Notice of Meeting
Water and Sewer Advisory Committee Meeting
A Water and Sewer Advisory Committee Meeting of Byron Shire Council will be held as follows:
Venue |
Conference Room, Station Street, Mullumbimby |
Date |
Thursday, 30 March 2023 |
Time |
9.00am |
Phil Holloway
Director Infrastructure Services
I2023/473
Distributed
24/03/23
CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
What is a “Conflict of Interests” - A conflict of interests can be of two types:
Pecuniary - an interest that a person has in a matter because of a reasonable likelihood or expectation of appreciable financial gain or loss to the person or another person with whom the person is associated.
Non-pecuniary – a private or personal interest that a Council official has that does not amount to a pecuniary interest as defined in the Code of Conduct for Councillors (eg. A friendship, membership of an association, society or trade union or involvement or interest in an activity and may include an interest of a financial nature).
Remoteness – a person does not have a pecuniary interest in a matter if the interest is so remote or insignificant that it could not reasonably be regarded as likely to influence any decision the person might make in relation to a matter or if the interest is of a kind specified in the Code of Conduct for Councillors.
Who has a Pecuniary Interest? - a person has a pecuniary interest in a matter if the pecuniary interest is the interest of the person, or another person with whom the person is associated (see below).
Relatives, Partners - a person is taken to have a pecuniary interest in a matter if:
· The person’s spouse or de facto partner or a relative of the person has a pecuniary interest in the matter, or
· The person, or a nominee, partners or employer of the person, is a member of a company or other body that has a pecuniary interest in the matter.
N.B. “Relative”, in relation to a person means any of the following:
(a) the parent, grandparent, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, nephew, niece, lineal descends or adopted child of the person or of the person’s spouse;
(b) the spouse or de facto partners of the person or of a person referred to in paragraph (a)
No Interest in the Matter - however, a person is not taken to have a pecuniary interest in a matter:
· If the person is unaware of the relevant pecuniary interest of the spouse, de facto partner, relative or company or other body, or
· Just because the person is a member of, or is employed by, the Council.
· Just because the person is a member of, or a delegate of the Council to, a company or other body that has a pecuniary interest in the matter provided that the person has no beneficial interest in any shares of the company or body.
Disclosure and participation in meetings
· A Councillor or a member of a Council Committee who has a pecuniary interest in any matter with which the Council is concerned and who is present at a meeting of the Council or Committee at which the matter is being considered must disclose the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable.
· The Councillor or member must not be present at, or in sight of, the meeting of the Council or Committee:
(a) at any time during which the matter is being considered or discussed by the Council or Committee, or
(b) at any time during which the Council or Committee is voting on any question in relation to the matter.
No Knowledge - a person does not breach this Clause if the person did not know and could not reasonably be expected to have known that the matter under consideration at the meeting was a matter in which he or she had a pecuniary interest.
Non-pecuniary Interests - Must be disclosed in meetings.
There are a broad range of options available for managing conflicts & the option chosen will depend on an assessment of the circumstances of the matter, the nature of the interest and the significance of the issue being dealt with. Non-pecuniary conflicts of interests must be dealt with in at least one of the following ways:
· It may be appropriate that no action be taken where the potential for conflict is minimal. However, Councillors should consider providing an explanation of why they consider a conflict does not exist.
· Limit involvement if practical (eg. Participate in discussion but not in decision making or vice-versa). Care needs to be taken when exercising this option.
· Remove the source of the conflict (eg. Relinquishing or divesting the personal interest that creates the conflict)
· Have no involvement by absenting yourself from and not taking part in any debate or voting on the issue as of the provisions in the Code of Conduct (particularly if you have a significant non-pecuniary interest)
Committee members are reminded that they should declare and manage all conflicts of interest in respect of any matter on this Agenda, in accordance with the Code of Conduct.
RECORDING OF VOTING ON PLANNING MATTERS
Clause 375A of the Local Government Act 1993 – Recording of voting on planning matters
(1) In this section, planning decision means a decision made in the exercise of a function of a council under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979:
(a) including a decision relating to a development application, an environmental planning instrument, a development control plan or a development contribution plan under that Act, but
(b) not including the making of an order under that Act.
(2) The general manager is required to keep a register containing, for each planning decision made at a meeting of the council or a council committee, the names of the councillors who supported the decision and the names of any councillors who opposed (or are taken to have opposed) the decision.
(3) For the purpose of maintaining the register, a division is required to be called whenever a motion for a planning decision is put at a meeting of the council or a council committee.
(4) Each decision recorded in the register is to be described in the register or identified in a manner that enables the description to be obtained from another publicly available document and is to include the information required by the regulations.
(5) This section extends to a meeting that is closed to the
public.
OATH AND AFFIRMATION FOR COUNCILLORS
Councillors are reminded of the oath of office or affirmation of office made at or before their first meeting of the council in accordance with Clause 233A of the Local Government Act 1993. This includes undertaking the duties of the office of councillor in the best interests of the people of Byron Shire and the Byron Shire Council and faithfully and impartially carrying out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested under the Act or any other Act to the best of one’s ability and judgment.
BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL
2. Declarations of Interest – Pecuniary and Non-Pecuniary
3. Adoption of Minutes from Previous Meetings
3.1 Adoption of Minutes from Previous Meeting.............................................................. 6
4. Staff Reports
Sustainable Environment and Economy
4.1 Review of Council's Onsite Sewage Management Strategy 2001 and Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines 2004................................................................................... 14
Infrastructure Services
4.2 Q1 - Utilities Works Delivery Program Update...................................................... 121
4.3 Mullumbimby Water Supply Strategy - Members' Motions................................. 151
BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL
Adoption of Minutes from Previous Meetings 3.1
Adoption of Minutes from Previous Meetings
Report No. 3.1 Adoption of Minutes from Previous Meeting
Directorate: Infrastructure Services
Report Author: Dominika Tomanek, Executive Assistant Infrastructure Services
File No: I2023/420
RECOMMENDATION:
That the minutes of the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee Meeting held on 20 October 2022 be confirmed.
1 Minutes
20/10/2022 Water and Sewer Advisory Committee, I2022/1486 , page 9⇩
Report
The attachment to this report provides the minutes of the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee Meeting of 20 October 2022 .
