AGENDA R

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Council Meeting

                            

TUESDAY 9 AUGUST 2022

 

6.30pm


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Live Streaming of Council Meeting

 

In the spirit of open, accessible and transparent government, this meeting of the Inner West Council is being streamed live on Council’s website. By speaking at a Council meeting, members of the public agree to being recorded and must ensure their speech to the Council is respectful and use appropriate language. A person who uses defamatory, discriminatory or offensive language may be exposed to liability for which Council takes no responsibility. Any part of this meeting that is held in closed session will not be recorded

 

Pre-Registration to Speak at Council Meetings

 

Members of the public must register by 2pm of the day of the Meeting to speak at Council Meetings. If you wish to register to speak please fill in a Register to Speak Form, available from the Inner West Council website, including:

 

Are there any rules for speaking at a Council Meeting?

The following rules apply when addressing a Council meeting:

 

What happens after I submit the form?

You will be contacted by Governance Staff to confirm your registration. If you indicated that you will speak online, you will be provided with a link to the online meeting. Your request will then be added to a list that is shown to the Chairperson on the night of the meeting.

 

Where Items are deferred, Council reserves the right to defer speakers until that Item is heard on the next occasion.

 

Accessibility

 

Inner West Council is committed to ensuring people with a disability have equal opportunity to take part in Council and Committee Meetings. At the Ashfield Council Chambers there is a hearing loop service available to assist persons with a hearing impairment. If you have any other access or disability related participation needs and wish to know more, call 9392 5657.

 

Persons in the public gallery are advised that under the Local Government Act 1993, a person may NOT record a Council meeting without the permission of Council.

 

Any persons found recording without authority will be expelled from the meeting.

 

“Record” includes the use of any form of audio, video and still camera equipment or mobile phone capable of recording speech.

 

An audio recording of this meeting will be taken for the purpose of verifying the accuracy of the minutes.  

 

 

               

 

 

 

Statement of Ethical Obligations

 

The Mayor and Councillors are bound by the Oath/ Affirmation of Office made at the start of the Council term to undertake their civic duties in the best interests of the people of the Inner West Council and to faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act or any other Act, to the best of their skill and judgement.

 

It is also a requirement that the Mayor and Councillors disclose conflicts of interest in relation to items listed for consideration on the Agenda or which are considered at this meeting in accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct and Code of Meeting Practice.

 

 

 

   


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

 

 

PRECIS

 

 

1          Acknowledgement of Country

 

2          Apologies

 

3          Notice of Webcasting

 

4          Disclosures of Interest (Section 451 of the Local Government Act
and Council’s Code of Conduct)

 

5          Moment of Quiet Contemplation

 

6          Confirmation of Minutes                                                                                           Page

Minutes of 14 June 2022 Council Meeting                                                                       6

 

7          Public Forum – Hearing from All Registered Speakers

 

8          Condolence Motions

 

ITEM                                                                                                                                       Page

 

C0822(1) Item 1       Condolence Motion: Jarrod Mills                                                            30

C0822(1) Item 2       Condolence Motion: Francesco (Frank) Fiorenza                                 31

C0822(1) Item 3       Condolence Motion: (James) Kevin Little                                              33

 

9          Mayoral Minutes

 

Nil at the time of printing.

10        Reports for Council Decision

 

ITEM                                                                                                                                       Page

 

C0822(1) Item 4       Henson Park Plan of Management- Amendments to Leasing and Licensing Provisions                                                                                               35

C0822(1) Item 5       Employment Zones Reform - Submission                                           158

C0822(1) Item 6       1-5 Chester Street Annandale - Voluntary Planning Agreement         210

C0822(1) Item 7       Local Traffic Committee Meeting - June and July 2022                      263

C0822(1) Item 8       General Manager's Delegation                                                            288

C0822(1) Item 9       Local Government NSW Conference 2022                                         300

C0822(1) Item 10     Councillor Facilities and Expenses Policy                                           350

C0822(1) Item 11     Minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting Held on 23 February 2022                                                                                      371

 

 

 

11        Reports for Noting

 

ITEM                                                                                                                                          Page

 

C0822(1) Item 12     Investment Report at 31 May 2022                                                      380

C0822(1) Item 13     Investment Report at 30 June 2022                                                     408

C0822(1) Item 14     Engagement for Inner West Local Environmental Plan Phase 2B      436

C0822(1) Item 15     Pedestrian Safety Hazards in High Traffic Areas                                444

C0822(1) Item 16     Railway Parade, Annandale- cleaning and resheeting                        446

12        Notices of Motion

 

ITEM                                                                                                                                          Page

 

C0822(1) Item 17     Notice of Motion: Rates Hardship and Rates Deferral: Councillor Briefing      448

C0822(1) Item 18     Notice of Motion: Tenders for Out of School Hours Care                    449

C0822(1) Item 19     Notice of Motion: Marrickville Road and Buckley Street, Marrickville 451

C0822(1) Item 20     Notice of Motion: Defibrillators in the Inner West Local Government Area      453

C0822(1) Item 21     Notice of Motion: Enhancing Active Transport Infrastructure              455

C0822(1) Item 22     Notice of Motion: Deliberative Democracy                                           457

C0822(1) Item 23     Notice of Motion: Supporting Responsible Dog Ownership                489

C0822(1) Item 24     Notice of Motion: BayRun Event Funding 21 August 2022                 490

C0822(1) Item 25     Notice of Motion: Inner West Council Procurement to one of the Leading Councils in NSW                                                                                  491

13        Questions From Councillors

 

ITEM                                                                                                                                          Page

 

C0822(1) Item 26     Question on Notice: Amalgamation                                                     493

C0822(1) Item 27     Question on Notice: Council Investments                                            495

C0822(1) Item 28     Question on Notice: Outdoor Synthetic Sports Surfaces                    497

C0822(1) Item 29     Question on Notice: Disclosure of Councillor Information                   504

C0822(1) Item 30     Question on Notice: Inner West Council Rates Recovery Policy        506

C0822(1) Item 31     Question on Notice: Civic Ceremony Hosting and Funding                508

 

14        Reports with Confidential Information

 

Reports appearing in this section of the Business Paper are confidential in their entirety or contain confidential information in attachments.

 

The confidential information has been circulated separately.

ITEM                                                                                                                                          Page

 

C0822(1) Item 32     King George Park & Easton Park Upgrades Tender Report               509

C0822(1) Item 33     Update on Acquisition of Investment Properties                                  511


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

 

Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 14 June 2022 at Ashfield Service Centre

 

Meeting commenced at 6.32pm

 

Present:

Darcy Byrne

Jessica D’Arienzo

Liz Atkins

Marghanita Da Cruz

Mark Drury

Dylan Griffiths

Mathew Howard

Justine Langford

Pauline Lockie

Philippa Scott

Kobi Shetty

Chloe Smith

John Stamolis

Timothy Stephens

Zoi Tsardoulias

Peter Gainsford

Ruth Callaghan

Mayor

Deputy Mayor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

General Manager

Director Community

Beau-Jane De Costa

Acting Director Corporate

Simone Plummer

Director Planning

Matthew Pearce

General Counsel

Manod Wickramasinghe

Acting Director Infrastructure

Simon Duck

Senior Manager Sports and Recreation

Daniel East

Strategic Planning Manager

Daryl Jackson

Chief Financial Officer

Gwendolyn Hughes

Governance Coordinator (Minute Taker)

Lanieta Tukana

Governance and Risk Support Officer (Minute Taker)

Grace Gallo

Executive Assistant to Councillors (Minute Taker)

 

APOLOGIES:     Nil

 

DISCLOSURES OF INTERESTS:

 

Clr Lockie declared a non-significant and non-pecuniary interest in Item 24 Tech Central-Camperdown Node Westconnex Dive Site as her employer, the City of Sydney is actively involved in the Tech Central Alliance noted in the motion. This will not affect her ability to consider the matter impartially and she will remain for the debate and vote.

 

Cl Howard declared a non-significant and non-pecuniary interest in Item 12 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – May 16 2022 as he works in the Office of the State Member who has a representative on the Local Traffic Committee. This will not affect his ability to consider the matter impartially and he will remain for the debate and vote.

 

Clr Da Cruz declared a significant and non-pecuniary interest in Item 12 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – May 16 2022 (Item 4 of the Local Traffic Committee Minutes), as she lives adjacent to the proposed works. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting, as the member participated directly in the meeting.

 

Clr Shetty declared a non-significant and non-pecuniary interest in Item 13 LPAC masterplan update, her children attend swimming lessons there. This will not affect her ability to consider the matter impartially and she will remain for the debate and vote.

 

 

Motion: (Smith/Stephens)

 

That Council note the disclosures of interest.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

 

Motion (Scott/Stephens)

That the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 10 May 2022 and  Extraordinary Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 10 May 2022 be confirmed.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

PUBLIC FORUM

 

The registered speakers were asked to address the meeting. The list of speakers is available on the last page of these minutes.

 

Mayor Byrne left the meeting at 6.57pm and the Deputy Mayor D’Arienzo stood in to Chair the meeting. Mayor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 7.05pm and resumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

Councillor Stephens left the meeting at 7.16pm.

Councillor Stephens returned to the Meeting at 7.22pm.

 

C0622(1) Item 1  Condolence Motion: Bill Hiliard

Motion: (Drury/Byrne)

 

That Council writes a letter of condolence to the family of Bill Hilliard, expressing our sadness at his passing and commending the contribution he made to Rugby League in the Inner West.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

C0622(1) Item 33       Mayoral Minute: Condolence Motion Kathleen Hamey

Motion: (Da Cruz/Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Writes a letter of condolence to the family of Kathleen Margaret Hamey, expressing our sadness at her passing and commending the enormous contribution she made to the Balmain community both as a volunteer and local historian; and

 

2.   Write to the Balmain Association proposing the renaming of the Glass House at Balmain in her honour.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 32       Mayoral Minute: Cathy Edwards-Davis

Motion: (Byrne)

 

That Council thank Cathy Edwards-Davis for her work for Council during the past seven years of service with Inner West Council and Ashfield Council.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 34       Mayoral Minute: Pedestrian Safety Hazards in High Traffic Areas

Motion: (Byrne)

 

That Council receive a report at the August Council meeting identifying the current procedures for monitoring and reporting of pedestrian safety hazards in high traffic pedestrian thoroughfares and making recommendations about inspection, monitoring and repairs.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/Howard)

That Council suspend Standing Orders to bring Items 7 and 17 forward to be dealt with at this time.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/Howard)

 

That Items 7 and 17 be moved in globo and the recommendations contained within the report be adopted.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 7  Updated Partnership Agreement with Service NSW

Motion: (Scott/Howard)

 

That Council:

 

1. Endorses the updated Partnership Agreement with Service NSW and;

 

2. Authorises the General Manager to sign the updated Partnership Agreement with Service NSW.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 17       Camdenville Park Upgrade Re-commencement

Motion: (Scott/Howard)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 2  Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy

Motion: (Howard/Scott)

 

That Council:

 

1. Place the draft Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy, as attached, on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, subject to the following addition to the policy:

 

9. General facilities for all Councillors

Administrative support

9.8 Councillors will be provided with communications support to promote initiatives that have been resolved at council, including the drafting and distribution of media releases and through council's social media channels

2. Note that:

a.    In addition to supporting and representing the community, a core function of councillors is to promote the initiatives and good work of Council, its programs, events and staff. Council has a responsibility to assist councillors to achieve this;

 

b.    The primary purpose of council’s communications channels including the newsletter, email lists and social media channels is to promote the policies and priorities of the elected body, as established by adopted resolutions and in the community strategic plan, and to inform the community about programs and initiatives being undertaken by Council in support of the community;

 

c.    While the Mayor (as spokesperson for the council) is to continue to be consulted on any communications as per existing policy and practice, the author of a successful motion is to be offered the opportunity to lead on media opportunities and to feature in photo, video or communications published by council. They may choose to involve other Councillors;

 

d.    Understanding the variety and volume of events and initiatives at council, it is not a requirement for publication that all Councillors or representatives from all political groupings be included in individual photographs, videos or communications on any policy or initiative;

 

3. Officers bring a Media Policy and amended Social Media Policy to the August Council meeting that reflects Council’s endorsement of points a.-d. above; and

 

4. Consider the results of the public exhibition process when adopting the final Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

 

Amendment (Lockie/Shetty)

 

That clause 2. d is amended to:

 

‘Understanding the variety and volume of events and initiatives at council, it is not a requirement for publication that all Councillors or representatives from all political groupings be included in individual photographs, videos or communications on any policy or initiative; but that every effort should be made to ensure a diversity of elected Councillors and political groupings is included in published communications’.

 

Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

Amendment (Atkins/Griffiths)

That clause 2 of the motion be deleted.

Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

Amendment (Da Cruz/Shetty)

 

That clause 2. d is amended to:

 

‘Understanding the variety and volume of events and initiatives at council, it is not a requirement for publication that all Councillors or representatives from all political groupings but be included in individual photographs, videos or communications on any policy or initiative.

 

Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

C0622(1) Item 3  Endorsement of Ashfield Park Plan of Management

Motion: (Drury/Griffiths)

 

That the matter be deferred to the August Council Meeting for further consideration to allow for additional in person consultation.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Mayor Byrne left the Meeting at 8.33pm and the Deputy Mayor D’Arienzo assumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

Mayor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 8.35pm and assumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

C0622(1) Item 4  Endorsement of Petersham Park Plan of Management.

Motion: (Smith/Atkins)

 

That Council as land manager of Petersham Park:

 

1.   Endorse the Draft Plan of Management (D500070 & D500430) and refer this to the Minister for Crown Land and Waters for owner’s consent;

 

2.   Note that on receipt of owners consent the Draft Plan of Management will be exhibited for 28 days and reported back to Council for adoption; and

 

3. Note the outcomes of community engagement associated with the renaming proposal for the Petersham Park Grandstand.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 5  Endorsement King George Park Plan of Management

Motion: (Byrne/Scott)

 

That Council:

 

1. Endorse final plans for the King George Park Upgrade must include new use of the amenities block for female friendly change rooms including showers.

