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Agenda

Ordinary Council Meeting

20 April 2023

Council will commence consideration of

all business paper agenda items at 7.00 pm.

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Notice of Meeting

Dear Councillors,

Notice is given of the Ordinary Council Meeting, to be held in the Council Chambers on Thursday 20 April 2023 commencing at 7:00 PM. The business to be transacted at the meeting is included in this business paper.

In accordance with clause 3.26 of the Code of Meeting Practice Councillors are reminded of their oath or affirmation of office made under section 233A of the Act, and of their obligations under the Council’s Code of Conduct to disclose and appropriately manage conflicts of interest.

Yours faithfully

Craig - GM

Craig Wrightson

General Manager

Council Meeting Procedures

The Council meeting is chaired by the Mayor, Councillor Andrew Zbik. Councillors are entitled to one vote on a matter. If votes are equal, the Chairperson has a second or casting vote. When a majority of Councillors vote in favour of a Motion it becomes a decision of the Council. Minutes of Council and Committee meetings are published on Council’s website www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au by 5.00 pm on the Tuesday following the meeting.

The Meeting is conducted in accordance with Council's Code of Meeting Practice. The order of business is listed in the Agenda on the next page. That order will be followed unless Council resolves to modify the order at the meeting. This may occur for example where the members of the public in attendance are interested in specific items on the agenda.

The Public Forum will hear registered speakers from the Public Gallery as well as online using the web platform Zoom. All speakers wishing to participate in the public forum must register by using the online form no later than midnight, on the day prior to the meeting (Wednesday, 19 April 2023) and a Zoom meeting link will be emailed to the provided email address of those registered as an online speaker. Please note that the time limit of three minutes per address still applies, so please make sure your submission meets this criteria. Alternatively, members of the public can still submit their written address via email to service@lanecove.nsw.gov.au. Written addresses are to be received by Council no later than midnight, on the day prior to the meeting. (500 words maximum).

Please note meetings held in the Council Chambers are recorded on tape for the purposes of verifying the accuracy of minutes and the tapes are not disclosed to any third party under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, except as allowed under section 18(1) or section 19(1) of the PPIP Act, or where Council is compelled to do so by court order, warrant or subpoena or by any other legislation. Should you require assistance to participate in the meeting due to a disability; or wish to obtain further information in relation to Council, please contact Council’s Executive Manager – Corporate Services on (02) 9911 3550.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

APOLOGIES

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT TO COUNTRY

MINUTE OF SILENCE FOR RELECTION OR PRAYER

NOTICE OF WEBCASTING OF MEETING

public forum

Members of the public may address the Council Meeting on any issue for 3 minutes.

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

1. ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 23 MARCH 2023

Mayoral Minutes

2. Notice of Motion - Idling of Motor Vehicles Causing Excessive Air Pollution...................................................................................................................... 5

Orders Of The Day

Notices of Motion

3. Notice of Motion - 2023 IPCC Report and Climate Action in Lane Cove 6

Officer Reports for Determination

4. LEP Amendment No 41 Subdivision of Existing dual Occupancy Dwellings..................................................................................................................... 8

5. Sport and Recreation Facility - April 2023 Progress Report........... 12

6. Blackman Park Skate Park - Final Concept Design............................... 23

7. 2023/2024 Draft Budget, Fees and Charges, Delivery Program and Operational Plan, Resourcing Strategy and associated Resource Plans............................................................................................................................ 25

8. Towards Net Zero - Sustainability Rebates Program.......................... 30

9. NSROC Regional Waste Strategy - Endorsement.................................... 37

10. Manns Point, Greendale Park and Holloway Reserve State Heritage Listing, Badangi....................................................................................................... 40

11. New Expert Members and Community Representatives for the Lane Cove Local Planning Panel............................................................................... 46

12. Traffic Committee - March 2023........................................................................ 48

Officer Reports for Information

13. Council Snapshot March 2023........................................................................... 49

MATTERS RECOMMENDED BY THE GENERAL MANAGER TO BE CONSIDERED IN CLOSED COMMITTEE

14. Cyber Security

It is recommended that the Council close so much of the meeting to the public as provided for under Section 10A(2) (f) of the Local Government Act, 1993, on the grounds that the report contains matters affecting the security of the council, councillors, council staff or council property; it further being considered that discussion of the matter in open meeting would be, on balance, contrary to public interest by reason of the foregoing.

Ordinary Council Meeting 20 April 2023

LEP Amendment No 41 Subdivision of Existing dual Occupancy Dwellings

Subject: LEP Amendment No 41 Subdivision of Existing dual Occupancy Dwellings

Record No: SU8814 - 19505/23

Division: Environmental Services Division

Author(s): Terry Tredrea; Christopher PelczOfficer Reports for

Executive Summary

Council at its meeting November 2022 determined to prepare an LEP amendment to clause 4.1A to permit strata subdivision of all existing dual occupancy dwellings approved in the R2 zone on or before 16th June 2022. A Planning Proposal was subsequently submitted to the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE). The DPE issued a Gateway determination (AT-5) to Council dated 19^th January 2023 which included a number of conditions. The conditions were met, and the Planning Proposal was placed on public exhibition.

The purpose of this report is to outline the results of the public exhibition for the proposed amendment to the Lane Cove Local Environment Plan (LEP) to permit subdivision of certain approved dual occupancy dwellings under company title in the R2 zone on or before Thursday 16 June 2022.

The Gateway public exhibition of the LEP amendment (AT-1) ran from 13 March to 9 April 2023. Twenty (20) submissions were received, all of which supported the proposal. All public submissions have been reviewed, and the exhibited LEP addresses the submissions satisfactorily. It is recommended that Council adopt the LEP amendment to clause 4.1A to permit strata subdivision of all existing dual occupancy dwellings approved in the R2 zone on or before 16th June 2022.

Background

Council at its Ordinary meeting 24 November 2022 resolved the following.

“That Council:

1. Support the amended version of the LEP clause 4.1A amendment;

2. Forward the amended Planning Proposal to the Department of Planning and Environment to request the issuing of a Gateway determination on behalf of the Council; and

3. Grant delegated authority to the General Manager to correct any minor anomalies of a nonpolicy and administrative nature that may arise during the amendment process.”

While it has always been permissible to build dual occupancies in the R2 zone in Lane Cove LGA on lots with a minimum 750 sqm (attached) and 900 sqm (detached), it is prohibited to subdivide them.

This prohibition is Clause 4.1A of Council’s Local Environmental Plan. The aim has been to maintain a “desired low-density character”, especially in the R2 residential zones by discouraging dual occupancies in smaller lots.

In response to residents’ feedback (AT-2) and in line with similar clauses of other Councils (AT-3), Council resolved (AT-4) to forward the Planning Proposal to the Department of Planning and Environment, who issued a Gateway determination (AT-5) to Council on 19^th January 2023.

The Gateway determination conditions were as follows:

“Prior to public exhibition, the planning proposal be updated to address the following:

a. Include an additional proposed subclause condition g) consistent with, or similar to, the Willoughby LEP 2012 model Clause 4.1C (1)(c) specifying that each resulting subdivided lot is to only have one dwelling situated on it;

b. Provide a more accurate estimation, where practical, of the number of dual occupancy properties within the Lane Cove LGA that meet the proposed LEP subclause criteria;

c. include an explanation of how Council expects landowner to prove they have consent for their dual occupancy development to meet the subclause conditions;

d. Include updated references to the Section 9.1 Ministerial Directions issued on 16 December 2022; and

e. Include an updated project timeline to ensure completion in a timely manner based on the issuing of the Gateway determination”.

These conditions were met to the Department’s satisfaction and the planning proposal was placed on public exhibition. Gateway required the matter to be reported to Council for a final recommendation 6 months from 19 January 2023.

Discussion

The LEP amendment was publicly exhibited from 13 March to 9 April 2023. Twenty (20) submissions were received, all of which supported the proposal.

Three (3) matters were raised:-

Matters raised	Council comments
1. The negative impact of the Banking Royal Commission:
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the proposal resolves “quite serious issues for a small group of residents already living in properties that could be, but have not been, subdivided or that have been subdivided and placed on company titles. These people can now apply for subdivisions that will allow them to sell or use the property to obtain finance and even gain basic rights such as individual Council rate notices and utility bills, rather than dealing with a single invoice covering both properties.” It is claimed that one outcome of the 2019 Banking Royal Commission has made it impossible for them to raise money against their home equity. This Proposal will resolve their issues and, by widening the original scope of the Proposal, will enable other owners in a similar position to benefit from subdivision and strata titles.	Council has supported the residents’ concerns with the proposed LEP amendment.
2. Wider catchment of eligible dual occupancies.
Support was expressed for the amendment suggested by the Local Planning Panel; that is to widen the criteria for original properties affected to include all dual occupancies erected or whose building work had commenced, on or before 16 June 2022.	The LPP argued that by limiting retrospective subdivision to only those five dual occupancies that used the company title mechanism, this disadvantages those dual occupancies which have not gone down that path. The number of dual occupancy properties constructed within the Lane Cove LGA that stand to benefit from this amendment is estimated at 29. Five (5) are presently company-titled and 24 did not subdivide – strata or Torrens but have been constructed.
3. Preserve ongoing density restriction
It is requested that the 5 properties already existing under this arrangement in Lane Cove be permitted to strata subdivide. Nevertheless, it is also requested that Council maintain high development standards to preserve single dwelling residential areas within our municipality.	By restricting the clause to only apply to: a) dual occupancies that have been erected, or whose building work has commenced on or before 16 June 2022; and b) been approved by a development consent or complying development certificate granted on or before 16 June 2022; and c) whose plans show parts of the building as being intended for separate occupation; and d) whose lots would substantially be corresponding with the parts shown on those plans as being for separate occupation; e) in the R2 Low Density Residential zone; the effect of the amendment is expected to discourage dual occupancy development applications by limiting subdivision to those existing prior to 16 June 2022.

