HCC Coat of Arms.jpg
City of hobart

 

 

 

 

AGENDA

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

 

Open Portion

 

Tuesday, 14 May 2019

 

at 5:00 pm

Lady Osborne Room, Town Hall


 

 

 

 

THE MISSION

Our mission is to ensure good governance of our capital City.

THE VALUES

The Council is:

 

about people

We value people – our community, our customers and colleagues.

professional

We take pride in our work.

enterprising

We look for ways to create value.

responsive

We’re accessible and focused on service.

inclusive

We respect diversity in people and ideas.

making a difference

We recognise that everything we do shapes Hobart’s future.

 

 


 

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 3

 

14/5/2019

 

 

ORDER OF BUSINESS

 

Business listed on the agenda is to be conducted in the order in which it is set out, unless the committee by simple majority determines otherwise.

 

APOLOGIES AND LEAVE OF ABSENCE

1.        Co-Option of a Committee Member in the event of a vacancy  4

2.        Confirmation of Minutes. 4

3.        Consideration of Supplementary Items. 4

4.        Indications of Pecuniary and Conflicts of Interest. 5

5.        Transfer of Agenda Items. 5

6.        Reports. 6

6.1     Local Government Association of Tasmania - Membership. 6

6.2     National Redress Scheme - LGAT. 17

6.3     Insurance Policy. 20

6.4     Social Food Service Delivery. 29

6.5     Property Valuation Adjustments (Indexation) 36

6.6     2019-20 Fees and Charges - Financial Services. 48

6.7     2019-20 Fees and Charges - City Governance. 55

6.8     2019-20 Fees and Charges - Parking Operations. 64

6.9     2018-19 Annual Plan - Progress Report  Period Ended 28 February 2019  80

6.10  Procurement - Quotation Exemption Report 133

6.11  Grants and Benefits Listing as at 31 March 2019. 140

7.        Committee Action Status Report. 154

7.1     Committee Actions - Status Report 154

8.        Questions Without Notice. 168

9.        Closed Portion Of The Meeting.. 169

 


 

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 4

 

14/5/2019

 

 

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting (Open Portion) held Tuesday, 14 May 2019 at 5:00 pm in the Lady Osborne Room, Town Hall.

 

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Zucco (Chairman)

Deputy Lord Mayor Burnet

Sexton

Thomas

Dutta

 

NON-MEMBERS

Lord Mayor Reynolds

Briscoe

Denison

Harvey

Behrakis

Ewin

Sherlock

Apologies:

 

 

Leave of Absence: Nil

 

1.       Co-Option of a Committee Member in the event of a vacancy

 

 

 

 

 

2.       Confirmation of Minutes

 

The minutes of the Open Portion of the Finance and Governance Committee meeting held on Tuesday, 9 April 2019, are submitted for confirming as an accurate record.

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.       Consideration of Supplementary Items

Ref: Part 2, Regulation 8(6) of the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2015.

Recommendation

 

That the Committee resolve to deal with any supplementary items not appearing on the agenda, as reported by the General Manager.

 

 

4.       Indications of Pecuniary and Conflicts of Interest

Ref: Part 2, Regulation 8(7) of the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2015.

 

Members of the Committee are requested to indicate where they may have any pecuniary or conflict of interest in respect to any matter appearing on the agenda, or any supplementary item to the agenda, which the committee has resolved to deal with.

 

 

 

 

5.       Transfer of Agenda Items

Regulation 15 of the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2015.

 

A committee may close a part of a meeting to the public where a matter to be discussed falls within 15(2) of the above regulations.

 

In the event that the committee transfer an item to the closed portion, the reasons for doing so should be stated.

 

Are there any items which should be transferred from this agenda to the closed portion of the agenda, or from the closed to the open portion of the agenda?

 


Item No. 6.1

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 6

 

14/5/2019

 

 

6.       Reports

 

6.1    Local Government Association of Tasmania - Membership

          File Ref: F19/49400

Report of the General Manager of 9 May 2019.

Delegation:     Council


Item No. 6.1

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 7

 

14/5/2019

 

 

REPORT TITLE:                  Local Government Association of Tasmania - Membership

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  General Manager

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     The purpose of this memorandum is to respond to a Notice of Motion in relation to the Council’s membership of the Local Government Association of Tasmania and opportunities for the formation of a metropolitan councils association.

2.         Report Summary

Membership to the LGAT

2.1.     The issue of Council’s membership to the Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) has been considered on a number of occasions in the past particularly around the Association’s capacity to represent the views of the larger cities.

2.2.     In May 2013, in response to a Notice of Motion, the Council resolved to disengage from the LGAT and not pay its 2013/14 subscription with all rights of membership withdrawn from the Council.

2.3.     The Council remained outside the LGAT for over 12 months, until it again considered its position on 15 December 2014, whereat it resolved to re-join.

2.4.     The Council was required to repay its 2013/14 outstanding subscription obligation in addition to the yearly subscription which applied to the year in which the Council re-joined; a total of $124,000.

2.5.     Issues of strategic importance being addressed by the LGAT include providing support to the Council (and the membership more widely) in relation to the charitable rates exemption issue and a sector wide approach to the Review of Tasmania’s Local Government Legislation Framework.

2.6.     Other significant benefits the Council derives from its membership to the LGAT include procurement savings through access to the National Procurement Network; successfully securing funds for sectoral improvements; leveraging significant savings for councils through collective approaches to advocacy, industrial relations and training; a seat on the General Management Committee and access to the Australian Local Government Association and professional development support for Elected Members.

Metropolitan Councils Group and Greater Hobart Act

2.7.     The Council first raised the formation of a Metropolitan Councils Group (MCG) in 2010 as part of the criteria/benchmarks submitted to the LGAT.

2.8.     Whilst the Group was established to provide a forum for raising matters of particular interest and relevance to metropolitan councils and identifying and pursuing an appropriate course of action in relation to such matters, once the City of Hobart withdrew from the LGAT in 2013, the Group ceased to exist.

2.9.     The recent signing of the Greater Hobart City Deal provides the Council with a mechanism to work not only with the surrounding metropolitan councils but the Tasmanian Government with the Greater Hobart Act providing the framework for this to occur.

2.10.   The Act will create the Greater Hobart Committee which includes the mayors of the Greater Hobart area councils and the State Government Ministers responsible for economic development; infrastructure; housing and community development.

2.11.   A Greater Hobart Advisory Group will also be established and is responsible for developing a draft work program to further the objectives of the Greater Hobart Act.

2.12.   Given the strategic value the Council receives from the LGAT it is proposed that the Council remain a member of the Association and given the progress of the Greater Hobart Act which at the time of writing will have its second reading in the Legislative Council on 21 May 2019 it is proposed that the Council consider the merits of forming a metropolitan councils association once the Act receives Royal Assent and the associated work program is developed.

3.         Recommendation

That:

1.      The Council remain a member of the Local Government Association of Tasmania.

2.      The Council consider opportunities for the formation of a metropolitan councils association after the Greater Hobart Act has received royal assent and its associated work program is developed.

 


 

4.         Background

4.1.     The Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) is the peak body representing local government in Tasmania.  It provides specialist services to its member councils including policy and strategic support, information and learning for Local Government elected members and officers and procurement of employee relations and insurance services.

Membership History

4.2.     In relation to the Council’s membership to the LGAT, this issue has been considered on a number of occasions in the past particularly around the Association’s capacity to represent the views of the larger cities.

4.3.     In 2010, the Council provided a series of criteria/benchmarks to the LGAT which it believed best summarised what it felt it should be receiving in return for its membership. 

4.3.1.     These benchmarks included, an investigation into the establishment of a major cities group within the LGAT governance structure; greater engagement with councils on significant policy issues; a more representative approach to dealing with reforms and a review of the weighted voting system to provide for a more balanced response across the industry.

4.4.     The Council was satisfied with the LGAT’s response to these criteria/benchmarks and resolved on 16 July 2012 to remain a member of the Association.

4.5.     However, in May 2013, in response to a Notice of Motion, the Council resolved to disengage from the LGAT and not pay its 2013/14 subscription.

4.5.1.     The Council’s decision to disengage and not pay its 2013/14 subscription meant that it did not adhere to the LGAT Rules which state that a member’s resignation takes effect upon the completion of the financial year following that which the notice of intention to resign is provided and that until the 12 month period expires the member is to pay the annual subscription.

4.5.2.     Given the Council’s decision, its outstanding subscription obligation remained on the Association’s books as an outstanding liability and when the Council re-joined the LGAT it was required to meet this obligation which totalled $56,012.

4.5.3.     All rights of membership were withdrawn from the Council, with the Association not seeking to engage with the Council on any new legislative or policy development proposals arising from the sector or from other sources.   Officers and Elected Members were not able to participate in working groups, committees or training sessions, the General Manager was removed as a member of the Premier’s Local Government Council (PLGC) and information flow via newsletters, monthly reports and magazines was truncated.

4.6.     For over 12 months, the Council remained outside the LGAT, until it again considered its position on 15 December 2014, whereat it resolved to re-join the Association. 

4.7.     In support of the Council re-joining, the LGAT agreed that the Lord Mayor would immediately be granted a seat on the General Management Committee (GMC) and automatically become a member of the Premier’s Local Government Council, Elected Members were able to attend professional development sessions and were eligible for consideration for appointment to State Government boards/committees where a sectoral representative was required.  The Council was included in all consultations on intergovernmental policy and legislative issues and again had access to all procurement and purchasing arrangements available through the LGAT.

4.8.     The Council was required to repay its 2013/14 outstanding subscription obligation in addition to the yearly subscription which applied to the year in which the Council re-joined; a total of $124,000.

Strategic Benefit

4.9.     The LGAT is the voice of Local Government in Tasmania. It works to protect the interests and rights of councils, to promote the efficient operation of Local Government and to foster strategic and beneficial relationships.

4.10.   The LGAT is incorporated under the Local Government Act 1993, with its functions including:

‘To protect and represent the interests and rights of councils in Tasmania’

4.11.   A recent example where there is strategic benefit in being a member of the LGAT and where the Association is representing the interests of councils is on the issue of charitable rates exemption.

4.12.   As Elected Members would be aware, the High Court dismissed the special leave applications made by Clarence/Hobart/Kingborough and Meander Valley Councils in relation to Southern Cross Care’s rating and councils have been ordered to pay costs.

4.13.   This decision will have broader implications for rates paid by other similar entities throughout Tasmania and given that the Full Court decision is now the law on the correct interpretation of this exemption, it will extend to other ratepayers who are in similar circumstances.

4.14.   The LGAT has raised the issue for discussion at PLGC and in meetings with the Director of Local Government pressing the need to provide legislative clarity as soon as possible, rather than wait for the outcomes of the review of Tasmania’s Local Government Legislation Framework.

4.15.   At its 29 March 2019 meeting, members of the LGAT unanimously resolved as follows:

That LGAT establish a working group and seek legal advice if necessary, to develop a proposed amendment to section 87 of the Local Government Act, and specifically in regard to the definition charitable purpose, with a view to providing certainty and social equity in the application of rating exemptions.

That LGAT seek a firm commitment from the State Government to commence a review of the rating exemption provisions in the Local Government Act; with amendment to proceed as soon as practicable and ahead of the broader legislative review timeframes.

4.16.   In undertaking this work, Tasmanian councils are seeking to ensure the original intent of the exemption is maintained, but that as charitable, religious and educational organisations enter into new business models, there is not a perverse and hidden impact on the broader community.   It is important and fair that the beneficiaries of the services provided by such organisations pay taxes, including rates, on an equitable basis compared to people in similar circumstances.

4.17.   Another recent example where the Council will receive benefit from its membership to the LGAT is the Review of Tasmania’s Local Government Legislation Framework.

4.18.   The Association is a member of the Steering Committee which meets on a monthly basis and is supported by a Reference Group comprising membership from a broad range of backgrounds including Local Government and Industry.  The Reference Group is independently facilitated with each meeting the focus of a particular subject matter.

4.19.   A comprehensive submission on the Local Government Legislation Framework Discussion Paper was provided by the LGAT on behalf of the Local Government sector under a series of headings including Council governance and powers; democracy and engagement; council revenue and expenditure and performance transparency and accountability.

4.20.   The LGAT has also provided support, advice and advocacy in a range of policy areas on recent significant matters such as planning and building reform; emergency management and community recovery; health and wellbeing; waste management; climate change; financial sustainability and workforce development.

