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MINUTES OF THE COUNCIL MEETING
HELD AT THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, BRUNSWICK TOWN HALL
CORNER SYDNEY ROAD AND DAWSON STREET, BRUNSWICK
ON WEDNESDAY 11 APRIL 2007
The meeting commenced at 7.05pm.
PRESENT:
Cr Mark O’Brien (Mayor), Cr Milad El Halabi JP (Deputy Mayor),
Cr Joe Caputo JP, Cr Jo Connellan, Cr Anthony Helou JP, Cr Mark Higginbotham, Cr
John Kavanagh, Cr Kathleen Matthews-Ward, Cr Alice Pryor and Cr Andrea Sharam
APOLOGIES:
Cr De Lorenzis
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
The apologies for Cr De Lorenzis be accepted.
Carried
Cr Pryor has been granted leave of absence from Council.
OFFICERS:
Chief Executive Officer – Peter Brown
Acting Director Corporate Services – Robert Becker
Director City Development – Roger Collins
Director Social Development – Jenny Merkus
Director City Infrastructure – Kevin Burgess
Manager Governance – Lidia Harding
Communication and Research Officer – Kaye Roberts
Executive Officer Mayor and Councillors – Erik Lloga
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES:
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Kavanagh seconded that –
The minutes of the Council meeting held on 14 March 2007 be confirmed.
Carried
INTERESTS AND/OR CONFLICT OF INTERESTS:
Nil.
PETITIONS:
(R1162) RESIDENTS CONCERNED WITH TRAFFIC IN JENNIFER STREET, FAWKNER
A petition has been received containing 30 signatures. The petitioners request Council to install appropriate measures to reduce traffic speed and flow in Jennifer Street, Fawkner.
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
The petition be received and noted.
The petition be referred to the Director City Infrastructure for consideration.
Any proposed action is emailed to North-East Ward Councillors, relevant Portfolio Councillors and Councillors Responsible For, allowing seven clear days for Councillor feedback.
The first named signatory to the petition be advised of this action.
Carried
(120/120/19) RESIDENTS CONCERNED WITH MOTORISED VEHICLES IN ALLARD PARK, EAST BRUNSWICK.
A petition has been received containing 24 signatures. The petitioners request Council to install signage in Allard Park, East Brunswick prohibiting the use of motorised vehicles within the park.
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
The petition be received and noted.
The petition be referred to the Director City Infrastructure for consideration.
Any proposed action is emailed to North-East Ward Councillors, relevant Portfolio Councillors and Councillors Responsible For, allowing seven clear days for Councillor feedback.
The first named signatory to the petition be advised of this action.
Carried
(P18027) 33 – 35 MITCHELL STREET, BRUNSWICK
A petition has been received containing 31 signatures. The petitioners object to the proposed development located at 33 – 35 Mitchell Street, Brunswick.
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
The petition be received and noted.
The petition be referred to the Director City Development for consideration.
The first named signatory to the petition be advised of this action.
The North-East Ward Councillors, Cr Helou, Cr Sharam, Cr O’Brien & Cr De Lorenzis, will be advised of any consultative meeting arranged to discuss the planning permit application and will be advised of the outcome in this matter.
Carried
MAYOR AND COUNCILLOR’S CORRESPONDENCE:
The following correspondence was called for:-
Cr Matthews-Ward Doc. No. 360882, 360183.
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr El-Halabi seconded that –
The Mayor and Councillor’s correspondence be received and noted.
Carried
REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE TO COUNCIL:
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that –
The reports from Committee to Council be received and noted.
Carried
QUESTION TIME:
Mr Carlo Carli MP - Brunswick
Mr Carli MP alerted Councillors to the Eddington Inquiry currently out for public submission. In March 2007, the Bracks Government announced the appointment of Sir Rod Eddington to undertake an "east-west link needs assessment study" (hence the "Eddington Inquiry”). Essentially, according to the overview and the terms of reference for the study, Sir Eddington will inquire into and report on the need for an additional east-west transport corridor. Mr Carli has written a 33 page submission, rejecting the need for such a study that such a transport corridor is not needed and would be costly, undermine current commitments/investments in public transport and would have adverse effects on the social and physical environment.
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr El-Halabi seconded that –
Council resolves that a report be presented to Council regarding the Eddington Inquiry and Council make a submission to the inquiry, which supports sustainable options.
Carried
Ms Jennifer Borrell - Coburg
Ms Borrell advised Council in relation to the proposed development at 251 Sydney Road, Coburg that she was concerned about the height and bulk of the development on the residential area. Has each Councillor closely compared the requirements as determined by DSE to ensure compliance?
Cr Connellan spoke to a diagram that was prepared by Council officers that shows Council’s recommended height and bulk for the development.
Ms Meghan Haltarki - Coburg
Ms Haltarki advised Council that although Council has actively endorsed/promoted the CC2020 document why is the applicant of the proposed development at 251 Sydney Road, Coburg not being asked to comply with the CC2020 recommendations?
Cr Connellan advised that Council adopted the CC2020 in August
2006, long after the application for 251 Sydney Road, Coburg was received by
Council, and therefore Council cannot ask the applicant to retrospectively
comply with the CC2020 provisions that were set after the application was
received.
Susan – Coburg
Susan asked in relation to the proposed development at 251 Sydney Road, Coburg, if Council would require the applicant to submit new plans, which include the revised environmental designs and DSE requirements?
