north sydney council · north sydney council council chambers 6 june 2013 i wish to inform you that...

NORTH SYDNEY COUNCIL

Council Chambers 6 June 2013

I wish to inform you that a Meeting of the ACCESS & COMMUNITY SAFETY REFERENCE GROUP will be held in the Ros Crichton Pavilion, Council Chambers, North Sydney at 10.00am on Thursday 13 June 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 14 March 2013. (Circulated)

Access & Community Safety Reference Group – 13/06/13

Page No 2

2. AC01: New Transport Signage 2013 Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) May 27 2013 Transport NSW is trailing new signage in the North Sydney Local Government area. The Kirribilli area has been selected as a major transport hub and a popular area for visitors. The prototype signage is being trailed at train station ferry wharfs and bus stops. This report provides a brief over view of the proposed signage for public transport users. Recommending: 1. THAT this information be received.

3. AC02: Community Service Requests and Gaps 2012-2013 Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) As part of the requirement for ongoing Family and Community Services (FACS) funding, all community requests received by the Community Worker (Aged and Disability) are recorded and reviewed as ongoing monitoring of service gaps and unresolved community issues. These findings are reported to FACS as part of an ongoing Regional and State planning process. Between May 2012 and May 2013 the numbers of community requests were 207, about the same as the previous year. There was a slight increase in the numbers of people who were frail-aged but a decline in the numbers of people with disabilities and those with mental illness. Housing assistance and access to services and facilities were the most frequent types of requests received. Recommending: 1. THAT Council continues to support the operations of the Crows Nest Centre and Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre. 2. THAT Council continues to support training Council and Community Centre and information to reduce the numbers of people at risk of social isolation. 3. THAT Council supports supplementary, resident-based services contributing to community support (such North Sydney Men’s Shed, Neutral Bay Seniors, Greenway Tenants Group and the Waverton Hub).

4. AC03: Items and hazards for attention (costings and summary) Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) This report provides a summary of items and hazards identified by the Access and Community Safety Reference Group that require attention by Council and the State Government. The report also provides some approximate costings based on previous quotes and similar works carried out in other locations. Recommending: 1. THAT this information be received

5. AC04: Access and Community Safety Reference Group - Citizen Membership Report of Ian Curry, Governance Coordinator

Access & Community Safety Reference Group – 13/06/13

Page No 3

The purpose of this report is to inform the Access and Community Safety Reference Group of its elected citizen members. In accordance with the adopted Charter, citizen membership for this Group is limited to up to 16 members. Recruitment of citizen members for all Reference Groups and Working Groups occurred in March/April 2013. Council received 14 nominations for the Access and Community Safety Reference Group Working Group. Recommending: 1. THAT the report be received.

6. General Business

DECISION OF 3622nd COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 8 APRIL 2013

186. CLS02: Access and Community Safety Reference Group

Meeting - 14 March 2013 Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services This report presents the recommendations of the last meeting of the Access and Community Safety Reference Group held on14 March 2013, for Council endorsement. The minutes are provided for information. Recommending: 1. THAT the information on priority of location for additional public benches, to be followed up with the Engineering and Property Services Division, be received. 2. THAT maps be considered at meetings of the Reference Group to assist in determining exact locations of the proposed benches 3. THAT the Open Space and Environmental Services Division advise on the installation of an accessible toilet in the park at Kurraba Point.

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

RESOLVED: 1. THAT the information on priority of location for additional public benches, to be followed up with the Engineering and Property Services Division, be received. 2. THAT maps be considered at meetings of the Reference Group to assist in determining exact locations of the proposed benches 3. THAT the Open Space and Environmental Services Division advise on the installation of an accessible toilet in the park at Kurraba Point. 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

Page 3a

ITEM CLS02 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 14 March 2013

SUBJECT: Access and Community Safety Reference Group Meeting - 14 March 2013 AUTHOR: Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: This report presents the recommendations of the last meeting of the Access and Community Safety Reference Group held on14 March 2013, for Council endorsement. The minutes are provided for information. RECOMMENDATION: 1. THAT the information on priority of location for additional public benches, to be followed up with the Engineering and Property Services Division, be received. 2. THAT maps be considered at meetings of the Reference Group to assist in determining exact locations of the proposed benches 3. THAT the Open Space and Environmental Services Division advise on the installation of an accessible toilet in the park at Kurraba Point.