 

2. Endorse plan of management of King George Park incorporate the final design for amenities block, which is still yet to be finalised.

 

3. Staff continue to engage key stakeholders as part of the investigations for a new storage facility within King George Park. As part of these investigations Council officers are to restrict any future building envelope outside of identified and developed bush care areas.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment (Shetty/Byrne)

 

Council staff continue to engage key stakeholders as part of the investigations for a new storage facility within King George Park. As part of these investigations Council officers are to restrict any future building envelope outside of identified and developed bush care areas.

 

As the Amendment was accepted by the Mover of the Motion, it has been incorporated into the Primary motion.

 

C0622(1) Item 6  Lewis Herman Reserve - Endorsement of Park Plan of Management and Master Plan

Motion: (Drury/Griffiths)

 

That Council as land manager of Lewis Herman Reserve;

 

1.   Endorse the Plan of Management (Lot 12 DP 11457261) and refer this to Transport for NSW for formal sign off and consent;

 

2.   Note that subject to formal sign off on the Plan of Management development of the reserve will commence in Quarter 3 of the 2022 financial year;

 

3.   Note that due to the size restrictions of Lewis Herman reserve, limitations on landscape design and the proximity of the aged care home, that Lewis Herman Reserve be dedicated as an on leash park. An off-leash dog exercise area is currently being proposed for Ashfield Park; and

 

4.   Investigate and report back to Council’s Traffic Committee on community feedback in relation to expressed community needs for a pedestrian crossing to the new reserve in Holden Street, Ashfield.

 

5. Note the following brief biography of Lewis Hermann AO:

 

·         Lewis (Lew) Herman AO was Ashfield’s longest serving Mayor from 1976-1991 and a proud advocate for Ashfield and the community he lived and served.

 

·         After leaving school at 15, Lew worked in the family business, eventually taking over from his father. It was as a cap maker that Lew became involved in the Hatters Union, though which he join the ALP and subsequently embarked on his 35 years as an Ashfield Councillor, beginning in 1971.

 

·         Lew was a compassionate community leader and took up many key fights, including against the expansion of Kingsford Smith Airport in the 1980s. Lew worked tirelessly for his local community and took great pride in his work. He has a keen sense of humour and a twinkle in his eye.

 

·         Also a great advocate of multiculturalism, Lew was actively involved in several ethnic associations, also ensuring that the Ethnic Community Council held its annual meeting at the Ashfield Town Hall every year, from 1974 to 2003.In 1982, he was awarded an Order of Australia

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 8  De-amalgamation Business Case for Inner West Council

Motion: (Scott/Drury)

That Council

  1. Resolve to place the draft De-amalgamation Business Case for Inner West Council on public exhibition for 28 days;

 

  1. Endorse the public engagement activities, as outlined in the report, being undertaken, including:

a.    that the flyer referenced in the report be letterboxed to all households and include the known tangible, financial costs, including the costs of senior staff salary and politician costs; and non-financial risks, such as a period of anti-democratic administration; and any benefits as identified by the report and by the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee;

 

b.    that this information also be prepared as a summary introduction to the Morrison Low business case when it appears on exhibition, where it is promoted through Council’s communication channels, and as an introduction to the survey activity; and

 

c.    that an additional online public forum be held to be Chaired by the General Manager and that Morrison Low attend the forum;

 

3.    Notes that the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee:

a.    resolved that if Council does de-amalgamate that the risks associated with staff retention and engagement, loss of corporate/local knowledge, service disruption and inconsistency during the transition and IT security and controls risk in demerging systems will require significant management throughout the process and an agreed transition approach will also be critical

 

b.    requested that a comprehensive risk analysis of the de-amalgamation process and its subsequent impacts is undertaken and reported back to ARIC

 

c.    recommended that the communication to the community in relation to the de-amalgamation process clearly identifies the known non-financial risk and benefits to the community;  and

 

d.    endorsed the recommendations of the ARIC meeting of 8 June 2022, in relation to the item ‘Draft de-amalgamation business case for Inner West Council’ being provided to the Council meeting on 14 June 2022, as part of the item considering the de-amalgamation business case in the Ordinary Council agenda;

 

  1. Approve the Mayor to write to the Minister for Local Government asking for a commitment that the state government pay the full costs of de-amalgamation should it occur, and that they commit to not sacking the Council and installing an administrator; and

 

  1. Officers prepare a further report to the August Council meeting, outlining the outcomes of the community engagement process along with the final business case for Council's consideration

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Byrne, Drury, Howard, Langford, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Griffiths, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

 

Amendment (Atkins/Shetty)

 

That Council:

1.    Note that, as noted by Morrison Low, a significant piece of work is missing from the draft Business Case, being the qualitative work with residents who voted to demerge.

 

2.    Approve this critical work to complete the demerger business case, be undertaken and included in a revised draft Business Case prior to public exhibition.

 

3.    Refer the revised draft Business Case and the proposed public engagement activities for review by a panel comprised of 3 local government experts and 3 independent community representatives from local community organisations such as Friends of Callan Park.

 

4.    Notes that the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee:

a.    resolved that if Council does de-amalgamate that the risks associated with staff retention and engagement, loss of corporate/local knowledge, service disruption and inconsistency during the transition and IT security and controls risk in demerging systems will require significant management throughout the process and an agreed transition approach will also be critical

b.    requested that a comprehensive risk analysis of the de-amalgamation process and its subsequent impacts is undertaken and reported back to ARIC

c.    recommended that the communication to the community in relation to the de-amalgamation process clearly identifies the known non-financial risk and benefits to the community;  and

d.    endorsed the recommendations of the ARIC meeting of 8 June 2022, in relation to the item ‘Draft de-amalgamation business case for Inner West Council’ being provided to the Council meeting on 14 June 2022, as part of the item considering the de-amalgamation business case in the Ordinary Council agenda;

 

5.    That the Mayor write to the Minister for Local Government asking for a commitment that the state government pay the full costs of de-amalgamation should it occur, and that they commit to not sacking the Council and installing an administrator

 

6.    Officers prepare a further report to the September Council meeting, outlining the outcomes of the panel consideration along with a further draft business case for Council’s consideration for public engagement, including public exhibition for 28 days.

Motion lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

The Chairperson used his Casting Vote and the Motion was lost.

 

Councillor Smith left the meeting at 8.57pm and did not vote when the Amendment was put.

 

Councillor Smith returned to the meeting at 8.59pm.

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/Stephens)

 

That the meeting be adjourned for 10 minutes.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

The meeting was adjourned at 9.00pm

The meeting recommenced at 9.20pm

 

C0622(1) Item 9  Rescheduling of October 2022 Meetings

Motion: (Scott/Drury)

 

That Council:

 

1.    Reschedule the Ordinary Council Meeting on 11 October 2022 to 25 October 2022;

 

2.    Reschedule the Local Forum Matters Public Forum Meeting on 25 October 2022 to 11 October 2022; and

 

3.    Publish these changes to the Meeting Schedules on Council’s website.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

 

C0622(1) Item 10       Options on Accessibility improvement for small business

Motion: (Howard/Scott)

 

That Council defer the Item to a future Ordinary Council meeting, noting that Council is undertaking a comprehensive engagement on the Disability Inclusion Access Plan, and ask that further consideration be given to a proposed grants program as part of that process.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 11       2022 Inner West Council Annual Grants

Motion: (Smith/Scott)

That Council:

1.    Endorses the 2022 Annual Grant Guidelines for public exhibition, subject to the Guidelines including;

 

a.    practical support for applicants, particularly to support applicants from diverse backgrounds; and

 

b.    the Diversity Council in selecting the panellists for grant rounds; and

 

2.    Acquittal of any grant include the opportunity for Councillors to attend events and support community groups through the use of Council’s media and social media.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Councillor Da Cruz left the Meeting at 9.25pm as she declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 12 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – 16 May 2022 (Item 4 of the Local Traffic Committee Minutes) as she lives adjacent to the proposed works.

 

C0622(1) Item 12       Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 16 May 2022

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

That the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 16 May 2022 be received and the recommendations be adopted.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Councillor Da Cruz returned to the meeting at 9.26pm.

 

C0622(1) Item 13       LPAC masterplan update

Motion: (Drury/Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.  Endorses the depth of the proposed 25 metre Outdoor Program Pool at Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre to be 2.1 metres with a movable floor and

 

2. Endorses the funding outline for the outdoor elements of the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre masterplan.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment (Da Cruz/Shetty)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Provide a Corflute display highlighting what is happening at the Aquatic Centre;

 

2.   Feature the Aquatic Centres in the Council Newsletters twice a year; and

 

3.   Run two Forums/Workshops/Open Days a year at each Aquatic Centre.

 

Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

C0622(1) Item 14       Bays West - Stage 1 White Bay Power Station and Roberts Street
         Sub-Precincts Draft Master Plan - Inner West Council
         Submission

Motion: (Smith/Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Commence public advocacy to have the establishment of the Bays Precinct Walk, a continuous pedestrian path around the harbourside land incorporating White Bay, Rozelle Bay, Black Wattle Bay and the Fish Markets.

·       

2.   Endorses the Inner West Council Submission which outlines its concerns and suggestions for improvement, and overall position not to support the plans in their current form to the exhibited Bays West Stage 1 – Draft Master Plan: White Bay Power Station (and Metro) and Robert Street Sub Precincts,  subject to the inclusion of minimum 15% affordable housing levy be required on all residential, commercial and retail gross floor areas (GFA) within the Bays West Master Plan precinct within the precinct as recommended by Shelter NSW, noting that the Council does support the public amenities contained within the plan and supports bringing them forward.

 

3.   Submission be forwarded to the Department of Planning and Environment for consideration.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment (Shetty/Stamolis)

1. Council endorses the Inner West Council Submission to the exhibited Bays West Stage 1 – Draft Master Plan: White Bay Power Station (and Metro) and Robert Street Sub Precincts, subject to the following inclusions:

 

Additional points as an introduction (can possibly be added to point 16).

 

·         Inner West Council does not support this draft master plan in its current form.

 

·         Council sees the piecemeal approach of releasing each stage of the Masterplan separately as problematic, as it does not take into account the cumulative impacts of the project beyond Stage 1. This increases the risk of enabling inappropriate levels of development favouring developers over local residents, that would otherwise be rejected if considered in conjunction with neighbouring aspects of the same development.

 

·         Each stage of the Masterplan that is released should have more accessible and inclusive consultation, including face to face consultation and public meetings. Current community consultation has relied heavily upon online engagement, excluding wide sections of the local community.

 

2. Page 3 – point 4 – Affordable housing

 

·         Change to 4. A minimum 30% of residential development for affordable and social housing

 

3. Page 10, point 11 – Traffic and transport

 

·         Add information about problematic aspect of the 5% mode share target (unrealistic)

 

·         Council supports the draft masterplan’s aim to be a 5% ‘ultra-low’ private vehicle environment, and a modal hierarchy that prioritises walking, riding, public transport, freight logistics, port traffic, taxis  and pool cars over private cars. Council, however, notes that a 5% private vehicle mode share is unrealistic and unprecedented. Council’s 2020 Integrated Transport Strategy shows that 46% of people in the Inner West travel by private car, and that approximately 70% of trips with a destination within the Balmain Peninsula are as a driver or passenger in a private vehicle. Modelling needs to be undertaken to show the impact of realistic traffic projections, noting that even with the ultra-ambitious targets of both 5% and 15%, Transport for NSW 2040 traffic modelling shows unacceptable levels of congestion at intersections on Robert Street/Victoria Road, Robert Street/Mullins Street and The Crescent/James Craig Road. This impact will not only affect car users, but also public transport users, with buses travelling to and from the new Metro Station along Robert Street and Victoria Road as the only means of dispersement with no light rail or heavy rail nearby.

 

4. Page 17 – Port Road duplication

 

·         Strengthen wording around council not supporting access to cruise terminal via Robert St.

 

·         Replace comments section with below:

 

·         Council does not support access to the cruise terminal via Robert Street, or any other residential streets in Rozelle or Balmain. Not only is it necessary to maintain the two roads, as required by the cruise terminal’s existing conditions of approval, congestion at the Victoria Road and Robert Street intersection on cruise days or when the Cruise Terminal is open for events will have an unacceptable impact on the local traffic network.

 

5. Page 22 – Built form

 

·         Add first point to comments:

 

·         Based on the high-level built form information provided, Council:

 

·         Does not support the proposed height of 22 storeys, which is excessive. The scale will obscure the heritage Power Station and impact sight lines of the Power Station from Blackwattle Bay. Additionally, traffic modelling has identified unacceptable traffic impacts that can be ameliorated by a reduction in density.

 

Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

Procedural Motion (Byrne/Griffiths)

 

That an extension of time of one (1) minute for Councillor Shetty to speak on the motion in Item 16 be granted.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

Mayor Byrne left the Chair at 9.44pm and the Deputy Mayor D’Arienzo assumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

Mayor Byrne returned to Chair the Meeting at 9.45pm and assumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

Councillor Shetty left the Meeting at 9.51pm

Councillor Shetty returned to the Meeting at 9.52pm

 

 

 

C0622(1) Item 15     Community Strategic Plan 2036, Delivery Program 2022-26,  
             Operational Plan and Budget 2022-23, Long Term Financial
             Plan 2022-32, Workforce Management Strategy 2022-26 and
             Asset Management Strategy 2022-32

Motion: (Drury/D'Arienzo)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Note the community submissions for the following documents which were publicly exhibited as required by the Local Government Act 1993:

·         Draft Community Strategic Plan – Our Inner West 2036

·         Draft Delivery Program 2022-26, Operational Plan and Budget 2022-2023 (including Fees and Charges 2022-2023)

·         Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2022-2032

 

2. Endorse the Community Strategic Plan with the proposed changes arising from the public exhibition as outlined in the report.

