NOTICE OF MEETING

Notice is hereby given, in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993 that a Meeting of Operations Committee will be held in the Council Chambers, Queen Street Singleton, on Monday 3 March 2008, commencing at 5.30PM.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION FOR COUNCIL MEETINGS HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS

In case of an emergency, for example a fire, please evacuate the building via the marked exit doors (Mayor points to the doors). The order to evacuate may be signified by an alarm siren or by a Council officer or myself. Please proceed to the green “emergency assembly area” signs either near the cycleway on Queen Street (Mayor points in direction of Queen Street) or at the other side of the carpark towards the Gym & Swim (Mayor points again). An instruction to evacuate to a marked area shoud be followed without delay to assist Council in ensuring the Health and Safety of all staff and visitors.

AGENDA PAGE

Apologies

Confirmation of Minutes

1. Operations Committee 4/02/2008

Mayoral Minute

Disclosures and Declarations of Interest

Withdrawal of Items and Late Items of Business

Presentation Item No. 2/08

1. Tennis Australia

Public Access Session

Director Operations Report No. 3/08

1. 2008 NSW Local Roads Congress

2. Council Seal - Gowrie Street Mall Redevelopment - Burns Lane Substation Relocation - Deed of Easement

Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08

1. Community Development Report February 2008

2. Youth Programs

3. Colleen Gale Children's Centre Working Group Meeting

4. Colleen Gale Children's Centre

Manager Library Report No. 1/08

1. Library Quarterly Report

2. Prime Minister's Summit

3. Archives Collection

4. Digitisation of Newspapers

Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

1. Tennis

2. Minutes for Singleton Combined Horse Sports Ground Steering Committee - 13 February 2008

3. Burdekin Park Bunya Nut Trees Risk Management and Dr Nelson's Flying Fox Report Update

4. Playground Capital Works

5. Minutes - Senior Rugby League Steering Committee - 19 February 2008

6. Minutes - Sedgefield Cemetery Improvements Working Group - 12 February 2008

7. Singleton Gym & Swim Advisory Committee Minutes - 13 February 2008

8. Gym & Swim Five Year Capital Works Program

9. Council & Community Buildings - Five Year Capital Works/Heavy Maintenance Program

10. Recreation & Landscaping (Parks) - Five Year Capital Works Program/Heavy Maintenance

Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08

1. Sewer Five Year Capital Works Program

2. Waste Five Year Capital Works Program

3. Water and Sewer Reports - 01/01/2008 - 31/01/2008

4. Non-Residential Sewer and Liquid Trade Waste Pricing

5. Water Five Year Capital Works Program

Manager Design and Contracts No. 2/08

1. Sale of Closed Road - Lot 12 - DP 1106545

2. Design & Contracts Program Area - Jobs in Progress

Manager Works Report No. 2/08

1. Works Program Area Maintenance and Construction

2. Bitumen Resealing Program

3. Paved Footpath Construction Program

4. Kerb and Gutter Construction Program

5. Minutes of Local Development Committee Meeting 19 February 2008

6. Minutes of Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 19 February 2008

7. 2008/2009 Local Roads Improvement Program

8. Plant Tenders

9. Local Roads Timber Bridge Replacement Program

Questions of Which Notice Has Been Given Report No. 4/08

1. Questions of Which Notice Has Been Given

Questions Without Notice in Writing

Committee of the Whole

GENERAL MANAGER

Singleton Council’s Vision Statement is:

“Singleton. A progressive community of excellence and sustainability”

Singleton Council’s Mission Statement is:

“To provide quality services to the community in an efficient and friendly manner encouraging responsible development”

Singleton Council’s Core Values are:

	Value	Definition
·	Service	Putting the needs of customers first and achieving excellence in customer service;
·	Consistency	Having a professional approach to work with the highest ethical standards and a businesslike manner across the organisation;
·	Focus	Maintaining a clear focus on the vision and agreed goals;
·	Respect	Earning and retaining the respect of the community;
·	Pride	General pride in works and services;
·	Communication	Excellence in communications;
·	Achievement	Developing a well trained, motivated and focussed staff and elected Council;
·	Equity	Being a fair and equitable employer and provider of services;
·	Reliance	Ensuring that the community, elected Council and staff can rely upon each other;
·	Commitment	Displaying commitment and cohesion between community, elected members and staff;
·	Efficiency	Services provided by the organisation are to be carried out with the efficient allocation of resources;

COUNCIL POLICY

Council adopted a Code of Conduct

which provides details of statutory requirements and gives guidance in respect of the way in which pecuniary and conflict of interest issues should be approached.

Generally, the policies refer to the following issues:

1. Councillors are under an obligation at law to disclose any interest they may have in any matter before the Council and to refrain from being involved in any consideration or to vote on any such matter.

2. Councillors must disclose any interest in any matter noted in the business paper prior to or at the opening of the meeting.

3. The nature of the interest shall be included in the notification.

4. Councillors shall immediately and during the meeting disclose any interest in respect of any matter arising during the meeting which is not referred to in the business paper.

5. All declarations of interest shall be recorded by the General Manager.

6. All disclosures of interest shall as far as is practicable be given in writing.

7. Any member having an interest shall leave the meeting and remain absent while the subject of the interest is being considered by Council.

8. The meeting shall not discuss any matter in which a councillor has an interest while the councillor is present at the meeting.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Presentation Item No. 2/08

1.

Tennis Australia Author: Alan Fletcher

FILE: 01/0373

Mr David Eland - General Manager Tennis NSW and Hamish Neal - Community Tennis Officer Northumberland Region Tennis NSW will be giving a presentation on the future of tennis in Regional NSW.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Director Operations Report No. 3/08

1.

2008 NSW Local Roads Congress Author: Gary Woodman

FILE: 04/0022

Executive Summary:

Council is a member of the NSW Roads and Transport Directorate.

The Directorate has arranged the NSW Local Roads Congress which is to be held in Sydney on 19 May 2008.

Registration costs will be approximately $600.00 per attendee which is inclusive of morning tea, lunch and dinner costs. Accommodation costs amount to $150.00 per room per night.

Relevant Works Program Area and Design and Contracts Program Area staff will be attending subject to budget and time constraints.

Funds are available for attendance of up to two Councillors using Council’s budget for Delegates Expenses and Conferences.

This Congress is in a similar view to the National Local Roads and Transport Congress but on a State basis with the support of the Local Government Association of NSW, the Shires Association of NSW and the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (NSW Division). The Congress program is expected to cover a wide range of topics of interest to Council roads practitioners and Councillors such as:

· Progress since the release of the Local Government Inquiry Report;

· Asset Management Issues;

· DoTARS – an update for Local Government;

· NAMS Update

· NRMA Motoring Services View;

· Roadside environmental management; and

· Roads & Transport Directorate Annual Overview.

Singleton Council’s major asset is its roads and attendance of this Congress is most relevant.

RECOMMENDED that up to two interested Councillors representing the elected body attend the NSW Local Roads Congress in Sydney and further that Council determine which Councillors attend.

Gary Woodman

Director Operations

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Director Operations Report No. 3/08

2.

Council Seal - Gowrie Street Mall Redevelopment - Burns Lane Substation Relocation - Deed of Easement Author: Gary Woodman

FILE: RD01110

Executive Summary

APP Corporation Pty Ltd on behalf of Macquarie Countrywide has written to Council providing four copies of a Deed of Easement required by Energy Australia for the relocation of the electricity substation adjacent to Burns Lane.

The Deed of Easement is required to be signed under Council’s Seal.

RECOMMENDED that the Mayor and General Manager be authorised to execute under Council Seal the Gowrie Street Mall Redevelopment – Burns Lane Substation Relocation – Deed of Easement

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

Attachment 1	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08
Minutes Disability Advisory Committee	Community Development Report February 2008

1.

Community Development Report February 2008 Author: Wendell Peacock

FILE: 01/0163-2

Detail:

The purpose of this report is to inform Council of the key activities of the Community Development Officer (CDO) and Community Development Officer – Special Projects for the month of February 2008.

Disability Advisory Committee

The Disability Advisory Committee met on 14 February 2008. The Committee had made submissions to DAs for both the proposed Gowrie St shopping complex and the Visitor Information Centre. The first Disability Access Audit on the remaining four Priority Zones defined in the Disability Access Action Plan was conducted on Ryan Avenue and John St, with the assistance of Graham Avard from Council. Graham has experience with access mapping, and is able to use Council’s GIS system to provide accurate maps. It is proposed to complete the audits of the remaining zones as soon as possible to allow for accurate costings to be included in the Disability Access Action for budgetary purposes. Costings are also being sought for the modifications to Council buildings and facilities, as identified in the Access Audit.

The AGM is planned for 1 April, and meetings were set for the rest of the year. It was decided at the meeting to present the Minutes to Council before they had been approved at the following meeting, as otherwise there would be too long a time lag (over two months) before any recommendations could be acted upon.

Interagency

The Interagency met on 13 February 2008 and, as the police Duty Officer was in attendance, much of the discussion centred around the police presence in Singleton. The policy is to have police officers in attendance for 24 hrs per day, but the station may not be manned if they’ve been called to an incident.

Community Safety Committee

The CDOs met with the Police Youth Liaison Officer to adapt the Draft Crime Prevention Plan according to the Draft Guidelines from the Attorney General’s Department. The Committee meeting on 27 February will plan the Safety Audit and look at issues relevant to the Plan.

Uniting Church Respite Accommodation Proposal

The CDO (and Community Grants Officer) attended a planning workshop for the Uniting Church’s ‘Sleepover’ respite accommodation proposal. The proposal has been approved by the Uniting Church Synod, and is in its early planning stage. The initial proposal is to provide overnight respite to children with disabilities and their families, but the model is still to be finalised and the definite need for the service established.

Affordable Housing

The CDO attended a symposium on affordable housing in Sydney, which provided useful information on some housing options, as well as strategies being considered by other Councils.

Community Development

Both CDOs attended a training day in ‘Working from a Strengths Perspective’ at the Family Action Centre of the University of Newcastle.

Liquor Accord

The first meeting of 2008 was the Annual General Meeting where Terry Webster, Tim Ryan and Grant Morgan were elected into the executive roles. Much of the discussion was focussed on the trial shuttle service, which ran throughout December. Approximately 200 people used the service, and reports from the security company indicate that patrons were well behaved on the bus, with no incidents occurring. The Accord has decided to cease the provision of this service due to the financial cost, which increased because of the increased security costs. Although there was a decrease in the number of alcohol related crimes throughout the trial period, the financial outlay is not sustainable by members of the Accord. Further opportunities for external funding will be sought.

Good Sports

The program has been introduced to the Junior and Senior Rugby League and Junior Soccer Clubs, all of which have enrolled and undertaken the first steps towards accreditation. The majority of sporting clubs in the Singleton Area have received information regarding the program, and meeting dates are being determined for these clubs to have the program presented to the committees and their members. The Special Projects officer attended the conference for all Good Sports Project Officers.

Disaster Recovery – Community Gathering Dunolly- Glenriding – Scotts Flat

The dinner was held 2 February 2008 at the Singleton Youth Venue, with over 80 people attending. Representatives from the Rural Fire Service, SES, Red Cross and Department of Community Services were also in attendance, and these services provided an overview of what people can expect in a disaster and how to better prepare for future adversity. The evening also provided the residents with an opportunity to clarify any issues that may have been outstanding. Feedback received indicates that this evening not only helped to clarify residents’ concerns but also introduced different sectors of the community, who may not have previously met, to one another. All who registered upon arrival will soon receive a copy of the DVD produced by Webb Videos capturing the visual images of Singleton over the June long weekend.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

AT-1View	Minutes Disability Advisory Committee	7 Pages
AT-2View	Attachment 1 to DAC Minutes	1 Page
AT-3View	Attachment 2 to DAC Minutes	1 Page
AT-4View	Attachment 3 to DAC Minutes	1 Page

Singleton & Districts

Disability Advisory Committee

PO Box 314

SINGLETON NSW 2330

Enquiries: Wendell Peacock

6578 7215

Minutes of the Committee Meeting held on Thursday, 14^th February

The Meeting opened at 13.05 pm.

Present: Norm MacPherson (Chairperson), Ray Catlin, Robert Winter, Mayor, Fred Harvison , Lyn MacBain, Mark Reedman ( Dept. of Community Services, Youth Centre), Julia Crebert, Mary Myers (EDuCARE), Kathy Jones (EDuCARE), Margaret Sinclair, Dorothy Kingdom , Suzanne McWilliams (Minute Secretary).

1. Welcome: Chairman, Norm MacPherson welcomed everyone to the meeting.

2. Apologies: Mary Robinson, Wendell Peacock, Kylee Jurkans, Gill Eason, George Souris, Joel Fitzgibbon,

3. Confirmation of Minutes:

The Minutes of the meeting of the Thursday 15^th November, 2007 were confirmed.

(Winter/MacPherson)

4. Business Arising from Minutes

Ø War Memorial Burdekin Park.

Correspondence (Attachment 1) sent to Singleton RSL Sub-Branch was tabled by Chairman, Norm MacPherson. As this was the 2^nd letter sent re the War Memorial Norm addressed his concern re the lack of reply to the meeting. Lyn MacBain indicated that she will speak personally to Mr Mick McCrone re the matter and report back to the next meeting.

Ø Gowrie Complex

Correspondence ( Attachment 2) was tabled from Norm MacPherson, Ray Catlin, Robert Winter & Suzanne McWilliams to Singleton Council re DA …574/2007…. addressing issues that affected persons with disabilities and mothers with prams etc . Chairman Norm reported that as a result of this he attended a meeting with Tim Francis, Senior Development Manager from Macquarie Countrywide Trust on site. Mr Francis was very helpful and indicated that he would take the few changes needed into consideration in the development of the complex.

Ø Hydrotherapy Pool Working Party Report

Chairman, Norm MacPherson on behalf of the Working Party stated that as not all documentation was available at this time that the Report would be held over to the next meeting.

Suzanne McWilliams spokesperson for the Working Party also indicated that a letter (Attachment 3) had been sent to Norm MacPherson inviting a representative to attend a G&SAC meeting on 13^th February at 5.30pm. Suzanne indicated that Norm had passed this letter on to her as the Working Party Representative to the G&SSC but that she was unable to attend because of a previous commitment. So as such she was unable to report on the outcome of the meeting but would endeavour to include the minutes from this meeting in the report for the next meeting.

Ø Shop Window Signs. Mark Reedman indicated that these are still happening.

Ø Priority 2 Walk

Priority 2 Walk was conducted this morning with 3 Councillors (Lyn MacBain, Sue Moore, John Martin) along with Graham Avard from Singleton Council. Norm MacPherson indicated that Graham Avard had with him a GIS system that was capable of marking problem areas so that they could be transposed onto a map to be made available to relevant Council Departments. Norm MacPherson asked that it be noted in the Minutes that Graham Avard was very positive in his approach to the issues recognised and was also very helpful. Norm informed the meeting that he has taken his own notes as well and will forward these to Wendell Peacock.

Lyn MacBain indicated that the practicality of the walk was particularly pertinent to the issues faced everyday by those residents who have disabilities and need to get around town.

General Business

Ø Community Development Officer’s Report

Norm MacPherson tabled the Community Development Officers Report (Attachment 4) as Wendell Peacock was unable to attend.

Discussion was held on this report. Norm indicated that the Walks needed to be completed within the next three weeks so that the Access Audit was complete and ready for costing. (Norm to follow up on this and advise on dates and times).

Norm MacPherson also tabled correspondence ( Attachment 5) re the Aprons in Burdekin Park and his suggestion that the Pathway be extend North along Burke Street to meet up with the Driveway near the Museum as it was now unsafe and also unpleasant to travel along the internal pathways of Burdekin Park because of the Bats in residence. He indicated that was the reason for the footnote re the costing of Footpaths that was included in the Report and why his suggestion was not taken up.

Ø Future Meeting Times, Dates and Venue.

Meetings according to the Constitution need to be held at least bi-monthly and Norm MacPherson suggested to the meeting that as the Access Audit was now completed it was not necessary to meet as often. The Meeting was in agreeance with this and the dates of 1^st April, 3^rd June,5^th August, 7^th October,2^nd December be noted as the dates for 2008. Time of the meetings being 1pm to 3pm. Venue Youth Centre unless otherwise advised. (MacPherson/MacBain)

Carried.

Ø AGM

Discussion re the AGM followed as April is the month in which this is normally held. The 1^st April meeting will commence at 12noon with a Light Luncheon and then the AGM followed by the Bi-monthly meeting. Mary Myers (EDuCARE) indicated that they can supply slices. Norm MacPherson indicated that he will speak with Wendell Peacock re the Luncheon and also ask that the AGM be advertised in the Local Papers.

Ø Minutes

A discussion was held re the timing of the Minutes being presented to Council. It was decided that the Minutes would be circulated within 4-5 days of the Meeting for reading by those in attendance. The Minutes would then be sent to Wendell Peacock and Jennifer Underwood for inclusion in their next Report to the Operations Committee so that any recommendations made from that meeting could be addressed within a reasonable time frame. The Minutes would then be ratified at the next meeting and any corrections could be made then. Lyn MacBain indicated that this is what the Heritage Committee do quite successfully. Suzanne McWilliams asked Mayor, Fred Harvison did he see any problem with this to which he replied that he could not see any issue with it. (MacPherson/MacBain)

Carried.

(The Minute Secretary asked members and interested persons who do not have email to place their address on the attendance sheet so that Wendell Peacock can organise the minutes to be sent via mail.)

Ø Albion Hotel

Chairman Norm stated that prior to Christmas that he and his family visited the Albion Hotel (which was being renovated at the time). He asked the Licensee to consider placing a ramp for access in the new renovations. He was happy to state that a complying ramp was installed within 48 hours of him speaking to the Licensee. A discussion followed and Norm MacPherson will approach the Argus re a story on the matter. Another discussion followed re a Certificate of Appreciation for this quick action.

Mary Myers (EDuCARE) indicated that her Office could assist in the Printing of this and Lyn MacBain offered to work with the Graphics. Mary and Lyn to liase on this. Minute Secretary asked to pass on email addresses so that this could occur.

Ø Library Apron & Pathway

Lyn MacBain brought to the attention of the Committee a potentially hazardous Pathway that diverts from the Queen Street to Council Chambers pathway to a car park space in the Library Car Park. The Pathway is raised and has an apron but because it leads into a car parking space ingress to the Library Car Park is impossible if there is a car in that space. Lyn stated that she noticed a woman with a person in a wheelchair have difficulty with this whilst at the Library recently. The person wheeling the chair had to back up the path because of this. Lyn indicated that she would speak to Gary Woodman re this issue and report back on the progress of this at the next meeting.

Ø Visitor Information Centre

Suzanne McWilliams reported that she, Ray Catlin, Robert Winter and Norm MacPherson had viewed the VIC DA and had found a number of issues that needed to be addressed from a Disability point of view. A submission (Attachment 6) was sent to Council for consideration. She stated that as a resident near Townhead Park she was one of many residents that had concerns with the safety of individuals using the Park and accessing the VIC in particular from Waterhouse Avenue as a 2-3 coach bay was proposed for the Western side of the Park with access to the VIC being across the Cycleway. She stated that more would be available on this at the next meeting.

(Mayor, Fred Harvison left the meeting at 13.50pm)

Ø Singleton Community Housing Forum Report

Discussion was held on Housing issues within the Singleton area and in particular the Report that resulted from the Singleton Community Housing Forum. Norm MacPherson asked if there was a structured approach to this as there are many looking towards solving this problem but not much seems to be happening. Norm asked would it be possible to obtain a copy of the report from Jennifer Underwood. Mark Reedman (being the only Council Officer in attendance indicated that he would get a copy and email it to the Minute Secretary for inclusion in the minutes) (Attachment 7)* Not included with this copy, as Councillors have seen the report.

Mary Myers( EDuCARE) suggested that as we are a Disability Advisory Committee to Council that we concentrate on our area of the housing issue which is Disability Supported Accommodation. It was noted at this time that at the last meeting Wendell Peacock reported that she had not heard back from FaCSIA re the submission by SSAAG. As there was nothing in Wendell’s report re this it was assumed that nothing had progressed out of the Submission.

Robert Winter supported Norm MacPherson in that a centred, structured approach to the Housing issue was needed. Discussion on this followed and Lyn MacBain was asked to follow up on the progression of the recommendations made from the report. Lyn indicated that she would endeavour to do that.

Mark Reedman suggested that the Planning Department needed to be involved along with Community Services to discuss the future housing needs of Singleton as far as Supported Housing is concerned. Discussion on this followed.

It was resolved that the Committee read the said report and come back to the April meeting for further discussion and strategies to move forward with a more structured plan. (MacBain/Winter)

(14.47pm Lyn MacBain left the meeting)

(14.49pm Margaret Sinclair left the meeting)

Ø Silent Minority/Majority

Norm MacPherson raised the issue of access to the Advisory Committee by the silent minority/majority that are ‘going it alone’ in homes across Singleton and surrounds. Norm asked how we could raise awareness of the Advisory Committee to these people so that they can be given a voice.

Mary Myers (EDuCARE) stated that they are working on a data base of carers in the area and could assist in this.

A discussion was then held on how to raise awareness of the Advisory Committee’s activities so as all aspects of Disability could be approached and addressed.

The meeting was asked to think on this for the next meeting so that a plan could be formulated for further education .

Meeting Closed 15.01

Next meeting 1/4/2008 12 noon.

Attachment 4

Report to Singleton & Districts Disability Advisory Committee

Community Development Officer

11 February 2008

Disability Access Action Plan

The Disability Access Action Plan was presented to the 3 December Operations Committee meeting and approved to be lodged for public comment. The document was made available at Council Administration reception and the Library, and copies forwarded to known interested service providers and members of the community. It was reported in the Argus, and the CDO conducted two radio interviews relating to it. Five brief written responses were received, two of which were from members of the Disability Advisory Committee. All responses noted the deficiencies in access in Singleton (for prams as well as wheelchairs), commended Council for addressing the issue and suggested that sufficient funding for implementation of modifications be allocated as a priority, so that access throughout Singleton could be improved in as short a time as possible. None of the responses require any changes or additions to the Plan. Copies of the submissions are tabled.

Met with Manager Community Services, Jennifer Underwood; Manager Parks & Facilities, Al Fletcher; and Works Co-ordinator, Brendan Behringer, to discuss procedure for costing priorities on Council buildings. One quote to do a full scoping and costing of the works required on Council facilities has been received from a conventional building firm, and it was decided to identify firms or individuals with expertise in access requirements and modifications to submit scoping quotes for both buildings and facilities, and footpaths. It will be therefore be necessary to get the access priorities done on the other three Access Zones as soon as possible.

Graham Avard has offered his assistance with the GIS system for the street access audits. Zone 2 was commenced on 14^th February (this morning), and Graham will be explaining the process to the meeting.

Aprons in Burdekin Park

· Parks and Facilities are constructing the aprons in Burdekin park as part of some footpath maintenance works they are completing within the park.

· The aprons are positioned were they are because they line up with the existing footpaths within the park. To shift them further around the corner would mean constructing new footpaths as well to link to them.

· The angle of the aprons is also constricted by the shape of the road pavement which they lead on and off from. It is not always possible to have them dead flat and taking them back further wont always solve the problem as we still have to tie in with the road pavement.

N.B Footpaths cost $130 per square metre!

Wendell Peacock

Community Development Officer

Attachment 5

From: elizabeth macpherson [mailto:nasamacpherson@aapt.net.au]
Sent: Sunday, 3 February 2008 11:03 AM
To: Peacock, Wendell
Subject: Aprons

Wendell ,

1. I notice the aprons being erected on the Bourke street side of Burdekin Park . What did the works department think of my suggestion to move them further down Bourke Street to avoid going through the middle of the bats ?

2. Could you seek clarification from works as to why , when the aprons are erected , as with the ones on the corner of York and Bowman , and the ones on the corner of Castlereagh and Bathurst , that they have a cross fall on them ? When the wheelchairs go onto the aprons , they are at an odd angle , rather than flat . I notice these are only on the corners and not on the aprons that are erected further around the corner ( these are flat and the wheelchair does not tilt) as is the case with the ones in Pitt street , in front of the Youth Centre .

I do not understand why they all cannot be erected flat so the chairs do not have to tilt as they go up or down them . It may mean the apron goes further up the path . But having them flat is a far safer option I believe .

Could you clarify this for me please .

Many thanks , Norm.

Attachment 6

Steve McGrath

General Manager

Singleton Council

Queen Street

Singleton NSW 2330 21^st January,2008

Re: DA 5/2008

Visitors Information Centre

Townhead Park, Singleton

Dear Sir

After viewing the VIC Proposal we would like to comment on the proposed development and bring to the attention of Council some pertinent points.

· Access to the building is a problem (especially to the Café Deck) from the Western side. Ingress and Egress for prams, strollers, wheelchairs and elderly (particularly in an emergency) from the play areas is a major issue. A ramp is need from the deck to ground level at a 1:14 slope .

· Moving people especially elderly and disabled across the Bike Track from Waterhouse Avenue Coach bay for access to the VIC could prove to be dangerous for both visitors and the children who use the Bike Track.

· We also would like you to note that it is difficult to calculate the width of doorways in the plan. They should all be built to provide disabled access and this should include access to toilets, offices, storerooms, kitchen etc.

· The Access toilet it is stated in the Proposal will be unavailable after hours and that the existing toilets will be for after hour use. There is no access toilet in these toilets and as such they would need to be upgraded to provide an accessible toilet.

As Singleton Council in it’s Core Values statement states that it is a fair and equitable employer and provider of service, the following need to be addressed on behalf of any future employees.

· There is no access toilet for staff in the southern end of the building.

· There is no emergency egress for staff in the Southern end of the building. There needs to be a ramp (1:14) from the administration area to allow any employee, but particularly, disabled employees to leave the staff area of the building in an emergency.

The estimated cost for the VIC we believe from the local paper is $1.66 million. Singleton Council has an ethical duty to it’s rate payers to ensure that no further funds need to be allocated for renovations or retrofitting that has been made mandatory by a DDA complaint; for as you are aware…

The objectives of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) are "to eliminate, as far as possible, discrimination against persons on the ground of disability in the areas of: work, accommodation, education, access to premises, clubs and sport; and the provision of goods, facilities, services and land; and existing laws; and the administration of Commonwealth laws and programs; and to ensure, as far as practicable, that persons with disabilities have the same rights to equality before the law as the rest of the community; and to promote recognition and acceptance within the community of the principle that persons with disabilities have the same fundamental rights as the rest of the community."

The Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission issued a Paper last year called ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ which was a guide for good practice in building. Ease of access is important for all users of any facility and we are sure that Singleton Council will use this document to create a Benchmark facility that can be accessed by all.

We urge you to look more closely at this facility and not to act in haste.

-------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------

Norm MacPherson Robert Winter

--------------------------------- ----------------------------------------

Ray Catlin Suzanne McWilliams

Attachment 2	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08
Attachment 1 to DAC Minutes	Community Development Report February 2008

Attachment 3	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08
Attachment 2 to DAC Minutes	Community Development Report February 2008

Attachment 4	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08
Attachment 3 to DAC Minutes	Community Development Report February 2008

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08

2.

Youth Programs Author: Mark Reedman

FILE: 01/0393

Detail:

The purpose of this report is to inform Council of the participation and the programs at the Singleton Youth Venue and around Singleton.

Youth Venue Based Activities

January 2008 January 2007

Male 42 10

Female 18 0

11-14 33 8

15-17 26 1

Over 17 0 1

Sub-total 60 10

Off-site Activities

January 2008 January 2007

Nil New Year 7 Event 270

Sub-Total 0 270

Total 60 280

Issues/Activities:

Attendance

Numbers were low as this was a three week period, workshops were not held and the summer holidays are traditionally quiet.

It’s worth noting that, as I write in February, attendance has increased to record levels since school went back.

Year 7 Event (Better Futures Program)

This event for new Year 7’s at Singleton High School will be held on February 22 at the Youth Venue. Some 230 students will attend in two sessions. The aim of the event is to introduce students to the Youth Venue and other services for young people.

Living With Your Teenager (Better Futures Program)

Eight parents have registered for this two day parenting program in April.

Skate Competition Committee

Five young people have joined this committee to first meet in February.

Yuiri’s Night 08

April 12 marks the anniversary of the first man in space and the Youth Venue is holding one of 77 parties in 26 countries to mark the occasion. Singleton is, so far, the only party in Australia and currently features on the Yuri’s Night 08 website.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08

3.

Colleen Gale Children's Centre Working Group Meeting Author: Jennifer Underwood

FILE: 01/0447-3

Executive Summary:

The minutes of the Colleen Gale Children’s Centre Working Group Meeting for February 20 2008 are attached.

The Colleen Gale Children’s Centre requires urgent maintenance and marketing to compete in the competitive market within which it exists. The Department of Community Services is currently being approached for additional financial assistance to ensure the Long Day Care Centre remains as a valuable community based asset and service, however maintenance and marketing for the Centre has been neglected due to inability to raise funds from income from the Centre.

Landscaping of the playground and front entrance has been completed, funded by Council and the parent Fundraising Committee. Additional maintenance is required to comply with DoCS regulations and remain as a safe high quality community service.

RECOMMENDED that:

1. the information in this report be noted.

2. fees increase by 3.5% in the 2008/2009 draft budget based on CPI inflationary increases and investment be placed in the implementation of the maintenance and marketing plan including a $40,000 heavy maintenance vote and $5,000 marketing vote with a budgeted occupancy of 85% for Long Day Care and current budgeted targets for Out of School Hours Care and Mobile Pre-school.

3. the Terms of Reference for the Colleen Gale Children’s Centre Working Group and the Colleen Gale Children’s Centre Advisory Committee be reviewed at the next Working Group meeting for the purpose of investigating the amalgamation of the two Committees.

Attachments

AT-1View

Colleen Gale Children's Centre Working Group Meeting 20 February 2008

3 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08
Colleen Gale Children's Centre Working Group Meeting 20 February 2008	Colleen Gale Children's Centre Working Group Meeting

COLLEEN GALE CHILDREN’S CENTRE WORKING GROUP

MINUTES OF MEETING HELD

WEDNESDAY 20 FEBRUARY 2008 COMMENCING AT 6:33 PM

Present: Gary Woodman Director Operations

Julie Quigley Manager Human Resources

Jennifer Underwood Manager Community Services

Lauren Hain Acting Director CGCC

Anthony Egan Manager Finance

Carol Hepworth Diploma CGCC

Kim Deaves Administration Assistant

Cr Jon Doughty

1. WELCOME & APOLOGIES

Resolved that the following apologies be accepted:

Cr Val Scott

Ann Bomann-Maansson

(Woodman/Underwood)

2. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING HELD 26 SPETEMBER, 2007

Resolved that the minutes of the previous meeting be adopted as a true and accurate record with the amendment of the deletion of Anthony Egan and Julie Quigley as being present.

(Woodman/Underwood)

2.1 Business Arising from previous minutes

Nil

3. STRATEGIES TO PROGRESS THE PROJECT

3.1 Marketing Plan

· Quotes have been obtained for a banner advertising the Long day Care Centre. This is to be purchased using the current budget.

· Quotes also in process of being obtained for additional soft fall for the playground and flyers and posters advertising the three CGCC services.

· The parent fundraising Committee are looking towards raising some funds for large outdoor moveable equipment.

· The next fundraising event will be on the 8 March at Rutherford Bunnings Hardware for a sausage sizzle.

· Ideas were tabled by the staff about on line enrollment forms and more advertising through the website, customer service and the library.

· The Manager Community Services reported that most of the costs related to implementing the marketing plan were just for the production of flyers, promotional photography and for staff time.

3.2 Maintenance Audit

The Maintenance audit priorities were kitchen floor covering replacement, exterior door replacement, Grills/screens replacement, Nursery change room bench fixture, electrical upgrade and phone system, external painting, plumbing at a total estimated cost of $40,000.

RESOLVED TO RECOMMEND a 3.5% increase in fees based on CPI inflationary increases and an investment in the maintenance and marketing plan implementation of $40,000 heavy maintenance vote and $5,000 for marketing on a budgeted occupancy of 85% for Long Day Care and current budgeted targets for Out of School Hours Care and Mobile Pre-school.

(Woodman/Doughty)

Gary Woodman retired from the meeting at 8pm.

4. GENERAL BUSINESS

a) Fee payment Policy to be tabled at next meeting to review payment of fees policy to ensure parents remain ahead in their payment of fees.

b) Draft budget to be tabled at next meeting or an extraordinary meeting for feedback from the Committee.

c) The first CGCC Newsletter is to be produced with notification to parents that Anne Bomann-Maansson is on sick leave.

d) Purpose of both the CGCC Working Group and the CGCC Advisory Committee questioned. Parent commitment and staff commitment to both Committees is duplication.

RESOLVED TO RECOMMEND that the Terms of Reference for the Colleen Gale Children’s Centre Working Group and the Colleen Gale Children’s Centre Advisory Committee be reviewed at the next Working Group meeting for the purpose of almalgamating the two Committees.

(Doughty/Deaves)

5. Next Meeting

Wednesday 19 March 2008 at 6.30pm in the Committee Room

There being no further business the meeting concluded at 8.25pm

Attachment 1	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08
Colleen Gale Children's Centre Working Group Meeting 20 February 2008	Colleen Gale Children's Centre Working Group Meeting

Colleen Gale Children’s Centre Working Group

Action Sheet- February 2008

	ACTION	RESPONSIBLE	DEADLINE	COMPLETION/ COMMENTS
1.	Advertising banner to be ordered	ADCGCC	Friday 29 February 2008
2.	Quotes obtained and designs completed for production of flyers and posters	ADCGCC	Wednesday 19 March 2008
3.	Re-advertise Authorised Supervisor position for Mobile Pre-school	Director CGCC MCS	Wednesday 15 January 2008	Completed- commencing in March 2008
4.	Draft budget 2008/2009	Manager Community Services Manager Finance	Wednesday 27 February 2008
5.	Draft Marketing Plan	Manager Community Services Director CGCC Community Grants Project Officer	Wednesday 17 October	Completed- recommendations to Council November Operations Committee
6.	Parent questionnaire on change of operating hours for shift workers	Manager Community Services Director CGCC Staff CGCC	Wednesday 19 March 2008	Draft to be tabled at next meeting
7.	Internal painting of Centre	ADCGCC	Wed 19 March 2008	To be completed as soon as possible after Validator visit
8.	Terms of Reference review of CGCC Working Group and CGCC Advisory Committee	CGCC Working Group	Wed 19 March 2008	To be reviewed at next meeting
9.	Payment of fee policies review	CGCC Working Group	Wed 19 March 2008	To be reviewed at next meeting
10.	Investigate future needs of Council Records storage at OOSH	Manager Community Services	Wednesday 17 October	Investigations are continuing

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Community Services Report No. 3/08

4.

Colleen Gale Children's Centre Author: Jennifer Underwood

FILE: 01/0447-3

Detail:

The purpose of this Report is to inform Council of the occupancy and activities at the Colleen Gale Children’s Centre for the month of January 2008.

Occupancy January 2008

Actual Budgeted

Nursery 77% 80%

2-3 Room 45.9% 80%

Pre-school 76.5% 80%

Vacation care 69% 66%

Centre news - January

Anne Bomann-Maansson has been away on sick leave and Lauren Hain will be Acting Director until her return. Our playground redevelopment has commenced with work starting on 14 January 2008. Children have really enjoyed watching the new developments. It should be finished in the next few weeks depending on the weather.