Signed:

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Report of Martin Ellis, Director Community and Library Services Re: Access and Community Safety Reference Group Meeting - 14 March 2013

(2) LINK TO DELIVERY PROGRAM The relationship with the Delivery Program is as follows: Direction: 4. Our Social Vitality Goal: 4.5 Improve community 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 Access and Community Safety Reference Group held on 14 March 2013, for Council endorsement. The minutes are attached for information.

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

Minute Book Page No 12

This is Page No 12 of the Minutes of the Access & Community Safety Reference Group Meeting held on Thursday, 14/03/13.

MINUTES: ACCESS & COMMUNITY SAFETY REFERENCE GROUP MEETING

HELD IN THE ROS CRICHTON PAVILION, COUNCIL CHAMBERS ON THURSDAY, 14 MARCH 2013 AT 10.00AM.

PRESENT

Councillor Marchandeau in the Chair.

Staff: Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) Russell Wolfe, Social Planner

Gillian Hill, Access and Events Librarian Peita Rose, Word Processing Operator (Minutes)

Citizen Members: Aloma Fennell, The Senior Agenda

Marilyn McKenzie, Representative for Jillian Skinner, MP John Meadows Shirley Bevan Lynne Smith Lew Smith Carlie Spencer Denis Robinson Geoffrey Barrett Jillian Christie

Visitors: Fran Killoway, Frasil Greg Vale, Frasil James Smith, Frasil

Apologies were received from Councillor Robertson.

At the commencement of business (10.05am) Councillors present were – Councillor Marchandeau in the Chair.

1. Minutes

The Minutes of the previous meeting held on 6 December 2012, copies of which had been previously circulated, were taken as read and confirmed.

The Motion was moved by John Meadows and seconded by Carlie Spencer.

2. AC01: Suggested Bench Locations

Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) This report provides list of potential locations for new footpath/park benches in the North Sydney LGA. The need for new benches has been identified at Access and

ATTACHMENT TO CLS02 - 8/04/13 Page 3 Page 6

ACCESS & COMMUNITY SAFETY REFERENCE GROUP - 14/03/13 Page No 13


Community Safety Reference Group and via customer requests. It also supports the aged-friendly infrastructure objective of the NSW Ageing Strategy 2012. The meeting agreed that the following locations be given priority and discussed with Council’s Engineering and Property Division:

a) Miller Street (up the hill) outside “Monte” half way between Berry and McLaren Streets

b) Balls Head Road half way between Waverton Station and the Coal Loader (near the carpark)

c) Willoughby Street near the Ensemble Theatre on the northern side outside the Church

d) Path across Bradfield Park South: there is a seat in the middle: it is preferred that there be two - on be closer to Broughton Street and one closer to the Pool.

e) Gladys Carry Park - under the tree in the Park. f) Walker Street down to Lavender Bay, a seat and handrail need to be put in on

the steep path there. g) Ernest Street, between West and Alexander Streets h) Investigate shade for seating at Milsons Point bus stop

Recommending: 1. THAT the information be received. 2. THAT maps be considered at meetings of the Reference Group to assist in determining exact locations. Resolved to Recommend: 1. THAT the information on priority of location for additional public benches, to be followed up with the Engineering and Property Services Division, be received.

The Motion was moved by John Meadows and seconded by Councillor Marchandeau.

3. AC02: Access to Kurraba Point Reserve

Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) This report provides a brief overview of access issues at Kurraba Point Reserve. Recommending: 1. THAT the information be received.

Resolved to Recommend:

1. THAT an accessible toilet be installed in the Park at Kurraba Point.

The Motion was moved by John Meadows and seconded by Jillian Christie. 4. AC03: Items and hazards for attention

Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) This report provides a summary of items and hazards identified by the Access and Community Safety Reference Group that require attention by Council.




Recommending: 1. THAT the information be received. Resolved to Recommend: 1. THAT the information be updated for the next meeting of the Reference Group. The Motion was moved by John Meadows and seconded by Jillian Christie.

5. AC04: 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 be noted.

6. General Business

6.1 New Technology

Fran Killoway, Greg Vale and James Smith from Frasil spoke about their software equipment which is technology for seniors and people with disabilities. It is a touch computer which is used without a keyboard or mouse. It can be operated with any part of the body e.g. nose. It costs $2.00 per week. The system will be available in late June/July and it can be purchased through Rotary with each club granted 50 licenses. The system works with computers dating from 1996 onward and also with iPhones. It will be released in 60 languages. Statistical information was provided on disability and literacy rates in North Sydney.

