north sydney council...north sydney council council chambers 25 july 2013 i wish to inform you that...

NORTH SYDNEY COUNCIL

Council Chambers 25 July 2013

I wish to inform you that a Meeting of the COMMUNITY SERVICES REFERENCE GROUP will be held in the Ros Crichton Pavilion, Council Chambers, North Sydney at 7.15pm on Monday 29 July 2013 when your attendance is requested. Your attention is directed to the accompanying statement of the business proposed to be transacted at such meeting. PENNY HOLLOWAY GENERAL MANAGER

BUSINESS 1. Minutes

Confirmation of Minutes of the previous Meeting held on 25 March 2013. (Circulated)

Community Services Reference Group- 29/07/13

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2. CS01: North Sydney Parents’ Survey Results

Report of Russell Wolfe, Social Planner This report presents the results from the North Sydney Parents’ Survey. The survey was conceived following the 2011 Census which identified a significant growth in the number of families with young children living in the area. The goal of the survey was to ensure that Council had a clear understanding of the needs of families, to help inform the revised Community Strategic Plan. The survey was run during February and was available online and in hard copy, with translations available in Chinese and Japanese. It attracted 236 responses from local residents with at least one child aged eight or under. The survey results showed that what parents with young children liked most about living in North Sydney was its convenient location, followed by the parks, schools, transport network and playgrounds. The top five issues raised by parents were: the lack of public secondary schools; lack of parking; road safety concerns; issues with parks and playgrounds (e.g. outdated equipment); and overcrowded public primary schools. In addition, over 100 ideas were suggested as to how North Sydney could become a better place for families. The survey results were used to inform the revised Community Strategic Plan and specific initiatives were incorporated into the Delivery Program and Operational Plan, including actions to work with the State Government to improve access to secondary public school choices and address primary school overcrowding. The next step is to work with a sample of parents to review all the other ideas put forward by local families to determine which are feasible and which should be prioritised for implementation. Recommending: 1. THAT appropriate Council officers work with a sample of parents to evaluate and prioritise the ideas raised through the survey. 2. THAT the officers then work with these parents to develop and implement initiatives which deliver the desired outcomes for families.

3. CS02: Draft Community Safety Plan 2014-16

Report of Russell Wolfe, Social Planner A new draft Community Safety Plan 2014-16 has been prepared to reflect the most current crime statistics available from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research and the current community concerns. The crime statistics show that the North Sydney local government area is a relatively safe place and feedback from the community shows that residents feel relatively safe in the local area. Notwithstanding these facts, this draft Plan follows guidelines issued by the NSW Attorney General’s Department to further enhance community safety by targetting the top one or two priority crimes. This approach has been chosen as plans which follow this approach, and are endorsed by the Department as Safer Community Compacts, are eligible to apply for funding of up to $50,000 per year for three years to implement the initiatives identified in the plan. This is important as Council does not have the resources necessary to tackle all the crimes in the local government area. The draft Community Safety Plan 2014-16 includes a crime profile for the local area which identifies the type and characteristics of the crimes reported


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in the local area. From this crime profile, the top two priority crimes are identified as steal from motor vehicle and break and enter dwelling/steal from dwelling. The draft Plan explores the historical, spatial and temporal characteristics of each crime and presents an action plan designed to reduce the incidence and impact of the crime using evidence based strategies drawn from the crime prevention literature. Importantly, the draft Plan does not preclude Council from continuing to work on other community safety initiatives, such as domestic violence and liquor licence applications. These matters, which fall beyond the scope of the draft Plan will continue to be addressed on their merits. Recommending: 1. THAT the Draft Community Safety Plan 2014-16 be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, with a 42 day submission period, in accordance with Section 34 of the Children (Protection and Parental Responsibility) Act 1997. 2. THAT a further report be prepared for Council’s consideration following the public exhibition and submission period.

4. CS03: North Sydney Council’s Older Persons Strategy 2013

Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) This report presents the North Sydney Council Older Persons Strategy for adoption and comment. The Strategy was developed with the assistance of a focus group made up of local community service organizations and precinct members. It also reflects where relevant the strategies contained in the NSW Ageing Strategy. Recommending: 1. THAT this Strategy be adopted by Council and placed on public exhibition.

5. CS04: Assistance for Homeless People - Memorandum of Understanding

Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) This report provides a draft of the revised Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between North Sydney Council, The Crows Nest Centre, Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre and Link Housing, to provide an agreed level of assistance to homeless people. The MOU was first agreed in 2010 and last renewed in 2011. Some significant change has occurred in the intervening period, mainly the amalgamation of Community Housing Lower North Shore with other Housing Associations to form Link Housing. This increase in responsibility and relocation of the Link Office to Chatswood has meant that local co-ordination is even more important. Since the MOU was initiated Council records show that over 200 homeless, or at risk of homelessness, persons have been assisted by the signatories. For this memorandum to take effect the signed agreement and support from all four organizations is required. Informal discussions have indicated a unanimous willingness to do so. Recommending:


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1. THAT North Sydney Council support the memorandum of understanding for ongoing assistance to homeless people.

6. CS05: The Waverton Hub - a social enterprise

Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) This provides a progress report on the development of the Waverton Hub, a new community organization to assist older people maintain a healthy life style in their local community. The Hub is based on the American Village model and Social Enterprise principles. Its long term objective is to become sustainable, and to employ a full time coordinator to assist with the running of activities and programs. Due to the absence of a community centre in that part of the local government area, the Library has allowed use of the Guides room at Don Bank Museum when the Museum is not open to the public; which also allows for meetings of the co-ordination team. In 2013/14 Council has made a contribution of $2,000 to the Hub through the Donations and Subsidies program, which is being utilized in part to offset public liability insurance. The Hub is receiving guidance from Denise Ward of the Crows Nest Centre, who led a recent session at Waverton Community Hall for activity leaders and office coordinators. Denise’s contribution, deriving from her long experience in aged services is proving invaluable. Recommending: 1. THAT the information be noted. 2. THAT the official launch of the Waverton Hub in Brennan Park on Sunday 22 September 2013 at noon be noted.