Preschool room – The preschool room has been very busy for the month of January. Many children that are starting school this year returned for one last month before school starts. Children have been busy making juggling balls, practising to juggle and decorating the room.

2-3 room – We have had low numbers for the month of January but are hoping they will pick up when people get back from holidays and school goes back. The children have been busy doing lots of art and craft to decorate our room. They have also really enjoyed playing in home corner with the baby dolls, putting them to sleep and pretending to feed them.

Nursery – Cassie has settled in to the team leader role for Nattalie’s maternity leave position. All the children have settled in well after the holiday break. We have started off the year with a lot of craft activities such as painting, play dough and drawing. The children have also enjoyed the new room set up and all the different toys.

Mobile truck - The mobile truck will start up again on Tuesday 29 January. The venues this year will be:-

Tuesday – Broke

Wednesday – Kirkton Public School

Thursday – Mt Olive

Friday – Broke

OOSH – Vacation care has been popular in the holidays. The last day for vacation care will be Tuesday 29 January and then before and after school care will return on the Wednesday.

The children have kept busy in the holidays with regular trips to the local pool. Wendell Peacock from council guest starred with an African drumming demonstration. Children did a lot of African craft in relation to this. Some of the boys have created an ant farm and have spent lots of time watching and feeding the ants. Another popular activity has been creating with pottery and salt dough.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Jennifer Underwood Gary Woodman

Manager Community Services Director Operations

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Library Report No. 1/08

1.

Library Quarterly Report Author: Robyn Tonks

FILE: 01/0573

Detail:

The quarterly report is attached for Council’s information.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

AT-1View

Library Quarterly Report

14 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Library Report No. 1/08
Library Quarterly Report	Library Quarterly Report

SINGLETON PUBLIC LIBRARY

QUARTERLY REPORT

July - December 2007

Note: The population figure used in this report is 23,005. It is the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics estimated resident population (at 30 June 2006).

1. LIBRARY USE

The following statistics reflect the extent to which the library is used by the community.

1.1 Registration as a Percentage of Population

Total registration at the end of Dec 2006 = 8,923

Total registration at the end of Dec 2007 = 8,451

Members have decreased by 5.29%.

36.74% of the population are active library members.

1,032 active members are non-residents. This is a 19.58% increase on the previous year’s non-resident total of 924 and means that the actual percentage of Singleton’s population that are active members is 32.25%.

1.2 Internet Memberships

Library members registered to use the Internet at end of Dec 2006 = 4,631

Library members registered to use the Internet at end of Dec 2007 = 4,713

An increase of 1.77%.

1.3 Library Visits

Total visits Jly-Dec 2006 = 70,754

Total visits Jly-Dec 2007 = 55,002

A decrease of 22.26%.

Note: The electronic people counter stopped functioning during this period and estimates only can be provided.

Average visits per week Jly-Dec 2006 = 2,721

Average visits per week Jly-Dec 2007 = 2,115

Average visits per day Jly-Dec 2006 = 454

Average visits per day Jly-Dec 2007 = 359

Note: Saturdays are counted as a full day so that the visits per hour open are a more accurate indicator.

Average visits per hour open Jly-Dec 2006 = 47

Average visits per hour open Jly-Dec 2007 = 37

1.4 Number Attending Storytimes

Separate records are kept for children and their carers because these sessions are a part of our strategy for improving and supporting family literacy. They target both the children and their carers.

(a) Bedtime Storytime

One session is held per quarter.

Jly to Dec 2006 = 75 children + 47 carers

Jly to Dec 2007 = 49 children + 28 carers

Overall attendance has decreased by 36.89%.

These evening programs encourage family literacy.

(b) Preschool Storytime

Sessions are generally weekly but are not held the week of bedtime storytime or during school holidays.

Jly to Dec 2006 = 405 children + 253 carers (17 sessions)

Jly to Dec 2007 = 442 children + 305 carers (18 sessions)

Overall attendance has increased by 13.53%. However, there has been an additional session this year.

(c) Lapsit Program

One program of four weekly sessions is held per quarter.

Jly to Dec 2006 = 72 babies + 78 parents

Jly to Dec 2007 = 54 babies + 55 parents

An overall decrease of 27.33%

1.5 Number of Children Attending Book Beat

This new program only started last year. It is held quarterly.

Jly to Dec 2006 = 9 children (1 session)

Jly to Dec 2007 = 20 children (2 sessions)

1.6 Number of Children Attending Holiday Activities

Adults also attended these sessions and assisted. They are included below in the comparative figure for adults attending special events or group visits.

Jly-Dec 2006 = 246 (7 activities)

Jly-Dec 2007 = 237 (7 activities)

A decrease of 3.66%

1.7 Number of Children Attending Pokemon Club

This program was only introduced this year.

Jly-Dec 2007 = 116

1.8 Number of Children Attending Other Special Events or in Group Visits

Jly-Dec 2006 = 1,875

Jly-Dec 2007 = 2,390

An increase of 27.47%

1.9 Number of Youth Attending Special Events or in Group Visits

Jly-Dec 2006 = 229

Jly-Dec 2007 = 254

An increase of 10.92%.

1.10 Number of Adults Attending Special Events or in Group Visits

This does not include those attending Storytimes. It should be noted that we also have a lot of individual visitors who come to view the artwork and displays that cannot be recorded.

Jly-Dec 2006 = 662

Jly-Dec 2007 = 878

A 32.63% increase.

Regular Events Targeting Adults
Event	No. Attending Jly-Dec 2006	No. Attending Jly-Dec 2007	Variation
Seniors on the Net	74	41	- 44.59%
Scrabble Set	97	128	+ 31.96%
Skillsnet	66	14	- 78.79%

Skillsnet and Seniors on the Net programs are under review.

1.11 Meeting & Training Room Hire July to December.

This does not include usage for library purposes.

	Training Room		Team Meeting Room		Large Meeting Room		Foyer		Totals
	2006	2007	2006	2007	2006	2007	2006	2007	2006	2007
Bookings	21	25	58	59	30	35	4	-	113	119
No. Attending	183	264	497	559	593	576	150	-	1,423	1,399
Hours Used	140	143.5	328	216	142	131.5	4	-	614	491

Bookings have increased by 5.31%

Numbers attending have decreased by 1.69%

Hours used have been decreased by 20.03%

1.12 After Hours Return Chute

Items returned Jly to Dec 2006 = 2,674

Items returned Jly to Dec 2007 = 3,059

A 14.40% increase.

1.13 Miscellaneous

Statistics are not available for areas such as the Study Room, Local Studies Room and Corporate Library. It has been noted that customers are also making use of the Corporate Library.

2. MATERIALS USE

The following statistics reflect the extent of use of the library’s resources and services.

2.1 Total Loans

Jly-Dec 2006 = 89,716

Jly-Dec 2007 = 84,402

A decrease of 5.92%.

2.2 Loans per Hour Open

Jly-Dec 2006 = 60

Jly-Dec 2007 = 57

2.3 Average Daily Loans

Note: Saturdays are counted as full days although we are only open for 3 hours.

Jly-Dec 2006 = 575

Jly-Dec 2007 = 552

2.4 Self-Check Usage

Self-Check Usage
Number of Users	2006	2007
	5,898	5,257
Number of Loans	21,141	20,856
Percentage of Total Loans	23.56%	24.71%

Our aim is to eventually have all loans go through self-check units so that staff are freed to be more proactive in assisting library users. Staff will still be available to assist. This will not occur until the videos are phased out because they cannot go through the self-check. It will require an additional self-check unit as usage increases.

2.5 Housebound Loans

Jly-Dec 2006 = 197 (individual) + 994 (institutions) = 1,191

Jly-Dec 2007 = 240 (individual) + 698 (institutions) = 938

Overall housebound loans have decreased by 21.24%

Note: Loans are used by numerous borrowers at the institutions.

2.6 Computer Usage

Number of users Jly-Dec 2006 = 10,400

Number of users Jly-Dec 2007 = 11,782

An increase of 13.29%

Note: This includes the Internet and CD Rom usage but not the OPAC (online catalogue) usage or the Kurzweil.

Hours of usage Jly-Dec 2006 = 10,129

Hours of usage Jly-Dec 2007 = 11,644.5

2.7 Personal Computer Usage

There are 10 data outlets in the Study Room allowing users to connect their own laptop computers with free Internet access.

Number of users Jly-Dec 2006 = 229

Number of users Jly-Dec 2007 = 104

A decrease of 54.59%.

Hours of use Jly-Dec 2006 = 322

Hours of use Jly-Dec 2007 = 128.5

Since November customers with wireless enabled laptops could use them anywhere in the library to connect for free Internet access.

Number of users Nov-Dec 2007 = 14

Hours of use Nov-Dec 2007 = 16

2.8 Internet Visitors

The following are included in the above total for computer users. They are listed here to demonstrate the number of non-members who make use of library facilities.

Place of Residence	No. of Visitors Jly-Dec’06	No. of Visitors Jly-Dec’07
Local	129	319
NSW (other than Singleton)	277	449
ACT	4	5
Queensland	54	36
South Australia	9	3
Tasmania	2	11
Victoria	8	30
Western Australia	1	12
Northern Territory	6	1
Overseas	214	154
Total	704	894

2.9 Number of Playstation Users

Note: We had 2 playstations but after two thefts early this year it was decided not to replace one.

Total users Jly-Dec 2006 = 1,018

Total users Jly-Dec 2007 = 504

A decrease of 50.49%.

Total hours used Jly-Dec 2006 = 953

Total hours used Jly-Dec 2007 = 461.5

2.10 Number of Kurzweil Users

Total users Jly-Dec 2006 = 2

Total users Jly-Dec 2007 = 18

Total hours used Jly-Dec 2006 = 2

Total hours used Jly-Dec 2007 = 27.5

2.11 Number of Microfilm Reader/Printer Users

Total users Jly-Dec 2006 = 58

Total users Jly-Dec 2007 = 38

A 34.48% decrease

Total hours used Jly-Dec 2006 = 76

Total hours used Jly-Dec 2007 = 41

2.12 Number of Photocopies Taken July to December

Copier/Type of copy	2007	2006
Public Copier B&W	32,656	36,962
Public Copier Colour	6,750	11,636
Sub-total Public Copier	39,406	48,598
Staffroom B&W Photocopies	39,046	41,737
Total copies taken	78,452	90,335

The continued reduction in staff copies indicates the practices implemented to improve sustainability have been effective.

3. REFERENCE/INFORMATION SERVICE MEASURES

3.1 Number of Reference Inquiries

In-house Reference Inquiries Jly-Dec 2006 = 4,329

Corporate Reference Inquiries Jly-Dec 2006 = 147

Local History Reference Inquiries Jly-Dec 2006 = 57

Total Reference Inquiries Jly-Dec 2006 = 4,533

In-house Reference Inquiries Jly-Dec 2007 =1,157

Corporate Reference Inquiries Jly-Dec 2007 = 149

Local History Reference Inquiries Jly-Dec 2007 = 60

Total Reference Inquiries Jly-Dec 2007 = 1,366

Total reference inquiries have decreased by 69.87%

3.2 Reference Completion Rate

This statistic refers to the number of reference inquiries answered on the same day as a percentage of total reference inquires.

Jly-Dec 2006 = 4,144 x 100 = 91.42%

4,533

Jly-Dec 2007 = 1,166 x 100 = 85.36%

1,366

3.3 Number of Interlibrary Loans Lent to Other Libraries From Singleton Library

DATE	NUMBER REQUESTED	NUMBER SATISFIED	SATISFACTION RATE
Jly-Dec 2006	23	20	86.96%
Jly-Dec 2007	47	45	95.74%

3.4 Number of Interlibrary Loans Lent to Singleton Library From Other Libraries

DATE	NUMBER REQUESTED	NUMBER SATISFIED
Jly-Dec 2006	174	260
Jly-Dec 2007	109	122

Note: There are more satisfied than requested as they were requested in previous months.

3.5 Number of Requests Taken

Jly-Dec 2006 = 197

Jly-Dec 2007 = 111

This is a decrease of 43.65%

3.6 Number of Staff Online Searches for Information

Online Resource	Jly-Dec 2006		Jly-Dec 2007
	No. Searches	No. Successful	No. Searches	No. Successful
ANZ Database	24	24	9	6
Book Find	N/A	N/A	0	0
Britannica	11	9	1	1
Choice	20	20	5	4
Consumer Health	6	6	1	0
Internet	1,424	973	92	75
Internet History Resource	65	23	3	2
Libraries Australia	1,007	630	3	2
Literary Reference	N/A	N/A	0	0
Master File	N/A	N/A	0	0
Novelist	N/A	N/A	0	0
Science Reference	N/A	N/A	0	0
Small Engine	N/A	N/A	0	0
Source	23	20	2	2
Standards Australia	19	19	3	0
Webster World	4	3	3	3
World Book	7	7	1	1
Total	2,610	1,734 (66.44%)	123	96 (78.05%)

3.7 Number of Holds (Reservations)

Jly-Dec 2006 = 641

Jly-Dec 2007 = 935

This is an increase of 45.87%

3.8 OPAC (Singleton’s Online Catalogue)

OPAC Usage Jly-Dec
	2006	2007
Number of searches	16,142	8,084
Number of reserves	38	12
Number of borrower s accessing personal details	2,335	895

3.9 Number of Searches for Interlibrary Loan in Libraries Australia (National Catalogue )

Jly-Dec 2006 = 638

Jly-Dec 2007 = 232

A decrease of 63.64%

3.10 Online Database Usage July to December

Statistics are not available for all databases.

	Novelist		Science Reference Centre		MasterFile Premier			Small Engine Repair			Book Find			Your Tutor		Choice
	2006	2007	2006	2007	2006	2007	2006		2007	2006		2007	2006		2007		2006	2007
Log-ins	N/A	8	N/A	13	N/A	3	N/A		4	N/A		0					35	0
Searches	N/A	26	N/A	22	N/A	3	N/A		8	N/A		0
In-house Sessions													N/A		56
In-house Full text
In-house Searches
Remote Sessions													N/A		16
Remote Full Text
Remote Searches
Full Text	N/A	14	N/A	6	N/A	3	N/A		2
Abstracts	N/A	3	N/A	6	N/A	4	N/A		2
Documents
In-house hits
Views
Total Hits

Attachment 1	Manager Library Report No. 1/08
Library Quarterly Report	Library Quarterly Report

	Literary Reference Centre		Consumer Health Complete		Webster’s World		Webster’s eLearning			ANZ			IHR			World Book Online		Britannica			The Source			Standards Online
	2006	2007	2006	2007	2006	2007	2006	2007	2006		2007	2006		2007	2006		2007		2006	2007		2006	2007		2006	2007
Log-ins	N/A	6	N/A	22					97		46	20		0								997	0
Searches	N/A	8	N/A	38					188		239														34	11
In-house Sessions					12	223	0	44							143		52
In-house Full text									87		216
In-house Searches															133		115
Remote Sessions					21	9	24	8
Remote Full Text
Remote Searches
Full Text	N/A	4	N/A	21
Abstracts	N/A	2	N/A	20					77		142
Documents																			5	29					25	25
In-house hits															14600		7040
Views															454		185
Total Hits																			3609	8735

Attachment 1	Manager Library Report No. 1/08
Library Quarterly Report	Library Quarterly Report

3.10 Sample Information Inquiries

These indicate the range of inquiries received at the Library.

· Bull riding techniques

· Unfreezing of Northwest passage

· Aboriginal population statistics prior to and during early civilization

· Career in volcanology

· Are mammograms safe?

· Exercise and nutrition for the aged and frail

· Social impact of WWII on women

· Prison system and correctional facilities

· A concordance

· Fibonacci sequences in poetry, puzzles, games, etc

· How the self develops over time

· Old fashioned children’s games, skipping, hopscotch, etc

These indicate the range of Corporate Library and Local Studies inquiries:

· Current Population figures for – Maitland LGA

· Statistics regarding disability and accommodation

· Information on writing position descriptions

· Standard information

· Census information

· Locate a photograph of Neil McNamara

· Domestic violence crime statistics for Singleton LGA over the last 18 months

· Comparison of the above with neighbouring LGAs

· Domestic violence – integrated court models

· Locate a council resolution

· Headstone inscriptions

· Specific family inquiries

· Antique Toys

· Parish map information

· Wambo and Warkworth

· Grave site numbers

· Who administers Whittingham Cemetery?

· House history

4. LIBRARY MATERIALS

4.1 Total Stock

Total stock Dec 2006 = 57,326

Total stock Dec 2007 = 63,830

An increase of 11.35%

Total acquired Jly-Dec 2006 = 2,261

Total acquired Jly-Dec 2007 = 2,677

Note: Donations and new copies of magazines are included in the total acquired.

Total discarded Jly-Dec 2006 = 264

Total discarded Jly-Dec 2007 = 7,185

Total Donations Jly-Dec 2006 = 473

Total Donations Jly-Dec 2007 = 690

4.2 Library Materials Per Capita

Dec 2006 = 2.57

Dec 2007 = 2.77

5. HOURS WORKED

DATE	PERMANENT STAFF	CASUAL STAFF	VOLUNTEER STAFF	TOTAL
Jly-Dec 2006	7,711	823	247	8,781
Jly-Dec 2007	7,049.5	1,192	396.8	8,638.3

In addition to the above a significant number of voluntary hours are worked by permanent staff, ranging from 4 to 20 plus hours per week.

6. TECHNICAL SERVICES

This section helps complete the picture of achievements and also to establish benchmarks to assist in continuous improvement and research into best practice.

For example, it will provide data for assessing outsourcing options.

6.1 Acquisitions

	Jly-Dec 2007	Jly-Dec 2006
Number of orders placed	91	101
Number of items ordered	1,702	1,645
Number of items received	2,677	2,261
New magazine copies received	418	639

6.2 Cataloguing

	Jly-Dec 2007	Jly-Dec 2006
Number of donations entered	690	473
Number of new cataloguing records created	2,863	1,506
Number of catalogue records updated	8,099	9,571
Number of original cataloguing	91	62
Number of holdings added to Libraries Australia	270	179
Number of holdings deleted from Libraries Australia	42	-
Number of holdings updated on Libraries Australia	1	2
Number of searches on Libraries Australia for cataloguing	751	463

7. MARKETING

7.1 Exhibitions

· Visitor Information Centre - Healthy Indulgence

· Antique toys

· Summer Reading Program & Prizes

· Doing Dad's proud

7.2 Displays

· Dementia

· New Adult and Junior materials

· Dorris Lessing (Nobel Prize in Literature winners)

· Further education, career and job seeking resources @ your library

· Holiday reading@ Your Library

· Xmas themed books

7.3 Media Promotions

· There were 10 articles in the Singleton Argus this quarter.

· There were 2 articles in the Hunter Valley News

· There was an article in the Daily Telegraph

7.4 Outreach Promotions

Every school in the Singleton local government area was visited by library staff to promote the Summer Reading Program and the library’s services.

8. CUSTOMER COMMENTS FOR SECOND QUARTER

The following comments were received in writing. It should be noted that all comments are seriously considered and acted on if appropriate. Responses are provided whenever details are submitted.

· As a recovering stroke patient I find Hear-A-Books are an excellent part of my recovery therapy

· The following feedback on the Anna Dell’oso Creative Writing sessions was received from Steve McKinnon at St Catherine’s. “As a teacher, I found the presentation and nature of the exercises to be very good and highly stimulating for the students. There were no negative comments from the students, other than that they would have liked to stay longer. The students were very positive about the program presented by Ms Dell’oso.”

· Signs needed for displays, e.g. toys could be missed (Special Projects Librarian contacted customer re this)

· “I am an Arts student at Newcastle University. It is difficult living a hour away from the university and its facilities but I was pleased to discover this library has many resources for me to use, I completed an entire assignment on Australian Pop Culture without the university’s library but my local one. Also pleased with the reference section the Oxford Classical Dictionary 3^rd ed. is excellent. Saves me 2 hours driving.”

· 3 complaints were received about the behaviour and language of teenagers on the computers. (The Acting Manager Library discussed the issue with each of the patrons, persons identified have been spoken to and warnings given, staff have been advised to keep an eye/ear out for such behaviour.)

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Library Report No. 1/08

2.

Prime Minister's Summit Author: Robyn Tonks

FILE: 01/0573

Detail:

The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) has advised that they are developing a submission for the summit.

ALIA will be working with Public Libraries Australia (PLA), National State Librarians Association, Council of Australian University Libraries, Friends Of Libraries Association, TAFE and other interested organisations.  PLA have agreed to a joint submission for the Australia 2020 summit focusing on the key area of Economic infrastructure, the digital economy and the future of our cities with an emphasis on:

· how Australians benefit from libraries, their services and collections and issues including contributing to the digital economy through access to collections, quality electronic resources and services.

· the need to boost public investment in this infrastructure.

· the shift of support for access to government services to national, state and public libraries.

· the importance of funding digitisation of the nations library collections.

· how rural economies benefit from their libraries.

· the contribution of libraries to the health of Australians, and

· the contribution of libraries to indigenous Australia.

They will refer to the recommendations from the report Libraries in the online environment and note that funding is needed to provide a national infrastructure for the nation.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Library Report No. 1/08

3.

Archives Collection Author: Robyn Tonks

FILE: 01/0573

Detail:

The Special Projects Librarian, Sharon Muir, has provided the following report on the current state of the Archive Collection at the Library.

The collection consists of approximately 900 items. This includes:

Council Archives – 500

· Council Minute Books - Singleton Municipal Council 1866 – 1975

- Patricks Plains Shire Council 1906 – 1975

- Singleton Shire Council and Singleton Council 1976 – 2002

(more current still retained at Council)

· Rate Books

· Valuation listings

· Assessment listings

· Ledgers

· Building permits

A majority of the Council Archives (with the exemption of the minute books) have been wrapped in acid free paper with acid free tape. Whilst this helps to delay the deterioration process it also inhibits access.

All Council Archives are listed in Trim with generic access points on the Library System (Amlib) for the Council Minutes.

Family history Archives – 50

· Parish Maps

· Police record books

· Government Gazettes

· A collection of Certificates, indentures, legal papers, letters and notes relating to Singleton and prominent Singleton people.

Photographs – 280

Most of these are modern council photographs from the 1980s onwards. They depict Council land development, Council functions, Councillors and staff.

Historical photographs include 4 photo albums relating to the Young family, formerly of Baroona, a series of postcard style photographs depicting Singleton 1941 and various miscellaneous photographs.

Maps – 30

The maps are from Planning and are generally in a poor condition.

Ephemera – 40

These include reports to ratepayers, Shire Guides and InfoMails.

Plans for Future Development

· Funds have been allocated in the 2007/08 budget for the microfilming of Council’s minute books and this has commenced.

· Map folders, document cleaning powder and pads, chemically inert sleeves in various sizes and acid free tape have been purchased.

· A strategic plan has been developed for the application of a heritage grant for Family History Archives. In the meantime the material is being encased to prevent further deterioration. This is being done by the Special Projects Librarian as time permits but as she only works 18 hours per week it is a slow process.

· The Special Projects Librarian is developing an application for a heritage grant for the Historical Photographs project and hopes to work with the Historical Society on a joint project.

· The Special Projects Librarian is continuing to monitor the “Australian Newspapers Online Project” and hopes to be able to use it as a framework for scanning and indexing the Argus in house. This is only possible because Council allocated in the 2007/2008 budget funding for a microfilm reader with capacity to do this.

There is an enormous amount of work to undertake with the Archives Collection and Sharon has very little time to allocate to it at this stage.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Library Report No. 1/08

4.

Digitisation of Newspapers Author: Robyn Tonks

FILE: 01/0573

Detail:

The Special Projects Librarian, Sharon Muir, is monitoring the Australian Newspaper Digitisation as part of the library’s collection and preservation strategies for Local Studies, Family History and Archives as documented in the Management Plan. When viable, we are hoping to be able to follow their framework.

A progress report on the project has been received from the State Library and is attached for Council’s information (Attachment 1).

It is worth noting that the Maitland Mercury, one of the pilot newspapers, will be particularly useful for us as The Mercury was our local paper prior to the Singleton Times.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Robyn Tonks Gary Woodman

Manager Library Director Operations

Attachments

AT-1View

Australian Newspaper Digitisation Progress Report

1 Page

Attachment 1	Manager Library Report No. 1/08
Australian Newspaper Digitisation Progress Report	Digitisation of Newspapers

State Library of New South Wales

Australian newspaper digitisation: progress report

A meeting on the National Plan for Australian Newspapers (ANPLAN, previously NPLAN) was held at the National Library on June 25, attended by the ANPLAN convenors from each state. ANPLAN, is the collaborative plan of Australia’s state and territory libraries to locate, collect and preserve every newspaper ever published in Australia, with the intention of guaranteeing public access to these important historical documents.

A session of the meeting was devoted to the Australian newspaper digitisation project. The aim of the project is to build an infrastructure to provide fully searchable online access to a range of Australian newspapers. The project will initially improve access to iconic Australian newspapers, valuable research resources on Australian history, social, political and economic issues and culture.

The project will start by digitising a selection of Australian newspapers published prior to 1954 with a contribution from each state. The results of this pilot will be available from the beginning of next year for searching online.

The state and territory libraries will fund the provision of quality microfilm versions of newspapers as the source material for the digitisation process. The microfilm will be scanned to create digital page images. The images will then be converted into searchable text files through the use of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology. The National Library will develop the online search and delivery solution in-house, based on software known as Lucene.

By mid 2008 there should be a significant number of pages in production and available for searching.comprising Sydney Gazette (1803-1842), Maitland Mercury (1843-1893), and others.

By the end of the first phase of the project, 3.5 million pages of content will be fully searchable via the internet; processes and costings will be established, and standards will be confirmed for similar projects.

The State Library of New South Wales has nearly completed refilming The Sydney Gazette & NSW Advertiser. This project involves carefully collating a single copy, selecting the best pages from all of the Library’s copies.

The implications for public libraries in NSW are enormous. Initially libraries will be able to provide clients with fully searchable internet access to The Sydney Gazette & NSW Advertiser, Australia’s first newspaper, and others listed above. After evaluation of the pilot it is anticipated that public libraries with an interest in digitising local or regional newspapers will work with state libraries to provide further content for the project. Funding will need to be identified based on costings established in the pilot. The outcome for clients will be a single quality online platform for Australian newspapers.

Jerelynn Brown

Convenor, ANPLAN, NSW

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

1.

Tennis Author: Alan Fletcher

FILE: 01/0373

Executive Summary:

The purpose of this report is to:

1. Introduce a presentation from Mr David Eland, General Manager of Tennis NSW.

2. Provide an update to Councillors on tennis issues in Singleton and

3. Advise Councillors that Albion Park Tennis Club has ceased operation and that the Playgroups that were located at Townhead Park have moved to Albion Park to utilize the building. A radio controlled model car group are considering the use of the courts.

Background:

On 7 April 2003 a report was presented to the Operations Committee on Tennis facilities in Singleton Local Government Area. Copy attached (Appendix 1). The Committee resolved:-

· That the user groups of all Singleton Council tennis facilities be requested to meet and review their tennis fee structures so as to have common fees across all facilities. That the Singleton Sports Council be asked to facilitate the discussions.

· That Council retain the tennis courts at Howe Park, Albion Park, Broke Recreation Ground, Bulga Recreation Ground, Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground and Stanhope Park.

· That Singleton Sports Council be asked to investigate and report to Council on:

- A dollar for dollar grant scheme to assist user groups with major maintenance and

improvements of facilities.

- A formalised loan system for community groups to facilitate major maintenance or

improvements for facilities.

The outcome from the resolution was:-

· Discussions were held at Sports Council Meetings about fees. However the Tennis organisations were reluctant to raise fees.

· The courts at Broke, Bulga, Jerrys Plains and Stanhope were repaired and/or resurfaced by Singleton Council. The Bulga Community were able to secure partial grant funding for the work at Bulga, the remainder of Bulga work and the work at other sites was paid for by Council.

· The Dollar for Dollar grant scheme has been implemented to help users finance asset upgrades or replacements. Howe Park Tennis has taken advantage of the scheme.

Loans from Council have also been utilized by Howe Park Tennis in the past to improve facilities.

On 8 November 2007 I attended a meeting of Albion Park Tennis. The Club were arranging the winding up of the Club. The major problem was the difficulty in securing a coach, as user numbers at the courts had dropped to unsustainable levels. The club voted to wind up the organisation.

The Playgroup at Townhead Park needs to move due to the proposed new Visitor Information Centre construction. The Playgroup would like to use the Albion Park Tennis building. The typical hours of use would be 9:00 am to 12 noon a few days a week during the school term. Terms would be as per the Townhead Park site. A radio controlled model car group are also investigating using the courts.

Management Plan:

The fees charged for the Playgroup use of the Albion Park buildings would be as per the fees and charges in the Management Plan i.e. $7.50 per hour. This is the same as the Townhead Park site.

Council Policy:

Albion Park and Howe Park are covered by Council’s Sports Ground Plan of Management. The rural tennis courts (Broke, Bulga, Jerrys Plains and Stanhope) are covered by Village Parks Plan of Management.

Legislation:

N/A.

Sustainability:

Social:

The 2003 report (Attachment 1) has information on long term sustainability of tennis. Information from Tennis NSW is that successful tennis complexes all have the following:

- 8 or more courts to provide economies of scale, i.e. 8 courts can support a tennis professional and pro shop which also helps with administering the courts, providing access and collecting fees. The large number of courts also facilitates running tournaments;

- A reasonable user population, say greater than 15,000 people preferably greater than 25,000 without competing tennis complexes;

- A prominent position e.g. adjacent to a busy road;

- Good quality, well maintained courts and facilities.

For these reasons it would be wise for Howe Park to be developed as Singleton’s

Tennis Centre. The proposed move of the golf course from Howe Park in 2010 provides opportunities to plan improved parking and courts at Howe Park which would further improve the sustainability of the facility.

Environmental:

N/A

Financial:

Under current arrangements the Howe Park Tennis Club have an annual allocation for the site from Singleton Council. This is the case for most sport user groups in Singleton. Singleton Council does not charge a fee but under the conditions of use the users are expected to look after facilities, especially facilities the users provide. Howe Park Tennis Club pay the maintenance costs of the facilities. Council helps with grants through the Singleton Sports Council and has also helped with capital works funding and organising other grants.

Council pays for the maintenance of the village courts with some assistance from the users for minor items e.g. cleaning, some weed control.

Consultation:

Council staff have met with the Albion Park and Howe Park tennis club representatives to discuss the closing of Albion Park and the future of tennis in Singleton Local Government area.

The president of the Singleton Sports Council will be organising a public meeting at Albion Park in mid March for people interested in using the courts for radio controlled model cars. If there is strong interest local residents will be contacted to discuss the proposal. Council’s planners advise that due to possible noise the proposal would require a development application which also has a consultation process.

Risk Management:

Having Singleton Council’s facilities well used and well maintained will minimise Council’s public liability risk. Unused or infrequently used facilities tend to degrade quickly. Lack of use of the village parks is an issue that was identified in the Village Parks Plan of Management and is a continuing problem. The proposed adaptive reuse of Albion Park tennis facilities should eliminate the lack of use problem at Albion Park.

Options:

· That Council close the courts at the village parks if lack of use continues.

· That Council retain the tennis courts at Howe Park, Broke Recreation Ground, Bulga Recreation Ground, Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground and Stanhope Park.

Conclusions:

Tennis is a major sport in Singleton local government area and is likely to remain so. Singleton Council needs to plan and implement policies to help ensure the long term sustainability of tennis. The resolution on the 7 April 2003 has seen a significant amount of maintenance carried out at the village park courts and financial support through the implementation of grants schemes for Howe Park Tennis Club in town.

Howe Park Tennis is currently sustainable and will be more so with possible additional improvements when the Golf Club leaves Howe Park. Village Parks’ tennis facilities continue to suffer from a lack of use and will require continuing financial support from Singleton Council if the courts are kept.

RECOMMENDED that Council retain and support the tennis courts at Howe Park, Broke Recreation Ground, Bulga Recreation Ground, Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground and Stanhope Park.

Attachments

AT-1View

Tennis Facilities Report on 7th April 2003

8 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08
Tennis Facilities Report on 7th April 2003	Tennis

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

2.

Minutes for Singleton Combined Horse Sports Ground Steering Committee - 13 February 2008 Author: Alan Fletcher

FILE: 04/0178

Detail:

The Minutes of the Singleton Combined Horse Sports Ground Steering Committee Meeting held on 13 February 2008 are detailed as Attachment 1.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

AT-1View

Minutes Singleton Combined Horse Sports Ground Steering Committee Minutes February 2008

1 Page

Attachment 1	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08
Minutes Singleton Combined Horse Sports Ground Steering Committee Minutes February 2008	Minutes for Singleton Combined Horse Sports Ground Steering Committee - 13 February 2008

MINUTES OF SINGLETON COMBINED HORSE SPORTS GROUND STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING – 13 FEBRUARY 2008 - MEETING NO. 23 at 7.45 P.M.

PRESENT: Alan Fletcher, Sharron Mills, Adrian Whiting, Jillian Couling, David Badior, Bruce Withers

1.        APOLOGIES

Cr. Sue Moore, Cr. Lyn MacBain, Bruce Moxey, Peter & Colleen Heffernan.

A QUORUM WAS NOT PRESENT

AN INFORMAL DISCUSSION WAS HELD

Rixs Creek Mine advised by telephone on 13 February 2008 that they were not interested in selling or leasing their site on Maison Dieu Road for an Equestrian Centre. A letter is to follow confirming the telephone conversation.

Various other sites were discussed.

2. NEXT MEETING

7.30 pm Wednesday 23 April 2008.

G:\OPERATIONS\PARKS_&_FACILITIES\COMMITTEES\Combined Horse Sports\Minutes 07\MINUTES - Meeting No 21 21.11.07.doc

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

3.

Burdekin Park Bunya Nut Trees Risk Management and Dr Nelson's Flying Fox Report Update Author: Stuart Neal

FILE: 01/0222-3

Detail:

Over the recent summer months the Bunya Trees in Burdekin Park have dropped a significant number of seed cones which have caused concerns to park users, and have posed a risk liability to Council by a member of the public or staff being accidently hit by falling Bunya nuts.

Council’s Parks and Facilities Program Area has erected temporary exclusion safety zone fencing around all Bunya Trees in Burdekin Park so when Bunya Nuts drop the park users will not get accidently hit.

Council has on a bi-yearly basis removed immature Bunya nuts using a large elevated tower. The removal of the Bunya nuts thereby reduces the risk of nuts falling. With recent wet weather the planned de-nutting of the Bunya trees has not yet been carried out, due to the moist soil conditions of the park. Severe damage to the park would have been caused by the very heavy tower machinery necessary to help remove the Bunya nuts. The exclusion zone mesh will stay in place until Council can remove the Bunya nuts from the trees, which with favourable conditions will be as soon as possible.

Council has not yet received Dr Nelson’s Flying Fox Report commissioned by the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change. The report is currently with the Department of Environment and Climate Change Director General’s Office.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

4.

Playground Capital Works Author: Kim Horn

FILE: 01/0511

Executive Summary:

Parks and Facilities have developed a priority list using the methodology set out in the Playground Management Strategy to program playground replacements over the next 20 years. Parks and Facilities have developed a 5 year capital works program from the priority list.

