canterbury city council · 2010-02-08 · application valued at $75,000 for a falls prevention...

CANTERBURY CITY COUNCIL

ORDINARY

AGENDA

CITY SERVICES COMMITTEE

11 FEBRUARY 2010

CITY SERVICES COMMITTEE 11 FEBRUARY 2010

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CITY SERVICES COMMITTEE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ITEM SUBJECT PAGE NO

1 CANTERBURY CITY COMMUNITY CENTRE - REQUEST FOR

RENTAL SUBSIDY..................................................................................................5

2 NSW HEALTHY COMMUNITIES GRANT SCHEME ............... .........................7

3 REVIEW OF CANTERBURY CITY BUS BROKERAGE SCHEME ..... ...........10

4 2010 SCHOOL POSTER COMPETITION...........................................................14

5 ENERGY AUSTRALIA - 132,000V CABLE INSTALLATION, KOGARAH TO ALEXANDRIA ...........................................................................16

6 PROPOSED M5 CORRIDOR EXPANSION........................................................18

7 PROGRESS OF WORKS: DECEMBER 2009 - JANUARY 2010.......................22

8 STRATEGIES TO DETER POISONING OF TREES ON COUNCIL LAND ......................................................................................................................27

9 USE OF ANIMALS IN CIRCUSES POLICY.......................................................30

This meeting will be recorded on audio tape for minute-taking purposes as authorised by the Local Government Act 1993.


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REPORT SUMMARIES

1 CANTERBURY CITY COMMUNITY CENTRE - REQUEST FOR RENTAL SUBSIDY

• Canterbury City Community Centre (CCCC) has approached Council seeking financial support in terms of rental subsidy for 28 Croydon Street, Lakemba.

• This report examines the request and recommends that the rent be waived for a period of two years.

2 NSW HEALTHY COMMUNITIES GRANT SCHEME

• Under the NSW Healthy Communities Grant scheme and in partnership with Bankstown City Council, in October 2009 we submitted a funding application valued at $75,000 for a falls prevention initiative called “Active in Canterbury and Bankstown.”

• The application for funding was successful and an offer of funding was made through the Local Government and Shires Association on 16 December 2009.

• This report provides a summary of the initiative and recommends formal endorsement by Council before an acceptance of the offer.

3 REVIEW OF CANTERBURY CITY BUS BROKERAGE SCHEME

• In August 2007 Council allocated $25,000 per annum for three years to the Greater Inner West Community Transport to introduce and develop a bus brokerage program across the various community transport providers in the City of Canterbury.

• Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Funding Agreement is approaching an end in October 2010. The final allocation of $25,000 was made in the 2009/2010 financial year to Greater Inner West Community Transport.

• Council has provided $75,000 since October 2007. • There is definite need to continue providing a coordinated bus brokerage

system in the City of Canterbury. This need is highlighted in a survey conducted by the Greater Inner West Community Transport on the Bus Hire Needs in Canterbury and Feedback on the SmartLink Transport Register. A total of 76 community organisations across Canterbury were involved in the survey.

• This report examines the Canterbury City Bus Brokerage annual performance report for the period 1 November 2008 to 31 October 2009 and recommends the continuation of recurrent financial support of $25, 000 for a minimum of three years. This will increase access to buses and to volunteer drivers by non-profit and transport disadvantaged groups in the City of Canterbury.

• The new funding agreement would need to be signed with Inner West Community Transport as Greater Inner West Community Transport will be disbanding in June 2010 and the Inner West Community Transport will be taking over operations of the Canterbury Bus Brokerage Scheme.


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4 2010 SCHOOL POSTER COMPETITION

• Each year Council conducts a Schools Poster Competition with an environmental theme.

• This year the recommended theme for the poster competition is “Green Thumbs – Great Gardens.”

• This report provides background information as to why the theme has been selected, proposes a timeline for implementation and recommends the appointment of a panel of judges.

5 ENERGY AUSTRALIA - 132,000V CABLE INSTALLATION,

KOGARAH TO ALEXANDRIA

• Advice has been received from the Development Manager, Energy Australia, that the Authority is planning to install new underground 132,000 volt cables through selected streets in the City of Canterbury. The work is scheduled for early 2011.

• The proposal route of the cables is along various streets between the Canterbury Sub-Transmission Station at the end of Westfield Street Earlwood, to Pine Avenue Earlwood, where it links up with a second underground cable system that enters our area from Turrella, passing underneath the railway line and Wolli Creek, along Tempe Street and Pine Avenue and into the Marrickville area.

• It is recommended that no objection be raised to the project and the proposed route subject to conditions.

6 PROPOSED M5 CORRIDOR EXPANSION

• The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) has provided information regarding the NSW Government’s proposal to expand the M5 Motorway/Freeway corridor to alleviate traffic congestion along the route to facilitate a more efficient transport network into the future.

• The proposal, which is now the subject of consultation, is to construct an additional east and west bound lane in the existing Motorway median between Camden Valley Way and Fairford Road, provide an additional lane in each direction between Fairford Road and King Georges Road by linemarking, widen the motorway from two to four lanes each way between King Georges Road and Bexley Road and construct a new tunnel(s) [4 lane capacity] for west bound traffic flows.

• The RTA is currently preparing designs to allow for an environmental assessment of the project to be undertaken and is seeking initial community submissions to help identify emerging issues.

• It is recommended that the report be noted and that a submission be forwarded to the RTA on the general issues of concern which are documented in the body of the report.


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7 PROGRESS OF WORKS: DECEMBER 2009 - JANUARY 2010

• In order to keep the Committee fully informed regarding the progress of works, this report outlines the status of each of the projects included in the Infrastructure Renewal Program which is funded by a special levy. Advice on the progress of other works included in other Programs being carried out by Contract is also provided.

• In addition, other capital works projects completed or in progress during the month, have been identified.

• It is recommended the report be noted. 8 STRATEGIES TO DETER POISONING OF TREES ON COUNCIL

LAND

• A report was requested to advise of the strategies used by other Councils to deter the poisoning of trees on Council land.

• This report details our current procedure when dealing with the vandalisation and poisoning of trees on Council land, identifies the strategies used by other Councils to address the problem and proposes additional actions to deter illegal acts.

• It is recommended that in addition to the actions we already take to deal with the problem, instances of street tree vandalism be referred to the Police, the illegal act be reported in the Council column of the local newspapers, notices (signs) be erected on the damaged tree and shrouding of significant specimens be considered.

• It is also recommended that if the additional strategies documented in the report to deal with vandalised or poisoned trees are supported, the amended procedures be documented in the Street Tree Management Policy.

9 USE OF ANIMALS IN CIRCUSES POLICY

• On 27 May 1997 Council adopted its current policy on Circuses – Use of Wild Animals.

• At the City Services Committee meeting on 15 October 2009 it was resolved that the draft Use of Animals in Circuses policy be adopted for public exhibition.

• The draft policy was advertised in the Torch and on Council’s website inviting submissions to be made up to 18 December 2009. No submissions were received.

• It is recommended the Use of Animals in Circuses policy be adopted.