Conclusion

It is recommended that Council endorse the amended Planning Proposal.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:-

1. Receive and note the report;

2. Adopt amended Planning Proposal 41 for finalisation as included at AT-1; and

3. Forward the amended Planning Proposal to the Department of Planning and Environment to request the making of LEP amendment No 41 on behalf of the Council.

Mark Brisby

Executive Manager

Environmental Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View	Amended Planning Proposal No 41	12 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑2 View	Letter in support by resident	4 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑3 View	Three model clauses	3 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑4 View	REPORT Council meeting 24 November 2022	4 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑5 View	Gateway determination 19 January 2023	2 Pages	Available Electronically

Ordinary Council Meeting 20 April 2023

Sport and Recreation Facility - April 2023 Progress Report

Subject: Sport and Recreation Facility - April 2023 Progress Report

Record No: SU9115 - 20126/23

Division: General Managers Unit

Author(s): David Stevens; Craig Wrightson

Executive Summary

This report provides an update in relation to the Sport and Recreation Facility project since March 2023. It outlines the outcomes of the Workshop requested in relation to the detailed design development of the building, project program and interim arrangements for the Lane Cove Golf Course during the construction phase. It is recommended Council reaffirm its decision of 23 March, 2023 to proceed to tender for Stage 2 Construction Contractor (Major Works), with 80% design documentation with ADCO Constructions, AW Edwards, Grindley Construction, Prime Constructions, and Richard Crookes Constructions being invited to tender.

Consistent with the intent of Council’s March resolution, an 80% design presentation will be presented at a Councillor workshop when available in May, and any changes proposed will be submitted to the next Council Meeting for consideration, and if adopted issued as addendums to the tender documents.

Council must also decide if it wishes to keep the golf course open during the construction phase, and if so what parking option(s) will prevail.

Background

Council received a progress report at its meeting of 23 March 2023, and resolved that Council:-

“1. Receive and note the report;

2. Notes the updated design for the Sport and Recreation Facility, included as AT-1;

3. Receives at the April Councillor workshop (or when required) the following:

a. 80% detailed design of the Sport and Recreation Facility as the design proposed for endorsement by Council for inclusion in tender documents and all supporting report documentation prepared for tender;

b. updated project timeline;

c. updated Quantity Survey report;

d. update on how the tender design will address the recommendations to mitigate risk to the natural environment as outlined in the following DA reports:

· ESD report

· Riparian Report

· Light Spill Report

· Biodiversity

e. outline in the tender documents a process for expedition of tree planting to replace lost tree canopy and how this will be implemented;

f. update on options considered for the building to contribute maximum renewable energy output and battery storage capability to reach a target of achieving a building that can be operated on 100% renewable energy;

g. briefing summary as to the fit for purpose application of each space in the building to satisfy the community user groups that have been engaged in workshop sessions over the past six months.

4. Receives a report at the April meeting of Council on the interim arrangements for the Lane Cove Golf Course during the construction phase;

5. Resolves that the management/operational model for the Sport and Recreation Facility will be determined by Council and that a report be prepared on the available options including modelling of financial feasibility of a Council operated Sport and Recreation Facility;

6. Proceed with Stage 1 procurement of a Demolition, Sediment Control and Bulk Earthworks contractor (Early Works) with no work to commence prior to the close of tenders for Stage 2 and Councillors have been advised that the project is within budget;

7. Receive a further report to the April Council Meeting, providing a summary of the workshop and outlining any proposed changes to the documents. and the changes be issued as addendums to the tender documents in 3(a) of this resolution as a result of the workshop; and

8. Proceeds, following the April Council meeting, with Stage 2 procurement of a Construction Contractor (Major Works), with five contractors selected from the Expression of Interest.”

Discussion

At the Councillor Workshop held on the 11 April 2023 presentations were made in accordance with Part 3. of Council's March resolution. The following provides a summary and outline of the outcomes from the presentations.

Detailed Design Development

Detailed design has been ongoing by AJC Architects and their sub-consultants to reach 80% level design at time of tender for construction. Prior to Council’s resolution, the targeted date for achieving 80% design development was 25 April 2023. It was not possible to bring the 80% design development forward and therefore it was not available for the workshop. An updated QS estimate was also not available due to the limited timeframe following Council’s resolution. The role of the QS estimate is to provide guidance in the development of the detailed design for the project to remain within Council’s $75M budget.

A presentation was made by AJ+C architects on the latest design development, in particular the materials and finishes for the project. The presentation also demonstrated that the design is fit for purpose for the intended user groups. Attached at AT-1 are the updated developed plans since the March meeting. Councillors have also been provided with a suite of documents on a confidential basis relating to the tender phase for the project.

Overall design development is behind the program, and the 80% design milestone is now targeted to be completed for tender release by 15 May 2023. In accordance with previous Council resolutions, Council will achieve 80% design to include in the tender documents. Further, consistent with the intent of Council’s March resolution, an 80% design presentation will be presented at a Councillor workshop when available in May, and any changes arising will be submitted to the next Council Meeting for consideration and if adopted, issued as addendums to the tender documents.

Updated Program

The updated program for the project is as follows. The design development date change does not impact any key milestones for the project.

Activity	Council Res. Req’d	Start	Finish
RFQ Period 1 – Demolition, Bulk Earth Works and Sediment Control		April-23	April-23
Tender/RFQ Award 1 - Demolition, Bulk Earth Works and Sediment Control		Apr-23	Apr-23
Tender Period 2 – Construction (80% design)		May-23	Jun-23
Work Commencement - Demolition, Bulk Earth Works and Sediment Control (Per Resolution, Tenders must be within budget)		Jun-23	Jul-23
Tender Evaluation, Tender Award 2 – Construction	Yes	Jun-23	Jul-23
Detailed Site Investigation Stage 2 and Clearance		Jul-23	Jul-23
Work Commencement - Construction		Aug-23	Jan-25
Commissioning		Feb-25	Mar-25
Opening (excluding rain delays)		Apr-25

ESD report

A presentation was made by Steenson Varming in relation to the progression of the best practice sustainability initiatives within the project. Steenson Varming has established a Scorecard to capture feedback and manage ESD targets, across multiple disciplines and stages of the project in an efficient and transparent manner to achieve the ESD objectives across all target areas. For example, reducing the building's upfront carbon emissions by at least 20% compared to a typical equivalent building, is being actioned across Structural, Civil, Mechanical and Hydraulic sub-consultants.

Maximum Renewable Energy

An update on the proposed solar PV system was provided currently sized at 99kw. Further investigations have been undertaken with a view to understanding the maximum system capacity, which has been determined to be circa 500kw. These investigations included a Reflectivity Study, draft costings, solar load and requirements for building structure, electrical sub-station capacity and cable routing required for full roof coverage to deliver a 500kw system. Initial modelling indicates a 200kw system will be able to meet the energy demands of the building and sufficient funds are currently included within the QS estimate. The current design documentation and specifications also include the capacity for full roof coverage to deliver a 500kw system.

Discussion at the workshop suggested Council explore creating a ‘solar farm’ with additional capacity over and above the requirements of the building, by expansion to a 500kw system. This will provide Council with the opportunity to deliver a community solar project whereby community members are able to invest in a local solar project and receive a return on their investment over a set number of years. This model of funding has been utilised for projects such as the 520kW solar project at the Sydney International Convention Centre (Sydney ICC) which was the first community-funded solar energy project of its kind in Australia, and the Lismore Community Solar venture, which was the first council and community-owned solar farm in Australia and includes a rooftop solar farm at the Goonellabah Sports & Aquatic Centre and a floating solar farm on the overflow ponds at the East Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant.

Investigations will be undertaken into the governance arrangements of these funding models to understand the different legal structures available to deliver a community solar project of this scale and the preferred capital raising and benefit distribution strategies.

Light Spill

A presentation on the lighting design for the project was provided. Additional information in relation to the design’s compliance with dark sky principles and light spill based on Ecologically Sustainability Development best practice was requested.

Tree Planting Acceleration

The Tender Package will include early procurement and planting, by including:-

· A process where the Contractor purchases the specified plants and holds them at the nursery within the first three (3) months of contract award to enable the specified trees to be secured and mature during construction; and

· A requirement for the Contractor to investigate areas / zones that could receive planting early during construction works to enable the trees to mature during the circa 2-year construction program on-site.

