MINUTES OF THE COUNCIL MEETING
HELD AT THE FAWKNER SENIOR CITIZENS CENTRE,
JUKES ROAD, FAWKNER
ON WEDNESDAY 14 MAY 2014
The meeting commenced at 7.06 pm.
PRESENT:
Cr Lambros Tapinos (Mayor), Cr Meghan Hopper (Deputy Mayor), Cr Sue Bolton,
Cr Helen Davidson, Cr Lita Gillies, Cr John Kavanagh, Cr Samantha Ratnam,
Cr Lenka Thompson, Cr Rob Thompson and Cr Oscar Yildiz JP.
APOLOGIES:
Cr Teti.
Cr Davidson moved, Cr Yildiz seconded that the apologies for Cr Teti be accepted.
Carried
OFFICERS:
Chief Executive Officer – Peter Brown
Director Corporate Services – James Scott
Director City Infrastructure – Grant Thorne
Director Social Development – Andrew Day
Director Planning and Economic Development - Kirsten Coster
Acting Director Organisational Development and Urban Safety – Anita Craven
Acting Manager Governance – Sandra Troise
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES:
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that the minutes of the Council Meeting held
on 9 April 2014 be confirmed.
Carried
INTERESTS AND/OR CONFLICT OF INTERESTS:
Nil.
PETITIONS:
NEW RESIDENTIAL ZONES (D14/116344)
A petition (D14/108813) has been received containing 57 signatures requesting Council to
not rezone the residential properties in Merlyn Street, Coburg North to RGZ2 and not rezone
a portion of the park and Lorensen Avenue to RGZ1.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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Cr L Thompson moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that –
1.
The petition be received and noted.
2.
The petition be referred to the Residential Zones Standing Advisory Committee
(Director Planning and Economic Development) for consideration.
3.
Any proposed action is emailed to all Ward Councillors, relevant portfolio Councillors
and Councillors Responsible For, allowing seven clear days for Councillor feedback.
4.
The first named signatory to the petition be advised of this action.
Carried
MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS' CORRESPONDENCE (D14/124338)
A list of Mayor and Councillors’ Correspondence that has been received since the last
Council meeting is made available for consideration by Councillors.
Cr Hopper moved, Cr Bolton seconded that The Mayor and Councillors’ correspondence be received and noted.
Carried
OUTSTANDING RESOLUTIONS REPORT (D14/124352)
At each Council and Urban Planning Committee meeting, Councillors formally adopt reports,
enabling Council officers to act upon the resolutions of Council. In addition, Councillors raise
items at each Council meeting, some of which are Council resolutions adopted for action by
Council officers.
The Governance Unit prepares an Outstanding Resolutions Report. The purpose of this
report is to monitor the status of resolutions emanating from each Council and Urban
Planning Committee meetings.
A list of outstanding resolutions is made available for consideration.
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that The Completed and Outstanding Council Resolutions report be received and noted.
Carried
REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE TO COUNCIL:
MORELAND FAMILY AND CHILDREN'S SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
MINUTES - 19 FEBRUARY 2014 (D14/99235)
The minutes of the Moreland Family and Children’s Services Advisory Committee (FCSAC)
meeting held on 19 February 2014 are provided for Council’s information.
Key Items Discussed:
 FCSAC role and functioning
 Priority Areas of Focus for 2014:

Playgroup Spaces / Support

Kindergarten Participation Rates in Moreland

Support for Educators/Children’s Services professionals around qualifications

Child Friendly City and the Moreland Early Years Strategy

Need for a Family and Parenting Support Service in Moreland (one stop shop)

Prevalence of Private Family Day Care providers in Moreland
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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
Focus on Middle Years

Child Safety / Family Violence

Transition to Primary School and Secondary School
Cr R Thompson moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that The report from Committee to Council be received and noted.
Carried
MORELAND RECONCILIATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE (D14/104284)
The minutes of the Moreland Reconciliation Advisory Committee meetings held on
19 September 2013, 21 November 2013 and 20 February 2014 are provided for Council’s
information.
Key Items Discussed:
 Indigenous employment and the role of Lidia Thorpe of the MAV as the Aboriginal
Employment Project Advisor.
 Review of the 2012 – 2013 Reconciliation Action Plan and the development of the
Reconciliation Action Plan 2014.
 Working with the Robinson Reserve Neighbourhood House on the Recognise Campaign
on the recognition of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Australian
constitution.
 Undertaking the Aboriginal Cultural Audit within Moreland Council.
 Aboriginal collections at Moreland libraries and its potential additions.
 Organising the Torres Strait Islander flag raising at Coburg Town Hall.
 Plans for the NAIDOC Week 2014.
Cr R Thompson moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that The report from the Moreland Reconciliation Advisory Committee to Council be received and
noted.
Carried
MORELAND HOUSING MATTERS ADVISORY COMMITTEE - MEETING MINUTES
(D14/110949)
The minutes of the Moreland Housing Matters Advisory Committee meeting held on
20 February 2014 and 20 March 2014 are provided for Council’s information.
Key Items Discussed:
 Implementation of the Moreland Affordable Housing Strategy 2014–2018.
 The current Senate Inquiry into Affordable Housing: terms of reference and
recommended content.
 Planning for a housing debate (community event).
 Proposal for a housing debate (community event).
 Launch event for the Moreland Affordable Housing Strategy 2014–2018, and the forum
‘Homelessness in Moreland: what do we really know?’ to be held on 10 April 2014.
 Senate Inquiry into Affordable Housing: the finalised submission.
Cr R Thompson moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that The report from Committee to Council be received and noted.
Carried
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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Suspension of Standing Orders
109 CUMBERLAND ROAD, PASCOE VALE
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that Standing Orders be suspended to hear
submissions for and against the proposal.
Carried
Resumption of Standing Orders
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that Council resolve that Standing Orders be
resumed.
Carried
COUNCIL REPORT:
DED33/14
109 CUMBERLAND ROAD, PASCOE VALE PLANNING PERMIT
APPLICATION MPS/2013/374 (D14/102671)
The application seeks approval for the construction of a medical centre, education centre,
child care centre, art and craft centre, a place of assembly, reduction of the car parking
requirements and removal of native vegetation. The application was advertised and
57 objections were received. The main issues raised in objections relate to the use of
parkland for the development, the effect on residential amenity, the increase in traffic and car
parking demand and the effect on the parkland amenity. A Planning Information and
Discussion meeting was held on 2 April 2014. No amendment to the application has been
made following the meeting. The report details the assessment of the application against the
policies and provisions of the Moreland Planning Scheme.
The key issues requiring consideration are:
 Whether the Moreland Planning Scheme supports the development in public open
space.
 The management of potential off-site amenity impacts.
 Whether there is sufficient car parking provided.
 Vegetation removal.
Council Officers are recommending the issue of a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning
Permit for the proposal.
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that Council resolve:
That a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit No. MPS/2013/374 be issued for the
construction of a medical centre, education centre, child care centre, art and craft centre and
a place of assembly, reduction of the car parking requirements and removal of native
vegetation at 109 Cumberland Road, Pascoe Vale, subject to the following conditions:
1.
Before the development commences, amended plans to the satisfaction of the
Responsible Authority must be submitted to and approved by the Responsible
Authority. When approved, the plans will be endorsed and will then form part of the
permit. The plans must be drawn to scale with dimensions and three copies must be
provided. The plans must be generally in accordance with the plans received
19 August 2013 but modified to show:
a)
Obscure glazing to a height of 1.7 metres above finished floor level to the
southern kitchen window of the first floor.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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b)
The pedestrian pathway relocated to the entry of the first floor to enable the
retention of the Prickly-leaved paperbark (identified as tree 9 in the submitted
Arboriculture assessment).
c)
The retention of the Prickly-leaved Paperbark (identified as tree 9 in the
submitted Arboriculture assessment).
d)
The provision of planting along the southern side of the building of a species and
height which will be appropriate to provide screening of the building
(in consultation with Council’s open space branch).
e)
A bicycle parking rack for 10 bicycles installed in a manner that accords with the
specifications in the Bicycle Victoria’s Bicycle Parking handbook, with 2 spaces
for staff to be secure/covered.
f)
The land identified on plan “A002” as “Proposed re-instate parkland” annotated
as being unfenced and provided for public use.
g)
Any modifications required as a result of the recommendations of the Waste
Management Plan required by condition 14 of this permit.
h)
Modifications as required by the ESD Management Plan detailed in condition 3
of this permit.
i)
Modified fencing around the existing pool facility to increase land available for
general recreational purposes to the equivalent or greater amount as required by
the footprint of the facility.
2.
The development as shown on the endorsed plans must not be altered without the
written consent of the Responsible Authority.
3.
Prior to the endorsement of plans, the ESD Management Plan including SDS and
STORM reports provided by WSP Built Ecology received May 2013, must be
amended by a suitably qualified environmental engineer or equivalent to the
satisfaction of the Responsible Authority to include the following:
i.
Correction of all inconsistencies and errors between ESD management
plan report body, plans and SDS including but not limited to clear
commitments to heating and cooling and hot water systems, energy
efficient lifts, supplementary extenders for concrete, selected SDS credits
(4.05, 4.06, 4.07, 7.06).
ii.
A preliminary building energy rating and section J assessment
demonstrating that energy efficiency 25% above the BCA in accordance
with ESD Management Plan will be achieved and that thermal comfort will
be achieved with cooling loads of not more than 23MJ/m2 (this may require
additional shading).
iii.
Demonstrate daylight will be maximised with modelling or assessment in
accordance with SDS report.
iv.
Provide details of ventilation system (natural or mechanical or combination
of).
v.
Provide details of sustainable timber standard (FSC or PEFC or
equivalent).
vi.
Demonstrate a best practice standard of water sensitive urban design (this
may require additional rainwater harvesting, irrigation and rain gardens).
vii.
Provide details of PVC best practice guidelines referred to in ESD
Management Plan.
viii.
Include commitment to monitor major building services and recommissioning and tuning twelve months post practical completion of the
project.
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Where alternative ESD initiative(s) are proposed to those specified in condition 3, the
Responsible Authority may vary the requirements of this condition at its discretion,
subject to the development achieving equivalent (or greater) ESD outcomes in
association with the development.
When submitted and approved to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority, the
amended ESD Management Plan and associated notated plans (including but not
limited to recycling and green waste bins, shading, tank, number of toilets serviced by
rainwater harvesting system, a statement saying “stormwater detention volume
requirements are in addition to stormwater retention”) will be endorsed to form part of
this permit.
4.
All works must be undertaken in accordance with the endorsed ESD Management
Plan to the satisfaction of the responsible authority. No alterations to the ESD
Management Plan may occur without written consent of the responsible authority.
5.