Background:

Rosepoint Park is currently being replaced and several playgrounds are in need of replacement in the immediate future. Parks and Facilities staff has used the methodology set out in the Playground Management Strategy to determine a priority list. Singleton Council has 23 playgrounds. The estimated lifespan of a playground is 20 years. The replacement of at least 1 playground per year on average would be required to have a sustainable strategy.

Park Name	Suburb	Reserve No.	Year Installed	Condition		Type of Facility	Level of Use	Replacement Priority
ALBION PARK	SINGLETON	22	2007	G	2	S	L	5
ALLAN BULL RESERVE	SINGLETON	10	1992	F	3	R	H	9
ALROY OVAL	SINGLETON HEIGHTS	9	2004	F	3	S	M	7
HEUSTON LOOKOUT	GOWRIE	26	2000	G	2	S	L	5
APEX PARK	SINGLETON	21	1997	F	3	S	M	7
BROKE REC GROUND	BROKE	103	1996	F	3	L*	M	6
BULGA REC GROUND	BULGA	110	1996	F	3	S	L	6
BURDEKIN PARK	SINGLETON	14	1985+1990	F	3	R	H	9
HUNTER PRELUDE	SINGLETON		2004	P	4	L*	L	6
CIVIC PARK	SINGLETON	11	2001	G	2	S	M	6
COOK PARK	SINGLETON	12	2001	G	2	R	M	7
EARRIBEE RESERVE	HUNTERVIEW	46	2006	E	1	L*	L	3
HARRY GEORGE RESERVE	SINGLETON	18	2004	G	2	L*	L	4
JAMES WHITE PARK	SINGLETON HEIGHTS	4	1997	G	2	L*	L	4
JERRYS PLAINS REC GROUND	JERRYS PLAINS	130	1999	F	3	S	L	6
JIM JOHNSTONE RESERVE	WARKWORTH	120	2001	G	2	S	L	5
MCTAGART RESERVE	BROKE	101	1996	F	3	R	L	7
NOWLAN PARK	SINGLETON HEIGHTS	49	2005	E	1	S*	M	5
ROBINS PARK	SINGLETON	19	2000	G	2	L*	L	4
ROBINSON RESERVE	SINGLETON HEIGHTS	36	1994	P	4	L*	L	6
ROSE POINT PARK	SINGLETON	12	1986	removed		R	H
TOWNHEAD PARK	SINGLETON	20	1996	G	2	R	H	8
WANARUAH PARK	DARLINGTON	2	1995	F	3	L*	L	5

NOTES - * Denotes not previously given level of use in playground strategy 6 May 2002

Replacement Priority - the higher the score the higher the priority

The table above lists the playground sites and priorities for replacement based on condition, type of facility and level of use.

There is a cluster of playgrounds of a similar age (see graph below). After the replacement of Rosepoint and Burdekin Park playgrounds the next replacement is not until 2012. Funds should be put aside on the non replacement years or some replacements should be bought forward to allow for an even distribution of funds.

There are non compliance with the Australian Standards issues at Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground playground that are being addressed. The playground has been elevated up the list of priorities.

Management Plan:

The 5 year capital works program is required by the Management Plan.

Council Policy:

 Playground Management Strategy (adopted 6 May 2002, Policy No 135/02)

Legislation:

The charter of the Local Government Act 1993 includes: -

· To promote and to provide and plan for the needs of children.

· Council is the custodian and trustee of public assets and to effectively maintain the assets.

Sustainability:

Social:

Provision of playgrounds for children in our community is part of Councils social responsibilities. It is important to ensure Councils facilities are safe, fun and attractive to use for children and their carers.

Environmental:

Not Applicable

Financial:

The replacement program sets out in the provisions of funds that are necessary to enable the replacement of the playgrounds. The $55,000 for the replacement of the 2008/09 playground replacement at Burdekin Park will be funded by the Parks and Facilities special rate variation funds.

Consultation:

The Playground Management Strategy was advertised for public comment prior to being adopted by Council on 6 May 2002. The strategy sets out the process of determining the priority list.

Risk Management:

Council has a system in place for maintaining and repairing playgrounds which reduces the possibility of hazards, thus enhancing the safety of all users. Hazards are identified by proactive inspections (primary method) or reactively (secondary method). Evaluation of the hazard is carried out and then the appropriate action (control measure) is taken as in line with the Playground Management Strategy.

Providing and managing playgrounds to Australian Standards also helps minimise risk to Council. Playground standards that are applicable are:-

· AS/NZS 4422 Playground surfacing – specifications, requirements and test methods.

· AS/NZS 4486 Playgrounds and playground equipment – development, installation,

inspection, maintenance and operation.

· AS 4685 Playground equipment – general safety requirements and test methods.

Conclusions:

Council has a duty of care to satisfactorily construct and maintain all playgrounds under its care, control and management to enhance the safety of all users. Playgrounds are an important element in the social interactions in our parks and are enjoyed by a large number of users across the age spectrum. Council has a responsibility to ensure that all playgrounds comply with Australian Standards. The proposed Capital Works Program will help meet these responsibilities.

RECOMMENDED that the following 5 year capital works program be adopted:

Year	Site	Cost
2008/09	Replace Burdekin Park playground in an old fashion style in keeping with the park. Remove one of the 2 units from the Hunter Prelude playground at Civic Avenue	$55,000
2009/10	Modify or replace Jerrys Plains Recreation Ground playground	$30,000
2010/11	Nil
2011/12	Replace Allan Bull playground	$60,000
2012/13	Replace Townhead Park playground	$50,000

· The 2008/09 costs be funded from the Parks and Facilities Special Rate Variation Funds in the draft budget.

· Developers supply new playgrounds in line with the Playground Management Strategy in new urban areas.

Alan Fletcher Gary Woodman

Manager Parks & Facilities Director Operations

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

5.

Minutes - Senior Rugby League Steering Committee - 19 February 2008 Author: Alan Fletcher

FILE: 02/0271-2

Detail:

The Minutes of the twenty-sixth meeting of the Singleton Senior Rugby League Ground Steering Committee held on 19 February, 2008 are attached. (Attachment 1).

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

AT-1View

Minutes - Senior Rugby League - 19 February 2008

3 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08
Minutes - Senior Rugby League - 19 February 2008	Minutes - Senior Rugby League Steering Committee - 19 February 2008

SENIOR RUGBY LEAGUE STEERING COMMITTEE - MINUTES of MEETING NO. 27

7.00 PM – Wednesday 19 February 2008 at Singleton Council Committee Room

PRESENT: Val Scott (Chairperson), John Martin, Alan Fletcher, Gary Woodman, Bryan Kirkland, Mark Newman, John Brumby.

John Martin was elected as Chairman.

1.         APOLOGIES

Steve McGrath & Neil Buckton.

2. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF MEETING NO. 26 HELD 15 January 2008

Minutes adopted as true and correct.

Gary Woodman/John Martin

3. PROPOSED OPENING/FIRST GAME – 8 MARCH 2008

Building Inspector – Andrew Harvey visited site today.

- No major problems, pointed out some minor items which are being fixed.

- Fire protection measures being installed by Wormald.

- Andrew and Mark Newman meeting one day next week.

Landscaping to be completed Saturday 23 February 2008.

Carparks and Roads

- J Moore 25 or 26 February J Moore for carpark gravel (finish Thursday 28

February).

- 25 or 26 February – Street Sweeper

- 29 or 30 February or 3 March Boral to seal carpark and road .

DA Condition 27 - No standing sign to ask Michael Launders to organise.

DA Conditions

1) OK

2) OK

3) OK

4) OK

5) External lighting around building OK.

6) OK

7) OK

8) OK

9) OK

10) Waste removal – 3m³ bin coming. Mark Newman to advise Alan how many sulo bins and stands required.

11) OK

12) OK

13) OK

14) OK

15) OK

16) OK

17) OK

18) OK

19) Work as Executed Plan underway.

20) OK

21) OK

22) OK

23) Road Construction – second seal due 30 February.

24) OK

25) OK

26) OK

27) Fencing underway. No Standing signs. Alan to speak to Michael Launders.

28) Disabled access ramp and parking underway.

29) Fencing – ‘Open Mesh’ underway.

30) OK

31) OK

32) OK

33) OK

34) Work not inspected – nil.

35) OK

36) OK

37) OK

38) OK

39) OK

40) OK

41) OK

42) OK

43) OK

44) OK

45) Termite Certificate coming.

46) OK

47) OK

48) OK

49) OK

50) OK

51) Fire safety measures happening.

52) OK

53) Kiosk happening.

54) OK

55) OK

56) OK

57) Restriction to user being arranged.

58) OK

59) OK

DA Modification 23 November 2007 + Construction Certificate – Conditions – OK Mark Newman arranging. Final approvals expected late February or early March.

Opening

- Not many people have RSVP.

- Katrina Solman advised light refreshments will be provided.

- MC. Steve McGrath will be talking to Alan Fletcher and Katrina Solman to finalise program.

Alan Fletcher asked was there any issues that would prevent practical completion or, obtaining an Occupation Certificate or the opening occurring. Nobody knew of any issues.

6. GENERAL BUSINESS

John Martin - Asked if trees to be planted were to have stakes. Alan advised yes.

Gary Woodman - Asked if Coal & Allied people had been invited. Brad advised yes.

MEETING CLOSED AT 5.45 P.M

8. ACTION PLAN

REF	ACTION	RESPONSIBILITY	COMPLETION DATE
26.4.1	Building work to be completed.	ALL	29.2.08
26.4.2	Landscaping	A Fletcher & J Martin	22.2.08
26.5	Organise Opening – General - Determine Mayor’s, Minister’s and Local Members availability	B Solman G Woodman	5.3.08 DONE.
	Draft Guest list Print and Post invites	B Solman A Fletcher	DONE. DONE.
26.6	Check off DA Conditions	ALL	DONE.
27.3.1	2^nd Coat of Seal on Carparks	A Fletcher	3.3.08
27.3.2	Achieve Practical Completion and obtain Occupation Certificate	M Newman B Solman A Fletcher	4.3.08
27.3.3	Finalise program for Opening Ceremony	S McGrath K Solman A Fletcher	25.2.08

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

6.

Minutes - Sedgefield Cemetery Improvements Working Group - 12 February 2008 Author: Alan Fletcher

FILE: 01/0384

Detail:

The Minutes of the Sedgefield Cemetery Improvements Working Group Meeting held on 12 February, 2008 are detailed as Attachment 1.

The Working Group have recommended to Council to consider new fees and charges for the 2008/09 Draft Management Plan and Budget.

RECOMMENDED that Council note the Minutes of the Sedgefield Cemetery Improvements Working Group Meeting held on 12 February, 2008 and adopt the fees and charges as recommended by the Sedgefield Cemetery Improvements Working Group for consideration in the Draft 2008/09 Management Plan and Budget.

Attachments

AT-1View

Minutes - Sedgefield Cemetery - 12 February 2008

2 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08
Minutes - Sedgefield Cemetery - 12 February 2008	Minutes - Sedgefield Cemetery Improvements Working Group - 12 February 2008

Present: Cr. Mary Robinson (Appointed Chairperson), Tracey Hollaway, Alan Fletcher (Manager Parks & Facilities), Gary Woodman – Director Operations.

1. APOLOGIES

Cr F Harvison, Phil Fletcher.

Gary Woodman/Tracey Holloway

2. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES – 14 AUGUST 2007

CONFIRMED as true and correct.

Tracey Holloway/Mary Robinson

2.1 Matters Arising from Minutes - NIL

3. CROWN LAND CEMETERIES

Jerrys Plains - No change on current status and actions.

Warkworth - Discussions with St Phillips and investigations being undertaken on location.

Howes Valley - Some talk to neighbours.

Auckland - No history of graves.

Reedy Creek - Survey work soon to commence to define boundries.

(Mirannie Road)

Hoping a further report will be provided to the March or April, 2008 Operations Committee Meeting follows a further report to the Sedgefield Cemetery Improvements Working Group.

4. FEES AND CHARGES FOR 2008/09

The Draft Fees and Charges increase amounts to approximately 3%.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED to Council that the following fees and charges for Public Cemeteries be considered for inclusion in the draft 2008/09 Fees and Charges within the Management Plan.

Tracey Holloway/Mary Robinson

Description of Fees & Charges	Fee Type	Quick Key	Item No.	GST Y/N	2007/ 2008 $	2007/ 2008 $	2008/ 2009 $	GST Amount 10%	2008/ 2009 $
Public Cemeteries Interment Lot Charge – monumental - Adult - Child (half size plot) Lawn Section - With Steel Cross - Other Columbarium Fee for administration for removal of ashes Note: The Columbarium Niche ownership to revert to Council – Reserve Trust Manager Permission to erect head or footstones, slab over grave, double slab included in above charges.	D D D D D D	17 17 17 17 17 17	16.37	N Y Y Y Y Y	175.00 754.55 572.73 1,113.64 1,009.09 572.73	175.00 830.00 630.00 1,225.00 1,110.00 630.00	180.00 777.27 590.91 1,145.45 1,040.91 590.91	- 77.73 59.09 114.55 104.09 59.09	180.00 855.00 650.00 1,260.00 1,145.00 650.00

5. GENERAL BUSINESS

5.1 Brown Marble headstones (Steel Cross) in Old Catholic Lawn Cemetery

Section

Follow up needs to happen in regard to brown marble headstones that on appearing and whether they are to the appropriate standard and in accordance with the Cemetery Operating Procedures.

5.2 Dead Trees

Lower part of cemetery replacements to be arranged.

6. NEXT MEETING

To be arranged when preparation of Crown Land Cemetery report is

complete.

BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS THE MEETING ENDED AT 4.37 PM.

G:\OPERATIONS\PARKS_&_FACILITIES\PARKS INFO\Cemeteries\Minutes 12 02 08 Sedgefield Cemetery.doc

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

7.

Singleton Gym & Swim Advisory Committee Minutes - 13 February 2008 Author: Alan Fletcher

FILE: 08/0034

Detail:

The Minutes of the Singleton Gym and Swim Advisory Committee Meeting held on 13 February 2008 are detailed as Attachment 1. Fees and Charges are attached as Attachment 2.

RECOMMENDED that Council note the Minutes of the Gym and Swim Advisory Committee Meeting held on 13 February, 2008 and adopt the following recommendations from the Committee:-

1. Financial Performance & Attendance

Tony Moody advised the spike in expenditure was due to a loan payment and payment of backwash recycling project. Total additional costs in the month was approximately $140,000.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Financial Performance and Attendance for the year to date up to 31^st January 2008 be noted;

2. Foyer Refurbishment Update

Currently timeline for refurbishment of foyer has been established:-

Monday 18^th February Bass Flooring to commence laying of new carpet on indoor pool terrace area and office. This should be completed by the 20^th February.

Monday 3^rd March Andrew Hobbs Carpentry from Muswellbrook will begin the removal of the old counter and the installation of the new. Other works that will proceed this installation include completion of replacement of carpets in foyer area, various minor carpentry, painting jobs, electrical refitting for turnstiles and computers and kitchen plumbing.

It is hoped that works will be completed by the 21^st March. During the work the entry to and from the centre will be via the crèche. Customers will be kept informed of the proposed renovations.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Report on Foyer Refurbishment Update be NOTED.

3. Backwash Recycling Plant Update

Installation of the Backwash Reverse Osmosis (RO) unit is completed and has been semi-operational since the new year. Due to a few teething problems the unit has not been fully functional but 6^th February 2008 has been provided as a date for final tuning of system.

System suppliers “ipools” have not been happy with the delivery rate of a submersible pump and are having the unit replaced to provide maximum output for the system. Also a few minor leaks have had to be dealt with and a number of parts replaced due to lack of promised quality.

It is expected that of the time of this meeting the project and all commissioning and training be completed.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Report on Backwash Recycling Plant Update be NOTED.

4. Fees and Charges for 2008/09

Average fee increase is 2.35%. The:-

2007/2008 Proposed 2008/2009

Adult Pool Entry Fee was $4.30 $4.40

Child Pool Entry Fee was $3.50 $3.60

Goldstar Monthly Direct Debit was $72/month $73/month

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Draft Fees and Charges for the Singleton Gym and Swim be included in the Council Management Plan for 2008/09. See Attachment A.

5. Review of New Years Day Attendance and Income

The day was attended by 198 people.

Additional Income $ 528.83

Additional Costs – wages $1,58468

Additional Costs – Advertising $ 400.00

_______

Net Additional Costs $1,455.85

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Singleton Gym and Swim open New Years Day in 2009.

6. Swim Squad

It is to be noted the exceptional performance of the SASC at the recent State Age Titles at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre (SOPAC) and highlighted in the Singleton Argus Friday 1^st February.

The 10-12 year old representatives finished 11^th in the state in the overall team standings and provided 4 medal swims, 8 finalists ribbons, 2 State records and 2 All Comers records.

The 13 – 18 year old group also finished with 6 finalists ribbons.

Centre coach, John Robinson, and the squad children are to be congratulated on their success and continued dedication and patronisation of the centre squad program and their enthusiasm for their sport and behaviour at the centre.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that a letter be sent to the Swim Coach, Mr. Robinson and the Centre Staff on the success of the Swim Squad.

7. Maintenance Issues

Broken window and door panes and replacement and repair of mirrors at the centre due to OH&S risks have set the centre back some $9500 in January. Unfortunately we already have had a number of panes broken since repairs were completed.

Gym and Swim staff will be talking to patrons and members to educate them in the correct use of the sauna. The cost to replace and fit a new heater will be $1,600.

Plant room Hypo tank has been replaced once again as previous tank was inadequate as it had developed a substantial leak. To fit and replace old tank cost $3500. Once again another unforeseen cost to the centre but an unavoidable and priority repair. The replacement tank is to Certified Designed Australian standard for storage of hazardous chemicals and as such has a twenty (20) year life expectancy.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Report on Maintenance Issues be NOTED.

8. Capital Works

· Refurbishment and redesign of centre amenities; est. cost $160,000 for 2008/09.

· Spinning Room est. cost; cira $45,000 – 2008/09.

· Replacement Foyer roof and ceiling est; cost $120,000 circa – 2011-2012

· Solar Heating to Indoor Pool est; cost $60,000 circa – 2009 -2010

· Air Conditioning upgrade in Gym and Foyer Gym est; cost $40,000

· Car Park extension est. cost unavailable

· Hydro pool est. cost $300,000 plus.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Report on Capital Works be NOTED.

9. Hydrotherapy Pool

The Committee talked about Hydrotherapy Pool Fund Raising Committee Meeting in December 2007.

Disability Access Committee Reps were unable to attend. There was general discussion on how to resolve the matter.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Gym and Swim Advisory Committee meet with the Disability Access Committee to discuss all relevant issues relating to the hydrotherapy /warm water pool project and funding.

Attachments

AT-1View	Minutes Singleton Gym & Swim - 13 February 2008	4 Pages
AT-2View	Fees & Charges	3 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08
Minutes Singleton Gym & Swim - 13 February 2008	Singleton Gym & Swim Advisory Committee Minutes - 13 February 2008

MINUTES OF THE GYM & SWIM ADVISORY COMMITTEE – HELD IN THE COMMITTEE ROOM – SINGLETON COUNCIL ADMINISTRATION CENTRE ON WEDNESDAY 13 FEBRUARY 2008 COMMENCING AT 5.30 P.M.

ATTENDANCE:

Alan Fletcher – Manager Parks & Facilities, Cr. John Martin, Cr Bill Langdon, Graeme Ward, David Vaughan, Greg Norris, Cr Lee Gallagher, Sarah Withell, Gary Woodman - Director Operations, Tony Moody – Manager Gym & Swim.

1. APOLOGIES

Steve McGrath, Cr Jon Doughty & Representative from Disability Access Committee.

RESOLVED that the apologies be accepted.

(B Langdon/J Martin)

2. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES – 14 NOVEMBER 2007

RESOLVED that the Minutes of the Meeting held on 14 November 2007 be adopted

as a true and correct record.

(B Langdon/G Ward)

3. MATTERS ARISING

3.1 Bill Langdon asked a question about refurbishment of foyer.

4. WELCOME OF NEW MEMBER

Mr David Vaughan was welcomed by the Committee.

5. MANAGER GYM & SWIM REPORT

5.1 Financial Performance & Attendance

Tony Moody advised the spike in expenditure was due to a loan payment and payment of backwash recycling project. Total additional costs in the month was approximately $140,000.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Financial Performance and Attendance for the year to date up to 31^st January 2008 be noted;

B Langdon/G Ward

5.2 Foyer Refurbishment Update

Currently timeline for refurbishment of foyer has been established:-

Monday 18^th February Bass Flooring to commence laying of new carpet on indoor pool terrace area and office. This should be completed by the 20^th February.

Monday 3^rd March Andrew Hobbs Carpentry from Muswellbrook will begin the removal of the old counter and the installation of the new. Other works that will proceed this installation include completion of replacement of carpets in foyer area, various minor carpentry, painting jobs, electrical refitting for turnstiles and computers and kitchen plumbing.

It is hoped that works will be completed by the 21^st March. During the work the entry to and from the centre will be via the crèche. Customers will be kept informed of the proposed renovations.

.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Report on Foyer Refurbishment update be NOTED.

B Langdon/G Ward

5.3 Backwash Recycling Plant Update

Installation of the Backwash Reverse Osmosis (RO) unit is completed and has been semi-operational since the new year. Due to a few teething problems the unit has not been fully functional but 6^th February 2008 has been provided as a date for final tuning of system.

System suppliers “ipools” have not been happy with the delivery rate of a submersible pump and are having the unit replaced to provide maximum output for the system. Also a few minor leaks have had to be dealt with and a number of parts replaced due to lack of promised quality.

It is expected that of the time of this meeting the project and all commissioning and training be completed.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Report on Backwash Recycling Plant Update be NOTED.

(G Woodman/B Langdon)

5.4 Fees and Charges for 2008/09

Average fee increase is 2.35%. The:-

2007/2008 Proposed 2008/2009

Adult Pool Entry Fee was $4.30 $4.40

Child Pool Entry Fee was $3.50 $3.60

Goldstar Monthly Direct Debit was $72/month $73/month

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Draft Fees and Charges for the Singleton Gym and Swim be included in the Council Management Plan for 2008/09. See Attachment A.

(B Langdon/L Gallagher)

5.5 Review of New Years Day Attendance and Income

The day was attended by 198 people.

Additional Income $ 528.83

Additional Costs – wages $1,58468

Additional Costs – Advertising $ 400.00

_______

Net Additional Costs $1,455.85

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Singleton Gym and Swim open New Years Day in 2009.

(G Norris/G Ward)

5.6 Swim Squad

It is to be noted the exceptional performance of the SASC at the recent State Age Titles at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre (SOPAC) and highlighted in the Singleton Argus Friday 1^st February.

The 10-12 year old representatives finished 11^th in the state in the overall team standings and provided 4 medal swims, 8 finalists ribbons, 2 State records and 2 All Comers records.

The 13 – 18 year old group also finished with 6 finalists ribbons.

Centre coach, John Robinson, and the squad children are to be congratulated on their success and continued dedication and patronisation of the centre squad program and their enthusiasm for their sport and behaviour at the centre.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that a letter be sent to the Swim Coach, Mr. Robinson and the Centre Staff on the success of the Swim Squad.

(G Norris/B Langdon)

5.7 Maintenance Issues

Broken window and door panes and replacement and repair of mirrors at the centre due to OH&S risks have set the centre back some $9500 in January. Unfortunately we already have had a number of panes broken since repairs were completed.

Gym and Swim staff will be talking to patrons and members to educate them in the correct use of the sauna. The cost to replace and fit a new heater will be $1,600.

Plant room Hypo tank has been replaced once again as previous tank was inadequate as it had developed a substantial leak. To fit and replace old tank cost $3500. Once again another unforeseen cost to the centre but an unavoidable and priority repair. The replacement tank is to Certified Designed Australian standard for storage of hazardous chemicals and as such has a twenty (20) year life expectancy.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Report on Maintenance Issues be

NOTED.

(G Norris/B Langdon)

5.8 Capital Works

· Refurbishment and redesign of centre amenities; est. cost $160,000 for 2008/09.

· Spinning Room est. cost; cira $45,000 – 2008/09.

· Replacement Foyer roof and ceiling est; cost $120,000 circa – 2011-2012

· Solar Heating to Indoor Pool est; cost $60,000 circa – 2009 -2010

· Air Conditioning upgrade in Gym and Foyer Gym est; cost $40,000

· Car Park extension est. cost unavailable

· Hydro pool est. cost $300,000 plus.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Report on Capital Works be NOTED.

(G Norris/B Langdon)

6. GENERAL BUSINESS

Graeme Ward - Talked about Hydrotherapy Pool Fund Raising Committee Meeting in December 2007.

Disability Access Committee Reps were unable to attend. There was general discussion on how to resolve the matter.

RESOLVED that it be RECOMMENDED that the Gym and Swim Advisory Committee meet with the Disability Access Committee to discuss all relevant issues relating to the hydrotherapy /warm water pool project and funding.

(G Woodman/G Norris)

7. NEXT MEETING

5.30 p.m. Wednesday 7 May 2008 in the Committee Room.

BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS THE MEETING ENDED AT 7.05 P.M.

G:\OPERATIONS\PARKS_&_FACILITIES\COMMITTEES\Gym & Swim\Minutes\Minutes 2008\Minutes - G&S Advisory Com - 13 Feb 08.doc

Attachment 2	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08
Fees & Charges	Singleton Gym & Swim Advisory Committee Minutes - 13 February 2008

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

8.

Gym & Swim Five Year Capital Works Program Author: Alan Fletcher

FILE: 01/0298

Executive Summary:

This report sets out the draft five year capital works program for the Singleton Gym & Swim. The report also sets out funding options for the 2008/09 year.

The Gym & Swim Advisory Committee have considered the capital works program. The Advisory Committee recommendations form the basis of the recommendations of this report. See the minutes of the 13 February 2008 Gym & Swim Advisory Committee meeting in this business paper.

Background:

The Capital Works items for the next five years have been listed in the table below. The items include some new items and also items which are maintenance, but due to their cost and the fact the work will extend the life of the asset, have been classed as capital. The likely source of funding for each item is also listed.

Year	Item	Estimated cost	Source of funds & comments
2008/09	Refurbishment of amenities	$160,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding
	Spinning room ( room set up for exercise bike programs)	$45,000	Equipment to be leased and paid as an operating cost
2009/10	Solar heating to indoor pool	$60,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding
	Hydrotherapy pool	$310,000	Grants and contributions. To be arranged by Hydrotherapy pool fund raising committee.
2010/11	Air conditioning upgrade in gym and foyer	$40,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding
2011/12	Replacement of foyer polycarbonate roof and ceilings. Includes modifications to eliminate leaking 25m pool terrace roof problem.	$120,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding
2012/13	Car park extension (30 spaces @ $3,000 per space)	$90,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding

Management Plan:  The items included in the capital works plan are consistent with the goals of Council’s Management Plan, particularly goal number 0408 - Maximise customer numbers, 0409 - Increase membership and 0400 - Implement Asset Management Strategy.

Council Policy: The Singleton Gym & Swim Plan of Management (Policy 572/00) includes capital works. Although eight years old the plan lists current items e.g. the hydrotherapy pool. The majority of items in the list have been completed or are underway e.g. kiosk upgrade, swim clubhouse construction, gym extension.

Legislation: N/A

Sustainability:

Social:

The Gym & Swim is an important part of the social infrastructure of Singleton. Most of the capital works set out in this program are major maintenance in nature. It is important that Gym & Swim is satisfactorily maintained to ensure the facilities add sustained social value to the community.

Environmental:

N/A

Financial:

The five year capital works program shown in the table above has the funding source for each item shown. The funding for 2008/9 from the Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding has been arranged for the change room refurbishment. The spinning room (exercise bike ) equipment is to be leased as is all the other gym equipment at the centre. This will be paid for from the annual operating budget for the centre.

Subsequent years (years 2 to 5 of the five year program) have had likely sources of funds identified.

Consultation:

The Gym & Swim Advisory Committee have been consulted on the draft capital works list. See the Committee minutes in this business paper. The Committee resolved to recommend to Council that the draft capital works five year program be adopted.

Risk Management:

The refurbishment work proposed in the plan will help minimise the public liability risk to Singleton Council by having well maintained and safe facilities.

Options:

The options available are to either:-

· Adopt the five year capital works program recommended by the Advisory Committee or,

· Not adopt the program.

Conclusions:

Most of the items listed are major maintenance items or changes to existing services . The proposed five year capital works program will help sustain the Singleton Gym & Swim by upgrading facilities to maintain a satisfactory level of service to our community. The option to adopt the program is recommended.

RECOMMENDED that the Gym & Swim five year capital works program set out below be adopted:

Year	Item	Estimated cost	Source of funds
2008/09	Refurbishment of amenities	$160,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding
	Spinning room ( room set up for exercise bike programs)	$45,000	Equipment to be leased and paid as an operating cost
2009/10	Solar heating to indoor pool	$60,000	Possibly Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding
	Hydrotherapy pool	$310,000	Subject to sufficient grants and contributions. To be arranged by Hydrotherapy Pool Fund Raising Committee.
2010/11	Air conditioning upgrade in gym and foyer	$40,000	Possibly Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding
2011/12	Replacement of foyer polycarbonate roof and ceilings. Includes modifications to eliminate leaking 25m pool terrace roof problem.	$120,000	Possibly Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding
2012/13	Car park extension (30 spaces @ $3,000 per space)	$90,000	Possibly Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

9.

Council & Community Buildings - Five Year Capital Works/Heavy Maintenance Program Author: Alan Fletcher

FILE: 01/0259-2

Executive Summary:

This report sets out a Five Year Capital Works/Heavy Maintenance Plan for Council and Community buildings in the table below. Many of these items are maintenance by nature but due to the significant cost and the fact that the work will extend the life of the building they are listed as capital items. Where the work is replacement of worn out items eg carpet replacement, the items have been placed in the maintenance budget for the building.

As no capital works funds are likely to be available from the general fund coin exercise for 2008/09 all the works are funded from :-

· Grants

· User contributions or

· Parks & Facilities special rate variation.

Background:

The Capital Works items for the next five years have been listed in the table below. The items include some new items and also items which are maintenance, but due to their cost and the fact the work will extend the life of the asset, have been classed as capital. The likely source of funding for each item is also listed.

Year	Item	Location	Estimated cost	Council Contribution	Source of funds & comments
2008/09	Refurbishment of amenities	Gym & Swim	-	-	Included in Gym & Swim capital works.
	Visitor information Centre	Townhead Park	-	-	Included in Tourism capital works
	Rural Fire Stations toilets/kitchens	Various	-	-	As funding becomes available from RFS or brigades. Included in the Emergency Serv capital works
	Amenities building	James Cook Park	$210,995	$40,000	Was adopted as capital works priority No1 for buildings 2007/8. $40,000 (council contribution) has been placed in restricted asset for the project. Go ahead subject to successful grants and user funds for balance.
	Stormwater drainage works & harvesting	Civic Centre	$45,000	$12,000	Council contribution from Parks & Facilities special rate variation. Remainder from Aust Community Water Grant.
	Replace auditorium air conditioner (A/C) cooling tower	Civic Centre Auditorium	$25,000	$25,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation
	Replace A/C unit No3	Civic Centre Admin Bld.	$30,000	$30,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation
	Refurbish playgroup building	Townhead Park	-	-	Not required due to building being demolished or removed due to proposed VIC construction on the same site.
2009/10	Refurbish toilets	Townhead Park	$40,000	$40,000	Cost may be greater than $40,000 due to the likely need to modify building to meet disability access Australian Standard AS1428. Currently being investigated. Source of funds to be determined.
	Remodel back room / Spandeck extension (The extension leaks badly in rain)	Civic Childcare (H. Prelude / OOSH)	$25,000	$25,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace 2 split system A/Cs.	Civic Childcare	$7,500	$7,500	Source of funds to be determined
	Refurbish kitchen/extension	Civic Centre Auditorium	$40,000	$40,000	To be funded from kitchen rental income.
	Kitchen appliances	Civic Centre Auditorium	$95,000	$95,000	Source of funds to be determined
2010/11	Replace Pound Park Workshop	Depot at Maison Dieu Rd	$30,000	$30,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Construct parks maintenance shed	Col Fisher Park, Alsop Place.	$30,000	$30,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace air conditioner	Senior Citz Centre	$15,000	$15,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Extension to Netball Amenities/Kiosk	Rose Point Park	$180,000	$180,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace outside lights for carpark	Civic centre N.E. side	$24,500	$24,500	Source of funds to be determined
	Sub floor rust repairs or:-	Alroy playgroup/ community building	$20,000	$20,000	Source of funds to be determined. Note that this building is a demountable temporary building. A replacement permanent building needs to be planned, see below.
	Replace temporary building with a permanent building	Alroy playgroup/ community building.	$310,000	$310,000	Source of funds to be determined. Existing building area is 155m2. Replacement bld same size cost estimated at $310,000. This item should only proceed if substantial user demand is confirmed.
2011/12	Re sand and finish floor in main hall	Civic Centre Auditorium	$21,000	$21,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace verandah tiles	Alroy amenities	$12,000	$12,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Lift refurbishment	Mechanics Institute, 74 George St	$10,000	$10,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Carpark regrade and reseal	SES	$12,000	$12,000	Source of funds to be determined
2012/13	Extend or replace amenities	Civic Park	$150,000	$150,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Refurb amenities kitchen	Albion Park	$8,000	$8,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace stage floor	Civic Centre Auditorium	$30,000	$30,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace amenities roof	Allan Bull Reserve	$18,000	$18,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace light fittings	Burdekin Park Museum	20,000	20,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Plaster, brickwork repairs due to damp and movement	Mechanics Institute, 74 George St	$25,000	$25,000	Source of funds to be determined

Management Plan:

The items included in the capital works plan are consistent with the goals of Councils Management Plan, particularly goal number 0355 – Implement planning strategies to secure high quality community facilities within Council’s financial capacity, 0365 - Encourage self help for user groups.

Council Policy:

Because of the various building site locations there are a number of plans of management which cover the buildings. For example, Plan of management for Burdekin Park, Town Parks , Sports Fields and Riverside Parks.

Legislation: Not applicable

Sustainability:

Social:

The supply of adequate and well maintained buildings is essential for the effective operation of sporting, cultural and operational facilities in the Singleton local government area. The proposed 5 year capital works plan will help meet this requirement.

Environmental:

Not applicable.

Financial:

The funding for 2008/09 from the Parks & Facilities special rate variation funding has been arranged for the following Civic Centre works:

· Stormwater drainage works & harvesting

· Replace auditorium air conditioner (A/C) cooling tower

· Replace Admin Building A/C unit No3

All other items for 2008/09 have not had funding identified.

Subsequent years (years 2 to 5 of the five year program) have had likely sources of funds identified.

Consultation:

Buildings such as the netball amenities/kiosk which have been included in the program have come about from discussions with the users. With the netball building proposal the item was also included in the Rose Point Park master plan which was advertised for public comment and discussed at Singleton Sports Council and Netball meetings.

Risk Management:

The refurbishment work proposed in the plan will help minimise the public liability risk to Singleton Council by having well maintained and safe facilities.

Options:

The options available are to either:-

· Adopt the five year capital works program or,

· Not adopt the program.

Conclusions:

Most of the items listed are major maintenance items or replacement of existing facilities. The proposed five year capital works program will help sustain the Singleton Council’s buildings by upgrading facilities to maintain a satisfactory level of service to our community. The option to adopt the program is recommended.

