Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting


Director Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo
Financial Report: Nine Months Ending March 2020	Item 4

Purpose

To present Council with a snapshot of Council’s financial performance for the nine months ending 31 March 2020. These figures take into account the significant impact to Council services due to the COVID-19 pandemic with associated instructions from the Federal and State Chief Health Officers, Prime Minister and Victorian Premier. Attachment 1 provides the full financial report.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2017-2021 (Year 3: 2019-2020) 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 2017 – 2021:

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).

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

The attached financial statements contain an Income Statement (Operating Statement); Balance Sheet; Statement of Cash Flows 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.

This Report should also be read in conjunction with the 20 April 2020 CEO’s Report - Maroondah City Council Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update.

Issue / discussion

The following is a summary of the financial position for the nine months ending 31 March 2020. A detailed report is attached to this document.

1. OPERATING PERFORMANCE

1.1 Overall Operating Performance

	YTD	YTD	YTD	Forecast	Adopted
	Forecast	Actual	Var	Budget	Budget
	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000
Operating
Income	125,003	125,266	263	131,720	137,752
Expenses	100,677	99,524	1,153	130,892	133,403
Underlying Surplus (Deficit)	24,326	25,742	1,417	827	4,349

Capital
Grants - Capital (recurrent and non-recurrent)	3,293	3,114	(178)	4,534	522
Comprehensive result	27,618	28,856	1,238	5,361	4,871

For the nine months ended 31 March 2020, Council has recorded an underlying surplus before capital revenues of $25.74 million, which is $1.42 million ahead of the year to date forecast budget. This is primarily related to unexpended funds during the period, as outlined in section 1.3 of the report.

1.2 Income – YTD Forecast Budget variances

The table at 1.2 illustrates how each income stream is performing year to date against forecast, by variance. Key variances of note include:

Unfavourable Variances:

- Capital Grants ($178k) - due to the timing of grant amounts received for HE Parker Sports Pavilion Redevelopment ($100k), Knaith Road Childcare Centre ($72k) & Lipscombe Park Kindergarten ($31k).

1.3 Expenses – YTD Forecast Budget variances

The table at 1.3 illustrates how each expense stream is tracking year to date against forecast, by variance. Key variances of note include:

Favourable Variances:

- Contractors $497k – Driven by differences in the timing of expenses across the organisation. Areas of Council contributing to this are: Operations $187k, Integrated Planning $69k, Finance & Governance $130k, Engineering & Building Services $19k and Assets $95k

- Materials and Services $438k – Driven by differences in the timing of expenses across the organisation. Areas of Council contributing to this are: Leisure $180k, Community Services $112k, Integrated Planning $88k, Communications & Engagement $21k, Workplace, People & Culture $28k, Information Technology $29k, Health, Local Laws & Emergency Management $43k, Operations ($65k), Business & Activity Centre Development $28k, Revenue, Property & Customer Service $20k and Assets ($63k)

- Employee Costs $221k - Driven by differences in the timing of expenses across the organisation. Areas of Council contributing to this are: Community Services $124k, Health, Local Laws & Emergency Services $44k, Finance & Governance $42k, Engineering & Building Services $33k, Integrated Planning $22k, Operations ($54k) and Assets ($24k)

2. CAPITAL WORKS

2.1 Capital works YTD expenditure cumulative

* YTD Actual expenditure includes Carried Forwards

** Forecast Budget expenditure includes Carried Forwards

The Forecast Capital Expenditure program for 2019/20 is $43.658 million. A carry forward amount from 2018/19 of $9.447 million is included in the forecast for the current period.

The chart above indicates how Council is performing year to date against the forecast, as well as how we are tracking to achieve the period end target of $26.51 million. Council has spent 62.8% of its forecast at the end of the third quarter.

However, due to the impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic on Council’s 2019/20 budget, Council is working on a revised year end projection for Capital Expenditure with the expectation that we will continue to operate under the current Covid-19 pandemic conditions until 30 September 2020.

3. RATES

3.1 Actual rates outstanding balance by month

The chart above compares the rates outstanding as at 31 March 2020 to the same time last financial period. Our collection rate follows a similar pattern to previous periods, based on rate instalments occurring at set times throughout the financial period. Note that this graph accounts for rates being struck in July this period compared to August last period. Council has one of the highest debt recovery performances in comparison to other local government authorities.

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

Council has worked on a revised year end projection with the expectation that we will continue to operate under the current Covid-19 pandemic conditions until 30 September 2020. The 31 March 2020 YTD results are favourable and provide a solid foundation for achieving Council’s 2019/2020 services and advocacy programs.

Attachments

1.	Quarterly Reporting Council meeting - Mar 2020
2.	Quarterly Finance Report - 31 March 2020 - Appendix Analytics - Final

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE REPORT ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE AGAINST BUDGET FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDING 31 MARCH 2020

Director Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Audit & Risk Advisory Committee Report	Item 5

Purpose

To report to Council on the outcomes of the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Meeting held on 7 May 2020.

Strategic / policy issues

The Local Government Act 1989 prescribes that Council must establish an Audit and Risk Advisory Committee and that such a Committee will be advisory in nature. The Audit and Risk Advisory Committee provides a mechanism for Council to strategically examine various aspects of the Council operations to ensure risk management, legal compliance, financial control, and governance measures are in place.

Background

Council’s Audit and Risk Advisory Committee consists of both Council and external representatives. The Mayor of the day, Councillor Mike Symon, and Councillor Kylie Spears are Council representatives on the Committee.

The external members are Mr John Watson (chair), Mr Bruce Potgieter and Mr Michael Ulbrick all highly skilled, experienced and reputable in audit and risk matters in the Victorian Local Government Sector.

The Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Charter requires that this Committee report to Council on the findings and recommendations from its meetings. This report provides a summary of matters under consideration by the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee of the meeting held on 7 May 2020.

Many items on the Agenda are regular reports such as the CEO’s Report including State-wide Integrity Agencies activity and Report Findings, Maroondah City Council’s (MCC) Internal Audit Progress Report, Quarterly Finance Report, Quarterly Risk and Insurance Report, Internal Audits Actions Register, Sector Related Agencies Report and MCC’s Minutes from the Risk Management Advisory Committee at which the CEO, Directors and all Service Area Managers across all services attend demonstrating ongoing active management of all Council’s risks.

Issue / discussion

The details associated with some of the regular reports considered by the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee and the Committees assessment included:

· Internal Audit Tracking Report Summary as well as the Internal Audit Actions Register for the 3^rd Quarter 31 March 2020. Feedback was generally positive, and it was communicated that the progress Council is making in any identified audit recommendations was overall pleasing, given that this has been managed during the COVID19 Crisis.

· It was also made clear that there have been no obstructions to the internal audit program and that the internal auditors gained the appropriate support from Council Management and employees.

· Internal Audit Reports presented at the meeting were the following:

- Occupational Health & Safety (Multiple Issues) Review - The Auditor spoke positively of Council’s systems and processes and the due diligence taken to ensure appropriate levels of responsibilities were identified, acknowledging Council was already in the process of implementing most of the recommendations; and

- Information Technology Security Access Controls - The Auditor commented that Management should be very proud of the maturity in this space and likely to be one of the sector exemplars currently with only a couple of areas requiring strengthening.