It was suggested that the software be trialled in the Council Chambers.

Resolved to Recommend: 1. THAT the information be noted.




6.2 North Sydney Community Safety Plan Russell Wolfe, Social Planner provided an overview of the findings from the Community Safety Resident Survey which was recently conducted as part of the review of Council’s Community Safety Plan. Issues raised in the survey were:

• Elements on transport • Lack of safe pedestrian crossings • Speed limits are too high (laneways) • Trip hazards • Sheer Volume of traffic • Poor road design - speed bumps • Cycle paths conflict with cars - not enough segregated cycle paths • Nigh time safety after 7.30pm - North Sydney CBD, Crows Nest Hotel,

North Sydney train station • Unlit laneways • Crows Nest red light establishments - too many • Theft and graffiti - Blues Point Reserve and anti social behaviour • Cyclists in Miller Street are not keeping up with the speed

The survey were accessed from Council’s website, and promoted through a media release in the Mosman Daily and Council’s Facebook page.

The Meeting concluded at 12.35pm. ____________________________ __________________________ CHAIRPERSON GENERAL MANAGER


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

Access & Community Safety Reference Group Report AC01 - 13 June 2013

Attachments:

Nil

SUBJECT: New Transport Signage 2013 AUTHOR: Chris Taylor, CommunityWorker (Aged and Disability) May 27 2013 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Transport NSW is trailing new signage in the North Sydney Local Government area. The Kirribilli area has been selected as a major transport hub and a popular area for visitors. The prototype signage is being trailed at train station ferry wharfs and bus stops. This report provides a brief over view of the proposed signage for public transport users. RECOMMENDATION: 1. THAT this information be received. Signed: Endorsed by:

Manager, Community Development

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Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) Re: New Transport Signage 2013

(2)

LINK TO DELIVERY PROGRAM The relationship with the Delivery Program is as follows: Direction: 4. Our Social Vitality Goal: 4.5 improve community safety and accessibility BACKGROUND The Accessible Transport Standards was introduced in 2002 to ensure that all Public Transport was in compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. As part of the standards, Transport signage and information much be accessible to people with disabilities (Section17). SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT The sustainability implications are of a minor nature and as such did not warrant a detailed assessment. DETAIL The Kirribilli Transport hub has been selected to trial new public transport signage for the NSW Government. The signage is coded by letter and colour, for example F for Ferry and the colour green. There is also some directional signage used on major access routes. At Stations and Wharves there is some directional signage on final destinations. The number and contact details for up to date travel information are supplied on Station and Wharf signage. On the NSW Transport websites public transport users are invited to provide some feedback on the new signage until the end of June.

Picture: 1 Signage at Ferry Wharf Luna Park

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Picture:2 New Signage at Milsons Point Station

Picture 3: Directional Signage from Luna Park

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Picture 4: Entrance to Railway Station

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Community Services Reference Group

Report AC02 - 13 June 2013

Attachments: Nil

SUBJECT: Community Service Requests and Gaps 2012-2013 AUTHOR: Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: As part of the requirement for ongoing Family and Community Services (FACS) funding, all community requests received by the Community Worker (Aged and Disability) are recorded and reviewed as ongoing monitoring of service gaps and unresolved community issues. These findings are reported to FACS as part of an ongoing Regional and State planning process. Between May 2012 and May 2013 the numbers of community requests were 207, about the same as the previous year. There was a slight increase in the numbers of people who were frail-aged but a decline in the numbers of people with disabilities and those with mental illness. Housing assistance and access to services and facilities were the most frequent types of requests received. RECOMMENDATION: 1. THAT Council continues to support the operations of the Crows Nest Centre and Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre. 2. THAT Council continues to support training Council and Community Centre and information to reduce the numbers of people at risk of social isolation. 3. THAT Council supports supplementary, resident-based services contributing to community support (such North Sydney Men’s Shed, Neutral Bay Seniors, Greenway Tenants Group and the Waverton Hub) Signed: Endorsed by:


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Report of Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) Re: Community Service Gaps and Requests 2012-2013

(2)

LINK TO DELIVERY PROGRAM The relationship with the Delivery Program is as follows: Direction:4 Our Social Vitality Goal:4.4 Enhance Community services, facilities and information. BACKGROUND Since 2002, all requests received directly by the Community Worker (Aged and Disability) have been recorded. At the end of each 12 month reporting period a report is prepared and service demand and gaps are reviewed. Information is used to inform both Council and sub-regional planning processes. SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT The following table provides a summary of the key sustainability implications: QBL Pillar Implications Environment Levels of Homelessness and poor living conditions have some

impact on the local environment. For example increased rubbish and waste in public reserves and open space.