Stage 1 Procurement of a Demolition, Sediment Control and Bulk Earthworks Contractor (Early Works)

Per the March Meeting Resolution, Council is finalising Request for Quote (RfQ) documentation to invite contractors selected from the NSW Procurement Panel to submit pricing and work methods / programming for the Early Works “package”.

Central to the above activities has been the refinement of civil and geo-technical drawings and expected loads (cut / fill etc.) to ensure that the invited contractors can appropriately price the proposed works.

The contractor will not commence work unless Part 6 of Council’s resolution is satisfied, viz:-

“no work to commence prior to the close of tenders for Stage 2 and Councillors have been advised that the project is within budget;”

Stage 2 Procurement of a Construction Contractor (Major Works)

A non-binding Expressions of Interest for the Construction Contractor (Major Works) was issued in late January 2022 being the first stage (EOI) of two (Request for Tender) in a procurement process to deliver the Major Works. The open market EOI was administered through Tenderlink, Council received a total of 17 responses from suitably qualified construction firms by the nominated closing date. The submissions were assessed by the Tender Evaluation Committee (TEC) which comprised of Council’s Project Manager (two personnel), two Executive Staff members and overseen by the external Probity Advisor based on the following weighted criteria:

· Relevant Project Experience (25%)

· Project Understanding (20%)

· Ecologically Sustainable Development (20%)

· Project Personnel (20%)

· Value Engineering (10%)

· Financial Strength and Point of Difference (5%)

Copies of the Tender Evaluation Committee report and Probity Advisor’s report have been circulated separately to Councillors on a confidential basis. Based on the above criteria, the TEC recommended the following five contractors be invited to tender should Council proceed to construction:

1. ADCO Constructions

2. AW Edwards

3. Grindley Construction

4. Prime Constructions

5. Richard Crookes

As part of the Tender Evaluation process independent financial checks were undertaken of each contractor.

Further to Part 8. of Council’s March 2023 resolution, when documentation is completed Council will proceed to tender for Stage 2 Construction Contractor (Major Works), with 80% design documentation with the following weighted criteria:-

Assessment Criteria	% Weighting
Pricing	50%
Value Engineering	10%
Program & Methodology	20%
Personnel & Experience	20%
Work Health & Safety & Environment	Mandatory Requirement

Interim Arrangements for the Lane Cove Golf Course During the Construction Phase

Council has continued to investigate the following options during the Construction Phase

1. Retain a fully operational Golf course with a modified 9 hole layout;

2. Retain a limited operation Golf course with a less than 9 hole layout;

3. Not operate a golf course, maintain the general course condition to minimise reactivation costs post construction and allow general community access in the interim.

Further to the March 2023 report to Council, Council staff have completed their investigations to retain a fully operational Golf course with a modified 9 hole layout.

The Lane Cove Golf Club has prepared a revised 9 hole course layout which does not include the current 9^th hole and a modified 1^st tee and 7th Green. During construction Council will seek to minimise the impact on all holes as far as possible.

As part of the tender process for construction, the contractors will be requested to suggest solutions for minimising the impact on the golf course during construction. This will include delivering a separable portion of the site back to Council prior to the completion of the whole project to provide access to the course from the new car park.

In terms of the existing continuing golf play during construction, the key issue is the location of the pro shop and access for players to the course. The following outlines the feedback Council has received on options explored and associated costs.

1. Parking (Gamma Road)

As reported at the March Meeting, a meeting was held with 23 residents from Gamma, Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Zeta Roads on 7 March 2023 whereupon Council proposed the option of converting the grass area in Gamma Road Reserve into a temporary car park that could accommodate 45-50 vehicles or utilising existing on-street parking. For clarity, the proposal in its entirety included a temporary pro shop adjacent to the 3^rd tee, a storage shed for members’ clubs and buggies beneath the 11^th green, the construction of a pathway from Gamma Road Reserve to the 3^rd tee connected via the construction of a stepped path down to the 3^rd tee, and portable toilets. A layout plan is included as AT-2. The following matters were raised by meeting participants:-

· “Gamma Park is used for recreation and leisure activities including children’s play, ball sports, dog walking and family picnics.

· Environmental Impact Statement is required as car runoff would go directly towards Gore Creek

· A flora and fauna impact statement is needed to ensure threatened species such as the kookaburra habitats are not endangered

· Residents were largely against the provision of a temporary car park

· A traffic study is needed as narrow Gamma Road is being used as a fast ‘rat run’.

More generally:

· “Parking (on-street) already heavily utilised by workers in Lane Cove Village and local school(s)

· Residents would prefer to “take their chances” with on-street parking being provided for golfers

· Cars could park on the 5^th fairway

· Has Council considered sharing the parking load by making spots available in the Second / Third Avenue area for access to the course via the 5^th hole for a shotgun start

· Is the small access road entering near the 3^rd green off Dorritt St wide enough?

· Shuttle bus to transport golfers from Lane Cove Village

· Golfers to park at River Road and / or use the existing entrance

· No off-street (footpath) walking on the bend at Gamma Road.”

2. Parking (Third Avenue)

On 5 April 2023, a meeting was held with 44 residents from First, Second, Third and Fourth Avenues, Richardson St East, Osborne Road and Campbell Avenue. Council proposed the possible introduction of 18-20 on-street parking spaces at Third Avenue (one side only, and a mixture of parallel and 90 degrees) and access to the golf course via an existing pathway at the intersection of Second and Third Avenue. A layout plan is included as AT-3. The following matters were raised by meeting participants:-

· “Traffic and parking are already heavy with many Artarmon workers availing themselves of this area for all-day parking (suggestion was made that parking restrictions including a resident parking permit may need to be introduced)

· Need to ensure safe passage for the 265 bus

· No space on Osborne Road currently

· Weekend is peak time for golf and children and therefore represents a safety concern for children

· Visitors not being familiar with the road network; 95% of residents on third Avenue have 3 cars

· Would a new footpath be built?

· The precinct is a “peninsular in its own right” with one road in and one road out; KU is a big traffic source and needs to be considered

· Currently a safe environment, shouldn’t need to defend why Third Avenue should not be a car park

· Dangerous process with no data nor research – don’t solve an issue only to create another

· Impact of headlights

· Cars parking from dawn

· Human nature is that people will park “all over the place” and obstruct the 265 bus, clog up the street

· Can a staged construction process allow for parking on-site?

· Alternative parking location on the 9^th fairway via the 9^th tee from River Road; can construction be staged to accommodate parking on 9^th hole (in response to Council’s Gamma Road and or River Road access is better than Second / Third Avenue

· Gamma Road a better option (“how is it a debate?”) given the park can accommodate 45-50 spaces off-street versus only 18-20 on-street at Third Avenue

· Residents are being forced to make a fast decision

· Owners have invested considerable money only for it to be put at risk by temporary parking

· Introduce a shuttle bus for golfers

· Consensus was that the community would benefit from the golf course remaining open during the construction phase

· Do not support 90-degree parking

3. Parking (9^th Fairway)

It is envisaged that the 9th fairway will not be available for golf play during the construction period due to its proximity to the construction activity. The option of a temporary access point south of the current entry/exit location during the construction phase was explored. It was not deemed a suitable location as it is in the overland flow path during high rainfall, which would potentially see the overland flow blocked (causing flooding) and/or the temporary car parking material washed away into the downstream open creek causing environmental damage. In addition, the access from River Road would require a tight, steep downhill 180-degree turn which would impact driver safety. A layout plan is included as AT-4.

4. Parking (Shuttle Bus)

Under this option, it was envisaged that parking for golf activities would be in the Little Street car park, with a shuttle bus taking golfers to and from the Gamma Rd pro shop. Under this arrangement, a shuttle bus running 5 days per week when competitions are held, (e.g. Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday Thursday) would cost $187,000 p.a.

The following table shows a comparison of these options.

*Category*	Gamma Road Reserve	Third Avenue (Line Marking)	Gamma Road/ Third Ave (Existing On Street)	Gamma Road (Bus Option)	River Road, 9^th Fairway
Approval Pathway	Exempt Development with a bitumen carpark, DA reg’d if road base carpark	Exempt Development	Exempt Development	Exempt Development	Exempt Development with a bitumen carpark, DA reg’d if road base carpark
Environmental Impact	Low	Low	Low	Low	High (overland flow path blocked, flood event will impact on natural watercourse
Traffic Impact	Low	Low	Low	Low	High, access requires tight downhill 180-degree turn
Total Additional Car Spaces	50	20	0	20	50
Course Access	Good to 3^rd tee	Poor to 3^rd tee	Good to 3^rd tee	Good to 3^rd tee	Good to 1st tee
Player Safety	Safe	Unsafe	Safe	Safe	Safe
Logistics (pro-shop)	Gamma Rd Flat location, sufficient space	Gamma Rd Flat location, sufficient space	Gamma Rd Flat location, sufficient space	Gamma Rd Flat location, sufficient space	9^th Fairway Flat location, sufficient space, impacted by overland flow
Cost	$250,000 or $150,000 if road base	$103,000 incl $15,000 line marking	$88,000	$275,000 incl $187,000 for bus assuming an 8-hour day 5 days per week	$346,000 or $246,000 if road base

5. Logistics and Financials

To accommodate continued maintenance of the golf course during the construction phase, Council will need to relocate the golf maintenance equipment storage shed as it will be demolished in the Early Works program. In addition to the provision of new storage on the 9^th fairway, the incumbent maintenance contractor must also be provided with amenities such as a lunchroom (doubling as an office) and toilet facilities. An allowance has been made in the following financial table to accommodate these requirements.