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1 CANTERBURY CITY COMMUNITY CENTRE - REQUEST FOR RENTAL SUBSIDY

FILE NO: C-27-3 PT3

REPORT BY: DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICES

Summary:

• Canterbury City Community Centre (CCCC) has approached Council seeking financial support in terms of rental subsidy for 28 Croydon Street, Lakemba.

• This report examines the request and recommends that the rent be waived for a period of two years.

City Plan and Budget Implications:

Acceptance of the report’s recommendation will mean that rental income of $18,200 per year for two years will be forgone. However, improvements with a value of up to $120,000 will be made to the Council-owned asset by the CCCC. The report supports our City Plan long term goal of Access to Responsive Services.

Report:

The City Services Committee on 10 September 2009 considered a request by the Canterbury City Community Centre (CCCC) to lease our premises at 28 Croydon Street, Lakemba to provide additional facilities for programs funded under the Federal Jobs Fund. The CCCC have received funding of $650,000 under the Jobs Fund program. The City Services Committee resolved to allow the CCCC to temporarily occupy the premises to provide Jobs Fund services. Following the Committee’s decision, we entered into a lease with the CCCC on 14 December 2009 for a period of two years. Under the terms of the lease, the CCCC is responsible for: • Payment of all utility charges • Repairs and maintenance arising from use by CCCC • Rental payments of $18,200 per annum • Provision of public liability insurance of $10million. Correspondence has been received from the CCCC requesting that rental fees for 28 Croydon Street be waived on the following grounds: • Its application under the Jobs Fund program did not make provision for the

payment of rent • Its Jobs Fund application also included mention of rent free accommodation to be

provided by Council • Jobs Fund grant money cannot be used for payment of rent • Jobs Fund grant includes provision of $120,000 for improvements to 28 Croydon

Street. These improvements will increase the value of Council’s asset.


CANTERBURY CITY COMMUNITY CENTRE - REQUEST FOR RENTAL SUBSIDY (CONT.)

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The improvements proposed to 28 Croydon Street by the CCCC include: • Installation of access ramp and rails to rear door • Installation of disability access toilet at rear • Removal of one internal wall • Installation of kitchenette • Installation of reverse cycle air conditioning • Plumbing, carpentry and plastering work • Electrical work • Installation of security system • Installation of window locks and security screens on doors • Painting of all interior and exterior surfaces • Carpeting • Blinds on all windows • Installation of fire extinguishers and fire screens on windows • Landscaping works and construction of level pathway to rear of building • Fencing to separate front and rear yards. Council purchased the property 28 Croydon Street for the purpose of providing additional carparking in the area. Therefore it could be argued that the increase in the value of Council’s asset as a result of improvement works proposed by the CCCC would provide little benefit to Council as the improvements on the land will be eventually demolished to construct a carpark. However the construction of the carpark is dependent on Council being able to purchase 30 Croydon Street and consolidate it with its holdings at 28 and 32 Croydon Street. The premises at 30 Croydon Street is not expected to become available to purchase in the short to medium term as it is currently used as a community facility and this use has been in place for a number of years. It is expected that the increase in the value of our asset at 28 Croydon Street due to the improvements proposed by the CCCC will allow Council to charge a higher rent in the coming years for the property then it would have been able to do if the improvements were not carried out. Therefore it is recommended that the request from the CCCC that rental be waived be supported. This support should be limited to the first two years of CCCC’s occupancy of the premises and on the condition that CCCC agree to complete the above works (and any other work required) in the two year period. At the end of the two year period a new lease (including a provision for the payment of rent) will need to be renegotiated with the CCCC should they seek another lease, or with another prospective tenant.

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT the request of the Canterbury City Community Centre for waiver of rental fees be supported for the term of the current lease on the condition that it carries out the proposed works detailed in the report (and any other work required) prior to the expiry of the lease.


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2 NSW HEALTHY COMMUNITIES GRANT SCHEME

FILE NO: H-11-3 PT4


Summary:

• Under the NSW Healthy Communities Grant scheme and in partnership with Bankstown City Council, in October 2009 we submitted a funding application valued at $75,000 for a falls prevention initiative called “Active in Canterbury and Bankstown.”

• The application for funding was successful and an offer of funding was made through the Local Government and Shires Association on 16 December 2009.

• This report provides a summary of the initiative and recommends formal endorsement by Council before an acceptance of the offer.


If the recommendation is endorsed, the grant of $75,000 will be included in the budget to fully fund all Council and project costs for the establishment of the falls prevention initiative. The report supports our City Plan long term goal of Safety and Health.

Report:

Background The Healthy Communities Grant Scheme is delivered by the Local Government and Shires Association in partnership with NSW Health. The scheme aims to create partnerships between local Councils and NSW Health to promote the health and wellbeing of our older residents. In 2008, a little over 13% of the population in both Canterbury and Bankstown was aged 65 years or over.1 At the current rate of growth, by 2016, people aged 65 years and over will make up over 21% of the population in both Canterbury and Bankstown local government areas.2 Residents in Canterbury and Bankstown are among the most disadvantaged in Australia and there is a high representation of people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

1 Australian Bureau of Statistics, 3235.0 Population by Age and Sex, Regions of Australia: Estimated Resident Population for New South Wales, by Age, by Geographical classification [2008], Persons – 30 June 2008. http://www.ausstats.abs.gov.au/ausstats/subscriber.nsf/0/CDE10AEB7DB0F6EECA25760E001AE6F9/$File/32350ds0002_nsw_2003_2008.xls, Accessed October 28, 2009 2 NSW Health Fall Injury Risk Indicators, Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Advancement, NSW Health. http://mhcs.health.nsw.gov.au/public-health/health-promotion/injury-prevention/types-of-injury/falls-indicators.html, Accessed October 28, 2009.


NSW HEALTHY COMMUNITIES GRANT SCHEME (CONT.)

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Health inequalities experienced by this target group are demonstrated not only by the high incidence of multiple and complex chronic health conditions, but also by the rate of seniors experiencing falls. Fall related hospitalisations in both Canterbury and Bankstown are significantly higher than surrounding areas. In 1999, it was estimated that it would take until 2016 for hospitalisations for falls-related injury in people aged 65 years and over to reach 750 persons for Canterbury and 980 for Bankstown.3 By 2007-2008, actual hospitalisation figures for fall-related injury exceeded these projections with 765 people hospitalised from Canterbury and 1140 people from Bankstown.4 The situation is only going to get worse unless something is done to reduce the falls rates. In addition to the obvious personal and social cost of these incidents, falls by elderly people often occur in public places and may be cause for litigation against Council’s public liability insurance adding to our premium. In both Canterbury and Bankstown current falls prevention programs and activities are not sufficient for the needs of the community. Active in Canterbury & Bankstown Funding being offered under our Falls Prevention Initiative will be targeted to coordinate project activities with the Sydney South West Area Health Service (SSWAHS) Health Promotion Service and other area fall prevention programs. These programs aim to reduce falls in people aged 65 years and over, particularly those from a CALD background and those living in areas of lower socioeconomic status. A Falls Prevention Reference Committee will be formed with representatives from key stakeholders and resourced by a Project Coordinator. The Project Coordinator, to be based at Canterbury City Council, will be recruited part time (two days a week) from April 2010 to September 2011. The Project Coordinator will: • work with and support local community organisations to run a falls prevention

program with their clients/members as well as other members from the target communities.

