adopted report community and cultural development ... adopted report community and cultural...

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667

Adopted Report for the

Community and Cultural Development Committee Meeting

Held on

Thursday, 10 October 2013

at

2:00 pm

Gold Coast City Council Chambers 135 Bundall Road Surfers Paradise

Index

Adopted Report



Item Direct. File Page Subject

1 CMS FN334/375/02(P28) 5 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM - MINOR WORKS

2 CMS FN334/375/02(P28) 12 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM - ADDITIONS AND COMMUNITY FACILITY CONTRIBUTIONS

3 CMS CS105/221/06(P1) 22 CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING HOURS FOR BRANCH LIBRARIES 2013-2014

4 CMS PN96062/16(P1) 27 OPERATION OF BROADBEACH MALL CAROUSEL

5 CMS HL65/-/-(P6) 32 PROVISION OF NATURAL BURIAL AREAS

6 CMS PN87266/108/16(P6) 38 PETITION RECEIVED REGARDING THE TEMPERATURE OF THE HYDROTHERAPY POOL AT PALM BEACH AQUATIC CENTRE

7 CMS CM787/790/03/01(P1) 41 RETIRE SOUTH STRADBROKE ISLAND VEHICLE PERMIT POLICY

8 CMS LG222/365/02/02/01(P5) 45 MAKING OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GOLD COAST REGULATED PARKING (AMENDMENT) SUBORDINATE LOCAL LAW (NO. 2) 2013)

9 CMS HL147/466/-(P18) 50 APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 FOR CAT AND DOG REGISTRATION

10 CMS HL147/466/08(P1) 59 AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION - CAT REGISTRATION

11 CMS CS433/408/171/03(P2) 70 POLICY REVIEW: PARKS USAGE POLICY TEMPORARY USE OF PARKS BY INDIVIDUAL/GROUPS OR COMMUNITY

12 CMS FN251/48/47(P1) 74 DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL

13 CMS HL464/179/-(P6) 86 CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN

Index

Adopted Report



Item Direct. File Page Subject

14 CMS PN291524/16(P3) 99 PETITION REGARDING REQUEST FOR BMX PARK AT FIRTH PARK, MUDGEERABA

15 CMS CE31/468/12(P1) 104 VOLUNTEER GRAFFITI REMOVAL BY COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS- REPORT

16 CMS CS431/437/08(P5) 111 ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018

17 CMS FN334/318/20(P1) 122 MARKETS, ROADSIDE DINING BUDGET 2013-14 - EXPENDITURE

Closed Session

18 EDMP LG429/375/02/01(P1) 126 CONTRACT SIGNING: AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP (2013-2017)

General Business

19 CMS LG426/602/-(P28) 127 MUDGEERABA 14TH LIGHT HORSE REGIMENT

20 CMS CS105/221/06(P1) 127 SUNDAY LIBRARY OPENING HOURS

KEY:

CEO - Chief Executive Officer CMS - Community Services GCW - Gold Coast Water EDMP - Economic Development & Major Projects OS - Organisational Services ES - Engineering Services PET - Planning Environment & Transport

ADOPTED AT COUNCIL 22 OCTOBER 2013 RESOLUTION G13.1018.009 Moved Cr La Castra Seconded Cr Grummitt That the Report of the Community & Cultural Development Committee Meeting held on Thursday, 10 October 2013, covered by Recommendations numbered CC13.1010.001 to CC13.1010.020, be received.

CARRIED RESOLUTION G13.1018.013 Moved Cr La Castra Seconded Cr Tozer That the Report of the Community & Cultural Development Committee’s Recommendations of Thursday, 10 October 2013, numbered CC13.1010.001 to CC13.1010.020, be adopted with the exception of:- Recommendation Numbers CC13.1010.002

CC13.1010.010 and CC13.1010.012 which were specifically resolved.

CARRIED

ATTENDANCE Cr R La Castra Chairperson Cr T Gilmore Cr M Grummitt Cr J Grew Cr C Robbins Cr G Tozer Cr C Caldwell Visitor (left at 2.41pm) Cr W Owen-Jones Visitor (left at 2.41pm) Cr P Taylor Visitor Ms C McCool Director Community Services Mr J Cohen Manager, Health Regulatory & Lifeguard Services Mr R McNab Executive Officer Special Events Mr C Engle Coordinator Social Development & City Safety Mr I Jamieson Snr Pest Management Planner Ms A Davidson Supervising Environment Planner, City Planning APOLOGIES Nil PRESENTATIONS Draft Accessible and Inclusive City Action Plan: 2013-2018 Presented by Chris Engle

677th Council Meeting 18 October 2013 Community & Cultural Development Committee 10 October 2013 Adopted Report

ITEM 1 COMMUNITY SERVICES 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – MINOR WORKS FN334/375/02(P28) Refer 3 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to advise Council of projects with final estimates up to $10,000 and to include those projects as part of the 2013-14 Local Area Works Program as detailed in Attachment 1. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Not Applicable. 5 DISCUSSION Councillors in conjunction with Council officers have suggested that the projects in Attachment 1 be added to the 2013-14 Local Area Works Program and are presented for Council’s information. 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, AND OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:2 A city loved for its green, gold and blue. Outcome 2.1: Parks and open green spaces are safe, connected and accessible for all members of the community. 2.1.1 Establish a network of interconnected greenways, parklands and walkable

neighbourhoods across the city that encourage people of all ages and abilities to use the open space for recreation and environmentally friendly modes of travel such as walking and cycling.

2.1.2 Increase the community's visitation and participation of the city's parks and gardens by maintaining and enhancing standards and facilities.

7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Funds are available within the various Local Area Works allocations to carry out the works as indicated in Attachment 1 within the 2013-14 financial year. Details of the additional annual operational/maintenance costs, estimated new/upgrade and renewal costs and estimated useful life of the new assets created are shown in Attachment 1.


ITEM 1 (CONTINUED) 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – MINOR WORKS FN334/375/02(P28) The new/upgrade cost is the cost to create or upgrade the asset. The renewal cost is the cost to renew the asset in today’s dollars and includes disposal costs and design costs as required at the end of the asset’s estimated useful life. The works proposed in this report will be maintained and operated using WOC maintenance budgets unless otherwise specified. Budget submissions will therefore be lodged during future budget deliberations to cover maintenance and operational costs. These assets will be included in relevant Asset Management Plans currently being developed. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Engineering Services risk in the terms of project development and delivery is mitigated by the risk management procedure 2-40 which is aligned with the Risk Management Standards AS/NZS 4360:2004. Community Services risk in the terms of project development and delivery is mitigated by undertaking risk assessments (including consequence and likelihood assessments and mitigation actions) as part of project planning and execution. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Not Applicable. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES The policy applicable to the inclusion of Local Area Works Projects listed for endorsement by Council is the Divisional Program Policy (iSPOT #22891397) which is currently under review. 11 DELEGATIONS Delegation 393 is applicable to Local Area Works – Minor Works projects. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and Title of the Stakeholder Consulted

Directorate or Organisation

Is the Stakeholder Satisfied With Content of Report and Recommendations (Yes/No) (comment as appropriate)

Cr D Gates Division 1 Councillor Yes Cr C Caldwell Division 3 Councillor Yes Cr M Grummitt Division 4 Councillor Yes Cr T Gilmore Division 5 Councillor Yes Cr D Crichlow Division 6 Councillor Yes Cr AJD Bell Division 7 Councillor Yes Cr P Taylor Division 10 Councillor Yes Cr J Grew Division 11 Councillor Yes Cr G Betts Division 12 Councillor Yes Cr C Robbins Division 14 Councillor Yes


ITEM 1 (CONTINUED) 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – MINOR WORKS FN334/375/02(P28) Name and Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



J McIlveen, Park Development Officer

Community Services Yes

A Osborne, Parks Operations Officer


J Roberts, Skate BMX & Youth Space Officer


B Wallace, Parks Development Officer


D Attard, Parks Development Officer


C Brown, Senior Parks & Open Space Services Officer


A Whittington, Parks Project Officer


13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS The community, ratepayers and visitors to the Gold Coast will benefit from the new and improved facilities funded from the Local Area Works Program as listed in Attachment 1. 14 TIMING Minor works projects are being arranged through the various contact officers and will be implemented in conjunction with other priority works contained in Council’s Capital Works Program. 15 CONCLUSION The proposed additions to the Local Area Works and Services Program – Minor Works as suggested by divisional councillors in conjunction with Council officers for notation by Council are listed in Attachment 1. These minor works projects are being arranged through various contact officers and have been actioned or will be actioned within the next few weeks under delegation. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: That Council notes that the minor works listed in Attachment 1 have been added to the 2013-14 Local Area Works Program and internal delivery documents are issued as soon as they are available. Author: Authorised by:

YSK Perera Colette McCool Executive Coordinator Transport and Local Area Works (LAW)

Director Community Services

26 September 2013 Tracks Ref: # 41708428


ITEM 1 (CONTINUED) 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – MINOR WORKS FN334/375/02(P28) COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 001 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew That Council notes that the minor works listed in Attachment 1 have been added to the 2013-14 Local Area Works Program and internal delivery documents are issued as soon as they are available.

CARRIED


ATTACHMENT 1

COMMUNITY SERVICES – MINOR WORKS

Contact Officer

Div

Project No

Location

Description

Proposed Local Area Works Allocation

New / Upgrade. Preliminary Estimated

Capital costs $

Additional

Annual Operations & Maintenance

Costs $

Estimate

Useful Life

Years

Future

Renewal Costs

J. McIlveen (CR227249)

1 2500-3020 Lumeah Avenue, Pimpama

The installation of log barriers and 2 x park gates within Canowindra Park.

8,000 80 15 8,000

A. Osborne (CR227970)

3 25002-3120 Boambille Drive, Coomera

The installation of 7 x two-sided “Motorcycles Prohibited” signs within Boambille Park.

2,185 56 10 2,185


3 25002- 3120 Pinnaroo Street, Hope Island

Manufacture and install 1 x “reduce noise” sign near the boat ramp within Charles Holm Park.

350 7 10 350

J. Roberts (CR227585)

4 25003-3210 Olsen Avenue, Arundel Provision for concrete footpath works adjacent to the mini skate ramp within Collingwood Court Parklands.

9,900 500 50 9,900


4 25003- 3120 Limetree Parade, Runaway Bay

Manufacture and install 6 x “Motorcycles Prohibited” signs within Runaway Bay Lions Park.

1,500 38 10 1,500

B. Wallace (CR225580)

5 25004-3020 Kanton Place, Pacific Pines

The installation of log barriers and a park gate at the end of Kanton Place to prohibit vehicle access to Kanton Place Reserve.

3,000 36 15 3,000


5 25004-3120 Nathanvale Drive, Mount Nathan

Installation of 1 x ‘Motorcycle Prohibited’ sign adjacent to #21 within Darwalla Road Reserve.

250 6 10 250


5 25004- 3300 Hotham Drive, Pacific Pines

Construct 120m of concrete edge kerb surrounding the playground within Pacific Pines Central Park.

4,000 40 15 4,000

D. Attard (CR227349)

6 25005-3000 Blaxland Avenue, Molendinar

The upgrading of the barbecue within Silver Bridle Park.

6,200 694 15 6,200



Contact Officer

Div

Project No

Location

Description



Capital costs $

Additional


Costs $

Estimate

Useful Life

Years

Future

Renewal Costs


7 25006-3020 Ouyan Street, Surfers Paradise

Provision for the removal of the existing log barrier and replacement with a park gate adjacent to the playground within Evandale Park.

1,600 32 15 1,600


7 25006-3020 Poinciana Crescent, Bundall

The installation of timber bollards and a park gate to prohibit vehicle access within Poinciana Crescent Parklands.

4,500 45 15 4,500


7 25006- 3120 Waterford Court, Bundall

Install bollards and park gate within Poinciana Crescent Parklands.

4,500 45 15 4,500

C. Brown (CR223877)

10 25009-3080 Doonbur Drive, Broadbeach Waters

Street tree planting on the eastern side of the noise attenuation barrier (30 x 200mm trees).

1,695 N/A 20 N/A

B. Wallace (CR224354)

11 25038- 9500 Riverwalk Avenue, Robina

Investigate and complete preliminary design to upgrade the lighting within Riverwalk Avenue Park.

1,500 N/A N/A N/A


12 25011-3120 Pacific Avenue, Miami Provision for earthworks to isolate a concrete pier in the lake from the main body of land to enable the safe breeding of fauna.

8,110 202 10 8,110


14 25013-3120 Dungogie Drive, Tallebudgera

Installation of 3 x ‘Motorcycles Prohibited’ signs within Dolan Family Park.

750 18 10 750

A. Whittington (CR228069)

14 25040- 9500 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Investigate and complete preliminary design to upgrade power and water for events held within Roughton Park. Investigate and complete preliminary design to upgrade power and water for the events held within Queen Elizabeth Park.

3,000 N/A N/A N/A



Contact Officer

Div

Project No

Location

Description



Capital costs $

Additional


Costs $

Estimate

Useful Life

Years

Future

Renewal Costs


13 25012- 3120 Angelica Street, Elanora Manufacture and install 1x “Do not feed the birds” sign within Lake Palm Beach Recreational Park.

280 7 10 280

Sub Total 1,806 Cumulative Total 5,719

* Cumulative total is the total value of the additional annual operational maintenance costs for local area works funded Community assets submitted to Council for notation for the 2013-14 financial year as at the date of this report.


ITEM 2 COMMUNITY SERVICES 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – ADDITIONS AND COMMUNITY FACILITY CONTRIBUTIONS FN334/375/02(P28) Refer 5 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is for Council to approve additions to the 2013-14 Local Area Works Program as detailed in Attachments 1 and 2. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Not Applicable. 5 DISCUSSION Councillors in conjunction with Council officers have suggested that the projects as detailed in Attachments 1 and 2 be added to the 2013-14 Local Area Works Program. 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:2 A city loved for its green, gold and blue. Outcome 2.1: Parks and open green spaces are safe, connected and accessible for all members of the community. Key Focus Area: 3 A city connecting people and places. Outcome 3.4: Vibrant community and cultural hubs meet local needs and enliven activity. Key Focus Area: 6 A city shaped by clever design. Outcome 6.3: Infrastructure is planned and delivered to meet the needs of a growing community. 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Funds are available within the various Local Area Works allocations to carry out the works as indicated in the attachments within the 2013-14 financial year. In the case of the Local Area Works Program – Additions, details of the additional annual operational/maintenance costs, estimated new/upgrade and renewal costs and estimated useful life of the new assets created are shown in Attachment 1.


ITEM 2 (CONTINUED) 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – ADDITIONS AND COMMUNITY FACILITY CONTRIBUTIONS FN334/375/02(P28) The new/upgrade cost is the cost to create or upgrade the asset. The renewal cost is the cost to renew the asset in today’s dollars and includes disposal costs and design costs as required at the end of the asset’s estimated useful life. The works proposed in this report will be maintained and operated using WOC maintenance budgets unless otherwise specified. Budget submissions will therefore be lodged during future budget deliberations to cover maintenance and operational costs. These assets will be included in relevant Asset Management Plans currently being developed. Ongoing costs of community facility contributions are the responsibility of the organisation receiving the contribution. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Engineering Services risk in the terms of project development and delivery is mitigated by the risk management procedure 2-40 which is aligned with the Risk Management Standards AS/NZS 4360:2004. Community Services risk in the terms of project development and delivery is mitigated by undertaking risk assessments (including consequence and likelihood assessments and mitigation actions) as part of project planning and execution. Corporate Risk CO000431 - Non-compliance with State and Commonwealth Legislation leading to potential prosecution of Council and executive officer liability. City image now relates to grant making. Council’s diligent improvement of and adherence to its community grants policy will effectively mitigate this risk. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Not Applicable. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES The policies applicable to the inclusion of Local Area Works projects listed for endorsement by Council is the Divisional Program Policy (iSPOT #22891397) which is currently under review, and the Community Grants Policy. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable.


ITEM 2 (CONTINUED) 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – ADDITIONS AND COMMUNITY FACILITY CONTRIBUTIONS FN334/375/02(P28) 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Cr D Gates Division 1 Councillor Yes Cr W Owen-Jones Division 2 Councillor Yes Cr M Grummitt Division 4 Councillor Yes Cr T Gilmore Division 5 Councillor Yes Cr D Crichlow Division 6 Councillor Yes Cr AJD Bell Division 7 Councillor Yes Cr G Tozer Division 9 Councillor Yes Cr P Taylor Division 10 Councillor Yes Cr J Grew Division 11 Councillor Yes Cr G Betts Division 12 Councillor Yes Cr C Robbins Division 14 Councillor Yes J Pocock, Recreation Services Officer


L Bain, Administration Officer Economic Development and Major Projects

Yes

R Hatton, Parks Operations Officer


G Ellis, Program Coordinator Engineering Services Yes A Beake, Senior Project Officer Community Facilities


M Angeles, Coordinator Accommodation Planning Project

Organisational Services Yes

B Flick, Coordinator Recreational Services


M Reed, Special Events Officer Economic Development and Major Projects

Yes

N Griffiths, Recreational Services Officer


J Roberts, Skate BMX & Youth Space Officer


13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS The community, ratepayers and visitors to the Gold Coast will benefit from the new and improved facilities funded from the Local Area Works Program as listed in the attachments. 14 TIMING Projects listed with “TBA” will be added to the Local Area Works Program once formally approved by Council and included in Design/Construction Programs for implementation in conjunction with other priority works contained in Council’s Capital Works Program.


ITEM 2 (CONTINUED) 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – ADDITIONS AND COMMUNITY FACILITY CONTRIBUTIONS FN334/375/02(P28) 15 CONCLUSION The proposed additions to the Local Area Works and Services Program as suggested by divisional councillors in conjunction with Council officers are listed in the attachments. It is recommended that Council approve the additions and community facility contributions in order that they can be delivered as soon as practicable. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That the additions listed in Attachment 1 be approved for the 2013-14 Local Area

Works Program.

2 That Council approves the allocation of funds detailed in the Community Facility Contributions Table in Attachment 2, these being Community Facility Contributions under Council’s Community Grants Policy.

Author: Authorised by:

YSK Perera Colette McCool Executive Coordinator Transport and Local Area Works (LAW)


26 September 2013 Tracks Ref: # 41709590

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION ADOPTED AT COUNCIL COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 002 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew 1 That the additions listed in Attachment 1 be approved for the 2013-14 Local

Area Works Program.


CARRIED


ITEM 2 (CONTINUED) 2013-14 LOCAL AREA WORKS PROGRAM – ADDITIONS AND COMMUNITY FACILITY CONTRIBUTIONS FN334/375/02(P28) ADOPTED AT COUNCIL 18 October 2013 RESOLUTION G13.1018.012 Moved Cr Gates Seconded Cr La Castra

That Committee Recommendation CC13.1010.002 be adopted, with the addition of Part 3, such that it reads in its entirety as follows: 1 That the additions listed in Attachment 1 be approved for the 2013-14 Local

Area Works Program.


3 That $26,792.00 be allocated from Division 1 Local Area Works 2013-14 budget for the erection of decorative re-useable lighting and electrical supply installation for the illumination of 12 large Hoop Pines (full details below).

CONTACT OFFICER

DIV PROJECT NO

LOCATION AND/OR

RECIPIENT ORGANISATION

DESCRIPTION PROPOSAL LOCAL AREA

WORKS ALLOCATION

NEW / UPGRADE, PRELIMINARY

ESTIMATED CAPITAL COSTS

ADDITIONAL ANNUAL

OPERATIONS &

MAINTENANCE COSTS $

ESTIMATED USEFUL

LIFE YEARS

FUTURE RENEWAL

COSTS

J Willcocks (CR228820)

1 TBA Pascoe Road, Norfolk Village

Supply and installation of decorative re-useable lighting and power supply for 12 trees

26,792 2.900 for annual installation

8 years 12,400

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY


ATTACHMENT 1

COMMUNITY SERVICES – ADDITIONS

Contact Officer

Div

Project

No

Location and / or

Recipient Organisation

Description

Proposed Local Area

Works Allocation


Capital costs $

Additional


Costs $

Estimate

Useful Life

Years

Future

Renewal Costs

J. Pocock (CR227159)

1 25156 Peachey Road, Ormeau Contribution towards the installation of an irrigation system on oval 2 within Brien Harris Park.

20,000 832 10 100,000

L. Bain (CR228033)

1 25055 Peachey Road, Ormeau Allocation of $8,000 to be funded from Div 1 Community Concerts & Functions 2013/14 for the Ormeau Christmas Carols event to be held on the 15 December 2013 within Brien Harris Park. The event is coordinated by the Highway Christian Church and is open to the general community.

8,000 N/A N/A N/A

R. Hatton (CR226919)

2 TBA Hialeah Crescent, Helensvale

Provision for drainage rectification works within Hialeah Crescent Reserve.

19,000 N/A N/A N/A

G. Ellis (CR227915)

2 25056 Division 2 Increase 25056 Div 2 Community Concerts & Functions 2013/14 allocation by $10,000 from $80,000 to $90,000 to cater for future events across the division.