From an income and player (social and member) participation perspective, it is difficult to estimate the impact of the change in terms of total rounds and therefore revenue. Council has therefore assumed an overall revenue fall of by 25% during the construction phase. Access to the course is an obvious impediment, and whilst course presentation (standard) will be maintained during the construction phase, there will be no clubhouse facilities, and a re-routing that reduces the course length and par. Based on this assumption, golf rounds (9-hole equivalent) would reduce from approximately 20,0000 (26% are member rounds) to 15,000 rounds. The following financial table outlines the financial impact based on the parking options identified.

Category	Existing Budget	9 Holes (25% reduction) Gamma Road Reserve	9 Holes (25% reduction) Third Avenue (Line Marking)	9 Holes (25% reduction) Gamma and Third (on street parking)	9 Holes (25% reduction) Gamma Road (Bus Option)	Course Closed
*Income*
Annual Member Fee	$80,000	$44,000	$44,000	$44,000	$44,000	$0
Social Golf Fees	$220,000	$165,000	$165,000	$165,000	$165,000	$0
*Expenditure*
Maintenance (inc Utilities)	$386,000	$386,000	$386,000	$386,000	$386,000	$310,000
Interim Course Costs	$0	$250,000	$103,000	$88,000	$275,000	$0
Operating Result	-$86,000	-$427,000	-$280,000	-$265,000	-$452,000	-$310,000

Following consideration and discussion about all of the above information at the April Councillor Workshop, the following is a summary of a way forward.

· Initially proceed with the Gamma Road and Third Avenue (existing on street parking) option (including Gamma Road Pro-shop), with a ‘shot gun’ start for Saturday morning golf competition utilising both the Gamma Road and Second Avenue access points to the course.

· Establish a Working Group, consisting of two representatives from the Gamma Rd precinct, two representatives from the Third Ave precinct and two representatives of the golf club, the golf course operator’s representative and the East Ward Councillors, to monitor activity and recommend improvements. Council to call for nominations and appoint representatives prior to the course closure.

· Encouragement of all players to carpool.

Following the workshop, staff discussed a further option with the course operator and the following is a possible addition. The operator will trial for a 6 week period, promotion of the Little Street Car Park as a suitable park and ride location to access the Golf Course. The operator will provide a shuttle service booked through the pro-shop in the morning (4 hours) on weekends, utilising a dual cab utility vehicle. During the trial Council will waive the car parking fees in the Little Street Car Park for the 4 hour period.

Conclusion

Overall, Council remains on schedule to deliver the project per the adopted timetable.

The Office of Sport Grant Funding is predicated upon Council commencing construction before the end of June 2023. Commencing Stage 1 procurement in April 2023 will allow Council to meet this milestone. Such work will not “commence prior to the close of tenders for Stage 2 and Councillors have been advised that the project is within budget”.

Council at the March Meeting in Part 8. of the resolution authorised the calling of Tenders for Stage 2. Prior to doing so, Council will achieve 80% design to include in the tender documents. To enable this to proceed, Council is required to nominated the five contractors to tender for the works, as outlined in the report.

Finally, Council to determine, based on the above parking, maintenance and financial information, if it wishes to keep the golf course open during construction phase, and if so what parking option(s) will prevail.

RECOMMENDATION

That:-

1. The report be received and noted;

2. Council reaffirm its decision of 23 March, 2023 to proceed to tender for Stage 2 Construction Contractor (Major Works), with 80% design documentation and ADCO Constructions, AW Edwards, Grindley Construction, Prime Constructions and Richard Crookes Constructions be invited to tender;

3. A Councillor Workshop be conducted in May 2023, outlining the 80% detailed design development for the Sport and Recreation Facility, including QS Report and the design’s compliance with dark sky principles and light spill based on Ecologically Sustainable Development best practice;

4. Include in the tender documents pricing for a 200kw Solar PV system and maximum PV system (circa 500kw), a tree planting acceleration program as outlined in the report and undertake research into the inclusion of a community solar farm in the project;

5. Any proposed changes to the design arising from the May Councillor workshop be submitted to the next Council Meeting for consideration, and if adopted, issued as addendums to the tender documents; and

6. Council determine the operational model for the Golf Course during the course of construction.

Craig Wrightson

General Manager

General Managers Unit

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View	Lane Cove Sport & Recreation Centre Plans as 11 April 2023	21 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑2 View	Gamma Road Car Park DRAFT Layout	1 Page	Available Electronically
AT‑3 View	Third Avenue Parking DRAFT Layout	1 Page	Available Electronically
AT‑4 View	Parking Layout DRAFT Golf Course	1 Page	Available Electronically

Ordinary Council Meeting 20 April 2023

2023/2024 Draft Budget, Fees and Charges, Delivery Program and Operational Plan, Resourcing Strategy and associated Resource Plans

Subject: 2023/2024 Draft Budget, Fees and Charges, Delivery Program and Operational Plan, Resourcing Strategy and associated Resource Plans

Record No: SU9090 - 17418/23

Division: Corporate Services Division

Author(s): Steven Kludass; Sarah Seaman

Executive Summary

The Local Government Act 1993 requires Council to adopt its annual Operational Plan and Budget by 30 June, outlining the activities to be undertaken in the next financial year (i.e., from 1 July), as part of a Delivery Program. The Local Government Regulation 2005 requires the Operational Plan and Budget include an annual Revenue Policy.

This report presents a summary of the Draft Delivery Program and the Operational Plan 2023/24, Draft 2023/24 Budget, Draft 2023/24 Schedule of Fees and Charges as part of the Draft Revenue Policy, and the Draft Resourcing Strategy including associated Resource Plans. The budget establishes the anticipated operating result for 2023/24 and provides information on key income and expenditure. This report recommends that the Draft Budget 2023/24, Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2023/24 and Fees and Charges 2023/24 be endorsed for public exhibition purposes.

Background

In October 2009, the NSW Government enacted the Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Amendment Act 2009, which set a new framework to integrate the various statutory planning and reporting processes as required by the Local Government Act 1993.

The Integrated Planning and Reporting framework requires a number of strategic planning and resourcing documents, with alignment to the term of the elected council. The requirements include a long-term Community Strategic Plan, a Delivery Program for the term of the council and an Operational Plan that sets out Council’s recurrent actions (activities) and new initiatives (projects) for the coming 12 months.

Draft 2023/24 Budget

Budget Summary

The Draft 2023/24 Budget (AT-1) has been developed with three principal objectives in mind:

· Maintain existing services and service levels;

· Achieve a balanced budget; and

· Ensure Council’s financial position and performance is sustainable in the long term

The Draft 2023/24 Budget includes the following key results and initiatives:

· The draft operating result for in the 2023/24 financial year is budgeted to be a surplus of $78k (essentially a balanced budget), before capital grants and contributions.

· The Rates and Annual Charges for 2023/24 include a general rate increase of 3.7%, as determined by IPART. It is proposed to levy two (2) Ordinary Rates in 2023/24 in accordance with S.492 and S.497(a) of the Local Government Act.

a. An Ordinary Residential Rate of0.075639 cents in the dollar, on the Land Value of all Rateable Land categorised as Residential in accordance with S.516 of the Local Government Act, (with the exception of heritage properties which are rated on their heritage value), with a Minimum Rate of $984.70, to yield $23,285,775.

b. An Ordinary Business Rate of 0.491169 cents in the dollar, on the Land Value of all Rateable Land categorised as Business in accordance with S.516 of the Local Government Act, with a Minimum Rate of $1,005.85 to yield $6,224,774.

· It is proposed to levy a Car Parking Special Rate on Business premises in Lane Cove of 0.178247 cents in dollar with a minimum rate of $2 per assessment, to yield $186,667. This revenue will continue to offset the recent investment in carparking now available within the Village (eg The Canopy Car Park).

· Salary and Wages related expenditure totals $22.87m, which includes an estimated Local Government (State) Award increase of 4.0% and other employee related expenses such as Employee Leave Entitlements and Superannuation.

· A full schedule of the user fees and charges proposed for the year is included in the Draft Revenue Policy. The proposed fees have been set in accordance with Council’s pricing policy, which requires consideration of a number of factors including community service obligations, the cost of service provision, whether the goods or services are provided on a commercial basis, and the capacity of the user to pay.

· The Draft 2023/24 Budget provides for the levying of a Domestic Waste Management Charge (under S.496 of the Act) of $498.00 for each 80 litre MGB and recycling service on all rateable and non-rateable residential properties. Charges for DWM services rendered to residential units above business premises, or extra DWM services rendered to other premises, are set out in the Schedule of Fees and Charges for 2023/24.

· It is proposed to levy a stormwater levy of $25 per residential or business property and $12.50 per residential strata unit. The levy is proposed to yield $330,887 and will assist in the funding of stormwater works required throughout the LGA.