4.21.   There are a range of other benefits the Council receives as a member to the LGAT, including the following:

·    Council’s membership delivers direct savings in excess of its subscription fees as a consequence of the bulk purchasing power through LGAT procurement activities which includes access to the National Procurement Network (NPN) and the whole of sector street lighting contract.

The City of Hobart’s subscription fees last financial year were $70,000 but over a similar period (March to March) the Council saved an estimated $106,000 through the NPN and $90,000 through the street lighting contract which is in the process of renegotiating on behalf of LGAT members.  This means savings to the Council of at least $120,000 after subscription costs.

·    The LGAT strongly advocated for the continuation of TasWater dividends of $20 million per annum of which the Council is a significant beneficiary.

·    LGAT has successfully secured funds for sectoral improvements, including recently supporting councils in planning for and delivering health and wellbeing to communities and to revise the Municipal Emergency Management Guidelines as well as partnering with the Council in a grant application for pride in diversity.

·    The LGAT leverage significant savings for councils through collective approaches to advocacy, industrial relations and training.  Recent examples include significant engagement with the Australian Energy Regulator on TasNetworks pricing reset and establishing panel arrangements for project management, hardware and installation services for energy efficient street lighting.

·    Council capacity is developed through tools such as delegation and compliance registers; workplace behaviours toolkit and financial and asset management practice notes.

4.22.   Through its membership to the LGAT, the Council has the ability to influence the strategic direction of the Association through its ‘as of’ right seat on the General Management Committee (GMC) as well as direct access to the Premier of Tasmania and Minister for Local Government through the Premier’s Local Government Council (PLGC).

4.22.1.  The Council at its 15 April 2019 meeting resolved to nominate the Deputy Lord Mayor for the position of President of the LGAT.

4.23.   The Council also has the opportunity to elevate advocacy on matters important to the City by lodging motions at LGAT General Meetings.

4.23.1.  Last year the Council had three motions carried at the LGAT’s July General Meeting in relation to phasing out the provision of petroleum-based single use take-away food packaging; collective negotiations between Federal and State Government and other stakeholders to prompt a market response toward the increased costs of recycling as a consequence of changes to the Chinese government’s policies and lobbying of councils to adopt the use of reusable and compostable items for use in council sponsored events.

4.24.   By virtue of the Council’s membership to the LGAT, it is also a member of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), which enables it to lodge motions to the ALGA National General Assembly (NGA).

4.24.1.  This year the Council submitted four motions to ALGA for its consideration for inclusion on the NGA meeting agenda. 

4.24.2.  These motions were an extension of and an increase to funding for the Smart Cities and Suburbs Program; broadening the definition of essential assets in the National Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements to include assets that are currently regarded as non-essential e.g. tracks and trails and sporting facilities; lobbying the Federal Government to establish an infrastructure fund for the construction of active transport initiatives including pedestrian and bicycle facilities and requesting that the Federal Government give consideration to indemnifying Council’s that undertake climate change mitigation initiatives.

4.25.   ALGA membership also provides the Council with access to Austroads, international leaders who provide an enormous range of world-class road-related technical support including guidance material; technical standards; training; in-person expertise on the full suite of road-related topics such as road asset management, construction, maintenance and safety.

4.26.   Elected Members benefit from participation in a range of professional development opportunities, including training on topics such as land use planning, audit panel and governance training.  LGAT offer a range of professional development forums, including Elected Members’ Professional Development weekends, with the most recent session held on 23 and 24 March which included presentations from the Tasmanian Audit Office; Integrity Commission and Local Government Division.  Topics for discussion included, how councils can influence community wellbeing; understanding rates and engaging the community in strategic planning.

Metropolitan Councils Group and Greater Hobart Act

4.27.   The Council first raised the formation of a Metropolitan Councils Group (MCG) in 2010 as part of the criteria/benchmarks submitted to the LGAT.

4.28.   At the July 2010 LGAT General Meeting, the following motion was carried:

That the meeting support the formation of a Metropolitan Councils Group within the framework of the Local Government Association of Tasmania, subject to Terms of Reference as agreed by the full Association membership.

4.29.   The Terms of Reference were agreed to at a Special General Meeting of the Association on 20 October 2010.

4.30.   The objective of the MCG was to provide a forum for raising matters of particular interest and relevance to metropolitan councils and identifying and pursuing an appropriate course of action in relation to such matters.

4.31.   In order to be eligible to participate on the MCG councils were to either be a city or have a population of greater than 30,000 and be a member of the LGAT.  Hobart City, Launceston City, Burnie City, Devonport City, Clarence City and Kingborough Councils were all members of the Group.

4.32.   The first meeting of the Group took place on Friday 28 January 2011. 

4.33.   When the Council withdrew from the LGAT in mid-2013, an informal meeting of the other members of the MCG met to consider the merits of continuing the activities of the Group.  The Group indicated little appetite for its continuation believing that the opportunity existed for matters to be dealt with via normal Association business processes or individual councils collaborating on relevant issues.

4.34.   Since this time, there have been no further moves to create a metropolitan councils group within the existing LGAT framework.

4.35.   The recent signing of the Greater Hobart City Deal provides the Council with a mechanism to work not only with the surrounding metropolitan councils but the Tasmanian Government with the Greater Hobart Act providing the framework for this to occur.

4.35.1.  The Greater Hobart Bill is currently in Parliament with the Legislative Council to receive its second reading on 21 May.

4.36.   The objective of the Greater Hobart Act is to assist the Greater Hobart area councils and the State Government to better coordinate, across the Greater Hobart area the efficient use of infrastructure and strategic planning, and other actions, in relation to future land use and development in the Greater Hobart area so as to improve the health and wellbeing of persons.

4.37.   The Act will create the Greater Hobart Committee which includes the mayors of the Greater Hobart area councils and the State Government Ministers responsible for economic development; infrastructure; housing and community development.

4.38.   In addition to the Greater Hobart Committee, a Greater Hobart Advisory Group will also be established and will comprise the General Managers of the Greater Hobart area councils; the Secretary of the departments responsible to the Planning Minister, Community Development Minister, and Economic Development Minister; the Director of Housing and the Chief Executive Officer of Infrastructure Tasmania.

4.39.   The Greater Hobart Advisory Group is responsible for developing a draft work program which is to be established as soon as practicable after the date on which the Act commences, following which it will be submitted to the Greater Hobart Committee.  Once the work program is approved, a copy will be provided to the Greater Hobart area councils.

Summary

4.40.   Based on the information provided in this report, officers believe there is strategic value in the Council remaining a member of the LGAT.

4.41.   Given the limited success of the last iteration of the MCG, it seems appropriate for the Council to await Royal Assent of the Greater Hobart Act and the development of the associated work program before exploring the formation of a metropolitan councils association.

5.         Proposal and Implementation

5.1.     It is proposed that the Council remain a member of the Local Government Association of Tasmania.

5.2.     The Council consider opportunities for the formation of a metropolitan councils association once the Greater Hobart Act has been enacted and its associated work program has been developed.

6.         Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1.     The Council’s membership to the LGAT provides it with an opportunity to progress capital city growth, regional development and issues of importance to the City of Hobart with the Tasmanian Government, other councils and peak bodies.

7.         Financial Implications

7.1.     Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

7.1.1.     The Council’s 2018/19 subscription to the LGAT totalled $70,060.51 (exclusive of GST).  

7.2.     Impact on Future Years’ Financial Result

7.2.1.     An allocation of $72,000 has been included in the draft 2019/20 budget to cover the cost of the Council’s LGAT subscription.

7.2.2.     If the Council did resolve to leave the LGAT in the future, there may be an opportunity to allocate the subscription monies to cover the costs of a policy officer who could be charged with providing support to the council on some of the significant policy issues identified in this report.

7.3.     Asset Related Implications

7.3.1.     Not applicable.

8.         Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1.     If the Council was to consider withdrawing from the LGAT, Elected Members are reminded of the LGAT Rules which state that a member’s resignation takes effect upon the completion of the financial year following that which the notice of intention to resign is provided and that until the 12 month period expires the member is to pay the annual subscription.

9.         Delegation

9.1.     This matter is delegated to the Council for its consideration.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

N D Heath

General Manager

 

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/49400

 

 

 


Item No. 6.2

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 17

 

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6.2    National Redress Scheme - LGAT

          File Ref: F19/43454

Memorandum of the Deputy General Manager of 9 May 2019.

Delegation:     Council


Item No. 6.2

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

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Memorandum: Finance and Governance Committee

 

National Redress Scheme - LGAT

 

INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this memorandum is to seek the Council’s approval to participate in the Local Government Association of Tasmania’s whole-of-sector response to the National Redress Scheme.

 

BACKGROUND
The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (the Royal Commission) has been completed and recommendations handed down.

 

On 4 November 2016, the Australian Government announced its intention to establish a National Redress Scheme for individuals who experienced institutional sexual abuse as children.

 

The National Redress Scheme, administered by the Australian Government commenced on 1 July 2018 and will run for 10 years.   In May 2018, the Tasmanian Government committed to joining the National Scheme.

On 1 November 2018, the Tasmanian Government completed the formal requirements to join the Scheme including passing the National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse (Commonwealth Powers) Bill 2018 that enables Tasmanian non-government institutions to join the Scheme.  People who suffered sexual abuse in State Government Institutions can now access redress.

The National Redress Scheme provides support to people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse and includes three key components for individuals deemed eligible for redress:

 

·    A monetary payment (up to $150,000);

·    A direct personal response (DPR) (such as a meeting with a senior institutional official and an apology); and

·    Access to counselling consistent with the National Service Principles (with the method of delivery to be determined by the relevant jurisdiction).

 

The Scheme’s objectives are to:

 

·    Acknowledge that many children were sexually abused in Australian institutions; and

·    Hold responsible institutions accountable for child abuse.

 

The Scheme operates on a ‘responsible entity pays’ basis with Independent Decision Makers (IDMs) who assess applications, make decisions on the quantum of monetary and counselling payments, and determine the apportionment of responsibility in cases where responsibility lies with multiple institutions.

 

Each State Government has been asked to engage with Local Government by the Scheme Operator (the Commonwealth Department of Social Services) to provide information which may assist the Local Government sector to consider whether to participate in the National Redress Scheme and how that may occur.  The Tasmanian Government is seeking a voluntary approach from Local Government.

 

The Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) has advised councils that it is their intention to include this topic on its July General Meeting agenda recommending that the matter is approached on a whole-of-sector basis.

 

Given this, the LGAT has requested that councils consider their participation in the LGATs whole-of-sector approach.

 

As Elected Members may be aware, the City of Hobart administered a child care centre and a family day care scheme from 1975 to 2007. In addition to this service, the City has also provided before and after school and school holiday programs, adjunct child care services at the Aquatic Centre as well as youth services through the Youth Arts and Recreation Centre. 

 

Institutions have until 30 June 2020 to join the Scheme.

 

REcommendation

That the Council participate in the National Redress Scheme as part of the Local Government Association of Tasmania’s whole-of-sector response.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Heather Salisbury

Deputy General Manager

 

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/43454

 

 

 


Item No. 6.3

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

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6.3    Insurance Policy

          File Ref: F19/44929

Memorandum of the Deputy General Manager of 9 May 2019 and attachment.

Delegation:     Council


Item No. 6.3

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Memorandum: Finance and Governance Committee

 

Insurance Policy

 

A new policy has been developed to outline the City of Hobart’s arrangements with regard to insurance. At the April meeting, Finance and Governance Committee referred this Policy to Risk and Audit Panel for consideration.

 

The policy provides clarity on the placement of the policies, the assets insured and the responsibilities of the Elected Members and Officers, particularly in regard to the duty of disclosure.

 

The policy is supported by a procedure which provides further detail on the insurance renewal process and officer responsibilities.

 

This policy was considered by the Finance and Governance Committee at its meeting on 9 April 2019.  The Committee resolved to defer this item pending advice from the Council’s Risk and Audit Panel (RAP).  The RAP considered the draft policy at its meeting on 16 April 2019 and resolved to make the following amendments which are highlighted in the Attachment:

 

·        Include a comment that most, if not all, insurance policies have a requirement to advise if there is a change in circumstances.

·        Section 5. Responsibilities – Change the responsibility for appropriately insuring assets to the Director.  The final sentence becomes ‘Directors are responsible for ensuring assets are appropriately insured’.

·        Appendix A – Footnote added as follows: Note: All policies are reviewed on an annual basis prior to renewal. The mutual funds are periodically tested against standard market products to ensure these are providing value.