10,000 N/A N/A N/A

A. Beake (CR225811)

2 TBA Village Way, Oxenford Contribution for the installation of an illuminated entry sign and landscaping at the entrance to the Studio Village Community Centre within Studio Park.

15,000 120 15 20,000


L. Bain (CR227011)

4 25058-9500

Fadden Close, Arundel (Colgate Palmolive)

Allocation of $13,447 to be funded from Div 4 Community Concerts & Functions 2013/14 for the provision of resources to stage the Colgate Palmolive Carols by Candlelight event to be held within Colgate Palmolive Park on 15 December 2013. The event is coordinated by Colgate Palmolive and is open to the general community.

13,447 N/A N/A N/A

G. Ellis (CR227618)

6 25060 Division 6 Increase 25060 Div 6 Community Concerts & Functions 2013/14 allocation by $15,000 from $110,000 to $125,000 to cater for future events across the division.

15,000 N/A N/A N/A

M. Angeles (CR228161)

6 TBA Nerang Street, Southport Provision for the refurbishment and furnishing of offices and the Boardroom for the Southport Priority Development Area project team within the Southport Branch Office at #47.

50,000 N/A N/A N/A

B. Flick (CR227821)

7 25166 Division 7 Increase 25166 Div 7 Community Facility Contributions 2013/14 allocation by $2,000 from $6,500 to $8,500 to cater for future planned works across the division.

2,000 N/A N/A N/A

M. Reed (CR227995)

7 25061 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Allocation of $1,100 to be funded from Div 7 Community Concerts & Functions 2013/14 for the provision of a marquee and 120 chairs for the Remembrance Day event to be held on 11 November 2013 within Cavill Park. The event is coordinated by the Surfers Paradise RSL Club and is open to the general community.

1,100 N/A N/A N/A

N. Griffiths (CR227887) Del1239

9 25218 Somerset Drive, Mudgeeraba

Provision for the supply and installation of 6 x 3 tier grandstands to be located on the netball courts within Firth Park. The grandstands will be available for use by the general community.

15,000 N/A 15 15,000


L. Bain (CR227898)

9 29608 Mudgeeraba Increase the below allocation (#29608) by $4,500 from $17,500 to $22,000 for additional infrastructure. Allocate $17,500 from the Division 9 Community Concerts and Functions 2013/14 for the Mudgeeraba Muster - a community event to be held from 17-20 October 2013, in the Mudgeeraba Village. The funding is for marketing, promotion, road closures and infrastructure. The Mudgeeraba Chamber of Commerce, a not for profit organisation, will coordinate the event and is open to the general community.

4,500 N/A N/A N/A

L. Bain (CR228090)

9 25063 Gold Coast Springbrook Road, Mudgeeraba

Allocation of $4,000 to be funded from Div 9 Community Concerts & Functions 2013/14 for the Mudgeeraba Christmas Carols even to be held on 8 December 2013 within Firth Park. The event is coordinated by the Mudgeeraba Uniting Church and is open to the general community.

4,000 N/A N/A N/A

B. Flick (CR227910)

10 25157 Division 10 Increase 25157 Div 10 Community Facility Contributions 2013/14 allocation by $20,000 from $30,000 to $50,000 to cater for future planned works across the division.

20,000 N/A N/A N/A


12 TBA Pacific Avenue, Miami Provision for the extension of concrete slab and ramped edge obstacle at the skate bowl within Pizzey Park.

35,000 1,500 15 35,000


L. Bain (CR228063)

12 25066 Galeen Drive, Burleigh Waters

Allocation of $10,000 to be funded from Div 12 Community Concerts & Functions 2013/14 for the Burleigh Heads Christmas Carols event to be held on 8 December 2013 within John Handley Community Complex. The event is coordinated by the Rotary Club of Burleigh Heads and is open to the general community.

10,000 N/A N/A N/A


14 TBA Lanham Street, Coolangatta

Provision for the addition of a platform on the quarter-pipe at the stake park within Goodwin Park.

10,000 1,500 25 20,000

Sub Total 3,952 Cumulative

Total29,326

Cumulative total is the total value of the additional annual operational maintenance costs for local area works funded Community assets

submitted to Council for notation for the 2013-14 financial year as at the date of this report.


ATTACHMENT 2

COMMUNITY SERVICES – COMMUNITY FACILITY CONTRIBUTIONS

Reviewing Officer and CR#

Div Project

Number

Organisation

Eligibility

status

Purpose of Contribution

Amount

Merit of contribution

J. Pocock (CR220614)

5 25164 Nerang Senior Citizens

Eligible Contribution from Council to repair external security lights on building.

500 Required maintenance

N. Griffiths (CR227662)

7 25166 Surfers Paradise Cricket Club

Eligible Drainage works. 1,600 The Surfers Paradise Cricket Club and Council Officers have identified an issue of failed drainage measures adjacent to and around the clubhouse. Addressing the issue will allow the club to access storage areas and utilise maintenance equipment that provides community benefit at Sir Bruce Small Park.

N. Griffiths (CR228005)

10 25157 Mermaid Beach Bowls Club

Eligible Maintenance of lighting infrastructure.

5,000 Lighting infrastructure within the Mermaid Beach Bowls Club requires maintenance to enable them to continue to operate. These works will provide community benefit for club members and the general community wishing to become active and healthy.


ITEM 3 LIBRARY SERVICES & CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING HOURS FOR BRANCH LIBRARIES 2013-2014 CS105/221/06(P1) 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to seek Council approval for minimally reduced opening hours at Council’s branch libraries over the 2013-14 Christmas/New Year period when public use of the facilities is expected to be reduced. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute CC12.0906.005 refers: 1 All branch libraries to close on gazetted public holidays Tuesday 25 December and

(Christmas Day), Wednesday 26 December (Boxing Day), and Tuesday 1 January (New Year’s Day).

2 Those branch libraries that usually remain open until 6pm or later weekdays (Broadbeach, Burleigh Waters, Elanora, Helensvale, Nerang, Robina, Runaway Bay and Southport) close at 5pm for the four open days either side of Christmas and New Year’s weeks (that is, close at 5pm on Monday 24 December - Monday 31 December 2012).

3 All branch libraries would resume normal branch library operating hours on Wednesday 2 January 2013.

4 The Mobile Library Service does not operate between Saturday 22 December 2012 and Saturday 5 January 2013 and resume the normal timetable on Monday 7 January 2013.

5 DISCUSSION For several years, Gold Coast City Council branch libraries have closed or operated on reduced hours over the Christmas/New Year period. Statistics of library use collected over the past few years show reduced patronage of the branch libraries during this period and following last year’s reduced hours, no complaints were recorded from the public. This could be attributed to the minimal change, increased loan allowances and more flexible lending policies applied over this period, the increased number of after-hours return facilities available for customers, and advanced publicity of the changes to opening hours. In previous years, the mobile library service has experienced low patronage during the week following the Christmas/New Year period and it is considered to be non cost effective to run the service at this time as the staff and equipment are under utilised. In addition, holiday period road traffic also causes problems in meeting the mobile library schedule. Those customers at stops affected by the change can be provided with additional material in the weeks leading up to Christmas to meet their needs over the holiday period.


ITEM 3 (CONTINUED) CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING HOURS FOR BRANCH LIBRARIES 2013-2014 CS105/221/06(P1) The proposed 2013-14 Christmas/New Year opening hours period is: 1 That all branch libraries close on gazetted public holidays Wednesday 25 December

(Christmas Day), Thursday 26 December (Boxing Day), and Wednesday 1 January (New Year’s Day holiday).

2 That those branch libraries that usually remain open until 6pm or later weekdays (Broadbeach, Burleigh Waters, Elanora, Helensvale, Nerang, Robina, Runaway Bay Southport and Upper Coomera) close at 5pm on Christmas Eve (Tuesday 24 December) and New Years Eve (Tuesday 31 December).

3 That the Mobile Library Service does not operate from Monday 23 December through to Wednesday 1 January 2014, and resumes the usual timetable on Thursday 2 January 2014.

6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN A: Delivering Effective Corporate Governance A.2 The Corporate Governance Framework has four key areas, each with a specific

contribution to effective corporate governance: A.2.2 Resource allocation

Ensure Council’s finite resources are allocated in an efficient and effective manner 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Budget/Funding Considerations Funding for advertising closure is available in CS4100. Costs for Capital Works and Service Proposals Not Applicable. Human Resources Not Applicable. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Not Applicable. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable.


ITEM 3 (CONTINUED) CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING HOURS FOR BRANCH LIBRARIES 2013-2014 CS105/221/06(P1) 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Branch librarians Community Services Yes Community Relations Branch Community Services Yes 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External/community stakeholder Impacts

Library customers will be unable to access the physical collection on closed days.

Library customers will be advised extended loan periods are available over the Christmas period.

Access to online and electronic collections will be available through internet access. Internal (Organisational) Stakeholder Impacts No concerns raised by internal stakeholders. 14 TIMING Promotion of amended open hours will begin on 10 November 2013, giving customers six weeks notice of the changes. Flexible loan limits will commence a fortnight prior to the Christmas period and library items will not be due for return on closed days. 15 CONCLUSION Library Services seeks approval for minimally reduced branch library opening hours over the 2013-14 Christmas/New Year period as per the following recommendation.


ITEM 3 (CONTINUED) CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING HOURS FOR BRANCH LIBRARIES 2013-2014 CS105/221/06(P1) 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council approve the proposed 2013-14 Christmas/New Year opening periods as

follows:

a That all branch libraries close on gazetted public holidays Wednesday 25 December (Christmas Day), Thursday 26 December (Boxing Day), and Wednesday 1 January (New Year’s Day holiday).

b That those branch libraries that usually remain open until 6pm or later weekdays (Broadbeach, Burleigh Waters, Elanora, Helensvale, Nerang, Robina, Runaway Bay, Southport and Upper Coomera) close at 5pm on Christmas Eve (Tuesday 24 December) and New Years Eve (Tuesday 31 December).

c That the Mobile Library Service does not operate from Monday 23 December through to Wednesday 1 January 2014, and resuming the usual timetable on Thursday 2 January 2014.

2 That the public be notified of the changes in operating hours in advance through:

a Public notices in local newspapers;

c Notices posted prominently at the branch libraries;

d Council’s telephone hold message; and

e Council’s website.


Alison Kemp Colette McCool Executive Coordinator Library Customer Services


17 September 2013

TRACKS REF: 41612807 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 003 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew 1 That Council approve the proposed 2013-14 Christmas/New Year opening

periods as follows:

a That all branch libraries close on gazetted public holidays Wednesday 25 December (Christmas Day), Thursday 26 December (Boxing Day), and Wednesday 1 January (New Year’s Day holiday).

b That those branch libraries that usually remain open until 6pm or later weekdays (Broadbeach, Burleigh Waters, Elanora, Helensvale, Nerang, Robina, Runaway Bay, Southport and Upper Coomera) close at 5pm on Christmas Eve (Tuesday 24 December) and New Years Eve (Tuesday 31 December).

c That the Mobile Library Service does not operate from Monday 23 December through to Wednesday 1 January 2014, and resuming the usual timetable on Thursday 2 January 2014.


ITEM 3 (CONTINUED) CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING HOURS FOR BRANCH LIBRARIES 2013-2014 CS105/221/06(P1)

2 That the public be notified of the changes in operating hours in advance through:

a Public notices in local newspapers;

c Notices posted prominently at the branch libraries;

d Council’s telephone hold message; and

e Council’s website.

CARRIED


ITEM 4 OFFICE OF THE CEO OPERATION OF BROADBEACH MALL CAROUSEL PN96062/16/(P1) 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to seek approval from Council to appoint an operator of the Broadbeach Mall Carousel for a 12 month period commencing on 26 October, 2013, with an option for a further 12 month period pending a decision on the re-location or removal of the carousel. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Council Minute FN11.0720.001: That Council approves the extension of the operator agreement for the Broadbeach Mall Carousel with the Rotary Club of Southport Inc for a further two years. 5 DISCUSSION 5.1 Background The carousel has been operated on a charitable (as opposed to commercial) basis by the Rotary Club of Southport (RCS) since Council carried out restoration works on the asset in 2009. The operator agreement provides for the operator to retain all ride fees (capped at $2) on the proviso that all revenue collected is subsequently donated to local charities. Council is responsible for providing and funding all necessary maintenance to the carousel (annual allocation from Division 10 LAWS of $10,000). Planned (and reactive) maintenance is carried out by Engineering Services in accordance with the Carousel Maintenance Plan it developed in 2009. The current operator agreement with RCS expires on 25 October, 2013. It is considered that the charitable mode of operation has delivered positive outcomes for both parties. For Council, it enables the operation of the carousel to be maximised for the enjoyment of visitors to the mall, importantly, during times of low demand when it would not have been viable to operate the carousel on a commercial basis, therefore resulting in this promotional device sitting idle. Over the past four years, RCS’s operation of the carousel, utilising volunteer attendants, has resulted in the collection of approximately $100,000 in ride fees per annum. While this seems to be a significant amount, it needs to be balanced against the very significant number of man hours supplied by RCS to collect these funds. During peak times, two attendants are required. As mentioned above, RCS’s operating times include periods of very low demand to ensure that this asset is available for the enjoyment of as many visitors to the mall as possible.


ITEM 4 (CONTINUED) OPERATION OF BROADBEACH MALL CAROUSEL PN96062/16/(P1) In May 2013, the Broadbeach Advisory Committee recommended that the carousel be removed from the mall so as to open up the western end of the mall (in conjunction with a re-design of that end of the mall). This recommendation has not yet been referred to Council for consideration. Two Councillors have indicated an interest in having the carousel relocated to a park within their divisions. Consequently, the Divisional Councillor has requested Engineering Services Directorate to investigate the cost of relocating or removing the carousel. Given the potential relocation or removal of the carousel, it was decided to only invite Expressions of Interest (from local service clubs for the continued operation of the carousel on a charitable basis) for a period of one year, with an option for extension for a further year. 5.2 EOI Process Advertisements were placed in the local print media on 17 and 24 August, 2013 inviting EOI’s from local service organisations to operate the carousel on a charitable basis on the same terms as detailed above. The advertisements stipulated that the successful organisation would be required to enter into an appropriate written agreement with Council, with the key requirements being:

commitment to operate the carousel on a daily basis, for as many hours as is deemed viable by the operator (but not before 8.00am or after 10.00pm)

commitment to operate the carousel for a minimum of one year with a potential option for a 12 month extension

ensuring all volunteer attendants are properly trained to operate the carousel in a competent and safe manner at all times (in accordance with Council’s operator manual) and are the holders of a current Queensland Blue Card

ensuring necessary records are kept and effective liaison with Council’s maintenance provider so that downtime from mechanical failure is kept to a minimum

ensuring a current public liability insurance policy (minimum $10 million) is held at all times

submission of six monthly reports to Council detailing revenue collected and funds allocated to local charities

The closing date for EOI’s was 13 September, 2013. At the conclusion of the advertising period only one submission had been received, this being from the incumbent operator, RCS. In its submission, RCS advises that it proposes to continue operation of the carousel on the same basis as present, that is, utilising the relevant and substantive expertise and experience of three specific club members to oversee all aspects of the operation. These members are able to offer relevant expertise in the key areas of amusement ride operation, work, health and safety and risk management. RCS has also provided a Certificate of Currency for the necessary public liability insurance. RCS has operated the carousel in a very satisfactory and competent manner since October 2009 and has met all of its obligations under the operator agreement.


ITEM 4 (CONTINUED) OPERATION OF BROADBEACH MALL CAROUSEL PN96062/16/(P1) 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:5 A City with a Thriving Economy Outcome 5.4:

Attract and support events that produce economic and social benefits for the city and enhance the city’s image. 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Council approved an allocation from Division 10 LAWS for 2013-14 for $10,000 to cover the maintenance costs of the carousel. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT The proposal does not impact on or mitigate any corporate or directorate risks. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Section 225 of the Local Government Regulation applies (medium-sized contractual arrangement—quotes needed). However, rather than invite quotes from selective service clubs it was decided to proceed with a broader expressions of interest process. Only one submission was received, this being from the current operator, RCS. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES This procurement process accords with the requirements of Council’s Procurement Policy and Guidelines. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Cr P Taylor Councillor Division 10 Yes

John McGrath, Acting Manager Assets

Engineering Services Directorate

Yes


ITEM 4 (CONTINUED) OPERATION OF BROADBEACH MALL CAROUSEL PN96062/16/(P1) 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External/community stakeholder Impacts The charitable operation of the carousel by RCS has been highly successful with the carousel being open for the enjoyment of the community for much longer periods than under the former commercial operation. Internal (Organisational) Stakeholder Impacts Not Applicable. 14 TIMING The current operator agreement is due to expire on 25 October, 2013. It is proposed that the agreement be extended for a further year with an option for a further year pending a decision on the re-location of the carousel. 15 CONCLUSION The current operator agreement initiated with RCS in October 2009 has delivered positive outcomes for both parties. The Broadbeach Advisory Committee has indicated a desire for the carousel to be removed from the Broadbeach Mall. Options for relocation of the carousel elsewhere in the city are currently being investigated. The community’s interest would therefore be best served by only extending the agreement for a further year, with an option for extension for a further year, pending a decision on the re-location or removal of the carousel. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 The Council appoints the Rotary Club of Southport Inc (RCS) to operate the carousel

on a charitable basis, as detailed in the report, for a further 12 months with an option for extension for a further 12 months pending a decision on the relocation or removal of the carousel.

2 That the Chief Executive Officer (Manager Executive Services) be authorised to execute the necessary Operator Agreement, including its extension by a further 12 months if appropriate.


Stephen Bowden Dale Dickson Coordinator Controlled Entities & Community Grants Chief Executive Officer 18 September 2013 TRACKS REF: 41636887


ITEM 4 (CONTINUED) OPERATION OF BROADBEACH MALL CAROUSEL PN96062/16/(P1) COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 004 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew 1 The Council appoints the Rotary Club of Southport Inc (RCS) to operate the

carousel on a charitable basis, as detailed in the report, for a further 12 months with an option for extension for a further 12 months pending a decision on the relocation or removal of the carousel.

2 That the Chief Executive Officer (Manager Executive Services) be authorised to execute the necessary Operator Agreement, including its extension by a further 12 months if appropriate.

CARRIED


ITEM 5 COMMUNITY VENUES & SERVICES PROVISION OF NATURAL BURIAL AREAS IN COUNCIL CEMETERIES HL65/-/- Refer 2 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT Over the past few years, Council has received a number of requests, predominantly from Funeral Directors to establish a natural burial area at one of its cemeteries. Council’s current Cemetery Local Law 13 does not address this issue and changes have been proposed in the updated Local Law (expected to be adopted later this year), to provide Council with the legislative powers to establish and manage this type of cemetery. To ensure Council is prepared for the establishment and management of a natural burial area, it is necessary to determine a number of issues such as: the location of the natural burial area; concepts behind normal practices in the natural burial area; service costs; and area management issues. The purpose of this report is to define Council’s guidelines for the establishment, management and operation of natural burial areas, the proposed fees and charges for natural burials and propose a cemetery site for its establishment. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute CC13.0613.004 refers: 1 That Council in accordance with Sections 28 and 29 of the Local Government Act

2009 (‘the Act’) propose to make Amending Local Law No. 13 (Cemeteries) 2013 and Amending Subordinate Local Law No. 13.1 (Cemeteries) 2013.

2 That Council complies with the Local Law Making Process resolved by Council pursuant to Section 29 of the Act, being the process identified in Resolution No. G13.0212.015.

3 That the CEO be directed to do all things necessary to give effect to Items 1 and2 of this Resolution.

4 That Council consult with the Public about the proposed Local Law and Subordinate Local Law for at least twenty-one (21) days (‘the consultation period’) by

a publishing a notice (‘a consultation notice’) about Amending Local Law No. 13 (Cemeteries) 2013 and Amending Subordinate Local Law No. 13.1 (Cemeteries) 2013 at least once in a newspaper circulating generally in Council’s Local Government area; and

b displaying the consultation notice in a conspicuous place in Council’s Public Office from the first day of the consultation period to the last day of the consultation period and electronically on Council’s web page; and


ITEM 5 (CONTINUED) COMMUNITY VENUES & SERVICES PROVISION OF NATURAL BURIAL AREAS IN COUNCIL CEMETERIES HL65/-/-

c making a copy of the Amending Local Law No. 13 (Cemeteries) 2013 and Amending Subordinate Local Law No. 13.1 (Cemeteries) 2013 available for inspection at Council’s Public Office during the consultation period; and

d making copies of Amending Local Law No. 13 (Cemeteries) 2013 and Amending Subordinate Local Law No. 13.1 (Cemeteries) 2013 at Council’s Public Office during the consultation period

5 That Council resolve to accept and consider every submission properly made to Council about Amending Local Law No. 13 (Cemeteries) 2013 and Amending Subordinate Local Law No. 13.1 (Cemeteries) 2013.

