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

Pastor Andrew Starr from Northridge Vineyard Church, Thornleigh 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."

Video and AUDIO RECORDING OF COUNCIL MEETING

Statement by the Chairperson:

"I advise all present that tonight's meeting is being video streamed live via Council’s website and also 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 audio and video 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 4.16 and 4.17 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Councillors 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”).

4.16 A councillor who has a 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.

4.17 The councillor 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, or

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

Clause 5.10 and 5.11 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Councillors requires that a councillor or a member of a Council committee who has a non 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”).

5.10 Significant non-pecuniary conflict of interests must be managed in one of two ways:

a) by not participating in consideration of, or decision making in relation to, the matter in which you have the significant non-pecuniary conflict of interest and the matter being allocated to another person for consideration or determination, or

b) if the significant non-pecuniary conflict of interest arises in relation to a matter under consideration at a council or committee meeting, by managing the conflict of interest as if you had a pecuniary interest in the matter by complying with clauses 4.16 and 4.17.

5.11 If you determine that you have a non-pecuniary conflict of interest in a matter that is not significant and does not require further action, when disclosing the interest you must also explain in writing why you consider that the non-pecuniary conflict of interest is not significant and does not require further action in the circumstances.

confirmation of minutes

THAT the Minutes of the General Meeting held on 12 June, 2019 be confirmed; a copy having been distributed to all Councillors.

Petitions

presentations

Rescission Motions

Mayoral Minutes

Page Number 1

Item 1 MM7/19 September 2019 General Meeting - Proposed Change of Date

RECOMMENDATION

THAT Council reschedule its September 2019 General Meeting from Wednesday 11 September 2019 to Wednesday 18 September 2019 and appropriate advertising be undertaken to advise the public.

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

Page Number 2

Item 2 GM11/19 Retail and Renewable Energy Power Purchase Agreement for Participating Councils

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the General Manager be delegated authority to enter into contracts with the preferred electricity retailer in respect of the Program for Energy and Environmental Risk Solutions (PEERS 2) after the receipt of recommendations from Southern Sydney Regional Organisations of Councils Inc. (SSROC) Procurement Evaluation Panel.

Corporate Support Division

Page Number 6

Item 3 CS21/19 Investments and Borrowings for 2018/19 - Status for Period Ending 31 May 2019

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the contents of Deputy General Manager’s Report No. CS21/19 be received and noted.

Page Number 9

Item 4 CS22/19 Pecuniary Interest and Other Matters Returns - Disclosures by Councillors and Designated Persons

RECOMMENDATION

THAT Council note the Written Returns of Interest recently lodged with the General Manager have been tabled as required by the Local Government Act.

Community and Environment Division

Page Number 12

Item 5 EH8/19 Renaming of Dawson Avenue Park, Thornleigh

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council endorse the re-naming of Dawson Avenue Park to Jane Starkey Park;

2. Following approval of Council’s signage palette, a park name sign be installed supported with an interpretation panel; and

3. A submission be made to the NSW Geographic Names Board seeking inclusion of the name to the NSW Geographical Names Register.

Page Number 16

Item 6 EH9/19 Proposed Amendments to Plans of Management - Reverse Vending Machines

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council amend its Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves to include the installation of Reverse Vending Machines as a permitted use.

2. Council publicly exhibit the amended Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves for public comment. Following the public exhibition, and only if submissions are received objecting to the proposed changes, a further report be prepared for Council’s consideration.

Planning and Compliance Division

Nil

Infrastructure and Major Projects Division

Nil

PUBLIC FORUM – NON AGENDA ITEMS

Mayor's Notes

Page Number 19

Item 7 MN6/19 Mayors Notes from 01 June to 30 June 2019

Notices of Motion

Page Number 20

Item 8 NOM8/19 Single Use Plastics Policy

COUNCILLOR Heyde To Move

That a draft policy be developed for Council’s consideration seeking to address single-use plastics in Council operations and events.

Note from Councillor

Australians consume large amounts of single use or disposable plastics. These plastics are commonly used for packaging and are intended to be used only once before they are thrown away or recycled. Examples include plastic bags, bottles, straws, disposable containers, disposable coffee cups, lids and cutlery.

Single use plastics pose significant environmental, social and economic impacts and it is important that we seek to reduce their use and transition to alternatives such as reusable, compostable or biodegradable products where feasible.

