Agenda of General Meeting

Hornsby Shire Council Agenda and Summary of Recommendations

Page 1

AGENDA AND SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

PRESENT

NATIONAL ANTHEM

OPENING PRAYER/S

Paster David Nathan of The Hive Church will open tonights meeting in prayer.

Acknowledgement of RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY

Statement by the Chairperson:

"We recognise our Shire's rich cultural and religious diversity and we acknowledge and pay respect to the beliefs of all members of our community, regardless of creed or faith."

ABORIGINAL RECOGNITION

Statement by the Chairperson:

"We acknowledge we are on the traditional lands of the Darug and Guringai Peoples. We pay our respects to elders past and present."

AUDIO RECORDING OF COUNCIL MEETING

Statement by the Chairperson:

"I advise all present that tonight's meeting is being audio recorded for the purposes of providing a record of public comment at the meeting, supporting the democratic process, broadening knowledge and participation in community affairs, and demonstrating Council’s commitment to openness and accountability. The recordings of the non-confidential parts of the meeting will be made available on Council’s website once the Minutes have been finalised. All speakers are requested to ensure their comments are relevant to the issue at hand and to refrain from making personal comments or criticisms. No other persons are permitted to record the Meeting, unless specifically authorised by Council to do so."

APOLOGIES / LEAVE OF ABSENCE

political donations disclosure

Statement by the Chairperson:

“In accordance with Section 147 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, any person or organisation who has made a relevant planning application or a submission in respect of a relevant planning application which is on tonight’s agenda, and who has made a reportable political donation or gift to a Councillor or employee of the Council, must make a Political Donations Disclosure Statement.

If a Councillor or employee has received a reportable political donation or gift from a person or organisation who has made a relevant planning application or a submission in respect of a relevant planning application which is on tonight’s agenda, they must declare a non-pecuniary conflict of interests to the meeting, disclose the nature of the interest and manage the conflict of interests in accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct.”

declarations of interest

Clause 52 of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice (Section 451 of the Local Government Act, 1993) requires that a councillor or a member of a Council committee who has a pecuniary interest in a matter which is before the Council or committee and who is present at a meeting of the Council or committee at which the matter is being considered must disclose the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable. The disclosure is also to be submitted in writing (on the form titled “Declaration of Interest”).

The Councillor or member of a Council committee must not be present at, or in sight of, the meeting of the Council or committee:

(a) at any time during which the matter is being considered or discussed by the Council or committee.

(b) at any time during which the Council or committee is voting on any question in relation to the matter.

Clause 51A of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice provides that a Councillor, Council officer, or a member of a Council committee who has a non pecuniary interest in any matter with which the Council is concerned and who is present at a meeting of the Council or committee at which the matter is being considered must disclose the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable. The disclosure is also to be submitted in writing (on the form titled “Declaration of Interest”).

If the non-pecuniary interest is significant, the Councillor must:

a) remove the source of conflict, by relinquishing or divesting the interest that creates the conflict, or reallocating the conflicting duties to another Council official.

b) have no involvement in the matter by absenting themself from and not taking part in any debate or voting on the issue as if the provisions of Section 451(2) of the Act apply.

If the non-pecuniary interest is less than significant, the Councillor must provide an explanation of why they consider that the interest does not require further action in the circumstances.

confirmation of minutes

THAT the Minutes of the General Meeting held on 13 June, 2018 be confirmed; a copy having been distributed to all Councillors.

Petitions

presentations

Rescission Motions

Mayoral Minutes

ITEMS PASSED BY EXCEPTION / CALL FOR SPEAKERS ON AGENDA ITEMS

Note:

Persons wishing to address Council on matters which are on the Agenda are permitted to speak, prior to the item being discussed, and their names will be recorded in the Minutes in respect of that particular item.

Persons wishing to address Council on non agenda matters, are permitted to speak after all items on the agenda in respect of which there is a speaker from the public have been finalised by Council. Their names will be recorded in the Minutes under the heading "Public Forum for Non Agenda Items".

GENERAL BUSINESS

· Items for which there is a Public Forum Speaker

· Public Forum for non agenda items

· Balance of General Business items

Office of the General Manager

Nil

Corporate Support Division

Page Number 1

Item 1 CS29/18 Deferred Report - Local Government Remuneration Tribunal - 2018 Report and Determination - Mayor and Councillor Fees - 2018/19 Financial Year

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. As a consequence of the 2018 Report and Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal, Council note that it remains in the Metropolitan Medium Category of NSW councils for the period 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019.

2. In accordance with Section 248 of the Local Government Act, and having considered the 2018 Report and Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal, an annual fee of $25,160 be paid to each Councillor for the period 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019.

3. In accordance with Section 249 of the Local Government Act, and having considered the 2018 Report and Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal, an additional annual fee of $66,860 be paid to the Mayor for the period 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019.

Page Number 5

Item 2 CS28/18 Investments and Borrowings for 2017/18 - Status for Period Ending 31 May 2018

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the contents of Deputy General Manager’s Report No. CS28/18 be received and noted.

Environment and Human Services Division

Nil

Planning Division

Nil

Infrastructure and Recreation Division

Page Number 8

Item 3 IR7/18 Public Domain Strategies

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council support the development of Public Domain Plans in the order of priority identified in Deputy General Manager’s Report No. IR7/18.

2. Council allocate $300,000 to commence the preparation of public domain plans and associated documentation for the priority areas nominated in Deputy General Manager’s Report IR 17/18.

