Your Council - IPART · 2014. 2. 25. · groups, individuals and performers to showcase themselves. This is something the Arts Festival Committee will explore for the next festival

www.singleton.nsw.gov.au Singleton Council Spring 2013

In 2011, Council undertook a community survey as part of our consultation for the Singleton Community Strategic Plan. The survey of more than 500 people identified Council services that were important to the community, where there was a high level of satisfaction with those services and where there was not.

Since this survey, Council has worked hard to address those areas identified as important to the community that received a low satisfaction rating. These included our responsiveness to community needs, consulting the community, informing the community of Council decisions, social planning, the town cen-tre, environmental monitoring and protection, environmental education and parking.

You also said you wanted improvements in maintaining the local road network and managing rural, industrial and commercial developments.

Two years on, we can proudly say, we listened and acted.

Many people would be aware that Council has committed $2 million to revitalising the town centre and is seeking funding for a further $9 million to com-plete the project. This project includes a parking and traffic study.

We’ve started work on strate-gies to address social planning issues, such as housing and accommodation, ageing, and disability access.

Earlier this year we adopted a 20-year waste strategy, a flying-fox management strategy and undertook an open space and recreation needs study.

We’ve rolled out a new recycling service to reduce the amount of waste going into landfill and will save Council $4 million over 10 years.

We’ve improved communica-tions by building a new, easy to use website with relevant and up-to-date information and we’ve relaunched a quarterly newsletter to keep our commu-nity informed.

Since 2011, we’ve written and implemented a new Develop-ment Control Plan and a new Local Environmental Plan to regulate local development. We’ve created online property tools where people can track their DAs, view maps and check relevant development legisla-tion, regulations and policies.

New bridges have been con-structed at Broke and Bourkes Crossing in the past year alone and this year we’re investing $1.28 million in our local road resealing program.

We’re proud of the progress we’ve made but we know there’s a long way to go.

To help us get right the essen-tial services our community expects, Council is considering making an application for a special rate variation to the In-dependent Pricing and Regula-tory Tribunal (IPART) to improve service levels across Council.

During October and November, we’ll be asking you for feedback on some of our areas, including roads, parks, footpaths, cycle-ways, public amenities, events, communication and cultural spaces.

This feedback will help deter-mine what options are available to Council moving forward and whether a rate variation is needed and, most importantly, supported by the community.

We’ll be asking what services you would like to see increased or improved and how much you might be willing to pay through your rates to fund them.

In December, Council will indicate to IPART whether we expect to put in an application at which time we will undertake further consultation with the community to make sure we have it right.

The outcomes from this consul-tation will guide a review of the Singleton Community Strategic Plan, a document that encapsu-lates your vision for the next 10 years.

We encourage you to read more about our plan and provide your feedback at www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

Your Council

Mayor’s messageOur Council has a long-term finan-cial plan for Singleton that isn’t about big splashy projects. First and foremost, it’s about providing the essential services our com-munity expects from Council, and getting them right.

Like many councils, we have a lim-ited income that we must use to provide more and more services.

In a survey we undertook in 2011, our community indicated they would rather we subsidise services through rate collection than with a user pays system. In 2013, we want to verify if that is still the case.

Rate rises are never a popular option. And as a Council we have looked for efficiencies, asking how can we do things better for less. For years, we have made those changes and built in new effi-ciencies but there comes a point where the costs outgrow the savings and a gap forms.

Our plan to get the essentials right

Continued pg 3

We’re proud of the progress we’ve made but we know there’s a

long way to go


What we’ve been working on

Did you know?? Council is now on social media! Follow us on Twitter @Singleton_NSW

or like us on Facebook.com/SingletonCouncil

Take a tour of our new interactive websiteOn 1 August, we launched a new web-site packed with loads of new features designed to provide more opportunities to engage with our community. Develop-ment of the website started late last year, with an in-house committee liaising with staff and web designers to build a site customised to the needs of Council and our community.

Those who visited our site in the past may remember it was dated and difficult to navigate. It also had a clunky and time consuming back-end which made it diffi-cult for staff to upload content.

Our internal project team had several objectives: give our site a fresh and con-temporary appearance, make it easy to navigate, contain interactive features for engagement, and build in systems to en-sure content was regularly reviewed and updated. The team also decided not to take any of the content from the old site across to the new site to remove the risk

of transferring out-dated information.

Creating content for the new site involved more than 40 staff across all areas of Council writing, uploading and checking pages over more than two months. The end result – we have a brand-new web-site, with fresh, relevant content across more than 1200 pages. We also have plen-ty of new features including a compre-hensive events calendar, FAQs and news sections, an A-Z guide, a customisable dashboard, a subscription-based Notify Me module, Community Voice forums, and photo and video galleries.

You can also complete online forms, apply for jobs, and use our extensive online property tools. The site is fully integrated with social media and users can log on using Facebook to save time. As a regular user, logging in gives you the ability to customise what you want to see when you visit our site using My Dashboard.

Once you’re logged in you can also partic-

ipate in our online forums in Community Voice. We encourage people to submit their comments on topics of interest and others can vote for ideas with a thumbs up or thumbs down. Community Voice is moderated and we would urge users to read the Rules of Use before participating.

Notify Me is a neat little feature that lets anyone with email opt in to receive sub-scriptions on the topics of their choosing. You can also set up RSS newsfeeds.

Scan me with your QR Reader App on your smartphone or tablet device to visit our

new website.

Place Making is an approach to planning that goes beyond de-sign and infrastructure to look at relationships between the physical environment and the people who live, work and play in a particular space. At the core of Place Making is engaging with the community to find out what places are important, how these places are used and in what ways they can be improved.

Council, in partnership with Coal & Allied through their Community Development Fund, has employed a full time Place Making Coordinator to liaise with the community and act to facilitate and organise Place Making initiatives.

The success of Place Making is reliant upon the community’s enthusiasm and participation. If you feel passionate about trans-forming public spaces into vibrant community places, please contact Place Making Coordinator Hannah Schultz-Fulham on 02 6571 5888 or email [email protected]

Place Making: what does it all mean? Arts Festival lauded a success

The second Singleton Arts Festival was held from 22 June to 28 July and featured more than 50 diverse events including music, theatre, visual arts, crafts, creative food and wine, displays and workshops.

The Festival is an initiative of the Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter, Singleton Arts and Music Society, Sacred Spaces and Singleton Council. This year, it was proudly sponsored by Glencore Xstrata.

Its aim was to raise the profile of the arts in Singleton and stakeholders agreed it was a success.

Singleton Council General Manager Lindy Hyam says feedback from the community had been overwhelmingly positive.

“There has been plenty of discussion regarding the high quality of, and great variety, of events in the program,” she says. “Stakeholders also agreed attendance figures were good and publicity was excel-lent, however, there were areas identified in need of improvement.

“The general feeling was that the Festival was too long at five weeks and the number of different venues was confusing and

unnecessary. It has been suggested that the festival be consolidated to be held over three to four weeks and include three key weekends.

“Each key weekend could include a num-ber of events held in the one venue and would allow a number of local creative groups, individuals and performers to showcase themselves. This is something the Arts Festival Committee will explore for the next festival in 2015.”

Ms Hyam says it is Council’s intention to see the festival grow into a state-wide significant event.

Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter’s John Drinan at the launch of the Festival.


Monitoring our performance

Did you know?? You can now pay your Council and water rates at the Singleton Visitor Information

and Enterprise Centre in Townhead Park. The centre is open 9am to 5pm, seven days a week.

Since late 2012, Council has been preparing to be reviewed under the Promoting Better Practice Program by the Division of Local Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet.

The review is designed to assess the effectiveness and efficien-cy of Council’s operations. It includes a site visit to examine practices and compliance with relevant legislation and regula-tions. As well as evaluating Coun-cil’s framework for monitoring its performance, the review team will provide feedback for Council to improve performance.

To prepare for the review, Council is required to undertake a self-as-sessment of its practices using a very detailed checklist. The checklist provides the basis for a thorough and practical assess-ment of how our operations align with key legislation, regulations, guidelines and industry standards.

This was finalised in August and was examined by the review team prior to a site visit during October. During the visit, the re-view team meet with the Mayor, interested Councillors, General Manager, and other staff. They

also attend a Council meeting and examine the Council’s sys-tems, processes and key documents.

Council’s General Manager Lindy Hyam says reviews can act as a “health check”.

“It gives the Council confidence about what is being done and helps to focus attention on key priorities,” she says. “The process encourages a culture of contin-uous improvement and greater compliance.

“This review provides an exciting opportunity to take an organisa-

tion-wide evaluation and identify areas where we are performing well and others where more work is required.