Community research undertaken in 2018 on waste issues shows that reducing the use of plastics is a crucial concern for Hornsby residents.

As such I feel that it is appropriate that Council lead by example in developing a single use plastics policy seeking to address the use of single use plastics in Council’s operations and events.

I am also aware that there is currently a research project being undertaken by a University Academic into how such a policy would be received in Hornsby. The results of this research would aid in the development of a draft policy for Council’s consideration.

I understand that development of a draft policy can be undertaken within existing resource allocations.

Page Number 21

Item 9 NOM9/19 Support For Community-Led Low Waste Events

COUNCILLOR MCINTOSH TO MOVE

THAT:

1. Having regard to:

a. Community interest in the recycling and reduction in the use of single-use plastics; and

b. The wide range of community and school-based events in our area; and

c. A pending release in coming months of our draft Waste Matters Strategy and further research which will lead to a draft Single Use Plastics Policy for consultation;

2. Ahead of the release of our draft Waste Strategy and policies, interim action within existing budgets be undertaken to share resources and information to support schools, groups and community organisations wishing to conduct low/zero waste events in our area. This information to include:

· Access to information and resources via our website to documents such as the EPA’s “Waste Wise Events” Guide and other similar resources;

· Information as to the advice and support that Council can offer to groups wishing to run community events;

· Access to contacts in key agencies and organisations who are able to offer support; and

· Development and promotion of local case studies of sustainable community events including contacts for further information and support.

3. Proposals for further initiatives to support zero waste events and activities, including Council-run events to ‘lead by example’ and support for local businesses to reduce their waste be specifically included in the draft strategies and policies.

Note from Councillor

Hornsby Shire Council has a strong track record in recycling and consistently leads the way in providing education and information to the community to support sustainable action.

Over many years, Hornsby Shire residents have demonstrated a long-term commitment to recycling, consistently winning awards such as the recent “Mobile Muster” Award, with Hornsby named Australia’s top mobile phone recycler; with high levels of compliance in terms of separation of domestic waste materials and with a strong demand for action on issues such as “Return and Earn” options and food waste recycling. In addition, we have a growing range of community and social media groups who are sharing information to reduce plastic use and to live more sustainably.

This commitment to recycling and a reduction in single use plastics extends to community events – with many schools. groups and organisations taking steps to deliver zero or low waste events.

While we have previously resolved to “reduce waste at a Council level” in 2018, and acknowledgement is made of previous resolutions in this regard, we have experienced significant delays in the roll out of our Waste Strategy, predominantly due to a range of external factors, with Council staff recently advising the following update:

“Our pending Waste Matters Strategy (which is almost ready) has a section on reducing the use of plastics with a range of initiatives formed from the Waste Working Group workshop and community consultation process.

The Waste Branch has started work on a single use plastics policy and we are liaising with a University Researcher who is looking at this issue locally, focusing on the Thursday markets and other public events. Once we get that research in September a draft policy will be developed.”

There is no doubt there are broad issues at stake here, and Council has a role to play in policy development, advocacy at a State level and in ensuring that our own Council community events and hospitality lead by example. Development of such policy takes time and requires appropriate consultation. However, our communities have not waited and have taken steps to develop and deliver events focused on sustainable action. Council staff are aware of such events, and have provided support where possible, but this could very easily be extended and enhanced at minimal cost, through the ideas outlined in the draft motion. I am advised these actions could be undertaken immediately and within existing budgets and resourcing.

I have been privileged to play a role in the coordination of one such event locally, at Hornsby North Public School, where the P&C resolved in 2017 to take a more sustainable approach to the operations of the school canteen and the delivery of the annual Community Fair. For the Fair, these specific actions were the result of a school-wide survey of this highly successful event and the team in 2019 has undertaken the first stage of a transition to a fully sustainable event. This has encompassed a broad range of actions including reusable signage, use of plant-based compostable food packaging, reduction in paper promotional items and on-site Return and Earn. In future years we will move to providing on site water refill stations (to reduce sale of water in plastic bottles) and commercial composting of food waste and packaging.

These actions for this recent event were undertaken at minimal cost with no negative effect on profits and with flow on benefits to purchasing decisions in the school canteen where all packaging is now fully compostable, plant-based products.

On behalf of the P & C I have already advised Council of our willingness to detail our experience, contacts and outcomes in the form of a detailed case study.

A school in Pennant Hills has also undertaken similar activities for their School Fair.