Prior to the occupation of the development approved under this permit, a report from
the author of the Environmental Sustainable Development Management Plan report,
approved pursuant to this permit, or similarly qualified person or company, must be
submitted to the responsible authority. The report must be to the satisfaction of the
Responsible Authority and must confirm that all measures specified in the
Sustainability Management Plan have been implemented in accordance with the
approved Plan.
6.
At all times during the development of the land, the trees identified for retention on the
endorsed plans of this permit must be protected by the use of temporary fencing that
extends out to the drip line of the trees. The fences will serve to increase contractor
awareness, whilst maintaining the safety and integrity of the existing vegetation and
preventing the parking of vehicles or stockpiling of soil or materials under the canopy
of the trees.
7.
Following completion of the development the areas of landscaping shown on the
endorsed landscape plan must be maintained.
8.
Prior to the occupation of the development, external lighting on the land must be
designed, baffled and located to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority to
prevent any adverse impact on any adjoining property.
9.
The uses allowed by this permit must only operate between the following hours:
 Monday to Sunday 9:00am to 10:00pm.
10.
No car parking spaces are to be reserved exclusively for non-pool use and the spaces
are to remain a shared resource.
11.
The car park must remain open and available for use during the operating hours of the
uses.
12.
A bicycle sign at least 300mm wide and 450mm high showing a white bicycle on a blue
background must be erected directing cyclists to the location of the bicycle parking as
required by Clause 52.34-5 of the Moreland Planning Scheme.
13.
The permit holder must take all reasonable steps to prevent the circulation of dust from
the buildings site during construction to adjoining properties to the satisfaction of the
Responsible Authority.
14.
Prior to the endorsement of the plans a Waste Management Plan must be submitted
and approved to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority detailing:
i.
Confirmation that educational material will be displayed in the waste bin
storage area explaining what material can be recycled;
ii.
Calculations showing the amount of garbage and recycling that is expected
to be generated;
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iii.
A description of whether the waste will be collected by Council (in which
case the type of charge on each 240 litre bin must be stated) or a private
collection (size of bins and frequency of collection needs to be stated);
iv.
A plan showing the location of the bin storage area on the site and details
of screening from public view;
v.
A plan showing the bins in the storage area proving that it is of sufficient
size to store the required number of bins in a manner that allows access to
all bins;
vi.
Details of where the bins will be placed for waste collection and whether
parking restrictions will be required for the waste trucks to service bins
(e.g. No Parking, 6am-midday, Wednesdays); and
vii.
Confirmation that the bins will be removed from the street promptly after
collection.
15.
All stormwater from the land, where it is not collected in rainwater tanks for re-use,
must be collected by an underground pipe drain approved by and to the satisfaction of
the Responsible Authority.
16.
This permit will expire if one of the following circumstances applies:
a)
the development is not commenced within two (2) years from the date of issue of
this permit;
b)
the development is not completed within four (4) years from the date of issue of
this permit.
The Responsible Authority may extend the period referred to if a request is made in
writing before the permit expires or;
 within six months after the permit expires to extend the commencement date.
 within 12 months after the permit expires to extend the completion date of the
development if the development has lawfully commenced.
Carried
Alternative Motion
Cr Gillies moved that Council resolve:
1.
That the planning permit report and recommendation for 109 Cumberland Road
Planning Permit Application be deferred.
2.
That a report be presented at the July Council meeting by Council Officers identifying a
more cost effective construction method that would enable council to commence
construction works within the 2014-2015 budget with minimal impact on the open
space at Rogers memorial Reserve.
Lost for want of a seconder
7.49 pm
Cr Yildiz left the meeting room.
7.51 pm
Cr Yildiz returned to the meeting room and resumed his seat.
Cr Gillies foreshadowed a motion.
Deferred
Cr Gillies moved that this report be deferred.
Lost
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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QUESTION TIME:
ON1/14
MALCOLM MCKINNON - FLEMING PARK MASTER PLAN
Moreland City Band welcomes the retention of its band hall space within the revised Fleming
Park Masterplan. Can Council recommend that at the end of its current lease agreement for
the Band Hall at Fleming Park in May 2015, the Band, be offered an extended new lease so
that it can continue and expand its substantial community music program?
The Director Social Development has taken this item on notice to respond.
ON2/14
DAVID HODGES - FLEMING PARK MASTER PLAN
Moreland City Band commends Council and its officers for ensuring that arts and cultural
activities have been incorporated into the Fleming Park Concept Plan by providing fit-forpurpose music facilities. Will the space currently leased to the Moreland City Band be
officially recognised by Council as an 'arts' space consistent with Strategic Objective 1 of the
Moreland Arts and Culture Strategy?
The Director Social Development has taken this item on notice to respond.
QT48/14
SIMON MOORE - HUNGRY JACKS
Have Councillors recently passed through the intersection of the proposed location of
Hungry Jacks during peak hours to see the traffic delays and risks to pedestrians?
Cr Hopper advised that the usual process for dealing with planning applications is for the
application to go to UPC and that questions relating to planning matters should be raised at
the UPC meeting.
Cr R Thompson and Cr Yildiz advised that they know the area well and have been on site.
QT49/14
MARILYN MOORE - HUNGRY JACKS
Ms Moore spoke of the statistics that indicate that obesity and type 2 diabetes are on the rise
and asked when will Council get serious about the proliferation of high fat and salt foods?
Will Council amend the MSS to reflect this?
Peter Brown, Chief Executive Officer advised that Council is looking at the Community Plan
tonight. This is an overarching document with clear indication of what Council is aiming to
achieve.
QT50/14
HAYLEY SLOAN - HUNGRY JACKS
A representative for the applicant has conceded that plans do not accurately reflect the site
levels. Has Council received amended plans?
Kirsten Coster, Director Planning and Economic Development advised that amended plans
have not to date been received.
QT51/14
RESIDENT - HUNGRY JACKS
Resident raised concerns about the potential increase in the amount of litter, violence and
noise in the local area if the Hungry Jacks proposal goes ahead.
QT52/14
LUKE HAIG - BANKING TENDER
The current tender for banking services includes questions on funded greenhouse emissions
with 14 other environmental questions, and in total allocates them only 15% of the scoring. Is
it possible that one of the ‘big 4’ banks could again win the tender for Council banking,
despite their lending billions to fossil fuel projects?
Does Moreland have or is Moreland planning to develop a risk management policy? And
following from this will Moreland be using a risk based approach to managing the local
impacts?
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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Cr Bolton advised that she would be moving a Councillor item on this topic this evening.
Peter Brown, Chief Executive Officer, advised that Council does have a Risk Management
Policy; that the Planning Scheme and Climate Action Plan contain information on the
greenhouse emissions.
QT53/14
LORRAINE INGLISS - CLIMATE CHANGE
In light of the need to better understand how Moreland Council might be unwittingly financing
Climate Change, can the Council confirm which banks it does business with, and in what
capacities in terms of services, investments and finance?
Peter Brown, Chief Executive Officer advised that Council has limits in what it can and
cannot do through financial controls. Council has held loans with a number of banks,
primarily Commonwealth Bank Australia. Borrowings go through a competitive tender
process. A report will be presented this evening looking into the MAV introducing municipal
bonds.
James Scott, Director Corporate Services advised that the tender is closed and is currently
being assessed. A report will be presented to the June Council meeting.
QT54/14
JOHN ENGLART - HEAT POLICY
A super El Nino similar to 1997/1998 is presently brewing in the Pacific that may spike
temperatures and heatwaves to record intensity this coming summer. What emergency
preparedness has so far been undertaken by Council to safeguard the health of Moreland
residents in heatwaves?
Where is the Council at with motion from 12 February 2014 on this issue?
Peter Brown, Chief Executive Officer advised that Council has a Municipal Emergency Plan
that looks at response and recovery.
Andrew Day, Director Social Development advised that Council has a comprehensive
heatwave strategy and works closely with Department Human Services to notify local
agencies and clients and to broadcast messages to the community.
The Council motion from 12 February has been raised at regional level. Council is involved
with regional response project around response and recovery. This is a public document
available on Council’s website.
Peter Brown, Chief Executive Officer advised that Council has a heatwave policy for staff.
QT55/14
MARK GEPP - WINIFRED STREET PROPOSAL
How did Moreland City Council arrive at the decision to zone the Winifred Street shops as
commercial and the surrounding area as Neighbourhood Residential?
Why is Moreland proposing to remove the orange paper placed on telegraph poles in the
area?
Mayor, Cr Tapinos, advised that a very comprehensive process was followed in regards to
the zoning. The report is with Panel at the moment and will then go to the Minister for
approval.
Council has Local Laws relating to posters on poles. If a complaint has been received about
the poster, then Council is required to police and enforce the Local Law.
Adjournment of Meeting
Cr Ratnam moved that Council resolve that Standing Orders be suspended.
The Council meeting was adjourned at 8.46 pm.
Carried
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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Resumption of Meeting
Cr Ratnam moved that –
Council resolve that Standing Orders be resumed.
The Council meeting was resumed at 9.00 pm with all Councillors present.
Carried
"ON NOTICE" ITEMS FROM PREVIOUS COUNCIL MEETING:
Nil.
COUNCILLORS ITEMS:
CI36/14
CPI RATE INCREASE
Cr Lenka Thompson
In the lead up to the state election, the alternate government, the ALP, has announced a
policy position of forcing councils to maintain their rate increases no higher than CPI. Both
local government peak bodies, Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) and the Victorian
Local Governance Association (VLGA) have spoken out against this policy.
Given the increases in council staff wages which are consistently above CPI, the ongoing
cost shifting from state to local government with respect to services such as libraries, child
care, aged care services, and the need to maintain and invest in infrastructure for future
generations, this report will be aimed at drawing out the variances to services and
infrastructure to Moreland ratepayers should this be the case.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that a report be brought forward to the
July Council meeting supporting the MAV to campaign on behalf of Councils on the Rate
Increase at or below the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Carried
CI37/14
FINANCIAL REPORTING FOR CLIMATE CHANGE
Cr Lenka Thompson
This Motion speaks to the petition (D14/106964) Council received in April 2014 calling for
Moreland City Council to divest its banking from fossil fuel investing banks. Since 2008 the
4 big banks, Commonwealth, ANZ, Westpac and NAB have invested $18.8B in fossil fuel
projects in Australia. This is the investment they have made that will lock in decades of
greenhouse gas emissions at a time the planet needs them to stop. Moreland has a strong
history of leading sustainability initiatives for local governments and this is another step in
that direction. This Motion calls for this report to show where our funds are going (and
therefore where they are being invested / supporting) and also ensuring our that banking
practices are as environmentally robust as our policies and initiatives.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr Bolton seconded that a report be received at the June Council
meeting to allow Council to understand whether its financial investments are inadvertently
financing Fossil fuel developments and any other unethical investing. This report will help
Council understand whether it's financial activities are in conflict with its commitment to
tackling climate change. The report should include a summary of Council investments and
what institutions they are held with.