7. CS06: Greenway Housing Estate - 60th Anniversary Celebration and Crows Nest Centre project

Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) In March 2014 residents of Greenway will be celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the official opening of the `Greenway Housing Estate. The Greenway Tenants Group in conjunction with Council and Crows Nest Centre (CNC) has suggested a number of activities to mark this important event. To coordinate the Anniversary celebrations a working party has been formed to plan and implement the events. This report provides a brief summary of planned events and approximate costs involved. In 2012/13 CNC received funding from Housing NSW to undertake a small community development project with social housing tenants, living in the North Sydney Local Government Area. In partnership with the Tenants Group at Greenway, CNC developed a publication that profiles the lives of a select number of residents. Greenway: Celebrating our home was launched on Friday 12 July at Greenway. Speakers were CNC’s Denise Ward, Bryce, a resident of Greenway and president of Greenway’s community centre, and a representative Housing NSW. Jo Perrett, the Crows Nest Centre’s Community Engagement coordinated the project with professional service (photography,


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“copy” and graphic design) provided Christopher Ireland, Kate Dorrell and Robert Thwaites respectively. Recommending: 1. THAT the information be received.

8. CS07: Review of Affordable Housing provisions in Council’s DCP

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services At its meeting on 8 April 2013 it was resolved (Min No. 187) THAT Council notes and supports the development of guidelines for affordable housing provisions in the Development Control Plan. THAT a briefing with Councillors, the consultants and staff be scheduled prior to finalisation of the recommendation. The aim of the Review has been to produce a set of recommendations by June 2013 to guide Council’s Strategic Planners in producing a revised Development Control Plan for Affordable Housing, to be drafted in 2013/14. The work will be underpinned by an approach to planning that encourages diversity in the North Sydney residential community, and ensures that low to moderate income residents continue to be accommodated in North Sydney. The objective of the project is to enable Council to understand its options to be considered for incorporation in the proposed Affordable Housing DCP. Consultants Judith Stubbs and Associates have presented the Review to a Councillor Briefing on 1 July 2013. Prior to this a meeting Council’s Manager Strategic Planning was held and Council’s Director of Planning and Development Services has also contributed to the consultant’s findings. Due to the complexity of the strategies involved it is recommended that a further report on its implementation schedule be provided. Recommending: 1. THAT Council reaffirms its support for the development of guidelines for affordable housing provisions in the Development Control Plan’ 2. THAT Council notes the Review by Judith Stubbs and Associates and its recommendations. 3. THAT Council be advised of an implementation schedule for development of Affordable Housing provisions in the DCP.

9. CS08: North Sydney Art Prize - Cost Structure and Frequency

Report of Alison Clark, Arts and Culture Coordinator Because the 2012 Art Prize was not held, due to the Local Government elections and the requisition by the Electoral Office of the Hutley Hall for 3 months, it has been possible, on a once-only basis, for the Art Prize to be reconceived as a two-venue event (Hutley Hall and the Coal Loader), with a significant sculpture component. In effect the availability of two years’ budgets ($15,000 +$20,000), has allowed Council to meet the terms of the curatorial brief adopted at its meeting on 18 February 2013 (Item 76: CLS01), and at the same time increasing the main prize by $5,000 for 2013/14. Council has the opportunity to view the results at the 2013 openings on Friday 26 July (6pm Hutley Hall) and Saturday 27 July (2pm Coal Loader).


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It is not recommended that the Art Prize in this form be held annually on an ongoing basis, for two reasons:

First: the curatorial work for Council’s small arts team is immense and a ten month lead in time is required. An annual event would in effect conscript Council’s principal resource in arts (the Co-ordinator) to the one event, which would prevent the officer addressing the goals of Council’s Arts and Cultural Development Strategic Plan.

Second: the funding in 2013/14 of the Sculpture at Sawmillers, while not seen as duplicating the 2013 Art Prize, would duplicate the 2014 edition to some extent if they were held around the same time.

This report assumes continued funding of the Sawmillers exhibition in coming years and that it would be ideal to hold it and the Art Prize in alternate years. Should Council choose not to endorse this model then it is proposed to return to a cut down version of the Art Prize held annually Recommending: 1. THAT Council considers the North Sydney Art Prize as a biannual, two-venue event and considers, in its estimates for 2014/15, allocating $40,000 for the next Art Prize in March/April 2015. 2. THAT Council notes the upcoming Sculpture at Sawmillers later this financial year, and the desirability of staging it biannually, in which case the next event would be in 2015/16.

10. CS09: Community Carols & Children’s Festival - discussion of preferred venue

Report of Kylie Davies, Events & Cultural Projects Officer The Community Services Reference Group resolved (25 March 2013): THAT consideration be given to holding future Community Carols and the Children’s Festival in St Leonards park [instead of Civic Park], and in particular that Community Carols be held closer to Christmas and later in the evening. Long term advantages of the Civic Park venue over St Leonards Park are:

High quality toilet facilities to suit the needs of families with young children at Stanton Library and the Community Centre, compared with port-a-loos at St Leonard Park (more true for the Children’s Festival (4hrs in duration) compared with Carols (2 and a half)

High quality enclosed playground Cost effective ($16,000 compared with $48,000 for the two events) Planet X does not have to close for the day (Children’s Festival only) history of no accidents

Advantages of Civic Park (but only true for 2013): Promotion: “What’s On” (8,000 copies) distributed in February 2013

advising dates and venues Bookings in place: North Sydney Girls High Band cannot perform

later. Advantage of St Leonards Park:

greater sense of openness as the attendances increase Recommending: 1. THAT the Children’s Festival 2013 be held in Civic Park.