Each one of these events would have been greatly assisted by a comprehensive package of information available on Council’s website and I hope through support of this motion this can be made available immediately to our community.

QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE

Nil

SUPPLEMENTARY AGENDA

MATTERS OF URGENCY

General Manager's Report No. GM11/19

Office of the General Manager

Date of Meeting: 24/07/2019

2 RETAIL AND RENEWABLE ENERGY POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENT FOR PARTICIPATING COUNCILS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· Council’s electricity contracts for Small Sites, Large Sites and Street Lighting is due to expire on 31 December 2019. As such Council needs to enter into new contract arrangements.

· Council has been approached by South Sydney Regional Organisations of Councils Inc. (SSROC) to join their Program for Energy and Environmental Risk Solutions (PEERS 2), their newest initiative to help councils achieve optimal electricity pricing while securing better environmental outcomes, as well as mitigating risks.

· As the proposed contract has an estimated value that is greater than 10% of Council’s annual ordinary rate revenue, it is appropriate that a specific delegation be provided to the General Manager to allow him to enter into new electricity contracts on behalf of Council.

RECOMMENDATION

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to seek delegation for the General Manager to enter into electricity contracts for Council Small Sites, Large Sites and Street Lighting that need to commence on 1 January 2020.

BACKGROUND

Council electricity contracts for Small Sites, Large Sites and Street Lighting is due to expire on 31 December 2019. As such, Council needs to enter into new contract arrangements.

In the past, Council has gone to market as a collective with Local Government Procurement. However, this year Council has been approached by SSROC to join the Program for Energy and Environmental Risk Solutions (PEERS 2), their newest initiative to help councils achieve optimal electricity pricing while securing better environmental outcomes, as well as mitigating risks.

The PEERS 2 program offers the opportunity to enter into a retail electricity contract that includes electricity for large market sites (including street lighting), small market sites, feed-in tariffs for solar installations and a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for large scale renewable energy supply. This type of contract is currently not available through Local Government Procurement.

Councillors were advised during the 2019/20 Budget Workshop on 29 May 2019 of the need to enter into new electricity contracts.

DISCUSSION

SSSROC has successfully achieved the best available pricing for electricity for councils over four successive tenders. SSROCs last electricity procurement strategy, PEERS 1, included 20 councils with 2.6 million residents or just over 34% of the NSW population. Hornsby Shire Council is the only NSROC council not to have joined SSROC to date. It is anticipated that over 20 additional councils will be joining this round from across NSW which will take the total to more than 50%. It will provide bulk purchasing opportunities when going to market and provides Council with the best opportunity to achieve competitive rates.

For Council to participate in the SSROC PEERS 2 program, it will be required to put in place suitable arrangements such that agreed contracts can be executed within the period nominated by the preferred tenderer, which may be as short as 24 hours. Short validity pricing enables lower electricity rates as suppliers take a shorter market risk whilst the offer is open for acceptance.

Whilst the General Manager has the delegation to authorise the PEERS2 arrangement, specific delegation is recommended in this case as the proposed contracts have an estimated value that is greater than 10% of Council’s annual ordinary rate revenue. (N.B. This is a threshold used by the Office of Local Government in their Capital Expenditure Guidelines)

Program for Energy and Environmental Risk Solutions 2 (PEERS 2)

SSROC and Council’s energy consultant Sourced Energy have recommended a renewable energy percentage of 20% for this contract given the current infrastructure available on the market and to mitigate risk with price fluctuations. This is also reflective of time of use of Council’s electricity with over half of the electricity consumption by Council being used of a night by street lighting, when solar does not operate.

Although a percentage of 20% has been recommended, SSROC have also advised that after tenders are received, the renewable energy procurement will only continue if the price for renewable energy is below that of conventional grid electricity. If a lower price cannot be secured for the renewable component, then the procurement will proceed with conventional grid electricity only. The contract term is 2.5 years.

A decision is recommended to be made at the July General Meeting to optimally meet the timeframes for procurement by SSROC. Should Council not pursue the PEERS 2 contract, then Council will need to go to market as an individual and would risk significant price increases.

CONSULTATION

In the preparation of this Report there was consultation with Council’s Procurement Team, Sustainability Officers, Chief Financial Officer and David West from Sourced Energy (an independent energy expert). Council’s Strategy Manager, Procurement Manager and Sustainability Officers have reviewed the proposal by SSROC and believe the SSROC Power Purchase Arrangement (PPA) offers financial and risk management, and environmental and contractual benefits.