5 DISCUSSION A natural burial area is an area within a cemetery fulfilling an environmental and public amenity purpose and is set aside solely for natural burials. A natural burial is defined as the interment of a body that conforms to the usual or ordinary course of nature and adds to the biodiversity of the area. There are a number of factors influencing the development of natural burial areas. They are:

an increased consumer demand for choice as a way of expressing individuality

an increased awareness and resulting demand for products that are more environmentally friendly

an increased demand from consumers and business that operations be more sustainable

In response to a number of these influences, it is proposed to establish the Council’s first natural burial area within one of its cemeteries. Site Selection The selection of a site within one of the Council cemeteries needs to take into a number of factors including:

future needs for space for traditional cemetery areas

availability of cleared or semi cleared space within a cemetery that can be reasonably revegetated as a result of natural burials, without burdening other available cemetery space for future use

cost of establishing of an area for a natural burial area (eg. clearing for access, pathways etc)

access to the area for grave digging, interment and visitation Council operates from a portfolio of eight cemeteries throughout the city. They are located between Alberton to the north and Mudgeeraba to the south. Each of the cemeteries were considered extensively to determine the most appropriate location for the establishment of a natural burial area. As a result of this consideration, it is recommended that the Alberton cemetery be selected as the first natural burial area cemetery.


ITEM 5 (CONTINUED) COMMUNITY VENUES & SERVICES PROVISION OF NATURAL BURIAL AREAS IN COUNCIL CEMETERIES HL65/-/- The reasons for this selection can be summarised as follows:

Alberton cemetery is a small underutilised venue that has an area of partially wooded growth that is easily accessed and highly suitable for revegetation

Alberton cemetery will not play a significant role in the provision of future traditional cemetery space as development costs for the site would outweigh the benefits

The site is easily accessible for grave digging, interments and visitations, and costs for the establishment of a natural burial area at the cemetery are minimal

The cemetery will continue to provide traditional services to the local community for at least the next 50 years on current and future use projections

A plan and photo of the proposed natural burial area within the Alberton Cemetery is shown on Attachment 1. The new natural burial area will cover approximately 4000sqm or 20% of the total area of the cemetery. All other cemeteries within Council’s portfolio are either required for future traditional cemetery development, are nearing their expected life, or would require significant capital expenditure to establish reasonable access. It is planned that future development will occur in the Mudgeeraba and Pimpama cemeteries to develop traditional and additional natural burial areas; however, this will need assessment as the cemeteries are further developed. Management and Operation of Natural Burial Areas The management and operational guidelines established to guide the development of natural burial areas must reflect the rationale for their establishment. This means that all efforts must be made to reduce environmental impacts that result from traditional burial practices and at the same time, make efforts to improve the local environment and amenity, whilst maintaining the principles of dignity and respect for the deceased. In 2008, the Australian Cemeteries and Crematoria Association (ACCA) produced a Mentor Report on Natural Burials. That report provides guidance for councils and others in developing management and operational guidelines for natural burial areas. Attachment 2 to this report identifies the overarching guidelines adapted from the ACCA report to be used for managing and operating the proposed natural burial area. 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs Outcome 4.5:

Adequate social infrastructure meets the diverse needs of the community.


ITEM 5 (CONTINUED) COMMUNITY VENUES & SERVICES PROVISION OF NATURAL BURIAL AREAS IN COUNCIL CEMETERIES HL65/-/- 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Budget/Funding Considerations Any additional funding required to deliver services will be recuperated through fees and charges. Fees and Charges Council’s fees and charges for cemeteries are based on cost recovery. Council’s current fee structure provides for the fee for the burial right to a grave site as well as a fee for the interment. Different fees apply to interment fees and charges for different grave depths and for children under 13 years of age. The following table identifies those relevant fees and charges and new charges which are recommend for burials within the new natural burial area. An additional fee for each type of grave site is proposed to pay for the cost of revegetation of the grave site once utilised. As grave sites in the natural burial area are only to be utilised by one person, the value of the site to a family is reduced. As a result, the value of the burial right has been reduced as compensation. The net cost for a burial in the natural burial area will be the same as for current burials at similar depth etc. The following table outlines those fees and charges. Item Normal Fee Proposed Natural

Burial Area Fee Purchase burial rights to a grave site (over 13 yr)

$2,599 $2,599

Interment Fee – 1.5 metres $1,424 $1,424 Purchase burial rights and interment to a grave site (under13 yrs)

$1,244 $1,242

Grave site for infant including interment fee

$150 $150

Ashes scattered in selected areas $166 $166 Ashes interred is selected grave site $333 $333 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Local Law 13 (Cemeteries) 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable.


ITEM 5 (CONTINUED) COMMUNITY VENUES & SERVICES PROVISION OF NATURAL BURIAL AREAS IN COUNCIL CEMETERIES HL65/-/- 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Cr Donna Gates Councillor Division 1 Yes 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External/community stakeholder Impacts This proposal will satisfy those within the community who wish to exercise a personal choice to have their remains treated in an environmentally sensitive manner whilst still preserving their dignity and respect. Internal (Organisational) Stakeholder Impacts Not Applicable. 14 TIMING It is proposed to establish the natural burial area once the new Local Law 13 (Cemeteries ) is adopted. 15 CONCLUSION The provision of a natural burial area within the City of Gold Coast has been raised from a variety of sources for a number of years. Satisfaction of those requests could be achieved prior to changes to the current Local Law. The new Local Law is now under consideration and expected to be adopted later this year. In preparation for the new Local Law, planning has been underway to establish a natural burial area. That planning identified the Alberton Cemetery as the most favourable location for the Council’s first natural burial area. Guidelines for the management of the natural burial area have been adapted from guidelines presented by the Australian Cemeteries and Crematoria Association. The adoption of the recommendations within this report will allow Council to respond to community requests for this type of service.


ITEM 5 (CONTINUED) COMMUNITY VENUES & SERVICES PROVISION OF NATURAL BURIAL AREAS IN COUNCIL CEMETERIES HL65/-/- 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council endorse the proposal to establish a natural burial area within the

Alberton Cemetery.

2 That Council adopt the proposed fees and charges for Natural Burials for the 2013-14 budget year and that Council’s Register of Fees and Charges 2013-14 be updated accordingly.

3 That Council endorse the proposed principles for the management and operation of natural burial areas as set out in Attachment 2 of this report.


Don Lowry Colette McCool Coordinator Major Sports Venues and Cemeteries


16 September 2013

TRACKS REF: 41536249 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 005 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew 1 That Council endorse the proposal to establish a natural burial area within the

Alberton Cemetery.

2 That Council adopt the proposed fees and charges for Natural Burials for the 2013-14 budget year and that Council’s Register of Fees and Charges 2013-14 be updated accordingly.

3 That Council endorse the proposed principles for the management and operation of natural burial areas as set out in Attachment 2 of this report.

CARRIED


ITEM 6 COMMUNITY VENUES AND SERVICES PETITION RECEIVED REGARDING THE TEMPERATURE OF THE HYDROTHERAPY POOL AT PALM BEACH AQUATIC CENTRE PN87266/108/16 Refer 1 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to address a petition signed by 11 hydrotherapy pool users requesting that Council assess the temperature of the hydrotherapy pool at Palm Beach Aquatic Centre. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute G13.0621.033 refers: That the above Petition be received and referred to the appropriate committee for consideration and report to Council. 5 DISCUSSION The petition requests that Council rectify the temperature of the hydrotherapy pool at Palm Beach Aquatic Centre. The petition states that the temperature in recent months, at around 29 degrees Celsius has been too cool and for the hydrotherapy pool to have any health benefits, the temperature should be around 35 degrees Celsius. The petitioners state that they have spoken to pool management on a number of occasions regarding this issue with no satisfaction. Community Venues staff are responsible for setting the pool temperatures across all aquatic centres. The standard for the Palm Beach hydrotherapy pool is to maintain a temperature of between 33.5 and 35.5 degrees Celsius. This practice is based on the Australian Standard for Hydrotherapy Pools (AS 3979-2006), which recommends a temperature range of between 30 and 36 degrees Celsius, with an optimum of thermoneutral between 33.5 to 35 degrees Celsius. Thermoneutral is a temperature at which the body neither loses nor gains temperature, and is considered the most appropriate for aquatic physiotherapy activities. It is usually recognised as a “window” of temperature between 33.5 to 35 degrees Celsius. A small number of hydrotherapy pool users had raised complaints that the pool temperature was dropping as low as 29 degrees Celsius prior to the petition being lodged. Testing by pool staff consistently showed the temperature to be in the range of between 34 and 35 degrees; however, the complainants still expressed dissatisfaction. Following the receipt of the petition, it was decided to engage an external, independent body to carry out testing.


ITEM 6 (CONTINUED) PETITION RECEIVED REGARDING THE TEMPERATURE OF THE HYDROTHERAPY POOL AT PALM BEACH AQUATIC CENTRE PN87266/108/16 Pool Werx Elanora/Tweed were engaged to carry out both water and ambient air temperature testing over the month of July. The testing was to be done twice per week at different times of the day, and in the presence of some of the petitioners. On each occasion, three air tests and two water tests were carried out, in different parts of the pool. The results of the testing are at Attachment 1. It can be seen that the pool temperature was maintained consistently between 35.3 and 35.5 degrees and the air temperature between 21.9 and 23.2 degrees. The independent testing has shown that the temperatures in the Palm Beach Hydrotherapy Pool have been maintained at a consistent and appropriate level for the pool user. They will continue to be monitored as per the operational procedures for the site. Pool temperatures are tested four times per day by pool staff. They are also randomly checked by Community Venues staff on a regular basis. 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:4 A Safe City Where Everybody Belongs Outcome 4.5

Adequate social infrastructure meets the diverse needs of the community. 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS The cost of the pool testing by Pool Werx was $240. Additional staff time in dealing with the matter is estimated at $408 (8 hours). 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Australian Standard for Hydrotherapy Pools (AS 3979-2006) is relevant in this case. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION No internal stakeholders were consulted.


ITEM 6 (CONTINUED) PETITION RECEIVED REGARDING THE TEMPERATURE OF THE HYDROTHERAPY POOL AT PALM BEACH AQUATIC CENTRE PN87266/108/16 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS The hydrotherapy pool temperature will continue to be maintained between 34 and 35 degrees Celsius which is considered to be optimum for pool users. 14 TIMING Petitioners will be notified immediately following Council’s resolution on the matter. 15 CONCLUSION Independent testing has shown the pool temperature in the hydrotherapy pool is maintained at a consistent and appropriate level for pool users. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: That the petitioners be advised of the results of the independent testing of the Palm Beach hydrotherapy pool. Author: Authorised by:

Michael Brock Colette McCool Coordinator Aquatic Centres Director Community Services 12 September 2013

TRACKS REF: 41552158 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 006 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew That the petitioners be advised of the results of the independent testing of the Palm Beach hydrotherapy pool.

CARRIED


ITEM 7 HEALTH, REGULATORY & LIFEGUARD SERVICES RETIRE SOUTH STRADBROKE ISLAND VEHICLE PERMIT POLICY HL21/453/01(P1) Refer 2 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to retire the South Stradbroke Island (SSI) Vehicle Permit Policy. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Not Applicable. 5 DISCUSSION The South Stradbroke Island Vehicle Permit Policy’s (see Attachment) stated objective is to control the use of vehicles on South Stradbroke Island. The policy limits permits to one per habitable residence and, at the Council’s discretion, to tourist operators and professional fisherman. The policy has generally served its purpose by assisting in the protection of the island’s social, environmental and other values. The policy is inconsistent with Council’s current local laws and no longer required. Local laws now applicable to the use of vehicles on the island are: Local Law No 7 (Council Property and Other Public Places);

Local Law No 9 (Parks and Reserves);

Local Law No 30 (Bathing Reserves). The said local laws each provide for permit regimes where application, assessment, approval and conditioning processes are specified. Officers are required to make their administrative decisions according to Council’s local laws. In the case of permits for vehicles on South Stradbroke Island, the requirements of the current local laws are the only relevant assessment criteria. Therefore, the policy should be retired. The Office of the CEO is leading a SSI Operational Management Plan Working Group that proposes to engage with the State over the coming months to develop an integrated vehicle management plan for the island. It is anticipated that once the plan is completed, specific SSI vehicle legislation such as a local law may be made. This matter shall be the subject of a future report to Council.


ITEM 7 (CONTINUED) RETIRE SOUTH STRADBROKE ISLAND VEHICLE PERMIT POLICY HL21/453/01(P1) 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area: 2 A city loved for its green, gold and blue. Outcome 2.4:

The city’s coastline, beaches and oceans are protected to sustain their amenity and biodiversity. 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Not Applicable. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Refer Section 5. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Refer Section 5. 11 DELEGATIONS Officers assess and issue South Stradbroke Island Vehicle Permits pursuant to: Delegation #1507

To exercise all the powers to issue, renew, extend or cancel an approval (in the form of a consent, permit, licence or registration) as defined under Local Law 3 (Administration) 2008 granted under a local government act as defined by the Local Government Act 1993.


ITEM 7 (CONTINUED) RETIRE SOUTH STRADBROKE ISLAND VEHICLE PERMIT POLICY HL21/453/01(P1) 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Mel Stroud Energy& Water Ombudsman Complaints Coordinator

Office of the CEO Yes

Rob Saunders Coordinator Corporate Policy and Governance


Philip Halliday Senior Lawyer


Peter Hingst Executive Coordinator Licensing & Approvals


Robert Whale Operations Coordinator SSI

ED&MP Yes

13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS Retirement of the policy is not expected to have an adverse impact on current permit holders. 14 TIMING Retirement of the policy is effective immediately upon Council resolution. 15 CONCLUSION Applications for permits under local laws are required to be assessed against the provisions of the said local laws. The South Stradbroke Island Vehicle Permit Policy is no longer required and should be retired. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves that the South Stradbroke Island Vehicle Policy be retired. Author: Authorised by:

John Cohen Colette McCool Manager Health Regulatory & Lifeguard Services


16 September 2013

TRACKS REF: #40163083


ITEM 7 (CONTINUED) RETIRE SOUTH STRADBROKE ISLAND VEHICLE PERMIT POLICY HL21/453/01(P1) COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 007 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew That Council resolves that the South Stradbroke Island Vehicle Policy be retired.

CARRIED


ITEM 8 HEALTH, REGULATORY AND LIFEGUARD SERVICES MAKING OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GOLD COAST REGULATED PARKING (AMENDMENT) SUBORDINATE LOCAL LAW (NO. 2) 2013) LG222/365/02/02/01 Attachment 1 Regulated Parking (Amendment) Subordinate Local Law (No. 2) 2013 (“the

proposed subordinate local law”) 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to advise that Council officers have identified a requirement for the amendment of Gold Coast City Council Subordinate Local Law No. 2 (Regulated Parking) 2006. Step 1 of the subordinate local law making process previously adopted by Council requires a resolution to propose to make a subordinate local law prior to undertaking public consultation in respect of the proposed subordinate local law. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Not Applicable. 5 DISCUSSION Under section 16 of Local Law No. 2 (Regulated Parking) 2006, Council may, by subordinate local law, identity vehicles which may be classified as a commercial vehicle. If a vehicle is classified as a commercial vehicle then the owner of the vehicle may apply to Council for the issue of a commercial vehicle identification label. Stopping in loading zones may be regulated by Council by the installation of official traffic signs. Subject to the requirements of an official traffic sign, a motor vehicle displaying a commercial vehicle identification label issued by Council may utilise a loading zone. An official traffic sign must be installed in a way specified by the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Under the Manual, a loading zone may be reserved for commercial vehicles. If an official traffic sign for a loading zone indicates that the loading zone is reserved for commercial vehicles, a vehicle other than a commercial vehicle is not authorised to stop in the loading zone. The vast majority of Council’s loading zones are reserved for the stopping of commercial vehicles. The proposed subordinate local law reinforces that if an official traffic sign for a loading zone indicates that the loading zone is reserved for commercial vehicles, a vehicle other than a commercial vehicle is not an authorised vehicle and may not stop in the loading zone. Other insubstantial amendments to Gold Coast City Council Subordinate Local Law No. 2 (Regulated Parking) 2006 are to ensure consistency with the City of Gold Coast Communication Guide Version 1.2 - August 2013, by inserting the City’s new branding and the organisation’s full legal name being Council of the City of Gold Coast.


ITEM 8 (CONTINUED) MAKING OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GOLD COAST REGULATED PARKING (AMENDMENT) SUBORDINATE LOCAL LAW (NO. 2) 2013) LG222/365/02/02/01 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area: 3 A city connecting people and places Outcome 3.1:

There is a choice of transport systems serving the city

3.1.2 Work with communities to plan and implement appropriate local traffic management to improve safety and amenity in residential areas.

Key Focus Area: 4 A safe city where everyone belongs Outcome 4.2:

We are a safe and secure community and people live and visit without fear

4.2.6 Maintain high standards of amenity and safety through appropriate local laws and compliance programs, which take account of the growth and development 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Not Applicable. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS At step 1 of the subordinate local law making process previously adopted by Council, Council must, by resolution, resolve to propose to make the proposed subordinate local law. In the case of a subordinate local law, Council is not required to consult with the State regarding its proposal to make the subordinate local law. As part of the subordinate local law making process, Council is obliged to consider whether there are any possible anti-competitive provisions included in the proposed subordinate local law. There are no possible anti-competitive provisions included in the proposed subordinate local law. The proposed amendments comply with the Drafting Standards as prescribed by the Legislative Standards Act 1992. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable.


ITEM 8 (CONTINUED) MAKING OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GOLD COAST REGULATED PARKING (AMENDMENT) SUBORDINATE LOCAL LAW (NO. 2) 2013) LG222/365/02/02/01 11 DELEGATIONS City Parking Officers are responsible for enforcing parking regulations in accordance with relevant State Government legislation and Council’s Local Laws and Subordinate Local Laws. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Coordinator City Parking Community Services Yes City Solicitor’s office City Governance Yes 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS The local law and the subordinate local law protect the safety, environment and amenity of land in Council’s local government area from the adverse effects of the parking of vehicles on roads and otherwise generally regulate parking on roads in Council’s local government area. 14 TIMING If Council resolves to propose to make the proposed subordinate local law, Council is obliged to give public notice of the proposal and invite public submissions for a period of 21 days. Council is also obliged to consider all submissions properly made to Council about the proposed subordinate local law. 15 CONCLUSION Council should resolve to: a propose to make the proposed subordinate local law; and

b consult with the public about the proposed subordinate local law for at least 21 days by publishing notice about the proposed subordinate local law at least once in a newspaper circulating generally in Council’s local government area, displaying the notice in a conspicuous place in Council’s public office and on Council’s website during the consultation period and making the proposed subordinate local law available for inspection and purchase during the consultation period; and

c accept and consider properly made submissions about the proposed subordinate local law.


ITEM 8 (CONTINUED) MAKING OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GOLD COAST REGULATED PARKING (AMENDMENT) SUBORDINATE LOCAL LAW (NO. 2) 2013) LG222/365/02/02/01 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows:

1 That Council resolve to propose to make Regulated Parking (Amendment) Subordinate Local Law (No. 2) 2013.

2 That Council consult with the public about the proposed subordinate local law for at least 21 days (the consultation period) by:

a publishing a notice (a consultation notice) about the proposed subordinate local law at least once in a newspaper circulating generally in the local government’s area; and

b displaying the consultation notice in a conspicuous place in the local government’s public office from the first day of the consultation period until the end of the last day of the consultation period; and

c making a copy of the proposed subordinate local law available for inspection at the local government’s public office during the consultation period; and

d making copies of the proposed subordinate local law available for purchase at the local government’s public office during the consultation period.

3 That Council resolve to accept and consider every submission properly made to Council about the proposed subordinate local law.


Chris Kinnell Colette McCool Coordinator Regulated Parking Director Community Services 18 September 2013 TRACKS REF: 41517878

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 008 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew 1 That Council resolve to propose to make Regulated Parking (Amendment)

Subordinate Local Law (No. 2) 2013.

2 That Council consult with the public about the proposed subordinate local law for at least 21 days (the consultation period) by:

a publishing a notice (a consultation notice) about the proposed subordinate local law at least once in a newspaper circulating generally in the local government’s area; and

b displaying the consultation notice in a conspicuous place in the local government’s public office from the first day of the consultation period until the end of the last day of the consultation period; and

c making a copy of the proposed subordinate local law available for inspection at the local government’s public office during the consultation period; and


ITEM 8 (CONTINUED) MAKING OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GOLD COAST REGULATED PARKING (AMENDMENT) SUBORDINATE LOCAL LAW (NO. 2) 2013) LG222/365/02/02/01

d making copies of the proposed subordinate local law available for purchase at the local government’s public office during the consultation period.

3 That Council resolve to accept and consider every submission properly made to Council about the proposed subordinate local law.