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2. THAT attendees at the 2013 Festival be surveyed as to whether they would prefer a change in venue to St Leonards Park in 2014 and if in the affirmative, Council budget for the change in the 2014/15 budget cycle. 3. THAT Council consider the Community Carols 2013 event be held on a night in December from 7pm to 9pm in the Civic centre and an additional $1,000 be allocated to address the staff shortage issue for 2013. 4. THAT attendees at Carols be surveyed as to whether they would prefer a change in venue to St Leonards Park in 2014 and if in the affirmative, Council budget for the change in the 2014/15 budget cycle.

11. CS10: Public Art on Utility Boxes Project – Phase 1 Completed

Report of Jennifer Hamilton, Arts and Culture Officer This report details the successful execution of the first phase of ‘Colouring our Habitat’, North Sydney’s Newest Public Art Project. The project brings together school children and professional artists to collaborate and paint murals on three traffic signal boxes in North Sydney. It is considered that this project has been a success on several fronts, from urban revitalization to an exercise in genuine community connectedness. The State Government instrumentalities that give the final permission for these projects insist on demonstrated involvement of the local community. This has indeed been delivered. The program is set to expand in 2013/14. It is intended to select a wide range of groups throughout the community, of different ages and socio economic backgrounds in order to extend the benefits as far as possible. The professional supervision will continue, so as to ensure a high quality product and reinforce North Sydney Council’s reputation for genuinely involving its community as well as producing quality public art. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received.

12. CS11: Community Transport in North Sydney – Status Report

Report of Helen Campbell, Community Development Manager Council’s Community Transport program is managed under a 2 + 1 year contract, expiring June 2016, operated by Lower North Shore Community Transport (LNSCT). The services are delivered through Council-owned buses and include both scheduled transport and flexible individual transport. An external review of the service was conducted in 2011. Variations to the service are identified through social planning processes including direct passenger feedback, through negotiation with the provider, and by the setting of service levels by Council itself. Recommending: 1. THAT the information be received.

13. CS12: Stanton Library Customer Survey - Progress on response

Report of Ciska White, Library Administration Officer


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Stanton’s most recent user survey was conducted in August 2012, following on a series of in-house works shops to develop a Strategic Vision for the Library. This report presents its findings of the survey and management’s response to date. Council has concurrently surveyed its community (Woolcott Research), focusing on satisfaction rates for a wide range of services, including Stanton Library every two or 3 years since 2004. The 2013 results for Stanton Library have been referred to here. For this reason the 2012 in-house survey did not set out to measure satisfaction but to compile a picture of the users, and draw out their suggestions for an improved performance. Comparisons have also been made with previous surveys undertaken by the Library or by external consultants. Recommending: 1. THAT the 2012 Stanton Library User Survey be noted. 2. THAT the Management response to date be endorsed.

14. CS13: Shorelink Minutes 17 April and 12 June 2013

Report of Helen Perry, Reader Services Coordinator The Shorelink Minutes for the April and June 2013 meetings are here presented. Worthy of noting is that

Shorelink-wide costs are lower by $41,588 than the previous year, and the lowest it has been over the last 4 years. This is primarily due to the recent Tenders undertaken by Shorelink, for a new communications carrier and a new Library Management System (LMS). Council’s contribution is fully funded within the adopted budget.

2013 is the 30th Anniversary of Shorelink. Some current features of Shorelink are: o Libraries are open 7 days per week o Online services extend services beyond library opening hours o 11 sites (5 Central Libraries, 6 branches) o 830,000 items held o 3 million loans per annum o 158,000 members o The Network has attracted $199,000 in State Government

funding for cooperative projects over the 30 years Functions were held to celebrate the Network’s 10th and 20th anniversaries and it is proposed that the 30th anniversary, together with the launch of the new Aurora Library Management System, be celebrated at a function at Lane Cove Library in September 2013. Recommending: 1. THAT the Shorelink Minutes for 17 April and 12 June 2013 be adopted.

DECISION OF 3622nd COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 8 APRIL 2013

187. CLS03: Community Services Reference Group Meeting -

25 March 2013 Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services This report presents the recommendations of the last meeting of the Community Services Reference Group held on 25 March 2013, for Council endorsement. The minutes are attached for information. It should be noted that expressions of interest for citizen membership to the Community Services Reference Group close on 11 April 2013; as such those in attendance at the first meeting were those who had submitted their expressions of interest for citizen membership as at 7 March 2013. Recommending: 1. THAT the Community Services Reference Group Charter be received. 2. THAT the information regarding the North Sydney Community Strategic Plan Review be noted. 3. THAT the support of the Whiteley family be sought for the paved area of Mount Street between Miller Street and Denison Street, North Sydney to be named “Brett Whiteley Place”. 4. THAT funds be allocated in the 2013/14 budget for an urban design of “Brett Whiteley Place” supporting its character as an artists’ precinct. 5. THAT the renaming be publicly advertised to allow comment from local businesses, in particular those that front the paved area. 6. THAT bronze plaques inscribed with the name and brief life details of artists be laid into the pavement of the area and surrounds. And a budget made available to commence the program in 2013/14, with three plaques and add at least one plaque each year. 7. THAT Council notes and supports the development of guidelines for affordable housing provisions in the Development Control Plan. 8. THAT a briefing with Councillors, the consultants and staff be scheduled prior to finalisation of the Affordable Housing Guidelines for the Development Control Plan. 9. THAT delegation be given to Council’s Manager Community Development to authorize signage for facilities supported through the Donations and Subsidies Program and that such signage be considered on application. 10. THAT Neutral Bay Community Centre be assigned priority status under Council’s Graffiti Management Contract. 11. THAT the works identified in the report on Neutral Bay Community Centre where not already carried out, be implemented in as soon as practicable. 12. THAT the schools continue to be involved in the Public Art on Utilities program. 13. THAT that the next meeting of the Reference Group provided current information on (a) Library Services (b) Community Transport and (c) Community Housing.