Social Community Centers remain an important contact point for people with complex needs

Economic Further resources are required to improve access to infrastructure and work with people who are socially isolated and living in poor conditions.

Governance Review partnerships and MOUs to increase collaboration between Council and Community Organizations.

Summary of findings In between May 2012 and May 2013, Community service requests made to the Aged and Disability Community Worker numbered 207 one more than last years total. In 119 cases it was possible to identify the demographic circumstances of the person. The largest population group was the frail aged 64 a slight increase on last year. (62) People with a disability numbered 48, nine less than last year. (57) There were 13 people with a mental illness who requested assistance, 2 less than last year.(15)

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Housing assistance were the largest number of community service requests received (64), six less than last year. (70) However, housing assistance remains about a third of all total requests. People requesting housing assistance are only counted once in each reporting year. Requests involving access to faculties and infrastructure increased to 24 seven more than last year (17). These are reported via the CRM and Access and Community Safety Reference Group and via customer service requests.

There were 45 requests that were identified as being concerned with gaps in service. 11 People requested activates including physical and cultural pursuits. There were 8 cases of people being reported at risk of isolation and 8 situations of poor living conditions.

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The number of people in poor living conditions it half that of the number reported last year. There were 9 requests for transport and access to transport. Most of these requests were concerned with out of hours or out of area transport (5). People requested assistance with rubbish removal from premises by Council contractors.

The number of referrals made to Community centres (42) was slightly less than last year (45) Social housing providers were the third highest source of referrals (14). Given the number of housing assistance requests made it is possible to conclude that many people are still using the boarding and private rented sector to secure accommodation. There were 4 referrals to the Aged Care and Assessment Team.(ACAT)

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Conclusions The Frail Aged account for just over 30% of the total requests. People with disabilities were also prominent, accounting for 23% of the total requests. There were 13 recorded requests from people with a mental illness or their carers. In some instances people from all three groups can require intensive support and resources to live successfully in the community. Housing has remained the biggest issue affecting all population groups. Demand for social housing is very high and timely allocation of social housing for people in need becoming much harder to obtain. For people living in boarding houses, issues of security of tenure and increasing cost of accommodation remain. With an average cost of $250 per week, boarding house accommodation does not leave someone on New Start allowance with very much to buy life essentials such as food and clothes. Given the lack of security and rights there is an emerging need for greater advocacy and representation of people living in boarding house style accommodation. With the recent Boarding House Act (2010) Council has a role to ensure safety and standards in boarding house accommodation. There were 24 requests for improved access to services and facilities. In the next

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few years Council will be required to keep improving basic infrastructure such as kerb ramps and bus stops. Two Council-owned facilities still have major access issues: Nutcote and Primrose Park Arts and Craft Centre. Social isolation and poor living conditions continue to show as requests for assistance and support. The last ABS Census shows that nearly 37% of the North Sydney population live as single person households. Many of these people are older people who do not have any family in the immediate area. There are a number of ways in which people at risk of isolation can be engaged. The removal of rubbish and broken household item remains a major issue for the frail aged and people with a disability. There were five requests for assistance during the period 2012 and 2013. Council has been proactive in working with contractors to assist older people unable to move large household items to the boundary of the footpath. Requests for assistance that involved referrals to community centres accounted for 21% of the total. Slightly less than last year (23%). Requests to community centres often tend to be more complex. Both Crows Nest and Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centres have remained very supportive in providing services to people in housing need and at risk of social isolation.