 

3.   Adopt the following documents with the proposed changes arising from the public exhibition as outlined in the report;

·         Draft Delivery Program 2022-26, Operational Plan and Budget 2022-2023 (including Fees and Charges 2022-2023)

·         Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2022-2032 (Scenario 1 – Business as Usual)

 

4.    Adopt the following elements of the Resourcing Strategy (no public exhibition required):

·              

·         Draft Workforce Management Strategy 2022-26; and

o   That Council consult with staff and develop an LGBTIQ+ Pride Staff Network and report back to council by way of a councillor briefing and supports other measures being taken by council to foster diversity and inclusion within council’s workforce.

·              

·         Draft Asset Management Strategy and Policy, and Draft Asset Management Plans for asset classes:

§  Parks

§  Buildings

o   Stormwater and Drainage

o   Transport

·              

  1. Publish the final documents on Council’s corporate website by 30 June 2022 and notify Office of Local Government of a link to the web page.

·         

  1. Note that every action in the Operational Plan needs to take account of the diverse nature and ability of all Inner West residents.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

Procedural Motion (Tsardoulias/Stephens)

 

That an extension of time of one (1) minute for Councillor Drury to speak on the motion in Item 15 be granted.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Crs Da Cruz, Atkins and Langford

 

Amendment (Atkins/Scott)

 

That Council note that every action in the Operational Plan needs to take account of the diverse nature and ability of all Inner West residents.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

As the Amendment was carried, it has been incorporated into the Primary motion.

 

C0622(1) Item 16       Investment Report At 30 April 2022

Motion: (Scott/Lockie)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 18       King George Park - Priority Community Improvement Project

Motion: (Byrne/Drury)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

 

 

 

 

C0622(1) Item 19       Notice of Motion: 40zM/H Speed Limits on Local Streets

Motion: (Lockie/Da Cruz)

 

That Council:

 

1. Notes that Inner West @ 40, one of the key projects identified in the Integrated Transport Policy adopted by Council in March 2020, seeks to establish an area-wide 40km/h zone on all local streets across the Inner West, with investigative areas of 30km/h in areas of demonstrated high pedestrian flow or pedestrian/cyclist crash clusters;

 

2. Notes that any changes to speed limits must be approved and implemented by Transport for NSW, which has provided in-principle support for safer speed limits of 40km/h on all local roads in the Inner West;

 

3. Notes that, since providing this in-principle support, Transport for NSW has yet to amend the speed limit on any local road in the Inner West LGA to 40km/h, despite repeated requests from Council staff;

 

4. Writes to the Minister for Metropolitan Roads to request that she ensures Transport for NSW works with Council to:

 

a. Identify priority streets for 40km/h speed limits and implement these changes by the end of this year;

 

b. Implement 40km/h speed limits on all remaining local roads in the Inner West LGA as soon as possible, and ensure State funding is allocated to allow this to happen to an agreed timeline;

 

c. Investigate and prioritise streets and/or areas for the implementation of 30km/h speed limits, particularly around schools, and areas of high pedestrian activity or pedestrian/cyclist crash clusters.

 

d) requests urgent implementation of the Haberfield High Pedestrian Activity area as was promised in 2019.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment (Da Cruz/Lockie)

 

That Council amend clause 4 and include a new subclause d) ‘requests urgent implementation of the Haberfield High Pedestrian Activity area as was promised in 2019.’

 

As the Amendment was accepted by the Mover of the Motion, it has been incorporated into the Primary motion.

 

C0622(1) Item 20       Notice of Motion: DA Info Sessions

Motion: (D'Arienzo/Howard)

That Council:

1.   Implements DA Information Sessions for all development application types that are to be determined by the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP).  Advice to the community is to be included in the initial neighbour notification letter;

2.   Acknowledges the complexity of the planning legislation and process and the significance of its impact upon the community and accordingly implements a series of monthly workshops alternating between sessions on the DA process for applicants and the DA process for submissions by community members;

3.   Recognises the possibility that non-SECPP applications with widespread impacts may be lodged, and in such an event supports the holding of DA Information Sessions at the discretion of the Director of Planning;

4.   Endorses that a range of options be explored for how the information session is to be held, with a report on these to be provided after a 12-month trial; and

5. Reviews a report provided by way of briefing note on all relevant or significant applications.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 21       Notice of Motion: Westconnex St Peters Interchange

Motion: (Lockie/Howard)

 

That Council:

 

1.  Requests an urgent briefing from Transport for NSW about the reports ordered by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) about the WestConnex St Peters Interchange, and the remediation works being carried out at the site;

 

2.  Writes to the Premier and relevant Ministers to:

 

a.  Request that Transport for NSW shares the reports ordered by the EPA with Council, along with any other relevant reports and information about investigations into ongoing contamination the WestConnex St Peters Interchange site;

 

b.  Request that the EPA takes enforcement action on any non-compliance issues and licence breaches at the site in order to protect our local community;

 

c.  Seek confirmation that the NSW Government will take responsibility for the care, control and management of the St Peters Interchange parkland, and work with Council to identify an alternative site to provide genuine open space and parkland as compensation for the impact of WestConnex.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 22       Notice of Motion: Lighting up Dulwich Hill Skate Park

Motion: (Griffiths/D'Arienzo)

 

That Council:

 

1. Investigate the lighting along the pedestrian path between the Dulwich Hill Light Rail to Terrace Road and;

a. undertake a lighting test to measure the existing lighting level and performance and ensure compliance with Australian Standards;

 

b. work in consultation with the NSW Police to conduct a Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment which includes reviewing current lighting lux levels within the park.

 

  2. Bring forward up to $200,000 from the 2023/24 Parks Upgrades capital works budget and allocate funding to light the Dulwich Hill skate park, subject to community engagement support and report it to Council.

3.  Convene a community meeting with ward councillors at the skate park to identify ‘quick wins’ to improve the facility.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 23       Notice of Motion: Inner West Pride Centre

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

                                                                                                     

That Council:

 

1.  Reaffirm its commitment to establishing an Inner West Pride Centre at Newtown Town Hall following the relocation of the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre to the Tom Foster Centre;

 

2.  Establish a sub-committee to advise the establishment of the Centre, chaired by Clr Howard, and consisting of Clr Atkins (Alternate Chair), Deputy Mayor Jess D’Arienzo, three representatives of the LGBTIQ Working Group and relevant staff, to work with the Staff Reference Group for the Inner West Pride Centre to:

 

a.  Review the former Expression of Interest process;

 

b.  Conduct a scoping study to determine a sustainable operating model that advances the vision of the Pride Centre whilst ensuring ongoing community access to Newtown Town Hall;

 

c.  Establish principles, objectives and activities for the Inner West Pride Centre;

 

d.  Prepare for a renewed Expression of Interest process for the second half of 2022;

 

3.  Ensure adequate staffing and resources to enhance Council’s collaboration with Local LGBTQ+ organisations, deliver LGBTQ+ programs and manage the Inner West Pride Centre; and

 

4. Work with the World Pride Sub-Committee to incorporate Newtown Town Hall in World Pride activities.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 24    Notice of Motion: Tech Central-Camperdown Node Westconnex   Dive Site

Motion: (Smith/D’Arienzo)

That Council:

1.  Note the current and upcoming work of Inner West Council in the Tech Central innovation precinct;

 

2.  Actively collaborate with the Tech Central Alliance in recognition of Tech Central innovation precinct’s critical role in Sydney's economic recovery, jobs growth and productivity rise; and

 

3.  Advocate to the State Government that the Transport for NSW owned WestConnex dive site in Annandale be:

a.  retained in public ownership; and

b.  secured for biotechnology and advanced manufacturing uses in the innovation sector to contribute to the economic outputs of the Camperdown health and education innovation precinct of Tech Central.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment (Da Cruz/Smith)

 

That Council amend the word ‘Camperdown’ in the first part of clause 3 and insert the word ‘Annandale’.

 

As the Amendment was accepted by the Mover of the Motion, it has been incorporated into the Primary motion.

 

C0622(1) Item 25       Notice of Motion: Beautification of Railway Parade, Annandale

Motion: (Shetty/Byrne)

 

That council:

 

1. Prepare a report back to the August Council meeting about the management of

Railway Parade, Annandale, including:

a. The current cleaning and maintenance cycle for the area

b. Information about when the road surface along Railway Parade is due to be upgraded.

 

2. Create a native planting schedule for the site, in consultation with Sydney Water, that connects the planting by Transport for NSW (TfNSW) surrounding    the new overpass bridge, along Railway Parade to the Rozelle Bay light railstop for beautification, provision of habitat and to make a contribution to Council’s development of the Blue-Green grid.

 

3. Write to TfNSW to advocate for better masking of the visual impact of the overpass bridge for residents on Railway Parade and Pritchard St, Annandale, including planting and public art.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 26       Notice of Motion: Audit of Council venues

Motion: (Shetty/Stamolis)

 

That Council:

 

1. Prepare a report for the September council meeting on council operated venues and current levels of use. The purpose of this report is to identify any under-utilised council properties that may be offered to artists as workspaces, rehearsal spaces or performance spaces at an affordable rate.

2.   Prepare a report for the September council meeting on council operated venues and current levels of use. The purpose of this report is to identify any under-utilised council properties that may be offered to artists as workspaces, rehearsal spaces or performance spaces at an affordable rate.

·       

3.   Share a 2019 audit of council venues with councillors comparing current levels of use to pre-Covid levels, to understand the impact that Covid has had on the use of council properties. 

 

Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

C0622(1) Item 27       Notice of Motion: Artist's Wage

Motion: (Atkins/Griffiths)

 

That Council:

1.   Congratulate staff on the success of the Inner West Arts Summit;

 

2.   Notes that the concept of an artist’s wage provided by government was raised by many tables of participants at the Summit; and 

 

3.   Immediately commences advocacy at the Federal government level for the introduction of a fixed income support scheme for artists, with the Mayor to write to the Minister for the Arts and the Special Envoy for the Arts as a first step.

 

Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

Amendment (Stamolis)

 

Immediately commences advocacy at the Federal Government level for the investigation of a fixed income support scheme for artists, with the Mayor to write to the Minister for the Arts and the Special Envoy for the Arts as a first step.

 

The Amendment lapsed as it was not supported by the Mover of the Motion and the Amender elected not to put the Amendment to vote.

 

Procedural Motion (Smith/Stephens)

 

That the meeting be extended until 11.10pm

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 28       Notice of Motion: Senior Staff Changes

Motion: (Stamolis/Atkins)

 

That the General Manager brief Councillors about why turnover at senior manager level and above remains at a high level.

Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, Griffiths, Langford, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

Against Motion:          Crs Byrne, D'Arienzo, Drury, Howard, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Confidential Session

 

Motion: (Griffiths/Scott)

 

That Council enter into Confidential session.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

That in accordance with Section 10A(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, the following matter be considered in Closed Session of Council for the reasons provided:

 

C0622(1) Item 31 Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Public Domain Improvements Project – Construction Tender (T05-22)

(Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.

 

Motion: (Griffiths/Scott)

 

That Council  of move back into Open Session of the Council Meeting.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Reports with Confidential Information

C0622(1) Item 31       Tender (T05-22) Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Public Domain Improvements Project - Construction

Motion: (Scott/Smith)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Accept tender submission from CA&I Pty Ltd for $4,197,861. (excl. GST);

 

2.   Include a 10% contingency sum of $419,786 (excl. GST) due to the unknown extent of the works;

 

3.   Adopt the total budget of $5,232,647 (excl. GST) to deliver this project which includes design, project management costs, contingency and construction.

 

4. Provide the General Manager with delegated authority to execute any associated documents.

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, Griffiths, Howard, Langford, Lockie, Scott, Shetty, Smith, Stamolis, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Meeting closed at 10.58 pm.

 

Public Speakers:

 

 

Item #

 

Speaker

Suburb

Item 3:

 Jo Alley

Ashfield

Item 5:

Trent Miller

Cheyne Harrison

Bronson Harrison

Leichhardt

North Rocks

Breakfast Point

Item 6:

Alyce Lythall

Ashfield

Item 8:

Pip Hinman

Michele Hacking

Louise Steer

Newtown

Rozelle

Stanmore

Item 10:

Rochelle Porteous

Jane Scott

East Balmain

St Peters

Item 14:

Rochelle Porteous

East Balmain

Item 15:

Hannah Solomons

Ashfield

Item 18:

Bronson Harrison

Breakfast Point

Item 19:

Bridget Foley

Breakfast Point

Item 25:

Pieter Lindhout

Annandale

Item 26:

Jonathan Biggins

Lisa Tatman

Balmain

Balmain

Item 27:

Rachael Jacobs

Stanmore

 

 

 

 


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 1

Subject:         Condolence Motion: Jarrod Mills           

From:             Councillor Mathew Howard   

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council write to the family of Jarrod Mills expressing deep condolence for his loss and recognising his commitment to social justice, local democracy and the Australian Labor Party.

 

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 2

Subject:         Condolence Motion: Francesco (Frank) Fiorenza           

From:             Councillor Mark Drury   

 

 

Motion:

 

 

That Council notes the passing of Haberfield Resident Francesco (Frank) Fiorenza and expresses our condolences to his family.

 

 

Background

 

Francesco (Frank) Fiorenza who was affectionately known as Ciccio, was born in Mongiana, Vibo-Valentia  Calabria Italy, on the 13 July 1927 and died from cancer on Tuesday the 5th July at Concord Hospital.

 

Beloved husband of Gesualda (dec). Loving brother to Damiano (dec), Antonietta (dec) and sister-in-law Catrina. Loved uncle to his nephews and nieces and their partners. Loving grand and great grand uncle to his many grand and great grand nephews and nieces.

