Agenda of Council Meeting - Monday, 26 July 2021

Georges River Council – Ordinary Meeting - Monday, 26 July 2021 Page 0

OATH OF OFFICE OR AFFIRMATION OF OFFICE

All Georges River Councillors are reminded of their Oath of Office or Affirmation of Office made at the time of their swearing into the role of Councillor.

All Councillors are to undertake the duties of the office of Councillor in the best interests of the people of the Georges River Council area and are to act faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act 1993 or any other Act to the best of their ability and judgement.

DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST

All Georges River Councillors are reminded of their obligation to declare any conflict of interest (perceived or otherwise) in a matter being considered by Council or at any meeting of Council.

Ordinary Meeting

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1. OPENING

2. NATIONAL ANTHEM

3. PRAYER

4. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Council acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which this meeting is being held as the Biddegal people of the Eora Nation.

5. APOLOGIES / LEAVE OF ABSENCE

6. NOTICE OF WEBCASTING

7. DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST

8. PUBLIC FORUM

9. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS

CCL043-21 Confirmation of the Minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 28 June 2021

(Report by Executive Services Officer)....................................................................... 5

10. MAYORAL MINUTE

Nil

11. CONDOLENCES

12. COMMITTEE REPORTS

CCL044-21 Report of the Environment and Planning Committee Meeting held on 12 July 2021

(Report by Executive Services Officer).................................................................... 31

CCL045-21 Report of the Finance and Governance Committee Meeting held on 12 July 2021

(Report by Executive Services Officer).................................................................... 45

CCL046-21 Report of the Assets and Infrastructure Committee Meeting held on 12 July 2021

(Report by Executive Services Officer).................................................................... 49

CCL047-21 Report of the Community and Culture Committee Meeting held on 12 July 2021

(Report by Executive Services Officer).................................................................... 57

13. ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING

Nil

14. FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE

CCL048-21 COVID-19: Instrument of Delegation to the Mayor (Emergency Administrative Provisions) - July 2021 Report

(Report by Manager, Office of the General Manager)........................................... 65

CCL049-21 Performance Improvement Order - Compliance Reporting

(Report by Director, Legal Services and General Counsel).................................. 69

15. ASSETS AND INFRASTRUCTURE

CCL050-21 Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre - Todd Park Site Assessment Review 2021 (Otium Planning Group Pty Ltd)

(Report by Manager, Project Delivery)..................................................................... 87

16. COMMUNITY AND CULTURE

Nil

17. NOTICES OF RESCISSION

NR001-21 Notice of Rescission - NM046-21 Managing Risks to Community Safety - Kogarah War Memorial Pool

(Report by Councillor Elmir)..................................................................................... 168

18. NOTICES OF MOTION

NM051-21 Support for the Criminalisation of Coercive Control in NSW

(Report by Councillor Symington)........................................................................... 170

NM052-21 Creation of a Register for Heritage Conservation Management Plans

(Report by Councillor Payor).................................................................................... 172

NM053-21 Female Leaders Call for Pledge of Respect Ahead of Local Government Elections

(Report by Councillor Grekas)................................................................................. 173

NM054-21 Congratulations to the Kogarah Historical Society

(Report by Councillor Katris).................................................................................... 174

NM055-21 Merv Lynch (Edgbaston) Reserve - Funding for Playground Works

(Report by Councillor Liu)......................................................................................... 175

NM056-21 Council Advocacy - Request for Government Funding to Purchase 'Glenlee', 80 Boronia Parade, Lugarno

(Report by Councillor Symington)........................................................................... 176

NM057-21 Virtual Exhibition for 'Our Journeys I Our Stories'

(Report by Councillor Liu)......................................................................................... 178

NM058-21 Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill

(Report by Councillor Katris).................................................................................... 179

NM059-21 Proposed Feasibility Study - BMX/Mountain Bike Track in Georges River

(Report by Councillor Grekas)................................................................................. 182

NM060-21 Proposed Preparation of an Aboriginal Heritage Study and Management Strategy for Georges River

(Report by Councillor Payor).................................................................................... 183

19. QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE

QWN030-21 Introduction of Countback Elections for Casual Vacancies in Georges River Local Government Area

(Report by Councillor Tegg)..................................................................................... 185

QWN031-21 Georges River Council - Community Outcomes 2017 to 2021

(Report by Councillor Tegg)..................................................................................... 186

QWN032-21 Proposed Funding Strategy for a Georges River Regional Aquatic Facility

(Report by Councillor Elmir)..................................................................................... 189

QWN033-21 Lighting of Parks and Sporting Fields During the COVID-19 Pandemic

(Report by Councillor Katris).................................................................................... 192

20. CONFIDENTIAL (CLOSED SESSION)

CCL049A-21 Property Matter - Edgbaston Road, Beverly Hills

(Report by Head of Strategic Property)

Georges River Council – Ordinary Meeting - Monday, 26 July 2021 Page 0

MAYORAL MINUTE

Nil

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Item: CCL044-21 Report of the Environment and Planning Committee Meeting held on 12 July 2021

Author: Executive Services Officer

Directorate: Office of the General Manager

Matter Type: Committee Reports

Recommendation:

That the Environment and Planning Committee recommendations for Item ENV030-21 to ENV036-21, as detailed below, be adopted by Council.

Background

The following Committee recommendations for Item ENV030-21 to ENV036-21 are submitted to Council for determination.

These recommendations were made by the Environment and Planning Committee at its meeting on 12 July 2021.

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS

ENV030-21 Adoption of the Beverly Hills Town Centre Master Plan 2021

(Report by Senior Strategic Planner)

That consideration of this matter be deferred to a Councillor workshop to allow Council staff an opportunity to explain the submissions received, amendments to the development controls such the increase in floor space ratio and height (in particular for sites on King Georges Road) following the exhibition of the draft plan and a review of the approach to compulsory acquisition of properties in the areas such as between Frederick Street and Norfolk Street.

ENV031-21 Public Exhibition of Draft Plan of Management and Master Plan for Moore Reserve 2021

(Report by Strategic Planner)

(a) That Council endorse the draft Moore Reserve Plan of Management and Master Plan for public exhibition for a period of no less than 28 days in accordance with Section 38 of the Local Government Act 1993.

(b) That Council notify the draft Plan of Management and Master Plan to the Minister (NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment), as landowner of part of the land under Section 39 of the Local Government Act 1993 to obtain owner’s consent prior to public exhibition.