Cr Connellan advised there would be no requirement for Council to see revised plans; the applicant just needs to ensure that they comply with the permit conditions.
Ms Chris Star – Northcote
Ms Star is a member of the Yarra Bicycle Users Group. She asked Council why, in relation to the site at 815 Nicholson Street, East Brunswick, it was ignoring the Yarra City Council Linear Park master plan recommendations and seeking expressions of interest for the site?
Cr Helou advised that Council is calling for expressions of interest to allow people to make suggestions for what they believe could be built on the site.
Cr Matthews-Ward advised that although Yarra City Council
consultation had occurred, Moreland City Council would prefer to do some of it’s
own consultation. It is difficult when a site is shared by two Council
boundaries.
Ms Rebecca Skinner – Carlton North
Ms Skinner asked Council in relation to the site at 815 Nicholson Street, East Brunswick if it was definitely not being developed as a park and if not how would Council ensure that that the quality of the proposed building would be of good quality?
Cr Helou advised that whatever is applied for will be via a
planning application which will be assessed and the community will be given an
opportunity to make submissions through a consultation process. That process
will be the community’s opportunity to have their say.
Ms Lucy Carew-Reid – Northcote
Ms Carew-Reid congratulated Council on preparing the Climate Action Plan 2007-2012 and asked when the community would see actions from the plan being implemented?
Cr Connellan advised that the Directors would now approach
Council during the budget process to commit funding for the actions to be
implemented.
Mr Noel Blencowe – Brunswick
Mr Blencowe asked Council what support it could give to the Community Climate Action Group to assist them in actioning some of the actions coming out of the Climate Action Plan 2007 2012?
Cr Connellan advised that the group needs to let Council know what support they require and Council will consider the requirements identified.
Mr Rys Freeman – Brunswick
Mr Freeman asked Council if it would be willing to reduce its vehicle fleet and gas emissions and consider using electric cars?
Cr Connellan advised that this is one of the actions identified in the Climate Action Plan.
Cr Higginbotham advised that when he was Mayor he drove a part electric car. Although they reduce gas emissions people need to understand that there are other environmental effects that emerge when the car is not operating and may need to be destroyed.
Mr Brett Casley
Mr Casley asked in relation to the proposed development at 251 Sydney Road, Coburg if Council had given any consideration to the parking requirements when considering the application?
Cr Connellan advised that Council had undertaken an adequate parking assessment for the site as part of the assessment of the application.
Mr Ken Blair – Glenroy
Mr Blair advised Council in relation to a report considered at the March Council meeting regarding Winter Ground Allocations, point 2 of the recommendation stated ‘that no training or competition be permitted on any reserve deemed unsuitable for use, excluding juniors aged 12 years and under participating in skill based training only subject to allocation by Council – all competitive training and competition strictly prohibited’.
Mr Blair has sited clubs in both codes including senior clubs who are not complying with this recommendation. When will Council investigate these clubs?
Cr Kavanagh advised that Council is aware that some clubs are
not complying with the recommendation and all the issues that Mr Blair has
raised with him are being investigated and the clubs are being sent letters.
Ms Anna Stremple
Ms Stremple is part of a bike user group who are concerned that issues identified regarding the bike paths in the north of the municipality will not be actioned because they are not adequately budgeted for. Will Council consider increasing the budget amount for bike paths in the north in line with other surrounding Council’s commitments?
Cr Matthews-Ward advised that officers have put in their budget bids for the 2007-2008 budget and have suggested $180k be allocated to bike paths. This amount is defined by officer’s capability to complete works in the area. Council has also applied for a Parks Victoria grant.
Cr Higginbotham advised that the budget is not finalised, there is till a lot of work to be done. Although officers are suggesting an $180k budget, Councillors may consider increasing this amount when the budget is looked at in more detail.
Peter Brown, Chief Executive Officer advised that Council is
working with Christine Campbell MP to upgrade the Upfield Bike Path. There are a
number of future plans for bike paths within the north.
“ON NOTICE” ITEMS FROM PREVIOUS COUNCIL MEETING:
Nil.
COUNCILLORS ITEMS:
CRAS4 PEAK OIL
Peak oil is the simplest label for the problem of energy resource depletion, or more specifically the peak in global oil production. Australia’s oil imports now cost $10 billion per year and account for no less that 60% of Australia’s balance of payments deficit.
Cr Sharam moved, Cr Connellan seconded that -
Council resolves:
That a report be prepared within 3 months that: -
Includes an inventory of all the petro-chemical products used by Council and (a) the current cost per annum to Council of these products, and (b) projected costs into the future given the Strategic Resource Plan and the various asset management plans;
Forecasts the budget impact of two scenarios: (1) a 10% increase in prices over the next 3 years, and (2) a 30% increase in prices over the next 10 years.
Carried
CRJCA10 EAST TIMOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
Cr Caputo advised that he and Cr Higginbotham attended the recent East Timor Presidential Election as part of Council's ongoing work with East Timor. The Presidential Election was held last Monday and Councillors participated as UN volunteers to oversee the election as observers. It was the first election conducted by the local electoral commission of East Timor. 19 delegates went from Australia, seven of which had a direct relationship with Moreland’s sister city of Alieu. There was a 90% voter participation rate and 8 candidates for the election. At this stage there is no elected candidate and therefore the election will go to a second round of votes. This second round will determine the outcome of the Parliamentary Election scheduled for sometime in July 2007.