The Motion was moved by Councillor Burke and seconded by Councillor Bevan

RESOLVED: 1. THAT the Community Services Reference Group Charter be received. 2. THAT the information regarding the North Sydney Community Strategic Plan Review be noted. 3. THAT the support of the Whiteley family be sought for the paved area of Mount Street between Miller Street and Denison Street, North Sydney to be named “Brett Whiteley Place” and that the design form part of the Public Domain Manual. 4. THAT funds be allocated in the 2013/14 budget for an urban design of “Brett Whiteley Place” supporting its character as an artists’ precinct.

5. THAT the renaming be publicly advertised to allow comment from local businesses, in particular those that front the paved area. 6. THAT bronze plaques inscribed with the name and brief life details of artists be laid into the pavement of the area and surrounds. And a budget made available to commence the program in 2013/14, with three plaques and add at least one plaque each year. 7. THAT Council notes and supports the development of guidelines for affordable housing provisions in the Development Control Plan. 8. THAT a briefing with Councillors, the consultants and staff be scheduled prior to finalisation of the Affordable Housing Guidelines for the Development Control Plan. 9. THAT delegation be given to Council’s Manager Community Development to authorize signage for facilities supported through the Donations and Subsidies Program and that such signage be considered on application. 10. THAT Neutral Bay Community Centre be assigned priority status under Council’s Graffiti Management Contract. 11. THAT the works identified in the report on Neutral Bay Community Centre where not already carried out, be implemented in as soon as practicable. 12. THAT the schools continue to be involved in the Public Art on Utilities program. 13. THAT that the next meeting of the Reference Group provided current information on (a) Library Services (b) Community Transport and (c) Community Housing.

Voting was as follows: For/Against 13/0

Councillor Yes No Councillor Yes No

Gibson Y Morris Y Reymond Y Clare Y Carr Y Baker Y Bevan Y Robertson Y Butcher Y Marchandeau Y Burke Y Beregi Y Barbour Y

ITEM CLS03 REPORTS 8/04/13

N O R T H S Y D N E Y C O U N C I L R E P O R T S

Report to General Manager Attachments:

1. Minutes 25 March 2013

SUBJECT: Community Services Reference Group Meeting - 25 March 2013 AUTHOR: Martin Ellis, Director, Community and Library Services EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: This report presents the recommendations of the last meeting of the Community Services Reference Group held on 25 March 2013, for Council endorsement. The minutes are attached for information. It should be noted that expressions of interest for citizen membership to the Community Services Reference Group close on 11 April 2013; as such those in attendance at the first meeting were those who had submitted their expressions of interest for citizen membership as at 7 March 2013. RECOMMENDATION: 1. THAT the Community Services Reference Group Charter be received. 2. THAT the information regarding the North Sydney Community Strategic Plan Review be noted. 3. THAT the support of the Whiteley family be sought for the paved area of Mount Street between Miller Street and Denison Street, North Sydney to be named “Brett Whiteley Place”. 4. THAT funds be allocated in the 2013/14 budget for an urban design of “Brett Whiteley Place” supporting its character as an artists’ precinct. 5. THAT the renaming be publicly advertised to allow comment from local businesses, in particular those that front the paved area. 6. THAT bronze plaques inscribed with the name and brief life details of artists be laid into the pavement of the area and surrounds. And a budget made available to commence the program in 2013/14, with three plaques and add at least one plaque each year. 7. THAT Council notes and supports the development of guidelines for affordable housing provisions in the Development Control Plan. 8. THAT a briefing with Councillors, the consultants and staff be scheduled prior to finalisation of the Affordable Housing Guidelines for the Development Control Plan. 9. THAT delegation be given to Council’s Manager Community Development to authorize signage for facilities supported through the Donations and Subsidies Program and that such signage be considered on application. 10. THAT Neutral Bay Community Centre be assigned priority status under Council’s Graffiti Management Contract. 11. THAT the works identified in the report on Neutral Bay Community Centre where not already carried out, be implemented in as soon as practicable. 12. THAT the schools continue to be involved in the Public Art on Utilities program. 13. THAT that the next meeting of the Reference Group provided current information on (a) Library Services (b) Community Transport and (c) Community Housing. Signed: Director Community and Library Services

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services Re: Community Services Reference Group Meeting

(2)

LINK TO DELIVERY PROGRAM The relationship with the Delivery Program is as follows: Direction: 4 Our Social Vitality Goal: 4.1 Promote diverse, dynamic and connected local communities

4.2 Encourage lifelong learning and volunteering 4.3 Encourage health and well being 4.4 Enhance community services facilities and information

4.5 Improve safety and accessibility BACKGROUND In accordance with Council’s Code of Meeting Principles and Practices: 50.8 - The minutes of a Reference Group meeting can only be confirmed and adopted by resolution of that Reference Group, passed at a subsequent meeting of that Reference Group. A motion or discussion in respect of the Minutes shall not be in order except as to their accuracy as a record of proceedings. Minutes may not be amended to reflect second thoughts on a resolution - changes may only be made if the accuracy of the resolution is found to be at fault; as per clause 19.2 of this Code. 50.9 - A report on the proceedings of Reference Group meetings are to be submitted to the next available meeting of Council for endorsement, including all recommendations. Any Councillor, irrespective of whether that Councillor is a member that Reference Group may be the mover or seconder of a motion to confirm the proceedings of a Reference Group meeting. SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT The sustainability implications are of a minor nature and as such did not warrant a detailed assessment. DETAIL This report presents the recommendations of the last meeting of the Community Services Reference Group held on 25 March 2013, for Council endorsement. The minutes are attached for information. It should be noted that expressions of interest for citizen membership to the Community Services Reference Group close on 11 April 2013; as such those in attendance at the first meeting were those who had submitted their expressions of interest for citizen membership as at 7 March 2013.