(c) That Council seek written consent from the Minister (NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment) to adopt the draft Plan of Management, in accordance with Section 3.23(6) of the Crown Land Management Act 2016.

(d) That Council endorse the proposed changes to the land categorisation and hold a public hearing under Section 40A of the Local Government Act 1993.

ENV032-21 Adoption of Former Oatley Bowling Club Plan of Management and Master Plan 2021

(Report by Strategic Planner)

(a) That Council, pursuant to Section 40(2)(b) of the NSW Local Government Act 1993, confirms that the amendments to the Former Oatley Bowling Club and Closed Road Plan of Management do not require re-exhibition of the draft Plans.

(b) That Council adopt the Former Oatley Bowling Club and Closed Road Plan of Management and Master Plan as amended in accordance with Section 40 of the Local Government Act 1993.

(c) That Council authorise the General Manager to make minor editorial modifications in the finalisation of the Former Oatley Bowling Club and Closed Road Plan of Management and Master Plan.

(d) That all persons who provided a submission during the public exhibition of the Former Oatley Bowling Club and Closed Road Plan of Management and Master Plan be notified of Council’s decision.

ENV033-21 Establishment of Small Waste Items Recycling Station Program

(Report by Manager Environment Health & Regulatory Services)

(a) That Council note the outcomes of the trial of the small waste items recycling station in the Georges River Customer Service Centre.

(b) That Council endorse the establishment of the Small Waste Items Recycling Station Program within suitable Council facilities for the collection of CDs/DVDs, household batteries and mobile phones.

ENV034-21 PP2016/0002 - Amended Planning Proposal for the Hurstville Civic Precinct

(Report by Senior Strategic Planner)

(a) That the Georges River Council endorse the Planning Proposal (PP 2016/0002) to amend the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012 (HLEP 2012) (or if gazetted the Georges River Local Environmental Plan) as it applies to the Georges River Council owned site known as the Hurstville Civic Precinct Site, bound by Queens Road, Dora Street, MacMahon Street and Park Road which seeks to:

a. Amend the HLEP 2012 Land Zoning Map - Sheet LZN_008A to remove the ‘Deferred Matter’ and rezone the site to B4 Mixed Use;

b. Amend the HLEP 2012 Height of Buildings Map - Sheet HOB_008A to set:

i. a maximum height of 20 metres under the height designation of ‘Q1’ at the south western portion of the site;

ii. a maximum height of 30 metres under the height designation of ‘U’ at the south western corner of the site; and

iii. a maximum height of 60 metres under the height designation of ‘AA’ at the north eastern portion and south eastern corner of the site.

c. Amend the HLEP 2012 Maximum Floor Space Ratio Map - Sheet FSR_008A to set:

i. a maximum FSR of 3:1 under the FSR designation of ‘V’ at the south western portion of the site;

ii. a maximum FSR of 7:1 under the FSR designation of ‘AB’ at the central/ north eastern portion of the site; and

iii. a maximum FSR of 5:1 under the FSR designation of ‘Z’ at the north eastern portion of the site.

d. Amend Schedule 4 of HLEP 2012 to reclassify Lot 13 in DP 6510 and Lot 14 in DP 6510 (i.e. former Baptist Church and adjoining land, known as 4-6 Dora Street) from ‘community’ to ‘operational’ land.

e. Amend HLEP Active Street Frontages Map - Sheet ASF_008A by deleting the red line identifying 4-6 Dora Street (Lot 13 in DP 6510 and Lot 14 in DP 6510) as having active street frontage.

f. Amend HLEP 2012 by including the heritage item (Item I157) listed in Schedule 2 of the HLEP 1994 within Schedule 5 (Environmental heritage) of HLEP 2012 and amend Heritage Map - Sheet HER_008A to identify the same Item on the map.

g. Amend HLEP 2012 by inserting a development standard under Part 6 Additional Local Provision as follows:

6.10 Hurstville Civic Precinct

(1) The objective of this clause is to facilitate the provision of community facilities and public benefits on the Hurstville Civic Precinct site.

(2) This clause applies to land bounded by Queens Road, Park Road, MacMahon Street and Dora Street.

(3) Development consent must not be granted on land to which this clause applies unless the consent authority is satisfied that the development will include:

(a) Residential land uses to a maximum of 55% of the total permissible GFA; and

(b) Community uses and facilities to a minimum of 25% of the total permissible GFA; and

(c) Public open space at ground level to a minimum of 50% of the total site area inclusive of a civic plaza that receives an average of 50% direct sunlight between 11 am and 2pm midwinter; and

(d) Car parking for general public use that is additional to the requirements for all land uses.

(4) For the purposes of this clause, community facilities for Hurstville Civic Precinct site means Council administrative and civic offices; multipurpose auditorium, library, museum, art gallery, community centre, associated uses such as cafés; a range of recreation, relaxation or study areas; and any other use that Council may consider appropriate to meet the needs of the community.

(b) That Georges River Council forward the Planning Proposal (PP 2016/0002) to the delegate of the Minister for Planning requesting a Gateway Determination under Section 3.34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act).

(c) That should a Gateway Determination be issued by Department of Planning, Industry and Environment to permit exhibition of the Planning Proposal, a public hearing take place in accordance with the provisions of the NSW Local Government Act 1993 and the DPIE’s Practice Note PN 16-001 Classification and Reclassification of Public Land through a Local Environmental Plan.

(d) That the Planning Proposal be placed on formal public exhibition in accordance with the conditions of any Gateway Determination issued by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

(e) That prior to the public exhibition of the Planning Proposal as part of any successful Gateway determination, the following documents are prepared by the Proponent in order that they form part of the public exhibition:

a. A Civic Precinct Public Amenities and Facilities Strategy.

b. A Civic Precinct Public Domain Plan Strategy.

c. A Conservation Management Plan (CMP) prepared for the Hurstville City Museum and Gallery; and

d. A revised Traffic Impact Assessment.

(f) That Council resolve to prepare an amendment to the Hurstville DCP No. 2 (which applies to land within the Hurstville City Centre) and exhibit the amendment along with the Planning Proposal in accordance with the provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and its Regulation.

(g) That prior to the exhibition of the amendment to the Hurstville DCP No. 2 the DCP prepared by the Proponent be amended by the Proponent to address the recommendations in this report and the recommendations of the Council Report dated 25 May 2020.