CRKM8 TRANSPORT NEEDS OF MORELAND AND DAREBIN COUNCILS
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Connellan seconded that -
Council resolves to approach Darebin City Council to form a joint delegation to the Federal Shadow Minister for Transport to discuss the transport needs of Moreland and Darebin and to discuss the need for a Federal Government to fund sustainable transport options.
Carried
CRKM9 AGED CARE FUNDING
Cr Matthews- Ward moved, Cr Higginbotham seconded that -
Council resolves to write to local federal MP Kelvin Thomson about the growing needs in aged care, both in residential and home and community care services and packages asking him to advocate for improved federal funding in these areas.
Carried
CRMH7 EAST TIMOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
Cr Higginbotham reported on his recent visit to Timor Leste. He reiterated the requirement for infrastructure to be developed/established in East Timor including roads, electricity and water.
He advised that Australia has a lot to learn from the election that took place in East Timor. Some of the items he noted included:
The inclusion of photos of candidates on the ballot papers,
Education process for people of which many are illiterate,
People vote early in the fear that they will miss out on voting in the afternoon,
The people wait to see the count and participate fully in the democratic process.
He encouraged Moreland citizens who are willing to volunteer in
East Timor to do so.
CRME1 EAST TIMOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
Cr El-Halabi moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that –
Council resolves:
To congratulate Cr Joe Caputo and Cr Mark Higginbotham and extend to them our sincere thanks for their contribution to the recent presidential election in East Timor.
To express our sincere appreciation to the Councillors families for making it possible for them to assist our near neighbour at this time of great need and importance in their history.
To write a letter to the defence force encouraging them to provide free flights to Dili for people wanting to volunteer at the elections.
Carried
CRME2 SPORTING CLUB COMPETITION
Cr El-Halabi advised that as a Council we see many examples of our community’s diversity. One of the most helpful things in breaking down ethnic barriers is sport.
The aim is to show contribution to our various communities made to sport in Moreland.
Cr El-Halabi moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
Council resolves:
To highlight and celebrate the diversity in sporting quests by Moreland residents, the Council carry out a competition to find the most diverse sporting club in Moreland. The competition would seek to award the following categories:
Most diverse women’s summer sports team
Most diverse men’s summer sports team
Most diverse women’s winter sports team
Most diverse men’s winter sports team
Most diverse children’s summer sports team
Most diverse children’s winter sports team
Most diverse disabled summer sports team
That the main prize would be coverage in Council publications and an award to be placed in the clubhouse.
That officers will communicate with Councillors Responsible For Social Diversity and Harmony and Councillors Responsible For Recreation/Leisure to develop the terms of the competition.
That a report will be presented to the Council meeting outlining operation of the competition.
Carried
CRME3 CERES IN THE NORTH
Cr El-Halabi reminded officers that on 9 August 2006 he called for a report regarding the possibility of starting a CERES in the north. He would like that report presented to Council in the May cycle.
CRJK4 SPORTING CLUB MILESTONES
Cr Kavanagh advised that during his time on Council he has
attended celebrations for many sporting clubs including Coburg Cricket Clubs
150th celebrations and Glenroy Bowls and Glenroy Football Clubs 50 year
celebrations. We need to recognise these achievements and by extension the role
these clubs play in contributing to the life of Moreland, more formally.
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that -
Council resolves that on the occasion of a particular sporting club celebrating an important milestone that the club be presented with a plaque from Moreland City Council thanking the club for the contribution they make to the life of this city.
Carried
CRJK5 SPORTING GROUNDS CONDITION STATUS REPORT
Cr Kavanagh advised that the following sporting grounds could now be classified as suitable for limited usage under allocation for junior and senior training by Council’s Leisure Services area:
Balfe Park
Cole Reserve South Turf
Cole Reserve South Soccer
JP Fawkner Reserve West
Moomba Park
Mutton Reserve West
Oak Park West
Richards Reserve
Sewell Reserve
Sumner Park
City Oval
CB Smith Reserve
Clubs will be advised to what levels of usage will be permitted on each ground.
CRMO4 BRUNSWICK MUSIC FESTIVAL
Cr O’Brien advised that the Brunswick Music Festival was held in March and April 2007. The festival was very successful.
CRMO5 COBURG TIGERS FOOTBALL CLUB
Cr O’Brien attended the first match of the Coburg Tigers Football Club on Easter Sunday and commented on how impressed he was with the size of the crowd.
COUNCIL REPORTS:
DCD21 ADOPTION OF COMBINED AMENDMENT C59 & MPS 2005/0020 - 251 SYDNEY ROAD, COBURG (280/080/140)
Director City Development reporting on the recommendation of the
independent Planning Panel appointed to consider combined Amendment C59 and
Planning Permit Application MPS 2005/0020 for land at 251 Sydney Road, Coburg.
The combined amendment seeks to rezone the site from the Business 3 Zone to the
Business 2 Zone, apply the Environmental Audit Overlay, develop the land with a
four storey building for apartments and commercial use and reduce the standard
car parking requirements.
A Panel Hearing was held in November 2006 to consider the combined amendment and submissions from the public. The Panel has recommended that the combined amendment be supported subject to some changes.
This report recommends that combined Amendment C59 be adopted subject to changes to the draft permit generally as recommended by the Panel, and that it be submitted to the Minister for Planning for approval.