 

 

REcommendation

The Council approve the Insurance Policy as provided at Attachment A.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Heather Salisbury

Heather Salisbury

Deputy General Manager

 

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/44929

 

 

Attachment a:             Insurance Policy   


Item No. 6.3

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ATTACHMENT a

 

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ATTACHMENT a

 

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Item No. 6.4

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Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

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6.4    Social Food Service Delivery

          File Ref: F19/52782; 17/181

Report of the Director City Innovation and the Group Manager Parking Operations of 9 May 2019.

Delegation:     Council


Item No. 6.4

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REPORT TITLE:                  Social Food Service Delivery

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  Director City Innovation

Group Manager Parking Operations

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     The purpose of this report is to provide the Council with a response to a notice of motion raised at the Council meeting held on 21 January 2019, namely:

"That the Council urgently review what actions it can take to address the concern from some traders in North Hobart and other traders regarding the growth of social food delivery services (SFDS) and the fact that SFDS vehicles are occupying parking spaces to the detriment of other customers."

2.         Report Summary

2.1.     The Department of State Growth is responsible for the setting of polices and rules for road users in Tasmania.

2.2.     Officers undertook a range of stakeholder meetings in February and March 2019 including:

(i)      City of Hobart stakeholder workshop including State Growth, Tasmania Police, RACT, UTAS and other organisations as part of the Parking Operations Review held on 19 February 2019;

(ii)     Meeting between Elected members, City officers and Uber Eats representatives at the Town Hall held on 7 March 2019;  

(iii)    Meeting between City officers and the National Policy Officer Road Safety, Department of State Growth at Salamanca Square held on 7 March 2019; 

(iv)    Meeting between City officers, Uber Eats representatives and the North Hobart Traders Association at the State Theatre in North Hobart held on 7 March 2019.

(v)     Discussion with Council of Capital City Lord Mayors Innovation and Connectivity Working Group in Sydney held on 13 March 2019. 

2.3.     The meeting with Department of State Growth on 7 March 2019 was to discuss whether measures can be introduced to regulate the number and behaviour of social food delivery drivers in the North Hobart area. 

2.4.     City officers were advised during this meeting that the likelihood of legislation being introduced in Tasmania to control the use of social food delivery vehicles is minimal.  

2.5.     The Department indicated that this was due to: 

(i)      State Growth’s remit only relating to the licensing of passenger vehicles e.g. buses and taxis – not food delivery vehicles. Furthermore, the itinerant nature of the social food delivery drivers. Unlike commercially registered taxis and ride-share services (e.g. Ubers), a social food delivery driver (e.g. Uber Eats) can use any vehicle, in any condition, to deliver food therefore making it extremely difficult, if not impossible to identify and control the vehicles.

(ii)     The Australian Road Rules 2009 (ARR 2009) permits any driver of a registered vehicle to park in a time-restricted parking space for the maximum time displayed on the signpost. There are no provisions to exclude any vehicle type, or restrict any vehicle category or any individual user from using the space.

(iii)    There are no provisions in the aforementioned legislation to enforce the use of identifying stickers or permits on vehicles.

3.         Recommendation

That:

1.      The Council note the actions taken to-date in relation to social food delivery services in North Hobart.

2.      The City of Hobart continue with the implementation of its own enforcement measures to create additional visitor parking spaces and control the use of social food delivery vehicles in the North Hobart, and other suburban restaurant precincts.

4.         Background

4.1.     This report provides a response to a notice of motion raised at the Council meeting held on 21 January 2019, regarding what actions the City can take to address trader concerns in North Hobart and other traders regarding the growth of social food delivery services (SFDS) and to regulate the number and behaviour of food delivery drivers in the North Hobart restaurant strip area. 

4.2.     In particular, it was suggested that the State Government explore the introduction of a form of permit sticker for food delivery vehicles similar to the Victorian system used to identify commercial vehicles. Under this model if the driver of a food service delivery vehicle fails to display the permit sticker local authorities issue the vehicle with a fine.

4.3.     City officers subsequently undertook a range of stakeholder meetings in February and March 2019 as outlined above.

Parking Operations Review Stakeholder Workshop

4.4.     It was noted during this workshop that Uber Eats drivers are parking in prime areas in the restaurant precinct in North Hobart and that Uber should be encouraged to install an exclusion zone which includes the prime on-street parking bays currently being occupied by Uber drivers.

State Growth Meeting

4.5.     The meeting was attended by several City of Hobart officers including the Director City Innovation, Group Manager Parking Operations and Manager Traffic Engineering.

4.6.     During discussions the National Policy Officer highlighted that the Victorian cab and Uber registration system was reasonably simple to introduce and monitor, due to the aforementioned vehicles being required to meet specific standards of age, use, identification, maintenance and performance. In other words, the authorities could easily identify these vehicle as they were already registered.

4.7.     The National Policy Officer further explained that vehicles being used for food delivery had no standards to meet and no criteria for age or condition, as the driver operates from a mobile phone system; not a fixed meter and communication system.  Drivers could use any vehicle and quite commonly used different vehicles on different days or even the same day therefore, making monitoring and/or the introduction of a permit system virtually impossible.

4.8.     Further to this it was indicated that the ARR 2009 permits any driver of a registered vehicle to park in a time-restricted parking space for the maximum time displayed on the signpost. There are no provisions in the legislation to exclude any vehicle type, or restrict any vehicle category, or any individual user from using the space. 

4.9.     There are also no provisions in the abovementioned legislation to enforce the use of identifying stickers or permits on vehicles, or to restrict use for non-display of stickers or permits.  A permit system can only be introduced for an authorised “permit zone” such as a public or private car park.  

4.10.   In summary, as a result of social food delivery services being difficult to identify, and their legal ability to park as commercial vehicles in private zones, the Department of State Growth rejected the City of Hobart’s request to consider a permit-sticker infringement system. It was indicated that the likelihood of any legislation being introduced in Tasmania to control the use of social food delivery vehicles is minimal.

Uber-Eats Meetings

4.11.   Senior City of Hobart officers and members of the North Hobart Traders Association (NHTA) met with representatives of Uber Eats in March 2019 to discuss current issues and work through possible solutions.

4.12.   Issues raised by members of the NHTA included:

4.12.1.  Regulation: High degree of regulation placed on food providers versus delivery drivers; delivery drivers were unregulated with concerns focused on food safety e.g. food on sweaty gear, smoking in cars with food, animals in car with food, and lack of heat bags for transporting food. 

4.12.2.  Parking Capacity: Limited parking for staff, clients, customers and residents; lack of a long-term solution for North Hobart parking; volume of drivers parking and waiting for orders; social food delivery services not paying for dedicated public parking spaces.

4.12.3.  Mixed Use Precinct: Tensions between traders in the mixed retail and hospitality precinct due to not every business using social food delivery services; loitering drivers using public infrastructure like seating; market pressure driving increased patronage of social food delivery services (social demand) which was impacting the profitability of traditional business models (i.e. Uber Eats business fees).

4.12.4.  Lack of Self-Monitoring: Drivers using multiple delivery apps (same company) which is against the rules of Uber Eats and other providers; waiting for several orders at a time; delivery partners (drivers) behaving poorly; inability of businesses to directly contact Uber Eats customer service about complaints.

By-Law

4.13.   In the absence of a permit-based solution consideration was also given to the feasibility of the creation of a specific by-law to provide an appropriate legislative mechanism to control social food delivery providers in Hobart.

4.14.   According to Part 145 (1) and (2) of the Local Government Act (1993) a by-law could be considered in respect of any act, matter or thing for which a council has a function of power under this, or any other Act. By-laws under this Part may be made so as to apply differently according to matters, limitations or restrictions, whether as to time, circumstance or otherwise, specified in the by-laws.

4.15.   For example, a by-law in relation to social food delivery vehicles could relate to parking of vehicles and/or a range of food safety related legislation with regard to food handling.  

4.16.   Following a qualitative desktop analysis and discussions with the CCCLM working group, while there are examples of some international cities pursuing regulatory controls in relation to ride-sharing, no evidence of such legislation, specific to parking or food control, could be identified by officers in relation to Uber Eats and other social food delivery services. 

4.17.   Furthermore, it is unlikely that a specific by-law to manage restricted parking in North Hobart, or other suburban precincts, would satisfy Part 150 of the Local Government Act (1993) in relation to its regulatory impact process; specifically in relation to anti competition.

5.         Proposal and Implementation

5.1.     It is proposed that the City of Hobart continue with the implementation of its own enforcement measures to create additional visitor parking spaces and control the use of social food delivery vehicles in the North Hobart, and other suburban restaurant precincts.

5.2.     The following is a list of initiatives already introduced:

(i)           Installation of a dedicated “food delivery providers” parking zone in Burnett Place.

(ii)          Extension of operational hours for time-limited parking zones in North Hobart to assist with vehicle turn-over and allow enforcement into the evening.

(iii)         Installation of parking sensors in all time-limited parking spaces in Elizabeth Street between Warwick and Federal Streets.

(iv)         Communication with the NHTA including through numerous letter drops and direct contact.

(v)          Communication with Uber Eats drivers including distribution of flyers and enforcement activity advice.

(vi)         Increased frequency of parking patrols to ensure the North Hobart car parks and the restaurant strip are patrolled daily.

(vii)        Introduction of Friday and Saturday evening patrols, extending through to 9pm.

(viii)       Implementation of the extension to the Lefroy Street Car Park for the provision of additional parking in North Hobart.

6.         Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1.     The City’s implementation of its own enforcement measures to create additional visitor parking spaces and control the use of social food delivery vehicles in the North Hobart restaurant strip area addresses three (3) of the five (5) Goals in the Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025:

Goal 1 – Economic development, vibrancy and culture

Goal 2 – Urban management

Goal 4 – Strong, safe and healthy communities

7.         Community and Stakeholder Engagement

7.1.     Discussions have been held with the Department of State Growth, North Hobart Traders, representatives of Uber Eats, CCCLM, and City officers in the preparation of this report.

8.         Delegation

8.1.     This matter is delegated to the Council for determination.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Peter Carr

Director City Innovation

Matthew Tyrrell

Group Manager Parking Operations

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/52782; 17/181

 

 

 


Item No. 6.5

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 37

 

14/5/2019

 

 

6.5    Property Valuation Adjustments (Indexation)

          File Ref: F19/46722;  22-1-3

Report of the Group Manager Rates & Procurement and the Deputy General Manager of 9 May 2019 and attachment.

Delegation:     Council


Item No. 6.5

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 38

 

14/5/2019

 

 

REPORT TITLE:                  Property Valuation Adjustments (Indexation)

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  Group Manager Rates & Procurement

Deputy General Manager

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     The purpose of this report is to:

1.1.1.     Provide information to the Committee on the impact of property valuation adjustment factors received from the Valuer-General for the 2019-20 rating year on individual property owners in respect of rates levied for 2019-20; and

1.1.2.     Consider the impact on Council’s rating strategy resulting from indexation.

1.2.     The community benefits from the continual review of Council’s rating strategy to ensure the City has a rating system that supports fairness, capacity to pay and effectiveness.

2.         Report Summary

2.1.     This report provides information on the impacts of Assessed Annual Value (AAV) adjustment factors for the 2019-20 rating year.

2.2.     Generally, the AAVs for residential and commercial properties will increase uniformly from the last indexation in 2017.  AAVs for industrial, primary production and vacant land will decrease from 2017 indexation. 

2.3.     There will be a slight redistributive effect on the rate base as a result of indexation with commercial, public enterprise and sport & recreation experiencing a slight increase in the rate burden, residential a slight decrease and industrial, primary production and vacant land a more significant decrease.

2.4.     Rates modelling undertaken to analyse the impacts of indexation on individual ratepayers has found that rate increases and decreases will be minimal for most property owners.  The exception to this is industrial, primary production and vacant land which will experience more significant rate decreases.  It should be noted that this is based on current year rates and before any increase for 2019-20 associated with the budget is included.

2.5.     To ensure ratepayers have adequate information and are well informed, communications for the community and ratepayers will be prepared.

2.6.     It is proposed that Council note the impacts of indexation and maintain its current rating strategy.

3.         Recommendation

That the report of the Acting Director City Governance titled ‘Property Valuation Adjustments (Indexation)’ be received and noted.

 

4.         Background

4.1.     Pursuant to the Valuation of Land Act 2001 the Valuer-General is required to revalue each municipal area within a seven year period.  Following consultation with State and local government, a six-year cycle has been agreed for Tasmania with one-third of councils being revalued every two years.

4.2.     The last Hobart municipal revaluation was effective 1 July 2015.  The next revaluation will be effective from 1 July 2021.