Carried
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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CI38/14
INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY (MONDAY 12TH OF MAY 2014)
Cr Samantha Ratnam
International Nurses Day was on Monday 12th of May 2014. This day provides the
community with the opportunity to acknowledge the work of Nurses in every speciality of
nursing.
The nurses working within the Moreland Maternal and Child Health and Immunisation
service represent both the profession of nursing and Moreland City Council.
Nurses perform many roles in our local community with passion, energy and concern.
The primary focus of our nursing teams is to assist people to achieve the best outcomes in
their children’s and their own lives.
Moreland’s Maternal and Child Health team supports the community with knowledge and
commitment to build inclusive, healthy families and communities. A healthy community
contributes to the positive growth and development of infants and children.
The Immunisation Team provides an award winning service in the prevention of infection
diseases which can impact so much upon the health and wellbeing of all residents within this
community.
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr Kavanagh seconded that Council recognises and commends the
commitment and contribution of the Maternal and Child Health and Immunisation team to
continuing the healthy outcomes for the Moreland community.
Carried
CI39/14
REVIEW OF MORELAND COUNCIL'S ANNUAL AWARDS
Cr Samantha Ratnam
Council currently conducts an annual Australia Day awards program in which we award one
citizen of the year and one young citizen of the year award. However, over the last 2 years,
we have seen less people being nominated and less interest in the program resulting in us
cancelling the granting of awards in 2013 for lack of nominations. A number of us on the
Citizens of the year awards advisory committee have been discussing other options for
granting annual awards. Many other councils use an alternative approach of having multiple
awards categories and their programs have been quite successful. Eg.City of Melbourne http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutMelbourne/MelbourneAwards/Pages/AboutTheAward
s.aspx
This report will investigate other options available for annual awards for outstanding
contributions by Moreland citizens and recommend how we could amend and restructure our
annual citizens awards program in time for the 2015 program.
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To call for a report investigating how other Victorian Councils conduct their annual
citizens awards for contributions made by outstanding citizens in the community.
2.
That this report be completed in time for a review of our current awards program in
2014/2015 and that the recommendations as adopted by Council be implemented for
the annual awards ceremony / program in 2015.
Carried
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
11
CI40/14
REVIEW OF COUNCILLOR ITEMS NOTIFICATION PERIOD AND
PROCESS
Cr Samantha Ratnam
Moreland Council’s current Meeting Procedure Law allows Councillors to table items for the
Council agenda through the proposal of ‘Councillor Items’. The governance arrangements
for these items requires that councillor item motions be circulated in writing for them to be
eligible for consideration. The practice has resulted in a number of significant items of
business being tabled with little if no notice to other councillors prior to Council meetings.
This has seriously compromised other councillor’s ability to be diligent and prudent in their
decision making as councillors have little time to consider, analyse or seek further
information about the items being proposed. More significantly, the introduction of Councillor
Items at Council meetings (without a notice period) provides no transparency to the
community about these significant items on the Council agenda – especially for items that
have a budgetary implication. Council officers are held to a much higher level of
transparency than Councillors at present as they are required to make all agenda items open
to the public in the 5-7 day period prior to each council meeting. I think Councillors should be
held to the same, if not higher, standard.
This resolution asks that we review how other Councils govern items of business that
councillors wish to propose. Many other councils require a minimum notice period for
councillor items which then get placed on the agenda for the public to review. This proposal
does not seek to undermine or compromise the ability of residents to table items of business
through councillors. For examole. any items that need to be considered, but cannot be
tabled by the notice period, could be introduced as urgent items (as is the practice by many
Councils). This report will provide us with some options for how we can improve our
transparency, governance and accountability to residents.
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that Council resolves to receive a report that
reviews the Meeting Procedure Local Law of other Victorian local Councils, with a focus on
how they govern their ‘Councillor Items’ of business for Council meetings and makes
recommendations for how we can improve our governance and increase transparency to the
community about significant items of business that Councillors propose at Council meetings.
Carried
CI41/14
PARKING IN BELAIR AVENUE, GLENROY
Cr Lita Gillies
That Belair Avenue residents have requested that Council look at traffic measures in Belair
Avenue to resolve safety issues and parking congestion that has caused concern for
motorists and pedestrians, as well as residents and patients attending the doctors' surgery in
Belair Avenue, Glenroy.
Cr Gillies moved, Cr Hopper seconded that Council look at traffic management solutions to
parking issues causing safety hazards in Belair Avenue, Glenroy, and that this include the
possibility of restricting parking to one side of the street only.
Carried
CI42/14
LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND THE TRANS PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP
AGREEMENT
Cr Sue Bolton
The Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) is a trade agreement being negotiated
between Australia, the US and 10 other Pacific Rim countries. The text will be finalised in the
next few months.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
12
Although a trade agreement may seem remote from the concerns of local government, this
agreement is relevant to local government precisely because it is not mainly about trade
issues like reduction of tariffs or taxes on imports.
Although the details of the negotiations are secret we know from government statements,
industry submissions and some leaked documents that the agenda is being driven by the
US, on behalf of its major industries and corporations. Most of the 29 TPP chapters are
about changes to domestic law which suit the interests of these industries and many are
modelled on US law. The aim is to create uniform regulation across the region.
Unfortunately US industry interests do not often coincide with national and community
interests in other countries.
Many of these proposals could have negative effects on the regulation and services provided
by National, State and local government in Australia and other countries. The negotiations
have now dragged on into their fourth year partly because of resistance to US proposals.
Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) enables a foreign investor to sue a government at
local, state or national level for tens of millions of dollars, if the investor alleges that a law or
policy harms their investment. The disputes are heard by international investment tribunals.
Their major concern is whether investments have been harmed and whether the investor
has been given fair and equitable treatment, rather than whether the law or policy is in the
public interest. Even if the case is unsuccessful, legal fees and fees paid to arbitrators mean
that governments have to spend millions of dollars defending the case.
The inclusion of ISDS in any trade agreement is a dangerously short-sighted policy, which
could lead to local, state and federal governments having to pay hundreds of millions of
dollars in legal fees and compensation. It could also have dire consequences for the ability
of governments to legislate democratically in response to community concerns, such as
those of rural communities which want more government regulation of coal seam gas mining
for environmental reasons
There have been examples of local governments being sued by foreign investors. The US
Metalclad company used ISDS provisions in the North American Free Trade Agreement and
was successful in suing a Mexican local government for US $16.2 million because of a
refusal for a waste dump permit on the grounds that it would contaminate local water
sources.
There have been cases in other countries over environmental regulation, which in Australia
could affect regulation at local government level. For example, some local governments
have policies against the use of pesticides in parks and gardens. The US Dow Chemical
Company attempted in 2009 to sue the Quebec provincial government because of an
environmental ban on the use of 2-4D pesticides in public parks and other public spaces.
The case was withdrawn but legal fees cost millions.
Cr Bolton moved, Cr Gillies seconded that Council resolve:
1.
2.
To note that:
a)
Australia is in the final months of negotiating the Trans-Pacific Partnership
Agreement (TPP) with the United States and 10 other Pacific rim countries;
b)
These negotiations happen in secret and that the public and the Australian
Parliament will not see the contents of the agreement until after it has been
signed; and
c)
The final TPP agreement may have an impact on local government that will not
be realised until after the Agreement is signed.
To call on the Trade Minister to release the draft agreement for public consultation and
parliamentary consideration prior to it being agreed to by Cabinet; and
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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3.
To request that the Trade Minister ensure that the agreement does not contain
provisions which:
a)
Enable a foreign investor to sue governments for damages over policy, laws or
regulations at local, state or national level;
b)
Increase the period for copyright royalties and / or increases restrictions or
penalties for temporary downloads from the internet;
c)
Restrict local government policies which encourage local employment, support
local economic and industry development and encourage good employment
practices and initiatives;
d)
Restrict local government policies which encourage good environmental
practices and initiatives;
e)
Restrict local government supply and regulation of services or require the
commercialisation of services; and
f)
Prevent local government procurement policy from giving preference to local
suppliers.
Amendment
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr Hopper seconded that Council call on the Australian Government to
release information on the transpacific partnership and use this information for advocacy.
Carried and formed part of the substantive motion
The substantive motion was put to the vote.
Lost
CI43/14
EAST WEST LINK AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Cr Sue Bolton
The Public Transport Users Association is approaching Councils to sign an open letter to
Premier Napthine putting the case for funding of public transport instead of the East West
Link. So far, the Yarra Council has voted to sign the letter and contribute $5000 to the cost.
Also, Moreland Community Against the East West Tunnel and the Public Transport Users
Association are part of a coalition of groups organising the Trains Not Tolls Rally on
28 June at the state library. It is expected that groups with an interest in public transport from
regional areas as well as metropolitan Melbourne will participate in this event.
The rally aims to broaden support for the campaign to scrap the East West Link,
substantially increase investment in public transport and an incoming government to rescind
any contracts that are rushed through prior to the state election.
Other groups supporting the rally include the Yarra Council, Public Transport Not Traffic,
Yarra Campaign for Action on Transport, Residents Against the Tunnel, Friends of Banyule,
Kensington Association, Flemington Association, Knox Environment Group and disability
groups.
Cr Bolton moved, Cr Gillies seconded that:
1.
The Mayor on behalf of this Council sign the Public Transport Users’ Association Open
Letter To The Premier seeking priority investment in public transport, walking and
cycling infrastructure, level crossing removal and adequate maintenance of existing
roads ahead of investment in the East-West toll road.
2.
This Council contribute $5000 (from the previously allocated budget) towards the cost
of publication of the Public Transport Users’ Association Open Letter To The Premier
in the Herald Sun newspaper.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
14
3.
Local, State and Federal Members of Parliament, and Dr Tony Morton, President of
the Public Transport Users’ Association, be informed of the above decisions.
4.
Council:
a)
Endorses the 28 June Trains not Tolls Rally which is being organised by a
coalition of groups including Moreland Community against the East West Tunnel.
b)
Produces a leaflet to promote the rally that is relevant to Moreland residents.
c)
Approach other Councils to support the rally.
Amendment
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Hopper seconded that –
4.
Council:
a)
Endorses the 28 June Trains not Tolls Rally which is being organised by a
coalition of groups including Moreland Community against the East West Tunnel.
b)
Produces a leaflet to promote the rally that is relevant to Moreland residents to a
maximum amount of $4000.
c)
Approach other Councils to support the rally.
d)
Not publish individual Councillors’ names and contact details on the material.
Carried and formed part of substantive motion
Amendment
Cr Bolton moved, Cr Gillies seconded that –
4.
