Dear Councillor,
In pursuance of
the provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993 and the Regulations
thereunder, notice is hereby given that an ORDINARY MEETING of Penrith
City Council is to be held remotely using audio visual links, audio streamed
and in the Council Chambers, Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith on Monday
27 May 2024 at 7:00PM.
Attention is
directed to the statement accompanying this notice of the business proposed to
be transacted at the meeting.
Yours faithfully
Andrew Moore
General Manager
BUSINESS
1. LEAVE
OF ABSENCE
2. APOLOGIES
3. CONFIRMATION
OF MINUTES
Ordinary Meeting - 29 April
2024.
4. DECLARATIONS
OF INTEREST
Pecuniary Interest (The
Act requires Councillors who declare a pecuniary interest in an item to leave
the meeting during discussion of that item)
Non-Pecuniary Conflict of
Interest – Significant and Less than Significant (The Code of
Conduct requires Councillors who declare a significant non-pecuniary conflict
of interest in an item to leave the meeting during discussion of that item)
5. ADDRESSING
COUNCIL
6. MAYORAL
MINUTES
Passing of Blacktown
Councillor, Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM.
7. NOTICES
OF MOTION TO RESCIND A RESOLUTION
8. NOTICES
OF MOTION AND QUESTIONS ON NOTICE
9. ADOPTION
OF REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATION OF COMMITTEES
Heritage Advisory Committee
Meeting - 24 April 2024.
10. DELIVERY
PROGRAM REPORTS
11. URGENT
BUSINESS
12. COMMITTEE
OF THE WHOLE
ORDINARY MEETING
Monday 27 May 2024
table of contents
ADVANCE AUSTRALIA FAIR
WEBCASTING NOTICE
STATEMENT OF RECOGNITION OF PENRITH CITY’S ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CULTURAL HERITAGE
PRAYER
COUNCIL CHAMBER seating arrangements
meeting calendar
confirmation of minutes
PROCEDURE FOR ADDRESSING COUNCIL MEETING
MAYORAL MINUTES
report and recommendations of committees
DELIVERY program reports
ADVANCE
AUSTRALIA FAIR
Australians
all let us rejoice,
For
we are one and free;
We’ve
golden soil and wealth for toil;
Our
home is girt by sea;
Our
land abounds in nature’s gifts
Of
beauty rich and rare;
In
history’s page, let every stage
Advance
Australia Fair.
In
joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance
Australia Fair.
WEBCASTING NOTICE
Please note that tonight’s meeting
other than the
confidential sessions are being recorded
and will be
placed on Council’s website. All in
attendance should
refrain from making defamatory statements.
Council
takes all care when maintaining privacy,
however
members of the public gallery and those
addressing
Council
should be aware that you may be recorded.
Statement of Recognition of
Penrith City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Cultural Heritage
Council values the unique
status of Aboriginal people as the original owners and custodians of lands and
waters, including the land and waters of Penrith City.
Council values the unique
status of Torres Strait Islander people as the original owners and custodians
of the Torres Strait Islands and surrounding waters.
We work together for a united
Australia and City that respects this land of ours, that values the diversity
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage, and provides
justice and equity for all.
PRAYER
“Sovereign God, tonight as we gather together as
a Council we affirm that you are the giver and sustainer of life. We come
together as representatives of our community to make decisions that will
benefit this city and the people within it.
We come not in a spirit of competition, not as
adversaries, but as colleagues. Help us to treat each other with respect,
with dignity, with interest and with honesty. Help us not just to hear
the words we say, but also to hear each others hearts. We seek to be wise
in all that we say and do.
As we meet, our concern is for this city. Grant
us wisdom, courage and strength.
Lord, help us. We pray this in the name of Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen.”
Council Chambers
Seating
Arrangements
For members of the public
addressing the meeting
Lectern
Directors
Clr
Mark Davies
South Ward
Clr Mark Rusev
South Ward
Clr Bernard
Bratusa
East Ward
Clr Glenn
Gardiner
North Ward
Clr Ross
Fowler OAM
North Ward
Clr Marlene Shipley
East Ward
Clr Jonathan
Pullen
North Ward
Clr Sue Day
South Ward
Clr Kevin Crameri
OAM
North Ward
Clr John Thain
North Ward
Clr Robin Cook
East Ward
Clr Karen McKeown OAM
South Ward
Directors
Oath of Office
I swear that I will undertake the duties
of the office of Councillor in the best interests of the people of Penrith and
the Penrith City Council and that I will faithfully and impartially carry out
the functions, powers, authorities and discretions
vested in me under the Local Government Act 1993 or any other Act to the best of my ability and judgment.
Affirmation of Office
I solemnly and sincerely declare and
affirm that I will undertake the duties of the office of Councillor in the best
interests of the people of Penrith and the Penrith City Council and that I will
faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in me under the Local Government Act
1993 or any other Act to the best of my ability and judgment.
Local Government Act 1993, Section
233A
2024
MEETING CALENDAR
January 2024 -
December 2024
(proposed
to be adopted by Council – 20 November 2023)
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TIME
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JAN
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FEB
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MAR
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APRIL
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MAY
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JUNE
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JULY
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AUG
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SEPT
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OCT
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NOV
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DEC
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Mon
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Ordinary
Council Meeting
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7:00pm
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29
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12
26@
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25
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29 -
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27 #
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24*
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22
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26@
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30^
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28ü
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25∞#+
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9
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Policy Review Committee
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7:00pm
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12
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3
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12
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14
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2
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-
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Meeting at which the draft corporate planning
documents (Delivery Program and Operational Plan) are endorsed for exhibition
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*
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Meeting at which the draft corporate
planning documents (Delivery Program and Operational Plan) are adopted
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#
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Meetings at which the Operational Plan quarterly
reviews (March and September) are presented
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@
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Meetings at which the Delivery Program progress
reports (including the Operational Plan quarterly reviews for December and
June) are presented
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^
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Election of Mayor and/or Deputy Mayor
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ü
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Meeting at which the 2023-24 Annual Statements are
presented
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∞
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Meeting at which any comments on the 2023-24 Annual
Statements are adopted
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+
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Meeting at which the Annual Report is presented
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>
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Briefing to consider Budget, draft fees & charges
and corporate document
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-
Extraordinary Meetings are held as required.
-
Members of the public are invited to observe meetings of
the Council (Ordinary and Policy Review Committee, Councillor Briefings are
confidential sessions).
Should you wish to
address Council, please contact Governance Manager, Adam Beggs on 4732 7597.
UNCONFIRMED MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY
MEETING OF PENRITH CITY COUNCIL HELD REMOTELY USING AUDIO VISUAL LINKS, AUDIO
STREAMED ON THE COUNCIL WEBSITE AND IN THE COUNCIL
CHAMBERS
ON MONDAY 29 APRIL 2024 AT 7:00PM
NATIONAL ANTHEM
The meeting opened with the National Anthem.
WEBCASTING STATEMENT
His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney read a
statement advising that Council Meetings are recorded and webcast.
STATEMENT OF RECOGNITION
His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney read a
statement of recognition of Penrith City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Cultural Heritage.
PRAYER
The Council Prayer was
read by Rev Christine Bayliss-Kelly.
PRESENT – IN PERSON
His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney, Deputy Mayor,
Councillor Mark Davies and Councillors Bernard Bratusa, Kevin Crameri OAM, Ross
Fowler OAM, Glenn Gardiner, Tricia Hitchen, Mark Rusev and Marlene Shipley.
PRESENT – ATTENDED REMOTELY
Councillors Robin Cook, Sue Day, Karen McKeown OAM, Jonathan
Pullen and John Thain.
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APOLOGIES
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There were no apologies.
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CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES -
Ordinary Meeting - 25 March 2024
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77 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Marlene Shipley
seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM that the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting
of 25 March 2024 be confirmed.
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DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillor Mark Rusev declared a Non-Pecuniary Conflict of
Interest – Less than Significant in Item 10 – Public Exhibition
of Penrith City Council’s Draft 2024-25 Operational Plan and Draft
2024-25 Fees and Charges, as he is a member on the Board of the Penrith CBD
Corporation. Councillor Mark Rusev stated that he would remain in the meeting
during the consideration of this matter.
Councillor Marlene
Shipley declared a Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Committee of the Whole Item
2 – Penrith Whitewater Stadium Liquidation, as she is a Director on
the Penrith Whitewater Stadium Board. Councillor Marlene Shipley stated that
she would leave the meeting during consideration of this item and would not
take part in voting or discussion on this issue.
Councillor Marlene
Shipley declared a Non-Pecuniary Conflict of Interest – Significant in Item
1 – Endorsement of the St Marys Town Centre Place Plan, as she is a
member on the board of the St Marys Town Centre. Councillor Marlene Shipley
stated that she would remain in the meeting during the consideration of this
matter.
Councillor Karen
McKeown OAM declared a Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Item 6 –
Submission on the NSW Government EIE – Improving planning processes to
deliver infrastructure faster, as she is a current Member of Parliament for
Penrith. Councillor Karen McKeown OAM stated that she would leave the meeting
during consideration of this item and would not take part in voting or
discussion on this issue.
Councillor Ross Fowler
OAM declared a Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Committee of the Whole Item
2 – Penrith Whitewater Stadium Liquidation, as he is a Director of
Penrith Whitewater Stadium. Councillor Ross Fowler OAM stated that he would
leave the meeting during consideration of this item and would not take part in
voting or discussion on this issue.
Councillor Ross Fowler
OAM declared a Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Committee of the Whole Item
3 – Sale of Land for unpaid rates and charges for 1 Twickenham Avenue,
Cambridge Park, as he is involved in the management of the property in
question. Councillor Ross Fowler OAM stated that he would leave the meeting
during consideration of this item and would not take part in voting or
discussion on the issue.
Councillor Ross Fowler
OAM declared a Pecuniary Conflict Interest in Item 10 – Public
Exhibition of Penrith City Council’s Draft 2024-25 Operational Plan and
Draft 2024-25 Fees and Charges, as he is the Auditor of the Penrith CBD
Corporation. Councillor Ross Fowler OAM stated that he would leave the meeting
during consideration of this item and would not take part in voting or
discussion on the issue.
Councillor Glenn
Gardiner declared a Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Committee of the Whole
Item 2 – Penrith Whitewater Stadium Liquidation, as he is a former
Director of Penrith Whitewater Stadium. Councillor Glenn Gardiner stated that
he would leave the meeting during consideration of this item and would not take
part in voting or discussion on this issue.
Councillor John Thain
declared a Pecuniary Conflict of Interest in Committee of the Whole Item 2
– Penrith Whitewater Stadium Liquidation, as he is a Director of
Penrith Whitewater Stadium. Councillor John Thain stated that he would leave
the meeting during consideration of this item and would not take part in voting
or discussion on this issue.
Mayoral Minutes
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1 Queen Scout Awardee
- Mitchell Boulton
Councillors Mark Davies, Karen McKeown OAM, Glenn
Gardiner and Ross Fowler OAM spoke in support of the Mayoral Minute.
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78 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Todd
Carney seconded Councillor Mark Davies that the Mayoral Minute on
Queen Scout Awardee - Mitchell Boulton be received.
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2 Passing of Colin
Kelson
Councillor Tricia Hitchen spoke in support of the
Mayoral Minute.
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79 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Todd
Carney seconded Councillor Tricia Hitchen that the Mayoral Minute on Passing
of Colin Kelson be received.
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Notices of Motion
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1 Llandilo
Drainage
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80 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM
seconded Councillor Sue Day
That:
1.
We have an urgent report to Council on the Llandilo Drainage to
include why it has taken over two years and two months and nothing has occurred.
2.
The proposed peer review of the Audit undertaken not proceed at this
stage.
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Councillor Tricia Hitchen left the meeting, the time being 7:38pm.
Reports of
Committees
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1 Report
and Recommendations of the Resilience Committee Meeting held on 20 March 2024
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81 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Rusev seconded Councillor Sue Day that the
recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Resilience
Committee meeting held on 20 March, 2024 be adopted.
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2 Report
and Recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on 8 April
2024
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82 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Rusev seconded Councillor Marlene Shipley that
the recommendations contained in the Report and Recommendations of the Local
Traffic Committee meeting held on 8 April, 2024 be adopted.
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Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM left the meeting, the time
being 7:39pm.
DELIVERY PROGRAM REPORTS
Outcome 2 - We are
welcoming, healthy, happy and connected
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1 Endorsement
of the St Marys Town Centre Place Plan
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83 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Endorsement of the St Marys Town
Centre Place Plan be received.
2. The St
Marys Town Centre Place Plan be endorsed.
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Councillor Tricia Hitchen returned to the meeting, the time
being 7:40pm.
Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM returned to the meeting, the time being 7:40pm.
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3 Request
For Major Event Sponsorship - Baseball NSW
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84 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Request For Major Event Sponsorship -
Baseball NSW be received.
2. Council
provide a total sponsorship of $7,200 (plus GST) in support of the event,
consisting of $5,000 (plus GST) to Baseball NSW and $2,200 (plus GST) to
Sports Marketing Australia Pty Ltd as a placement fee.
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4 Request
For Major Event Sponsorship - The New South Wales Netball Association Ltd
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85 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Request For Major Event Sponsorship -
The New South Wales Netball Association Ltd be received.
2. Council
endorse an investment to the total value of $15,000 in the form of direct
sponsorship of $5,000 (plus GST) and $10,000 of in kind services.
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5 RFT
2324-009- Children's Services Labour Hire Report
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86 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on RFT 2324-009- Children's Services
Labour Hire Report be received.
2. Pulse
Staffing Australia Pty Ltd, ANZUK Education Services Pty Ltd, Randstad Pty
Limited, McArthur (NSW) Pty Ltd and Expect a Star Services Pty Ltd be awarded
the contract subject to the execution of a formal agreement for
Children’s Services labour hire and upon a satisfactory financial
assessment. A panel will be created for a period of three years, with an
option to extend by Council for a further two (2) x one (1) year periods.
3. Variations
and amendments that do not materially alter the original scope of the
contract be managed under the existing Penrith City Council financial
delegations within the approved budgets.
4. The
General Manager (or their delegate) be authorised to sign all necessary legal
documents in relation to this matter.
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Having previously
declared an interest, Councillor Karen McKeown OAM left the meeting, the time
being 7:45pm.
Outcome 3 - We
plan and shape our growing City
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2 Endorsement
of Cultural Strategy and Action Plan 2024 - 2028
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87 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Marlene Shipley seconded Councillor Sue Day
That:
1. The
information contained in the report Endorsement of Cultural Strategy and
Action Plan 2024 - 2028 be received.
2. The
Cultural Strategy and Action Plan 2024 - 2028 be endorsed.
3. Council fund the
identified unfunded projects to the amount of $5,000 from each ward totalling
$15,000 per annum for the period of 4 years totalling $60,000.
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6 Submission
on the NSW Government EIE - Improving planning processes to deliver
infrastructure faster
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88 RESOLVED
on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Ross Fowler OAM
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Submission on the NSW Government EIE -
Improving planning processes to deliver infrastructure faster be received.
2. Council
endorse the Submission on the NSW Government EIE - Improving planning
processes to deliver infrastructure faster provided at Attachment 1 to this
report to submit it to DPHI for their consideration.
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Councillor Karen McKeown OAM returned to the meeting, the
time being 7:52pm.
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7 City-wide
Affordable Rental Housing Contributions Scheme
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89 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Tricia Hitchen seconded Councillor Marlene Shipley
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on City-wide Affordable Rental Housing
Contributions Scheme be received, noting the progression of a Council led
scheme.
2. A
draft Planning Proposal supporting a Council-led City-wide Affordable Rental
Housing Scheme will be prepared for Council’s future consideration.
3. Council
inform the Western Sydney Planning Partnership that it does not seek to be a
party to the Regional Affordable Housing Contribution Scheme.
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Outcome 4 - We
manage and improve our built environment
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8 Status
Report - Major Projects Regatta Park and Gipps Street, Emu Plains
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90 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Mark Rusev
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Status Report - Major Projects Regatta
Park and Gipps Street, Emu Plains be received.
2. Council
allocates $2,995,000 to the Regatta Park and Gipps Street projects in
accordance with the information contained in the body of the report.
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9 RFT23/24-021
Re-Painting & Flooring Replacement Works- Glenmore Park Childrens &
Family Centre
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91 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Mark Rusev
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on RFT23/24-021 Re-Painting &
Flooring Replacement Works- Glenmore Park Childrens & Family Centre
be received.
2. The
tender from Westbury Constructions Pty Ltd, for $219,723.00 (excluding GST)
be accepted for painting and flooring refurbishment works at Glenmore Park
Childrens and Family Centre, Glenmore Park.
3. Variations
and amendments that do not materially alter the original scope of the
contract be managed under the existing Penrith City Council financial
delegations within the approved budgets.
4. The
General Manager be authorised to sign all necessary legal documents in
relation to this matter.
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Outcome 5 - We
have open and collaborative leadership
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11 Summary
of Investments & Banking for the period 1 March 2024 to 31 March 2024
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92 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Mark Rusev
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Summary of Investments & Banking
for the period 1 March 2024 to 31 March 2024 be received.
2. The
Council’s Cash Book and Bank Statements have been reconciled as at 31
March 2024.
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Note: Councillor Ross Fowler OAM withdrew his conflict
declaration with respect to item 10 below.
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10 Public
Exhibition of Penrith City Council's Draft 2024-25 Operational Plan and Draft
2024-25 Fees and Charges
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93 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Tricia Hitchen
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Public Exhibition of Penrith City
Council's Draft 2024-25 Operational Plan and Draft 2024-25 Fees and Charges
be received.
2. In
accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and Local Government (General)
Regulation 2005, the Draft 2024-25 Operational Plan and Draft 2024-25 Fees
and Charges be placed on Public Exhibition for 28 days commencing on Monday 6
May 2024 and closing on Sunday 2 June 2024 (inclusive).
3. The Public
Exhibition arrangements are implemented as detailed in this report, and
submissions from the community are invited.
4. Council
implements a temporary 75% reduction to the outdoor dining fees for the next
12 months, commencing in the next financial year being 2024-25.
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URGENT BUSINESS
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UB 1 Nepean
Medical Research Foundation Ball
Councillor Marlene Shipley and Ross Fowler OAM declared
an interest in this matter as Cr Shipley sits on the Board and Cr Fowler OAM
is the Auditor for the organisation.
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Councillor Tricia Hitchen requested
that an amount of $1,350 be allocated from Voted Works to purchase a table at
the Nepean Medical Research Foundation Ball to be donated to volunteers.
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94 RESOLVED on the MOTION of
Councillor Tricia Hitchen seconded Councillor Mark Davies that the matter be
brought forward and dealt with as a matter of urgency.
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His Worship the Mayor,
Councillor Todd Carney ruled that the matter was urgent and should be dealt
with at the meeting.