· The Finance Report for the nine months ending 31 March 2020 was discussed and the Committee acknowledged the Manager of Finance & Governance’s comments regarding the extensive change between quarter 2 and the quarter 3 reports, post the knowledge of COVID-19. They were pleased with how the reports presented at the end of the third quarter and understanding that the yearend forecast may change further, depending on how things fair in the last few months of the financial year.

As well as this, the executive summary and flash report to the finance update was again welcomed and supported by the Committee. Further, the Committee was very supportive of the work undertaken regarding the COVID-19 financial implications on Council, including a recasting the 20/21 Budget. The analysis provided within the 19/20 third quarter report demonstrated a considered approach to how Council was managing the implications of COVID-19 and that it was undertaking the necessary steps to re-cast its 2020/2021 Proposed Budget to reflect these impacts as accurately as possible.

· The Risk Management and Insurance Report for the period ending 31 March 2020 was solely focused on the organisation’s response to the COVID-19 crisis. It was noted that Council’s high level of risk maturity ensured there could be more focus on Business Continuity Planning during this period together with the daily Crisis Meetings by senior Management, weekly Management Coordination and ongoing accurate digital communication across all channels to the Community. The report went on to communicate at a high level the impacts COVID-19 has had on all services throughout Council and the responses undertaken during the crisis.

· Once again, the Committee congratulated the organisation in its financial reporting capability as well as high-level of org-wide attention and integration of Risk Management, further commending the organisation on its high level of maturity in this space at sector exemplar status.

FINANCIAL / ECONOMIC ISSUES

Council’s budget provides for the operation of the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee and for the completion of an Internal Audit Program in line with legislative compliance and Best Practice Management Standards.

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable.

Social / community issues

Not Applicable.

Community consultation

Not Applicable.

Conclusion

This report provides a summary of the outcomes of the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee meeting held on 7 May 2020 as an opportunity to provide transparency to the Maroondah Community and stakeholders.

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE REPORT FROM THE AUDIT & RISK ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON 7 MAY 2020

Director Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Councillors Quarterly Expense and Reimbursement Report - January to March 2020	Item 6

Purpose

To provide a report to the community on Councillor expenses.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2017-2021 (Year 3: 2019-2020) 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 2019 – 2020:

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

Background

In accordance with Section 75 of the Local Government Act 1989, Council is required to reimburse a Councillor for expenses incurred whilst performing his or her duties as a Councillor. Council is also required to adopt and maintain a Policy in relation to the reimbursement of expenses for Councillors. The Policy provides guidance for the payment of reimbursements of expenses and the provision of resources, facilities and other support to the Mayor and Councillors to enable them to discharge their duties.

The Councillor Expenses, Support and Reimbursement Policy was adopted by Council on 29 April 2019.

Council also publishes in its Annual Report the details of the expenses, including reimbursement of expenses for each Councillor and member of a Council Committee paid by the Council. The details of the expenses for the past financial year are set out in the 2018/19 Annual Report.

Issue / discussion

This is a standard Governance reporting item in line with legislative requirements and Best Practice and an opportunity to be transparent to the Maroondah Community regarding these matters.

Financial / economic issues

A budget of $102,000 in the 2019/2020 financial year exists for the expenses and reimbursement of Councillors. A budget of $12,000 is allocated to the Office of the Mayor for the provision of a vehicle during the Mayoral term (November to November).

*Councillor*	TR *($)*	CM *($)*	CC *($)*	IC *($)*	CT *($)*	*CCA* *($)*	*Total* *Jan to March 2020* *($)*	*YTD* *July 2019 to March 2020* *($)*
Tony Dib OAM JP	0	163.09	0	256.30	0	50.00	469.39	1,140.34
Paul Macdonald	0	0	0	306.80	45.45	524.54	876.79	4,892.67
Kylie Spears	0	0	0	310.28	0	433.54	743.82	4,097.02
Nora Lamont	0	0	0	265.60	45.45	24.00	335.05	6,629.29
Samantha Mazzuchelli	0	0	0	210.02	0	336.68	546.70	1,102.46
Mike Symon Mayor November 13, 2019 to March 31, 2020	176.39	3,000#	0	287.62	0	225.81	3,689.82#	11,639.50#
Tasa Damante	0	0	264.34	261.90	0	587.82	1,114.06	4,220.18
Marijke Graham	0	0	0	289.30	45.45	277.82	612.57	4,193.18
Rob Steane Mayor 1 July to 13 November 2019	111.09	196.56	0	277.15	0	595.46	1,180.26	12,494.00#
TOTAL	287.48	3,359.65	264.34	2,464.97	136.35	3,055.67	9,568.46	50,408.60

Legend: TR-Travel, CM-Car Mileage (# a budget allocation of $12,000 is allocated to the Office of the Mayor for the provision of a vehicle during the Mayoral term - November to November), CC-Child Care, IC-Information and Communication expenses, CT- Conferences and Training expenses, CCA-Civic and Community Attendance.

Note:

1. No expenses were paid by Council including reimbursements to members of Council Committees during the year and

2. Figures are provisional end of financial year results and are subject to finalisation as part of the external audit processes for the 2019/20 Statements in the Annual Report.

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

Not Applicable

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That COUNCIL NOTES THE COUNCILLORS EXPENSE AND REIMBURSEMENT REPORT FOR JANUARY TO MARCH 2020

Director Operations, Assets & Leisure – Adam Todorov

Capital Works Report 2019/2020 - Period Ending 31 March 2020	Item 1

Purpose

To present the financial status of Council’s Capital Works Program for the period 1 July 2019 to 31 March 2020.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2017-2021 (Year 3: 2019-2020) 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 2019 – 2020

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

Background

Council, as part of its Adopted Budget 2019/20, allocated $28.764m to Capital Works projects, including some State and Federal grant funding. Council also carried forward $9.447m from the 2018/19 capital works budget.

Based on the anticipated timing of some of the major projects, an additional amount of $5.23m has been brought forward from future years and allocated to the 2019/20 capital works program. The total adjusted forecast budget for 2019/20, including some additional grant funding that is expected, is therefore $43.658m as at 31 March 2020.

Capital Works programs status reports are prepared by management and reviewed monthly at the Capital Works Implementation Group (CWIG) and presented quarterly to the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee (ARAC).

Provided in this report is an overview of Capital Expenditure on Council’s major project areas for the period 1 July 2019 to 31 March 2020.

Issue / discussion

The following is a summary of the status of Council’s capital projects financial position for the second quarter of the 2019/20 financial year.