Council:
a)
Endorses the 28 June Trains not Tolls Rally which is being organised by a
coalition of groups including Moreland Community against the East West Tunnel.
b)
Produces a leaflet to promote the rally that is relevant to Moreland residents to a
maximum amount of $4000.
c)
Approach other Councils to support the rally.
d)
Include the name and contact details for a Moreland Community Against the
East West Tunnel representative.
Lost
The substantive motion was put.
Carried
9.58 pm
Cr Yildiz left the meeting room.
9.59 pm
Cr Yildiz returned to the meeting room and resumed his seat.
CI44/14
ACCESS TO FAWKNER SENIOR CITIZENS HALL FOR OPEN TABLE
Cr Sue Bolton
Open Table is a non-profit group that has been organising free lunches and dinners for the
community using rescued food mostly donated from Second Bite and local businesses for
more than one year now. In that time, Open Table has organised two events in Fawkner in
October 2013 and March 2014. On both occasions, meals were served to almost 100 people.
The events were held at the Fawkner Senior Citizens Club which is a good location because it
has a fully equipped kitchen. The space can also be divided into 3 areas which is important so
that all religious customs can be accommodated.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
15
With the high number of people on very low incomes in Fawkner, Open Table has been
approached to run the meals on a monthly basis in Fawkner. Open Table is happy to do this
but would only be able to provide the free meals if they have the hiring fees for the Fawkner
Senior Citizens Centre waived.
Cr Bolton moved, Cr Gillies seconded that Council recognises the value of the non-profit group
Open Table organising free lunches and dinners for the community by waiving the fees for the
hire of the Fawkner Senior Citizens Centre.
Carried
Cr Hopper called for a division.
For
Cr Tapinos
Cr Bolton
Cr Davidson
Cr Gillies
Cr Kavanagh
Cr Ratnam
Cr L Thompson
Total For (7)
Against
Cr Hopper
Cr R Thompson
Cr Yildiz
Total Against (3)
COUNCIL REPORTS:
DCS16/14
PROPOSED MORELAND CITY COUNCIL BUDGET 2014-2015
(D14/115127)
Council has prepared a Budget for the 2014/2015 financial year. Key features include:
 A moderate 4.5% rate increase is proposed, this follows the 3.0% rate increase for the
2013-2014 year.
 New Capital Works Program of $27.81 million.
 An Operating Projects Program of $6.67 million.
 A balanced cash budget – this requires a modest underlying operating surplus to meet
the loan redemption requirements, capital expenditure beyond depreciation and reserve
transfers.
 Continuation of the Differential Rate on Vacant Land and the Differential Rate on
Unoccupied Land, both levied at four times the General Rate but capable of reduction via
rebates upon compliance with criteria.
The purpose of this report is to present to Council the Proposed Budget for the 2014/2015
financial year as contained in Attachment 1.
Council has also reviewed and made minor changes to the Rating Strategy as part of the
2014/2015 Budgeting process (Attachment 2).
Cr R Thompson moved, Cr Gillies seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To adopt the Rating Strategy 2014/2015.
2.
To declare the Proposed Budget annexed to this resolution as the proposed Moreland
City Council Budget 2014/2015 in accordance with Section 127 of the Local
Government Act 1989.
3.
To give public notice of the preparation of the proposed Moreland City Council Budget
2014/2015 in accordance with section 129(1) of the Local Government Act 1989 and to
state in such public notice that submissions on the proposed Budget must be
submitted by 5.00pm on 14 June 2014.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
16
4.
To make the proposed 2014/2015 Moreland City Council Budget available for
inspection at Council offices, at Council libraries and on the Council internet site.
5.
To receive and hear all submissions on the proposed Moreland City Council Budget
2014/2015 made in accordance with section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989, at
a Special Council meeting to be held on 23 June 2014.
6.
To consider the adoption of the budget and the declaration of rates at the Council
Meeting on 9 July 2014.
7.
That the Chief Executive Officer, in consultation with the Mayor, be authorized to make
minor edits to the proposed budget.
Carried
Amendment
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that –
8.
That any expenditure on the ‘Anzac Centenary Memorial’ item as allocated in the
2014-2015 capital works budget be subject to formal approval at a Council meeting.
9.
That the budget item regarding expenditure for the Anzac Centenary Memorial in
‘Public Open Space’ budget, be renamed ‘Anzac Centenary Memorial Projects’ and be
moved out of ‘Public Open Space’ and moved to ‘Arts and Culture’ (or more
appropriate budget item).
10.
That any budget expenditure for Anzac Centenary Memorial Projects in 2014-2015
include a project on documenting the history and service of Indigenous service men
and women in the first world war who had links to the Moreland community.
11.
That any budget expenditure for Anzac Centenary Memorial Projects in 2014-2015
include a project on documenting the history of those people with connections to the
Moreland community who objected to the war and those who advocated for
non-violence and peace throughout that period.
Carried
Cr Tapinos voted against the motion
DCS17/14
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REPORT - FOR THE PERIOD ENDED
31 MARCH 2014 (D14/111630)
This report presents the Financial Management Report for the financial year to date (YTD)
period ending 31 March 2014.
The Base Operating Performance shows an operating result of $27.9 million
(before operating projects, capital projects and other items). This is favourable by
$3.8 million against budget.
Operating Projects and New Initiatives have YTD expenditure below budget of $0.58 million.
Year to date expenditure on Capital Projects is below budget by $6.8 million.
The YTD Accounting Surplus after reserve transfers and capital funding is $15.1 million,
which is above the YTD budget by $5.3 million.
The Underlying Result is $5.2 million above the YTD budget.
Some of the positive YTD variances are due to timing differences of expenditure items in
budget and actual results.
Cr R Thompson moved, Cr Yildiz seconded that Council resolves to receive the Financial Management Report for the year to date
30 March 2014 as at Attachment 1 to this report.
Carried
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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DCS18/14
DEBT MANAGEMENT - PARTICIPATION IN THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT
FUNDING VEHICLE (D14/80462)
Council currently has seven loan parcels that have been acquired in the past seven years for
strategic property acquisitions and major capital work projects. The total loan balance is
approximately $52.7 million, with $19.7 million on fixed interest rates and the residual on
variable interest rates. Two of the variable loans expire in June 2014 and Council is required
to refinance the balance of these loans (estimated to be between $18.5 million to
$20 million).
Following the successful collaborative debt financing procurement process in July 2013, the
Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is proposing to establish a new Victorian Local
Government Funding Vehicle to pursue a long term sustainable debt financing model for the
Victorian local government sector. Through the MAV commissioned research conducted by
Ernst & Young, it was identified that the most appropriate debt financing option is local
government backed bonds.
The MAV has conducted information sessions in March and has requested councils to ‘lock
in’ their commitments by 30 May 2014 if they wish to participate in the first issuance of the
proposed local government bond.
This report seeks Council’s endorsement to participate in the LGFV first issuance, with a
total of up to $20 million. To enable this participation, this report also seeks Council’s
endorsement to extend the two variable loans with the Commonwealth Bank that would
otherwise expire in June.
Cr R Thompson moved, Cr Yildiz seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To participate in the first Local Government Funding Vehicle (LGFV) bond issuance for
an amount of up to $20 million.
2.
That considering the interest-only feature of the bond, Council continues to budget for
principal repayment of the loan acquired under the LGFV on the basis of 20-year
amortisation, and transfer the amount into a reserve at every financial year end, during
the life of the bond.
3.
To extend the two existing variable loans with the Commonwealth Bank (CBA) with a
new facility expiry date of 1 July 2015.
4.
To authorise the Chief Executive Officer to execute all relevant documentation to
facilitate the loan extension and the LGFV participation.
5.
That where necessary, the common seal of Council be affixed to the relevant
documents.
Carried
DCS19/14
PROJECT STATUS REPORT FOR THE YEAR TO DATE 31 MARCH 2014
(D14/115635)
This report presents the Project Status Reports for the financial year to date (YTD) period
ending 31 March 2014.
Council is implementing 228 projects / programs and, as at 31 March 2014:
 173 are on track
 30 are flagged amber
 25 are flagged red
In all cases of slippage projects are executing mitigation strategies in order to minimize the
impact to project schedules and / or budgets.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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Cr R Thompson moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that Council resolve to receive and note the report.
Carried
DCS20/14
CUSTOMER SERVICE STRATEGY AND CHARTER (D14/109364)
In 2012 Council officers developed a Customer Service Strategy to guide improvements in
customer service. The Strategy has recently been reviewed to incorporate learnings from the
implementation process over the last two years.
At the same time, the Customer Service Charter has been updated to better align it with the
updated Customer Service Strategy and the new organisational values.
The recent organisational review contained a recommendation that Council adopt the
Customer Service Strategy. The purpose of this report is for Council to consider and adopt
both documents.
Cr R Thompson moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that Council resolve to adopt the Customer Service Strategy and the Customer Service Charter.
Carried
DCS21/14
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS RECORD 1 MARCH TO 31 MARCH 2014
(D14/109390)
Pursuant to Section 80A of the Local Government Act 1989, effective 1 October 2010, an
Assembly of Councillors Record must be reported to the next practicable Council meeting
and recorded in the minutes.
The Assembly of Councillors Record for the period 1 March to 31 March 2014 is presented
at Attachment 1.
Cr R Thompson moved, Cr Yildiz seconded that Council resolve to receive and note the Assembly of Councillors Record for the period
1 March to 31 March 2014, at Attachment 1 noting that Cr Teti did not attend the Issues and
Discussions Workshop on 17 March 2014.
Carried
DCS22/14
DELEGATION TO XIANYANG CHINA (D14/117703)
Council has a commitment to its sister city relationship with the City of Xianyang in the
Province of Shaanxi, China. This commitment embraces opportunities for co operative
relationships between governments, residents, businesses and institutions of Moreland and
Xianyang.
In early 2012, an invitation was extended by the Mayor, Cr John Kavanagh for a delegation
from Xianyang to visit Moreland. The purpose of the delegation was to enable discussions to
further develop the long standing sister city relationship of over 20 years between Moreland
and Xianyang. The invitation was accepted and 7 delegates visited Moreland in April 2012.
The Friendship City Relationships Advisory Committee met on 6 March 2014 to discuss the
possibility of reciprocating the visit.
The purpose of this report is to seek Councillor support to further investigate the notion of
reciprocating the 2012 visit with a delegation to Xianyang, China in September-October
2014. It is proposed that the Mayor, the Chief Executive Officer and 3 additional
representatives of Council, in conjunction with up to 7 Moreland business related
representatives attend. Council would not be subsidising the external representatives.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
19
Cr Hopper moved, Cr Yildiz seconded that Council resolve to authorise the Chief Executive Officer to further investigate the costs
associated with a delegation to Xianyang, China and to present a further report detailing
these costs to the June Council meeting.