Cr Connellan moved, Cr Sharam seconded that –
Council resolve:
To note the recommendations in the Panel Report for combined Amendment C59 and Planning Permit Application MPS 2005/0020.
To endorse the officer response to the recommendations in the Panel Report as included in Panel Report Amendment C59 and MPS 2005/0020 – Officer response to Panel Recommendations (Attachment 3)
To submit combined Amendment C59 and Planning Permit Application MPS 2005/0020 to the Minister for Planning for approval.
To notify the proponent and all submitters of this resolution.
Lost
Cr Helou moved, Cr El-Halabi seconded that –
Council resolve:
To note the recommendations in the Panel Report for combined Amendment C59 and Planning Permit Application MPS 2005/0020.
To endorse the officer response to the recommendations in the Panel Report as included in Panel Report Amendment C59 and MPS 2005/0020 – Officer response to Panel Recommendations (Attachment 3) with the following exception
Support in full Panel Recommendation Number 6 and amend
the draft planning permit accordingly.
To submit combined Amendment C59 and Planning Permit Application MPS 2005/0020 to the Minister for Planning for approval.
To notify the proponent and all submitters of this resolution.
Carried
Cr Connellan and Cr Sharam requested that it be recorded in the minutes that they voted against the motion.
DCD23 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN 2007 - 2012 (140/060/28)
It is now widely accepted that climate change poses a serious threat to the global community. The overwhelming majority of the world’s scientists agree that the world’s climate is changing due to human activities that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere creating the enhanced greenhouse effect.
In 2001, Council created the Greenhouse Abatement Strategy, Greenhouse Action Plan (GASGAP). During 2006, a review of GASGAP and a re-inventory of Council’s emissions and energy spend were undertaken. The inventory revealed that in 2004/05, Council spent over $2.6 million on energy. With sufficient support and management commitment, this significant financial outlay can be minimised through the implementation of the Climate Action Plan (CAP) 2007 – 2012 (CAP) (See under separate cover Attachment 1).
The CAP has been developed to demonstrate leadership on climate action and achieve major greenhouse emission reductions and financial savings for Council. The Climate Action Framework includes KPI’s, monitoring and reporting obligations.
The report recommends that Council endorse the Climate Action Plan 2007-2012.
Cr Connellan moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that –
Council resolve:
To endorse the Climate Action Plan 2007 – 2012 with the following additional actions
Page 33 – Community Actions
Circulate (via rate notices, Council newsletters etc) information to all residents on an annual basis that will provide information on what they can do to reduce their household emissions to zero.
Social Development Department to prepare a plan on
how Council can utilise all its existing networks – neighbourhood
houses, senior citizens clubs, sporting clubs etc - as a tool for
community engagement and information on climate change issues.
P23 – Council Leadership Actions
Council will support Pacific region nations by developing an employment strategy for environmental refugees. (Delete references on P45 to numbers of environmental refugees.)
Urge the State and Federal Governments to quickly
establish ambitious emission reduction targets and appropriate
implementation strategies
P30 – Asset Management/Capital Works
Revise the Open Space and Landscape Strategies to reflect
The impact of expected reduced rainfalls on the management of Councils open space and sporting fields
The growing importance of trees as carbon sinks
in both public and private spaces
(Could be as an addendum rather than complete revisions)
P 29 – Council Fleet/Transport Actions
Reduce the level of free car parking at the Civic Centre to encourage greater use of alternate commuting modes.
Improve and expand the cycling network
Investigate the implementation of a guaranteed ride
home policy for staff using non car commuting modes who are required
to work late and/or attend emergencies
P 31 Street Lighting Actions
Ensure that, in developing the Sustainable Lighting
Action Plan, walkability is taken into account in all new and
changeover projects.
P 26 Building Actions
When planning new or rationalising existing buildings, facilities and assets ensure that walkability and sustainable transport options are a key consideration,
Promote MEFL services through the building and
planning departments
P 27 – Corporate Services
In Offset action
Investigate the potential for Council to participate
in an emissions trading scheme both as a purchaser and provider of
carbon credits
To refer the Climate Action Plan 2007 – 2012 implementation to the 2007/2008 Budget Process, with each Directorate providing advice on the expected costs and savings of implementation.
Carried
DCI18 EXPRESSION OF INTEREST - 815 NICHOLSON STREET, BRUNSWICK
EAST (P01835)
Council is the Committee of Management over a piece of Crown land at 815
Nicholson Street, Brunswick East (formerly occupied by a Video Ezy store). The
lease has ended and the tenant has vacated the premises. The former lease
provided that the tenant would demolish the building at the end of the term.
On 11 October 2006 (DCI77) Council resolved to seek Expressions of Interest and to undertake an in-house feasibility study for its potential uses.
The purpose of this report is to provide the outcome of the Expression of Interest process and the feasibility study.
Cr Helou moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that –
Council resolve:
To develop a tender specification based on the following uses:
Restaurant;
Bike Shop;
Public Toilets;
Tourism Information Centre;
Or other uses compatible with the Open Space Masterplan and Department of Sustainability and Environment advice;
Improve the bike path alignment
To invite tenders for the use and development of the site.
To authorise the Director City Infrastructure the authority to develop the tender specification and call for tenders.
Receive a report on the outcome of the tender process for consideration.
To undertake further consultation once the have been received.