C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S R E F E R E N C E G R O U P

Minute Book Page No 1

This is Page No 1 of the Minutes of the Community Services Reference Group Meeting held on Monday, 25 March 2013.

MINUTES: COMMUNITY SERVICES REFERENCE GROUP MEETING HELD

IN THE ROS CRICHTON PAVILION, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, ON MONDAY, 25 MARCH 2013 AT 7.15PM.

PRESENT

Councillor Butcher in the Chair, Councillors Beregi and Marchandeau

Staff: Penny Holloway, General Manager Helen Campbell, Manager, Community Development Martin Ellis, Director, Community and Library Services

Citizen Members: Denise Ward (Crows Nest Centre)

Jessica Keen Jillian Christie

Visitors: Lindsey Williams, Nutcote Apologies were received from The Mayor, Councillors Barber, Robertson and Burke, and from Jane Greenop, Joanna Jouin (North Sydney Community Centre) and Coral Garratt (Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre).

At the commencement of business (7:30pm) Councillors present were - Councillor Butcher in the Chair and Councillors Beregi and Marchandeau.

1. Minutes

The Minutes of the previous meeting held on 5 November 2012, copies of which had been previously circulated, were taken as read and confirmed.

The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

2. CS01: Community Services Reference Group Charter

Report of Jenny Gleeson, Manager Corporate Planning and Governance Council at its meeting of 4 March 2013 adopted the amended Charter (Attachment 1) for the Community Services Reference Working Group. The Charter outlines the aims/scope of the Reference Group as well as the role and function of Councillors and citizen members. In accordance with the adopted Charter, citizen members may consist of up to ten community representatives from community organisations working with the community in North Sydney and representatives from community groups registered on; with a maximum of two representatives from any one group; and up to six

ATTACHMENT TO CLS03 - 8/04/13 Page 3

COMMUNITY SERVICES REFERENCE GROUP - 25/03/13 Page No 2


individuals - North Sydney residents. Recruitment is currently underway therefore confirmation of citizen members for this Reference Group cannot take place at the first meeting. Recommending: 1. THAT the information be noted. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the Community Services Reference Group Charter be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Butcher and seconded by Jillian Christie.

3. CS02: North Sydney Community Strategic Plan Review

Report of Katrina Furjanic, Corporate Planning Coordinator This report provides an overview of the review of the Community Strategic Plan known as the 2020 Vision, North Sydney Community Strategic Plan 2009-2020. In accordance with legislative requirements, the Community Strategic Plan must be reviewed every four years. Each newly elected council must complete the review by 30 June in the year following the local government elections. In addition to reviewing the Community Strategic Plan, Council must also review by 30 June 2013, its accompanying Resourcing Strategy including Long Term Financial Plan, Asset Management Strategy and Workforce Strategy, as well as prepare a four year Delivery Program and Operational Plan and budget for 2013/14. Recommending: 1. THAT the information be noted. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the information regarding the North Sydney Community Strategic Plan Review be noted. The Motion was moved by Cr Butcher and seconded by Cr Beregi.

4. CS03: Renaming Mount Street Plaza

Report of Ian Hoskins, Historian Council at its meeting of 24 September 2012 (Min. No.544) resolved that Mount Street Plaza be renamed “Brett Whiteley Place and that other public buildings and places be identified in North Sydney to be named in celebration of the life of other prominent North Sydney artists. Mount Street Plaza is the ungazetted name informally applied to the public paved area between Miller Street and Denison Street, North Sydney. Most, if not all, businesses that front that space have retained a ‘Mount Street’ rather than Mouth Street Plaza postal address. Mount Street Plaza, however, is also the official name of the commercial and office building at 99 Mount Street. Both locations appear with the same name in street directories, which is a potential cause of confusion. The renaming of the paved ‘plaza’ will avoid this. North Sydney has been home to several artists of local, state and national significance since the 19th century. While some of these people, such as Lloyd Rees and May Gibbs, have already been commemorated in place names and plaques, there are many who have not. Dedicating such a central, well-used public space as Mount Street Plaza to the commemoration of artists who have lived in North Sydney is an ideal form of recognition and civic development. As the space is to be named after Brett Whiteley in particular, it is seen to be important that the Whiteley family be informed and briefed on the location and redesign of the space and that their consent be received before the intention to so name the space be public advertised.