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95 RESOLVED on the MOTION of
Councillor Tricia Hitchen seconded Councillor Mark Davies that an amount of
$1,350 be allocated from Voted Works to purchase a table at the Nepean
Medical Research Foundation Ball.
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UB 2 Opening
of Wallacia Progress Association Board
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Councillor Mark Rusev requested
that an amount of $500 be allocated from South Ward’s voted works to
cater for an afternoon tea for the opening of the Wallacia Progress
Association Board.
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96 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Rusev
seconded Councillor Karen McKeown OAM that the matter be brought forward and
dealt with as a matter of urgency.
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His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney ruled that
the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.
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97 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Rusev
seconded Councillor Karen McKeown OAM that an amount of $500 be allocated
from South Ward’s voted works to cater for an afternoon tea for the
opening of the Wallacia Progress Association Board.
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UB 3 Salvation
Army Luncheon Event
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Councillor Bernard Bratusa that
an amount of $1,000 be allocated from each Ward’s voted works to
purchase a table at the Salvation Army Luncheon event to be allocated at the
Mayor’s discretion
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98 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Bernard
Bratusa seconded Councillor Mark Davies that the matter be brought forward
and dealt with as a matter of urgency.
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His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney ruled that
the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.
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99 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Bernard
Bratusa seconded Councillor Mark Davies that an amount of $1,000 be allocated
from each Ward’s voted works to purchase a table at the Salvation Army
Luncheon event to be allocated at the Mayor’s discretion.
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UB 4 Meeting
with the Federal Minister for Infrastructure
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Councillor John Thain
requested that a report come back to Council and that the Mayor write to and
call for an urgent meeting with the Federal Minister for Infrastructure,
Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, The Hon Catherine King
MP requesting that the funding that was dumped for Western Sydney Airport be
fully restored.
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100 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain
seconded Councillor Karen McKeown OAM that the matter be brought forward and
dealt with as a matter of urgency.
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His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney ruled that
the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.
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101 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor John Thain seconded
Councillor Karen McKeown OAM that a report come back to Council and that the
Mayor write to and call for an urgent meeting with the Federal Minister for
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, The Hon
Catherine King MP requesting that the funding that was dumped for Western
Sydney Airport be fully restored
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UB 5 Residential
Parking in Thornton
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Councillor Mark Davies
requested that a report come back to a Councillor Briefing regarding the
street parking issues in Thornton and the implementation of a residential
parking scheme.
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102 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies
seconded Councillor Mark Rusev that the matter be brought forward and dealt
with as a matter of urgency.
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His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney ruled that
the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.
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103 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies
seconded Councillor Mark Rusev that a report come back to a Councillor
Briefing regarding the street parking issues in Thornton and the
implementation of a residential parking scheme.
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UB 6 Glenmore
Park Entry Maintenance
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Councillor Mark Davies
requested that the entrance to Glenmore Park off Mulgoa Road be maintained
and manicured.
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104 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies
seconded Councillor Mark Rusev that the matter be brought forward and dealt
with as a matter of urgency.
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His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney ruled that
the matter was urgent and should be dealt with at the meeting.
|
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105 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies
seconded Councillor Mark Rusev that the entrance to Glenmore Park off Mulgoa
Road be maintained and manicured.
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Committee of the
Whole
106 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Mark Rusev seconded
Councillor Glenn Gardiner that the meeting adjourn to the Committee of the
Whole to deal with the following matters, the time being 8:20pm.
1 Presence of
the Public
CW1 RESOLVED on the motion of Councillor Mark Rusev seconded
Councillor Glenn Gardiner that the press and public be excluded from Committee
of the Whole to deal with the following matters:
Outcome 5
2 Penrith
Whitewater Stadium Liquidation
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to personnel matters concerning particular
individuals and discussion of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance,
contrary to the public interest.
3 Sale
of land for unpaid rates and charges for 1 Twickenham Avenue, Cambridge Park
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to commercial information of a
confidential nature that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial
position of the person who supplied it; or (ii) confer a commercial advantage
on a competitor of the Council; or (iii) reveal a trade secret and discussion
of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public
interest.
4 Compulsory
Acquisition of Part Lot 2 DP1194378 for Public Road Purposes for the Dunheved
Road Upgrade
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to commercial information of a
confidential nature that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial
position of the person who supplied it; or (ii) confer a commercial advantage
on a competitor of the Council; or (iii) reveal a trade secret and discussion
of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public
interest.
5 Proposed
Licence over Council Land - 1 Discovery Way Jordan Springs (Lot 3000 DP
1223879)
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to commercial information of a
confidential nature that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial
position of the person who supplied it; or (ii) confer a commercial advantage
on a competitor of the Council; or (iii) reveal a trade secret and discussion
of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public
interest.
6 Proposed
Lease over Council Land - 110a Dunheved Circuit St Marys (Lot 211 DP31909)
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to information that would, if
disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is
conducting (or proposes to conduct) business and discussion of the matter in
open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.
The meeting resumed at 8:32pm and the General Manager reported that
the Committee of the Whole met at 8:20pm on Monday, 29 April 2024, the
following being present
His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Todd Carney, Deputy Mayor,
Councillor Mark Davies and Councillors Bernard Bratusa, Robin Cook, Kevin
Crameri OAM, Sue Day, Ross Fowler OAM, Glenn Gardiner, Tricia Hitchen, Karen
McKeown OAM, Jonathan Pullen, Mark Rusev, Marlene Shipley and John Thain.
and the
Committee of the Whole excluded the press and public from the meeting for the
reasons set out in CW1 and that the Committee of the Whole submitted the
following recommendations to Council.
CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS
Having previously declared an interest, Councillors Ross
Fowler OAM, Glenn Gardiner, Marlene Shipley and John Thain left the meeting,
the time being 8:21pm.
|
2 Penrith
Whitewater Stadium Liquidation
|
|
107 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Tricia Hitchen seconded Councillor Jonathan Pullen
CW2 That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Penrith Whitewater Stadium Liquidation
be received.
2. Council
make the funds available to the PWS Ltd liquidator for the reasons outlined
in the report.
|
Councillors Glenn Gardiner, Marlene Shipley and John Thain
returned to the meeting, the time being 8:27pm.
|
3 Sale
of land for unpaid rates and charges for 1 Twickenham Avenue, Cambridge Park
|
|
108 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM seconded Councillor Mark Davies
CW3 That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Sale of land for unpaid rates and
charges for 1 Twickenham Avenue, Cambridge Park be received.
2. Council
endorses the sale of land for overdue rates and charges.
3. Council
delegate to the General Manager any such powers as required to facilitate the
sale of land in accordance with the legislation, including powers to execute
all necessary documents and set the auction reserve price in accordance with
the independent valuation.
|
Councillor Ross Fowler OAM returned to the meeting, the time
being 8:29pm.
|
4 Compulsory
Acquisition of Part Lot 2 DP1194378 for Public Road Purposes for the Dunheved
Road Upgrade
|
|
109 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Mark Rusev
CW4 That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Compulsory Acquisition of Part Lot 2
DP1194378 for Public Road Purposes for the Dunheved Road Upgrade be received.
2. The
following land be acquired by agreement under the Land Acquisition (Just
terms Compensation) Act 1991 (NSW) by authority contained in the Roads Act
1993 (NSW) for the purposes of the Dunheved Road Upgrades:
a. Proposed acquisition
Lot 21 DP1295267, being part Lot 2 DP1194378 and having an area of 506.9sqm.
3. The land
be acquired in accordance with the monetary terms referred to in this report.
4. Minerals
and existing easements be excluded from the acquisition.
5. Upon
acquisition, Council dedicates the land as public road in accordance with
Section 10 of the Roads Act 1993 (NSW).
6. The
Common Seal of the Council of the City of Penrith be affixed to all documents
as required, and the General Manager be authorised to sign all necessary
legal documents in relation to this matter.
|
|
5 Proposed
Licence over Council Land - 1 Discovery Way Jordan Springs (Lot 3000 DP
1223879)
|
|
110 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Mark Rusev
CW5 That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Proposed Licence over Council Land - 1
Discovery Way Jordan Springs (Lot 3000 DP 1223879) be received.
2. Council
supports the proposed licence over Lot 3000 DP1223879, on the terms and
conditions detailed within this report.
3. The
funds received be allocated to the Property Reserve.
4. The Common
Seal of the Council of the City of Penrith be affixed to all documents as
required, and the General Manager (or his delegate) be authorised to sign all
necessary legal documents in relation to this matter.
|
|
6 Proposed
Lease over Council Land - 110a Dunheved Circuit St Marys (Lot 211 DP31909)
|
|
111 RESOLVED on the
MOTION of Councillor Mark Davies seconded Councillor Mark Rusev
CW6 That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Proposed Lease over Council Land -
110a Dunheved Circuit St Marys (Lot 211 DP31909) be received.
2. Council
enters the proposed lease over Lot 211 DP31909, on the terms and conditions
detailed within this report, noting the suggestions made by Councillors in
Committee.
3. All
funds received from the lease be allocated to the Property Reserve.
4. The
Common Seal of the Council of the City of Penrith be affixed to all documents
as required, and the General Manager (or his delegate) be authorised to sign
all necessary legal documents in relation to this matter.
|
ADOPTION OF
Committee of the Whole
112 RESOLVED on the MOTION of Councillor Glenn Gardiner
seconded Councillor Mark Rusev that the recommendations contained in the
Committee of the Whole and shown as CW1, CW2, CW3, CW4, CW5 and CW6 be adopted.
There being no further business the Chairperson declared the
meeting closed the time being 8:36pm.
PENRITH
CITY COUNCIL
Procedure for Addressing Meetings
Anyone can request permission to address a
meeting, providing that the number of speakers is limited to three in support
of any proposal and three against.
Any request about an issue or matter on the
Agenda for the meeting can be lodged with the General Manager or Public Officer
up until 12 noon on the day of the meeting.
Prior to the meeting the person who has
requested permission to address the meeting will need to provide the Public
Officer with a written statement of the points to be covered during the address
in sufficient detail so as to inform the Councillors of the substance of the
address and a written copy of any questions to be asked of the Council in order
that responses to those questions can be provided in due course.
In addition, prior to addressing the
meeting a person addressing Council or Committee will be informed that they do
not enjoy any privilege and that permission to speak may be withdrawn should
they make inappropriate comments.
It should be noted that persons who wish to
address the Council are addressing a formal part of the Council Meeting. All
persons addressing the Meeting should give consideration to their dress attire.
Smart casual is a minimum that is thought to be appropriate when addressing
such a forum.
It should be noted that speakers at
meetings of the Council or Committee do not have absolute privilege
(parliamentary privilege). A speaker who makes any potentially offensive
or defamatory remarks about any other person may render themselves open to
legal action.
Prior to addressing the meeting the person
will be required to sign the following statement:
“I (name) understand that the meeting
I intend to address on (date) is a public meeting. I also understand that
should I say or present any material that is inappropriate, I may be subject to
legal action. I also acknowledge that I have been informed to obtain my
own legal advice about the appropriateness of the material that I intend to
present at the above mentioned meeting”.
Should a person fail to sign the above
statement then permission to address either the Council or Committee will not
be granted.
The Public Officer or Minute Clerk will
speak to those people who have requested permission to address the meeting,
prior to the meeting at 6.45pm.
It is up to the Council or Committee to
decide if the request to address the meeting will be granted.
Where permission is to be granted the
Council or Committee, at the appropriate time, will suspend only so much of the
Standing Orders to allow the address to occur.
The Chairperson will then call the person
up to the lectern or speaking area.
The person addressing the meeting needs to
clearly indicate:
· Their name;
· Organisation or group they are representing (if
applicable);
· Details of the issue to be addressed and the item
number of the report in the Business Paper;
· Whether they are opposing or supporting the issue or
matter (if applicable) and the action they would like the meeting to take;
· The interest of the speaker
(e.g. affected person, neighbour, applicant, applicants
spokesperson, interested citizen etc).
Each person then has five minutes to make
their address. Those addressing Council will be required to speak to the
written statement they have submitted. Permission to address Council is
not to be taken as an opportunity to refute or otherwise the points made by
previous speakers on the same issue.
The Council or Committee can extend this
time if they consider if appropriate, however, everyone needs to work on the
basis that the address will be for five minutes only.
Councillors may have questions about the
address so people are asked to remain at the lectern or in the speaking area
until the Chairperson has thanked them.
When this occurs, they should then return
to their seat.
Adam Beggs
Public Officer
02 4732 7597
Ordinary
Meeting 27
May 2024
Mayoral
Minute
Passing of
Blacktown Councillor, Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM
It is with great sadness that I
note the passing of Blacktown Mayor, Councillor Tony Bleasdale OAM. Tony came
to Australia from the UK in 1963 and worked as a bricklayer, later starting his
own labour hire business. He worked for nearly 40 years in the building
industry, forging many friendships along the way.
Tony was first elected to Council
in November 1996 serving several terms before becoming Mayor of Blacktown City
in October 2019. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in
the Queen’s Birthday 2010 Honours List for his service to the community
as a supporter of charitable organisations, and for his contribution to local
government in the Blacktown City area.
Tony loved serving the community
and was a strong advocate for Western Sydney. During his time on Blacktown
Council, he was the driving force behind many community projects including the
$2 billion Walker Corporation Blacktown Quarter project.
On behalf of my fellow
Councillors and the community of Penrith, I’d like to offer my deepest
sympathy to Tony’s wife Nina, his children, extended family, and his
colleagues. Tony will be dearly missed.
Councillor
Todd Carney
Mayor of
Penrith
RECOMMENDATION
That the Mayoral Minute on Passing of Blacktown Councillor,
Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM be received.
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Ordinary
Meeting 27
May 2024
REPORT AND
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE
Heritage Advisory Committee
MEETING
HELD ON 24 April, 2024
PRESENT
Councillor Ross Fowler OAM (Chair), Councillor Mark Rusev
(online), Eleanor Banaag (online), David Gordon, Beth Moore, Phil Martin, and
Wendy Herne.
Peter Wood, Penrith City Council (PCC) and Alison Veron
(PCC).
|
APOLOGIES
|
|
That the apologies from Dr James Broadbent AM, Brian
Cartwright, and Dr Rowan Day were accepted.
|
|
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES -
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting - 13 December 2023
|
|
That the minutes of the Heritage Advisory Committee
Meeting of 13 December 2023 were confirmed.
|
Committee member Phil Martin asked question regarding
Plaques and Interpretive Signage paper from 13 December 2023. Development
Servies Manager (DSM) advised the Strategy is being implemented with current
approved projects. Need to seek funding for establishing projects for Luddenham
Monument, Beecroft Corner and Regatta Park. DSM encouraged the Committee to
look at grant funding / research for these projects. This will require an
ongoing effort to formulate a project.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Nil.
DELIVERY PROGRAM REPORTS
Outcome 3 - We
plan and shape our growing City
|
1 Update
on Fernhill Estate
Committee member Phil Martin
asked question regarding Plaques and Interpretive Signage paper from 13
December 2023. Development Servies Manager (DSM) advised the Strategy is
being implemented with current approved projects. Need to seek funding for
establishing projects for Luddenham Monument, Beecroft Corner and Regatta
Park. DSM encouraged the Committee to look at grant funding / research for
these projects. This will require an ongoing effort to formulate a project.
|
|
RECOMMENDED
That the information contained in the report on Update
on Fernhill Estate be received.
|
|
2 Update
on 2023/2024 Heritage Assistance Funding
DSM shared a presentation and
gave an update on the 2023/2024 Heritage Assistance Funding (HAF). Slow
uptake on works being completed. Three proposals have been completed to date,
with two located in Lemongrove Conservation area, and St Marys Magdalene Church
Hall, Cemetery and Grounds. DSM and PCC Heritage Advisory Otto Cserhalmi
undertook a site inspection at St Marys Magdalene Church on 24 April 2024,
good outcome of the works.
Phil Martin comment that this
site has the most important historically significance in Penrith Local
Government Area.
Eleanore requested if the
Stonemason could provide a report of the works undertaken and treatment, this
report could be used for future work for treatment aspects.
Councillor Ross Fowler asked
questions if a POM could be provided with what other works would need to be
undertaken at the site.
Follow-up correspondence to all
approved applicants with a commitment of the funding which will otherwise
expire in June 2025.
|
|
RECOMMENDED
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Update on 2023/2024 Heritage
Assistance Funding be received.
2. Letters be
sent to those applicants for current financial year funding yet to complete
works as a reminder of obligations and timeframes.
|
GENERAL BUSINESS
|
GB 1 Plaques
and Interpretive Signage
|
|
Councillor Ross Fowler OAM
would like to see the Plaques and Interpretive Signage implemented. DSM
mentioned that designs are available. PCC currently has on exhibition for
expression of interest for Suppliers of the approved designs. This will be
for all signs across the whole of the City. DSM mentioned to the Committee to
keep eye out for any grant funding for signage. The Explorers Monument at
Luddenham could possibly qualify for the Blue Plaques Grant through NSW
Heritage.
|
|
UB 2 No.
11 Nepean Street, Emu Plains (Gwandalan House)
|
|
Beth Moore spoke about Walkers
Home at Emu Plains and asked if this property would fit the criteria for HAF
assistance. The fencing around the property and gates have the property name
on the gates. DSM recommended a site visit with PCC Heritage Advisory
Consultant. Contact Danielle Embelton in the Library, she could assist with
all historical photographs of the property. DSM recommended Ian Stapleton
book called Colour schemes for older Australian houses.
|
There being no further business the Chairperson declared the
meeting closed the time being 6:13pm.
RECOMMENDATION
That the recommendations contained in the Report and
Recommendations of the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting held on 24 April,
2024 be adopted.
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LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
THIS PAGE HAS BEEN
LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Ordinary
Meeting 27
May 2024
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1
|
Community Funding Program -
Request for Public Exhibition
|
|
Compiled by: Luca
Chudleigh, Senior Social Strategy Officer
Patricia
Gonzalez, Social Strategy Program Manager
Sophia
Purtell, Social Strategy Officer
Authorised
by: Megan Whittaker,
City Activation, Community and Place Manager
Jeni
Pollard, Manager - City Resilience
Kylie
Powell, Director - City Futures
|
Outcome
|
We are welcoming, healthy, happy, creative and
connected
|
|
Strategy
|
Enhance community wellbeing, safety and neighbourhood
amenity
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Work with government and community organisations to
address local issues and improve the capacity and social wellbeing of the
community
|
Previous
Items: Review of
Event Sponsorship Policy and Community Grants Program - Councillor Briefing- 18
Sep 2023 7:00PM
Community
Funding Program and Event Sponsorship Policy- Councillor Briefing - 22 Apr 2024
Executive Summary
This report seeks endorsement for the public exhibition of the
draft Community Funding Program following its review to establish a more
cohesive and streamlined approach to providing grants for community wellbeing
outcomes. The public exhibition will involve exhibition of the Community
Funding Program Policy and Grant Guidelines associated with five (5) grants.