3. That a community and stakeholder engagement plan supports each Public Domain Plan and that draft Public Domain Plans be reported to Council for exhibition.

Page Number 14

Item 4 IR8/18 Draft Hornsby Sportsground Strategy

RECOMMENDATION

THAT Council endorse the exhibition of the Draft Hornsby Sportsground Strategy contained in the Deputy General Managers Report No. IR8/18 with the feedback received to be reported back to Council for consideration.

PUBLIC FORUM – NON AGENDA ITEMS

Questions of Which Notice Has Been Given

Mayor's Notes

Page Number 21

Item 5 MN8/18 Mayor's Notes from 1 to 30 June 2018

Notices of Motion

Page Number 22

Item 6 NOM17/18 Companion Animals - Cats

COUNCILLOR Tilbury To Move

THAT:

1. The report to be prepared six months after the commencement of Council’s participation in the Cat Tracker Australia Program and Feral Cat Trapping Program also include consideration of the implications, feasibility, cost and resource implications of:

1.1 Subsidising the de-sexing and micro-chipping of cats;

1.2 Limiting the number of cats per household;

1.3 Prohibiting persons living within close proximity to wildlife protection areas from owning cats;

1.4 Streamlining the animal registration system to make it easier to register pets; and

1.5 Implementing an education strategy detailing the benefits of cat microchipping, registration, de-sexing and containment.

2. Best practice in local government be examined in evaluating how the processes outlined in Part 1 could be implemented in Hornsby Shire.

3. Council write to the Minister of Environment to seek confirmation of the opportunity and process for requesting legislative changes to the Companion Animals Act 1998 as it applies to Hornsby Shire to require:

3.1 The owner of a cat to take reasonable precautions to prevent the cat from escaping from the property on which it is kept; and

3.2 Compulsory de-sexing of cats unless a person is a registered breeder.

Page Number 24

Item 7 NOM18/18 Dementia Friendly Community – Hornsby Shire

COUNCILLOR McIntosh To Move

THAT Council:

1. Agree to become a “Dementia Friendly Community” noting that Hornsby would be the first Dementia Friendly Community in the Sydney Metropolitan area and the work to achieve this would be undertaken in partnership with the local Northern Sydney Dementia Collaborative

2. Thanks the Northern Sydney Dementia Collaborative for the work they have undertaken to date to progress this important issue, and the financial support they have managed to secure from Aged Care Trust Funds.

3. Be kept informed informally during the progress of this project, outlining ways in which Council may participate in community activities.

SUPPLEMENTARY AGENDA

MATTERS OF URGENCY

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Deputy General Manager's Report No. CS29/18

Corporate Support Division

Date of Meeting: 11/07/2018

1 DEFERRED REPORT - LOCAL GOVERNMENT REMUNERATION TRIBUNAL - 2018 REPORT AND DETERMINATION - MAYOR AND COUNCILLOR FEES - 2018/19 FINANCIAL YEAR

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· This matter was initially considered as Deputy General Manager’s Report No. CS20/18 at the 13 June 2018 General Meeting where Council resolved to defer further consideration of the matter until the 11 July 2018 General Meeting.

· Sections 248(2) and 249(3) of the Local Government Act provide respectively for Council to fix the annual fee payable to Councillors and the additional annual fee payable to the Mayor.

· The annual fees must be fixed in accordance with the relevant annual determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal.

· Based on the Tribunal’s 2018 Report and Determination, it is recommended that Council approve a 2.5% increase in Councillor and Mayoral fees for the 2018/19 financial year.

· Acceptance of such recommendation would result in each Councillor receiving an annual fee of $25,160 and the Mayor receiving an additional annual fee of $66,860 for 2018/19.

· Sufficient funds have been allocated in the 2018/19 Budget to cover a 2.5% increase in the fees payable to Councillors and the Mayor.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to provide Council with the 2018 Report and Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal such that Council can determine the amount of the fee payable to each Councillor, and the additional fee payable to the Mayor, for the 2018/19 financial year.

BACKGROUND

The Local Government Remuneration Tribunal is established under Chapter 9, Part 2, Division 4 of the Local Government Act. In this regard, Section 239 of the Act states:

(1) The Remuneration Tribunal must, at least once every 3 years:

(a) determine categories for councils and mayoral offices, and

(b) place each council and mayoral office into one of the categories it has determined.

(2) The determination of categories by the Remuneration Tribunal is for the purpose of enabling the Remuneration Tribunal to determine the maximum and minimum amounts of fees to be paid to mayors and councillors in each of the categories so determined.

Section 241 of the Act states:

The Remuneration Tribunal must, not later than 1 May in each year, determine, in each of the categories determined under section 239, the maximum and minimum amounts of fees to be paid during the following year to councillors (other than mayors) and mayors.

The Tribunal has completed its 2018 Report and Determination recommending the fees payable to councillors and mayors for the 2018/19 financial year – see copy attached.

DISCUSSION

The Tribunal undertook a significant review of the categories and the allocation of councils into each of those categories in 2017. The review was prompted by the amalgamation of councils resulting in the creation of 20 new councils and an overall reduction in the number of councils in NSW from 152 to 128.

The Tribunal wrote to all mayors in November 2017 advising of the commencement of the 2018 Annual Review and invited submissions on the proposed allocation of councils into the categories, fees for the proposed categories and any other matters. In response to this review the Tribunal received 13 submissions from individual councils and a submission from Local Government NSW.