 

His well attended funeral was held 13 July 2022 at St Joan of Arc Haberfield.

Frank was a long term resident of Haberfield who was in many ways typical of a generation of Italians who came in the 1950s and who gave Haberfield its post war character. He married Gesulda in 1951 and built  a life together. He was a decent unassuming bloke with a real love for life and family. 

 

Frank was a hard worker who was at times a gardener, made and sold soap, worked in a shoe shop in Annandale, sold Ice Cream, made graphite-based paints, painted houses, and was finally a bus driver.  In his retirement he stacked shelves at Zanetti’s delicatessen. (It’s hard to be more Haberfield than that)  

 

At his funeral he was fondly remembered by his family as their “handyman, painter, labourer, roof fixer, ceiling repairer, etc, etc and above all he was a great sounding board with a sympathetic ear. He always found time to talk and let you know when you spent too much money on things. He was a realist, intelligent, humble and always aware. A man who disliked greed and hypocrisy. Ciccio was the cash in hand type; the modern plastic cards were not his bag; he still ran his bank passbook account.” 

 

Frank brought with him beliefs in a fairer distribution of wealth and workers’ rights.  He fostered and developed these beliefs as a member of FILEF, the Federation of Italian Migrant Workers and Families, which is a non-profit, leftist  community organization established in Australia in 1972.

 

As we see the passing of some of the last of the post war migrants and the character of our suburbs change yet again, lets just hope the Inner West can continue to attract and be home to a new generation of people like Frank.

 

Vale Frank

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 3

Subject:         Condolence Motion: (James) Kevin Little           

From:             Councillor Mark Drury   

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council write a letter of condolence to the daughters of (James) Kevin Little, expressing our condolences at the passing of their parents, Evelyn and Kevin Little, and acknowledging and thanking them for Kevin Little’s service as former Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Marrickville.

 

 

Background

(James) Kevin Little was Deputy Mayor of the former Marrickville Council for 21 years, in the 1970s and ‘80s.

He passed away in July, 12 days after his wife Evelyn.

Clr Little was a true Inner Westie who spent his entire life in the Inner West. He was born in Dulwich Hill, was schooled at St Paul’s of the Cross school and De La Salle College Marrickville, settled in Dulwich Hill with his wife and daughters and attended St Brigid’s Church, where his funeral was held yesterday (8 August 2022).

He was a devout Catholic - “more Catholic than the Pope”, according to one his daughters, and a long time Labor Party member. He never forgot his humble childhood as a consequence of his father being absent from his life due to a head injury such that on occasion, he would go to the nuns for assistance for himself, his sister and his mother to make ends meet.

He became a self-made man, trained as an Electrical Engineer and obtained Builder’s and Electrician’s licences which enabled him to build two blocks of flats.

One of those apartment buildings was on the south coast and on a family trip, Kevin, his wife and three daughters were involved in a terrible car accident. Kevin and one of his daughters were badly injured and needed extensive medical care. Daughter Deborah died in the accident and Council’s Deborah Little Childcare Centre is named after her.

After the accident, Clr Little became more involved in road safety issues and became a committed member of Marrickville Council’s Traffic Committee.

About three years later, Kevin and Evelyn were blessed with the birth of another daughter, Joanne Deborah Little.

Kevin and Evelyn were incredibly proud of their daughters. Two are barristers: Joanne (also a New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal Member) and Sandrah Foda. Daughter Suzanne Furfaro is a public servant.

Kevin Little passed away on 7 July 2022. He was predeceased by wife Evelyn who died on 25 June 2022 after 69 years of marriage.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 4

Subject:         Henson Park Plan of Management- Amendments to Leasing and Licensing Provisions            

Prepared By:      Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Recreation Planning Manager 

Authorised By:  Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That:

 

1.    Council notes the need to amend the leasing and licensing provisions of the adopted 2021 Plan of Management for Henson Park. These changes will enable future leasing and licensing for sporting and recreational use of the park, including future use by the AFL and the Newtown jets and for the development of the King George V Memorial Grandstand;

 

2.    Council notes the proposed clarifications and amendments which will be made to the Plan of Management in relation to ensuring that public access arrangements in relation to the Amy Street Footpath are safeguarded and strengthened in the Plan of Management and master plan for the park;

 

3.    Council publicly exhibit the proposed amendments to the Henson Park Plan of Management (Attachment 1) for no less than 28 days with a 42-day period for public submissions; and

 

4.    At the conclusion of the public exhibition period, an amended Plan of Management for Henson Park is brought back to Council for discussion on the public exhibition outcomes and for Council to resolve the adoption of an amended Plan of Management for Henson Park.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

At its Ordinary Council meeting on Tuesday 20 July 2021, Council adopted a plan of management for Henson Park.

 

In 2021, Council was approached by NSW AFL and the Newtown Jets following the announcement that the Sydney Swans were successful in being granted entry into the Australian Football League Women’s Competition in Sydney for 2022. The Women’s Competition is to be conducted during the sporting summer season and the ALF seek to use the Park as a venue for its Women’s team.

 

Significantly, the AFL approached Council with respect to a major capital works upgrade program for the Park, the proposal for which aligns with the future works identified in the masterplan accompanying the adopted Plan of Management for Henson Park. 

 

The AFL proposed to partner with Council and the Newtown Jets to upgrade the grandstand known as King George V Memorial Grandstand, to improve the facilities and the general amenity of Park and to seek a nonexclusive license for match play and training at no cost for a period of 21 years.  (The AFL have estimated the cost of the Project to be $7M to $10M and it is proposed by the AFL that the funding sources will be:

 

·    State Multisport Grant - $5M (paid from the State to AFL - $2.5M and paid in kind through AFL carrying out the construction works – another $2.5M)

·    AFL contribution - $2.5M

·    Inner West Council - $500,000 capped (on the basis of a Council resolution dated 26 October 2021.

 

At its Ordinary meeting on Tuesday 26 October 2021, Council in considering an update report on Henson Park resolved in part the following:

 

1.   Council endorse the proposed redevelopment of the Park Grandstand and supporting amenities;

 

2.   Council Officers consult with the Office of Local Government about the appropriate type of agreement for the implementation of the Project and report back to Council;

 

To ensure that the provisions in the Plan of Management around leases and licences are robust it is proposed that Council amend Section 3.0 and include an additional page which authorises leases and licenses. (Attachment 1).  The changes which have been made to this section of the Plan of Management provide future security of tenure for the key sporting stakeholders by expressly authorising Council to grant leases and licenses for Henson Park, for the purposes and uses which are identified or consistent with the use of the park as a sporting and recreational precinct and to authorise future works including capital upgrades to the King George V Memorial Grandstand.

 

Amy Street Footpath

Since the adoption of the Plan of Management in July 2021, the community has raised concerns about the future of the Amy Street footpath which runs around the northern perimeter of Henson Park and links Amy Street with Centennial Street.  The pathway is not impacted by the Proposed Henson Park Development Application (DA 2022 033), nor are there any plans to close this pathway or limit community access, even when ticketed events for the use of the use of the park take place. The only restrictions which will be in place during ticketed events is that the side gates which provide direct access to the sporting ground will be closed during ticketed AFL games. This however will not impede access for park users or residents traversing between Amy Street and Centennial Street.

 

As part of the proposed Plan of Management exhibition process, the Henson Park Plan of Management will be amended to ensure that the Amy Street Footpath is protected and that this important public issue is clarified for future reference and safeguarded on the public record The amendments to the references to Amy Street footpath clarify that the fence will not be removed, but will be upgraded, and the pathway will remain open.

 

Exhibition of the Plan of Management 

As pursuant to Section 38(2&3) of the Local Government Act 1993 Council is required to exhibit any proposed changes to the Plan of Management for no less than 28 days with a 42-day period for submissions. At the end of this period Council needs to consider all submissions received and consider adopting a new Plan of Management for Henson Park. 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

 Nil.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Henson Park Plan of Management

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 


























































































































Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 5

Subject:         Employment Zones Reform - Submission           

Prepared By:      Gill Dawson - Strategic Planning   Consultant  

Authorised By:  Harjeet Atwal - Senior Manager Planning

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That:

 

1.       Council endorses the Inner West Council Submission to the exhibited Employment Zones Reform.

 

2.       The Inner West Council Submission be forwarded to the Department of Planning and Environment for consideration.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Background

 

The Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) exhibited the translation of existing Business and Industrial zones within the NSW Planning Framework into the new Employment zones as part of the Employment Zones Reform from 31 May 2022 to 12 July 2022. Links to the DPE exhibition was provided on Council’s Your Say web page and through social media.

 

The new zones will apply to all business and employment zones in the Inner West, other than two excluded precincts, being the Camperdown Precinct and St Peters Triangle. The existing and new zones are shown below.

 

Existing Zones within Inner West

Proposed Zones within Inner West

B1 Neighbourhood Centres

B2 Local Centre

E1 Local Centre

 

No equivalent in the draft IWLEP 2022

E2 Commercial Centre

B5 Business Development

B6 Enterprise Corridor

B7 Business Park

E3 Productivity Support

 

IN1 General Industrial

IN2 Light Industrial

E4 General Industrial

B4 Mixed Use

MU1 Mixed Use

No equivalent in the draft IWLEP 2022

W4 Working Waterfront

No equivalent in the draft IWLEP 2022

SP4 Special Enterprise

 

Exhibition Material

The Employment Zones Reform was exhibited through the NSW e-Planning Portal allowing searches by individual property or by Local Government Area (LGA). A hard copy version of the information is provided in the following attachments:

·    The draft Inner West Local Environmental Plan (IWLEP) 2022 Land Use Table Translation (Attachment 1).

·    Maps showing the proposed employment zones with the underlying draft IWLEP 2022 zones (Attachment 2).

 

The exhibition period closed 12 July 2022 and Council Officers lodged a draft Inner West submission as required by DPE (ATTACHMENT 3), with DPE allowing a Council endorsed submission being lodged following the 9 August 2022 Council Meeting.

 

Review

In translating the existing zones to the new zones, the intent was to remain as close as possible to the existing land use tables in the draft Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 (IWLEP). However, the merging of zones means that it has not been entirely possible.

 

A summary of the key issues raised in Council’s submission are outlined below with greater detail and 23 recommendations made by Council provided in the draft Inner West Submission (Attachment 3).

 

Zone

Issues

E1 Local Centre

Merging of the B1 Neighbourhood Centre and B2 Local Centre zones means the differentiation between hierarchy of centres is largely lost. To retain some differentiation Council’s submission recommends that certain uses be prohibited in the E1 Local Centre zone (where not mandated) and then permitted in the former B2 Local Centre through Local Provisions and Key Site Maps. These uses are:

·    advertising structures, registered clubs, restricted premises, sex services premises, tourist and visitor accommodation, vehicle and repair stations and vehicle sales or hire premises.

E2 Commercial Centre

There is no equivalent zone in the draft IWLEP 2022. This zone has been assigned to the Ashfield Town Centre as the Inner West Employment and Retail Lands Strategy (ERLS) adopted by Council in 2020 identified Ashfield as the highest order centre in the LGA. The uses are broadly similar to those in the E1 Local Centre zone, with the objectives differing slightly in recognition of the role of the centre. Council’s submission includes the following recommendations

·    Shop top housing requires to be included as permitted with consent

·    Advertising structures and sex services premises should not be prohibited but considered under the category of “any other development” (AOD). This permissibility would be consistent with the E1 Local Centre zone.

 

E3 Productivity Support

Merging of the B5 Business Development, B6 Enterprise Corridor and B7 Business Park zones means nuances of each zone is lost.

To retain some differentiation Council’s submission recommends that certain uses be prohibited (where not mandated) and then permitted through Local Provisions and Key Site maps or Additional Permitted Uses (APUs). By zone these are:

·    B5 –amusement centres, entertainment facilities and registered clubs.

·    B6 - amusement centres, entertainment facilities and registered clubs, resource recovery and restricted premises.

·    B7 – residential accommodation on certain sites as part of a mixed-use development.

E4 General Industrial

This merges the IN1 General Industrial and IN2 Light Industrial zones. The historical development of land in the Inner West has resulted in commercial, industrial and residential uses occurring in close proximity to each other, with the IN2 Light Industrial land often being a transition area to more sensitive land uses.

A key concern is that general industry is a mandated land use in the E4 General Industrial Zone, which unlike light industry, does not limit activity by virtue of adverse amenity impacts on a neighbourhood. This has the potential to have an adverse impact on the amenity of adjacent low density residential land. DPE has advised that submission points related to mandated uses will not be considered. Notwithstanding it is considered appropriate for Council concerns to be placed on record in relation to this matter. Council’s submission outlines the following recommendation:

·    General industry should not be a mandated use in the E4 General Industrial zone to ensure adverse amenity impacts are minimised in areas adjacent to low density housing zones and other sensitive uses. They should be permitted on former IN1 General Industrial zoned land though a Local provision and Key Site Map.

W4 Working Waterfront

There is no equivalent zone in the draft IWLEP 2022. This zone will be applied to a few sites in Balmain East that are currently zoned IN2 Light Industrial. This zone currently permits advertising structures and these should be prohibited. As such Council’s submission recommends:

·    Prohibiting advertising structures from the W4 zone.

MU1 Mixed Use

This zone is a translation of the current B4 Mixed use Zone. There are no major issues.

Excluded Areas

Camperdown Precinct and St Peters Triangle were excluded areas for the purpose of the exhibition. This is supported for the following reasons:

·    The Camperdown Precinct forms (refer to Figure 1) part of Tech Central (previously called Camperdown Collaboration Area) and is an essential component of the Greater Sydney Region Plan’s Eastern Harbour City Innovation Corridor. The Precinct is a mix of B2 Local Centre, B4 Mixed Use, B7 Business Park and IN2 Light Industrial zones under the draft Inner West Local Environmental Plan (IWLEP) 2022. The exclusion of this Precinct allows for the completion of the Camperdown Structure Plan and future Planning Proposal that would support the growth of a globally significant biotechnology precinct.