Council provides grants to improve social and cultural
outcomes for Penrith’s residents and contribute to stronger and more
connected communities. Grants distributed through the Community Funding Program
are distributed with the expectation of a social or community well-being
outcome.
Council officers have undertaken a review of the community
grants available, extensively engaging with past recipients of funds, community
sector organisations and volunteer groups as well as a desk top review of best
practice across Local Government.
This matter was last reported at the 22 April 2024 Councillor
Briefing, where Council Officers sought feedback on the proposed Community
Funding Program including the overall framework and grant guidelines. This
report outlines the proposed approach to community funding including the
development of 3 grant streams, Stronger Communities, Safer Communities and
Vibrant Communities with a total of 5 grants across the streams.
The report recommends that the information be received, and
that Council endorse the public exhibition of the Community Funding Program for
28 days.
Background
Council has a long history of delivering community
grants that support social and cultural outcomes within the Penrith Local
Government Area. Community grants deliver on Council’s strategic
objectives whilst strengthening our connections with community and volunteer
groups. These grants support community wellbeing through:
· Fostering
community participation and building social and cultural connections.
· Responding
to local issues and priority areas of need.
· Providing
accessible and inclusive opportunities for community members who are considered
vulnerable.
· Leveraging
outcomes beyond the capability of Council to deliver alone.
Council currently has seven (7) different funding
opportunities all managed differently. Some are non-competitive rounds with
different open and close times, assessment criteria and reporting requirements.
A review was undertaken in response to initial community
and internal feedback that identified inefficiencies and inequity and a need
to streamline the program to allow greater access to the available funding and
greater flexibility to respond to changing community needs. In addition,
greater transparency and accountability were also identified as key factors
driving the need for a review.
Councillors have received a number of briefings
regarding the review of community funding::
· Councillor
Briefing 18 September 2023 where Councillors supported:
o refinement
of the Community Funding Program and conducting stakeholder engagement to
inform program review and gather feedback.
o a
review of historical funding, into new or expanded open and competitive offers,
and to discuss this change with individual recipients of the grant funds; and
o to
reallocate funds from the Events Sponsorship Program to the Community Funding
Program in support of a local events grant.
· Councillor
Briefing 22 April 2024 confirming outcomes of the stakeholder engagement held
over November 2023 to February 2024 and the approach to the Community Funding
Program.
Engagement
In reviewing community funding, officer undertook
research into best practice across Local Government an the NSW State Government
Grant Administrators Guide.
Alongside the research, Council Officer undertook
significant community engagement with activities between 20 November 2023 to 29
February 2024 including:
· One
on one meetings with 12 recipients of non-competitive grants whose funds are proposed
to be redirected to create new or expanded grant opportunities
· Three
(3) workshops including two (2) workshops with external stakeholders
· An
information sheet providing an overview of the proposed framework
· A
Your Say page encouraging feedback
· An
email containing the information sheet and link to the Your Say page, sent to
over 700 stakeholders including: past recipients, applicants and community
sector networks.
We heard from 55 stakeholders through the following
channels:
· 12
one to one meetings, majority held as face-to-face meetings, with all of the
impacted stakeholders currently receiving closed, non-competitive grants
· 18
Your Say surveys completed
· 22
Community and Creative sector stakeholders attended workshops
· 3
phone discussions.
The outcomes of the engagement with the 12 impacted
recipients currently receiving closed grants demonstrated support for the
changes overall with many stating the changes seem reasonable. Other feedback
received during these one-on-one meetings included:
· Appreciation
and thanks for the funding provided by Council over the years
· A
need to differentiate social vs creative grant assessment criteria
· Other
support, apart from financial support, which Council could provide
including:
o promotional
opportunities
o low
cost or free hire of community halls for performances / practice space
o space
to support storage needs, and
o opportunities
to attend and present at Civic events e.g. Performances at Council led events.
Feedback identified through engagement with the broader
stakeholder group included:
· A
need for better communication about all grants with some community members
confirming they are not always aware of when grants open / close
· A
need to increase minimum funding amounts, in part, due to the increase in costs
of goods and services and a recognition that larger funding amounts, deliver
larger scale projects and programs with greater impacts
· That
community programs and workshops are the more likely activities applicants seek
funding to deliver
· Low
costs or free hire of community halls, and
· Multi-year
funding should be considered to allow organisations to plan year to year and
deliver greater impacts through multi-year programs.
The proposed Community Funding Program
In response to many of the issues raised through the
engagement process including Councillor feedback, the proposed Community
Funding Program delivers a fair, equitable and transparent program. The program
proposes increases in minimum funding amounts as well as access to funding
opportunities to a greater number of community groups and volunteer organisations.
It also increases flexibility and adaptability responding to areas of community
needs on a year-to-year basis.
Furthermore, the program aligns with principles
identified in the NSW Government, Grants Administration Guidelines ensuring our
program has a strong foundation in the principles of governance, accountability
and probity.
The revised Community Funding Program proposes three (3)
streams and five (5) grants in total. The three (3) streams and their purpose
are:
Stream 1: Stronger Communities:
Supports local organisations and community groups to deliver
activities and programs that
improve the overall wellbeing of residents and strengthens
the community of Penrith.
Stream 2: Creative Communities:
Supports local organisations, community groups and artists
to deliver creative placemaking
and artistic initiatives and projects that strengthen
cultural or creative outcomes for our local
community.
Stream 3: Vibrant Communities:
Events developed and delivered locally that support social
cohesion and community
wellbeing.
The five (5) grants, their purpose, funding available,
total funding amounts per grant and funding rounds per year are introduced in
the below table:
|
Stream Name
|
Grant Name
|
Grant Purpose
|
Grant Funding
|
Total Funding Amount per
Grant
|
Frequency
|
|
Stronger Communities
|
Thriving Communities Grant
(Previously named Community Assistance Program)
|
Focuses on community wellbeing programs and projects.
|
$92,376
(from 2026-27 – to be phased over coming 3 year
period)
|
Up to $2,500 per individual group or up to $5,000 for
partnerships
|
2 rounds per year
|
|
Safe Communities – Domestic and Family Violence
Grant
|
A new grant focused on domestic and family violence
initiatives, aligning with the recently endorsed Community Safety Plan.
|
$20,000
(from 2024-25 – 3 year pilot program only)
|
Up to $2,500 per individual group
of up to $5,000 for partnerships
|
1 round per year
|
|
Creative Communities
|
Magnetic Place Grant
|
Supports local organisations, community groups and
artists to deliver creative placemaking and artistic initiatives and projects
that strengthen cultural or creative outcomes for our local community.
|
$50,000
|
Up to $15,000
|
1 round per year
|
|
Local Creativity Grant
|
A new grant created from ‘Subsidies to
Bands’ funds, focused on artistic and creative outcomes for community
enjoyment.
|
$23,500 from 2025-26
|
Up to $5,000
|
1 round per year
|
|
Vibrant Communities
|
Local Events Grant
|
A new grant created from event sponsorship funding
supporting smaller scale local events which deliver social outcomes rather
than economic outcomes.
|
$20,000
|
Up to $1,000 for small scale events or up to $5,000
for matched fund events
|
2 rounds per year
|
Apart from Year 1, 2024-25, all five (5) grants will
open at the same time, with Round 1 applications opening July and Round 2
opening February, annually. Year 1 (2024-2025) timelines are expected to differ
slightly due to the public exhibition period.
From 2024-2025 the Community Funding Program is valued
at $205,876 with $40,000 being funding sourced from reallocation of current
operating budgets, as follows:
· $20,000
from the Events Sponsorship Program (for the new Local Events Grant), and
· $20,000
from the Community Safety budget (for the new Safe Communities: Domestic &
Family Violence Grant).
Approvals Process
As a response to the request to streamline the grant
administration process, the approval pathway for grants has also been reviewed.
The Local Government Act (1993) gives Council the authority to approve grants
or other forms of financial assistance and allows Council, by resolution, to
delegate this role to the General Manager or a senior manager.
To ensure grant recipients can access funds in the
timeliest way and processes are streamlined, it is proposed that 4 streams are
approved under delegated authority by the General Manager.
The following grants are proposed to be approved by
delegated authority:
· Thriving
Communities Grant
· Safe
Communities: Domestic & Family Violence Grant
· Local
Creativity Grant
· Local
Events Grant.
Councillors will be informed of successful recipients of
the four streams above via a six-monthly memo.
Given the value of the Magnetic Places Grant it which
supports applications up to a value of $15,000 it is proposed that this stream will
continue to be reported to Council for consideration.
All streams and associated grants will be delivered to
ensure efficiencies, coordination and ownership. The new framework introduced
above will allow Council to be flexible, responding to future emerging needs by
supporting and enabling new grants to be formed under existing funding
streams. Furthermore, at the time of opening grant rounds, we will
consider immediate priorities and adjust grants to align with the emerging,
evidence-based needs of the community.
In addition, Council officers will investigate
opportunities for a celebratory event to bring together successful grant
recipients and Councillors, recognising the value of the grants and the work
produced by grant recipients for the benefit of the Penrith community.
Financial
Implications
All costs associated with the public exhibition of the
Community Funding Program will be funded within existing operational budgets.
Should the proposed Community Funding Program be adopted
by Council, funding will be reallocated from within existing City Activation
Community and Place budgets through a phased in approach. Adjustments will
include a reallocation of $40,000 from City Activation Community and Place
operational budgets, $20,000 from the Events Sponsorship Program and $20,000
from the Community Safety Program. The full value of the Community Funding
Program of $205,876 will be realised in 2026/2027 after funding allocations associated
with closed non-competitive grant recipients is completed.
Risk Implications
There are no risks associated with the public exhibition of
the Community Funding Program key documents which include the Community Funding
Program Policy and its associated Grant Guidelines.
Conclusion
The proposed Community Funding Program responds to internal
and external feedback, aligns with key principles of the NSW State Government
Grant Administration Guide, delivering a well-structured framework which allows
transparency and flexibility into the future.
Public exhibition of the Community Funding Program is sought
for 28 days to provide a further opportunity for community and key stakeholders
to review and provide comment on the proposed direction and actions.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Community Funding Program - Request for
Public Exhibition be received.
2. Council endorse
the Community Funding Program for 28 days of public exhibition.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
Community Funding Program Policy
|
8 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
2. ⇩
|
Grants Guidelines - Thriving Communities
|
4 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
3. ⇩
|
Grants Guidelines - Safe Communities - Domestic and Family
Violence Grant
|
5 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
4. ⇩
|
Grants Guidelines - Local Creativity Grant
|
3 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
5. ⇩
|
Grant Guidelines - Magnetic Places
|
4 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
6. ⇩
|
Grant Guidelines - Local Events Grant
|
4 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
2
|
City Centre Corporations
Service Level Agreements 2024-2027
|
|
Compiled by: Beau
Reid, Place and Activations Program Manager
Authorised
by: Megan
Whittaker, City Activation, Community and Place Manager
Jeni
Pollard, Manager - City Resilience
Kylie
Powell, Director - City Futures
|
Outcome
|
We are welcoming, healthy, happy, creative and
connected
|
|
Strategy
|
Enhance community wellbeing, safety and
neighbourhood amenity
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Work in partnership to support the revitalisation
of the Penrith, St Marys and Kingswood centres
|
Executive Summary
Penrith City Council works with the Boards of the Penrith CBD
Corporation (PCBDC) and St Marys Town Centre Corporation (SMTCC) to jointly
manage the city centres to support their ongoing vitality and viability.
As per the current Service Level Agreements between Council
and the City Centre Corporations, a three-year review of the activities and
PCBDC and SMTCC was undertaken by independent auditors, Grant Thorton. The
review involved the assessment and analysis of the operations of the respective
City Centre Corporations over the past three years and areas for improvement of
both the Corporations and Council.
The Grant Thorton report recommended a number of actions
outlined to be implemented to improve the City Centre Corporations operations
and reporting and changes to the KPI framework, in order to streamline and
better focus the activities of the City Centre Corporations and Council in the
management of our key centres. Councillors were briefed on the findings of the
report on 22 April 2024.
Council officers have worked collaboratively with both City
Centre Corporations on the development of new Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
and Key Performance Indicators for the following 3 years from 1 July 2024 to 30
June 2027.
The report recommends the endorsement of new Service Level
Agreements between Council and both the Penrith CBD Corporation and St Marys
Town Centre Corporation for a 3-year period from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2027.
Background
The City Centre Corporations work with property owners,
business and community in the centres to support business resilience and
promote a positive image of our business districts. The City Centre Corporations
play an important role at a local level, working with Council and businesses in
delivering effective events, programs and initiatives to support economic
activity and encourage continued growth in the local economy.
The City Centre Corporations are limited by guarantee and
their remit applies to a defined city centre area. Funding for the City Centre Corporations
is collected by Council through a special levy included as a Business
Sub-Category rate, from all Business Category property owners in the defined
area earmarked to promote the development of the city centre. This funding is
provided to the City Centre Corporations based on Council’s satisfaction
with the Service Level Agreement and activities proposed.
Council created the Penrith CBD Corporation (PCBDC) and St
Marys Town Centre Corporation (SMTCC) in 2013, replacing the previous city/town
centre associations with incorporated entities in order to support best
governance and maintenance practices. In developing the new City Centre
Corporations, Council was cognisant of the need to provide a guiding structure
for their activities that respected transparent management of public funds
whilst enabling responsive decision making. To facilitate this, Council and the
City Centre Corporations entered into a Service Level Agreements that required
them to develop a Triennial Business Plan that would articulate their overall
strategic direction, with an annual report to Council on their progress.
According to the Service Level Agreement between Council and
the City Centre Corporations, every three years an independent review of their
performance is required to be undertaken in the final year of the agreement
term.
Council entered into a Service Level Agreement with both City
Centre Corporations on 1 July 2020 for a three-year period to 30 June 2023.
This was extended for a further 12-month period to 30 June 2024, in order to
work with the City Centre Corporations to incorporate the findings of the
review in the new SLAs.
Triennial Impact Review of City Centre Corporations
2020 – 2023
As per the Service Level Agreements between Council and
the City Centre Corporations, a three-year review (the Review) of the
activities of PCBDC and SMTCC was undertaken by independent auditors, Grant
Thorton. The review involved the assessment and analysis of the operations of
the respective City Centre Corporations over the past three years and outlined
a number of recommendations to improve operations and reporting.
The draft report was briefed to Councillors on 10 July
2023, and the review completed in September 2023. The final review report was
provided to Councillors at a 22 April 2024 Councillor Briefing. This has
allowed sufficient time for detailed discussion with Council, and for the City
Centre Corporation boards to consider the findings of the review and their
strategic approach to the preparation of new SLAs.
Further information on key findings and recommendations
is provided below.
Key Findings
Common findings for both City Centre Corporations
outlined opportunities for improvement in:
· Accountability
mechanisms – the rationalisation of KPIs to measure what matters,
including specific and measurable targets aligned to City Centre Corporations
objectives, supporting clear reporting timeframes and expectations, and
including review mechanisms within Deeds of Agreement.
· Corporate
governance – being clearer on the roles and responsibilities of the board
as prescribed within Board Charters, establishing conflict management policy
and protocols and ensuring ongoing training for board members.
· Procurement
practices – having a procurement policy and more formal procurement
procedures for such areas as quotations and approval delegations.
The Review identified that while established processes
are in place to manage the ongoing operations of the City Centre Corporations,
a number of improvements were identified to strengthen business processes and
frameworks to ensure transparent and accountable operations of the City Centre Corporations,
that align back to their corporate objectives and provide community impact.
Key Recommendations
Grant Thornton has made a number of recommendations
following their review. These are summarised below:
1. Uplifting
accountability mechanisms including updating the Service Level Agreements with
review mechanisms.
2. Reviewing the
design of the KPI framework with a view to rationalising and ensuing they are
specific and measurable and link to the strategic intention and objectives of
the City Centre Corporations. This involves both Council and the City Centre Corporations
viewing opportunities for improvement.
3. Improving
corporate governance and procurement with Grant Thornton providing the City
Centre Corporations with recommendations for business improvements in systems,
policy and procedures, for example development of conflict management guidance,
procurement policy and business rules, and strengthening board
training.
Council officers have worked to incorporate the
recommendations of Grant Thornton into the proposed Service Level Agreements
and Key Performance Indicator Framework for 2024 - 2027, detailed in this
report. Work also continues with the City Centre Corporations to strengthen
business systems, processes and policy in the areas of governance and
procurement.
Key Performance Indicators for City Centre
Corporations 2024 - 2027
Following the completion of the Triennial Impact Review,
Council officers engaged with both City Centre Corporations and held a meeting
in November 2023 to discuss and agree on an approach to Key Performance
Indicator (KPI) development that responds to current and emerging opportunities
and needs of the Penrith and St Marys city centres.
Using this information officers developed a potential
approach and KPI Framework for consideration by the City Centre Corporations
which is found at Attachment 1. This document was provided, discussed and the
approach agreed following a presentation to the City Centre Corporations in
November 2023.
Responding to the findings of the Triennial Review
regarding connecting KPIs to strategic intention, the agreed approach sets out
and confirms the development of KPIs occurs in the context of a clear program
purpose, understanding the following:
· Vision
– strategic intention and long-term aspiration
· Objectives
– the areas of focus for the City Centre Corporations activities
· Guiding
Principles – offering guidance on how the City Centre Corporations are to
determine their activities
· Principal
Activities – activities to be delivered within funding against vison,
objectives and guiding principles – these activities are reflected in
specific KPIs.