CAPITAL PERFORMANCE – 9 MONTHS ENDING 31 MARCH 2020

	YTD	YTD	YTD	Forecast	Amount	Adopted
	Forecast Budget	Actual *	Bud Var	Budget **	Carried Forward	Budget
	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000	$’000
Classification
Buildings¹	8,702	10,320	(1,618)	16,143	7,478	6,695
Roads²	2,319	2,322	(3)	4,372	(14)	3,562
Footpaths and Cycleways³	2,707	2,613	94	3,103	(471)	3,540
Carparks⁴	3,400	2,819	581	3,489	69	480
Drainage⁵	1,320	1,651	(331)	3,010	1,017	2,685
Waste Management	33	26	7	103	53	50
Other Capital Roads and Drainage⁶	650	528	122	1,335	395	745
Recreational Leisure and Community Facilities⁷	3,156	3,164	(8)	3,879	1,198	2,285
Parks and Open Space⁸	810	373	436	1,970	275	1,240
Fixtures, Fittings and Furniture	72	47	25	92	42	80
Plant, Machinery and Equipment	2,342	1,977	366	3,248	222	3,422
Computers and Telecommunications¹⁰	280	267	13	1,833	1,230	950
Property Sales	0	60	(60)	0	0	0
Building Renewal¹¹	719	1,231	(512)	1,081	(2,048)	3,030
Total capital works	26,510	27,399	(889)	43,658	9,447	28,764

*YTD Actual expenditure includes Carried Forwards

**Forecast Budget expenditure includes Carried Forwards

Explanation of variations between forecast budget and adopted budget:

· ¹ Buildings – Variation between adopted $6.69m and forecast $16.14m budgets is due primarily to:

- $7.47m in carried forwards from 18/19 relating to major projects commenced in 18/19 and continuing into 19/20;

- $2.25m allocated to Realm Extension project;

- $250k transferred to the Other Capital Roads & Drainage Program;

- $100k of the total $500k grant for the Ainslie Park Redevelopment;

- $150k allocated to Computers and Telecommunications; and

- $60k transferred from the Carpark renewal program to complement building works

· ²Roads – Variation between adopted $3.56m and forecast $4.37m budgets is due primarily to:

- $740k that was reallocated from the Stormwater Drainage Program to complement road works.

· ³Footpaths & Cycleways – Variation between adopted $3.54m and forecast $3.1m budgets is due primarily to:

- Negative carried forward of $471k from 18/19 (ie relating to projects that were undertaken in 2018/19 but being funded in 2019/20); and

- $30k contribution from the Bus Shelter program.

· ⁴Carparks – Variation between adopted $480k and forecast $3.48m budget is due primarily to:

- $69k in carried forwards from 18/19;

- $3.0m brought forward from 2020/21 for the Ringwood Multi Level Carpark.

· ⁵Drainage – Variation between adopted $2.68m and forecast $3.01m budgets is due primarily to:

- $1.0m in carried forwards from 18/19;

- $740k that was allocated to the Roads Program; and

- $20k grant from Melbourne Water for the Tarralla Creek project.

· ⁶Other Capital Roads and Drainage – Variation between adopted $745k and forecast $1.33m is due primarily to:

- $395k in carried forwards from 18/19;

- $250k transferred from the Building Program;

- $30k transferred to the Footpath Construction Program; and

- $25k transferred to the New Street LATM project.

· ⁷Recreational Leisure and Community Facilities – Variation between adopted $2.28m and forecast $3.88m budgets due primarily to:

- $1.19m in carried forwards from 18/19;

- $396k allocated from the Plant, Machinery & Equipment Program;

- $250k allocated to Aquahub pool renewal;

- $91k contribution for Jubilee Park Tennis Lighting;

- $40k allocated to Gateway Signage Renewal;

- $36k allocated to Bedford Park Advisory Committee from operational accounts;

- $25k allocated to Major Playground Repairs;

- $25k allocated to Sports Surface Improvement Program;

- $15k grant for Griff Hunt Sportsfield Lighting; and

- $500k transferred to the Tree Improvement Program.

· ⁸Parks and Open Space – Variation between adopted $1.24m and forecast $1.97m budgets is due primarily to:

- $275k in carried forwards from 18/19

- $40k transferred to Gateway Signage;

- $25k transferred to Major Playground Repairs; and

- $500k allocated to the Tree Improvement Program.

· ⁹Plant Machinery and Equipment – Variation between adopted $3.42m and forecast $3.24m budgets is due primarily to:

- $222k in carried forwards from 18/19; and

- $396k that was allocated to the Recreation, Leisure and Community Facilities program.

· ¹⁰Computers and Telecommunication – Variation between adopted $950k and forecast $1.83m budgets is primarily due to:

- $1.23m in carried forwards from 18/19;

- $470k transferred to IT operational accounts (for the Desktop as a Service); and

- $150k from the Building Program to IT Infrastructure programs.

· ¹¹Building Renewal – Variation between adopted $3.03m and forecast $1.08m budgets is primarily due to:

- Negative carried forward of $2.04m from 18/19 (ie relating to projects that were undertaken in 2018/19 but being funded in 2019/20); and

- $98k allocated to the Community Facilities Improvement Program.

Financial / economic issues

CARRIED FORWARDS FROM 2018/2019

Council carried forward an amount of $9.447m into the 2019/2020 financial year, which primarily related to major projects that were underway at the end of the 2018/19 financial year.

The graph on the following page depicts the current status of expenditure, relative to the forecast budget and last year’s expenditure.

CAPITAL WORKS YTD – EXPENDITURE (CUMULATIVE)

* YTD Actual expenditure includes Carried Forwards

** Forecast Budget expenditure includes Carried Forwards and future years’ projects brought forward

Environmental / amenity issues

Not Applicable

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

At 31 March 2020, Council has a total Capital Works forecast budget for 2019/2020 of $43.658m. This includes $9.447m that was carried forward from 2018/19, an additional $244k anticipated in grant funding, and $5.23m that was brought forward from future years and allocated to the 2019/20 capital works program for major projects.

The 2019/20 capital works is progressing very well, with the year to date expenditure closely aligning with the forecast budget. Key variations between adopted and forecast budgets for the period 1 July 2019 to 31 March 2020 are noted within this report.

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

THAT COUNCIL RECEIVES AND NOTES THE REPORT ON THE STATUS OF CAPITAL WORKS PROJECTS FOR THE PERIOD 1 JULY 2019 TO 31 MARCH 2020


Director Strategy & Community – Phil Turner
C130 - Implementation of Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre Masterplan, Consideration of Submissions	Item 3

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to consider submissions received to Amendment C130 following a public exhibition period. It recommends that Council requests that the Minister for Planning appoint an independent panel to consider all submissions.

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2017-2021 (Year 3: 2019-2020) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A prosperous and learning community.

Our Vision: In 2040, Maroondah will be thriving centre of economic activity and opportunity within the eastern region where the sustainable growth of local businesses is supported, and diverse lifelong learning opportunities are accessible for all community members.

Key Directions 2019 – 2020:

2.3 Promote and leverage the strategic location and unique roles of Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre, Croydon Activity Centre and the Bayswater Business Precinct.

Priority Actions 2019-2020:

Two of the priority actions in the Council Plan 2017-2020 are as follows.

· To work in partnership to finalise development of the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre.

· Plan for carparking improvements in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre and the Croydon Activity Centre.

· Commence carparking improvement works in the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre.

· Work in partnership to facilitate appropriate development within the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre and Croydon Activity Centre.

BACKGROUND

As a designated Metropolitan Activity Centre (MAC), Ringwood is a key centre in Melbourne’s outer-east; it is the focus of significant public and private investment, employment growth and renewal. The Ringwood MAC area is bounded as follows:

· To the north, the Ringwood Bypass from East Link to Mt Dandenong Road

· To the east, Ringwood Lake and Bedford Road to Pitt Street

· To the south, Bedford Road to Station Street then following properties to the rear of Station Street through to Wantirna Road, then following the train line to New Street, then along Molan Street to Heatherdale Road (at the Municipal boundary).