“I look forward to reading the draft report and drawing up an action plan with the Council to address any recommendations of the review team.”

Since 2005/06 reviews have been undertaken at other Hunter councils including Mait-land, Cessnock, Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook, Newcastle and Port Stephens.

Review program promotes better practice

From page 1

We have a plan to address that gap but we need community support.

Over the next few months we want to know what you think of our services. In particular, we want to know what services you would like to see increased and what you would be willing to pay for those services.

From previous consultation, we know our community wants more cycleways, better footpaths and well-maintained roads. We also know how much this will cost and every year we delay, the costs will only increase.

We are considering making an application to IPART for a special rate variation to fund these im-provements but only if we have the mandate of you, our community.

Now is the time to have your say. I urge you to visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/ essentials and complete the service level surveys. You can also have your say on our Communi-ty Voice forums and our social media platforms.

- Cr John Martin OAM

Mayor’s message

Singleton Gym & Swim Master Plan

$5.7 million boost for Gym & SwimSingleton Gym & Swim will be refurbished after it was award-ed $5.7 million from the Hunter Infrastructure and Investment Fund.

Council was advised in Septem-ber it had been successful in an application for funding to redevelop the centre into a mul-ti-purpose facility to meet the future health, sport and recrea-tional needs of the community.

The master plan includes build-ing a 350-square metre exten-sion of the centre to allow for extending the existing fitness

centre and providing a new spa, sauna and spin studio.

A new program/hydrotherapy pool will be constructed and the existing crèche will be redevel-oped as a Learn to Swim lounge and booking office.

A new crèche will be construct-ed adjacent to the entry and link to the existing playground.

The outdoor pool will be heated to extend the use of the pool by at least two months.

The support facilities will be upgraded to provide space for

a physiotherapist on site and other health professionals.

There will also be additional car parking.

It is anticipated work on the refurbishment will commence in April 2014 following develop-ment of architectural plans, DA approval and tendering.

The Singleton Gym & Swim Master Plan was developed in 2012 in consultation with centre users, gym members, business-es and schools.


Improving our road network

Contact UsCivic Centre, Queen Street,Singleton NSW 2330P: 02 6578 7290 F: 02 6572 4197E: [email protected]

Did you know??

Singleton ratepayers can now opt out of paper rates notices and receives their notices via email. Download a form from Council’s website and nominate any email account. Notices will be emailed as a pdf.

Know your CouncillorsMayor John Martin T: 0407 041 621 [email protected]

Cr Tessa Capsanis T: 0409 979 608 [email protected]

Cr Bob Keown T: 0409 057 218 [email protected]

Cr Tony McNamara T: 0407 042 802 [email protected]

Cr Ruth Rogers T: 0407 041 542 [email protected]

Deputy Mayor Godfrey Adamthwaite T: 0407 042 571 gadamthwaite@ singleton.nsw.gov.au

Cr Hollee Diemar-Jenkins T: 0418 595 484 [email protected]

Cr Danny Thompson T: 0400 249 374 dthompson@ singleton.nsw.gov.au

Cr Sue Moore T: 0407 029 341 smoore @singleton.nsw.gov.au

Cr Val Scott T: 0407 042 679 [email protected]

$1.28 million allocated to resealingCouncil has programmed its Region-al and Local Roads (Urban & Rural) Bitumen Resealing Works for the 2013/14 financial year. The estimated expenditure for the Regional Road Resealing Program is $250,000, Urban Resealing Program is $315,000 and for the Rural Road Resealing Program is $720,000.

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

The roads to be resealed are prior-itised in accordance with Council’s Asset Management Plan. The plan allows all sealed roads to be resealed every 10 years. Council’s resealing records date back more than 10 years hence, roads that haven’t been resealed within that period are the first to be attended to with priority determined by age.

To see the full program visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/resealing

Authorised by Lindy Hyam, Singleton Council General Manager

Upper Hunter MP George Souris, Deputy Premier

Andrew Stoner, Singleton Council General Manager Lindy Hyam and

Singleton Mayor John Martin at the opening of

the Bridgman Rd intersection

upgrade in July. The upgrade was funded under

the State Government’s Resources For Regions

program.

... To this on 23 September 2013.

... To this on 30 August 2013 ...From this in January 2013 ...

The opening of Bourkes Crossing in October will conclude eight months of work that included demolishing the old single-lane timber bridge and constructing a new two-span concrete bridge. Early work was hampered by three separate storm events and poor weather but the project was still finished on schedule.

The project was made possible under the Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme that provides low interest loans to councils.

1

Singleton Council has been working hard over the past few years planning for the future of the Singleton area, to realise our community’s vision and aspirations.

In the past 18 months, we have been getting on with the business of delivering the services our community expects and addressing those areas you have told us we can improve. We’ve ticked off some big capital works projects including new bridges at Broke and Bourkes Crossing, upgrading the intersection of Bridgman Road and the New England Highway to improve traffic flow, and secured funding for the Singleton town centre revitalisation project and planned a complete upgrade of the Singleton Gym & Swim.

Our audited financial statements for the 2012/13 financial year show Council is in a sound and stable position for the short-term, but we have a backlog of works and the gap between coverage of our operations and annual maintenance levels is growing.

Of this backlog, $6.587 million relates to roads. This is a common problem for local government right around the

state. This has come about because Council has maintained service levels while absorbing additional responsibilities and a significant increase in costs while meeting a commitment to continuing to deliver high quality services to our community.

Council is well down the track in addressing this backlog through internal efficiencies and increased borrowing. But that won’t be enough. We need to take other steps to address it before it continues to grow, which will ultimately cost the community more.

We are proposing to do this by applying for a small rate increase over the annual State Government rate peg limit. This would enable Council to start focusing on bringing our local roads maintenance back to where it should be.

Council is committed to working in partnership with the community and we are keen to hear your views on this proposal. Together we can ensure that the future of Singleton, and the assets on which we all rely, are appropriately cared for.

Bourkes Crossing Bridge was opened in October 2013

3 New Broke Bridge

3 Pioneer Rd Extension

3 New bridge at Bourkes Crossing

3 $9 million for town centre revitalisation

3 $5.71 million for Gym & Swim redevelopment

3 Bridgman Rd intersection upgrade

3 Stages 6 & 7 All Abilities Playground, Rose Point Park

3 New recycling contract implemented

3 New Singleton Local Environmental Plan

Cr John Martin, Mayor

2 Singleton Council Proposed Special Rate Variation 2014/15

Singleton Visitor Information & Enterprise Centre took out the National Local

Government Excellence in Tourism Award, fielded almost 45,000 enquiries and served more than 35,000 customers

Our Community

Reviewed Disability Access Plan and audit undertaken

of 14 Council facilities.

2013 Singleton Arts Festival with 50 plus

events

Partnered with the

Hunter Medical Research

Institute to put on the

first Singleton Health Expo

The Mobile Preschool provided education

and care to 59 children per week at

four locations

Achieved 100% compliance with

microbiological water quality since 2005,

maintained 272km of water infrastructure

Singleton Public Library delivered

more than 56 outreach programs

Our EnvironmentRevegetation

works undertaken at Heuston Lookout,

Clydesdale Reserve and along Hunter

River

Singleton Waste Strategy 2033

adopted

Online calendar of environmental

community events launched

Novaskill Employer

of Choice in 2012

1,500 trees planted for

National Tree Day

Online Sustainability Living Guide developed

Our Places

$5.71 million for Singleton Gym & Swim

redevelopment

Bridgman Road intersection upgraded

New bridges constructed

at Broke and Bourkes

Crossing

Maintained 24 parks and reserves in town and seven in the villages

Open Space & Recreation Needs Study completed

and exhibited

$1.075 million spent on resealing 32.3km of roads in

2012/13; $1.28 million to be spent on resealing 49.38km of roads

in 2013/14

Our Community Leadership

Kelso and Church streets intersection upgraded

Participated in Division of Local

Government Better Practice Review Program

and multiple State Government

reviews

Customer Service Charter

adopted

Online community directory launched

Quarterly community newsletter revamped

Organisational restructure

saving Council $270,000pa

used to repay borrowings

$0$200$400$600$800

$1,000$1,200

Average Residential Rate 2012

0500

100015002000250030003500400045005000

Average Business Rate 2012

“ “

3Singleton Council Proposed Special Rate Variation 2014/15

The proposed rate increase would be applied to the general rates component of Council’s income only. Council’s general rates are calculated using a base rates system. Under this system we set a “base” amount that is the same dollar value for each rate assessment in the rating category. We then add an additional component calculated on the land value of the rate assessment. We call this the Ad Valorem rate.