4.3.     In 2007 market-based adjustment factors (also called ‘indexation’) were introduced as a mechanism to index property values and minimise large fluctuations to valuations that can occur between the six-yearly revaluation cycle.

4.4.     Currently, adjustment factors are determined annually for Land Value and every two years for Assessed Annual Value (AAV) and Capital Value (CV).  The Office of the Valuer-General (OVG) determines these adjustment factors by considering changes in rental market conditions.

4.5.     AAV adjustment factors are used by councils to calculate rates and charges and apply for a two year period.  An adjustment factor is not a revaluation of an individual property.  It is a factor that is used to adjust the levels of value of all property in a locality and class, based on broad market movements.

4.6.     Adjustment factors help to ensure that property values more closely reflect changes in the property market.  In this way the relative rate burden keeps up with changes in real estate market fluctuations which affect property values and rentals and ultimately Council rates and charges.

4.7.     It should be noted that although indexation is designed to minimise large fluctuations to property values between revaluations, shifts are still likely when a revaluation is performed. 

4.8.     Council last received indexation data in 2017.  In 2015, as indicated above, there was a revaluation.

4.9.     Council has recently received preliminary AAV adjustment factor data for the Hobart municipal area from the OVG.  Final data will be provided to Council in June 2019.  The AAV adjustment factors are to take effect from 1 July 2019.

5.         Outcomes

5.1.     The AAV adjustment factors (excluding vacant land) for the Hobart municipal area are shown in the table below.

Valuation District

Locality

Non-Vacant Land Class

 

 

Residential

Commercial

Industrial

Primary Production

Community Services

Other

Hobart

All

1.30

1.25

1.10

1.20

1.25

1.25

 

5.1.1.     The class of ‘Other’ includes those properties classed as sport & recreation and quarry & mining.

5.1.2.     As can be seen from the table above, there is an adjustment factor of 1.30 for residential properties in the Hobart municipal area.  This means that all properties in the Hobart municipal area classed as residential will experience a 30% increase in AAVs since the 2015 revaluation or 25% increase since 2017 indexation.

5.1.3.     There is an adjustment factor of 1.25 for commercial, community services and other properties in the Hobart municipal area.  This means that all properties in the Hobart municipal area classed as commercial, community services or other (sport & recreation and quarry & mining) will experience a 25% increase in AAVs since the 2015 revaluation and 2017 indexation (which had a 0% increase for these classes).

5.1.4.     There is an adjustment factor of 1.10 for industrial properties and 1.20 for primary production properties in the Hobart municipal area.  This means that all properties in the Hobart municipal area classed as industrial will experience a 10% increase in AAVs since the 2015 revaluation and 2017 indexation (which had a 0% increase for this class) and all properties classed as primary production will experience a 20% increase in AAVs since the 2015 revaluation and 10% increase since 2017 indexation.

5.1.5.     Over the last two years all property in the Hobart municipal area has experienced significant growth.  Hobart’s residential and commercial sector have grown at a similar rate, reflected in the same increases since 2017. 

5.2.     The AAV adjustment factors for all classes of vacant land in the Hobart municipal area are shown in the table below. 

Valuation District

Locality

Vacant Land Class

 

 

Residential

Commercial

Industrial

Primary Production

Community Services

Other

Hobart

All

1.30

1.25

1.25

1.20

1.25

1.25

5.2.1.     In 2017 there was one adjustment factor of 1.10 for all properties in the Hobart municipal area classed as vacant land.  This meant that all vacant land in the Hobart municipal area will experience an increase in AAVs of 10% from 2017 indexation.  The 2019 adjustment factors show that residential vacant land is growing at a faster rate than other vacant land classes.

5.3.     A brochure from the OVG containing more information on the methodology for arriving at adjustment factors is attached for information – refer Attachment A.  

5.4.     The effect of indexation factors are minimal given consistent growth in residential, commercial and vacant land. 

5.4.1.     Residential AAV currently represents 54.2% of total municipal AAV.  Following indexation, the preliminary results show that residential AAV will represent 54.1% of total municipal AAV, a 0.1% decrease. 

5.4.2.     Commercial AAV currently represents 31.7% of total municipal AAV.  Following indexation, the preliminary results show that commercial AAV will represent 31.9% of total municipal AAV, a 0.2% increase.

5.4.3.     There are fewer properties in the remaining classes but in respect to share of the rate burden, community services will increase by 0.1%, industrial will decrease by 0.1% and the remaining classes will remain the same.

5.5.     Based on the preliminary data received from the OVG, the total AAV for the municipality will increase by 24.08% from $850M to $1.054M. 

5.6.     To demonstrate the impact, rates modelling has been undertaken of the impact of indexation on the current i.e. 2018-19 rate burden and rates paid by individual ratepayers.  It should be noted that this analysis does not factor in the impact of the proposed 2019-20 rate increase or any other matters that may affect the rate base.

5.7.     The following table shows the outcome of indexation for individual properties by both % and $ variance i.e. the change as a percentage and within that percentage the actual change in $amount of rates paid:

   Range: Rates and Charges % and $ Var

 

 -40% to <-30% Total

1

Properties that will experience a decrease in Rates

 

 -800 to <-600

1

 -20% to <-10% Total

70

 

  <-1000

21

 

 -1000 to <-800

9

 -800 to <-600

15

 -600 to <-400

21

 -400 to <-200

2

 -200 to <0

2

 -10% to <0% Total

20258

 

 <-1000

6

 

 -1000 to <-800

2

 -800 to <-600

1

 -600 to <-400

8

 -400 to <-200

65

 -200 to <0

20176

 0% to <0% Total

131

Unchanged

 

 -200 to <0

55

 

 0 to <0

1

 0 to <200

75

 0% to <10% Total

3575

Properties that will experience an increase in Rates

 

 0 to <200

3406

 

 200 to <400

69

 400 to <600

33

 600 to <800

13

 800 to <1000

10

 1000 to <1500

17

 1500 to <3000

21

 3000 to <3500

1

 3500 to <4000

2

 4000 to <4500

1

 6000 to <7000

1

 8000 to <9000

1

 10% to <20% Total

1

 

 200 to <400

1

 40% to <50% Total

1

 

 800 to <1000

1

 80% to <90% Total

1

 

 1500 to <3000

1

 >100% Total

2

 

 1500 to <3000

1

 

 8000 to <9000

1

5.8.     The % variance outcome by land use is shown on the following table:

   Rates and Charges % Var

Commercial

Industrial

Primary Production

Public Enterprise

Residential

Sport & Recreation

Vacant Land

 -40% to <-30%

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

 -20% to <-10%

3

61

2

0

2

1

1

 -10% to <0%

46

73

0

11

19512

1

615

 0% to <0%

0

0

0

2

128

0

0

 0% to <10%

1848

6

0

159

1481

80

1

 10% to <20%

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

 40% to <50%

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

 80% to <90%

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

  >100%

1

0

0

0

1

0

0

5.9.     Comments on the impact of indexation are as follows:

5.9.1.     The properties that have zero impact are mainly Council owned properties that don’t pay rates.

5.9.2.     Most industrial, primary production and vacant land will experience decreases in rates, for industrial most decreases will be more than $200.

5.9.3.     Of the 3,575 properties that will experience an increase in rates up to 10%, only 7 will experience in increase more than 1% and the highest increase is 2.63%.

5.9.4.     The 5 properties showing in the tables above experiencing an increase more than 10% in rates for 2019-20 is because of a supplementary valuations late in 2018-19 and not because of indexation.

5.9.5.     Most residential properties will experience a reduction in rates.  0.2% will experience a decrease greater than $30.  2.5% will experience a decrease between $10 and $30 and 97.3% will experience a decrease between $0 and $10.  Noting that these figures do not include any rate increase for 2019-20.

5.9.6.     Most commercial properties will experience a slight increase in rates but most is under 1% and under $200 except those properties with high AAVs.

6.         Proposal and Implementation

6.1.     It is proposed that the Committee note the impacts of the AAV adjustment factors received from the OVG for the 2019-20 rating year and the proposed implementation strategy as follows:

6.1.1.     The AAV adjustment factors for all properties will be used to calculate Council rates for the 2019-20 rating year.

6.1.2.     The adjusted AAV amount will appear on the front of the annual rates notice.

6.1.3.     A flyer explaining indexation and the adjusted AAV values will accompany the annual rates notice to explain indexation.

6.1.4.     Information about indexation and its impacts will be included in the June edition of City News and on Council’s website.

6.1.5.     Briefing materials will be prepared for relevant Council Officers so customer enquiries can be handled effectively.

6.2.     Although there are tools available under the Local Government Act 1993 (LG Act) to mitigate the redistribute effects of indexation, Council at its meeting on 21 March 2016 resolved to continue with its current rating and valuation strategy.  

6.3.     Indexation has affected how the rating burden is distributed amongst property owners.  It has meant that some properties will pay more in rates than previously and some properties will pay less; albeit in the main the effects are minimal.  Council has in the past determined that it is fair and equitable that the valuation system, which is influenced by property sales and market information as well as legislative requirements, influences the rates distribution. 

6.4.     It is therefore proposed that Council maintains its current rating and valuation strategy.

7.         Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

7.1.     This report relates to priority area of activity five, Governance, in the City of Hobart Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025.

7.1.1.     Strategic objective 5.1.8 – ensure a rating system that supports fairness, capacity to pay and effectiveness. 

7.2.     Ensuring a municipal area rating and valuation strategy that addresses the following is an important part of organisational sustainability:

7.2.1.     The principles of taxation outlined in section 86A(1) of the LG Act.

7.2.2.     The objectives, strategies and actions outlined in Council’s Strategic Plan, Annual Plan and Long-term Financial Management Plan.

7.2.3.     The needs and expectations of the general community.

7.2.4.     The level of the cost of maintaining existing facilities and necessary services.

7.2.5.     The need for additional facilities and services.

7.3.     Council’s current rating and valuation strategy is outlined in the City of Hobart Rates and Charges Policy.

8.         Financial Implications

8.1.     Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

8.1.1.     There are no impacts on the current year operating result.

8.2.     Impact on Future Years’ Financial Result

8.2.1.     There are no direct financial implications for Council.

8.2.2.     Council sets its budget annually to ensure it raises the budgeted amount required.  The rate in the dollar is calculated by dividing the amount of money Council needs to raise in its budget by the total $AAV of all rateable properties in the Hobart municipality.   Where the total municipal $AAV is less the rate in the dollar will be higher and vice versa.

8.2.3.     The rate in the dollar is then multiplied by the value of a property, using the AAV, to establish the amount to be paid by each property owner. 

8.2.4.     Valuations do not determine the rates income of a Council and as a result, Councils do not gain windfalls from valuation increases or shortfalls from valuation decreases. 

8.3.     Asset Related Implications

8.3.1.     Not applicable.

9.         Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

9.1.     Council’s rating powers are outlined in Part 9 of the LG Act.

9.2.     There is a risk of ratepayer concern with rate increases resulting from indexation.  Any concerns regarding indexation and the class or locality properties have been assigned can be directed to the Office of the Valuer-General. 

9.3.     That being said, the impact of indexation for 2019-20 will be relatively minor for most property owners.

10.      Social and Customer Considerations

10.1.   To ensure ratepayers have adequate information and are well informed, communications for the community and ratepayers will be prepared as detailed in Section 6.1 above.

11.      Community and Stakeholder Engagement

11.1.   Communications regarding indexation will be undertaken as described in Section 6.1 above.

12.      Delegation

12.1.   This matter is delegated to the Finance and Governance Committee.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Lara MacDonell

Lara MacDonell

Group Manager Rates & Procurement

Heather Salisbury

Heather Salisbury

Deputy General Manager

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/46722;  22-1-3

 

 

Attachment a:             Brochure from the Office of the Valuer-General - Property Valuation and Adjustment Factors   


Item No. 6.5

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting - 14/5/2019

Page 47

ATTACHMENT a

 

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Item No. 6.6

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 49

 

14/5/2019

 

 

6.6    2019-20 Fees and Charges - Financial Services

          File Ref: F19/46716; 19/9

Report of the Group Manager Rates & Procurement of 9 May 2019 and attachment.

Delegation:     Council


Item No. 6.6

Agenda (Open Portion)

Finance and Governance Committee Meeting

Page 50

 

14/5/2019

 

 

REPORT TITLE:                  2019-20 Fees and Charges - Financial Services

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  Group Manager Rates & Procurement

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     The purpose of this report is to present the proposed fees and charges for Council’s financial services for the 2019-20 financial year.