The revised objectives as agreed with both City Centre Corporations
are as follows:
|
Objective
|
Description
|
|
1. Strong
Governance and Forward Planning
|
The Corporation is managed in accordance with good
governance process and developed responsive plans for the future
|
|
2. Collaborative
Approach
|
The Corporation engages with businesses, Council and
community in determining its priorities
|
|
3. Positive
Promotion
|
Delivering activities that contribute to awareness of
the City Centre and drive economic activity and visitation
|
|
4. Enhancing Place
Appeal
|
Delivering activities that contribute to fostering
strong place appeal in the City Centre through private works with property
owners and tenants
|
|
5. Engaged and
Informed Businesses
|
Delivering activities that engage business and property
owners and support dissemination of relevant information
|
The delivery of specific activities is to be informed by
the agreed guiding principles:
|
Guiding Principle
|
Description
|
|
Reactive to Market Needs
Required
|
Funding to be directed towards activities that address
market gaps, have capacity to achieve things collectively that businesses
alone could not, and are informed by business engagement
|
|
Complementary Activities
Required
|
Funding to be directed to activities that are complementary
and additive to activities of Council and local business
|
|
Broad Benefits
Required
|
Funding to be directed a diverse range of activities
that deliver broad benefits to the City Centre
|
|
Balanced Spread of Activity
Required
|
Funding should be directed to activities with a
balanced geographic spread of impact and to different activity
clusters/business types
|
|
Activated Places
Desirable
|
Where possible within budget allocation, funding
should support local events and activations in the City Centre that reflect
the diverse interests of the community
|
Agreed Key Performance Indicator Framework for 2024 -
2027
With consideration to the above and informed by the
recommendations of the review, the City Centre Corporations and Council agreed
to develop KPIs, using the following approach:
· Core
Indicators which are set for the whole 3 year period, and
· Activity
Based Indicators that are set for 12 months and are responsive to market need
and local emerging opportunities, as outlined below.
|
Core Indicators
3-Year
|
Activity Based
Indicators
Reviewed every 12 months
|
|
Focused on:
· Business
Governance Practices
· Business
Performance and Reporting
· Business
Strategy and Operational Planning
· Collaborative
Approach
|
Focused on:
· Positive
Promotion
· Enhancing
Place Appeal
· Engaged
and Informed Businesses
|
Through stakeholder engagement undertaken by Grant
Thorton, including consultation with businesses and property owners, feedback
indicated a desire for the City Centre Corporations to respond to business
needs and be representative of the range of businesses in the town centres.
The City Centre Corporations were encouraged to measure
the success of service activities via a mix of quantitative and qualitative
measures dependent on the activity, including satisfaction measures (of
business / property owners / consumers) and flow on impact (e.g. clicks/
engagement rate on marketing campaigns or website).
Penrith CBD Corporation - Proposed Key Performance
Indicators 2024 – 2027
The Penrith CBD Corporation have used the KPI Framework
to prepare their KPIs for the 3-year period 2024 – 2027 with Core
Indicators covering all 4 areas of Business Governance Practices, Business
Performance and Reporting, Business Strategy and Operational Planning and
Collaborative Approaches.
The proposed Activity Based Measures support growing
positive promotion, place appeal and informed businesses and reflect a program
of work similar to previous years, including the following:
· Maintaining
a focus on business-to-business connection via a regular networking program
· Local
promotional initiatives including digital and print media
· An
annual information seminar to promote investment and future directions for the
City Centre
· Offering
workshops and skills training to interested businesses
· Working
with property owners and businesses to improve the street appeal of their
premises.
The Penrith CBD Corporation has committed to undertaking
ongoing engagement and satisfaction measurement with businesses and
participants to provide insights and reflections to inform their ongoing
program, and the opportunity exists to see this further reflected in Year 2 Activity
Based Indicators.
The proposed KPI Framework for the Penrith CBD
Corporation for the 2024-2027 period is provided at Attachment 2.
St Marys Town Centre Corporation - Proposed Key
Performance Indicators 2024 – 2027
The St Marys Town Centre Corporation have used the KPI
Framework to prepare their KPIs for the 3 year period 2024 – 2027 with
Core Indicators covering all 4 areas of Business Governance Practices, Business
Performance and Reporting, Business Strategy and Operational Planning and
Collaborative Approaches.
The proposed Activity Based Measures support growing
positive promotion, place appeal and informed businesses. Key initiatives of
the St Marys Town Centre Corporation identified in the proposed KPI Framework include
the following:
· Working
in collaboration with Council on projects identified in the St Marys Place
Plan, such as a town centre map, expansion of the St Marys Street Art Trail,
activation of vacant shopfronts and expansion of the façade improvement
project
· Regularly
engaging and gathering feedback from businesses through a pulse check survey to
identify improvements, opportunities and place perception
· Delivering
workshops and training opportunities
· Delivering
local community events and activations to drive visitation, including the St
Marys Spring Festival and seasonal promotional events.
Opportunity exists to review the Activity Based
Indicators at the 12-month mark in light of issues emerging as a result of the
St Marys Place Plan, progress of other key infrastructure and planning work and
ongoing stakeholder engagement.
The proposed KPI Framework for the St Marys Town Centre
Corporation for the 2024-2027 period is provided at Attachment 3.
Financial
Implications
Council collects funds under the Business Sub-Category Rate
and pays the Rates collected to the Corporations in accordance with their
Agreement so that it can fulfil the objectives and agreed outcomes of the city
centres.
A formal, independent review of the performance of the
Corporations in achieving their business plans is required in the third year of
the agreement and prior to entering into each new agreement. The next review
will take place in 3 years’ time.
Risk Implications
The Service Level Agreement and Key Performance Indicator
Framework provides a clear framework as to the expectations and intended
deliverables of both the City Centre Corporations and Council, working in
partnership, in the responsible management of public funds for the benefit of
the Penrith and St Marys city centres. Should Council not enter into a Service
Level Agreement with the Penrith CBD Corporation and St Marys Town Centre
Corporation, the current services provided by the City Centre Corporations would
cease on 30 June 2024.
Conclusion
The City Centre Corporations work with property owners,
business and community in the city centres of Penrith and St Marys to support
business resilience and promote a positive image of our business districts.
The triennial review of the operations and governance of
the City Centre Corporations by Grant Thornton has established that they continue
to provide value to the community and Council. It also identified a number of
areas to support continuous improvement for both the City Centre Corporations
and for Council which have been reflected in the revised Key Performance
Indicator Framework for the next 3 years. Work continues with the City Centre Corporations
to strengthen business systems, processes and policy in the areas of governance
and procurement.
Both Boards have submitted proposed Key Performance
Indicators for the 3 year period 2024 – 2027, reflecting the KPI
Framework agreed with Council.
It is recommended that Council note and receive the
report and enter into Service Level Agreements with the Penrith CBD Corporation
and St Marys Town Centre Corporation for a 3-year period commencing 1 July 2024
to 30 June 2027.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on City Centre Corporations Service Level
Agreements 2024-2027 be received.
2. Council
enter into a Service Level Agreement with Penrith CBD Corporation Limited for a
3 year period from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2027.
3. Council
enter into a Service Level Agreement with St Marys Town Centre Limited for a 3
year period from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2027.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
Proposed Key Performance Indicator Framework
|
4 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
2. ⇩
|
Penrith CBD Corporation Key Performance Indicators
2024-2027
|
20 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
3. ⇩
|
St Marys Town Centre Key Performance Indicators 2024-2027
|
14 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
3
|
Request For Major Event
Sponsorship - Australian Ladies In Business Initiative
|
|
Compiled by: Shelley
Lee, Activation and Event Development Officer
Beau Reid,
Place and Activations Program Manager
Authorised
by: Megan
Whittaker, City Activation, Community and Place Manager
Jeni
Pollard, Manager - City Resilience
Kylie
Powell, Director - City Futures
|
Outcome
|
We are welcoming, healthy, happy, creative and
connected
|
|
Strategy
|
Support and provide opportunities to participate in
activities and events that celebrate our diversity, culture and creativity
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Conduct and support events that include all members
of our community
|
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to present to Council an event
sponsorship proposal received from the Australian Ladies in Business Initiative
(ALIBI) to support the delivery of the ALIBI Awards 2024 on 26 October 2024.
The event is to be held at the Western Sydney Conference Centre.
This report provides Council with details of the sponsorship
proposal received, including the proposed sponsorship benefits and an
assessment of the proposal.
The Australian Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI) has
sought Council sponsorship of $10,000 (plus GST). Council officers estimate the
event could deliver approximately $137,200 in local economic benefit.
This report recommends that Council provides sponsorship of $1,500
(plus GST) for the ALIBI Awards 2024 to be held on 26 October 2024.
Background
Penrith City Council (Council) was approached by the
Australian Ladies in Business Initiative on 12 March 2024 to consider a
sponsorship proposal for the ALIBI Awards 2024 to be held on 26 October 2024 at
the Western Sydney Conference Centre.
Council endorsed the Events Sponsorship Policy (‘the
Policy’) in June 2020. The Policy includes criteria for Major Event
Sponsorship.
Council endorsed the Think Penrith, Think Events –
Penrith Events Strategy 2020-2024 in June 2020. The Events Strategy provides
for up to $200,000 annually to support the attraction and retention of major
events in the Penrith Local Government Area. There is currently $59,561
available in the 2023 – 24 sponsorships budget.
Current Situation
The sponsorship proposal received from Australian Ladies
in Business Initiative (ALIBI) for the ALIBI Awards event requests Council
funds of $10,000 (plus GST) to assist with operational costs to host the event.
Further details on the event are provided below.
ALIBI Awards
The Australian Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI) is
an online community created by Australian businesswomen. This community
provides a secure and encouraging environment where women with diverse
backgrounds, experiences, qualifications and knowledge can join forces to
educate, empower and motivate each other.
The Australian Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI)
aims to help female business owners overcome the loneliness often associated
with running a business, achieve a healthy work life balance, and provide
ongoing support throughout their day-to day operations while encouraging
members to have fun while doing so.
The 2024 ALIBI Awards is the third time the event will
be held. The awards night gives members an opportunity to be recognised for the
work they do in their business, for their clients and in their community. The
previous two events were held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, The Rocks,
Sydney with 120 attendees in 2022 and 150 attendees in 2023. The organisers are
projecting 200 attendees in 2024 due to the large support base in Western
Sydney. Tickets to attend the event will be available to members for $250 per
person.
The event is estimated to attract 200 participants (100
local, 60 interstate, and 40 from across NSW). It is anticipated that
approximately 50% of participants will stay within the Penrith Local Government
Area (LGA) for approximately 1 night.
Previous Council Sponsorship
No previous sponsorship has been sought by Australian
Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI).
Proposed Sponsorship Benefits
The sponsorship opportunities presented by the
Australian Ladies in Business Initiative for the 2024 ALIBI Awards would
provide Council and the community of Penrith with several benefits including:
• Sponsorship
of 1 awards categories
• Council
recognition on category trophies
• Council
recognition on category finalist certificates
• Council
Recognition on social media
• Opportunity
for Mayor or Council representative to present category award winner
Assessment of major event sponsorship proposal
The sponsorship proposal has been assessed against
Council’s Events Sponsorship Policy criteria for Major Event Sponsorship.
The event is eligible for funding from Council.
Strategic alignment
The event aligns with Council’s Events Strategy
2020-2024 which seeks to attract and support business events. It will increase
the awareness of Penrith as an events destination amongst the 200 businesswomen
expected to attend, many of whom could be expected to have business conference
and networking facility needs themselves in the future.
The event also encourages overnight visitation to the
Penrith Local Government Area, aligning with Council’s priorities as
outlined in its Visitor Economy Strategy.
Estimated Economic Benefit
Based on the projected event visitation provided by the
event organisers, Council officers have estimated the economic benefit of the
scheduled event to the local economy is approximately $137,200.
This estimate is calculated
using data provided by the applicant including participant numbers and type of
participation expected during the event (e.g. overnight or day stay). The
Tourism Research Australia tool is then used to input the data provided by the
applicants. This tool is used by Destination NSW to set the standard rates of
economic impact per visitor per event. This information is then inputted into
the Profile ID Event Impact Calculator to determine the return on investment
for each event.
Recommended Sponsorship Value
The sponsorship proposal seeks a total Council
investment of $10,000 (plus GST). When compared to other events sponsored by
Council under the Events Sponsorship Policy, this event would command a
recommended sponsorship value in the range of $1,500 - $3,000 (plus GST).
Council officers recommend sponsorship of $1,500 (plus
GST), which seeks to balance providing support to this event which represents a
new event acquisition with a business events focus and the opportunity to
promote Penrith as a destination to 200 business people, whilst achieving the
best value for Council and the community.
Financial
Implications
The
Penrith Events Partnership Program provides up to $200,000 annually to fund
major and community events in the Penrith Local Government Area. This funding
is available within the existing City Activation, Community and Place budget
included in Council’s 2023-24 Operational Plan.
To
date for this financial year, Council has endorsed a total of $82,911 (exc GST)
worth of major and community event sponsorships.
In
addition, $54,528 of sponsorships were adopted by Council in the 2022-23
financial year which will be paid in 2023-24 financial year after the events
have occurred and conditions of the Sponsorship funding have been met and a
further $3,000 of Grandfathered arrangements have been paid in 2023-24. There
is currently $59,561 remaining in the 23 – 24 Event Sponsorship Program
budget.
A
total of two sponsorship requests, one Community Event and one Major Events,
totalling $2,500 (exc GST) are tabled for consideration by Council in tonight's
meeting. As both are to occur in next financial year, should the proposals
progress as recommended they will be funded out of the 2024-25 Events
Sponsorship Program budget. The remaining funds available for 24 – 25
will be $147,800.
Risk Implications
If the sponsorship is endorsed, Council will enter into a
sponsorship agreement with the Australian Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI)
to detail the expected sponsorship benefits to be delivered to Council and the
community in exchange for Council’s investment.
To minimise commercial risk, funds will be paid to the
Australian Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI) in instalments upon delivery
of agreed deliverables and meeting agreed milestones.
Conclusion
A request for sponsorship has been received from the
Australian Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI). The request seeks a total of
$10,000 (plus GST) in support of the ALIBI Awards 2024 to be held on 26 October
2024 at the Western Sydney Conference Centre.
It is estimated that the return to the community of
Penrith from the event could be in the order of $137,200 in economic benefit.
Council officers have assessed the proposal for
sponsorship of the ALIBI Awards 2024 against the Events Sponsorship Policy.
It is recommended that Council provide a total
sponsorship of $1,500 (plus GST) in support of the event. This level of funding
reflects the nature of the proposed sponsorship benefits to Council and the
estimated economic benefits.
Should Council resolve to endorse the sponsorship
proposal, Council will enter into a sponsorship agreement with the Australian
Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI) detailing the expected sponsorship
benefits to be delivered to Council in exchange for its investment.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Request For Major Event Sponsorship -
Australian Ladies In Business Initiative be received
2. Council
provide a total sponsorship of $1,500 (plus GST) in support of the Australian
Ladies In Business Initiative ALBAI Awards event.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
There are no attachments for this report.
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
4
|
RFT22/23-052 The Book Tender
|
|
Compiled by: Sarah
Dean, Library Services Manager
Authorised
by: Sandy
Davies, Director - Community and People
|
Outcome
|
We are welcoming, healthy, happy, creative and
connected
|
|
Strategy
|
Plan for, deliver and improve community services
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Deliver library services that support a vibrant,
connected community
|
Executive Summary
The RFT22/23-052 The Book Tender for a ‘Panel of
Approved Vendors’ to supply books and audio-visual materials (DVDs, CDs
and audio books) for the library was advertised on 10 January 2024 via Vendor
Panel and closed on 21 February 2024.
Eighteen (18) submissions were received in response to the
advertised tender.
This report advises Council of the process and outcome of the
tender and recommends that Council accepts tenders from ten (10) companies
listed in the recommendations of this report to form a ‘Panel of Approved
Vendors’ for the supply of books and audio-visual materials required for
Council’s library service for an initial period of six (6) years with the
option by Council to extend for a further two (2) x two (2) year extensions at
Council’s discretion and based on performance.
The ten (10) tenderers recommended to form the ‘Panel of
Approved Vendors’ were selected based on their level of compliance with
the tender documents, demonstrated ability to meet Council’s
requirements, competitive pricing schedule, product availability, delivery
times, collection, format and/or subject speciality and reference checks.
They include: Abbey’s Bookshops Pty Limited, Aussie
Global Books Pty Ltd, Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd, James Bennett Pty Ltd, Keith
Ainsworth Pty Ltd, MDM Entertainment Pty Ltd, QBD Books, Sound Text Media Pty
Ltd, The Book House and Ulverscroft Australia Pty Ltd.
Background
Previously Council has used vendors to purchase items for the
library’s collections who were Local Government Procurement (LGP)
approved contractors. Recently, some of these vendors lost their LGP contractor
approval status.
It also became evident that Council could obtain better value
for money if we went to tender independently of the LGP for a ‘Panel of
Approved Vendors’ (Panel) who meet our specific requirements.
It was determined that a Panel would be more appropriate than
selecting one vendor to supply all our books and audio-visual materials as not
all vendors supply all the collections and/or formats the library requires. For
example, some vendors specialise in supplying Australian authors whereas some
other vendors specialise in supplying audio books and large print. The Panel
also ensures supply contingency as, if one vendor cannot supply our
requirements, we can order the same items from another vendor on the Panel.
The contract is for a period of six
(6) years with the option by Council to extend for a further two (2) x two (2)
year extensions at Council’s discretion and based on performance.
The length of time determined for the contract along with the
extension options is considered appropriate from a procurement perspective as
the book and audio-visual market for public libraries is a stable one with very
few vendors entering and exiting the market on a regular basis.
The tender was advertised on 10 January 2024 and closed on 21
February 2024. Tenderers were required to submit their tender through the
Vendor Panel portal, which clearly identified the required response against
each of the evaluation criteria. Tenderers were also required to complete a
price schedule, providing a sample pricing for two recent titles for each
collection.
Tender Evaluation Panel
The tender evaluation panel consisted of Sharon Pike –
Library Resources Supervisor, Laura Saunders – Collections Librarian and
Leanne Walker – Senior Library Technician, Resources. The panel was
chaired by Sarah Dean – Library Services Manager and Allyce Langton
– Procurement Business Partner held the roles of tender administration
officer and probity officer.
Tender Evaluation Criteria
Tenderers were required to submit their tender via the
Vendor Panel portal which clearly identified the required response against each
of the evaluation criteria.
The evaluation criteria advertised and used in assessing
the tenders received included the following:
· Company
profile and demonstrated ability
· Conformance,
acceptance and declaration
· Range
of collection categories and formats supplied
· Costs
based on the unit rates of items and any other associated costs such as freight
· Ability
to supply titles in English and in languages other than English (LOTE)
· Ordering
processes – including online and standing orders
· Customer
service support
· Packing
and standard delivery processes
· Delivery
timeframes
· Timeframes
and processes regarding replacement of faulty goods
· Local
business preference
· Environmental
management systems
· Work,
health and safety.
Summary of Tenders Received
A total of eighteen (18) submissions were received in
response to the advertised tender.