ENV035-21 PP2019/0003 - Planning Proposal for 143-149 Boundary Road and 689-691 Forest Road, Peakhurst

(Report by Strategic Planner)

(a) That consideration of this item be deferred to a Councillor workshop to allow staff an opportunity to explain the proposed heights and the floor space ratio on the site in comparison to the permissible heights and floor space ratios currently permitted in the existing B1 zoning, the correlation of the proposed floor space ratio and the proposed height and consideration of the School of Arts site and whether it can be developed by itself taking into account elements such as site width and access.

(b) That a printed copy of the Planning Proposal, the Planning Report and Council’s resolution be provided to the Trustees of the School of Arts.

ENV036-21 Voluntary Planning Agreement Offer for 143-149 Boundary Road and 689 Forest Road, Peakhurst

(Report by Executive Strategic Planner))

(a) That consideration of this matter be deferred to ensure it is considered at the same time as Planning Proposal PP2019/0003.

(b) That further information be provided to all Councillors at a workshop on the methodology used to calculate and review the Voluntary Planning Agreement offer.

File Reference

D21/165046

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment ⇩1

UNCONFIRMED MINUTES - Environment & Planning Committee Meeting - 12 July 2021

Georges River Council – Ordinary Meeting - Monday, 26 July 2021 Page 0

ASSETS AND INFRASTRUCTURE

Item: CCL050-21 Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre - Todd Park Site Assessment Review 2021 (Otium Planning Group Pty Ltd)

Author: Manager, Project Delivery

Directorate: Assets and Infrastructure

Matter Type: Assets and Infrastructure

Recommendation:

(a) That Council notes the findings and recommendations of the technical study Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre – Todd Park Site Assessment Review 2021 prepared by Otium Planning Group Pty Ltd.

(b) That Council note that Todd Park has been confirmed as a suitable site for the future construction of a regional aquatic facility.

(c) That Council take no further action to progress the concept at Todd Park as Council has not identified any source of funding to enable the construction of a third aquatic facility in Georges River.

Executive Summary

1. Council resolved on 25 May 2020 that work should commence immediately on detailed site investigations at Todd Park, Blakehurst.

2. This decision followed the determination of the Regional Aquatic Facility Site Suitability and Feasibility Study 2020, that Todd Park was the top ranking site for a third Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre (RALC) in the Georges River LGA.

3. This report presents the results of the Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre - Todd Park Site Assessment Review 2021.

Background

2. On 25 May 2020, Council received and noted the findings of the Regional Aquatic Facility Site Suitability and Feasibility Study 2020 prepared by industry experts Otium Planning Group. The Regional Aquatic Facility Site Suitability and Feasibility Study recommended Todd Park in Blakehurst as the top ranking site, potentially providing the Georges River community with access to a state-of-the-art Regional Aquatic Facility.

3. At this meeting, Council resolved:

(a) That Council notes the findings and recommendations of the Regional Aquatic Facility Site Suitability and Feasibility Study prepared by the Otium Planning Group Pty Ltd dated May 2020.

(b) That Council confirms the need for a Regional Aquatic Facility that meets the current and future demand for a broad range of aquatic facilities and services to meet the needs of our growing community.

(c) That in accordance with section 8B of the Local Government Act, specifically that “Councils should invest in responsible and sustainable infrastructure for the benefit of the local community” and that “the current generation funds the cost of its services”, Council confirms that it will make every effort to ensure that the Regional Aquatic Facility is designed so that its revenue is sufficient to cover its running and maintenance costs, while meeting the needs of as many current and future residents as possible.

(d) That Council commence, as a matter of urgency, the next stage of detailed technical investigations for the highest ranking location to confirm that the site is suitable for the proposed development of a regional aquatic facility, including all necessary technical studies and the preparation of high level cost estimates that would enable a Preliminary Business Case to be prepared in the future.

(e) That funding of up to $200,000 be allocated from the Aquatic Facilities Reserve to commence the detailed technical investigations required for the highest ranking location.

(f) That having regard to previous reports provided to Council which highlight that the Kogarah War Memorial Pool and associated facilities are no longer fit for purpose, and Council’s insurance liability arising from the potential risk that the facility poses to community safety, the General Manager be authorised to:

i. Prepare a report on establishing a ‘Hall of Fame’ as part of the proposed regional aquatic facility project to recognise the athletes and coaches who trained at the Kogarah War Memorial Pool, including the identification of an appropriate budget;

ii. Prepare a report on the erection of a permanent war memorial in an appropriate landscape setting at the site of the existing pool that ensures the site remains open green space for community use; and

iii. Undertake the immediate demolition of the Kogarah War Memorial Pool complex, decontaminate and undertake remediation of the site to eliminate the current safety risks to the community.”

4. The Regional Aquatic Facility Site Suitability and Feasibility Study 2020 identified that the facility should contain the following components:

Aquatic Areas

· Multi-use 50m s x 10 lane FINA compliant swimming pool with access ramp and moveable boom or swim wall (may be indoor or outdoor subject to further business modelling)

· Shared program/learn to swim and leisure pool with toddler’s water area.

· Warm water program pool with adjoining spas and saunas

· Water play and splash pad

· Waterslides and adventure water

Health, Fitness and Wellness Facilities

· Gym and weight facilities

· Group fitness rooms

· Wellness centre

Social and Retail Facilities

· Café and social area

· Merchandise area

· Community/function/meeting areas

Customer Service Facilities

· 300 vehicle carparks

· Plant rooms and amenities

5. A RALC at Todd Park would have the potential to offer multi-faceted sport and recreational experiences, cater to a much broader section of the community than aquatic centres which are currently available in the area, and offer a place for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy sport and recreation into the future.

6. A multi-use 50m, 10 lane pool catering for both competitive and recreational swimmers, a learn to swim and leisure pool, a warm water program pool with adjoining spa and saunas and toddler’s water area, are also possible facilities for the site. The facility could also incorporate community meeting areas, a gym and weights room, café and areas for community socialising.

7. Following the resolution of Council on 25 May 2020, Council staff commenced the procurement process to undertake the detailed site assessment. The consultancy brief was issued, via Tenderlink, to companies on the State Government Construction Consultants Panel SCM005 and the Otium Planning Group provided the submission that best addressed the criteria of the brief.