Report to Council
The minutes were reported to Council on 24 November 2022.
Comments
In accordance with the Committee Recommendations, Council resolved the following:
BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL
Staff Reports - Sustainable Environment and Economy 4.1
Staff Reports - Sustainable Environment and Economy
Report No. 4.1 Review of Council's Onsite Sewage Management Strategy 2001 and Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines 2004
Directorate: Sustainable Environment and Economy
Report Author: Tim Connors, Team Leader Environmental Health
File No: I2023/251
Summary:
Council’s Environmental Health team together with Tim Fitzroy of Fitzroy & Associates, have conducted a review of Council’s Onsite Sewage Management Strategy 2001 and Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines 2004.
The review of both documents resulted in the drafting of a new Onsite Sewage Management Strategy and Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines. The Water and Sewer Advisory Committee is a key stakeholder group to be involved in the revision of these documents. As such, it is requested that the attached newly drafted Strategy and Guidelines be reviewed by the committee members prior to both documents being reported to Council seeking endorsement for public exhibition.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee:
1. Notes the draft Onsite Sewage Management Strategy and draft Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines; and
2. Notes that draft Onsite Sewage Management Strategy and draft Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines will now be reported to Council seeking endorsement for public exhibition.
Attachments:
1 Draft
Onsite Sewage Management Strategy 2023, E2022/95319
, page 18⇩
2 Draft
Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines 2023, E2022/95318
, page 49⇩
Report
Council’s Onsite Sewage Management Strategy and Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines have been in place since 2001 and 2004, respectively. Due to ongoing changes since that time, deficiencies in Council’s current strategy and guidelines have been identified by Council staff, designers, and installers. To overcome these deficiencies, Council’s Environmental Health Team engaged Tim Fitzroy of Fitzroy and Associates to review and update Council’s documents.
Following benchmarking against best practice OSMS policies throughout Australia, Council’s Environmental Health Team together with Tim Fitzroy of Fitzroy and Associates have conducted several workshops which resulted in the production of the revised draft Onsite Sewage Management Strategy and Onsite Sewage Management Guidelines documents.
Council’s Environmental Health team have taken onboard feedback received at the 20 October 2022 Committee meeting and have made amendments to the draft strategy and guidelines which are attached to this report for further consideration by the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee.
Strategic Considerations
Community Strategic Plan and Operational Plan
CSP Objective |
CSP Strategy |
DP Action |
Code |
OP Activity |
1:
Effective Leadership |
1.1: Enhance trust and accountability through open and transparent leadership |
1.1.1: Leadership - Enhance leadership effectiveness, capacity, and ethical behaviour |
1.1.1.1 |
Coordinate Council's annual policy review program, update and publish adopted policies |
1: Effective
Leadership |
1.2: Engage and involve community in decision making |
1.2.1: Community-led decision making - Engage with community to inform Council decision making |
1.2.1.1 |
Provide opportunities for the community to have input, comment and feedback to Council on projects and matters of interest. |
1:
Effective Leadership |
1.2: Engage and involve community in decision making |
1.2.1: Community-led decision making - Engage with community to inform Council decision making |
1.2.1.2 |
Support staff to consider communication and engagement as part of all project development and implementation. |
1:
Effective Leadership |
1.2: Engage and involve community in decision making |
1.2.4: Advisory Committees - Coordinate advisory committees to inform decision making on their areas of expertise |
1.2.4.1 |
Coordinate and support Advisory Committees to assist with effective Council decision making |
Recent Resolutions
· 22-645 (24/11/2022)
· 22-646 (24/11/2022)
· 13–135 (14/03/2013)
· 07-231 (10/05/2007)
Legal/Statutory/Policy Considerations
· Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997
· Local Government Act 1993
· Local Government (General) Regulation, 2005.
· Byron Shire Council (2018). Policy No. 14/009. On-Site Sewage management Systems in Reticulated Areas. Adopted by Council 22 May 2003. Last review date: September 2014.
· Byron Shire Council (2001). On-site Sewage Management Strategy. November 2001.
· Byron Shire Council (2004). Design Guidelines for On-site Sewage Management for Single Households. 1 December 2004.
· Byron Shire Council Community Engagement Policy 2018.
Financial Considerations
N/A
Consultation and Engagement
· Council’s Environmental Health Team have conducted several workshops with Tim Fitzroy of Fitzroy and Associates.
· Benchmarking against other Onsite Sewage Management Policies, particularly the policies of neighbouring Local Government Authorities.
BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL
Staff Reports - Infrastructure Services 4.2
Staff Reports - Infrastructure Services
Report No. 4.2 Q1 - Utilities Works Delivery Program Update
Directorate: Infrastructure Services
Report Author: Cameron Clark, Manager Works
File No: I2023/372
Summary:
This report summaries the performance of Utilities Department delivery from December 2022 to February 2023.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee notes the report titled ‘Q1 - Utilities Works Delivery Program Update’.
Report
DRINKING WATER QUALITY
In December 2022 to February 2023 there were four (4) critical limit exceedances at Mullumbimby WTP.
From:
WaterOutlook > Reports > Special > MONTHLY UTILITIES REPORTS >
UTILITIES REPORT - Mullumbimby Drinking Water Quality
CRITICAL LIMIT EXCEEDANCES Mullumbimby Drinking Water Supply Critical Control Points (CCPs) 12 Months to January 2023 |
||||
Date Occurred |
Description |
Description and Cause of Issue |
Action Taken to Remedy Situation |
Action Taken to Prevent Reoccurrence |
5/1/23 to 6/1/23 |
Turbidity Exceedance ‘ Filter 1 & 2 (3 exceedances) |
Rainfall event on the 5 Jan 2023 raised the Turbidity in plant process between 6 and 7 Jan 2023 (Filter 1 exceeded on one day and Filter 2 exceeded on both days, see plots below). The finished water on both days had Turbidity of < 0.75 NTU which is within acceptable limits, therefore no impact on supply. |
Jar testing and Chemical dosing corrections undertaken throughout. Treated water returned to < 0.23 NTU by 8 Jan 2023. |
Continued monitoring of raw water turbidity and filter turbidity. |
11/1/23 – 15/1/23 |
Chlorine Residual at Left Bank Reservoir = 0.19mg/L |
Free Chlorine Residual result during weekly sample collection and testing on 11 Jan 2023 was found to be 0.19mg/L at Left Bank Reservoir outlet. The cause of this issue was the Reservoir filling had been isolated since 6th Jan 2023. During this time of no fresh water entering the Reservoir and the high ambient temperatures the chlorine residual slowly trended lower. |
The other Reservoir in Mullumbimby had filled then Left Bank Reservoir inlet valve was returned to normal operations. This happened on 15 Jan 2023. During this fill 44% of the volume was filled with fresh filtered chlorinated water from the water treatment plant. After this Left Bank Reservoir Free Chlorine Residual was sampled as 0.75mg/L on 18 Jan 2023 |
When Reservoirs are isolated. Check Chlorine trends and if trending downwards dose with sodium hypo to keep level within our set parameters. |
Public Health Reportable Events
There were no water quality reportable events in the December 2022 to February 2023 period.