The following lists all the tenderers included in the
initial evaluation in alphabetical order, the location of their businesses and
their directors.
|
Company Name
|
Location of Business
|
Directors
|
|
Abbey’s Bookshops Pty Ltd
|
CBD Sydney, NSW
|
Alan Abbey
|
|
Aussie Global Books Pty Ltd
|
Wyndham Vale, VIC
|
Leng Fei Wang
|
|
Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd
|
Tullamarine, VIC
|
Rebecca and Jan Hermann
|
|
Caval Limited
|
Bundoora, VIC
|
Jamie McCowan
|
|
Dymocks Pty Ltd
|
CBD Sydney, NSW
|
Mark Newman
|
|
James Bennett Pty Ltd
|
Brookvale, NSW
|
Kim Jardine
|
|
James Henry Williams
|
Walkerville, SA
|
James Williams
|
|
Keith Ainsworth Pty Ltd
|
Jamisontown, NSW
|
David Fry
|
|
Library AV & Large Print Pty Ltd
|
Eastwood, NSW
|
Shane Clancy
|
|
Lote Libraries Direct Pty Ltd
|
Leichardt, NSW
|
Sam Grover
|
|
MDM Entertainment Pty Ltd
|
Jamisontown, NSW
|
Corey Bancks
|
|
QBD Books
|
Richlands, QLD
|
Nicholas Croydon
|
|
Sound Text Media Pty Ltd
|
Tullamarine, VIC
|
Anne Stuchbery
|
|
Sydney Books Online
|
Earlwood, NSW
|
Robert and Candy Glynn
|
|
The Book House
|
Noosaville, QLD
|
Sharon Ramsay-Luck
|
|
The Lugton Family Trust (Peter Pal)
|
Shailer Park, QLD
|
Anne-Maree Hapgood
|
|
Ulverscroft Australia Pty Ltd
|
St Leonards, NSW
|
Michele Petty
|
|
Wavesound Pty Ltd
|
Chatswood, NSW
|
Alison Watson
|
Evaluation of Tenders
All tenderers were assessed against the evaluation
criteria highlighted earlier in this report, their level of compliance with the
tender documents, their demonstrated ability to meet Council’s
requirements and pricing schedules. Independent reference checks were also
completed.
Five (5) vendors scored the lowest ratings in
our evaluation of the tenders as they did not demonstrate that they could
fulfil the requirements of the tender as well as those selected for
shortlisting. These vendors include:
- Sydney
Books Online
- Dymocks
Pty Ltd
- Caval
Limited
- Wavesound
Pty Ltd
- James
Henry Williams
Three (3) vendors did not meet the evaluation criteria of
providing online ordering. These vendors include:
- Dymocks Pty
Ltd
- Caval
Limited
- Lote Libraries
Direct Pty Ltd
Most of the tenderers offered free freight or conditional free
freight based on a minimum order or annual spend.
The following two (2) vendors were the only vendors that made
the evaluation shortlist and tendered freight charges in their tenders:
- Library AV
& Large Print Pty Limited
- The Lugton
Family Trust (Peter Pal)
Our costs analysis found that the freight charges of both
these vendors increased their costs compared to the other shortlisted vendors
in key collection areas.
Library AV & Large Print Pty Limited became the most expensive
large print vendor and The Lugton Family Trust (Peter Pal) became the most
expensive non-fiction vendor when including their freight costs compared to the
other tenderers.
Based on the above-mentioned factors, the Tender Evaluation
Panel deemed the following eight (8) tenderers unsuccessful as there was no
advantage to Council in considering these vendors any further:
- Sydney
Books Online
- Dymocks
Pty Ltd
- Caval
Limited
- Wavesound
Pty Ltd
- James
Henry Williams
- Lote
Libraries Direct Pty Ltd
- The
Lugton Family Trust (Peter Pal)
- Library
AV & Large Print Pty Limited
The collections, formats and subjects supplied by these eight
(8) vendors are also supplied by several of the other tenderers.
Tenderer Cost Comparisons
All the tenderers supply varying collection types, formats and
areas of speciality. None of the tenderers were able to supply all the
collection types, formats and areas of speciality required for the
library’s book and audio-visual collections.
It is challenging to predict in advance what number of items
and what collection types, formats and subject areas the library will purchase
each year as it is dependent on the following: market price and availability of
titles at any given time, replacement needs of current library collection items
due to wear and tear, current reading and information trends, subject
speciality requirements and customer suggestions.
It is also important to note that all books and audio-visual
items vary in price and availability from vendor to vendor due to several
factors such as demand, collection category, place of publication or
production, number of print runs, subject speciality, intended audience, format
type, publishing rights and delivery timeframes.
Due to all these factors, the library would not usually
procure entire collections from one single vendor.
However, to determine which vendors would typically
provide the library the best value for money (all things being equal) for each
collection category, we have calculated the annual cost of each collection type
per vendor if the library were to purchase solely from one vendor the typical
number of items the library purchases for each collection per year.
The tables below provide an overview of a cost analysis
comparing the annual pricing of different collections supplied by the vendors
based on sample prices provided in their tenders.
Audio Books (Adult, Junior and Young Adult)
|
Rank
|
Vendors
|
Annual Tendered Price
|
|
1
|
Abbey’s Bookshops Pty
Ltd
|
$10,303.00
|
|
2
|
James Bennett Pty Ltd
|
$10,887.53
|
|
3
|
MDM Entertainment Pty Ltd
|
$16,633.06
|
|
4
|
Ulverscroft Australia Pty Ltd
*
|
$37,399.00
|
|
5
|
Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd **
|
$38,198.72
|
DVDs
(Adult and Junior)
|
Rank
|
Vendors
|
Annual Tendered Price
|
|
1
|
Sound Text Media Pty Ltd
|
$34,118.80
|
|
2
|
MDM Entertainment Pty Ltd
|
$35,866.58
|
|
3
|
James Bennett Pty Ltd
|
$46,096.63
|
|
4
|
Abbey’s Bookshops Pty
Ltd
|
$51,255.72
|
Fiction (Adult)
|
Rank
|
Vendors
|
Annual Tendered Price
|
|
1
|
James Bennett Pty Ltd
|
$47,796.32
|
|
2
|
QBD Books
|
$49,169.12
|
|
3
|
The Book House
|
$49,489.44
|
|
4
|
Keith Ainsworth Pty Ltd
|
$49,489.44
|
|
5
|
Sound Text Media Pty Ltd
|
$53,035.84
|
|
6
|
Abbey’s Bookshops Pty
Ltd
|
$62,210.72
|
Fiction (Junior and Young Adult)
|
Rank
|
Vendors
|
Annual Tendered Price
|
|
1
|
Keith Ainsworth Pty Ltd
|
$57,392.85
|
|
2
|
James Bennett Pty Ltd
|
$59,090.94
|
|
3
|
The Book House
|
$63,793.96
|
|
4
|
Sound Text Media Pty Ltd
|
$64,173.79
|
|
5
|
Abbey’s Bookshops Pty
Ltd
|
$78,204.95
|
|
6
|
QBD Books
|
$79,144.58
|
Large
Print
|
Rank
|
Supplier
|
Annual Tendered Price
|
|
1
|
Abbey’s Bookshops Pty
Ltd
|
$11,676.69
|
|
2
|
QBD Books
|
$12,409.47
|
|
3
|
Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd**
|
$26,857.98
|
|
4
|
Ulverscroft Australia Pty Ltd*
|
$28,010.25
|
|
5
|
James Bennett Pty Ltd
|
$30,054.60
|
|
6
|
The Book House
|
$36,235.44
|
LOTE
(Languages other than English)
|
Rank
|
Vendors
|
Annual Tendered Price
|
|
1
|
Abbey’s Bookshops Pty
Ltd
|
$1,062.80
|
|
2
|
Aussie Global Books Pty Ltd
|
$1,578.00
|
Non-Fiction (Adult, Junior and Young Adult)
|
Rank
|
Vendors
|
Annual Tendered Price
|
|
1
|
QBD Books
|
$64,204.82
|
|
2
|
Abbey’s Bookshops Pty
Ltd
|
$79,061.34
|
|
3
|
James Bennett Pty Ltd
|
$90,987.30
|
|
4
|
Keith Ainsworth Pty Ltd
|
$97,927.30
|
|
5
|
The Book House
|
$105,087.73
|
|
6
|
Sound Text Media Pty Ltd
|
$107,736.65
|
*Ulverscroft
Australia Pty Ltd has exclusive
publishing rights with many popular United Kingdom publishers.
** Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd has exclusive audio
book publishing rights with many Australian publishers.
Recommended Panel of Approved Vendors
All companies recommended within this report were
selected based on their level of compliance with the tender documents,
demonstrated ability to meet Council’s requirements, competitive pricing
schedule, product availability, delivery times, collection, format and/or
subject speciality and reference checks.
Along with meeting all the required selection criteria,
two companies – Keith Ainsworth Pty Ltd and MDM Entertainment Pty Ltd -
also meet Council’s local business preference criteria, as they are both
situated in Jamisontown.
The Tender Evaluation Panel recommends that the
following ten (10) companies form a ‘Panel of Approved Vendors’ for
the supply of books and audio-visual materials to Council’s library
service:
· Abbey’s
Bookshops Pty Limited
· Aussie
Global Books Pty Ltd
· Bolinda
Publishing Pty Ltd
· James
Bennett Pty Ltd
· Keith
Ainsworth Pty Ltd
· MDM
Entertainment Pty Ltd
· QBD
Books
· Sound
Text Media Pty Ltd
· The
Book House
· Ulverscroft
Australia Pty Ltd
If
the ‘Panel of Approved Vendors’ is endorsed by Council, library
staff will utilise the Panel by assessing the best pricing available with the
consideration of availability and timeframe for delivery when purchasing for
each required collection and format to ensure the library can promptly procure
the relevant items required for the library’s collections.
Financial
Implications
The usual corporate scorecard checks were not undertaken for
the preferred suppliers due to the minimal risk involved as the vendors will
only receive payment after the goods have been received by Council.
Funding for the provision of the library book and audio-visual
budget is annual and ongoing. It is included in Council’s current
Operational Plan and will be included in future Operational Plans for the
duration of the contract, including the two (2) x two (2) year optional
extension periods.
Total value for the tender, if both two-year extensions
periods are enacted, is $3,640,000 over the ten (10) years or $364,000
annually.
Tender Advisory Group (TAG) Comment
The objective of the Tender Advisory Group (TAG) is to support
the Council to achieve fair and equitable tender processes. The TAG, consisting
of Sandy Davies – Director Community and People, Adam Beggs –
Governance Manager and Cheryl Freeburn– Acting Financial Services Manager
were briefed by the Tender Evaluation Panel about the background and the
process followed.
The TAG considered the recommendations in relation to the
report noting that the recommended tenderers were best able to demonstrate
their ability to meet Council’s requirements and were considered to be
the most advantageous to Council. The TAG noted the difficulties in making a
meaningful assessment on price, and requested the Tender Evaluation Panel
undertake further assessment, and after this further reviewed the evaluation
process and was satisfied that the selection criteria have been correctly
applied in making the recommendations.
Risk Implications
The provision of current and relevant collection items for our
public libraries ensures that the Penrith community can enhance their knowledge
and wellbeing by accessing readily available information, research, life-long
learning and leisure resources in book and audio-visual formats.
The ‘Panel of Approved Vendors’ will greatly
assist with this provision and mitigate the risks involved in the selection and
purchasing of library resources by ensuring that Council achieves value for
money and the opportunity to access a wide variety of resources when selecting
books and audio-visual materials for our collections.
The tender process outlined in this report includes controls
regarding probity and ensuring value for Council, overseen by the Tender
Advisory Group.
Conclusion
Eighteen (18) tenders were assessed against the evaluation
criteria.
Ten (10) tenderers were assessed and found to be compliant with
the tender documents, able to demonstrate their ability to meet Council’s
requirements, able to provide a competitive pricing schedule, had the required
product availability, suitable delivery times, and the required collection,
format and/or subject speciality to be eligible to be added to the ‘Panel
of Approved Vendors’.
It is recommended that the ten (10) companies listed in the
recommendations of this report form a ‘Panel of Approved Vendors’
for the supply of books and audio-visual materials required for Council’s
library service for an initial period of six (6) years with the option by
Council to extend for a further two (2) x two (2) year extensions at
Council’s discretion and based on performance.
They include: Abbey’s Bookshops Pty Limited, Aussie
Global Books Pty Ltd, Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd, James Bennett Pty Ltd, Keith
Ainsworth Pty Ltd, MDM Entertainment Pty Ltd, QBD Books, Sound Text Media Pty
Ltd, The Book House and Ulverscroft Australia Pty Ltd.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on RFT22/23-052 The Book Tender be received.
2. The ten (10)
successful tenderers - Abbey’s Bookshops Pty Limited, Aussie Global Books
Pty Ltd, Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd, James Bennett Pty Ltd, Keith Ainsworth Pty
Ltd, MDM Entertainment Pty Ltd, QBD Books, Sound Text Media Pty Ltd, The Book
House and Ulverscroft Australia - form a ‘Panel of Approved
Vendors’ for the supply of books and audio-visual materials to
Council’s library service.
3. The contract
will be for a period of six (6) years with the option by Council to extend for
a further two (2) x two (2) year extensions at Council’s discretion and
based on performance.
4. Variations
and amendments that do not materially alter the original scope of the contract
be managed under the existing Penrith City Council financial delegations within
the approved budgets.
5. The General
Manager be authorised to sign all necessary legal documents in relation to this
matter.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
There are no attachments for
this report
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
5
|
Request for Community Event
Sponsorship - Penrith District Nitro Racing Incorporated
|
|
Compiled by: Angela
Dwyer, Senior Event Producer
Nikki Akbar,
Events Lead
Beau Reid,
Place and Activations Program Manager
Authorised
by: Megan Whittaker,
City Activation, Community and Place Manager
Jeni
Pollard, Manager - City Resilience
Kylie
Powell, Director - City Futures
|
Outcome
|
We are welcoming, healthy, happy, creative and
connected
|
|
Strategy
|
Support and provide opportunities to participate in
activities and events that celebrate our diversity, culture and creativity
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Support and implement initiatives which contribute
to culture and creativity across our City
|
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to present to Council a
Community Event Sponsorship proposal received from Penrith District Nitro
Racing Incorporated (PDNR) to assist in the delivery of the 2024 PDNR Winter
Championships event to be held at the Sydney International Regatta Centre
between 5 – 7 July 2024.
This report provides Council with details of the sponsorship
proposal seeking $1,000 (exc. GST), including the proposed sponsorship benefits
and an assessment of the proposal.
Council officers have assessed the applications against the
Event Sponsorship Policy’s criteria for Community Event Sponsorship.
Events sponsored in the Community Events Stream aim at delivering social
benefits to the Penrith Community.
This report recommends that Council provides $1,000 (exc. GST)
in community event sponsorship to PDNR in support of the 2024 PDNR Winter
Championships event.
Background
Council was approached by Penrith District Nitro Racing
Incorporated (PDNR) on 26 April 2024 to consider sponsorship of their 2024
Winter Championships event to be held between 5 – 7 July at Sydney
International Regatta Centre. PDNR are a volunteer based not-for-profit
incorporated association, promoting the hobby of radio control racing for the
community and have been established for over 25 years.
Council endorsed the Think Penrith, Think Events –
Penrith Events Strategy 2020 – 2024 in June 2020. The Events Strategy
provides up to $200,000 annually to support the attraction and retention of
major and community events in the Penrith Local Government Area. There is
currently $59,561 available in the 2023-24 Event Sponsorships Budget.
At tonight’s Council meeting a report on the proposed
Community Funding Program is tabled for Council’s consideration, which
includes proposed changes to the policy framework for community event support.
The community event sponsorship proposal subject to this report has been
assessed against Council’s current policy framework.
Current Situation
The sponsorship proposal received from PDNR for the 2024
Winter Championships requests Council funds of $1,000 (exc. GST) for
sponsorship to assist with the hire and operation of a live broadcast or live
stream of the event.
The 2024 PDNR Winter Championships will attract racers
from around Australia and will include 12 different race classes, including a
dedicated class for juniors (under 16s). The Winter Championships event is
PDNR’s flagship event and the 2024 event will be the 16th time
that PDNR have hosted this event since 2008. The Winter Championships have been
held annually in Australia since 1997.
This multi-day event will bring interstate visitors into
the Penrith area and organisers estimate that there will be 150 participants
and 400 spectators or attendees. In addition, the PDNR Inc team are looking at
broadcasting or live streaming the races to an estimated audience of 30,000 RC
racing enthusiasts.
Previous Sponsorship or other funding to Penrith
District Nitro Racing Incorporated
Council has previously provided funding to Penrith
District Nitro Racing Incorporated through the Community Event Sponsorship
program, including $1,000 (exc. GST) in 2022 in support of the 2022 NSW State
RC Racing Championships and $1,000 (exc. GST) in 2023 in support of the 2023
PDNR Winter Championships.
Proposed Sponsorship Benefits
The sponsorship opportunities presented by Penrith
District Nitro Racing Incorporated for the 2024 PDNR Winter Championships event
would provide Council and the community of Penrith with several benefits
including:
· Logo
inclusion on event signage (provided by Council)
· Opportunity
to display Council signage at the event (provided by Council)
· Logo
inclusion on promotional flyers/posters/website/social media and programs
· Sponsor
recognition with media
· Sponsor
recognition and promotion during broadcast through playback of PCC branded
videos
· Opportunity
for the Mayor or delegate to present a speech.
Assessment of Sponsorship Proposal
The sponsorship proposal has been assessed against
Council’s Event Sponsorship Policy criteria for Community Event
Sponsorship and is eligible for sponsorship from Council.
Financial
Implications
The Penrith Events Partnership
Program provides up to $200,000 annually to fund major and community events in
the Penrith Local Government Area. This funding is available within the
existing City Activation, Community and Place budget included in Council’s
2023-24 Operational Plan.
To date for this financial
year, Council has endorsed a total of $82,911 (exc GST) worth of major and
community event sponsorships.
In addition, $54,528 of
sponsorships were adopted by Council in the 2022-23 financial year which will
be paid in 2023-24 financial year after the events have occurred and conditions
of the Sponsorship funding have been met and a further $3,000 of Grandfathered
arrangements have been paid in 2023-24. There is currently $59,561 remaining in
the 23 – 24 Event Sponsorship Program budget.
A total of two sponsorship
requests, one Community Event and one Major Events, totalling $2,500 (exc GST)
are tabled for consideration by Council in tonight's meeting. As both are to
occur in next financial year, should the proposals progress as recommended they
will be funded out of the 2024-25 Events Sponsorship Program budget. The
remaining funds available for 24 – 25 will be $147,800.
Risk Implications
If the sponsorship is endorsed, Council will enter into a
sponsorship agreement with PDNR to detail the expected sponsorship benefits to
be delivered to Council and the community in exchange for Council’s
investment.
Conclusion
A request for Community Event Sponsorship has been received
from Penrith District Nitro Racing Incorporated (PDNR).
The request seeks a total of $1,000 (exc. GST) in support of
the 2024 PDNR Winter Championships event to be held between 5 – 7 July
2024 at Sydney International Regatta Centre.
Community events within the Penrith Local Government Area
contribute to celebrating a strong and connected local community.
The report recommends Council endorse the sponsorship request
for a total investment of $1,000 (exc. GST).
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Request for Community Event Sponsorship
- Penrith District Nitro Racing Incorporated be received
2. Council
endorse $1,000 (exc. GST) in Community Event Sponsorship to Penrith District
Nitro Racing Incorporated in support of the 2024 PDNR Winter Championships
event.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
There are no attachments for this report.