Deferred
Cr Ratnam moved that this item be deferred.
Carried
DCS23/14
FRIENDSHIP CITY AGREEMENT WITH KATHMANDU, NEPAL
(D14/109381)
Moreland City Council has been approached by the Nepalese Association of Victoria (NAV)
regarding the possibility of establishing a friendship city agreement with Kathmandu, Nepal.
Further, at the Council meeting held on 12 February 2014 (C19/14), Council resolved to call
for a report on developing a sister city relationship with Kathmandu.
Cr Hopper moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To write to the Nepalese Association of Victoria (NAV) confirming Council’s intention to
establish a friendship city agreement between Kathmandu, Nepal and Moreland City
Council.
2.
To establish and sign a friendship city agreement Memorandum of Understanding with
Kathmandu, Nepal.
The motion was carried on the casting vote of the Mayor
DCI26/14
DISCONTINUANCE OF A SECTION OF RIGHT OF WAY BOUNDED BY
JONES & DE CARLE STREET, BRUNSWICK (D14/103316)
Council received a request from a property owner for the discontinuance and sale of the right
of way at the rear of 20 - 24 Jones Street and 24 - 26 De Carle Street, Brunswick. The road
is enclosed within these properties and no longer used for access. This occupation has
prevailed for in excess of 15 years.
The remaining sections of road, north to Jones Street and east to Connelly Street, are open
and used for access to a number of adjoining properties. Accordingly these sections of road
have not been included in the proposal.
If the road is discontinued, it is proposed to sell the land to the owners of 20 - 24 Jones
Street and 24 - 26 De Carle Street, Brunswick. The owners of these four properties have
agreed to the proposed discontinuance and purchase price.
On 12 February 2014 (DCI8/14) Council resolved to commence the discontinuance and sale
process. As part of the statutory process, public notice has been given. One written
submission was received and considered by Council’s Urban Planning Committee on
30 April 2014.
This report recommends that the road be formally discontinued in accordance with the Local
Government Act 1989 and sold by private treaty to the owners of the abutting properties, in
accordance with Council policy.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr Kavanagh seconded that Council resolve:
1.
That having considered the submission received under Section 223 of the Local
Government Act 1989 regarding the proposed discontinuance and sale of the road at
the rear of 20 - 24 Jones Street and 24 - 26 De Carle Street, Brunswick, it is therefore
considered the road is not reasonably required as a road for public use.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
20
2.
To discontinue the road in accordance with section 206 and Schedule 10, Clause 3 of
the Local Government Act 1989.
3.
That a notice of this decision be published in the Victoria Government Gazette.
4.
That the land from the road be sold by private treaty to owners of 20-24 Jones Street
and 24-26 De Carle Street in accordance with Council’s Rights of Way Associated
Policies 2011 and the Rights of Way Strategy.
5.
To notify the submitter of its decision and the reasons for the decision.
6.
That the discontinuance and sale will not affect any right, power or interest held by
Yarra Valley Water in the road in connection with any sewers, drains or pipes under
the control of that Authority in or near the road.
7.
That the Director City Infrastructure be authorised to execute the Transfer of Land
documents and any other documents required to affect the sale of the land.
Carried
DCI27/14
CONGESTION PARKING LEVY (D14/71003)
Council recently learned of an announcement made mid December 2013 by the State
Revenue Office (SRO) regarding the expansion of the Melbourne Congestion Parking Levy
area.
The government imposes the levy on ‘off-street’ parking spaces used for parking vehicles
within the levy area.
The levy area is proposed to be expanded increasing to a two tier system of charges, of
which, Moreland will be located in the new category 2 zone. The area includes off-street car
parks south of Dawson Street and Glenlyon Road, Brunswick.
The legislation is currently before Parliament. It has been passed in the lower house and is
due a second reading in the upper house. There is no certainty around when the Bill will be
debated or finally passed however, the SRO is confident it will be passed this year and the
levy will apply to the new area from 1 January 2015.
This new charge will have significant impacts on Council’s off street car parks in this area
and will potentially lead to changes to Council’s Parking Management Policy and the
Brunswick Integrated Transport Strategy (BITS).
The levy is charged on each bay that existed as leviable parking space at any time in the
previous calendar year. For example, the 2015 Notice of Assessment would be based on the
number of leviable spaces during the 2014 calendar year.
Council supports the concept of this levy as a means to encourage more sustainable
transport options however, its application is not appropriate for the off-street car parks within
Moreland.
When the Congestion Levy was first introduced, there was a separate agreement to the
legislation formed between the State Government and the City of Melbourne that 15% of the
levy proceeds would be allocated back to the Council for delivering transport services. This
funding has been used to help pay for the tourist tram and shuttle in the CBD.
The Municipal Association Victoria (MAV) has the expectation that a similar agreement
should be established between the newly affected Councils and the Department of Treasury
and Finance (DTF). Apparently, the DTF is reluctant to form such agreements however, and
the MAV recommends a push from all Councils in this regard.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To retain the current parking arrangements in off-street car parks affected by the new
congestion levy.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
21
2.
That the Mayor writes to the DTF seeking a separate agreement for 15% of levy
proceeds to be allocated back to Councils for delivering transport services.
3.
That the Mayor writes to the MAV and the Yarra, Port Phillip, Darebin and Moonee
Valley Councils requesting support for point 2 above.
4.
To investigate future options for the three Council off-street car parks given their
average occupancy rates do not meet capacity.
Carried
DCI28/14
DECLARATION OF PUBLIC HIGHWAY - RIGHT-OF-WAY BEHIND
13 BARNINGHAM STREET, BRUNSWICK (D14/101245)
This report seeks to commence the consultation process for a declaration of a 1.22 metre
wide portion of the existing right-of-way behind the rear of 13 Barningham Street, Brunswick,
as a public highway. The proposed developer of 13 Barningham Street has identified that
whilst his land physically connects to the right-of-way at the rear for car access, legally there
is a 1.22 metre wide strip of land located within the right-of-way that is not a public highway,
which means that the Titles office will not accept the abuttal. Council has the power under
the Local Government Act 1989 to declare this land to be a public highway.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr Hopper seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To commence the process to declare the 1.22 metre wide portion of the existing rightof-way abutting the rear of 13 and 15 Barningham Street from a point parallel with the
eastern boundary of 253 Victoria Street to a point 13.17 metres further west, to be a
public highway.
2.
To seek submissions under Section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989 on the
proposal to declare that portion of the right-of-way as a public highway.
3.
To hear submissions in response to the Public Notice at the 23 July 2014 Urban
Planning Committee meeting.
Carried
DCI29/14
RECORDING CRASH DATA WITHIN MORELAND (D14/105052)
The existing official crash recording system within Victoria is Crashstats. CrashStats is an
accident statistics and mapping program that is used by Victoria Police and VicRoads to
record personal injury crashes, property damage crashes where the owner is not present
and on occasions, property damage crashes. Individual crashes that are recorded by
Victoria Police are uploaded onto the system and this information can then be viewed by
members of the public and by Local and State Governments.
Data from CrashStats is used by both Local and State Governments to prioritise funding for
road safety projects and Black Spot Projects. In order to receive funding for Black Spot
Projects, there has to be a minimum of three casualty / injury accidents within a five year
period. This approach is standard throughout Australia.
At the Council Meeting held on 12 March 2014 (CI16/14), a resolution was put forward to
investigate (and provide advice on) a mechanism whereby Council can collect data from
residents about traffic incidents. This data can be used for assessing the priority for traffic
hazard projects. This resolution was put forward as a number of residents have said that
many incidents and accidents are not reported to Victoria Police as either people do not
think that they warrant a report (ie. a side mirror being damaged), or Victoria Police does not
attend as no persons have been injured in the crash.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
22
In addition to raising concerns with Councillor’s, a local resident has contacted a company
called CrowdSpot requesting a quote to develop a program that will allow members of the
public to record crashes online. The proposal put forward by CrowdSpot would allow
members of the public to report crashes online. While CrowdSpot is one option that can be
used for collecting crash data, Council officers have a number of concerns with using such a
system to record crashes.
In order to determine where funds need to be spent to improve road safety, Council officers
have developed a road safety matrix, which has been endorsed by Council, that scores
individual road safety sites based on crashes, vehicles speeds, traffic volumes and proximity
to schools. The matrix then takes this data and provides a risk factor and sites with higher
scores are prioritised for funding.
A solution for recording property damage crashes would be to use Council’s existing
customer request system, Pathway. This could be done by setting up a specific ‘task type’
within Pathway that is linked to a questionnaire on the Council’s website. Members of the
public could then visit the Council’s webpage and complete the questionnaire. Alternatively,
people could call Citizen Services and speak to a front line staff member that could ask the
required questions. All data collected as part of this process would then be input into
Council’s Road Safety Matrix and reviewed annually against other road safety criteria. This
would have the added benefit of using an existing software program at Council. It is
important that personal injury and vehicle crashes are still reported to Victoria Police, but this
option could be employed for recording property damage crash statistics.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr Ratnam seconded –
1.
Council resolve to modify Council’s Pathway system and set up a crash recording
process for recording vehicle damage and other traffic incidents and crashes in
Moreland, including perceived traffic dangers as reported by residents.
2.
That all crash data recorded by Council (as detailed in point 1) be collated every
6 months and published on the Council website.
3.
That Council receive a summary report on the Road Safety Matrix annually that
includes the crash data as detailed in point 1.
4.
That the new pathway system for reporting traffic incidents be advertised on Council's
website social media and in the City News section of the Moreland Leader newspaper.
Carried
DCI30/14
98.9 NORTH WEST FM SIGNAGE (D14/76299)
Council has resolved to place signs in public spaces to improve community awareness of the
98.9 North West FM community radio station.
Locating signs on municipal boundaries on VicRoads roads is not supported by VicRoads.
Recent advice from VicRoads reconfirms that its guidelines do not support the signs on
VicRoads managed roads and that it is not proposing to revise its guidelines.
With this in mind, at the Council meeting on 19 October 2013 (CI74/13), Council resolved to
place signs on the nearest Council owned land in the interim e.g. Oak Park Pool, outside the
Mechanics Institute, Brunswick and outside Coburg Library until such a time that the matter
is resolved with VicRoads. Advice has been sought on what permits, if any, would be
required to install these signs.
Whilst it is acknowledged that 98.9 North West FM is a community radio station, from a
planning perspective, the signage is considered advertising when proposed on a property.
As the signage would be interim until VicRoads’ approval is granted and the timeline for
approval is unknown, a planning permit would be required on two of the three sites
proposed. This requirement would delay the installation of the signs for an estimated
six months.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
23
Due to the likely planning permit delay, alternative locations in the road reserve of the
following roads at the municipal boundaries to Moreland are proposed. These include:
 Lygon Street;
 Blyth Street;
 Dawson Street; and
 Newlands Road.