RECOMMENDED that the Council and Community Buildings Five Year Capital Works/Heavy Maintenance Program shown in the table below be adopted;-

Year	Item	Location	Estimated cost	Council Contribution	Source of funds & comments
2008/09	Refurbishment of amenities	Gym & Swim	-	-	Included in Gym & Swim capital works.
	Visitor information Centre	Townhead Park	-	-	Included in Tourism capital works
	Rural Fire Stations toilets/kitchens	Various	-	-	As funding becomes available from RFS or brigades. Included in the Emergency Serv capital works
	Amenities building	James Cook Park	$210,995	$40,000	Was adopted as capital works priority No1 for buildings 2007/8. $40,000 (council contribution) has been placed in restricted asset for the project. Go ahead subject to successful grants and user funds for balance.
	Stormwater drainage works & harvesting	Civic Centre	$45,000	$12,000	Council contribution from Parks & Facilities special rate variation. Remainder from Aust Community Water Grant.
	Replace auditorium air conditioner (A/C) cooling tower	Civic Centre Auditorium	$25,000	$25,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation
	Replace A/C unit No3	Civic Centre Admin Bld.	$30,000	$30,000	Parks & Facilities special rate variation
	Refurbish playgroup building	Townhead Park	-	-	Not required due to building being demolished or removed due to proposed VIC construction on the same site.
2009/10	Refurbish toilets	Townhead Park	$40,000	$40,000	Cost may be greater than $40,000 due to the likely need to modify building to meet disability access Australian Standard AS1428. Currently being investigated. Source of funds to be determined.
	Remodel back room / Spandeck extension (The extension leaks badly in rain)	Civic Childcare (H. Prelude / OOSH)	$25,000	$25,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace 2 split system A/Cs.	Civic Childcare	$7,500	$7,500	Source of funds to be determined
	Refurbish kitchen/extension	Civic Centre Auditorium	$40,000	$40,000	To be funded from kitchen rental income.
	Kitchen appliances	Civic Centre Auditorium	$95,000	$95,000	Source of funds to be determined
2010/11	Replace Pound Park Workshop	Depot at Maison Dieu Rd	$30,000	$30,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Construct parks maintenance shed	Col Fisher Park, Alsop Place.	$30,000	$30,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace air conditioner	Senior Citz Centre	$15,000	$15,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Extension to Netball Kiosk	Rose Point Park	$180,000	$180,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace outside lights for carpark	Civic centre N.E. side	$24,500	$24,500	Source of funds to be determined
	Sub floor rust repairs or:-	Alroy playgroup/ community building	$20,000	$20,000	Source of funds to be determined. Note that this building is a demountable temporary building. A replacement permanent building needs to be planned, see below.
	Replace temporary building with a permanent building	Alroy playgroup/ community building.	$310,000	$310,000	Source of funds to be determined. Existing building area is 155m2. Replacement bld same size cost estimated at $310,000. This item should only proceed if substantial user demand is confirmed.
2011/12	Re sand and finish floor in main hall	Civic Centre Auditorium	$21,000	$21,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace verandah tiles	Alroy amenities	$12,000	$12,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Lift refurbishment	Mechanics Institute, 74 George St	$10,000	$10,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Carpark regrade and reseal	SES	$12,000	$12,000	Source of funds to be determined
2012/13	Extend or replace amenities	Civic Park	$150,000	$150,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Refurb amenities kitchen	Albion Park	$8,000	$8,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace stage floor	Civic Centre Auditorium	$30,000	$30,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace amenities roof	Allan Bull Reserve	$18,000	$18,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Replace light fittings	Burdekin Park Museum	20,000	20,000	Source of funds to be determined
	Plaster, brickwork repairs due to damp and movement	Mechanics Institute, 74 George St	$25,000	$25,000	Source of funds to be determined

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Parks and Facilities Report No. 3/08

10.

Recreation & Landscaping (Parks) - Five Year Capital Works Program/Heavy Maintenance Author: Alan Fletcher; Stuart Neal

FILE: 02/0146

Executive Summary:

This report sets out a five year capital works/heavy maintenance plan for recreation and landscaping in the table below. Many of these items have been maintenance by nature but due to the significant cost and the fact that the work will extend the life of the building they are listed as capital items.

The majority of items for year 1 (2008/09) are funded from :-

· Grants;

· Sec 94 funds

· User contributions or from the;

· Parks & Facilities special rate variation.

One item, Cook Park Field No3 irrigation would require Council general fund capital funding of $39,545 if is to proceed.

Funding for items in years 2 to 5 of the works program have not been identified.

Background:

The Capital Works items for the next five years have been listed in the table below. The items include some new items but generally items which are maintenance or replacement, but due to their cost and the fact the work will extend the life of the asset, they are classed as capital. The likely source of funding for each 2008/09 item is also listed.

DATE REQUIRED	ITEM	LOCATION	ESTIMATE OF COST	COST TO COUNCIL	COMMENTS
2008/9	Replace Picnic Shelters (5)	Townhead Park	$55,000	$55,000	Funding from P & F Special Rates Variation
2008/09	Erosion repairs , storm water trickle pipe and plume	Earribee Reserve, Acacia Ct, Hunterview.	$45,000	$45,000	Sec 94 - Local Open Space Hunterview
2008/09	20 New trees	Burdekin Park	$12,000	$12,000	Funding from P & F Special Rates Variation
2008/09	Cycleway - 1033m	McDougalls Reserve	$190,000	$190,000	50 % Sec 94 Community Fac, 50% (if available) RTA grant
2008/09	Cycleway – seal existing gravel cycleway	Robinson Reserve extension to Nowlan Park Cycleway	$90,000	$90,000	Section 94-Community Facilities
2008/09	Cycleway Link (180m)	Koolgara	$30,000	$30,000	Section 94- Community Facilities
2008/09	Irrigation – In ground drippers	Rose Point Park playing Field No3	$90,000	$39,545	$41,000 from Aust Com water grant received. $39,545 Council, $5000 User Contributions sports, $5,000 Sports Council grant
2008/09	Street & open space tree planting	Hunter view Wilkinson Bvld	$11,000	$11,000	Section 94 Funding -Street tree & local open space
2008/09	Irrigation Howe Park Grass Tennis Courts	Howe Park	$44,480	$14,000	Section 94-Local Open Space Sports Council Contribution $5000 Sports Clubs contribution $5000
2008/09	Replace Floodlights	Alroy Oval	$80,000	$80,000	Funds from P & F Special Rates Variation
2008/09	Park shelter and seats	Col Fisher park	$15,000	$15,000	Section 94 Hunterview
2009/10	Cycleway Loop - 800m	Rose Point Park	$206,000	$0	Funding to be determined
2009/10	Fencing	Rose Point Park	$70,000	$0	Subject to Community Enhancement Funding
2009/10	Seal Back Road and Develop Car parks	Rose Point Park	$250,000	$0	Subject to Community Enhancement Funding
2009/10	Picnic shelters and BBQ	Rose Point Park	$57,000	$0	Subject to Community Enhancement Funding
2009/10	Car Park Construction (100 space)	Civic Park	$50,000		Funding to be determined
2009/10	BBQ and seats	Bulga Recreation Ground	$17,000.	$0	Funding to be determined
2009/10	Replace Log Fence	Victoria Square	$7,000		Funding to be determined
2009/10	Cycleway Expansion	Wattle Ponds Road	$300,000	$0	By Developers
2009/10	Bike Plan Signage	LGA	$11,000		Funding to be determined
2009/10	Hand rail	Eggleton Close Steps	5,000		Funding to be determined
2009/10	Replace Termite Eaten Sign	Sundial/Rose Point Park	$8,000	$8000	Funding to be determined
2009/10	Post rail fence and gate	Allan Bull Park	$10,000	$10,000	Funding to be determined
2010/11	McMullins Rd Shared pathway	McMullins Rd	53,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Playground Shade Shelter	Bulga Recreation Ground	$6,000.		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Playground stage 2	Rose Point / Park	$60,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Landscape Improvements	Bligh Park	$5,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Tree Planting	Albion Park	$2,000		Sec 94 - Local Open Space Funds
2010/11	Park Redevelopment	Baileys Union Park	$30,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Fencing and Regeneration Planting	McNamara Reserve	$5,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Fencing & Regeneration Planting	Herbert Reserve	$2,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Playground	Howe Park	$60,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Kiosk	Civic Park	TBA		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Tree planting	Victoria Square Park	$4,000		Funding to be determined
2011/12	Shade Tree Landscaping	Rose Point / Cook Park	$22,000		Subject to Community Enhancement Funding
2011/12	Landscaping Park Refurbishment/ shelters/landscaping	Town Head Park	$140,000		Funding to be determined
2011/12	Soccer Lights Upgrade	Howe Park	$40,000		Possible contribution form Club and grant funds
2011/12	Relocate Cricket Wicket	Civic Park	$15,000		Touch Football Club subject to available alternative location
2011/12	Cycleway Link to Dunolly Bridge	Rose Point Park	$60,000		Funding to be determined
2011/12	Howe Parklands Development ( Post Golf Club	Howe Park	$100,000		Funding to be determined
2011/12	Landscaping of rock wall behind Cinema	Rose Point Park	$15,000		Possible Tidy Towns project. Subject to Community Enhancement Funding.
2011/12	Stanhope Tennis Court lights and court maintenance	Stanhope	$8,000		Funding to be determined
2012/13	Master Planning	McNamara Reserve	$10,000		Funding to be determined
2012/13	Redevelop BMX track into Concrete Bike Park	BMX track	$100,000		Funding to be determined
2012/13	McNamara Reserve Development	McNamara Reserve	$20,000		Funding to be determined
2012/13	Howe Park landscape redevelopment	Howe Park	$100,000		Funding to be determined

$33,000

2007/08

Priority No. 1

Management Plan:

The items included in the capital works plan are consistent with the goals of Councils Management Plan, particularly goal number 0355 – Implement planning strategies to secure high quality community facilities within council’s financial capacity,, 0365 - Encourage self help for user groups.

Council Policy:

Because of the various sites the projects are located on there are a number of plans of management which cover the projects. For example, Plan of Management for Burdekin Park, Town Parks, Sports Fields and Riverside Parks. The proposed capital works projects are allowed by the plans of management.

Legislation: The charter of the Local Government Act 1993 includes: -

· To promote and to provide and plan for the needs of children.

· Council is the custodian and trustee of public assets and to effectively maintain the assets.

Sustainability:

Social:

Provision of parks and facilities in our community is part of Councils social responsibilities. Open space and recreation facilities are an important part of the social fabric of Singleton. It is important to ensure Councils facilities are safe, fun and attractive to use for children and their carers.

Environmental:

Not applicable.

Financial:

The five year capital works program shown in the table above has the funding source for each item shown for 2008/09. The only item that does not have the funding source confirmed is the $39,545 Council contribution required for the Cook Park No3 field irrigation project. If the funding can not be provided from the general fund capital works the project should be cancelled and the grant returned.

The funding for subsequent years 2 to 5 is to be determined.

Consultation:

Many of the items in the capital works program have come about from requests from users or through consultation through the Singleton Sports Council. For example the proposed Cook Park Field 3 irrigation project.

Risk Management:

The refurbishment work proposed in the plan will help minimise the public liability risk to Singleton Council by having well maintained and safe facilities.

Options:

The options available are to either:-

- adopt the five year capital works program or,

- not adopt the program.

Conclusions:

Most of the items listed are major maintenance items or replacement of existing facilities. The proposed five year capital works program will help sustain the Singleton Council’s parks by upgrading facilities to maintain a satisfactory level of service to our community. The option to adopt the program is recommended

RECOMMENDED that the Recreation & Landscaping (Parks) five year capital works/heavy maintenance program shown in the table below be adopted;-

DATE REQUIRED	ITEM	LOCATION	ESTIMATE OF COST	COST TO COUNCIL	COMMENTS
2008/9	Replace Picnic Shelters (5)	Townhead Park	$55,000	$55,000	Funding from P & F Special Rates Variation
2008/09	Erosion repairs , storm water trickle pipe and plume	Earribee Reserve, Acacia Ct, Hunterview.	$45,000	$45,000	Sec 94 - Local Open Space Hunterview
2008/09	20 New trees	Burdekin Park	$12,000	$12,000	Funding from P & F Special Rates Variation
2008/09	Cycleway - 1033m	McDougalls Reserve	$190,000	$190,000	50 % Sec 94 Community Fac, 50% (if available) RTA grant
2008/09	Cycleway – seal existing gravel cycleway	Robinson Reserve extension to Nowlan Park Cycleway	$90,000	$90,000	Section 94-Community Facilities
2008/09	Cycleway Link (180m)	Koolgara	$30,000	$30,000	Section 94- Community Facilities
2008/09	Irrigation – In ground drippers	Rose Point Park playing Field No3	$90,000	$39,545	$41,000 from Aust Com water grant received. $39,545 Council, $5000 User Contributions sports, $5,000 Sports Council grant
2008/09	Street & open space tree planting	Hunter view Wilkinson Bvld	$11,000	$11,000	Section 94 Funding -Street tree & local open space
2008/09	Irrigation Howe Park Grass Tennis Courts	Howe Park	$44,480	$14,000	Section 94-Local Open Space Sports Council Contribution $5000 Sports Clubs contribution $5000
2008/09	Replace Floodlights	Alroy Oval	$80,000	$80,000	Funds from P & F Special Rates Variation
2008/09	Park shelter and seats	Col Fisher park	$15,000	$15,000	Section 94 Hunterview
2009/10	Cycleway Loop - 800m	Rose Point Park	$206,000	$0	Funding to be determined
2009/10	Fencing	Rose Point Park	$70,000	$0	Subject to Community Enhancement Funding
2009/10	Seal Back Road and Develop Car parks	Rose Point Park	$250,000	$0	Subject to Community Enhancement Funding
2009/10	Picnic shelters and BBQ	Rose Point Park	$57,000	$0	Subject to Community Enhancement Funding
2009/10	Car Park Construction (100 space)	Civic Park	$50,000		Funding to be determined
2009/10	BBQ and seats	Bulga Recreation Ground	$17,000.	$0	Funding to be determined
2009/10	Replace Log Fence	Victoria Square	$7,000		Funding to be determined
2009/10	Cycleway Expansion	Wattle Ponds Road	$300,000	$0	By Developers
2009/10	Bike Plan Signage	LGA	$11,000		Funding to be determined
2009/10	Hand rail	Eggleton Close Steps	5,000		Community Facilities Funding
2009/10	Replace Termite Eaten Sign	Sundial/Rose Point Park	$8,000	$8000	Community Facilities Funding
2009/10	Post rail fence and gate	Allan Bull Park	$10,000	$10,000	Funding to be determined
2010/11	McMullins Rd Shared pathway	McMullins Rd	53,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Playground Shade Shelter	Bulga Recreation Ground	$6,000.		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Playground stage 2	Rose Point / Park	$60,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Landscape Improvements	Bligh Park	$5,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Tree Planting	Albion Park	$2,000		Sec 94 - Local Open Space Funds
2010/11	Park Redevelopment	Baileys Union Park	$30,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Fencing and Regeneration Planting	McNamara Reserve	$5,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Fencing & Regeneration Planting	Herbert Reserve	$2,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Playground	Howe Park	$60,000		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Kiosk	Civic Park	TBA		Funding to be determined
2010/11	Tree planting	Victoria Square Park	$4,000		Funding to be determined
2011/12	Shade Tree Landscaping	Rose Point / Cook Park	$22,000		Subject to Community Enhancement Funding
2011/12	Landscaping Park Refurbishment/ shelters/landscaping	Town Head Park	$140,000		Funding to be determined
2011/12	Soccer Lights Upgrade	Howe Park	$40,000		Possible contribution form Club and grant funds
2011/12	Relocate Cricket Wicket	Civic Park	$15,000		Touch Football Club subject to available alternative location
2011/12	Cycleway Link to Dunolly Bridge	Rose Point Park	$60,000		Funding to be determined
2011/12	Howe Parklands Development ( Post Golf Club	Howe Park	$100,000		Funding to be determined
2011/12	Landscaping of rock wall behind Cinema	Rose Point Park	$15,000		Possible Tidy Towns project. Subject to Community Enhancement Funding.
2011/12	Stanhope Tennis Court lights and court maintenance	Stanhope	$8,000		Funding to be determined
2012/13	Master Planning	McNamara Reserve	$10,000		Funding to be determined
2012/13	Redevelop BMX track into Concrete Bike Park	BMX track	$100,000		Funding to be determined
2012/13	McNamara Reserve Development	McNamara Reserve	$20,000		Funding to be determined
2012/13	Howe Park landscape redevelopment	Howe Park	$100,000		Funding to be determined

Alan Fletcher Gary Woodman

Manager Parks & Facilities Director Operations

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08

1.

Sewer Five Year Capital Works Program Author: Brian Carter

FILE: 01/0153

Executive Summary:

This detailed capital works program covers all sewer projects which have been identified through Council’s long term sewer financial modelling, and which will fall due for construction in the next five years. There are also several new projects, and some which upon detailed investigation, require some change of scope in order to provide the most cost effective solution for changing circumstances.

Currently, the procurement costs through external contractors, for major sewer capital works have increased significantly due to the high demand in the market. In some cases, costs have increased up to 30% over two to three years. Provision for likely increased costs for projects falling into these categories has been made.

Background:

Brief explanatory notes, previous history and other matters relevant to Council’s decision on funding allocations over the next five years are presented below. They relate to specific projects identified in Attachment 1 and Attachment 2 to this report.

New Works – Growth Related

This section of the schedule in Attachment 1 deals with work that has been identified in Council’s Sewer Developer Charges Plan as necessary infrastructure, with the majority of costs being recovered from Sewer Development Charges. It is now possible to more accurately forecast the year of construction. Should development works proceed more rapidly than has been identified in this plan, there will need to be consideration of the need for “forward funding” by developers. The method and general need for this has been reported to Council in the past.

Bridgman Ridge/Hunter Green

A 375 mm gravity main will have construction commence in 2008. Its diameter has been established as satisfactory for servicing the entire development area. The developer has indicative plans showing the general alignment required for this main.

The first 130 metres of this main will be fully designed and constructed by Council. It will have to cross Bridgman Road, near the Southern Gardner Circuit intersection. It will need to avoid two large Telstra cables and a 375 mm diameter Council water main. Preliminary site investigations also indicate that much of this main will need to be constructed through saturated soils, silts and clays. They will be highly unstable when excavated for pipe laying, and will not protect the pipe adequately from storm flows through the gully and watercourse. Design for this section of pipe is underway, and it is expected that much of it will be fully concrete encased, with approximately 15 metres needing to be supported by piles, some pipe will project slightly above current ground levels. The total cost of this section of pipe is estimated to be $145,200.

The remaining sections of this main will be much easier to construct, and when completed, will total 1,070 metres in length. These sections of mains are best constructed progressively by the Developer, as they are required for stages of land releases. Council will pay for the construction of this work through developer contribution funds. Allowance has been made for this work to be completed predominantly in 2008/09 and 2010/11.

Total costs for this main were originally estimated to be $329,000. They are now expected to cost $601,200 in total. Cost increases are due to the construction difficulty expected and detailed above, the larger length of main required and also the need for a larger diameter in sections of the main, to accommodate the larger number of lots now proposed in the area.

The Major Sewer Pump Station for this site is to be constructed close to the intersection of Pioneer Road and Allsop Place. Originally planned for construction in 2009/10 at a cost of $329,000, it will now need to be larger to accommodate Hunter Green. Sewer Pump Stations are also one of the capital works items which are proving much more expensive to procure than several years ago. Accordingly, its estimated cost is now $427,000, and at present, it does not appear to be needed until 2011/12. As was the case with the gravity mains above, an earlier date of construction would require consideration of forward funding by the Developer.

The 300 mm pressure sewer main has been upsized from the originally proposed 225 mm main, again to take all sewer loads from what is now a larger catchment area. In order to minimise retention times in this main in the early years, when it will not be fully loaded, it is proposed that a 150 mm diameter main be laid in the same trench, to take initial flows. Whilst this may seem unusual, it is actually a commonly used method to minimise the build up of corrosive and poisonous gases in Councils sewer system. It not only provides safer access for maintenance personnel when required, it also prolongs the life of pipelines downstream, which would otherwise suffer premature corrosion attack. The overall length of the main will now be 1,020 metres, a somewhat shorter length than originally thought required.

As a result of the changes described above, the cost of this main will increase from the $237,000 originally estimated, to $272,495. It is projected for construction in 2011/12, the same year as the pump station.

Gowrie Links

Council’s initial works planning for this area was for the construction of a major sewer pump station capable of servicing the entire site, and the provision of a pressure sewer main crossing the Hunter River and proceeding directly to Singleton’s Sewerage Treatment Plant.

As was reported to Council in March 2007, the project costs and alignment of the sewer rising main were to be reviewed when more information from the developer was available. Also the timing of the Replacement Bourke Street and Kelso Street pressure mains impact on the feasibility of the work.

Initial estimates of the cost of this infrastructure were completed in May 2005, at a time when a total of 550 residential dwellings were expected to be released in Gowrie Links. The main was to be 3,000 metres in length, 225 mm in diameter and its total cost was expected to be $578,070.

In order to ensure that a timely and cost effective solution is provided, a detailed feasibility and cost analysis was undertaken, which looked at a range of options. The lowest cost option available is detailed below.

It is now proposed to extend the rising main, which will need to be 250 mm in diameter to accommodate what is now expected to be 725 residential dwellings, to Council’s existing sewer pump station located at Dunolly. The total length will be 2,025 metres, at an estimated cost (when fully built) of $467,700. This will also include the cost of a 150 mm diameter main to take initial flows. The major sewer pump station for the site will not now be required to be built until 2011/12. Its revised estimated cost is $427,000.

The developer has advised that they intend to construct a second small sewer pump station on the Gowrie Links site, in order to minimise start up costs. This work will not be funded by developer contributions. Depending upon workloads at the time this occurs, Water and Waste may submit a bid to design and construct this small pump station for the developer.

New Works – Improving Service Levels

This section of the schedule deals with new works and major improvements to existing facilities, for things such as to increase capacity or to provide a higher level of sewage treatment.

Dangar Road/Boonal Street Pump Stations Upgrade and New Rising Main

The need for this upgrade work to accommodate infill development and increased sewage loadings has been identified for some time and estimated costs for the work have not altered since my last report on this matter in 2007.

New Rising Main from Bourke Street Sewer Pump Station to Wastewater Treatment Plant

In order to confirm the timing requirements for this project, the Department of Commerce was commissioned to complete a capacity analysis on the current 500 mm Asbestos cement main which is utilised by both Bourke Street and Dunolly Pump Stations at the current time. Based on their preliminary advice, the commencement of this project has been deferred two years, to 2011/12. Costs for this work are not expected to differ from previous estimates submitted to Council.

Provision has also been made ($25,000 in 2008/09) to take core samples from this 24 year old pipeline, and assess its condition. Asbestos cement sewer mains, under some circumstances, have been known to deteriorate rapidly, and the assessment will aid in Council’s asset management planning.

Effluent Reuse

Provision of $289,000 for this project has been allowed in Council’s long term financial model, and was reported to Council in March 2007. It has been earmarked for provision of reclaimed treated wastewater to the Gowrie Links golf course, and relied upon the installation of other pipelines to be cost effective.

I can report that should this need to go ahead as a stand alone project, it is estimated to cost $507,000. There has also been provision made in 2011/12 for expenditure of $472,000 on Stage 2 of effluent reuse. This was to be allocated to works required to be undertaken by Council to allow the reuse of 1,000 Megalitres per annum, currently the subject of an Expression of Interest (EOI) process. It will be required to undertake a variety of works, such as provision of Ultra Violet disinfection of reclaimed water.

An external report commissioned by Water and Waste, and detailing a number of options for supplying irrigation water to Gowrie Links has been completed and will be submitted to Council separately. I have been waiting until Council’s financial obligations with the EOI are clearer, and this may take several months. It is recommended that Stage 1 and 2 effluent reuse allocations be noted only tonight, pending Council’s final decision on allocation of the funds to be made at a later date.

Sewer Treatment Works Augmentation

This major capital works upgrade has been deferred for one year for commencement, again following preliminary capacity analysis by the Department of Commerce. Whilst total cost expected remains $3.4 million, its commencement date has been changed to 2011/12. The final capacity analysis study (reported in March 2007) will still be required, when the building take up rates from current rezoned areas can be better established.

Asset Renewal Programs

These are mainly continuing programs which allow for orderly replacement of aged or worn infrastructure. Prioritisation of these programs is based on either the age of the asset or its breakdown and repair history. Extensive use of CCTV camera inspections of sewer lines is also used.

Sewer Deep Repairs

Provision for this item has not changed in timing, or in total budget allocation.

Manhole Renewals

Council has for some years, carried out routine maintenance of manholes, including their location and minor modifications such as raising their height to ground level, as part if its maintenance fund allocations. Only complete manhole renewals have been provided for in the capital works program, and these have been dwindling.

There is no real need to continue the budget vote under capital works and full provision will be made for this in Council’s maintenance vote for sewer manholes in the future.

Small Main Replacement/Relining

Funding for this continuing program remains basically unchanged from previous years.

As a result of recent inspections for manhole accessibility, the risk to Council of a number of sewer pipelines in the CBD (John Street), has been highlighted. Whilst all these pipelines appear from CCTV inspections to be in reasonable to good order, there are a number built in the 1930’s and 1940’s which are either very close to, or often under, commercial buildings in John Street. Some will be difficult to obtain access to with machinery should they require repairs.

The Council approved relining program has therefore been adjusted to allow for the relining in 2008/09 of all sewer pipelines fitting the above description. This will minimise the risk of sewer blockages or even collapse in these old pipelines and reduce Council’s risk exposure. The full list of sewer pipelines identified for this relining program is at Attachment 2. A plan showing the physical location of pipes to be relined in 2008/09 is at Attachment 3.

Management Plan:

This capital works plan has been prepared using forward financial projections from Council’s Sewer Financial Model, Developer Servicing Plans and various technical reports. It is consistent with Council’s current Management Plan.

Council Policy:

This report does not require the formulation of any new policy, and does not impact on existing Council Policy.

Legislation:

Not applicable.

Sustainability:

Social:

Due to the wide range of projects proposed in the capital works plan, there will be many positive outcomes for the community. These include hygiene and secure sewer collection and transport systems, as well as treatment. Some minor impacts during construction will be experienced by a small number of residents. The financial outlays are considered appropriate in order to provide the many benefits to the community.

Environmental:

Some of the projects nominated in the capital works plan will have an impact on the environment, and will require a satisfactory Review of Environmental Factors, before they can proceed.

Financial:

Generally, new projects have been formulated taking into account whole of life costs. The Major Sewer Plant Augmentation will require a whole of life cost analysis during the concept and design phase of the project, and is expected to cost $3.4 million.

Replacements and renewals have been formulated using maintenance and repair history, asset life and where possible, condition monitoring.

Whilst income is to be received from Developer charges over the coming years, there may well be cash flow problems during the coming five years if growth rates predicted do not materialise.

Consultation:

It is envisaged that initial consultation with the community will be by way of the Management Plan public exhibition. Many of the projects will require further written advice or advertisement in the media.

Risk Management:

Many of the projects nominated in this report are in the early stages of formulation. Risk Management measures will be refined and developed in the main, closer to their actual construction dates.

Options:

Options for major projects have already been canvassed through previous Management Plans, and Developer Contribution Plans. The Options for Sewer Effluent Stages 1 and 2 Reuse will be developed through a separate report.

Conclusions:

The five year capital works plan identifies $11.6 million of projects, including $2.2 million for new development areas. Whilst we will have an estimated level of internally restricted assets for infrastructure works of $7.6 million at the end of 2007/08, long term modelling for the Sewer Fund completed in 2005 indicated we were likely to need borrowings of up to $3 million to provide both a major sewer plant augmentation and infrastructure for development areas over the five year period. Careful consideration of both the timing of works (delay as long as possible), as well as forward funding by Developers for all or part of the off site sewer infrastructure is required.

RECOMMENDED that the five year capital works plan (2008/09 to 2012/13) presented in this report be adopted.

Attachments

AT-1View	Sewer Five Year Forward Capital Works Program	2 Pages
AT-2View	Sewer Main Rehabilitation	9 Pages
AT-3View	Reline John Street - Plan	1 Page

Attachment 1	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08
Sewer Five Year Forward Capital Works Program	Sewer Five Year Capital Works Program

Attachment 2	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08
Sewer Main Rehabilitation	Sewer Five Year Capital Works Program

Attachment 3	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08
Reline John Street - Plan	Sewer Five Year Capital Works Program

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08

2.

Waste Five Year Capital Works Program Author: Leisa Parsons

FILE: 01/0229-5

Executive Summary:

The detailed capital works plan submitted for Council’s consideration covers all landfill works required for the next five years as well as provision of a recycling drop off facility at Singleton Landfill. Provision has been removed for the capital works expenditure associated with the transfer station and trucking of waste to Raymond Terrace.

Background:

The detailed waste capital works program is at Attachment 1 to this report. In summary, the total expenditure on landfill related works for the next five years is expected to be $2.89 million. Whilst there have been some changes in the scope of work, (described in detail below), expenditure overall remains in line with Council’s 12 year financial model for Waste Service Provision.

The leachate pipeline to sewer was originally intended to be installed in conjunction with the construction of Landfill Extension Stage 4a in 2007/08. However, in order to confirm if enough leachate is generated to warrant the direct connection to the sewer, landfilling in Stage 4a needs to be operational. Also the diameter of the pipeline can only be determined once we have more accurate information on the leachate quantity generated. It is proposed therefore to construct the leachate pipeline in 2009/10, when more accurate design information can be attained, at an estimated cost of $250,000. In the interim, leachate will continue to be stored on site and trucked to Council’s sewer plant when required.

In order to ensure reduced construction costs, due to economies of scale, it is proposed to construct the approved Landfill Extension Stage 4b and 4c together in 2010/11. The cost of these works have been revised, using estimates from consultant, Parsons Brinckerhoff and existing contract prices obtained for the construction of Landfill Extension Stage 4a which is currently in progress.

It was originally intended for Council to construct a small vehicle drop off facility and transfer station as part of the capital works program. It is now proposed that tenders be called for the design, construction and operation of the small vehicle drop off facility and transfer station as part of the tender for the transfer of waste to Port Stephens – Alternative Waste Technology (AWT) Facility. It is proposed to commence sending waste to Raymond Terrace in 2009, subject to satisfactory financial arrangements being reached with Port Stephens Council.

A recycling drop off facility is proposed to be constructed in 2011/12 at an estimated cost of $154,500 down from the $206,600 previously reported to Council in March 2007. This revised price was provided by consultant Quadro Australia as part of the recent Waste Services study they completed for Singleton.

Original projections were that the landfill (including extension) would be filled in 2013/14. The program and timing of capital works has been adjusted to take into account the records of recent overall tonnages of waste received at the landfill, together with a reduction of tonnages anticipated when domestic waste is transported to Port Stephens in 2009. Whilst landfill life will need to be monitored on an ongoing basis using actual tonnage figures it is now estimated that the landfill’s life will extend to at least 2014/15, provided domestic waste is transferred to an alternate facility, as is proposed.

Some significant increases have been made in the capital works allowances for final capping of the various landfill stages. Cost advice from consultant, Parsons Brinckerhoff has been used in the preparation of the estimates for final capping, as well as quantities consistent with the EPA General Terms of Approval for this project. Singleton, along with other Hunter Valley Council’s operating landfills are involved in a joint project seeking to prove that smaller depths of final capping can provide adequate environmental protection for the landfill. Therefore, there is a possibility that final capping costs may be reduced.

Management Plan:

The items included in the capital works plan are consistent with the goals of Council’s Management Plan, particularly goal number 2475 – Waste Management Improvement Initiatives, goal number 0316 – Revision of Financial Models and goal number 0317 – Implement Alternate Technologies.

Council Policy:

This report does not require the formulation of a new policy, and does not impact on existing Council Policy.

Legislation:

Not applicable.

Sustainability:

Social:

Provision of a well run landfill, and waste management improvements such as a recycling drop off facility will provide great benefit to the community at large. The financial outlays are considered appropriate in order to provide these essential services to the community.

Environmental:

Landfill operation has the potential to impact on the environment, and in order to minimise this possibility, safeguards and operational procedures identified in the Development Consent for the site, and Council’s EPA Licence will be followed.

Financial:

A whole of life costing approach has been used in the formulation of the capital works program. Any alterations to operational costs are also identified for waste budgeting purposes, and final rehabilitation and monitoring of the landfill is included.

All capital works planned for the Waste Program Area are currently proposed to be funded by means of cash reserves generated for this purpose. The total estimated waste cash reserves at 30 June 2008 will be $1.7 million, which allows for full expenditure on Landfill Extension Stage 4a construction being undertaken in 2007/08.

Consultation:

Whilst there was extensive community consultation regarding the Development Application for the landfill extension, it is anticipated that the capital works plan will be communicated through the public consultation process required as part of Council setting its 2008/09 Management Plan.

Risk Management:

Risk Management measures will be developed, in the main, closer to actual construction times for individual projects nominated in this report, and particularly through Council and Contractor safety management plans.

Options:

Options for the landfill have already been canvassed and are fixed.

Conclusions:

Detailed waste capital works items for the next five years have been identified. Continued care will be required to ensure adequate revenue is available to meet expenditure commitments for capital works over the coming years.

RECOMMENDED that the five year Waste Capital Works Plan presented in this report be noted, and the capital works proposed for 2008/09 be approved.

Attachments

AT-1View

Waste Five Year Forward Capital Works Program

2 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08
Waste Five Year Forward Capital Works Program	Waste Five Year Capital Works Program

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08

3.

Water and Sewer Reports - 01/01/2008 - 31/01/2008 Author: Ben Sim

FILE: 01/0153

Detail:

a. Singleton Water Supply

	01/01/08 – 31/01/08	2007 Figures
Total throughput from dam was	218 ML	289 ML
Consumption
Town	185 ML	246 ML
Army	4 ML	11 ML
Abattoir	7 ML	9 ML
Mount Thorley/Broke	8 ML	6 ML
Standpipe (water to Industry & Rural)	14 ML	17 ML

The trend in treated water consumption for Singleton town is shown on the following graph.

The graph shows that during the last five years, this years cumulative treated water consumption for the month of November has remained the lowest.

Average Daily Water Consumption for Singleton Town Residential

As shown on the above table, the average daily water consumption for the month of January 2008 is 775 litres per household per day. It is still significantly the lowest as compared to the same month in the previous four years.

Dam Percent Full

From the NSW Water Information website, Glennies Creek Dam was 44% full on 31 January 2008. Thus in the month of January 2008, the water storage volume in the dam has increased by 5%.

New Services

Six new services were installed this month.

Service Repairs

19 service repairs were carried out this month, including two complete renewals.

Main Breaks

Three main breaks were repaired this month:

· Brisbane Street (100mm AC main - radial break)

· 1 Shaw Street (100mm AC main – a section blown out)

· 22 Howe Street (100mm AC main - radial break)

Meters M & R

30 water meters were replaced this month.

Valves and Hydrants M & R

A program has commenced this month; for the checking, cleaning and painting of valves and hydrants around the town.

Valves were installed/repaired/replaced this month at the following two locations:

· New Rugby League Fields

· Fontana Way

Hydrants were repaired/replaced this month at the following locations:

· New Rugby League Fields

Mains Replacement/Relocation

Approximately 20 metres of 50mm diameter galvanised pipe across the first causeway along Judan Road was replaced this month, with a 50 mm diameter stainless steel water pipe.