Recommending: 1. THAT the support of the Whiteley family be sought for the paved area of Mount Street between Miller Street and Denison Street, North Sydney to be named “Brett Whiteley Place”. 2. THAT funds be allocated in the 2013/14 budget for an urban design of the space supporting its character as an artists’ precinct. 3. THAT the renaming be publicly advertised to allow comment from local businesses, in particular those that front the paved area. 4. THAT bronze plaques inscribed with the name and brief life details of artists be laid into the pavement of the area and surrounds. And a budget made available to commence the program in 2013/14, with three plaques and add at least one plaque each year. Resolved to recommend: THAT the support of the Whiteley family be sought for the paved area of Mount Street between Miller Street and Denison Street, North Sydney to be named “Brett Whiteley Place”. 2. THAT funds be allocated in the 2013/14 budget for an urban design of the space supporting its character as an artists’ precinct. 3. THAT the renaming be publicly advertised to allow comment from local businesses, in particular those that front the paved area. 4. THAT bronze plaques inscribed with the name and brief life details of artists be laid into the pavement of the area and surrounds. And a budget made available to commence the program in 2013/14, with three plaques and add at least one plaque each year. 5 THAT a brief on the design of the “Brett Whiteley Place” be brought back to the Reference Group, addressing how it might function during the Christmas Season. 6. THAT consideration be given to involving the Students from the relevant design course at the University of NSW. The Motion was moved by Cr Beregi and seconded by Cr Butcher.

5. CS04: Affordable Housing - Review of Development Control Plan 2013/14

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services A key objective under Council’s current Delivery Program is preparing for including affordable housing provisions in the North Sydney Development Control Plan (DCP). Work on the DCP is scheduled for 2013/14. To assist in this Judith Stubbs and Associates, author of Council’s current Affordable Housing Strategy (2008), have been commissioned to: Develop recommendations by June 2013 to guide Council’s strategic planners in including affordable housing provisions in the DCP, scheduled for next year. Update the Affordable Housing Strategy with the most recent relevant data and models. As noted in previous reports the un-affordability of housing in North Sydney is accelerating. Between 2006 and 2011 the number of persons on low incomes in North Sydney has dropped by 5.6% or 1,585 persons. Of those remaining, the proportion of those on low income who are suffering housing stress is 45% in 2011, compared with 19.8% in 2006. Recommending: 1. THAT Council notes and supports the development of guidelines for affordable housing provisions in the Development Control Plan. 2. THAT a briefing with Councillors, the consultants and staff be scheduled prior to finalisation of the recommendation.




Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT Council notes and supports the development of guidelines for affordable housing provisions in the Development Control Plan. 2. THAT a briefing with Councillors, the consultants and staff be scheduled prior to finalisation of the recommendation. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Jillian Christie.

6. CS05: Community Groups signage

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services Council has received correspondence from the Ensemble Theatre concerning difficulty their elderly patrons experience in finding the theatre when arriving at Kirribilli Wharf: “At present there is a pedestrian sign on the corner of Willoughby and Broughton streets directing patrons down the hill to the Ensemble Theatre from Milsons Point train station. This street sign is extremely helpful to our patrons. We would like to request that similar signage be placed near the Kirribilli Wharf for example on the corner of Carabella St and Holbrook Ave and on the corner of Peel Street and Elamang Avenue.” This request raises the issue of which non-Council facilities are supported in this way, there clearly needing to be a limit, and there being no policy in place. Currently the pattern is that major facilities (Mary McKillop Place) and child care centres are sign posted. It is recommended that delegation be given to Council’s Manager Community Development to authorize such signage and that the facilities supported through the Donations and Subsidies Program receive such support, on application. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be adopted. 2. THAT delegation be given to Council’s Manager Community Development to authorize signage and that facilities supported through the Donations and Subsidies Program receive such support, on application. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be adopted. 2. THAT delegation be given to Council’s Manager Community Development to authorize signage and that facilities supported through the Donations and Subsidies Program receive such support, on application. The Motion was moved by Cr Butcher and seconded by Cr Beregi.

7. CS06: Crows Nest Centre - Joint Plan of Management Review 2012

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services The Crows Nest Centre’s report on the Joint Plan of Management for 2012 has been received. Issues highlighted are the reform agenda in both Age and Disability Services, the full impact is yet to be felt. The Centre’s Annual Report (Attachment 1) highlights the broad suite of services the Centre is known for and new programs such as a two year Commonwealth grant to work with new migrants, focusing on casework and information provision. With regard to the Centre’s financial sustainability (and while more details will be provided in the Donations and Subsidies report to the Governance Committee in April 2013) it can be noted that the Centre completed 2011/12 with a small surplus of $23,619. However, for 2012/13 while the statements to date (Jul 2012 - Jan 2013)




show a similar surplus, a shortfall in venue hire against the budgeted amount has been identified. This will need to be monitored. Due to the uncertainty over Food Services funding on the Lower North Shore - referred to in Attachment 2, the Centre and Council staff have agreed to defer any major refurbishment of the Centre’s commercial kitchen. Work is proceeding on minor works - a compliant toilet on Level 1 and an operable wall on Level 3. Work on the Centre’s foyer is also scheduled for 2013/14 which will benefit all services in the building as well as the commercial tenant on Level 4. The Centre’s Strategic Plan 2009-2012 has not been included with this report as it is currently being renewed. The first review workshop is set for 5 April 2013. In due course this will form the basis of a new Joint Plan of Management 2014-2016. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