The Tribunal has subsequently determined a categorisation model which differentiates councils primarily on the basis of their geographic location, but which also takes into account other factors such as population, the sphere of the council’s economic influence and the degree of regional servicing. The categories of general purpose councils have been determined by the Tribunal as follows:

Metropolitan

· Principal CBD; Major CBD; Metropolitan Large; Metropolitan Medium; and Metropolitan Small

Non-metropolitan

· Regional City; Regional Strategic Area; Regional Rural; and Rural

As a result of this review, it was determined that Hornsby Shire Council would remain in the Metropolitan Medium category of NSW councils along with eight other councils - Bayside, Campbelltown, Georges River, Ku-ring-gai, Inner West, Randwick, Ryde and The Hills.

The Tribunal has reviewed the key economic indicators, including the Consumer Price Index and Wage Price Index, and had regard to budgetary limitations imposed by the Government’s policy of rate pegging and has found that a 2.5% increase to the current fees is warranted. It is noted that this is the maximum increase currently allowable under the Government’s wages policy. The 2.5% increase will apply to the minimum and the maximum of the ranges for all categories.

Impact on Council

The fees determined by the Tribunal as being applicable to the Metropolitan Medium category of councils are:

Councillor

Mayor

Annual Fee

Minimum - Maximum

Additional Fee

Minimum - Maximum

$13,480 - $25,160

$28,640 - $66,860

In June 2017, when Council determined the fees payable to Councillors and the Mayor for the 2017/18 financial year, it resolved to pay fees at the maximum level for the Metropolitan Medium Category. This was consistent with decisions in previous years. Should Council resolve to pay fees at the maximum level for the 2018/19 period, this would result in an increase of $610 per annum for Councillors and $1,630 per annum for the Mayor.

In the absence of Council resolving to set fees for 2018/19, Sections 248(4) and 249(4) of the Local Government Act require that the appropriate minimum fees determined by the Remuneration Tribunal for Councillors and the Mayor in the Metropolitan Medium Category apply.

BUDGET

Sufficient funds have been allocated in the 2018/19 Budget to cover a 2.5% increase in the fees payable to Councillors and the Mayor.

POLICY

There are no policy implications associated with this Report.

CONCLUSION

It is considered appropriate that the maximum fee for the Metropolitan Medium category be paid to Hornsby Shire Councillors and the Mayor for the period 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019. This would result in each Councillor receiving an annual fee of $25,160 and the Mayor receiving an additional annual fee of $66,860 for the 2018/19 financial year.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Manager, Governance and Customer Service – Robyn Abicair, who can be contacted on 9847 6608.

Robyn Abicair

Manager - Governance and Customer Service

Corporate Support Division

Gary Bensley

Deputy General Manager - Corporate Support

Corporate Support Division

Attachments:

1.⇨

Local Government Remuneration Tribunal Annual Report

File Reference: F2004/09552-02

Document Number: D07466956

Deputy General Manager's Report No. CS28/18

Corporate Support Division

Date of Meeting: 11/07/2018

2 INVESTMENTS AND BORROWINGS FOR 2017/18 - STATUS FOR PERIOD ENDING 31 MAY 2018

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· This Report provides details of Council’s investment performance for the period ending 31 May 2018 as well as the extent of its borrowings at the end of the same period.

· Council invests funds that are not, for the time being, required for any other purpose. The investments must be in accordance with relevant legislative requirements and Council’s policies and the Chief Financial Officer must report monthly to Council on the details of funds invested.

· All of Council’s investments have been made in accordance with the Local Government Act, the Local Government (General) Regulation and Council's Investment of Surplus Funds Policy and Investment Strategy.

· In respect of Council’s cash and term deposit investments, the annualised return for the month of May 2018 was 2.65% and this compared to the benchmark of 1.50%.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the contents of Deputy General Manager’s Report No. CS28/18 be received and noted.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to advise Council of funds invested in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act; to provide details as required by Clause 212(1) of the Local Government (General) Regulation and Council's Investment of Surplus Funds Policy; and to advise on the extent of Council’s current borrowings.

BACKGROUND

A report is required to be submitted for Council’s consideration each month detailing Council's investments and borrowings and highlighting the monthly and year to date performance of the investments. Initial investments and reallocation of funds are made, where appropriate, after consultation with Council's financial investment adviser and fund managers.

DISCUSSION

Council invests funds which are not, for the time being, required for any other purpose. Such investment must be in accordance with relevant legislative requirements and Council Policies, and the Chief Financial Officer must report monthly to Council on the details of the funds invested.

Council’s investment performance for the month ending 31 May 2018 is detailed in the attached document. In summary, the At-Call and Term Deposits achieved an annualised return of 2.65% for May 2018, compared to the benchmark of 1.50%.

In respect of Council borrowings, the weighted average interest rate payable on outstanding loans taken out from June 2008 to date, based on the principal balances outstanding is 6.97%. The Borrowings Schedule as at 31 May 2018 is also attached for Council’s information.

BUDGET

Budgeted investment income for 2017/18 is $3,500,000 with an average budgeted monthly income of $291,670. Total investment income for the period ended 31 May 2018 was $4,338,400 compared to the budget of $3,208,300 for the same period. Approximately 40% of the investment income received by Council relates to externally restricted funds (e.g. Section 94 monies) and is required to be allocated to those funds. All investments have been made in accordance with the Local Government Act, the Local Government (General) Regulation and Council's Investment of Surplus Funds Policy and Investment Strategy.

CONSULTATION

Appropriate consultation has occurred with Council's financial investment adviser in the preparation of this Report.