Shire Water Consumption
From: WaterOutlook > Reports > Special >
MONTHLY UTILITIES REPORTS > UTILITIES REPORT - Water Usage and STP Inflows
Summary
STP INFLOWS
From:
WaterOutlook > Reports > Special > MONTHLY UTILITIES REPORTS >
UTILITIES REPORT - Water Usage and STP Inflows Summary
There was two (2) STP licence 100 percentile limit exceedances between December 2022 and February 2023.
STP 100th PERCENTILE LICENCE LIMIT EXCEEDENCES (TREATED WATER QUALITY) 12 Months to January 2023 |
|
|||||
Date Occurred |
Description |
Description and Cause of Issue |
Action Taken to Remedy Situation |
Action Taken to Prevent Reoccurrence |
|
|
Byron Bay STP |
|
|||||
06/07/22 |
Ammonia Exceedance ‘EPA 1’ of 5.19 mg/L |
Council was notified of the exceedance by the lab on 8/07/2022. The exceedance is believed to be due to lower than optimal Suspended Solids (SS) levels within bioreactor. This SS drop was not identified by instrumentation. |
The suspended solids instrumentation was cleaned and calibrated. DO setpoint increased Wasting reduced to increase SS within Bioreactor which reduces the Ammonia levels. |
Instrumentation planned maintenance schedule reviewed. Process review training with operational staff. |
|
|
Bangalow STP |
|
|||||
25/05/22 |
Ammonia Exceedance ‘EPA 4’ of 12.3 mg/L |
Exceedance was caused by a high rainfall event which caused high inflows to the plant. Council was notified of the exceedance by the Lab on 27/5/2022. The exceedance is thought to be due to effluent being pumped back from the effluent return pond. |
The dissolved oxygen (DO) setpoints were raised to help lower the Ammonia will monitor process. |
The electricians have cleaned and serviced the DO sensors to ensure correct operation and will continue to monitor. |
||
Brunswick Valley STP |
|
|||||
25/05/22 |
Faecal Coliform Exceedance ‘EPA 1’ of 750 cfu /100 ml |
Exceedance was caused by a high rainfall event which caused inflows to the plant of approximately 8 x Average Dry Weather Flow (ADWF). The UV disinfection (rated at 5 x ADWF) was not able to cope with the volume and therefore bypass of the UV system occurred. |
Continue monitor plant performance and correct operation during high rainfall events. |
|
|
|
15/02/23 |
Faecal Coliform Exceedance ‘EPA 1’ of 3750 cfu /100 ml |
Exceedance was caused by a high rainfall event over 14th and 15 th February. Hi inflows resulted in bypass of the UV system. |
Outflow was retested until FC had dropped to an acceptable level meeting License). This was achieved by 20/02/2023.
|
Monitor FC testing results and reduce inflow and infiltration into the system. |
|
|
|
||||||
25/05/22 |
Faecal Coliform Exceedance ‘EPA 3’ of 2840 cfu /100 ml |
On the 23/05/2022 at 1am the wetlands at Ocean Shores STP started to bypass at the overflow weir due to extreme weather event with high rainfall and as a result there was a treatment bypass All raw sewage and stormwater was discharged via primary screening and UV treatment. The estimated volume of effluent discharged over the four (4) day period was 6.6 ML. No untreated sewage was discharged into the surrounding environment. As a result, there was a Faecal Coliform exceedance at EPA 1. |
When flows reduced, a board was placed in the V notch to allow bypass to be halted. Full treatment re-established. During and after the incident, operators monitored and adjusted treatment to correct high faecal coliform, nitrate and ammonia levels in effluent. • Council operators carried out additional sampling at the effluent discharge point (EPA3) and in addition; monitoring of water quality of the Brunswick River upstream and downstream of the STP outfall at: o Upstream of Ocean Shores STP at Federation bridge Mullumbimby o Downstream of Ocean Shores STP at Massey Greene Boat Ramp, Ocean Shore Bypass was reported to the EPA (Ref: EPA 13060, Reg no. 116.2022.6.1) |
• Carried out an incident review process in line with the Pollution Incident Response Management Plan to ensure all procedures were adhered to and amended if required to prevent future deviations from procedure. • Perform Inflow and Infiltration investigation of Ocean Shores sewerage system. • Review SOP’s associated with wet weather events for OSSTP |
|
|
26/10/22 |
Faecal Coliform Exceedance ‘EPA 3’ of 3640 cfu /100 ml |
FC Exceedence caused by High Inflows to plant due to an extreme rainfall event. |
Council operators monitored flows and ensured UV operating correctly. Retesting was carried out to ensure FC levels reduced quickly after the rainfall event. |
|
|
|
4/1/23 |
Faecal Coliform Exceedance ‘EPA 3’ of 950 cfu /100 ml |
Cleaning of wetlands combined with heavy rainfall caused flow of debris to hinder effectiveness of UV. |
Operators cleaned UV and tested FC levels continuously until license compliance achieved. |
Ensure regular cleaning of Wetlands channel and cleaning of UV Tubes to prevent recurrence. |
|
|
EPA Reportable Events
There was one (1) EPA reportable incident during February 2023.