All of these roads / streets are Council owned and managed. None are VicRoads roads and
therefore, do not require VicRoads approval.
Signage on roads is generally sought to be minimised, however the signs for 98.9 North
West FM have been assessed from a transport perspective and are considered acceptable.
The exact location at each site will be determined in conjunction with the relevant areas of
Council to ensure the best result is achieved for public awareness, transport safety and local
amenity.
A planning permit exemption has been confirmed due to 98.9 North West FM providing
information on local interest services and attractions and to the signs being in road reserves.
The exact location at each site is now to be confirmed and the manufacture and installation
of signs completed within 4 to 6 weeks.
Cr Gillies moved, Cr Hopper seconded that Council resolve to:
1.
Install signage to increase community awareness of 98.9 North West FM at the
municipal borders on Council roads in lieu of at Council buildings or on VicRoads
roads.
2.
Investigate and install signage for all other community radio stations physically
located/based in Moreland at similar or more appropriate locations as determined in
point 1.
Cr Gillies moved that the recommendation have the following additions:
3.
That Council look into placing signs at the following Council sites in addition to the
sites proposed in the Officer's report:
a)
Oak Park Pool Fencing facing Pascoe Vale Road.
b)
Pascoe Vale Pool Fence facing Prospect Street.
c)
Glenroy Football Oval facing Glenroy Road.
d)
At the Middle Street Road Sign on the corner of Middle Street and West Street
(the street that North West FM is actually situated in).
Carried
DCI31/14
GOWANBRAE OPEN SPACE DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT PLAN
(D14/9633)
The Open Space Design and Development Unit has developed the Gowanbrae Open Space
Development and Management Plan, a considered, staged action plan to guide Council’s
open space decisions and priorities for Gowanbrae.
Much of Gowanbrae’s open space occurs on steep slopes with limited recreation facilities or
opportunities, and the Open Space Development and Management Plan aims to improve
access to quality, well maintained, sustainable open space in Gowanbrae.
Extensive consultation has been undertaken with the Gowanbrae community and a positive
response has been received for the proposed Development and Management Plan.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
24
Some of the key actions from the plan are:
Open Space Development:
 Implement the key capital improvements as proposed in the plan.
 Reclassify land zoned RZ1 to PPRZ and PUZ (Creeks) where necessary.
 Ensure remnant vegetation patches are conserved and valued by the community.
 Improve open space signage and consider naming parks and reserves.
Management and Maintenance:
 Reconcile maintenance responsibilities.
 Develop a targeted weed removal program throughout Gowanbrae.
 Consideration of a dedicated maintenance crew for Gowanbrae.
 Fire Management Planning – establishment of fire breaks and maintenance tracks.
Resourcing the development / management plan entails a total estimated cost for the
implementation of $3,149,304. This is proposed to be delivered through capital works or
through external grant applications. Currently, $400,000 has been funded for the delivery of
the multi courts at Elms Court Park in 2014-2015. The remainder of the projects are currently
unfunded however, projects can be delivered when funding/grants become available.
Proposed projects include the development of the Elms Court park including the multi court
and surrounding parkland, shared path networks / links, outdoor gyms, street tree planting,
weed management, revegetation, fire break / access paths, community garden (Elms Court
Park), signage, lookout, interpretation, play space (Tullamarine) and seating.
A detailed summary of the costings and priorities is in the attached draft plan.
The first year of this action plan focuses on the installation of multi courts (two publically
accessible, lit tennis / netball courts). Council received $100,000 in funding from Sport and
Recreation Victoria (SRV) in 2013-2014, and an additional $300,000 for the multi courts and
is anticipated in the 2014-2015 capital works budget.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr Kavanagh seconded that Council resolve to endorse the Gowanbrae Open Space Development and Management
Plan, and consider a staged program for future capital works funding allocation.
Carried
DCI32/14
PROPOSED PUBLIC SCULPTURE LAKE RESERVE, COBURG
(D14/111668)
The Australian Greek Orthodox community of Moreland has requested approval to install a
sculpture of ‘Poseidon’ at Lake Reserve, Coburg. The proposal is for the installation of a
brass or copper statue of the Greek God, Poseidon in the lake; the provision of two solar
sided panels to light the statue; installation of the sculpture on the Murray Road side of the
lake; and the costs of purchase, installation and maintenance to be borne by the Australian
Greek Orthodox Community of Moreland.
Council officers and a representative have met to discuss the proposal with a focus on the
location of the sculpture. The proposal is in early stages with design, footings and siting to
be determined. The initial indication is of a 2.5m (plus footing) sculpture to be commissioned.
At this meeting, an informal request was made for Council assistance in covering installation
costs.
The historic nature of the park, habitat values, existing large trees, slope and prevalence of
rock pose challenges for siting, design and installation of the sculpture. The costs associated
with these require further work, particularly as lessons from previous examples of public art
‘gifts’ have included costs borne by Council that were not budgeted.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
25
To ensure the project complies with Council’s adopted Arts and Culture Public Art Guidelines
and the Coburg Lake Master Plan, a holistic approach should be taken with broader
community and internal consultation. Council will need to ensure that the sculpture fits in
with the broader Lake Reserve landscape, with other sculptures at the lake and to ensure
that the location meets Melbourne Water requirements and any planning requirements.
Cr Hopper moved, Cr Yildiz seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To acknowledge and thank the Australian Greek Orthodox community for their offer of
the supply and installation of the Greek God Poseidon sculpture at Lake Reserve,
Coburg.
2.
To continue to work with the Australian Greek Orthodox community to develop the
project and its location, in accordance with Council’s adopted Arts and Culture Public
Art Guidelines and Coburg Lake Master Plan.
3.
To report back to Council with the recommended approach including costs and
implementation options for the proposed sculpture.
4.
To consult further with key stakeholders, including the Merri Creek Management
Committee and Friends of Coburg Lake, in relation to the proposed site and consider
sites in addition to Lake Reserve.
Carried
DCI33/14
MOOMBA PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP PROPOSAL
(D14/113896)
Moomba Park Primary School in Fawkner has proposed a partnership with Council to
redevelop the garden space at the front of the school for it to be used as an open,
community and shared area. The space is proposed by the school as a multifunctional area
with three uses:
 Using the space for educational / environmental purposes (developing some rain
gardens);
 Community use and involvement through the development of a community food garden;
and
 Family space – an area that families can enjoy for relaxation and play (though not having
play equipment).
The proposal would make a positive contribution to the community and area. However, the
benefits are being progressed through other projects and programs by Council and local
community groups in this area.
A storm water harvesting project in Fawkner at Mutton Reserve is currently under
construction and has an educational component. Further, Council funds are more
appropriately spent on Council managed public spaces. Melbourne Water grant funding may
be of assistance to the school to develop rain gardens with the school grounds.
In terms of the community garden, Fawkner Community House in CB Smith Reserve,
Fawkner operates a community garden. Connecting the school with Fawkner Community
House is recommended.
The school is close to Moomba Park and near to CB Smith Reserve which each provide
open space for families including for relaxation and play. Shared/joint use agreements are
noted in the Moreland Open Space Strategy as being appropriate for areas where access to
open space is lacking therefore, this not recommended in this case.
Deferred
Cr Ratnam moved that this item be deferred to the 11 June 2014 Council meeting.
Carried
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
26
DCI34/14
CONTRACT 136T - TENDER FOR CONSTRUCTION OF CRAIGIEBURN
RAIL SHARED PATH, OAK PARK - STAGE 1 (D14/117711)
The Craigieburn Rail Shared Path at Oak Park Station is the first stage in the construction of
a 4.5 km shared path in the Craigieburn Rail Reserve. The route is a high priority in the
Moreland Bicycle Strategy (2011) and when complete will connect the Moonee Ponds Creek
Shared Path at Bell Street to the Western Ring Road Shared Path at Jacana Station. The
Cities of Hume and Moonee Valley have expressed interest in continuing the path to the
north and south respectively.
The current tender is for the construction of stage one, between Devon Road and
Barina Road. Included in the tender are 700 metres of coloured concrete path up to 3 metres
wide where achievable, lighting, retaining walls and drainage. The decision to construct in
this area was based on completing a gap in the existing road / footway network.
The tender was advertised in The Age newspaper on Saturday, 29 March 2014 and closed
on Monday, 28 April 2014, seven tenders responded. Evaluation of the tenders resulted in
ADP Constructions Pty Ltd achieving the highest score and the lowest overall tender price.
ADP Constructions Pty Ltd has previously undertaken work for Council and delivered to a
high standard.
The works will be delivered over two financial years. Approximately half the works will be
constructed using funds budgeted for the current financial year. The remainder of the works
will be delivered in the 2014-2015 financial year subject to Council adopting the proposed
budget for capital works on the bicycle network.
Cr Bolton moved that Council resolve:
1.
That the Chief Executive Officer give consideration to the preparation of an in-house
bid for the construction of a concrete path and associated works in the Craigieburn
Rail Reserve between Devon Road and Barina Road, Oak Park with the second
section of this contract being subject to the approval of the bicycle Capital Works
budget in the 2014-2015 budget.
2.
If the bid is unsuccessful that the Chief Executive Officer give consideration at ways to
develop the workforce and the means to achieve competitive in-house bids for future
construction, maintenance and other infrastructure works in the near future.
3.
That a report on the Chief Executive Officer’s consideration be presented to Council
outlining the final outcomes.
Lapsed for want of a seconder
Cr Hopper moved, Cr L Thompson seconded that –
1.
To accept the tender from ADP Constructions Pty Ltd (ABN 46 188 588 097) for the
amount of $660,971.83 (excluding GST) being for the construction of a concrete path
and associated works in the Craigieburn Rail Reserve between Devon Road and
Barina Road, Oak Park with the second section of this contract being subject to the
approval of the bicycle Capital Works budget in the 2014-2015 budget.
2.
That the Director City Infrastructure be authorised to do all things necessary to execute
the contracts.
3.
That all tenderers be advised of Council’s decision in this matter.
Carried
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
27
DCI35/14
DRAINAGE - CCTV SURVEYS, DRAIN CLEANING AND ASSOCIATED
WORKS TENDER (D14/104085)
Moreland City Council has a large portfolio of drainage assets, including over 17,000 pits
and approximately 500 kilometres of underground drainage pipes. The cleaning and minor
maintenance of Council’s drainage assets is undertaken by the Street Cleansing Unit in City
Infrastructure.
In order to provide a reliable and quality service panel supplier contracts for the provision of
the following services is required:
 CCTV investigation;
 Drainage pipe cleaning and clearing;
 Cleaning gross pollutant traps (GPT);
 Non destructive digging, such as hydro-excavation;
 Works and repairs;
 Pipe relining and rehabilitation.