CONCLUSION

The investment of Council funds and the extent of its borrowings as at 31 May 2018 are detailed in the documents attached to this Report. Council’s consideration of the Report and its attachments ensures that the relevant legislative requirements and Council protocols have been met in respect of those investments and borrowings.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Chief Financial Officer - Glen Magus - who can be contacted on 9847 6835.

Glen Magus

Chief Financial Officer - Financial Services

Corporate Support Division

Gary Bensley

Deputy General Manager - Corporate Support

Corporate Support Division

Attachments:

1.⇨	HSC Monthly Investment Summary May 2018
2.⇨	HSC Borrowings Schedule May 2018

File Reference: F2004/06987-02

Document Number: D07460237

Deputy General Manager's Report No. IR7/18

Infrastructure and Recreation Division

Date of Meeting: 11/07/2018

3 PUBLIC DOMAIN STRATEGIES

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· Council has identified the desire to prepare public domain plans to improve the quality and liveability of our town centres and high density housing precincts. The initiative is consistent with Council’s adopted Community Strategic Plan and Delivery Program.

· These plans will promote pedestrian activity and create attractive and safe meeting places where people can gather and socialise. They are a critical component of place making and support economic development initiatives in town centres.

· They provide an opportunity to require developers to incorporate streetscape improvements into redevelopment through conditions of planning approval and development contributions.

· Specific funding is required to enable the preparation of public domain plans. An amount of $300,000 is sought to enable the initial preparation of these plans for the town centres and housing precinct areas identified in this report.

· Additional funding will be required to complete all the centres identified within this report and to implement these plans. The review of the Long Term Financial Plan will identify options.

· The engagement of the residential and business community in the preparation of the public domain plans and associated documentation is critical to the success of these plans.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council support the development of Public Domain Plans in the order of priority identified in Deputy General Manager’s Report No. IR7/18.

2. Council allocate $300,000 to commence the preparation of public domain plans and associated documentation for the priority areas nominated in Deputy General Manager’s Report IR 17/18.

3. That a community and stakeholder engagement plan supports each Public Domain Plan and that draft Public Domain Plans be reported to Council for exhibition.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to provide information on:

1. Public domain improvements in and around housing strategy precincts; and

2. Public domain plans for town centres and select road corridors.

BACKGROUND

A key theme from the recently adopted Community Strategic Plan is an identified need for Council to better balance infrastructure and development, improving our focus on providing safe, accessible liveable and productive areas and places for the community.

At the 13 December 2017 General Meeting, Council adopted Councillor McIntosh’s Notice of Motion No. NOM20/17 – Public Domain Strategies.

The public domain plans whether they are for housing precincts or town centres should seek to integrate multiple opportunities and outcomes such as the expansion and enhancement of the bicycle network with connected bike paths, the exploration of options for undergrounding power lines and the provision of further opportunities to enhance the tree canopy.

The above initiative was subsequently included in Council’s Delivery Program adopted in June 2018.

DISCUSSION

Context

The current Design Excellence and Residential Development Review found that the preparation of a public domain strategy is critical to improving the quality of development in housing strategy precincts. It is understood the preliminary findings of this work have highlighted that it is important to ensure effective integration of public domain and communal open space and the most effective ways of achieving this is by progressing a public domain strategy.

Public domain plans and improvements can also be expected to:

· Identify and create opportunities for attractive meeting places oriented to pedestrians that are safe and free of cars and have a focus on social connection and interaction.

· Propose calming and slowing the movement of vehicles and giving a higher priority to pedestrians in high density town centres and key transport interchange precincts coupled with the appropriate location of parking facilities.

· Propose streetscape improvements including street tree planting, pavement and furniture works to reinforce the above objectives of creating attractive urban spaces.

· Propose the location of strategic shared pedestrian/cycleways linking key activity areas – shopping precincts, parks and schools, etc.

· Provide a consistent, durable and manageable palette that is appropriate to different character zones and street types. This may include a signage palette for branding of key entry points to the shire and prominent assets such as parks, bushwalks and community facilities.

· Form a critical component of place making and support economic development initiatives in town centres.

Public Domain Plans are most needed in the key town centres and current housing strategy precincts where redevelopment has substantially been completed (Asquith/Mount Colah, and Beecroft), currently underway (Hornsby Town Centre) or expected in future. They provide an opportunity to require developers to incorporate streetscape improvements into redevelopment, saving Council money. They also create opportunities to identify iconic projects that may be undertaken by Council.

The only place where Council has developed a public domain plan is in Epping where work was funded by the NSW State Government under the Urban Activation Precinct Program. This plan provided useful guidance on the identification of key town centre projects and identifying the scope of streetscape improvements.

Public Domain Plans

The places across the shire where they are most needed include:

· Hornsby Town Centre (both the west and east sides)

· Pennant Hills Town Centre

· Beecroft Town Centre and housing strategy precincts

· Asquith Town Centre and housing strategy precincts

· Hornsby, Thornleigh, West Pennant Hills, Normanhurst, Mount Colah, Mt Kuring-Gai and Berowra Housing Strategy precincts

· Galston Town Centre

· Cherrybrook station precinct (subject of current planning studies led by the state government)

Priority

It is proposed that public domain plans are prepared in the following order of priority:

1. Hornsby Town Centre – will be undertaken as part of a holistic plan for the Hornsby Town Centre

2. Asquith/Mount Colah corridor – including the Mount Colah and Asquith housing strategy precincts

3. Beecroft Town Centre

4. The Galston Town Centre

5. Other suburbs that contain high density housing areas identified in Council’s Housing Strategy.

6. Pennant Hills Town Centre – will form an integral component of an overall planning study for this Town Centre, similar to the Hornsby Town Centre approach, or standalone plan if an overall centre masterplan for Pennant Hills is not undertaken.

