The seemingly burgeoning amount of in-camera (confidentfial) agenda items not only here in Glen Eira but also in other municipalities including the City of Melbourne where a recent meeting had less than twenty mins of public discussion has been highlighted recently. I acknowledge the concerns raised on this issue by the local website Glen Eira debates.
Yesterday I raised the following points with other Crs and the CEO.
-"One of the issues for Glen Eira in 2012 is how to address the seemingly increasing amount of confidential items that are held in the in-camera section of the meeting agenda- increasingly so over the past few years.
Our aim as a Council should be to reduce this to the essential minimum so as to allow for as maximum public discussion as possible on agenda items.
Whilst I acknowledge that there are instances such as business tenders and OH @ S issues that require confidentiality I feel that there needs to be far greater efforts in keeping other items in the public agenda.
Other councils such as Port Phillip if necessary spilt the item in two to allow for public discussion.
At each of the pre-meeting assemblies there should be an improved discussion and questioning as to the why and of the need for any proposed confidential agenda item,"
Showing posts with label council meetings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label council meetings. Show all posts
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Sunday, May 1, 2011
C60 amendment adopted -
Last Thursday night 28th April the Caulfield Racecourse Precinct Special Committee adopted the C60 amendment with changes to restrict height , student housing and improve on-site car parking- text below from the speech I gave in support-
Item 5.1 amendment C60-
Moved Cr. Neil Pilling 28/04/2011
I propose to move motion 5.1 as printed with the addition of the following words at the end of recommendation 3: "and implementation of the agreement relating to the centre of the reserve approved by Council on 27 April 2011".
In considering this motion I along with the rest of the committee have carefully analysed all the key issues and the implications for this scale of potential development on the C60 site.
This rezoning amendment does not authorise any construction. Development will be dependant on Council approval of the following plans on environmental management, integrated transport ,car parking management ,drainage management ,landscape plan and waste and recycling management.
There has been an extensive consultation process over an extended period of time that has allowed for community input and discussion during which time the special committee has listened to the concerns and issues raised. I would certainly like to thank everyone for their input.
Consultation on C60 has included
-exhibition of the amendment 19 November – 21 December 2009
-the planning conference of 8 February 2010
-six days of hearings before the independent panel in May 2010
-public release of the panel’s report, July 2010.
-public consultation meeting on 4 April 2011.
The C60 site is a large unique parcel of land situated immediately next to a major suburban railway station at the intersection of the two main railway lines that service South-East Melbourne. It is close to main roads, retail outlets, education facilities and without the level crossings found in other areas of Glen Eira. A large proportion of the site at the eastern end does not abut residential properties.
In all aspects this is a site that encourages urban consolidation and the use of public transport - a site that I believe is suitable for a large scale development that will encourage and provide increased housing in Melbourne’s middle suburban belt whilst reducing the pressure for endless suburban sprawl on the cities fringes
Melbourne cannot continue to grow randomly and endlessly – In a world fast moving towards peak oil and the need to reduce our carbon footprint in limiting the effects of climate change, consolidating and intensifying housing in appropriate areas becomes a necessity – this view is supported and is evident in our current State planning laws.
As outlned for each precinct in the incorporated plan "a sustaintable design response will be required in all buildings, where orientation, sun-shading, ventilation, sustainable material specification and/or environmental systems are employed to meet sustainabilty objectives".
Height limits will be imposed on all areas contained in C60.
The proposal would be scaled from two to three stories with setbacks at the residential Kambrook Rd end through the range of three to eight stories in the middle precincts to a limit of upto twenty stories in the Smith St precinct next to the Caulfield Railway Station.
The Section 173 (infrastructure agreement) lists seven key projects that the MRC must provide for. These are worth approx $7-9m and include three infrastructure projects that are outside C60; the signalisation of a reconfigured underpass intersection, a safe pedestrian link between C60 and the station and an upgrade of the Kambrook Rd-Station St intersection.
There will be an Open Space contribution requirement across all of the C60 site, including non-residential land uses. Four per cent will apply to the residential precinct and Five per cent to the mixed use and Smith St precincts. The five per cent requirement for the commercial precincts is higher than what VCAT normally applies for commercial developments and was inserted upon Councils request. As I understand these rates are higher than for other recent developments in Glen Eira
The residential parking provisions anticipated are in accordance with and are consistant with Res-Code requirements- As well the parking rates for the retail outlets are generous in comparison to other recent developments such as the ten storey bldg in Rippon Grove Elsternwick recently approved by VCAT. In addition, car parking restrictions will be established in surrounding residential streets in consultation with residents and at the cost of the C60 applicant
Traffic ie car congestion already exists throughout much of our municipality including the Caulfield area and will continue to be so regardless of C60- the solution lies in better providing for improved transport and traffic options.
An approach that restricts and handicap developments based on past outmoded transport practices misses the point and opportunity to create future urban improvements.