·    The St Peters Triangle (Refer to Figure 2) is a complex area comprising B5 Business Development, B6 Enterprise Corridor and B7 Business Park zoned land. There are a number of Local Provisions, Additional Permitted Uses (APUs) and a Master Plan currently applying to the Precinct and the area is in transition to a mixed use precinct including residential accommodation, light industrial and business. The exclusion of this area will allow for the continuing implementation of the masterplan and vision. DPE subsequently advised that St the St Peters Triangle may require to be translated to the new zones. Further work is now being undertaken to assess how this can be progressed. 

 

 

 

Figure 1: Map showing the Camperdown Precinct excluded area

 

Figure 2: Map showing the St Peters Triangle excluded area

 

Next Steps

The Employments Zones Implementation Plan has identified several steps to implement the Employment Zones Reform with the key steps shown below.

·    An endorsed Council submission will be provided to DPE following the 9 August 2022 Council Meeting.

·    DPE will review submissions received, referring submissions to Council where required for specific advice.

·    The Local Environmental Plan (LEP) amendment and mapping will be finalised by DPE.

·    Ministerial approval will be sought, and a self-repealing State Environmental Planning Policy will be published to make the LEP amendments to all Council LEPs in NSW in December 2022.

As the next steps are progressed, Councillors will be provided with updates, including the finalised draft LEP amendment.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil.

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Exhibited Employment Zone Translation Land Use Table - Draft Inner West LEP 2022

2.

Employment Zone Reforms - Draft IWLEP 2022 Comparison Maps

3.

Draft Submission - Employment Zone Reforms

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 1















Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 2











Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 3























Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 6

Subject:         1-5 Chester Street Annandale - Voluntary Planning Agreement           

Prepared By:      Jill Blunden - Lawyer 

Authorised By:  Matthew Pearce - General Counsel

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That the amended Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) for 1-5 Chester Street, Annandale be:

 

1.   Placed on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days;

 

2.   Reported back to Council after public exhibition; and

 

3.   Authorises the General Manager to approve any amendments to the amended VPA prior to public exhibition.

 

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

1-5 Chester Street, Annandale (Property) is located at the end of Chester Street and is situated approximately 250 metres from Pyrmont Bridge Road.

The Property falls within the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy (PRCUTS) which identifies Johnstons’ Creek as a pedestrian and cycle corridor to connect Parramatta Road with Rozelle Bay. The Property is a key link in the creation of the pedestrian and cycle path throughout the Inner West local government area as part of the strategy.

 

In conjunction with the PRCUTS council developed a draft masterplan for the Parramatta Road Urban Amenity Improvement Program for the various projects to be undertaken in the LGA which included the Johnstons’ Creek pedestrian and cycle corridor (Masterplan). The through link at the Property will commence the delivery of the pedestrian and cycle corridor identified in the Masterplan.

 

The Property was the subject of a planning proposal that was assessed by the then Minister for Planning and Public Spaces as a gateway determination in accordance with section 3.3 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1997 (Act).  The determination amended Leichhardt Local Environmental Plan 2013 (LLEP 2013) and the Property is now included under Part 6 – Additional Local Provisions.

 

The relevant clauses of LLEP 2013 applicable to the Property are Clauses 6.22 and 6.23.

Clause 6.22 (5)(g) requires the development to include a 6m wide pedestrian and cycle path with landscaping adjacent to Johnstons’ Creek and clause 6.22 (5)(j) requires the development to provide active frontages on Chester Street and Johnstons Creek.

 

The developer of the Property Corvas Pty Ltd (Developer), in conjunction with the planning proposal, proposed to enter into a voluntary planning agreement (VPA) with Council including the delivery of the 6m wide pedestrian and cycle path with landscaping through the Property.

Council considered the VPA proposal at duly held meeting on 26 May 2020.

Council resolved:

 

 

THAT the proposed Voluntary Planning Agreement for 1-5 Chester Street, Annandale be:

 

1.   Endorsed in principle, subject to Corvas Pty Ltd (the proponent):

 

a)   Stratum dedication of through site link;

b)   Works in kind and embellishment for though site link; and

c)   Monetary contribution of $95,000.

 

2.   Placed on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days;

3.   Reported back to Council after public exhibition; and

4.   The monetary contribution component of the VPA be dedicated to the Affordable Housing Fund in accordance with Council's Affordable Housing Policy.

 

 

Post exhibition the VPA was considered at the duly convened meeting held on 13 April 2021. Council resolved:

 

1.   Enter into the Voluntary Planning Agreement for 1-5 Chester Street, Annandale as provided in Attachment 1 to this report; and

 

2.   Note that the cash component is to be held in Council’s Affordable Housing Fund in accordance with Council’s resolution of 26 May 2020 (C0520(2) Item 15).

 

Due to various issues raised by the Developer concerning the VPA and the LLEP 2013 restriction on subdivision at the Property the VPA remains to be signed.

 

The Developer lodged a development application for the Subject Site that is now subject to a Class 1 appeal at the Land and Environment Court.  As part of the proceedings a s34 conciliation conference was conducted.  Any conditions of consent will require the Developer to enter into a VPA that will deliver on Council’s previous resolutions.

 

In conjunction with the negotiations for the s34 conciliation conference negotiations have occurred in relation to the VPA. In particular the landscape plans attached to the VPA have changed the position of the pedestrian and cycle path and landscaping as they interface with the buildings.

 

Due to amendments to the terms of the VPA concerning the guarantee amount, timing of its release and amendment to the plans attached to the VPA, the amended VPA is to be reported to Council to be placed on exhibition for 28 days and reported to Council post exhibition.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Council will receive a monetary contribution of $95,000.00.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Amended VPA

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 




















































Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 7

Subject:         Local Traffic Committee Meeting - June and July 2022           

Prepared By:      Sunny Jo - Coordinator Traffic Engineering Services (North)  

Authorised By:  Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Infrastructure

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

THAT the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 20 June 2022 and 18 July 2022 be received and the recommendations be adopted.

 

 

 

ITEMS BY WARD – 20 JUNE 2022

 

Ward

Item

Baludarri

(Balmain)

Tobruk Avenue, Balmain - Temporary full road closure for excavation works

Nelson Lane, Annandale - Proposed No Parking Restrictions

Stephen Street, Balmain  (at Vincent Street) - Proposed kerb indentation

Gulgadya

(Leichhardt)

Elswick Street North, Charles Street, William Street, Leichhardt - Proposed traffic calming, angled parking and pedestrian facilities   

Seven Bridges Walk - Special Event

Trafalgar Street, Annandale - Proposed raised pedestrian crossing

George Street, Leichhardt Proposed 'Motor Bike Only' Parking Restrictions

Midjuburi

(Marrickville)

Smidmore Street, Marrickville – ENRC/2022/0022 - Temporary full   road closure for two Marrickville Metro events The Fringe Festival  8-12 September 2022 and 10-12 December 2022 Markets and related temporary changes to Victoria Road kerbside parking restrictions to accommodate relocation of community bus     

Tempe South Local Area Traffic Management Study Revised Report 

Temporary parking changes from T3 Line rail shutdown – Consultation Outcomes Report

Djarrawunang

(Ashfield)

Yeo Park, Summer Hill - Formalisation of off-road shared bicycle - pedestrian path, between Victoria Street and Prospect Road

Temporary parking changes from T3 Line rail shutdown – Consultation Outcomes Report

Damun (Stanmore)

Nil. See All Wards.

All Wards

Draft Pedestrian Crossing Warrant Policy 

Draft Traffic Management Investigation Policy   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEMS BY WARD – 18 JULY 2022

 

Ward

Item

Baludarri

(Balmain)

Pedestrian crossings on Darling Street, Balmain

Gulgadya

(Leichhardt)

Railway Street, Croydon-Proposed 'No Parking' opposite driveway

Midjuburi

(Marrickville)

Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Public Domain Improvements Amendments - Location of traffic calming entry thresholds

Bayley Street, Marrickville, Cavendish Street, Stanmore and Fotheringham Street, Enmore - Dedicated Car Share Parking Restrictions

Livingstone Road, Marrickville bike path

Djarrawunang

(Ashfield)

Murrell Street, Ashfield- Traffic and parking changes

Pram ramps for Orchard Crescent, Ashfield

Damun (Stanmore)

Bayley Street, Marrickville, Cavendish Street, Stanmore and Fotheringham Street, Enmore - Dedicated Car Share Parking Restrictions

All Wards

Filming applications occupying footpaths and cycle paths

 

 

DISCUSSION

The June and July 2022 meetings of the Local Traffic Committee were held at Ashfield Service Centre. The minutes of the June meeting are shown at ATTACHMENT 1. The minutes of the July meeting are shown at ATTACHMENT 2.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Projects proposed for implementation are funded within existing budget allocations.

 

PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Specific projects have undergone public consultation as indicated in the respective reports to

the Traffic Committee.

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Local Traffic Committee minutes 20 June 2022

2.

Local Traffic Committee meeting 18 July 2022

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 1

















Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 1








Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 8

Subject:         General Manager's Delegation           

Prepared By:      Katherine Paixao - Business Paper Coordinator  

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the General Manager Delegations, as outlined and attached to the report.

 

 

 

 

 

Background

In accordance with Section 380 of Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) Council must review it’s delegations within the first 12 months of each term of office.

 

Subject to the requirements and limitations of the Act delegations allow the General Manager and subsequently Council staff to exercise Council functions ensuring that council is able to operate efficiently and effectively.

 

Section 377 states that, a council may, by resolution, delegate to the General Manager or any other person or body (not including another employee of the council) any of the functions of the council, other than:

 

(a) The appointment of a general manager.

 

(b) The making of a rate.

 

(c) A determination under section 549 as to the levying of a rate.

 

(d) The making of a charge.

 

(e) The fixing of a fee.

 

(f) The borrowing of money.

 

(g) The voting of money for expenditure on its works, services or operations.

 

(h) The compulsory acquisition, purchase, sale, exchange or surrender of any land or other property (but not including the sale of items of plant or equipment).

 

(i) The acceptance of tenders to provide services currently provided by members of staff of the council.

 

(j) The adoption of an operational plan under section 405.

 

(k) The adoption of a financial statement included in an annual financial report.

 

(l) A decision to classify or reclassify public land under Division 1 of Part 2 of Chapter 6.

 

(m) The fixing of an amount or rate for the carrying out by the council of work on private land.

 

(n) The decision to carry out work on private land for an amount that is less than the amount or rate fixed by the council for the carrying out of any such work.

 

(o) The review of a determination made by the council, and not by a delegate of the council, of an application for approval or an application that may be reviewed under section 82A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

 

(p) The power of the council to authorise the use of reasonable force for the purpose of gaining entry to premises under section 194.

 

(q) A decision under section 356 to contribute money or otherwise grant financial assistance to persons.

 

(r) A decision under section 234 to grant leave of absence to the holder of a civic office.

 

(s) The making of an application, or the giving of a notice, to the Governor or Minister.

 

(t) This power of delegation.

 

(u) Any function under this or any other Act that is expressly required to be exercised by resolution of the council.

 

In turn, section 378 of the Act allows the General Manager to sub-delegate some or all the functions and powers to relevant employees.

 

Existing delegation

 

The existing Instrument of Delegation for the General Manager was approved by Council at its meeting on 8 December 2020, as detailed in Attachment 2.

 

The current financial delegation of $1.5 million has been in place since 2018. This has enabled Council to commence projects in a timely manner and proceed with key projects without delays to the day-to-day business of Council.

 

By way of comparison, we have sourced a sample of what other NSW Councils have in relation to their General Managers financial delegations, as articulated below Inner West council has one of the most conservative financial delegations, noting Inner West Council is classified as a Metropolitan Large Council:

 

Council

Financial Delegations

Category/Size (LGRT)

Bayside

Unlimited if funds have been adopted in the budget

Metro Large

Willoughby

Unlimited if funds have been adopted in the budget

Metro Medium

Randwick

Unlimited with the exception of writing of debts over $10,000 or individual rate charge over $1000

Metro Medium

Penrith

$10 Million

Metro Large

City of Sydney

$5 million

Principal

Waverley Council

Unlimited

Metro Small

Woollahra Council

$2.5 million

Metro Small

Inner West Council

$1.5 Million

Metro Large

Cumberland

$500,000

Metro Large

 

It is not recommended to reduce the financial delegation of $1.5 million as it would cause significant delay to the procurement and progression of projects as staff would have to wait for the Council Meeting cycle in order to progress contracts and tenders delaying the issue of signed contractual documents and delaying commencement of work for projects.

 

In addition, reducing the financial delegation would result in more reports being brought to Council Meetings and have an impact on Council’s ability to deal with all matters on the Council Agenda in a timely manner.

 

New Additional Delegation

 

After a review of the current delegations, in accordance with the Act, and previous resolutions of Council, we are recommending the following amendments be included to ensure compliance with the Act and current internal operations. The amendments also provide further clarity for staff and Council to operate within.

 

All these new delegations will be in Part B – General Limitations:

 

1. Asset Disposal

 

Council currently does not have an asset disposal guideline, for assets. This does not include real property, civil fixed assets and financial investments.

 

This delegation would deal with disposing assets such as furniture, books and other consumable items. This delegation would provide clear guidance to staff on whether the General Manager can dispose of assets. Below the proposed delegation:

 

            ‘Authority to approve the disposal of assets up to the value of $100,000.

           

Approval must not be given without consideration of a recommendation from the Director of the relevant business area.

 

This authorization does not apply to the disposal of real property, civil fixed assets, financial investments and the Fixed Assets Policy.’

 

2. Writing off bad debts

 

Under clause 213(2) of the Local Government (General) Regulation, Council ‘must from time to time, by resolution, fix an amount above which debts to the council may be written off only by resolution of [Council].’