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Attachments:

Nil

SUBJECT: Items and hazards for attention (costings and summary) AUTHOR: Chris Taylor, Community Worker (Aged and Disability) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: This report provides a summary of items and hazards identified by the Access and Community Safety Reference Group that require attention by Council and the State Government. The report also provides some approximate costings based on previous quotes and similar works carried out in other locations. RECOMMENDATION: 1. THAT this information be received Signed: Endorsed by:


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Report of Chris Taylor Community Worker (Aged and Disability) Re: Items and hazards for attention (costings and summary)

(2)

LINK TO DELIVERY PROGRAM The relationship with the Delivery Program is as follows: Direction: 4. Our Social Vitality Goal: 4.5 improve community safety and accessibility BACKGROUND Members of the Access and Community Safety Reference Group identify items for discussion. Solutions are forwarded as recommendations to Council. Items are placed on the register shown below. SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT The following table provides a summary of the key sustainability implications: QBL Pillar Implications Environment Some impact on the built environment. Increased use of Public

Transport Social Improved access for people with disabilities or with limited or

restricted mobility. Economic Significant cost to Council for some projects Governance Compliance with Access and Accessible Transport Standards

required. REGISTER Item/date Issue first rose.

Actions required Recent action undertaken

Access to Harbour Bridge 2000

Long term aim to provide access to the platform walk for people with limited mobility at Northern end. This would be a decision and resourcing matter for the State Government. Harbour Link is not currently funded. Approx Costing $100,0000

Kerb ramps On going

On going program to improve access and comply with Access standards Areas of concern

Miller Street. High Street/ Clarke Road

intersection Ridge Street

$5,000-10,000 per kerb

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Improve access to Council facilities 1998

Improved access required for Second floor of North Sydney Oval conference centre 2007 $250,000 Access works required from the entrance to Nutcote to café and house 2007 $400,000 Audit Council Chambers and upgrade hearing loop. $20,000 Primrose Park Arts and Craft Centre (Toilet and Signage ) $300,000

Ongoing program

Street furniture 2008

Continuous audit of the impact of outdoor dining cafes and bike racks on mobility in the North Sydney LGA $5,000

Enclosed Dog exercise area 2009

Council site meeting held at proposed site: Warringa Park This site has been discounted after consultation with residents. $15,000

Accessible toilets 2005

Waverton Park Milson Park Anderson Park Brightmore Reserve Kurraba Point (2013)

$80,000-$100,000 per toilet

Plans for Milson Park drawn up October 2011

Improved directional signage 2007

Required for Council Chambers and Stanton Library. (Tactile indicators) Ballshead Reserve (2012) $10,000

Ongoing program

Pedestrian crossing improvements

Blue Street 2009 Olympic Pool 2006 High Street /Clarke road

intersection Laneways in Crows Nest

(shared use ) 2012 $20,000-$40,000

Inspected August 2011

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Improved Lighting 2007

Improved lighting for Ennis Lane between High Street and Ennis Road $20,000

Raised in RTA Consultation 2011 Request for tree trimming August 2011

Accessible bus stops 2010

All Bus stops in North Sydney should be accessible by 2020 (see Accessible Transport standards 2002). Miller Street bus stop at South end of Oval has been noted for poor for access. $500,000

See Accessible transport standards. Time table for improvements set by state government.

Greenway /NSW Housing 2004

Lift/Ramp /walkway required for residents of Greenway Apartments to Ennis road 2004 Access to all blocks requires improvement. Including internal access to lifts in block A and C. $100,0000

NSW Housing

North Sydney Council Museums

Establish full access to Nutcote house and gardens $400,000 Mark Don Bank steps with contrast strips Improve lighting where possible $5,000 Improve signage from the Station to Miller street $5,000

Nutcote 2007 Don Bank 2012

Audit of areas requiring outdoor benches.

Identify key locations for Council benches which would assist people with limited mobility. $2,000 per bench

Survey in 2013 Reported to Reference Group.

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Attachments:

1. Access and Community Safety Reference Group Charter

SUBJECT: Access and Community Safety Reference Group - Citizen Membership AUTHOR: Ian Curry, Governance Coordinator EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The purpose of this report is to inform the Access and Community Safety Reference Group of its elected citizen members. In accordance with the adopted Charter, citizen membership for this Group is limited to up to 16 members. Recruitment of citizen members for all Reference Groups and Working Groups occurred in March/April 2013. Council received 14 nominations for the Access and Community Safety Reference Group Working Group. RECOMMENDATION: 1. THAT the report be received. Signed: Endorsed by: Director Corporate Services

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Report of Ian Curry, Governance Coordinator Re: Access and Community Safety Reference Group - Citizen Membership

(2)