· To the west, along Heatherdale Road to Maroondah Highway then the eastern side of East Link through to the Ringwood Bypass.

The findings and recommendations of the adopted Masterplan provide the strategic basis for the Amendment. These recommendations include the introduction of statutory controls, summarised as follows:

· Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS): Amendments to several clauses to support the strategic basis of the Amendment in accordance with the Maroondah City Council Plan 2017 - 2021, Maroondah 2040: Our future together and the Maroondah Housing Strategy.

· Local Planning Policy Framework (LPPF): Amendments to update the application of policy related to the Residential Neighbourhood Character Policy, update reference to the Masterplan in relation to retail and commercial development and delete no longer relevant policy.

· Zones:

- Deletion of Schedule 1 to the Residential Growth Zone and Schedule 3 to the Design and Development Overlay, which are no longer required.

- Introduction of the Activity Centre Zone, including a new schedule to this zone.

- Rezoning of land from the Commercial 1 Zone, Commercial 2 Zone, Industrial 1 Zone, General Residential Zone, Road Zone Category 1 and Residential Growth Zone Schedule 1 to the Activity Centre Zone.

- Rezoning land at 1B Patterson Street, Ringwood East from the General Residential Zone to the Public Park and Recreation Zone.

- Rezoning part of 174 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood from the Neighbourhood Residential Zone Schedule 4 to the Public Park and Recreation Zone.

- Rezoning part of 2-10 Mt Dandenong Road, Ringwood East from the Road Zone Category 1 to the Activity Centre Zone Schedule 1.

- Rezoning land at 60 Nelson Street, Ringwood from the Urban Floodway Zone to the Public Park and Recreation Zone.

· Overlays: Amend the Development Contributions Plan Overlay Schedule 1 to updated reference to the Masterplan and to apply to the Ringwood MAC area.

· Operational Provisions: Amend the Schedule to Clause 72.04 to include the Ringwood MAC Development Contributions Plan (March 2019) as an Incorporated Document and delete the Ringwood District Centre Development Contributions Plan (July 1997).

The process to undertake the preparation of the Masterplan and Amendment included the support and technical input of the Victorian Planning Authority, Jones Lang Lasalle IP, INC, WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff, O’Brien Traffic, SGS Economics & Planning, Hill PDA Pty Ltd, Hansen Partnership and Glossop Town Planning.

Extensive community engagement was undertaken to inform the development of the Amendment and related Masterplan.

Strategic Rationale for the proposed changes

The Masterplan is consistent with Plan Melbourne and Maroondah 2040 as a focus for growth. This is enabling Council to continue to protect neighbourhoods, ridgelines and vegetation outside of the Ringwood MAC.

The Amendment is required to implement the objectives and strategies of the Masterplan into the Maroondah Planning Scheme. The Masterplan was adopted by Council in November 2018.

The Masterplan updated the 2004 Ringwood Transit City Masterplan, which facilitated development in Ringwood since that time. The 2004 Masterplan identified the Council vision for Ringwood and set in place a planning framework to encourage the realisation of this vision. It provided particularly strong direction and certainty around land use, density, urban design, movement and infrastructure.

The 2018 Masterplan was developed with extensive stakeholder and community engagement and outlines how the Ringwood MAC will continue to grow in a way that has a focus on human scale, ensuring a positive experience when interacting with any aspect of the Ringwood MAC, and that development has positive environmental impacts.

The vision included within the Masterplan is as follows.

“Ringwood is the major urban destination in Melbourne’s outer east. It will contain a vibrant city centre, with an active local economy offering contemporary lifestyle options set in a natural landscape and connected through an advanced road and rail network.”

To deliver this vision, a set of key principles have been included in the Masterplan to inform the Strategic Framework and are as follows:

· Reinforce the Ringwood MAC as the principal retail, commercial, community, entertainment and employment focal point of the region.

· Define the Ringwood MAC as the most convenient, safe, accessible place in the region.

· Enhance the natural environmental features of the Ringwood MAC to distinguish it from other suburban activity centres. Establish a true mixed-use centre that promotes high quality urban design.

· Create high quality public spaces that provide for a safe and convenient pedestrian and cyclist environment.

· Provide the infrastructure needed to support the increased number of residents, workers and visitors, and mechanisms to fund future infrastructure.

To develop the vision, and in accordance with the key principles guiding the Masterplan, five directions have been developed collectively called the Strategic Framework. These five directions are derived from Maroondah 2040: Our future together as follows:

1. A thriving community

2. An attractive and well-built community

3. An accessible and connected community

4. A clean, green and sustainable community

5. A prosperous community.

The Masterplan contains Precinct Plans that include detailed descriptions and initiatives for the Ringwood MAC to help achieve the vision and Strategic Framework. These Precinct Plans provide concise and graphical direction for the shape and organisation of land use and development within the Ringwood MAC.

The primary objective of the proposed changes to the Maroondah Planning Scheme (the Scheme) is to fulfil the key principles of the Masterplan including in terms of development, aesthetics, safety, accessibility, convenience and functionality.

The implementation of the Masterplan will occur over a 10-year time frame and will involve a range of statutory and non-statutory tools and actions. The Amendment is the first step of the statutory implementation of the Masterplan into the Maroondah Planning Scheme.

Introduction of an Activity Centre Zone

The current planning controls for Ringwood MAC rely on the zones to determine land use and development. Built form requirements are set out in the Design and Development Overlay. However, the Design and Development Overlay is not applied across the whole study area.

The ACZ is proposed to apply to all sites within the Ringwood MAC previously included in a Commercial 1 or Commercial 2 Zone, Industrial 1 Zone, General Residential Zone Schedule 1, Road Zone Category 1 and Residential Grown Zone Schedule 1.

Clause 22.06 Ringwood Activity Centre is a local policy that applies to the Ringwood MAC. This Clause provides guidance to decision making. Apartment development of four or less storeys (excluding a basement) in a Residential Growth Zone or General Residential Zone is assessed under Clause 55. All applications must meet a set of objectives set out in Clause 55 and each objective contains a standard to meet the objective. Some standards found in Clause 55 may be varied by Council using a schedule to the residential zone, through a Neighbourhood Character Overlay or other overlay. The variation to Clause 55 for the Ringwood MAC is found in the Residential Growth Zone, Schedule 1, General Residential Zone Schedule 1 and Design and Development Overlay Schedule 3.

Apartment development of five or more storeys (excluding a basement) in a General Residential Zone, Residential Growth Zone, Commercial 1 Zone and Commercial 3 Zone is assessed against Clause 58. However, apartment standards in Clause 58 cannot be varied under a schedule to a zone or an overlay, except for the building setback standard.

Accordingly, the application of planning controls across the Ringwood MAC needs to be consistent with the intentions of the Masterplan. The Activity Centre Zone (ACZ) is the preferred tool to guide and facilitate the use and development of land in activity centres and hence, the most appropriate tool to implement the Ringwood MAC Masterplan. Planning Practice Note 56 Activity Centre Zone notes that the ACZ has five purposes:

1. To implement the State Planning Policy Framework and Local Planning Policy Framework, including the Municipal Strategic Statement and local planning policies.