The galvanised pipework at Judan Road Pump Station was replaced this month, since showing signs of corrosion.

Glennies Creek Booster Pump Station

Construction of the booster pumping station was continued this month and near completion. Works remaining consist of electrical equipment installation and commissioning.

b. Mount Thorley Water Supply

	01/01/08 – 31/01/08	2007 Figures	2006 Figures	2005 Figures	2004 Figures
The total amount of water pumped to the mines in January was	103 ML	372 ML	362 ML	103 ML	165 ML

The trend in raw water consumption at Mount Thorley is shown on the following graph.

The graph shows that this years raw water consumption for the month of January remains the second lowest (just a touch higher than the lowest) as compared to the same period in the previous four years.

New Mains

The new 150 mm diameter PVC water main along Kannar Road, was fully pressure tested and disinfected this month.

c. Jerrys Plains Water Supply

	01/01/08 – 31/01/08	2007 Figures
Consumption	1.49 ML	2.72 ML

The trend in water consumption at Jerrys Plains is shown on the following graph.

As compared to the same period in the previous four years, the graph shows that this years water consumption (up to and including the month of January), is the second lowest with the 2006/07 consumption being the highest.

d. Sewerage System Report

	01/01/08 – 31/01/08	2007 Figures
Sewerage Treatment Works - Flow Volume	101 ML	91 ML

Effluent Reuse

Total estimated effluent reuse for this financial year is 244 Megalitres, after being adjusted for full water losses.

Sewer Main M & R

12 sewer chokes or problems were attended to this month:

· 10 Brittliffe Close (cleared main)

· 5 Springdale Drive (cleared shaft)

· 15 Heather Place (cleared main)

· 26 Cunningham Parade (cleared main)

· 4 Elliot Close (cleared main)

· 26 Henry Drive (cleared shaft)

· 21 Asquith Avenue (sewer dig-up repair)

· 20 Castlereagh Street (sewer dig-up repair)

· Cooinda Bathurst Street (sewer dig-up repair)

· 18 The Grove (sewer dig-up repair)

· 16 Pioneer Road (sewer dig-up repair)

· Albion Hotel (sewer dig-up repair, relocate sewer vent pipe)

New Sewer Junctions

No new sewer junction was cut in this month.

Manhole M & R

Two manholes were repaired or attended to this month:

· 12 Renshaw Avenue (put lid back on)

· Eggleton Close (locate manhole)

Sewerage Pump Station M & R

Five Sewerage Pump Stations were attended to this month:

· Bourke Street Sewerage Pump Station (cleaned rag basket)

· Kelso Street Sewerage Pump Station (cleaned rag basket)

· Army Sewerage Pump Station (cleaned rag basket)

· Boonal Street Sewerage Pump Station (cleaned level probe)

· Crown Street Sewerage Pump Station (replaced lifting chain with stainless steel chain)

Sewerage Treatment Plant M & R

No additional work was carried out at the Sewerage Treatment Plant this month.

Low Pressure Sewerage System (a majority at Maison Dieu Industrial Estate)

Sewer POD Connection

No sewer POD was connected to the system this month.

Thus, the total number of sewer PODs connected to the Low Pressure Sewerage system remains at 85 and the total for this financial year is still four.

e. Training/Safety/Conferences/Exhibitions

No training course was attended by any Water & Waste staff this month.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08

4.

Non-Residential Sewer and Liquid Trade Waste Pricing Author: Brian Carter

FILE: 01/0220-2

Executive Summary:

This report provides an update of Council’s compliance with the State Government requirements for NSW Local Water Utilities (LWUs) to fully adopt proscribed sewer and liquid trade waste pricing guidelines for all reticulated sewer customers. A complying pricing scheme has been in place for Singleton residential sewer customers for some years, and this report proposes a compliant scheme to be put in place for non-residential sewer customers from the start of the 2008/09 Financial Year. The approved scheme will be applied to all sewer customers classified as BS (business) and NR (non-rateable) in Council’s rating system.

The scheme will have a major financial affect on many sewer customers and provides for case by case concessions as a Community Service Obligation (CSO). A process of consultation is currently underway with all affected customers in preparation for the introduction of the scheme from 1 July 2008 through the Management Plan process. The consultation process is expected to be complete by April 2008 for further Management Plan reporting to Council, should it be required.

Background:

Introduction

Singleton Council is an independent Local Water Utility (LWU). Although not a mandatory NSW Government requirement, Singleton Council has undertaken to progressively adopt the Water Supply, Sewerage and Trade Waste Pricing Guidelines issued by the NSW Department of Land and Water Conservation in December 2002. The pricing guidelines and LWU performance was overseen by the NSW Department of Energy Utilities and Sustainability (DEUS) which issued a policy document entitled Best-Practice Management of Water Supply and Sewerage Guidelines in May 2004, requiring that LWUs adopt the December 2002 pricing guidelines.

Currently, the NSW Department of Water and Energy (DWE) oversees the Best-Practice Management of Water Supply and Sewerage Guidelines. DWE has recently issued Terms of Reference and a Discussion Paper for its “Inquiry into secure and sustainable urban water supply and sewerage services for non metropolitan NSW” (January 2008). The Inquiry will be examining the cost efficiencies of LWUs and their ability to meet required service standards within compliant pricing schemes. The Discussion Paper is critical of LWU compliance with the guidelines, particularly in terms of sewer pricing. Non compliance with the guidelines provides the NSW Government with more reason to suggest alternative servicing and management models.

At its 27 March 2006 Ordinary Meeting, Singleton Council received a report on Non-Residential Sewer Pricing (Director Operations Report 04/06) and resolved to work towards introduction of a compliant sewer pricing scheme in the 2007/08 financial year (Resolution 107/06). A copy of the report is provided at Attachment 1. The scheme was further developed and financial implications assessed, but the current Management Plan noted that Council would delay its introduction until 2008/09. There have been no changes proposed to the underlying methodology of the pricing scheme to that proposed in the March 2006 report, apart from its extension to encompass liquid trade waste charges. This report provides an overview of the proposed liquid trade waste charging mechanism.

Currently the base levy per non-residential sewer assessment is $362.00 which is equivalent to the current uniform residential sewer charge. An increase of 3% (CPI) in the residential sewer charge will be sought through the Management Planning process, to $373.00 per assessment in 2008/09. Assessments, including Churches and Government agencies, with more than two toilets are charged for the additional toilets as follows:

- WC $161.75 per unit

- Urinals $88.40 per unit

Council provides relief to schools and child care facilities, as well as for non profit organisations. Their charges are as follows:

- WC $44.80 per unit

- Urinals $32.35 per unit

This method of fixing non-residential sewer prices is not permitted in a “guidelines compliant” pricing scheme. The current method of charging for licensed liquid trade waste discharges to sewer is by a fixed annual charge of $255.80. This will change to a two part charge (access charge plus usage charge), similar to the guideline requirements for sewer charges.

A recap of the best-practice sewer pricing scheme is as follows, updated from that proposed in March 2006:

B = SDF x [(AC₂₀ x D²/400) + (C x UC)]

Where:

B = total annual non-residential sewerage bill (base figure of $373.00 proposed for 2008/09)

C = customers annual water consumption (kL) (2008/09)

AC₂₀ = sewerage access charge for a minimum 20 mm diameter water supply connection (proposed as $184.00 for 2008/09)

D = actual diameter of customer’s water supply service (mm)

SDF = sewerage discharge factor (determined for each business type)

UC = sewer usage charge (best-practice guideline figure is $1.35/kL for 2008/09)

The minimum total bill (B) would be set at $373.00 for 2008/09 ($362.00 plus CPI) to reflect the Best-Practice requirement that non-residential sewer bills be not less than the standard residential sewerage charge. Those assessments where the annual sewer charges calculate less than the base figure of $373.00 would pay this minimum charge.

There is provision in the best-practice guidelines for Council to provide a community service obligation (CSO) to non-rateable properties. The guidelines recommend that such CSOs be applied as a reduction to the sewer access charge, but not to usage charges. The current financial model which forecasts these charges and Council income for 2008/09 does not include a CSO, but the current discussions with eligible property owners will permit CSOs to be negotiated and reported to Council through the coming Management Planning process.

Liquid Trade Waste Charges

As detailed in Attachment 1, March 2006 report, the DEUS model requires that all non-residential sewer charges include an access charge and a usage charge. The access charge is a function of the diameter of each assessment’s water service, and the usage charge is based on both the actual metered water usage and the nature of the property use.

There are currently 422 non-residential sewer assessments in the BS and NR rating categories. Over 100 of these also hold licenses with Council to dispose of liquid trade waste to sewer. Most of these licenses require pre-treatment in approved equipment prior to discharging the waste to sewer. These assessments will be liable to pay additional trade waste access and usage charges in accordance with the guidelines, as the trade waste discharges impose added reticulation, pumping and treatment requirements on Council’s sewer infrastructure.

The best-practice trade waste pricing scheme is similar to the sewer pricing model, except that the annual charge is fixed rather than being related to the size of the water meter:

TW = A + I + (C x UC_TW x TWDF)

Where:

TW = total annual trade waste fees and charges ($)

A = annual trade waste fee (proposed as $76.00 for 2008/09, based on the $60.00 guideline figure plus 6 years of CPI increases)

I = re-inspection fee (not mandatory, but such a fee is already set in the current Management Plan at $84.95 – this would be subject to a CPI increase for 2008/09)

C = customers annual water consumption (kL)

TWDF = trade waste discharge factor (determined for each business type – if applicable)

UC_TW = trade waste usage charge (best-practice guideline figure is in the order of $1.43/kL)

The minimum trade waste bill (TW) would effectively be $76.00 for 2008/09, for those assessments with licensed pre-treatment facilities which are not subject to a TWDF. For such assessments there will be a large reduction in trade waste charges from the current standard $255.80 to $76.00 in 2008/09. For those subject to TWDFs, with high water usages, there will be a significant increase. Council should note, in particular, that four of the 50 non-rateable assessments will be subject to a large increase in trade waste charges due to their large approved discharges of trade waste to sewer. CSOs will need to be considered for these assessments in particular.

All non-residential sewer assessments with a licensed trade waste discharge will be subject to both the sewer charge (B) and the trade waste charge (TW).

Financial Implications of Introducing the DEUS Model with Full Compliance

Council’s databases of water metering, property usage and trade waste licence agreements have been updated in recent months, and the relevant sewer and trade waste discharge factors have been attributed. A financial model has been produced detailing the financial implications of the proposed pricing for each assessment.

In summary, the introduction of the full model in 2008/09 would realise an additional $230,423 in sewer operating revenue, representing an overall increase of 69% in revenue from non-residential sewer and trade waste charges. The distribution of current and additional revenue would be as follows:

Non-Residential Sewer and Trade Waste Charges	Non-Rateable (NR)	Business (BS)	Total (NR + BS)
No. of Sewer Assessments	50	372	422
Existing 2007/08 (with $362 sewer base)	54,086	279,920	334,006
Best-Practice 2008/09 (with $373 sewer base, UCS = $1.35/kL, UCTW = $1.43/kL )	96,522	467,365	563,887
Gross Increase	42,436	187,445	229,881
% Increase	106%	62%	69%

Table 1 – Distribution of Sewer income from Best-Practice Pricing Structure

A substantial number of sewer assessment charges would increase dramatically as a result of this pricing scheme. Although many of the assessments would continue to pay the base sewer charge due to their low water usage, Table 2 illustrates that 60% of all non-residential sewer assessments would have their sewer and trade waste charges increased by more than 10%.

Table 2 – Broad Financial Impact of Recommended Guidelines

Rating Category	Total No. of Properties	Number of Properties to pay up to +10% extra	Number of Properties to pay over 10% extra	% of Properties to pay over 10% extra
1. Business	372	162	210	56%
2. Non-rateable	50	7	43	86%
Total	422	169	253	60%

Likely Impacts on Selected Business Types

The Best-Practice pricing structure aims to fairly spread the financial load where the potential and actual sewer loads are indicated. It does not seek to penalise individual business groups, or properties which may have greater capacity to pay.

At the extremes, there are around 60 assessments that will benefit financially by up to 70% from the new pricing structure (whilst preserving the $373.00 residential sewer base charge), and 24 assessments which will have their charges increased by over 300% (including seven of the non-rateable assessments).

The greatest general impacts appear to be in the following business groupings:

· Hotels and Clubs

· Restaurants, Fast Food establishments and Cafes

· Vehicle Maintenance, Engineering, Agricultural Equipment and Car yards.

The reasons for their high exposure to increased charges are largely due to high water usage, pre-treatment of trade waste from food preparation, and high applicable sewer and trade waste discharge factors. If any business types are likely to collectively seek to reduce their exposure to the new pricing structure, it is likely to be these business groups.

Should Council wish to reduce the exposure of any particular business group or non-rateable grouping, it would need to determine which part of the pricing model was to be altered. For the model to be compliant, it would need to be altered for all assessments.

As mentioned earlier, the best-practice recommendation is to reduce the annual fixed access component of the charges rather than the usage component. However, the model is not highly sensitive to access charges. A nominal reduction in the access charges does not significantly alter the impact of the pricing model on any group of assessments. On the other hand, the model is highly sensitive to usage charges. The overall financial impact on the great majority of assessments could be greatly reduced by reducing the sewer usage charge (UC_S) and trade waste usage charge (UC_TW) across the board, subject of course to future Management Plan review if it is found necessary.

Financial Impacts of Reducing Usage Charges below Best-Practice Guidelines

A number of iterations have been performed to determine a more reasonable manner of introducing the DEUS model without significant financial impact on non-residential assessments, but ensuring a steady growth in overall sewer and trade waste income to Council. The $1.35/kL sewer usage charge would bring about an overall increase in sewer charges alone of 51% per annum, and the $1.43/kl trade waste charge would bring about an overall increase in trade waste charges of 304%. Lowering the sewer usage charge from $1.35/kL to $0.85/kL and the trade waste usage charge substantially from $1.43/kL to $0.40/kL across both BS and NR rating categories would achieve the following financial result to Council in 2008/09:

Non-Residential Sewer & Trade Waste Charges	Non-Rateable (NR)	Business (BS)	Total (NR + BS)
No. of Sewer Assessments	50	372	422
Existing 2007/08 (with $362 sewer base)	$ 54,086	$    279,920	$ 334,006
2008/09 charge (and % increase) with $373 sewer base, UCS=$0.85/kL, UCTW=$0.40	Sewer 63,523 (23%) TW 7,668 (200%) Total 71,191 (32%)	Sewer 290,295 (12%) TW 25,544 (18%) Total 315,839 (13%)	Sewer 353,818 (14%) TW 33,212 (37%) Total 387,030(16%)
Gross Increase over 2007/08	$ 17,105	$ 35,919	$ 53,024
% Total Charges Increase over 2007/08	32%	13%	16%

Table 3 – Distribution of Sewer Income from modified Best-Practice Pricing Structure

Council should note from Table 3 that the reduction in usage charges would reduce overall non-residential sewer and trade waste income in 2008/09 from 69% to 16%. Additional sewer income would be 14% and additional trade waste income (despite the extremely large reduction from $1.43/kL to $0.40/kL) would be 37% prior to any CSOs or negotiated concessions.

At this point it should be noted that a sewer usage charge of $1.00/kL would result in a 25% overall increase in non-residential sewer charges in 2008/09 and a 26% increase in sewer and trade waste charges combined. The effect of introducing this sewer usage charge immediately within a compliant pricing scheme is still excessive, but should be considered for phasing in 2009/10. The lower sewer usage charge of $0.85/kL has been used for the proposed 2008/09 introduction.

Even with a large reduction in usage charges, the non-rateable assessments as a group would be more affected in terms of both sewer and trade waste price increases than the business assessments. Most of the increase in charges within the non-rateable category would be taken by Singleton Hospital and the three nursing homes (Elizabeth Gates, Sisters of Mercy and Cooinda). Reduced charges could be negotiated as CSOs with these four assessments in particular which would reduce the burden for the non-rateable assessments as a group. Other business and non-rateable assessments might also seek reduced charges, and reductions would of course reduce the overall sewer income to Council.

In comparison with Table 2, the broad financial impact of reducing the usage charges is illustrated by Table 4. Whilst the increases still have a greater affect on non-rateable assessments than business, the proportion of assessments in both categories which would experience price rises in 2008/09 of greater than 10% would be greatly decreased (from 60% to 27% overall). The magnitude of the individual increases over 10% would also be significantly reduced across the board.

Table 4 – Broad Financial Impact by lowering Usage Charges to UC_S=$0.85/kL, UC_TW=$0.40.kL

Rating Category	Total No. of Properties	Number of Properties to pay up to +10% extra	Number of Properties to pay over 10% extra	% of Properties to pay over 10% extra
1. Business	372	290	82	22%
2. Non-rateable	50	16	34	68%
Total	422	316	116	27%

In summary, introduction of the best-practice pricing system in 2008/09 with lower than recommended usage charges ($0.85/kL for sewer and $0.40/kL for trade waste) would reduce the additional sewer income to Council from $229,881 to $53,024 but would substantially reduce the financial impact on non-residential sewer assessments. Council could then consider further phasing in of the best-practice recommended prices in future management plans.

Current Consultations

A letter is currently being circulated to property owners in the BS and NR rating categories which are likely to be the worst affected, advising them generally of the proposed sewer and trade waste pricing scheme for introduction from 1 July 2008. Specific usage charges and discharge factors have not been provided at this point. Individual on site discussions are scheduled to commence in late February and could continue through to April. Discussions with property owners and business operators regarding their business operations and likely new charges for 2008/09 may result in some negotiated changes to discharge factors, however most are likely to remain unaffected.

Feedback from these consultations will be reported to Council prior to its determination of the Draft Management Plan for 2008/09 to 2012/13.

The Way Ahead

Council’s approval will be sought for the introduction of a complying best-practice sewer and trade waste pricing scheme in 2008/09, with a base charge for all non-residential sewer assessments of $373.00, in line with the proposed CPI increase in the base charge for residential sewer assessments. Council’s approval will also be sought to finalise any CSOs and concessions which it believes may be appropriate, once consultations with the affected owners and business operators have been completed and reported to Council in April or May 2008.

Management Plan:

Council’s Management Plan undertakes to introduce full non-residential compliance in 2008/09 and suggested that application of a compliant model would likely provide an additional $167,000 in sewer revenue.

Application of the full model utilising the recommended sewer and trade waste usage charges and a $373.00 base non-residential sewer charge discussed in this and the March 2006 report would provide additional gross sewer operating revenue in the vicinity of $230,000 (69%) per year. Introduction of reduced usage charges in 2008/09 ($0.85/kL for sewer and $0.40/kL for trade waste) would reduce the additional income to around $53,000 (16% additional) before CSOs. An increased sewer usage charge of $1.00/kL should be considered for 2009/10, which would increase the additional income to around $86,000 (26%) on current levels.

Council Policy:

Council’s current pricing policy for non-residential sewer charges does not take actual or potential sewer loads from businesses and other Government and non-profit organisations into account. As a result there is a substantial under assessment of sewer charges, particularly in the business sector.

Council’s current sewer pricing policy acknowledges Community Service Obligations (CSOs) for many rateable and non-rateable assessments. CSOs could be similarly applied to a new user-pays sewer pricing scheme preferably in the form of reduced Sewer Access Charges (ACs) as recommended in the DEUS Guidelines.

Legislation:

The NSW Government is required to demonstrate compliance with National Competition Policy (NCP). LWUs have been encouraged since 1995 to introduce best-practice management for water supply and sewerage businesses. Conformance to the State Government’s policy and guidelines documents is not strictly mandatory for LWUs. However, failure to conform to the requirements would attract possible financial penalties to Council in future Government grants.

The current DWE ‘Inquiry into secure and sustainable urban water supply and sewerage services for non-metropolitan NSW’ will be examining the compliance of LWUs to best-practice sewer and trade waste guidelines, and their abilities to provide high standards of infrastructure and service in a cost efficient manner. The user pays pricing scheme model proposed for introduction by Council in 2008/09 complies with the best-practice guidelines in form and structure.

Sustainability:

Social:

The broad community impact of the pricing scheme in 2008/09 is difficult to foresee. Even with reduced usage charges 27% of the 422 affected non-residential (including non-rateable) sewer assessments would be subject to an increase of more than 10% in sewer and trade waste charges, and 12% of assessments will be subject to increases of over 100%. The worst affected sectors are hotels, clubs, restaurants, fast food establishments, cafes, motor vehicle trades and retail, engineering businesses, Singleton Hospital and nursing homes. It is doubtful that there would be a widespread negative community impact, particularly where Council has the ability to introduce CSOs to moderate the affects on schools, nursing homes, childcare facilities and not for profit organisations.

Without the introduction of such a scheme which introduces a user pays component, there would need to be future rises in the base residential sewer charge to offset the lost sewer revenue. This would arguably produce a larger social impact than the introduction of the proposed non-residential pricing scheme. The short term impact is cushioned by the large reduction in usage charges proposed for introduction in 2008/09 and the negotiation of CSOs for case by case hardship reductions, but these usage charges would need to be increased in future years to comply more fully with the best-practice guidelines and to ensure that residential sewer income does not continue to subsidise non-residential income.

Environmental:

The State Government’s best-practice policy and sewer pricing guidelines argue that the pricing model will lead to gradual reductions in water consumption and consequently lower sewer loads. Overall treated effluent volume discharged to the Doughboy Hollow should therefore also be gradually reduced with any reduction in sewer loads.

Financial:

The financial impacts on both the 422 non-residential assessments and Council’s sewer fund have been illustrated throughout this report. The increase in sewer revenue of around $53,000 in 2008/09 is based on the financial model which takes into account heavily reduced sewer and trade waste usage charges.

Council should note that the capital and operating costs of its sewer infrastructure are increasing faster than CPI. The steady expansion of the sewer network commensurate with Singleton’s urban growth, while largely financed by developer capital contributions, places a larger responsibility on Council to control and care for the infrastructure for the benefit of all residents and business operators. A fair and equitable distribution of the costs is brought about by the introduction of this pricing scheme.

Some further increase in usage charges would be warranted, to ensure the sewer funds continuing viability.

Consultation:

There has not yet been any consultation with the broader community regarding introduction of the State Governments Best-Practice pricing scheme. Councillors have been introduced to the best-practice policy and guidelines over the past two years. Consultation with the affected 422 non-residential property owners and business operators has commenced and should be completed by April, 2008. At this point no consultation has been programmed with business and community organisation forums, although such organisations may seek such an approach in the coming months. It is also envisaged that Council’s website and newsletters will run a broad synopsis of the scheme for general community education during May and June 2008.

Risk Management:

Not applicable.

Options:

Option 1 ‘Do nothing’ – freeze sewer charges and resolve not to pursue introduction of the DEUS sewer pricing system for the future. Given that the DEUS system aims to place the financial responsibility for the treatment and disposal of sewer loads fairly and equitably within the community, then this option is not recommended. Council’s long term aim should be to introduce the user pays scheme which works best in Singleton, after all information is processed and the community has been properly consulted.

Option 2 Postponement - This option is not recommended, as Council needs to be in a position to comply with best-practice guidelines, and has already commenced consultations with customers.

Option 3 Full Compliance, with concessions - introduce the DEUS system in 2008/09 through the Management Plan and public exhibition process, with Council approved CSOs. The non-residential base sewer charge would be set at the residential base charge level ($373.00 for 2008/09). Sewer access and annual trade waste charges would be targeted for possible CSOs for selected non-rateable assessments. Usage charges for sewer and trade waste would be set at $1.35/kL and $1.43/kL in full compliance with the guidelines. A charging system with full, immediate effect is not considered a realistic or an acceptable option to pursue from a practical point of view.

Option 4 Phased Introduction - The DEUS guidelines note that where large increases in assessment charges result from the introduction of a complying pricing scheme, that a phase in period of two or three years is appropriate for those assessments. In effect, Council can comply with State Government requirements by implementing the best-practice compliant guidelines, whilst levying lower usage charges as has been described in the body of this report.

Conclusions:

Full compliance with the NSW Government’s best-practice sewer and trade waste pricing requirements in 2008/09 is highly advisable. However, there would be significant short and long term hardship within both the business sector and non-rateable community by this hardline approach. The proposed alternative option is to introduce a compliant scheme with reduced sewer and trade waste usage charges, including CSOs where warranted. In this way the social and broader economic effect on the Singleton community can be reduced in a responsible manner.

RECOMMENDED that:

1. A non-residential sewer and trade waste pricing scheme be introduced in 2008/09 to comply with the NSW Government’s best-practice guidelines, including the following features:

a. A sewer usage charge of $0.85/kL and trade waste usage charge of $0.40/kL for 2008/09, subject to annual review by Council;

b. A sewer access charge (AC₂₀) of $184.00;

c. A non-residential sewer base charge of $373.00 (equivalent to the proposed residential sewer base charge for 2008/09);

d. A $76.00 uniform annual trade waste charge for licenced trade waste discharges;

e. CSOs for selected non-rateable sewer assessments.

2. A further report be prepared for Council in April, 2008 summarising the consultations with non-residential sewer customers and the proposed method of calculating the CSOs for eligible customers.

Attachments

AT-1View

Director Operations Report 04/06

8 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08
Director Operations Report 04/06	Non-Residential Sewer and Liquid Trade Waste Pricing

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08

5.

Water Five Year Capital Works Program Author: Brian Carter

FILE: 01/0328

Executive Summary:

The capital works program attached to this report identifies water projects requiring construction over the next five years. It has been possible, since my March 2007 report on these matters, to more accurately identify the timing of works required to service the new development areas of Singleton.

Several projects have had their estimated costs increased, in line with costs expected with the current tight market conditions for large civil contract works.

There has been no allowance made for interconnection works between Singleton and Hunter Water Corporation. This item will need to be considered separately by Council when all relevant information is to hand.

Background:

Brief explanatory notes, previous history and other relevant information for specific projects identified in the detailed schedule at Attachment 1 appear below.

New Works – Growth Related

This section of the schedule deals with work that has been identified in Councils Water Developer Charges Plan as necessary infrastructure, the costs of which are to be recovered from Developer Charges. While the costs of this work has been accurately identified, it is still possible that nominated years of construction may need to be adjusted, dependant upon the speed and location of new development works. Should works need to be brought forward for construction, there will need to be consideration of the requirement for “forward funding” by Developers. The method and general need for this has been reported in the past.

Retreat Rural Residential Subdivision

There have been four lots either approved for rezoning, or about to be considered for rezoning by Council, generally in the area nearby to the Retreat Road/Long Gully Road intersection.

This will increase by approximately 173 lots in total, the size of the Retreat, and will trigger the construction of a new 200 mm diameter amplification main, to be built in Retreat Road between Bridgman Road and Long Gully Road. This main, 3,400 metres in length, will need to be constructed in about 2012/13, as additional houses are built and water demand increases. The estimated cost of this main is $387,600 in total. A pump station upgrade costing $65,000 will also be required at the same time.

Bridgman Ridge/Hunter Green Residential Subdivision

This subdivision requires the construction of a 375 mm diameter main, to feed ultimate subdivision demands through a new Reservoir.

It is now considered likely that this main can be built in two stages. The first will connect major mains in Bridgman Road to the Wattle Ponds/Pioneer Road intersection. It is planned for construction in 2008/09 at an estimated cost of $186,000. It will be located within the formation of the new access road to Bridgman Ridge. The second stage of this main system will cost $334,000 and the intention is to delay its construction until 2011/12, along with the Bridgman Ridge Reservoir now estimated to cost $1,364,000. The likely cost of this reservoir has been increased to reflect current market rates.

This development area will also require the progressive construction of a 250 mm diameter main, running some distance east from Wattle Ponds Road. Commencement of this work is still expected in 2011/12.

Similarly the construction of two major valves, which will operate automatically, remains set for 2009/10 (Pressure Control) and 2011/12 (Reservoir control valve).

Pinnacle Estate

Provision for the progressive construction of a 200 mm diameter main remains unchanged. The 250 mm main nominated in March 2007 for progressive construction has been largely completed to allow the current development stage in the Pinnacle to go ahead.

A small additional section of 250 mm main may be required in future to extend to Bridgman Road. At this stage, it does not appear to be necessary, and its construction should be deferred until pressure drop problems are experienced in the Pinnacle Estate.

Maison Dieu Industrial Estate

Provision has been made for connection to an existing pressure boosting system located next to McDougalls Hill Reservoir.

Gowrie Links

Provision for progressive construction of required water mains continues, although work is not expected to be required until 2009/10.

Gresford Road (no current planning provision made)

A booster pump station, water mains and an elevated water reservoir have been allowed for, but this would require planning provision before a commitment to construct the infrastructure should be made by Council.

New Works – Improving Service Levels

This section of the schedule deals with new works and major improvements to existing facilities, for such things as to increase capacity or to provide a higher level of water treatment.

Obanvale Balance Tank and Glennies Creek Dam Pump Station

Councillors would be aware that the pump station was built this year, as a response to declining dam levels. As was reported in March last year, construction of the balance tank and final capacity upgrading of the pump station (for population increases), was to be deferred.

At present, these two projects, costing $406,000 and $200,000 respectively, have been given a nominal construction date of 2012/13, but this will require further refinement closer to that date, when population increases can be more accurately established.

Other items in this section of the schedule relate to new main construction or other improvements which have been identified in previous capital works plans. The dates for construction and estimated costs have not been altered.

Asset Renewals Programs

There are a number of continuing programs which allow for orderly replacement of aged or worn infrastructure. Prioritisation for these programs is based on either the age of the asset or its breakdown and repair history. Often both factors are taken into account in prioritising works.

Over the last several years, there has been a requirement to undertake construction of infrastructure for a number of developments, and also major augmentations such as the Broke Water Supply and Pressure Sewer for Maison Dieu Area.

It has become apparent that basic asset maintenance work, such as meter replacements, progressive service replacement for galvanised pipes, stop valve and hydrant repairs and replacements, has not received the attention it requires.

In an effort to catch up on these, I have deferred a number of water main replacement items which I believe can wait 12 months longer. Hence, the only specific water main renewal I have kept in the schedule for 2008/09 is for the replacement of an undersized Asbestos Cement water main, 250 mm in diameter and 150 metres in length. This main was built in 1973, and it remains in reasonable condition. However, it lies next to the Railway Bridge, in the Gowrie Links Development. Whilst it will be protected by easement, it will lie under a proposed access road to the golf course maintenance compound, and its removal will also allow us to deactivate fully, several disused mains in the Gowrie Links development.

As the ultimate sized water main required here is likely to be 375 mm in diameter, it would be an excellent time to replace this main with one of that diameter. The cost of the work is estimated to be $55,000.

It is possible, like other years, that up to several small sections of mains already on our long term replacement list may suddenly increase their failure rate. Should this occur, I have left an unallocated amount of $25,000 in 2008/09 in order to allow for their replacement.

All other asset renewal programs in the schedule have been reported to Council in previous budget years, and are continuing with no significant change. I can provide additional information on these programs should it be required.

New Building and Plant Purchases

Mini Excavator – 2.5 Tonne Capacity

Water and Waste have traditionally hired most of the plant and equipment it requires. The range of equipment we hire is varied and extensive, however, there has been one common item which has been hired on an increasingly regular basis. We have been dry-hiring mini excavators for several years. Whilst they are an essential part of our work, they are often only required for a small part of the day, hence they are operated by several of our utilities operators, who are multi skilled.

In 2007/08, dry-hire of mini excavators is expected to cost Council $62,000, and this is expected to continue into the future. Investigation indicates that we could purchase a 2.5 tonne excavator and trailer for $65,000 or less. Further, running costs and depreciation are expected to be in the vicinity of $20,000 to $25,000 per annum.

Provision has therefore been made for the purchase of such a unit in 2008/09.

Water Depot – Pipes and Fittings Shed

Water and Waste has a pipe and fittings shed at its water depot of unknown age. It is constructed of hardwood and corrugated iron. White ant infestations have occurred several times in the last five years, and control measures have not been effective. Once of the roof trusses has weakened dangerously and is permanently supported by a prop. It is time this shed was replaced, and provision of $55,000 has been made to do so in 2008/09.

Management Plan:

This capital works plan has been prepared using forward financial projections from Councils Water Financial Model, Developer Servicing Plans and various technical reports. It is consistent with Councils current Management Plan. Several additional items, namely Retreat Water Main, purchase of mini excavator and replacement of Water Fittings Shed have been identified. Their cost can be funded by a combination of savings, reallocation for asset renewals and Water Developer Charges.

Council Policy:

This report does not require the formulation of any new policy, and does not impact on existing Council Policy.

Legislation:

Not applicable.

Sustainability:

Social:

Due to the wide range of projects proposed in the capital works plan, there will be many positive outcomes for the community. These include provision of new water supply areas and provision of a higher level of service to many. Some minor impacts during construction will be experienced by a small number of residents. The minor inconveniences to some are considered appropriate in order to provide the many benefits to the community.

Environmental:

Some of the project nominated in the capital works plan will have an impact on the environment, and will require a satisfactory Review of Environmental Factors, or Environmental Impact Statement, before they can proceed.

Financial:

Councils Water Fund holds cash reserves adequate to meet the funding requirements of this capital works plan. Fees and charges have been set to ensure long term sustainability of the water fund.

Consultation:

It is envisaged that initial consultation with the community will be by way of Management Plan public exhibition. Many of the projects will require further written advice/or advertisement in the media.

Risk Management:

Many of the projects nominated in this report are in the early stages of formulation. Risk Management measures will be refined and developed in the main, closer to their actual construction dates.

Options:

Options for major projects have already been canvassed with Council and the community.

Conclusions:

The five year forward capital works plan presented in this report identifies $7 million of projects. Many of the projects are required to cater for new development, also adequate provision for asset renewals has been made. Councils Water Reserves stand at over $16 million, and no loans will be required for any of the work identified in the schedule.

RECOMMENDED that the five year Water Capital Works Plan presented in this report be adopted.

Brian Carter Gary Woodman

Manager Water & Waste Director Operations

Attachments

AT-1View

Water Five Year Forward Capital Works Program

2 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Water and Waste Report No. 3/08
Water Five Year Forward Capital Works Program	Water Five Year Capital Works Program

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Design and Contracts No. 2/08

1.

Sale of Closed Road - Lot 12 - DP 1106545 Author: Sue Brinkworth

FILE: 04/0054

Executive Summary:

An application was received from Ms P Goss and Mr B Armstrong for the closure of part of Wollombi Road being Lot 12 DP 1106545 (unutilized public road). Council resolved to request the Department of Lands proceed with the road closure on 4 April 2005. The Department approved the plan of closure on 12 October 2005 and the plan was registered on 31 January 2007. A copy of the registered plan is attached AT-1. The Department of Lands subsequently gazetted the road closed on 6 July 2007 and vested the land in Singleton Council as ‘operational land’.

In accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, the land (lot 12 DP 1106545) may now be sold to the applicant (adjoining owner). The applicant has offered to purchase the closed road for the sum of $2,614.80, bear the cost of application fees associated with the road closure, survey and plan registration costs as well as council’s legal fees. It is estimated that the cost to the applicant exceeds $9,000.00. Council obtained a valuation report valuing the land at $7,359.00.

Management Plan:

Not Applicable

Council Policy:

Not Applicable

Legislation:

Local Government Act 1993 allows the sale of land classified as “operational”.