CARRIED


ITEM 9 HEALTH, REGULATORY & LIFEGUARD SERVICES APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to seek Council approval to conduct approved inspection programs (cat and dog registration surveys), pursuant to sections 113, 114, and 115 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute CC11.0907.005 refers: That Council approve the following inspection program (unregistered cats and dogs):

Approved Inspection Program

Purpose of the Program To cause cats and dogs to be registered in accordance with the requirements of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Program Commences Monday 17 October 2011

Program Finishes Friday 3 February 2012

Program Period 4 months

Type of Program Systematic

Criteria for Selection Premises within the entire Local Government area shall be selected on the basis that:-

1. Council records show registration for a cat or dog was not renewed for the 2011/12 registration period.

2. Council receives information or ascertains that unregistered cats or dogs are being kept on premises.

Ex Minute G12.0821.016 refers: That Committee Recommendation CC12.0809.007 be not adopted, but in lieu thereof reads as follows: 1 That Council not conduct an inspection program in 2012-13.

2 That a report be presented to the Community and Cultural Development Committee on the amount of income received as a result of the previous inspection program.


ITEM 9 (CONTINUED) APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) 5 DISCUSSION A separate report will be presented to Council in regard to recent amendments of the Animal Mangement (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 which remove the state wide compulsory cat registration requirements. Without pre-empting Council’s decision with respect to cat registration, this report proposes that Council conduct approved inspection programs for unregistered cats and dogs, should Council decide to continue cat registration in its area. In the event that Council decides to discontinue cat registration in its area, the approved inspection program for unregistered cats will not proceed. Purpose and scope of the programs It is anticipated there will be approximately 6000 dog registrations and 1000 cat registrations that will not be renewed for the 2013-14 registration year. Council is required to follow up the non-renewed and unregistered cats and dogs to ensure that: Council carries out its compliance obligations mandated by the Animal Management

(Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Dog and cat owners comply with the relevant registration provisions contained in the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

The cat and dog registry, which Council is required to keep pursuant to the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 contains current information about cat and dog ownership.

Prior to commencing the approved inspection program, Council will have previously forwarded registration renewal notices as well as reminder letters to the owners of dogs and/or cats who have failed to renew the registration of their pet. The Animal Management (Dogs and Cats) Act 2008 requires Council to give each owner of a registered dog and/or cat a renewal notice at least 14 days before the registration of their pet expires. As Council’s registration period commences 1 September each year, renewal notices for the 2013-14 registration period were issued from 1 August 2013 with payment required by 31 August 2013. During the Approved Inspection Program, officers will visit properties where:-

Council records indicate that cat or dog registration has not been renewed for the 2013-14 registration year.

Council receives information or ascertains that unregistered cats or dogs are being kept.

Cats or dogs are observed by officers on neighbouring properties (of the above properties) and Council’s cat and dog registry does not contain information about such animals.

The action described below will be taken where unregistered dogs and cats are detected. Owing to the Christmas/New Year holidays, officers will not undertake doorknocking activities during the period 15 December 2013 to 5 January 2014.


ITEM 9 (CONTINUED) APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) Unregistered dogs With respect to dogs, the purpose of the visit is to ascertain whether dogs being kept on the property are currently registered. Where Council registration records show that dogs have been previously registered at the property, officers will ascertain whether these dogs are still being kept, have been removed or are now deceased. An infringement notice (having a value of $220 which is set by the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 and the State Penalties Enforcement Act 1999) will be issued to the keeper of a dog who is still keeping the previously registered dog, and failed to renew the dog registration for the 2013-14 registration year. In addition, the keeper of the dog will also be directed to register the dog within fourteen (14) days to avoid further enforcement action. Where multiple animals exist on the property and are not registered at the time of the visit, the officers will use discretion and write one fine for one animal and leave a warning to register all animals. The issue of an official warning notice will allow a follow up for a later date and the issue of further infringement notices if registration on all animals has not been effected. It has been practice to issue multiple fines; however, there have been many examples of hardship being experienced when multiple fines are issued and some residents found it difficult to effect the registration and pay the fines. Hopefully, a lesser fine will allow for compliance. The fining process is often misunderstood by owners who mistakenly believe that:

payment of the registration fee after inspection by a Council officer will not result in an infringement notice being issued; or

payment of the registration fee after receiving an infringement notice will result in the infringement notice being withdrawn.

This is not the case, fines, once written, will be processed and sent to SPER if not paid irrespective of the registration being completed. Unregistered cats Whilst the doorknock campaign has in the past principally focused on unregistered dogs, the requirement for having current registration of cats is now in its fourth year. It is recommended the same enforcement process which is taken in relation to unregistered dogs be adopted for cats. Officer discretion In all instances (irrespective of whether the matter relates to dog or cat registration), officers will exercise discretion where a reasonable explanation is given when an offence has been detected. If a fine is issued, the recipient has the ability to write to Council for further consideration of the fine. In these instances, if travel, medical or financial reasons are given they will be required to supply relevant evidence to support their claim. Approved Inspection Program (unregistered cats) In accordance with the provisions of sections 113, 114 and 115 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, the following inspection program is submitted for Council approval:


ITEM 9 (CONTINUED) APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) Purpose of the Program To cause cats to be registered in accordance with the

requirements of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Program Commences Monday 4 November 2013 Program Finishes Thursday 17 April 2014 Program Period 6 months Type of Program Systematic Criteria for Selection Premises within the entire Local Government area shall be

selected on the basis that:-

1. Council records show registration for a cat was not renewed for the 2013-14 registration period.

2. Council receives information or ascertains that unregistered cats are being kept on premises.

Approved Inspection Program (unregistered dogs) In accordance with the provisions of sections 113, 114 and 115 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, the following inspection program is submitted for Council approval: Purpose of the Program To cause dogs to be registered in accordance with the

requirements of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Program Commences Monday 4 November 2013 Program Finishes Thursday 17 April 2014 Program Period 6 months Type of Program Systematic Criteria for Selection Premises within the entire Local Government area shall be

selected on the basis that:-

1. Council records show registration for a dog was not renewed for the 2013-14 registration period.

2. Council receives information or ascertains that unregistered dogs are being kept on premises.


ITEM 9 (CONTINUED) APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:1 A city leading by example. Outcome 1.2: The community is actively involved in the city.

1.2.3 Support the provision of information to the Gold Coast community on a wide range of issues that will affect the city.

Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs. Outcome 4.2 We are a safe and secure community and people live and visit without fear

4.2.5 Effectively respond to legislative changes in relation to the enforcement of local laws, regulations and licenses

4.2.6 Maintain high standards of amenity and safety through appropriate local laws and compliance programs, which take account of the growth and development of the city

Outcome 4.3 We maintain high quality public health services

4.3.2 Continue to deliver professional animal management services to maximise public safety and health

Operational Plan activities: A city leading by example.

Outcome 1.2 The community is actively involved in the city. Number of community feedback responses received regarding Council initiatives. No changes are proposed to the current Operational Plan. 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Budget/Funding Considerations Apart from a budget allocation of $10,000 for marketing and advertising costs, Council has not specifically allocated funding or resources to conduct an inspection program for unregistered cats and dogs. In addition Council’s Animal Management Section does not have the capacity to conduct this program as part of normal daily activities. However, Council is, required to ensure that cat and dog owners comply with their responsibilities (e.g., obligation to register cat/dog) under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. As per Council’s resolution (Ex Minute G12.0821.016) an approved inspection program for unregistered cats and dogs was not carried out during the 2012-13 financial year.


ITEM 9 (CONTINUED) APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) The cost for Council to conduct the approved inspection program during the 2011-12 financial year was approximately $26,000. Revenue obtained from the 2011-12 approved inspection program (including additional registrations and infringement notices) was approximately $352,000). Human Resources The approved inspection program will be conducted utilising existing resources; however, the inspection program will not form part of the normal daily business activities. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Conducting inspection programs for unregistered cats and dogs are integral to ensuring Council meets its statutory requirements under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

No changes or additions are proposed to the corporate risks. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Sections 113, 114 and 115 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 detail the requirements for the undertaking of an approved inspection program. If Council resolves to endorse the report’s recommendation, it is considered that Council will meet its administrative responsibilities in respect to approving an inspection program under the stated sections of the above mentioned Act. Once approved, notice of the approved inspection program will be published in a newspaper circulating in the Council area. The final step in Council meeting its statutory requirements is ensuring the community may access each program’s details at Council’s Administration Centres. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Authorised persons are responsible for enforcement of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. An authorised person under this Act is a person appointed under Chapter 5 of the Act. Under delegation 1467 the Director Community Services may appoint authorised persons as conferred directly upon the CEO in terms of Section 104 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. Although any local government employees may be appointed as an authorised officer, such persons in this instance are Animal Management Officers and Animal Management Inspectors.


ITEM 9 (CONTINUED) APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Brett Tanner Coordinator Environmental Health Approvals & Licensing


Rob Andrews Acting Manager Customer Contact

Organisational Services Yes

Judy Dean Coordinator Priority Project Team

Office of the Chief Executive Officer

Yes

13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External/community stakeholder Impacts Failure of a cat or dog owner to fulfil their responsibilities may result in Council issuing an infringement notice pursuant to the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. Internal (Organisational) Stakeholder Impacts Approval of an inspection program for unregistered cats and dogs will greatly benefit the effectiveness of Council’s management programs by reducing operational delays and inefficiencies by allowing authorised persons to enter private property at any reasonable time of the day. 14 TIMING The inspection program will be advertised no later than the 21 October 2013 and the inspection program will be scheduled for the period 4 November 2013 to 17 April 2014. 15 CONCLUSION The state wide compulsory cat registration regime will be repealed as a consequence of recent amendments of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. The amendments will allow Council to determine whether it wishes to continue cat registration in its area or not. In the event that Council does wish to continue cat registration requirements, transitional provisions contained in the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 will retain the cat registration regime as well as the ability to undertake an approved inspection program for unregistered cats. Council would be required within twelve (12) months to make a relevant local law to provide for cat registration in its area. Approved inspection programs for unregistered cats and dogs can run concurrently should Council decide to retain cat registration. In the event that Council decides to discontinue cat registration in its area the approved inspection program for unregistered cats will not proceed.


ITEM 9 (CONTINUED) APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council approve the following inspection program (unregistered cats ):


Purpose of the Program To cause cats to be registered in accordance with the requirements of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Program Commences Monday 4 November 2013

Program Finishes Thursday 17 April 2014




1 Council records show registration for a cat was not renewed for the 2013-14 registration period.

2 Council receives information or ascertains that unregistered cats are being kept on premises.

2 That Council approve the following inspection program (unregistered dogs):


Purpose of the Program To cause dogs to be registered in accordance with the requirements of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.






3 Council records show registration for a dog was not renewed for the 2013-14 registration period.

4 Council receives information or ascertains that unregistered dogs are being kept on premises.


Geoff Irwin Colette McCool Coordinator Animal Management Director Community Services 26 September 2013 Tracks Ref: #40806191


ITEM 9 (CONTINUED) APPROVED INSPECTION PROGRAM PURSUANT TO THE ANIMAL MANAGEMENT (CATS AND DOGS) ACT 2008 HL147/466/-(P18) COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 009 moved Cr Gilmore seconded Cr Grew 1 That Council approve the following inspection program (unregistered cats ):


Purpose of the Program To cause cats to be registered in accordance with the requirements of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.






1 Council records show registration for a cat was not renewed for the 2013-14 registration period.

2 Council receives information or ascertains that unregistered cats are being kept on premises.

2 That Council approve the following inspection program (unregistered dogs):


Purpose of the Program To cause dogs to be registered in accordance with the requirements of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.






1 Council records show registration for a dog was not renewed for the 2013-14 registration period.

2 Council receives information or ascertains that unregistered dogs are being kept on premises.

CARRIED


ITEM 10 HEALTH, REGULATORY & LIFEGUARD SERVICES AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1)

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION ADOPTED AT COUNCIL COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 010 moved Cr Grew seconded Cr Tozer 1 That it is a declared local government for chapter 10, part 4 (Transitional

provisions for Agriculture and Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2013) of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

2 That pursuant to section 226(2) of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, the following provisions, and any former provision mentioned in the provisions or necessary to give effect to the provisions, continue to apply in Council’s local government area as if the provisions had not been amended by the Agriculture and Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2013:-

former chapter 3 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008; and

former sections 177 to 179 and 203 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

3 That amendments to Local Law and Subordinate No 12 (Animal Management) requiring registration of cats be drafted for Council’s consideration.

CARRIED

PROCEDURAL MOTION moved Cr Gilmore seconded Cr Robbins That Council move into Closed Session.

CARRIED PROCEDURAL MOTION moved Cr Gilmore seconded Cr Grew That the Council move into Open Session.

CARRIED


ITEM 10 HEALTH, REGULATORY & LIFEGUARD SERVICES AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) ADOPTED AT COUNCIL 18 October 2013 RESOLUTION G13.1018.010 Moved Cr La Castra Seconded Cr Grew

That Committee Recommendation CC13.1010.010 be adopted as printed which reads as follows:- 1 That it is a declared local government for chapter 10, part 4 (Transitional

provisions for Agriculture and Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2013) of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.


a former chapter 3 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008; and

b former sections 177 to 179 and 203 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.


CARRIED


ITEM 10 HEALTH, REGULATORY & LIFEGUARD SERVICES AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to: inform Council of amendments to the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008

which includes repealing the requirement for cats to be registered and

to seek Council decision in regard to the continuance of cat registration within the city.

4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute CC09.0617.007 refers: 1 That the mandatory cat registrations as required by the Animal Management (Cats

and Dogs) Act 2008 commence with a regulatory program that is based upon option 3 from the previous report being:

a Public education is limited to small scale media advertising and web site information.

b That no active enforcement is to be undertaken unless an issue is brought to Council’s attention or an unregistered cat is found.

c That all additional staff resources are non recurrent.

2 That the licensing year for registrations of cats be the same as that used for dogs. i.e. 1 September to 31 August each year.

3 That a regulatory fee for cat registration be set as nil for the period 1 July 2009 to 31 August 2010.

4 That it is noted that the expenditure budget for the cost of the first year of the program including the staffing resource requirements as outlined in option 3, total 2 FTEs (2 non recurrent federal level 3.2 Administration Officers) has been included in the 2009-10 budget and that Council note that there is no revenue budget for 2009-10 as a result of the nil fee.

5 That the conditional descriptions of the fees and charges relating to animal registrations for the 2008-09 and 2009-10 licensing years be as listed in attachment 3.

6 That the revenue function be managed by the Animal Management Cost Centre 456 within Health, Regulatory and Lifeguard Services.

7 That all powers under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 referred to in the document titled “Register of Delegations – Council to CEO” attachment 4 to this report are hereby delegated by Council to the Chief Executive Officer of Council pursuant to section 472 of the Local Government Act 1993.


ITEM 10 (CONTINUED) AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM 8 That the approved registration device that identifies a cat or dog in Gold Coast City

be a tag as supplied by Council. Ex Minute No B12.0622.033 in part refers: That Council endorses the non-recovery of incurred costs under Animal Management fees structure of $3,383,286 as detailed in Section 5.1.1 of the report. 5 DISCUSSION At the Base Budget Review meeting held on 15 October 2012, a number of questions and requests were raised in relation to animal management issues. One of the requests was for a submission to be made to the State Government to remove the legislative requirement for registration of cats. On 23 September 2013, the Agriculture and Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2013 commenced. This Act amends certain provisions contained in the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, including the repeal of the state wide requirement for cats to be registered and empowering local governments to decide whether the benefits of cat registration warrants its continuation in its area. As a consequence, from the 23 September 2013 (date of commencement of the Agriculture and Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2013), Council has twenty-eight (28) days to decide whether it wishes to continue with the cat registration regime. Should Council wish to continue the registration requirement it must do so by resolution pursuant to Section 28 of the Local Government Act 2009 (Power to make a local law): Council would then be deemed to be a ‘declared local government’ under the Animal

Management (Cats and Dogs ) Act 2008 and must develop a local law within 12 months (transitional period) which provides for cat registration; and

The relevant cat registration requirements contained in the Act will continue as normal until the local law commences or the expiry of the transitional period.

Should Council decide not to continue with cat registration, it must consider whether to refund payments (or parts thereof) received for current registrations and having regard to the length of the registration period which remains. It should be noted that the requirements for microchipping cats will not be affected by the proposed amendments contained in the amending legislation. As a consequence, Council will remain responsible for enforcing this aspect of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. Cat registration formed part of the Queensland Government’s strategy for responsible companion animal management. The strategy was introduced to respond to the increasing community concern about the number of unwanted cats and dogs being euthanased each year. It is reasonable to assume that maintaining a cat registration regime that encourages de-sexing will help reduce indiscriminate cat breeding.


ITEM 10 (CONTINUED) AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM The state-wide cat and dog registration initiative was to enable local governments to develop a better idea of animal ownership in their areas, thereby allowing them to plan for initiatives such as responsible animal ownership education programs and appropriate local laws for animal management. At the time of preparing this report, only one South East Queensland Council (Ipswich City Council) had considered its position in relation to cat registration and had resolved to continue cat registration in its area. It is understood that Logan City Council, Redlands City Council and Moreton Bay Regional Council are likely to continue cat registration within their area, whereas Brisbane City Council may discontinue cat registration. City of Gold Coast Cat Management Program Prior to the commencement of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, Council resolved to implement a reactive enforcement and community education program with respect to cat registration and management. During the first year of compulsory cat registration, approximately 7,900 cats were registered within the city. At the end of the 2012-13 registration period approximately 13,000 cats were registered. In addition to cat registration compliance, Council’s Animal Management Section undertake the following activities as part of the city’s cat management program :- Complaint investigation and administration – includes roaming cats, excess of

number of cats kept and other cat related offences contained in Local Law 12 (Animal Management) 2013. For the period 11 September 2012 to 11 September 2013, Council’s Animal Management Section have received and actioned 1,023 cat related complaints.

Impoundment and shelter. Since the commencement of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 in July 2009, there has been a 33% decrease in the number of cats impounded by Council officers (refer to Table 1).

Permit assessment – Breeding permits and Excess animal permits.

Microchipping compliance.

Community education.

Table 1 – Cat Impound Statistics

Date Range Number of cats impounded

1/7/09 – 30/6/10 1580

1/7/10 – 30/6/11 1319

1/7/11 – 30/6/12 1162

1/7/12 – 30/6/13 1057


ITEM 10 (CONTINUED) AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM The revenue generated from cat registration for the 2011-12 registration period was $136,244 and for the 2012-13 registration period was $173,700. The organisational cat management budget (inclusive of all corporate overheads, and providing a limited field response) was $440,510 in 2012-13 and $489,100 for 2013-14. It is important to note that Council is unlikely to realise any significant savings if cat registration is discontinued. This is due to the great majority of cat management matters such as cat related complaints and enforcement of compulsory microchipping etc continuing post any cessation of cat registrations. Indeed these matters can be expected to increase in the absence of registration requirements. Theoretical short term (i.e. two years) savings (that in isolation will be difficult to realise) in the removal of registration requirements are estimated at: 18% of one full time equivalent (FTE) position in Licensing and Approvals at a value

of $13,050; and 13% of an FTE in the Customer Contact Centre at a value of $9,600. These savings can reasonably be expected over time to revert to a net cost increase as cat management/complaint matters increase due to the absence of registration requirements and attached responsible pet ownership obligations. It is considered that continuing with a cat registration regime shall deliver positive social and environmental outcomes to the city for the following reasons: Wearing a registration tag allows easy recognition if a cat is owned. It allows the

community to be more proactive in helping to return straying pets with the ability to contact Council to determine the animal’s owner.

In the absence of a cat wearing a registration tag, it may be necessary for a person who finds a cat and wishes to return it to its owner, to take it to a vet in order to determine whether it has been microchipped or alternatively contact Council to impound it.

In the absence of registration, microchipping will be the remaining means of identifying cat ownership. Council will remain responsible for ensuring cats are microchipped however there will be no ability to recover its costs for undertaking this activity. Registration is more likely to have accurate details of current ownership details through the annual renewal process. Pet owners often forget or neglect to update their personal details on the microchip register.

Registration provides a funding source to promote responsible ownership of cats as well as the administration of local laws relating to the management of cats.


ITEM 10 (CONTINUED) AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM Repealing cat registration will remove the incentive for desexing cats as the current

registration fee structure provides a significant financial incentive to de-sex pets. De-sexing pets has proven to be a major step in stopping indiscriminate breeding and therefore reducing the number of unwanted cats and dogs which typically end up in the pound or other animal shelters.

Council has invested approximately $50,000 in cat registration related business system updates and enhancements.

Feral cats have been identified as an emerging pest issue. Community responses received during recent community engagement of the City of Gold Coast Draft Pest Management Plan identified feral cats as being the worst pest animal in the city. Identification of domestic cats should form part of a holistic cat management strategy as this can assist in determining whether trapped cats are feral or not.

Cat registration is now an accepted norm in the community. Subsequent to the new State legislation, Council has two options with respect to cat registration which are essentially to continue or discontinue a cat registration regime in its area. Option 1 – Continue cat registration regime (preferred option) Should Council decide to continue a cat registration regime in its area, it will be necessary for Council to :- 1 Resolve to become a declared local government pursuant to Section 226 of the

Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008; and

2 Make a local law which requires cats to be registered in its area. As Council currently has a local law which regulates the keeping of animals (Local Law 12 (Animal Management) 2013) it would be practical for Council to amend this local law to provide for cat registration in its area.