In summary- In considering carefully this decision, I believe the C60 amendment and the proposed development that may follow is an appropriate usage for this site.
With the inclusion of the extra height limit and the student housing permit conditions in the recommendations plus the other aspects outlined above, I feel the potential impacts and issues that have been raised during the consultation process have been reasonably addressed and satisfied. Thank you
Item 5.1 amendment C60-
Moved Cr. Neil Pilling 28/04/2011
I propose to move motion 5.1 as printed with the addition of the following words at the end of recommendation 3: "and implementation of the agreement relating to the centre of the reserve approved by Council on 27 April 2011".
In considering this motion I along with the rest of the committee have carefully analysed all the key issues and the implications for this scale of potential development on the C60 site.
This rezoning amendment does not authorise any construction. Development will be dependant on Council approval of the following plans on environmental management, integrated transport ,car parking management ,drainage management ,landscape plan and waste and recycling management.
There has been an extensive consultation process over an extended period of time that has allowed for community input and discussion during which time the special committee has listened to the concerns and issues raised. I would certainly like to thank everyone for their input.
Consultation on C60 has included
-exhibition of the amendment 19 November – 21 December 2009
-the planning conference of 8 February 2010
-six days of hearings before the independent panel in May 2010
-public release of the panel’s report, July 2010.
-public consultation meeting on 4 April 2011.
The C60 site is a large unique parcel of land situated immediately next to a major suburban railway station at the intersection of the two main railway lines that service South-East Melbourne. It is close to main roads, retail outlets, education facilities and without the level crossings found in other areas of Glen Eira. A large proportion of the site at the eastern end does not abut residential properties.
In all aspects this is a site that encourages urban consolidation and the use of public transport - a site that I believe is suitable for a large scale development that will encourage and provide increased housing in Melbourne’s middle suburban belt whilst reducing the pressure for endless suburban sprawl on the cities fringes
Melbourne cannot continue to grow randomly and endlessly – In a world fast moving towards peak oil and the need to reduce our carbon footprint in limiting the effects of climate change, consolidating and intensifying housing in appropriate areas becomes a necessity – this view is supported and is evident in our current State planning laws.
As outlned for each precinct in the incorporated plan "a sustaintable design response will be required in all buildings, where orientation, sun-shading, ventilation, sustainable material specification and/or environmental systems are employed to meet sustainabilty objectives".
Height limits will be imposed on all areas contained in C60.
The proposal would be scaled from two to three stories with setbacks at the residential Kambrook Rd end through the range of three to eight stories in the middle precincts to a limit of upto twenty stories in the Smith St precinct next to the Caulfield Railway Station.
The Section 173 (infrastructure agreement) lists seven key projects that the MRC must provide for. These are worth approx $7-9m and include three infrastructure projects that are outside C60; the signalisation of a reconfigured underpass intersection, a safe pedestrian link between C60 and the station and an upgrade of the Kambrook Rd-Station St intersection.
There will be an Open Space contribution requirement across all of the C60 site, including non-residential land uses. Four per cent will apply to the residential precinct and Five per cent to the mixed use and Smith St precincts. The five per cent requirement for the commercial precincts is higher than what VCAT normally applies for commercial developments and was inserted upon Councils request. As I understand these rates are higher than for other recent developments in Glen Eira
The residential parking provisions anticipated are in accordance with and are consistant with Res-Code requirements- As well the parking rates for the retail outlets are generous in comparison to other recent developments such as the ten storey bldg in Rippon Grove Elsternwick recently approved by VCAT. In addition, car parking restrictions will be established in surrounding residential streets in consultation with residents and at the cost of the C60 applicant
Traffic ie car congestion already exists throughout much of our municipality including the Caulfield area and will continue to be so regardless of C60- the solution lies in better providing for improved transport and traffic options.
An approach that restricts and handicap developments based on past outmoded transport practices misses the point and opportunity to create future urban improvements.
In summary- In considering carefully this decision, I believe the C60 amendment and the proposed development that may follow is an appropriate usage for this site.
With the inclusion of the extra height limit and the student housing permit conditions in the recommendations plus the other aspects outlined above, I feel the potential impacts and issues that have been raised during the consultation process have been reasonably addressed and satisfied. Thank you
Thursday, April 21, 2011
upcoming Council Meetings 27th and 28th April
There will be two meetings of Council of significant interest next week-
Wednesday 27th April 7.30pm- scheduled Council Meeting that includes item 9.12 - the draft agreement as recently negotiated between Council and the Melbourne Racing Club on the future use and amenity of the racecourse centre and perimeter fencing.