8. CS07: Kirribilli Neighborhood Centre and Bradfield Park Community Centre - Joint Plan of Management Review 2012

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services The Centre’s report on the Joint Plan of Management for 2012 has been received. Issues highlighted include the reduced operation of the Team Room from two days to one (a joint venture with TAFE involving students with disabilities: the reason is a drop in TAFE funding). The Centre gained a $15,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnerships Program, which they contributed towards the refurbishment of Forsyth Park Scout Hall. The Centre’s well known activities, including the Kirribilli Markets and Art and Design Market, Playgroup and so on are all outlined in the report. The Carers’ program in Bradfield Park Community Centre had an extensive program ranging from talks on legal issues, physiocise and other aspects of mental health to a Men’s Group, excursions and a multicultural event. With regard to the Centre’s financial sustainability (and while more details will be provided in the Donations and Subsidies report to the Governance Committee in April 2013) it can be noted that the Centre completed 2011/12 with a strong surplus of $62,126. For 2012/13 the Statements to date (July 2012 - January 2013) show expenditure tracking well but with a shortfall in income across several categories (market stall hire, courses and workshops and room hire). Council’s allocation to the Centre of the Scout Hall is due to come on line shortly and this will assist room hire income. The Centre has worked long and hard on developing the concept of a weekly (Friday evening) produce market. This proposal is subject to a Development Application currently before Council. It is being independently assessed. The Centre’s Strategic Plan (2009-12) has not been included with this report as it is being renewed. The first review workshop is set for 5 April 2013. In due course this will form the basis of a new Joint Plan of Management 2014-16 Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Beregi and seconded by Cr Marchandeau.




9. CS08: Neutral Bay Community Centre - Options for improvement

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services At its meeting on 27/11/12, Council resolved: THAT Council incorporate Neutral Bay Community Centre into the first stage of the proposed study on the Grosvenor Street Precinct and in order to provide options for relocation and expansion/upgrade of the Neutral Bay Community Centre as part of defined community benefits. At the meeting of the Legal and Planning Committee on 11 March 2013, Council was advised that this has been achieved. At the same meeting Council also resolved with particular attention to the toilet facilities suitable for families: THAT it requests an internal design and costing for the renovation and upgrading of the facilities at the Neutral Bay Community Centre. Recommending: 1. THAT Neutral Bay Community Centre be assigned priority status under Council’s Graffiti Management Contract. 2. THAT the works identified in the report where not already carried out, be implemented in as soon as practicable. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT Neutral Bay Community Centre be assigned priority status under Council’s Graffiti Management Contract 2. THAT the works identified in the report where not already carried out, be implemented in as soon as practicable. The Motion was moved by Cr Beregi and seconded by Cr Butcher.

10. CS09: North Sydney Community Centre - Joint Plan of Management Review 2012

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services The Centre’s report on the Joint Plan of Management for 2012 has been received. Issues highlighted include the Centre’s 40th

With regard to the Centre’s financial sustainability (and while more details will be provided in the Donations and Subsidies report to the Governance Committee in April 2013) it can be noted that the Centre completed 2011/12 with a small surplus of $14,422. For 2012/13 the Statements to date (July 2012 - January 2013) show expenditure tracking well and a reasonable surplus can be expected.

year of operation and 30 years of the main market, corporate support which enabled installation of a shade sail over the stage, registration of the Produce Market with Crave Sydney International Food Festival, and strong partnerships with other not for profit groups including Council’s other community Centres. Overall “all programs are growing in numbers, diversity and interest”.

The Centre’s Strategic Plan (2009-12) has not been included with this report as it is being renewed. A first meeting has been called for 5 April 2013. In due course this will form the basis of a new Joint Plan of Management 2014-16 Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received.




The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

11. CS10: Nutcote - Joint Plan of Management Review - 2012

Report of Martin Ellis, Director, Community and Library Services The Centre’s report on the Joint Plan of Management for 2012 has been received. Issues highlighted include a new monthly program “Nutty Story and Rhyme Time” increasingly popular with parents, cancellation of the Friends of Nutcote Spring Soiree due to poor ticket sales, a stall in the Blue Mountains’ Norman Lindsey Children’s Literature Festival, a series of public lectures, continued patronage of Nutcote by the Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir AC, and working with Stanton Library’s Heritage Centre on management of the Nutcote Collections and Exhibitions.

With regard to the Centre’s financial sustainability (and while more details will be provided in the Donations and Subsidies report to the Governance Committee in April 2013) it can be noted that the Centre completed 2011 (Nutcote operates on a calendar year) with a small surplus of $26,295. For 2012 the Statements to date (the Audited Statements are not available until 16 April 2013), being January 2012 - December 2013, show a small deficit. Given Nutcote’s limited ability to generate income this is a concern and will need to be monitored.

The Centre’s Strategic Plan (2013-16) is well developed and is provided with this report. In due course this will form the basis of a new Joint Plan of Management 2014-16 Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received.

Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

12. CS11: Primrose Park Art and Craft Centre - Joint Plan of Management Review - 2012

Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services The Centre’s report on the Joint Plan of Management for 2012 has been received. Issues highlighted include the Centre’s external activities, including a showing at the Royal Easter Show, an exhibition at Meadowbank and a book published on the Centre’s work now held by the British Library, London. The Centre’s artists and craftspeople continued to reach out to the local community, participating in the North Sydney Children’s Festival and offering school holiday activities. The Centre’s Open Day in November 2012 was very well attended With regard to the Centre’s financial sustainability, and noting that unlike the other Centres, PPACC’s annual turnover is small ($5,000), it can be noted that the Centre completed 2011/12 with a small surplus. For 2012/13 the Statements, show a variation from the Budget of $405. The Centre’s Strategic Plan, while appearing to be expired, is still very relevant and is included with this report. In due course an updated version will form the basis of a new Joint Plan of Management 2014-16 Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received.




2. THAT Council notes the passing of Derek Graham, former President of the Centre during the period under review The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

13. CS12: North Sydney Art Prize 2013

Report of Alison Clark, Arts and Culture Coordinator The purpose of this report is to inform the Community Services Reference Group about planning for the 2013 North Sydney Art Prize. Council at its meeting of 18 February 2013 received a report requesting support for the revitalisation of this major arts event, the North Sydney Art Prize. Council unanimously resolved: THAT the North Sydney Art Prize Curatorial Brief be adopted. THAT consideration be given in the upcoming estimates to increasing the Prize (from $5,000) to $10,000 (non-acquisitive) for the Major Award category. THAT current sponsorship is reviewed and new sponsorship sought in line with Council’s Sponsorship Policy. THAT the entry process is digitised and artworks selected by a panel. THAT the children’s section moved to Children’s Week in October, as a major event on the Children’s Week calendar. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Butcher and seconded by Cr Beregi.