 

If a resolution is in place, debts below the fixed amount can be written off by the General Manager by order in writing.

 

Pursuant to clause 213(5), only certain (bad) debts can be written off; that is, where:

 

(a) The debts are not lawfully recoverable, or

 

(b) The debts are a result of a decision of a court, or

 

(c) Council or the General Manager believes on reasonable grounds that an attempt to recover the debts would not be cost effective.

 

None of the above applies to outstanding rates and charges, which are dealt with by different sections and clauses of the Act and Regulation respectively.

 

It is recommended that Council fixes $2,500 (including GST) as the amount above which debts may be written off only by resolution of Council. This will allow the General Manager to write off debts below this amount.

 

By way of comparison, Randwick Council and Waverley Council have fixed the amount at $2,500, while Woollahra Council’s maximum is $25,000.

 

Below the proposed delegation:

 

‘Authority to write of debts up to the value of $2,500 (including GST) without a resolution of Council in accordance with clause 213(2) of the Local Governance Regulation 2021.’

 

3. Writing Off Rates and Charges

 

Under clause 131(1) of the Local Government (General) Regulation, Council ‘must, from time to time, by resolution, fix the amount of rates and charges above which any individual rate or charge may be written off only by resolution of [Council].’

 

If a resolution is in place, rates and charges below the fixed amount can be written off by the General Manager by order in writing.

 

Pursuant to clause 131(4) of the Regulation, an amount of rates or charges can be written off only:

 

(a) If there is an error in the assessment, or

 

(b) If the amount is not lawfully recoverable, or

 

(c) As a result of a decision of a court, or

 

(d) If Council or the General Manager believes on reasonable grounds that an attempt to recover the amount would not be cost effective.

 

It is recommended that Council fixes $2,500 as the amount above which rates and charges can be written off only by resolution of Council.

 

It is proposed, under clause 131(6), that an annual report on rates, charges and bad debts written off by the General Manager be submitted to Council at the start of each financial year covering any rates, charges and bad debts written off by the General Manager in the previous financial year.

 

Below the proposed delegation:

 

‘Authority to write off rates and charges up to the value of $2,500 without resolution of Council in accordance with clause 131(1) of the Local Government Regulation 2021.’

 

4. Executing Council’s Insurance Renewal

 

Under section 382 of the Act, Council must ensure that adequate insurance against public liability and professional indemnity is in place. Currently Council has an approved supplier, however, the premiums are renewed on an annual basis. This renewal schedule is valued over $1.5 million per annum.

 

It is recommended that once the procurement of Councils insurance supplier is approved by a resolution of Council for a set number of years that the ongoing annual renewals to maintain Councils insurance in accordance with Section 382 of the Act are delegated to the General Manager.

 

The insurance renewal process internally is extensive and has to be undertaken in a very limited timeframe, providing the General Manager with delegation to maintain Council’s insurance after Council appoints the insurer is common practice across Local Governments with Council then provided with a briefing paper outlining the annual renewals for information.

 

This delegation is to be an exemption to the $1.5 million financial delegation to the General Manager.

 

Below the proposed delegation:

 

            ‘Authority to renew Council’s annual insurance premiums after a resolution of Council      determines the supplier and the term of the contract for Council’s insurances.

           

This delegation is to be an exemption to the $1.5 million financial delegation to the General Manager.’

 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications resulting from this report and the recommendations are intended to assist Council in continuing normal day-to-day operations efficiently and effectively. The Instrument of Delegation to the General Manager will take effect on Wednesday, 10 August 2022, and will be reviewed in accordance with the Act or as circumstances require

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Current Instrument of Delegation - General Manager

2.

Draft Instrument of Delegation - General Manager

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 1




Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 2





Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 9

Subject:         Local Government NSW Conference 2022           

Prepared By:      Katherine Paixao - Business Paper Coordinator 

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council:

 

1.   Nominate Councillors to attend the 2022 Local Government NSW Conference;

 

2.   Determine 9 voting delegates for the 2022 Local Government NSW Conference; and

 

3.   Consider motions for the Local Government NSW Conference at the 13 September 2022 Council meeting.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

The Local Government NSW Conference is the annual policy-making event for NSW councils. This year’s Conference will be held in the Hunter Valley from 23-25 October 2022 and Council is entitled to 9 voting delegates.

 

LGNSW need to be advised of Council’s 9 voting delegates for the Annual Conference by Wednesday 17 August 2022 in order to access the early bird registration, or otherwise by the final deadline of 10 October 2022.

 

Motions for the Conference

Motions may be submitted for debate at the Conference that meet the criteria as outlined below. The deadline to submit motions is Sunday 25 September 2022 and all motions submitted must be different to motions raised at previous Conferences.

 

LGNSW will distribute the Business Papers the week commencing 10 October 2022.

 

Refer Attachment 1 for a copy of the LGNSW Motions Submission Guide and Attachment 2 for decisions from the previous Conference held in March 2022. All prior years motions and decisions can be soured via Motions | Local Government NSW | Annual Conference (lgnswconference.org.au)

 

The LGNSW Board has resolved that motions will be included in the Business Paper for the Conference only where they:

 

1.   are consistent with the objects of LGNSW (see Rule 4 of the Association’s rules),

2.   relate to or concern local government as a sector in NSW and/or across Australia,

3.   seek to establish or change policy positions of LGNSW and/or improve governance of the Association (noting that the LGNSW Board is responsible for decisions around resourcing any campaigns or operational activities, and any necessary resource allocations will be subject to the LGNSW budgetary process),

4.   have a lawful purpose (a motion does not have a lawful purpose if its implementation would require or encourage non-compliance with prevailing laws),

5.   are clearly worded and unambiguous in nature, and

6.   do not express preference for one or several members over one or several other members.

 

Members are encouraged to review the record of decisions from past conferences to ensure the proposed motion wording reflects any recent developments and does not duplicate existing policy positions.

 

If Councillors wish to adopt any motions for the upcoming Conference they will need to be considered by Council and adopted at the 13 September 2022 Council meeting.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Registration costs for the conference will be funded from the Councillors budget.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

2022 Motions submissions guide

2.

LGNSW 2022 Special Conference Records of Decisions

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 1













Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 2





































Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 10

Subject:         Councillor Facilities and Expenses Policy           

Prepared By:      Delmar Spence - Governance Officer 

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopts the attached draft Councillor Facilities and Expenses Policy.

 

 

 

 

Background

Under section 252 of the Local Governance Act 1993 (the Act), Council must adopt a Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy (the Policy) within 12 months of the commencement of a new Council term. On 14 June 2022, Council endorsed the draft Councillor Facilities and Expenses Policy (Policy) for public exhibition.

 

Consultation on the draft policy closed on 26 July 2022 and this report provides an overview of the comments received through Council’s website via email, feedback form or through the contact details on the website.

 

Discussions

 

The proposed changes to the draft Policy were based on the internal structural changes in the organisation, updates to applicable legislation, feedback and resolutions of Council and better alignment to the OLG better practice Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy for Local Government.

 

Submissions received

 

Two submissions were received via email through the exhibition period, with the following feedback provided:

 

·    Draft policy provides appropriate support to Councillors to conduct their role

·    Policy clearer on monetary allocation for each Councillor rather than a lumpsum pool for all Councillors

·    Allowance for interstate travel and home expenses are low

·    Improvement on having Councillors share staff

·    Strong accountability for the use of Council vehicles, use must be associated with Council business

·    Carer reimbursement allowance is high, however, the guidelines for claiming carer allowance are clearer and this should mean it is only claimed appropriately

·    Christmas cards allocation are outdated, and Council should send greeting cards online; Council should produce its own cards.

·    New proposed Policy is an overall improvement but needs some adjustments

 

In considering the above feedback, the Policy amendments are predominately supported and have achieved their objective of providing further clarity for the organisation and Councillors. The updated Policy also provides Councillors with the ability to understand their own expenditure as opposed to just the group expenditure.

 

 

 

The following points are noted in regard to specific feedback received:

 

·    The carer reimbursement per Councillor has increased, however, providing adequate carer arrangements for Council appropriately supports Councillors in being able to undertake their civic responsibilities whilst balancing personal responsibilities, which has further benefit in attracting diversified representation on Councils. As such the current proposed amount is recommended to remain.

 

·    All comments in relation to the amounts against certain expenditure were reviewed by Councillors prior to public exhibition and no further change is proposed.

 

·    Traditional Christmas cards are still considered to hold value for many local businesses and are utilised by the organisation, and it is recommended that these remain.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

                                                          

There are no additional financial implications for the adoption of the Policy as all Councillor expenses are already captured in the approved budget.

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 




















Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 11

Subject:         Minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting Held on 23 February 2022           

Prepared By:      Katherine Paixao - Business Paper Coordinator  

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopts the minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting held on 23 February 2022.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

 

The Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) is established in accordance with section 428A of the Local Government Act 1993.

The objective of Council’s ARIC is to provide independent assurance to Council by monitoring, reviewing and providing advice about the Council’s governance processes, compliance, risk management and control frameworks, external accountability obligations and overall performance.

In accordance with the ARIC Charter, copies of the minutes of the Committee are to be provided to the Council.

The confirmed minutes of the ARIC meeting held on 23 February 2022 are provided at Attachment 1, for adoption.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Funding to support the ARIC is included in the existing budget.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Minutes of Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee held on 23 February 2022

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 









Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 12

Subject:         Investment Report at 31 May 2022           

Prepared By:      Daryl Jackson - Chief Financial Officer  

Authorised By:  Beau-Jane De Costa - Acting Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

 

BACKGROUND

A monthly investment report is provided to Council detailing the investment portfolio in terms of performance, percentage exposure of total portfolio, maturity date and changes in market value.

 

The monthly investment report includes details of the current proportion of investments that are non-fossil fuel investments and include details of progress in meeting the prevailing performance benchmark in respect of non-fossil fuel investments.

 

The investing of Council’s funds at the most favourable return available to it at the time whilst having due consideration of risk and security for that investment type and ensuring that its liquidity requirements are being met while exercising the power to invest, consideration is to be given to the preservation of capital, liquidity, and the return on investment.

 

Preservation of capital is the principal objective of the investment portfolio. Investments are placed in a manner that seeks to ensure security and safeguarding the investment portfolio. This includes managing credit and interest rate risk within identified thresholds and parameters.

 

Council determined to proactively invest in a non-fossil fuel investment portfolio.

 

Legislative Requirements

 

All investments are to comply with the following:

 

§ Local Government Act 1993;

§ Local Government (General) Regulation 2021;

§ Ministerial Investment Order dated 17 February 2011;

§ Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting;

§ Australian Accounting Standards; and

§ Division of Local Government Investment Policy Guidelines May 2010

 

Council’s Socially Responsible Investments consist of Green Term Deposits from otherwise fossil fuel lending banks, such as CBA and Westpac and also long dated bond issues from a range of institutions and government agencies. These investments provide targeted funding to a wide range of green and socially responsible projects and initiatives. Council also utilises these investments to remain within the credit rating policy guidelines imposed by the NSW TCorp loan covenant requirements.

Council’s portfolio is in full compliance with the NSW TCorp requirements while continuing to adhere to Council’s socially responsible investment goals.

 

DISCUSSION

Council’s investments are held in various investment categories which are listed in the table below. Council’s investment portfolio size is $251.2m.  All Socially Responsible Investments (SRI’s) are investments that comply with the Non-Fossil Fuel standards. Council’s annualised return continues to exceed the bank bill index benchmark. Council’s portfolio had a return of    -0.74%, which is below the UBSWA Bank Bill Index Benchmark (0.41%).

 

Without marked-to-market influences, Council’s investment portfolio yielded 0.96%pa for the month, up from 0.81%pa in April. This is based on the actual interest rates being received on existing investments and excludes market value changes of the securities/deposits.

 

The investment performance reflects the downward trend in interest rate markets over recent years accelerated by pandemic related interest rate cuts. With inflation pressures building, interest rates have increased sharply over the past month which has started flowing through to the portfolio in the form of higher TD rates and higher interest rate resets on floating rate notes.

 

The sharply rising interest environment has been detrimental to the marked-to-market valuations of the fixed rate bonds and floating rate notes in Council’s portfolio.  As interest rates rise the dollar valuations of existing bonds fall in the market.

 

While a bond’s (or FRN’s) market value may drop below its face value (or par value) during the life a security, providing Council does not sell the security and the issuer is sound (which all of Council’s holdings are) then the bond’s market value will come back to the face value by the time it matures.

 

The upside to the rise in interest rates is that new TDs and bonds that Council invests in will be paying a much higher rate of interest than what has been available over the past couple of years.

 

Change in the value of our portfolio - Council’s investment portfolio had a $9m 12 month term deposit mature which had been paying 0.30%pa. Council invested $17m in a 6mo and a 12mo term deposit paying an average of 2.64%pa, indicative of the sharp increase in term deposit rates over the past few months as the market anticipates further rate increases from the RBA to help subdue inflationary pressures.

 

·    Investment

Suncorp Bank $17.0m

 

·    Matured

Westpac Group (Green TD) $9.0m

Emerald Reserve Mortgage $5.6k (amortised face value received)

 

Council’s entire investment portfolio remains invested in non-fossil fuel lending ADIs (55% of portfolio) and socially responsible investments (45% of portfolio).

 

The attachments to this report summarise all investments held by Council and interest returns for periods ending 31 May 2022.

 

The Current Market value is required to be accounted for. The Current Market Value is a likely outcome if Council were to consider recalling the investment prior to its due date.

 

All investments made for the month May 2022 have been made in accordance with the Local Government Act, Local Government Regulations and the Inner West Council Investment Policy.

 

 

 

 

The above reflects the amount of total cash, bank and investments at 31 May 2022.  All funds have been allocated as laid out in the adopted 2021/22 Operating Budget and Long Term Financial Plan.  Alignment of reserves to reporting (internal restrictions and working funds) category took place in March that aligns to reporting standard.

