Council Minutes - Section A: Procedural Matters - 30 April 2019

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Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Greater Geelong City Council held at the Council Conference and Reception Centre in City Hall, 57 Little Malop Street, Geelong on 30 April 2019, commencing at 7:00pm.



Present

Councillors:


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Also present:


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Opening

The Mayor declared the meeting open at 7:00pm.


Acknowledgements

Council acknowledged Wadawurrung Traditional Owners of this land and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People who are part of the Greater Geelong community today.


Apologies

Nil.


Condolences

Councillor Harwood made note of the Easter Sunday bombing in Sri Lanka where two Australians were included in those that lost their lives.

Our Multicultural Action Plan assists us to guide and support our diverse community.

I would like to extend our condolences from the City of Greater Geelong and Australia to Sri Lanka and our local Sri Lankan community.


Confirmation of Minutes

Councillor Mason moved, Councillor Sullivan seconded -

That the Minutes of the Special Meeting held on 17 April be confirmed.

Carried.


Councillor Sullivan moved, Councillor Murrihy seconded -

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 26 March 2019 be confirmed.

Carried.


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Declaration of Conflicts of Interest

Councillor Anthony Aitken declared a Conflict of Interest in Agenda Item 2 Building Better Bike Connections Southern Link – Stage One (Central Geelong to Barwon River) Design and Item 3 – Building Better Bike Connections Southern Link – Stage Two (Barwon River to Waurn Ponds) Design report in that he owns a property in High Street Belmont.

Councillor Kylie Grzybek declared a Conflict of Interest in Agenda Item 2 Building Better Bike Connections Southern Link – Stage One (Central Geelong to Barwon River) Design and Item 3 – Building Better Bike Connections Southern Link – Stage Two (Barwon River to Waurn Ponds) Design report in that she works for the Transport Accident Commission.


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Question Time

Questions were submitted to Council prior to the meeting from Matea Preston and Rory Lynch. As they were not present at the meeting a written response will be forwarded to them.


David Charles asked:

With regards to the ‘Building Better Bike Connections’ proposed design options for High Street, Belmont (which is being funded by the TAC), parties affected by the proposals were asked by the City of Greater Geelong for their input.

Only a third (35%) favoured the option involving the least changes (Option 1). The rest (63%) favoured three different types of protected bike lanes (either Options 2A, 2B and 3), where the cyclists are separated from cars.

Of these three options, the most preferred was Option 3, where there are protected bike lines on both sides of the street. Countries around the world that have installed protected or separated bike lines have found that bicycle numbers have dramatically increased (especially amongst women and children) whilst rider injuries have fallen.

Given that a clear majority of residents favour some form of protected bike lanes (at no cost to the City of Greater Geelong), will you endorse and approve either Option 2A, 2B or 3?


Barton van Laar asked:

Will you take this opportunity to implement a key part of all your future strategies (PBN, Active Transport, Health & Well-being, Environment, etc.)?

The Southern Bike Path Link is crucial a one, as you know I fought hard for and helped facilitate funding for. It has the support of Government and transport experts, as well as your own engineers and planners.

This route is on the PBN which Council unanimously adopted. It will prove to be a crucial link into the CBD and the waterfront from the south, including the Armstrong Creek corridor.

I am currently working with Major Projects Victoria to ensure bike paths link from the Barwon Heads Road duplication and working with PTV re linking the Torquay-Geelong Transit Corridor Bike Path. This includes linking the Waurn Ponds Creek Trail, the Barwon River Trail extension, new Belmont Common Bike Path and the new Bellarine Ring Road Connection Bike Path to the CBD.

Without the Southern Bike Path Link a lot of this work will disconnect.

I feel confident you will vote for strategic progress and for the good of the greater community.

I also feel strongly all traders will benefit in the long run. Retail is changing and new opportunities need to be taken.

I also feel we need to get on with this and tackle further crucial cycling connections within City of Greater Geelong. Particularly Northern Connections, Bellarine Peninsula and crucial CBD connections from West and East.


Maria Neyenhuis asked:

Re the Southern Link in Belmont. Currently I cycle west from the Eastern Gardens along Malop Street using the safe, beautiful bike path in the city centre but when I get to Gheringhap Street to head north, I'm forced to ride in between cars and have had some near misses with some drivers getting too close.

I do understand the concern of the traders but statistics in many towns have proven when shopping areas are changed to be more pedestrian and cycle friendly, revenue has increased for traders in those areas.