Sustainability:

Social:

The sale impacts positively on the community as the proceeds from the sale of the closed public road are set aside for Council’s road network.

Environmental:

There is no impact on the environment as a result of the sale of the closed public road.

Financial:

There is a positive impact on the Council and the Community as a result of the closure and sale of unutilized public road. In accordance with s43 of the Roads Act 1993, the proceeds of the sale of closed public road may only be used for acquiring land for public roads or for carrying out road work on public roads.

Consultation:

The proposal to close the public road and sell the closed road to the applicant was advertised in the Singleton Argus and adjoining owners notified. No objections were received. Council subsequently resolved to proceed with the application.

Risk Management:

Council significantly minimizes its risk with the closure and sale of unutilized public roads. Maintenance of the land is no longer required and the revenue from the sale may be used to maintain existing public roads.

Options:

Council may consider the offer from Armstrong Goss to acquire the closed road Lot 12 DP 1106545 for the sum of $2,614.80 including bearing the application costs, survey and plan registration costs and Council’s legal costs and resolve to either accept or reject the offer.

Conclusions:

The valuation of the land proposed to be closed is $7,359.00. The cost to the applicant for the closure and purchase of the closed road exceeds $9,000.00, therefore the offer by Armstrong Goss to acquire the closed road Lot 12 DP 1106545 is considered reasonable.

RECOMMENDED that Council accept the offer from Armstrong Goss for the purchase of Lot 12 DP 1106545 for the sum of $2,614.80 including bearing the application costs, survey and plan registration costs and Council’s legal costs.

Attachments

AT-1View

Copy of Plan and DP 110 6545

Attachment 1	Manager Design and Contracts No. 2/08
Copy of Plan and DP 110 6545	Sale of Closed Road - Lot 12 - DP 1106545

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Design and Contracts No. 2/08

2.

Design & Contracts Program Area - Jobs in Progress Author: Christopher Martin

FILE: 08/0073

Executive Summary:

The following works have been completed, are in progress or are programmed to be commenced by the Design and Contracts Program Area.

(a) CURRENT SURVEY, INVESTIGATION & DESIGN MATTERS

PROJECT	DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT	STATUS
LAND DEVELOPMENT
Retreat Stage 10	Subdivision plans for DA160/2004. CC plans preparation to comply with DA conditions. Detention Basin plan check completed. Amendments required by Development Engineers - In progress. Indigenous heritage assessment – Flora & fauna assessment. DEC - S90 - (D C&DS) Plans submitted for CC Approval 9/8/07. CC Approval 29/8/07. Works Commenced. Deposited Linen Plan lodged Plan No. 1120621. Linen released. Final landscaping & Subdivision Engineer inspection required.	Approved 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 20%
Pinnacle Stage 6	DA plans submitted DA732/2005. Indigenous heritage assessment – S90 approval – report to go back to DEC (D C&DS). Statement of Environmental Effects – submitted to P&DS. Additional studies/designs required: - Traffic Study; - Noise Study; and - Detention Basin. Engineering plans for CC including water, sewer and detention basin designs completed, reviewed by Planning & Development Services. Plans currently being amended by Consultant Designer for submission to Council for CC by Monday 25June 2007. CC approval received 9/08/07. Works Commenced.	100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% Near completion.
Mt Thorley Re-subdivision (Kannar Road)	Detail survey. Indigenous heritage assessment – S90 approval. Salvage work on approval – (D C&DS). Flora & Fauna investigation. Draft S88B preparation for contract – to be amended to include DA consent conditions. DA plans submitted (DA137/2006). CC Approval 22/6/07. CC Plans issued for construction. Subdivision Development under construction. Linen submitted 21/02/08	100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% In Progress
BRIDGES
Kilfoyles Bridge, Stanhope Road	Vertical and Horizontal Alignments completed. Road approach design required.	100% TBA
Owendale Bridge, Wollombi Road over Barneys Gully	Vertical & Horizontal design complete. Road approach design required.	100% TBA
Clydesdale Bridge, Hebden Road	Survey and horizontal alignment Completed. Road approach design required.	100% TBA
Franks Bridge, Old Carrowbrook Road	Survey and Preliminary Design Complete. Road approach design required.	100% TBA
Stringy Bark Creek Bridge – Hebden Rd Hebden	Survey Required. Preliminary Design required.	100% Programed
ROADS & TRAFFIC
SES Car park, Singleton	Survey Preliminary complete. Redesign requested and in progress. Completed	100% 100% On Hold
Long Point Road, Gouldsville	Survey for realignment of 90 degree bend to improve road safety at Neal’s property. Client requires horizontal alignment review.	80%
Dangar Road, Brisbane & Boonal Streets K & G	Survey Complete Designs required: · Brisbane Street – Completed Set-out Required · Dangar Road – Completed Set-out complete · Boonal Street – Completed. Set-out Required	100% 100% TBA 100% 100% 100% TBA
Glendonbrook Road Reconstruction	Survey and design required. Survey Completed. Design in Progress	100% 10%
Glendonbrook RFS, Glendonbrook Road	Survey, design and DA required to be lodged. Survey Complete. Design	100% In Progress
DRAINAGE
Kelso Street Stormwater Improvement Stage 2	Detail Survey – Extra Detail Required to address increased scope of works. Check of Previous design by Consultant. Redesign of Infiltration Basin by external consultants by Cardno. Geotechnical investigation for Council land for filling. Negotiations with Landowners. Council undertaking preliminary design	80% 60% 100% 50% Underway In Progress
PARKS & FACILITIES
Redbourneberry Bridge, Redbourneberry	Drainage batter regrading survey required	To be Programmed

(b) ROADS AND CONTRACTS MATTERS

Job	Description of Job	Status
Tender Administration	T2008.001 – Asset Valuation Services	Tender documents prepared
	T2008.002 – Construction of Bridge over Barney’s Creek (replacement of Owendale Bridge)	Tender documents prepared
	T2008.003 – Supply & Delivery of 2 x 9t Tipper and 1 x 2t Double Cab Utility	Tender documents prepared
	T2008.004 – Construction of bridge - Stringy Bark Creek	Tender documents prepared
	T2008.005 –Trade & Miscellaneous Services	Tender documents currently being prepared
Contract Administration	C2006.015 – Construction Burgmanns Bridge.	Final Completion due
	C2006.020 – Singleton CBD streetscape.	Practical completion due
	C2007.005 – Contract for the construction of Mt Thorley Industrial Subdivision.	Practical completion due
	C2007.008 – Retreat Stage 10.	Contract In progress
	C2007.009 – Pinnacle 6.	Contract In progress
	C2007.010 – Electrical Reticulation Mt Thorley.	Contract In progress
	C2007.018 – Electrical Reticulation Pinnacle Stage 6	Contract In progress
	C2007.010 – Electrical Reticulation Mt Thorley.	Contract In progress
Road Matters
Maison Dieu Road	Road widening and bridge construction over Rixs Creek – road opening/closing (Resolution 31/06).	Re-notification have been sent
Hebden Road - 3 Sharp Curves	Separate pieces of land from Picton Lane – road closures and compulsory acquisition of crown land.	Surveyor will advise Council of status of plans
Hebden Road - Stringy Bark Creek	Road opening and compulsory acquisition of crown land.	MATTER CLOSED - No acquisition required
Wollombi Road	Road closure (Treminar Winery).	Report to Council has been sent (3/3/08)
Stage 4 Streetscape	Land acquisition at Railway Station.	Railcorp has advised that the matter is being investigated, awaiting advice
Cranky Corner Road	Road widening (acquisition) and opening (Dick).	Telstra Plant will be located and marked this week. Fencing will commence next week. A quote has been received from the developer’s surveyor, but appears too expensive. Quotes will need to be called for survey etc. once we have completed the fencing.
Elderslie Road - (Pankhurst)	Road widening (Pankhurst) (Resolution 320/06).	Plan has been Registered
Carrowbrook Road	Causeway location, road opening and closing (Resolution 243/07). Causeway through Smiths and newly created road in Jones	Waiting for plans
Carrowbrook Road	Causeway location through Smith’s – road opening/closing (Resolution 243/07).	Waiting for plans
Carrowbrook Road	Anomaly north of Mt Royal Road, south of Lot 3 DP 431675 road opening/closing.	Waiting for plans
Carrowbrook Road	Compulsory acquisition of Lot 1 DP 1092168 from S & M Jones.	Letter sent to Stephen Jones
Wambo Mining	Wambo Mining Application – road closure at Warkworth.	Barabara Ryl from Dept of Lands following up.
White Mining	White Mining Application – road closure of part of Old New England Highway.	Awaiting adjoining owner consent.
Pikes Gully road, Liddell Station Road	Part of Pikes Gully Road, Liddell Station Road and part of Old New England Highway (Liddell) road closure (Coal & Allied).	Barabara Ryl from Dept of Lands following up.
PPK - part of Broke Road	PPK – part of Broke Road – road closure/opening, realignment of road due to mining operations (Bulga Coal).	Waiting on finalisation of Plan of Subdivision
Pikes Gully / Mitchell Line Roads	Pikes Gully/Mitchell Line Roads – road closure due to mining activity (Coal & Allied).	Following up with Jeff Rock (LPI) for registration and sale
Hebden Road	Hebden Road – road closure/opening – conveyor – road deviation and closure.	Road closure and opening. Consent received to advertise part road closure
Lemington Road	Road deviation – road closure and opening.	Letter sent to Clayton Utz stating old deed is obsolete due to the Road Act and the Dept of Lands is the approving authority, however Council would not object to any application for road closure
Singleton RSC	Laneways between York and Castlereagh Streets – road closure and opening (Resolution 242/07).	RSC reviewing their plan -
Putty Valley Road	Boundary redefinition (Resolution 173/07).	Waiting on subdivision of property next door where plan will then be done for road opening and road closure
Rosella Street	Opening and closing.	ON HOLD - pending negotiations with adjoining owner on his proposed subdivision. Investigate legal issue of need to compensate previous owner
Edward Street	Opening and closing.	Surveyor engaged to prepare land of road opening in conjunction with Kelso Street road widening, need to follow up with Pegasus.
Putty Valley Road	Road opening over a crown road, road closure (Resolution 195/06).	Ltr Received from DLG - they require additional information before consent can be given. Ltr Sent to DLG (waiting a response)
Bridgman Road	Road widening, Lot 1 DP 410645 (McTaggart).	Email sent to Alan Scott - amend your plan showing the Road Widening on Bridgman Rd to be dedicated as Public Reserve (similar to Lot 1799)? As soon as Council has Signatures and seal we will forward to you for lodgment when pegging is completed.
Wambo Mining	Road closure and use (response to Ross Hawkes).	Meeting with land owner is currently being scheduled
Bultitude Land	Road Purchase Licence Agreement and Reporting/Relationship.	Rezoning with Consultants, Council to wait on report from Consultants. H H cant get client to sign because its not in their best interest.
Elderslie Road - (Patton)	Land acquisition and road opening/closure (Patton).	Concept plan for design is to be completed. Work to be extended for an extra curve which is to be designed in-house, total 7 curves
Elderslie Road - (Moore)	Land acquisition and road opening (Moore).	Surveyor to be engaged for Plan of subdivision (opening and closing). Concept plan for design is to be completed. Work to be extended for an extra curve which is to be designed in-house, total 7 curves
Cessnock Road	Land acquisition and road opening (Department of Defence).	Negotiate with Department of Defence
Goorangoola Road	(Double crossing) – land acquisition and road opening (Bailey).	Negotiate with Landowner and arrange acquisition
Long Point Road	Land acquisition and road opening (Neal).	Review design, check with works, and commence acquisition and road opening.
Glendonbrook Road (Boyces Bridge)	Land acquisition and road opening (Boyce).	Awaiting response from Joy before report to Council
Old Carrowbrook Road (Franks Bridge)	Land acquisition and road opening (Forrester).	Preliminary Design completed. Inspection with works required. Including road opening, survey, concept design
Hambledon Hill road	Land acquisition and road opening and closure (O’Hara and Andrews).	Negotiate and obtain Permit to enter with O'Hara & Andrews.
Kelso Street	Land acquisition (road widening).	Road Widening - Notification Letter to residents sent out. Waiting response from residents
Stony Creek Road	Road opening (Glennies Creek Mine).	Follow up February 2008
Middle Falbrook Road	Road closure for mining (Rix’s Creek, Glennies Creek and Camberwell).	Arrange sale of land to the Mine. Valuation and contract of Sale.
Gravel Pit, Milbrodale Road	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Gravel Pit, Milbrodale Road, 1D Reference 110, Lot 1 DP 344187	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Gravel Quarry, Putty Road, Mt Thorley	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Gravel Quarry, Putty Road, Mt Thorley, ID Reference 385, Lot 1 DP 36997.	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Road off Old North Road and Hermitage Road	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Road off Old North Road and Hermitage Road, 1D Reference 257, Lot 1 DP 823737 (Fitzsimmons).	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Closed road near Hermitage Road, Pokolbin,	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Closed road near Hermitage Road, Pokolbin, ID Reference 281, 283, 284, Lots 1,2,3 DP 843117.	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Vacant land near Hermitage Road, Pokolbin	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads:    Vacant land near Hermitage Road, Pokolbin, ID Reference 286, 287, 288, Lots 3,4,5 DP 843118.	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Vacant land, Wollombi Road, Paynes Crossing	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Vacant land, Wollombi Road, Paynes Crossing, ID Reference 312, Lot 279 DP 855697.	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Vacant land, corner of Old North Road and Hermitage Road, Pokolbin	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Vacant land, corner of Old North Road and Hermitage Road, Pokolbin, ID Reference 313, Lot 42 DP 858233 (Fitzsimmons). (linked to 1.54.2)	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Residue vacant land, Stanhope Road, Elderslie,	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Residue vacant land, Stanhope Road, Elderslie, ID Reference 319, Lot 6 DP 861727.	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Closed road, New England Highway, Camberwell	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Closed road, New England Highway, Camberwell, ID Reference 328, 329, Lots 1 and 3 DP 873260. (Relates to 1.53)	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Road widening, Gresford Road, Sedgefield,	Under Utilised and Surplus Public Land - Roads: Road widening, Gresford Road, Sedgefield, ID Reference 356, 357, Lots 4 and 5 DP 1017441.	Meeting scheduled for Monday 25 Feb to discuss status
Glennies Creek Road	Road Deviation	Pegasus is working on the plan
Tender Administration	T2008.001 – Asset Valuation Services	Tender documents prepared
	T2008.002 – Construction of Bridge over Barney’s Creek (replacement of Owendale Bridge)	Tender documents prepared
	T2008.003 – Supply & Delivery of 2 x 9t Tipper and 1 x 2t Double Cab Utility	Tender documents prepared
	T2008.004 – Construction of bridge - Stringy Bark Creek	Tender documents prepared
	T2008.005 – Trade & Miscellaneous Services	Tender documents currently being prepared
Other Matters	Road status searches and general enquiries	Ongoing
	Utility Notifications	Ongoing

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Chris Martin Gary Woodman

Manager Design and Contracts Director Operations

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

1.

Works Program Area Maintenance and Construction Author: Brendan Behringer

FILE: 02/0281

Detail:

The following works have been completed, are in progress or are programmed to be commenced by the Works Program Area.

a) Regional Roads Improvement Program

Road	Location	Nature of Work	Status
Elderslie Road (RR453)	2.28 to 3.87km from Cessnock boundary (New England Highway end)	Rehabilitation of existing 1590m section of road involving pavement widening, strengthening and sealing.	10% complete
Cessnock Road (RR7767)	3.65 to 5.30km from Broke	Rehabilitation of existing 1650m section of road involving pavement widening, strengthening and resealing.	30% complete
Queen Street (RR128)	0.60 – 1.00km from Redbournberry Bridge	Rehabilitation of existing 400m section involving pavement strengthening.	10% complete

(b) Auslink Strategic Regional Program

Wollombi Road

0.00 to 2.20km from Paynes Crossing Bridge

Rehabilitation of existing 2200m section involving pavement widening, strengthening and resealing

30% complete Stage 1 – First 1000m

(c) Timber Bridge Partnership Program

Road	Location	Nature of Work	Status
Glendonbrook Road (RR128)	Boyces Bridge over Webbers Creek	Construction of new concrete bridge to replace existing timber bridge.	Bridge 50% complete Boundary fencing complete

(d) Local Roads Improvement Program

Road	Location	Nature of Work	Status
Goorangoola Road	9.60 to 10.8km from Bridgman Road	Rehabilitation of existing 1200m section of road involving pavement widening, strengthening and resealing.	To commence

(e) Supplementary Roads to Recovery

Road	Location	Nature of Work	Status
Middle Falbrook Road	Oak Park Bridge	Replacement of timber structure with pipe culverts.	10% complete (design complete)

(f) Footpath Construction Program

Road	Location	Nature of Work	Status
Boundary Street	Doyle Street to Dangar Road (Eastern Side)	Construction of concrete footpath.	To commence

(g) Other Works

Road	Location	Nature of Work	Status
Carrowbrook Road		Construction of unsealed section of road on correct road reserve alignment.	80% complete

(h) Flood Damage Repairs

Nature of Work	Status
Damage claims and permanent repairs. Estimates have been prepared for all roads with some already submitted and approved by RTA. Further geotechnical and engineering advice being sought to finalise some claims.	Permanent restoration works 70% complete

(i) General Maintenance

Carried out on State Roads, Regional Roads, Rural Local Roads and Urban Local Roads where required, including the following:

Maintenance	Road/Street/Bridge
Sealed maintenance	Bridgman, Stony Creek, Hebden, Wallaby Scrub, Milbrodale, Hermitage, Bell, Dalwood, Mitchells Flat, Mirannie and Dyrring Roads.
Shoulder maintenance	Stanhope, Charlton and Wollombi Roads.
Roadside Maintenance	McMullins, Rusty Lane, Milbrodale, Charlton, Wollombi, Hermitage, Racecourse, Army Camp and Bridgman Roads.
Unsealed Maintenance	Putty Valley and Mt Royal Roads.
Reseals	Surface Preparation Rural - complete Resealing Rural - complete Surface Preparation Urban - 25% complete Resealing Urban to commence in March

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

2.

Bitumen Resealing Program Author: Brendan Behringer

FILE: 02/0281

Detail:

Council is programming to commence its urban bitumen resealing program in March, 2008.

The bitumen and aggregate surface acts as the wearing surface, reducing the rate of pavement wear and maintenance costs by reducing surface moisture reaching the pavement. It also improves the riding qualities of the pavement as well as providing a safe, economical and durable all weather surface.

ROAD	LOCATION
Town Streets
Cambridge Street	George to Bishopgate St
Patrick St	Queen St to Boundary St
Camberwell Streets
Alpha Street	0.00 to 0.29km from New England Hwy
Alpha Street	0.00 to 0.12km from Glennie Street
Alpha Street	0.00 to 0.12km from Glennie Street
Dawson Street	0.00 to 0.33km from Glennie Street
Dawson Street	0.00 to 0.12km from Lethbridge Street
Dulwich Place	0.00 to 0.25km from McInerney Road
Dunn Close	0.00 to 0.07km from Alpha Street
Dyrring Street	0.00 to 0.15km from McInerney Road
Glennie Street	0.00 to 0.23km from Dulwich Place
Glennie Street	0.00 to 0.09km from New England Hwy
Glennie Street	0.09 to 0.96km from New England Hwy
Letbridge Street	0.00 to 0.22km from Alpha Street
Lethbridge Street	0.00 to 0.44km from Dulwich Place
Lethbridge Street	0.00 to 0.23km from Dawson Street
McInernery Road	0.00 to 0.93km from New England Hwy
Singleton Heights
White Ave	SH9 to Blaxland Ave
Blaxland Ave	White Ave to Deans Ave
Hume Close	off Blaxland Ave
Mt Thorley Industrial Estate
Woodlands	Mt Thorley Rd to end
Melba Place	off Maskey rd
Whybrow	Piercefield to Maskey
Maskey	Hedley to Whybrow
Hedley Rd	Piercefield to Woodlands
Mt Thorley Service Rd	Piercefield to Woodlands

The roads to be resealed were selected from:

· Historical data, with the aim of resealing all roads at least every ten years,

· Field inspections to identify those roads most in need of a reseal, and

· Those roads that were reconstructed in 2006/07 to provide their second coat.

Pre-treatment of the roads to be resealed has commenced and is approximately 25% complete. This pre-treatment work involves hand patching, heavy patching and edge repairs and is an essential part of the resurfacing program to ensure maximum wearing surface performance.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

3.

Paved Footpath Construction Program Author: Greg McTaggart

FILE: 01/0602

Executive Summary:

Paved footpaths play a vital role in our urban community. They provide a link for pedestrians, including the disabled, from residential areas to amenities such as commercial centres, schools, recreational facilities, and community gathering points etc. The purpose of this report is to review and update the current adopted Paved Footpath Construction Program.

Background:

Allocation

The budget for this program in the 2007/08 financial year is sufficient to complete one project only and is funded from Council revenue and a contribution of $400 from the single adjoining landholder.

Without confirmation of the level of funding, it is proposed that as with previous years this report only establish a priority list for the footpath construction program and that the proposed projects be carried out in this priority order to the extent that the allocated funds permit.

Existing Priority List

Table 1 below depicts the footpath construction priority list that was adopted in principle by this Committee on 5 March, 2007.

Table 1. Proposed Footpath Construction Priority List 2007/08
Road	Section	Facilities Accessed	m²	Total Project Cost	Score
Queen St	Main School Gate – East side of Cemetery	School, church, club, x-ing facilities, cemetery.	192	$ 17,280	50
Queen St	Kent – Boundary, sth side	School, church, club, sporting fields, car park, x-ing facilities.	168	$ 15,120	50
Newton St	Bridgman – Dunolly, sth side	Shops, Caravan park, Sports Field, x-ing facilities.	420	$ 37,800	41
Blaxland Ave	Alroy Oval – 180m west	Shops, School, Pre-school, field, Community Centre.	216	$ 19,440	34
Blaxland Ave	Lawson Ave – 180m north	Shops, School, Pre-school, field, Community Centre.	216	$ 19,440	34
Totals			1212	$109,080

Revision of Priority List:

Completed Projects

Funding levels in 2007/08 will result in the top project (Queen Street – Main School Gate to East Side of Cemetery) on the existing priority list being completed during the current financial year.

New Projects

As with previous years the possible locations for new sections of footpaths are identified by observation of wear paths. Identification of wear is a good indication of the need for a footpath and the level of wear is generally indicative of the level of use that a footway receives. This process did not reveal any new sections of footpath that require paving nor did we receive any requests for footpath paving in the past twelve months.

Development of New Priority List:

Priority Matrix

In order to determine the order of priority of construction of footpath projects the matrix used by Council in previous years continues to be used. The matrix cross-references the level of use of the footway with the types of facilities that it will access and is shown below:

Footpath Priority Matrix
Level of Use	Type of Facility Accessed
	Priority Score
	Business	Schools	Community	Crossing Facilities
High	12	11	10	9
Medium	8	7	6	5
Low	4	3	2	1

Project Cost Review

In the past, estimated costs have only applied to the construction of the footpath and have not taken into account utility adjustments or construction of pedestrian ramps at road intersections and pedestrian crossings. These additional costs have been absorbed by the footpath maintenance vote. As this vote is needed for maintenance of footpaths it is appropriate that it be used for its intended use and not for new construction. Cost estimates in the revised program for 2008/09 have therefore been adjusted to reflect the full and true costs of footpath construction.

Proposed New Priority List

Table 2 below is the revised priority list for new footpath construction. It excludes the Queen Street project that will be undertaken during the current financial year and includes revised estimates of cost.

Table 2. Proposed Footpath Construction Priority List 2008/09
Road	Section	Facilities Accessed	m²	Total Project Cost	Score
Queen St	Kent – Boundary, sth side	School, church, club, sporting fields, car park, x-ing facilities.	168	$ 20,160	50
Newton St	Bridgman – Dunolly, sth side	Shops, Caravan park, Sports Field, x-ing facilities.	420	$ 50,400	41
Blaxland Ave	Alroy Oval – 180m west	Shops, School, Pre-school, field, Community Centre.	216	$ 25,920	34
Blaxland Ave	Lawson Ave – 180m north	Shops, School, Pre-school, field, Community Centre.	216	$ 25,920	34
Totals			1020	$122,400

Management Plan:

Overall the objective of the Works Program Area is “To provide efficient and effective management of resources in order to maintain all transport infrastructure in a safe condition and in a manner that minimises life–cycle costs.”

The Strategic Aims of the Works Program Area that relate to footpath construction are to improve access for non motorised traffic and to minimise Council’s exposure to litigation.

Council Policy:

Policy on footpath construction is contained within Council’s adopted “Footpaths/Cycleways Management Strategy”. The relevant parts of this policy are as follows:

Council has a duty of care to satisfactorily construct…all Footpaths/Cycleways on Council owned land to enhance the safety of all users. It is also imperative that Council put in place planning measures to ensure that the current and future pedestrian needs of our community are adequately catered for and to direct the limited funds to the areas of most need. To provide a Footpath/Cycleway network that as far as fiscally possible meets the current and future needs of the community…New footpaths are generally only provided in areas where kerbing and guttering exists and there is an existing significant level of pedestrian use. 50% of the cost of construction of footpaths is borne by the adjacent landowner up to a maximum contribution of $400…”

Legislation:

The relevant parts of Section 217 of the Roads Act – 1993 reads as follows:

(1) The owner of land adjoining a public road is liable to contribute to the cost incurred by a roads authority in constructing or paving any kerb, gutter or footway along the side of the public road adjacent to the land.

(2) The amount of the contribution is to be such amount (not more than half of the cost) as the roads authority may determine.

(3) The owner of land the subject of such a determination becomes liable to pay the amount determined on receiving notice of that amount.

Sustainability:

Social:

Footpaths have many social benefits, which include the following:

Access:

Footpaths provide easier access for pedestrians (especially people with disabilities)

to reach their destination.

Safety:

Footpaths enhance the safety of pedestrians by providing a more even, smoother

surface to use.

Recreation:

Footpaths give the community a facility to exercise on through activities such

walking and/or jogging. Footpaths are also often the link between roads and/or

residences and parks, playgrounds and other recreational facilities.

Direction:

Generally, pedestrians tend to take the most direct route to their destination. This is

often done without thought about the safety of where they are crossing a road.

Footpaths provide guidance, especially for the young to the safest route such as

guiding them to road crossing facilities.

Environmental:

The erosion of footways caused by heavy pedestrian traffic in urban areas can only

be described as a blot on the aesthetic quality of an area. The construction of a

footpath is a significant positive to the aesthetics of an area as it removes the worn

track, puts a stop to erosion and protects the adjacent turf by keeping pedestrians on

the concrete.

Financial:

The estimated cost of the proposed program is $122,400, however as no firm budget

has been set for these works it is difficult to say how long the program will take to

complete and how much expenditure will be undertaken in 2007/2008.

Risk Management:

Council’s overall risk management policy for roads and associated infrastructure is as follows:

“Singleton Council will endeavour to exercise its duty of care in relation to dedicated Council Public Roads, by taking all reasonable steps to enhance the safety of road users, with due regard being given to the nature of the defect, the level of risk, the use of the road, funding constraints, competing priorities and minimum standards.”

RECOMMENDED that:

1. The proposed footpath construction priority list as shown in the Table below be adopted in principle to define Council’s priority order.

Proposed Footpath Construction Priority List 2008/09
Road	Section	Facilities Accessed	m²	Total Project Cost	Score
Queen St	Kent – Boundary, sth side	School, church, club, sporting fields, car park, x-ing facilities.	168	$ 20,160	50
Newton St	Bridgman – Dunolly, sth side	Shops, Caravan park, Sports Field, x-ing facilities.	420	$ 50,400	41
Blaxland Ave	Alroy Oval – 180m west	Shops, School, Pre-school, field, Community Centre.	216	$ 25,920	34
Blaxland Ave	Lawson Ave – 180m north	Shops, School, Pre-school, field, Community Centre.	216	$ 25,920	34
Totals			1020	$122,400

2. After the level of funding for footpath construction is established, works be carried out in accordance with the above priority list until funding is exhausted.

3. Contributions from adjoining landholders under Section 217 of the Roads Act 1993 for the construction of new footpaths be restricted to a maximum of $400 per property.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

4.

Kerb and Gutter Construction Program Author: Greg McTaggart

FILE: 99/0057-3

Executive Summary:

Kerb and Gutter is an important component of the urban road infrastructure which serves many functions. It is proposed in this report to only establish a priority list for the construction of new kerb and gutter. When the level of funding is established the proposed projects will be carried out in this priority order until allocated funds are exhausted.

Background:

Allocation

In 2007/08 the budget allocation for this program was sufficient to complete the top project on the priority list. The sources of funding for this project were allocated from general revenue and supplemented by the adjoining land owner’s contribution.

Existing Priority List

Table 1 below outlines the Kerb and Gutter Construction Program that was adopted in principle by this Committee on 5 March, 2007.

Table 1. Proposed Kerb and Gutter Construction Priority List 2007/08
Street	Location	Length (m)	Estimated Cost	Priority Score
Boundary St	West and West side Short – Patrick	110	$ 8,580	10
Brisbane St	Both sides, Doyle – Dangar Rd	206	$ 15,656	7
Boonal St	East Side, Dangar Rd – Cranston Park	184	$ 13,984	7
Boonal St	West side, Sth of Golf Course to Dangar Rd	120	$ 9,120	7
Ryan Ave	K&G at The Terraces to Sth access to Cook Park	650	$ 49,400	7
Total			$ 96,740

The Need for Kerb and Gutter

Kerb and Gutter links the road surface with the underlying stormwater drainage system, reduces residents’ exposure to localised flooding, aids in the retention of storm water, enhances the aesthetic appeal of an area, retards the deterioration process of a roads surface and pavement, can eliminate the pooling of water and subsequent erosion of unsealed shoulders. It also serves the purpose of separating the road from the footpath to control parking and to protect pedestrians. Conversely, it tends to concentrate water flow and if there is no formal drainage for stormwater to get away, it can cause problems by collecting and discharging it on to a property at a single point.

In line with the above, sections of road that do not have kerb and gutter, can be broken up into four categories as follows:

i) missing sections that link existing kerb and gutter,

ii) sections that front properties with a high percentage of hard surface and where it leads to a piped drainage system,

iii) sections that front properties with a high percentage of grassed open space, and

iv) sections in areas where there are no piped drainage systems.

Those in categories i) and ii) are obviously the most important and should be high priorities. Accordingly all, except two sections, are currently listed on the Approved Kerb and Gutter Construction Priority List. The two sections not currently included on the priority list are: -

1. Kelso Street - both sides, between Church and Bathurst (529m) and

2. Pitt Street – south side, between Sussex and King (166m)

The Kelso Street project requires widening of the road and the Pitt Street project requires lowering of the stormwater pipe before kerb and gutter can be constructed.

A list of remaining urban streets that are missing kerb and gutter that fit into categories iii) and iv) have been identified and are listed below: -

Street	Location	Comments	m
Bank St	Whole St	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	92
Bishopgate St	Sth/Wst side, Kent – Market	Next to high % of grassed open space.	122
Boonal St	West side, Queen St – sth of Golf Course.	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	503
Boundary St	East side, Tennis courts – Golf Club	Next to high % of grassed open space.	110
Bridgman Rd	Both sides, Newton – Dunolly Rd.	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	548
Carroll St	West side, Howe St – Dangar Rd.	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	340
Church St	Fronting the Showground	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	285
Crown St	Both sides Sth Carrington. Est side, Victoria–Carrington	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	390
Dunolly Rd	Bth sides Phillip – Bridgman. Sth/Est side Phillip – 7774	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	521
Dunolly Rd	Bridgman – End	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	400
G’ridding Rd	Both sides, Carrington – Dead End	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	550
Howe St	Nth side, Boonal – Carroll	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	264
Kelso St	Both sides at Christian School	Next to high % of grassed open space.	700
Newton St	Nth/East side, Bridgman – Bank	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	227
Phillip St	Dead end, west of Bridgman	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	225
Queen St	Sth side, at Golf Course & Boonal – Raworth	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	600
Sophia St	Both sides, Kelso – Church	Next to high % of grassed open space. No piped drainage system.	530

All of these sections of missing kerb and gutter are adjacent to areas with a high percentage of grassed open space where most have no piped drainage systems to connect to. It is therefore questionable as to whether they will need kerb and gutter for drainage purposes while ever these circumstances remain.

Priority System:

For the information of Councillors it is relevant that the priority system used over a number of years to develop kerb and gutter priority lists, including the current list, be reiterated. The factors taken into consideration for prioritisation of new projects are shown below:

Factor	Explanation
Localised Flooding Relief	This aspect takes into account whether the proposed kerb and gutter will reduce exposure to localised flooding of residential properties and the road.
Retardation of Road Deterioration	This issue considers the condition of the road and/or shoulder and the ability of the proposed work to reduce this deterioration.
Connection to Existing Infrastructure	Gives weight to those projects which complete a piece of existing infrastructure, i.e. joining two pieces of existing kerb and gutter or linking to stormwater drainage.
Road Widening	This takes into consideration projects that will widen the road to Council’s standards.

Using these factors the matrix below is used to prioritise the new projects:

Kerb and Gutter Prioritisation Matrix
Factor	Feature	Score
Localised Flooding Relief	Reduces Flooding affecting residential properties and road	3
	Reduces Flooding affecting residential properties or road	2
	Does not reduce flooding.	1
Protection of Road	Protects road pavement	3
	Protects road shoulder	2
	Protects wearing surface	1
Connection to Existing Infrastructure	Connects >2 pieces of existing infrastructure	3
	Connects 2 pieces of existing infrastructure	2
	Connects <2 pieces of existing infrastructure	1
Road Widening	Widens Road by 2m or more	3
	Widens Road by 1< 2m	2
	Widens Road by < 1m	1

Review of Current Program:

All sections listed on the priority list have a priority score of 7. And whilst all sections score points for protection of the road shoulder, the affects of the volume of traffic on Ryan Avenue would obviously be much more severe than the other two streets – Brisbane and Boonal. Hence, installation of kerb and gutter along Ryan Avenue would provide a greater benefit than either of the other streets. In addition to this, funding has been approved for rehabilitation of section of Ryan Avenue in 2008/09 and this project will be designed to link with the improvements required by the Gowrie Street Commercial Centre development.

It is therefore logical that installation of the missing section of kerb and gutter on the section of Ryan Avenue proposed for rehabilitation in 2008/09 be programmed to be carried out in conjunction with the road works. This will mean splitting the section between the Sun Dial and Burns Lane away from the section to be upgraded for the commercial development and the balance of the road and elevating it to the top priority in 2008/09.

Requests Received for new Kerb and Gutter:

Since our last review, one request has been received for the installation of kerb and gutter and that was for Primrose Lane. Council has a number of rear lanes in the older part of Singleton and they have all been constructed on a similar level to the surrounding ground. They allow surface water to run to adjoining streets via a lay back in the kerb. Unlike normal streets that provide collection and retention of stormwater, their purpose is not to be lower than the surrounding area or to facilitate drainage. In almost all cases the lanes adjoin the backyards of residences which contain a high percentage of grassed area that can cater for any stormwater that does not flow away. In view of the above it is considered illogical and uneconomical to install kerb and gutter at these locations and recommended that the request not be fulfilled.

Projects Completed in 2007/2008:

The first project on the approved priority list, Patrick Street - north/east side, Market Street to Boundary Street has been completed and can be removed from the list.