2. To encourage a mix of uses and the intensive development of the activity centre:

· As a focus for business, shopping, working, housing, leisure, transport and community facilities

· To support sustainable urban outcomes that maximise the use of infrastructure and public transport.

3. To deliver a diversity of housing at higher densities to make optimum use of the facilities and services.

4. To create through good urban design an attractive, pleasant, walkable, safe and stimulating environment.

5. To facilitate use and development of land in accordance with the Development Framework for the activity centre.

The ACZ can be used to remove the need for additional overlays (such as the Design and Development Overlay) and can incorporate use and development requirements that may have previously been applied through overlays.

Councils must have an adopted structure plan or a body of significant strategic work for the centre where the ACZ will be applied. The supporting Urban Design Guidelines, along with associated background analyses and reporting, form the most significant background strategic work to underpin the proposed implementation of the ACZ in the Ringwood MAC.

While the Masterplan assists the management of change in the area, it does not seek to manage changes to the existing land use patterns in the MAC. The proposed ACZ provides for the implementation of this key strategic work.

The currently Ringwood MAC-applicable Vegetation Protection Overlay, Environmental Audit Overlay and Heritage Overlay continue to be the most appropriate statutory controls to manage vegetation, heritage places and potential land contamination and it is proposed that they continue to apply.

Introduction of a Public Park and Recreation Zone

The Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ) is the most appropriate tool to implement planning objectives and controls relating to areas for public recreation and open space and allows for the protection and conservation of areas of significance.

It is proposed to rezone:

· 1B Patterson Street, Ringwood East from the General Residential Zone Schedule 1 to the PPRZ.

· 174 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood from the Neighbourhood Residential Zone Schedule 4 and Road Zone Category 1 to the PPRZ.

· 60 Nelson Street, Ringwood from the Urban Floodway Zone to the PPRZ.

The proposed rezoning of a Melbourne Water site of approximately 2,300 square metres in area at 1B Patterson Street, Ringwood East, intends to remove an anomaly in the Maroondah Planning Scheme whereby this southeast portion of Ringwood Lake Park remains in the General Residential Zone consistent with adjoining land to the east but, forms part of this key public open space area.

174 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood is a State Government land holding with an approximate area of 12,600 square metres located at the southeast intersection of Mt Dandenong Road and Maroondah Highway, adjoining the Ringwood Lake Park (the Park). In a practical regard, the site forms part of the Park. The proposed rezoning of this site to PPRZ is intended to provide zoning consistency in the area, reflective of the operation of the site as part of the Park.

The Council owned site at 60 Nelson Street, Ringwood has an approximate area of 690 square metres. The existing Urban Floodway Zone is no longer reflective of the character, use or requirements for this site. It is proposed to apply the PPRZ to this site consistent with the adjoining public open space area to the immediate east, which incorporates a section of the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail. Practically, 60 Nelson Street forms the eastern portion of this Park.

Introduction of a Development Contributions Plan Overlay

The Development Contributions Plan Overlay (DCPO) is the most suitable tool to support the timely provision of planned infrastructure in the Ringwood MAC to the community. The DCPO applies to all new development in the Ringwood MAC and requires contributions towards community facilities, paths, roads and drainage, as introduced through the Masterplan and implemented through the ACZ.

The Amendment proposes to amend Schedule 1 to the DCP to update references to the Masterplan and to apply to the Ringwood MAC. In association with these changes, the Amendment proposes to amend the Schedule to Clause 72.04 to include the Ringwood MAC Development Contributions Plan (March 2019) as an Incorporated Document and delete the Ringwood District Centre Development Contributions Plan (July 1997).

The DCPO required contributions per dwelling for new residential development and per square metre of floor space for retail development. The rationale for the levies required based on these units of measurement is provided in detail in the background report to the DCPO. The proportion of cost attributable to each relevant category of development costed in the DCPO ranges from approximately 22 to 54 per cent.

Issues / Discussion

A total of 42 submissions were received during the advertising of the Amendment. In summary, the general nature of the submissions is as follows (for each submission category, the percent of total submissions reflected by the submissions is provided in brackets).

· Four (4) submissions (9.5 percent) object to/do not support the Amendment.

· 22 submissions (52.4 percent) support the Amendment unconditionally.

· 16 (38. percent) support the Amendm1ent to varying degrees, with changes suggested.

In summary, 90.5 percent of submissions reflect total or partial support for the Amendment and 9.5 percent do not support the Amendment.

The submissions in support of the Amendment noted the following.

· The proposed rezoning of the Ringwood MAC to the Activity Centre Zone Schedule 1, and the application of discretionary planning controls is supported and will allow for appropriate intensification of development in Ringwood.

· The Amendment will help deliver better housing diversity, better support growth and investment and provide a more sustainable pathway for residential projects.

· The change in policy to help developers build more ‘appropriate housing’ in this area is noted as a positive element.

· The proposed Amendment responds positively to the principle that transit-oriented development seeks to maximise the amount of residential, commercial or leisure space within walking distance of public transport, to increase public transport ridership by reducing the use of private cars and promote sustainable urban growth.

· The Amendment…provides for a clear understanding of the Council preferences, expectations and future direction.

· The view to reduce congestion in the central Ringwood area is supported.

· “… planning policies which encourage further growth along, and adjacent to, EastLink and the Ringwood Bypass (are supported and the submitter) is pleased that the freeway and bypass can contribute to and facilitate this growth (ConnectEast).

The key issues raised in the objections received to the Amendment are as follows.

· The extent of the Ringwood MAC - inclusion of area south of Station Street in Ringwood MAC area.

· Built form

- Building heights will dominate the skyline.

- Apartment building typology will the reduce the potential for landscaping and increase the urban heat island effect.

- Apartment building should be limited to three storeys to provide a smoother transition to the surrounding lower scale residential areas.

· Landscaping

- Tree planting guidelines are lacking.

- Setbacks from footpaths should allow for landscaping, including understorey vegetation and canopy trees.

· Traffic

- The intensification of development and related traffic impacts in terms of congestion.

- Safety concerns about the Eastlink interchange.

- Vehicle access to retailed premises.

- Amenity impacts

- Noise complaints directed to Connect East arising from residential development in vicinity of their road.

- Property value impacts.

· Pedestrian movement

- Impacts of increased traffic.

- Need for safer access from Ringwood Railway Station across Maroondah Highway.

A detailed response to each submission is provided in Attachment 1.

Summary of Officer’s Comments

A detailed officer response to specific points raised in each of the four submissions of objections to the Amendment is included in Appendix 1. The submitted objections were found to have no strategic justification and thus, no changes are proposed to the Amendment in response to these submissions.

Proposed Changes in Response to Submissions

An officer response to requests for changes to the Amendment, as made in 16 submissions, is included in Appendix 1. Changes are proposed to the Amendment in response to specific request made in three of these 16 submissions. The following addresses these requests in further detail, with the original of the submission noted by way of property address or, organisation (ConnectEast).

30-32 Sherbrook Avenue (Submission 1), Ringwood and 2 Nelson Street, Ringwood (Submission 2)

The grounds for the request

The submissions on behalf of the owners of these two sites, located within Precincts 3 and 2 respectively, includes concerns about the new shared paths shown in the ACZ1 to run east-west between Sherbrook Avenue and Nelson Street. A path of this nature is shown within each of the subject Precincts (3 and 2). The submitters made the following comments and requests in relation to these paths.