LINK TO DELIVERY PROGRAM The relationship with the Delivery Program is as follows: Direction: 5. Our Civic Leadership Goal: 5.2 Enhance community participation, collaboration and engagement BACKGROUND Usually, each year in September Council reconstitutes its Reference Groups and appoints a Chair for the twelve month period commencing from 1 October. However due to the restructuring of Council’s Reference Groups and Working Groups, which occurred in November 2012, recruitment of citizen members for all Groups did not occur until early 2013. Recruitment of citizen members for its Reference Groups and Working Groups occurred in March/April 2013, this included including seeking new nominations as well as continuing nominations from existing citizen members. Nominations for citizen members for Reference Groups and Working Groups closed on 11 April 2013. In accordance with the adopted Charter, citizen membership for the Access and Community Safety Reference Group is limited to up to 16 members, consisting of up to 10 community representatives from community organisations working with the community in North Sydney and representatives from community groups (with a maximum of 2 representatives from any one group) and up to 6 individuals - North Sydney residents. SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT The sustainability implications were considered and reported on during the initiation phase of this project. DETAIL Council received no new nominations for citizen members for the Access and Community Safety Reference Group and the 14 existing members indicated they would like to continue. Council at its meeting of 13 May 2013 endorsed the citizen members for this Group as detailed in the following table:

Access and Community Safety Reference Group Citizen Members 2012/13

Mr Geoff Barrett Resident Ms Shirley Bevan Resident Ms Laurel Catchpool Resident Ms Jillian Christie Resident Ms Aloma Fennell Resident Ms Marilyn Mackenzie Community Group representative - Jillian Skinner MP Mr John Meadows Resident Ms Jennifer Moon Community Group representative - Guide Dogs NSW/ACT

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Report of Ian Curry, Governance Coordinator Re: Access and Community Safety Reference Group - Citizen Membership

(3)

Access and Community Safety Reference Group Citizen Members 2012/13

Mr Paul Oglesby Resident Mr Denis Robinson Resident Mr Leigh Sheridan Resident Mr Lewis Smith Resident Ms Lynette Smith Resident Ms Carlie Spencer Resident

Council also endorsed the following amendments to the Access and Community Safety Reference Charter as detailed in Attachment 1:

The former Charter limited the 16 citizen member positions to up to 10 community representatives from community organisations working with the community in North Sydney and representatives from community groups (with a maximum of 2 representatives from any one group) and up to 6 individuals (North Sydney residents).

The amended Charter has changed to up to 12 individuals/North Sydney residents; and up to 4 community representatives from community organisations/groups working with in North Sydney area, with a maximum of 2 representatives from any one group.

There are currently 2 citizen member vacancies remaining for the Access and Community Safety Reference Group, which may be filled during the year, at any time, based on receipt of nomination forms.

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CHARTER

Access and Community Reference Group

1. NAME Access and Community Safety Reference Group 2. STATUS Special interest group set up by resolution of North Sydney Council. 3. ESTABLISHED Established: 24 November 2008 (Min. No. 757) Reconstituted: 27 November 2012 (Min. No. 708) Note: Reference Groups are reconstituted in September each year. 4. AIMS 4.1 To improve access and community safety for the whole community in the North

Sydney local government area.

4.2 To enable Council to meet its obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

4.3 To enable Council to meet its objectives under its various policies and plans

including the 2020 Vision, Community Strategic Plan 2009-2020. 5. SCOPE 5.1 The functions of the Access and Community Safety Reference Group shall include but not be limited to:

Provide an open, inviting forum for community members to raise access and community safety issues;

To inform, lobby and influence responsible bodies to improve access and community safety;

To educate and train individuals and organisations on access and community safety issues;

To advise on the implementation of access and community safety related action plans and strategies and their evaluation; and

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Access and Community Safety Reference Group Charter

Page 2

To provide input to and work with all relevant access and community safety organisations.

6. QUORUM 6.1 The quorum is four participants - including at least three citizen members. 6.2 The designated Councillor as elected by the Council will chair the Reference Group. In the absence of the elected Councillor, another Councillor will chair the Reference Group. In the absence of a Councillor the senior Council Officer present shall take the chair. 7. POWERS OF COMMITTEE 7.1 The Reference Group does not have the power to incur expenditure. 7.2 The Reference Group does not have the power to bind the Council. 8. MEMBERSHIP 8.1 All elected Councillors shall be ex officio members of all Reference Groups.

8.2 Citizen Members - Up to 16 members consisting of:

a) 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

b) Up to six individuals - North Sydney residents. 8.3 All Working Group members shall have equal voting rights.