· Council continues to fast track sustainability initiatives utilising funds from the Sustainability Levy. Projects for 2023/24 include:

o Every Child a Bushland Experience

o Greener Apartments

o Powerful Owl Project Support

o Rope Access Noxious Weed Control

o Streamwatch and National Waterbug Blitz Programs

o Recycled Street Banner Project

o Volunteer Bushcare Program

o Warraroon Wetlands Restoration

o Native Garden/Disability Support Program

o Urban Rewilding Linkage Project

o Solar for Business

o Sustainable Building Advisory Service

o Lovetts Reserve Biodiversity Protection

o On the Verge (previously called Nature Strip Conversion Project)

o Saltmarsh Restoration

o Climate Resilience Events and Communications

o Canopy Recycling Station

o Bushwalk Tracks Safety Audit Contribution

o Warraroon Reserve Insect Survey

o Installing Solar with Confidence

o Lane Cove Goes Circular

o Skate Park Upcycled Sculpture

o Sustainability Contribution to the new Sport and Recreation Facility

o Sustainable Council Buildings (solar projects)

o Woodford Bay Erosion Control

Draft Delivery Program including the 2023/24 Operational Plan

The Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan (AT-2) is Council’s response to the aspirations contained in the Community Strategic Plan, Liveable Lane Cove 2035. The Delivery Program and Operational Plan describes Council’s commitment to the community during its term of office and, like the Community Strategic Plan, is presented in the form of the six Strategic Themes. Within each of the six Strategic Themes, community priorities are identified and include strategies, recurrent actions and new initiatives. Also included in the Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan is a budget allocated for each of the six strategic themes and Council’s Revenue Policy.

A range of New Capital Initiatives are contained in the Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan, including:

· Construction of a new Sport and Recreation Facility

· Bob Campbell Oval Masterplan Implementation Works

· New Multifunction Theatre Space

· New Skate Park at Blackman Park

· Lane Cove Aquatic Centre Energy Efficiency Improvement Program

· Village Streetscape Improvement Works (Stage 2) along Burns Bay Road

· Traffic signal works at Mowbray Road and Centennial Avenue

· Completion of new cycleway along Burns Bay Road, Linley Point

· Bus shelter upgrade works

· Amenities upgrade works at Pottery Green

· Playground upgrades at Nichols Reserve and Woodford Bay Reserve

· Drainage and irrigation works at Tantallon Oval

In addition, there a range of New Operating Initiatives contained in the Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan, including:

· Review of the Age Friendly Strategy

· Develop a Social Inclusion Strategy

· Implement a watercraft hire arrangement to support the expansion of kayaking on Lane Cove River

· Develop a Masterplan for Burns Bay Reserve and Stringybark Creek Reserve

· Introduce a Community Renewable Energy Program, including a Rebates Program

· Review and update the Lane Cove Development Control Plan to improve sustainability and incorporate provisions for the strategic rollout of EV charging infrastructure

· Continue the Renewable Energy Future Program in Lane Cove for community emissions

· Implement the Emissions Reduction Pathway Strategy for council emissions

· Develop an Affordable/Key Worker Housing Statement

· Introduce a ‘Car Free Sunday’ event

· Introduce a ‘Car Boot Community Market’

· Introduce a Problem Waste Collection Point within The Canopy Carpark

· Implement pilot ‘living seawalls’ at Tambourine Bay and Woodford Bay

· Implement bushland encroachment reduction strategy

· Support activation of the Village Streetscapes Improvements

· Full implementation of new Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee

· Implement a Council Resolution Tracker

· Review the Procurement Policy

· Commence planning for the refurbishment of the Civic Centre

· Introduce a dedicated Call Centre to improve customer experience

· Launch new Council Website and Engagement HQ

· Review the Workforce Management Plan

· Transition to cashless facilities and remove merchant fees for credit card transactions

Resourcing Strategy and Resource Plans

In order to develop a Delivery Program and Operational Plan, Council must consider the resources it has at its disposal. The Resourcing Strategy (AT-3) articulates how three primary resource plans work together to underpin the services we provide to the community. The three primary resource plans are:

1. Long Term Financial Plan (AT-4)

2. Asset Management Plan (AT-5)

3. Workforce Management Plan (AT-6)

Community Consultation

It is a statutory requirement that the Draft Budget 2023/24, Delivery Program and the Operational Plan 2023/24 and Fees and Charges 2023/24, following Council’s initial consideration, be placed on public exhibition for a period of not less than twenty-eight (28) days. Following this, Council must consider any public comments submitted before the Plans can be adopted.

It is proposed to exhibit these documents for a six week period from late April 2023 to early June 2023. A report will be prepared for Council’s consideration at the June 2023 Ordinary Council Meeting advising of the results of the community consultation and recommending final adoption. Until the Delivery Program and Operational Plan (including Budget) is adopted, Council is unable to levy rates and charges for the financial year for which the plan is prepared.

Consultation Statement of Intent

The consultation is designed to provide the community with the opportunity to comment on the proposed actions and initiatives over the next year. Council will consider feedback in determining to adopt the final plans and budget.

The methods of consultation proposed are outlined below.

Methods

Level of Participation	Inform	Consult
Form of Participation	Open	Open
Target Audience	Whole Community	Whole Community
Proposed Medium	Website Exhibition eNewsletter	On-line Survey Written Submissions
Indicative Timing	Late April – Early June 2023	Late April – Early June 2023

RECOMMENDATION

That:-

1. Council adopt, for the purpose of public exhibition, the Draft 2023/24 Budget, Draft 2023/24 Delivery Program and Operational Plan (includes Draft 2023/24 Fees and Charges), and the Draft Resourcing Strategy and associated Resource Plans;

2. Council undertake community consultation from late April 2023 until early June 2023 as per the consultation outlined in the report; and

3. Following public exhibition, the Draft 2023/24 Budget, Draft 2023/24 Delivery Program and Operational Plan (includes Draft 2023/24 Fees and Charges), and the Draft Resourcing Strategy and associated Resource Plans, together with a report on any submissions received, be considered at the Council meeting to be held in June 2023.

Steven Kludass

Executive Manager - Corporate Services

Corporate Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View	Draft 2023/24 Budget Summary	13 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑2 View	Draft 2023/24 Delivery Program and Operational Plan	208 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑3 View	Draft Resourcing Strategy	14 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑4 View	Draft Long Term Financial Plan	23 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑5 View	Draft Asset Management Plan	21 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑6 View	Draft Workforce Management Plan	27 Pages	Available Electronically

Ordinary Council Meeting 20 April 2023

Towards Net Zero - Sustainability Rebates Program

Subject: Towards Net Zero - Sustainability Rebates Program

Record No: SU8619 - 10860/23

Division: Environmental Services Division

Author(s): Bernadette Riad; Fiona McCleary; Alicia Lloyd

Executive Summary

Council at its meeting of 8 December 2022 resolved to investigate rebates and renewable programs at other councils and develop a program for the Lane Cove community.

A presentation was prepared for the Corporate Planning Weekend to discuss the benefits of various incentive opportunities, including rebates and bulk buys. It was agreed at this workshop that Council would pursue both a bulk buy initiative similar to the City of Mitcham and a rebate program with stronger incentives for apartment complexes where the barriers to uptake are more challenging, and incentives for the uptake of electric vehicle chargers.

The proposed Community Renewables Program outlined in this report includes both incentive models, however the Sustainability Rebates program is the key focus of this report. The bulk buy offering will be brought to Council following an initial request for proposals once more details are available of the market offerings.

It is recommended that Council approve the proposed Sustainability Rebates Program to incentivise energy and water savings for Lane Cove residents as part of the broader Community Renewable Energy Program as outlined in the draft Delivery and Operational Plan for 2023/24 noting that increased incentives to overcome barriers can achieve the greatest carbon reduction potential, particularly with apartments and businesses.

Background

Council at its meeting of 8 December 2022 resolved to:

1. Investigate the feasibility, potential scope and cost of developing a home energy and water makeover program for Lane Cove, including rebates for eligible residents (owners and renters), with a view to including this in the delivery plan for 2023/2024 for items/services including:

a. Home energy assessment (for example by Australian Energy Foundation);

b. Purchase/installation of rooftop solar;

c. Purchase/installation of battery storage;

d. Purchase/installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure;

e. Purchase/installation of an electric heat pump or a rooftop solar hot water system for property and/or residential pool; and

f. Purchase and professional installation of insulation.

2. Investigate expanding the water efficiency program to residential properties (in addition to strata buildings). Contact Sydney Water about promoting uptake of WaterFix Residential, within Lane Cove;

3. Contact other councils such as Randwick City Council, Willoughby Council and others, to discuss how they have implemented their renewable rebate program, and to determine the effectiveness and uptake of rebate and renewable programs to date; and

4. Receive a report to the Corporate Planning Weekend in early 2023 on items 1-3

A presentation addressing the above points was made at the Corporate Planning Weekend in February, and an action added to the draft Delivery and Operational Plan for 2023/24 to “Introduce the Community Renewable Energy Program, including a Rebates Program”.