Wednesday 27th April 7.30pm- scheduled Council Meeting that includes item 9.12 - the draft agreement as recently negotiated between Council and the Melbourne Racing Club on the future use and amenity of the racecourse centre and perimeter fencing.
http://www.gleneira.vic.gov.au/Files/April27-2011AGENDA.pdf
Thursday 28th April 7.00pm - meeting of the Caulfield Racecourse Precinct Special Committee that will consider whether to approve (adoption) or abandon the Melbourne Racing Club planning scheme amendment C60.
http://www.gleneira.vic.gov.au/Files/April28-Caulfield-Racec-Prec-Sp-Comm-AGENDA.pdf
Sunday, May 2, 2010
From the Chamber - COUNCIL MEETING 27TH APRIL
The council meeting was rather short but contain several important items- Full minutes can be seen by clicking on the council link below right and going to meetings.
Leamington Cres development - council voted to approve the amended plans for a 3 storey 34 dwelling apartment complex. This site is at the junction of the Frankston and Dandenong railways lines on the approach to Caulfield stn. Even though technically this site is zoned minimal change - the uniqueness of the site and its closeness to public transport and the pheonix precinct was deemed good justification to approve this development.
VCAT Watch- a particularliy disappointing result was the decision to allow the construction of two double storey attached buildings at 10 Packer st Murrumbeena, a street covered by the Boyd Park Significant Character Area (SCA). In somewhat of a first for this area VCAT overuled a previous refusal notice by council to grant a permit, giving little weight to the SCA policy.
The planning scheme review currently taking place will consider stronger neighbourhood character protection for the SCAs in our municipality- it would seem a very timely move!
Leamington Cres development - council voted to approve the amended plans for a 3 storey 34 dwelling apartment complex. This site is at the junction of the Frankston and Dandenong railways lines on the approach to Caulfield stn. Even though technically this site is zoned minimal change - the uniqueness of the site and its closeness to public transport and the pheonix precinct was deemed good justification to approve this development.
VCAT Watch- a particularliy disappointing result was the decision to allow the construction of two double storey attached buildings at 10 Packer st Murrumbeena, a street covered by the Boyd Park Significant Character Area (SCA). In somewhat of a first for this area VCAT overuled a previous refusal notice by council to grant a permit, giving little weight to the SCA policy.
The planning scheme review currently taking place will consider stronger neighbourhood character protection for the SCAs in our municipality- it would seem a very timely move!
Council Plan and Strategic Resource Plan- both plans will be advertised and submissions are welcome until the closing date of 27 May. Full details at http://www.gleneira.vic.gov.au/
Environmental Sustainablity Strategy - this strategy was developed with input from those attending the Glen Eira environmental forum in July 09 and with reccomendations from the Environ. Advisory Committee.-some of the initiatives include
- the funding for ewaste collection days in each ward
- the introduction and implentation of a carbon neutral plan for council.
- an increase on the uptake of Greenpower electricity use to 25% of all council operations
the ESS is currently being highlighted on the home page of GE website - link bottom right
with final date for comments/submission on 15 June 2010.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
From the Chamber - COUNCIL MEETING 7TH APRIL
The meeting last Tuesday night was relatively short but did cover some important items which are highlighted below- full minutes are available at the GE link and then by clicking on council and community.
Animal Management Committee- an amendment to the minutes was moved and passed to engage a consultant to report back to council on the feasibliity , costs and parameters regarding undertaking a review of Glen Eira's present off-leash regulations and areas. The admendment in full read as follows:
"that the recommendations of the committtee be adopted except that, in relation to 6b of the minutes of the animal management advisory committee , Council resolves to invite experts in animal mangement, including Harlock Jackson Pty Ltd and Jeavons and Jeavons Pty Ltd, to provide a quote to prepare a report setting out recommendations as to the requirements for a comprehensive review of Council's off-leash areas, including the 50 metre rule having regard to to Councils Domestic Animal Management plan. The report should include methodology, a timeline , the issues to be considered and the potential cost of a such a review. The quotes should come to council in order for Council to determine who should provide the report."
The motion was put and carried unanimously.
comment- I fully supported this initiative as I understand there hasn't been a full review on this issue since 1996.
Glen Eira Toilet draft strategy
This comprehensive draft strategy was welcomed by council as a significant step forward.
It indentifies improvements and upgrades for this important public amenity.Included were findings from an extensive consultation process. The strategy will be placed on public exhibition with submissions welcomed.
Some of the key reccomendations were;
- that fully automated toilets continue to be installed in our park and reserve areas.
- a semi-automated 'hybrid' style facility be trialed and if successful used in our high use areas such as shopping strips.
- the adoption of a five year action plan that will see the upgrading/replacement of some of our older facilities and new facilities to ensure there is a max of 1ooo metres between public toilets in commercial areas ie 500m or less distance to travel.
CEO Reappointment
Council has reappointed our current CEO Mr Andrew Newton for a term of two years with an option excercisable only by council to extend the appointment for a further two years after that.