 

The performance chart below shows Council’s rolling 12 monthly return versus benchmark over the past 5 years. Each data point is the 12 month return for the stated month end:

 

 

 

Council’s investment performance has reflected the downward trend in interest rate markets over recent years accelerated by pandemic related interest rate cuts. With inflation pressures building, interest rates have increased sharply over the past few months, causing negative marked-to-market returns on existing bonds and FRNs, but providing opportunities for new TDs and bond issues at levels not seen in over 2 years.

 

 

Interest rates

 

·    The RBA rose the official cash rate from 0.10% to 0.35% at its May meeting. While the RBA Board considered a smaller initial increase, they acknowledged that inflationary pressures appeared to be more persistent than originally forecast. The Board also stated that more increases would be needed in the near future to help bring inflation back within the 2-3% target range.

·    The market is pricing in a 0.50% cash rate by the end of June and 2.50% by the end of 2022, same levels as last month, but the market has trimmed back on late-2023 levels, down to 3.20% from 3.50% last month:

·    In May, term deposit rates increased sharply again, particularly across the 1-12 month range where the average increase of the best rates on offer was 0.45%pa higher than last month. The increase on longer rated TDs was more modest after having risen sharply the prior few months:

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

IWC Investment Report - May 2022

2.

IWC Economic & Investment Portfolio Commentary - May 2022

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 1




















Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 2





Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 13

Subject:         Investment Report at 30 June 2022           

Prepared By:      Daryl Jackson - Chief Financial Officer 

Authorised By:  Beau-Jane De Costa - Acting Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

 

BACKGROUND

A monthly investment report is provided to Council detailing the investment portfolio in terms of performance, percentage exposure of total portfolio, maturity date and changes in market value.

 

The monthly investment report includes details of the current proportion of investments that are non-fossil fuel investments and include details of progress in meeting the prevailing performance benchmark in respect of non-fossil fuel investments.

 

The investing of Council’s funds at the most favourable return available to it at the time whilst having due consideration of risk and security for that investment type and ensuring that its liquidity requirements are being met while exercising the power to invest, consideration is to be given to the preservation of capital, liquidity, and the return on investment.

 

Preservation of capital is the principal objective of the investment portfolio. Investments are placed in a manner that seeks to ensure security and safeguarding the investment portfolio. This includes managing credit and interest rate risk within identified thresholds and parameters.

 

Council determined to proactively invest in a non-fossil fuel investment portfolio.

 

Legislative Requirements

 

All investments are to comply with the following:

 

§ Local Government Act 1993;

§ Local Government (General) Regulation 2021;

§ Ministerial Investment Order dated 17 February 2011;

§ Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting;

§ Australian Accounting Standards; and

§ Division of Local Government Investment Policy Guidelines May 2010

 

Council’s Socially Responsible Investments consist of Green Term Deposits from otherwise fossil fuel lending banks, such as CBA and Westpac and also long dated bond issues from a range of institutions and government agencies. These investments provide targeted funding to a wide range of green and socially responsible projects and initiatives. Council also utilises these investments to remain within the credit rating policy guidelines imposed by the NSW TCorp loan covenant requirements.

Council’s portfolio is in full compliance with the NSW TCorp requirements while continuing to adhere to Council’s socially responsible investment goals.

 

DISCUSSION

Council’s investments are held in various investment categories which are listed in the table below. Council’s investment portfolio size is $276.2m.  All Socially Responsible Investments (SRI’s) are investments that comply with the Non-Fossil Fuel standards. Council’s annualised return is below the bank bill index benchmark on a marked-to-market basis. Council’s portfolio had a return of -0.74%, against the UBSWA Bank Bill Index Benchmark (0.61%) on a marked-to-market basis.

 

Without marked-to-market influences, Council’s investment portfolio yielded 1.35%pa for the month, up from 0.96%pa in May. This is based on the actual interest rates being received on existing investments and excludes market value changes of the securities/deposits.

 

The investment performance reflects the downward trend in interest rate markets over recent years accelerated by pandemic related interest rate cuts. With inflation pressures building, interest rates have increased sharply over the past month which has started flowing through to the portfolio in the form of higher TD rates and higher interest rate resets on floating rate notes.

 

The sharply rising interest environment has been detrimental to the marked-to-market valuations of the fixed rate bonds and floating rate notes in Council’s portfolio.  As interest rates rise the dollar valuations of existing bonds fall in the market.

 

While a bond’s (or FRN’s) market value may drop below its face value (or par value) during the life a security, providing Council does not sell the security and the issuer is sound (which all of Council’s holdings are) then the bond’s market value will come back to the face value by the time it matures.

 

The upside to the rise in interest rates is that new TDs and bonds that Council invests in will be paying a much higher rate of interest than what has been available over the past couple of years.

 

Change in the value of our portfolio - Council’s investment portfolio had $28m among a range of 6, 12 and 36 month term deposits mature which had an average weighted yield of 1.00%pa. Council invested $48m in 2 and 3 month deposits paying an average of 2.00%pa, indicative of the sharp increase in term deposit rates over the past few months as the market anticipates further rate increases from the RBA to help subdue inflationary pressures.

 

·    Investment

CBA (Green) $35.m

Suncorp Bank $13.0m

 

·    Matured

Westpac Group (Green TD) $23.0m

 

Council’s entire investment portfolio remains invested in non-fossil fuel lending ADIs (55% of portfolio) and socially responsible investments (45% of portfolio).

 

The attachments to this report summarise all investments held by Council and interest returns for periods ending 30 June 2022.

 

The Current Market value is required to be accounted for. The Current Market Value is a likely outcome if Council were to consider recalling the investment prior to its due date.

 

All investments made for the month June 2022 have been made in accordance with the Local Government Act, Local Government Regulations and the Inner West Council Investment Policy.

 

 

The 2020/21 Financial Year End process is in progress. The split between the External and Internal Restrictions are not available at this time.

 

 

The performance chart below shows Council’s rolling 12 monthly return versus benchmark over the past 5 years. Each data point is the 12 month return for the stated month end:

 

 

 

Council’s investment performance has reflected the downward trend in interest rate markets over recent years accelerated by pandemic related interest rate cuts. With inflation pressures building, interest rates have increased sharply over the past few months, causing negative marked-to-market returns on existing bonds and FRNs, but providing opportunities for new TDs and bond issues at levels not seen in over 2 years.

 

Interest Rates

 

The RBA rose the official cash rate from 0.35% to 0.85% at its June meeting. The Board noted that inflation in Australia had increased significantly and the outlook had been revised higher over the previous month. The central bank expects inflation to increase further before declining back towards the top of the 2-3% range in 2023. The market is pricing in a 3.00% cash rate by December and 3.50% by the end of 2022/23 Financial Year.

·    In June, term deposit rates increased sharply again across the full 1 to 60 month range where the average increase of the best rates on offer was 0.80%pa higher than last month. The biggest jump was in the 9 to 12 month area where average rates increased by 0.90%pa:

 

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

IWC Investment Report - June 2022

2.

IWC Economic & Investment Portfolio Commentary - June 2022

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 1




















Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 2





Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 14

Subject:         Engagement for Inner West Local Environmental Plan Phase 2B           

Prepared By:      Denise Benger - Senior Strategic Planner 

Authorised By:  Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

At its Ordinary Council meeting on Tuesday 8 February 2022 Council resolved that

 

1.   Upon completion publishes the place based and heritage studies that will be informing the Comprehensive Local Environmental Plan; 

 

2.   Develops a community consultation plan demonstrating broad community and stakeholder engagement; and

 

3.   Provides a briefing on the timeline and strategies of the consultation plan.

 

The purpose of this report is to give an overview of the engagement program for the Local Environmental Plan Phase 2B project. It expands on the information presented in the Councillor workshops held on 22 March 2022 and 2 August 2022.

 

Background

Council has now completed several technical studies that will inform the first amendment to the Inner West Local Environment Plan (LEP) and development of the Comprehensive Development Control Plan (DCP). The studies which form part of the early engagement program include:

·    Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Urban Design Study

·    Dulwich Hill Village Urban Design Study

·    Marrickville Town Centre Urban Design Study

·    North Ashfield Urban Design Study

·    Low Carbon Precinct Study for Marrickville and Dulwich Hill

·    Heritage Study – Stages 1 and 2 (potential new Items and new Heritage Conservation Areas)

 

Aims of the LEP Phase 2B project

Feedback is sought from the community to ensure Council’s comprehensive planning documents meet public expectations as well as achieve the vision of Inner West’s Local Strategic Planning Statement (2020):

 

Inner West 2036: A place of creative, connected, sustainable and productive neighbourhoods - as vibrant, innovative and diverse as our community.

 

Key outcomes of the engagement program are to:

·    understand the level of community support for the design rationale and recommendations for the uplift areas of Dulwich Hill and Marrickville and North Ashfield  

·    understand the level of agreement with the recommendations contained within the Low Carbon Study and Heritage Study

·    identify community preferences and priorities for car parking in new developments.

 

Previous engagement undertaken to inform the Inner West LEP and LEP Phase 2B

In 2019-2020 Council completed a range of evidence-based studies and strategies to inform the development of the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) and Inner West LEP and Comprehensive DCP including:

·    Local Housing Strategy (LHS)

·    Integrated Transport Study (ITS)

·    Employment and Retail Lands Strategy (ERLS)

 

The engagement undertaken by Council to inform the background studies and strategies has been extensive and robust. The communication and engagement activities undertaken by Council has amounted to approximately:

·    16,000 letters sent to residences and businesses

·    50,000 postcards sent to all landholders to complete a Place Score survey

·    47 drop-in sessions held across the local government area (LGA) at Council Service Centres, train stations, shopping centres, community sport and council events.

·    8000 visits to Your Say Inner West project pages

·    597 individual submissions received by Council on the strategies studies and planning documents

 

The draft LHS received 170 submissions with the majority of submissions supporting its vision and focus of growth around centres and existing/proposed transport infrastructure. The LHS was adopted by Council 3 March 2020 and approved by the Department Planning and Environment (DPE) on 8 July 2021.

 

The draft LSPS received 182 submissions from individuals and interest groups. More than 89% of respondents agreed with the 20-year vision. The majority of submissions agreed with Council’s approach to improving the area’s liveability, and to increasing the resilience of our environment and community to hazards. The LSPS was supported by the Greater Sydney Commission on 25 March 2020 and made by Council on 31 March 2020.

 

LEP Phase 2B project links to the LSPS and LHS

The NSW Government aims to ensure there are enough homes to meet the needs of a growing population. Council is required by the DPE to plan for additional housing growth across the local government area (LGA) to meet targets set by DPE.

 

The LHS is a high-level strategy providing direction for the provision of housing across the Inner West. The uplift areas of Dulwich Hill, Marrickville and North Ashfield were identified in the strategy as areas able to accommodate additional housing growth in the LGA over the medium – long term.

 

The LHS identifies Marrickville and Dulwich Hill as medium-term housing investigation areas (likely to result in new housing delivery from 2021-2026). The rationale for these investigation areas is that they are associated with the commitment to and progressing major transport infrastructure (Metro South West). Engagement for the LHS and LSPS received a great deal of interest and feedback from Marrickville and Dulwich Hill residents and landowners.

 

North Ashfield is identified as a longer-term housing investigation area in the LHS, likely to result in new housing delivery from 2026-2036.  Due to landowner submissions received as part of the LHS exhibition period, Council resolved to bring the North Ashfield investigation area forward.

 

Attachment 1 depicts the map from the LSPS showing investigation areas for additional housing across the LGA as identified in the LHS.

 

The LHS and the LSPS provide some of the evidence base required to inform and support the amendments to the Inner West LEP put forward as part of the Phase 2B project related to the uplift areas.

 

Consultant services to assist with the early engagement program

To demonstrate both transparency and independence throughout, Cred Consulting have been engaged to assist with the scheduled engagement program. Cred assisted with the design of the program, recommending a two-stage approach to enable more useful and representative feedback from the community to be obtained:

·    Stage 1 - traditional broad community engagement

·    Stage 2 - a People’s Panel to provide more informed, tailored feedback on the recommendations on each of the technical studies.

 

Cred have indicated the use of a People’s Panel would be more fitting to the level of influence Council would like to see the community have on the planning controls put forward in the Phase 2B LEP Project.

 

Attachment 2 outlines how the planning and engagement program for the Phase 2B LEP project work together.

 

The costs for the engagement program are within budget and includes consultant fees for the lead consultancy in this strategy, additional work from technical consultants who prepared the technical studies to assist with the webinars and the People’s Panel, and stipends for participants in the People’s Panel. Other communication and marketing costs associated with the project such as the printing and distribution of letters and post cards have also been factored in, and are within budget.

 

Communication and Engagement Summary

Stage 1:

·    Postcard promoting engagement to all properties in the LGA (residences and businesses)

·    Letters to all non-resident ratepayers 

·    Council digital channels: news announcement on website, social media, YSIW e-news, Council e-news

·    6 x meet the planner drop-in sessions (in person), with Greek, Vietnamese and Mandarin materials and interpreters provided to relevant sessions

·    Technical studies exhibited on the Your Say project page

·    5 x webinars to explain the technical studies

·    1 x explanatory video for car parking

·    Survey on YSIW project page

·    Public meetings with the community

 

Stage 2:

·    4 x People’s Panel meetings (in person)

·    4 x Local Democracy Group meetings

·    4 x Councillor Roundtables

 

What is a People’s Panel?

·    20 – 25 community members recruited to represent the demographic breakdown of the whole LGA

·    Panel comes together face to face over a series of 4 sessions

·    Panel members are ‘upskilled’ on the topics of LEP/DCP/planning controls

·    Panel is provided with results from the broad community consultation, presentations from technical experts and community groups, and background information from endorsed Council policies (e.g., housing strategy) to inform their recommendations. They will use this knowledge to provide recommendations to Council to inform amendments to the planning controls.