Council has adopted targets within the Sustainability Action Plan to reduce emissions by 20% by 2024, and 80% by 2036 (based on 2016/17 levels). To date, Council has reduced emissions by 3%, with a 59 kt CO₂^e reduction required by 2024. The proposed Community Renewables Program, including the Sustainability Rebates, has the potential to achieve an estimated 75% of the 59kt reduction required (assuming uptake rates are similar to those experienced by Randwick and the City of Mitcham).

The proposed program also addresses the following actions in Councils’ Sustainability Action Plan which was developed in consultation with our community.

· Action 1.8 Implement programs that accelerate the uptake of renewable energy and batteries in the community and reduce or eliminate of the use of fossil fuel energy and in particular gas

· Action 1.14 Fulfil Council’s Cities Race to Zero pledge and report progress through the Annual Report. (Noting that this pledge includes the commitment to develop financial support programs to incentivise deployment of building-scale renewables)

Discussion on Options to Accelerate Uptake of Rooftop Solar and Batteries

Investigations into the programs offered by other Councils to accelerate the uptake of renewables in their community found that some Councils had shifted beyond education and promotion to provide rebates and bulk buys to overcome the barrier of cost and incentivise action.

Willoughby City Council have offered a Solar Bulk Buy to their residents since mid-2021. To facilitate this, Council followed a procurement process to select a preferred supplier for nine system options (3 models each at 5kW, 6.6kW and 10kW) and two battery options (10kWh and 13.5kWh) at a discounted cost to residents. Willoughby City Council report that the initiative has resulted in an average of 1 system installed per week, which is approximately 78 systems.

City of Mitcham in South Australia took a slightly different approach, offering a Solar Bulk Buy program to their residents for a limited time period in 2022 using a 3^rd party provider. Under this program, residents were offered a range of options, including solar, battery, a retailer-agnostic Virtual Power Plant (VPP) and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) financing packages with no up-front cost. Council reported that 538 homeowners joined the program to receive rooftop solar PV and/or batteries and 535 also joined the VPP. This equates to approximately 10 installations per week.

Randwick Council offer rebates for rooftop solar PV and batteries. A total of 418 rooftop solar systems and 62 solar batteries have been installed using the rebate program since Nov 2020. Assuming the batteries were part of the rooftop solar PV installation, this equates to approximately 4 installations per week. An additional 262 rebates were provided for other items such as lighting, EV chargers, hot water systems and insulation.

Ku-ring-gai Council offer rebates for stand-alone houses to install either rooftop solar PV or a battery, and rebates for units to install a shared rooftop solar PV for a minimum of 8 residents. These rebates began in 2017 and have assisted 298 rooftop solar PV installations and 17 batteries. In addition, 3 apartment blocks (comprised of a total of 163 units) have received solar rebates. This equates to approximately 1.2 installations per week.

Table 1: Comparison of 4 Council rebate and bulk buy programs for solar and batteries

Council	Willoughby	Mitcham	Randwick	Ku-ring-gai
Rebate or Bulk Buy	Bulk Buy	Bulk Buy	Rebate	Rebate
Average annual cost to Council	$0	$0	$175K	$34K
In-kind costs	Procurement process + promotion	Procurement process + promotion	Rebate processing + platform	Rebate EOI assessment + processing
Solar systems per week	1	10	4	1.2
Program length to date	2 years	1 year	2 years	5 years
Solar kW installed	550	2,258	3,421	2,665
Storage capacity kWh	54	4,714	745	256

Benefits and Disadvantages of Incentive Models

Each of the two models provide different benefits and disadvantages, and when offered together can provide a more rounded offering to the community. This is illustrated in Table 2 below which highlights how the features of one model can fulfil a niche not covered by the other. For example, a bulk buy program offers set sizes and models which may not be suitable for certain situations or roof spaces. The rebate model however, will cover any choice of Clean Energy Council accredited system, so is well suited to unique situations. Rebates also have the opportunity to be applied to different technology options (ie EV Charging) and items such as rainwater tanks, or to offer greater incentives to development types which face more significant costs or barriers to change.

Table 2: Complimentary benefits and disadvantages of incentive models

Rebates

Bulk Buy

Benefits

· Reduced upfront costs and payback for residents

· Resident choice of supplier, model and sizing

· Applicable for a range of items other than solar and batteries

· Low cost to Council (in-kind only)

· Reduced decision fatigue for residents:

o Council vetted supplier

o Set sizes / models

· Discounted solar and battery options, with Mitcham also offering $0 upfront payment plans leading to high rates of solar and battery uptake

Disadvantages

· Uptake is limited by the available budget

· Rebate budget is mostly distributed to owner-occupied houses

· Limited technology options (set sizes and models)

· In the case of the Willoughby model, the preferred supplier increased prices over time

Other Existing Incentives for Energy Efficiency and Electric Vehicles

The NSW Government provides a range of incentives for households to upgrade lighting, air conditioners, hot water systems and pool pumps. Under the NSW Energy Savings Scheme, residents can receive significant subsidies to upgrade household lighting, air conditioning, hot water systems, and pool pumps using an Accredited Certificate Provider (ACP).

The NSW Government is also offering a $3,000 rebate for the first 25,000 new battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles with a dutiable value of less than $68,750. Eligible new or used battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell light vehicles that cost up to $78,000 (dutiable value) are exempt from stamp duty.

It is recommended that Council promote these incentives as part of our overall communications program for electrification and emissions reduction rather than duplicating any financial incentives for these products.

Programs for Water Efficiency

Under the Sydney Water WaterFix Residential program residents in single-unit dwellings can receive free repairs of minor tap leaks and replacement of selected taps and showerheads for a nominal fee of $33 ($11 for pensioners) and large discounts on water-efficient devices such as toilets. WaterFix is also available for strata buildings, schools and commercial buildings. After a desktop analysis is conducted, high water users are offered a free data logger and an inspection is conducted to prepare a report with suggested improvements, many of which can be organised through a payment plan.

Both Randwick and Ku-ring-gai Council offer rebates for rainwater tanks to houses, units and businesses. As there are no rebates for a retrofit water tank installation in the Sydney Water WaterFix program and this represents an opportunity for Council to incentivise this action for the Lane Cove community.

Key Components of the Proposed Community Renewables Program

In addition to offering both rebates and bulk buy incentives, the Community Renewables Program will include education and capacity building initiatives to overcome barriers to change. These will include:-

· Promotion of Home Energy Kits available to borrow from the library.

· Development of a Solar Advisory Service (currently in review for funding from the Sustainability Levy) to provide independent advice on solar quotes and system optimisation.

· Training of Local Solar Mentors to be able to provide general advice and refer to the Solar Advisory Service for technical advice.

· Establishment of a Sustainability Collective of community volunteers who will work together to deliver projects to reduce emissions and champion the Community Renewables Program with their neighbours and networks.

Proposed Bulk Buy Program

Council is seeking to engage a 3^rd party supplier to deliver a bulk buy scheme for solar PV and batteries similar to the one offered by the City of Mitcham which offers a range of options, including stand-alone or packaged solar and battery options, a retailer-agnostic Virtual Power Plant (VPP) and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with financing packages for no up-front cost..

A Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued via VendorPanel on 27 March seeking a suitably qualified proponent to work strategically alongside Council to increase the uptake of solar and battery systems within the Lane Cove LGA. Proponents have been asked to comment on how their offerings could set the foundations to transition the Lane Cove community towards energy sharing, where rooftop energy is generated, stored, pooled and shared within the community. Based on the responses from the RFP the current market offerings, Council will issue a more detailed Request for Quote (RFQ).

Proposed Rebate Program

The proposed structure of the rebate program is outlined in Table 3 below and would be funded using a portion of the Renewable Energy Future Budget for 2023/24. Residents and businesses will apply through an Expression of Interest for pre-approval prior to installation to ensure that the budget is not overallocated. Should the budget be exhausted prior to the end of a financial year, the program will temporarily close for the remainder of the financial year once the budget is allocated.

Table 3: Proposed Rebates including typical installations and indicative community investment

	Maximum Rebate (per participant)	Rebate Offer (percentage of cost and maximum value)	Example Installation	Example Investment (prior to rebate)
*Solar PV*
House	$500	25% up to $500	6.6kW solar PV	$7,500
Units (lot)	$1,000	25% up to $1,000	6.6kW solar PV	$7,500
Units (common area)	$5,000	25% up to $5,000	20kW solar PV	$20,000
Business	$1,000	25% up to $1,000	20kW solar PV	$20,000
*Solar Batteries*
House	$1,000	10% up to $1,000	10kWh battery	$15,000
Units	$1,000	10% up to $1,000	10kWh battery	$15,000
Business	$1,000	10% up to $1,000	10kWh battery	$15,000
*EV Charging*
House	$500	25% up to $500	EV charger	$3,000
Units	$4,000	25% up to $4,000	EV charging infrastructure	$20,000
Business	$1,000	25% up to $1,000	EV charging infrastructure	$20,000
*Rainwater Tanks*
House	$250	25% up to $250	1,000L water tank	$1,000
Units	$2,000	25% up to $2,000	5,000L water tank	$2,000
Business	$1,000	25% up to $1,000	5,000L water tank	$2,000

While detailed Terms and Conditions will be prepared with sufficient clauses included to protect Council, the following criteria and conditions are proposed:

· Rebates are only available for properties in the Lane Cove Local Government Area.