Reference: EPA Licence # 13266 - Byron Shire Council self-report, planned power outage resulting in sewage overflow near Old Brunswick Valley Sewage Treatment Plant, Brunswick Heads
EPA Ref: 19286
The cause, time and duration of the event
Byron Shire Council (Council) Utilities section received notification at approximately 9am Thursday 2nd March that a power outage had occurred at a major sewage pump station (Council reference ‘SPS2000’) near 123 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads. During this time there was a planned power outage in the area which affected several other sewage pump stations within Brunswick Heads as well as the Brunswick Valley Sewage Treatment Plant. Essential Energy Reference for the power outage is # 69071-R.
Council organised a response within 30 minutes of notification including:
- Staff contacted vacuum pump trucks which were onsite at approximately 10:30am.
- Staff contacted Essential Energy to advise of the issue. Essential Energy did not provide any assistance to Council.
- Staff organised for backup generator to be relocated from Ocean Shores STP to SPS2000.
- Staff isolated all pump stations within Brunswick Heads on SCADA to prevent any additional flows being pump to SPS2000.
Council’s SCADA monitoring system indicates that SPS2000 reached high well level at approximately 10:30am. This high well level had a duration for approximately 1 hour during which time overflows at the pump station occurred.
By 11:30 am, pump trucks and generators had flows under control of the site, at which time the clean-up operation begin. Sewage overflow in proximity to the well was vacuumed up from pump station. Water tankers were brought in to assist with washing down areas with water being taken by vacuum trucks.
The type, volume and concentration of every pollutant discharged as a result of the event
The estimated volume of untreated sewage discharged over the 1-hour period was 50 kL. Due to the proximity to the Simpsons Creek / Brunswick River, testing was performed in the creek at a location upstream of SPS2000 as well as downstream of SPS2000. Testing was performed in the open drain / swale immediately adjacent to SPS2000. Location overview for testing sites is in Appendix A.
During the time of the break, it was dry weather, it was approaching low tide with the tide was running out. Untreated sewage was mainly localised around the SPS2000 site as well as open stormwater drain shown.
Action taken by the licensee in relation to the event, including any follow-up contact with any complainants.
• During the incident, council staff monitored levels within the pump station and responded to issues within a timely manner e.g., organisation of pump trucks and generator
• Localised overflow was removed (using vacuum excavation) and then the site was washed down with tankered water with further vacuum excavation. Disinfectant was applied to affected areas.
• Council staff performed environmental sampling at two locations along Simpsons Creek (one upstream and another downstream) as well as at the stormwater system adjacent to the main break on 2nd March 2023.
(a) Details of any measure taken or proposed to be taken to prevent or mitigate against a recurrence of such an event;
• Review internal planned outage process and update accordingly.
• Review storage capacity at SPS2000 and determine whether emergency storage is a viable option for this site.
LIQUID TRADE WASTE OPERATIONS
NUMBER |
|
Business currently approved to discharge liquid trade waste |
335 |
Registration Only Approvals |
77 |
Business with applications currently in progress |
38 |
Overdue for Re-approval |
|
Business premises overdue for re-approval (LTW Approval valid for 5 years) |
67 |
Re-approval Complete (January and February 2023) |
4 |
Operating without Approval |
|
Businesses currently identified as operating without approval |
26 |
Compliance action complete (January and February 2023) |
8 |
Minor Non-compliances |
|
Premises with minor non-compliances (notices for works / minor upgrades outstanding, initial inspections for new operations) |
64 |
Compliance action complete (January and February 2023) |
6 |
Major Non-compliances |
|
Businesses overdue for major works (grease arrestor upgrade) |
8 |
Businesses currently undertaking major works (as directed) |
4 |
Compliance action complete (January and February 2023) |
2 |
Premises currently being charged penalty rates for non-compliance |
8 |
Compliance action complete (January and February 2023) |
2 |
Liquid Trade Waste New Approvals
Twelve (12) new Approvals were issued in the December 2022 to February 2023 period:
• Village Byron Bay 61.2022.93.1
• Otherside 61.2022.76.1
• Birds of Paradise 61.2022.90.1
• Byron Bay Brewery 61.2022.59.1
• Folk 61.2022.58.1
• Black Sage Tattoo Studio 61.2023.10.1
• Bayshore Development Pty Ltd 61.2023.9.1
• Byron Markets 61.2022.95.1
• Ms Ho Vietnamese Eastery and Bar 61.2022.78.1
• Costa Taco 61.2022.20.2
• The Olive Place 61.2022.82.1
• Barefoot Brew Room (amendment) 61.2021.55.2
Liquid Trade Waste Re-Approvals
Two (2) Re- Approvals were issued in the December 2022 to February period 2023:
• The Pass Café 61.2022.74.1
• Main Street Burger Bar 61.2022.81.1
Inspections
The team completed a total of fifteen (15) site inspections in December 2022 to February 20223 period.
Inspection for New Approval Applications
Nine (9) inspections at premises applying for a new Liquid Trade Waste Approval were completed in the December to February period.
· Village Byron Bay 61.2022.93.1
· Otherside 61.2022.76.1
· Birds of Paradise 61.2022.90.1
· Folk 61.2022.58.1
· The Pass Café 61.2022.74.1
· Ms Ho 61.2022.78.1
· Costa Taco 61.2022.20.1
· Tom Tom Thai 61.2023.2.1
· Éclair at the Bay 61.2023.5.1
Overdue Compliance Site Inspections
One (1) site inspection to premises overdue for a pump out service in the December 2022 to February period 2023.
• Masa
Pre-lodgement Site Inspections
Two (2) site meeting to clarify requirements for new development applications.
• Ally Chow 61.2023.1.1
• 1 Byron Street 61.2022.69.1
Liquid Trade Waste Customer Request Inspection
• Zero Co. – Centennial Circuit BYRON BAY
• Habitat – Illegal dumping
Liquid Trade Waste Incidents
Nil.
Grease arrestor servicing is continuing to be monitored with letters sent to overdue businesses.