Option 2 – Discontinue cat registration As previously stated, should Council decide to discontinue cat registration, it will be required to consider whether to refund cat registration fees paid for the current registration period having regard to the length of the registration period which remains (pro rata basis) as well as those payments for the 2014-15 and 2015-16 registration periods. If refunds are not granted, these fees must be used for the purposes of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 and to administer local laws relating to the management of cats or dogs.


ITEM 10 (CONTINUED) AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM

Amount of Refunds - Pro-rata amount of refund plus administrative costs If Council determined to refund cat registration fees already paid as mentioned above, a calculation could be made on a pro-rata basis. As the commencement of the amending legislation falls after only one month of the current registration period, such a pro-rata refund calculation could be based on 11/12ths of the amount paid. Refunds also attract administrative costs which would include the cost of issuing refund cheques etc. 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:1 A city leading by example. Outcome 1.2 The community is actively involved in the city. 1.2.3 Support the provision of information to the Gold Coast community on a wide range of

issues that will affect the city. Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs. Outcome 4.2 We are a safe and secure community and people live and visit without fear. 4.2.5 Effectively respond to legislative changes in relation to the enforcement of local laws,

regulations and licenses. 4.2.6 Maintain high standards of amenity and safety through appropriate local laws and

compliance programs, which take account of the growth and development of the city Outcome 4.3 We maintain high quality public health services

4.3.2 Continue to deliver professional animal management services to maximise public safety and health

Operational Plan activities: A city leading by example.

Outcome 1.2 The community is actively involved in the city. Number of community feedback responses received regarding Council initiatives. No changes are proposed to the current Operational Plan.


ITEM 10 (CONTINUED) AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS See Section 5 Discussion 8 RISK MANAGEMENT No changes or additions are proposed to the corporate risks. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS The Agriculture and Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2013 amends certain provisions contained in the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, including the repeal of the state wide requirement for cats to be registered. Transitional provisions incorporated into these amendments empower local governments to decide whether the benefits of cat registration to their constituents warrant its continuation in their area. Council will need to amend its local laws if it decides to continue cat registration requirements post 21 October 2014. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Consequential amendments to delegations will be required if Council does not continue cat registration requirements. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Phillip Halliday – Senior Lawyer Office of the CEO Yes Joy Verrinder Animal Welfare League

Qld Support retaining cat registrations.

Karen Scott Wild Care Australia Inc Support retaining cat registrations

13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External/community stakeholder Impacts Animal Welfare League Qld are concerned that repealing cat registration would lead to an increase in the non de-sexed cat population. Wild Care Australia Inc. are concerned that with the removal of cat registration there will be a lack of ownership responsibilities and therefore increased predation on native wildlife.


ITEM 10 (CONTINUED) AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM 14 TIMING Council has until 21 October 2013 to determine whether it wishes to continue cat registration in its area. Should Council decide to continue cat registration, it must make a local law (which imposes cat registration requirements) before 21 October 2014. 15 CONCLUSION Amendments to the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 that remove the compulsory registration of cats commence on the 21 October 2013. The Act (as amended) contains transitional provisions that give Council the opportunity to, by resolution, continue to apply Chapter 3 (Registration) of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 to cats in Council’s local government area for a period of one (1) year. The resolution to continue the requirements must be passed before 21 October 2013. Council will need to amend its animal management local law if it wishes to require cat registration post 21 October 2014. It is important to note that should Council continue to apply Chapter 3 (Registration) of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, the requirements will apply in Council’s local government area until either: Council makes a local law about cat registration;

Council passes a resolution that it is no longer a declared local government for chapter 10, part 4 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008; or

one (1) year after the 23 September, 2013 has passed.

Should Council decide not to continue cat registration it must decide whether to refund cat registration payments made for the 2013-14 registration period as it considers appropriate, having regard to the length of the registration period which remains.


ITEM 10 (CONTINUED) AMENDMENT TO STATE LEGISLATION – CAT REGISTRATION HL147/466/08(P1) LATE ITEM 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That it is a declared local government for chapter 10, part 4 (Transitional provisions

for Agriculture and Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2013) of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.


former chapter 3 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008; and

former sections 177 to 179 and 203 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.


Author: Authorised by: Brett Tanner Colette McCool Coordinator Licensing & Approvals Director Community Services John Madigan Supervisor Animal Management Tracks Ref: #41624308


ITEM 11 PARKS & RECREATIONAL SERVICES POLICY REVIEW: PARKS USAGE POLICY TEMPORARY USE OF PARKS BY INDIVIDUALS/GROUPS OR COMMUNITY CS433/408/171/03 Refer 6 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to advise Council that the subject policy requires Council to consider suggested changes and adopt the amended Park Usage Policy: Temporary Use of Parks by Individuals/Groups and Community Organisations. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex minutes G03.0124.029 and R03.0116.004 refers: 1 That Council approves the amended policy titled “Temporary Use of Parks by

Individuals/Groups or Community Organisations”

2 That Council’s Policy register be updated accordingly. Under delegated power the CEO approved a 1.4.2010 review and that resulted in the current policy. 5 DISCUSSION The subject policy has been in place since 1999 and, whilst periodically reviewed and updated, has substantially provided direction for managing the use of parks by individuals, groups and community organisations. The policy’s performance measures are an indication of its success. Very few complaints have been received regarding inappropriate use of parks by these user groups and 99% of bonds have been refunded, indicating users are not damaging parks as a consequence of their conditionally approved activities. An amended policy (see attached) has been developed which includes the following changes: 1 Currently, activities on the Evandale Parklands at Bundall and the open space area

surrounding Council’s administration centre at Nerang have been restricted to only those formally sponsored by Council. Applicants proposing self funded events have often approached Council seeking legitimate use of the sites, to be turned away because they are not Council sponsored events/activities.

Council introduced a restriction on the use of Evandale Park and the Nerang site following one applicants poor housekeeping performance whilst on site in 1999. This has prevented optimising the site and its activation. It is suggested appropriate governance and conditions can be applied to events to ensure that the activities do not diminish the sites’ amenity and professional presentation.


ITEM 11 (CONTINUED) POLICY REVIEW: PARKS USAGE POLICY TEMPORARY USE OF PARKS BY INDIVIDUALS/GROUPS OR COMMUNITY CS433/408/171/03

It is considered that lifting this restriction would likely result in increased activation of the site and improved community benefit. As the development of the proposed cultural precinct progresses, this can be further reviewed.

2 Emphasis has been placed on priority use of parks by Council delivered and sponsored events and those parks under right of use arrangements. This helps clarify to applicants and staff who process applications Council’s preferred direction when proposed activity/event dates conflict.

3 Administrative references to other related policy, local laws and legislation have been updated.

6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:2 A city loved for its green gold and blue Outcome 2.1: Parks and open green spaces are safe, connected and accessible for all members of the community. 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS There is no impact on Council’s budget. Approvals for park use are resourced using existing internal resources. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT The subject policy contributes to mitigating risks associated with public use of parklands. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS The policy is closely aligned with the objectives of Local Law 9 Parks and Reserves, in that it helps to protect the city’s parks and safeguard the community using them. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES This report proposes the adoption of an amended policy. 11 DELEGATIONS Appropriate delegations are in place to determine applications that fall under this policy.


ITEM 11 (CONTINUED) POLICY REVIEW: PARKS USAGE POLICY TEMPORARY USE OF PARKS BY INDIVIDUALS/GROUPS OR COMMUNITY CS433/408/171/03 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Manager Parks & Recreational Services


Parks Booking Officer Community Services Yes Corporate Policy Officer Office of the CEO Yes Executive Officer Special Events

ED&MP Consulted

Acting Corporate Events & Promotions Coordinator


Executive Coordinator Licensing & Approvals


13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS The policy assists both applicants and staff processing applications. There are no charges for the typical use of park for small social and family gatherings. Weddings conducted in designated areas set aside in premium parks and that utilise such spaces, as per most local governments, attract a small fee in return for providing this service. 14 TIMING Implementation of the amended policy will come into affect immediately should Council adopt this policy. 15 CONCLUSION The Park Usage Policy: Temporary Use of Parks by Individuals / Groups and Community Organisations was scheduled for review in 2013 and this report and the minor adjustments are a reflection of that. An amended policy attached has been updated to include improved administrative references and a shift in position regarding the use of the Evandale and Nerang Parklands. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: That Council adopt the amended Park Usage Policy: Temporary Use of Parks by Individuals/Groups and Community Organisations attached to this report. Author: Authorised by:

Ross Greenwood Colette Mc Cool Executive Coordinator Parks Director Community Services 26 September 2013

TRACKS 39905415


ITEM 11 (CONTINUED) POLICY REVIEW: PARKS USAGE POLICY TEMPORARY USE OF PARKS BY INDIVIDUALS/GROUPS OR COMMUNITY CS433/408/171/03 CHANGED RECOMMENDATION COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 011 moved Cr Grew seconded Cr Tozer 1 That Council adopt the amended Park Usage Policy: Temporary Use of Parks

by Individuals/Groups and Community Organisations attached to this report.

2 That the Gold Coast Arts Centre be consulted prior to any approvals for usage of Evandale Parklands.

CARRIED


ITEM 12 WASTE AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 Refer 21 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to seek Council of the City of Gold Coast (Council’s) position on a draft governance model being proposed by Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) and Department Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). The model suggests a new method of allocating DAFF resources funded by Local Government contributions made to the Land Protection Fund under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute No G11.0131.025 refers: 1 That Council maintain its financial commitment to the operation and maintenance of the

Pest Animal Barrier Fencing as controlled by the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit District Board.

2 That the Mayor and Committee Chair meet with the Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland to discuss a possible funding arrangement whereby the State Government would become the principal contributor to the Board’s operational expenditure by the provision of 50% of the total operating costs with the balance shared between member local authorities.

Ex Minute No G12.1120.013 refers: 1 That the Mayor writes to the Minister for Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries requesting

Council be removed from the operational area of the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board.

2 That should current legislation remain in force when the Minister for Agriculture

Fisheries and Forestry is considering local government annual payments for the 2013/14 financial year, the Mayor be authorised to write to the Minister requesting he uses his discretionary powers to waive Council’s requirement to make an annual payment for the 2013/14 financial year.

3 That in the event of the Biosecurity Bill being tabled in Parliament during Council

recess, the CEO be authorised to make a submission on behalf of Council identifying issues and desire for removal of the need to make an annual payment to the State.

4 That Council notes the current statutory requirement to make payment once written notice is issued.


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 5 DISCUSSION Following written notification (invoice), Council has a statutory requirement to make an annual payment to DAFF. Council’s payment, mandated by Section 187 of the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 for the 2012 - 2013 financial year was $153,073, comprising of two elements:

1 $97,843 to the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board (the Board), and

2 $55,230 to DAFF – “Onground and Research Services Component”. There has been no information provided by DAFF regarding the 2013 – 2014 contribution. Under the current arrangements, there is limited communication or documentation of planned activities between the Board, DAFF and local government prior to an invoice for both components being issued to Council.

Gold Coast Council Annual Payment

$0

$20,000

$40,000

$60,000

$80,000

$100,000

$120,000

$140,000

$160,000

$180,000

2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13

Financial Year

$

DDMRB contribution

State Government Services contribution

TOTAL

Figure 1: Annual contributions by Council required under the Land Protection Act 2002

While Council has been successful in having representation on the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board in an attempt to rectify existing issues, there remains a distinct lack of accountability in the apportionment and expenditure of Council’s onground and research service’s contribution to DAFF.


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 Council has previously identified the following issues with the current arrangements surrounding the onground services and research element:

Lack of transparency in expenditure of contribution;

Lack of transparency in allocation of resources by DAFF;

Reluctance by DAFF to quantify their financial commitment to delivering the level of assistance agreed to under previous MOU with LGAQ and Queensland NRM bodies;

Research, extension and support program priorities are determined by DAFF with no consultation with Local Government;

Council is approached to provide supplementary funding in addition to the annual contribution for delivery of onground services and research;

Lack of targeted extension services for pest issues specific to the region;

Lack of an itemised account of the proposed or actual expenditure of Council’s contribution to the onground services and research component;

Reporting on operational projects undertaken by DAFF is uncommon;

Reduction in front line services provided by DAFF within the City for the management of declared class one pest species;

Responsibility of DAFF to align onground services and research with Minister endorsed priorities identified through local government area pest management plans;

Need for DAFF to identify annual training calendars for courses delivered by DAFF, and

Concern with risk of DAFF discontinuing biological control programs that provide direct benefit to local government.

At the 2012 Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) conference, the LGAQ policy executive advocated for the abolishment of the annual payment. The motion to abolish the annual payment was ultimately unsuccessful. LGAQ has continued to advocate through meetings with the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry the need for local government to have greater say on how funds contributed to DAFF by local government are allocated. In response to the advocacy work undertaken by LGAQ, a project between local government, LGAQ and DAFF was initiated to develop a model with the aim of improving and enhancing current relationships, arrangements and outcomes for pest plant and animal management in Queensland. The following points are made on the proposed co-investment model. Every indication is that the requirement to pay DAFF will remain in existing and future

legislation. The LGAQ policy executive has identified that cancellation of the annual payment may well lead to, “a significant risk that DAFF will not replace this lost revenue and reduce or discontinue a range of services relevant to the management of declared pest species”.


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 A review into the equitable apportionment of payments by local government and

DAFF will commence within 18 months of the new co investment model being finalised and be completed within three years. Council will be kept updated as more information comes to hand.

Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board, Directors and the Board’s operational staff will remain responsible for developing work programs and budgets for approval by the Minister. In light of this Council has made direct representation to the Board for $40,000 of Council’s annual contribution to be allocated to eradicating rabbits from the City.

DAFF have been quite clear in advising that the monies contributed to the Land Protection Fund are tied up in facilities, equipment and human resources and are not available as cash contributions towards additional projects.

Existing DAFF projects, where resources have been committed, will not be terminated and will finish according to existing project timeframes.

Overall governance of the activities and projects of the “Onground and Research Services Component” will be through Regional Pest Management Committees and the State-wide Oversight Group.

it is proposed that regional pest management co-Investment sub-committees form to:

o Identify priority investment projects/activities that are based on regional pest management priorities identified in pest management plans, risk assessment of emerging species or issues, local advisory committee;

o Contribute to the development of Expressions of Interests and approximate resource requirements for short listing and consideration by the Oversight Group;

o Engagement and coordination with other ROC/LGA Pest Management Co-Investment Sub-Committees on projects/activities;

o Submission of agreed co-investment EOI’s to the State-wide oversight group for coordination and alignment; and

o Review six monthly project implementation reporting and provide regional views to the State-wide oversight group about project implementation.

Regional pest management co-investment sub-committees will be aligned to existing regional organisations e.g. SEQCOM group of Council’s.

Council would have an opportunity to provide representation to a regional pest management committee.

To increase the likelihood of successful identification of projects, short listing will be by consensus.

Local governments can choose to pay without input if they do not wish to invest resources to contribute in the selection of projects.

A State-wide oversight group will be formed with a representative from each regional pest management committee. In relation to the onground and research services component, the role of the State-wide oversight group is to:

Ensure coordination and alignment of project EOI’s;

Approve projects for co-investment;

Provide advice to all component governance groups in the event of disputes;


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47

Hold responsibility for the resolution of a dispute at the regional level, if a dispute is not resolved;

Provide a recommendation to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry if the resolution of a dispute can not be reached within two months;

Ensure complementary project implementation with the State Land Pest Management Committee;

Hold responsibility for the resolution of non-delivery of projects and/or financial acquittals;

Ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island local government interests are included in decision making of component governance groups;

Receive six-monthly reports from the component governance groups and monitor the delivery of projects State-wide;

Report to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the LGAQ Policy Executive on the outcomes of the co-investments annually.;

To ensure consistency in the short-listing of projects across the State, the State-wide oversight group will prepare an evaluation tool, decision making criteria, weightings and other guidance material with input from the regional representatives; and

A short form template will be developed by the group to help inform the Expression of Interest process.

Regional and State-wide groups will not be authorised to countermand the decision making powers of the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board. The group’s role in relation to Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board is to advise, support and negotiate resolution of disputes or non-performance raised by the regional pest management committees. The Minister will ultimately retain power to resolve any disputes regarding the allocation of onground and research services. While the work of LGAQ has been successful in providing local government an opportunity to provide input into how DAFF allocates resources funded by local government, it is still unclear if local government will have input into identification of priority projects/activities requiring investment by DAFF. Councillors and Council Officers were offered the opportunity to participate in a one hour webinar presented by LGAQ and DAFF on Thursday 19 September 2013. Council’s Manager Waste and Resource Management, Coordinator Pest Management and Senior Pest Management Specialist represented Council. During the presentation on the proposed model, a DAFF officer indicated that the department could not provide specific details of what the onground services and research component funds are expended on. The inability of the DAFF to reveal their financial contribution and where local government contributions are spent, remains a major issue to the transparency of the process.


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:1 A city leading by example Outcome 1.3: There is collaborative leadership and strong partnerships in the city 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Budget/Funding Considerations Recurrent funding for Council’s contribution to the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board and DAFF for Onground and Research services for the 2013-14 financial year is provided in CS4820. Equitable apportionment of payments has been identified as an issue, development of a new mathematical model will be undertaken within three years from commencement of the proposed arrangements in this report. People and Culture No additional staff are required. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002. 187 Minister may require local government to make annual payment

(1) The Minister may, by written notice, for a financial year, require a local government to pay an amount to the chief executive for services provided or to be provided by the chief executive for pest or stock route network management in the local government’s area.

(2) The amount must not be more than the maximum amount fixed under a regulation for the local government.

(3) In recommending the maximum amount, the Minister must have regard to the nature and extent of the services provided or to be provided by the chief executive in the local government’s area, including, for example, whether—

(a) a declared pest fence benefits land by protecting agricultural production in the area; or

(b) part or all of the area is in the operational area for rabbits; or

(c) land in the area may benefit from pest control programs undertaken by the State including, for example, emergency control action.


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47

(4) The notice must state the period in which the amount required under the notice must be paid.

(5) The local government must pay the amount to the chief executive in the stated period.

209 Establishment of fund The Land Protection Fund (the fund) is established. 210 Purpose and administration of fund

(1) The purpose of the fund is to record amounts received for, and paid from, the fund to achieve the purposes of this Act.

(2) Accounts for the fund must be kept as part of the departmental accounts of the department.

(3) However, amounts received for the fund may be deposited in a departmental financial-institution account of the department with other moneys of the department.

(4) Amounts received for the fund include the following—

(a) amounts made available by the chief executive for the fund;

(b) amounts given to the chief executive by another entity for this Act;

(c) amounts payable into the fund under section 212(2)(a);

(d) the proceeds of the sale or hire of any buildings, equipment or machinery acquired by the Minister or chief executive under this Act;

(e) the amount of any costs incurred and recovered by the chief executive under section 295;

(f) the amount of any payment required by the Minister under section 187;

(g) other amounts received under this Act and prescribed under a regulation.

(5) In this section— departmental accounts, of the department, means the accounts of the department under the Financial Accountability Act 2009, section 69. departmental financial-institution account, of the department, means an account of the department kept under the Financial Accountability Act 2009, section 83. other moneys, of the department, means all moneys of the department other than amounts received for the fund.

211 Payments from fund Amounts are payable from the fund only for paying the following—

(a) expenses incurred by the chief executive and pest operational boards under this Act;

(b) an amount authorised by the chief executive under this Act as payable from the fund;

(c) other amounts required or permitted by this Act to be paid out of the fund. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable.


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 11 DELEGATIONS Not applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Advocacy Officer Mayor’s Office Yes – comments incorporated Right to Information (RTI) and Information Privacy (IP) Legislation 2009 Not applicable. 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External/community stakeholder Impacts Non participation in coinvestment model may reduce onground and research services provided to the City e.g. Inspection and treatment of private land. Reduction in onground and research services within the City may result in increases of declared pest plants and animals further draining Council’s limited resources. Internal (Organisational) Stakeholder Impacts No issues identified by internal stakeholder feedback 14 TIMING First round of submissions closes Tuesday 15 October 2013;

Submissions reviewed by LGAQ and DAFF project team Monday 21 October 2013;

Prepare amendments for the second round of consultation;

Second round of consultation (date to be advised);

Comments will then be collated before determining recommendations to the board prior to the minister receiving them;

LGAQ and DAFF anticipate the new co-investment model will be launched in late 2013.

15 CONCLUSION The LGAQ policy executive is not advocating the abolishment of the annual payment. However they are advocating for increased transparency from DAFF in allocating and expenditure of the funds. The annual payment to DAFF for onground and research services is effectively a second tax on ratepayers.


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 By offering local government the opportunity to sit within a decision making framework it will deflect any future criticisms that local government may have about the allocation of funds supplied to DAFF. The concern for Council regarding the onground and research services contribution, is the additional governance burden, workload and cost to Council to justify expenditure of a small proportion of Council’s budget. Current representation on the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board offers an opportunity for improved allocation of Council funds to directly benefit the City. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: That Council authorises the Chief Executive Officer to make the following submission on the Draft Invasive Plants and Animals Coinvestment Model that raises the following issues:-

1 Council does not support the continuation of the annual payment to DAFF and desires the removal of the need for Council to make an annual payment.