1.2.     Fees and charges are reviewed each year as part of the Council’s annual budget process.

2.         Report Summary

2.1.     A review of Council’s financial services fees and charges has been undertaken and a rounded 3% price increase for each is proposed for 2019-20.  

2.2.     No new Council fees or charges are proposed for 2019-20.

2.3.     It is recommended that the attached schedule of fees and charges is adopted for 2019-20.

 

3.         Recommendation

That:

1.      The report ‘2019-20 fees and charges – financial services’ be received and noted.

2.      The attached schedule of fees and charges for financial services be adopted for the 2019-20 financial year.

 


 

4.         Background

4.1.     At its meeting on 14 May 2012 Council introduced three new fees, being a direct debit default fee, a cheque re-issue fee and an electronic funds transfer (EFT) default fee.

4.2.     The direct debit default fee is charged to a customer where there are insufficient cleared funds in the nominated account when the agreed direct debit payments are to be drawn.

4.3.     The cheque re-issue fee is charged when a customer requests Council to re-issue a cheque where the original may have been lost or misplaced.  However, the fee is not charged when a cheque is re-issued as a result of a Council error.

4.4.     The EFT default fee is charged when an EFT transaction is unsuccessful because the incorrect bank account information was supplied and the EFT is resent by Council as a result.

4.5.     At its meeting on 25 May 2015 Council introduced a new fee for the 2015-16 financial year, being a cheque default fee.

4.6.     The cheque default fee is charged when a customer pays by cheque but the cheque is dishonoured by the financial institution e.g. ‘bounced cheque’.

4.7.     At its meeting on 22 May 2017 Council introduced a new fee for the 2017-18 financial year, being an Australia Post payment default fee.

4.8.     The Australia Post payment default fee is charged to a customer who pays at Australia post but the payment defaults.  This will usually be because the customer pays by cheque but the cheque is dishonoured by the financial institution.

4.9.     Similar fees and charges are imposed by councils both in Tasmania and interstate.

4.10.   A pricing review of the financial services fees has been undertaken.  A schedule showing the proposed fees for 2019-20 is attached – refer attachment A.

5.         Proposal and Implementation

5.1.     It is proposed that the attached schedule of fees and charges be adopted for the 2019-20 financial year.

5.2.     The proposed pricing level for each fee includes a 3% increase (rounded upwards to the nearest dollar), from 2018-19 levels, to reflect annual increases in administrative costs and is inclusive of GST.

5.3.     It should be noted that Council resolved in May 2018 that the pricing level for 2018-19 financial services fees and charges remain unchanged from 2017-18 levels due to no increase in transactional banking fees (in fact there was a decline in the banking fee imposed for a cheque re-issue), low inflation and in prior years the fee had been rounded upwards.

5.4.     The proposed direct debit default fee of $28 includes the transactional banking fee imposed on Council by its financial institution, being $2.50 per instance, and an amount to recover the administrative costs to Council in rectifying this default.

5.5.     The proposed cheque re-issue fee of $28 includes the amount to recover the administrative costs to Council in re-issuing a cheque.

5.6.     The proposed EFT default fee of $28 includes the transactional banking fee imposed by Council by its financial institution, being $2.50 per instance, and an amount to recover the administrative costs to Council in resending the EFT.

5.7.     The proposed cheque default fee of $28 is priced consistently with the other financial service fees and charges.  The price also reflects the amount to cover the administrative costs to Council in rectifying the default. 

5.8.     The proposed Australia Post payment default fee of $28 is similarly priced consistently with the other financial service fees and charges, and includes the $25 cost charged to Council by Australia Post and a small amount to cover the administrative costs to Council in rectifying the default.

5.9.     Fees and charges for 2019-20 will become effective as at 1 July 2019.

5.10.   Pursuant to section 206 of the Local Government Act 1993, the fees will be included in Council’s fees and charges booklet, which is made available to the community from Council’s website and the Customer Service Centre.

6.         Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1.     There are no direct strategic planning implications arising from this report.

6.2.     The annual review of fees and charges has been undertaken in accordance with Council’s Pricing Policy and Guidelines. 

7.         Financial Implications

7.1.     Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

7.1.1.     Not applicable.

7.2.     Impact on Future Years’ Financial Result

7.2.1.     It is difficult to determine the income that will be generated to Council from these fees as they are applied when a payment default has occurred.

7.2.2.     Based upon the number of instances where the fees have been applied to date this financial year, it is envisaged that approximately $4,963 will be generated in income from these fees in 2019-20.

7.3.     Asset Related Implications

7.3.1.     Not applicable.

8.         Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1.     Pursuant to section 205 of the Local Government Act 1993 (Tas), Council has the following powers:

(1) In addition to any other power to impose fees and charges but subject to subsection (2), a council may impose fees and charges in respect of any one or all of the following matters:

(a) the use of any property or facility owned, controlled, managed or maintained by the council;

(b) services supplied at a person's request;

(c) carrying out work at a person's request;

(d) providing information or materials, or providing copies of, or extracts from, records of the council;

(e) any application to the council;

(f) any licence, permit, registration or authorization granted by the council;

(g) any other prescribed matter.

(2) A council may not impose a fee or charge in respect of a matter if –

(a) a fee or charge is prescribed in respect of that matter; or

(b) this or any other Act provides that a fee or charge is not payable in respect of that matter.

(3) Any fee or charge under subsection (1) need not be fixed by reference to the cost to the council.

8.2.     Pursuant to section 206 of the LG Act, council is to keep a list of all fees and charged and make the list available for public inspection during ordinary hours of business.

9.         Delegation

9.1.     Council.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Lara MacDonell

Lara MacDonell

Group Manager Rates & Procurement

 

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/46716; 19/9

 

 

Attachment a:             Schedule of Financial Services Fees and Charges for 2019-20   


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6.7    2019-20 Fees and Charges - City Governance

          File Ref: F19/51867

Report of the Deputy General Manager of 9 May 2019 and attachments.

Delegation:     Council


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REPORT TITLE:                  2019-20 Fees and Charges - City Governance

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  Deputy General Manager

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     The purpose of this report is to submit the proposed fees and charges for the 2019-20 financial year for the following City Governance services and activities.

Venue Hire for the following facilities:

·   City Hall;

·   Town Hall;

·   Elizabeth Street Conference Room;

·   Waterside Pavilion; and concourse

·   Council Chamber;

·   Lord Mayor’s Court Room; and

·   Town Hall Underground

Customer services

·   Copies of Council and Committee agendas and minutes

·   Section 337 Certificates

·   Section 132 Certificates

·   Copies of Council Documents

Risk Management

·    Public Liability Insurance for uninsured hirers and permit holders

·    Public Liability Insurance Excess for uninsured hirers and permit holders

2.         Report Summary/Background

2.1.     The Council is required to set its fees and charges for the ensuing financial year as part of the annual budget preparation process.

2.2.     Fees for Section 337 and 132 Certificates are set by the State Government. 

2.3.     Annual price movements for venue hire are generally based upon CPI indexation for community usage (2.9%) and are in the order of 10% for non-community use.

2.4.     Three new fees have been introduced:

2.4.1.     Town Hall “Underground”;

2.4.2.     Public Liability Insurance Excess for uninsured hirers and permit holders; and

2.4.3.     Public Liability Insurance for uninsured hirers and permit holders.

2.5.     A new fee has been introduced for hire of the basement space located below the Town Hall.

2.6.     The rudimentary nature of the space lends itself to niche exhibitions and small functions. 

2.7.     At this point, the space does not have an official name.  Given its informal reference and apt description as the Town Hall Underground, it is recommended that this title be formally adopted.

 

3.         Recommendation

That:  1.    The schedule of fees and charges for City Governance, shown in Attachments A, B and C, be adopted for the 2019-20 financial year.

 

            2.    The basement space below the Town Hall be named the Town Hall Underground.

 

4.         Proposal and Implementation

4.1.     The two-tiered pricing structure for Council owned facilities is aimed at encouraging the use of spaces for community based activities through the application of a community hire rate, with all other uses being charged a higher non-community rate.

4.2.     The fee structure associated with the Customer Services activity substantially relates to applications for Section 132 and 337 certificates, the fees for which are set under Schedule 3 of the Local Government (General) Regulations 2015, and are to be ratified by the Council.

4.2.1.     There is a 2.5 per cent government fee increase to Section 132 and 337 certificates for the 2019-20 financial year.

4.3.     The Public Liability Insurance fee and claim excess are charged to Council by the insurer when applicants opt to utilise a public liability insurance policy to cover them for public liability incidents related to their approved application.  The Community Liability Pack provides liability cover to declared uninsured third parties operating on City of Hobart premises. It can cover declared uninsured hirers of Council owned or controlled facilities, performers, stallholders, artists, buskers, tutors, instructors and permit holders who satisfy the policy conditions. This cost has previously been met by Council.

5.         Financial Implications

5.1.     Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

5.1.1.     Nil impact on current year.

5.2.     Impact on 2019/20 Operating Result

5.2.1.     Total revenue estimate $460,000.

6.         Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

6.1.     There are no legal, risk or legislative considerations.

7.         Delegation

7.1.     This matter is delegated to the Council.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Heather Salisbury

Deputy General Manager

 

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/51867

 

 

Attachment a:             2019-20 Risk Management Fees and Charges

Attachment b:             2019-20 Customer Services Fees and Charges

Attachment c:            2019-20 Venues Fees and Charges   


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6.8    2019-20 Fees and Charges - Parking Operations

          File Ref: F19/33658; 19/9

Report of the Group Manager Parking Operations and the Director City Innovation of 9 May 2019 and attachments.

Delegation:     Council


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REPORT TITLE:                  2019-20 Fees and Charges - Parking Operations

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  Group Manager Parking Operations

Director City Innovation

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     In accordance with the requirements of the Council’s Pricing Policy and Guidelines dated 24 January 2019, the Council is to review its fees and charges on an annual basis as part of the budget process.

1.2.     The purpose of this report is to present the proposed schedule of fees and charges for the City Innovation Division - Parking Enforcement and Off-Street Parking for the 2019/2020 financial year to the Council for endorsement.

1.3.     In addition, this report contains a request to amend the operational times of some of the Council’s car parks to better reflect the business hours of the location where the car parks are situated.  The car parks are Dunn Place, Salamanca Square, Condell Place and Lefroy Street.

2.         Report Summary

2.1.     A review of the Council’s Parking Operations fees and charges has been undertaken and a total increase of 7.73% for all functions within the Parking Operations area is proposed for 2019/2020.

2.2.     This increase in income is a result of adjustments in four (4) significant areas: 

2.2.1.     A review of parking meter fees which has resulted in the hourly rate increasing on a number of parking meters across the city;

2.2.2.     Increases in the State Government penalty unit fee resulting in an increase in the penalty amount of both parking meter and traffic infringements;

2.2.3.     A review of hourly rates in short term car parks, which has resulted in a number of hourly rates increasing in value; and

2.2.4.     The activation of previously dormant assets and services.

2.3.     In addition, whilst lesser in value, the monthly permit car park fees have been reviewed, with monthly fees being increased in five car parks in-line with market demand and comparative commercial services. These include the Trafalgar, Argyle, Lefroy, Elizabeth and Liverpool/Barrack Street Car Parks.

2.4.     Operational hours of four Council off-street short term car parks are also proposed to be amended to better reflect the business hours of the location in which the facilities are situated. 

2.5.     A recommendation has been made to remove the three dollar ($3) minimum payment amount for credit and debit card transactions on parking meters. This will mean that customers will only pay for the estimated time they select and confirm at the meter.

2.6.     Currently the City is undertaking a Parking Operations review. Following its completion, and in support of future improvements to parking and traffic management in the City, further strategies for consideration by the City in the 2019/2020 financial year may include appropriate revision of various parking schemes including early bird, 90-minute free, and pensioner parking for non-Hobart residents and rate payers.

2.7.     It is recommended that the attached schedule of fees and charges and the request for the amendment of operating hours to four off-street short term car parks be endorsed for the 2019/2020 financial year.

3.         Recommendation

That:

1.    The attached schedule of fees and charges be endorsed for the City Innovation Division - Parking Enforcement and Off-Street Parking for the 2019/2020 financial year as marked as Attachments A-E to this report, and as referenced below:

(i)        Parking Enforcement (Attachment A).

(ii)       Off-Street Parking Long Term (Attachment B).

(iii)      Off-Street Parking Short Term (Attachment C).

(iv)      Off-Street Parking Short Term Motor Bikes (Attachment D).

(v)       Meters and Voucher Machines (Attachment E).