Animal Management Committee- an amendment to the minutes was moved and passed to engage a consultant to report back to council on the feasibliity , costs and parameters regarding undertaking a review of Glen Eira's present off-leash regulations and areas. The admendment in full read as follows:
"that the recommendations of the committtee be adopted except that, in relation to 6b of the minutes of the animal management advisory committee , Council resolves to invite experts in animal mangement, including Harlock Jackson Pty Ltd and Jeavons and Jeavons Pty Ltd, to provide a quote to prepare a report setting out recommendations as to the requirements for a comprehensive review of Council's off-leash areas, including the 50 metre rule having regard to to Councils Domestic Animal Management plan. The report should include methodology, a timeline , the issues to be considered and the potential cost of a such a review. The quotes should come to council in order for Council to determine who should provide the report."
The motion was put and carried unanimously.
comment- I fully supported this initiative as I understand there hasn't been a full review on this issue since 1996.
Glen Eira Toilet draft strategy
This comprehensive draft strategy was welcomed by council as a significant step forward.
It indentifies improvements and upgrades for this important public amenity.Included were findings from an extensive consultation process. The strategy will be placed on public exhibition with submissions welcomed.
Some of the key reccomendations were;
- that fully automated toilets continue to be installed in our park and reserve areas.
- a semi-automated 'hybrid' style facility be trialed and if successful used in our high use areas such as shopping strips.
- the adoption of a five year action plan that will see the upgrading/replacement of some of our older facilities and new facilities to ensure there is a max of 1ooo metres between public toilets in commercial areas ie 500m or less distance to travel.
CEO Reappointment
Council has reappointed our current CEO Mr Andrew Newton for a term of two years with an option excercisable only by council to extend the appointment for a further two years after that.
Friday, October 16, 2009
From the Chamber Tues 13 Oct - Council votes not to sell public land
There were several important items on last weeks council meeting agenda - The full minutes are available on the Glen Eira council website - click on under links.
Firstly Cr. Oscar Lobo was sworn in and warmly welcomed as the new councillor for Tucker Ward to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Nick Staikos.
Oscar has a financial and banking background, is well known in the Bentleigh area and has had a long involvement with several community groups.
Packer Park - decision on disused former site of Mckinnon Bowls Club
As most readers will be aware in August council announced a proposal to sell this land which is adjacent to Packer Park for a two storey development to be built. This sale would fund the acquisition of 112 and 118 Oakleigh Rd , two properties that are surrounded on three sides by the park.
This proposal went out for public consultation, with a community meeting held in late Aug and many submissions received . The overall position expressed from the community was that whilst the acquisition of the Oakleigh rd properties was supported this shouldnt be linked to the sale of the bowling green site and this land should not be sold but kept as parkland or for other community uses
All nine councillors voted for a motion endorsing this view.
I spoke of the importance of fully consulting with the community in deciding on the future use of this land.
Firstly Cr. Oscar Lobo was sworn in and warmly welcomed as the new councillor for Tucker Ward to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Nick Staikos.
Oscar has a financial and banking background, is well known in the Bentleigh area and has had a long involvement with several community groups.
Packer Park - decision on disused former site of Mckinnon Bowls Club
As most readers will be aware in August council announced a proposal to sell this land which is adjacent to Packer Park for a two storey development to be built. This sale would fund the acquisition of 112 and 118 Oakleigh Rd , two properties that are surrounded on three sides by the park.
This proposal went out for public consultation, with a community meeting held in late Aug and many submissions received . The overall position expressed from the community was that whilst the acquisition of the Oakleigh rd properties was supported this shouldnt be linked to the sale of the bowling green site and this land should not be sold but kept as parkland or for other community uses
All nine councillors voted for a motion endorsing this view.
I spoke of the importance of fully consulting with the community in deciding on the future use of this land.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
From the Chamber Council Meeting Tues 1st Sept
It was a long meeting on Tuesday night encompassing a wide range of issues.
Here is a summary of some of the items-full minutes are available on council site- under links
First of all I would like to wish Cr Nick Staikos best wishes for the future. In the wake of legislation that will come in to effect soon that prevents Crs working for State MPs ,Cr. Staikos stated his intentions to resign from council. Nick has been a strong advocate for his community in the Tucker Ward and has worked hard in many areas particularly Aged Care services and campaigned tirelessly for the GE Sports and Aquatic Centre(GESAC) to be built.His very high primary vote at last years election is testament to this.
Planning Application Decisions-
The decision to grant a permit for two four storey apartment buildings at 7-13 Dudley st E Caulfield was again were based on the suitability of this site and its close proximty to public transport and the Monash University campus.
Planning Scheme Review-
Glen Eira is required is required to review its Planning Scheme by June 2010.
This is an important and timely project that will include a review of GE's Muncipal Strategic Statement to provide improved guidence for residents , planner and developers. There will also be a review of all council town planning policies.
The items 8.6, 8.7 and 8.8 all deal with this issue in detail including a proposal to replace existing Significant Character Areas(SCA) with stronger protection thru a Neighborhood Character Overlay(NCO).
I was concerned that there was not enough community engagement and input throughout this review and moved an admendment to include the conducting of community meetings/forums in this process.