BUDGET

Council’s annual electricity contracts total approximately $2 million each year. The National Electricity Market continues to experience volatile pricing, and pricing trends are unstable. By executing the contract within the period nominated by the preferred tenderer, which may be as short as 24 hours, lower electricity rates may be achieved, as suppliers take a shorter market risk whilst the offer is open for acceptance.

Due to the volatility of the market we are unable to predict the impact on the budget. However, the PEERS risk-management approach allows Council to assert some control over our exposure to this market. Any budget variation will be submitted with the half yearly budget review following the execution of contracts with the preferred retailer.

An assessment was undertaken by staff in May 2019 on the economic and environmental benefits of entering into a collective agreement through either Local Government Procurement or SSROC, and it was considered that SSROC provided a better financial and environmental outcome for Council.

POLICY

There are no policy implications associated with this Report.

CONCLUSION

Council is required to enter into a new electricity contract by 1 January 2020. The SSROC Program for Energy and Environmental Risk Solutions 2 (PEERS 2) offers financial and risk management, environmental and contractual benefits and is believed to be the best option to go to market for competitive retail electricity rates.

Combining the loads of a group of councils SSROC will achieve enough demand to be considered as an industrial-scale consumer, and therefore attract the benefits that large consumers receive such as a competitive pricing and dedicated customer service.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Strategy Manager – Julie Ryland who can be contacted 9847 6773 or Manager Strategy and Place – Louise Gee who can be contacted on 9847 6531.

Steven Head

General Manager

Office of the General Manager

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2008/00466-003

Document Number: D07699689

Deputy General Manager's Report No. CS21/19

Corporate Support Division

Date of Meeting: 24/07/2019

3 INVESTMENTS AND BORROWINGS FOR 2018/19 - STATUS FOR PERIOD ENDING 31 MAY 2019

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· This Report provides details of Council’s investment performance for the period ending 31 May 2019 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 portfolio achieved an annualised return for May 2019 of 2.40%, which relates to interest income of $623,058 and an unrealised loss of -$23,904 from TCorp Managed Funds for May 2019.

· There is a 2018/19 financial year to date return of 2.85%, which relates to accumulated interest income of $6,906,196 plus an unrealised gain of $468,128 from TCorp Managed Funds.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the contents of Deputy General Manager’s Report No. CS21/19 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

Legislation requires that a report 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 2019 is detailed in the attached document. In summary, the portfolio achieved an annualised return for May 2019 of 2.40% which relates to interest income of $623,058 and an unrealised loss of -$23,904 from TCorp Managed Funds for May 2019. There is a 2018/19 financial year to date return of 2.85% which relates to accumulated interest income of $6,906,196 plus an unrealised gain of $468,128 from TCorp Managed Funds. (N.B. Unrealised loss or gains from TCorp Managed Funds will be taken up at the end of the financial year)

In respect of Council borrowings, the weighted average interest rate payable on outstanding loans taken out from June 2009 to date, based on the principal balances outstanding is 6.67%. The Borrowings Schedule as at 31 May 2019 is also attached for Council’s information.

BUDGET

Budgeted investment income for 2018/19 is $7,379,500 with an average budgeted monthly income of $614,958. Year to date investment income for the period ended 31 May 2019 was $6,906,196 which excludes the year to date unrealised gain of $468,128 from TCorp Managed Funds.

Approximately 28% of the investment income received by Council relates to externally restricted funds (e.g. Section 7.11 and Section 7.12 development contribution funds) 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.

CONCLUSION

The investment of Council funds and the extent of its borrowings as at 31 May 2019 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 Acting Chief Financial Officer – Duncan Chell - who can be contacted on 9847 6822.

Duncan Chell

Corporate Accounting Manager - Corporate Reporting

Corporate Support Division

Glen Magus

Acting Deputy General Manager - Corporate Support

Corporate Support Division

Attachments:

1.⇨	HSC Investment Summary Report May 2019
2.⇨	HSC Borrowings Schedule 31 May 2019

File Reference: F2004/06987-02

Document Number: D07689314

Deputy General Manager's Report No. CS22/19

Corporate Support Division

Date of Meeting: 24/07/2019

4 PECUNIARY INTEREST AND OTHER MATTERS RETURNS - DISCLOSURES BY COUNCILLORS AND DESIGNATED PERSONS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· Section 440AAB(1) of the Local Government Act (the Act) advises of the requirement for lodgement of Written Returns of Interest in accordance with a council’s Code of Conduct.