14. CS13: 2013 Arts and Cultural Programs - Overview

Report of Alison Clark, Arts and Culture Coordinator The purpose of this report is to inform the Community Services Reference Group about planning for Council’s 2013 Arts and Culture Programs. Council oversees the management of Primrose Park Low-Cost Artists’ Studio Program, the Coal Loader Artist Program, Don Bank Writer in Residence Program and two Pop-Up Shops operating in Crows Nest. In February eight artists, two art groups and a writer took up tenancy at the various art spaces for a six to ten month period. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

15. CS14: Arts and Cultural Activities - Community Development

Report of Jennifer Hamilton, Arts and Culture Officer This report details the following arts and cultural activities for period January - June 2013.

• Creating Wellbeing Program • National Close the Gap event

Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend:




1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

16. CS15: Public Art on Utilities Boxes Project

Report of Jennifer Hamilton, Arts and Culture Officer This report outlines Council’s newest public art project ‘Colouring Our Habitat’. The project brings together school children and professional artists to collaborate and paint murals on three traffic signal boxes in North Sydney. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. 2. THAT the schools continue to be involved The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Jessica Keen.

17. CS16: Community Events 2012/13 - Overview

Report of Kylie Davies, Events and Cultural Projects Officer

The purpose of this report is to inform the Community Services Reference Group about: Community events that took place between October 2012 and February 2013; and Community events to be held between March and June 2013. The following events were held between October 2012 and February 2013 - The Childrens Festival, Community Carols and Australia Day Awards program are annual events run by Council’s Arts and Culture Section, Community Development Department. Each event was designed to provide low cost entertainment for families and community members, to educate the community on services available in North Sydney and to provide a platform which recognises through the Australia Day Awards program significant contributions of volunteers in the area. The following events will be held between March and June 2013 - Seniors Week and Guringai Festival are annual programs that North Sydney Council supports by running key community events in conjunction with Community Centres. Seniors Week offers seniors a range of social, active and creative activities at low cost; whilst the Guringai Festival offers the opportunity to educate and celebrate Indigenous culture across 11 councils with activities ranging from story to dance, bushwalking, film screening and talks. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. 2. THAT consideration be given to holding future Community Carols and the Children’s Festival in St Leonards Park, and in particular that Community Carols be held closer to Christmas and later in the evening. The Motion was moved by Cr Butcher and seconded by Cr Marchandeau.

18. CS17: Harmony Day 2013

Report of Russell Wolfe, Social Planner




The purpose of this report is to inform the Community Services Reference Group of Council’s plans to celebrate Harmony Day. Harmony Day is an annual initiative of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship which is used to celebrate cultural diversity. On 21 March 2013, Council will celebrate the day with a living library, featuring three migrants from Afghanistan, Brazil and Japan, who left their homeland and overcame various obstacles for a chance at a new life in North Sydney. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

19. CS18: Capacity Building Workshops for not-for-profit community organisations

Report of Russell Wolfe, Social Planner On 5 November 2012, in response to issues raised in the North Sydney State of the Community Sector report, the Community Services Reference Group recommended that a program (including workshops) be designed to support and strengthen the community sector’s ability to address the current and emerging challenges facing the sector. Council resolved that such a program be developed on 28 November 2012. The purpose of this report is to advise the Community Services Reference Group that a program called ‘Meet the Experts’ has been developed in partnership with Lane Cove Council and that the first workshop, focusing on strategic planning and board recruitment and induction, is scheduled to take place at Stanton Library on 12 April 2013. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Denise Ward.

20. CS19: Historical Services Activities 2013

Report of Kelly Mitchell, Senior Librarian, Local Studies The purpose of this report is to advise the Community Services Reference Group about exhibitions and events organised by Stanton Library’s Historical Services Section, as part of the 2013 National Trust Heritage Festival, the History Council of NSW History Week and the Sydney Architecture Festival. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

21. CS20: Museum Volunteer Initiative




Report of Anna Warren, Community Information Officer A proposal has been received from Stephanie Lake, Manager of Nutcote to acknowledge the efforts of the comprehensive pool of volunteers currently working in North Sydney’s museums. The suggestion is that the museums offer all their volunteers free entry to all North Sydney museums as a thank you during National Volunteer Week, 13 to 19 May 2013. This idea has also been endorsed by Christine Richards, Mary Mackillop Place Museum. The museums involved would be Don Bank Museum, Sexton’s Cottage Museum, Mary MacKillop Place Museum and May Gibbs’ Nutcote as outlined in the “North Sydney Museum Trial” brochure. This initiative coincides with the publication of a new volunteering brochure which would be made available in all the museums at this time. Recommending: 1. THAT Council offer all their volunteers free entry to all North Sydney museums as a thank you during National Volunteer Week, 13 to 19 May 2013. Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT the report be received. The Motion was moved by Cr Marchandeau and seconded by Cr Beregi.

22. General Business

Cr Marchandeau asked that the next meeting of the Reference Group provide current information on: (a) Library Services; (b) Community Transport and; (c) Community Housing.

Resolved to recommend: 1. THAT that the next meeting of the Reference Group provide current information on: (a) Library Services; (b) Community Transport and; (c) Community Housing.

The Meeting concluded at 9pm.

____________________________ __________________________ CHAIRPERSON GENERAL MANAGER


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