Carried
Cr Connellan and Cr Sharam requested that it be recorded in the
minutes that they voted against the motion.
DCS13 RE-APPOINTMENT OF CEO (1023)
Director Corporate Services reporting on the decision to re-appoint the CEO for the period of October 2007 to October 2010 plus a 2 year option to October 2012 in accordance with section 94 of the Local Government Act 1989.
Cr Caputo moved, Cr Kavanagh seconded that –
Council resolves:
To re-appoint the CEO, Peter Brown for the period of October 2007 to October 2010 plus a 2 year option to October 2012 based on the current contract package subject to the annual performance review, an increase of up to 4% of the Total Remuneration Package being available annually.
To write to the CEO advising him of its decision and thanking him for his work and leadership of the administration for the Moreland City Council during 2005/2006 enclosing a new employment contract.
Carried
DCS15 PROPOSED VISIT TO MORELAND BY XIANYANG DELEGATION
(230/085/2)
Council has a strong and active commitment to its special relationship with the
City of Xianyang in the Province of Shaanxi, China. The commitment embraces
opportunities for co-operative relationships between the governments, residents,
businesses and institutions of Moreland and Xianyang.
In December 2006, Council received a letter from Mr Tian Yihong,
Director Foreign Affairs Office, Xianyang Municipal People’s Government advising
that Mr Qian Junchang, Mayor of Xianyang would like to visit Moreland in early
2007. Council has now been advised that this visit will take place at the end of
May 2007.
8.55pm Cr Matthews-Ward left the Council Chamber.
9.01pm Cr Matthews-Ward returned to the Council Chamber and resumed her seat.
Cr Caputo moved, Cr Higginbotham seconded that –
Council resolve to endorse the visit from representatives of the Xianyang Municipal People’s Government in late May 2007 and allocate $5000 from the Mayor and Councillors budget to fund this delegation.
Carried
Cr Kavanagh requested that it be recorded in the minutes that he voted against the motion.
DCS16 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REPORT - PERIOD ENDED 28 FEBRUARY
2007 (050/010/2)
Director Corporate Services presenting the Financial Management Report for the
financial year-to-date (YTD) period ending 28 February 2007.
The operating result for Council is above budget by $0.046M, with revenue above budget by $0.316M and expenditure above budget by $0.270M. This overall position is affected by a combination of both permanent and timing differences. Timing differences, which exist across the organization, will need to be carefully managed. The risk exists that some of these differences with translate into permanent negative results, or in the case of tied grant funding be committed to future year spending. Overall capital program spending is $1.733M (9.3%) behind budget at this time.
Attachment 1 provides analysis on these differences and identifies where possible the nature of individual budget variances.
Cr Caputo moved, Cr Helou seconded that –
Council resolves to receive the Financial Management Report for the period to 28 February 2007.
Carried
DCS17 SUPPLEMENTARY VALUATION RETURN (220/090/4)
Council are required to carry out supplementary valuations between general valuations in accordance with the Valuation of Land Act 1969.
Supplementary valuations are required where properties have:
physically changed – for example, when buildings are altered, erected or demolished; or
amalgamated, subdivided, portions sold off or rezoned.
Supplementary valuations may also be included in the return to Council where
there is a change to rateability or objection to valuations.
Included in the supplementary valuation return are 832 properties, which will result in an increase in the capital improved value of rateable properties of $66,014,760. The amount of rate revenue to be levied as a result of the supplementary valuations will be approximately $85,000.
Supplementary rate and valuation notices will be issued to property owners for the rates levied following Council approval.
Cr Caputo moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that –
Council resolves to receive and approve the supplementary valuation return as identified and outlined in the tabled document ‘Supplementary Valuation Return - Moreland City Council, as at 1 October 2006.’
Carried
DCD20 APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT C30 TO THE MORELAND PLANNING SCHEME
(280/080/101)
Amendment C30 affects 22 Nicholson Street, East Brunswick and seeks to correct a zoning anomaly, which occurred with the introduction of the New Format Planning Scheme, where the land was included in two zones. The land is currently in the Residential 1 Zone and the Industrial 3 Zone.
The amendment proposes to rezone the industrial part of the land to a residential zone and to apply the Environmental Audit Overlay. This will provide the opportunity for the entire property to be used for a residential use, consistent with the Moreland Industrial Land Use Strategy 2004 (MILUS).
Submissions received to the amendment following the statutory public exhibition period, resulted in an independent Panel being appointed by the Minster for Planning to consider the merits and submissions to Amendment C30.
Council received the Panel report on 10 November 2006, the recommendation being that Amendment C30 should be adopted as exhibited.
The Acting Director City Development, under delegated Council authority, adopted Amendment C30 on 2 January 2007, and resolved to submit the amendment to the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) for certification.
Certification was received on 27 February 2007. The next step in the amendment process is for Council to approve the amendment and then refer it back to the DSE to formalise by placing a notice in the Government Gazette and by updating the Moreland Planning Scheme.
Cr Connellan moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that –
Council resolve:
To approve Amendment C30 to the Moreland Planning Scheme as exhibited and in the form that was certified by the DSE.
To forward the approved amendment to the Minister for Planning to allow formal notice to appear in the Government Gazette and to allow the Moreland Planning Scheme to be updated.
To notify the applicant of this resolution.