Base Rate + (land value x Ad Valorem/100) = General Rates Payable

Eg. Residential Singleton rating category with Ad Valorem rate of 0.4161 (2013/14)

$186.70 + ($105,000 x .04161/100) = $623.91

It should be noted that the General Rates Payable does not include annual fixed charges for Council services such as stormwater, water supply, sewer supply, waste services or government levies.

A rate calculator has been created and is available at www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/ratescalculator to give ratepayers an indication of what ordinary rates (general rate) they can be expected to pay for the 2014/15 rating year.

Council’s rating structure has four residential, four business, one farmland and two mining categories. Average rates across all categories in Singleton are considerably lower due to the inclusion of the mining categories. This category contributes 34.24 per cent of Council’s general rate income.

Compared to other councils, we have low rates. We have the third lowest residential and business rates out of our neighbouring Hunter councils and the lowest farmland rates. In 2011/12, we had the fourth lowest residential rate in our comparative group where the average was $837. For Singleton Council to achieve the group average we would need to increase residential rates by 26.56 per cent.

Council’s average business rate at $1,352 is the lowest in its group. For Council to achieve the group average for business, rates in this category would need to increase by 155.89 per cent.

Revenue from rates comprises 42.5 per cent of Council’s general fund revenue. The balance comes from annual charges, user charges, fees, investment income, grants and developer contributions and land and other asset sales.

We have the fourth lowest residential rate in our comparative group.

Source: Division of Local Government Comparative Data 2011/12, Group 4 councils, regional towns

Source: Division of Local Government Comparative Data 2011/12, Group 4 councils, regional towns

Council Average Residential Rate ($)

Average Farmland Rate ($)

Average Business Rate ($)

Cessnock City 934 1,867 2,789

Dungog Shire 689 1,939 793

Maitland City 865 2,232 4,464

Muswellbrook Shire 630 2,552 1,732

Singleton 669 1,241 1,352

Upper Hunter 576 2,610 974

Rate comparision between other Hunter councils

http://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/ratescalculator


Council is committed to delivering quality services to the community. In order to begin addressing our roads maintenance as a matter of urgency, without impacting on current services, Singleton Council is proposing a permanent 5 per cent increase in rates above the allowable 2.3 per cent increase set by the State Government.

Following this, Council plans to undertake a comprehensive review of all its services in order to assess the appropriateness of services, identify service gaps and opportunities for improvement. This will be done in consultation with the community and then assessed in terms of community priorities.

Council recognises that a special rate variation may have an impact on ratepayers and pensioners. While Council is not permitted under the Local Government Act 1993 to waive rates, it may agree to enter into an arrangement whereby outstanding rates are covered by periodic payments.

For residential and farmland ratepayers who experience permanent financial hardship, the Council’s Hardship Relief Policy may also be applied.

Infrastructure maintenance and renewal backlogs are a well-documented problem across NSW as councils have worked hard to keep delivering services the community needs while absorbing the significant increase in costs above the approved rate peg, such as increased utility charges, insurance and material costs. Some of these costs have also come about as a normal part of running a business, such as award increases and compliance costs. However, some of these have come about as a result of the State Government shifting the responsibility for particular services or functions onto local government, as such as the new Swimming Pool Register and inspection program.

Council is restricted as to how it can raise funding to operate but despite years of increasing costs, Council has not cut services, placing significant pressure on our bottom line. In order for Council to continue to deliver what the community expects, we have not been able to adequately fund asset maintenance.

Our asset maintenance and renewal backlog is $19.32 million. About $6.58 million of that relates to roads. This backlog will continue to grow if it is not addressed. Over time, our roads will deteriorate and the cost to renew and replace them will be much greater than staying on top of the maintenance. This is a cost that will need to be borne by the community at some point.

$19.327 million infrastructure backlog

$6.587 million roads backlog


� Council applies the rate peg of 2.3% that has been set by IPART for 2014/15.

� This generates an additional $321,000pa in ordinary rate income.

� This income will be used to maintain existing levels of service or may result in a reduction of services.

� In 10 years, 5% of sealed roads, 10% of bridges and 30% of unsealed roads will move into poor condition.

� Council applies to IPART for a 5% permanent

increase above the rate peg of 2.3%.

� This generates an additional $700,000pa in general rate income.

� This income will be used to fund road infrastructure works only.

� The average impact on residential ratepayers is between 47 cents and $1 per week.

� The average impact on business ratepayers is between 82 cents and $2.15 per week.

Minister’s increase

2.3% $

Minister’s increase +5%

SRV $

Annual increase of

SRV $

Weekly increase of

SRV $

Average Residential Singleton 755.87 792.94 37.07 0.71

Average Rural Residential 1,060.41 1,112.30 51.89 1.00

Average Village 502.52 527.15 24.63 0.47

Average Ordinary 745.24 781.84 36.60 0.70

Average Business Singleton 1,762.87 1,849.23 86.36 1.66

Average Business Mount Thorley 2,277.91 2,389.51 111.60 2.15

Average Business Village 866.54 908.98 42.44 0.82

Average Business Ordinary 981.28 1,029.34 48.06 0.92

Average Farmland Ordinary 1,352.34 1,418.37 66.03 1.27

2014/15 estimated impact on the average rate per sub-category

* Rates have been calculated using land values with a base date 1 July 2013. A General Revaluation of the Singleton Local Government Area was completed in October 2013. When these revaluations are applied, the rating distribution within the Council area may change.

SCENARIO 1 SCENARIO 2


A 5 per cent increase above rate pegging is expected to generate approximately $700,000 in additional income. This money would be used to maintain more sealed and unsealed roads and seal some currently unsealed roads within the local roads network. While this additional funding will not meet the full backlog of works required, it will go towards improving the level of coverage on a priority basis.

Heavy patching on sealed roads $250,000

Sealing of unsealed roads $250,000

Pavement replenishment on unsealed roads $200,000

If we don’t increase our spending on roads, in 10 years’ time 30 per cent of our unsealed roads will move into poor condition.

Putty Valley Road, sealed Thomas Lane, sealed

Putty Valley Road, unsealed Thomas Lane, unsealed


EfficienciesExamples include:

� Our new recycling contract will save us $4 million over the next 10 years.

� We’ve replaced administrative functions with new technology.

� By reducing the number of executive staff, we’ll save $270,000 per year, enough to meet interest payments on a Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme loan.

� We’re extending the life of our motor vehicle fleet before renewal.

� We’ve improved our asset management through the development of an asset management strategy, asset management plans for all asset classes and developed

a four-year works program with 10-year modelling of impact.

Grants � $5.9 million in 2012/13 from Restart program

for Broke Bridge, Bridgman Rd intersection & Pioneer Rd Extension.

� $9 million from Resources for Regions program for town centre revitalisation.

� $5.71 million from Hunter Infrastructure Investment Fund for Singleton Gym & Swim.

� $20.83 million Expressions of Interest lodged for Resources for Regions program for Singleton Regional Livestock Market, Ryan Ave, Glendonbrook Rd, a multi-purpose exhibition space and cycleways.

� $114,400 from Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program for safety upgrades to Singleton Regional Livestock Market.

� $27,500 from Black Spot Program for Kelso & Church streets intersection upgrade.

� Application lodged for Waste Less Recycle More grants for $250,000 for construction of waste transfer station.

LoansWe’ve increased our borrowings using the Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme, a low interest rate scheme offered by the State Government. However, Council’s capacity to borrow has to be taken into consideration.

� $2.2 million in Round One to fund a new bridge for Bourkes Crossing.

� $4 million in Round Two to fund road and culvert works.

The Local Government Infrastructure Audit carried out by the State Government in June 2013 states there are a number of funding and financing strategies that may help councils to reduce their backlog or prevent backlog from increasing. They are: borrowing; Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme (reduced interest loans); government specific purpose grants; and special rate variations.

In the past year, Council has actively pursued these alternative funding sources as a means of increasing its income and been very successful. For example, the total income received from grants in 2012/13 was $19.21 million compared to the $11.11 million received in 2011/12. However, recent grants have been applied to specific works and cannot be used for any other purpose.


Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Suburb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

I support a permanent variation of rates of 5% in order to commence addressing the infrastructure backlog in relation to local roads.

I do not support a permanent variation of rates of 5% in order to commence addressing the infrastructure backlog in relation to local roads.

Comments:

Please return this submission in an envelope (no stamp required) to:Singleton Council Reply Paid 314, Singleton NSW 2330

Council encourages feedback from the community on this proposal. There are a number of ways you can have your say:

� Complete the online survey at www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

� Send an email to [email protected]

� Write Council a formal submission: The General Manager PO Box 314 Singleton NSW 2330

� Attend a community information session: 5 February 2014 at 10am at Singleton Public Library, 6 February 2014 at 5pm at Singleton Public Library

� Return the submission form below (no stamp required).