• help set up, support and recruit people into the programs, linking with existing or new falls prevention programs and community-based physical activity programs.

• develop professional development training for physical activity leaders, in particular those that speak community languages identified, that teaches them how to incorporate falls prevention exercises into their program.

3 Ibid.

4 Population Health Division. NSW Hospital Separations, 2007-08. (HOIST). Centre for Epidemiology and Research, NSW Health. Database accessed October 22, 2009.


NSW HEALTHY COMMUNITIES GRANT SCHEME (CONT.)

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• develop and hold workshops for workers from community organisations to run

‘Stepping On’ or similar falls prevention programs in their community. • provide start-up support for community educators and skilled community members

to run falls prevention programs in the community. • provide start-up support for new falls prevention programs run in community

organisations. • develop new physical activity classes in partnership with SHARE and/or the

Active Over 50 to reduce falls in older people. • coordinate activities and share resources with services in SSWAHS that provide

falls prevention programs. The level of funding for this part-time project ($75,000) is sufficient to cover all administrative and project management costs and offers a generous program support component.

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT 1. The establishment of a Falls Prevention Initiative program in the Canterbury

Bankstown region be endorsed. 2. The NSW Healthy Communities funding offer for the establishment of the Falls

Prevention Initiative be accepted.


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3 REVIEW OF CANTERBURY CITY BUS BROKERAGE SCHEME

FILE NO: C-97-2 PT6


Summary:

• In August 2007 Council allocated $25,000 per annum for three years to the Greater Inner West Community Transport to introduce and develop a bus brokerage program across the various community transport providers in the City of Canterbury.

• Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Funding Agreement is approaching an end in October 2010. The final allocation of $25,000 was made in the 2009/2010 financial year to Greater Inner West Community Transport.

• Council has provided $75,000 since October 2007. • There is definite need to continue providing a coordinated bus brokerage system in

the City of Canterbury. This need is highlighted in a survey conducted by the Greater Inner West Community Transport on the Bus Hire Needs in Canterbury and Feedback on the SmartLink Transport Register. A total of 76 community organisations across Canterbury were involved in the survey.

• This report examines the Canterbury City Bus Brokerage annual performance report for the period 1 November 2008 to 31 October 2009 and recommends the continuation of recurrent financial support of $25, 000 for a minimum of three years. This will increase access to buses and to volunteer drivers by non-profit and transport disadvantaged groups in the City of Canterbury.

• The new funding agreement would need to be signed with Inner West Community Transport as Greater Inner West Community Transport will be disbanding in June 2010 and the Inner West Community Transport will be taking over operations of the Canterbury Bus Brokerage Scheme.


The adoption of this report’s recommendation would mean a continuation of Council’s commitment to increased access to community transport by non-profit agencies and disadvantaged community groups within the City of Canterbury. It is recommended that provision of $25,000 is included in the draft estimates for the 2010/2011 Budget to fund this program. This scheme supports the City Plan long term goal of Access to Responsive Services.


REVIEW OF CANTERBURY CITY BUS BROKERAGE SCHEME (CONT.)

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Report: Background Council provided three community buses that were used by local community groups for free from 1984 to 1996. In 1996 Council withdrew this service as the cost of providing free community buses was viewed as prohibitive. As a result, community groups were directed to a local community transport organisation, local churches or any other organisation which may own a bus to respond to this need. However, the numbers of buses available to community groups were limited compared to the demand by local community groups and organisations for group transport. In August 2007 Council allocated $25,000 per annum for three years (October 2007-2010) to Greater Inner West Community Transport to introduce, develop and implement a centralised and coordinated approach to the shared use of buses through the use of SmartLink (a web based booking system supported by the NSW Ministry of Transport). The Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme was funded to provide: • Non profit agencies and disadvantaged community groups with access to

community transport, particularly non Home and Community Care (HACC) target groups

• Owners of vehicles with a way of deriving additional income from their vehicles when they are not used

• Assistance to financially and socially disadvantaged groups through subsidised hire of vehicles.

Over the last two years Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme has been established and operational with seven bus lenders and twenty one community groups or organisations utilising the buses. In addition there has been ongoing development work which has involved: • liaison with potential bus lenders and volunteer drivers • liaison and promotion with local community groups and organisations • education and promotion of SmartLink system. Records and Statistics of Bus Use The booking requests for both reporting periods in Table 1 reflect the continuing need for affordable bus hire by community groups in the City of Canterbury over the last two years. A recent survey conducted by Greater Inner West Community Transport also reflects the need for affordable bus hire in the area with 75% of responses indicating groups would hire affordable buses.

Table 1: Statistics for Booking Requests Time Frame Confirmed Cancelled Denied

Mar 08-Oct 08 30 2 1 Nov 08-Oct 09 76 2 0 Total 106 4 1 Confirmed =instances of bus hire Cancelled = Borrowing group cancelled their booking Denied = Lender denied borrower request-vehicle unavailable for hire



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It is well established that bus availability in the City of Canterbury is very limited. It is worth noting that five out of the seven lenders are organisations outside of the City of Canterbury. As a result Greater Inner West Community Transport needs to look outside of the City for potential vehicle lenders willing to participate in the brokerage scheme. The two cancelled bookings in the November 08-October 09 reporting period were due to groups not having a driver available. The lack of access to volunteer drivers and inability to afford the cost of hiring a paid driver is an unmet demand. The unmet demand is not reflected in Table 1 as the SmartLink system requires community groups to nominate a driver for their vehicle hire request, meaning that many groups have not used SmartLink because they do not have access to a driver. Hiring a driver can cost more than the actual bus hire. In response to this demand Greater Inner West Community Transport placed an advertisement in the Canterbury Torch calling for volunteer bus drivers in July 2009. Following the advertisement two volunteers signed up. Further developmental work is required to increase the pool of volunteers. Financial Implications The allocation of Council funding to a regional Community Transport service to deliver the Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme is a cost effective approach to meeting the needs of community based groups to access affordable solutions to their group transport needs. The Table below indicates the budget submitted by Greater Inner West Community Transport:

Table 2: Budget of Council Funding Item $

Wages – Transport Development Coordinator 5,000 Administration Costs 5,000 SmartLink Computer Booking System 10,000 Brokerage Subsidy Funds 5,000 Total 25,000

The $5,000 brokerage subsidy funds have not been expended in the first year and half of the funding period but this fund is being made available to community groups in the current 2009/2010 financial year following the development of guidelines in early 2009. Any unexpended funds within the budget will also be carried forward to the subsidy fund in the future. Conclusion Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme is an important transport service in Canterbury, fulfilling a community need for affordable bus hire by non-profit agencies and disadvantaged community groups.