Liquid Trade Waste KPI’s
APPROVALS |
Re-approvals |
8 per month |
New / Amended approvals |
3 per month (Estimated) |
|
INSPECTIONS |
Approval inspections |
10 per month |
Annual inspections |
25 per month |
|
COMPLIANCE ACTIONS |
Generated from inspections |
3 per month (Estimated) |
Registers
The following additional Registers fall under Systems Compliance Officer position description:
• Water Backflow Prevention – Register 65. Approximately 20% of backflow devices are currently registered. Annual testing is not currently being enforced due to staffing resources.
• Scott carried out an inspection of Recycled Water System in place at the Byron Beach Hotel in connection with the recent alteration to their facilities.
• Private Sewer Pump Stations – Register 34
• Private Hydrant - Register 68
TREATED EFFLUENT & RESUSE WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
Byron Wetlands Water Quality
The data below shows the assimilative and
polishing capacity of Byron Wetlands for the December 2022 to February 2023
period.From: WaterOutlook > Reports > Special > MONTHLY
UTILITIES REPORTS > UTILITIES REPORT - Wetlands Performance
The assimilative and polishing capacity is demonstrated by the nutrient reduction trend between EPA1 and EPA 4 for nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations as follows:
• Total Phosphorus - an average increase of 10% to 35% is seen between EPA1 and EPA4, this increase is not in line with the reduction seen in the literature of around 40-60%. It is noted however, that this result is a factor of very low Phosphorus levels entering the Wetland, leaving very little scope for improvement. In addition, small variations in concentrations are amplified due to the way the target is calculated. Discharge concentrations of 0.11-0.14 mg/L are still significantly below the EPA limit for discharge from the STP of 1.0 mg/L.
• Total Nitrogen - an average reduction of between 66% and 77% is seen between EPA1 and EPA4. This is significantly better than that seen in the literature of around 40-55%
Byron Wetlands (BBIWMR) Water Quantity
The below graphs are based on monitoring data and water-balance modelling for the BBIWMR site.
Key observations:
- The 24ha site irrigation system remains inoperative and has not been irrigated during the reporting period. Substantial additional effluent reuse can be obtained by reactivating this system. Investigations are undergoing to define best way to reactivate the system.
- Rainfall is the main driver for high flows coming out of the system, as well as groundwater levels. See sharp spikes in both the 1st and 3rd graphs, which coincide with high rainfall events.
Note: Groundwater level data is only
available until 1/11/2022. Improvements to groundwater monitoring infrastructure
are required to enhance data availability.
Wetlands Operation
Monthly inspections and checklists have been completed by AWC in the December 2022 to February 2023 period. Drain clearing was completed and clearing around the wetland inlets was also completed.
Shane Austin has completed the clearing at inlets and clear access is now possible to the majority of the wetland operational area. Another maintenance run with clearing at inlets and minor trimming has commenced. Water levels were slightly lower through December and January due to reduced rainfall, high evaporation and drain clearing. Water levels were higher through February due to rainfall. Investigations into the acidic water and sulphurous smell within the lower section of Cell D are indicative of ASS, sampling will be undertaken to confirm this. Cell D and E are currently offline.
The DPI research team has released weevils into a number of locations and completed monitoring including Drone survey in December and February. Weevil numbers were high in Cell H and as a result there has been a significant reduction in the Salvinia cover.
Bird buddies January monitoring identified both Lathams Snipe and a large number of black ducks likely to be increasing due to the improved conditions in Cell H.
Reduced Salvinia cover Cell H
Recycled Water Management Strategy
Update on project progress:
As per resolution from December 2022 ET meeting, investigations are being carried out to upgrade urban effluent reuse treatment and management systems. A follow-up report will be presented to ET in March/April 2023.
Improvements to systems, plans and procedures for effluent management
Recycled water user agreements register: An Authority register is being developed to improve record keeping and management actions related to Recycled water user agreements. A similar approach will be used to keep track of recycled water refill station users.
Recycled water use agreement with Open Spaces: This will be a priority in the first quarter of 2023.
Urban reuse data, monitoring and compliance: Urban reuse monitoring data is being centralised in water outlook, and benchmarked against the Draft Recycled Water Management System (2016 – CM9 # E2020/53024). While this document has not received approval from DPE, it is currently the best reference to guide best practice. Monitoring framework and objectives will undergo changes as the system is upgraded to satisfy dual reticulation requirements.
Main Arm Recycled Water Scheme
MARWS has not been in use since April 2022 as there was no demand due to high rain fall/flooding. In January 2023 the Johnson Farm (only user in this recycled water scheme), requested water to be supplied again. However, several issues have been found with the supply and treatment processes at the old Mullumbimby STP site (pump, chlorination and aerators). Repairs are being planned by the Operations team. Estimated completion time is unclear.
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
ET Assessments
The graph below illustrates the ET assessment profile from March 2022 to March 2023.
Overview
• 15 ET assessments were finalised in December, 12 ET assessments were finalised in January and February
• 21 ET assessments were completed and are finalised during the period.
• 9 referrals are on hold due to requested additional information
• 56 Draft ET assessments are pending to be assessed
PLANNED & REACTIVE ASSET MAINTENANCE
Planned Maintenance
Overall planned maintenance stands at 91% of tasks completed by due date in February 2023. This is significantly up from 48% in January 2023. However, the long-term average compliance for the last twelve months is just below target at 79% (target of 80%).
This significant increase in compliance is primarily due to mains flushing tasks being completed across the Shire over the last month.
It is noted that;
a. the only team below target compliance is now Sewer Operations. This team has significant increased compliance since last month from 62% in January to 72% currently. This demonstrates the team’s recovery from staff shortages is underway.
Table 1 - Planned Maintenance – Current Status - February
Table 2 -
Planned Maintenance - Twelve Month Trend
Reactive Maintenance
The reactive maintenance tasks have been below average in January (44 tasks completed against an annual average of 58 per month) and in February (36 tasks completed against an annual average of 57 per month).
Table 3 - Reactive Maintenance – Current Status - February
Table 4 - Reactive Maintenance – Twelve Month Trend
Task Closeout
There are now 210 open and aged reactive maintenance tasks, down from 427 in January. This reduction is due to a concerted effort to close out aged CRMs as we move across to the Assetic maintenance system.
