Meeting papers

SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING                                                  11 APRIL 2023


Financial forecasting is a critical objective in developing an asset management plan. Having an
understanding of future expenditure improves decision-making and planning activities. The capital,
operational and maintenance expenses for parks and playgrounds make up approximately 3% of
the $94M annual budget.

The financial summary combined with the maintenance and renewal plans within the Plan provides
the basis of the annual budget process. The maintenance and renewal plans will be reviewed
annually and a more detailed analysis and review completed after the next round of asset condition
assessments.
Risk & Opportunities
It is important to have a good understanding of the risks associated with the operation of the parks
and playgrounds assets. Council continues to develop its management activities to ensure that parks
and playgrounds are meeting the intended design life, and where necessary work on the optimised
intervention for undertaking rehabilitation and renewal activities.

The key risks associated with achieving the above objectives of Council’s parks and playgrounds
management activities and associated levels of service have been identified throughout this Plan
and are outlined below:
       1. Unanticipated asset deterioration and structural failure possibly accelerated by the increasing
          severity in weather and climate change conditions;
       2. Asset Performance – No asset failures that influence the service levels. A complete
          understanding of all parks and playground assets and their relevant asset condition will assist
          in mitigating potential risks.
       3. Asset Knowledge - The need to understand the performance of all the parks and playground
          assets at component level is essential in mitigating risks. Assets such as playgrounds,
          shelters and barbecues are assets that require more detailed inspections and improved
          maintenance activities to ensure assets do not become a risk to the community.
       4. Funding – the ongoing operational and maintenance costs for parks and playgrounds will
          continue to rise and efficiencies and cost savings are reviewed regularly. Grant opportunities
          for renewals/upgrades must always be considered.
These risks and all other current risks will be regularly reviewed and if necessary, they can be
documented in the Infrastructure Services – Risk Register.
Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
Nil.
Internal Consultation
Detailed consultation with Council staff was fundamental in the development of the Plan. The
document review, condition assessments and the development of the renewal and maintenance
plans were a significant part of the consultation undertaken. In addition, the financial data related to
operating and maintenance expenses and budgets was reviewed by Financial Services.

Departments/Sections Consulted:

        Mayor                         Community Services                        Corporate Services

        Councillors                   Director                                  Director

                                      Community Development                 x   Financial Services

 x      Chief Executive Officer   x   Community Facilities                      Fleet




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