· Clauses 4.18-4.24 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Staff provides details in respect of the lodgement of these Returns by Designated Persons.

· Clauses 4.9-4.15 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Councillors provides details in respect of the lodgement of these Returns by Councillors

· Section 440AAB(2) of the Act requires that Returns lodged under Section 440AAB(1) are to be tabled at the next available Council meeting.

· In line with Section 440AAB(2) of the Act and the relevant Clauses of Council’s Code of Conduct for Staff and Code of Conduct for Councillors this Report seeks to table the Return/s recently lodged with the General Manager.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT Council note the Written Returns of Interest recently lodged with the General Manager have been tabled as required by the Local Government Act.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to table the Written Returns of Interests submitted by Councillors/Designated Persons who have left, commenced with, or internally transferred to a relevant position within Council.

BACKGROUND

Section 440AAB(1) of the Act advises of the requirement for lodgement of Written Returns of Interest under a Code of Conduct. Relevantly, Clauses 4.18-4.24 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Staff and Clauses 4.9-415 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Councillors outline these requirements. (The requirements are the same for Designated Staff as they are for Councillors however, as Council has a separate Code of Conduct for Staff and Code of Conduct for Councillors, the relevant Clause references vary. For ease of interpretation in this Report, reference has been made to Designated Persons and specific clauses in only the Code of Conduct for Staff, noting that the same requirements apply to the corresponding Clauses in the Code of Conduct for Councillors.)

Clause 4.18 a) of Council’s Code of Conduct for Staff requires a Designated Person to complete and lodge with the General Manager a Written Return of Interest within three months after becoming a Designated Person. Clause 4.18 b) requires a Designated Person holding that position at 30 June in any year to complete and lodge with the General Manager a Return within three months after that date.

Section 440AAB(2) of the Act requires that Returns lodged under Section 440AAB(1) are to be tabled at a meeting of Council. Clause 4.22 of the Code requires that Returns lodged under Clause 4.18 a) and 4.18 b) of the Code are to be tabled at the first meeting held after the last day for lodgement under those Clauses. Clause 4.23 of the Code requires that Returns lodged under Clause 4.18 c) are to be tabled at the first meeting after their lodgement.

Council's procedures in respect of the disclosing of interests have been developed to cater for the election/appointment/employment/retirement/resignation/etc of Councillors or Designated Persons. These procedures:

· Require all Councillors and Designated Persons who hold that position at 30 June in any year to submit Returns to the General Manager by 30 September in that year. These Returns are tabled at Council’s October or November General Meeting for that year.

· Require newly elected Councillors or newly appointed Designated Persons to lodge Returns to the General Manager within three months of their election/appointment. These Returns are tabled at the next available General Meeting of Council.

· Require those Councillors or Designated Persons who are leaving Council (because of retirement, resignation, etc) to lodge Returns to the General Manager by their last day with Council. These Returns are tabled at the next available General Meeting of Council.

DISCUSSION

Returns Lodged in Accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct for Staff, Code of Conduct for Councillors, and Procedures

Council last considered the tabling of Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests and Other Matters Returns under the former Sections 449(1) and (5) of the Act at the General Meeting held on 14 November 2018 (see Deputy General Manager’s Report No. CS49/18). Since that time, three additional Returns have been lodged with the General Manager and are now tabled as required by the Act.

Date Lodged	Councillor/Designated Person (Position)	Reason for Lodgement
20/6/2019	Traffic Ranger	New Employee
20/6/2019	Traffic Ranger	New Employee
20/6/2019	Traffic Ranger	New Employee

BUDGET

There are no budgetary implications associated with this Report.

POLICY

There are no policy implications associated with this Report.

CONCLUSION

Council’s consideration of this Report satisfies the requirements of the Act regarding the lodgement of Written Returns of Interest in accordance with its Codes of Conduct.

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

Glen Magus

Acting Deputy General Manager - Corporate Support

Corporate Support Division

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2018/00223

Document Number: D07696836

Director's Report No. EH8/19

Community and Environment Division

Date of Meeting: 24/07/2019

5 RENAMING OF DAWSON AVENUE PARK, THORNLEIGH

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· Jane Starkey ran a cottage at 22 Bellevue Street, Thornleigh that was used for inner city children to experience a day in the ‘country’. As part of this process she would take the children to nearby Thornleigh Park which the present-day Dawson Avenue Park formed part. Jane Starkey made numerous contributions including those to St Johns Ambulance Brigade.