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
6
|
Review - Statement of
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Recognition Policy
|
|
Compiled by: Josh
Staines, Senior Policy Officer - Aboriginal
Authorised
by: Megan
Whittaker, City Activation, Community and Place Manager
Kylie
Powell, Director - City Futures
Jeni
Pollard, Manager - City Resilience
|
Outcome
|
We are welcoming, healthy, happy, creative and
connected
|
|
Strategy
|
Respect, engage and celebrate our diverse
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, their rich heritage and
continuing culture
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Develop strategic partnerships with Aboriginal
communities and Community Service Providers to harness collective resources
and respond to community needs
|
Previous Items: Review
- Statement of Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people-
Councillor Briefing - 20 May 2024
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to seek endorsement of the draft
Acknowledgement of Country Policy (the proposed Policy). This follows a review
of Council’s current Statement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Recognition Policy.
The proposed Policy is informed by engagement activities and
cultural mapping exercises undertaken and proposes to align Council’s
current practice based on community feedback and expectations about
contemporary cultural protocols for acknowledgment.
The suggested amendments would include a title change as well
as an acknowledgement of the Darug and Gundungarra Language Groups as
traditional owners.
The proposed Acknowledgement of Country Policy is found at
Appendix 1.
This report recommendations that Council rescinds the current Statement
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Recognition Policy (2018) and endorse
the proposed Acknowledgment of Country Policy.
Background
Council’s Statement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Recognition Policy (The Policy), found at Appendix 2, was first
adopted 5 June 2007, and reviewed in 2018.
In the 17 years since the Policy was first adopted by Council,
the community of Penrith has grown and become more culturally diverse. Our
First Nations community has also grown as a percentage of our total population,
from 3.9% (7,740) in 2016 to 5% (10,928) in 2021.
During this time, practice has also changed from a recognition
approach to acknowledging and paying respect to traditional owners.
The proposed Acknowledgment of Country Policy (the proposed
Policy) at Appendix 1 is a reframing of the way Council acknowledges First
Nations people and their connection to the land of Penrith LGA.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
A number of engagement activities have
been undertaken to engage with both First Nations and non-Indigenous residents
and visitors. Across all engagement activities, feedback from stakeholders
strongly endorsed the practice of formally naming traditional owners in
acknowledgements. This viewpoint was universally shared across First Nations and
non-Indigenous responses, with consensus around recognising the Darug Language
Group as the traditional owners of the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA).
Cultural Mapping Workshops
To further clarify the location of Language Groups other than
Darug within the LGA, cultural mapping work was undertaken. A cultural mapping
exercise was held with Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs). The 10-member
group was comprised of those that identify as traditional owners and knowledge
holders regarding Aboriginal Cultural Heritage matters unique to the Penrith
Local Government Area.
The work of the group was to identify markers and localities
within the Penrith LGA that they associate with distinct Language Groups and
Clan Groups and identify a preferred spelling of Darug.
The cultural mapping exercise did elicit that there are 2
small areas within the LGA that the Gundungarra Language Group identify as
Traditional Owners. In responding to feedback from our community, it is
proposed that Darug and Gundungarra Language Groups are both acknowledged as
Traditional Owners.
The Traditional Owners Map produced through the cultural
mapping exercise is at Appendix 3.
Proposed Acknowledgement of Country Policy
On balance of this information and engagement, and following
feedback from Councillors at the 6 and 20 May Briefing Meetings, it is proposed
to reframe the Statement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Recognition
Policy to an Acknowledgement of Country Policy.
There will be a single Acknowledgement used for all formats.
The proposed Acknowlegment of Country will be:
“ We acknowledge and pay respect to the Darug and
Gundungarra people who are the traditional owners in which Penrith Local
Government Area is situated. We also pay our respect to elders past, present
and emerging, and to the First Nations people living in our community
today”
The proposed Acknowlegment will be supported by an updated
Policy as provided in Appendix 1.
Financial Implications
Should the Acknowledgement of Country Policy be adopted by
Council, no additional funding will be required for its implementation.
Risk Implications
There are no risks associated with the adoption of the
Acknowledgement of Country Policy.
Conclusion
A review of Council’s Statement of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Recognition Policy has been undertaken. A reframing to an
Acknowledgement of Country Policy is proposed to align
Council’s practice with contemporary approaches and community sentiment
heard through community and stakeholder engagement.
This report recommendations that Council rescinds the current Statement
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Recognition Policy (2018) and endorse
the proposed Acknowledgment of Country Policy.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report Endorsement of Acknowledgement of Country
Policy be received.
2. The
Acknowledgment of Country Policy be endorsed.
3. The current Statement
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Recognition Policy (2018) be
rescinded.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
Acknowledgement of Country Policy
|
2 Pages
|
Appendix
|
|
2. ⇩
|
Statement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Recognition Policy
|
1 Page
|
Appendix
|
|
3. ⇩
|
Traditional Owners Map
|
1 Page
|
Appendix
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Appendix 1 - Acknowledgement of Country Policy
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Appendix 2 - Statement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Recognition Policy
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Appendix 3 - Traditional Owners Map
THIS PAGE HAS BEEN
LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Ordinary
Meeting 27
May 2024
|
7
|
Submission to the NSW
Government responding to the Freight Policy Reform Consultation Paper
|
|
Compiled by: Wendy
Read, Executive Strategist - Integrated Transport
Fiona
McDermott, Urban Strategist
Authorised
by: Carlie
Ryan, City Strategy Manager
Kylie
Powell, Director - City Futures
|
Outcome
|
We plan and shape our growing City
|
|
Strategy
|
Undertake strategic planning that will ensure
balanced growth and liveability
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Ensure our strategic framework and vision are contemporary
and informs our land use planning and advocacy
|
Executive Summary
Earlier this year, the NSW Government announced its Freight
Policy Reform Program to address key issues facing the freight industry in NSW.
The program aims to deliver prioritised and practical policy reform focused on
the current and emerging challenges facing the NSW freight task. The Program
will be led by Transport for NSW (TfNSW) under the leadership of an Independent
Advisory Panel of experts.
TfNSW’s Freight Policy Reform Consultation Paper has now
been released outlining the scope and purpose of the program. Submissions on
the Consultation Paper are open until 31 May 2024 and will help inform the
development of short, medium and long-term actions that will be driven by the
NSW Government, in collaboration with industry and the Australian Government.
A submission on behalf of Council has been prepared in
response to the Consultation Paper. Due to the limited timeframe provided to
make submissions, there was not adequate opportunity to brief Council on the
Consultation Paper or draft submission ahead of time. Instead, Council staff
have prepared the attached submission having regard to, and informed by,
similar submissions made by Council recently in response to Parliamentary
Inquiries on transport related matters, in addition to Council strategies such as
the Employment Lands Strategy and Local Strategic Planning Statement
(LSPS).
The submission makes reference to Penrith’s significant
contribution to employment lands in not only the Western Parkland City but
Greater Sydney, including key industry sectors supporting investment in the
Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird Walton) Airport and Aerotropolis, with
increasing volumes of associated freight movements. It also highlights the
forecast population growth across the region contributing to an increased
freight task requiring an integrated transport network (including major road
upgrades) to ensure safe, sustainable, and productive freight transport that
supports the people, businesses and industries of Western Sydney.
Significantly, the submission highlights the expected increase
in freight volume within Western Sydney over the next 20 years noting it will require
careful management to mitigate potential impacts including, road safety,
traffic and congestion, community amenity and infrastructure assets such as
local roads. Furthermore, the projected increase in freight volumes over time
will require both Australian and NSW Government commitment to ensure our
roadways and transport corridors are upgraded in a timely manner that supports
growth and to ensure they are fit for purpose.
The Freight Policy Reform Program will focus on the different
parts of the freight system, with ports, rail, road and intermodal facilities
all considered as part of a coordinated supply chain to determine the right
policy framework to optimise safety, sustainability and productivity. The
Program will identify short, medium and long-term actions for Government to
support the ongoing improvement of freight transport.
The Advisory Panel is expected to report on its findings in
the second half of 2024. This report recommends that the submission at
Attachment 1 be endorsed by Council and forwarded to the NSW Government for
consideration before the due date. Councillors will continue to be updated on
these issues as more information becomes available.
Background
The freight task in New South Wales is complex and evolving,
with a need to respond to advances in technology and a move toward more
sustainable modes, the ongoing development of major infrastructure, the
changing ports landscape, national harmonisation policies and global trade
fluctuations.
The projected population growth within the Western Parkland City
is anticipated to contribute towards the growing freight task that will affect
our City and region. Investment in freight network capacity, including road
upgrades, is essential for enabling this growth and supporting the future needs
of NSW communities and businesses. This growth will require an integrated
transport network supported by funding commitments of both the Australian and
NSW Governments.
Transport for NSW’s Strategic Freight Model (2021)
estimates that based on population and living standard projections, freight is
forecast to increase within Western Sydney (compared to 2021 volumes) by 22% by
2031 and 50% by 2041. The Model also estimates that about 70% of import or
empty containers are distributed to either western or south-western Sydney.
Penrith’s employment lands make a significant
contribution to the local and state economy comprising over 79% of zoned
employment land in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis and 37% of Greater
Sydney’s potential future supply. The expansion of employment lands
within our local government area (eg. Mamre, Northern Gateway and Aerotropolis
Precincts) positions Penrith to be a major driver of productivity and
employment growth in Greater Sydney.
There is demand for more employment land within the growth
areas (including terminals, depots, warehousing and facilities) to accommodate
the type of freight being carried - containers, bulk or otherwise.
Council’s planning and strategies support the preservation of employment
land to carry out freight related activity, while also carefully managing
potential encroachment from surrounding land uses that are incompatible with
the freight uses.
Current Situation
The Freight Policy Reform
Program by the NSW Government aims to optimise freight transport in NSW. It
recognises that the movement of freight requires an integrated and holistic
approach, with seamless connections between different aspects of the supply
chain.
The Reform Program will deliver a comprehensive reform
agenda to optimise freight transport. The priorities are to ensure the safety,
sustainability and productivity of the supply chain for the benefit of NSW
people, businesses and industries. The Reform Program will focus on the
following:
· considering
the road and rail network
· optimising
the operations of the commercial ports in NSW
· supporting
metropolitan and regional intermodal terminals and other enabling transport
infrastructure
· embedding
freight considerations into transport planning, prioritisation and investment
decisions including securing industrial land.
The Freight Policy Reform
Program has potential to influence the success of our Economic Triangle, key
employment precincts and Centres by supporting a resilient freight sector that
will in turn enable us to develop our local manufacturing capabilities and
improve road safety. These initiatives are particularly relevant as
construction of the Western Sydney International Airport advances and major
employment precincts in and surrounding Aerotropolis continue to develop,
putting pressure on existing infrastructure and local road networks.
The makings of an integrated
supply chain for Western Sydney are coming together as part of the planning and
delivery of new growth precincts, and Council is committed to advocating for key
transport infrastructure needed to support the growth of Penrith. The Policy
Reform Program is an opportunity to ensure these essential elements (road
upgrades, new rail connections and intermodal terminals) are planned and delivered
in-line with growth and development.
To this end, the submission
(Attachment 1) to the Advisory Panel undertaking the consultation as part of
the Freight Policy Reform Program requests the following matters be considered
in relation to the freight task within Penrith City and our region.
· The importance
of Government commitment towards timely funding and delivery of road and rail
infrastructure to support the increased freight task associated with the WSA
and major employment precincts in Western Sydney.
The planned Mamre Intermodal Terminal in conjunction with
the Western Sydney Freight Line are key elements of an integrated freight
network. This facility will be supported by key road upgrades and serve as a
crucial hub for transferring freight between road and rail, reducing congestion
on local roads and linking growing industrial areas and distribution centres
across the region to Port Botany. However, development of major employment and
freight generating activities has already occurred in the region and
specifically in the Mamre employment lands precinct, putting pressure on local
roads that are unsuitable for the task. Prioritising the upgrade of essential
access roads and upfront delivery of integrated transport infrastructure is
needed to ensure safe and effective trucking operations by both the
construction and freight industries. This is especially critical in the Mamre,
Northern Gateway and Aerotropolis Precincts and employment lands that are
expected to experience consequential growth in freight, logistics and
manufacturing such as St Marys North, Penrith North and Emu Plains.
Council’s Advocacy Strategy
and Priorities List outline the following key road infrastructure projects that
need to be delivered to support the growing freight task in Penrith City:
- Western
Sydney Rapid Bus routes servicing the WSA (immediate priority to support mode
shift away from private passenger vehicles and improve traffic congestion)
- Werrington
Arterial Stage 2
- Southern
Link Road
- Mulgoa
Road upgrade
- Upgrade
and reclassification of Luddenham Road
- Planning
and delivery of Castlereagh Connection.
· The
classification and capacity of local road networks to handle increasing heavy
vehicle movements in the interim period until the ultimate transport
infrastructure is in place.
The capacity of local road networks in the Western Parkland
City and especially Penrith LGA is being impacted by the increasing freight
task associated with major infrastructure investment and employment growth.
Coupled with increasing population growth in the region resulting in more
passenger vehicles sharing the roads with heavy vehicles, there will be
increasing congestion and potential road safety risk if not carefully managed.
The existing local road network needs to be optimised in the short term to mitigate
risks by managing interactions between trucks and cars (especially if freight
vehicles become larger and heavier) and improve congestion. To this end, key
freight routes should be reclassified as Arterial Roads under the care control
and management of Transport for NSW to provide a consistent approach to freight
operations, transport infrastructure upgrades and maintenance.
· The critical
role of the rail network and planned intermodal facilities in the movement of
freight, and the need for better separation of freight and passenger services
The rail network is a core component of an
integrated transport network and plays an essential role in reducing road
congestion and improving outcomes by shifting long-haul freight journeys off
our roads and onto rail. To this end, strategically located intermodal
facilities, including in the Mamre Precinct and St Marys, will provide greater
efficiency of movement between modes. Concern is raised regarding the size and
number of trucks accessing the facilities and the associated impacts on the
local road network in the absence of the ultimate road network solution. There
is concern that a move towards larger and heavier vehicles, whilst reducing the
overall number of trucks on the road, will have an adverse impact on roadway
surface quality and user safety of local roads.
Providing investment to improved freight rail connections
to serve employment lands and future industries across the Western Parkland
City and identifying ways of better separating freight from passenger train
lines is a key consideration. This includes the St Marys Intermodal as well as
planning for the future Mamre Precinct Intermodal and proposed future Outer
Sydney Orbital freight line.
· Funding sources
and availability
It is essential that Penrith LGA has critical
infrastructure, services and amenities in place to meet current and future
community and industry needs. Improved support is required from Government in
delivering up-front transport infrastructure to provide suitable access to/from
employment lands for freight vehicles (ie. roads that are fit for purpose). Government
funding towards road maintenance and upgrades is also essential.
· Last mile
freight
It is important to note that the freight task is not solely
made up of large vehicles and that catering to the last mile freight task is
essential. Planning for access of smaller vehicles including vans that access
our centres will remain an important part of transport planning.
· Technology
Emerging technology that addresses congestion, noise and
emissions including electric vehicles and smart network management will require
Government oversight to ensure seamless integration into our city and to
mitigate community concerns.
· Resilience
As a result of recent flood events (and fires within the
wider region), several key road corridors were closed. This impacts our
communities as freight routes can be disturbed thereby impacting the delivery
of essential items such as food and fuel. The delivery of the flood evacuation
route infrastructure remains a key advocacy priority for Council, in particular
the construction of Castlereagh Connection which will serve as not only a flood
evacuation route but also a key transport connection to the Central West region
and beyond.
Financial
Implications
There are no direct financial implications for Council
associated with making this submission.
Risk Implications
If Council does not provide a submission to this consultation,
the risk is that Council’s concerns and comments will not be fully
understood and considered in the Government’s development of the Freight
Policy Reform Program and how best support the freight task within the Penrith
LGA and Western Parkland City.
Areas of need for the Penrith community may not be equitably
addressed or adequately funded leading to adverse social, economic and
environmental impacts in the longer term.
Conclusion
It is essential that Penrith LGA has critical infrastructure,
services and amenities in place to meet current and future community needs. The
projected increase in freight volumes over time will require a sustained and
coordinated approach, supported by significant funding, by all levels of
government to ensure our transport corridors are fit for purpose and focused on
the key current and emerging challenges facing the NSW freight task.
It is recommended that Councillors endorse the submission to
the Independent Advisory Panel coordinated by Transport for NSW as part of the
NSW Government’s Freight Policy Reform Program.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Submission to the NSW Government
responding to the Freight Policy Reform Consultation Paper be received
2. Council
endorse the submission at Attachment 1 and it be submitted to Transport for NSW
by the closing date on 31 May 2024.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
Submission - NSW Government's Freight Policy Reform
Program
|
7 Pages
|
Appendix
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Appendix 1 - Submission - NSW Government's Freight Policy
Reform Program
THIS PAGE HAS BEEN
LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Ordinary
Meeting 27
May 2024
|
8
|
Organisational Financial
Review - March 2024
|
|
Compiled by: Ben
Collins, Strategic Finance Coordinator
Cheryl
Freeburn, Acting Financial Services Manager
Authorised
by: Matthew
Bullivant, Director - Corporate Services
|
Outcome
|
We have open and collaborative leadership
|
|
Strategy
|
Deliver an efficient, transparent and accountable
service to the community
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Support financial sustainability through financial
planning and budget management and provide accurate reporting to the community
|
Executive Summary
This report outlines
Council’s progress towards implementing its four-year Delivery Program
for the third quarter period of 1 January to 31 March 2024. The report should
be read in conjunction with the attached Organisational Report – March
2024, which records significant Variations, Reserve movements, proposed
Revotes, Contracts, Consultancies and Legal Expenses, Cash and Investments
position, Income and Expenses by Program, and our progress in completing the
organisation’s Operating and Capital Projects for 2023-24.
Council projected a balanced Budget in the adoption of the
original 2023-24 Operational Plan. The September review presented a surplus
result of $1,123,896 which was transferred to Reserve and the December review
presented a Deficit result of $342,730, which reduced this transfer to reserve
but continued to result in a balanced budget position being projected for
2023-24. The most notable variations in this current review that impact upon
the Budget position include: Cultural Facilities Contributions Plan Income
($529k), and Salary Savings ($2.4m). Overall, March quarter variations have
resulted in a surplus of $2,940,400 for the third quarter of 2023-24.
It is proposed as part of the March Quarter Review to
transfer the third quarter surplus of $2,940,400 to the Financial Management
Reserve. This allocation prudently provides capacity to respond to current and
emerging priorities, including challenges identified in the latest iteration of
Council’s Long Term Financial Plan which forms part of Council’s
adopted Operational Plan, and results in a balanced budget position being
predicted for 2023-24. Further details on proposed major variations are
provided in this report, with more detail also included in the Organisational
Report – March 2024.