2 The creation of State-wide and regional governance committees to manage the Onground and Research Contribution is excessive due to the limited resources allocated to Council’s contribution of $55,230.

3 Council wishes for clarification of the following points:

a Will non-membership within a regional organisation of Council’s e.g. SEQCOM) effect membership to regional governance committees.

b How does the model propose to allocate the existing facilities, equipment and human resources funded by local government.

c Will regional governance groups role extend to the allocation of facilities, equipment and human resources funded by State government.

d How much of the $2,200,000 in resources funded by local government contributions to the Land Protection Fund is available for allocation to new projects in 2014-15.

e With the responsibility for the State wide oversight group to prepare a large amount of support material is there an agreement for DAFF to provide financial and administrative support for this group.

4 DAFF must take accountability for preparation, consultation and concurrence on strategic work programs that align with Local Government Pest Management Plans and not shift this role to local government.

5 The current lack of transparency by DAFF of how and where State funds are allocated means Council is incapable of justifying any value for money to ratepayers.


Iain Jamieson Colette McCool Senior Pest Management Planner Director Community Services 24 September 2013

TRACKS REF: #41689289


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 Cr Tozer declared that a real (or perceived) conflict of interest in this matter could exist (as per section 173 of the Local Government Act 2009) due to him being a Director of an entity referred to in the report and funded by the City of Gold Coast and left the meeting room taking no part in the debate or decision of the meeting.

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION ADOPTED AT COUNCIL COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 012 moved Cr Grew seconded Cr Grummitt That Council authorises the Chief Executive Officer to make the following submission on the Draft Invasive Plants and Animals Coinvestment Model that raises the following issues:-


2 The creation of State-wide and regional governance committees to manage the Onground and Research Contribution is excessive due to the limited resources allocated to Council’s contribution of $55,230.









CARRIED

Cr Tozer returned.


ITEM 12 (CONTINUED) DRAFT INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CO-INVESTMENT MODEL FN251/48/47 ADOPTED AT COUNCIL 18 October 2013 RESOLUTION G13.1018.011 Moved Cr La Castra Seconded Cr Gates

That Committee Recommendation CC13.1010.012 be adopted as printed which reads as follows:- That Council authorises the Chief Executive Officer to make the following submission on the Draft Invasive Plants and Animals Co-investment Model that raises the following issues:-


2 The creation of State-wide and regional governance committees to manage the On-ground and Research Contribution is excessive due to the limited resources allocated to Council’s contribution of $55,230.









CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY


APPENDIX 1

DDMRB contribution

Year % Increase $ increase

2013/14 ? ? ? 2012/13 $97,843.00 5.50% $5,101.00 2011/12 $92,742.00 5.90% $5,167.00 2010/11 $87,575.00 7.36% $6,000.00 2009/10 $81,575.00 5.50% $4,254.00 2008/09 $77,321.00 3.18% $2,381.00 2007/08 $74,940.00 5.68% $4,025.00 2006/07 $70,915.00 8.00% $5,253.00 2005/06 $65,662.00 9.88% $5,903.00 2004/05 $59,759.00 4.52% $2,583.00 2003/04 $57,176.00 3.88% $2,136.00 2002/03 $55,040.00

Table 1: Annual Council contributions to the Darling Downs Moreton Rabbit Board.

DAFF Onground Services and

Research contribution Year % Increase $ increase

2013/14 ? ? ? 2012/13 $55,230.00 1.60% $870.00 2011/12 $54,360.00 3.60% $1,889.00 2010/11 $52,471.00 3.00% $1,528.00 2009/10 $50,943.00 3.10% $1,532.00 2008/09 $49,411.00 1.15% $562.00 2007/08 $48,849.00 2.90% $1,377.00 2006/07 $47,472.00 2.90% $1,338.00 2005/06 $46,134.00 2.60% $1,169.00 2004/05 $44,965.00 2.41% $1,057.00 2003/04 $43,908.00 3.31% $1,406.00 2002/03 $42,502.00

Table 2: Annual Council contributions to DAFF for Onground Services and Research.

Total Annual Contribution to DAFF

Year % Increase $ increase

2013/14 ? ? ? 2012/13 $153,073.00 4.06% $5,971.00 2011/12 $147,102.00 5.04% $7,056.00 2010/11 $140,046.00 5.68% $7,528.00 2009/10 $132,518.00 4.57% $5,786.00 2008/09 $126,732.00 2.38% $2,943.00 2007/08 $123,789.00 4.56% $5,402.00 2006/07 $118,387.00 5.90% $6,591.00 2005/06 $111,796.00 6.75% $7,072.00 2004/05 $104,724.00 3.60% $3,640.00 2003/04 $101,084.00 3.63% $3,542.00 2002/03 $97,542.00

Table 3: Council contributions to DAFF via the Land Protection Fund over the last ten years.


ITEM 13 WASTE AND RESOURCES MANAGEMENT CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) Refer 129 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to:

1 submit the draft ‘City of the Gold Coast Pest Management Plan 2013-2017’ (appendix one) to Council of the City of Gold Coast (Council) for consideration;

2 seek approval to submit the ‘City of the Gold Coast Pest Management Plan 2013-2017 (draft plan) to the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry as per the requirements of section 29 of the Land Protection (Pests and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (the Act); and

3 advise Council of feedback from public consultation for the draft plan. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Not Applicable. 5 DISCUSSION The Act provides legislative requirements for the management of pest plants and animals throughout Queensland. The Act specifically requires Council to develop and implement a pest management plan for all land and waterways within the city. The scope of the draft plan does not include marine pests, native (nuisance) animals and plants, non declared animals, domestic or public health pests (including rodents, mosquitoes, midges and cockroaches) or pathogens. This plan has a four year lifespan, commencing when it is formally adopted by Council and will undergo a minor review each year, with a full review prior to its expiry in 2017. The draft plan identifies:

Priorities for pest management within the city;

Strategies to mitigate the agricultural, economic, environmental and social impacts of pests.

High priority pest species to ensure resources are allocated appropriately and provide value for money to ratepayers of the city.

In order to achieve the purpose of the draft plan the following six desired outcomes have been identified in the draft plan:

1 Informed and active city committed to pest management;

2 Stakeholders are committed to and undertake coordinated management of weeds and pest animals;


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) 3 Planning and management of pest species is coordinated with local, regional, state

and national plans;

4 Methodologies and practices improve natural resource management outcomes;

5 Introduction, spread and establishment of pests is prevented in the city; and

6 Pest management is innovative, adaptive, drives research and contributes to improved and effective pest management throughout the city.

The draft plan covers the City of Gold Coast area and a wide variety of stakeholders were consulted as part of the development. During 2012, Council consulted a wide range of stakeholders to formulate the draft plan via workshops. Stakeholders were consulted via phone interviews and one day workshop to develop the plan’s desired outcomes, priorities, roles and responsibilities and methods to better integrate management across land tenures. Local and State Government, industry and community stakeholders engaged during the plan development phase included:

A range of City of Gold Coast business groups

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service

Redland City Council Biosecurity Queensland

Logan City Council SEQWater

Tweed Shire Council Gold Coast Airport

Far North Coast Weeds Pet Industry Association of Australia

Agforce Springbrook Natural History Group

Growcom Individual community members

Feedback from stakeholders was considered and used in formulating the draft plan which was available in early 2013. Engagement of the broader community was then sought between May and June 2013. As required by legislation, Council conducted a four week engagement program from 8 May to 11 June 2013 to determine community and stakeholder response to the draft plan. The intent of the community engagement program was to meet Council’s legislative requirements and to alert the community and stakeholders to the engagement program and the opportunity to have their say and identify any community or stakeholder issues associated with the draft plan. The primary target for this campaign was the Gold Coast general public. Community engagement was encouraged from two key groups: 1 General community (“public”) and stakeholders were informed and engaged via

public notice and radio advertising, two community information displays, social media and online information including an on-line and hard copy survey, on-line quick poll and on-line discussion forum opportunities;

2 Council’s standing online community engagement group of 1500 – GCengage Forum – was notified of the engagement opportunity and encouraged to participate in the online survey, quick poll and discussion forum.


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) Engagement results have been analysed with a report prepared that compares and contrasts responses from these two distinct groups (appendix two). A total of 181 respondents from both key groups participated in the engagement process.

45%

16%

12%

9%

13%

2% 2% 1%

Total respondents ‐ 181Online survey (general community)

Online survey (GCEngage)

Hard copy survey at info sessions

Online quick poll (general)

Online quick poll (GCengage)

Online forum participants

Social media (retweets)

Email

Note: 40% of public survey respondents did not complete the survey

Figure 1 – Total respondents to engagement period across all channels Key feedback from the engagement project was that:

86 per cent of members of the public and 77 per cent of GCengage Forum members who responded to the survey supported the desired outcomes

Yes87%

No

2%

Unsure

11%

Public support for the outcomes of the draft plan

Figure 2 – Public support for outcomes of the draft plan

Completed:61 Skipped: 43


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6)

Yes77%

No

15%

Unsure8%

GCengage suppport for outcomes of the draft plan

Figure 3– GCengage support for outcomes of the draft plan

81 per cent of the public and 74 per cent of GCengage Forum members supported the draft plan’s priorities to deal with pests/biosecurity

Yes

81%

No

5%

Unsure14%

Public agreement of priorities

Figure 4 – Public agreement of plan priorities




ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6)

Yes

74%

No

11%

Unsure

15%

GCengage agreement of priorities

Figure 5 – GCengage agreement of plan priorities

the majority of quick poll respondents (56 per cent of public respondents and 83 per cent of GCengage Forum members) supported the draft plan’s outcomes and the management categories.

Yes56%

No19%

Unsure25%

Quick poll public ‐ do you support the plan outcomes/categories?

Yes83%

Unsure17%

Quick poll GCengage ‐ do you support the outcomes/categories?

Figure 6 -: Quick poll results for public Figure 7 - Quick poll results for GCengage respondents

Results that satisfied other key engagement objectives included: Feral cats were identified by both public and GCengage Forum respondents as the

worst pest animal on the Gold Coast;

Foxes and feral cats received the highest level of awareness of declared pest animals on the Gold Coast;

In the pest plant category, the most specified worst pest plant being lantana. (mentioned five times) although “water weeds” and salvinia where both mentioned four and three times respectively. GCengage Forum members nominated weeds (three times), followed by water weeds (three times) as the worse pest plants;


Completed: 24Completed: 16


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) Whilst there was recognition that pest management is a shared responsibility, local

government was overwhelmingly nominated as holding the key responsibility for managing pests on the Gold Coast (84 per cent of public and 82 per cent of GCengage Forum members); and

About 80 per cent of survey respondents indicated a willingness to participate in managing pests in the city and the preferred method of participation was to report pest locations (69 per cent public and 83 per cent GCengage Forum members).

Other results of interest included:

70 per cent of public survey respondents and 93 per cent of GCengage Forum members had examined the draft plan prior to responding;

91 per cent of public respondents and 86 per cent of GCengage Forum members indicated that managing pests was “extremely" or “very" important;

the two categories nominated as the most important priority when managing pests were “health and safety” (nominated by public) and “environment” (nominated by GCengage Forum members);

the least important priority when managing pests was considered noise level/nuisance factor by both groups;

the majority (75 per cent public and 86 per cent GCengage Forum members) nominated Council as the first point of contact for a pest problem; and

30 survey respondents provided their contact details to participate in future community engagement projects.

The above findings are based on a reasonably small response number. However, the findings did test the contents and intent of the draft plan which incorporated prior stakeholder input and provided valuable feedback to engagement objectives. Based on the community engagement results, community and stakeholders support the Draft Gold Coast Pest Management Plan 2013-2017. Broad community consultation of the draft plan gave the community the opportunity to provide valuable feedback on the plan. Appropriately made submissions have been considered prior to finalising the plan. 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:1 A city leading by example. Outcome 1.2: The community is actively involved in the city. Outcome 1.3: There is collaborative leadership and strong partnerships in the city.


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) Key Focus Area: 4 A safe city where everyone belongs Outcome 4.3: We maintain high quality public health services 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Budget/Funding Considerations Recurrent funding for implementation of draft plan for the 2013-14 financial year is provided in CS4810. Costs for Capital Works and Service Proposals Not Applicable. People and Culture Not Applicable. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT CO000447 Declared Pest plants and animals causing damage to the environment

CN000111 Council’s Pest Management Plan (as per Land Protection Act)

9 STATUTORY MATTERS The draft plan has been produced following the directions and guidelines supplied by DAFF. The development of this plan is a statutory requirement under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002. 25 Local governments to have pest management plan

(1) A local government must, within 2 years after this part commences, have a pest management plan for declared pests in its area.

(2) The plan may include provision for the following—

(a) achievable objectives under the plan;

(b) strategies, activities and responsibilities for achieving the objectives;

(c) strategies to inform the local community about the content of the plan and achievement of its objectives;

(d) monitoring implementation of the plan and evaluating its effectiveness;

(e) other matters the local government considers appropriate for management of declared pests in its area.


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) 26 Requirements of plan A local government’s pest management plan must be consistent with the following—

(a) the principles of pest management;

(b) the State pest management strategy;

(c) the guidelines for pest management. 27 Preparing draft plan

(1) A local government must establish a working group to advise the local government about preparing its draft pest management plan.

(2) The working group may include a representative of each department mentioned in section 17(1) the local government considers appropriate for preparing the plan.

(3) If asked by the local government, the chief executive of the department must nominate an individual as its representative on the working group.

(4) The individual must have the qualifications or experience to advise the local government about preparing its draft pest management plan.

(5) In preparing the draft pest management plan, the local government must have regard to the following—

(a) the principles of pest management;

(b) the State pest management strategy;

(c) the guidelines for pest management;

(d) the plans for managing declared pests on State-controlled land in its area;

(e) the interests of its local community, including, for example, the interests of landholders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, industry groups and members of the public

28 Notice of draft plan and consideration of public submissions

(1) The local government must give public notice when its draft pest management plan has been prepared.

(2) The notice must—

(a) be published in a newspaper circulating generally in the local government’s area; and

(b) state the draft plan is available for inspection, free of charge, at the local government’s public office; and

(c) invite the public to inspect the draft plan and make written submissions about it to the local government within 28 days after the notice is published (the submission period).

(3) The local government must—

(a) make the draft plan available for public inspection in written form, free of charge, in the submission period; and

(b) consider any written submissions properly made to it.


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) 29 Minister to consider draft plan

(1) The local government must give its draft pest management plan to the Minister—

(a) within 60 days after the submission period ends; and

(b) at least 3 months before the local government’s existing pest management plan, if any, ceases to have effect.

(2) The Minister must consider whether the plan—

(a) complies with section 26; and

(b) provides for the management of declared pests in the local government’s area.

(3) If the Minister is not satisfied of the matters mentioned in subsection (2), the Minister must advise the local government about how the plan may be amended.

30 Adopting plan

(1) If the Minister is satisfied of the matters mentioned in section 29(2), the Minister must advise the local government that it may, by resolution, adopt the plan.

(2) The local government must then adopt the plan. 31 Duration of plan

(1) The local government’s pest management plan has effect for the period, of no more than 4 years, stated in it.

(2) However, if the local government renews the plan before the end of the stated period, the plan ceases to have effect immediately before the renewed plan commences.

32 Implementing plan The local government must, as far as practicable, implement its pest management plan. 33 Reviewing and renewing plan (1) The local government may review, or renew, its pest management plan when the

chief executive officer of the local government considers it appropriate.

(2) However, the local government must review the effectiveness of its pest management plan at least 3 months before the start of each financial year.

(3) Also, if the State pest management strategy is amended, the local government must review its pest management plan and, if necessary, amend the plan to ensure it is consistent with the amended strategy.

34 Amending plan (1) This section applies if a local government decides to amend its pest management

plan.

(2) The local government must give a copy of the amended plan to the Minister.

(3) The Minister must consider whether the amended plan—

(a) complies with section 26; and

(b) provides for the management of declared pests in the local government’s area.


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) 35 Plan to be available for inspection (1) Each local government must keep a copy of its pest management plan available for

inspection, free of charge, by members of the public at the local government’s public office.

(2) The plan may be made available in written or electronic form. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Team Leader Pest and Animal Management

Scenic Rim Regional Council

Yes – no comments received

Advisor Reserve Management Redland City Council Yes – no comments received Team Leader Health Operations

Logan City Council Yes – no comments received

Pest Management Program Leader

Tweed Shire Council (NSW)


Manager Weed Services Far North Coast Weeds (NSW)


Agricultural associations Agforce, QFF, Growcom, Cane Farmers, Fruit and Vegetable growers


Community Partnerships Manager - South

SEQ Catchments Yes – no comments received

Biosecurity Officer Biosecurity Queensland Yes – no comments received Operations Manager South Coast

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service


Catchment Coordinator SEQWater Yes – no comments received Environmental Manager Gold Coast Airport

Corporation Yes – no comments received

Industry Associations -

Extractive industry, Pet industry association of Australia, Queensland nursery and garden industry


Environmental Futures Centre Griffith University Yes – no comments received Supervising Environmental Planner

Planning, Environment and Transport

Yes –comments received and integrated into plan


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Team Leader Environmental Planning and Conservation

Planning, Environment and Transport

Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

Environmental Assets Engineer Engineering Services Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

Executive Coordinator Assets Planning

Engineering Services Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

Coordinator Parks North/South Engineering Services Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

Natural Areas Management Officer

Community Services Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

Coordinator Pest Management Unit


Senior Local Law Officer Community Services Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

Supervisor Animal Management Unit


Manager Waste and Resources Management


Senior Catchment Management Officer


Marketing Strategist Office of the CEO Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

Coordinator Community Consultation

Office of the CEO Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

Executive Coordinator Corporate Development

Office of the CEO Yes –comments received and integrated into plan

13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External/community stakeholder Impacts Improved allocation of existing resources delivering greater value for money to businesses, residents and ratepayers of the City. Internal (Organisational) Stakeholder Impacts No impacts were identified by internal stakeholders.


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) 14 TIMING Subject to approval by Council, the draft plan will be submitted to the Minister for endorsement by Friday 25 October 2013. Subject to endorsement of the draft plan by the Minister, Council will be required to adopt the final plan by resolution. Once adopted by Council, the plan will be in place for four years. 15 CONCLUSION The Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 provides legislative requirements for the management of pest plants and animals throughout Queensland. The Act specifically requires the Council of the City of Gold Coast to develop a pest management plan for pests identified by the Act and other species that are having an impact in Council’s area. In accordance with chapter two part 4 of the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 a draft ‘City of the Gold Coast Pest Management Plan’ has been developed to meet Council’s legislative obligations. During 2012, Council consulted a wide range of stakeholders to formulate the draft plan via workshops. Stakeholders were consulted via phone interviews and one day workshop to develop the plans desired outcomes, priorities, roles and responsibilities and methods to better integrate management across land tenures. The draft plan was placed on display for public viewing between the 8 May to 11 June 2013. Based on the community engagement results, community and stakeholders support the Draft Gold Coast Pest Management Plan 2013-2017. No amendments were made to the draft plan following this viewing period. Council must now approve submission of the draft to the Minister for Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry for endorsement. Subject to endorsement by the Minister, Council will be required to adopt the final plan by resolution. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: That Council approves the submission of the draft “City of Gold Coast Pest Management Plan” to the Minister Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry for endorsement. Author: Authorised by:

Iain Jamieson Colette McCool Senior Pest Management Specialist Director Community Services 25 September 2013

TRACKS REF: 41699946


ITEM 13 (CONTINUED) CITY OF GOLD COAST PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN HL464/179/-(P6) COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 013 moved Cr Tozer seconded Cr Gilmore That Council approves the submission of the draft “City of Gold Coast Pest Management Plan” to the Minister Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry for endorsement.

CARRIED


ITEM 14 PARKS AND RECREATIONAL SERVICES PETITION REGARDING REQUEST FOR BMX PARK AT FIRTH PARK, MUDGEERABA PN291524/16 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of the report is to address a petition requesting that Council investigate constructing BMX dirt jumps adjacent to the existing skate park at Firth Park, Mudgeeraba. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute G13.0723.034 refers: “That the above Petition be received and referred to the appropriate committee for consideration and report to Council.” 5 DISCUSSION Firth Park, located in Mudgeeraba, comprises netball courts, baseball diamonds, rugby fields, a bowls club and greens and a local use skate park bordered by Somerset Drive and Gold Coast Springbrook Road. The skate park is located alongside the Somerset Drive frontage of the park. The area adjacent to the skate park is currently open space grassland bordering Mudgeeraba Creek. Council has received a petition containing 1,912 signatories requesting that Council construct BMX dirt jumps in Firth Park. Firth Park was identified as a potential site for new BMX dirt jumps in Council’s “2007 Strategic and Operational Plan for Skate Parks and BMX Facilities” with funding potentially sourced through the relevant Divisional allocation. The closest BMX dirt jumps to this site are located within Deodar Park, Burleigh Heads approximately 8kms from Mudgeeraba. An investigation into the suitability of the BMX dirt jumps at Firth Park determined the site to be unsuitable for the following reasons:

Close proximity to Mudgeeraba Creek, deemed on the flow path of a major flood event.