Carried
DCD22 VICTRACK STRATEGIC PLANNING MODEL & PILOT STUDY
(270/110/1)
The consultant company Beca Planning was engaged by Victrack in June 2006 to
prepare a Strategic Planning Model as a framework for the development of Rail
Corridor Plans. The purpose of the project is to clearly articulate what
VicTrack could achieve from a more strategic approach to managing its
landholdings in rail transport corridors. Moreland Railway Station was used as a
Pilot Study for the Model.
VicTrack is seeking Council’s endorsement of the Model and in-principle-support on specific sites on the general development direction for the Moreland Pilot Study.
Cr Connellan moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that –
Council resolves:
That VicTrack be advised that:
Council commends Victrack for the initiative to develop a strategic planning model for the future development and management of metropolitan rail corridors, and extend its thanks for being given the opportunity to participate in the Pilot Study.
Council is generally supportive of the aims, objectives and outcomes of the Railway Corridor Strategic Planning Model, July 2006 subject to the consideration and inclusion of those matters contained in Attachment 1 to this report, ‘Comments regarding the Railway Corridor Strategic Planning Model, March 2007.’
Council is also generally supportive of the Pilot Study
– Moreland Railway Station, that forms Appendix 1 to the Model, subject
to the consideration and inclusion of those matters contained in
Attachment 2 to this report, ‘Comments regarding the Pilot Study
Moreland Railway Station, March 2007’, and more specifically, the
implementation of an agreed community consultation and engagement
strategy.
To support the preparation of a Memorandum of Understanding with VicTrack that addresses the following, but is not limited to, roles and responsibilities, information exchange, litter and graffiti, application of local laws and maintenance.
To advise VicTrack that it considers that in the further development of a Strategic Plan for the Upfield Rail Corridor that further consideration needs to be given to network planning issues specifically arising from a proposed increase in residential densities along the corridor premised on access to and increased patronage of public transport.
Carried
DCI19 CITY OF YARRA'S FINAL INNER CIRCLE RAILWAY LINEAR PARK RESERVE MASTERPLAN (220/050/3)
In February 2005, the City of Yarra embarked on developing a Draft Master Plan, for the Inner Circle Railway Linear Park Reserve, to provide a new vision for the future development of the Reserve.
The City of Yarra adopted the final Inner Circle Railway Linear Park Reserve Master Plan in late 2006 with a number of changes.
City of Yarra Officers have requested the final Masterplan be presented to Council for adoption. This report addresses a number of issues for consideration by Council.
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
Council resolves that the item be deferred.
Carried
9.16pm Cr Caputo left the Council Chamber.
DCI20 2006-2007 CAPITAL WORKS PROGRAM - STATUS REPORT FEBRUARY
2007 (110/040/41)
This report details the status of each project in the 2006-2007 Capital Works
Program at the end of February 2007.
Cr Helou moved, Cr Matthews-Ward seconded that –
Council resolves to note the status of the 2006-2007 Capital Works Program - February 2007 as per Attachment 1.
Carried
DCI21 TOTAL ASSETS MANAGEMENT STRATEGY & BUILDING ASSETS
MANAGEMENT STRATEGY (120/030/7)
The Total Assets Management Strategy (TAMS) is a key component of Council’s asset planning process. It documents the strategies and actions required to establish improved asset management processes across the organisation, to deliver Council’s vision and goals as stated in the Council Plan and adopted Asset Management Policy.
The Building Assets Management Strategy (BAMS) will provide the framework for the strategic management of Council’s building assets and facilitate transparency in setting priorities for the funds used in the retention and refurbishment of these assets.
By adopting the financial strategy and implementing the key actions identified in the draft BAMS, Council will be in a better position to provide building assets that are sustainable, appropriate, accessible and responsive to the community in the long-term.
Cr Helou moved, Cr Higginbotham seconded that –
Council resolve:
To adopt the Total Assets and Building Assets Management Strategies, shown in Attachments 1 and 2, under separate cover, dated 11 April 2007.
That the financial strategies in the Total Assets and Building Assets Management Strategies be incorporated into Council’s Strategic Resource Plan.
To update section 6.4 of the Building Assets Management Strategy when new data and projections become available from latest census.
To ensure that the implementation priorities reflect the Climate Action Plan.
Carried
9.20pm Cr Caputo returned to the Council Chamber and resumed his seat.
Council is committed to implementing measures to improve drainage for all its assets throughout the City in accordance with its Drainage Asset Management Strategy (DAMS) and Capital Works Drainage program.
To ensure that areas subject to continual flood inundation are identified, recorded and analysed for potential funding assistance, it is imperative that Council continue its involvement and coordination with Melbourne Water and all pertinent programs.
Council continues its involvement with active participation in the Port Phillip And Western Port Region Flood Management and Drainage Strategy Discussion Paper Forum. Council representation and coordination with this forum is an important part of the process to clearly redefine restrictions to properties due to designated flooding overlays and work towards improvement measures and solutions to reduce or eliminate further restrictions. Three typical catchment projects with such undertakings are the Harding Street Main Drain Feasibility Study, the Drainage Study for Waterfield Street, the Alister Street Drainage Improvement and Indented Parking project works located in the Glenlyon Road Main Drain catchment.
Melbourne Water hosted a forum on 20 March 2007 at the Darebin Arts and Entertainment Centre. The purpose of this forum was to generate discussion amongst key stakeholders for guidance in the development of a draft Strategy. Upon further publication, the Strategy will then be distributed to the broader community and stakeholders. The draft documents is available through City Infrastructure.