� The final date for surveys or submissions is Thursday 6 February 2014.

We know the timing of this consultation is challenging due to the Christmas and holiday period, however, it is necessary given the timeframes prescribed to us by IPART, which had changed from previous years and expectations.

We intend to consult with the community until 6 February 2014. The Council will meet on 17 February to determine whether an application will be lodged, as these are due by 24 February 2014. We would expect a determination from IPART by June.

Council plans to undertake a review of all its services and service levels in 2014 in preparation for consideration for future financial planning for 2015/16 and beyond.

Authorised by Lindy Hyam, Singleton Council General Manager

http://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

Media Release

6 December 2013 For immediate release

Extraordinary meeting of Singleton Council to

consider proposed special rate variation

Singleton Council will consider a report regarding a proposed special rate variation application when it meets for an extraordinary meeting on Monday night. The report recommends Council notify the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) of its intent to apply for a special rate variation of 5 per cent above the rate peg limit of 2.3 per cent for 2014/15 to help address the shortfall in available funds for required levels of local road maintenance. The rate peg announced at 2.3 per cent instead of the anticipated 3 per cent in Council’s long-term financial plan will have a $1 million impact over 10 years. Long term planning has identified a $6.587 million roads infrastructure backlog and an estimated shortfall of $940,000 to maintain Council’s road network. A proposed special rate variation would allow Council to increase its general rate income by an additional $700,000. This additional income would be used to fund the following activities:

• Heavy patching $250,000 • Sealing of unsealed roads - $250,000 • Re-sheeting of unsealed roads - $200,000

The recommendation includes the adoption of a community engagement program that would commence almost immediately and continue throughout January and early February. Residents and ratepayers will have a number of ways to have their say and these will be detailed in the media, on Council’s website and in a mail out to all households and ratepayers. The proposed variation would increase the average residential rate in Singleton by $37 a year or 71 cents per week. The average residential village rate would increase by $24.63 or 47 cents per week. The average business rate in Singleton would increase by $86 per year or $1.66 per week. Singleton currently has low rates when compared to other regional councils. It has the fourth lowest residential rate in its comparative group where the average is $837. For Singleton Council to achieve the group average it would need to increase residential rates by 26.56 per cent.

Media Release

Council’s average business rate at $1,352 is the lowest in its group. For Singleton Council to achieve the group average for business, rates in this category would need to increase by 155.89 per cent. Average rates across all categories in the Singleton Local Government Area are considerably lower due to the inclusion of a mine rating. This category contributes 34.24 per cent of Council’s general rate income. Singleton Mayor John Martin says extensive planning undertaken in the past few years has identified a serious gap between what Council has been spending on renewing and maintaining its roads and what it should be spending. “While we have increased our asset renewal from 40 per cent three years ago to 80 per cent in 2011/12, if not addressed now the backlog will continue to grow,” he says. “Over time assets will deteriorate and the cost to renew and replace them will increase. “This is a common problem for local government throughout NSW. It has come about because Council has been expected to do more, without more income, and we are committed to continuing to deliver high quality services to our community. Inaction is no longer sustainable and this is why Council needs to explore options for a special rate variation. “A special rate variation of five per cent above the rate peg would allow Council to generate an additional $700,000 that we would spend on roads maintenance and renewal. “This would equate to less than $1 a week for most residential ratepayers and between 80 cents and $2 a week for businesses and would help ensure the long-term sustainability of Council’s road network.” Cr Martin says Council has already made efficiencies where it can, including implementing a new recycling contract that will save $4 million over the next 10 years. “We’ve also made several internal efficiencies, such as replacing administrative functions with new technology. We reduced the number of executive staff and those savings are being used to fund infrastructure loan repayments,” he says. “We’ve also received external funding for some big projects this year, such as the Singleton Gym & Swim redevelopment and the town centre revitalisation. By ticking off these big items, we’ve relieved the burden on the community to

Media Release

fund these priority projects and freed up funds to focus on essential services and asset renewal. “Land sales have helped maintain Council assets for a number of years but this is a finite resource and should not be used for operational purposes as this is not sustainable.” Cr Martin says Council recognises a proposed special rate variation may have an impact on ratepayers and pensioners. “This is why we intend to undertake community consultation; to enable Council to make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed with an application for a special rate variation based on feedback from the community,” he says. “We know the timing of this consultation period is challenging due to the Christmas and holiday period, however, it is necessary given the timeframes prescribed to us by IPART, which had changed from previous years and expectations. “We intend to consult with the community until 6 February 2014. The Council will meet on 17 February to determine whether an application will be lodged, as these are due by 24 February 2014. We would expect a determination from IPART by June.” The extraordinary meeting of Council will be held at 5.30pm in the Council Chambers on the corner of Civic Avenue and Queen Street, Singleton. All welcome. The agenda can be downloaded at www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/agenda ENDS For more information please contact Cheryl Smith Singleton Council 02 6578 7206 [email protected]

http://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/agenda

mailto:[email protected]

Media Release

30 January 2014 For immediate release

Last chance for community to have their say on

proposed rate increase

Singleton residents and ratepayers have one more week to have their say about Singleton Council’s proposed special rate variation 2014/15 for road maintenance. Public exhibition of Council’s Draft Delivery Program 2014/2018, Draft Transport Infrastructure Asset Management Plan and Draft Long Term Financial Plan ends on 6 February. Singleton Mayor John Martin is urging the community to read the documents on exhibition and special rate variation material and make an informed response before next week’s deadline. In addition, Council will be holding two community information sessions at 10am on 5 February and 5pm on 6 February at Singleton Public Library. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. Cr Martin says all households and ratepayers should by now have received an information brochure detailing Council’s proposal to help fund road maintenance and resealing works. Council is proposing an ongoing 5 per cent special rate variation above the rate peg of 2.3 per cent set by the State Government. The variation, if approved by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal, would generate an additional $700,000 in income to be spent on maintaining sealed and unsealed roads and seal some currently unsealed roads within the local road network. Cr Martin says while the additional income would not meet Council’s full backlog of roads related works of $6.58 million, it will go some way towards improving the level of coverage on a priority basis. “If Council does nothing, in 10 years’ time, 30 per cent of our unsealed road network will move into poor condition,” he says. “Our backlog will continue to grow if not addressed. Over time, our roads will deteriorate and the cost to renew and replace them will be much greater than staying on top on maintenance. This is a cost that will need to be borne by the community at some point.”

Media Release

Cr Martin says infrastructure backlogs are a well-documented problem across NSW as councils work hard to deliver services while absorbing significant increases in costs above the approved rate peg. “Council is restricted as to how it can raise funding to operate but despite years of increasing costs, Council has not cut services, placing significant pressure on our bottom line,” he says. “With Council working to continue to deliver what the community expects, we have not been able to adequately fund asset maintenance.” The community can have their say by completing the online survey at www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials or emailing [email protected] Alternatively, they can complete the feedback form attached to the information brochure and mail it to Singleton Council Reply Paid 314 Singleton 2230. ENDS For more information please contact Alysia Norris Communication & Community Engagement Advisor Singleton Council 02 6578 7214 [email protected]

http://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials



COMMUNITY UPDATE

MEETING DATES: Council meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 5.30pm with the exception of public holidays. Meetings are held at theSingleton Council Chambers, Queen St, Singleton. Ordinary Meetings are open to the public except for the confidential Committee of the Whole sessions.

ALL CORRESPONDENCE: General Manager, PO Box 314, Singleton NSW 2330 l Call: 02 6578 7290 l www.singleton.nsw.gov.au

AFTER HOURS: Please call 02 6572 1400

PUBLIC EXHIBITION –DISABILITY ACCESS PLAN 2020

Council is seeking feedback on its draft Disability AccessPlan 2020. The plan is an important document that assistsCouncil to meet disability access requirements by providingclear direction on actions to be completed.

The draft plan identifies priorities for Council to ensure thatCouncil facilities and services are available and easy to useby everyone in the community.

The draft Disability Access Plan 2020 is available for viewingat Singleton Council Customer Service Centre, SingletonPublic Library and on Council’s website,www.singleton.nsw.gov.au until 4.30pm Friday 17 January2014. Submissions should be made in writing andaddressed to the General Manager and emailed [email protected] or mailed to PO Box 314Singleton NSW 2330.

Community feedback will be considered by Council in areport to the ordinary meeting on Monday 3 February 2014.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FORMEMBERSHIP FOR COUNCIL’SINTERNAL AUDIT COMMITTEE

Singleton Council has an internal audit function, involving anInternal Audit Committee, in accordance with the Division ofLocal Government guidelines.