Utilities are in the process of moving to new maintenance management software (Assetic). Brightly Maintenance Management software. The Water Reticulation team have now been trained in the software with the ‘Go Live’ for this team scheduled for 2 March 2023. The software will be rolled out to all teams over the coming months.
ASSET MAINTENANCE
Utilities Asset Maintenance Software Review
The full functional requirements are contained within Doc Ref: E2021/47655: 24.2021.11.1 Appendix A - Maintenance Software Functional Description DRAFT Feb2021
Project Status
• The water reticulation team is now live, using Assetic for all reactive and planned maintenance tasks for water.
• The reuse reticulation tasks will be active by end of March
• It is anticipated that the Electrician’s team will also be trained by end of March with ‘Go live’ shortly afterwards.
• The treatment systems and sewer teams will be included in the coming months.
General Asset Management Improvements
Water Reuse Pump Stations:
• Both pump stations condition assessment reports received. Data loaded in the Authority™ asset register. Overall condition calculation and report currently underway.
Water Valves:
• Predictor™ model build underway.
Sewer Valves:
• Predictor™ model build underway.
Utilities Digital Asset Management Plan (DAMP):
• DAMP second draft build underway.
Flood Damage:
• Laverty’s Gap Weir – Preliminary Environmental review for access and possible impacts. Heritage and Biodiversity site visits to occur in March.
• Gravity Sewer Mains – RFQ approved by PWA to proceed.
• Mullum Water Mains Extension – Survey tenders received and hope to award mid-February. Geotech report due early March. Survey data by end of April. Aim to go to market in May. Council briefing note once construction tenderer selected (end of May).
• Water Mains Replacement (Kolora Way) – Received the concept pipe route for Yelgun Creek / Kolora Way crossing from PWA. Under consideration.
• SPS Switchboard raising – Timeline of projects as follows:
o SPS 4001 – Complete in February
o SPS 3016 – Start in Late Feb, complete in March
o SPS 4013 – Start in late March finish in April
o SPS 4006 – Start in April Complete in May
o SPS 5005 – Start in May complete in June
• Pressure Sewer Boundary Valve Kits – Received the Project Endorsement memo from PWA. Letter to residents regarding inspection is under consideration. Revised scope memo to be issued. Endorsement needed then go to tender.
• Telemetry Data Gathering – The data gathering exercise has begun as requested by PWA for telemetry systems. Scheduled 23rd March for Audit list to be provided. Site visits proposed approx. a month after this.
STP inspections:
• Condition assessment and audit inspections are completed at Brunswick STP.
• Condition assessment and audit inspections are underway at West Byron STP.
• AWC completing the wetland assets condition assessment and audit.
Sewer Manholes:
• Recent condition assessments have been uploaded to both Authority™ Asset Register and GIS systems.
• Manhole condition inspections continuing.
UTILITIES SUSTAINABILITY
Solar PV Arrays Performance
Byron Shire Council currently has 600kW of solar PV panels installed across 15 sites. Of this 350kW is installed across the West Byron, Brunswick Valley and Bangalow STP sites. The Sustainability Officer Utilities (SOU) is responsible for monitoring and reporting on the performance of all of council’s solar PV arrays as well as identifying issues and arranging repairs when necessary. Asset owners are responsible for paying for repairs and maintenance of the solar assets for which they are responsible.
When the SOU assumed this responsibility most of the sites had issues with either the hardware on site and/or the configuration of online monitoring portals. As can be seen in the screenshot above all of council’s sites are now operational and configured properly. This has been achieved through weekly monitoring and engaging with Asset Owners, Contractors, and online monitoring portal technicians.
An annual report is prepared by the SOU to communicate to ET solar system performance and technical findings. The key finding other than the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance is that solar installed behind the meter to reduce power import from the grid provides an ROI several times that of power sold back into the grid under feed in tariff arrangements.
Quarterly Utilities Assets Energy Performance Monitoring
This table and Key Points is updated quarterly/annually. The tables below display the Utilities sites that have had the largest increases in electricity usage from Q2 2021/22 to Q2 2022/23. It also applies the standard energy efficiency metric of kWh/kL which demonstrates these sites power consumption per units of influent flow. This metric allows sites to be identified for investigation and optimisation through CRM requests to the Principal Engineer System Planning and the Operations Engineer. Once CRM requests are made sites are monitored and will remain as unresolved items in the IS monthly report until the identified anomalies have been rectified.
QUARTER 1 - 2021-2022 |
QUARTER 1 - 2022-2023 |
INCREASE 2021-22 to 2022-23 |
|||||||
Asset |
Electricity |
Inflow |
Efficiency |
Electricity |
Inflow |
Efficiency |
|||
|
(kWh) |
(kL) |
(kWh/kL) |
(kWh) |
(kL) |
(kWh/kL) |
kWh |
kWh % |
kWh/kL % |
SPS3002 |
20,481 |
NA |
NA |
27,966 |
NA |
NA |
7,485 |
37% |
NA |
SPS3001 |
30,266 |
NA |
NA |
36,480 |
NA |
NA |
6,214 |
21% |
NA |
SPS3023 (Depot) |
30,250 |
NA |
NA |
48,575 |
NA |
NA |
18,325 |
61% |
NA |
SPS3004 |
3,389 |
NA |
NA |
7,153 |
NA |
NA |
3,764 |
111% |
|
SPS4000 |
8,525 |
165,136 |
0.05 |
14,525 |
95,429 |
0.15 |
6,000 |
70% |
300% |
Key Points
• SPS3001 and SPS3002 again showed significant increases in energy usage but Inflow data was still unavailable so a performance metric could not be applied. The missing data will require further investigation.
• Depot Training Room and SPS3023 saw a 61% increase. This is most likely due to more use of the Training Room. The recent installation of VFD’s to SPS3023 has significantly improve the power factor of this site and consequently reduced the kVA demand charge on the monthly electricity bills for this site.
• SPS3004 experienced a 111% increase in energy usage but while derived flow was unavailable in Water Outlook pump runtimes had doubled correlating with the increase in energy usdage.
• SPS4000 experienced a 70% increase in energy usage and 300% increase in kWh/kL. This site will be investigated further.