· Opposes the Amendment to the extent that it seeks to introduce a new shared path through the subject land.

· Under page 49 of the Ringwood Metro Master Plan, there is reference to ‘encouraging’ a future east-west link/shared use paths between New Street and Sherbrook Avenue.

· The ACZ1 should provide an explanation of the intended form and function of the new shared path.

· Clear that they will not provide this new shared path at their cost, as it is not required because of development/redevelopment, but rather a broader public purpose.

· Notes that the proposed Amendment does not include the compulsory acquisition of the land via Public Acquisition Overlay, and therefore any related compensation for land owners.

Officer Comments

The proposed new shared path shown to run east-west between New Street and Sherbrook Avenue is encouraged to be included in this general area (within Precincts 2 and 3) at some future point in the development of the Ringwood MAC. The intention of this feature is to provide improved connectivity (pedestrian and cycling) between New Street and Sherbrook Avenues and, in general, the central and western portions of the Ringwood MAC. The exact form of the path is not mandated and will depend on further discussions between Council and future developers of this portion of the Ringwood MAC.

The proposed location of the paths was intended as indicative only however, it is agreed that the existing plans for Precincts 2 and 3 nominate too closely the exact location of this potential path and that the annotation should be modified to be less precise and therefore remove the potential expectation that the adjoining property owners provide, and contribute to the cost of, these paths.

It is recommended that the current annotation (‘proposed new shared path’) be replaced with a wider arrow running east-west central to the area between New Street and Sherbrook Avenue. This will remove the precise alignment of the annotation from along the property boundary of the submitters’ sites.

Several additionalities/improvements to the Ringwood MAC area have been allowed for the Amendment, including the subject proposed shared path. Many of these additionalities have been costed through the proposed Development Contributions Plan Schedule 1, including the subject shared path.

The introduction of a Public Acquisition Overlay is not required in relation to the subject shared path. Provisions relating to shared paths are included in the ACZ and related Development Contributions Plan.

Other matters raised in Submissions 1 and 2 are addressed in the table at Appendix 1.

11-15 Bedford Road, Ringwood (Submission 4)

The grounds of the request

Submission 4 notes that the related property owner has broad support for the Amendment however, is concerned about the land use controls relating to education and office uses within as proposed via the ACZ1. The submitter requests that these uses be considered Section 2 (Permit required) uses.

Officer Comments

In accordance with the proposed land use table at Clause 3.0 of ACZ Schedule 1, an Education centre must be in Precincts 1, 2, 4 or 7. And Office (other than Medical centre) uses must not be located in Precinct 5. Consistent with the Precinct 5 (Pitt Street Precinct) objectives (ACZ1, Clause 5.5.-2), the subject area is intending primarily for moderate residential infill with opportunities for moderate lot amalgamation however, it is agreed that education-related uses should be able to occur in Precinct 5, consistent with the current land use controls relating to the area and the common inclusion of education uses in residential areas.

A change to the designation of Office uses however, is not recommended having consideration for the primary role of the Precinct for residential purposes.

Other matters raised in Submission 4 are addressed in the table at Appendix 1.

154-166 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (Submission 6)

The grounds for the request

This submission queries the appropriateness of the Type 2 interface proposed for the southern boundary of the subject land abutting the railway line PUZ4 and requests there be no interface requirement on this boundary. In addition, it is requested that ground level car parking be addressed and included as an option in the development guidelines.

Officer Comments

The subject site is in Precinct 4a (Eastern Precinct) under the ACZ. In Clause 5.4-3 (Precinct Requirements), Interface Setback requirements are outlined by Interface Type. For Interface Type 2 (Local Streets (Type A), the following requirements apply:

· A minimum ground level setback of 0 metres is required.

· A street wall/podium height of 14.5 metres (4 storey).

· A minimum upper level setback above podium/street wall of 5 metres.

In response to the submitter’s query on the appropriateness of the Type 2 Interface for the southern boundary of the subject site, which adjoins the Ringwood Lake Park (Public Use Zone), it is agreed that there is no expectation for ground level activation along the railway line and that there is a disparity between the Urban Design Guidelines and the ACZ. As such, an opportunity exists to amend the Type 2 interface in the ACZ as follows, with proposed changes to the typologies and associated provisions underlined.

Type 2 Interface

Application

Lower order streets (typically 15-20m).

Pedestrian priority route.

Non-residential streetscape.

Mt Dandenong Road, at the north eastern boundary of Ringwood MAC.

Railway line.

Interface Response

· 4 storey (14.5m) street wall/podium.

· Ground floor setback along pedestrian priority route where footpath/verge is less than 4m along Ringwood Street.

· Setback behind street wall/ podium: 5m.

· Greater than 5m on Feature Form sites subject to overshadowing of footpaths (at equinox between 11.00- 14.00).

· Greater than 5m on sites subject to overshadowing of existing/ future open space (solstice between 11.00 to 14.00).

· Greater than 5m on sites subject to overshadowing existing private open space outside the Activity Centre boundary (at equinox for consecutive 5 hours between 09.00 to 15.00).

Rationale

· To adopt a street wall response that is proportionate to its street width.

· To adopt upper level setback above the street wall to emphasise the prevailing street wall/ podium effect at street level.

· To encourage continuous street edges which invite active ground floor frontages conducive to main streets and commercial areas.

· To minimise overshadowing impact on public realm and on residential properties outside the Activity Centre boundary.

· To establish a consistent footpath width along Ringwood Street.

· To achieve a legible transition to residential precinct.

The submission requests that ground level car parking needs be addressed and included as an option in the development guidelines.

Ground level parking may be contemplated, provided it is adequately ‘sleeved’ with active uses and does not dominate the Maroondah Highway streetscape.

Other matters raised in Submission 6 are addressed in the table at Appendix 1.

8-10 Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (Submission 13)

The grounds for the request

The submission argues that the preferred maximum building heights contained in the ACZ do not reflect the strategic significance of this location and do not provide consistency and equitable development opportunities when considering the suggested 53m gateway forms sought diagonally opposite to the north east of the Maroondah Highway/Eastlink Junction. It requests that the preferred maximum building heights are changed to reflect a desired height of 53 metres at this location.

The submission argues that built form controls limit opportunities to provide a suitable response to the objectives identified within Clause 5.7-2, which aim “to reinforce built form that improves public space contribution” and “to encourage higher forms towards the Maroondah Highway and Eastlink junction, and transition down along its residential abuttals to the west”.

It requests that the maximum preferred height be increased to something in the order of 53 metres.

Officer Comments

The subject site is within Precinct 7 (Heatherdale Station Precinct) of the ACZ Schedule 1 where transit orientated development is encouraged at this south western approach to the Ringwood MAC. Mixed uses are encouraged in the Precinct, along with built form that improves the public space contribution. Higher built forms are encouraged towards the Maroondah Highway and Eastlink junction, in transition along residential abuttals to the west, as stated in the Precinct objectives.

It is agreed that the existing Commercial 1 Zone controls, in terms of land use and preferred building heights, provides more flexibility when compared with the proposed ACZ Schedule 1. It is also noted that the approved RMAC Masterplan provides for heights up to 21.5 metres (6 storeys) on sites with a minimal area of 2,500 square metres. This height control was previously assessed as appropriate for the Precinct by Council, reflected in the Masterplan adopted by Council in November 2018. The subject sites, in combination, have an area exceeding 25,000 square metres.