Item 8.15 FINANCING MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE
This item was included in the agenda to answer and present the council position on financial assertions raised by an advertisement placed by the Glen Eira Community Association in the Leader newspaper the previous week.
I would encourage a good read thru of this item.
What was contentious was the personal nature of parts of this item- parts 3.2 and the paragraph
on top of page 55.
Cr. Hyams to his credit moved an amendment that would withdraw both these parts.
While this amendment was commendable, I felt this whole item was unnecessary and an inappropriate way of answering community concerns and also was being used as a platform to denigerate anyone who questioned council policy.
I voted accordingly, along with Cr Penhalluriack, against the admendment and the item.
I spoke of the need for this council to change its outlook from a sometimes confrontational stance to a far more concilliatory one.
Here is a summary of some of the items-full minutes are available on council site- under links
First of all I would like to wish Cr Nick Staikos best wishes for the future. In the wake of legislation that will come in to effect soon that prevents Crs working for State MPs ,Cr. Staikos stated his intentions to resign from council. Nick has been a strong advocate for his community in the Tucker Ward and has worked hard in many areas particularly Aged Care services and campaigned tirelessly for the GE Sports and Aquatic Centre(GESAC) to be built.His very high primary vote at last years election is testament to this.
Planning Application Decisions-
The four storey development for 21 units at 40 Koornang Rd Carnegie was approved. I felt this was the correct decision. This site is close to public transport and the local shopping strip and is where more intensive , sustainable developments are better located. There are certainly existing traffic congestion problems near the site at the cnr of Koornang rd and Arawatta st that need to be better managed.
The decision to grant a permit for two four storey apartment buildings at 7-13 Dudley st E Caulfield was again were based on the suitability of this site and its close proximty to public transport and the Monash University campus.
Planning Scheme Review-
Glen Eira is required is required to review its Planning Scheme by June 2010.
This is an important and timely project that will include a review of GE's Muncipal Strategic Statement to provide improved guidence for residents , planner and developers. There will also be a review of all council town planning policies.
The items 8.6, 8.7 and 8.8 all deal with this issue in detail including a proposal to replace existing Significant Character Areas(SCA) with stronger protection thru a Neighborhood Character Overlay(NCO).
I was concerned that there was not enough community engagement and input throughout this review and moved an admendment to include the conducting of community meetings/forums in this process.
Item 8.15 FINANCING MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE
This item was included in the agenda to answer and present the council position on financial assertions raised by an advertisement placed by the Glen Eira Community Association in the Leader newspaper the previous week.
I would encourage a good read thru of this item.
What was contentious was the personal nature of parts of this item- parts 3.2 and the paragraph
on top of page 55.
Cr. Hyams to his credit moved an amendment that would withdraw both these parts.
While this amendment was commendable, I felt this whole item was unnecessary and an inappropriate way of answering community concerns and also was being used as a platform to denigerate anyone who questioned council policy.
I voted accordingly, along with Cr Penhalluriack, against the admendment and the item.
I spoke of the need for this council to change its outlook from a sometimes confrontational stance to a far more concilliatory one.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
From The Chamber -Council Meeting- tues AUG 11
Sorry for the delay in posting this - full minutes can found on link to council
This was fairly short meeting - the economic downturn has certainly had an effect on planning applications.
Planning - the application for the proposed development at 34 Ames ave Carnegie was refused. This was the second time this application had come before council and similar concerns about this development were raised by crs. Even though this application was recommended to be accepted by officers , the majority of crs felt that it was still inappropriate because of the bulk and scale of the 7 apartments envisaged.
The site was abbutted on 3 sides by a minimal change housing zone and was located right at the edge of the Murrumbeena neighborhood centre. It was felt by most crs that this application didn't respect the transitional nature of the location and I certainly supported this view.
Quarterly Reporting- this detailed report details GEs performance in a wide range of areas
and quantifies results against previous mths-Some of the more impressive achievements were the ongoing service performance of the council call centre. In June the centre handled almost 7000 calls and counter enquiries, resolving 80% at the first call with an average waiting time of under 10 secs. I am certainly glad residents can talk to a real life operator quickly!
I think for the first time an external reporting section was included with assessments of some areas of GE performance by professional bodies- Certainly on financial and reporting matters GE is rated highly. On diversion/ recycling rates this is not so rosy and I will cover this in the next section.
Sustainable Waste Management- this item dealt with efforts to promote and improve GEs recycling rates and re-use of waste materials
Diversion Rate- this is the rate of waste that is diverted from landfill and relates directly to how much waste is recycled- presently GE has a 34.1% diversion rate which is quite poor and we are ranked 24 out of the 30 metropolitan councils.
One of the main reasons for this is that GE is one of only two councils in melb that continue to use 240 litres as their std size garbage bin. The vast majority of municipalities use 120 litres with some now using 80 litres as the std size weekly garbage bin. Experience has shown that this downsizing increases recyclables collected and reduces the tonnage collected. Downsizing also encourages the uptake the the optional green waste service.