8. In order to complete the detailed site investigations at Todd Park the following tasks were completed:

a) The development of a preliminary schematic concept design for the 9500m² development to determine how the required design components can be best delivered functionally at this site. The design footplate was required to maximise the remaining open space at the park for football and cricket and general passive recreation and also determine optimal parking configuration and location.

b) An environmental sustainability review to test best ESD orientation options, design and component functional options and any restrictions to design such as site levels etc.

c) The development of a construction footplate plan to test the need for civil works such as site levelling, terracing, cut and fill and the need for excavation and underground works i.e. for parking options.

d) Site ground level reviews to determine the cost to develop the proposed facility in relation to excavation and civil works at the site.

e) The completion of a detailed services review in consultation with the various authorities and agencies (power, water, sewer, gas, and telecommunications) to determine current and future services capacity at the site against the service needs of the development based on the construction footplate. The requirements for, and costs associated with service upgrades, approvals/design development and modifications needed for compliance were also identified.

f) The completion of a local flood study for Todd Park in consultation with Council’s Drainage Engineers and other relevant state agencies.

g) Preparation of a detailed traffic impact study to assess the additional peak hour traffic to be generated from the development in order to determine an optimal entry and exit points in consultation with RMS and Council’s Traffic Engineers.

h) A detailed geotechnical investigation including ground condition review, soil tests for foundations, water table etc.

i) Contamination review to test whether the site has contaminated soil cost impact

j) Assessment of potential environmental impacts of the proposed development including the need to remove any established trees and determine mitigation measures.

k) Assessment of potential heritage impacts.

l) The commissioning of a Quantity Surveyor with specialised experience in Regional Aquatic Leisure Centres to prepare indicative costings for the development and associated car parking (all services and associated works) and surrounding infrastructure upgrades to guide the project budget and funding strategy. This included the development of a capital cost plan to determine whether the site has any cost issues related to development/design.

m) A review of existing park user groups and the consideration of options to relocate clubs/users if required.

n) Consideration of the draft Carss Park and Todd Park Plan of Management currently under development.

9. The Otium Planning Group has now submitted its final report to Council following the completion of detailed site investigations, technical studies, analysis of results, concept design development and the preparation of cost estimates.

10. After reviewing all the data and identifying the constraints and opportunities of the site, the Otium Planning Group has determined that a RALC at Todd Park would best be delivered through a two-storey facility built over a ground level car park.

11. The recommended development footplate is based on the final facility concept layout which is presented in Section 3 of the attached Todd Park Assessment Report.

The proposed development footplate:

· Allows for the delivery of a full sized, high quality outdoor playing field.

· Provides adequate open space and tree buffers between the development and adjoining northern residential and eastern bushland areas.

· Avoids relocation of major underground services.

· Reduces the cost of excavation.

· Incorporates a swale to manage overland flow across the site.

· Minimises the need for tree and flora removal.

· Meets area and cultural heritage planning requirements.

· Provides a high standard of site vehicle access and car parking provision

12. Two development options were progressed by Otium to the design and capital cost stage. Option 1 includes an outdoor 50m pool while Option 2 has an indoor 50m pool.

13. The indicative capital cost for Option 1 with an outdoor 50m pool is $78.88 million.

14. The indicative cost for Option 2, with an indoor 50m pool, is $86.94 million.

15. The layout of all of the facility components are the same within both options with the only difference being the cost of the roof and associated HVAC systems required for the indoor 50m pool option which have been included in the cost of option 2.

16. The cost estimates also include all supporting infrastructure upgrades such as service adjustments, drainage, car parking, playing field upgrades, landscaping and amenities.

17. The capital cost estimates have been informed by all of the specialist site assessment reports as listed in Sections 3 and 4 of the attached Todd Park Assessment Report.

18. The proposed facility concept and site development footplate includes all the recommended components (detailed above) necessary to meet the needs of the community and the functional and operational requirements specified in the RALC Site Suitability and Feasibility Study 2020.

19. A Hall of Fame, as resolved by Council on 25 May 2020, has also been incorporated into the concept design.

Key Technical Findings

Geotechnical and contamination investigations

20. JK Geotechnics and Environments completed a detailed geotechnical and contamination investigation for the proposed development footplate on the site. Based on the result of borehole and cone penetration tests, and the anticipated moderate to high loads of the proposed development, it is recommended that all loads be supported on piles founded in the underlying sandstone bedrock which was encountered at depth. These works have been incorporated into the indicative capital cost estimates.

21. The borehole and soil sampling generally encountered fill material (i.e. historically clean imported soils) to depths of approximately 1m to 1.7mBGL, underlain by Hawkesbury Sandstone and natural alluvial soils.

The sampling results showed:

· Fill typically comprised of silty clay, silty sandy clay, clayey silt, sandy clay, clayey sand and sand with inclusions of igneous, sandstone, ironstone and siltstone gravel, brick fragments, clay fines, sand root fibre and ash.

· One fragment of bonded fibre cement was found at ground level within exposed soil along the eastern side boundary. No other fragments were observed during the site inspection.

· Two soil samples highlighted low level of analytes with both concentrations below the CT1 criterion, so able to be easily managed.

Based on the findings of the investigation, JK Environments are of the opinion that the site can accommodate a proposed RALC.

Flood Assessment and Stormwater Review

22. Woolacott’s Consulting Engineers assessed the 100 year ARI flood extent of the existing and proposed site to provide preliminary concept stormwater management strategies to manage overland flow through the site.

23. A dedicated, turfed overland flow channel through the site has been proposed to manage overland flow for the park. On-Site Detention (OSD) is not required to manage on-site stormwater for the development. However, stormwater surface runoff from the proposed development shall be collected by a pit and pipe network and be treated to the requirements outlined in the Georges River Council’s Stormwater Management Policy before discharging to the existing Council stormwater assets. Rainwater tanks for reuse are to be provided for the development depending on the water reuse demand.

24. Ultimately, modelling has shown that the proposed RALC development with turfed open channel will improve overland flow and will result in an overall decrease in the flood levels for the current site.

Environmental Impact Assessment Review

25. Ethos Urban conducted a Preliminary Environmental Impact Assessment for the proposed development. The report highlights that the proposed development is permitted, with development consent, within the RE1 Public Recreation zone.

26. The assessment study also found there were no maximum building height or floor space ratio development standards with which to comply under the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012.

27. Key issues that would need to be addressed in a future Development Application which have guided the proposed facility concept and site layout plans include:

· Vehicular access and parking provision

· Impacts of stormwater and flooding

· Noise, visual and view impacts

· Light spill

· Crime and safety

· Contamination

· Potential heritage and archaeology.

Based on the information available and reviewed to date, Ethos Urban is of the opinion that these issues can be addressed and managed successfully through the detailed design development and planning phases.

Heritage Impact Assessment

28. Curio Projects Pty Ltd completed a preliminary historical investigation and assessed the potential impacts on archaeology that would need to be considered in any future development of the site. The assessment found that Todd Park is not an item of local heritage significance on Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2012 and does not contain any listed heritage items. The proposed development will have little physical impact on any built heritage items in the vicinity of the site.