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A recent survey by Greater Inner West Community Transport of Canterbury groups and organisations highlights the continued need and interest in the Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme. This is supported by City of Canterbury Social Profile 2009 which highlights the need for a wide range of community transport options and promotion across the general population. Over the last two years the Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme has made significant progress with the establishment and delivery of a transport service to 21 community groups, has taken 106 booking requests and engaged seven vehicle lenders and two new volunteer drivers. Feedback from Greater Inner West Community transport is that establishing a bus brokerage scheme takes time and relies on groups being aware of the brokerage service and changing their bus hire habits. Currently many groups hire privately through Inner West Community Transport and Bankstown Community Transport, as a number of factors may deter then from hiring through SmartLink. Greater Inner West Community Transport is committed to addressing the challenges and issues faced by the bus brokerage scheme in 2010/2011 with a focus on: • Expanding the number of organisations who can provide their vehicle for hire

outside Canterbury LGA • Develop a pool of volunteer drivers registered with the system so that hiring

groups can access them when required • Continue to promote the SmartLink Transport Register in collaboration with

Canterbury City Council. Recurrent funding for the Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme would ensure the program develops to meet the transport needs of local community groups and organisations in a cost-effective manner.

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT 1. Provision of $25,000 be made in the draft 2010/2011 City Plan and budget to fund

Canterbury City Bus Brokerage Scheme. 2. A new three year Funding Agreement be signed with the Inner West Community

Transport commencing on 1 July 2010. 3. Annual Reports on Performance of the Canterbury Bus Brokerage Scheme be

submitted to Council in October each year by Inner West Community Transport.


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4 2010 SCHOOL POSTER COMPETITION

FILE NO: P-72-6 PT2

REPORT BY: DIRECTOR CITY WORKS

Summary:

• Each year Council conducts a Schools Poster Competition with an environmental theme.

• This year the recommended theme for the poster competition is “Green Thumbs – Great Gardens.”

• This report provides background information as to why the theme has been selected, proposes a timeline for implementation and recommends the appointment of a panel of judges.


Funds have been allocated in the 2009/10 Budget for the Schools Poster Competition. The project supports our City Plan long term goal of Healthy Environment.

Report:

Since 1994 we have held a Schools Poster Competition with an environmental and waste minimisation theme. The competition has been successful in raising the awareness of the local environment and various waste services issues with primary school aged children and their families. In recent years the theme for the competition has focussed mainly on recycling issues with the environmental/safety theme of the 2008/09 competition being “Collecting Our Rubbish isn’t Child’s Play.” The theme proposed for this year’s competition is “Green Thumbs – Great Gardens.” During 2009 Council promoted the establishment of Community Gardens throughout the City area and provided funds to assist with their implementation at approved sites. There has been significant interest in the idea, particularly by a number of schools which are quite enthusiastic and have set aside space within their grounds where gardens could be constructed. To date, representatives from each of the schools that expressed an interest in the project, have attended a one day planning/educational workshop, consulted with their school communities, designed their gardens and are at various stages of construction. Other schools within our area, even though they haven’t participated in the community garden project, have developed gardens which are used as part of the school curriculum to teach children about living things, plant growth and food. The opportunity now exists for us to further promote the educational and healthy living benefits of gardens, whether vegetable or decorative, using the School Poster Competition. It is anticipated that a poster competition with a gardening theme will generate widespread interest and support from the teachers and children.


2010 SCHOOL POSTER COMPETITION (CONT.)

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The proposals for the 2010 Schools Poster Competition are that: • The theme of the Poster Competition be “Green Thumbs – Great Gardens” and that

students be asked to create posters about how gardens help them to learn about how plants grow, the attractive landscapes and healthy food they provide and their contribution in creating a better environment.

• The competition be open to all children aged between 5 and 12 years who live or go to school in the City of Canterbury.

• Advertising of the competition be arranged through the local media as well as our Community Services facilities and directly through local schools.

• Winners be selected in three age groups: 5-6 years, 7-9 years and 10-12 years. • A panel of judges be appointed by Council to select winning entries. It is

suggested that the panel comprise two or three Councillors and two members from the Youth Council.

Winners in each of the three age groups will receive prizes to the value of: • 1st prize $250 • 2nd prize $150 • 3rd prize $100 • Consolation Prizes (x20) $25 (in each age category) Each prize winner will receive a certificate. The poster competition supports our waste services activities and the Waste Watchers Program which we run in schools and which coincides with World Environment Day in June. Once the winning posters have been selected and announced they will be displayed in the Customer Services Centre and at the libraries during Local Government Week in August. Funds of $3,000 have been allocated in the 2009/10 Budget to conduct the competition. The following timetable is proposed for the running of the competition: • 15 March 2010 Competition starts • 28 May 2010 Competition ends • 10 June 2010 Judging of competition (Standing Committee) • 24 June 2010 Prizes awarded (full Council Meeting)

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT 1. The theme of the poster competition for 2010 be “Green Thumbs – Great

Gardens.” 2. Two or three Councillors and two members of the Youth Council be nominated for

the judging panel.


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5 ENERGY AUSTRALIA - 132,000V CABLE INSTALLATION, KOGARAH TO ALEXANDRIA

FILE NO: E-23-3 PT8

Attachments: Cable Route Plan

REPORT BY: DIRECTOR OF CITY WORKS

Summary:

• Advice has been received from the Development Manager, Energy Australia, that the Authority is planning to install new underground 132,000 volt cables through selected streets in the City of Canterbury. The work is scheduled for early 2011.

• The proposal route of the cables is along various streets between the Canterbury Sub-Transmission Station at the end of Westfield Street Earlwood, to Pine Avenue Earlwood, where it links up with a second underground cable system that enters our area from Turrella, passing underneath the railway line and Wolli Creek, along Tempe Street and Pine Avenue and into the Marrickville area.

• It is recommended that no objection be raised to the project and the proposed route subject to conditions.


This report has no implications for the Budget. It supports our City Plan long term goal of Prosperous Local Economy.

Report:

The Development Manager, Energy Australia has written to advise of a proposal by the Authority to install two circuits of 132,000 volt underground cables through various streets within the City of Canterbury. The project, the Authority advises, is essential to reinforce the transmission network that links Energy Australia’s Kogarah, Rockdale, Canterbury and Marrickville substations with TransGrids’ bulk supply point in Burrows Road, Alexandria. The cables will be installed in conduits which will be laid in the road pavement between the Canterbury Sub-Transmission Station and Pine Avenue Earlwood. The proposal cable route will be along Westfield Street, Mooney Avenue, Woolcott and Louisa Streets, Hamilton, Watkin and Twyford Avenues, Wellington Road, Homer Street and Bayview Avenue. It will link with another underground cable which will enter our area from Turrella, passing underneath the East Hills Railway line and Wolli Creek, through RTA land in Unwin Street, along Tempe Street and Pine Avenue and under Cooks River into Marrickville. Some sections of this cable route, although technically within the Pine Avenue road reserve, are in space that has been incorporated into Gough Whitlam Park. A plan of the route is included in the Attachments.


ENERGY AUSTRALIA - 132,000V CABLE INSTALLATION, KOGARAH TO ALEXANDRIA (CONT.)