Three vacancies currently exist for independent communitymembers for the Internal Audit Committee. The committeeis an advisory committee to Council and operates under anadopted Terms of Reference. The objective of the committeeis to provide independent assurance and assistance to theGeneral Manager, management and Council on riskmanagement, control assurance, governance and externalaccountability responsibilities. The committee meets on atleast four occasions each year.

Expressions of interest are sought from suitably qualifiedand experienced persons from within the community whofeel that they may be able to serve the community ofSingleton by participating in the Internal Audit Committee fora three-year period.

Expressions of interest should detail your experience inrelation to internal audit and should include a copy of yourcurrent CV. It is desirable that at least one committeemember has accounting or related financial managementexperience, with an understanding of accounting andauditing standards in a public sector environment.

For further information please visitwww.singleton.nsw.gov.au/internalaudit or contact theDirector Corporate Services Group, Anthony Egan on 026578 7205.

Expressions of Interest close at 4pm on 10 January 2014and should be directed to The General Manager, SingletonCouncil, PO Box 314, Singleton NSW 2330 or [email protected]

CHRISTMAS/NEW YEARARRANGEMENTS

Please be advised that the Singleton Council AdministrationCentre, Singleton Public Library, Singleton Youth Venue,Singleton Visitor Information and Enterprise Centre will beclosed from noon Friday 20 December 2013 for a staffChristmas function.

The following arrangements are in place for Council servicesover the Christmas/new year period:

Council staff will be available over this period to attend tourgent issues and problems on the 24-hour emergencycontact phone number 02 6572 1400.

Councillors and staff extend to our community best wishesfor the Festive Season and a prosperous New Year.

PROPOSED SPECIAL RATE VARIATION2014/15 FOR ROAD MAINTENANCE

Council resolved at an extraordinary meeting on 9December to notify the Independent Pricing and RegulatoryTribunal of its intention to apply for a special rate variation forthe 2014/15 financial year.

The proposed special rate variation of 5 per cent above therate peg limit of 2.3 per cent would raise an additional$700,000 per annum in general rate income for renewingCouncil’s roads and associated infrastructure assets.

As part of this process, Council will be exhibiting thefollowing documents from 16 December 2013 until 6February 2014 for review and feedback from the community:

• Draft Singleton Council Delivery Program

• Draft Singleton Council Transport Infrastructure AssetManagement Plan

• Draft Singleton Council Long Term Financial Plan

These documents will be available from Council’s CustomerService Centre, cnr Civic Ave and Queen St, SingletonPublic Library and on Council’s website.

The community is invited and encouraged to have their sayon this proposal in the following ways:

• Complete the online survey atwww.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

• Send an email to [email protected]

• Write a formal submission directed to The GeneralManager PO Box 314, Singleton NSW 2330

• Attend a community information session on: 5 February2014 at 10am at Singleton Public Library or 6 February2014 at 5pm at Singleton Public Library

• Complete the submission form attached to the informationnewsletter that will be distributed to all households andratepayers in January, and will be available from Council’sCustomer Service Centre and Singleton Public Library.

A phone survey of a random sample of ratepayers will beundertaken by IRIS Research on behalf of Council in theweek commencing 20 January 2014.

A further report will be presented to Council on 17 February2014 following the public exhibition period to determinewhether to proceed with an application for a special ratevariation, based on community feedback.

For more information on the proposed special rate variation2014/15 for road maintenance, or to view the documents onexhibition, visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

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Please Note: When making written comments orsubmissions to Council the following information shouldbe considered: Should an objector consider the disclosure oftheir name and address would result in detriment to them,the word “IN CONFIDENCE” must be stated prominently atthe top of their submission. Council may, however, releasethe full details of the submission including the name andaddress, under the provisions of the Government Information(Public Access) Act NSW 2009, if it is in the public interest todo so, even if these words are used on the submission.

Customer Service Centre/Administration Building

Closed from 3pm Tuesday, 24 December 2013 and willreopen Thursday, 2 January 2014.

Child Care Services

Colleen Gale Children’s Centre’s last day of operationwill be noon Friday, 20 December 2013 and will reopenMonday, 6 January 2014.

Colleen Gale Singleton Mobile Preschool last day ofoperation will be Thursday, 19

December 2013 and will reopen Tuesday, 28 January2014 at selected venues.

Singleton Visitor Information Centre

Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Open ChristmasEve from 9am to 3pm, New Year Eve and New Year’s Dayfrom 10am – 3pm. Normal operational hours betweenFriday, 27 December and Monday, 30 December 2013.

Waste and Recycling Collection

Domestic waste bin collection is as normal throughoutChristmas/New Year period, including public holidays.

There will be no recycling bin collection on ChristmasDay. Bins will be serviced from Thursday 26 December2013 with a 24-hour delay to normal service days.

Waste Depot

Closed Christmas Day and open all other days includingBoxing Day.

Water & Sewer

Water and Sewer Emergency Call 6572 1400.

Singleton Library


Singleton Fire Control

Emergency Rural Fire Call 000.

Singleton Council Outside School Hours Care

Last day of operation will be 11.30am Friday, 20December 2013 and will reopen 6.30am Thursday, 2January 2014.

Singleton Youth Venue

Closed from noon Friday, 20 December 2013 and willreopen at 9am on Tuesday, 7 January 2013.

Singleton Gym & Swim

Closed from 5pm Tuesday, 24 December 2013 and willreopen Friday, 27 December 2013.

Closed from 5pm Tuesday, 31 December 2013. OpenTuesday, 1 January 2014 from 10am – 6pm.

Ranger Services

Closed Public Holidays and Weekends. EmergencyContact 24 hours Call 6572 1400.

COMMUNITY UPDATE




PUBLIC EXHIBITION –DISABILITY ACCESS PLAN 2020

Council is seeking feedback on its draft Disability AccessPlan 2020. The plan is an important document that assistsCouncil to meet disability access requirements by providingclear direction on actions to be completed.

The draft plan identifies priorities for Council to ensure thatCouncil facilities and services are available and easy to useby everyone in the community.

The draft Disability Access Plan 2020 is available for viewingat Singleton Council Customer Service Centre, SingletonPublic Library and on Council’s website,www.singleton.nsw.gov.au until 4.30pm Friday 17 January2014. Submissions should be made in writing andaddressed to the General Manager and emailed [email protected] or mailed to PO Box 314Singleton NSW 2330.

Community feedback will be considered by Council in areport to the ordinary meeting on Monday 3 February 2014.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FORMEMBERSHIP FOR COUNCIL’SINTERNAL AUDIT COMMITTEE

Singleton Council has an internal audit function, involving anInternal Audit Committee, in accordance with the Division ofLocal Government guidelines.

Three vacancies currently exist for independent communitymembers for the Internal Audit Committee. The committeeis an advisory committee to Council and operates under anadopted Terms of Reference. The objective of the committeeis to provide independent assurance and assistance to theGeneral Manager, management and Council on riskmanagement, control assurance, governance and externalaccountability responsibilities. The committee meets on atleast four occasions each year.

Expressions of interest are sought from suitably qualifiedand experienced persons from within the community whofeel that they may be able to serve the community ofSingleton by participating in the Internal Audit Committee fora three-year period.

Expressions of interest should detail your experience inrelation to internal audit and should include a copy of yourcurrent CV. It is desirable that at least one committeemember has accounting or related financial managementexperience, with an understanding of accounting andauditing standards in a public sector environment.

For further information please visitwww.singleton.nsw.gov.au/internalaudit or contact theDirector Corporate Services Group, Anthony Egan on 026578 7205.

Expressions of Interest close at 4pm on 10 January 2014and should be directed to The General Manager, SingletonCouncil, PO Box 314, Singleton NSW 2330 or [email protected]

CHRISTMAS/NEW YEARARRANGEMENTS

Please be advised that the Singleton Council AdministrationCentre, Singleton Public Library, Singleton Youth Venue,Singleton Visitor Information and Enterprise Centre will beclosed from noon Friday 20 December 2013 for a staffChristmas function.

The following arrangements are in place for Council servicesover the Christmas/new year period:

Council staff will be available over this period to attend tourgent issues and problems on the 24-hour emergencycontact phone number 02 6572 1400.

Councillors and staff extend to our community best wishesfor the Festive Season and a prosperous New Year.

PROPOSED SPECIAL RATE VARIATION2014/15 FOR ROAD MAINTENANCE

Council resolved at an extraordinary meeting on 9December to notify the Independent Pricing and RegulatoryTribunal of its intention to apply for a special rate variation forthe 2014/15 financial year.