8.4 Citizen members will be determined by advertising, calling for expressions of interest

for the positions in the local media and on Council’s website. Representatives will be selected on the basis of their stated experiences/skills/interest of relevance to the Reference Group.

9. TIMETABLE FOR MEETINGS 9.1 Three meeting will be held per year as published in Council’s Schedule of Meetings. 9.2 Meetings will be held on Thursdays at 10.00am.

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9.3 A Reference Group meeting will be limited to a maximum of two hours’ duration unless the Reference Group meeting decides to continue the meeting until a later time or the completion of business. 9.4 Extraordinary meetings to be called as required. 9.5 If there are insufficient items/reports on the agenda (as determined by the General

Manager) a scheduled meeting may be deferred or cancelled up until three days before the meeting. Councillors and citizen members will be notified of the cancellation. Council’s website will also be updated accordingly.

10. MEETING PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES 10.1 The provisions of Council’s Code of Meeting Principles and Practices shall apply.

10.2 Council Officers will distribute soft copies of the draft minutes to Reference Group

members within one week of the meeting. Reference Group members will have one week to advise Council Officers of any errors or omissions from the minutes.

10.3 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 the Code of Meeting Principles and Practices.

10.4 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.

10.5 Reference Group members will be provided with copies of the agendas and minutes of the meetings. The agendas and minutes of all meetings will also be made available from Council’s website. 10.6 Registrations to speak by non-members (i.e. members of the public) must be made by

12 Noon on the day of the meeting, by contacting Council's Governance Coordinator on 9936 8154. Each speaker is limited to three minutes per agenda item. These items will then be brought forward, in agenda order, and dealt with before items in which there is no interest from the public gallery.

10.7 All Reference Group members and attendees (including speakers) shall register their name on the attendance record provided at the meeting.

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10.8 Non-members attending for the first time will include an e-mail/postal address on the attendance record for the receipt of minutes of the meeting they attended, and must indicate they wish to receive agendas and minutes for future meetings. 11. CONDUCT PROTOCOLS FOR PARTICIPANTS 11.1 All Councillor Reference Group members are required to observe the provisions of Council’s Code of Conduct - Councillors and Staff. 11.2 All Citizen Reference Group members are required to observe the provisions of

Council’s Code of Conduct - Volunteers and Community Representatives. 11.3 All Reference Group members as well as other participants are expected to

observe the following protocols:

11.3.1 General Responsibilities:

a) Be courteous to other participants, Council staff and Councillors; b) Help to create an environment that is free of harassment and

discrimination; and c) Protect the health, safety and welfare of yourself and others at

meetings and related activities.

11.3.2 Declarations of Interest:

a) Speakers at Reference Group meetings may have a personal (non-pecuniary) or financial (pecuniary) interest in matters being discussed by the Reference Group.

b) Participants are required to disclose any interest in a matter under discussion, particularly when the interest is one of a pecuniary nature. Such declarations will be noted in the minutes.

c) A conflict of interest does not mean that you will be barred from participating in a meeting. Instead, it allows others to understand your position and prevents criticism of Council activities or decisions at a later date.

d) If you are paid lobbyist representing an individual or group, you are required under Council’s Lobbyist Policy to declare your role and to register as a lobbyist on Council’s Lobbyist Register.

11.3.3 Gifts or Benefits - Participants should not offer to a Councillor or Council

staff member a gift or benefit that is:

a) designed to gain advantage for yourself or a group you represent; or b) may be perceived by the public to give advantage to you or a group

you represent.

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Access and Community Reference Group Charter Page 5

11.3.4 Alcohol and Drugs - Reference Group members and participants shall not

attend meetings whilst under the influence of alcohol or other drugs that could impair your ability or cause danger to the safety of yourself or others.

12. PRIVACY 12.1 All Reference Group members are required to observe the provisions of Council’s

Code of Conduct - Volunteers and Community Representatives relating to their access to personal information.

13. ACCESS TO COUNCIL CODES, POLICIES AND GUIDELINES 13.1 Related Council Codes, Policies and Guidelines, including the Code of Meetings

Principles and Practices, Code of Conduct - Councillors and Staff, Code of Conduct - Volunteers and Community Representatives and Lobbyist Policy may be viewed on Council’s website and/or hard copies may obtained upon request from Council’s Corporate Planning and Governance Department.

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north sydney council · north sydney council council chambers 6 june 2013 i wish to inform you that...

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