Site Services Review

29. Woolacott’s Consulting Engineers undertook an assessment of Existing Hydraulic Services at the site.

30. The assessment examine the existing authority services and infrastructure present in the area surrounding the proposed site. The services assessed included Domestic Cold Water Services, Sewer Services, Trade Waste and Gas Services in order to determine their proximity to the site and suitability in servicing the proposed development. The hydraulics report identified that the site is well serviced for water and sewer and that only minor upgrades are required to support the development with a total cost estimate of approximately $110,000 for water and sewer.

31. It was determined that existing gas services to site will meet all service level requirements.

32. The Ausgrid high voltage cabling along Bunyala Street will need to be altered as part of the Level 3 Accredited Service Provider (L3ASP) design for a new substation to service the aquatic centre load. The electrical load needed for the development will require the introduction of a new onsite substation.

33. Investigations also show that the site is well serviced by communication services and an allowance of $50,000 has been made for communications.

34. In summary the site is well serviced and only minor upgrades are required.

Arboriculture Assessment

35. The arboricultural assessment, conducted by Moore Trees Arboricultural Services, was used to guide the location of the facilities in order to minimise site tree and fauna loss.

36. The study noted that the development may require the removal of approximately 28 trees in the area closest to the Bunyala Street entry point. The widening of the Princes Highway may require up to 17 trees to be removed.

37. Further consideration of the potential impact of the trees along the proposed drainage swale will be required when detailed design is completed on the proposed ground and excavation levels. The report noted that where possible, earthworks around the tree protection zones are to be minimised to retain as many existing trees as possible. An offset tree replacement planning scheme is recommended to be included in the development application stage of the project should it proceed in the future.

Environmental Sustainability Strategy

38. Integral Group undertook a sustainability strategy review to inform the RALC concept design to include Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) initiatives that:

· Minimise the consumption of resources, energy and water.

· Optimise indoor environment quality and occupant well-being.

· Appropriately select and procure sustainable building materials.

· Diminish harm to and enhance the quality of local ecology; and

· Promote and strengthen the project’s social and cultural contributions

39. The ESD review has guided the key requirements of the RALC so that it will meet a 4 green star rating (which is the highest rating currently being achieved by existing RALC facilities in Australia). These requirements have been included in the project’s capital cost estimates.

40. The ESD review also detailed future sustainability initiatives that Council could adopt at the detailed design stage that would enable GRC to lead the industry and the region through the development of a 5 or 6 green star rated, long-term carbon neutral facility.

41. Furthermore, the sustainability initiatives included in the design will assist GRC in meeting its environmental sustainability policy targets whilst making the project attractive for State and Commonwealth funding support.

Development Impact on Existing User Groups

42. Otium Planning Group undertook a review of sports club and association utilisation of Todd Park to determine the impacts on existing user groups. This included an options analysis for the relocation of those displaced by the future site development.

43. The RALC concept designs enable an improved, full sized football field to be developed on site 100m x 57m (5,700m²) with new sports amenities building and access roads.

44. The concept also proposes the relocation of the playground, half-court basketball and perimeter access trails (still within the site) and these items have been included in the concept plan and cost plan.

45. At this stage rugby league and cricket activities would not be catered for with the proposed development. However a range of alternative location options have been identified for consideration and are discussed in detail within the attached Todd Park Report.

Traffic Impact Assessment and Parking

46. Several options for accessing the site from both the north and south were modelled as part of the study. The Traffic Impact Study was submitted to TfNSW for feedback and comment and preliminary advice has been provided to Council by TfNSW which is contained within the attached report. As advised at the Councillor briefing in April 2021, additional modelling is required with detailed designs to be prepared for TfNSW before any formal review can be undertaken by the department. The extent of this additional work required was outside of the original scope and budget of the site investigation brief.

47. TfNSW has recommended that additional, SIDRA network modelling together with a detailed report and strategic options assessment is undertaken. Council Traffic Engineering Officers, following consultation with TfNSW have costed the additional network modelling required to undertake these further investigations at approximately $100,000.

48. An option was proposed for southbound vehicles to enter Bunyala Street via a new left hand slip lane. The cost of developing detailed designs for formal review by TfNSW is estimated at approximately $50,000.

49. Council Engineering Officers have estimated the cost of constructing a new left hand slip lane into Bunyala Street to be approximately $400,000. However, until detailed designs are completed and costed the final figure for construction cannot be confirmed.

50. The peak parking demand for the site has been estimated at 170 vehicles. As the proposed development includes an at ground car park with 230 spaces, the project will have adequate parking facilities for the anticipated number of vehicle/people visits whilst also catering to future demand.

Next steps requiring additional funding

51. There is additional investigative work and traffic modelling required by TfNSW in order to determine the most optimal option for ingress and egress from the site. This includes the additional modelling, detailed reporting, design development and allocation of construction costs as outlined above.

52. Financial modelling and preliminary business case development is the next step in progressing the Todd Park RALC option. The development of the preliminary business case is estimated to cost approximately $15,000.

53. Following the preliminary business case, a detailed business case and funding strategy must be prepared to meet the requirements of NSW Treasury and Federal Government grant programs. This is estimated to cost approximately $40,000.

54. The preparation of detailed architectural designs which requires the involvement of consulting engineers, specialist aquatic facility quantity surveyors and project managers is typically estimated to cost 9% of the project budget or $7-$8 million.

Financial Implications

55. There is currently no allocated budget or identified funding source for the additional investigations and financial modelling required as described above.

56. As discussed throughout 2020 and 2021 and at the recent Councillor Workshop on the Todd Park Site Assessment Preliminary Results in April 2021, in order to fund a capital project with an estimated cost of $75-$110 million, Council would have to explore the following funding options in isolation or in combination. All options have specific restrictions or limits in funding/approval:

a. Grant funding

b. External Loan

c. Special Rate or Special Rate Variation

d. Internally or Externally Restricted Reserves

Information relating to these funding options is provided again in the funding options attachment to this report.

57. $200,000 funding was recently included in the 2021/22 budget for the completion of the same site assessment review at the KWMP site at Carss Park.

Risk Implications

58. Enterprise risk/s identified and management process applied.

Community Engagement

59. Community engagement was undertaken during the preparation of the initial Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre Site Suitability and Feasibility Study in 2019-20.

60. The current technical investigations at the site and the preparation of the technical assessment report did not require community engagement.