2.    In accordance with section 96(1) of the Local Government Highways Act 1982, amendments to the operational hours of Dunn Place, Condell Place, Lefroy Street and Salamanca Square Car Parks be approved.

4.         Background

4.1.     The attached fees and charges as summarised in Attachment A-E to this report outline the present fees and charges for the City Innovation - Parking Enforcement and Off-Street Parking and the proposed fees and charges for the 2019/2020 financial year.

4.2.     The fees and charges for the 2019/2020 financial year have been assessed including methods and timing of payment.  Where possible fees and charges are to be paid up-front with additional costs being charged on a cost recovery basis.

4.3.     A summary of the proposed fees and charges follows:

Parking General

4.3.1.     The fees have been reviewed and increased for parking meter hooding permits, annual parking meter exemption permits and for the towing and storage of illegally parked and/or abandoned vehicles.  The new fees represent an actual reflection for the cost of providing the service.

Parking Meter Fines

4.3.2.     The penalties for parking meter fines and traffic infringements are set using the State Government penalty unit fees.  Penalty unit fees will be increased for the 2019/2020 financial year resulting in small increases to penalties charged by the Council.  The expectation is an average of around $1.25 for the lower valued fines such as expired meter and $3.00 - $5.00 for more serious offences such as illegally being parked in a disabled zone, no stopping zone or on yellow lines.

Credit/debit Card Minimum Payment Amount

4.3.3.     Since the introduction of the new Integrated Parking System it has become apparent that a number of parking meter users have self-restricted their use of credit and debit cards for transactions due to either the maximum rate for the parking session being less than the three dollar limit, or a requirement to only park for a fraction of the maximum time.

4.3.4.     The City absorbs all credit card fees charged for parking meter transactions with the average fee the City pays its credit providers being approximately fifty cents per transaction. The minimum fee was initially introduced a number of years ago in multi-storey car parks, and in some locations where credit/debit card meters already existed.  No change was made to the minimum fee when carried forward following introduction of the new on-street meter system. This operational decision drew widespread criticism and letters of complaint from across the community. 

4.3.5.     In the interest of making the new parking system as easy and convenient to operate as possible, while legally compliant, the three dollar ($3) minimum transaction amount for both credit and debit card payments on parking meters is proposed to be removed from 1 July 2019. 

4.3.6.     The removal of the minimum payment amount will represent an additional cost to the City as the number of credit/debit card users will increase and therefore transaction costs will increase.  The amount budgeted for transaction fees in the 2019/2020 financial year is $673,000. This budget item is a projected maximum “cost-of-sale” expense and therefore directly tied to revenue estimates and volume of credit card transactions as a percentage of overall transactions (versus coin and app payments). 

4.3.7.     As a result, parking meter fees have been extensively reviewed and a number will increase for the 2019/2020 financial year.

4.3.8.     To facilitate this City Innovation has introduced a comprehensive parking modelling system which, in conjunction with the Integrated Parking System’s reporting module, provides an analytical review of parking user patterns across the city.  This has allowed officers to perform an accurate review of parking meter fees in all areas, and identify appropriate changes, particularly in areas where it is deemed the fees are too low.

Parking Meter Fees

4.3.9.     Using the Integrated Parking System, the City innovation Division has undertaken an extensive analytical review of parking usage patterns across the city.  This has been integral in determining high-use areas across the city and in particular areas where low parking fees have considerable impact on traffic congestion and service amenity.

4.3.10.  The review has concentrated on areas that experience high vehicle usage and moderate turnover, along with areas where commuter parking (medium-to-long term stays and meter feeding) is taking place.

4.3.11.  As a result, in total the fees on 1,728 out of a total of 2,088 parking spaces will increase in the 2019/2020 financial year as follows:  

(i)    At its meeting held on 17 December 2018, the Council approved increases in Condell Place and Lefroy Street car parks to $2.00 per hour. Due to ongoing discussion with stakeholders, and as a result of the high demand and consistent usage patterns in North Hobart, the fees in both Condell Place and Lefroy Street Car Parks (93 spaces) will increase from $2.00 to $3.00 per hour.

(ii)    A total of 752 parking spaces in various fringe locations around the city will have their fee increased from $2.00 per hour to $2.50 per hour.  The modelling has determined that these areas have medium-to-high usage which indicates that due to the lower fees over-parking (feeding meters) may be taking place.

(iii)   A total of 321 spaces located in the areas immediately surrounding the city including Bathurst Street, Watchorn Street, Collins Street and Argyle Street are currently $3.20 per hour.  These will increase to $3.50 per hour.

(iv)   Dunn Place and Salamanca Square Car Parks (215 total spaces) experience very high usage and moderate turnover, which indicates some commuter parking is taking place.  The fees in these two locations will increase: Dunn Place from $3.20 per hour to $3.50 per hour and Salamanca Square from $2.40 to $3.00 per hour. 

(v)   Areas surrounding Salamanca Place including Montpelier Retreat, Gladstone Street, Kirksway Place and Castray Esplanade (94 spaces) are currently $3.20 per hour. These will increase to $3.50 per hour.

(vi)   The 75 spaces in Hunter Street will increase from $3.20 per hour to $3.50 per hour.  This area attracts a high level of usage particularly during peak city-wide periods.

(vii)  A number of city fringe meters located in Macquarie, Collins and Murray Streets (123 spaces) are currently $2.20 per hour.  These will be increased to $2.50 per hour.

(viii) All day parking areas in Evans Street, Harrington Street, Sandy Bay Road and Molle Street are currently fully occupied on a daily basis.  The fees will increase in these areas from $1.20 per hour to $1.50.

(ix)   Salamanca Place contains 208 spaces and experiences consistent usage particularly during peak city-wide periods (10am – 2pm).  The fees were reviewed for the 2018/2019 financial year and are currently $3.50 per hour.  It is recommended they not increase, with a further review to be conducted for the 2020/2021 financial year.

(x)   Meters located in the central area of the city (50 spaces) experience high use, but good turnover. The fees are currently $4.00 per hour and will remain at that rate, to be reviewed for the 2020/2021 financial year.

(xi)   Melville Street Car Park (UTAS) has 102 spaces and has recently commenced operation with the fee being $2.00 per hour for a maximum of 3 hours.  Usage of the car park has started to increase, however is still below expectation.  As a result the fee will remain at $2.00 per hour and will be reviewed again for the 2020/2021 financial year.

 

Car Park Fees

4.3.12.  Following a discussion regarding off-street car park occupancy rates and facilities at the Finance and Governance Committee held on 13 March 2019, the General Manager requested officers to review the potential impacts of changes to these services both within the Parking Operations review and general operations. The hourly rate for the 5th, 6th, 7th hour and all-day parking in the Argyle Street, Hobart Central, and Centrepoint multi-storey car parks will increase by $1.00 per hour.  These increases will still provide patrons with very affordable parking rates.

Long Term Car Park Fees

4.3.13.     The monthly rental for spaces in the following car parks will increase by an average of $5.00 - $10.00 per month:

·   Trafalgar;

·   Elizabeth Street;

·   Liverpool-Barrack13 ;

·   Lefroy Street;

·   Argyle Street; and

·   Hunter Street (UTAS and Henry Jones).

4.3.14.     The Trafalgar Car Park monthly rental is reviewed and increased annually as a result of an annual increase in the City’s rental fee.  The remainder are currently full of permit holders, have waiting lists and in the majority of cases have not been reviewed for at least two years.

 

Operational Hours of Off-Street Short Term Car parks

4.3.15.     In accordance with section 96 (1) of the Local Government Highways Act 1982 an amendment to the operational hours of four Council off-street short term car parks is requested.  The car parks, namely: Dunn Place, Salamanca Square, Condell Place and Lefroy Street are all located in busy restaurant/shopping areas that are regularly frequented outside normal operational hours.

4.3.16.     The amendments requested are as follows:

(i)        Dunn Place hours to extend from 8am – 5pm daily to 8am – 8pm daily;

(ii)       Salamanca Square Car Park to extend its operational days to include Sundays; and

(iii)      Condell Place and Lefroy Street Car Parks to extend from 8.30am – 7pm daily to 8.30am – 10pm daily.

4.3.17.     The car parks are currently being heavily occupied by commuters (workers) resulting in a shortage of parking for visitors.

4.3.18.     Parking patrols will be amended to include these car parks during the extended operational periods.

5.         Proposal and Implementation

5.1.     It is recommended that the attached schedules of fees and charges be endorsed for the 2019/2020 financial year.

5.2.     Fees and charges for 2019/2020 will become effective as at 1 July 2019.

5.3.     Pursuant to section 206 of the Local Government Act 1993, the fees will be included in the City’s fees and charges booklet, which is made available to the community from the Council’s website and the Customer Service Centre.

6.         Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1.     There are no direct strategic planning implications arising from this report.

6.2.     The annual review of fees and charges has been undertaken in accordance with the Council’s Pricing Policy and Guidelines. 

7.         Financial Implications

7.1.     Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

7.1.1.     None are foreseen.

7.2.     Impact on Future Years’ Financial Result

7.2.1.     The increase in parking fines for the 2019/2020 financial year is noted as 7.46% based on a combination of state government penalty unit rate increases and a comparison between the 2018/2019 budget and the 2019/2020 estimate. It should be noted that a budget adjustment occurred in January 2019 that decreased the 2018/2019 budget by $200,000 therefore, the actual 2019/2020 estimate is an 8.92 % increase.

7.3.     Asset Related Implications

7.3.1.     None are foreseen.

8.         Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1.     Pursuant to Section 205 of the Local Government Act 1993, the Council may impose fees and charges for various services.

8.2.     Pursuant to Section 206 of the Local Government Act 1993, the Council is to keep a list of all fees and charged and make the list available for public inspection during ordinary hours of business.

9.         Delegation

9.1.     This matter is delegated to the Council for determination.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Matt Tyrrell

Matthew Tyrrell

Group Manager Parking Operations

Peter Carr

Peter Carr

Director City Innovation

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/33658; 19/9

 

 

Attachment a:             Parking Enforcement

Attachment b:             Off-Street Parking Long Term

Attachment c:            Off-Street Parking Short Term

Attachment d:            Off-Street Parking Short Term Motorbikes

Attachment e:             Meters and Voucher Machines   


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6.9    2018-19 Annual Plan - Progress Report
Period Ended 28 February 2019

          File Ref: F19/52738

Report of the Manager Future, Engaged and Active Communities and the Director City Life of 9 May 2019 and attachment.

Delegation:     Council


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REPORT TITLE:                  2018-19 Annual Plan - Progress Report
Period Ended 28 February 2019

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  Manager Future, Engaged and Active Communities

Director Community Life

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     The purpose of this is to present the 2018-19 Annual Plan progress report for the period ended 28 February 2019 (refer Attachment A)

1.2.     The Annual Plan sets out major actions and initiatives for the fourth year of the Capital City Strategic Plan 2015–2025.

2.         Report Summary

2.1.     The Annual Plan is required pursuant to S71 of the Local Government Act 1993.

2.2.     Three reports are prepared throughout the financial year providing an account on progress against each of the major actions and initiatives in the Annual Plan. The reporting periods for the 2018–19 Annual Plan are as follows:

Progress Report – period ending 31 October 2018

Progress Report – period ending 28 February 2019

Final Report (Annual Report) – period ending 30 June 2019

2.3.     The 2018-19 Annual Plan has 128 initiatives listed with 122 initiatives commencing in the first eight months of 2018 -19, with 26 (20 per cent) major actions and initiatives completed, 97 (76 per cent) underway and 5 (4 per cent) yet to commence.

2.4.     In 2018-19 the City will continue to progress a number of its major medium-term projects which include the capital works program Transforming Hobart, the implementation of new business systems (Project Phoenix), the review of the Strategic Plan following endorsement of the community vision and leading discussions in relation to the Capital City Act and the implementation of the Hobart City Deal.

2.5.     This report provides a summary of those major actions and initiatives that have been completed or have substantially undertaken for the period of 1 November 2019 to 28 February 2019.

2.5.1.     This reporting period has seen a number of significant achievements including the signing of the Hobart City Deal, completion and opening ceremony of the Bridge of Remembrance and the endorsement of the single use take-away packaging by-law.

2.5.2.     In addition, a number of staff from the City of Hobart provided support during the bushfires at the Huonville Recovery Centre.

2.6.     It is proposed that the reporting periods for the Annual Plan progress reports for 2019/20 be varied to quarterly with detailed reports being provided for the second and fourth periods and summaries only provided for the first and third period as follows:

Summary report – period ending 30 September

Progress report – period ending 31 December

Summary report – period ending 31 March

Final report (Annual Report) – period ending 30 June.