7. Brooklyn Centre – will form an integral component of the overall masterplan for Brooklyn.

The above areas represent, for the most part, the major growth in residential development up to the period 2027. They are also areas where much community interest and concern has recently been expressed about the quality and function of these town centres and housing precincts. The preparation of public domain plans and associated documentation will go some way to addressing these concerns by identifying improvement projects.

The plans will identify conceptual design solutions and technical specifications setting out Council’s requirements for how the public domain works may be constructed.

Completed Public Domain Projects

Past planning for public domain improvements have delivered works in the Hornsby Town Centre including Hornsby Mall beautification works, George Street pedestrian bridge, street tree planting and pedestrian paving works in Peats Ferry Road and Coronation Street, Hornsby. All of these works have been welcomed by the community as valuable improvements that have also served to rejuvenate these shopping precincts and provide outdoor dining opportunities.

Scope of Public Domain Works

The scope of improvement works the public domain plans propose is dependent on Council identifying funding for design investigations and the preparation of guidelines. It is expected that these studies will enable the identification of a more detailed list of higher priority works.

The improvement works can be expected to include:

· Main street upgrades or the identification of iconic town square projects, pedestrian and traffic management, street tree planting and outdoor dining solutions.

· Works to housing strategy precincts that are focused on defining streetscape improvements such as street tree planting, footpath widening and roadway narrowing to create improved pedestrian and cycle connections between high density residential areas, transport interchanges and other key destinations.

· Works beyond town centres and housing strategy precincts including footpath/bicycle paths and street tree linkages to nearby facilities.

The range of works that may be delivered may be grouped into a number of main categories:

· Minor or low cost works may include new street tree planting and footpaths in secondary streets in or near housing strategy precincts.

· Town centre street tree planting projects, similar to the recently completed works in Peats Ferry Road in Hornsby.

· Full main street projects including new paving, street lights, street furniture and signage along with street tree planting.

· Required changes in order to better manage places.

The public domain plans may be expected to identify a more definitive schedule of improvements and broad costs following detailed investigation.

Resourcing

Given the current work schedule it would be appropriate to engage consultants to support key staff in preparing these plans overseen by a project control group made up of key people from across the various disciplines in Council. It is proposed that the group will be led by people with a design background.

CONSULTATION AND ENGAEMENT STRATEGY

The engagement of the community is important for ensuring our community has an opportunity to input in public domain guidelines or construction projects, especially where they propose substantial changes in a streetscape character.

The community should be engaged early in the process to identify issues and expectations. This can be achieved through a range of techniques including pop-ups at strategic locations and the development of working groups with key stakeholders in each location. A public domain engagement strategy for both councillors and the community is required and will be developed for discussion with councillors prior to the commencement of the project.

BUDGET

The only public domain plan that has been prepared to date by Council is the Epping Public Domain Plan that was adopted by Council in 2015 and funded from the State Government Epping Urban Activation Precinct program. No specific program or resource has been identified for the preparation of public domain plans elsewhere.

Initial funding of $300,000 is required to commence the preparation of public domain plans.

The current S7.11 and S7.12 plans have funded limited public domain improvement works in the Hornsby and Epping Town Centres and opportunities exist to include additional public domain improvements in a revised development contributions plan. This initiative could cover design and construction of public domain improvements.

The review of Council’s Long Term Financial Plan will need to consider completion of these plans and also the implementation and funding strategies for Council over the coming years.

POLICY

This report proposes the preparation of new policy that will guide the development of public domain areas across Hornsby Shire town centres, housing strategy precincts and adjoining areas.

CONCLUSION

The report finds that there is merit in Council preparing public domain plans and progress the development of improvements in key town centres and housing strategy precincts across the shire. These works will enable the creation of new and attractive meeting places that are safe for pedestrians and have a focus on social connection and interaction. They may take the form of iconic town squares, major streetscape projects or minor path and street tree planting.

The current Design Excellence and Residential Development Review found that a public domain strategy is needed to better control and integrate new development in housing strategy precincts.

Initial funding of $300,000 will enable Council to commence the preparation of new policy in the form of public domain plans for key parts of Hornsby, Asquith/Mount Colah, Beecroft and Galston as well as other housing strategy precincts.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Landscape Coordinator – Kurt Henkel - who can be contacted on x6887.

Robert Stephens

Deputy General Manager - Infrastructure and Recreation

Infrastructure and Recreation Division

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2004/09134

Document Number: D07429490

Deputy General Manager's Report No. IR8/18

Infrastructure and Recreation Division

Date of Meeting: 11/07/2018

4 DRAFT HORNSBY SPORTSGROUND STRATEGY

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· The demand for access to Hornsby Shire’s sportsgrounds grows each year with population increases and an ongoing rise in sports participation with juniors, women, mature age and short format versions of seasonal codes.

· A review of Hornsby Shire’s existing sportsground provision indicates a current supply gap in the provision of sportsgrounds which, if no action is taken, is projected to get worse.

· The Draft Sportsground Strategy identifies current issues and demand, options for future provision of sportsgrounds and sets guiding principles for priorities and the allocation of resources to meet current and forecast demands for sportsgrounds.

· Council is well placed and has sufficient land to accommodate much of this demand, notably through the acquisition of the former Sydney Water site at Westleigh and the development proposals for Hornsby Park which includes Old Mans Valley.