The proposed special rate variation of 5 per cent above therate peg limit of 2.3 per cent would raise an additional$700,000 per annum in general rate income for renewingCouncil’s roads and associated infrastructure assets.

As part of this process, Council will be exhibiting thefollowing documents from 16 December 2013 until 6February 2014 for review and feedback from the community:


• Draft Singleton Council Transport Infrastructure AssetManagement Plan


These documents will be available from Council’s CustomerService Centre, cnr Civic Ave and Queen St, SingletonPublic Library and on Council’s website.

The community is invited and encouraged to have their sayon this proposal in the following ways:




• Attend a community information session on: 5 February2014 at 10am at Singleton Public Library or 6 February2014 at 5pm at Singleton Public Library

• Complete the submission form attached to the informationnewsletter that will be distributed to all households andratepayers in January, and will be available from Council’sCustomer Service Centre and Singleton Public Library.

A phone survey of a random sample of ratepayers will beundertaken by IRIS Research on behalf of Council in theweek commencing 20 January 2014.

A further report will be presented to Council on 17 February2014 following the public exhibition period to determinewhether to proceed with an application for a special ratevariation, based on community feedback.

For more information on the proposed special rate variation2014/15 for road maintenance, or to view the documents onexhibition, visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

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Please Note: When making written comments orsubmissions to Council the following information shouldbe considered: Should an objector consider the disclosure oftheir name and address would result in detriment to them,the word “IN CONFIDENCE” must be stated prominently atthe top of their submission. Council may, however, releasethe full details of the submission including the name andaddress, under the provisions of the Government Information(Public Access) Act NSW 2009, if it is in the public interest todo so, even if these words are used on the submission.

Customer Service Centre/Administration Building


Child Care Services

Colleen Gale Children’s Centre’s last day of operationwill be noon Friday, 20 December 2013 and will reopenMonday, 6 January 2014.

Colleen Gale Singleton Mobile Preschool last day ofoperation will be Thursday, 19

December 2013 and will reopen Tuesday, 28 January2014 at selected venues.

Singleton Visitor Information Centre

Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Open ChristmasEve from 9am to 3pm, New Year Eve and New Year’s Dayfrom 10am – 3pm. Normal operational hours betweenFriday, 27 December and Monday, 30 December 2013.

Waste and Recycling Collection

Domestic waste bin collection is as normal throughoutChristmas/New Year period, including public holidays.

There will be no recycling bin collection on ChristmasDay. Bins will be serviced from Thursday 26 December2013 with a 24-hour delay to normal service days.

Waste Depot

Closed Christmas Day and open all other days includingBoxing Day.

Water & Sewer

Water and Sewer Emergency Call 6572 1400.

Singleton Library


Singleton Fire Control

Emergency Rural Fire Call 000.

Singleton Council Outside School Hours Care

Last day of operation will be 11.30am Friday, 20December 2013 and will reopen 6.30am Thursday, 2January 2014.

Singleton Youth Venue

Closed from noon Friday, 20 December 2013 and willreopen at 9am on Tuesday, 7 January 2013.

Singleton Gym & Swim

Closed from 5pm Tuesday, 24 December 2013 and willreopen Friday, 27 December 2013.

Closed from 5pm Tuesday, 31 December 2013. OpenTuesday, 1 January 2014 from 10am – 6pm.

Ranger Services

Closed Public Holidays and Weekends. EmergencyContact 24 hours Call 6572 1400.

MEETING DATES: Council meetings are held on the1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 5.30pm withthe exception of public holidays. Meetings are heldat the Singleton Council Chambers, Queen St,Singleton. Ordinary Meetings are open to thepublic except for the confidential Committee of theWhole sessions.

ALL CORRESPONDENCE:General Manager,PO Box 314, Singleton NSW 2330T: 02 6578 7290 E: [email protected]


PROPOSED SPECIAL RATEVARIATION 2014/15 FOR ROAD

MAINTENANCECouncil resolved at an extraordinary meeting on 9December to notify the Independent Pricing andRegulatory Tribunal of its intention to apply for aspecial rate variation for the 2014/15 financial year.

The proposed special rate variation of 5 per centabove the rate peg limit of 2.3 per cent would raise anadditional $700,000 per annum in general rate incomefor renewing Council’s roads and associatedinfrastructure assets.

As part of this process, Council will be exhibiting thefollowing documents until 6 February 2014 for reviewand feedback from the community:


• Draft Singleton Council Transport InfrastructureAsset Management Plan


These documents are available from Council’sCustomer Service Centre, Singleton Public Libraryand on Council’s website.

The community is invited and encouraged to havetheir say on this proposal in the following ways:




• Attend a community information session on: 5February 2014 at 10am at Singleton Public Libraryor 6 February 2014 at 5pm at Singleton PublicLibrary

• Complete the submission form attached to theinformation newsletter that will be distributed to allhouseholds and ratepayers in January, and will beavailable from Council’s Customer Service Centreand Singleton Public Library.

A phone survey of a random sample of ratepayers willbe undertaken by IRIS Research on behalf of Councilin the week commencing 20 January 2014.

A further report will be presented to Council on 17February 2014 following the public exhibition periodto determine whether to proceed with an applicationfor a special rate variation, based on communityfeedback.

Submissions close on 6 February 2014.

For more information on the proposed special ratevariation 2014/15 for road maintenance, or to view thedocuments on exhibition, visitwww.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

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COMMUNITY UPDATE




Singleton Council is inviting the community to attend an information session on the proposed Special Rate Variation 2014/15 forroad maintenance.

Wednesday 5 February 10am-noon at Singleton Public LibraryThursday 6 February 5pm-7pm at Singleton Public Library

The proposed special rate variation of 5 per cent above the rate peg limit of 2.3 per cent would raise an additional $700,000 perannum in general rate income for renewing Council’s roads and associated infrastructure assets.

For more information on the proposed special rate variation 2014/15 for road maintenance, or to view the documents on exhibition,visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

Frequently Asked Questions1. How do Singleton’s rates compare to other council areas? Compared to other councils, Singleton has low rates. We have the third lowest residential and business rates out of neighbouringHunter councils and the lowest farmland rates. In 2011/12, we had the fourth lowest residential rate in our comparative group wherethe average was $837. For Singleton to achieve the group average we would need to increase our residential rates by 25.56 percent.

Our business rates are the lowest in the Group 4 councils. For Singleton to achieve the group average for business, we would needto increase rates by 155.89 per cent.

2. How much income does council get from rates? In 2013/14, general rate income will comprise about $13.9 million of Councils general revenue or 42.5 per cent. The balance comesfrom annual charges, user charges, fees, investments, grants and developer contributions and the sale of land and other assets.

Council has restricted funds that are collected for particular services, such as the water, sewer and waste charges or grants forspecific purposes (eg. Roads to Recovery). Grants and externally restricted funds account for 79 per cent of cash on hand as at 30June 2013. Council has no discretion on how these funds are spent. They are granted for a purpose such as providing libraryservices and youth services, and they can only be used for that purpose.

3. Why does Council need more money? We have an asset maintenance and renewal backlog of $19.32 million. About $6.58 million of that relates to roads. This backlog willcontinue to grow if it is not addressed. Over time, our roads will deteriorate and the cost to renew and replace them will be muchgreater than staying on top of the maintenance. This is a cost that will need to be borne by the community at some point.

A phone survey conducted this month on behalf of Council by IRIS Research found that town roads were the highest priority ofresidents, followed by parks, playgrounds and reserves.

4. How would a special rate variation affect ratepayers? On average, a 5 per cent special rate variation will mean an increase of $37.07 per year for Singleton residential ratepayers or 71cents per week. Average business rates would increase by $86.36 per year or $1.66 per week. Average farmland rates wouldincrease by $66.03 per year or $1.27 per week.

This increase will not apply to services such as stormwater, water supply, sewer supply, waste or government levies.

5. What would the extra money be spent on? The income raised through a special rate variation can ONLY be used to fund the purpose which we detail in our application to IPART.This would be roads maintenance and resealing. The money would be used to maintain more sealed and unsealed roads and sealsome currently unsealed roads within the local roads network. While the additional funding will not meet the full backlog of worksrequired, it will go towards improving the level of coverage on a priority basis.

6. Aren’t there other ways Council can get more money? In 2012/13 we increased our income from government grants, receiving $19.21 million to fund specific projects and works, includingthe new bridge at Broke, the upgrade to the Bridgman Road intersection, Pioneer Road Extension, Kelso Street intersection upgradeand saleyards safety upgrade. In October 2013, we were awarded $9 million for the town centre revitalisation – a project that hadbeen identified by Council, residents and businesses as the number one priority of our community – and work on this project hasalready begun. We also received $5.71 million for the total redevelopment of the Singleton Gym & Swim, a facility with a $2 millionbacklog of works.