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Work on the project is expected to begin in September 2010 (although more likely 2011 through our area) and be completed in 2013. Energy Australia will be carrying out an environmental assessment for the project and will implement any environmental management safeguards identified by the assessment in accordance with their Environmental Handbook. In addition, the Authority’s consultation process for the project will include newsletters to be distributed in the affected areas, a door knock of key residents and information in the local papers. It is recommended that no objection be raised to Energy Australia’s cable laying proposal subject to: • The usual environmental assessments being undertaken for the project with

environmental safeguards implemented for any issues identified, in accordance with the Authority’s Environmental Handbook.

• Restoration of any turfed areas disturbed by the cable trenching work through Council owned/managed parks and reserves.

• The cable trenches in road pavements being backfilled in accordance with our specification, the road pavement along the trench route being resurfaced to a width of 3m with 50mm thick asphaltic concrete and pavement line markings being re-established.

• Prior to the commencement of any works on the project, we negotiate with Energy Australia the payment of appropriate compensation for the passage of their cables through our parks and reserves and to compensate for the future restrictions imposed by the creation of easements.

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT, subject to the conditions listed in the body of the report, no objections be raised to Energy Australia’s proposal to install 132kv cables along the routes identified for this project within our City.


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6 PROPOSED M5 CORRIDOR EXPANSION

FILE NO: E-45-10

Attachments: M5 Corridor Expansion Overview


Summary:

• The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) has provided information regarding the NSW Government’s proposal to expand the M5 Motorway/Freeway corridor to alleviate traffic congestion along the route to facilitate a more efficient transport network into the future.

• The proposal, which is now the subject of consultation, is to construct an additional east and west bound lane in the existing Motorway median between Camden Valley Way and Fairford Road, provide an additional lane in each direction between Fairford Road and King Georges Road by linemarking, widen the motorway from two to four lanes each way between King Georges Road and Bexley Road and construct a new tunnel(s) [4 lane capacity] for west bound traffic flows.

• The RTA is currently preparing designs to allow for an environmental assessment of the project to be undertaken and is seeking initial community submissions to help identify emerging issues.

• It is recommended that the report be noted and that a submission be forwarded to the RTA on the general issues of concern which are documented in the body of the report.


This report has no implications for the Budget. It supports our City Plan long term goal of Engaged Community and Effective Governance.

Report:

Background In May 2008 the State and Federal Governments allocated funds to undertake investigations into the feasibility of potential improvements to the M5 transport corridor. The outcome of the feasibility study produced as a result of these investigations is the M5 Transport Corridor Study – Preliminary Overview Report (November 2009). The purpose of this report was to detail the process and outcomes of a number of the studies and investigations which were undertaken as part of the development, assessment and evaluation of strategic options for the corridor. The result of the report is a preferred option which will improve the operation of the corridor and meet the study objectives.


PROPOSED M5 CORRIDOR EXPANSION (CONT.)

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The report documents the study methodology, the needs assessment, develops and evaluates a number of strategic options, refines and carries out a feasibility assessment of the preferred strategic option and proposes the next steps to be undertaken to progress the development of the preferred option. The 115 page M5 Transport Corridor Study – Preliminary Overview Report can be accessed on the RTA’s project website, www.m5corridorexpansion.com.au. Essentially the problem with the existing motorway and the reasons why the studies are being carried out to improve its capacity, are that the current traffic levels and the high percentage of heavy vehicles using the road are resulting in the motorway operating at or near capacity for much of the day with the situation leading to high levels of congestion on key parts of the transport network. Future demand will further intensify levels of congestion along the corridor with growth expected at Sydney Airport, Port Botany, the South West Growth Centre and the Western Sydney Employment Hub. In addition to the Preliminary Overview Report referred to above, the RTA has produced a document titled M5 Corridor Expansion Overview (November 2009) which provides further background information on the transport needs in the corridor, the M5’s importance in delivering Sydney’s transport goals and its role as part of the Sydney Orbital Network. It provides details of the proposed improvements (the preferred option) and outlines the next steps in the consultation and planning process. Again this document can be accessed from the previously mentioned website. A copy is also provided in the Attachments. The M5 Corridor Expansion – Preferred Option The main components of the project include: • Widening of the M5 South West Motorway • Widening of the M5 East Freeway • New M5 East Tunnel • A new surface road from the M5 East Freeway to the Airport and Inner Southern

Sydney. (a) Widening of the M5 South West Motorway

It is proposed to widen the motorway from two to three lanes each way between Camden Valley Way, Prestons to the Hume Highway, Liverpool and between Moorebank Avenue, Moorebank and King Georges Road, Roselands. The additional lanes will be constructed in the median between Camden Valley Way and Fairford Road. Between Fairford Road, Padstow and King Georges Road, Roselands the additional lanes will be created by linemarking the existing pavement.

(b) Widening of the M5 East Freeway

The Freeway between King Georges Road and Bexley Road will be widened to four lanes in each direction. Three lanes will be provided in each direction under King Georges Road. The proposal will require the construction of new egress lanes for west bound traffic on the southern side of the existing motorway at Kingsgrove Road and an additional access lane for east bound traffic.



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(c) New M5 East Tunnel

The existing eastbound tunnel will be retained with the existing west bound tunnel also being allocated to eastbound traffic. A new tunnel (or tunnels) providing four lanes for west bound traffic is proposed. Significant alterations will need to be made at the Bexley Road and Marsh Street portals.

(d) New surface Road from the M5 East Freeway to the Airport and Inner

Southern Sydney A new four lane arterial road will be constructed from Marsh Street Arncliffe to Campbell Road Alexandria to provide access to the airport and inner southern Sydney. Route options in this area will be considered during community consultations.

Issues In discussing this proposal with the RTA’s Senior Project Manager and a representative of Manidis Roberts, a consulting firm the Authority has appointed to assist them through the communications, project development and environment stages of the project, I have been informed that the project is still in the very early planning stages with many of the issues of interest yet to be resolved. The project, which is estimated to cost $4.5 billion, is, at this stage, unfunded; discussions are ongoing with the present Motorway operators as to what the management arrangements will be once the motorway is expanded, ventilation and /or filtration options for the tunnel will be determined during design, the tunnel route is subject to further geotechnical investigation and environmental considerations, and other issues such as impacts on local roads, etc. will be determined through the environmental assessment phase. Consultation will be ongoing through 2010, preliminary designs may be available mid 2010, an EIS produced in early 2011 and planning assessment in 2012. Subject to funding, construction works on the South West Motorway may commence in late 2011 with perhaps construction on the M5 East, in 2013. It is too early, however, to be confident of these dates as the project is still in the very early stages of development. The RTA is seeking submissions on the proposed corridor expansion proposal from interested parties by 19 February 2010. It is suggested that the matters of concern we should bring to their attention are: • The effects the new tunnel portal at Bexley Road may have on the natural

environment, intersection changes at Bexley Road and the need to raise Bexley Road at Wolli Creek to address an existing flooding problem.

• Intersection concerns at Kingsgrove Road and the possible effects on existing infrastructure, open space, private property, bikepaths, road alignments etc.