New research from Transport London, conducted by Matthew Carmona from the University College London's Bartlett School of Planning, revealed that those not in cars spend 40% more each month in neighbourhood shops than motorists. The research was conducted in areas of London which have benefited from Dutch-style streetscape improvements such as the addition of cycle-ways. The number of people walking increased by 93%, with a massive 216% increase in activity such as going into shops and cafes.

Transport for London's Healthy Streets Approach designs street for people that are easy to access by foot or bike.

First question: Is the loss of some parking spaces more important then the safety of cyclists wishing to shop or commute in the Belmont area?

Second question- If the Southern Link in Belmont is not supported where does that leave the many pleasure or commuter cyclists?

Third question: What will happen to the funds already allotted for this project?

In response to the questions asked by Barton van Laar, David Charles, Maria Neyenhuis, the Mayor stated that this is a matter we are dealing with tonight. We have to approach our decision making with an open mind to ensure that we act fairly and impartially, in good faith and listening to both sides of any argument that is put to us for consideration. Because of this, we are happy to have heard your submission and will consider the points made but cannot provide an answer that prejudges the outcome of the related debate and decision making later in the agenda.


Eva van der Vlies asked:

My question is regarding the Breakwater Road Footpath petition submitted to Councillor Mansfield to be presented at this council meeting.

The lack of footpath access between Fowler Street and Carr Street on Breakwater Road poses a health and safety risk to residents of Breakwater and visitors to the Geelong Racecourse and Geelong Showgrounds. We have requested that the City of Greater Geelong install a footpath as a matter of high priority. Breakwater residents have been increasingly isolated from public services and amenities.

We have no footpath access to a milk bar or our local supermarkets, our post box was removed, and our public transport options are limited on weekdays by infrequent bus timetables, with no buses on evenings and weekends. The only option for many to get into town is by foot or mobility scooter, and no footpath means that it is hazardous or impossible for many Breakwater residents to access East Geelong and the CBD.

We are only a few kilometres out of town but have no safe way to get there without a car. We have been told over the years to be patient and that a footpath is sitting somewhere in the priority list. The Racecourse and Geelong Showgrounds have been there since 1907. We feel that we have been too patient at this point.

We would like to know where does our footpath sit precisely in the priority list, and when can we expect to be able to walk safely along Breakwater Road into the city?

The Mayor responded that the proposed footpath is not funded in the draft 2019-2020 budget and will therefore be considered for the 2020-21 budget.


Heidi Fog asked:

Heidi asked this question on behalf of her son Oscar: people on bikes still need to shop. What makes you think people do not want to ride their bikes to the shops?

The Mayor responded that this is a matter we are dealing with tonight. We have to approach our decision making with an open mind to ensure that we act fairly and impartially, in good faith and listening to both sides of any argument that is put to us for consideration. Because of this, we are happy to have heard your submission and will consider the points made but cannot provide an answer that prejudges the outcome of the related debate and decision making later in the agenda.

Councillor Nelson left the meeting at 7:30pm and returned at 7:33pm.


Phil Baulch asked:

Transition South Barwon conducts research in the realms of energy, finance and economics. Our aim is to raise awareness of the need to plan for an orderly transition to a low energy future economy, and to create working models of connected neighbourhoods and local economies. Planning a low energy, re-localised economy will allow us to maintain social cohesion, have dignified lives and meaningful work as we make the transition.

Not planning would risk us being taken by surprise and the emergence of a disorderly, dystopian energy descent.

In February 2012, Council voted unanimously to join a Municipal Association of Victoria initiative, ‘Councils and Communities in Transition’ (CACIT). The program aims to promote awareness and understanding of the significant challenges councils and communities will face in coming years and to support groups like ours to assist in planning to meet those challenges. The creation of an Energy Descent Action Plan (EDAP) was identified as a key CACIT initiative. An EDAP would help council continue to deliver services and support social cohesion as energy and food costs rise and household incomes decline.

What progress has council made on an EDAP for The City of Greater Geelong?

What council land has been reserved, in and around the City, for urban and peri-urban agriculture? Large parcels of land near local communities may be crucial as high energy costs start to impact the long, complex supply chains in our globalised food system.

The Mayor responded that since signing up to the MAV ‘Council and Communities in Transition’ program in 2012, Council has developed and endorsed a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and has adopted the Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy. There are a range of projects have been completed or which are underway as part of these strategies.

We have also sought to enable change in the community by endorsing the Community Zero Carbon Action Plan developed in collaboration with Geelong Sustainability, the Barwon Heads Sustainability Group, Sustainability Victoria and Transition Streets Geelong.

One action is the Transition Streets Geelong project - which brings neighbours together to explore what they can implement in their homes and local area. TSG leads this project and has 14 active groups across Geelong with each group being made up of 6-10 households. Workshops for residents in the areas of water, energy, food, transport, waste & consumption have been run in 2019.