At present the current cost differential in GE between the 120 and 240 lt bins is $12.80. What is proposed is the possibility of increasing this differential to encourage residents to downsize.
In the 09/10 budget there is $140k allocated for market testing, education and a bin choice survey. Council voted to authorise an analysis of different price differentials and related considerations with a further report back to council
This was fairly short meeting - the economic downturn has certainly had an effect on planning applications.
Planning - the application for the proposed development at 34 Ames ave Carnegie was refused. This was the second time this application had come before council and similar concerns about this development were raised by crs. Even though this application was recommended to be accepted by officers , the majority of crs felt that it was still inappropriate because of the bulk and scale of the 7 apartments envisaged.
The site was abbutted on 3 sides by a minimal change housing zone and was located right at the edge of the Murrumbeena neighborhood centre. It was felt by most crs that this application didn't respect the transitional nature of the location and I certainly supported this view.
Quarterly Reporting- this detailed report details GEs performance in a wide range of areas
and quantifies results against previous mths-Some of the more impressive achievements were the ongoing service performance of the council call centre. In June the centre handled almost 7000 calls and counter enquiries, resolving 80% at the first call with an average waiting time of under 10 secs. I am certainly glad residents can talk to a real life operator quickly!
I think for the first time an external reporting section was included with assessments of some areas of GE performance by professional bodies- Certainly on financial and reporting matters GE is rated highly. On diversion/ recycling rates this is not so rosy and I will cover this in the next section.
Sustainable Waste Management- this item dealt with efforts to promote and improve GEs recycling rates and re-use of waste materials
Diversion Rate- this is the rate of waste that is diverted from landfill and relates directly to how much waste is recycled- presently GE has a 34.1% diversion rate which is quite poor and we are ranked 24 out of the 30 metropolitan councils.
One of the main reasons for this is that GE is one of only two councils in melb that continue to use 240 litres as their std size garbage bin. The vast majority of municipalities use 120 litres with some now using 80 litres as the std size weekly garbage bin. Experience has shown that this downsizing increases recyclables collected and reduces the tonnage collected. Downsizing also encourages the uptake the the optional green waste service.
At present the current cost differential in GE between the 120 and 240 lt bins is $12.80. What is proposed is the possibility of increasing this differential to encourage residents to downsize.
In the 09/10 budget there is $140k allocated for market testing, education and a bin choice survey. Council voted to authorise an analysis of different price differentials and related considerations with a further report back to council
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
From the Chamber- COUNCIL MEETING TUES 21st JULY part 1
This was an interesting meeting largely devoted to animal management issues.
full minutes are available on link to GE website
Planning Three amendments relating to zone changes on sites in the Glenhuntly and Poath Rds shopping precincts were discussed. What was highlighted importantly by many councillors was the need for strategic planning in our retail areas throughout Glen Eira.
There was certainly a desire expressed that more planning be done on the broader issue of how our smaller shopping strips like Glen Huntly, Murrumbeena,and Hughesdale can be developed and reactivated.
I feel there should be a greater contribution by our council to the pre-planning of retail areas like this in an inclusive manner that ensures traders, residents and businesses are involved and can contribute and support changes.
Local Law New Local Laws for GE have been drafted and are available for public comment and submissions over the next 60 days, see GE website- The last review was in 2000 so this is very timely- there has been quite a number of comments recently about the inadequencies of this draft- and I would encourage public comment and submissions on improvements that can be made.
Animal Management items
a range of new measures were annouced which I felt were very worthwhile & included
-free registration for dogs or cats for the 12 mths following microchipping and desexing
-the holding of a 'pet expo' in conjuction with a Party in the Park function early next year
-waiving of the annual reg fee following certified training of dogs
and a 50% reduction on this fee for subsequent years
princess park
Item 8.11 dealt with the ongoing problem of dog faeces being left by some irresponsilbe owners at this park, particularly in the off-leash areas of the sporting grounds.
The original item on the agenda dealt with further highlighting and enforcement of the current local law, ie increased signage and issueing of notices & fines to offenders.
An alternate motion was accepted with the addition "that council would consider reccomendations provided by responible stakeholders, that assist in resolving this issue to the satisfaction of all park users"
This was a welcome addition after an initial meeting last week attended by representatives of sporting clubs, dog owners and Cr. Penhalluriack. This is the type of process that should be further encouraged!
full minutes are available on link to GE website
Planning Three amendments relating to zone changes on sites in the Glenhuntly and Poath Rds shopping precincts were discussed. What was highlighted importantly by many councillors was the need for strategic planning in our retail areas throughout Glen Eira.
There was certainly a desire expressed that more planning be done on the broader issue of how our smaller shopping strips like Glen Huntly, Murrumbeena,and Hughesdale can be developed and reactivated.