• Discharge of additional traffic onto King Georges Road, Kingsgrove Road and Bexley Road; roads which are already operating at near capacity during peak hours and for which their passage through the Kingsgrove and Bexley North Shopping Centres further causes restrictions.

• The filtering of excess traffic from these State and Regional Roads through local streets in the City and the need for any traffic studies and modelling to be expansive.

• Ventilation of the tunnel, the location of exhaust stacks, air quality and the need for filtration.



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• Possible noise problems especially adjacent to residential precincts. • Cost/Benefit of providing increased capacity while there are issues of the lack of

capacity to receive increased traffic into the street system at the eastern end of the M5.

Comment Although a preferred option for the expansion of the M5 Corridor has been developed, the proposals are conceptual and will be further developed as the RTA progresses through the consultation and environmental assessment phases. It is therefore too early to be constructively critical of the proposals as at this stage the only detail available is a route line on a plan and a description. The expansion of the motorway will result in an increase in the traffic flows from 95,000 v/day to approximately 150,000 v/day. As previously identified, the issues of concern to us at this stage, relate to traffic dispersion, access and egress, flooding, amenity, expansion of the motorway to the corridor boundary, noise, landscaping and aesthetics. Residents along the route adjacent to the Motorway were apparently informed of the Motorway expansion proposals late last year. Conclusion In the coming months, the project’s design will be developed to a point where environmental assessments can be undertaken on each section. It is recommended that the information provided in the corridor expansion documents be noted, and that a general submission be made to the Authority raising the issues mentioned in the report.

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT 1. The information provided in the report and the RTA’s M5 Corridor Expansion

Overview, be noted. 2. A submission be forwarded to the RTA bringing to their attention the issues

documented in the report. 3. Further reports be prepared for Council’s consideration as the project develops and

more information becomes available.


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7 PROGRESS OF WORKS: DECEMBER 2009 - JANUARY 2010

FILE NO: E-33-1 PT4


Summary:

• In order to keep the Committee fully informed regarding the progress of works, this report outlines the status of each of the projects included in the Infrastructure Renewal Program which is funded by a special levy. Advice on the progress of other works included in other Programs being carried out by Contract is also provided.

• In addition, other capital works projects completed or in progress during the month, have been identified.

• It is recommended the report be noted.


The projects identified in this report are funded in the 2009/10 Budget and support our City Plan long term goal of Good Looking Infrastructure.

Report:

1. Infrastructure Renewal Program Levy Works The five Programs funded from the Infrastructure Renewal Program (IRP) Levy, totalling $3,138,000 are:

(a) IRP Road Resurfacing Program

No Street Name From To Ward Status 1 Attunga Avenue Wolli Avenue The end E Completed 2 Burns Street Brighton Avenue Moore Lane C Completed 3 Burns Street Moore Lane Clissold Parade C Completed 4 Fricourt Avenue Thompson Street Earlwood Avenue E Completed 5 Ibex Street Richard Avenue The End E TBA 6 Mena Street Persic Street Seymour Parade C Completed 7 Shackel Avenue William Street House No.24 E Completed 8 Shackel Avenue House No.24 Homer Street E Completed 9 Wangee Road Yangoora Road House No.23 C TBA 10 Wangee Road. House No.23 Lakemba Street. C TBA Program Allocation $447,000

Block bookings for the abovementioned projects have been made with our Contractor as indicated to carry out the road pavement resurfacing works listed. Significant savings however, can be achieved on the unit rates tendered for these works if we are flexible and allow the Contractor to schedule our Works Program projects around other commitments he may have with other customers. We will take advantage of the situation.


PROGRESS OF WORKS: DECEMBER 2009 - JANUARY 2010 (CONT.)

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(b) IRP Road Reconstruction Program

No Street Name From To Ward Status 1 Churchill Avenue Yardley Avenue The End W Completed 2 Dryden Street Brighton Avenue The End C Completed 3 Halifax Avenue Karne Street Chick Street W Completed 4 Dudley Street Hillcrest Street The Boulevarde W February 5 Hillard Street Lakemba Street Property No. 52 C Completed 6 Waverley Street Stage 2 Rydge Street Southern side

Cobden Street C February

Program Allocation $1,129,000 (c) IRP Concrete Footpath Rehabilitation Program

No Street Name From To Side Ward Status 1 Baltimore Street Omaha Street Albert Street R C Completed 2 Belmore Road Wiggs Road Canterbury Road R W March 3 Bexley Road Douglas Street Wolli Avenue L E February 4 Bexley Road Canterbury Road Jarrett Street R E Completed 5 Canterbury Road Rose Street Victoria Road L W March 6 Canterbury Road Gow Street Moxon Road R W March 7 Chalmers Street Chapel Street Burwood Road R C Completed 8 Cobden Street Sharp Street Waverley Street L C Completed 9 Croydon Avenue Georges River Road Fabos Place L E Completed 10 Dibbs Street Canterbury Road The End R E Completed 11 Downes Street Burwood Road Scott Street L C February 12 Evaline Street Gould Street Duke Street R C Completed 13 First Avenue Ninth Avenue Seventh Avenue L C Completed 14 Fletcher Street Beamish Street Thorncraft Parade R C Completed 15 Homer Street Wellington Road Watkin Avenue R E Completed 16 Homer Street Hocking Avenue House No.196 R E Completed 17 Hopetoun Street Burnett Street Commons Street R E February 18 Joyce Street Moxon Road Cullens Road R W March 19 Karne Street Rhonda Street No.59 L W March 20 Kiewarra Street Legge Street Chapel Street R W February 21 Lakemba Street Moreton Street Burwood Road R C Completed 22 Lakemba Street Ernest Street Croydon Street R C In Progress 23 Lasswade Street Ettrick Street Crieff Street R E Completed 24 Lyminge Road Windsor Avenue Balmoral Avenue L E Completed 25 McGrath Avenue House No.9 The End R E Completed 26 Methuen Parade Karne Street Bonds Road L W March 27 Moorefields Rd. Kingsgrove Road Opp.Rolestone Ave. R W February 28 Moorefields Rd. Kingsgrove Road Rolestone Avenue L W February 29 Myers Street Legge Street Flora Street R W March 30 Pacific Street Kingsgrove Road Arinya Street R E February 31 Passey Avenue Lakemba Street Paxton Avenue R C Completed 32 Peel Street The Boulevarde Leylands Parade R C Completed 33 Quigg Street The Boulevarde Gillies Street L C February 34 Remly Street Leslie Street Canterbury Road R W March 35 Remly Street Leslie Street Canterbury Road L W March 36 Richland Street Opp.Omnibus Road Forrester Street R W February 37 Rogers Street Moorefields Road Dreadnought Street L W February