3.         Recommendation

That:

1.      The Council endorse the Annual Plan Progress Report for the period ending 28 February 2019, marked as attachment A to this report.

2.      The Council endorse a change to the reporting periods for the Annual Plan progress reports for 2019/20 to quarterly with detailed reports being provided for the second and fourth periods and summaries only provided for the first and third periods.

 

4.         Background

4.1.     The Annual Plan is required pursuant to S71 of the Local Government Act 1993 that describes the actions to be undertaken to achieve the objectives of the Strategic Plan.

4.2.     The Strategic Plan is a requirement pursuant to S66 of the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act 2013. The Council is required to develop a strategic plan every ten years and review it at least every four years.

4.3.     The Council at its meeting on 9 November 2015 endorsed the ten year strategic plan titled Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025.

4.3.1.     A review of the current Strategic Plan has commenced. The review is being undertaken in accordance with the Local Government Act and also to ensure that the strategic plan reflects the new vision, identity statements and pillars in
Hobart: A community vision for our island capital.

4.4.     The Council at its meeting on 18 June 2018 adopted the City of Hobart Annual Plan for the 2018-19 year which sets out how the Strategic Objectives of the ten year strategic plan will be met.

4.5.     Three reports are prepared throughout the financial year providing an account on progress against each of the major actions and initiatives in the Annual Plan. The reporting periods for the 2018-19 Annual Plan are as follows:

Progress Report – period ending 31 October 2018

Progress Report – period ending 28 February 2019

Final Report (Annual Report) – period ending 30 June 2019

4.6.     Accordingly, this report is the second report and it details the status of all major actions and initiatives for the period ending 28 February 2019.

Progress

4.7.     The first eight months of 2018-19 has seen the commencement of 95 per cent of major actions and initiatives. As illustrated in the following graphs, 76 per cent are underway, 20 per cent completed and 4 percent yet to commence.  

Overview of progress of implementation of major actions and initiative by goal.

 


 

Overview of progress of implementation of major actions
and initiatives.

 

 

4.8.     There are five major actions that have not yet commenced, details and reasons for the non-commencement are provided below:

Action

Reason

Renew road infrastructure of Selfs Point Road, New Town

The design has been finalised for the renewal of the road infrastructure. The works required are extensive and will not be undertaken this financial year due to other priority projects. 

Implement the revised Guidelines for the Control of Legionella scheduled for issue in 2018 under the Public Health Act 1997 specifically in relation to the regulation of warm water systems.

The revised Guidelines have not yet been finalised by the State Government. An update on the guidelines has been requested.

Implement the revised Recreational Water Quality Guidelines scheduled for issue in 2018 under the Public Health Act 1997 specifically in relation to beach and swimming / spa pool monitoring.

The revised Guidelines have not yet been finalised by the State Government. An update on the guidelines has been requested.

Implement the new Public Health Risk Activities Guidelines for the Beauty, Body Art and Body Modification Industries scheduled for issue in 2018 under the Public Health Act 1997.

The revised Guidelines have not yet been finalised by the State Government. An update on the guidelines has been requested.

Implement Assessed Annual Value (AAV) indexation for Rates 2019–20

Preliminary data from the Office of the Valuer-General has been received and indexation and rates modelling has commenced.

 

 

Major actions, initiatives and achievements

4.9.     Through the major actions and initiatives within the Annual Plan the City of Hobart continues to progress its major medium-term projects during 2018-19 including Transforming Hobart (the City’s most ambitious capital works plan to date), the implementation of new business systems (Project Phoenix), the review of the Strategic Plan and leading discussions in relation to a Capital City Act and implementation of the Hobart City Deal.

4.9.1.     Transforming Hobart projects underway for 2018-19 include the shared-use pedestrian bridge, Bridge of Remembrance,  over the Tasman Highway joining the Cenotaph to Soldiers’ Memorial Avenue; the all abilities shared access bridge, Brooker Highway; the upgrade of Kemp Street (including a commercial waste and recycling receiving facility); and public toilet upgrades. 

4.9.1.1.      The main span of the Bridge of Remembrance was lifted in January 2019. The official opening of the bridge was held on 31 March 2019. The ceremony was well-attended by the community.

4.9.1.2.      The main span of the Brooker Highway bridge was lifted into place on 1 February 2019, the architectural canopy is scheduled to be installed by the middle of 2019.

4.9.1.3.      The Kemp Street amenities were granted building occupancy in November 2018 and is now open to the public. 

4.9.2.     In addition to the Transforming Hobart projects the City’s asset renewal program is a substantial undertaking with enhanced project management systems that will increase the city’s capacity to deliver projects.

The implementation of new business systems in Project Phoenix continues as the City focuses on putting the customer first and at the centre of everything it does. The booking, payroll, hazard management, permits and licences, animal management and updates to Health Manager systems have gone live. User acceptance training for the finance and property and rating systems is underway in preparation for a pre-30 June roll out.  

The new asset system (AssetMaster) has been set up to align with best practice and relevant standards and guidelines.

A review of the new AssetMaster roads and buildings data and structure commenced in February 2019, with standardised links to Council’s GIS now being established

4.9.3.     The Hobart City Council is the current Capital City Lord Mayors (CCCLM) Chair. A meeting was held in Hobart in March at which the Lord Mayors discussed issues affecting cities, including managing growth through innovation, development of creative spaces and increased investment in housing and public transport.

A CCCLM Innovations Working Group has been established in support of smart city initiatives, with representatives from all capital cities.

The City Deal has been signed and an implementation group formed with federal, state and local government representatives to develop an action plan.

Goal one-economic development, vibrancy and culture

4.10.   The City hosted a delegation from Fuzhou in February 2019 with the intention of considering involvement in the 2021–23 Australian Wooden Boat Festival as the feature nation.

4.11.   Support continued to be provided for events, festivals and activities. The Christmas pageant was held on 17 November with an estimated 35,000 people in attendance and the lighting of the Christmas tree on 30 November which was attended by approximately 1,000 people. The City supported seven community carol events through the community grants program and in-kind support. There was a combined audience of 8,000 people.

4.12.   In February 2019, the Tasmanian Tourism Information Centre (TTIC) partnered with Drysdale House to provide a meet and greet service by students to the maiden port call of the cruise ship, Queen Elizabeth. Students have since provided similar services as a part of their Tourism studies for numerous additional cruise ships.

4.13.   The Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre has been working in collaboration with the Aboriginal community to create a visitor experience that will provide for the roll out of several indigenous interpretations at the TTIC.

4.14.   As part of the City of Hobart’s Local Retail Precincts Plan initiative, works have commenced on the first stage of the New Town retail precinct and detailed designs are in progress for stages 2 and 3.

Community engagement has been undertaken for the Elizabeth Street (Midtown) retail precinct.

Goal two – Urban management

4.15.   The draft Connected Hobart – Smart City Framework and Action Plan was adopted in-principle by the Council with a period of public consultation to be undertaken from 2 April 2019. 

4.16.   The Parking Strategy will commence following an independent review of city parking which is due in April 2019.

4.17.   Consultation on the review of the Dog Management Strategy has been completed. A report for consideration by Council is being prepared.

4.18.   Stage two works at City Hall are reaching completion. The new floor has been installed in the main auditorium with only minor works remaining. Engagement on the Hobart City Hall master plan is continuing. An up-date report will be provided to Council in May 2019.

4.19.   The Soldiers Memorial Oval Community Hub has been completed. Community bake days, using the wood fire ovens, have been scheduled fortnightly and proved to be very popular with the community. The official opening will be on 4 July 2019.

Goal three – Environment and natural resources

4.20.   Site works have commenced on the Fern Tree Visitor Node Master Plan.

4.21.   New solar panels have been installed at the Domain Athletics Centre, Town Hall and City Hall.

4.22.   The Biodiversity Action Plan has been approved by Council.

Goal four – Strong, safe and healthy communities

4.23.   A number of community based actions have been undertaken including:

·     Two significant murals which were delivered by Youth Programs at the Argyle Street car park parenting room and at the Mara House youth shelter.

·     Commitment to participate in the Welcoming Cities network including early scoping of accreditation against the Welcoming Cities Standard.

·     Delivery of a community building initiatives in West Hobart with a focus on road safety including the installation of two street libraries, community events and a community mural with children and families.

4.24.   Work has commenced on the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan.

4.25.   The Information Hub was launched at Mathers House in December 2018.

4.26.   The City’s grant application for Harmony Day activities was successful. An extensive program of events to celebrate Harmony Day was delivered in March 2019.

4.27.   296 grant applications, across all streams, have been received in the Community Grants Program, 184 (62 per cent) were approved for a total allocation funding of $650,000.

4.28.   The Westringa Playground upgrade has been completed.

4.29.   Grant applications submitted to DPAC for the Community Recovery and Resilience Grant Program totalling $232,442 were successful. The projects are now underway in collaboration with community associations and neighbouring councils.

Goal five - Governance

4.30.   The Purchasing Card Policy and Framework was approved by Council in February 2019. An expense management system is being developed and will be launched in May 2019.

4.31.   The review of the Strategic Plan is underway. Extensive internal engagement has been undertaken with Elected Members, ELT, the Managers’ Forum and staff.  The draft document is now being prepared. ELT and Council workshops are scheduled for 30 April prior to the draft being endorsed for public engagement.

5.         Proposal and Implementation

5.1.     It is proposed that the Executive Leadership Team consider this report and the Annual Plan Progress Report for 2018-19.

6.         Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1.     The preparation of the report provides an account of the major actions and initiatives identified for the 2018–19 financial year as set out in the Annual Plan.

6.2.     The major actions and initiatives progress the City of Hobart in achieving the goals and objectives of the ten year Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025.

6.3.     The Annual Plan Progress Report aligns with the following identity statements and pillars of Hobart: A community vision for our island capital:

“Identity Statement 7 – how we engage in civic life.

Pillar 8 - Governance and Civic Involvement

8.1 – We are strong in our ethics…….. we are transparent, accountable and responsible to each other. We are trusting and trustworthy. We reflect on and evaluate our performance. And we expect this of our government.

8.6 – We are involved in civic life…….we participate in decision making and hold our leaders and each other accountable.”

6.4.     The Annual Plan Progress Report aligns with the following goals and objectives in the Strategic Plan:

“Goal 5 – Governance

 

Strategic Objective 5.1 – The organisation is relevant to the community and provides good governance and transparent decision making.

 

5.1.4      Measure performance and outcomes of Council activities.”

7.         Financial Implications

7.1.     Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

7.1.1.     The Annual Plan is a companion document to the annual budget estimates.  All major actions and initiatives identified within the Plan have budget allocations.

8.         Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1.     The City of Hobart’s Strategic Risk and Resilience Register addresses the strategic risks associated with the implementation of the Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025.

8.2.     The successful implementation of the Annual Plan contributes to mitigating these risks.

8.3.     The Annual Plan is required pursuant to S71 of the Local Government Act 1993 and sets out how the strategic objectives of the ten year strategic plan will be met during 2018–19.  This report provides detail on the progress of the implementation of the major actions and initiatives in 2018-19.

9.         Social and Customer Considerations

9.1.     The preparation of the Annual Plan progress reports along with the Annual Report is an important activity in communicating to the community the many achievements of the Council as well as fulfilling a number of statutory requirements.

10.      Community and Stakeholder Engagement

10.1.   Directors, Executive Officers and responsible officers were consulted in the preparation of this report.

11.      Delegation

11.1.   This matter is delegated to the Council.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Luke Doyle

Manager Future, Engaged and Active Communities

Tim Short

Director Community Life

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/52738

 

 

Attachment a:             2018-19 Annual Plan Progress Report - Period Ending 28 February 2019   


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6.10  Procurement - Quotation Exemption Report

          File Ref: F19/46718;  18/311

Report of the Group Manager Rates & Procurement and the Deputy General Manager of 9 May 2019 and attachment.

Delegation:     Committee


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REPORT TITLE:                  Procurement - Quotation Exemption Report

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  Group Manager Rates & Procurement

Deputy General Manager

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     The purpose of this report is to provide a listing of exemptions from the requirement to seek 3 written quotations granted for the period 1 January to 31 March 2019 for the information of Aldermen as requested by the Finance and Governance Committee.

1.2.     The community benefit is providing transparency and delivering best value for money through strategic procurement decision-making. 

2.         Report Summary

2.1.     At its meeting on 19 March 2018, the Council resolved that a report of exemptions granted from the requirement to seek 3 written quotes be presented to the Finance and Governance Committee quarterly as at 31 March, 30 June, 30 September and 31 December each year.