File Reference

D21/37819

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1	Confidential Attachment - Todd Park Feasibility Funding Source Information (June 2021) (Confidential)
Attachment ⇩2	Todd Park Site Assessment Review June 2021 - Otium Planning Group

Georges River Council – Ordinary Meeting - Monday, 26 July 2021 Page 0

Item: NM056-21 Council Advocacy - Request for Government Funding to Purchase 'Glenlee', 80 Boronia Parade, Lugarno

Councillor: Councillor Symington

MOTION:

(a) That Council write to the Federal Member for Banks, Mr David Coleman MP and the State Member for Oatley, Mr Mark Coure MP to request their support in obtaining funding so that the owners of 80 Boronia Parade, Lugarno (Glenlee) can be approached by Council to seek to purchase the site for open space and community purposes.

(b) That Council write to local residents to provide them with an update on the status of the site.

DIRECTOR’S COMMENT

Status of Site

The site known locally as ‘Glenlee’ is not currently available for sale. To obtain the site for open space or community purposes a compulsory acquisition of the site would need to occur in accordance with the provisions of the Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991 following a review of Council’s strategic need for the land.

It should be noted that the Peakhurst Ward has the highest amount of open space per dwelling in the local government area. As such, at this time there is no strategic justification to acquire the site for open space, as a greater priority currently exists in other Wards as evidenced in the table below.

Ward	Blakehurst	Hurstville	Kogarah Bay	Mortdale	Peakhurst
Area of Open Space (ha)	124.93	26.14	57.76	29.99	235.37
Number of Dwellings	9,778	11,819	13,553	10,287	9,355
Open Space per Dwelling (sqm)	127.77	22.12	42.62	29.15	251.60
% of Total Open Space	26.3%	5.5%	12.2%	6.3%	49.6%

If a strategic need to acquire the land could be demonstrated, Council would need to resolve to prepare a planning proposal (Draft LEP) for the site and rezone it to RE1 Public Recreation (open space) or similar and list the site on the LEP land acquisition map.

It is expected that based on its current residential zoning and the statutory requirement to take into account the site’s development potential, the estimated cost of acquisition (including land value, legal costs, displacement costs, interests in the land and loss of estimated development potential) could exceed $15 million.

Having regard to mandated timeframes in the relevant environmental planning and acquisition legislation, the timeframe for preparation, public exhibition and gazettal of an LEP and the subsequent completion of a compulsory acquisition process is approximately 3 years.

On this basis, it would be more efficient for Council to attempt to negotiate a commercial agreement (private treaty purchase agreement) with the owners.

Status of Development (Subdivision) Application (DA2021/0181)

DA2021/0181 for the torrens title subdivision of one lot into 31 residential lots, demolition works and the construction of new roads, drainage and tree removal at Lot 1 DP 10359 (No. 80) Boronia Parade, Lugarno was lodged with Council on 6 May 2021.

The development application was publicly exhibited between 19 May - 16 June 2021.

On 12 July 2021 the applicant lodged a Class 1 appeal in the NSW Land and Environment Court against the Georges River Local Planning Panel’s deemed refusal of the application.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

No funds exist in the Hurstville Section 94 Development Contributions Plan 2012 to acquire land for open space or community purposes.

Council could commence a process to purchase the site through a commercial (private treaty) negotiation with the owners if the Australian and/or NSW government provided funding for this purpose.

Should the Australian and/or NSW government provide funding to purchase the site, Council officers would approach the owners to ascertain any interest in a private treaty sale of the site to Council.

FILE REFERENCE

D21/159278

Georges River Council – Ordinary Meeting - Monday, 26 July 2021 Page 0

Item: NM058-21 Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill

Councillor: Councillor Katris

MOTION:

That the General Manager write to the Premier of NSW, the Hon Gladys Berejiklian MP and the Treasurer of NSW, the Hon Dominic Perrottet MP to request that the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill 2021 be withdrawn and its consideration be deferred to allow a proper and complete public exhibition process to occur that will enable the community and councils to fully review and assess the proposed financial and administrative implications of the proposed reforms.

DIRECTOR’S COMMENT

The NSW Government’s review of the contributions system has included recent system improvements and reforms, with the amendments to the EPA Regulation and new Practice Notes for Planning Agreements and Section 7.12 levies published in February 2021.

The NSW Productivity Commission was also asked to undertake a review of the contributions system and recommend how it could be improved. In November 2020, the Commission’s Final Report on the Review of Infrastructure Contributions in NSW was released.

The Report’s 29 recommendations were accepted by the NSW Government in March 2021. The Department is now in the process of implementing these recommendations. The key reforms are contained within the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill. The Government’s intention is to have a new contributions system in place by 1 July 2022.

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill 2021 (Bill) dated 22 June 2021 proposes the following key amendments:

- Aligning contributions plans with rezoning - the Minister may issue a Direction to specify when a contributions plan must accompany a planning proposal. This will align the exhibition of draft contributions plans with the exhibition of planning proposals.

- Land value contribution mechanism - a new framework will allow councils to require all landowners in an identified precinct in an approved contributions plan to contribute towards land required for public purposes. The contribution will be based on a percentage of land area or value and is imposed when land is rezoned. It will be payable when the land is sold or developed. Landowners will be notified of the land value contribution being imposed within a precinct as part of the public exhibition of draft contributions plans and planning proposals.

- Pooling - encourage councils to forward fund infrastructure through borrowing and pooling funds. Regulations extend recoupment to include interest costs associated with forward-funding infrastructure.

- Defer payment of contributions to occupation certificate stage – legislation to allow Directions to set the timing of contributions payments would be extended beyond the COVID-19 pandemic period.

- Section 7.12 - increase the maximum section 7.12 levies, set maximum rates and a broader calculation methodology under the regulation. This will comprise a capped monetary levy based on the number of additional dwellings in a development or gross floor area.

- Planning agreements consistent with principles-based approach. Planning authorities will be required to publicly exhibit rather than notify draft agreements, and to invite and consider submissions.

- Regional infrastructure contributions (RICs) will replace current special infrastructure contributions. RICs will be imposed via SEPPs. The contributions may be applied to a region or parts of a region, for infrastructure within the region. A new fund will be established for management of regional contributions, administered by the Secretary of the Treasury.

- Transport contributions - a transport project component of the RIC will be able to be levied in areas benefitting from investment in transport infrastructure.

- A strategic biodiversity component of the RIC will be able to be levied in areas with biodiversity certification under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

- Digital tools - use of digital tools to make contributions simpler and more transparent. The form and content of plans is to be set by regulations, building on existing ePlanning provisions.