· It is proposed that a public consultation period for the Draft Sportsground Strategy be undertaken over a six week period with a summary report of the submissions to be prepared and presented to Council for consideration. The consultation process will include meetings with key sporting stakeholders.

RECOMMENDATION

PURPOSE

The purpose of the Report is to seek Council endorsement for the release of the Draft Sportsground Strategy for public consultation (refer to Attachment 1).

BACKGROUND

In 2015, Council adopted the Active Living Hornsby Strategy which identified that a sports plan should be developed to address the current and future demands for all sports across the shire. Council engaged Otium Planning Group to undertake an independent analysis of sportsground provision and needs.

The Draft Sportsground Strategy has been developed through a two stage process that was initiated with a Discussion Paper in 2017. The Discussion Paper sought to:

· Develop an understanding of the pressures and demands on sportsgrounds

· Raise awareness of the challenges ahead

· Explore opportunities and acceptable tolerances for change

· Identify shared solutions and involvement in change

· Deliver transparency in decision making

· Obtain acceptance from the groups when the Sportsground Strategy is presented and adopted.

The earlier the community is involved, the deeper understanding (and acceptance) they have of the actions outlined in the Strategy.

Guiding Principles for Priorities

The Discussion Paper puts forward Guiding Principles for Council, sporting organisations and funding that allows the demand for sportsgrounds to be met. These guiding principles are the cornerstone of the Draft Sportsground Strategy.

Guiding Principles for Council

· Council should aim to increase the carrying capacity at existing grounds, ensure that facilities are shared in both seasons, and seek additional grounds

· Council should prioritise access to sportsgrounds for community based sport

· Maintain a diversity of sports across the area, and a good depth of competition

· Where limited opportunities exist for new or upgraded sportsground facilities at the local level, it is acknowledged that users will need to travel to other venues

· Council should provide for diversifying populations and lifestyles: age, ability, cultural backgrounds and demand for new sport formats and schedules.

Guiding Principles for Sporting Organisations

· Commitment to collaborate with Council and other sports to address demands for all users

· Adaptation – meeting demand for limited sportsgrounds requires groups to be flexible to new opportunities

· Maximise current capacity – existing sportsgrounds in all parts of the LGA should be utilised despite travel distances.

Funding Principles

· Funding responsibility for sport should be shared with federal and state governments and sports codes

· For new or upgraded facilities Council should seek contributions from:

o federal and state government and sports codes for regional priorities

o corporate and private sports providers through joint ventures

· Where limited funds are available, Council’s funding priorities are focussed upon improving sportsground facilities for conducting sport, as opposed to contributing towards club based social facilities

· Council should plan collaboratively for turf and synthetic ground replacements and whole of life costs

· Should users wish to have higher quality of facility than Council can afford; or is considered a low priority, they will be required to contribute to the capital cost of the upgrade works and associated additional maintenance cost.

DISCUSSION

The following sports are covered in the Sportsground Strategy:

· Athletics

· Australian Football

· Baseball

· Cricket

· Hockey

· Netball

· Touch/Oztag

· Rugby League

· Rugby Union

· Football (Soccer)

· Softball

Council currently provides around 43 sites with a total playing surface area of 59 ha (most sites are single fields). During winter 76% of these grounds are functioning at or in excess of their carrying capacity.

Football (soccer) is by far the largest user of sportsgrounds in the LGA, using 47% of the space allocated to sporting groups; followed by Netball (10%), Cricket (9%) and Touch/ Oztag (7%) – See Figure 1.

Figure 1 - Proportion of total Hornsby sports participation

Otium has identified that the current shortfall of playing surface area in Hornsby is 12.6 ha. This will increase to approximately 19.9 ha by 2026.

A number of measures are available to address the shortfall in the supply of sportsgrounds. These include:

· Improving the carrying capacity of existing sportsgrounds

· Installing or upgrading lighting

· Reconfiguring playing fields to improve functionality

· Upgrading drainage and/ or surface quality

· Installing additional multi-purpose synthetic surfaces or special purpose surfaces

· Converting existing open space to sportsground use

· Acquiring or securing other land for sportsgrounds

· Partnering with schools and/ or other institutions to use existing or develop new facilities

· Ensuring the sportsground allocation process effectively optimises equitable use and access

· Continuing to improve field maintenance and management practices

The vast majority of the shortfall (approximately 70%) can be addressed through the development of sportsgrounds at the Westleigh Park and Hornsby Quarry sites. These sites are located in areas closest to the demand. The remainder of the shortfall is anticipated to be met through measures that increase the carrying capacity of existing sportsgrounds such as the provision of synthetic fields, improved drainage, and lighting.

Issues

There are several issues that are particularly relevant at the moment to the achievement of the Sportsground Strategy.

Pressure from NSROC Region and Parramatta and Hills LGAs

A recent review of the NSROC region has confirmed large population increases beyond Hornsby Shire boundaries and where the respective local government authorities are not readily able to meet the demands for the provision of sportsgrounds by the existing and future population. Within the NSROC region, Hornsby Shire was found to have the greatest opportunity to expand its sportsground facilities.

A recent study prepared by the City of Parramatta also confirmed a large shortfall in the provision of sportsgrounds now and in the future in its local government area. Significant population increases proposed for the Hills LGA may also impact on Hornsby’s provision of sportsgrounds.

