation to support a design option that involves the relocation of existing pedestrian signals in Canterbury Road to control access to the shopping centre carpark in order to addresses internal functional safety issues associated with the carpark.  The recommendation also authorised officers to advocate to State and Federal Government for the funding required to implement the access improvements.  In May 2016 the Federal Liberal party announced an election commitment to fund the improvements.  Council is now awaiting the details of the provision of the funding required to commence the project including the timelines.

 

Council is also presently implementing the Maroondah Planning Scheme Amendment C97.  The Amendment was placed on public exhibition; closing in early July and a total of 22 written submissions were received, relating to a range of matters.  The matters received in the submissions were diverse and complex, requiring careful consideration. Of the 22 submissions received, six related largely, or exclusively, to car parking in the area.  A petition with 68 signatures calling for car parking improvements was also received as a submission.  Council therefore considered it appropriate to examine the issue in more detail and is in the process of preparing proposals to manage car parking in and around the precinct.

 

As a result, the hearing for the Amendment, which was scheduled for November 2016, will instead take place in early 2017.  The new proposed dates for the hearings are:

 

Directions Hearing: week commencing 16 January

Merits Hearing: week commencing 6 February

 

The Directions Hearing considers procedural matters, such as when and where the Merits Hearing will be held.  The Merits Hearing considers the issues raised by submitters, such as building height, density, etc.

 

Subject to Council’s endorsement of the recommendations within this report, it is proposed that Council’s Engineers will undertake an investigation to determine whether the provision of additional parking for the shopping centre is feasible.  It is noted that there is currently no Council owned land available in proximity of the shopping centre for the construction of new carparking.

 

A report detailing the findings of the investigation will be presented to Council at a future Council meeting.

Financial / economic issues

Limited available parking resources can impact on the customer generation of a business and adversely impact on trade.

 

There would be a significant financial cost of constructing a new car park on any available land.  If a car park is to be constructed the source and mechanism for funding its construction would need to be considered.

Environmental / amenity issues

The construction of any new carpark in the vicinity of the shopping centre would result in the loss of open space, or could impact on residential amenity, and should also be taken into consideration in determining appropriate options.

Social / community issues

Providing and maintaining an appropriate level of available parking within all areas of Maroondah forms part of the 2040 vision, where Maroondah is an accessible community for all ages and abilities.

Community consultation

Following the investigation, and subject to the findings of the options available for the provision of additional parking in the vicinity of the shopping centre, Council’s Engineers will undertake written consultation with the traders within the Heathmont Shopping Centre.

 

 

 

Conclusion

It is recommended that Council receives and notes the petition requesting the provision of additional parking for the Heathmont Shopping Centre.  It is proposed that a detailed investigation into the prayer of the petition be completed and a further report detailing the findings will be presented to Council at a future meeting.

 

 

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That COUNCIL

1.       RECEIVES AND NOTES THE PETITION REQUESTING THAT MAROONDAH CITY COUNCIL PROVIDES ADDITIONAL PARKING FOR THE HEATHMONT SHOPPING CENTRE

2.       OFFICERS COMPLETE A DETAILED INVESTIGATION INTO THE MATTERS RAISED IN THE PETITION AND PREPARE A REPORT IN RESPONSE TO THIS PETITION for consideration at a future meeting of council

3.       Advise the lead petitioner accordingly