- Local Strategic Planning (LSPS) frameworks - review timeframes for LSPS will be changed from seven to five years to align with review requirements for State infrastructure strategies.

Key Concerns and Comments on the Bill

In general, the review of the contributions system is supported. However, there are significant concerns in relation to the Bill, particularly the limited exhibition and consultation process undertaken. The key areas of concern are:

1. Lack of detail in relation to the operational application of the proposed amendments

- The information contained in the Bill is not sufficient to make a proper and informed assessment of the full operational impact of the Bill, particularly in relation to how, when and where the application of section 7.11 and section 7.12 contributions, the land value contribution and Regional Infrastructure Contributions will apply. Without the full suite of supporting regulations, Ministerial Directions, practice notes and draft supporting legislation, Council cannot assess the impact to its financial and administrative processes.

2. Financial implications cannot be assessed

- It is essential that councils are provided with sufficient and detailed information of the changes and provided with adequate time to enable a full financial review of the reforms to the contributions system as well as the rate reforms.

- The proposed amendments are likely to result in significant changes and reduced contributions income, shifting the burden of providing infrastructure for increased population to existing ratepayers.

- Additionally, the rates reform, addressed in the Productivity Commission Report, should be uncoupled from the review of development contributions to ensure the cost of providing new facilities to meet the needs of a growing population is not shifted to the existing community (as currently proposed).

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

No financial/budget impact for this recommendation.

FILE REFERENCE

D21/168361

Georges River Council – Ordinary Meeting - Monday, 26 July 2021 Page 0

Item: QWN031-21 Georges River Council - Community Outcomes 2017 to 2021

Author: Councillor Tegg

Directorate: Office of the General Manager

Matter Type: Questions with Notice

COUNCILLOR QUESTION

In response to questions I have received from members of the community, could the General Manager please provide the following information, including the amount spent on all capital items, during this term of Council, based on the relevant Annual Reports for that period:

· The length of roads that have been re-sheeted

· The length of footpaths built or repaired

· The number of playgrounds upgraded or installed

· The number of trees and shrubs planted or given away

· The number of community facilities upgraded or built

· The number of sporting facilities upgraded or installed

In addition, could you please also provide the following information for this term of Council:

· The changes to street sweeping and shopping centre cleansing schedules

· The total dollar value of savings achieved.

OFFICER RESPONSE

A response is provided in the table below.

Project Description		2017/18	2018/19	2019/20	2020/21	TOTAL From 2017 to 2021
Footpath construction and renewal	Expenditure	$1.1m	$2.0m	$1.7m	$0.5m	$ 5.3m
	Total Length, km	3.7	8.5	10	2.4	24.6
Kerb and gutter renewals	Expenditure	$0.4m	$0.5m	$0.6m	$0.5m	$2.0m
	Total Length, km	2.7	1.4	1.4	2.1	7.6
Road Resheeting Program	Expenditure	$4.6m	$3.2m	$3.9m	$4.7m	$16.5m
	Total Length, km	7.3	8.2	12	16	43.5
	Total Area, m²	70,441	65,558	120,657	165,998	422,654
Stormwater drainage - new and upgrades	Expenditure	$0.2m	$1.5m	$1.1m	$0.5m	$3.3m
	Number of projects	10	29	19	13	71
Traffic facilities - new and upgrades	Expenditure	$0.9m	$0.4m	$0.6m	$0.7m	$2.6m
	Number of projects	13	8	12	10	43
Town Centre and Public Domain Upgrades	Expenditure	$3.5m	$4.8m	$1.2m	$2.7m	$12.3m
Major stormwater drainage upgrades	Expenditure	$0.9m	$1.5m	$0.9m	$0	$3.3m
Playgrounds upgraded or new installations	Expenditure	$3.2m	$0.5m	$5.0m	$0	$8.7m
	Number of Projects					23
Sporting infrastructure upgrades	Expenditure	$0.3m	$0.7m	$9.0m	$2.2m	$12.2m
	Number of Projects					14
Environment/Open Space Projects/Studies	Expenditure	$5.2m	$0.5m	$3.4m	$4.1m	$13.2m
	Number of projects					19
Number of trees planted or given away	Number of trees	3,650	3,814	(new measures created 2019/20 and 2020/21)		7,467
Number of trees planted (excludes national tree day give away and other community planting)	Number of trees	(not measured until 2019/20)		961	(new measure created 2020/21)	961
Number of street trees planted	Number of trees	(not measured until 2020/21)			327	327
Community facilities upgraded or built	Expenditure	$0.3m	$15.3m	$7.2m	$0.9m	$23.7m
	Number of projects					15
Sporting amenities buildings upgraded or installed	Expenditure		$11.4m	$17.3m	$34m	$62.7m
	Number of projects					20
Total capital expenditure		$36m	$70.3m	$56.3m	$36m	$198.6m

Changes to Town Centre Cleansing Program

In 2020, the Town Centre Cleansing Program was implemented to include a change in operational hours of Council’s Service Delivery teams and the creation of a newly established Deep Cleansing Team, responsible for routine high pressure washing and footpath scrubbing. This program includes two designated employees in both Hurstville and Kogarah, as well as increased frequency by Service Delivery teams providing a cleansing services three times daily.

The Deep Cleansing team routinely services the Hurstville CBD and Kogarah CBD on alternate days. Deep cleansing services to other town centres, including Mortdale, Beverley Hills, Kingsgrove, Lugarno, Chivers Hill, Oatley, Narwee, Penshurst, Riverwood and Ormond Parade are provided on a two-weekly cycle. A further seventeen shopping districts within the local government area are serviced on a five-weekly cycle.

Street sweeping is currently operating on a three-weekly cycle, with identified ‘hot spots’ being serviced on a more frequent basis. Prior to amalgamation the street sweeping cycle was programmed as three to five weeks in both former Councils. Council has also recently introduced technology that is anticipated to deliver further service efficiencies.

To improve cleanliness standards in line with community expectations Council has introduced a bi-annual ‘Deep Clean’ for Hurstville CBD and Kogarah CBD. As a result of the Program an annual operating cost saving of $350,000 was achieved.

Total dollar value of savings achieved during Council’s term	2016/17	2017/18	2018/19	2019/20	2020/21
	$8.6m	$6.5m	$6.0m	$8.5m	$9m

RECOMMENDATION:

That the information be received and noted.