· In line with Council’s resolution to investigate the re-naming of Dawson Avenue Park, the proposal to change the name of Dawson Avenue Park to Jane Starkey Park was placed on public exhibition for six weeks, closing on 5 April 2019 with nine submissions received. All but one of the submissions received supported the renaming proposal.

· The Hornsby Historical Society also support the renaming proposal.

· Naming the site ‘Jane Starkey Park’ would provide Council the opportunity to provide a fitting tribute to Ms Starkey’s contribution to society and the local area.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council endorse the re-naming of Dawson Avenue Park to Jane Starkey Park;

2. Following approval of Council’s signage palette, a park name sign be installed supported with an interpretation panel; and

3. A submission be made to the NSW Geographic Names Board seeking inclusion of the name to the NSW Geographical Names Register.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to respond to Mayoral Minute 20/18 tabled at the Extraordinary Meeting on 14 August 2018, which resolved, in part to investigate the re-naming of Dawson Avenue Park in honour of Nurse Jane Starkey Dawes.

BACKGROUND

Following the adoption of Mayoral Minute MM20/18, a public exhibition process was followed for the renaming proposal. The public exhibition ran for six weeks and closed on 5 April 2019. This included notifying neighbouring properties, media releases, notification through e-newsletters and social media.

Nine responses were received regarding the proposal and are contained in Attachment 1.

Nurse Jane Starkey

Nurse Jane Starkey, also known as Nurse Jane Starkey Dawes following remarriage, was well known for her welfare work with women and children in the early 1900’s. In the 1920’s Nurse Starkey ran a cottage at 22 Bellevue Street, Thornleigh that was used for inner city children to experience a day in the “country”. The picnic room was opened by Dr Mary Booth on 8th October 1921 and a Poor Children’s Outing Fund was set up to give batches of children from the congested areas of the city an outing.

Nurse Starkey was known as one of Sydney’s leading nurses and In November and December 1921 parties of soldier’s orphan children were entertained in Nurse Starkey’s “play house.” They had refreshments in Thornleigh Park with Nurse Starkey dressed as a fairy godmother who distributed Christmas presents from the Christmas tree. She was assisted by Dr Mary Booth, Miss E B Booth, Mrs Lewis and Mrs Pegrum. Other days out included for 73 poor children from Pyrmont held in April 1922. She was said to have welcomed them with great kindliness and enthusiasm.

Jane Starkey became a household name across the northern district of Sydney for her great interest in the welfare of poor children. She didn’t want to leave any money behind her and spent it on ways that would do most good for the community. Her idea was that death bed riches consist in accumulating kindly acts rather than money. On top of her kinds acts for children in the community, she also donated the cottage after her retirement for women living in need or on the pension to live.

Other notable achievements include:

· In 1898 Nurse Starkey was Matron of the Civil Ambulance and Transport Brigade and volunteered to assist American forces in the Spanish American War

· In 1908 Nurse Jane Starkey with the assistance of Dr Watkins formed a class in Hornsby in connection with the St John’s Ambulance

· In February 1915 Jane retired from Civil Ambulance Brigade after 20 years of service and received her Civil Ambulance badge

· In July 1916 the Sydney Sun published a paragraph on Nurse Starkey who, “occupies a unique position in the history of the St John Brigade Civil Ambulance Corps and possesses the coveted little cross of the order of St John. Nurse Starkey has the gratification of seeing her splendid organising grow until today it has become a national essential. The number of ladies who owe their proficiency in first aid and home nursing to her devotion are legion, and many of them are rendering valuable service to the empire.”

· In September 1923 Jane received an award from Dame Margaret Davidson for the St John’s Ambulance Brigade. Jane was Honorary Serving Sister of the Darlinghurst Nursing Division.

· In March 1948 the St John’s Ambulance Brigade held a dinner at St Andrews Choir School in honour of Sister Jane Starkey officer of the Order of St John.

Further information regarding Jane Starkey is contained in Attachment 2 which was prepared by Council’s Local Studies Team.