The purpose of this report is to seek approval to enter into contracts with various suppliers
for the provision of services as described above.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr R Thompson seconded that Council resolve:
1.
2.
To award preferred supplier contracts, for a period of three (3) years, with two further
one (1) year options, to the following suppliers:
a)
RMC Reservoir Maintenance Contractors Pty Ltd – ABN 72 496 603 141
b)
Veolia Water Network Services Pty Ltd T/A Veolia Water Network Services –
ABN 21 124 372 050
c)
CSA Specialised Services T/A CSA Specialised Services Pty Ltd – ABN
11 757 908 807
d)
Barry Bros Specialised Services Pty Ltd T/A Toxfree – ABN 43 065 876 977
That the Director City Infrastructure be authorised to do all things necessary to affect
this decision, including the exercising of any further contract options.
Carried
DCI36/14
PANEL OF AUTOMOTIVE SPARE PART SUPPLY (D14/118268)
Moreland City Council services and maintains a fleet of over 500 units ranging from small
plant such as lawn mowers, through to large trucks. The maintenance of Council’s fleet is
undertaken by the Fleet Maintenance Unit in City Infrastructure.
In order to provide a reliable and quality service, panel supplier contracts for the provision of
automotive parts and services are required. The purpose of this report is to seek approval to
enter into contracts with various suppliers for the provision of automotive parts and services.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr R Thompson seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To award preferred supplier contracts for the provision of automotive parts and
services, for a period of three years with two further one year options, to the following
suppliers:
a)
Burson Automotive T/A Burson Auto Parts – ABN 82 006 613 378
b)
Whitehorse Truck and Bus – ABN 47 008 278 171
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
28
2.
c)
Balestow Pty Ltd T/A Enzed Pty Ltd – ABN 58 383 026 427
d)
Industrial Brushware Pty Ltd – ABN 56 069 602 955
e)
Dale Brooms Pty Ltd T/A Australian Sweeper Brushes – ABN 72 004 654 700
f)
JAS Oceania Pty Ltd T/A JAS Oceania – ABN 78 114 781 592
g)
MacDonald Johnston Pty Ltd - ABN 68 004 992 090
That the Director City Infrastructure be authorised to affect this decision, including the
awarding of any further options.
Carried
DCI37/14
PANEL OF TYRES SUPPLY (D14/118436)
Moreland City Council services and maintains a fleet of over 500 units ranging from small
plant such as lawn mowers, through to large trucks. The maintenance of Council’s fleet is
undertaken by the Fleet Maintenance Unit in City Infrastructure.
In order to provide a reliable and quality service, panel supplier contracts for the provision of
tyres and related services are required. The purpose of this report is to seek approval to
enter into contracts with various suppliers for the provision of automotive parts and services.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr R Thompson seconded that Council resolve:
1.
2.
To award preferred supplier contracts for the provision of tyres and related services,
for a period of three years, with two further one year options, to the following suppliers:
a)
Rimon Sawa (Ray) T/A Excel Tyre Service Pty Ltd – ABN 79 634 874 119
b)
Supreme Tyre Service Pty Ltd T/A Supreme Tyre Service – ABN 54 132 000 303
c)
Bridgestone Australia Pty Ltd T/A Bridgestone – ABN 65 007 516 841
That the Director City Infrastructure be authorised to effect this decision, including the
awarding of any further options.
Carried
DCI38/14
ENDORSEMENT OF REGIONAL GRADE SEPARATION PROJECT
REPORTS (D14/120514)
Level rail crossings have a range of negative impacts for the community and on the function
and viability of activity centres, and are limiting revitalisation and redevelopment efforts. The
two level crossings in the City of Moreland at Bell Street, Coburg and Glenroy Road, Glenroy
are not listed in the Victorian Governments current funding priorities.
At its meeting on 12 June 2013, Council resolved in conjunction with Darebin City Council to
engage SNC Lavalin to prepare a Regional Grade Separation report. This report examines
an alternative mechanism for funding rail road separations in the cities of Moreland and
Darebin. More specifically, the report was tasked with investigating a method to push the rail
crossings at Coburg, Glenroy, Reservoir and Preston for reprioritisation and to drive timely
completion of these projects.
The preliminary business case, financial model and associated report have been finalised.
The report is significant and is made up of seven volumes (Volumes 0 to 6). For ease of
digestion and dissemination, an Executive Summary has been produced and is attached to
this report.
As per current practice, level crossings are currently removed one at a time, according to a
bespoke design. The cost of a single rail level crossing removal ranges between $50 million
and $150 million and the resulting Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) varies between 0.45 and 0.6,
i.e. the costs far outweigh the benefits. The Regional Grade Separation Report shows that
there are significant cost efficiencies is undertaking multiple grade separations under the one
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
29
contract and opportunities to utilise similar knowledge and design across multiple locations.
This “regional approach” is made more attractive if, instead of leaving an open trench that
divides the community after the rail is lowered as per current practice, a new surface is
created over the rail tunnel and development is allowed to occur on top adjacent to the rail
station. This supports transit oriented development whereby density is located close to rail
stations to minimise the number of trips needed to be undertaken by car, and maximises
opportunities for walking to undertake the majority of trips, especially travel to and from work
and shopping. A BCR for this alternative approach has been calculated at 1.26; a BCR
significantly better than under the current method of removing level crossings, and where the
actual benefits outweigh the costs.
The findings highlight that there is a strong case to put to the State Government for
undertaking multiple rail separations under the one contract and by allowing economic
development on the land liberated by lowering the rail.
Cr L Thompson moved, Cr R Thompson seconded that Council resolve:
1.
Endorse Interfleet Technology Pty Ltd’s Executive Summary for a regional approach to
grade separation in Moreland and Darebin City Councils’ Urban Renewal from Grade
Separation Executive Summary.
2.
Alongside Darebin City Council, advocate to the Department of Treasury and Finance
to fund the $4 million business case to develop the work further in order to secure
funding for actual construction in 2015-2016.
Carried
DSD14/14
DRAFT MASTER PLAN FOR BUILDINGS IN THE FLEMING PARK
PRECINCT (D14/63681)
Fleming Park is a strategically important precinct in Brunswick East, providing much needed
open space, leisure and physical activity opportunities and community facilities. The park
and the facilities within the park precinct are well used, and the demand for such facilities is
likely to grow based on population forecasts for the area. However many of these facilities
have become run down and a number have been closed off from public use for many years
due to safety concerns. The precinct is also home to the defunct Council Nursery site, and
this area offers land and buildings that can be better used by the public with the
implementation of changes proposed as part of the Fleming Park Master Plan. There is an
opportunity with the implementation of a Master Plan to better meet the needs of the local
community now and into the future.
Council endorsed guiding principles for this project in 2013 (DCI/13) and these have
informed the development of the Master Plan proposed for endorsement. A Draft Master
Plan was endorsed by Council in November 2013 (DSD45/13) for consultation, and
extensive consultation was undertaken from December 2013 to March 2014. Feedback from
this consultation informed the redrafting of the Master Plan, and a revised Master Plan
(Attachment 3 and Attachment 4) is now being presented to Council for consideration.
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr Kavanagh seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To endorse the revised Fleming Park Master Plan as informed by the community
consultation process and contained in Attachment 3 and Attachment 4.
2.
To proceed with detailed design and cost planning to implement the full Master Plan,
referring the project to the five year capital works program via normal Council budget
processes.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
30
3.
To commence with the implementation of the Master Plan, including the construction
of a ramp to improve accessibility to the Community Hall and broader park precinct,
demolition of the Grandstand and ancillary buildings in the South East of the precinct
and removal of the fence surrounding the ex-nursery facility as a priority.
4.
To currently retain the Grandstand, but demolish the pavilion and other associated
buildings and receive a more detailed report on the cost and options for the
grandstand, these options include retention with possible usability and accessibility, or
demolition.
Carried
Amendment
Cr Bolton moved, Cr Gillies seconded that –
Council:
1.
Endorse the revised Fleming Park Master Plan as informed by the community
consultation process and contained in Attachment 3 and Attachment 4, but the ‘music
rehearsal room’ to be renamed as the ‘Moreland Band Hall’.
Lost
DSD15/14
REDRESSING THE BURDEN: GAMBLING MACHINE APPLICATIONS
AND SYSTEM REFORM (D14/101338)
This report presents for Council’s consideration a motion submitted by the Monash City
Council for the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council at its meeting on
16 May 2014. The motion proposes that the MAV advocate for systemic reform of Electronic
Gaming Machine (EGM) regulation in Victoria in the lead up to the 2014 state election. The
motion was informed by discussion at a Local Government Forum entitled ‘Redressing the
Burden’ on 9 April 2014 at which Moreland was represented.
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr Yildiz seconded that Council resolve to support the resolution advocating for Electronic Gaming Machine reform
submitted by the Monash City Council for the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council
meeting on 16 May 2014, as contained in the body of this report and in Attachment 1.
Carried
DSD16/14
TORRES STRAIT ISLAND FLAG RAISING CEREMONY (D14/111138)
The Torres Strait Island flag raising ceremony is part of Council’s commitment to strengthen
recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First Nation peoples of
Australia. To demonstrate this commitment Council installed a new flagpole and will
permanently fly the Torres Strait Islander Flag in addition to the Australian and Aboriginal
flags.
The flag raising ceremony will be held during or just following NAIDOC Week, which is the
National Aborigine and Islander Day Observance Committee Week (6–13 July 2014).
This ceremony will involve the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and
local primary school students. The Mayor of Torres Shire, Councillor Napau Pedro Stephen
will be invited to be a part of the celebration.
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr Gillies seconded that Council resolve:
1.
To approve expenditure of up to $2,500 required to host the Torres Shire Mayor to
participate in the flag raising ceremony.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
31
2.
That in the event the Mayor of Torres Shire is unable to attend a date for the event
during or just following NAIDOC Week 2014 (as planned), that an alternative date of
3 June 2014 (Mabo Day) be considered for the event.
Carried
DSD17/14
MORELAND TRACK CYCLING STRATEGY 2014 (D14/36842)
Moreland City Council has two track cycling facilities, the Brunswick Velodrome Cycling
Track located in Harrison Street, Roberts Reserve, Brunswick and the Coburg Velodrome
Cycling Track located in Charles Street, Richards Reserve, Coburg North.
Both velodromes are important to cyclists in the region. Brunswick because of the gradient of
the velodrome which caters for all standards from novice through to elite, and the strong
development and junior program run from the facility and Coburg because of the Olympic
standard velodrome and the superior condition of the track. The presence of these
velodromes allows local riders to train and compete off road. There has been a significant
increase in participation in cycling and cycle sports in recent years, and that is likely to
continue in the long term. There is existing demand for both facilities and it is expected that
this demand will only grow in future years. Both facilities are in need of major refurbishment
and significant investment is required to ensure these facilities are safe and meeting
community needs and expectations.