I feel there should be a greater contribution by our council to the pre-planning of retail areas like this in an inclusive manner that ensures traders, residents and businesses are involved and can contribute and support changes.
Local Law New Local Laws for GE have been drafted and are available for public comment and submissions over the next 60 days, see GE website- The last review was in 2000 so this is very timely- there has been quite a number of comments recently about the inadequencies of this draft- and I would encourage public comment and submissions on improvements that can be made.
Animal Management items
a range of new measures were annouced which I felt were very worthwhile & included
-free registration for dogs or cats for the 12 mths following microchipping and desexing
-the holding of a 'pet expo' in conjuction with a Party in the Park function early next year
-waiving of the annual reg fee following certified training of dogs
and a 50% reduction on this fee for subsequent years
princess park
Item 8.11 dealt with the ongoing problem of dog faeces being left by some irresponsilbe owners at this park, particularly in the off-leash areas of the sporting grounds.
The original item on the agenda dealt with further highlighting and enforcement of the current local law, ie increased signage and issueing of notices & fines to offenders.
An alternate motion was accepted with the addition "that council would consider reccomendations provided by responible stakeholders, that assist in resolving this issue to the satisfaction of all park users"
This was a welcome addition after an initial meeting last week attended by representatives of sporting clubs, dog owners and Cr. Penhalluriack. This is the type of process that should be further encouraged!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
from the chamber - COUNCIL MEETING 30 JUNE
While this was a meeting dominated by endorsing the budget and community plan there was also several other interesting items- here are some thoughts and comments-full minutes are on glen eira link -
OPEN SPACE -
Was especially pleased that there was a unaminous vote to retain the reserve near Nina Crt which borders South Rd and not sell off this well loved open space- as we all know this is a premium in GE! Cr.Magee deserves credit for his work on this.
PLANNING -
The large development planned for the cnr of Glenhuntly and Orrong Rds incorporating Safeway was not supported chiefly because of concerns re height - three of seven level towers and traffic congestion- a more moderate proposal in the order of 4/5 storeys was deemed more suitable and I supported this refusal.
Likewise for two developments in Murrumbeena. 487 Neerim Rd has had several applications over the past few years but by a close 5- 4 vote it was considered to be still an over-development for the site which borders Riley Reserve.
2009/10 BUDGET -
Many councillors spoke in glowing tribute that this budget heralded a new 'clean and green' Glen Eira which was óver the top' but certainly there are positive initiatives in this area.
Grafitti will be addressed on a wide scale for the first time with $210K allocated for a full cleanup of GE and funds available for subsequent follow-up actions.
Greenpower uptake on council assets to be increased from 5% to 15%
-this will cost approx $30-$40K extra per year
$260K to be spent on energy efficiency measures to bring about a 20% energy reduction on six key council sites - the bringing forward of this program
to doubling expenditure in the first year was well supported by councillors and well initiated by Cr. Tang
Increased uptake of the drought resistant grasses program- this year there will be six ovals converted instead of three- Whilst water usage is high in the first year of establishment thereafter the grounds can survive well with a good playing surface in our increasing rain-deficient environment
Whilst these are all good steps forward of which I have certainly been advocating strongly for, most are modest measures as practised by many councils-and GE is encouragingly catching up on. It can be a challenge being in a conservative council!
The largest extra budget item was for GESAC of which I have spoken out of my concerns re the cost of this facility($45m) previously. In this years budget there is $14m allocated for construction costs.
CARNEGIE POOL- $200k is allocated to maintain the facility and keep it open while GESAC is being built- With no funds provided for in the Strategic Resources Plan (SRP) for a future new facility, I am concerned about the fate of this pool once GESAC is built and will continue to advocate on this issue.
OPEN SPACE -
Was especially pleased that there was a unaminous vote to retain the reserve near Nina Crt which borders South Rd and not sell off this well loved open space- as we all know this is a premium in GE! Cr.Magee deserves credit for his work on this.
PLANNING -
The large development planned for the cnr of Glenhuntly and Orrong Rds incorporating Safeway was not supported chiefly because of concerns re height - three of seven level towers and traffic congestion- a more moderate proposal in the order of 4/5 storeys was deemed more suitable and I supported this refusal.
Likewise for two developments in Murrumbeena. 487 Neerim Rd has had several applications over the past few years but by a close 5- 4 vote it was considered to be still an over-development for the site which borders Riley Reserve.
2009/10 BUDGET -
Many councillors spoke in glowing tribute that this budget heralded a new 'clean and green' Glen Eira which was óver the top' but certainly there are positive initiatives in this area.
Grafitti will be addressed on a wide scale for the first time with $210K allocated for a full cleanup of GE and funds available for subsequent follow-up actions.