2.2.     A report is attached for the period 1 January to 31 March 2019.

2.3.     It is proposed that the Committee note the exemption from the requirement to seek 3 written quotes granted for the period 1 January to 31 March 2019.

3.         Recommendation

That:

1.      The Finance and Governance Committee receive and note the report titled ‘Procurement – Quotation Exemption Report’.

2.      The Committee note the exemption granted from the requirement to seek 3 written quotations for the period 1 January to 31 March 2019. 

 

 

4.         Background

4.1.     At its meeting on 19 March 2018, the Council resolved inter alia that:

4.1.1.     A report of exemptions granted from the requirement to seek 3 written quotes be presented to the Finance and Governance Committee as at 31 March, 30 June, 30 September and 31 December each year.

4.2.     A report outlining the quotation exemption from the requirement to seek 3 written quotes granted during the period 1 January to 31 March 2019 is attached – refer Attachment A.

4.3.     As outlined in the City’s Code for Tenders and Contracts (the Code) where a Council Contract does not exist the City will seek a minimum of 3 written quotes for procurements between $50,000 and $249,999.

4.4.     It should be noted that the Code is currently under review following Finance and Governance Committee recommendations for amendment.

4.5.     There may be occasions where, for a number of reasons, quotation(s) cannot be obtained / sought from the market or where doing so would have no additional benefit to the City or the market.

4.6.     Therefore, exemptions from the requirement to seek written quotes can be sought from the Divisional Director but only if an acceptable reason exists as outlined in the City’s Purchasing Policy and Guidelines, as follows:

(a)     where, in response to a prior notice, invitation to participate or invitation to tender:

-    no tenders were submitted; or

-    no tenders were submitted that conform to the essential requirements in the tender documentation;

(b)     where the goods or services can be supplied only by a particular supplier and no reasonable alternative or substitute goods or services exist for the following reasons:

-    the requirement is for works of art;

-    the protection of patents, copyrights or other exclusive rights or proprietary information; or

-    due to an absence of market competition for technical reasons.

(c)     for additional deliveries of goods or services by the original supplier that are intended either as replacement parts, extensions or continuing services for existing equipment, software or installations, where a change of supplier would result in the purchase of goods or services that do not meet requirements of interchangeability with existing equipment;

(d) for goods purchased on a commodity market;

(e) where there is an emergency and insufficient time to seek quotes for goods, services or works required in that emergency;

(f)      for purchases made under exceptionally advantageous conditions that only arise in the very short term, such as from unusual disposals, liquidation, bankruptcy or receivership and not for routine purchases from regular suppliers; or

(g) for a joint purchase of goods or services purchased with funds contributed by multiple entities, where Council is one of those entities and does not have express control of the purchasing decision.

4.7.     For the period 1 January to 31 March 2019 there was one exemption granted, where expenditure was between $50,000 and $249,999 and therefore 3 written quotations were required to be sought in line with the City’s Procurement Policy and Code.

4.8.     The exemption was granted on the grounds that the services were additional services by the original supplier intended as continuing services for existing equipment and installations.

5.         Proposal and Implementation

5.1.     It is proposed that the Committee note the exemption granted from the requirement to seek 3 written quotes for the period 1 January to 31 March 2019.

5.2.     As outlined in the City’s Code for Tenders and Contracts, quotation exemptions for a value under $50,000, that is where 1 or 2 written quotations are required to be sought but an exemption from that requirement has been granted by the relevant Divisional Director, have been reported to the General Manager.

5.3.     All approvals for the exemptions from the requirement to Tender are sought and reported through the formal Committee / Council approval processes.

6.         Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1.     The City’s Code for Tenders and Contracts and the Purchasing Policy and Guidelines are referenced in this report. 

6.2.     This report is consistent with strategic objective 5.1 in the City of Hobart Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-25, being to deliver best value for money through strategic procurement decision-making.

7.         Financial Implications

7.1.     Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

7.1.1.     All expenditure noted in the attached listing of quotation exemptions granted was funded from the 2018-19 budget estimates.

7.2.     Impact on Future Years’ Financial Result

7.2.1.     Not applicable.

7.3.     Asset Related Implications

7.3.1.     Not applicable.

8.         Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1.     Regulation 28 of the Local Government (General) Regulations 2015 states that the Council’s Code for Tenders and Contracts must (j) establish and maintain procedures for reporting by the general manager to the council in relation to the purchase of goods or services in circumstances where a public tender or quotation process is not used.

8.2.     As outlined elsewhere in this report, all approvals for the exemptions from the requirement to Tender are sought and reported through the formal Committee / Council approval processes.

8.3.     As outlined in the City’s Code for Tenders and Contracts, quotation exemptions for a value under $50,000, that is where 1 or 2 written quotations are required to be sought but an exemption from that requirement has been granted by the relevant Divisional Director, have been reported to the General Manager.

8.4.     Quotation exemptions from the requirement to seek a minimum of 3 written quotes i.e.: for expenditure $50,000 to $249,999 is the subject of this report. 

9.         Delegation

9.1.     This report is provided to the Finance and Governance Committee for information.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Lara MacDonell

Lara MacDonell

Group Manager Rates & Procurement

Heather Salisbury

Heather Salisbury

Deputy General Manager

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/46718;  18/311

 

 

Attachment a:             Report - Quotation Exemption Granted (3 Quotes) 1 January to 31 March 2019   


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6.11  Grants and Benefits Listing as at 31 March 2019

          File Ref: F19/46723;  25-2-1

Report of the Group Manager Rates & Procurement and the Deputy General Manager of 9 May 2019 and attachments.

Delegation:     Committee


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REPORT TITLE:                  Grants and Benefits Listing as at 31 March 2019

REPORT PROVIDED BY:  Group Manager Rates & Procurement

Deputy General Manager

 

1.         Report Purpose and Community Benefit

1.1.     The purpose of this report is to provide a listing of the grants and benefits provided by the Council for the period 1 July 2018 to 31 March 2019.

2.         Report Summary

2.1.     A report outlining all grants and benefits provided by Council Committees and Council for the period 1 July 2018 to 31 March 2019 is attached.

2.2.     It is proposed that the Committee note the listing of grants and benefits provided for the period 1 July 2018 to 31 March 2019, and that these are required, pursuant to Section 77 of the Local Government Act 1993 (“LG Act”), to be included in the annual report of Council.  

3.         Recommendation

That the Finance and Governance Committee receive and note the information contained in the report titled ‘Grants and Benefits Listing as at 31 March 2019’.

 

4.         Background

4.1.     A report outlining the grants and benefits provided for the period 1 July 2018 to 31 March 2019 is provided at Attachment A.

4.2.     Pursuant to Section 77 of the LG Act, the details of any grant made or benefit provided will be included in the annual report of the Council.

4.3.     The listing of grants and benefits marked as Attachment A, has been prepared in accordance with the Council policy titled Grants and Benefits Disclosure – refer Attachment B.

5.         Proposal and Implementation

5.1.     It is proposed that the Committee note the grants and benefits listing as at 31 March 2019.

5.2.     It is also proposed that the Committee note that the grants and benefits listed are required to be included in the Annual Report of the Council and will be listed on the City of Hobart’s website.

6.         Strategic Planning and Policy Considerations

6.1.     Grants and benefits are provided to organisations which undertake activities and programs that strongly align with the Council’s Strategic Framework – Hobart 2025, the City of Hobart Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025 as well as other relevant City of Hobart strategies.

6.2.     The linkage between the City’s grants and benefits provided and the City of Hobart Capital City Strategic Plan 2015-2025 is referenced in Attachment A.

7.         Financial Implications

7.1.     Funding Source and Impact on Current Year Operating Result

7.1.1.     All grants and benefits provided as at 31 March 2019 were funded from the 2018-19 budget estimates.

8.         Legal, Risk and Legislative Considerations

8.1.     The Council provides grants and benefits within the requirements of Section 77 of the LG Act as follows:

8.1.1.     Grants and benefits

(1)     A council may make a grant or provide a pecuniary benefit or a non-pecuniary benefit that is not a legal entitlement to any person, other than a councillor, for any purpose it considers appropriate.

(1A) A benefit provided under subsection (1) may include:

(a)     in-kind assistance; and

(b)     fully or partially reduced fees, rates or charges; and

(c)     remission of rates or charges under Part 9 (rates and charges)

(2)     The details of any grant made or benefit provided are to be included in the annual report of the council.

8.2.     Section 72 of the LG Act requires Council to produce an Annual Report with Section 77 of the LG Act providing an additional requirement where individual particulars of each grant or benefit given by the Council must be recorded in the Annual Report.

8.3.     Section 207 of the LG Act provides for the remitting of all or part of any fee or charge paid or payable.

8.4.     Section 129 of the LG Act provides for the remitting of rates.


 

9.         Delegation

9.1.     This report is provided to the Finance and Governance Committee for information.

 

As signatory to this report, I certify that, pursuant to Section 55(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, I hold no interest, as referred to in Section 49 of the Local Government Act 1993, in matters contained in this report.

 

Lara MacDonell

Lara MacDonell

Group Manager Rates & Procurement

Heather Salisbury

Heather Salisbury

Deputy General Manager

 

Date:                            9 May 2019

File Reference:          F19/46723;  25-2-1

 

 

Attachment a:             Grants and Benefits Listing as at 31 March 2019

Attachment b:             Council Policy - Grants and Benefits Disclosure   


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7.       Committee Action Status Report

 

7.1      Committee Actions - Status Report

A report indicating the status of current decisions is attached for the information of Elected Members.

REcommendation

That the information be received and noted.

Delegation:      Committee

 

 

Attachment a:             Status Report    


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8.       Questions Without Notice

Section 29 of the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2015.

File Ref: 13-1-10

 

An Elected Member may ask a question without notice of the Chairman, another Elected Member, the General Manager or the General Manager’s representative, in line with the following procedures:

1.         The Chairman will refuse to accept a question without notice if it does not relate to the Terms of Reference of the Council committee at which it is asked.

2.         In putting a question without notice, an Elected Member must not:

(i)    offer an argument or opinion; or

(ii)   draw any inferences or make any imputations – except so far as may be necessary to explain the question.

3.         The Chairman must not permit any debate of a question without notice or its answer.

4.         The Chairman, Elected Member, General Manager or General Manager’s representative who is asked a question may decline to answer the question, if in the opinion of the respondent it is considered inappropriate due to its being unclear, insulting or improper.

5.         The Chairman may require a question to be put in writing.

6.         Where a question without notice is asked and answered at a meeting, both the question and the response will be recorded in the minutes of that meeting.

7.         Where a response is not able to be provided at the meeting, the question will be taken on notice and

(i)    the minutes of the meeting at which the question is asked will record the question and the fact that it has been taken on notice.

(ii)   a written response will be provided to all Elected Members, at the appropriate time.

(iii)  upon the answer to the question being circulated to Elected Members, both the question and the answer will be listed on the agenda for the next available ordinary meeting of the committee at which it was asked, where it will be listed for noting purposes only.

 


 

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9.       Closed Portion Of The Meeting

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That the Committee resolve by majority that the meeting be closed to the public pursuant to regulation 15(1) of the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2015 because the items included on the closed agenda contain the following matters:  

 

 

·         the disposal of land

·         legal action involving the Council

·         tender for the supply of goods

·         information of a personal and confidential

 

The following items are listed for discussion:-

 

Item No. 1          Minutes of the last meeting of the Closed Portion of the Council Meeting

Item No. 2          Consideration of supplementary items to the agenda

Item No. 3          Indications of pecuniary and conflicts of interest

Item No. 4          Reports

Item No. 4.1       Local Government Association of Tasmania - 2019 President Election

LG(MP)R 15(2)(g)

Item No. 4.2       Sale of Land for Unpaid Rates

LG(MP)R 15(2)(f), (i) and  (j)

Item No. 4.3       Estates - Rates Penalty and Interest

LG(MP)R 15(2)(g) and  (j)

Item No. 4.4       Contract Extension - Contract No. 5837 - Panel of Providers for Records Support & Digitisation Services

LG(MP)R 15(2)(d)

Item No. 4.5       479 Sandy Bay Road Sandy Bay - Small Portion of Highway Reservation - Proposed Sale to Adjoining Landholder

LG(MP)R 15(2)(f)

Item No. 5          Committee Action Status Report

Item No. 5.1       Committee Actions - Status Report

LG(MP)R 15(2)(a), (c)(ii), (f) and  e(i)

Item No. 6          Questions Without Notice