After extensive community and stakeholder consultation, Council’s Recreation Services Unit
has completed a Track Cycling Facility Feasibility Study in 2013, which has informed the
Moreland Track Cycling Strategy 2014 to guide the development and management of track
cycling, to meet the future needs of the Moreland community.
This report recommends that Council adopt the Moreland Track Cycling Facility Strategy
2014 and endorses the priorities to ensure Council supports continued growth in cycling
sports in Moreland.
Cr Ratnam moved, Cr Gillies seconded that Council resolve to endorse the key directions and recommendations contained within the
Moreland Track Cycling Facility Strategy 2014.
Carried
DED34/14
DEVELOPMENT IN THE CITY OF MORELAND (D14/24931)
Councillor Item CI34/13 was resolved at the 12 June 2013 Council meeting, moved by
Cr Lita Gillies and seconded by Cr Helen Davidson. Specifically the item resolved that:
 Council approaches other Councils and request that they join us in a coalition of
Councils lobbying for more control over, and more say in, what is acceptable and not
acceptable development in their community.
 Council give adequate resources toward lobbying state government to change state
legislation in regard to building and development to enable Councils to exercise more
control over development of our municipality so that residents have a democratic voice in
deciding the policies that would oversee and underpin development in this community.
 Council write to the Hon. Christine Campbell MLA, Ms Jane Garrett MLA, Ms Bronwyn
Halfpenny MLA and Mr Frank McGuire MLA on behalf of residents and request that they
work toward getting the building legislation changed to give our municipality more say
over what development happens in our community.
The tools that provide Council with the opportunity to guide development are afforded
through planning (State legislation) rather than building legislation (National legislation), and
so the focus of action for Council has been fulfilling its role as a Planning Authority (setting
the strategic policy framework for its municipality through its Planning Scheme) to inform its
role as a Responsible Authority (where Council administers and enforces the Planning
Scheme).
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
32
This item was resolved at a time when there was considerable change underway with
respect to planning legislation that guides and informs development in all municipalities. In
particular the State Government has actively sought the involvement of all Councils in the
preparation of Plan Melbourne including regional forums that Councillors were invited to
attend. Importantly, this Strategy replaces the former Melbourne 2030 Strategy and will
inform a new State Planning Policy Framework.
In launching the new residential zones the Minister advised that this was the first opportunity
that Councils would have to say where development should occur. Council has actively
worked to implement these new zones and to update the Local Planning Policy Framework
and Municipal Strategic Statement that provide the policy basis on which to apply the new
zones and guide all development and land use across the City.
All of this work guides what is acceptable development. This report details all of the actions
that have been undertaken to achieve this for Council and the community.
Cr Gillies moved, Cr Davidson seconded that 1.
The Chief Executive Officer and any interested Councillors approach the Municipal
Association of Victoria for assistance in organising a coalition of Councils to lobby for
changes in the powers and regulations covering VCAT that would see the tribunal
obligated to consider individual Council's policies, community needs, infrastructure
capabilities, open space access, and other considerations when making a
determination on overturning a council decision on a building plan.
2.
Council ensure that adequate resources are allocated to this matter.
Carried
DED35/14
REVIEW OF THE STATE PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK - COUNCIL
SUBMISSION (D14/103169)
The State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF) forms part of all Victorian Planning Schemes.
The SPPF covers strategic issues of State importance, setting out land use and
development policies that integrate transport, environmental, cultural, social, health and
economic factors to achieve sustainable development. The SPPF is identical in all schemes.
The Local Planning Policy Framework (LPPF) follows on from the SPPF and includes the
Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) and Local Planning Policies (LPP). The LPPF sets the
long term direction about land use and development and presents a vision for the community
and other stakeholders.
The Minister for Planning established an Advisory Committee in July 2013 (the Committee)
to review the SPPF, and ways in which Local Planning Policy Frameworks (LPPF) could be
better aligned with the SPPF. In response, the Committee released a document called the
draft Planning Policy Framework (PPF) for public comment on the 14 March 2014. The PPF
integrates the SPPF and LPPF into one document, with the intention of better linking state,
regional and local policy to improve navigation and alignment of policy. All state, regional
and local policy on a particular issue sits within the one themed Clause, rather than being
spread across the SPPF and LPPF. The PPF would replace the SPPF and LPPF in all
Victorian Planning Schemes.
In preparing the PPF, the Committee has updated the state and regional policy content, by
removing outdated policy, and including strategic directions from Plan Melbourne (October
2013 version) and recent major changes to the state’s commercial, industrial, residential and
rural zones.
The Committee is seeking feedback on the form, content and workability of the draft PPF.
Council Officers have prepared a submission to the Advisory Committee, and seek Council
to endorse this submission prior to it being forwarded to the Committee by the 24 May 2014.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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Council’s submission to the Committee is that whilst the PPF format would be workable, the
disadvantages of introducing the new format outweigh the benefits. It is considered that a
more strict approach to the format and content of LPP’s across Victoria would achieve the
aim of better linking State and Local policy, whilst still delivering an integrated municipal
vision.
Council’s submission raises the following particular concerns with the PPF format:
 The consolidation of the SPPF and LPPF into the PPF results in a large document that
overwhelms users.
 Consolidation of state and local policy into the PPF fragments Council’s settlement
framework to manage growth, land use and development. The existing MSS format
ensures Councils settlement framework is easily understood and integrated with the
Council Plan and Health and Wellbeing Plan.
Council also submits that further work is required by the State Government to articulate the
strategic directions in Plan Melbourne before it is implemented in the PPF.
Council submission is presented in two parts, Attachment 1 (Part A) responds directly to
each of the questioned posed by the Committee, and Attachment 2 (Part B) provides an
illustration of how the Moreland LPPF (as adopted by Council on 12 March 2014) would sit
within the PPF, and provides comments on detailed aspects of the PPF.
Cr Hopper moved, Cr Davidson seconded that Council resolve to endorse and submit the “Moreland City Council Submission to the State
Planning Policy Framework Review (Part A and Part B),” to the Department of Transport,
Planning, Land Use and Infrastructure prior to 24 May 2014.
Carried
DED36/14
URBAN PLANNING COMMITTEE PROPOSED CHANGES (D14/101637)
With the exception of the Pentridge site, Council is the Responsible Authority for the
consideration of planning applications in the City of Moreland. Council’s planning permit
decision-making responsibilities are delegated to Council staff and the Urban Planning
Committee compromising of 5 Councillors.
Across Victoria in 2012-2013, 95% of planning decisions were made by Council Officers
under delegated authority of Councils. Moreland matched the state wide results with 95% of
planning decisions made by officers under delegated authority.
Moreland received the 6th highest number of planning applications in Victoria in 2012-2013.
The applications received have also increased by 20% to the 3rd quarter of 2013-2014
compared to the same period in 2012/13.
Involvement in planning permit decision-making activities places an increasingly high
demand on Councillor time both informally when responding to resident and applicant
queries and formally through the demands of the monthly Planning Information and
Discussion meetings, monthly Planning Briefings and the monthly Urban Planning
Committee meetings. An appropriate balance needs to be struck between the Councillor
time that can be dedicated to organisational wide strategic decision-making for the Moreland
community and the valued Councillor time that can be dedicated to planning
decision-making on individual applications.
This report explores alternative options for Councillor involvement in statutory planning
decision-making with a view to better balancing the demands upon Councillor time in the
context of an ever increasing planning application workload.
Options include retaining the status quo through the current monthly combination of Planning
Information and Discussion meetings, Planning Briefings and Urban Planning Committee
meeting, modified models of the Urban Planning Committee through to a delegated
committee comprised of senior council officers with town planning qualifications and
extensive planning experience.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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Deferred
Cr Gillies moved that this item be deferred.
Carried
DOD6/14
MORELAND 2025 COMMUNITY PLAN AND STATE OF THE
MUNICIPALITY (D14/115718)
Moreland’s first ever Community Plan and its indicators (State of the Municipality), which are
based on the community’s visions, has been developed through partnership and following
extensive consultation and engagement with the community and community groups. It was
also done in conjunction with services and government departments that deliver services to
the Moreland community.
These documents are being presented to Council to seek endorsement to commence a
formal Section 223 public consultation process. The documents will be used as a map to
collectively achieve better outcomes for the community of Moreland.
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Hopper seconded that Council resolve to:
1.
Endorse the Moreland 2025 Community Plan for the City of Moreland and the State of
the Municipality report cards to be put out for public consultation under a formal
section 223 process.
2.
Endorse the holding of a Hearing of Submissions at a Special Council Meeting
21 July 2014, on the Moreland 2025 A Community Plan.
Carried
11.10 pm
Cr Yildiz left the meeting room.
DOD7/14
COUNCIL ACTION PLAN AND ADVOCACY PROGRAM 2013-2014 - 3RD
QUARTER PERFORMANCE REPORTING (D14/116415)
Council Action Plan and Advocacy Program Performance Reporting tracks Council’s
progress towards meeting the annual targets set in the 2013-2017 Council Plan.
This 3rd quarter performance report provides a view of achievement against the Council
Action Plan and the Advocacy Program for the financial year 2013-2014. Overall, 78% of
Council Action Plan actions are either ‘achieved’ or ‘on target’ and 100% of Advocacy
Program actions are either ‘achieved’ or ‘on target’.
Cr Kavanagh moved, Cr Ratnam seconded that Council resolve to receive and note the 3rd Quarter Performance Report for the 2013-2014
Council Action Plan and 2013-2014 Advocacy Program.
Carried
NOTICE OF RESCISSION:
Nil.
LATE REPORTS:
Nil.
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS:
Cr Davidson moved, Cr Hopper seconded that In accordance with section 89(2) of the Local Government Act 1989 this Council meeting be
closed to the public to consider these reports:

DED37/14 CERES Community Environment Park - update (D14/115755) because it
relates to any other matter which the Council or special committee considers would
prejudice the Council or any person.

DCI39/14 Support for Unsolicited Bid on Grade Separation (D14/109588) because it
relates to contractual matters.
Carried
11.12 pm
Cr Yildiz returned to the meeting room and resumed his seat.
The Council Meeting was closed to the public at 11.12 pm.
OPENING THE MEETING TO THE PUBLIC
Cr Davidson moved, Cr Hopper seconded that the Council Meeting be opened to the public.
Carried
The Council meeting was opened to the public at 11.30 pm.
The meeting closed at 11.30 pm.
Confirmed
Cr Lambros Tapinos
MAYOR
Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 14 May 2014 (D14/133944)
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