Dawson Avenue Park

The Dawson Avenue Park name originates from Dawson Avenue which it adjoins. It is believed that the road was named after Clifford Dawson Holliday, who was killed during WW1, on 20 July 1916. His father the Reverend Andrew Holliday was one of the first persons to purchase a block of land in the newly created street, after WW1.

In the absence of a formal name allocation to a park, it is custom for parkland areas to be named after the adjoining street. This practice permits easy reference and aids locating the park.

Dawson Avenue Park once formed part of a larger Thornleigh Park that was dedicated for Public Recreation in 1932 as a Crown Reserve. There are references of Nurse Starkey using Thornleigh Park in conjunction with the use of the Bellevue Street site.

The majority of Thornleigh Park was subsequently transferred to Lane Cove National Park and Hornsby Shire Council continues to manage the section of Crown Land that comprises Dawson Avenue Park. This is known as Lot 7300 DP 1131003 (See attachment 3).

Council has maintained a small playground at the site for many years and ten years ago an area was fenced, and a dog off-leash area established. In 2009 the playground was also renewed, and more recently synthetic grass has been installed in the off-leash area. The parkland also contains remnant bushland which is mapped Sydney Turpentine-Ironbark Forest.

DISCUSSION

Results of submissions

There were nine submissions received during the exhibition period. All but one of the submissions were in support of the proposed name change with one suggesting a history story board be provided regarding Jane Starkey.

When considering Jane Starkey’s notable achievements and her use of the former Thornleigh Park (which comprises the present-day Dawson Avenue Reserve), and the level of support received through submissions, it is considered appropriate to honour her contribution to society and the local area through the naming of the Park as “Jane Starkey Park”.

Should Council adopt to name the site Jane Starkey Park, the proposal will be submitted to the NSW Geographical Names Board (GNB). If the GNB endorses the submission, the proposal would be advertised for a period of a month.

If no objections are submitted by the public, the name would become official and the GNB would update the official NSW mapping database and Geographical Names register.

CONSULTATION

In the preparation of this Report there was consultation with the community through a public exhibition process for the proposal to rename Dawson Avenue Park. Nine responses were received regarding the proposal and are contained in Attachment 1. The majority submissions received supported the naming proposal.

BUDGET

The re-naming of Dawson Avenue Park would require the existing park signage to be replaced and an interpretation panel that explains the origin of the name. Whilst Council’s new signage palette is currently in development, it estimated the costs to be in the order of $8,000. There is sufficient funding in the 2019/20 Parks Capital budget to cover these costs.

POLICY

There are no policy implications associated with this Report.

CONCLUSION

Jane Starkey’s contribution to society and the local area is evident, and it is readily apparent there is support within the community for her contribution to be acknowledged through re-naming Dawson Avenue Park, to Jane Starkey Park.

Accordingly, it recommended that Council endorse the name change and a submission be provided to the NSW Geographical Board for this to be officially recorded.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

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

David Sheils

Manager - Parks and Recreation

Infrastructure and Major Projects Division

Stephen Fedorow

Director - Community and Environment

Community and Environment Division

Attachments:

1.⇨	Submissions received
2.⇨	Article - Hornsby Shire Historical Society
3.⇨	Map

File Reference: F2004/08086

Document Number: D07686254

Director's Report No. EH9/19

Community and Environment Division

Date of Meeting: 24/07/2019

6 PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO PLANS OF MANAGEMENT - REVERSE VENDING MACHINES

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

· In December 2017 the NSW Government introduced the ‘Return and Earn’ Container Deposit Scheme (CDS), to reduce drink container litter across NSW and help meet the goal of reducing the states total litter volume by 40 per cent by 2020. The scheme provides a 10-cent refund per eligible container to consumers who return empty beverage containers to a Return and Earn return point. Return points include Reverse Vending Machines, over the counter sites, automated depots and donation stations.

· There are 642 Return and Earn collection points across NSW, however only three Reverse Vending Machines are located in the Hornsby LGA at Berowra, Galston and Hornsby meaning substantial proportions of our community have no convenient way to participate in the Scheme. It is noted that there are five additional over the counter return points throughout the shire however these are best suited to smaller quantities and the operating hours are limited compared to a Reverse Vending Machine.

· To enable our community to participate in the Return and Earn scheme, Council has been working with the network operators TOMRA Cleanaway to identify additional sites where Reverse Vending Machines could be located. Proposed locations have been narrowed down to sites at Hornsby Heights, Thornleigh and Cherrybrook.