It’s important to note these grants are for specific works and cannot be used for any other purpose. Nor were funds available for localroad maintenance or improvement.

7. Shouldn’t Council try and cut costs before asking for more money?We have borrowed $2.2 million in Round One of the Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme to fund the new bridge at BourkesCrossing and another $4 million in Round Two to fund road and culvert works. We’ve also been working hard to make efficiencieswhere we can. We will save $4 million over the next 10 years with a new recycling contract. We have replaced administrative functionswith new technology. We have cut the number of staff saving us $270,000 per year, enough to meet payments on infrastructurerenewal loans and we’ve doubled the life of our motor vehicles before changeover as well as improved our asset management.

8. Why can’t Council get more money from the mines?Council received $14.9 million in the past two rounds of Resources for Regions funding, a program which returns mining royaltiesto communities affected by mining. Of this, $5.9 million was spent on roads and bridges and $9 million will be spent on therevitalisation of the town centre. These funds cannot be used for anything else and if not for the town centre project, we would nothave received $9 million at all. We have also recently been shortlisted for a further $6 million to upgrade the saleyards which has abacklog of $2.31 million of works and $2.93 million for the pavement and safety upgrade of RyanAvenue.

In 2014/15, mining rate assessments will contribute 34.3 per cent of Council’s general rateincome.

9. Hasn’t Council already had a special rate variation?Council has a good track record of achievement against targeted special rate variation projects.These have been reported on separately in our annual reports. These are available online orfrom our Customer Service Centre.

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COMMUNITY UPDATE




Singleton Council is inviting the community to attend information sessions on the proposed Special Rate Variation2014/15 for road maintenance.

Tomorrow 5 February 10am-noon at Singleton Public Library

Thursday 6 February 5pm-7pm at Singleton Public LibraryThe proposed special rate variation of 5 per cent above the rate peg limit of 2.3 per cent would raise an additional$700,000 per annum in general rate income for renewing Council’s roads and associated infrastructure assets.

For more information on the proposed special rate variation 2014/15 for road maintenance, or to view the documentson exhibition, visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/essentials

Frequently Asked Questions1. How do I know the additional income from a special rate variation will be spent on roads?

The income raised through a special rate variation can ONLY be used to fund the purpose which we detail in ourapplication to IPART. This would be roads maintenance and resealing. The money would be used to maintain moresealed and unsealed roads and seal some currently unsealed roads within the local roads network. While the additionalfunding will not meet the full backlog of roads-related works of$6.58 million, it will go towards addressing the backlogand reduce the maintenance gap.

2. Which roads will the additional income be spent on?

A special rate variation will generate approximately $700,000 per year. Of this, $250,000 will go toward heavy patchingon sealed roads, $250,000 will go towards sealing some unsealed roads and $200,000 will be spent on pavementreplenishment on unsealed roads. Patching and pavement replenishment will be determined on a needs basis asissues arise with pavement surfaces. This will be decided quarterly.

Council will be holding an open consultation forum on road issues in the coming months. Community members will beinvited to address Council on their issues which will then be considered by the Roads Committee before beingconsidered by Council.

3. How does Council decide which roads to seal?

Council determines which unsealed roads to seal on a priority basis in accordance with its asset management planagainst a set of industry criteria. By using these criteria we are able to determine a benefit to cost ratio of sealing roadsand address them on a priority basis.

4. Why does Council keep sealing roads that are in good condition?

Resealing is the most cost effective method of resurfacing. Resealing provides wearing surface and traction for roadsafety reasons and protects against moisture and oxidisation in order to keep roads at Australian Standards.

If a road is not resealed before moisture gets into the pavement (rock and clay), the road will require rehabilitation andthis costs more. Once the moisture gets under the seal, reseals do not help and that's why it needs to be done tocontinue to provide a seal over the pavement.

If the road pavement is exposed to the elements it loses its binding and costs even more to repair. Reseal is a cheapinsurance to realise the full economic life of the asset and continue to provide the service into the future.

5. Rates go up every year already. Why are you asking for more?

Councils are able to increase their total general rate income every year up to the rate peg limit set by the IndependentPricing and Regulatory Tribunal. In 2014/15, the rate peg limit has been set at 2.3 per cent. However, increasing ourgeneral rate income by the rate peg does not cover the increases in costs borne by Council.

Utility charges, insurance and material costs have all increased significantly in the past decade. Other increases in costshave also come about as a normal part of running a business, such as award increases and compliance costs. However,some costs have come about as a result of the State Government placing the responsibility for particular services orfunctions with local government, such as the new swimming pool register and inspection program.

Council is also restricted as to how it can raise funds to operate, despite years of costs increasing. As a consequencemaintenance expenditure on assets has not kept pace with requirements leading to a growing gap.

6. You’ve said Council intends to conduct a full service level review this year. Shouldn’t you do that before youask for a special rate variation?

Council continually monitors and assesses its services to ensure it is operating a maximum efficiency and has beendoing so for many years. After undertaking an extensive review of our asset management in 2013, with the assistanceof independent consultants, we have developed an asset management strategy and with new asset managementplans for all asset classes. This has confirmed the gap between our income and our backlog of infrastructure works.While a special rate variation for road maintenance won’t meet the full backlog of works, it will enable us to improvethe level of roads maintenance on a priority basis and enable us to seal sections ofunsealed roads that would otherwise not be in the future works program.

Council does intend to undertake a further review of all its services this year in orderto assess the appropriateness of services, identify service gaps and opportunities forimprovement. This will be done this year in consultation with the community and thenassessed in terms of community priorities.

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What is your Rate Assessment No.?(This number appears on the top right side of your Rates/Instalment Notice)

Property Address

2010 Rateable Land Value

2013 Rateable Land Value

Movement in Valuation

Rate Category/Sub Category

2013/14 Ordinary Rates payable

2014/15 Ordinary Rates payable with rate peg

increase of 2.30%

2014/15 Ordinary Rates payable with rate peg +

special rate variation

Base Rate payable 1 - Ad Valorem rate in the $ - Land Value Ad Valorem Rate payable 2

General Rates Payable 1 + 2

Movement between 2013/14 rates and 2014/15 rate peg% movement

Weekly Variance

Movement between 2014/15 rate peg and 2014/15 rate peg + SRV% movement

Weekly Variance

Singleton CouncilOrdinary Rate Calculator

Please note that these are indicative charges for next year based upon current estimates. The actual charges will be dependent upon future valuation changes, categorisation changes and land value movements and final approval of the rating structure by Council during the finalisation of the budget process. The special rate variation is applicable to ordinary rates only.

17/02/2014 1:17 PM

Type Charge 2013/14 $

Domestic Waste DWM Urban/VillagesManagement Services - Occupied Service 332.60

- Extra Waste Bin 332.60 - Unoccupied 15.00

DWM Rural - Fortnightly Service 325.40 - Extra Waste Bin 325.40

Stormwater Management For land categorised as residential 25.00 Service Charge For residential strata lots 12.50

For land categorised as businessMinimum Charge 25.00 plus an additional $25.00 for each 350 sq.m. or part of 350 sq. m. by which the area exceeds 350 sq.m. up to a maximum charge 100.00

Singleton Water Residential Water CustomersVacant 171.00 20mm Service 171.00 25mm Service 266.00 Above Obanvale 44.00 Usage charge per Kilolitre up to 450 kl 1.03 Usage charge per Kilolitre over 450 kl 1.91

Non Residential Water CustomersVacant 171.00 20mm Service 171.00 25mm Service 266.00 32mm Service 436.00 40mm Service 682.00 50mm Service 1,065.00 65mm Service 1,801.00 80mm Service 2,729.00 100mm Service 4,251.00 150mm Service 9,541.00 Above Obanvale 44.00 Usage charge per Kilolitre 1.03

Mt. Thorley Water Vacant 526.00 20mm Service 526.00 25mm Service 621.00 32mm Service 792.00 40mm Service 1,038.00 50mm Service 1,421.00 65mm Service 2,158.00 80mm Service 3,085.00 100mm Service 4,619.00 Usage charge per Kilolitre up to 450 kl 1.77 Usage charge per Kilolitre over 450 kl 1.77

Jerrys Plains Water Residential Water CustomersVacant Availability Charge 96.00 20mm Service 171.00 Not Connected 96.00 Usage charge per Kilolitre up to 450 kl 1.39 Usage charge per Kilolitre over 450 kl 1.91

Non Residential Water CustomersVacant Availability Charge 96.00 20mm Service 171.00 Not Connected 96.00 Usage charge per Kilolitre up to 450 kl 1.39