This report recommends that the Organisational Financial
Review – March 2024 be received, and that the revised Budget estimates
identified in the report and detailed in the Organisational Report –
March 2024 be adopted.
Financial Position for the
March 2024 Quarter
The financial position of
Council for the quarter is expressed by providing information in compliance
with Quarterly Budget Review Statement (QBRS) requirements on:
· Budget
position (whether balanced/surplus or deficit)
· Funding
summary
· Significant
variations affecting budget position
· Significant
variations not affecting budget position
· Reserve
movements for the quarter
· Income
and expenses
· Capital
budget
· Cash
and investments
· Key
performance indicators
· Contracts
and other expenses
· Consultancy
and legal expenses
· Capital
and Operating Budget Projects list for the quarter.
Budget Position
|
|
$’000s
|
|
Original Budget Position 2023-24
|
0
|
|
September 2023 Quarter Variations Adopted by the
Council
|
0
|
|
December 2023 Quarter Variations Adopted by the
Council
|
|
|
March 2024 Quarter Variations Adopted by the Council
|
|
|
March 2024 Quarter Review Proposed Variations
|
2,940
|
|
Less: Transfer to Financial Management Reserve
Revised Budget Position Surplus/(Deficit) projected
to June 2024
|
(2,940)
0
|
The predicted cumulative result
for the year as at March 2024 is a balanced Budget
after the recommended variations for the quarter, and the proposed allocation
to Financial Management Reserve. Further details including significant proposed
variations, variations with no impact on available funds, and reserve
movements, are detailed in the attached Organisational Report – March
2024.
Other variations with no
impact on Available Funds and Proposed Revotes
A number of other variations, proposed as part of this
review, do not have an impact on the available funds. Details of the more
significant of these adjustments are provided in the Organisational Report
– March 2024.
In
addition to the aforementioned variations, a total of $6.4m of planned Capital
and Operating projects are proposed for revote this quarter. The total value of
revotes for the year to date is $11.2m (including the proposed March Quarter
revotes), compared to $16.2m revotes for the same period in 2023-24. A full
list of Revotes is included in the Organisational Report – March 2024.
New
Grants
In accordance with Council’s Grant Applications Policy
(adopted 30 May 2022) Attachment 2 highlights a list of grants that have
been incorporated into the budget as part of the March 2024 Quarterly Review.
As per the Policy, these grants have a value below $250,000, do not require
matching funding from Council, have no ongoing costs, and as such did not
require a separate Council report.
Financial
Implications
Adopting the recommendations within this report will mean
Council’s 2023-24 Budget continues, at this stage, to predict a balanced
budget position for the year. Further details of the financial implications are
contained within the attached Organisational Report – March 2024.
Risk Implications
Clause 203 of the Local Government Regulation requires that
the Budget Review Statements and a revision of estimates must be reported to
the Council within two months after the end of each quarter (except the June
quarter). This Quarterly Review incorporates a comprehensive analysis of
Actuals vs Budgets across all areas of the organisation, and also proposes
variations to the annual budget to be approved by the Council.
The Long-Term
Financial Plan is updated on a regular basis in line with the reviews to ensure
that forward projections reflect the most current assumptions. This review
process, and long-term forecasting, minimise financial risk by supporting
financial sustainability, transparency, and accountability.
The March 2024
Quarterly Review has been updated with the best available information, however
there is every likelihood that more favourable and unfavourable variations will
occur throughout the next three months, as is the nature of Local Government
operations. Such variations will be managed and reported to the Council for
consideration.
Conclusion
This report, and the
more detailed Organisational Report – March 2024 indicates that
the performance of Council’s Capital and Operating Projects are on track
to meet Council’s challenging annual program. Prudent financial
management combined with the fine tuning and confirmation of budget assumptions
have contributed to balanced budget being projected to June 2024. Once adopted,
the Organisational Report – March 2024 will be placed on
Council’s website.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Organisational Financial Review - March
2024 be received.
2. The Organisational
and Financial Review as at 31 March 2024, including the revised estimates
outlined in this report and detailed in the Organisational Report –
March 2024, be adopted.
3. Council
revote the works as detailed in the Recommended Revoted Works Lists, detailed
in the Organisational Report – March 2024 for inclusion in the 2024-25
Operational Plan.
4. The third
quarter surplus of $2,940,400 be transferred to the Financial Management
Reserve as detailed in the Organisational Report – March 2024.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
Organisational Report - March 2024
|
78 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
2. ⇩
|
Grant Funding Applications Accepted
|
1 Page
|
Attachments Included
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
9
|
Review of Grants Received by
Council
|
|
Compiled by: Ben
Collins, Strategic Finance Coordinator
Authorised
by: Cheryl
Freeburn, Acting Financial Services Manager
Matthew
Bullivant, Director - Corporate Services
Requested By: Councillor
John Thain
Councillor
Ross Fowler OAM
|
Outcome
|
We have open and collaborative leadership
|
|
Strategy
|
Deliver an efficient, transparent and accountable
service to the community
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Support financial sustainability through financial
planning and budget management and provide accurate reporting to the
community
|
Executive Summary
This report is in response to requests from Councillor Ross
Fowler OAM made at the Councillor Briefing of 15 April 2024 and Councillor John
Thain made at the Ordinary Meeting of Council held 29 April 2024 for a report
on grants received from the various Governments over the last 10 years,
including an analysis of grants announced and later withdrawn. Council records
in relation to withdrawn grants are limited to only recent announcements and
detailed in this report. The report recommends that the information be received.
Background
A significant amount of Council’s revenue ($65m in
2022-23) comes from grants received from both the State and Federal governments,
as well as other sources. While Grant income fluctuates from year to year
depending on one-off projects, in recent years Grant income has constituted over
18% of Council’s total Income.
Current Situation
A significant amount of Council’s revenue ($65m in
2022-23) comes from grants received from both the State and Federal government
as well as other sources. These funds include income for both capital and
operational purposes which may be general purpose in nature such as the
Financial Assistance Grant or specific purpose such as Western Sydney
Infrastructure Grants.
Regardless of the nature, these funds play a critical
role in the delivery of Council services and infrastructure for our growing
city. A breakdown of historical Grant income is provided in the tables below.
While Grant income fluctuates from year to year, in recent years Grant income
has constituted over 18% of Council’s total Income.
Recent Federal Funding Announcements
Following the Independent Strategic Review of the
Infrastructure Investment Program (IIP) by the Federal Government in November
2023, a number of funding commitments were withdrawn in relation to Penrith
City Council and broader Western Sydney Infrastructure Projects. The Federal
Government’s 2024-25 Budget announcements in May 2024 have reinstated
some of these withdrawals, along with additional infrastructure and strategic
transport commitments that will benefit our City.
These are summarised in the table below.
|
Transport
Project
|
Amount
withdrawn through release of Review of IIP Nov 2023
|
Amount
announced 14 May 2024 in Fed Budget 2024-25
|
Comments
|
|
Western Sydney Freight
Line Stage 1
Final Business Case
|
|
$20 million
|
New Project – funded
under the planning program $147.5 million allocation
|
|
Western Sydney Roads
Future Planning
|
|
TBC
|
New Project – funded
under the planning program $147.5 million allocation
|
|
Eastern Ring Road and
Badgerys Creek Road South
Planning
|
|
TBC
|
New Project – funded
under the planning program $147.5 million allocation
|
|
Werrington
Arterial Stage 2
Strategic
Business Case
|
$3 million
|
|
The NSW Government has
committed $3 million and the project will proceed with the state funding.
|
|
Mamre Road Stage 2
Upgrade
|
|
$500 million
|
This funding will progress
from the concept phase into construction
|
|
Elizabeth Drive - Priority Sections Upgrade
|
|
$400 million
|
This funding is in addition
to previously committed $200m by the NSW Government for enabling works and
safety improvements currently being delivered by TfNSW
|
|
M7 / M12 Interchange
|
$116 million
|
|
TfNSW continues to deliver
this project under its road investment program.
$116 million was not
reinstated in the Federal Budget.
|
|
Mulgoa Road –
Stage 2
|
$232.5 million
|
$115 million
|
TfNSW has co-funded Stage 2
works.
Stage 5A and 5B remain
unfunded with $117.5 million not being reinstated.
|
|
Western Sydney Rapid Bus Infrastructure Upgrade
|
|
$100 million
|
This will contribute
funding towards electric rapid bus infrastructure.
|
|
Commuter car parks
St Marys
Kingswood
|
$33.8 million
$32 million
|
|
Remain unfunded
|
|
Total
|
$417.3
million
|
$1.135 billion*
|
*Note: This does not
include the new planning projects Western Sydney Roads Package and Eastern
Ring Road funding (part of $147.5 million)
|
Further to this, other funding
announcements included in the Federal Budget of interest also include:
· $4.9
million for the Western Sydney City Deal
· $1
billion funding for the Roads to Recovery Program (increased from $500 million)
· $150
million for Black Spot Program (increased from $110 million)
There is no detail available
at this stage in relation to the items above.
The funding outlined above
relates to Federal Government commitments only. The NSW Government Budget will
be announced on 18 June 2024. This will provide further clarity for projects
regarding total government financial commitments; project prioritisation, scope
and delivery timeframes.
Financial
Implications
There are no financial implications for Council associated
with this report.
Risk Implications
There are no risk implications for Council associated with
this report.
Conclusion
Council officers will continue to liaise with both
levels of Government by way of support to assist the program of work outlined
above. We will also continue to advocate in line with the projects outlined in
the Advocacy Priorities List and Advocacy Strategy.
A letter has been sent to Minister Catherine King MP relating
to infrastructure funding. Councillors will be kept informed as more
information becomes available.
RECOMMENDATION
That the information contained in the report on Review of
Grants Received by Council be received.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
There are no attachments for this report.
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
10
|
Audit, Risk and Improvement
Committee
|
|
Compiled by: Anthony
Robinson, Corporate Assurance Lead
Authorised
by: Stephen
Britten, Chief Governance Officer
|
Outcome
|
We have open and collaborative leadership
|
|
Strategy
|
Corporate Enablers
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Undertake the audit program as agreed with the
Audit Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) to ensure Council’s
operations are ethical and efficient
|
Executive Summary
The report provides information on the meeting of Council’s
Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee held on 13 March 2024. The draft Minutes
of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee meeting 13 March 2024 are provided
in the appendix to the report, and the key take-outs of the meeting are listed in
the report.
Background
Councils are required by the Local Government Act 1993
to appoint an Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (the ARIC). The ARIC must
keep under review, the following aspects of Council’s operations:
a) compliance
b) risk
management
c) fraud
control
d) financial
management
e) governance
f) implementation
of the strategic plan, delivery program and strategies
g) service
reviews
h) collection
of performance measurement data by the Council, and
i) any
other matters prescribed by the regulations.
The ARIC must also provide information to the Council for the
purpose of improving the Council’s performance of its functions.
The ARIC is an independent advisory Committee that assists the
Council to fulfil its oversight responsibilities. It meets at least four times
a year and operates under a Charter, last adopted by Council resolution on 25
September 2023. Minutes and key take-outs are generally reported to the Council
on a quarterly basis.
Current Situation
The ARIC met on 13 March 2024. This was the first meeting of
the ARIC for the 2024 calendar year. The draft Minutes of the meeting held 12
December 2023, as provided to Council on 26 February 2024, were adopted without
alteration.
A copy of the draft Minutes for the meeting of 13 March 2024
are appended to the report.
In keeping with the ARIC’s practice, the ARIC identified
the following key take-outs from the meeting:
1. Finance
The ARIC reviewed the Audit Office’s Engagement Plan
for the audit of council's financial statements for FY 2024 and discussed the
proposal to “undeclare” Council’s Property Development and
the Penrith Performing and Visual Arts business units. There is a continued
focus on the financial performance of Council noting that Council is predicting
an operating loss for FY 2024 and a resulting Operating Performance Ratio of
negative 16.2% (OLG benchmark is ≥ 0%). The operating result has been
negatively impacted by an increase in depreciation charges (FY23 $56.6M,
forecast for FY24 $62.6M) and also Council’s current borrowings. The ARIC
will continue to focus on council's long-term financial performance and
sustainability and also its processes to ensure accurate budgeting.
2. Change management
Council is currently undergoing significant change with a
proposed restructure, retirement of senior staff and recruiting challenges. In
addition there is a major ERP project on the horizon. Significant change often
leads to heightened risk which both management and the ARIC will monitor
closely.
3. Major
projects
The ARIC reviewed the major projects currently being
undertaken by council and was pleased to see that the review of contracts for
the major projects has been prioritised following the recent contract
management audit and that the reporting on major projects continues to become
more sophisticated, which leads to better monitoring and decision-making by
management.
4. Internal
audit
Three internal audits were recently completed. The Cyber
Security Audit identified that Council had had a significant rating improvement
since its last audit and had strong technical controls that maintained or
improved its maturity. Notwithstanding this, there is a commitment from
management for continual improvement in Council’s cyber security
positioning. The Payroll Audit noted that there had been significant
improvements in the payroll function since the previous audit in 2018. The audit
noted a few specific control weaknesses but generally the controls evaluated
were adequate, appropriate and effective. The audit of City Presentation
Operations had an overall rating of Major Improvement needed. A common theme in
the root cause analysis of the issues raised were staff vacancies/absences
leading to a lack of awareness of the procedures to be followed and limitations
on the technology supporting the business.
5. Compliance
The ARIC reviewed a gap analysis of Council’s current
risk management and internal audit functions against the recently implemented
OLG Risk Management and Internal Audit guidelines (effective from 1 July 2024).
Council is well advanced in achieving compliance with these guidelines,
although a review and update of the Internal Audit Charter will need to be
undertaken prior to 1 July to meet the requirements of the Guidelines.
Financial
Implications
There are no financial implications for Council associated
with this report.
Risk Implications
The Audit, Risk, and Improvement Committee (ARIC) plays a
pivotal role in ensuring the effective governance and management of risk within
Council. The ARIC delves into critical risk implications identified through
comprehensive assessments and evaluations conducted by Council officers. These
implications encompass a wide spectrum of potential risks, ranging from
financial and operational to reputational and regulatory, all of which pose
significant challenges to the council's objectives and obligations.
Addressing the identified risk implications demands a
concerted effort from management, ARIC, and relevant stakeholders. By
proactively identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks, Council enhances its
resilience, fosters sustainable growth, and fulfills its mandate of serving the
community effectively and responsibly. The ARIC remains committed to providing
oversight, guidance, and recommendations to navigate the complex risk landscape
and safeguard Council's interests and objectives.
Conclusion
The draft Minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee
meeting 13 March 2024 are appended to the report.
RECOMMENDATION
That the information contained in the report on Audit, Risk
and Improvement Committee be received.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
Draft ARIC minutes 13 March 2024
|
8 Pages
|
Appendix
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Appendix 1 - Draft ARIC minutes 13 March 2024
Ordinary
Meeting 27
May 2024
|
11
|
Submission to Australian
Government - Inquiry into Local Government Financial Sustainability
|
|
Compiled by: Cheryl
Freeburn, Acting Financial Services Manager
Authorised
by: Matthew
Bullivant, Director - Corporate Services
|
Outcome
|
We have open and collaborative leadership
|
|
Strategy
|
Deliver an efficient, transparent and accountable
service to the community
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Support financial sustainability through financial
planning and budget management and provide accurate reporting to the
community
|
Executive Summary
The State and Federal Governments have commenced new
inquiries into local government financial sustainability. The State Government
Inquiry closed on Friday 26 April 2024 and a response was submitted by Council
officers. Councillors were informed of the submission to this inquiry at the
Briefing held on 22 April 2024, and were advised that a report would be included
on the agenda of this Ordinary meeting which would include the submission and
outline the proposed submission to the Federal Government Inquiry.
The Federal Government inquiry closes on 31 May 2024 and
the purpose of this report is to seek endorsement of the submission attached to
this report.
Background
The Legislative Council Standing Committee on State
Development (NSW) invited submissions for an inquiry into the ability of local
governments to fund infrastructure and services, and in particular the level of
income councils requires to meet the needs of their communities, rate pegs and
cost shifting. A submission was prepared and submitted to their website on the
due date of 26 April 2024.
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on
Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport (Cth) has commenced a new
inquiry into local government sustainability.
As part of the inquiry the Committee
will examine financial sustainability and funding frameworks of local governments, alongside changing infrastructure requirements and service delivery
obligations.
The Committee is seeking to understand the challenges
faced by local governments in servicing infrastructure requirements across
regional, rural, and remote locations.
Workforce shortages across
Australia relating to infrastructure and other service
areas more broadly, particularly in regional, rural,
and remote areas, will also be a focus of the inquiry. The Committee will also inquire into issues relating
to skills development and job security, along with labour hire and retention trends and practices to identify barriers
and opportunities to support job security and local government service delivery
obligations.
Submissions to the inquiry
are due by close of business Friday
31 May 2024.
Current Situation
The
Commonwealth House of Representatives Standing Committee on Regional
Development, Infrastructure and Transport will inquire into and report
on local government matters, with a particular focus on:
· The financial sustainability and funding of local government
· The changing infrastructure and service delivery
obligations of local government
· Any structural impediments to security for local
government workers and infrastructure and service delivery
· Trends in the attraction and retention of a skilled
workforce in the local government sector, including impacts of labour hire
practices
· The role of the Australian Government in addressing
issues raised in relation to the above
· Other relevant issues.
It is
proposed to lodge the attached submission which addresses the financial sustainability and Council’s ability to
fund essential infrastructure and services to Council’s community, which
continues to be predominantly impacted by 47 years of rate-capping and cost-shifting from
State and Federal Governments. The themes from the draft Federal Government
submission include:
· Seeking the Federal Government to pursue the State
Government to remove rate capping, and instead implement a model that enables
the Council to engage with its Community,
· Impact of Cost Shifting, particularly in relation to the
delivery and maintenance of infrastructure,
· Infrastructure challenges driven by growth, but also
increased property values and the impact of depreciation on ageing assets,
· Increased support required through grant funding. In
particular, the Federal Assistance Grant not having been reflective of the
population growth in the Penrith LGA,
· Review of the cap on developer contributions and an
expansion of the IPART essential works list.
These barriers
to Council’s capability to continue to meet the needs of the
community have been exacerbated by the:
· Inflationary pressures on our core operational costs,
· Process of successive infrastructure asset revaluations,
· Decline in the Financial Assistance Grant funding,
· Natural Disaster Recovery
costs and resilience building efforts borne by Council,
· Constraints of State and Federal Government Grant programs,
· Developer and other agency asset dedications,
· Inadequately funded growth
burdens from the Aerotropolis and population increases,
· Challenges experienced across the industry to attract
relevant skilled staff in disciplines relating to planning, engineering, and
environmental health.