Cr Helou moved, Cr El-Halabi seconded that –
Council resolve:
To note the present forum and forthcoming draft Strategy.
To continue with Councils active support and participation in such future forums.
Carried
DCI23 MANNA GUM COURT, COBURG (P99295)
In 2004 Council Officers and Pentridge Village representatives agreed to the implementation of a water treatment train that would see the stormwater run off from houses to be collected in a group of plastic cells and re-used for irrigation as opposed to a sediment pond that was originally in the planning permit. Pentridge Village implemented the water system underground in the site.
Pentridge Village P/L has approached Council seeking to acquire a portion of Reserve No.1. The installation of the treatment train dramatically increased the developer’s costs compared with the sedimentation pond option. It did however greatly reduce the amount of land required for the drainage treatment.
It is now appropriate for Council to consider the proposal to sell the land to Pentridge P/L.
Should Council decide to commence the proposal, the following is required.
Council to satisfy its statutory obligations to sell the land under section 189 of the Local Government Act 1989.
The removal of the reserve status from the land contained in Reserve No.1 is implemented via the registration of a Plan of Subdivision under section 24A of the Subdivision Act 1988.
Once Council has satisfied its statutory obligations, Council can then sell the land from the portion of Reserve No.1 on PS514681G back to Pentridge Village.
Cr Helou moved, Cr Connellan seconded that –
Council resolves that this item be deferred.
Carried
DCI24 DISCONTINUANTION AND SALE OF ROADS AND RESERVES OFF WOIWURUNG CRESCENT, COBURG (220/100/464)
As part of the Pentridge Development, Council has received a request from Pentridge Village Pty Ltd for the rationalisation of three sections of road off Woiwurung Crescent, Coburg and three reserves for public open space (reserves 4, 5 and 6 on PS514681G).
In order to facilitate this request Council at its meeting held on 8 November 2006 resolved to commence the formal procedures under the Local Government Act 1989 to:
Discontinue and sell the three sections of road; and
Sell the land from the three reserves.
As part of the formal procedures, public notice of the proposal has been given and one submission has been received and considered by Council’s Urban Planning Committee at its meeting held on 28 March 2007.
Council must now determine whether to proceed with the proposal.
Cr Helou moved, Cr Connellan seconded that –
Council resolves that this item be deferred.
Carried
9.21pm Cr El-Halabi left the Council Chamber.
9.23pm Cr El-Halabi returned to the Council Chamber and resumed his seat.
This report recommends that the Project Mandate for the Brunswick City Baths project as set out in Attachment 1 be formally endorsed by Council and that the draft master plan for redevelopment of the Baths site as set out in Attachment 2 be endorsed and displayed for public consultation and comment. The master plan is consistent with Council’s recently considered draft Moreland Aquatic Strategic Framework and will form the basis of a mechanism for gathering public input into the detailed design of the facility.
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
Council resolve:
To formally endorse the Brunswick City Baths Project Mandate as at Attachment 1.
To publicly exhibit the draft master plan, Attachment 2, for comment and receive a report on the outcome at its June 2007 meeting.
To consider the results of the consultation for the draft master plan prior to proceeding with the Brunswick City Baths renewal project.
Carried
DSD21 COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TO MANAGE PERFORMING ARTS
(030/020/1)
One of the key recommendations in a report on a review of the Brunswick Music Festival undertaken in 2002 was that Council should explore mechanisms for establishing a Not for Profit entity to manage the Brunswick Music Festival. Council has subsequently sought advice from Maddocks Lawyers, who recommended a Company Limited by Guarantee as the most appropriate model of management for Council’s performing arts functions. Maddocks recommended that the management of the Sydney Road Street Party and Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre be included as part of the new Company’s responsibilities, as these services are currently being managed under a single contract.
A key milestone in the process of developing the Company Limited by Guarantee is the appointment of a steering committee, with a view that the chair of the committee would become the first Chair of the new Board of the Company. The steering committee will inform and guide the process of setting up the Company Limited By Guarantee to manage the Brunswick Music Festival, Sydney Road Street Party and Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre.
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Connellan seconded that –
Council resolve:
To appoint Mr Michael Christofiridis, Mr Peter Russo, Ms Emanuela Savini, Ms Judy Small and Mr Simon Pryor to the steering committee to oversee the process of moving the management of the Brunswick Music Festival, Sydney Road Street Party and Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre over to a Company Limited By Guarantee.
To appoint two Councillor representatives, Cr Pryor and Cr Caputo and the Director Social Development, or her nominee, to represent Council on the steering committee.
That the draft constitution for the Company Limited by Guarantee be finalised in consultation with the steering committee and submitted to Council for endorsement.
Carried
DSD22 EAST TIMOR PARTNERSHIP PROJECT - SIGNING OF MEMORANDUMS OF
UNDERSTANDING (110/010/51)
As part of its commitment to assisting the District of Aileu in Timor-Leste, the Friends of Aileu Community Committee has established relationships with a number of organisations, which contribute to the East Timor Partnership Project through fundraising and other means, including the Shire of Campaspe, Kangan Batman TAFE, Moora Moora Cooperative Community, Moreland Community Health Service and the Alternative Technology Association.