Another action is the Community Renewable Energy Transformation – 100% Clean Bellarine project. The Barwon Heads Sustainability Group leads this project. It aims for an effective approach to a 100% clean Bellarine region, inspired by the Renewable Newstead and Totally Renewable Yackandandah projects.

Both of these actions are financially supported by the City.

The City is helping to preserve urban and peri-urban agriculture through planning controls that protect our agricultural land from unplanned urban development and incompatible uses that compromise the ability for farms to operate. The City is also working on a study into Geelong’s food system to inform further work in this area.

The Mayor took Mr Baulch’s question regarding an Energy Descent Action Plan on notice. A written response will be forwarded to Mr Baulch.


Priscilla Pescott asked:

Barrabool Road Pedestrian Crossing

The Mayor responded that if this relates to the section of Barrabool Road near the caravan parks, I can advise that a pedestrian crossing is programmed to be built next financial year 2019-2020 subject to VicRoads approving the final design.


Helen Lyth asked:

Question 1: On 28th January, Geelong Council ratified Geelong's Principal Bicycle network. This includes the currently proposed Southern Link along Gheringhap Street, Moorabool Street, High Street and Colac Road. Funding has been obtained from TAC to provide this link, and feedback was sought from the community, with many opportunities for in person and online consultation. The current recommended route and infrastructure was the product of this and much research. A Geelong City press release on 31st January 2018 stated:

A further City press release (Jan 25th, 2018) stated that of the 40,000 trips made in and out of central Geelong, only 2% are made by cycling and 5% on foot. This is despite the fact that 70% of all trips to and from central Geelong are within 10km, and 60% of people stating that they would cycle but are deterred by lack of safe cycling infrastructure.

How does our city propose to reach its stated goal of 50% of travel by bike, foot or public transport?

Question 2: One indicator of safe cycling infrastructure is the percentage of females riding. Currently most commuting cyclists in the Geelong region are male. The provision of safe cycling on the Principal Bicycle Network, and, in particular the Southern Link will lead to a considerable increase in cyclist numbers and an increase in women commuting by bicycle, with a consequent reduction in traffic congestion.

However, as shown by the mish mash of cycling infrastructure on Swanston Street, when cycling is perceived as dangerous, there is little increase even when bicycle facilities are built. This disaster includes on road lanes, footpaths and dangerous intersections and roundabouts where cyclists merge onto the road from bike paths.

Consistent world-wide evidence shows that, when roads are made more cycling and pedestrian friendly, there is an increase in business patronage, and property values rise along the route. A long consultation process and detailed analysis has produced the safest Southern route and recommended fully separated cycling infrastructure. This will lead to a reduction of congestion as more people choose cycling for transport. The funds (from TAC) are allocated to provide the Southern link, and, presumably, will need to be returned if suitable infrastructure is not built.

What assurance do the people of Geelong have that you will vote to provide safe, separated, bicycle infrastructure on the recommended route of the Southern Link?


Scott Barnes asked:

On behalf of youth members of scouting in Geelong we applaud the proposed safe and direct cycling paths. In the proposals there is a great deal of detail on car parking places but no plan for end of route cycling facilities in the Geelong CBD and Belmont shopping precincts. Larger business often do supply facilities but these are not available to the general public nor small retail business staff. Bicycles are often worth over $1,000 and are regularly stolen, hence the need for secure facilities.

I would like to know why Council have not included secure end of journey facilities for cyclists in the CBD, Belmont and Waurn Ponds precincts?


Vicki Perrett asked:

Geelong Sustainability has written to every Councillor about the impending decision for the Southern Link Bike Connections stating that we are strongly in favour of the proposed designs. We’d like the chamber to note how professional Council officers have been throughout the extensive community engagement process. We appreciate that Council cannot fund major cycling infrastructure projects that will realise the PBN without external grants. Which is why this TAC grant is so crucial.

Currently 87% of trips into central Geelong are made by car and just 2% by bike. If we want to become a clever city of design, there’s much work to be done. As a member of the Vision Partner Group, Geelong Sustainability will be extremely disappointed if this vote falls along party political lines or to vested interests. The community is clear that it wants safe separated bike lanes in High Street Belmont.

When voting tonight, will all Councillors promise to put the community’s aspirations and safety as their first priority?


Fay Costin asked:

Should car spaces in High Street be removed and bike lanes be made, what will happen to the trees which stand out from the footpath and block the proposed bike path? There are seven trees in the section of High Street between Roslyn Road and Regent Street and more further down High Street. It will not be safe for cyclists to have to ride out around these trees into the car lane. I am not in favour of removing these trees. What is the Council’s intent in this case?