Proposed Program 2008/09:

As mentioned previously, all of the missing sections of kerb and gutter have been identified and all of the critical sections have been included in the priority list. The benefits of moving part of the Ryan Avenue kerb and gutter project to the highest priority has been discussed and has resulted in the 2008/09 proposed priority list as shown in table 2 below:

Table 2. Proposed Kerb and Gutter Construction Priority List 2008/09
Street	Location	Length (m)	Estimated Cost	Priority Score
Ryan Avenue	K&G at Sun Dial to Burns Lane	350	$ 28,000	7
Ryan Avenue	Burns Lane to K&G at The Terraces	300	$ 24,000
Brisbane Street	Both sides, Doyle – Dangar Rd	206	$ 16,480	7
Boonal Street	East Side, Dangar Rd – Cranston Park	184	$ 14,720	7
Boonal Street	West side, Sth of Golf Course to Dangar Rd	120	$ 9,600	7
Total			$ 92,800

Management Plan:

Overall the objective of the Works Program Area is “To provide efficient and effective management of resources in order to maintain all transport infrastructure in a safe condition and in a manner that minimises life – cycle costs.”

The strategic aims of the Works Program Area that relate to new kerb and gutter construction are to:

· Reduce the impact that storm events have on residential amenity.

· Minimise Council general revenue expenditure on transport infrastructure whilst optimising the benefits to the community.

Legislation:

The relevant parts of Section 217 of the Roads Act – 1993 reads as follows:

(1) The owner of land adjoining a public road is liable to contribute to the cost incurred by a roads authority in constructing or paving any kerb, gutter or footway along the side of the public road adjacent to the land.

(2) The amount of the contribution is to be such amount (not more than half of the cost) as the roads authority may determine.

(3) The owner of land the subject of such a determination becomes liable to pay the amount determined on receiving notice of that amount.

Sustainability:

Social:

Kerb and Gutter reduces residents’ exposure to localised flooding and separates the road from the footpath which can aid in the control of parking and protection of pedestrians.

Environmental:

From the perspective of the environment kerb and gutter links the road surface with the underlying stormwater drainage system which can help channel rubbish and debris into collection or filtering facilities such as Gross Pollutant Traps and wetlands/reedbeds. It also enhances the aesthetic appeal of an area.

Financial:

Council can recover half the cost of kerb and gutter construction in line with Section 217 of the Roads Act 1993. However, we find that when we construct new kerb and gutter there is a varying width of road pavement to construct to link the gutter to the existing edge of the bitumen. To be fair the recoverable cost does not include the cost of shoulder reconstruction. It only includes half the cost of the new kerb and gutter and reinstatement of the footway behind the kerb. Using this formula a contribution of $40 per metre will be imposed on the adjoining land owner.

The estimated cost of the proposed program is $92,800, but as no firm budget has been set for these works it is difficult to say how long the program will take to complete or how much work will be undertaken in 2008/09.

Despite the initial cost of kerb and gutter, it can incur savings in other areas such as:

· a reduction in the required amount of underground drainage,

· the slowing down of the deterioration of a roads pavement by helping negate the infiltration of water into the pavement, and

· the elimination of erosion of unsealed shoulders.

Risk Management:

Council’s overall risk management policy for roads and associated infrastructure is as follows:

“Singleton Council will endeavour to exercise its duty of care in relation to dedicated Council Public Roads, by taking all reasonable steps to enhance the safety of road users, with due regard being given to the nature of the defect, the level of risk, the use of the road, funding constraints, competing priorities and minimum standards.”

Conclusion:

The construction of Kerb and Gutter in appropriate locations is an efficient and effective method of minimising life–cycle costs for other road infrastructure. It minimises Council general revenue expenditure on transport infrastructure whilst optimising the benefits to the community.

RECOMMENDED that:

1. The proposed kerb and gutter construction priority list as shown in the Table below be adopted in principle to define Council’s priority order.

Proposed Kerb and Gutter Construction Priority List 2008/09
Street	Location	Length (m)	Estimated Cost	Priority Score
Ryan Avenue	K&G at Sun Dial to Burns Lane	350	$ 28,000	7
Ryan Avenue	Burns Lane to K&G at The Terraces	300	$ 24,000
Brisbane Street	Both sides, Doyle – Dangar Rd	206	$ 16,480	7
Boonal Street	East Side, Dangar Rd – Cranston Park	184	$ 14,720	7
Boonal Street	West side, Sth of Golf Course to Dangar Rd	120	$ 9,600	7
Total			$ 92,800

2. After the level of funding for the kerb and gutter construction is established, works be carried out in accordance with the above priority list until funding is exhausted.

3. The 50% Contributions from adjoining landholders under Section 217 of the Roads Act 1993 for the construction of new kerb and gutter not include the cost of construction of the road shoulder.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

5.

Minutes of Local Development Committee Meeting 19 February 2008 Author: Michael Launders

FILE: 00/0002-2

Detail:

The Minutes of the Singleton Local Development Committee meeting held 19 February 2008 are detailed as Attachment 1.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

AT-1View

Minutes LDC 19.02.08

4 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Works Report No. 2/08
Minutes LDC 19.02.08	Minutes of Local Development Committee Meeting 19 February 2008

MINUTES OF THE LOCAL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL COMMITTEE ROOM ON THE 19TH FEBRUARY 2008 COMMENCING AT 10.36 A.M.

PRESENT

RTA: Mr. I. Jenkins. (Road Safety and Traffic Officer)

Police: Sergeant R. Akerman, (Traffic Officer, Hunter Valley Local Area Command.)

Council: Cr. S. Moore, Mr. G. McTaggart (Manager Works) Mr. D. Simon ( Town Planner), Mr. S. Mack (Trainee Engineer), M/s A. Power (Trainee Town Planner) and Mr. M. Launders (Traffic Coordinator)

Visitor: Mr. S. Pocock of Compass Planning

APOLOGY: Mr. G. Woodman (Director Operations)

MINUTES Resolved that the Minutes of the Local Development Committee Meeting, held on the 23rd August 2008 as circularized be received and adopted.

(Akerman / Jenkins)

1. BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING

1.1 PROPOSED BUS DEPOT DA 343 / 2007

The RTA representative asked a question as to the progress of DA 343 / 2007 which was the sole item on the agenda at the previous meeting. He was advised that construction of this project had begun.

2. DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS REFERRED BY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

2.1 PROPOSED VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE FILE: DA. 5 / 2008

Proposal: To develop a Visitor Information Centre (VIC) in the existing Townhead Park, Maitland Road Singleton.

Applicant: Singleton Council.

Singleton Council is proposing to remove an existing building in Townhead Park and construct a Visitor Information Centre.

Townhead Park has a frontage to the New England Highway (Maitland Road) and on this matter comments were sought from the RTA in the early stages of planning for this project.

Townhead Park in its current form already provides a high level of service to the public as the existing facilities there attract both local and non local people. Highway traffic stops for rest breaks and locals use it for recreation. The facilities provided at this park consist of:

· Public toilets

· Picnic furniture including gas barbeques.

· A children’s playground complete with modern play equipment.

· A hard surfaced cycle riding track for children using cycles, scooters, roller blades etc.

· City Guide Map board.

The park is also the venue for special events such as:

· Sunday markets

· Lions Club Driver Reviver.

· The Rotary Christmas event for children.

· Police speed and drink driving testing programmes.

Off Street Parking

Both EJE’s Statement of Environmental Effects and Parsons Brinckerhoff’s Traffic Impact Statement use the Maitland VIC as an example to assess car parking needs. However this comparison is not 100% valid as it does not take into consideration the existing usage of the Townhead Park’s off-street car park. To roughly gauge this usage random parking surveys were conducted in relation to the existing usage of the existing off-street car park at Townhead Park. These surveys are recorded in

“Table 1” below:

Table 1 Off Street Parking Townhead Park
Date	Time	Vehicles	Weather	Note
Wed 23.1.2008	10.11	11	Fine, sunny	School hols
	10.50	15
	11.21	15
	13.14	14		4 vehicles had caravans
	14.20	17		1 vehicles had a caravan
	15.49	14
	16.46	11		1 vehicles had a caravan
Thur 24.1.2008	8.30	5	Fine, sunny	1 vehicles had a caravan
	8.44	7		1 vehicles had a caravan
	9.24	4		1 vehicles had a caravan
	10.31	11		2 vehicles had caravans.

The Maitland VIC site does not have the range of activities and facilities that already exist at Townhead Park. In comparing Townhead Parks proposed VIC with Maitland’s, figures for Townhead’s existing usage should have been included.

On Street Parking

The proposal as presented in EJE’s Statement of Environmental Effects proposes that coach parking be on street at the following locations:

· Western side of Maitland Road for north bound coaches

· Eastern side of Waterhouse Avenue for south bound coaches in a proposed indented bus bay.

It is also proposed that overflow parking will be on street.

In relation to on-street parking in Waterhouse Avenue the Committee considered coach parking on Waterhouse Avenue undesirable due to it being a local street which would require coaches to negotiate a complex route of local streets to reach the proposed bus parking bay. The opinion was also expressed that an indented car parking bay with angle parking could be provided on the eastern side of Waterhouse Avenue for the purpose of accommodating parking of locals who may be displaced by tourist parking in the principal car park at the VIC.

Solid Waste

No mention has been made in relation to solid waste storage and disposal apart from a wheelie bin alcove shown for two bins on drawing “AO1”. If the centre proposed is to use commercial waste bins initially or at a later date they will have to be located where they can be accessed by large rigid trucks. Such trucks could pose a hazard if they have to reverse in an area that is already popular to children.

A definitive statement should be made on how the solid waste created by the proposed VIC is to be stored and collected.

Site Access

It should be noted that Parson Brinckerhoff’s access assessment was based on the two existing access points to the Townhead Park remaining. However the RTA in,

correspondence, dated, 8^th August 2007, recommended a single access point only, with the second access point to be disposed of.

The RTA also sought measures that would ensure that the flow of south bound vehicles on the highway would not be obstructed by vehicles turning right into Townhead Park. This may require that parking restrictions be imposed on the eastern side of Maitland Road across the frontages of numbers “34”,”36” and the service station. The parties who occupy these premises may object to the loss of on-street parking in front of their residences or business.

Local Development Committee RECOMMENDS that, the application be referred back to the applicant of the proposed Visitor Information Centre in Townhead Park to redesign the car parking in general and take the following into consideration:

:

1. Off –street parking

(i) Be reassessed to take into consideration the existing levels of parking that occur in the existing off-street car park in Townhead Park.

(ii) Provision being made for long vehicle (vehicle with caravan attached) and service, vehicles.

2. Parking restrictions in the turning bulb so that long vehicles or vehicle combinations can turn without having to reverse.

3. Storage and removal of solid waste from the proposed development.

4. Possible loss of on-street parking on the eastern side of Maitland Road across the frontage of numbers “34”,”36” and the service station.

5. Possible angle parking in Waterhouse Avenue for use by locals.

6. The undesirable use of Waterhouse Avenue by coaches visiting the proposed VIC.

Meeting closed at 11.30 am

M LAUNDERS

TRAFFIC COORDINATOR

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

6.

Minutes of Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 19 February 2008 Author: Michael Launders

FILE: 00/0002-2

Detail:

The Minutes of the Singleton Local Traffic Committee meeting held 19 February 2008 are detailed as Attachment 1.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

Attachments

AT-1View

Minutes LTC 19.02.08

9 Pages

Attachment 1	Manager Works Report No. 2/08
Minutes LTC 19.02.08	Minutes of Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 19 February 2008

MINUTES OF THE LOCAL TRAFFIC COMMITTEE MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL COMMITTEE ROOM ON 19TH FEBRUARY 2008 COMMENCING AT 9.30 A.M.

PRESENT

RTA: Mr. I Jenkins. (Road Safety and Traffic Officer)

Police: Sergeant R. Akerman, (Traffic Officer, Hunter Valley Local Area Command.) only, for the period from Item “2.1” to the conclusion of the meeting.

Local Member: Member for Upper Hunter represented by Mr. R. Winter.

Council: Cr. S. Moore, Mr. G. McTaggart (Manager Works), Mr. S. Mackie (Trainee Engineer) and Mr. M. Launders (Traffic Coordinator).

APOLOGY: Mr. G. Woodman (Director Operations)

MINUTES:

Resolved, that the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting, held on the 19^th December 2008 as circularized be received and adopted.

(Moore / Jenkins)

Relevant extracts of the Minutes of Councils Operations Committee meetings held on the 4^th February 2008 were noted.

1. BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING

No matters were raised

2. FORMAL AGENDA

2.1 PAST COMMITTEE MEMBER FILE: OR.MTG

Issue: The passing away of Mr. Gordon Wright a former member of the Committee.

The Committee was informed of the death of a former Committee member Mr. Gordon Wright of Gipp Street, Singleton.

Gordon represented the Member for Cessnock between the 18^th November 1999 and the 19^th May 2005. Gordon carried out his Committee duties in an efficient and pleasant, relaxed manner and was a delight to serve with.

Gordon, aged 58, passed away at the Singleton Hospital on December 21^st and was buried at Sedgefield Cemetery on the 24^th December after a service in St Patricks Church.

Out of respect for Gordon’s service two minutes silence was observed and the Committee resolved to pass its condolences to Gordon’s wife Rhonda.

For INFORMATION only

3. INFORMAL AGENDA ITEMS (For Determination by the RTA)

3.1. QUEEN STREET FILE: RD 00915

Issue: Request for No Stopping parking restrictions on the south side of Queen Street from the vehicle entrance to number 9-11 (S.E.S. base) to the Singleton Crossing off-loading ramp junction with Queen Street.

Source: Membership of Singleton S.E.S. via Cr. Moore

On the 4^th September 2006 this issue was put to the Operations Committee of Council which resolved that the matter be referred back to the Local Traffic Committee for consideration of imposition of a No Parking Zone on the southern side of Queen Street near the SES facility from 1 car park east of the S.E.S building entrance to the New England Highway off ramp. (min 329/06)

The above Operations Committee conflicted with the Local Traffic Committees recommendation which recommended “that to assist S.E.S. plant in accessing the Queen Street carriageway from its base at No 9-11 Queen Street “No Parking” parking restrictions of one motor vehicle length be imposed on each side of the vehicle access point to No 9 -11 Queen Street.”

Since the issue was put back to the Local Traffic Committee the following relevant events have occurred:

· A flood emergency in June 2007.

· Patrons of events in the Civic Centre during December 2007 parked in the off-street car park of the S.E.S. complex.

During the flood emergency over the holiday weekend in June 2007 the S.E.S. became active resulting in heavy on-street parking on the southern side of Queen Street around the S.E.S. complex. To keep the vehicle access to the S.E.S. complex functional the first two vehicle spaces either side of it were blocked out with traffic cones. This measure appeared to provide the level of service required to keep the access functional.

The hard surface in the S.E.S. grounds has the capacity to park five vehicles in places that would not obstruct the six vehicle doors in the S.E.S. buildings. The parking in the S.E.S. car park in December 2007 resulted in a complaint being lodged by leadership of the local S.E.S.

This issue in relation to the on-street parking relates to seven on-street parking spaces at the location illustrated in the following diagram:

To expel casual parking from the S.E.S. off-street car park will place the demand elsewhere. It will not reduce the amount of motorists seeking parking. For this reason the amount of on-street parking should only be reduced where it is absolutely necessary. In this particular case the on-street parking should only be restricted in the two parking spots that occur on the east side and the one that occurs on the west side of the S.E.S. vehicle access.

Local Traffic Committee RECOMMENDS that:

1. To facilitate access to the S.E.S. complex at No 9 – 11 Queen Street, “No Parking” parking restrictions be imposed on the southern side of Queen Street for five metres west of and ten metres east of the vehicle access point of the complex.

2. To prevent parties not involved in S.E.S. activities parking in the S.E.S. complexes off-street car park at 9 – 11 Queen Street, suitable notices be displayed.

(Akerman / Jenkins )

3.2. WOLLOMBI ROAD, BROKE AND PAYNES CROSSING

FILE: RD 00127

Issue: Request to explore lowering the existing 100 km/h speed limit to 80 km/h from Broke to Paynes Crossing as a means of reducing the speeds of weekend motor cycles on the road.

Source: Cr. G. Sharrock, via Councillors Request Form No 1232, of 12.11.2007.

Cr. Sharrock made the following request in writing:

“80km/h speed limits on Milbrodale Road have slowed some of the weekend motor bike traffic.

Several residents of Wollombi Road have approached me regarding speeding motor bikes on the weekends,.

I would like the option of 80km/h speed limits to be examined by the traffic advisory committee.”

Around April 2007 the RTA reduced the 100km / h speed limit on Milbrodale Road to an 80km/h speed limit. This speed limit reduction came after residents of Milbrodale Road complained about speeding motorcycles. Now it appears some residents of Wollombi Road want the same reduction in the speed limit applied to Wollombi Road to treat the same problem.

The subject section of Wollombi Road was inspected on 9^th January 2008. The inspection was carried over into the Cessnock local government area. It was noted that the subject road south of the bridge over the Wollombi Brook at Payne’s Crossing has an existing 80km/h speed limit all the way to the village of Wollombi, a distance of 12.5 kilometres. The Wollombi Brook at Payne’s Crossing is the local government boundary between the Singleton local government area and the Cessnock local government area.

It should be noted that the name Wollombi Road officially ends at Payne’s Crossing and the continuation of the road in the Cessnock local government area is known as Payne’s Crossing Road. This fact is illustrated graphically in the following schematic diagram titled “Road Names Broke to Wollombi”:

The subject length of Wollombi Road is approximately 17.2 kilometres in length in the Singleton local government area and in its current form it has the physical and other features as tabulated below:

WOLLOMBI ROAD
Feature	Data Relative To Feature
Length	17.2 km
Carriageway Pavement	6.0 – 6.5 m wide bitumen sealed pavement.
Carriageway Alignment · Horiz. · Vert.	· 32 horizontal curves with the speed advisory ratings as per the following table. · Relative flat, with some vertical curves.
Traffic Facilities	· “60” km/h speed limit for the first 0.15 km south of Singleton Street, Broke. · “100” km/h speed limit between 0.15 km to 17.00 km south of Singleton Street, Broke · “80” km/h speed from 17.00 km south of Singleton Street, Broke. · Appropriate curve and speed advisory signs.
Traffic Volume	299 vehicles per day at 9 km south of Broke.
Occupation Features	· 47 rural address numbers most with at least one dwelling. . · 69 paddock gates that front the road reservation.
Responsible Road Authority	RTA. (RR 127)
Accident Incidents	Eight on state records for the period 1/1/2001 to 31/12/2006 See details in APPENDIX 1.

Horizontal Curves Wollombi Road
Speed Advisory in Km/h	Quantity	Speed Advisory in Km/h	Quantity
100+	3	55	0
95	4	45	1
85	5	35	0
75	14	25	0
65	5

Official accident records for the subject road were examined for the period 1.01.2001 to 31.12.2006, eight accidents incidents were found and a summary is included in the following table:

Summary Accident Incidents Wollombi Road 1.01.2001 – 31.12.2006
Number	8
Year / Quantity	2006 / 2, 2005 / 1, 2004 / 1, 2003 / 3, 2002 / 1, 2001 / 0.
Accident Type - Quantity	All single vehicle accidents where a vehicle: · Left the carriageway and struck an object – 7 · Struck an object on the carriageway - 1
Vehicle Type - Quantity	Four wheel drive – 1 Motorcycle – 3 Light Truck – 3 Car – 1
Casualties	Injured – 7 Killed - 1

The majority (seven) of accident incidents involved vehicles running off the carriageway of the road and striking a road side object.

Highway Patrol police attached to the Upper Hunter Area Command welcomed the introduction of the 80 km /h speed zone on Milbnrodale Road as they saw it as a means to help combat the motorcycle problem associated with Payne’s Crossing Road, Wollombi Road , Milbrodale Road and The Putty Road. An 80 km/h speed limit increased the probability of immediate license suspension for vehicles exceeding the speed limit by 40 kilometres an hour. The Highway Patrol police believe the possibility of immediate suspension of rider’s license will act as a deterrent to speeding by motorcyclists.

In comparing plan views of Wollombi Road and Milbrodale Road, Wollombi Road has more horizontal curves than does Milbrodale Road.

By direct comparison with Milbrodale Road and Paynes Crossing Road along the lines of consistency it appears that Wollombi Road should have an 80 km / h speed limit as does Milbrodale Road and Paynes Crossing Road.

When making comparisons between Wollombi Road and Paynes Crossing Road it was suggested that the 80 km/h speed limit on Paynes Crossing Road directly relates to the poor surface and alignment condition of the road. It was generally agreed that the condition of Wollombi Road is superior to Paynes Crossing Road. The Manager works stated that improvement projects were in the wings for Wollombi Road and after these improvements the road may not warrant a reduced speed limit. The improvement projects referred to are as follows:

· 2008 calendar year upgrade of 8.15 km to 11.0 km including the new Barneys Creek Bridge and upgrading of 15.05 km to 17.25 km.

· 2009 /2010 fiscal year upgrade of 13.8 km to 15.05 km.

Local Traffic Committee RECOMMENDS that, the reduction of the existing 100 km/h speed limit on Wollombi Road be reconsidered, if necessary, after the proposed improvement works scheduled up to and including the 2009 / 2010 fiscal year are completed.

(Moore / Akerman)

3. FALBROOK ROAD FILE: RD 00105

Issue: Request for consideration to be given to providing a speed limit on Falbrook Road.

Sources: Mr J.T. Reid, 630 Falbrook Road, Greenlands.

On the 17^th December 2007 Mr J.T. Reid approached Councils Customer Service section and filed a verbal complaint about Falbrook Road with the following content:

· Cars travelling along the road to a mine site are driving extremely fast.

· There is no speed limit on the road.

· He is unable to ride his horse on the road anymore.

· A number of accidents have happened along the road to mine employees speeding and falling asleep whilst driving after long shifts.

· He suggested the road should have a speed limit

In general Falbrook Road is a through road between Glennies Creek Road and Goorangoola Road with the occupations and features as in the following table:

FALBROOK ROAD
Feature	Data Relative To Feature
Length	7.1 Km.
Carriageway Pavement	Bitumen sealed pavement in the order of 4 - 5m wide
Carriageway Alignment · Horiz. · Vert.	· Around 15 horizontal curves · A small number of crest and sag curves
Traffic controls	· “100” km/h default speed limit.
Traffic Volume	See following table
Occupation Features	· One road junction (Shadlows Lane) · 16 rural addresses most with occupied dwellings. · 13 paddock gates that front the road reservation. One of which appears to give access to a mine exploration site.
Responsible Road Authority	Singleton Council
Accident Incidents	One on state records for the period 1/1/2001 to 31/12/2006. See following table for details.
Field data complied from site inspection on 17/1/2008

Traffic Volumes Falbrook Road
Month /Year	Location Distance from Glennies Creek Rd in Km	Vehicles Per Day
June 2001	0.230	132
Jan –Feb 2008	6.825	77

Accident Incident Falbrook Road
Date / Time	14.07.02 / 9.05 hrs
Location	1.46 km nth of Glennies Creek Rd
Weather / Surface / Vehicle / Driver	ocast / dry / motorcycle / M 39
Direction of travel	Nth in Falbrook Rd
Speed / Severity	? / injury
Involved / Killed / Injured	1/0/1
Rum code / Other vehicle	85 off rt . lft bend => obj / phone pillar

From the research carried out only one accident incident appeared on official state records. The traffic volumes recorded indicate that there is not a lot of through traffic on Falbrook Road. The dwellings alone on Falbrook Road are capable of producing traffic in the range of 102 to 170 vehicles per day. The research does not appear to give substance to Mr Reid’s claims.

In relation to the speed limit for Falbrook Road the default speed limit of 100km /h applies as the road runs through, a, non built–up areas with no speed sign posting. (Rule 25 Aust. Road Rules). Under the present conditions that prevail on Falbrook Road the Committee is of the opinion that the default speed limit is best suited to the road as traffic volumes indicated that it only carries local traffic and displaying of 100km/h notice may induce some parties to travel at the posted speed.

Local Traffic Committee RECOMMENDS that, the default speed limit remains on Falbrook Road at this point in time.

(Winter / Akerman)

Meeting closed at 10.35 am

M LAUNDERS

TRAFFIC COORDINATOR

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

7.

2008/2009 Local Roads Improvement Program Author: Greg McTaggart

FILE: 01/0228

Executive Summary:

The Local Roads Improvement Program contains projects involving the upgrading of sealed rural and urban roads and the sealing of unsealed rural roads. The purpose of this report is to determine the roads most in need of upgrading and to prepare a five year rolling program for the works.

Background:

Funding Levels:

Financial Assistance Grant (FAG)

The Financial Assistance Grant for roads in 2007/08 was $782,271. It expected that this level of funding will be at least maintained over the next five years. Hence, an allocation of $782,271 has been adopted as the FAG allocation for each year of the proposed five year program.

Auslink Roads to Recovery Program

The Auslink Roads to Recovery allocation for 2008/09 will be $468,355. This four year program will end in June 2009 and no commitment has been made by the new Federal Government to extend the program beyond 2008/09. Therefore, for the purposes of this report $468,355 will be adopted as the Auslink Roads to Recovery allocation for 2008/09 and no funding from this source will be assumed in 2009/10 or beyond.

Capital Works Coin Program

As the level of funding available from this source is currently unavailable, it was considered fitting not to take Council revenue into account at this stage.

Section 94 Funds

When a road in this program has Section 94 funds available, these funds will be used to supplement the cost of the project. If extra Section 94 funds become available then this source of funds will be used in preference to other funding or to extend the works if required.

Timber Bridge Replacement Program

In the 2006/07 and 2007/08 budgets, Council resolved to set aside $200,000 from the Local Roads Improvement Program for replacement of timber bridges on local roads.

As funds will be available through the Auslink Roads to Recovery Program in 2008/09 it provides a good opportunity to continue setting aside the same level of funds for the replacement of timber bridges. Without the Auslink Roads to Recovery Program beyond 2008/09 the overall level of funding will be reduced and there is little scope to deduct any funds in 2009/10. Fortunately however, there is no current requirement for funds for the sealing of unsealed roads in 2010/11 and beyond which provides the opportunity to divert some of those funds to the Timber Bridge Replacement Program without having any significant affect on the level of funding for urban or rural sealed roads. For the purposes of this report, an allocation of $200,000 will apply to the 2008/09 budget and $115,000 to each of the 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13 budgets for the Timber Bridge Replacement Program.

Total Estimated Funds

It is expected that the total funding for 2008/09 will be in the order of $1,250,626, plus Council revenue from the “Coin Exercise” and any additional Section 94 contributions. In 2009/10 this will drop to $782,271 plus Council revenue from the “Coin Exercise” and any additional Section 94 contributions.

Hence, programs have been prepared for roads using an allocations of $1,050,626 in 2008/09, $782,271 in 2009/10 and $667,271 in 2010/11 through to 2012/13.

Alterations to Estimated Funds

Should there be any increase in the above estimations of funding, projects will be extended if possible or the program will move onto the next highest priority. Similarly, should there be any decrease in the above estimations, projects will be reduced if possible or if there are insufficient funds, the lowest priority project will be moved to the following year. Any alterations in this regard will be reported through the quarterly review process.

Increase in Costs

Costs have risen by about 7% on average across the program. Apart from the normal CPI adjustment, the main reasons for price increases are increasing costs of OH&S, fuel and bitumen price increases and the high demand for plant and labour hire in the earthmoving and construction industry. Hence, the allocations and costs in these programs have been adjusted accordingly.

Allocation of Funds

Allocating funds for improvements to various roads has always been based on “need” and in the past our assessment of sharing the funds has proved to be well accepted by the community. It is pleasing to note that the more heavily trafficked unsealed roads that have been the source of most of our complaints in the past are now minimal in length. In fact there are only four kilometres of unsealed road on three different roads that, in accordance with Council’s policy, currently require funding. With this in mind the break up of funding has been reviewed again this year to cater for what is believed to be an appropriate split between the different categories. The allocations for 2007/08 and the proposed allocations for each year of the five year rolling programs are shown below:

Program	2007/08	2008/09	2009/10	2010/11	2011/12	2012/13
2nd seal on previous year projects Sealing of unsealed roads Reconstruction of urban streets Reconstruction of rural sealed rds	$ 105,026 $ 260,000 $ 275,000 $ 374,000	$ 110,271 $ 295,000 $ 275,000 $ 370,355	$ 110,271 $ 115,000 $ 200,000 $ 357,000	$ 110,271 $ - $ 200,000 $ 357,000	$ 110,271 $ - $ 200,000 $ 357,000	$ 110,271 $ - $ 200,000 $ 357,000
Total	1,014,026	1,050,626	782,271	667,271	667,271	667,271

Works Programs:

Second Coat Seal on Previous Year Projects

All rehabilitation, reconstruction and new seal projects require a two coat seal. Our practice of applying a single coat initially and deferring the second coat to the next year makes sense and is proving to be successful. The purpose of leaving the second coat until the following year is to allow traffic on the section of road to bring to light any minor defects that may develop. These defects can then be rectified before the second coat is applied. This process, as opposed to applying a double coat initially, provides a much better job and allows a higher application rate of bitumen, which provides for better water proofing. It also squeezes in an extra year before the ten year cyclic reseal is due.

Sealing of Unsealed Roads

Table 1 below shows the Sealing of Unsealed Roads Program, approved on 5 March, 2007.

Table. 1 Approved Sealing of Unsealed Roads Program 2007/08 – 2009/10
Road	Section	Estimated Cost	Developer Funds	Cost to Council	Vpd
2007/ 2008
Dyrring Road	4.9 – 5.7km from RR 128	$ 75,000	-	$ 75,000	110
Thompsons Road
2.4 – 3.55k from Putty Road	$ 95,000	-	$ 95,000	85
Cranky Cnr Rd (Sth)
00 – 1.63km from Stanhope Rd	-	($ 90,000)	$ 90,000	79
Total 2007/ 2008
$ 170,000	($ 90,000)	$ 260,000
2008/ 2009
Kirkton Road	3.4 – 4.4km from H9	$ 100,000	-	$ 100,000	81
Cranky Cnr Rd (Sth)	3.8– 4.25km from Stanhope Rd	$ 60,000	-	$ 60,000	79
Sunnyside Lane
00 – 1.2km from Bridgman Rd	$ 118,000	$18,000	$ 100,000	75
Total 2008/2009
$ 260,000	-	$ 260,000
2009/ 2010
Kirkton Road	4.4 – 5.5km from H9	$ 100,000	-	$ 100,000	81
Sunnyside Lane	1.2 – 1.45km from Bridgman Rd	$ 25,000	-	$ 25,000	75
Total 2009/10
$ 125,000	-	$ 125,000

Review of Program

As outlined in the Roads Management Strategy only unsealed roads that carry seventy-five vehicles per day (vpd) are considered for sealing under this program. Each year it is necessary to review the previously presented program and to introduce any roads that are now carrying more than seventy-five vehicles per day. During this review it was kept in mind that there is a need to share the funding in order to spread the benefit to as many recipients as possible. Hence, only a section of each road that meets the criteria is upgraded in any one year until completion.

The review indicated that there are no new roads to be added to the list of those that now carry 75 or more vehicles per day.

In past years Council has considered two other roads that carry 75 vpd, but have excluded them from funding as they are subject to upgrading through development. Those sections of road are Pioneer Road between 2.0 and 2.6km from Dyrring Road and Long Gully Road between 0.23 and 0.98km from Retreat Road. Accordingly, it is considered prudent for Council to not place these roads on the program.

In order to complete this program as soon as possible and to gain some economies of scale, it is logical to combine the two stages of Sunnyside Lane into one project. This has been done by bringing the previously proposed 2009/10 short section of 0.25km forward to the 2008/09 program. Taking into account current traffic volumes on unsealed roads this will only leave a 1.1km section of Kirkton Road to be completed in 2009/10.

In summary, a revised program has been prepared and is shown in Table 2 as follows:

Table. 2 Proposed Sealing of Unsealed Roads Program 2008/09 – 2012/13
Road	Section	Estimated Cost	Developer Funds	Cost to Council	Vpd
2008 / 2009
Kirkton Road	3.4 – 4.4km from H9	$ 107,000	-	$ 107,000	81
Cranky Cnr Rd (Sth)	3.8– 4.25km from Stanhope Rd	$ 63,000	-	$ 63,000	79
Sunnyside Ln
00 – 1.8km from Bridgman Rd	$ 148,000	$ 23,000	$ 125,000
Total 2008/2009
$ 318,000	$ 23,000	$ 295,000
2009/ 2010
Kirkton Road	4.4 – 5.5km from H9	$ 115,000	-	$ 115,000	81
Total 2009/2010		$ 115,000	-	$ 115,000

Some Councillors will recall many rural Councils in the early 1990’s reverting sealed roads back to gravel because they had reached a point of no return. Fortunately that did not happen at Singleton, however there was a long period where reconstruction of sealed roads required more funds than were being supplied which meant, irrespective of traffic volumes, no unsealed roads were being sealed. It wasn’t until 1997/98 that this program commenced and at that time there was an abundance of unsealed roads carrying more than 75vpd. Since that year Council has sealed almost sixty kilometres of unsealed road and it is very pleasing to now see the light at the end of the tunnel and to have this program up to date by 2009/10.

Reconstruction/Rehabilitation of Urban Sealed Roads

Table 3 below shows the Urban Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program that was approved on 5 March, 2007.

Table. 3 Proposed Urban Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program 2007/08 – 2009/10
Road Name	Area	Section	Estimated Cost	Priority Score
2007 / 2008
Boundary Street
Singleton	Queen to Patrick St	$ 84,000	0.75
Kelso Street	Singleton	Dept Education Property at Church St	$ 128,000	0.72
Fontana Way, Lee & Muller Cl
Heights	Lachlan Ave to end of streets	$ 63,000	0.59
Total 2007 / 2008
$ 275,000
2008 / 2009
Kelso Street	Singleton	Bathurst–Church St, including widening	$275,000	0.46
Total 2008 / 2009			$ 275,000
2009 / 2010
Macquarie Street	Singleton	John Street to George Street	$ 135,000	0.83
Total 2009 / 2010			$ 135,000

Review of Program

Council has undertaken a review of the urban road network and identified the following sections of road in need of pavement rehabilitation / reconstruction works.

· Pitt Street between John and Bathurst Streets

· Combo Lane 0 - 220 metres north of Civic Avenue

· York Street between Sussex Street and H9

All assessments for these works are carried out using the Council adopted methodology for prioritising projects which gives consideration to cost, traffic loadings, roughness, rutting, cracking, geometric and width deficiencies and is explained in the Roads Management Strategy. An example is detailed below.

Road Name:		Pitt Street
Section:		John Street to Bathurst Street
Area of Works (sq.m)				1700
Total Estimated Cost				$ 75,000.00
Estimated Cost, excluding Drainage				$ 50,000.00
Cost per square metre (without drainage)				29.41
Criteria	Scale		Selection	Points
AADT	<100			0
	100<250			0
	250<500			0
	500<1000			0
	1000<2500		ü	4
Heavy Vehicles	<25		ü	0
	25<50			0
	50<100			0
	100 to 200			0
Roughness	<110			0
	110<150			0
	150 to 190			0
	>200		ü	7
Rutting	0, S1, S2			0
	S3, M1, M2		ü	3
	M3, X1, X2, X3			0
Cracking	0, S1, S2			0
	S3, M1, M2			0
	M3, X1, X2, X3		ü	6
Rectifies Geometry Deficiency	No		ü	0
	Improves Vertical or Horizontal Geometry			0
	Improves Vertical & Horizontal Geometry			0
Rectifies Formation Width Deficiency	<1m		ü	0
	1<2m			0
	2 to 3m			0
	>3m			0
Total Score				20
Benefit / Cost Ratio				0.68

An existing priority in need of review is the widening of Kelso Street. Initially it was proposed to construct a left turn lane adjacent to the Department of Education’s property and funding was allowed to do this in the current financial year. In August 2007 however, Council resolved to widen the road reserve between Bathurst and Edward Streets and some of that funding had to be used on the acquisition of a property that was in the process of changing ownership.