The distinction is made however between the subject site and the Feature Form sites within the Ringwood MAC, which reflect key entry points to the centre, with geographic features (e.g. slope/height) rendering them more suitable for built form of increased height when compared with surrounding development.

It is recommended that the ACZ Schedule 1 is changed in terms of Precinct 7 (Clause 5.7-3) to allow for consideration of heights up to 21.5 metres (6 storey) on sites with a minimum area of 2,500 square metres, consistent with the approve Masterplan and the proposed approach in other Precincts under the proposed ACZ Schedule 1.

Other matters raised in Submission 13 are addressed in the table at Appendix 1.

ConnectEast (Submission 37)

This submission was received late (5 May 2020) and is still under review however, it is considered appropriate that a new precinct-wide objective be added to the ACZ, to help protect the function of Eastlink Freeway and Ringwood Bypass.

Officer Comments

To ensure that development of sensitive land uses near the EastLink Freeway and Ringwood Bypass mitigates against the potential impact of traffic noise, to protect the health and amenity of occupants.

AMENDMENT TIMELINES

Ministerial Direction 15 sets out timelines for the planning scheme amendment process.

Authorisation

The Amendment was granted conditional authorisation on 6 December 2019. The conditions relating to authorisation were addressed prior to placing the Amendment on public exhibition.

Notice of the Amendment

Subject to Direction 4(1)(a), a planning authority must give notice of an amendment within 40 days of receiving authorisation to prepare the amendment.

A request for an exemption to Ministerial Direction 15 was sent to the Minister on 14 January 2020 in the DELWP Amendment Tracking System (ATS). The request sought an exemption to comply with the timing to give notice of an amendment as required by Division 1 of Part 3 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (the Act): (a) within 40 business days of receiving authorisation. This request was approved on 20 January 2020 and was extended to 6 March 2020.

Pre-set Panel Hearing

The following dates have been proposed, and agreed to, by Planning Panels Victoria.

· Directions Hearing - week commencing 15 June 2020.

· Panel Hearing - week commencing 20 July 2020.

Financial / economic issues

All costs incurred, including those relating to the Panel Hearing, will be covered through Council’s operational budget.

Environmental / amenity issues

The recognition of the significant value of Ringwood as a major asset to Melbourne’s east will encourage the enhancement and protection of community and private assets including open space areas, vegetation and pedestrian networks.

Social / community issues

The proposed Amendment is the result of collaboration between Council and the Ringwood, and wider Maroondah, community to manage and enhance the character and functioning of the Ringwood MAC.

Community consultation

The Amendment was exhibited in accordance with the requirements of the Act in the following manner:

· Written notification was sent to all owners and occupiers of land subject to the proposed Amendment. The initial period of Public Notice was between 24 February 2020 and mid-April 2020.

· By way of background, it came to Officers’ attention that conventional methods of delivering mail would not be available for notifying individual tenancies of the Eastland Shopping Centre. Initially, it was considered impractical to notify pursuant to Section 19 (1A) of the Act. However, after further discussion with Eastland Centre Management, additional written notification was able to be undertaken between the period of approximately 10 March 2020 and an extended Public Notice period until 17 April 2020. These written notices were hand delivered to all tenants of the Eastland Shopping Centre by Eastland Centre Management staff.

· Letters were sent to prescribed Ministers and statutory authorities on 3 March 2020.

· A notice of the Amendment was placed in the Victorian Government Gazette on 27 February 2020.

· A notice of the Amendment was published in The Maroondah Leader on Tuesday 25 February 2020.

· Copies of the Amendment were made available for inspection during office hours at the offices of Council customer service centres and libraries, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) and online on both the DELWP and Council websites.

Conclusion

The purpose of Amendment C130 is to implement the objectives and strategies of the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre Masterplan through application of local policy, zones and overlays in the Maroondah Planning Scheme.

The Masterplan outlines how Ringwood MAC will continue to grow in a way that has a focus on human scale, ensuring a positive experience when interacting with any aspect of Ringwood MAC, and development has positive environmental impacts.

The Amendment was placed on public exhibition in accordance with the requirements of the Planning and Environment Act 1987. The submissions received objecting to the Amendment raise matters relating to the appropriateness of intended built form, transport, landscaping and pedestrian access outcomes. Other submissions were received in total support of the Amendment, or with qualified support requesting some changes to the Amendment.

Some changes are recommended to the proposed controls. Of note significant elements of the Amendment, being the proposed introduction of the Activity Centre Zone, rezoning to introduce a Public Park and Recreation Zone to three sites and the introduction of a Development Contributions Plan were not challenged and are considered strategically justified.

As the Responsible Authority, Council has three options.

1. Change the Amendment in the manner requested in the submission.

2. Refer the submissions to an Independent Panel.

3. Abandon the Amendment or part of the Amendment.

Pursuant to Section 23 (2) of the Act, a planning authority may also refer submissions that do not require a change to the Amendment to a Panel.

The nature of the submissions received are not considered to be fully resolved by a change to the Amendment therefore, it is recommended that the submissions be referred to an Independent Panel pursuant to Section 23 (1)(b) of the Act.

Attachments

1.	Attachment 1 - Summary of Submissions - Exhibition - Amendment C130maro

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That Council, having prepared and exhibited amendment c130 to the maroondah planning scheme under section 19 of the planning and environment act 1987 and received and considered all written submissions made in response to amendment c130:

1. requests that the minister for planning appoint an independent panel under part 8 of the planning and environment act 1987 to consider all submissions to amendment c130 to the maroondah planning scheme

2. refers all submissions to the panel to be appointed by the minister for planning, including any late submmissions

3. endorses the response to submissions attached at attachment 1 to this report to form the basis of council’s submission to the panel

4. delegates phil turner, director strategy and community to consider any late submissions before referring them to the panel

5. advises all submitters of council’s resolution


Director Strategy & Community – Phil Turner
Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action Project Update	Item 4

Purpose

This report provides an update on the recent activities of the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA).

Strategic / policy issues

The following directions contained in Maroondah 2040: Our Future Together and the Council Plan 2017-2021 (Year 3: 2019-2020) provide the strategic framework that underpins the purpose of this report.

Outcome Area: A clean, green and sustainable community

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

Key Directions 2019 – 2020:

4.11 Strive to become a carbon neutral Council by implementing energy efficient initiatives and embracing clean energy solutions.

4.12 Mitigate and adapt to the effects and impacts of climate change.

4.15 Work in partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support the community in adapting to a post peak oil environment.

Background

The Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA) is a formal collaboration of eight Council’s in Melbourne’s east. EAGA is committed to responding to the challenges of climate change through the delivery of joint programs that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout the region and provide support for regional adaptation to climate change impacts.

EAGA consists of the following member Councils:

· City of Boroondara

· City of Glen Eira

· Know City Council

· Maroondah City Council

· Monash City Council

· City of Stonnington

· Whitehorse City Council

· Yarra Ranges Council

A Memorandum of Understanding between the Councils provides a framework to guide collaborative work, defines the roles and obligations of the host and member councils, and established an agreed membership funding commitment. Maroondah City Council currently hosts the Executive Officer, the Solar Savers Program Leader and Program Officer.