Greenpower uptake on council assets to be increased from 5% to 15%
-this will cost approx $30-$40K extra per year
$260K to be spent on energy efficiency measures to bring about a 20% energy reduction on six key council sites - the bringing forward of this program
to doubling expenditure in the first year was well supported by councillors and well initiated by Cr. Tang
Increased uptake of the drought resistant grasses program- this year there will be six ovals converted instead of three- Whilst water usage is high in the first year of establishment thereafter the grounds can survive well with a good playing surface in our increasing rain-deficient environment
Whilst these are all good steps forward of which I have certainly been advocating strongly for, most are modest measures as practised by many councils-and GE is encouragingly catching up on. It can be a challenge being in a conservative council!
The largest extra budget item was for GESAC of which I have spoken out of my concerns re the cost of this facility($45m) previously. In this years budget there is $14m allocated for construction costs.
CARNEGIE POOL- $200k is allocated to maintain the facility and keep it open while GESAC is being built- With no funds provided for in the Strategic Resources Plan (SRP) for a future new facility, I am concerned about the fate of this pool once GESAC is built and will continue to advocate on this issue.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
from the chamber COUNCIL MEETING TUES 9 JUNE
Welcome- I will post a report after each council highlighting different aspects of the agenda which i feel may be of interest to the community-full minutes are on the Glen Eira web site -
www.gleneira.vic.gov.au then click on meetings
This was a well attended council meeting with many issues to be discussed and passions aroused!
PLANNING
The planning permits approved for developments in Grange and Glenhuntly Rds I feel were responsible, moderate and in keeping with higher intensity housing along major travel routes.
CHILD CARE
For the first time Glen Eira is introducing a Child Care Town Planning policy that identifies appropriate and reccommended sites for child care facilities. This will be available for public comment before being reviewed and voted on by council.
GESAC-
The Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre will now enter into the construction tender stage after council voted to proceed.The vote was 6-2 with Councillor Penhalluriack and myself speaking against the motion. I was certainly concerned at the $45 million cost to this one project that has continually esculated over the past few years. I felt is was financially irresponilbe to proceed with it in its present format.
A more modest proposal that could have included the redevelopment of the Carnegie pool would have been a better option.
ESS
The Environmental Sustainable Strategy progress report was tabled and accepted- This relatively new strategy is certainly welcome and a signicant step forward for GE .A major failing of the strategy at present is its failing to quantify and set targets that reduce GEs greenhouse gas emmisions. The recently released energy audit report also directs that a plan towards Carbon Neutrality should be developed , I will certainly advocating hard for this to happen!
CONCRETE PATHS?
The issue of concrete paths vs natural paths in our parks was the issue for item 8.14 for our new "walking , jogging and all abilities trail"in Lords Reserve. This is a federally funded project and I argued strongly for a granitic sand gravel surface to be installed- I did so on environmental, usage, economic and asthetic grounds. Like many in our community I am dismayed by the insistance that concrete is used for all new paths and access points thoughout GE.
Unfortunately the vote was tied at 4 all with the Mayor Helen Whiteside having the the casting vote in favor of concrete. Even though I was disappointed with the result after putting a lot of effort and research in, I feel that concrete usage will be questioned more thoroughly in future- small steps!
www.gleneira.vic.gov.au then click on meetings
This was a well attended council meeting with many issues to be discussed and passions aroused!
PLANNING
The planning permits approved for developments in Grange and Glenhuntly Rds I feel were responsible, moderate and in keeping with higher intensity housing along major travel routes.
CHILD CARE
For the first time Glen Eira is introducing a Child Care Town Planning policy that identifies appropriate and reccommended sites for child care facilities. This will be available for public comment before being reviewed and voted on by council.
GESAC-
The Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre will now enter into the construction tender stage after council voted to proceed.The vote was 6-2 with Councillor Penhalluriack and myself speaking against the motion. I was certainly concerned at the $45 million cost to this one project that has continually esculated over the past few years. I felt is was financially irresponilbe to proceed with it in its present format.
A more modest proposal that could have included the redevelopment of the Carnegie pool would have been a better option.
ESS
The Environmental Sustainable Strategy progress report was tabled and accepted- This relatively new strategy is certainly welcome and a signicant step forward for GE .A major failing of the strategy at present is its failing to quantify and set targets that reduce GEs greenhouse gas emmisions. The recently released energy audit report also directs that a plan towards Carbon Neutrality should be developed , I will certainly advocating hard for this to happen!
CONCRETE PATHS?
The issue of concrete paths vs natural paths in our parks was the issue for item 8.14 for our new "walking , jogging and all abilities trail"in Lords Reserve. This is a federally funded project and I argued strongly for a granitic sand gravel surface to be installed- I did so on environmental, usage, economic and asthetic grounds. Like many in our community I am dismayed by the insistance that concrete is used for all new paths and access points thoughout GE.
Unfortunately the vote was tied at 4 all with the Mayor Helen Whiteside having the the casting vote in favor of concrete. Even though I was disappointed with the result after putting a lot of effort and research in, I feel that concrete usage will be questioned more thoroughly in future- small steps!
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