· An amendment to Council’s current Plans of Management is required to allow the installation of a Reverse Vending Machine on community or crown land.

· It is recommended that Council amend its Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves to include the installation of Reverse Vending Machines as a permitted use.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. Council amend its Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves to include the installation of Reverse Vending Machines as a permitted use.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Report is to seek Council’s approval to amend its Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves to permit the installation of Reverse Vending Machines (RVM’s).

BACKGROUND

The ‘Return and Earn’ Container Deposit Scheme is an NSW Government initiative that was introduced in December 2017 that seeks to reduce drink container litter across NSW and help to meet the goal of reducing the states total litter by 40 per cent by 2020.

Council has been working with the network operator TOMRA Cleanaway to identify sites across the Hornsby LGA where RVM’s might be installed including at Hornsby Heights, Thornleigh and Cherrybrook.

Council’s intention to enter into leases with TOMRA Cleanaway at Rofe Park, Hornsby Heights and Mike Kenny Oval, Cherrybrook has been advertised and received public support. However, in the course of seeking to progress suitable licences, it has become apparent that the current Plans of Management do not expressly reference Reverse Vending Machines as being a permissible use.

DISCUSSION

Council currently manages public land throughout the Shire in accordance with Plans of Management which set out the permissible uses that can occur on Council owned land classified as community land and crown land where Council is responsible for its care, control and management.

The Plans of Management were developed prior to the introduction of the Return and Earn scheme, with its network of RVM’s and therefore do not expressly authorise them as a permissible use.

For Council to permit the installation of RVMs on community land in the Hornsby Shire it is necessary to amend to the current Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves to specifically allow for them.

The proposed amendments would be worded as follows:

‘This Plan allows Council to enter into a lease/licence agreement to provide for the installation of Reverse Vending Machines.’

CONSULTATION

The proposal to amend the Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves to permit the installation of Reverse Vending Machines would be publicly exhibited for a period of 28 days following Council endorsement of the proposal.

BUDGET

There are no budgetary implications associated with this Report.

POLICY

This proposal is consistent with Council’s policies including the core objectives for Community Land in its Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves and Council’s Local Environmental Plan. These Plans of Management would need to be amended to permit the installation of Reverse Vending Machines on Community land to support the NSW governments ‘Return and Earn’ program.

CONCLUSION

Amending its Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves to permit the installation of Revere Vending Machines, would provide Council with the flexibility to consider a range of locations as well as providing for future opportunities.

Involvement in the ‘Return and Earn’ program would result in long-term benefit to Council, via a lease income, and the community by enabling participants local access to Reverse Vending Machines.

Accordingly, it is recommended that Council amend its Plans of Management for Community Land and Crown Reserves to permit the installation of Reverse Vending Machines.

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER

The officer responsible for the preparation of this Report is the Manager Natural Resources – Peter Coad - who can be contacted on 9847 6766.

Peter Coad

Manager - Natural Resources

Community and Environment Division

Stephen Fedorow

Director - Community and Environment

Community and Environment Division

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2018/00111

Document Number: D07707413

Notice of Motion No. NOM9/19

Date of Meeting: 24/07/2019

9 SUPPORT FOR COMMUNITY-LED LOW WASTE EVENTS

COUNCILLOR MCINTOSH TO MOVE

THAT:

1. Having regard to:

a. Community interest in the recycling and reduction in the use of single-use plastics; and

b. The wide range of community and school-based events in our area; and

c. A pending release in coming months of our draft Waste Matters Strategy and further research which will lead to a draft Single Use Plastics Policy for consultation;

· Access to information and resources via our website to documents such as the EPA’s “Waste Wise Events” Guide and other similar resources;

· Information as to the advice and support that Council can offer to groups wishing to run community events;

· Access to contacts in key agencies and organisations who are able to offer support; and

· Development and promotion of local case studies of sustainable community events including contacts for further information and support.

Note from Councillor

Hornsby Shire Council has a strong track record in recycling and consistently leads the way in providing education and information to the community to support sustainable action.

This commitment to recycling and a reduction in single use plastics extends to community events – with many schools, groups and organisations taking steps to deliver zero or low waste events.

On behalf of the P & C I have already advised Council of our willingness to detail our experience, contacts and outcomes in the form of a detailed case study.

A school in Pennant Hills has also undertaken similar activities for their School Fair.

Attachments:

There are no attachments for this report.

File Reference: F2018/00082

Document Number: D07713551