Whilst Hornsby is able to cater for the needs of its own population the additional pressures for access to sportsgrounds that are anticipated to occur from the surrounding local government areas suggests at the very least monetary or other contributions to either the establishment of facilities in Hornsby or the provision of other facilities elsewhere will need to be canvassed with neighbouring councils.

Meeting expectations of sports community

Local sporting groups often seek facilities that are a higher standard than Council can sustainably provide. A typical example is the provision of clubhouse facilities that support social and community use. Clubhouse facilities are often expensive to construct and maintain.

Put simply Council currently does not have the financial capacity to contribute significant amounts to club houses and the like. Its focus has and should continue to focus on the delivery of grass roots playing surfaces.

In other words should users wish to have a higher quality of facility than Council can afford; or is considered a low priority, they will be required to contribute to the capital cost of the upgrade works and associated additional maintenance cost.

Multi-use venues

The majority of sport venues are multi-use with different users using the same venue at different times and seasons. It is often the case that sports seek to expand their use of a venue beyond the traditional season. Alternatively the use of a venue by one sport (i.e. cricket – turf wicket) can impact the use or playability of the ground by the other code (e.g. rugby or soccer).

Given the high demand for sportsgrounds it is generally not possible to provide for the single use of sportsground facilities by one sports code without negatively impacting other users.

It is important for Council to foster its current approach of requiring current and future users to collaborate with Council and other sports to address demands for all users.

Impact of increasing use of sportsgrounds to local communities

One of the most cost effective means of catering for demands for sportsgrounds is to ensure existing venues are being used to their optimum level. In some cases this means installing lighting or synthetic surfaces that extend the hours of use. Such initiatives may not attract the full support of nearby residents. This scenario is possible at sites such as:

· James Henty Reserve, Cherrybrook – Lighting

· Campbell Park, Cherrybrook - Synthetic surface

· Cowan Park, Cowan – Lighting

· Warrina Oval (small), Berowra – Synthetic surface

Each of these initiatives will be required to be considered by Council on their merits.

CONSULTATION

It is proposed to engage the sporting community and the wider community through a range of initiatives. These include media releases supported with the distribution of E-newsletters and social media posts.

As part of this process stakeholder meetings would occur with Hornsby LGA based sportsground clubs and associations. These meetings will represent the second phase of consultation following a similar process conducted last year with the Sportsground Discussion Paper (see attachment 2 for the 2017 Consultation Outcomes Report).

The results of above process will be presented to Council for consideration and eventually a decision.

BUDGET

The Sports ground Strategy has identified broad costs to address the shortfall in the provision of playing surface over the next 10 years. The current estimate exceeds $60 million.

The New South Wales Government’s recent announcement of $40 million to develop Westleigh Park as a major sports precinct is timely.

However, realisation of the other key recommendations will involve a reprioritisation of Council’s current funding base – general revenue, special rate variation funds and development contributions. These funding sources should, where possible, be supplemented through grants such as the new Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund.

The impact of new capital investment and additional cost on our recurrent budgets will form part of implementation planning and will be considered through the Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP) which is due later this year.

POLICY

The final Sportsground Strategy that will be presented to Council for adoption following the public consultation phase and consideration of submissions will set policy direction for future sportsground provision.

CONCLUSION

The Sportsground Strategy identifies current issues and demand, options for future provision of sportsgrounds, and sets guiding principles for priorities and allocation of resources to meet current and forecast demands for sportsgrounds.

Previous actions have placed Council in a good position to accommodate much of this demand, notably through the acquisition of the former Sydney Water site at Westleigh and the development proposals for Hornsby Park which includes Old Mans Valley.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Manager, Parks and Recreation – David Sheils - who can be contacted on 9847 6792.

David Sheils

Manager - Parks and Recreation

Infrastructure and Recreation Division

Robert Stephens

Deputy General Manager - Infrastructure and Recreation

Infrastructure and Recreation Division

Attachments:

1.⇨	Sportsground Strategy - Draft Report
2.⇨	Sportsground Discussion Paper Consultation Report_HSC_20170919

File Reference: F2016/00360

Document Number: D07466675

Notice of Motion No. NOM17/18

Date of Meeting: 11/07/2018

6 COMPANION ANIMALS - CATS

COUNCILLOR Tilbury To Move

THAT:

1.1 Subsidising the de-sexing and micro-chipping of cats;

1.2 Limiting the number of cats per household;

1.3 Prohibiting persons living within close proximity to wildlife protection areas from owning cats;

1.4 Streamlining the animal registration system to make it easier to register pets; and

1.5 Implementing an education strategy detailing the benefits of cat microchipping, registration, de-sexing and containment.

2. Best practice in local government be examined in evaluating how the processes outlined in Part 1 could be implemented in Hornsby Shire.

3.1 The owner of a cat to take reasonable precautions to prevent the cat from escaping from the property on which it is kept; and

3.2 Compulsory de-sexing of cats unless a person is a registered breeder.

Note from Councillor:

At its meeting on 14 March 2018, Council resolved to commence a Feral Cat Trapping Program and participate in the Cat Tracker Australia Program. A report is to be prepared for Council’s consideration six months after the commencement of the programs. These are positive initiatives in response to concerns I have received from my constituents about the impacts of cats, both feral and domestic, on our native wildlife.

The majority of residential areas in Hornsby Shire are located in close proximity to bushland reserves or National Park where feral cats are present or domestic cats roam freely, posing a threat to our native wildlife. In the first two months of Council’s Feral Cat Trapping Program, 41 cats have been captured, equating to more than 1 feral cat caught per working day. Of the cats captured, 34 were identified as feral and humanly euthanised by a veterinarian, one was microchipped and returned to its owner, and 6 kittens were delivered to rescue organisations to be rehomed.