Financial
Implications
There are no direct financial implications for Council
associated with this report, however the outcome of the inquiry could have
significant financial implications for increased funding and support from the
government.
Risk Implications
If Council does not provide a submission to the inquiry into
local government sustainability, the risk is that Council’s challenges, concerns
and comments will not be fully understood and considered.
Conclusion
The Federal inquiry provides Council with an opportunity to
share our challenges and concerns and to have these needs addressed, the
closing date for submission is Friday, 31 May. The State Government review has
been submitted and is attached for information as the closing date for
submission was Friday, 26 April 2024.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Submission to Australian Government -
Inquiry into Local Government Financial Sustainability be received
2. Council
endorse the proposed draft submission to the Australian Government - Inquiry
into Local Government Financial sustainability as attached to this report.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
Standing Committee on State Development - Terms of
Reference
|
1 Page
|
Attachments Included
|
|
2. ⇩
|
Standing Committee on State Development - Council
Submission
|
7 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
|
3. ⇩
|
Draft submission to Federal Government - Inquiry into
Ability of Local Government to Fund Infrastructure Services
|
7 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
12
|
The Local Government
Remuneration Tribunal Determination for Mayor and Councillors for 2024-2025
|
|
Compiled by: Avanthi
Fernando, Governance Officer
Stuart
Benzie, Governance Coordinator
Authorised
by: Adam
Beggs, Governance Manager
Stephen Britten,
Chief Governance Officer
|
Outcome
|
We have open and collaborative leadership
|
|
Strategy
|
Corporate Enablers
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Promote ethical behaviour through awareness and
advice, and manage investigations of alleged corruption, maladministration or
breaches of the Code of Conduct
|
Executive Summary
The Local Government Act 1993
(the LG Act) requires the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (the
Tribunal) to report to the Minister for Local Government by 1 May each year on
its determination of categories of councils, and the maximum and minimum
amounts of fees to be paid to Mayors and Councillors. The Tribunal has made its
2024 determination which takes effect on 1 July 2024.
Penrith City Council will remain categorised as a
Metropolitan Large Council, meaning there is no change to Council’s
categorisation from the 2023-24 year. The Tribunal has determined a 3.75 per
cent per annum increase in the minimum and maximum fees applicable to each
category of councils from 1 July 2024. This increase is 0.75% higher than the increase
determined for the previous year.
At least once every three years the Tribunal is required to determine the categories of councils and mayoral offices
and place each council and mayoral office into one of those categories. The
Tribunal last undertook an extensive review of categories in 2023 and will next
consider the model, criteria for each group, and the allocation of councils in
the 2026 review.
Consistent with the current remuneration arrangements, the
report recommends the fees payable to the Mayor and Councillors for 2024-25 be
set at the maximum level permitted as determined by the Local Government
Remuneration Tribunal.
Background
As prescribed under the LG Act, the Tribunal must report
to the Minister for Local Government by 1 May each year on its determination of
categories of councils and the maximum and minimum amounts of fees to be paid
to mayors and councillors.
In 2009 the Tribunal undertook a review of categories and
allocation of councils into each of the categories. While the Tribunal found
there was no strong case to significantly alter the existing categories of councils,
the Tribunal decided to apply descriptive titles to each of the categories
rather than continuing with the numbering of categories. The descriptive title
given to Penrith City Council was “Metropolitan Major” which
indicates “a Council that has a residential population greater than
250,000 or has another special feature of section 240 of the LG Act
which the Tribunal considers distinguishes it from other Metropolitan
Councils”.
In 2017 the Tribunal determined to re-title the three metropolitan
categories, and as a result Penrith City Council was given the title of
‘Metropolitan Large’. Metropolitan Large Councils ‘typically
have a minimum population of 200,000’. Council has maintained this
category since 2017.
Local Government Remuneration Tribunal Determination
for 2024–2025
Section 239 of the LG Act requires the
Tribunal to determine the categories of councils and mayoral offices and place
each council and mayoral office into one of those categories. The Tribunal last
undertook an extensive review and allocation of councils into each category in
its 2023 determination. The Tribunal has advised it will next consider the
model, criteria for each group, and the allocation of councils in its 2026
review. Consequently, there are no current changes to the categories of
councils. The Tribunal has determined that Penrith City Council will remain
categorised as a Metropolitan Large Council for 2024-25.
Section 241 of the LG Act provides that the Tribunal
determine the maximum and minimum amount of fees to be paid to mayors and
councillors for each of the categories. In the past, when making a
determination, section 242A(1) of the LG Act required the Tribunal “to
give effect to the same policies on increases in remuneration as those that the
Industrial Relations Commission is required to give effect to under section
146C of the Industrial Relations Act 1996 when making or
varying awards or orders relating to the conditions of employment of public
sector employees.”
However, the Industrial Relations Amendment Act 2023,
repealed section 146C of the Industrial Relations Act 1996,
resulting in changes to wages policy and removal of the cap on remuneration
increases. These changes were taking place around the same time the Tribunal
was asking for submissions on its 2024 considerations.
As a result of the legislative amendments, the Tribunal is no
longer required to give effect to the same policies on increases in
remuneration as those of the Industrial Relations Commission under section
242A of the LG Act.
On 29 April 2024, the Tribunal released its report and
determination on fees to be paid to mayors and councillors for the period 1
July 2024 to 30 June 2025. A full copy of the Tribunal’s annual report is
attached to this report.
Taking into consideration a range economic data such as the
Consumer Price Index, Wage Price Index, full-time adult average weekly ordinary
time earnings, NSW Public Sector increases, Local Government State Award
increases, and the Base Cost Change model used by IPART in setting the rate peg
for 2024-25, the Tribunal determined that a 3.75%
increase is to apply to the minimum and maximum fees applicable to existing
categories for 2024-25. This increase is 0.75% higher than the increase applied
the previous year.
Previous Submissions made by Council
During the determination process councils are invited to
make submissions to the Tribunal. On previous occasions Council has made submissions
to the Tribunal advocating for the maximum allowable increase allowed by the
wages policy to be applied to the fees payable to the mayor and councillors and
suggesting that a new category called ‘Metropolitan Large –
Growth Centre’ should be created to recognise Councils like Penrith
that are experiencing considerable growth and have significant involvement in
major city and regional shaping projects and initiatives.
Last year in its determination, the Tribunal
acknowledged Council’s submission advocating for the creation of a new
category; Metropolitan Large – Growth Centre. However, the Tribunal was
of the view that rapid developments around the Western Sydney area do not
warrant the creation of a new category and that councils experiencing growth
will in the future have populations of residents and non-residents that may
meet the thresholds for a recategorisation under the current model. The next
extensive review of categories by the Tribunal is not due until 2026.
During the Tribunal’s consultation period for its
2024 determination, which ran from 3 October 2023 to 21 December 2023,
Council’s officers made enquiries with Local Government NSW (LGNSW) to
ascertain its position on wages that it would be advocating for, noting the
legislative changes on wages policy that were taking place. LGNSW had not
finalised its position and was still working through the implications of the
wages policy changes on the Tribunal’s considerations. Due to these factors
and that the Tribunal was not redetermining the categories for councils and
mayoral officers, an individual submission was not made on behalf of Council
for this determination. LGNSW subsequently made a submission on 21 December
2023 advocating for a 10% increase to the fees payable to Councillors and
Mayors.
Mayor and Councillor Fees for 2024-2025
The Council’s policy on the Payment of Expenses
and Provision of Facilities to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Councillors (Section
252 Policy) states that “Council will determine annually the fee to be
paid to the Mayor in accordance with section 249 of the LG Act.
This fee is in addition to the Councillor’s fee and will be paid to the
Mayor monthly in arrears”.
In respect of the Deputy Mayor, Council’s policy
states “Council will determine annually the fee paid to the Deputy Mayor
in accordance with section 249(5) of the LG Act. This fee,
which is to be deducted from the Mayor’s fee, is in addition to the
Councillor’s fee”.
The Tribunal does not set a fee for a Deputy Mayor however
it has been Council’s practice to remunerate the Deputy Mayor by
allocating 20% of the Mayor’s fee to the Deputy Mayor, in addition to the
fee paid to the Deputy Mayor as a Councillor.
The Tribunal has determined the following range of fees
for the Category of “Metropolitan Large” Councils (Bayside, Cumberland,
Fairfield, Inner West, Liverpool, Northern Beaches, Penrith, Ryde, Sutherland
and The Hills):
· Councillor
Annual Fee – Minimum $20,500 & Maximum $33,810, and
· Mayor
Additional Fee – Minimum $43,530 & Maximum $98,510 (this fee must be
paid in addition to the Mayor as a Councillor).
Financial
Implications
The Draft 2024-25 Operational Plan currently on
exhibition includes provision for Councillor remunerations fees indexed at
3.75% following the Tribunals determination of the percentage increase 29th
April 2024.
There are no financial implications with this report on
the 2024-25 Operational Plan.
Risk Implications
There are no risk implications specifically associated with
the action proposed within this report.
Conclusion
The Local Government Act 1993 (the LG Act)
requires the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (the Tribunal) to report to
the Minister for Local Government by 1 May each year on its determination of
categories of councils, and the maximum and minimum amounts of fees to be paid
to mayors and councillors. The Tribunal has made its 2024 determination which
takes effect on 1 July 2024. The Tribunal has determined a 3.75 per cent per
annum increase in the minimum and maximum fees applicable to each category of
councils from 1 July 2024. There is no change to Council’s categorisation
as a Metropolitan Large Council.
Consistent with the current remuneration arrangements, it is
recommended that the fees payable to the Mayor and Councillors for 2024-25 be
set at the maximum level determined by the Tribunal.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on The Local Government Remuneration
Tribunal Determination for Mayor and Councillors for 2024-2025 be received.
2. The fees
payable to the Mayor and Councillors for 2024-25 be set at the maximum level
permitted as determined by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
LGRT Annual Determination - 2024-2025
|
39 Pages
|
Attachments Included
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
|
13
|
Summary of Investments &
Banking for the period 1 April 2024 to 30 April 2024
|
|
Compiled by: James
Legarse, Treasury and Operations Accountant
Authorised
by: Cheryl
Freeburn, Acting Financial Services Manager
Matthew
Bullivant, Director - Corporate Services
|
Outcome
|
We have open and collaborative leadership
|
|
Strategy
|
Deliver an efficient, transparent and accountable
service to the community
|
|
Principal Activity
|
Support financial sustainability through financial
planning and budget management and provide accurate reporting to the
community
|
Executive Summary
This report on the Summary of Investments & Banking for April
2024 is submitted for the purpose of financial accountability and to satisfy
the investment reporting requirements of the Local Government (General)
Regulation 2005 (clause 212), the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) (Section
625) and the Council’s Investment Policy.
The report certifies that the Council investments comply
with the forms of investment made by order of the Minister under section 625(2)
of the Local Government Act 1993. The current Ministerial Order was issued
under Council Circular 11-01 on 17 February 2011.
The report provides a summary of investments for the period
1 April 2024 to 30 April 2024 and a reconciliation of invested funds as at 30
April 2024.
The investment returns versus the benchmark as a percentage
for April 2024 are:
• Council
portfolio current yield (including FRNs)
5.05%
• Council
portfolio annualised yield to date 4.74%
• 90-day
Bank Bill Swap rate (Benchmark) 4.36%
• Enhanced
90-day Bank Bill Swap Rate (Benchmark: BBSW+20bps) 4.56%
• Original
Budget estimated return (2023/24 Financial Year) 3.65%
The report recommends that the information contained in the
report be received.
Current Situation
A Summary of Investments is shown in Appendix 1, including
Economic Commentary for April 2024, Historical Investment Performance Analysis
tables and charts, a reconciliation of Invested Funds for April 2024 and
various Investment Summary and Investment Portfolio analysis tables and charts.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) met on 7 May 2024
and the Board decided to keep the Cash Rate to 4.35%. The Board’s
decision to hold the Cash Rate, is in response to recent information of the
inflation rate continuing to moderate – even though the inflation rate is
declining slowly than expected. This will further provide some time to assess
the impact of the increase in interest rates to date and the economic outlook.
The Board still aims to bring the inflation rate back to the target range of 2
to 3 per cent; hence a potential further Cash Rate increase(s) is not
completely out of the picture.
Financial
Implications
Adopting the recommendations of this report confirms
Council’s investment returns are favourably exceeding the Original Budget,
as well as outperforming the benchmark for the month. More detailed Financial
Implications are contained in Appendix 1.
Risk Implications
The Council’s investments have
been placed in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, relevant regulations, and the Council’s
adopted Investment Policy. The Council’s Investment Policy has objectives
to preserve capital, ensure liquidity of funds to meet cash flow requirements
and achieve an acceptable rate of return having reference to the
Council’s risk tolerance.
Conclusion
This report confirms that the Council’s investments have
been placed in accordance with relevant legislation/regulations, the
Council’s Investment Policy and highlights the Council’s investment
performance for April 2024. Additionally, the report assures the Council that
Council’s Cash Book and Bank Statements have been reconciled.
Certificate of Responsible
Accounting Officer
I hereby certify the following:
1. All
investments have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local
Government Act 1993, relevant regulations, and Council’s Investment
Policy.
2. The
Council’s Cash Book and Bank Statements have been reconciled as at
30 April 2024.
Matthew Bullivant
RECOMMENDATION
That:
1. The
information contained in the report on Summary of Investments & Banking for
the period 1 April 2024 to 30 April 2024 be received.
2. The
Council’s Cash Book and Bank Statements have been reconciled as at 30
April 2024.
ATTACHMENTS/APPENDICES
|
1. ⇩
|
Investment Report as at 30 April 2024
|
6 Pages
|
Appendix
|
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Appendix 1 - Investment Report as at 30 April 2024
Ordinary Meeting 27 May 2024
1 Presence
of the Public
Everyone is entitled to attend a
meeting of the Council and those of its Committees of which all members are
Councillors, except as provided by Section 10 of the Local Government Act,
1993.
A Council, or a Committee of the
Council of which all the members are Councillors, may close to the public so
much of its meeting as comprises:
(a)
the
discussion of any of the matters listed below; or
(b)
the
receipt or discussion of any of the information so listed.
The matters and information are the
following:
(a)
personnel
matters concerning particular individuals;
(b)
the
personal hardship of any resident or ratepayers;
(c)
information
that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom
the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business;
(d)
commercial
information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed:
·
prejudice
the commercial position of the person who supplied it; or
·
confer a
commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council; or
·
reveal a
trade secret.
(e)
information
that would, if disclosed, prejudice the maintenance of the law;
(f)
matters
affecting the security of the Council, Councillors, Council staff or Council
property;
(g) advice
concerning litigation, or advice that would otherwise be privileged from
production in legal proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege.
The grounds on which part of a
meeting is closed must be stated in the decision to close that part of the
meeting and must be recorded in the minutes of the meeting.
The grounds must specify the following:
(a)
the
relevant provision of section 10A(2);
(b)
the
matter that is to be discussed during the closed part of the meeting;
(c)
the
reasons why the part of the meeting is being closed, including (if the matter
concerned is a matter other than a personnel matter concerning particular
individuals, the personal hardship of a resident or ratepayer or a trade
secret) an explanation of the way in which discussion of the matter in open
meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.
Members of the public may make
representations at a Council or Committee Meeting as to whether a part of a
meeting should be closed to the public
The process which should be
followed is:
·
a motion,
based on the recommendation below, is moved and seconded
·
the
Chairperson then asks if any member/s of the public would like to make
representations as to whether a part of the meeting is closed to the public
·
if a
member/s of the public wish to make representations, the Chairperson invites
them to speak before the Committee makes its decision on whether to close the
part of the meeting or not to the public.
·
if no
member/s of the public wish to make representations the Chairperson can then
put the motion to close the meeting to the public.
The first action is for a motion
to be moved and seconded based on the recommendation below.
RECOMMENDATION
That:
Outcome 5
2 Council Property - New Lease
- 158-164 Old Bathurst Rd, Emu Plains
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to information that would, if
disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is
conducting (or proposes to conduct) business and discussion of the matter in
open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.
3 Council Property - New Lease
- 35B Colorado Dr, St Clair - Community Land
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to information that would, if
disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is
conducting (or proposes to conduct) business and discussion of the matter in
open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.
Outcome 2
4 Request For Major Event
Sponsorship - Paddle Australia Limited
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to commercial information of a
confidential nature that would, if disclosed (i) prejudice the commercial
position of the person who supplied it; or (ii) confer a commercial advantage
on a competitor of the Council; or (iii) reveal a trade secret and discussion
of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public
interest.
Outcome 5
5 Council Property - New Lease
- Suite 1, 54 Henry Street Penrith
This item has been referred to
Committee of the Whole as the report refers to information that would, if
disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is
conducting (or proposes to conduct) business and discussion of the matter in
open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to the public interest.
ATTACHMENTS 
Date of
Meeting: Monday 27 May 2024
Report
Title: Community Funding Program - Request for
Public Exhibition
Attachments: Community
Funding Program Policy
Grants
Guidelines - Thriving Communities
Grants
Guidelines - Safe Communities - Domestic and Family Violence Grant
Grants
Guidelines - Local Creativity Grant
Grant
Guidelines - Magnetic Places
Grant
Guidelines - Local Events Grant
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 1 - Community Funding Program Policy
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 2 - Grants Guidelines - Thriving Communities
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 3 - Grants Guidelines - Safe Communities -
Domestic and Family Violence Grant
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 4 - Grants Guidelines - Local Creativity Grant
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 5 - Grant Guidelines - Magnetic Places
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 6 - Grant Guidelines - Local Events Grant
ATTACHMENTS
Date of
Meeting: Monday 27 May 2024
Report
Title: City Centre Corporations Service Level
Agreements 2024-2027
Attachments: Proposed
Key Performance Indicator Framework
Penrith
CBD Corporation Key Performance Indicators 2024-2027
St
Marys Town Centre Key Performance Indicators 2024-2027
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 1 - Proposed Key Performance Indicator
Framework
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 2 - Penrith CBD Corporation Key Performance
Indicators 2024-2027
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 3 - St Marys Town Centre Key Performance
Indicators 2024-2027
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 1 - Organisational Report - March 2024
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 2 - Grant Funding Applications Accepted
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 1 - Standing Committee on State Development -
Terms of Reference
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 2 - Standing Committee on State Development -
Council Submission
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 3 - Draft submission to Federal Government -
Inquiry into Ability of Local Government to Fund Infrastructure Services
Ordinary Meeting 27
May 2024
Attachment 1 - LGRT Annual Determination - 2024-2025
ATTACHMENT 
Date of Meeting: 27
May 2024
Delivery Program: Outcome
5
Service: Financial
Services
Report Title: 2022-2023
Voted Works