Georges River Council – Ordinary Meeting - Monday, 26 July 2021 Page 0

Item: QWN032-21 Proposed Funding Strategy for a Georges River Regional Aquatic Facility

Author: Councillor Elmir

Directorate: Office of the General Manager

Matter Type: Questions with Notice

COUNCILLOR QUESTION

Council has received several reports and Councillors have attended numerous workshops on possible funding strategies for a new regional aquatic facility in Georges River.

Can the General Manager please advise Council on the various reports that have been presented since 2019 and whether any new funding sources have been identified?

OFFICER RESPONSE

In 2019, Council adopted the Georges River Open Space, Recreation and Community Facilities Strategy 2019-2036.

The Open Space, Recreation and Community Facilities Strategy provides high-level direction for the provision of community centres, libraries, open space, sport and recreation facilities, athletics and aquatic facilities in the Georges River local government area.

The Strategy adopted included the following recommendation in relation to an aquatic facility:

(i) It is identified that three aquatic facilities are required to meet the needs of the Georges River local government area until 2036. Due to the indefinite closure of the Kogarah War Memorial Pool there are presently two functional aquatic facilities.

Since 2019, 5 reports and 4 briefings have been provided to Council on the progression of implementing the Open Space, Recreation and Community Facilities Strategy action of a third aquatic facility for the Georges River Council Local Government Area.

In addition, more than 10 Motions and Questions With Notice have been debated during this timeframe.

The construction of a third aquatic facility must comply with Council’s statutory obligations in the construction of a large capital project. In summary, the Guidelines state that before a council undertakes a capital expenditure project in excess of $10 million, a preliminary business case must be prepared to determine whether the proposal is necessary, consistent with Council’s community strategic plan, delivery program and operational plans, offers value for money and that the council has the capacity to deliver and maintain their current and future community services in the long term.

The business case will need to determine the funding source for the estimated project costs and ongoing maintenance costs. A recent report provided to Council in February 2021 outlined the funding options available for an aquatic facility.

As previously advised, in order to fund a capital project with an estimated cost of $75-$110 million, Council would have to explore the following funding options in isolation or in combination. All options have specific restrictions or limits in funding/approval:

· Grant funding

· External Loan

· Special Rate or Special Rate Variation

· Internally or Externally Restricted Reserves

Grant Funding

If grant funding is sought, funding is normally required to be matched on a 50/50 basis by Council. Should the funding be provided by NSW Treasury, the project may be subject to an Infrastructure NSW Investor Assurance gateway review and potentially a Design for Excellence Process.

If funding is to be sought under a Grant Program, an expression of interest (EOI) must first be lodged.

If an EOI is successful, the applicant will be requested to formally submit a detailed application (project plan, budget and business case), based on the known scope of the project.

At the business case stage, evidence of an approved or lodged Development Application is required to demonstrate the readiness of the project.

External Loan

The NSW Government provides loans to Local Government via TCORP. The loans must be for a minimum of 3 years and maximum of 20 years, solely for infrastructure and can be a fixed amortising loan with annual, semi or quarter instalments.

Based on current rates, TCORP advised the following indicative amortising loan options:

Term (years)	Indicative Rate	Amount	Annual Repayment	Total Interest	Total Principal and Interest
20	2.4%	$75,000,000	$4,743,750	$18,375,000	$94,875,000
20	2.4%	$110,000,000	$6,957,535	$26,950,000	$139,150,700

In order for a council to be approved for a TCORP loan, it must meet the following criteria:

· It cannot have greater than 30% of its investment portfolio in BBB or unrated investments

· It must meet the OLG Financial Ratios (operating ratio).

Special Rate Variation

A special rate is in addition to the normal ordinary rate charged on a ratepayer’s annual notice. Special rates are a means to clearly outline a specific rate for a specific project.

The special rate scenarios outlined below would need to be in addition to any SRV put in place by Council to improve its long-term financial sustainability and avoid service reductions.

Loan Term	Amount	Total Principal and Interest	Annual Special Rate per ratepayer	Annual operating and renewal expense per ratepayer	Total Annual cost per ratepayer	Total special rate paid per ratepayer after 20 year loan period
20 years	$75,000,000	$94,875,000	$86	$42	$128	$2,560
20 years	$110,000,000	$139,150,700	$127	$49	$176	$3,520

For each residential ratepayer, a special rate for a regional aquatic centre would have to be levied at between $86 - $127 every year for 20 years. This amount excludes the additional operating and renewal cost to ratepayers of $24 - $49 every year. A separate application for an SRV to IPART would be required in addition to any existing or proposed SRV for Georges River.

Internal or Externally Restricted Reserves

The monies held in each internally reserve is ‘restricted’ for a particular purpose. This action by Council is essential to meet operating requirements and future commitments. Any reductions in the balance of these cash funds can prevent the effective functioning of Council operations and services and/or the delivery of the original intent of those reserves.

Without prior Ministerial approval, it would be a contravention of the Act to abandon the original intent of the reserve restrictions and borrow to fund another project or program.

The adopted 2021/22 Revised Budget forecasts the 30 June 2022 projected closing total balance to be $124 million, which is a reduction of $20 million from the prior year.

In the current financial environment of Council, cash is depleting rather than increasing.

Recent Aquatic Facility Construction in Sydney

An examination of recent aquatic facility projects in Sydney has revealed that construction costs have ranged from $44.7 million (Inner West), $55 million (Hills Shire), $57.6 million (Camden -Oran Park), $88.6 million (Parramatta) to $106 million (City of Sydney).

The Parramatta pool provides an excellent cost comparison with the construction of a 50m outdoor pool and 25m indoor pool with associated gym and parking facilities for $88.6 million (uncontaminated site).

Viable Funding Strategy

Council has recently resolved not to dispose of any of its surplus properties.

Council also resolved at its meeting on 28 June 2021 not to continue negotiations on the unsolicited proposal to construct, at no cost to Council, a new aquatic facility at the Kogarah War Memorial Pool site at Carss Park.

Therefore, the only viable funding strategy currently available to Council is to attempt to obtain a loan from TCORP and fund the repayments through the imposition of a new Special Rate Variation (SRV) on all residential ratepayers for 20 years.

Whilst Council does not currently qualify for a TCORP loan it may be possible in the future to obtain a loan if Council could demonstrate a guaranteed repayment schedule based on a new annual SRV rate income.

As detailed above, the new SRV required to be imposed on each residential property would be at a minimum $128 per year for 20 years (for a clean, uncontaminated site) and up to $176 per year for 20 years should Council determine to construct the third RALC on a contaminated site.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the information be received and noted.