The high number of feral cats captured in only two months highlights the need for Council to take a proactive approach to combat this ever-worsening issue, including exploring opportunities for changes to NSW legislation to require compulsory de-sexing of cats and the confinement of cats, similar to the current requirements for companion dogs. Limiting the number of cats per household may also see an increase in compliance with microchipping, registrations, vaccinations and de-sexing of cats, as shown in an independent survey undertaken on behalf of the Cat Protection Society. A policy setting a number of cats per household could be implemented by Council, with exceptions available for breeders and domestic households on a case by case basis.

The current Program is being undertaken with limited resources by Council’s companion animal officers in close consultation with our bushland team. Simplifying cat and dog registration processes and streamlining the updating of ownership and address details should increase compliance and would provide Council with income to assist provide the necessary resources to implement the Program. I am aware that Sutherland Shire Council has implemented such systems. Best practice in local government should be examined to determine how similar processes could be implemented in Hornsby Shire.

I am also aware that the Co-operative Desexing Program being promoted and run by the National Desexing Network (NDN) has had success with Ipswich and Gold Coast Councils, which has shown that a $10,000 Council contribution to the NDN has resulted in the de-sexing of in excess of 150 cats. Opportunities for Council to make such a monetary contribution could be sought by way of grants offered by the NSW Office of Local Government.

Such reforms would see increased responsibility of and compliance from pet owners and also ensure Council’s Wildlife Protection Areas are adequately protected and are worthy of further consideration.

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2004/06275-02

Document Number: D07475399

Notice of Motion No. NOM18/18

Date of Meeting: 11/07/2018

7 DEMENTIA FRIENDLY COMMUNITY – HORNSBY SHIRE

COUNCILLOR McIntosh To Move

THAT Council:

3. Be kept informed informally during the progress of this project, outlining ways in which Council may participate in community activities.

Note from Councillor:

Background

It may be surprising for many to realise that Dementia is the second leading cause of death for men in Australia, and the leading cause of death for women. There is a large body of research undertaken to address this in the health and ageing environment, and it is important to note that there is much that local Councils can do to address this issue.

In Our Local Area

Hornsby has an ageing community – with statistically higher population than the Sydney average in every age category over 40 years of age. Many of our older population are living with, or caring for someone living with dementia.

“Dementia is not easy to forget and the number of people suffering from it will more than double in Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai by 2056. Currently 3312 people live with dementia in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai state electorates, but that number is expected to increase to 7160 in 40 years.”

(Source:https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/hornsby-advocate/alzheimer-disease-and-dementia-care-is-available-for-both-carers-and-victims-on-the-north-shore/news-story/38c90f7f89cf6f50bab4e32b5ed12db9)

Hornsby has the benefit of Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, with a very strong national reputation for dementia research and implementation, supported by an active Sydney North Primary Health Network. This local group has formed the Northern Sydney Dementia Collaborative, which is supported by Dementia Australia, a nationwide research and consumer advocacy organisation.

This group has been working with Council staff in the Ageing sector and have approached Council to see their support for the development of a “Dementia Friendly Community Project” for Hornsby Shire. While other Councils have undertaken these projects in regional areas, this project would be the first of its type in Sydney.

What is a Dementia Friendly Community?

A dementia-friendly community is a place where people living with dementia are supported to live with meaning, purpose and value. Dementia-friendly communities encourage organisations, businesses, community groups and individuals to make practical changes that will have a positive impact on the lives of people living with dementia and their carers.

The essence of a dementia-friendly community is to support people with dementia to be involved in activities and opportunities for social engagement that provide meaning and purpose in their lives for as long as possible. Social and community groups play a key role in facilitating this.

Council’s Disability Inclusion Plan

Hornsby Shire Council prepared a Disability Inclusion Plan in 2017, considering the many ways in which people with disabilities

In that document, Dementia was recognised as one of society’s ‘hidden’ disabilities. The following commentary was provided: “In consultations, people who described themselves as having 'invisible' or 'hidden' disability said they have difficulty accessing every day services and activities because of stigma, stereotypes, or simply that their specific needs are never considered. The Hornsby Shire Council Disability Inclusion Action Plan is taking steps to change this, and we hope to continue to involve the community to help us.”

What’s Required of Council

The project proposed for Hornsby would involve community information sessions, liaison with local businesses both large and small to encourage participation in the Dementia Friendly Community Project, focus groups with local health professionals and information sessions with community organisations. This initial project would focus on awareness, education, sharing of information and the development of small projects to address particular needs such as signage.

No funding is sought from Council for this project, as the Collaborative have secured approximately $20,000 in funding through Aged Care Trust Funds through the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, and the support from Council staff would be undertaken through our Community Services staff member who is Commonwealth-funded within this sector.

Council would play a key role in the promotion of this project and in head-lining the importance of this work with other levels of government, local businesses, local organisations and the broader community.

It would be appropriate for Council front-line staff such as our Customer Services, Rangers, Community Facilities, Community Development and Library staff to become trained in Dementia Awareness, however this training is at minimal cost and could be undertaken utilising existing resources.

Council will benefit from access to resources, the support of the local Northern Sydney Dementia Collaborative and the access to research that can assist us in the design of public spaces, signage, community facilities and services to support the ageing community. It is worth noting that the resources necessary to support people living with dementia are equally relevant to the entire ageing community, of which we have a growing population.

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2015/00418#04

Document Number: D07475571