Follow Up
• SPS5003 pump 1 has been recommissioned after servicing. Energy performance metrics will be applied to this site when the Feb 23 electricity bill/meter read is available.
• SPS5009 is continuing to demonstrate improved energy efficie3ncy since the servicing and recommissioning of the jockey pump.
• SPS4000 is showing increasingly inefficient energy efficiency and needs to be investigated.
• SPS4004 experienced a 53% decrease in energy usage due to a halving of pump runtime.
CAPITAL WORKS
Byron Shire Bioenergy Facility Project
Council’s independent solicitors HWL Ebsworth advised finally, upon its further review, that its opinion is that the Bioenergy Facility project must apply for assessment by the NSW Office of Local Government for a Public Private Partnership, in the event Council wishes to accept private equity financing for the D&C and O&M of the facility.
Further to ET recommendations, Utilities shall report on possible commercial delivery and contracting alternatives for the project, again to the Executive Team in March 2023 and then to Councillors in April 2023.
Two additional Commonwealth grant streams are expected in 2023 and might be potential funding sources for the BEF project; they shall be reviewed and considered when more detailed information is available. The grants are from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts: the new “Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program”; and the “Growing Regions Program” (to replace the now-cancelled BBRF Round 6 Grant Fund). These funds could be put to offsetting the costs of a PPP delivery model.
SPS Renewals for Byron, Mullum, Ocean Shores & Bangalow
The sewer pump station renewals programmed in 2022/23 includes 24 pump stations in total. The scope of work is summarised in the IS Monthly Status Report – February 2023. The refurbishment of the receival MH at SPS 3001 was added to the list in August to address urgent repairs and has been completed. The following works have been completed in the lead up to the replacement works:
• Hydraulics calculations and pump selections made.
• Pumps have been ordered.
• Switchboards have been built and delivered
Condition Assessments – FY21/22
The condition assessment of gravity sewer mains and maintenance holes was awarded to Willow and Sparrow (Maintenance holes) and Subsurface Mapping Solutions (Mains). The Maintenance hole condition assessments are complete apart from some with access difficulties. The CCTV mains contract was awarded to Subsurface Mapping Solutions and was completed in June 2022. The sewer catchments that fall within this scope include, 2002, 3001, 3003, and 3006.The indicative budgetary limit of $300,000 has been exceeded as this is a combination of costs for both CCTV assessments and MH visual assessments, largely due to the use of the heavy cleaning provisional item due to the large number of blocked mains in these catchments. Reporting is currently underway to establish necessary renewals scope from these catchments. The reports are expected to be finalised before the end of March 2023.
Gravity Sewer Rectification – FY21/22
The gravity sewer rectification scope involves the rectification of over 300 assets throughout previously assessed catchments, 3002, 4001, and 5012. The works have been awarded to Interflow who commenced in March 2022 but have been heavily delayed due to the inclement weather. It is expected that the contract will extend to April 2023 due to delays with flood and rain affected areas. Interflow will keep BSC updated on the impact to the holistic program schedule.
Carlyle Bangalow Azalea
Work accomplished in the period:
• Planit has reviewed the four drawing sets and requested minor changes from Willow and Sparrow
• Tender documents are being prepared and awaiting final design from Willow and Sparrow. Once the final design has been received the documents can be finalised and the project can go out to tender.
• It is estimated construction will commence mid-2023.
Reservoir Roof Replacement Works
Work accomplished in the period:
• ACE have continued their roof and pipework replacement work at Coopers Shoot Reservoir No. 1, Byron Bay.
• Works at Coopers Shoot in January 2023 included:
o Removal of roof sheeting and redundant pipework
o Inspection of columns
o Inspection of floor joints, floor-wall joint, wall joint
o Inspection of concrete surfaces
o Installation of new internal FRP ladder
o Site measurements and ordering of materials
o Confirmation of new stair location
• Works at Coopers Shoot in February 2023 included:
o Removal of roof sheeting and redundant pipework
o Inspection of columns
o Inspection of floor joints, floor-wall joint, wall joint
o Inspection of concrete surfaces
o Site measurements and delivery of materials to site
o Hydro blasting to remove existing bituminous floor joints and floor to wall joints
o Pressure cleaning of reservoir, floors, walls and columns
o Handrail studs installed around perimeter of the reservoir.
o Flashing installed around external perimeter of reservoir.
o Mesh wall vents removed.
o Setting studs for roof beam support brackets around perimeter of reservoir.
o Majority of roof structure has been assembled.
o Drilling holes and setting studs for Davit arm installation
• Over the summer period, a small leak at Yamble Reservoir was identified, likely due to the poor concrete quality and changes to the reservoir over the works period (i.e. a long period of having the tank empty / dry, then filling of the tank – the concrete shrinks and swells and minor movements can cause cracking, especially with an old tank of average to poor quality). The leak was injected with a potable-water friendly product in January and the leak has since stopped. Ongoing monitoring of the crack injection location is being undertaken weekly and will continue for the next few months.
• Wategos Reservoir roof replacement will commence in early 2023, upon completion of the Coopers Shoot reservoir works.
• Planit continue Sup Rep role and management of the construction contract. Sam Lee is the primary Planit rep.
Telcos – Wategos:
• Telstra has advised the proposed antenna replacement works at Wategos has been delayed until early 2023.
• Optus have provided final IFC drawings for relocation of their comms cabinet and antenna. Works on site are subject to a new license agreement – pending consultation with Utilities and Paula Telford.
Water Reservoir Slope Stability Works – Byron Bay and Ocean Shores
Work accomplished in the period:
• Coopers Shoot Reservoir No.1 slope remediation occurred in late 2022.
• Works completed in February 2023 included:
o Perimeter fence replacement/repairs at Tongarra and Coopers Shoot Reservoirs
o No slope remediation works occurred in January or February 2023.
• Warrambool reservoir slope repairs will be completed in May 2023 with a large crew. Delays are due to the contractors ongoing commitment to the flood recovery effort across affected Shires.
• Planit continue the Sup Rep role and management of the construction contract.
Water Reservoir Bypasses Standard Operating Procedures – All shire
Work accomplished in the period:
• Final inspection/testing of all reservoir procedures has now been completed.
• Plans are being finalized for final adoption of the procedures.