· Rooftop solar PV and solar batteries, must be installed by a Clean Energy Council Accredited Installer.

· Rebates are not available for products required for BASIX compliance purposes.

· Rebates for EV charging, must include an electric vehicle charger (excludes power socket installations) installed by a licenced electrician.

· Properties are able to claim multiple rebate types up to a maximum total rebate amount of $2,000 per house or individual unit, $6,000 per unit block, or $2,000 per business.

· On-site verification may be arranged to maintain integrity of the rebates program

The estimated number of applicants is based on the uptake at Randwick Council, normalised to the population of Lane Cove. While table 4 below shows an estimated uptake for each technology type, budget will not be allocated against set technologies and instead will be distributed across the technology types based on demand. This will be monitored by Council staff, and promotions tailored to push uptake where required, with progress of the program reported to Council every 6 months

Table 4: Estimated carbon benefit and costs of the proposed rebate program

	Tonnes CO₂^e saved per rebate per annum	Carbon reduction per rebate amount (tonnes CO₂^e/$100)	Estimated Number of Participants	Estimated Costs
*Solar PV*
House	13	2.7	55	$27,500
Units (lot)	13	1.3	2	$2,000
Units (common area)	40	0.8	2	$10,000
Business	40	4.0	1	$1,000
Total Solar PV			60	$40,500
*Solar Batteries*
House	30	3.0	8	$8,000
Units	30	3.0	1	$1,000
Business	30	3.0	1	$1,000
Total Solar Batteries			10	$10,000
*EV Charging*
House	9	1.8	4	$2,000
Units	23	0.6	1	$4,000
Business	23	2.3	1	$1,000
Total EV Chargers			6	$7,000
*Rainwater Tanks*
House	n/a	n/a	5	$1,250
Units	n/a	n/a	1	$2,000
Business	n/a	n/a	1	$1,000
Total Rainwater Tanks			7	$4,250
TOTAL				$61,750

The Sustainability Rebates Program has the potential to reduce an estimated 1,246 tonnes of CO₂^e annually (based on the uptake outlined in Table 4). The program will compliment other elements of the proposed Community Renewables Program including:

· Bulk buy offering with finance option (after conducting procurement process)

· Promotion of Home Energy Kits available at the library

· Establishing a Solar Advisory Service and local Solar Mentors

· Collaboration with the community through Sustainability Collective Group

· Promotion of Green Power

· Promotion and exploration of Community Energy Projects

· Events and communications to promote the program and initiatives

Council will continue to offer the Greener Apartments Program, Solar for Business and the Sustainability Building Advisory Service to provide sustainability assessments.

Conclusion

Emissions reduction and water saving actions can be incentivised by Council through the proposed Sustainability Rebates Program as part of a broader Community Renewables Program. The rebates will complement the proposed bulk buy offering as it will enable residents and business more flexibility in niche situations. The rebates will help residents and business overcome the barrier of cost, while a range of other education and promotion initiatives will address barriers such as lack of knowledge.

This program will build resilience within the Lane Cove community by mitigating the impact of climate change (reducing carbon emissions) as well as improving climate adaption (reduced impact of climate disruptions). Implementing the Sustainability Rebates Program will ensure Council is acting as a leader in sustainability, engaging with the community and offering best value services.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:-

1. Approve the Sustainability Rebate Program for Lane Cove residents and businesses to incentivise energy and water savings measures as outlined in Council’s Draft 2023/24 Delivery and Operational Plan; and

2. Note the continued exploration of community energy projects to progress the Lane Cove community towards sustainability targets.

Mark Brisby

Executive Manager

Environmental Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

There are no supporting documents for this report.

Ordinary Council Meeting 20 April 2023

NSROC Regional Waste Strategy - Endorsement

Subject: NSROC Regional Waste Strategy - Endorsement

Record No: SU1943 - 75038/22

Division: Environmental Services Division

Author(s): Bernadette Riad

Executive Summary

The Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (NSROC) have worked cooperatively at a regional scale for many years to address waste issues affecting the member Councils.

With the release of the NSW Government 20-year Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2041 (WASM) in 2021, all Councils are required to demonstrate how they will meet the objectives of the State strategy. In response, a NSROC Regional Waste Strategy has been prepare.

The new NSROC Regional Waste Strategy outlines initiatives and actions consistent with the WASM but does not adopt its targets as it recognises that the achievement of these targets are not the responsibility of Local Government alone, but require State and Federal Government action.

The purpose of this report is to detail the NSROC Waste Strategy and seek endorsement by Council.

Background

The Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (NSROC) have worked cooperatively at a regional scale for many years to address waste issues affecting the member Councils. In 2013 NSROC successfully applied for funding from the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to appoint a Regional Waste Management Coordinator and develop a Regional Waste Strategy. In 2014, the five-year Waste and Resource Recovery (WARR) Strategy and was adopted based on State government targets.

The EPA’s funding conditions required a review of the Strategy in 2017 when the first stage of the Waste Less Recycle More Initiative finished. That review was undertaken, and a revised strategy developed. The primary target in that strategy was a 70% diversion from landfill by 2021 which was seen as challenging but achievable. Since that time however, major changes have occurred in the waste industry such as China Sword, the Container Deposit Scheme and Federal waste export bans that made the target unachievable.

At a State level the WARR (Waste and Resource Recovery) Act remains in force and in 2021 the Government announced the 20-year Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2041 (WASM). The EPA required all Councils / regional groups to prepare new strategies in response to the WASM.

The 10-year targets for waste in NSW as drafted in the WASM include:

· Reduce total waste by 10% per person by 2030

· 80% average resource recovery rate from all waste streams by 2030

· Introduce a new overall litter reduction target of 60% by 2030

· Triple the plastics recycling rate by 2030

· Halve the amount of organic waste sent to landfill by 2030

· Net zero emissions from organics to landfill by 2030

Discussion

Developing the Regional Waste Strategy

NSROC engaged Mike Ritchie and Associates (MRA) to develop a Regional Waste Strategy with funding from the EPA. While the EPA set guidelines on what should be included, it was agreed that the Strategy needed to also reflect regional priorities. This approach allowed NSROC to demonstrate how regional actions fit into the broader state-wide priorities and access EPA funding for different initiatives.

MRA facilitated a Workshop on 4 July 2022, attended by General Managers and Waste Managers to set the overall priorities for the Regional Waste Strategy. The consultant also reviewed councils’ websites for waste related policies and strategies and interviewed staff from the individual councils to obtain information. At its July meeting GMAC agreed on the structure, priorities and purpose of the Strategy.

A second workshop was held on 8 August 2022 with Waste Managers to confirm regional activities and their priority and timing over the five years to 2027. The consultant developed several iterations of the document with reviews by councils’ Waste Managers leading to a final draft considered by GMAC in October and the Board in November 2022. A copy of the Strategy is attached to this report.

Framework of the Strategy

The framework of the Strategy incorporates a purpose and vision segmented into the four WASM themes of Avoid and Reduce Waste, Recover Resources, Protect the Environment, Strategic Collaboration with the inclusion of an additional NSROC theme of Education and Engagement.

The key initiatives and outcomes are detailed in Section 5 of the Strategy, with a high-level summary provided below:

1. Avoid and Reduce - reduce the waste generation and carbon emission per capita through actions such as education, and decision making around future Council tenders.

2. Recover Resources - improve the resource recovery of waste by looking at organic and bulky waste processing and further research on plastic waste.

3. Protect the Environment - reduce local dumping and litter and identify options for CRC.

4. Strategic Collaboration - identify regional options for transfer stations and organic processing. It also looks to align procurement and improve resilience of the area.

5. Education and Engagement - engage and educate as a region and utilise the scale of the organisation to advocate to the State and Federal Governments.

For each theme there are regional objectives which also reflect one or more of the three WASM priority areas of:

1. reducing carbon emissions;

2. future infrastructure; and

3. service needs and protect environment and human health.

The framework also identifies the WASM funding areas relevant to each theme.

The current Strategy remains a continuation of the two previous regional waste strategies but has some important differences:

· it is a high-level document with a focus on initiatives which NSROC can undertake for regional benefits;

· it reflects member councils’ priorities for regional action;

· it does not adopt the state or federal government targets, but states that local government will have a significant role in delivering them;

· it acknowledges the limited grant funding available for waste management; and.

· notes that the move to further emissions reduction and a circular economy will cause increases in the cost of waste management which will impact on delivery timeframes and will require a flexible approach across priorities to obtain the maximum benefit from potential funding streams.

At the regional level, the Strategy identifies objectives and the anticipated long-term outcomes to be achieved by specific Initiatives, supported by success indicators. The initiatives were developed after engagement with councils to reflect the delivery required at the regional scale to assist the member councils to achieve local priorities.

Conclusion

Following the development and adoption of the Northern Sydney Regional Waste Strategy by the NSROC Board in November 2022, member councils have been asked to:

· formally adopt the Strategy individually as the regionally consistent approach to waste management; and

· commit to supporting the delivery of regional waste management initiatives consistent with their individual local priorities.

The Strategy will be implemented through annual Action Plans. In 2022/23, with no further EPA funding currently available for NSROC, the Action Plan will focus on the delivery of the current waste projects.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council adopt the NSROC Regional Waste Strategy.