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No Street Name From To Side Ward Status 38 Singleton Street Morgan Street The End L E Completed 39 Taylor Street Gillies Street Chalmers Street R C April 40 Thorncraft Pde. Canterbury Road Loftus Street R C Completed 41 Wangee Road Punchbowl Road Yangoora Road L C February 42 Wangee Road Punchbowl Road Yangoora Road R C February 43 Yangoora Road Boorea Avenue Yerrick Road L C In Progress 44 Yangoora Road Yerrick Road Neale Street L C February 45 Yangoora Road Neale Street Burwood Road R C February 46 Yangoora Road Wangee Road Yerrick Road R C February 47 York Street Chapel Street Kent Street R C Completed

Program Allocation $360,000 (d) IRP Town Centres Improvements

No Street Name From To Side Ward Status 1 Belmore Town Centre

Burwood Road Leylands Parade. Tobruk Avenue. E C Feb - April

2 Belmore Town Centre Burwood Road

Leylands Parade. Bridge Road W C In Progress

3 Belmore Town Centre Burwood Road

Bridge Road Station Road. W C Completed

Program Allocation $1,077,000 (e) IRP Drainage Program

No Street Name From To Ward Status 1 Tonkin Line 30-15 – Clemton

Park. Jarrett Street /Reid Street

Alfred Street /William Street

E February

Program Allocation $125,000 2. Footpath Programs In addition to the Concrete Footpath Rehabilitation Program, which is funded by the Infrastructure Renewal Levy, there are three other Footpath Programs totalling $605,000 and a Road Resurfacing Program of $957,000 included in the Budget. They are: (a) Asphalt Footpath Reconstruction Program

No Street Name From To Side Ward Status 1 Broadarrow Road Narwee Avenue Fisher Lane L W February 2 Canterbury Road Bonds Road Draper Avenue R W February 3 Carrington Square Anglo Road West Anglo Road East L C Completed 4 Frederick Street Browning Street Moore Street L C Completed 5 Knox Street House No. 23 Burwood Road L C Completed 6 Loftus Street Campsie Street The End L C Completed 7 Loftus Street Lillian Lane Evaline Street L C Completed 8 Seventh Avenue Fifth Avenue Fourth Avenue L C Completed 9 Urunga Parade Robinson Street Rickard Street R W Completed 10 Urunga Parade Cornelia Street Robinson Street R W Completed Program Allocation $205,000



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(b) New Footpath Construction Program

No Street Name From To Side Ward Status 1 Belgium Street Wiggs Road The End L W February 2 Bonds Road Broadarrow Road Iluka Street R W February 3 Florida Crescent Pennsylvania Road Truman Avenue R W March 4 Minnesota Avenue Pennsylvania Road Roosevelt Ave. R W March 5 Parker Avenue Bexley Road Malley Avenue R E March 6 Truman Avenue Pennsylvania Road Roosevelt Road L W March 7 Vicliffe Avenue House No. 25 Bexley Road R E Completed 8 Washington Ave. Kentucky Road Roosevelt Ave. R W March Program Allocation $220,000

(c) Bicycle Path Construction/Repair Program

No Street Name From To Ward Status 1 Cooks River Bikepath Wardell Road - upgrade

road crossing E TBA

2 Cooks River Bikepath Homer Street Bankside Avenue - upgrade ramp.

E TBA

3. Cooks River Bikepath Gough Whitlam Park E March 4 Cup & Saucer Creek

Bikepath Warburton Parade Hughes Park E April

Program Allocation $180,000 3. Road Resurfacing Program No Street Name From To Ward Status 1 Bellbird Street Glenore Road The End E Completed 2 Burnett Street Keir Avenue Hopetoun Street E Completed 3 Clisdell Avenue Northcore Street The End E Completed 4 Ferrier Parade Jarrett Street House No.18 E TBA 5 Forrester Street Kingsgrove Road Richland Street W Completed 6 Forrester Street Richland Street The End W Completed 7 Hillview Street Phillip Street The End W Completed 8 Lucerne Street Benaroon Road Neale Street C Completed 9 Lucerne Street Neale Street Knox Street C Completed 10 Park Street Balmoral Avenue Riverside Road E Completed 11 Parker Avenue Bexley Road Malley Avenue E Completed 12 Prestige Avenue Phillip Street The End W Completed 13 Roseanne Avenue Roseview Avenue The End W Completed 14 Roseview Avenue Chick Street House No.26 W Completed 15 Roseview Avenue House 26 The End W Completed 16 Thorncraft Parade Canterbury Road Claremont Street C TBA 17 Trevenar Street King Street Goodlet Street E TBA 18 Trina Crescent Glenore Road The End E Completed 19 Virginia Place Carparks W Completed 20 Westfield Street William Street Francis Street E Completed Program Allocation $957,000



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Block bookings for the abovementioned projects have been made with our Contractor as indicated to carry out the road pavement resurfacing works listed. Significant savings however, can be achieved on the unit rates tendered for these works if we are flexible and allow the Contractor to schedule our Works Program projects around other commitments he may have with other customers. We will take advantage of the situation. 4. Other Works Work In Progress

Description Ward Waverley St, Stage 2; Edison St to Rydge Street – Drainage, K&G, road pavement reconstruction.

C

Rotary Park – Redevelopment. W Croydon Street, Lakemba – extend car park. C Gough Whitlam Park – Foreshore improvements E Belmore Town Centre Redevelopment – Burwood Road, Collins Street to Leylands Parade – modify intersection, reconstruct footpath and install new street furniture

C

Punchbowl Shopping Centre – Matthews Street, reconstruct footpath and install new street furniture

W

Stafford Walk – (Flinders Road Reserve) – Edging around play equipment E Oswald Street Reserve – Edging around play equipment C Bruce Avenue – Drainage amplification C

Works Completed

Description Ward Wearne St - Road pavement reconstruction. E Belmore Town Centre Redevelopment – Bridge Rd/Burwood Rd, Paragon Lane to Collins St. – reconstruct footpath, install street furniture.

C

Punchbowl Shopping Centre – Rossmore Ave, reconstruct footpath and install new street furniture.

W

Orion Centre – Painting external walls, fascia and awnings C Baltimore St. – Construction of traffic calming devices. C The Boulevarde/Peel St. – Construction of speed control devices. C Lincoln St. – Construction of traffic calming devices. C Punchbowl Shopping Centre – Arthur Street, reconstruct footpath and install new street furniture

W

Beaman Park – Installation of floodlighting, Field 5/6 E Bus Shelter Installation Program – Various locations Various Coolabah Street Reserve – Resurface tennis courts W Unwin Street Canterbury – Road Pavement Reconstruction E

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT the report be noted.


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8 STRATEGIES TO DETER POISONING OF TREES ON COUNCIL LAND

FILE NO: T-36-10


Summary:

• A report was requested to advise of the strategies used by other Councils to deter the poisoning of trees on Council land.

• This report details our current procedure when dealing with the vandalising and poisoning of trees on Council land, identifies the strategies used by other Councils to address the problem and proposes additional actions to deter illegal acts.

• It is recommended that in addition to the actions we already take to deal with the problem, instances of street tree vandalism be referred to the Police, the illegal act be reported in the Council column of the local newspapers, notices (signs) be erected on the damaged tree and shrouding of significant specimens be considered.

• It is also recommended that if the additional strategies documented in the report to deal with vandalised or poisoned trees are supported, the amended procedures be documented in the Street Tree Management Policy.