Additional Charges as detailed in Operation Plan Singleton Council

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Type Charge 2013/14 $

Additional Charges as detailed in Operation Plan Singleton Council

Usage charge per Kilolitre over 450 kl 1.39

Broke Water Residential Water CustomersVacant Availability Charge 171.00 20mm Service 171.00 Not Connected 171.00 Usage charge per Kilolitre up to 450 kl 1.39 Usage charge per Kilolitre over 450 kl 1.91

Non Residential Water CustomersVacant Availability Charge 171.00 20mm Service 171.00 Not Connected 171.00 Usage charge per Kilolitre up to 450 kl 1.39 Usage charge per Kilolitre over 450 kl 1.39

Singleton Sewerage Residential Sewer CustomersSewerage Base Charge 468.00

Non Residential Sewer CustomersMinimum Sewer Access Charge 468.00 Sewer Access Charge for a 20mmdiameter water supply connection 214.00 Sewer Usage Charge 1.57

Non Residential Sewer CustomersAnnual Liquid Trade Waste Fee 87.00 Trade Waste Usage Charge 1.44

Miscellaneous ChargesPump Maintenance Fee 205.00

Hunter-Central Rivers Singleton Council collects on behalf of the Hunter-Central Rivers CatchmentCatchment Management Management Authority a levy against all rateable properties within the HunterAuthority River catchment area.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do Singleton’s rates compare to other council areas?

Compared to other councils, Singleton has low rates. We have the third lowest residential and business rates out of neighbouring Hunter councils and the lowest farmland rates. In 2011/12, we had the fourth lowest residential rate in our comparative group where the average was $837. For Singleton to achieve the group average we would need to increase our residential rates by 25.56 per cent.

Our business rates are the lowest in the Group 4 councils. For Singleton to achieve the group average for business, we would need to increase rates by 155.89 per cent.

2. How much income does council get from rates?

In 2013/14, general rate income will comprise about $13.9 million of Councils general revenue or 42.5 per cent. The balance comes from annual charges, user charges, fees, investments, grants and developer contributions and the sale of land and other assets.

Council has restricted funds that are collected for particular services, such as the water, sewer and waste charges or grants for specific purposes (eg. Roads to Recovery). Grants and externally restricted funds account for 79 per cent of cash on hand as at 30 June 2013. Council has no discretion on how these funds are spent. They are granted for a purpose such as providing library services and youth services, and they can only be used for that purpose.

3. Why does Council need more money?

We have an asset maintenance and renewal backlog of $19.32 million. About $6.58 million of that relates to roads. This backlog will continue to grow if it is not addressed. Over time, our roads will deteriorate and the cost to renew and replace them will be much greater than staying on top of the maintenance. This is a cost that will need to be borne by the community at some point.

A phone survey conducted this month on behalf of Council by IRIS Research found that town roads were the highest priority of residents, followed by parks, playgrounds and reserves.

4. How would a special rate variation affect ratepayers?

On average, a 5 per cent special rate variation will mean an increase of $37.07 per year for Singleton residential ratepayers or 71 cents per week. Average business rates would increase by $86.36 per year or $1.66 per week. Average farmland rates would increase by $66.03 per year or $1.27 per week.

This increase will not apply to services such as stormwater, water supply, sewer supply, waste or government levies.

5. What would the extra money be spent on?

The income raised through a special rate variation can ONLY be used to fund the purpose which we detail in our application to IPART. This would be roads maintenance and resealing. The money would

be used to maintain more sealed and unsealed roads and seal some currently unsealed roads within the local roads network. While the additional funding will not meet the full backlog of works required, it will go towards improving the level of coverage on a priority basis.

6. Which roads will the additional income be spent on?

A special rate variation will generate approximately $700,000 per year. Of this, $250,000 will go toward heavy patching on sealed roads, $250,000 will go towards sealing some unsealed roads and $200,000 will be spent on pavement replenishment on unsealed roads. Patching and pavement replenishment will be determined on a needs basis as issues arise with pavement surfaces. This will be decided quarterly.

Council will be holding an open consultation forum on road issues in the coming months. Community members will be invited to address Council on their issues which will then be considered by the Roads Committee before being considered by Council.

7. How does Council decide which roads to seal?

Council determines which unsealed roads to seal on a priority basis in accordance with its asset management plan against a set of industry criteria. By using these criteria we are able to determine a benefit to cost ratio of sealing roads and address them on a priority basis.

8. Why does Council keep sealing roads that are in good condition?

Resealing is the most cost effective method of resurfacing. Resealing provides wearing surface and traction for road safety reasons and protects against moisture and oxidisation in order to keep roads at Australian Standards.

If a road is not resealed before moisture gets into the pavement (rock and clay), the road will require rehabilitation and this costs more. Once the moisture gets under the seal, reseals do not help and that’s why it needs to be done to continue to provide a seal over the pavement.

If the road pavement is exposed to the elements it loses its binding and costs even more to repair. Reseal is a cheap insurance to realise the full economic life of the asset and continue to provide the service into the future.

9. Aren’t there other ways Council can get more money?

In 2012/13 we increased our income from government grants, receiving $19.21 million to fund specific projects and works, including the new bridge at Broke, the upgrade to the Bridgman Road intersection, Pioneer Road Extension, Kelso Street intersection upgrade and saleyards safety upgrade. In October 2013, we were awarded $9 million for the town centre revitalisation – a project that had been identified by Council, residents and businesses as the number one priority of our community – and work on this project has already begun. We also received $5.71 million for the total redevelopment of the Singleton Gym & Swim, a facility with a $2 million backlog of works.

It’s important to note these grants are for specific works and cannot be used for any other purpose. Nor were funds available for any other purpose.

10. Shouldn’t Council try and cut costs before asking for more money?

We have borrowed $2.2 million in Round One of the Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme to fund the new bridge at Bourkes Crossing and another $4 million in Round Two to fund road and culvert works. We’ve also been working hard to make efficiencies where we can. We will save $4 million over the next 10 years with a new recycling contract. We have replaced administrative functions with new technology. We have cut the number of staff saving us $270,000 per year, enough to meet payments on infrastructure renewal loans, and we’ve doubled the life of our motor vehicles before changeover as well as improved our asset management.

11. Why can’t Council get more money from the mines?

Council received $14.9 million in the past two rounds of Resources for Regions funding, a program which returns mining royalties to communities affected by mining. Of this, $5.9 million was spent on roads and bridges and $9 million will be spent on the revitalisation of the town centre. These funds cannot be used for anything else and if not for the town centre project, we would not have received $9 million at all. We have also recently been shortlisted for a further $6 million to upgrade the saleyards and $2.93 million for the pavement and safety upgrade of Ryan Avenue.

In 2014/15, mining rate assessments will contribute 34.3 per cent of Council’s general rate income.

12. Hasn’t Council already had a special rate variation?

Council has a good track record of achievement against targeted special rate variation projects. These have been reported on separately in our annual reports. These are available online or from our Customer Service Centre.

13. Rates go up every year already. Why are you asking for more?

Councils are able to increase their total general rate income every year up to the rate peg limit set by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal. In 2014/15, the rate peg limit has been set at 2.3 per cent. However, increasing our general rate income by the rate peg does not cover the increases in costs borne by Council.

Utility charges, insurance and material costs have all increased significantly in the past decade. Other increases in costs have also come about as a normal part of running a business, such as award increases and compliance costs. However, some costs have come about as a result of the State Government placing the responsibility for particular services or functions with local government, such as the new swimming pool register and inspection program.

Council is also restricted as to how it can raise funds to operate, despite years of costs increasing. As a consequence maintenance expenditure on assets has not kept pace with requirements leading to a growing gap.

14. You’ve said Council intends to conduct a full service level review this year. Shouldn’t you do that before you ask for a special rate variation?

Council continually monitors and assesses its services to ensure it is operating a maximum efficiency and has been doing so for many years. After undertaking an extensive review of our asset

management in 2013, with the assistance of independent consultants, we have developed an asset management strategy and with new asset management plans for all asset classes. This has confirmed the gap between our income and our backlog of infrastructure works. While a special rate variation for road maintenance won’t meet the full backlog of works, it will enable us to improve the level of roads maintenance on a priority basis and enable us to seal sections of unsealed roads that would otherwise not be in the future works program.

Council does intend to undertake a further review of all its services this year in order to assess the appropriateness of services, identify service gaps and opportunities for improvement. This will be done this year in consultation with the community and then assessed in terms of community priorities.

Documents

Your Council - IPART · 2014. 2. 25. · groups, individuals and performers to showcase themselves. This is something the Arts Festival Committee will explore for the next festival