The much needed improvements on Kelso Street should remain a priority but the additional work means additional funding. The total cost of land acquisition, utility adjustments, complete drainage and road reconstruction is close to one million dollars. It is therefore suggested that the full allocation for Urban Sealed roads be assigned to Kelso Street in 2009/10 and that Macquarie Street be deferred to 2010/11. Although this will not allow completion of the project, it will allow staged improvements, with the section between Church and Bathurst Streets obviously taking priority.

Another area that is in urgent need of renewal is the asphalt wearing surfaces on a number of streets within the Hunterview Estate. These wearing surfaces have reached the end of their lives and are allowing penetration of water, which causes the road to lose its shape and decrease the quality of ride. They are now at the stage where they not only need resurfacing but also need shape correction. The most effective and economical method of repair on these roads is to use asphalt.

In reality, asphalt resurfacing is a maintenance activity and should be funded from that source. However, as insufficient funds are allocated to carry out our cyclic bituminous resealing in accordance with the ten-year industry standard, we need to look elsewhere for funding for asphalt resurfacing. If we do not start resheeting these roads soon, they will join a long list of projects within this program and ultimately need complete reconstruction at double the price. Hence the reason for looking for funds from this source. The roads include Acacia Circuit and all those roads to its south between Bridgman Road and Marcus Place.

Asphalt is much more expensive to replace than a flush seal and the reason for this is first, 10mm asphalt is applied in minimum layer thicknesses of 30mm and secondly, as the height of the wearing surface is restricted by the height of the gutter, there is a need to mill out the existing material. The cost to supply and lay asphalt is around six times the cost of a 10mm flush seal. The advantage of asphalt is that it reduces tyre noise considerably. The disadvantage is the high life cycle cost and the difficulty to gain acceptance from residents if it was proposed to change the wearing surface to a flush seal.

After taking the above projects into account, a revised program has been prepared for Council’s consideration. Table 4 below shows the revised Urban Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program with the inclusion of the additional roads.

Table. 4 Proposed Urban Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program 2008/09 – 2012/13
Road Name	Area	Section	Estimated Cost	Priority Score
2008 / 2009
Kelso Street	Singleton	Bathurst–Edward St, including widening	$275,000	0.46
Total 2008 / 2009			$ 275,000
2009 / 2010
Kelso Street	Singleton	Bathurst–Edward St, including widening	$200,000	0.46
Total 2009 / 2010			$ 200,000
2010 / 2011
Macquarie Street
Singleton	John Street to George Street	$ 135,000	0.83
Urban Streets	Hunterview	Asphalt Correction & Resurfacing	$ 65,000	1.18
Total 2010 / 2011
$ 200,000
2011 / 2012
Pitt Street
Singleton	John Street to Bathurst Street	$ 75,000	0.68
Combo Lane	Singleton	00 – 220m north of Civic Ave	$ 60,000	0.63
Urban Streets
Hunterview	Asphalt Correction & Resurfacing	$ 65,000	0.83
Total 2011 / 2012
$ 200,000
2012 / 2013
York Street
Singleton	50 – 470 m west of H9	$ 135,000	0.70
Urban Streets	Hunterview	Asphalt Correction & Resurfacing	$ 65,000	0.83
Total 2012 / 2013
$ 200,000

It is important to note that it is difficult to estimate the exact costs of these projects without design plans. Quantities for this work have been estimated, using experience and local knowledge, hence the costs can only be considered as “order of cost” estimates. Any variations will be reported through the quarterly review process as work progresses.

Reconstruction/Rehabilitation of Rural Sealed Roads

Table 5 below shows the Rural Sealed Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program that was approved by Council on 5 March, 2007.

Table 5. Proposed Rural Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program 2007/08 – 2009/10
Road Name
Location	Estimated Cost	Section 94	Council Cost	Priority
2007/2008
Wollombi Rd
8.2 – 9.5km from RR7767	$ 109,000	-	$ 109,000	1.81
Goorangoola Rd
9.6 – 10.8km from Big Post	$ 100,000	-	$ 100,000	1.45
Myall Creek Rd
2.12 – 3.0km from RR128	$ 75,000	-	$ 75,000	1.44
Glennies Creek Rd
4.7 – 5.2km from SH 9	$ 45,000	-	$ 45,000	1.66
Lemington Rd
1.7 – 2.2km from SH 27	$ 45,000	-	$ 45,000	1.42
Total 2007/2008
$ 374,000	-	$ 374,000
2008/2009
Westbrook Road	5.0 – 5.85km from Mirannie Road	$ 80,000	-	$ 80,000	1.95
Bridgman Road	11.25 – 12.0km from SH9	$ 75,000	-	$ 75,000	1.71
Stanhope Road	9.0 – 9.7km from Elderslie Road	$ 83,000	-	$ 83,000	1.68
Hambledon Hill Rd	3.0 – 3.5km from Maison Dieu Road	$ 66,000	-	$ 66,000	1.58
Bowmans Creek Rd
1.75 – 2.5km from Old Goorangoola Road	$ 70,000	-	$ 70,000	1.39
Total 2008/2009		$ 374,000	-	$ 374,000
2009/2010
Wollombi Road
10.4 – 11km from RR7767	$ 80,000	-	$ 80,000	1.72
Rixs Creek Lane
0.0 – 0.9km from SH 9	$ 120,000	-	$ 120,000	1.32
Total 2009/2010
$ 180,000	-	$ 180,000

Review of Program

An annual review of all of Council’s sealed rural roads has been carried out in order to assess their condition and need for upgrading. The assessment initially involved a visual inspection of the roads to generally rate their condition and to identify sections with deficiencies. Once all of the sections appraised as being in fair or less than fair condition were determined they were assessed using Council’s adopted methodology for prioritising projects. This process considers similar deficiencies to those described previously for urban roads. Again, the methodology is explained in the Roads Management Strategy.

A review of the 2009/10 program, adopted in principle for the 2007/08 budget found the section programmed for rehabilitation on Wollombi Road has been included in the Auslink Strategic Regional Program. The only remaining section on this road that requires funds for rehabilitation is between 13.8 and 15.05 kilometres from Broke. The already funded 10.4 – 11 km section can now be replaced with the 13.8 – 15.05 section.

As the need for funds for sealing unsealed roads will have diminished by 2009/10 and there is no allowance for bridge replacement in that year, it will free up funds to be available for rehabilitation of sealed roads. Hence, two new projects have been added to the 2009/10 program. They are on Goorangoola Road and Long Point Road and are currently amongst our next worst sections of road.

The projects for the additional three years were programmed according to the above mentioned methodology. Councillors should also note that even though the methodology ranks the projects in order of priority there is a conscious effort to share the available funding around the local government area, unless the urgency of the works dictates otherwise.

Accordingly, the necessary adjustments have been made to the proposed program.

Table 6, below proposes a revised program of sections of rural roads to be rehabilitated or reconstructed from 2008/09 to 2012/13.

Table 6. Proposed Rural Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program 2008/09 – 2012/13
Road Name
Location		Estimated Cost	Section 94	Council Cost	Priority
2008/2009
Westbrook Road	5.0 – 5.7km from Mirannie Road		$ 72,000	$ 2,000	$ 70,000	1.68
Bridgman Road	11.25 – 12.0km from H9		$ 82,000	-	$ 82,000	1.43
Stanhope Road	9.0 –9.7km from Elderslie Road		$ 77,000	-	$ 77,000	1.57
Hambledon Hill Rd	3.0 – 3.5km from Maison Dieu Road		$ 80,000	$ 8,645	$ 71,355	1.07
Bowmans Creek Rd
1.75 – 2.5km from Old Goorangoola Road		$ 70,000	-	$ 70,000	1.12
Total 2008/2009			$ 381,000	$ 10,645	$ 370,355
2009/2010
Wollombi Road
13.8 – 15.05km from RR7767		$ 130,000		$ 130,000	1.44
Rixs Creek Lane
00 – 0,9km from H9		$ 110,000		$ 110,000	1.37
Goorangoola Rd
4.45 – 4.65km & Falbrook Rd Intersection		$ 47,000	-	$ 47,000	1.39
Long Point Road
2.44 – 3.1km from H27		$ 70,000		$ 70,000	1.36
Total 2009/2010			$ 357,000	-	$ 357,000
2010/2011
Westbrook Road
8.9 – 9.9km from Mirannie Road	$ 90,000	-	$ 90,000	1.68
Stanhope Road		6.1 – 7.2km from Elderslie Road	$ 115,000	-	$ 115,000	1.53
Myall Creek Rd	3.0 – 4.3km from RR128		$ 125,000	-	$ 125,000	1.38
Leconfield Road
0.75 – 1.0km from Dalwood Road		$ 27,000		$ 27,000	1.56
Total 2010/2011
$ 357,000	-	$ 357,000
2011/2012
Goorangoola Rd
2.3 – 2.75 & 3.62 – 3.94km from C’brook Rd		$ 137,000	-	$ 137,000	1.03
Glennies Creek Rd
2.35 – 3.3km from H9		$ 105,000	-	$ 105,000	1.71
Falbrook Road
0.1- 1.25km from Middle Falbrook Road		$ 115,000		$ 115,000	1.68
Total 2011/2012
$ 357,000	-	$ 357,000
2012/2013
Westbrook Road
5.7 – 6.2km from Mirannie Road	$ 80,000	-	$ 80,000	1.05
Stanhope Road		4.1 – 4.6km from Elderslie Road	$ 70,000	-	$ 70,000	1.26
Myall Creek Rd	4.3 – 5.6km from RR128		$ 125,000	-	$ 125,000	1.38
Falbrook Road
1.25 – 2.05km from Middle Falbrook Road		$ 82,000		$ 82,000	1.68
Total 2012/2013
$ 357,000	-	$ 357,000

As with the proposed urban projects, without design plans it is difficult to estimate costs for these projects. The given estimates can therefore only be considered as “order of cost” estimates. Once again, any need to vary this program will be reported as work progresses.

Although the program covers a five year period and there will be further deterioration of our road network in that time, we have made excellent progress on improving our roads. This program brings us to the closest we have been to providing the whole of the sealed road lengths of our network to a standard where the condition of all roads is better than fair. This is the best condition our roads have been in, in at least, the last twenty five years.

Management Plan:

The overall objective of the Works Program Area is:

“To provide efficient and effective management of resources in order to maintain all transport infrastructure in a safe condition and in a manner that minimises life cycle costs.”

The Strategic Aims of the Works Program Area that relate to this report are as follows:

· Sustain or improve the serviceability of the transport Infrastructure.

· Minimise Council general revenue expenditure on transport infrastructure whilst optimising the benefits to the community.

· Minimise Council’s exposure to transport infrastructure associated litigation.

Council Policy:

The relevant policies of Council that apply to this report are: -

1. Council’s Non Maintained Roads Policy (minute 250/96) which outlines:

“That Council only accept existing non maintained roads, upon application, for future maintenance if they meet the following criteria:

i) The road has been formed, graveled and drained to Council’s Development Control Plan, Design and Construction Specifications.

ii) The road serves six or more dwelling houses (or business buildings) that exist at the time of the application.”

2. Council’s adopted “Roads Management Strategy” (minute 95/99) which outlines that:

“It is Singleton Council’s challenge to provide and maintain a road network that meets the needs of all sectors of the community by the most cost-effective means. This manual seeks to outline a step by step strategy to implement a transparent management policy to provide and maintain roads under the care and responsibility of this Council, which reflect the needs of the community.”

Legislation:

Part 6, Division 1, Section 71 of the Roads Act – 1993 outlines that:

“A roads authority may carry out road work on any public road for which it is the roads authority and on any other land under its control.”

The critical word in this section of legislation is “may” as this clearly signifies that a Roads Authority (Council) is not obliged to maintain or carry out any work on a road under its control. There is also no other part of the Act that obliges Council to maintain a road under its care and control.

Sustainability:

Social:

The Community will benefit significantly from the proposed programs. Generally, motorists using the newly sealed or reconstructed roads will benefit from enhanced ride comfort, which also reduces the wear and tear on their vehicle, thereby reducing road user costs.

Environmental:

Sealing of unsealed roads will help overcome environmental problems, such as dust emission that impacts on adjacent properties and residences. All of the programs will improve the amenity or aesthetics of these areas to the benefit of those who live near and use these roads.

Financial:

The financial viability of sealing unsealed roads that carry 75 vpd or more is realised in reduced routine maintenance costs and increased intervals in periodic maintenance. Rehabilitating deteriorated sealed roads extends the life of a road and significantly reduces the routine maintenance costs of preserving the road.

Risk Management:

The governing policy for Risk Management on Council’s Roads and associated infrastructure, is as follows:

“Singleton Council will endeavour to exercise it’s duty of care in relation to dedicated Council Public Roads, by taking all reasonable steps to enhance the safety of road users, with due regard being given to the nature of the defect, the level of risk, the use of the road, funding constraints, competing priorities and minimum standards.”

Conclusions:

Overall, the above programs are considered to:

· Optimise the use of available funds,

· Be cost effective, and

· Spread the benefits of the works to as much of the community as possible, whilst keeping those roads with the greatest need in mind.

It is therefore deemed that the proposed program of works is in line with the relevant policies, aims and objectives of Council.

RECOMMENDED that:

1) The Sealing of Unsealed Roads Program for 2008/09 as shown in the table below be adopted and that the proposed program for the ensuing four years be adopted in principle, to define Council’s priority order.

Proposed Sealing of Unsealed Roads Program 2008/09 – 2012/13
Road	Section	Estimated Cost	Developer Funds	Cost to Council	Vpd
2008 / 2009
Kirkton Road	3.4 – 4.4km from H9	$ 107,000	-	$ 107,000	81
Cranky Cnr Rd (Sth)	3.8– 4.25km from Stanhope Rd	$ 63,000	-	$ 63,000	79
Sunnyside Ln
00 – 1.8km from Bridgman Rd	$ 148,000	$ 23,000	$ 125,000
Total 2008/2009
$ 318,000	$ 23,000	$ 295,000
2009/ 2010
Kirkton Road	4.4 – 5.5km from H9	$ 115,000	-	$ 115,000	81
Total 2009/2010		$ 115,000	-	$ 115,000

2) The Urban Sealed Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program for 2008/09 as shown in the following table be adopted and that the proposed program for the ensuing four years be adopted in principle, to define Council’s priority order.

Proposed Urban Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program 2008/09 – 2012/13
Road Name	Area	Section	Estimated Cost	Priority Score
2008 / 2009
Kelso Street	Singleton	Bathurst–Edward St, including widening	$275,000	0.46
Total 2008 / 2009			$ 275,000
2009 / 2010
Kelso Street	Singleton	Bathurst–Edward St, including widening	$200,000	0.46
Total 2009 / 2010			$ 200,000
2010 / 2011
Macquarie Street
Singleton	John Street to George Street	$ 135,000	0.83
Urban Streets	Hunterview	Asphalt Correction & Resurfacing	$ 65,000	1.18
Total 2010 / 2011
$ 200,000
2011 / 2012
Pitt Street
Singleton	John Street to Bathurst Street	$ 75,000	0.68
Combo Lane	Singleton	00 – 220m north of Civic Ave	$ 60,000	0.63
Urban Streets
Hunterview	Asphalt Correction & Resurfacing	$ 65,000	0.83
Total 2011 / 2012
$ 200,000
2012 / 2013
York Street
Singleton	50 – 470 m west of H9	$ 135,000	0.70
Urban Streets	Hunterview	Asphalt Correction & Resurfacing	$ 65,000	0.83
Total 2012 / 2013
$ 200,000

3) The Rural Sealed Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program for 2008/09 as shown in the table below be adopted and that the proposed program for the ensuing four years be adopted in principle to define Council’s priority order.

Table 6. Proposed Rural Roads Reconstruction/Rehabilitation Program 2008/09 – 2012/13
Road Name
Location	Estimated Cost	Section 94	Council Cost	Priority
2008/2009
Westbrook Road	5.0 – 5.7km from Mirannie Road	$ 72,000	$ 2,000	$ 70,000	1.68
Bridgman Road	11.25 – 12.0km from H9	$ 82,000	-	$ 82,000	1.43
Stanhope Road	9.0 –9.7km from Elderslie Road	$ 77,000	-	$ 77,000	1.57
Hambledon Hill Rd	3.0 – 3.5km from Maison Dieu Road	$ 80,000	$ 8,645	$ 71,355	1.07
Bowmans Creek Rd
1.75 – 2.5km from Old Goorangoola Road	$ 70,000	-	$ 70,000	1.12
Total 2008/2009		$ 381,000	$ 10,645	$ 370,355
2009/2010
Wollombi Road
13.8 – 15.05km from RR7767	$ 130,000		$ 130,000	1.44
Rixs Creek Lane
00 – 0,9km from H9	$ 110,000		$ 110,000	1.37
Goorangoola Rd
4.45 – 4.65km & Falbrook Rd Intersection	$ 47,000	-	$ 47,000	1.39
Long Point Road
2.44 – 3.1km from H27	$ 70,000		$ 70,000	1.36
Total 2009/2010		$ 357,000	-	$ 357,000
2010/2011
Westbrook Road
8.9 – 9.9km from Mirannie Road	$ 90,000	-	$ 90,000	1.68
Stanhope Road	6.1 – 7.2km from Elderslie Road	$ 115,000	-	$ 115,000	1.53
Myall Creek Rd	3.0 – 4.3km from RR128	$ 125,000	-	$ 125,000	1.38
Leconfield Road
0.75 – 1.0km from Dalwood Road	$ 27,000		$ 27,000	1.56
Total 2010/2011
$ 357,000	-	$ 357,000
2011/2012
Goorangoola Rd
2.3 – 2.75 & 3.62 – 3.94km from C’brook Rd	$ 137,000	-	$ 137,000	1.03
Glennies Creek Rd
2.35 – 3.3km from H9	$ 105,000	-	$ 105,000	1.71
Falbrook Road
0.1- 1.25km from Middle Falbrook Road	$ 115,000		$ 115,000	1.68
Total 2011/2012
$ 357,000	-	$ 357,000
2012/2013
Westbrook Road
5.7 – 6.2km from Mirannie Road	$ 80,000	-	$ 80,000	1.05
Stanhope Road	4.1 – 4.6km from Elderslie Road	$ 70,000	-	$ 70,000	1.26
Myall Creek Rd	4.3 – 5.6km from RR128	$ 125,000	-	$ 125,000	1.38
Falbrook Road
1.25 – 2.05km from Middle Falbrook Road	$ 82,000		$ 82,000	1.68
Total 2012/2013
$ 357,000	-	$ 357,000

4) The following projects be assigned to the Roads to Recovery Program in 2008/09:

i) Kirkton Road – 3.4 – 4.4km from H9 $ 107,000

ii) Westbrook Road – 5.0 – 5.6km from Mirannie Road $ 61,000

iii) Bridgman Road – 11.25 – 12.0km from H9 $ 82,000

iv) Stanhope Road – 9.0 – 9.7km from Elderslie Road $ 77,000

v) Hambleton Hill Road – 3.0 – 3.5km from Maison Dieu Road $ 71,355

vi) Bowmans Creek Road – 1.75 – 2.5km from Old Goorangoola Road $ 70,000

Total $ 468,355

5) $200,000 be set aside in the 2008/09 budget and $115,000 in each of the 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13 budgets from the Local Roads Improvement Program for the replacement of timber bridges on local roads.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

8.

Plant Tenders Author: Brendan Behringer

FILE: T2008.001

Executive Summary:

Tenders closed on 19 February 2008 for the supply of three trucks to replace existing trucks in accordance with Council’s Plant Replacement Program.

A report has been prepared for Council’s Committee of the Whole as the discussion of this matter in open Council would prejudice the commercial position of the tenderers.

RECOMMENDED that the tenders received be considered in the Committee of the Whole for the reason stated in Section 10A (2) (d) (i) of the Local Government Act, 1993, as discussions of this matter in open Council would prejudice the commercial position of the tenderers.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Manager Works Report No. 2/08

9.

Local Roads Timber Bridge Replacement Program Author: Greg McTaggart

FILE: 01/0228

Executive Summary:

A concentrated effort on the replacement of timber bridges with concrete structures has seen a large reduction in the number of timber bridges within this local government area in recent years. Ten years ago there were 25 timber bridges on local roads. With the funding approved and available through various sources to date, there will be four by the end of 2008. However the remaining timber structures still provide a major maintenance liability and risk. The combination of their age, the difficulty of sourcing timber and increased truck mass limits means all our timber bridges need to be replaced. Some are structurally deficient and some are under width. Although exceptional progress has been made, we still need to work on funding replacement of the existing timber bridges before we start construction of new bridges over streams that are currently without bridges.

Background:

Council resolved on 5 March, 2007 that:

1. Council note the following list of timber bridges are in need of funding for replacement:

· Owendale Bridge on Wollombi Road,

· Stringybark Creek Bridge on Hebden Road,

· Brookers Bridge on Mirannie Road,

· Herbert Street Bridge on Milbrodale Road,

· Bourkes Crossing Bridge on Glendon Lane, and

· Moses Crossing Bridge on Lemington Road.

2. $200,000 be allocated annually to the replacement of timber bridges, from the FAG allocation.

3. Owendale Bridge be funded for replacement in 2007/2008.

4. Any funds left over from the replacement of Owendale Bridge be used to supplement the “Supplementary Auslink Roads to Recovery Programme” works schedule.

5. Should any further funds still remain these are to be used for investigation and design of replacement structures.

6. The Manager Works utilize all existing and potential sources of income to progressively replace the timber bridge with concrete structures.

7. The general order of construction to be determined by the bridge with the highest level of funds contributed from alternative sources.

Review of Program

Since the last review of this program, sufficient funds have been acquired for the replacement of Owendale Bridge and Stringybark Creek Bridge. These funds will also provide for construction of the road approaches to the bridges. Tenders have been called for construction of both of these bridges and close on 4 March 2008.

Geotechnical investigations at the Herbert Street Bridge were carried out early last year and an order for the design of a replacement structure and approaches issued. As previously reported, Section 94 Contributions are being utilized for the cost of these stages of the project.

In addition to this and as a result of the June 2007 Flood, $202,250 was claimed and approved for replacement of two spans that were lost from Moses Crossing Bridge. Council’s submission was based on replacement of the missing spans using the standards of today. Those standards included concrete encased steel piles, concrete headstocks and a 4.2 metre wide concrete deck.

Currently, Moses Crossing Bridge consists of a shortened structure that is approximately 26 metres long. Fortunately the stream is running tight against the southern bank and is contained under the remaining spans. The approach on the side with the missing spans has been backfilled with the natural material from the river bed, topped with road base and is opened to traffic. There is concern however, that after only a minor fresh in the river, the approach has to be reinstated. As funds have been approved to replace these spans it is intended to do so by linking to the existing structure. This then provides Council with the opportunity to fund replacement of the remaining spans.

Another timber bridge that is currently under Council’s care and control that is in a serious state of disrepair is the three span structure on Liddell Station Road. This bridge has a three tonne load limit and has had very little money spent on it in the last ten years. Risk management of the structure has been handled by reducing the load limit. The road carries very little traffic and an alternative route is available via Pikes Gully Road. The road crosses a rail spur line that is used for loading coal trains and it is often closed at the level crossing. The level crossing has been an issue for some time and the coal mines who use the coal loader have submitted a joint application to have the road closed. This will result in the bridge being redundant and in effect, this is another timber bridge that Council no longer has to worry about.

In summary, the remaining timber bridges on local roads within the Singleton Local Government Area, that have not been allocated funds for complete replacement are shown below: -

· Moses Crossing Bridge on Lemington Road,

· Brookers Bridge on Mirannie Road,

· Herbert Street Bridge on Milbrodale Road and

· Bourkes Crossing Bridge on Glendon Lane.

.

Proposed Program

Funding Levels – Financial Assistance Grant

In line with the recommendation of the Local Roads Improvement Program it is proposed that $200,000 be allocated in the 2008/09 budget and $115,000 in each of the 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13 budgets for the replacement of timber bridges. As funds are very scarce in 2009/10 no recommendation has been made to provide funds from this source for that year.

Estimated Costs

Since the Supplementary Auslink Roads to Recovery Program works schedule was formulated to include the replacement of five bridges, additional costs, over and above those estimated include the provision of side tracks, demolition of the existing structures, land acquisition, adjustment to utilities and CPI increases. Nevertheless, two of these bridges have been completed and I am confident we will manage to complete the three outstanding bridges within the Auslink Program with the funds available. I am also confident that the two bridges currently out to tender will be completed within budget and with the funds available.

It can therefore be concluded that any new funds allocated in the 2008/09 budget will be available for the four remaining timber structures.

Management Plan:

The main objective of the Works Program Area is to provide efficient and effective management of resources in order to maintain all transport infrastructure in a safe condition and in a manner that minimises life cycle costs. The proposed outcome of this matter specifically compliments four of the Strategic Aims of Council’s Management Plan. Those aims are to:

1. Improve the serviceability of the transport infrastructure,

2. Reduce the impact that storm events have on residential amenity,

3. Minimise Council’s exposure to litigation, and

4. Minimise Council’s general revenue expenditure on transport infrastructure.

Council Policy:

With regard to “Bridge Priorities on Local Roads” the following Council policy applies:

1. Council adopt the principle of replacing existing bridges, with compromised structural integrity, before constructing new bridges.

2. Double Crossing Bridge remain the highest priority for new bridge construction and that First Creek Crossing on Long Gully Road be allocated No. 2 priority for new bridge construction.

Legislation:

In Brodie v Singleton Shire Council (2001) HCA 29 The High Court overturned well established authority exempting public authorities from liability arising from omissions in failing to perform their roles as highway authorities, to repair and maintain roads.

The High Court reversed this position, deciding that whether an authority owed a duty to take positive steps to maintain and repair roads should be determined according to ordinary negligence principles.

When the Civil Liability Act 2002 (“the CL Act”) was enacted it partially reinstated the immunity. Instead of providing immunity from liability, the CL Act (section 42) sets out guidelines relevant to a determination of whether or not a public authority has breached its duty of care.

Section 42 of the CL Act prescribes that the following principles apply in determining whether a public or other authority has breached a duty of care in proceedings for civil liability:

(a) the functions required to be exercised by the authority are limited by the financial and other resources that are reasonably available to the authority for the purpose of exercising those functions,

(b) the general allocation of those resources by the authority is not open to challenge,

(c) the functions required to be exercised by the authority are to be determined by reference to the broad range of its activities (and not merely by reference to the matter to which the proceedings relate),

(d) the authority may rely on evidence of its compliance with the general procedures and applicable standards for the exercise of its functions as evidence of the proper exercise of its functions in the matter to which the proceedings relate.

Under section 42, a number of considerations are required to be made including the broad range of activities undertaken, limitation on financial resources, and their general allocation.

Sustainability:

Social:

Bridges are essential to the social well being of a community. The loss of a structure or the placing of load limits on bridges that are significantly under strength can result in the need for long detours or in some cases access being totally cut. The social ramifications of this are obvious. This loss of access or extra traveling time can have severe flow on effects on the local and in many areas, the national economy, through extra road user costs and lost productivity.

Environmental:

A Review of Environmental Factors will be carried out prior to commencement of a bridge project. This will identify any detrimental environmental issues (if any) and address ways to negate or reduce these to an acceptable level. The replacement of timber bridges with concrete structures will also reduce noise considerably for adjacent residents.

With the closure of many of our State’s Forests, the availability of timber, one of our most renewable resources, is becoming more and more difficult to procure. Unfortunately, many of the well managed hardwood forests have been handed over to organizations that do not permit logging of any kind and as a result the logs from which bridge timber is cut, are now in very short supply.

Financial:

Bridges with compromised structural integrity are continually in need of costly maintenance works to enable them to provide some level of service to the community. The absence of funds for the replacement of timber bridges increases Council’s annual maintenance costs significantly and heightens the life–cycle costs of the structure.

Risk Management:

Council’s overall risk management policy for roads and associated infrastructure is as follows:

“Singleton Council will endeavour to exercise its duty of care in relation to dedicated Council Public Roads, by taking all reasonable steps to enhance the safety of road users, with due regard being given to the nature of the defect, the level of risk, the use of the road, funding constraints, competing priorities and minimum standards.”

The replacement of outdated timber bridges with reduced strength should enhance the safety of the traveling public significantly and assist Council in complying with its risk management policy and its duty of care.

Options:

In order of condition, Bourkes Crossing is the best, Herbert Street is next best and Moses Crossing and Brookers are on par as the worst.

As funds are available for the replacement of the two missing spans on Moses Crossing it makes sense to replace the balance of the bridge to the same standard. With the proposed funding of $200,000 it will go close to allowing this. That is, if we construct a single lane bridge at the same level as the existing structure that has performed so well in the past. Although it goes under water for short periods a few times a year it provides a good level of service for the low level of traffic that uses it. The major benefit of the proposed new structure will be lifting of the existing 15 Tonne Load Limit on the bridge.

The alternative is to utilize part of the $200,000 on geotechnical investigation and design ($20,000) and put the balance towards the construction of a new bridge to replace Brookers Bridge. There would be insufficient funds available to complete the structure, but it would be a start. An Order of Cost Estimate for construction of a single lane structure at this location would be around $250,000. This could be achievable if sufficient funds were allocated from Council’s “Coin Exercise”.

Conclusions:

In summary, it is reasonable to say that the cost of replacing timber bridges with compromised structural integrity far outweighs the potential extra social, economic, maintenance, litigation and life-cycle costs of not replacing these structures. Because circumstances change, the process of allowing the Manager the flexibility to identify and take advantage of opportunities has proved fruitful in the past and has been appreciated. The necessity of sufficient funding being allocated to this program will speed up our endeavour to replace all timber bridges and allow us to move on to constructing new bridges on streams that currently do not have bridges.

RECOMMENDED that:

1. Council note the following list of bridges are the last of our timber bridges on Local Roads and are in need of funding for replacement:

· Moses Crossing Bridge on Lemington Road,

· Brookers Bridge on Mirannie Road,

· Herbert Street Bridge on Milbrodale Road and

· Bourkes Crossing Bridge on Glendon Lane.

2. Council combine the $202,250 available for replacement of the spans lost in the June 2007 flood from Moses Crossing Bridge with funds for replacement of timber bridges available from the 2008/09 budget to allow reconstruction of the bridge in steel and concrete with a 4.2 metre wide deck, at a similar level and length to the original structure.

3. Should any further funds still remain then they be used for geotechnical investigation and design for the replacement of Brookers Bridge.

G. McTaggart Gary Woodman

Manager Works Director Operations

Attachments

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SINGLETON COUNCIL	Meeting of Operations Committee - 3 March 2008
	Questions of Which Notice Has Been Given Report No. 4/08

1.

Questions of Which Notice Has Been Given Author: John Waghorn

FILE: 06/0045

Detail:

1. Cr Scott – CRF 1071

Public Phone/Bus Shelter – a ratepayer has requested me to ask Council if it would approach the appropriate Departments within government to place:

a) A public telephone installed in Darlington;

b) A bus shelter constructed in Darlington.

Response:

With regard to b);

Investigation will be carried out as to the possible inclusion of a bus shelter at Darlington in future Country Passenger Transport Grants.

This project will be looked at with other competing priorities and the on going maintenance costs given the high level of vandalism to other bus shelters.

2. Cr Scott – CRF 1081

Hunter Street on both sides of the Street – Council please seriously consider installing “No Parking” signs (Hunter St – John St) traffic lights to the already 40km school zone in situ inHunter Street. The reason for this request is to allow easier and quicker access to the IGA Supermarket loading bay.

Response:

This matter is being investigated by the Traffic Coordinator and will be considered by the Local Traffic Committee and reported back to Council through the minutes of that meeting.

3. Cr Mac Bain – CRF 1142

Could council investigate the drainage issue of Queen Street verge near the Golf Course. Residents have confirmed it is very dangerous in wet weather.

Response:

This section of Queen Street is to be rehabilitated as part of the Regional Road Repair Program.

The shoulder widening works were carried out in preparation of this and Works are waiting for Water and Waste Program Area to install a new Water Main along the Golf Course side before completing the rehabilitation.

The new Water Main work is programmed for the next few weeks and whilst it is being installed, improvements to stormwater drainage will be made concurrently.

4. Cr Moore - CRF 1305

Do all Causeways have depth markers in place? If not, could this be looked at?

Response:

Most of the formed concrete causeways and particularly those with known flooding issues are sign posted with depth markers and warning signs of the approach to a causeway.

The sign posting of causeways is part of an ongoing sign maintenance and installation program and as deficiencies are identified and as funds permit, signs are installed.

5. Cr Moore - CRF 0989

Cassells Road – update on any progress of funding or other options for Unmaintained section of Cassells Road.

Response:

No further funding has been able to be sourced for the unmaintained section of Cassells Road other than what was received through the Natural Disaster Recovery Fund which will see some formation shaping and drainage improvements made to the sections of Cassells Road.

6. Cr Moore – CRF 0980

Council Waste Water – report on suggestions by ratepayers as newspaper article and also use of water by Council on road work particularly in such a dry time.

Response:

With regard to use of water by Council on road works -:

Councils Works Program Area is highly aware of its responsibilities when it comes to the appropriate use of water for road works particularly in dry times.

Additional water carts are sourced (at a significant increase to the overall project cost), and water is hauled to the projects from the town stand pipes.

No water is taken from creeks or streams when they have stopped running and staff are constantly making arrangements with land owners or affected residents to minimise any impacts of water usage for roadworks.

7. Cr Moore - CRF 1303

Stanhope Road issues. 850 - 950 approx when is this section proposed for rehabilitation (grading needed urgently). Also section 600 – 750 approx when is this section proposed for rehabilitation (grading needed urgently).

As part of the Local Roads Improvement Program, these sections of Stanhope Road are included in the rolling program of works for budget consideration.

· 9.00 to 9.70km for consideration in 2008/2009

· 6.10 to 7.20km for consideration in 2010/2011

These sections have recently had shoulder grading works carried out on them.

8. Cr Gallagher - CRF 3/12/07

Request a report on the cost of constructing a footpath along Cambridge Street between New England Highway and High Street.

Response:

The section of footpath between the New England Highway and High Street along Cambridge Street is 105m in length. The current cost for footpath construction is $120/m2 which would see this section cost $15,120 (105m x 1.2m x $120).

9. Cr Sharrock – CRF 1232

Speed Limits – Milbrodale Road. 80km/hour speed limits on Milbrodale Road have slowed some of the weekend motor bike traffic. Several residents of Wollombi Road have approached me regarding speeding motorbikes on the weekends. I would like the option of 80 k/hr speed limits to be examined by traffic advisory committee.

Response:

This matter was considered at the meeting of the Local Traffic Committee on 19 February 2008. The response to this request is contained in the minutes of that meeting under the Manager Works Report No. 2/08.

FOR COUNCIL’S INFORMATION

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