This report has no implications for the Budget. It supports our City Plan long term goal of Good Looking Infrastructure and Healthy Natural Environment.

Report:

On 24 September 2009 Council resolved:

“THAT Council investigate strategies used by other Councils to deter the poisoning of trees on Council land.”

Comment To deter residents/property owners from taking illegal actions themselves to address issues they may have with nature strip plantings, it is important that the management of Council trees is carried out responsibly, ensuring that there is a regular inspection and maintenance program in place, that issues of concern are promptly investigated and, if possible, actioned and any decisions made communicated. It was partly for this purpose that we developed a Street Tree Management Plan for our City in 1998, reviewed it in November 2009 (CSC - Item 5, 12 November 2009) and prepared and adopted a Street Tree Management Policy which documents our street tree and nature strip management practices. The intention of these documents was to be proactive in the management of our street tree resources – inspect each tree, identify each tree’s condition, significance and value and undertake best practice as necessary (root management, aerial limb management, aerial bundling of electricity cables, removals and replantings) to deal with problems.


STRATEGIES TO DETER POISONING OF TREES ON COUNCIL LAND (CONT.)

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By following the procedures outlined in the abovementioned documents, the frustrations experienced by some residents and property owners as they relate to street and sometimes plantings in parks, may be alleviated. The desired result is that they don’t resort to illegal acts such as lopping and poisoning to address their concerns. This outcome however, is not always the result and on occasions unauthorised loppings and poisonings occur. When minor vandalism of Council trees such as the inconsequential trimming of a tree by a resident occurs, perhaps only to clear branches from around house service electricity wires, the adopted procedure has been to discuss the matter with the resident concerned, advising that, in the future, tree trimming requests be referred to Council for attention. When there has been a major and wilful act of vandalism on a Council tree however, our response has been to: • Send a letter to the property owner in closest proximity to the vandalised tree and

other property owners / occupiers in the vicinity to notify them of the vandalism and seeking information that would enable the person(s) responsible to be identified so that a prosecution could be initiated.

• Undertake remedial tree work, or if the tree has died or is likely to die, to trim the tree to retain a two metre high trunk.

• Plant a replacement tree if appropriate. • Monitor and retain the tree trunk until the replacement tree grows to a size that

contributes to the local streetscape or the stump needs to be removed for safety reasons.

In such instances when wilful acts of vandalism by residents occur (perhaps to improve views, address a leaf drop or root problem or tree aversion), we would institute legal action against the offender(s) if they can be identified and if we stand a good chance of proving our case. It is, however, very rare that we are able to prosecute suspected offenders as no admissions are made by the suspected offender and neighbours won’t come forward as witnesses as they don’t want to become involved in court cases. The above actions are taken to ensure that the suspected offender doesn’t benefit to the full extent by the act of vandalism. Street Tree Vandalism – Strategies used by other Councils A recent survey of SSROC member Councils identified a number of additional strategies used by them to address the problem. Those Councils that responded to our enquiries advised that the strategies they used were to: • Report the matter to the Police. • Issue a media release. • Include information regarding the vandalism in the Council column in the local

newspapers. • Erect a notice, banner or sign on the tree. • Shroud the tree to deny the benefit of view enhancement. • Promote the streetscape and environmental benefits of trees to the residents in the

street.


STRATEGIES TO DETER POISONING OF TREES ON COUNCIL LAND (CONT.)

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Conclusion During 2009, five instances of major tree vandalism occurred in the City of Canterbury: • one Brushbox tree was lopped in Crieff Street, Ashbury • one Eucalyptus tree was poisoned in Merris Street, Kingsgrove • one Eucalyptus tree was poisoned in Leonora Street, Earlwood • one paperbark tree was ring barked in Third Street, Ashbury • one Bottlebrush tree was poisoned in Robinson Street North, Wiley Park. Our investigations into the five 2009 instances of tree vandalism did not reveal the person(s) responsible. However, it is considered that our tree removal notification letters to the property owners in the vicinity of the vandalised trees, the retaining of the trunks of the poisoned trees and the planting of replacement trees act as a deterrent to others who may wish to carry out similar actions. The additional strategies used by other Councils is a ‘name and shame’ approach to the vandalism of trees and does not necessarily improve investigations into identifying and taking action against offenders. However the ‘name and shame approach’ does send a message to the community that tree vandalism is taken seriously by Council and it may act as a deterrent to others who might be considering taking similar action. Overall, wilful acts of vandalism on significant trees does not appear to be a big problem in our area.

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT 1. In the case of minor acts of street (or park) tree vandalism, the action of discussing

the matter with the resident for the purpose of them seeking our assistance with their street tree issues in the future, be continued.

2. For what appears to be wilful acts of street (or park) tree vandalism and not being able to identify an offender to enable a prosecution to be commenced, in addition to the actions we already take, the matter be reported to the Police, media releases be issued, and a notice be erected on the tree or stump.

3. Tree shrouding be considered in exceptional cases if the work can be undertaken in a safe manner with no risk to the community.

4. The Street Tree Management Policy be varied to incorporate the abovementioned additional actions.


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9 USE OF ANIMALS IN CIRCUSES POLICY

FILE NO: C-175-1 PT2

Attachments: Draft Policy

REPORT BY: DIRECTOR CITY PLANNING

Summary:

• On 27 May 1997 Council adopted its current policy on Circuses – Use of Wild Animals.

• At the City Services Committee meeting on 15 October 2009 it was resolved that the draft Use of Animals in Circuses policy be adopted for public exhibition.

• The draft policy was advertised in the Torch and on Council’s website inviting submissions to be made up to 18 December 2009. No submissions were received.

• It is recommended the Use of Animals in Circuses policy be adopted.


This report has no implications for the Budget and supports our City Plan long term goal of Safety and Health.

Report:

Background On 27 May 1997 Council adopted its current policy on Circuses – Use of Wild Animals. This policy was reviewed and the draft Use of Animals in Circuses policy was prepared. The draft policy is more detailed than the previous policy in terms of the requirements that are to be met by all exhibitors. The policy also outlines how animals that are exhibited at circuses and other mobile animal displays on Council controlled land will be monitored. A copy of the draft policy is included in the Attachments. The policy requires that any exhibitor is required to provide a copy of their approval from the NSW Department of Primary Industries who is the licensing authority and regulates the Exhibited Animals Protection Act. At the City Services Committee meeting on 15 October 2009 it was resolved: “THAT 1. The draft Use of Animals in Circuses Policy be adopted for Public Exhibition

purposes and be advertised in the local press and on Council’s website for a period of thirty days.

2. At the completion of the thirty day exhibition period a further report be presented detailing any submissions received and any proposed changes to the policy.”


USE OF ANIMALS IN CIRCUSES POLICY (CONT.)

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The draft Use of Animals in Circuses policy was advertised in the Torch and on Council’s website inviting submissions to be made to Council up to 18 December 2009. There were no submissions received and adoption of the draft policy is recommended.

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT the draft Use of Animals in Circuses policy be adopted.


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