Mark Brisby

Executive Manager

Environmental Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

AT‑1 View

NSROC Regional Waste Strategy

33 Pages

Available Electronically

Ordinary Council Meeting 20 April 2023

Manns Point, Greendale Park and Holloway Reserve State Heritage Listing, Badangi

Subject: Manns Point, Greendale Park and Holloway Reserve State Heritage Listing, Badangi

Record No: SU3912 - 20143/23

Division: Open Space and Urban Services Division

Author(s): Jeff Culleton

Executive Summary

The Lane Cove bushland reserves of Manns Point, Greendale Park and Holloway Reserve are a rare example of a natural place within the context of a highly urban city. The area is of state significance as one of the remaining natural landscapes on Sydney Harbour that is largely unmodified and enables an interpretation of the landscape character that existed prior to European settlement.

For this reason, the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) have proposed the following Lane Cove reserves Manns Point, Greendale Park and Holloway Reserve be included as a part of the NSW State Heritage listing under the name Badangi (meaning Sydney rock oyster), this area will be one of several harbour foreshore reserves up for consideration.

The proposal comprises a series of public reserves around Greenwich Point and Wollstonecraft peninsula. To the west, around Gore Cove, Manns Point, Holloway Park, Greendale Park, Smoothey Park and Gore Cove Reserve. To the east is Badangi Reserve and to the south is Berry Island Reserve, which is connected to the mainland. The waterways include Berry Creek, most of Gore Cove and most of Berrys Bay and some Unincorporated Water of Sydney Harbour. The Heritage Council of NSW is seeking support from Council for the creation of Badangi and it is recommended that this support be granted.

Background

Badangi is a natural landscape on Sydney Harbour that remains largely unmodified, providing insight into the pre-European settlement landscape. Berry Creek and Berry Island are significant features due to their intact natural landscape profile and rare archaeological potential. Evidence of Aboriginal occupation is present in the form of middens, grinding grooves and rock engravings. The area is also significant for its scenic beauty and association with celebrated artists. Badangi is important for its role in protecting public ownership of the Harbour's foreshore and has social, symbolic and contemporary social value.

Badangi is an almost untouched natural landscape that consists of a series of public reserves around the Greenwich and Wollstonecraft peninsulas. The land includes rare remaining estuarine tributary and remnant bushland. It comprises of rainforest gully, sandstone gallery rainforest, Estuarine Swamp Oak Forest, Mangrove Forest and Coastal Saltmarsh.

Manns Point, at the end of Prospect Street, is a pocket of relatively intact harbourside bushland with an upper and lower area that is a grassed waterfront reserve with Angophora costata and Casuarina cunninghamiana. Badangi Reserve, on the east of the Wollstonecraft peninsula, is predominantly an open forest of Sydney Red Gums, Peppermints and Red Bloodwoods with a patch of Blackbutt. Berry Island is a triangular shaped piece of land that consists of mud flats, Estuarine Swamp Oak Forest and Coastal Saltmarsh.

Discussion

Badangi, including Berry Island, is a landscape of State significance for its high aesthetic quality and as one of the remaining natural landscapes on Sydney Harbour that is largely unmodified, which enables an interpretation of the landscape character that existed prior to European settlement. The place is significant in representing part of the Aboriginal history of Sydney Harbour and it is culturally significant for the many Aboriginal sites throughout the Badangi landscape. It is also rare in having the broader sympathetic and protective setting of the Wollstonecraft foreshore reserves of Badangi, Smoothey Park and Gore Cove behind it when viewed from the Harbour. The area retains high and rare archaeological potential in relation to Aboriginal sites around the harbour.

For this reason, the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects have proposed to the Heritage Council of NSW that the reserves of Manns Point, Greendale Park and Holloway Reserve be included as a part of the NSW State Heritage listing under the name Badangi.

The Heritage Council of NSW is now seeking support from Council for these reserves to be endorsed for the State Heritage listing under the name Badangi.

Figures 1 and 2 show the extents of the proposed Badangi heritage listing. It should be noted that the Manns point lookout area at the top of Manns Point is not proposed for heritage listing and the proposed state heritage restrictions and conditions will not apply in this area.

Figure 1. Shows the extent of the proposed NSW Heritage listing of Badangi.

Figure 2. Shows the extent of the proposed NSW Heritage listing of Badangi at Manns Point.

If these reserves are gazetted under a State Heritage listing, restrictions will apply to Council on the management of the reserves. Under the heritage listing the Heritage Council of NSW has provided a preliminary list of exempt works that will allow Council to undertake general maintenance works including vegetation management, fauna habitat management and track maintenance, etc. Activities outside of the exemption list will require development consent before works can be undertaken. The current list of proposed exemptions are shown in Table 1 below.

Prior to the gazettal of the listing Council and the Heritage Council of NSW are finalizing this list of exemptions. It is recommended that the General Manager be delegated to approve the final list of exemptions prior to gazettal.

Table 1.

RECOMMENDED EXEMPTIONS PURSUANT TO SECTION 57(2), HERITAGE ACT 1977
Exemptions	Reason/ comments
1. Vegetation management a. Works and activities associated with management of the bushland vegetation and its identified ecological communities in accordance with the National standards for the practice of ecological restoration in Australia (prepared by Standards Reference Group, Society for Ecological Restoration Australasia), including: bush regeneration/ rehabilitation; removal of woody weeds and mesic species; selective management of natural seed banks; b. Activities associated with prescribed and/or cultural burning of bushland vegetation; and c. Introduction of new plantings, consistent with existing character, including bushland, buffer areas and parkland. d.	To exempt bushland & parkland environmental management
2. Fauna habitat management a. Maintenance of wildlife corridors between interlinked reserves: Holloway Park, Greendale Park, Manns point, Smoothey Park, Gore Cove Reserve, Berry Island and Badangi Reserve. b. Installation of nesting boxes. c. Pest management of foxes, rabbits and feral animals including use of baiting, shooting and trapping methods. d. Management of domestic animals including dogs off leash.	To exempt conservation measures of indigenous fauna through the enhancement of habitats for colonisation and to encourage fauna movement between isolated sites
3. Land management a. Installation of temporary/semi-permanent fencing or barriers to restrict access to environmentally or culturally sensitive areas. b. Installation of signage (directional, informative and/or interpretative). c. Works and activities associated with bushland track maintenance and/or reconstruction or upgrading. d. Works and activities associated with slope stabilisation using environmental best practices such as erosion control matting, use of coir logs, stakes and retaining walls.	To exempt bushland & parkland environmental management including safety of visitors
4. Aquatic environment management Activities associated with the environmental management of the harbour which will not impact seagrass or other marine ecosystems, or any relics or shipwrecks as defined under the NSW Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) or the Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 (Cth).	To exempt aquatic environmental management
5. Mooring Apparatus and Berths Works associated with the use, operation and maintenance of moorings apparatus and berths, including equipment and fixture upgrades or relocation and additional moorings, which will not impact seagrass or other marine ecosystems, or any relics or shipwrecks as defined under the NSW Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) or the Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 (Cth).	To exempt everyday use and management of harbour facilities
6. Seawalls, Wharves and Jetties Works associated with the use, operation and maintenance/enhancement of seawalls, wharves and jetties and piers or dolphins (pilings), including emergency works, which will not impact seagrass or other marine ecosystems, or any relics or shipwrecks as defined under the NSW Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) or the Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 (Cth).	To exempt everyday management and emergency works of harbour structures
7. Navigation Activities Works and activities, including emergency works, undertaken by the navigational authority including installation of new navigational aids, signage and equipment; replacement, upgrade, maintenance or removal of existing navigational aids, signage and equipment which will not impact seagrass or other marine ecosystems, or any relics or shipwrecks as defined under the NSW Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) or the Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 (Cth).	To exempt everyday use and management of harbour activities and facilities and allow TfNSW to undertake its navigational authority role within the waters of the curtilage.

Conclusion

The Heritage Council of NSW is seeking support from Council for the listing of Manns Point, Greendale Park and Holloway Reserve be included as a part of the NSW State Heritage listing under the name Badangi. It is recommended that Council support this listing. It is also recommended that the General Manager be delegated to approve the final list of exemptions prior to gazettal.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:-

1. Supports the Heritage Council of NSW recommendation to list Manns Point, Greendale Park and Holloway Reserve on the State Heritage Register under the name Badangi;

2. Include a notation in the Lane Cove Community Land Plan of Management, Crown Reserves with Council as Manager of the listing (when listed); and

3. Authorise the General Manager to approve the final list of exemptions prior to gazettal.

Martin Terescenko

Executive Manager - Open Space and Urban Services

Open Space and Urban Services Division

ATTACHMENTS:

There are no supporting documents for this report.

AT‑1 View	Agenda - Traffic Committee - March 2023	300 Pages	Available Electronically
AT‑2 View	Minutes - Traffic Committee - March 2023	5 Pages	Available Electonically
AT‑3 View	Parking Study - Lane Cove Village and St Leonards Final	241 Pages	Available Electronically

AT‑1 View	Council Snapshot March 2023	41 Pages
AT‑2 View	Council Resolution Tracker	21 Pages