Byron STP inlet works remediation
Work accomplished in the period:
• The contractor completed the desludging of the lagoon in December 2022.
• Practical Completion has been issued.
• The contractor has rectified the final defects.
• The project has now entered the defects liability period
Byron Bay STP UV Filter Pre-Filter System Upgrade
No Change in status from July:
• Project on hold until further notice as project now with City Water Technology.
Paterson St Reservoir Replacement
Work accomplished in the period:
• Project currently on hold until feedback is received from BSC Native Title Officer.
• The Reservoir Remediation Options report and the subsequent Opportunities and Constraints report have now been updated based on comments and feedback received for Native Title.
• The reports have been reissued for Council review and comment prior to further progression of the project.
Telcos – Paterson:
• Awaiting Council review and comment prior to issuing the Remediation Options report and the subsequent Opportunities and Constraints report to Telecommunications companies.
• Consultation continues with Telstra, Optus and Vodafone (and their contract and construction management third party agencies) to investigate the most appropriate approach to removing and relocating the Telco antennas on the Paterson reservoir.
• BMM have been regularly contacted and have been advised that this project is on hold until decisions/directives are provided by BSC Native Title Officer.
o Works on site are subject to a new license agreement – pending consultation with Utilities and Paula Telford.
Mullumbimby Trunk Water Main (Detailed Design)
Work accomplished in the period:
• Planit is attending regular weekly meetings with NSW Public Works and BSC.
• Geotech site tests finished in December. Should have report in Feb.
• Survey RFT has now closed as of 24/1/2023. Award should be mid Feb with survey info in mid-April.
• Stakeholder liaison with NSW Fisheries & UGL Regional Linx is underway.
• Planit has also commenced the REF Report.
West Byron Bay Water Main
• This project has been broken into Concept Design and Detailed Design.
• Recommended alignment has been discussed and agreed in principle with Council. Further discussions required to finalise the decision on the alignment, following additional comments from the BSC Native Title Officer.
Lismore Road Water Main Concept Plans
Work accomplished in the period:
• BSC has awarded Planit with a small design job to address an irrigation poly pipe servicing residential properties and associated servicing issues.
• A concept plan is being developed to assist the works team in planning this project.
• Plans have been prepared and issued to Council for comment prior to finalisation.
BSC Standard Drawings
Work accomplished in the period:
• BSC have engaged a consultant assist with preparing updates to the standard drawings.
• Plans have been prepared and issued to Council for comment prior to finalisation.
Byron STP Pump Gantries
• This project is now completed.
Additional Flow Path
Work accomplished in the period:
• Concept design of level sensors is ongoing, to be installed on the existing bridge.
• Installation of sensors is planned for late March 2023.
BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL
Staff Reports - Infrastructure Services 4.3
Report No. 4.3 Mullumbimby Water Supply Strategy - Members' Motions
Directorate: Infrastructure Services
Report Author: Dean Baulch, Principal Engineer, Systems Planning
File No: I2023/345
Summary:
The report has been created as requested by members of Water and Sewer Committee to discuss Mullumbimby Water Supply Strategy.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee does not support the motion proposed.
1 Motion
to WSAC - Mullumbimby Water Supply Strategy 30 March 2023, E2023/24277 , page 157⇩
Staff Comment:
Resources required to respond for comment on the submitted motion (Attachment 1 - E2023/24277) have not been available.
Drafting of the Mullumbimby Water Supply Strategy has extended well over three years with iterations and updates as requested by the committee.
Engaged consultants and staff have addressed all the committees request to date including the environmental assessment of options.
Any additional tasks, including remodelling the secure yield, will add time to the strategy which in turns also increases the risk of water supply failure for Mullumbimby.
It is agreed that the strategy and water supply do need urgent attention.
A Workshop with Councillors to discuss the Strategy is most appropriate as per Resolution 21-239
Strategic Considerations
Community Strategic Plan and Operational Plan
CSP Objective |
CSP Strategy |
DP Action |
Code |
OP Activity |
5: Connected
Infrastructure |
5.5: Provide continuous and sustainable water and sewerage management |
5.5.1: Water supply - Provide a continuous water supply that is maintained in accordance with NSW Health guidelines |
5.5.1.9 |
Mullumbimby - Emergency Water Supply Detailed Design |
5: Connected
Infrastructure |
5.5: Provide continuous and sustainable water and sewerage management |
5.5.1: Water supply - Provide a continuous water supply that is maintained in accordance with NSW Health guidelines |
5.5.1.16 |
DWMP Improvements |
5: Connected
Infrastructure |
5.5: Provide continuous and sustainable water and sewerage management |
5.5.1: Water supply - Provide a continuous water supply that is maintained in accordance with NSW Health guidelines |
5.5.1.8 |
Mullumbimby WTP - Asset Management |
5: Connected
Infrastructure |
5.5: Provide continuous and sustainable water and sewerage management |
5.5.1: Water supply - Provide a continuous water supply that is maintained in accordance with NSW Health guidelines |
5.5.1.14 |
Asset Management Plans / Asset Management System |
5: Connected
Infrastructure |
5.5: Provide continuous and sustainable water and sewerage management |
5.5.1: Water supply - Provide a continuous water supply that is maintained in accordance with NSW Health guidelines |
5.5.1.15 |
Development Servicing Plan |
5: Connected
Infrastructure |
5.5: Provide continuous and sustainable water and sewerage management |
5.5.2: Wastewater management - Manage effluent in an ecologically sustainable way that ensures public health and protects and enhances the natural environment |
5.5.2.12 |
Review Recycled Water Management Strategy |
5: Connected
Infrastructure |
5.5: Provide continuous and sustainable water and sewerage management |
5.5.2: Wastewater management - Manage effluent in an ecologically sustainable way that ensures public health and protects and enhances the natural environment |
5.5.2.5 |
Byron Bay - Section 60 Reuse Water System Upgrade |
5: Connected Infrastructure |
5.5: Provide continuous and sustainable water and sewerage management |
5.5.1: Water supply - Provide a continuous water supply that is maintained in accordance with NSW Health guidelines |
5.5.1.3 |
Mullumbimby - Tuckeroo Ave Watermain Construction |
Recent Resolutions