High flow peak flooding and associated problems with the Firth Park site regularly affecting BMX dirt jumps, resulting in increased maintenance costs, erosion and sediment loss and mitigation controls.

Need and associated costs in undertaking a flood study to ascertain impacts on Mudgeeraba Creek catchment.

Potential issues with the importation of fill into a flood plain.


ITEM 14 (CONTINUED) PETITION REGARDING REQUEST FOR BMX PARK AT FIRTH PARK, MUDGEERABA PN291524/16 Following initial investigations outlined above, Council officers undertook a site suitability assessment of parks within the wider Mudgeeraba area that had potential to accommodate BMX dirt jumps of a similar footprint to the Deodar Park BMX dirt jumps. The assessment determined that Ingles Park provided the most suitable conditions for BMX dirt jumps for the following reasons:

site has a gentle down hill gradient which is preferable for BMX dirt jump facilities

limited need for importing large quantities of fill

site is adjacent to established trees providing access to shade for BMX riders

site adjacent to a host of complementary park infrastructure including half court basketball, playground, fitness equipment and barbeque

park situated in an area of high youth population The local Councillor is supportive of undertaking more substantial planning and investigation to ascertain the potential future possibility of Ingles park for BMX dirt jumps. It is anticipated that in early 2014, a community consultation event will be held with residents and interested parties to determine suitability of Ingles Park for the facility. 6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs Outcome 4.1: Our active and healthy community embraces recreation, leisure and social interaction Outcome 4.2: We are a safe and secure community and people live and visit without fear Outcome 4.5: Adequate social infrastructure meets the diverse needs of the community Key Focus Area:6 A city shaped by clever design Outcome 6.3: Infrastructure is planned and delivered to meet the needs of a growing community 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS No funding is currently allocated for this project. It is anticipated should Ingles Parks prove suitable that this project will be a Divisionally funded and delivered through Council Local Area Works Program in 2014/15. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Any risks and appropriate mitigations will be identified and considered as part of ongoing investigations.


ITEM 14 (CONTINUED) PETITION REGARDING REQUEST FOR BMX PARK AT FIRTH PARK, MUDGEERABA PN291524/16 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Not Applicable. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES The following proposal has been considered with reference to Council’s adopted 2007 Strategic and Operational Plan for Skate Parks and BMX Facilities and that provides a guide to the holistic development, management and activation of youth precincts. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Manager Parks and Recreational Services


Division 9 Councillor Division 9 Councillor Yes Senior Youth Officer Social Development and Community Safety


Catchment Management Officer Catchment Management Unit


Natural Areas Management Unit – Ranger (South)


Supervising Engineer, Hydraulics and Water Quality

Planning Environment & Transport

Yes

13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS Firth Park was identified within the petition and also the aforementioned skate and BMX strategy as a suitable location for BMX dirt jumps. While the site has a number of positive aspects (including location next to an existing skate facility), further investigation identified a number of land constraints impeding construction of a BMX dirt jumps in this particular location. The petition organiser has been notified of the decision and the reasons why Firth Park is unsuitable. An alternative site is being considered at Ingles Park. A community consultation event will be conducted by the local Councillor at Ingles Park in 2014 to discuss the BMX dirt jumps. Consultation with adjacent neighbours along Wallandra Road and Mudgeeraba Early Childhood Centre is suggested as part of this consultation exercise.


ITEM 14 (CONTINUED) PETITION REGARDING REQUEST FOR BMX PARK AT FIRTH PARK, MUDGEERABA PN291524/16 14 TIMING It is anticipated that a community meeting will be held in March 2014. Pending successful planning investigation and community endorsement, it is anticipated the local Councillor may propose the use of Divisional funding for the BMX dirt jumps in the 2014-15 budget. 15 CONCLUSION A petition was received containing 1,912 signatories supporting the construction of BMX dirt jumps in Firth Park, Mudgeeraba. Further investigation found Firth Park to be an unsuitable location for BMX dirt jumps, due primarily to flood and land constraints. Parks and Recreational Services investigated a number of other locations and determined Ingles Park, also located in Mudgeeraba to be the most suitable, pending a thorough site assessment and consultation with adjacent landowners. A community consultation event with residents is planned to be held in early 2014. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That the installation of BMX dirt jumps at Firth Park is not considered suitable for the

following reasons:

Close proximity to a major waterway, Mudgeeraba Creek.

Land identified within a major flood path due to regular flooding affecting BMX jumps and consequent maintenance.

Costs associated with flood investigation study.

2 That the community be consulted further regarding the suitability of Ingles Park for BMX dirt jumps.

3 That Chief Petitioner be advised of Council’s decision and be requested to inform other petitioners.


Jim Roberts Colette McCool Outdoor Youth Space Officer Director Community Services 26 September 2013

TRACKS REF: 41413597


ITEM 14 (CONTINUED) PETITION REGARDING REQUEST FOR BMX PARK AT FIRTH PARK, MUDGEERABA PN291524/16 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 014 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew 1 That the installation of BMX dirt jumps at Firth Park is not considered suitable

for the following reasons:

Close proximity to a major waterway, Mudgeeraba Creek.

Land identified within a major flood path due to regular flooding affecting BMX jumps and consequent maintenance.

Costs associated with flood investigation study.

2 That the community be consulted further regarding the suitability of Ingles Park for BMX dirt jumps.

3 That Chief Petitioner be advised of Council’s decision and be requested to inform other petitioners.

CARRIED


ITEM 15 SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY SAFETY VOLUNTEER GRAFFITI REMOVAL BY COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS CE31/468/15 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of the report is to present Council with a proposal for a 12-month trial to enable approved community not-for-profit groups to undertake graffiti removal from selected City assets. If approved, this proactive initiative will complement (but not replace) the City’s existing graffiti removal services and is expected to also enhance community ownership and pride. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Council Minute G13.0326.017 (in part) refers: 2 That all existing graffiti prevention programs are continued and new graffiti initiatives

be trialled within existing budget allocations.

4 That a trial of graffiti removal by volunteers be investigated and that a separate report be presented for Council’s consideration by June 2013

5 DISCUSSION 5.1 Background The City of Gold Coast continues to deliver a comprehensive graffiti management program, including various graffiti removal, enforcement and prevention initiatives which have contributed to a recent reduction in graffiti-related costs. Under the existing Graffiti Policy (most recently reviewed in March 2013), the City removes reported graffiti from Council assets, Energex assets (via a Memorandum of Understanding) and private property boundaries. Offensive graffiti is removed within one working day and all other graffiti within five working days. In spite of the recent reduction, the cost of reactive graffiti removal remains high, with the City spending approximately $1.3 million per annum responding to 10,000-15,000 graffiti removal requests. Future graffiti removal expenditure is predicted to remain high due to a number of factors, including: 1 Ongoing population growth and associated urban development (more opportunities

for graffiti and new areas to service)

2 New graffiti reporting mechanisms such as the City of Gold Coast graffiti reporting app and state-wide Graffiti hotline (GraffitiSTOP)

3 Community concern and action by community organisations (e.g. Neighbourhood Watch graffiti audits) and


ITEM 15 (CONTINUED) VOLUNTEER GRAFFITI REMOVAL BY COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS CE31/468/15 4 Increased scrutiny of the city’s image during a period of major city-building and focus

on economic development outcomes (eg. tourism). Community and government agency partnerships are a key way in which the City responds to graffiti. Current partnerships include the Youth Justice Community Service Program and the Corrective Services Graffiti Removal Program. These programs involve offenders removing graffiti from a range of City assets as part of their court imposed Community Service requirements. The City also partners with some Neighbourhood Watch Groups who remove graffiti from private properties (as a service to their local community). These partnerships provide many positive benefits to the City, the participants and the broader community. From time to time, the City is approached by community not-for-profit groups who wish to undertake voluntary graffiti removal from particular assets around the Gold Coast. For example, recently the City was approached by the Gold Coast Skateboarding Association with an offer to maintain two of the skate bowls within the city. These organisations report being motivated by a desire to make a positive contribution to their local community, provide ownership of a particular asset and/or reduce ratepayer costs. The City currently supports a variety of volunteer groups to assist the City with maintenance (eg. the Beaches to Bushland Program and Friends of Federation Walk). Feedback from Officers indicates these programs are working well and that the groups involved provide an outstanding contribution to the local community. There appears to be a growing demand for volunteering opportunities on the Gold Coast, with a number of other City works areas also investigating volunteering programs. 5.2 Discussion To augment the City’s own graffiti removal service, it is proposed that a 12 month trial of a Volunteer Graffiti Removal Program be established with interested community organisations, to remove graffiti at six pre-approved public sites (eg. parks and skate parks). The purpose of this trial would be to gauge the level of interest from community groups, more accurately calculate anticipated costs and assess the community benefits, to inform future Council decisions about an ongoing volunteer graffiti removal program. The trial would see trained volunteer supervisors (known as Supervisors) overseeing small groups of registered volunteers (known as Participants) to remove graffiti from selected City assets on a semi-regular basis. If approved, the City would be responsible for asset selection, provision of equipment and materials, and Supervisor training. The participating community organisation would be responsible for the supervision and management of onsite volunteers while the work is being undertaken. Sites If the City chooses to proceed, it is suggested that a maximum of six sites be included in the trial. Any additional sites would require new staffing resources and additional budget allocations. Given that an expression of interest has already been received from Gold Coast Skateboarding Association in relation to this program, it is recommended that two of the trial sites be skate bowls.


ITEM 15 (CONTINUED) VOLUNTEER GRAFFITI REMOVAL BY COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS CE31/468/15 If approved, the trial will be promoted to community organisations, such as Neighbourhood Watch, who would be encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest and indicate which site they are interested in maintaining (for example a local park). The final sites would be assessed and approved by the relevant internal stakeholders prior to the commencement of any graffiti removal activities. If there is significant interest in the program, sites and organisations will be selected based on the following criteria;

risk assessment of the site for workplace, health and safety concerns

capacity of the group to undertake the work

evidence of ongoing graffiti at the location. Proactive graffiti removal (e.g. weekly, monthly) will be undertaken by the program volunteers at the agreed sites. Following the completion of the trial, a report will be brought back to Council for consideration, which will include a review of the number and location of sites. Considerations The following risks associated with the trial have been considered:

Public Liability insurance and exposure

WHS liability

Inconsistent quality of work

Community dissatisfaction. The trial has been designed to mitigate these risks to an acceptable level. A summary of advice received from the City’s Legal Services Branch is as follows.

The participating community organisation should be a registered or incorporated entity and hold Public Liability insurance (insurance covering their negligence). Personal accident insurance and volunteers insurance should also be considered on an individual basis.

The community organisation should enter into an Memorandum Of Understanding with the City, outlining, Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) requirements, safe work procedures and environmental considerations.

A risk assessment of individual sites would need to be completed and manageable risks eliminated. (eg. no work near roads, no working at heights, no use of chemicals).

A considered process for managing the provision of materials to ‘approved’ community organisations would need to be adhered to.

To maintain quality of service, delegated Supervisors would need to attend training, (provided by City staff) in painting techniques.

To maintain consistency of service, the City’s existing graffiti removal program would continue to respond to graffiti removal requests at designated sites, with work undertaken during the trial providing an additional level of service.


ITEM 15 (CONTINUED) VOLUNTEER GRAFFITI REMOVAL BY COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS CE31/468/15 Based on this advice, prior to the commencement of the trial, a Volunteer Graffiti Removal Manual will be developed and approved by relevant internal stakeholders. This Manual will contain relevant guidelines and procedures, including:

Risk assessments (of the trial and of individual sites)

Management and administration

Induction and training

Provision of safety equipment

Provision of painting equipment

Monitoring and reporting procedures Internal stakeholder responsibilities may include:

Social Development and Community Safety Branch (Community Services) - trial co-ordination, monitoring and evaluation

Maintenance Services (Engineering Services) – delivery of practical training for Supervisors, site instruction and provision of equipment (paint, safety equipment etc)

Asset custodians – maintenance budgets for direct equipment costs Benefits The trial could have many positive benefits for the City, individuals and the community. These are likely to include:

The City could see a modest reduction in graffiti removal costs at selected sites, positive activation of public spaces and greater community ownership of City assets.

Individuals and organisations could gain new skills, a stronger sense of community belonging and opportunities for socialising. A volunteer recognition program would also be investigated as part of the trial, such as recognition at the City’s biennial Safer Suburbs Awards.

The broader community is likely to see a decrease in graffiti at selected sites, resulting in improved amenity and perceptions of safety.

6 ALIGNMENT TO CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs Outcome 4.2: We are a safe and secure community where people live and visit without fear.

4.2.4 Prevent and remove graffiti in the city in partnership with the community 7 COUNCIL POLICIES Graffiti Policy Strategic and Operational Plans for skate & BMX facilities on the Gold Coast


ITEM 15 (CONTINUED) VOLUNTEER GRAFFITI REMOVAL BY COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS CE31/468/15 8 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS No additional funding is being sought to undertake this trial. The City will need to cover the costs to provide basic equipment, PPE and pre-matched paint for volunteers. These costs could be covered through existing graffiti removal and general maintenance budgets. The City would also provide in-kind support. It is expected that the costs and in-kind support required for this program will be minimal and may be offset by the savings achieved. 9 RISK MANAGEMENT Advice was previously provided to Council by the Legal Services Branch about a number of ‘unacceptable’ risks arising from graffiti removal by individual volunteers (who were not members of insured community groups). This trial has been designed as an alternative solution, and has been assessed as having an manageable level of risk, in terms of liability, insurance and safety. The following Community Services Directorate Risk is relevant:

Increased crime (or perception of increase in crime) resulting in reduction in lifestyle and city image.

The proposal to support the trial would contribute to mitigating this risk as it is likely to contribute to a reduction in fear of crime for residents and improve city image. 10 STATUTORY MATTERS Public Liability

Workplace Health and Safety Act 2011

Summary Offences (Graffiti Removal Powers) Amendment Act 2008 11 DELEGATIONS The Legal Services Branch has proposed the following Delegation apply to this trial: After approval from the relevant asset owner, it is proposed that Council delegate the Chief Executive Officer the power to enter into Memorandums of Understanding with Volunteer Community Organisations for the organisation, their employees or volunteers of the organisation to undertake specific activities, as outlined in the approved programme (and supported by appropriate training and induction, documented processes / procedures and set guidelines), with the understanding that the organisation has accepted to indemnify Council in respect of all claims for personal injury and/or damage to property as a result of, or attributable to graffiti removal.


ITEM 15 (CONTINUED) VOLUNTEER GRAFFITI REMOVAL BY COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS CE31/468/15 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted



Manager Social Development & Community Safety- Cathie Culverhouse (and/or nominee)


Executive Coordinator Parks and Recreation Services- Ross Greenwood (and/or nominee)


Manager Maintenance Services- Bob Cunningham (and/or nominee)

Engineering Services Yes

Coordinator Transport Assets- Darrin McNeilage (and/or nominee)

Engineering Services Yes

Manager Network Reliability- Simon Waite (and/or nominee)

Gold Coast Water Yes

Coordinator Insurance, Legal Services- Desiree Della-Mura


Manager, Waste Management- Matt Fraser (and/or nominee)

Community Services Consulted (approval not required)

Manager, Corporate Risk-Tracey Lovell (and/or nominee)


13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS This trial is likely to have many positive impacts for internal and external stakeholders. The trial supports other initiatives currently undertaken by the City. The community continues to express concern about the issue of graffiti, as such, any increase in graffiti removal service is likely to be positively received by residents and organisations.

All levels of government currently have a strong commitment to eradicate graffiti. 14 TIMING If approved, the trial will commence from November 2013. After 12 months, a report will be brought back to Council for consideration.


ITEM 15 (CONTINUED) VOLUNTEER GRAFFITI REMOVAL BY COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS CE31/468/15 15 CONCLUSION There is a strong support from internal stakeholders and the community for a Volunteer Graffiti Removal Program, whereby voluntary organisations undertake graffiti removal from designated City assets. The trial could be managed within current budgets and resources. There are a number of positive outcomes and benefits likely to result from the trial that will support and enhance the City’s existing graffiti management program. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council approve a 12-month Volunteer Graffiti Removal trial, that would be

delivered within existing budget allocations.

2 That Council delegate the Chief Executive Officer the power to enter into Memorandums of Understanding with Volunteer Community Organisations.

3 That a report on the trial be brought back for Council’s consideration by November 2014.

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 015 moved Cr Gilmore seconded Cr Grummitt 1 That Council approve a 12 month Volunteer Graffiti Removal trial, that would

be delivered within existing budget allocations.

2 That Council delegate the Chief Executive Officer the power to enter into Memorandums of Understanding with Volunteer Community Organisations.

3 That a report on the trial be brought back for Council’s consideration by November 2014.

CARRIED

Authors: Authorised by:

Katrina Ross Colette McCool Community Safety Officer Director Community Services 27 September 2013 27 September 2013

TRACKS REF: # 41476692


ITEM 16 SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY SAFETY ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) Refer Attachment A – Draft Accessible and Inclusive City Action Plan 2013 – 2018 Attachment B – CONFIDENTIAL Legal Briefing Note Attachment C - Survey Questions 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s endorsement of the final draft Accessible and Inclusion City Action Plan 2013 – 2018 (the Plan) for public consultation through ‘have your say.’ A copy of the Plan is attached to the report. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Not Applicable. 5 DISCUSSION Background Anti-discrimination legislation (Disability Discrimination Act 1992) sets out Council’s legal responsibilities in relation to providing equitable access and avoiding direct or indirect discrimination. Local governments can progressively work towards addressing these responsibilities by developing and implementing an effective and up-to-date Disability Action Plan under the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA); that identifies a framework for progressively improving access for people of all ages and abilities across relevant areas of the Council’s operations. It is important that subject to endorsement the Plan will be registered with the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC). Currently, more than 170 local government authorities across Australia have such registered Plans (including Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Redland and Ipswich). The City Solicitor supports the need for a plan as it is the best defence available in event of a claim against the City made out under the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Action 1992 (DDA). Legal precedent suggests that councils arguing lack of funds (unjustifiable hardship) for meeting access responsibilities have generally not been favoured by the Courts. For further information refer to attached Legal Briefing Note (Attachment B). Providing good access to the Council’s buildings, public spaces, transport, services and information is important for everyone. Given the city currently has 72,000 people over 65 years and close to 92,000 people with a disability (approximately 20,000 with a profound/ severe disability, requiring help with self-care and/ or mobility and/ or communication - ABS), it is particularly important that we plan for the access needs of these groups. Population forecasting suggests a significant increase in the number of people over 65 years to around 130,000 in 2031 (20% of the city’s population). This will correspond with increasing disability levels in the city and further highlights the need for the City improve accessibility across our operations.


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) It is also important to recognise that barriers to access may be experienced by residents and visitors of all ages and abilities, including everyone from a mother pushing a pram along our foreshore parks, a person using a wheelchair or mobility aid catching a bus, a person with a temporary illness or injury visiting a Council library, or a person with a vision impairment using one of our web pages to find information on Council services. Planning to minimise barriers to access faced by those with the highest needs will ensure access for everyone. Providing good access also makes good business sense, given the associated opportunities for boosting the City’s reputation and promotion as an accessible tourist destination. Research undertaken for Tourism Queensland suggests that the accessible tourism market alone accounts for an estimated 3.7 million trips per year across Australia, totalling around 29.8 million nights. Community Engagement Non-profit organisations and agencies on the Gold Coast that represent, support or provide services to people with a disability and members of the community living with a disability were targeted to help identify what the Council is already doing well, what are the major barriers to access that exist and suggestions for what Council can do to address the barriers. A total of 41 organisations were involved in this process (refer to Appendix 3 of the Plan for a full listing of organisations). A survey was also distributed online and in hard-copy to all Council officers for input (330 responses received). Feedback received from the community and Council officers regarding their experiences of access and inclusion in the city has informed the actions, timeframes and priorities in the Plan. What is in the Plan The purpose of the Plan is to assist the Council in progressively addressing existing or potential barriers to providing equal access. It and has been prepared to comply with requirements of the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) by specifically:

identifying access barriers and/or access opportunities

outlining actions to remove barriers and/or realise opportunities

prioritising actions

identifying who has responsibility for ensuring actions are completed

outlining how monitoring, review and evaluation will be done. Seven priority areas have been developed to reflect the issues identified during the first round of public consultation, covering only those areas for which local government has direct responsibility: Priority Area 1: City services and information - Improve all areas of public

communication and interaction. Minimise barriers to access printed and online information


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) Priority Area 2: Customer contact and community engagement - Ensure

information is made available through our website, email, phone, National Relay Service, translation and interpretation services, and in person

Priority Area 3: City buildings, community facilities and recreational facilities - Progressively improve access to our buildings, community facilities and recreational facilities

Priority Area 4: Pedestrian environments, public transport infrastructure and car parking - Enhance opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to move around the city using all means of transport.