Peter Anderson asked:

All Councillors are aware that my company has provided advice on a safe cycling route for stage one. Officers have not given attention to the safe cycling option through the park. Have the proposed plans and designs been sent to an independent traffic engineer for comment? GMHBA Stadium and major events have seen Moorabool Street shut. If the park is used instead then bikes are out of the high traffic areas.


Gary Oraniuk asked:

Council assumes personal and professional liability if this project goes ahead for trading losses and businesses going broke. I don’t think this project is necessary and I’m not sure why Council wants to continue with this. Are you prepared to accept full liability for the losses of the traders up and down Moorabool Street?

Also, a tap was removed from the back of the Senior Citizens Club at Kardinia Park. This was requested by the lessees because of the increase in the water bill. Other people use the tap including homeless people. Please see if this tap can be reinstated.


Peter O’Brien asked:

I live in central Geelong and ride around Geelong. When you are in central Geelong it is Myers Street and Brougham Street that are safe. I can understand the long term strategic vision for Malop Street. Riding up High Street is disastrous on the way to Waurn Ponds. If Myers Street is the standard, why no continue with that?


Marie Goldsworthy asked:


I ride from the city. Myers Street is a safe way of getting from east to west. Riding to Grovedale I will use the Waurn Ponds trail. I ride back through Belmont to go to the library, get a coffee and go to the supermarket. High Street is terrifying. It is imperative to have a safe north/south travel route for cyclists. We do shop, stop and use facilities and we need a bike path in High Street.


Douglas Merritt asked:

I commute on bike to and from work riding on average 200km per week. In regard to anything planned for the future, could we please implement infrastructure that prevents bikes from being car-doored. Infrastructure will save lives. Will you implement infrastructure that will save my life?


Jarrod Crowe asked:

Will the Council take into consideration potential cyclists like myself who want to cycle around Geelong? I want to get my car out of the structure across the street but don’t feel safe with cycle infrastructure currently in place.


Greg Lacey asked:

The Building Better Bike Connections appear to me to be (directly or indirectly) related to all nine values of Geelong’s 30 year vision to be a Clever and Creative city. Extensive community consultation has occurred over the last five years to refine the route and design based on adopting world best practice. If the Building Better Bike Connections is not endorsed by Councillor vote, how does Council envisage that they will fulfil their commitment to the vision?


Gary Laidlaw asked:

I am representing Bike Safe. When connections are built they need to be done safely. Regarding Moorabool Street section, there are two driveways at Smiths Bob Jane and Shell Service Station. Both have entries and exists of vehicles. The specific safety concerns were discussed with Council officers at the drop in session and is specifically addressed in the background papers presented to Council. The City of Greater Geelong officers undertook to come back with details of signage but have not delivered. The designs in the reports are inadequate. The detail is important. Driveways are a very specific safety issue that needs to be addressed whether it’s the route or the signage or design. We suggest that endorsement subject to detailed safety designs being completed with community consultation which are then endorsed by the Chief Executive Officer or Council.

In response to the questions asked by Helen Lyth, Scott Barnes, Vicki Perrett, Fay Costin, Peter Anderson, Gary Oraniuk, Peter O’Brien, Marie Goldsworthy, Douglas Merritt, Jarrod Crowe, Greg Lacey and Gary Laidlaw, the Mayor stated that this is a matter we are dealing with tonight.

We have to approach our decision making with an open mind to ensure that we act fairly and impartially, in good faith and listening to both sides of any argument that is put to us for consideration.

Because of this, we are happy to have heard your submission and will consider the points made but cannot provide an answer that prejudges the outcome of the related debate and decision making later in the agenda.


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Petitions

A petition was presented to the Mayor from Cr Mansfield supporting a Container Deposit Scheme in Victoria and for Council to write to the Hon D’Ambrosio, Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change. Victoria is the only mainland state without this scheme. Reducing plastic and other pollution within our community will have considerable environmental, social and economic benefits.

A petition was presented to the Mayor from Cr Mansfield raising concerns at the lack of footpath access between Fowler Street and Carr Street on Breakwater Road. The petition suggests there is a health and safety risk to residents and visitors to the Geelong Showgrounds and the Geelong Racecourse.

A petition was presented to the Mayor from Peter Anderson regarding the Building Better Bike Connections – Southern Link (Stage 1 – Barwon River to Central Geelong) in support of the two alternate routes proposed by the Traffix Group.


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City of Greater Geelong