It is proposed that Memorandums of Understanding are signed with Moreland and Hume City Councils and project partners, to be endorsed by the Friends of Aileu Community Committee in order to provide a framework for the ongoing development of the relationships. A copy of the template, on which the Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are based and which have been agreed by each organisation, is at (Attachment 1).
It is proposed that these MoUs are signed at a Civic Reception
to be held at the Hume Global Learning Centre on 4 May 2007 to mark the 7th
Anniversary of the establishment of the friendship relationship with Aileu
District and to celebrate the involvement of a diverse range of project partners
included in the friendship relationship with the Aileu district.
Moreland and Hume City Councils also have a MoU with Australian Volunteers
International, which was signed in 2005, which is due for renewal in 2007. In
order to provide a basis for the ongoing relationship with AVI, it is proposed
that the MoU is renewed for a further two years, also to be signed at the 4 May
function. A copy of the new MoU is at (Attachment 2).
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
Council resolve:
To sign the Memorandums of Understanding with Hume and Moreland City Councils and project partners assisting the District of Aileu, East Timor, including the Shire of Campaspe, Kangan Batman TAFE, Moora Moora Cooperative Community, Moreland Community Health Service, and the Alternative Technology Association.
To sign the Memorandum of Understanding with Australian Volunteers International.
Carried
DSD23 MORELAND LIBRARIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE - APPOINTMENT OF
MEMBERS (200/010/4)
The Moreland Libraries Advisory Committee (MorLAC) comprises three Councillor
representatives and nine community representatives. The role of the Committee is
to provide a source of community advice and information to Council on any
matters relating to its library service.
The appointment of eight of the community representatives on MorLAC expired on 31 March 2007. All eight have indicated that they are interested in continuing as Committee members for a further two years. The current membership represents good geographical coverage, gender balance and multicultural representation and MorLAC has benefited from the wide range of knowledge, experience and skills that the current members have contributed.
It is proposed that Mr Mustafa Bagci, Ms Ruth Baxter, Ms Mary Dalmau, Mr Brian Kays, Ms Anna Kurnuszko, Ms Glenys Lewis, Mr Qui Nguyen and Ms Robyn Roberts be reappointed as community representatives on the Moreland Libraries Advisory Committee until 31 December 2008.
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Higginbotham seconded that –
Council resolve
To reappoint Mr Mustafa Bagci, Ms Ruth Baxter, Ms Mary Dalmau, Mr Brian Kays, Ms Anna Kurnuszko, Ms Glenys Lewis, Mr Qui Nguyen and Ms Robyn Roberts as community representatives on the Moreland Libraries Advisory Committee until 31 December 2008.
To thank these eight citizens for their contribution to date as community representatives on the Moreland Libraries Advisory Committee.
Carried
DSD24 NORTHERN "TRY A TRADE" INDUSTRY EXPO (020/040/1)
The Australian Industry Group and two Local Community Partnership providers in the north: Career Connections and Banyule Nillumbik Local Learning and Employment Network have formed an organising committee to coordinate the inaugural Northern Try a Trade expo to be held at the Broadmeadows Town Hall on Friday 8 June 2007.
The Northern Try a Trade is an interactive expo where different industry booths are set up to allow young students in Years 7-9 from schools in the Northern Region of Melbourne, to undertake simple tasks related to that industry. The tasks are supervised by qualified tradespeople.
The event is designed to give students an opportunity to try their hand at a number of practical tasks in skill shortage areas such as advanced manufacturing/engineering, electrotechnology, building and construction and logistics with the aim to motivate students to seek information about future career choices, encouraging them to gain the best possible school education to enable them to realise that choice.
The Northern Try a Trade Organising Committee is seeking the support of local governments in the region to provide financial assistance to enable the successful implementation of the Northern Try a Trade expo. The Committee have requested Moreland City Council consider a grant of $1,500 to help with expenses and guarantee access to the Northern Try a Trade by young people within the municipality.
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
Council resolves to approve funding of $1,500 to support the Northern Try a Trade Expo.
Carried
LATE REPORT:
DCS14 CENTRAL COBURG 2020 IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS (230/130/73)
In accordance with the Central Coburg 2020 Structure Plan, Council needs to develop an appropriate Project Implementation Model that would see the realisation of the Structure Plan objectives.
On 1 March 2007 an Issues and Discussions Workshop was held to discuss a way forward in the development of an Implementation Plan. Three possible implementation models were presented with discussion focusing on how best to realise the vision.
It was agreed that Council would embark on the development of a Project Plan as well as calling on Expressions of Interest to measure private sector interest in the Project. As an outcome, Council would then be in a position to determine the type of Project Implementation Model it wishes to proceed with.
Cr Matthews-Ward moved, Cr Caputo seconded that –
Council resolve:
To establish the Central Coburg 2020 implementation steering committee as per Attachment 1, but consisting of the following Councillors instead:
Mayor (ex-officio)
Portfolio Councillor Corporate Services
Portfolio Councillor City Development
Portfolio Councillor City Infrastructure
Councillor Responsible For Transport
Councillor Responsible For Recreation and Leisure
Councillor Responsible For Affordable Housing
and to call on expressions of interest from the community on a skills basis.
To present a draft implementation plan to a Council I&D Workshop for discussion on projects and inclusions in an expression of interest process.
Carried
URGENT BUSINESS:
Nil.
Carried
CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS:
Nil.
The meeting closed at 9.31pm.
Confirmed
Cr Mark O’Brien
MAYOR