Priority Area 5: Planning and development - Encourage all residents to be actively engaged in shaping the decisions that will impact on our city now and in the future

Priority Area 6: Tourism and events - Ensure tourist attractions and events are accessible and inclusive, including the Commonwealth Games in 2018

Priority Area 7: Employment and training - Attract and retain diverse staff and create a culture of equitable access and inclusion for everyone

The Plan demonstrates that Council has already taken significant steps to achieve the highlighted outcomes, with the majority of actions reflecting the great work already being completed. The Plan recognises Council’s commitment to improve equitable access in the next five years, as budgets allow. Existing activities that have already been approved by Council that will significantly improve access in the city include the Bus Stop Upgrade Program, Customer Oriented Business Improvement (COBI), Customer Contact Strategy, in-house equitable access advice for major Council projects and the Public Toilet Refurbishment Program. Delivering the Plan’s actions Access legislation is being strengthened by successive governments in response to an ageing population and increasing levels of disability. This legislation is subject to ongoing amendments to address gaps and responds to increasing litigation on these matters. As such, there are potentially significant financial and reputational costs to Council as a consequence of inaction. Delivering the Plan’s actions is critical to address access needs of residents and visitors of all ages and abilities, particularly to avoid the risk of complaints while the City is on show leading up to, and during, the Commonwealth Games. Having a Plan in place will allow Council to set priorities for investment in access upgrades rather being dictated by the courts. Actions have been developed to integrate with existing operations and link with existing approved budgets and/ or be delivered by existing staff, to allow for progressive improvement over time. The integration of actions with standard practice will result in further improvements to customer service, e.g. the Website Refresh Project incorporating the achievement of AA compliance with World Wide Web Consortium’s – Web Content Accessibility Guidelines for people with a vision impairment.


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) Future compliance of Council assets The Plan ensures that access considerations are incorporated into preliminary planning and design processes of asset development. This allows Council to avoid costly retrofitting (up to 20% difference in costs than if access was built in early in process) to achieve compliance with legislative requirements that are triggered by redevelopment and asset renewal in the future. In some instance, there are gaps in the Building Code of Australia and Disability Standards that do not address safe practice, e.g. emergency egress from City buildings for people with a disability. In these cases, the Plan provides a framework for consistently addressing matters which are deemed a priority for mitigating risk and enhancing the safety of the Council assets for vulnerable members of our community and staff. Monitoring and review The Plan is an evolving document that will be subject to ongoing monitoring and review. It is proposed that yearly progress reporting will be provided to the community. Actions will be reviewed annually and may in some instances result in amendments or changes to actions to ensure they are timely, responsive to emerging issues and opportunities, and reflect progress. This process will also allow actions to be amended to reflect changing priorities and available budgets. It is expected this will occur at the start of the financial year to reflect the Mayor’s endorsed budget. A complete review of the Action Plan, including evaluation of progress and reconsideration of actions and any emerging priorities will occur at the beginning of the 2016/17 financial year. This process will involve engaging the community and Council staff. Any new actions will be submitted to Council for approval. Training of Council officers A staff training campaign will be developed by the Social Development and Community Safety Branch to raise awareness of access issues amongst service providers. Process/Timing It is proposed that public consultation for the draft Plan commence through the City’s online ‘Have Your Say’ from 4 November 2013 for 4 weeks. A list of survey questions are attached for Council’s consideration. The purpose of this public consultation is to obtain feedback through public online quick poll, discussion forum and survey on the Plan from the following audiences:

- Internal stakeholders and external stakeholder from the first phase of the engagement;

- General public; and

- GCengage Forum members. The draft Plan can then be finalised for registration with the Australian Human Rights Commission pursuant to Section 64 of the DDA.


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) 6 ALIGNMENT TO BODY FUTURE VISION, CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL

PLAN Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs Outcome 4.1: Our active and healthy community embraces recreation, leisure and social interaction Outcome 4.2: We are a safe and secure community and people live and visit without fear Outcome 4.4: Our community is inclusive, supportive and vibrant. Outcome 4.5: Adequate social infrastructure meets the diverse needs of the community 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS The Plan brings together access improvement work that is already occurring across the organisation within approved budgets. Where new actions are proposed, it provides a framework for Council to prioritise investment in access upgrades over time as funds allow. Actions have been developed to integrate with existing operations and link with existing approved budgets and/ or be delivered by existing staff resources. Furthermore, to provide maximum flexibility, the Plan will be reviewed annually to ensure actions reflect changing priorities and available budgets. Any significant changes will be submitted to Council for consideration. Actions are funded and resourced in accordance with the following (refer to table below): 1 Actions that are expected to be completed by 2013 and 2014 have already been

approved by Council and funded through existing approved operational and capital works budgets.

2 Many actions can be implemented without extra funding and will be achieved by improvements to work practices (e.g. including accessible formats of online documents to facilitate screen reading software)

3 Funding for some ongoing actions to be implemented over the next 5 years will be sourced from annual operating budgets, or are part of an approved project where funding is subject to annual Council review. (e.g. bus stop upgrade program)

4 Actions to be implemented from 2014-2015 financial year will be subject to Council’s standard operational budget bid process and justification through the Corporate Activity Framework process.


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) Budgets associated with access improvement works are currently incorporated as part of:

- capital works budgets for asset construction, upgrade and maintenance, or

- operational budgets to undertake core business (e.g. business review and improvement, service/ program delivery, training, etc.).

In most cases, it is not possible to precisely quantify what proportion of a budget for an asset or service is specifically being spent on access improvements. Achieving access objectives is inextricably linked to achieving other objectives such as, safety, legislative compliance, minimising asset lifecycle costs, providing good customer service, etc. For example, implementation of the ‘Public Toilet Refurbishment Program’ as part of an overall asset replacement budget (Action 3.17). The following table provides a breakdown of the numbers of actions under each Priority Area by resource requirements: Table 1: Resource requirements for actions No. of actions to be delivered by

existing approved

No. of actions to be funded through

Priority Areas staff operational/capital works budget (including recurrent and non-recurrent budgets)

projects new budget bid (from 2014-2015)

Total No. of actions

Priority Area 1 23 12 5 1 41 Priority Area 2 8 4 0 0 12 Priority Area 3 20 6 1 2 29 Priority Area 4 20 10 0 0 30 Priority Area 5 17 3 1 1 22 Priority Area 6 18 2 0 1 21 Priority Area 7 17 13 0 0 30 Total No. of actions

123 50 7 5 185

% of actions 66.5% 27% 4% 2.5% 100% A total of 5 actions (2.5%) are subject to a future budget bid, at which time Council can make a decision on allocation of funding based on priorities at the time. If funding for these actions are not provided in future budgets, they will be deleted from the Plan. These actions are outlined in the following table: Table 2: Actions subject to new budget bid (from 2014-2015) Action

No. Action Timeline Responsibility

1.9 Establish an online booking system for accessible cabins.

2015 Tourist Parks

3.1 Review existing access audits, or undertake audits for older branch libraries (where not previously audited), and progressively implement the recommendations as part of ongoing asset management planning.

Ongoing Library Services and Cultural Development


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) 3.3 Review existing assistive and adaptive equipment

and programs, and replace outdated items with more recent technology, to enhance the accessibility of systems for people with a disability.

2014 Library Services and Cultural Development

5.22 Implement eDA (Development Application) for all application types

2018 City Development

6.21 Develop mobility or visitor maps and make them available on the web and in hard-copy as part of the 2018 Commonwealth Game’s information services. Maps are to cover key precincts and include information on:

location of accessible toilets and change facilities

location of on-street accessible parking spaces and accessible commercial car parks

location of accessible pay phones and public Teletypewriters (TTY)

information regarding what is and is not accessible

specific programs, facilities or services that may appeal to people with access and mobility challenges, e.g. All Abilities Playground.

2016 Commonwealth Games Unit

8 RISK MANAGEMENT

The development of the Action Plan is one of the mitigation strategies for:

Corporate Risk CO 000444 Core community and social infrastructure and services does not meet the needs of the population.

Directorate Risk CO000445 Non Compliance with evolving disability legislation and standards resulting in litigation and reduction in city image.

9 STATUTORY MATTERS Council has legal obligations under a range of anti-discrimination legislation as well as the Local Government Act (LGA) 2009. Anti-discrimination legislation requires local government to ensure that it does not discriminate against people on the basis of disability or age in:

the provision of goods, services and facilities (Section 24 of the DDA, Section 28 of the Commonwealth Age Discrimination Act 2004 and Section 46 of the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act 1991) covering discrimination in the goods and services area

access to premises (Section 23 of the DDA and Section 27 of the Commonwealth Age Discrimination Act 2004)

employment (Section 15 of the DDA, Section 18 of the Commonwealth Age Discrimination Act 2004 and Section 15 of the Queensland Anti-Discrimination Act 1991) covering discrimination in the work area.


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) Council has obligations in the area of Disability Standards and to adhere to the DDA Section 31 Disability Standards and 32 Unlawful to contravene Disability Standards requiring compliance in the provision of buildings and of transport premises and infrastructure The LGA places a number of obligations on Councils regarding the provision of equitable access.

Principles of Local Government: Officers performing responsibilities under the LGA are to observe the principles underpinning the LGA. These principles include sustainable development and management of assets and infrastructure, and delivery of effective services (Section 4(2)(b)), and democratic representation, social inclusion and meaningful community engagement (Section 4(2)(c)).

Best Practice: Council Officers are to provide excellence in service delivery (Section 13(2)(a)(ii)) and continual improvement (Section 13(2)(a)(iii)). The CEO is responsible for managing local government in a way that promotes excellence in service delivery (Section 13(3)(a)(ii)) and continual improvement (Section 13(3)(a)(iii)).

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO): The CEO has the responsibility of managing local government employees using management practices that promote equal employment opportunities (Section 13(3)(b)(i)). The Local Government (Operations) Regulations (2010) require Councils to develop and implement an EEO management plan and establish procedures to monitor compliance with EEO requirements.

Access and Equity: the CEO has the responsibility of establishing and implementing practices about access and equity to ensure that community members have access to local government programmes and services (Section 13 (3)(d)(i)).

10 COUNCIL POLICIES The Plan is consistent with the intent of the City’s Equitable Access Policy. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Internal Stakeholders Name of Manager Consulted Directorate or

Organisation Is the stakeholder satisfied with the nominated actions and timeframes in the AICAP

Marian Morgan-Bindon Library Services & Cultural Development, CS

Yes

Ron Jacobs Parks and Recreational Services, CS

Yes

Matt Fraser Waste and Resources Management, CS

Yes

Cath Drinkwater Customer Contact, OS Yes Graeme Wicks People and Culture, OS Yes Darren Stewart Major Projects, EDMP Yes


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) Name of Manager Consulted Directorate or

Organisation Is the stakeholder satisfied with the nominated actions and timeframes in the AICAP

Cathie Culverhouse Social Development and Community Safety, CS

Yes

John Cohen Health, Regulatory and Lifeguard Services, CS

Yes

Darren Langen Community Venues and Services, CS

Yes

Brendan Madden Property Services, OS Yes Nerida Budd Program Management

Office, OS Yes

Karen Vought Information Services, OS

Yes

Peter Morichovitis Chief Procurement Office, OS

Yes

Rob Andrews Revenue Services, OS Yes Warwick Sinclair Marion Horsington

Corporate Communication, OCEO

Yes

Andrew Llewellyn Corporate Asset Management, OCEO

Yes

Tracey Lovell Corporate Risk, OCEO Yes Mark Harvey Executive Services,

OCEO Yes

Adam Spencer Mike Harris

Tourist Parks, EDMP Yes

Richard Pascoe Commonwealth Games Unit, EDMP

Yes

Ray McNab Special Events, EDMP Yes Toni Brownie Economic

Development, EDMP Yes

Kamal Kamalarasa Projects (IDG), ES Yes Mark Ash Assets (EA&P), ES Yes Chris Stephens Design (Technical

Services), ES Yes

Peter McNamee Disaster Management Unit, ES

Yes

Bob Cunningham Maintenance, ES Yes Rod Kennedy Construction, ES Yes Tyrone Gerada Traffic, ES Yes David Hood City Planning, PET Yes Alton Twine City Transport, PET Yes Matthew Hulse City Development, PET Yes Sarah Wilton Corporate Planning and

Performance, OCEO Yes

Paul Gear Operational Performance, GCW

Yes


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) External stakeholders External stakeholders consulted during the Plan’s development have been acknowledged in Appendix 3 of the Plan. 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External/community stakeholder Impacts The Plan will deliver significant improvements to accessibility outcomes for residents and visitors to the city for a wide range of Council facilities, operations, services, employment and information. Internal (Organisational) Stakeholder Impacts Implementation of the actions in the Plan will result in Council officers having a better understanding Council’s obligations under disability legislation. Having a whole-of-City plan in place will assist to guide the consideration of access and inclusion in the operational activities of the organisation and assist to avoid direct or indirect discrimination, exposing the Council to risk of complaint. 14 TIMING Subject to Council endorsement, the Plan will commence public notification through “Have your Say” on 4 November 2013 for 4 weeks. 15 CONCLUSION In the context of strengthening access and anti-discrimination legislation and increasing litigation, the preparation of an Action Plan under the DDA is recommended for councils by legal advisers. Accordingly, more than 170 local governments across Australia have registered Plans. A key benefit of having a Plan in place is the legal defence it provides in the event of a claim made under the DDA. Such a claim has the potential to result in the imposition of significant costs to Council. A registered Plan ensures that upon investigation of a claim, due regard must be given to the priority and timing for improvements already set out in the Plan, rather than these being dictated through a conciliation process or by the courts. The development of a Plan, in conjunction with the subsequent lodgement of a Plan with the AHRC, would formally signify the City’s commitment to progressively improving accessibility to its’ buildings, public spaces, transport, services, information and employment, as funds permit. This Plan provides a framework to capture all of the great work Council is already doing; and it will progressively target priority areas where improvements in access can be made as a result of community feedback. In recognition of the City’s financial position in the lead up to the 2018 Commonwealth Games and commitment to delivering a number of transformational legacy projects, actions proposed in the Plan have been developed to integrate with existing operations. In this way actions link with existing approved budgets and/ or will be delivered by existing staff resources. More than 65% of the actions do not require an operational budget commitment and can be achieved by adapting current processes to enhance accessibility, e.g. improving access to information and the accessibility of print and online information.


ITEM 16 (CONTINUED) ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE CITY ACTION PLAN 2013-2018 CS431/437/08(P6) 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council endorse the draft “Accessible and Inclusive City Action Plan 2013-2018”

to proceed to public consultation on “Have Your Say” for a period of 4 weeks from 4 November 2013.

2 That Council endorse the attached survey questions for “Have Your Say”.

3 Subject to feedback received through public consultation not resulting in significant changes to the “Accessible and Inclusive City Action Plan 2013-2018,” eg: addition of actions or changes to the intent of actions, Council endorse the Plan to be finalised and take effect immediately.

4 That Council authorise the Chief Executive Officer to seek registration of the final “Accessible and Inclusive City Action Plan 2013-2018” with the Australian Human Rights Commission to be called up in the event of a claim under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

5 That Attachment B be deemed a confidential document in accordance with Sections 171 (3) and 200 (9) of the Local Government Act 2009 and that the document remain confidential unless Council decides otherwise by resolution.


Chris Engle Colette McCool Coordinator Social Development and City Safety Branch


26 September 2013

TRACKS #40254914 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 016 moved Cr Grew seconded Cr Gilmore 1 That Council endorse the draft “Accessible and Inclusive City Action Plan

2013-2018” to proceed to public consultation on “Have Your Say” for a period of 4 weeks from 4 November 2013.

2 That Council endorse the attached survey questions for “Have Your Say”.

3 Subject to feedback received through public consultation not resulting in significant changes to the “Accessible and Inclusive City Action Plan 2013-2018,” eg: addition of actions or changes to the intent of actions, Council endorse the Plan to be finalised and take effect immediately.

4 That Council authorise the Chief Executive Officer to seek registration of the final “Accessible and Inclusive City Action Plan 2013-2018” with the Australian Human Rights Commission to be called up in the event of a claim under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

5 That Attachment B be deemed a confidential document in accordance with Sections 171 (3) and 200 (9) of the Local Government Act 2009 and that the document remain confidential unless Council decides otherwise by resolution.

CARRIED


ITEM 17 COMMUNITY SERVICES MARKETS, ROADSIDE DINING BUDGET 2013-14 - EXPENDITURE FN334/375/02/01(P1) 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is for Council to consider approval of expenditure from 2013-14 Markets, Roadside Dining Budget as detailed in the table below. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute F02.1210.001 refers: 1 That receipts from Arts and Crafts Markets are available for allocation by the

respective Divisional Councillor in the same manner as receipts from Table & Chair (exclusive of Broadbeach);

2 That available funds be allocated on a suburb basis for minor streetscaping and

promotion of the locale or Council sponsored activities within the locale where residents and visitors may be encouraged to utilise and enjoy the facilities;

3 Than an amount of 15% of income is allocated to cover administration costs; Ex Minute C98.0603.013 refers: 1 That the Tables and Chairs income be distributed on a suburb basis for promotion,

minor street scaping etc. 2 An amount of 15% of income be allocated for administration and operational

expenditure. 5 DISCUSSION The Divisional Councillor has requested that the following projects be tabled for consideration:

COMMUNITY SERVICES Contact Officer

Div Cost Centre

No.

Location Description Funds 2013-14

Cr Caldwell CR228433

3 TBA Paradise Point Tastes of Paradise Point $6,355


ITEM 17 (CONTINUED) MARKETS, ROADSIDE DINING BUDGET 2013-14 - EXPENDITURE FN334/375/02/01(P1) 6 ALIGNMENT TO COPORATE PLAN AND OPERTIONAL PLAN Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs Outcome 4.4 Our community is inclusive, supportive and vibrant. 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Funds are available within the Roadside Dining Budget Centre CS4510O003. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Not Applicable. 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS Not Applicable. 14 TIMING Not Applicable. 15 CONCLUSION The request for the use of funds from Markets, Roadside Dining Budget is in alignment with the previous resolutions for the purpose of these funds, and there are sufficient funds available in the 2013-14 budget for Division 3 Markets, Roadside Dining Budget.


ITEM 17 (CONTINUED) MARKETS, ROADSIDE DINING BUDGET 2013-14 - EXPENDITURE FN334/375/02/01(P1) 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolve as follows: That the items listed in the table below be approved and funds be allocated from the 2013-14 Markets, Roadside Dining Budget as specified in the content of this item.


Div Cost Centre

No.





Nela Edwards Colette McCool Branch Accountant Director Community Services 30 September 2013 Tracks Ref: #41725928 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 017 moved Cr Grummitt seconded Cr Grew That the items listed in the table below be approved and funds be allocated from the 2013-14 Markets, Roadside Dining Budget as specified in the content of this item.


Div Cost Centre

No.




CARRIED


CLOSED SESSION LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 2009 AND SUPPORTING REGULATIONS PROCEDURAL MOTION moved Cr Robbins seconded Cr Grew That Council move into Closed Session pursuant to section 72(1) of the Local Government (Operations) Regulation 2010, for the consideration of the following items for the reasons shown:-

Item Subject Reason

18 CONTRACT SIGNING: AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP (2013-2017

PREJUDICIAL & BUDGETARY MATTERS

CARRIED

PROCEDURAL MOTION moved Cr Tozer seconded Cr Gilmore That the Council move into Open Session.

CARRIED


ITEM 18 CONTRACT SIGNING: AUSTRALIAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP (2013-2017) LG426/602/-(P28) CONFIDENTIAL ITEM CHANGED RECOMMENDATION COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 018 moved Cr Robbins seconded Cr Tozer 1 That the report be deemed a confidential document and be treated as such in

accordance with sections 171 (3) and 200 (9) of the Local Government Act 2009 and that the document remain confidential unless Council decides otherwise by resolution.

2 That Council resolves to enter into/make the contract (as tabled) between Professional Golfers Association of Australia Limited and Council, in relation to the PGA Championship 2013-2017 (inclusive).

3 That Council resolves that it is entering into the contract as an exercise of its Beneficial Enterprise Powers.

4 That discussions be undertaken with a view to amending the contract in future years to increase the promotional component by a reduction in other benefits.

CARRIED


ITEM 19 MUDGEERABA 14TH LIGHT HORSE REGIMENT LG426/602/-(P28) GENERAL BUSINESS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 019 moved Cr Tozer seconded Cr Grew That $8000 be allocated from the 2013-14 Division 9 Local Area Works budget for the production of a short film outlining the history of the Mudgeeraba 14th Light Horse Regiment supporting and promoting the 14th Light Horse Museum in Mudgeeraba.

CARRIED ITEM 20 SUNDAY LIBRARY OPENING HOURS CS105/221/06(P1) GENERAL BUSINESS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION CC13.1010. 020 moved Cr Robbins seconded Cr Grew That a report be brought back assessing a more equitable allocation of resources to allow Sunday library opening hours across the City.

CARRIED There being no further business the meeting closed at 3.38pm.


These Pages

Numbered 1 to 128

Constitute The Report Of The Meeting

Of The Community and Cultural Development Committee

Held Thursday, 10 October 2013

adopted report community and cultural development ... adopted report community and cultural...

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