Issue / discussion

A number of key projects have been delivered by EAGA over the last four years and are outlined below.

Energy Performance Contract

Maroondah Council partnered with Boroondara, Knox and Yarra Ranges Councils to initiate the first joint EPC program in Australia’s local government sector. Under the EAGA model, councils benefit from a joint procurement approach, with the project facilitated by a shares staff resource, hosted at one of the participating councils. A lead service provider was appointed to design, install, optimise and manage energy upgrades, and was managed by the shared EAGA officer. Under the EPC arrangement, project outcomes and energy savings are guaranteed by the energy services company.

In 2017/18, $1.8M in works were contracted to Maroondah facilities, with projected savings of $190,000 annually. Further projects to $2M in value were implemented in 2018/19. Works included solar PV, heating/cooling system upgrades, LED lighting, building management systems, efficient boilers, pool blankets, and voltage reduction units. Works have been completed at Aquahub, Aquanation, Federation Estate, Realm and The Rings. Collectively, the participating Councils invested approx. $6.4M in energy efficient upgrades across 28 of the region’s most emission intensive facilities generating over 9,000 tonnes of emissions reductions. A second tranche of EAGA councils has since initiated their own EPC program (covering Knox, Whitehorse, and Monash) and will benefit from the learnings of the first cohort of councils.

Solar savers

From 2016 to 2019, EAGA led the expansion of Solar Savers across 26 participating municipalities across Victoria, via a $0.7M State funded grant. The program pioneered the use of council rates as an underpinning finance mechanism to support low income households access solar. Maroondah played a key leadership role in the program, by administering the grant and hosting the project’s dedicated staff members. The grant funded pilot delivered over 434 solar systems (1.6MW) saving households on average $260 per year. Independent evaluation demonstrated:

· Solar provides low cost energy throughout the day meaning that households could cool their homes during heatwaves without fear of ‘price shock’,

· Councils can facilitate private-sector investment within a community segment traditionally viewed as high risk to investors by establishing partnership finance models with the banking sector, and

· A shared services approach to project implementation enabled access to dedicated capability and thereby reducing resource requirements and risks to councils.

Solar Savers has since expanded beyond its initial grant funded phase, with ten metro and regional councils aiming to deliver up to 170 PV system installations in 2019/20 period. This equates to 0.857MW of electricity generation and is equivalent to a reduction of 1,261 tonnes greenhouse gas emissions. Maroondah continues to host the Solar Savers team, who is working actively with Solar Victoria to ensure program participants can access the State’s various rebates and incentives. Since the pilot, the program design has evolved to include access for non-vulnerable households who pay a small administration fee (in addition to their installation costs) to cross-subsidise the participation for vulnerable households who require more assistance from the Solar Savers team.

Maroondah is committed to undertaking a second round of rates-based installation for vulnerable households through the program in the 2020/21 period. The passing of the new Local Government Act provides an opportunity for Maroondah to be one of the first councils in the State to utilise the new residential Environmental Upgrade Finance provisions, rather than the Special Charges mechanism.

Local Government Power Purchase Agreement

The Victorian Greenhouse Alliances have established a sector wide Buyers Group to help councils save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions though their electricity contracting. The Buyers Group is developing a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for Victorian council to procure low cost renewable energy from 2021, at the conclusion of their current retail contracts. The project is being led by the City of Darebin, who administered the first phase of the project (detailed business case) and is now seeking commitments from councils to proceed to the next stage (tendering and contract award).

Based on current levels of interest, the LG PPA project could be the largest ever emissions reduction initiative undertaken by local governments in Australia, aggregating 48 Councils and approximately 44% of all Victorian Council electricity to switch to 100% renewable energy. Maroondah City Council is continuing its participation in the Buyers Group, seeking to contract almost 70% of its annual electricity load via the PPA.

Advocacy

Five formal advocacy submissions were developed over the course of the year covering key state and federal issues including energy market reform and climate change policy. This advocacy was particularly effective on the issue of rooftop solar where EAGA and its partners were successful in securing modifications to the State Government’s solar rebate program to ensure its alignment with council led programs, such as Solar Savers.

EAGA is currently working with all Victorian Greenhouse Alliances to coordinate a sector wide response to the Victorian Electricity Distribution Price (EDPR) review. This work follows from the previous Alliance led submission to the 2016-20 review, which provided a technical analysis of the five regulatory pricing proposals provided by Victoria’s electricity distribution businesses. The submission was successful in securing over $22M in reduced public lighting operation, maintenance and replacement (OMR) costs in the 2016-20 period. Total savings for Maroondah (for EDPR and related activities) for this time are calculated at $205,000. The current submission to the Australian Energy Regulator will be made in late May, with a determination made in October 2020. Findings and estimates of savings generated via the advocacy activities will be communicated at this time.

Financial / economic issues

Annually, each member Council contributes financially to EAGA activities. This commitment is outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding for the period 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2021. In addition, Maroondah City Council hosts the Executive Officer, Solar Savers Program Leader, and Solar Savers Program Officer, and administers EAGA’s finances. EAGA’s governance structure also includes and Executive Committee to oversee and endorse EAGA’s strategic directions, and Steering Committee to manage projects.

For every dollar invested in EAGA’s membership fees and projects, the region’s councils and communities capture $2.30 in financial savings.

Environmental / amenity issues

Between 2012 and 2019, EAGA’s projects have delivered savings in EAGA council’s greenhouse gas emissions of over 25,000 T CO2-e, and over 7,000 T CO2-e in community greenhouse gas emissions reductions.

Social / community issues

Not Applicable

Community consultation

Not Applicable

Conclusion

EAGA implements joint initiatives that provide economies of scale and enable the implementation of projects typically beyond the reach of individual Councils. These projects reduce greenhouse gas emissions and facilitate climate change adaptation across the region.

Attachments

Not Applicable

CONFIDENTIALITY

Not Applicable

RECOMMENDATION

That COUNCIL NOTE the eastern alliance for greenhouse action project update

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 REALM: 179 Maroondah Hwy, Ringwood

Director Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Attendance Report	Item 1

Director Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Reports of Assembly of Councillors	Item 2

1.	2020 April 20 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record
2.	2020 May 04 - Assembly of Councillors Public Record

Director Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo

Councillor Representation Reports	Item 3

1.	Eastern Regional Group of Councils Meeting Minutes - 17 April 2020 (Draft)
2.	Eastern Transport Coalition Meeting Minutes - 19 March 2020
3.	Eastern Regional Group of Councils Meeting Minutes - 21 February 2020
4.	Eastern Transport Coalition Meeting Minutes - 20 February 2020


Director Corporate Services – Marianne Di Giallonardo
Virtual Council Meeting Processes - Addendum to Council Meeting Policy 2019	Item 7

1.	Virtual Council Meeting Processes - Draft Addendum to Council Meeting Policy 2019 FINAL
2.	Council Meeting Policy 2019


Director Strategy & Community – Phil Turner
Council Plan 2017-2021 (Year 3: 2019/20) Priority Action Progress Report - Quarter 3, 2019/20	Item 1


Director Strategy & Community – Phil Turner
Local Government Performance Reporting Framework - Service Indicator Progress Report - Quarter 3, 2019/20	Item 2