·    Panel members are paid a stipend for their time as follows:

o $240 per person per day for weekend sessions

o $80 per person per session for evening sessions

o Total for four sessions = $640 per person.

 

The People’s Panel approach allows community members to work with technical experts and have the time to understand and resolve any potential concerns with the recommendations of the technical studies and subsequent amendments to the existing planning controls.

 

Benefits for the use of a People’s Panel approach

The technical studies are generally ‘too technical’ for community members to both understand and comment on within a 1.5hr workshop, focus group, or public meeting. This is especially true when engaging with those who are reactive or opposed to the proposals.

 

The People’s Panel approach provides the opportunity to upskill a group of community members on planning matters. The panel will work with technical experts and have the time to understand the opportunities and constraints and other parameters that Council must work within when drafting planning controls.

 

It is an iterative process that allows community feedback to be incorporated in real time; it is an advisory group not a decision-making body. 

 

Community groups are also being identified for targeted engagement and will be invited to make submissions and to speak to the People’s Panel.

 

Risks to Council in using a People’s Panel approach

·     The panel may disagree with fundamental aspects of the technical studies which are not able to be changed. It will be important to set clear terms of reference for the panel, including outlining the parameters for uplift defined in the endorsed LHS. Any recommendations provided by the panel will have to meet these parameters and fall within set terms of reference.

·     The duration of the People’s Panel will run from October 2022 through to February 2023 with a break over the Christmas period. There is a risk that panel members may go on holidays and not be able to make all four sessions. Availability should form part of the initial selection criteria for panel members. There may be some flexibility to move panel sessions to dates and times better suited to most panel members if there are major issues with the proposed dates.

·     Panel members may drop out after the first panel session due to lack of interest. Panel recruitment should accommodate for more rather than less panel members and the incentives must be enough to encourage people to turn up to each of the four sessions.

 

Councillor Roundtables

Councillor Roundtables are specific collaboration opportunities to provide the summation of engagement outcomes from the Stage 1 and Stage 2 (people’s panel and planning and heritage local democracy group feedback) to the Councillors and seek input and direction to Council officers regarding the development of draft standards and controls for the new planning instruments.  Either 4 workshops of 1.5 hours held of an (Monday) evening, or 2 workshops of 3 hours held on a Saturday are recommended.

 

Timeline

 

Stage 1

·    Broad community engagement - 22 August – November 2022

 

Stage 2

·    People’s Panel - October 2022 – February 2023

·    Councillor Roundtables – October 2022 – March 2023

 

Activity

Start date

Duration

Stage 1 engagement commences

22 August 2022

 

Online Survey opens

22 August

 

Recruit and appoint People’s Panel

August 2022

 

Webinars x5

 

 

Marrickville Urban Design Study

Thurs, 25 August

1.5hrs

Dulwich Hill Urban Design Studies

Tues, 30 August

1.5hrs

Low Carbon Precinct Study

Wed, 31 August

1.5hrs

Heritage

Wed, 7 September

1.5hrs

North Ashfield Urban Design Study

Wed, 14 September

1.5hrs

6 x meet the planner drop-in sessions

 

 

Marrickville Station

Tues, 23 August

2hrs

Marrickville Library (includes provision of Vietnamese & Greek interpreter)

Sat, 27 August

6hrs

Dulwich Hill Station

Mon, 29 August

2hrs

Orange Grove Markets

Sat, 3 September

4hrs

Ashfield Service Centre (includes provision of Mandarin interpreter)

Tues, 13 September

6hrs

Dulwich Hill Library

Sat, 17 September

6hrs

Public Meetings

October/November 2022

 

Stage 1 Engagement Outcomes Report

October/November 2022

 

Stage 2 engagement commences

October 2022

 

People’s Panel

 

 

People Panel meeting No.1

Wed, 12 October

2hrs

People Panel meeting No.2

Sat, 5 November

6hrs

People Panel meeting No.3

Wed, 7 December

2hrs

People Panel meeting No.4

Sat, 11 February

6hrs

New Local Democracy Group (Planning & Heritage)

 

 

Meeting No.1 (optional meeting or briefing note)

Mon, 17 October

2hrs

Meeting No.2

Mon, 14 November

2hrs

Meeting No.3 (optional meeting or briefing note)

Mon, 12 December

2hrs

Meeting No.4

Mon, 20 February

2hrs

Councillor Roundtables (4 evening sessions or 2 Saturday sessions over 3 hours each)

 

 

Councillor Roundtable No.1

Mon, 24 October

1.5hrs

Councillor Roundtable No.2

Mon, 21 November

1.5hrs

Councillor Roundtable No.3

Mon, 30 January

1.5hrs

Councillor Roundtable No.4

Mon 13 March

1.5hrs

Stage 2 engagement finishes

February 2023

 

Stage 2 Engagement Outcomes Report

March 2023

 

Councillor Roundtable

April 2023

 

 

Community feedback received as part of this engagement program

This engagement strategy has been developed arising from a review of a range of best practice strategies. The feedback gained from the engagement will provide the structure that preparation of the planning controls in the Phase 2B Inner West LEP and Comprehensive DCP will be based on - related to the uplift areas, low carbon precincts, heritage, and car parking controls. Council Officers may investigate additional issues that are highlighted in the feedback as part of separate components of the LEP Phase 2B project work.

 

Simultaneous Engagement of the Public Domain Master Plan

A public domain master plan engagement for the Marrickville Village, Dulwich Hill Village and Station Precincts will be run simultaneously and alongside the LEP engagement.  These Master Plans are smaller and more specific than the LEP engagement strategy, have their own time table and resources, and are the subject of briefing notes to Council.  They are mentioned here so as to avoid confusion regarding the simultaneous engagement.   The aim of the Master Plans is to:

 

1.   Develop illustrative plans that identify urban design and landscape elements that can raise each precinct’s overall liveability and be delivered by Council or developers.

2.   Be guided by design principles outlined in the Inner West Council’s (IWC) Public Domain Design Guide, as follows:

a.         Enhancing liveability and placemaking;

b.         Promoting ecological sustainability;

c.         Activating the public domain;

d.         Creating accessible, inclusive and safe places;

e.         Fostering urban cohesion and shared identity; and

f.          Embedding maintenance and durability.

3.   Articulate a ten-year vision, with strategies costed and grouped as deliverable projects to ensure integration with the forward financial and asset plans for implementation.

 

The Master Plans will specifically address

 

·    Metro rail development and associated opportunities.

·    LEP 2B project and implications for changes in density  

·    Opportunities to better integrate and improve possible new and existing open space and plaza spaces in the local area

·    Opportunities to improve active transport and connections to the Greenway.

 

These engagements are being supported by smaller public domain specialists and council officers.  The LEP engagement and the public domain engagement offer important synergies in terms of matching the vision for future private development through standards and controls in the new planning instruments with development in the public domain and ensuring a match between the two spheres.  

 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The total cost of this early engagement project is within budget.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Housing Investigation Areas in Inner West Local Housing Strategy

2.

Timeline for LEP Phase 2B

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 1


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Attachment 2


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 15

Subject:         Pedestrian Safety Hazards in High Traffic Areas           

Prepared By:      David Paton - Road Access Manager and David Mathieson - Coordinator Civil Works  

Authorised By:  Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Infrastructure

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council at its meeting held on 14 June 2022, considered a Mayoral Minute on Pedestrian Safety Hazards in High Traffic Areas as resolved as follows

 

That Council receive a report at the August Council meeting identifying the current procedures for monitoring and reporting of pedestrian safety hazards in high traffic pedestrian thoroughfares and making recommendations about inspection, monitoring and repairs

 

Council’s Civil Maintenance and Streetscape Operations teams undertake a range of reactive and proactive maintenance measures to eliminate pedestrian safety hazards in high traffic areas. Reactive maintenance is initiated through customer reports or internal staff reporting.

 

With regard to internal staff reporting, Council has recently implemented a Damaged Assets Reporting system that enables staff to directly report maintenance issues (defects) in the field which can then be automatically sent to the appropriate work crews for action. This will enable maintenance staff such as street cleaning to report faults when they notice them in the field.  

 

Proactive maintenance is undertaken by staff who undertake audits of business centers with a comprehensive audit having been completed in June 2022 across the identified business centers below:

 

·    Stanmore

·    Petersham

·    Tempe Princes Highway

·    Marrickville

·    Dulwich Hill

·    Lewisham

·    Ashfield

·    Haberfield Centre

·    Parramatta Road

·    Norton Street Leichhardt

·    King Street Newtown

·    Enmore Road Enmore

·    New Canterbury Road

·    Rozelle (Darling Street)

·    Balmain(Darling Street)

·    Summer Hill

·    Illawarra Road

·    Wardell Road

·    Hurlstone Park

·    Metro Area Marrickville

·    Marion Street Leichhardt

·    Annandale Centre

 

 

Business center audits are undertaken on a 3 month cycle to identify and address hazards as they arise.

 

Council has also completed a comprehensive asset condition survey during 2021, using sophisticated vehicles to track every road and footpath in the LGA. This survey has provided Council with condition ratings for all transport assets, including footpaths. This data is being used to prioritise the 2022/23 footpath renewal program.

 

Council's regular budget for footpath renewal is $2M per year. Over the last two years, Council invested an additional $5.6M for the renewal of poor condition or failing footpaths. An additional $2M and $1M is also being added to the FY23 and FY24 budgets respectively, to renew the footpaths rated between Condition 4 and 5 through the comprehensive Asset Condition Audit conducted in 2021.

 

Council’s restoration team is also managing a significant program of works to repair new and historic damage caused by utility authorities undertaking installations in our roads and footpaths across the LGA, often within our Mainstreet areas. Utility authorities include Ausgrid, Jemena (gas), NBN, Telstra and other telecommunication companies.  

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 16

Subject:         Railway Parade, Annandale- cleaning and resheeting           

Prepared By:      David Paton - Road Access Manager and Lachlan Broadbent - Manager Parks and Streetscape Operations  

Authorised By:  Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Infrastructure

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

 

BACKGROUND

Council at its meeting held on 14 June 2022 considered a Notice of Motion regarding the Beautification of Railway Parade, Annandale and resolved in part that Council:

 

1.   Prepare a report back to the August council meeting about the management of Railway Parade, Annandale, including:

a.   The current cleaning and maintenance cycle for the area

b.   Information about when the road surface along Railway Parade is due to be upgraded.

 

Both Council’s Parks team and Streetscape team undertakes maintenance on Railway Parade, Annandale as the street is lined with grass verge on one side and the adjacent side being open space/parkland and sports field (Cohen Park) along Whites Creek Canal.

 

Streetscape maintenance

 

Streetscape crews service the street to the council endorsed verge mowing service levels.

 

Service standards for the verge mowing service are split into seasonal frequencies, that is;

 

·    Summer program from October to March with a 20 working day service cycle (verges to be mown at least once every 20 working days- weather pending)

·    Winter program from April to September with a 40 working day service cycle (verges to be mown at least once every 40 days working days – weather pending)

 

The service is made up of the following maintenance tasks:

·    Verges mown and edged

·    Weeds chipped down

·    Gutters and footpath cleaned

·    Removal of debris

 

Parks maintenance

 

The Parks North team service the open space/parkland along the canal as well as Cohen Park and the Sports field to the following service levels:

 

·    Summer mowing – every 3 weeks (weather permitting) – Sports field (Cohen Park) weekly mowed

·    Winter mowing – every 3-6 weeks (weather permitting) – Sports field ( Cohen Park) fortnightly mowed at a minimum

·    Rubbish removal – twice a week

·    Landscape works – Planned for every Winter and reactive pruning and weeding

 

 

Road resurfacing

 

Railway Parade and Brennan Street had been previously identified for renewal as part of the 2020/21 budget. However, due to the commencement of WestConnex works, this has been deferred to reduce the volume of work happening within the area and the damage that would occur to a new road surface adjacent to construction works.

 

 

Therefore, the resurfacing works were postponed until the construction of the overpasses at Brennan Street and The Crescent were substantially complete. The resurfacing is now scheduled to occur within the 2023/24 financial year, with design consultation and early civil preparations to occur in early 2023.

 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 17

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Rates Hardship and Rates Deferral: Councillor Briefing            

From:             Councillor John Stamolis  

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council receive a Councillor briefing on: 

 

1.   its rates hardship policy and any other rates deferral policies used by Inner West Council;

 

2.   the reasons for rates deferral policies by way of agreement with Council, which are outside its hardship policy;

 

3.   the numbers of persons who have accessed Councils rates hardship and rates deferral agreements for each of the past 3 years and the amounts deferred; and

 

4.   any rates recovery action (including legal) for each of the past 3 years undertaken by Council as a result of hardship, a deferral agreement or other reason.  

 

 

Background

 

Under the previous Councils it was usual that Councillors would be briefed on the operation of Councils rates hardship policy and the level of outstanding rates debt. 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 18

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Tenders for Out of School Hours Care           

From:             Councillor Dylan Griffiths  

 

 

Motion:

 

That:

 

1.   Council call upon the State Government to reverse its recent policy change whereby Out of School Hours Care services run by not-for-profits (including local government) must be put to tender upon the expiry of each licence to operate, and express this in writing to the relevant Minister and Shadow Minister;

 

2.   If tenders are called, submit tenders for all current Out of School Hours Care services it currently operates;

 

3.   Council consider any decision not to tender for an Out of School Hours Care service that it currently operates at a meeting of the Council; and

 

4.   Council seek strategic opportunities to expand council run Out of School Hours Care services.

 

Background

 

Council did not tender to continue providing Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) services at Wilkins Public School in Marrickville, despite users of the service hoping that it would tender to continue providing the service. Due to delays in the tender process there is now a period between council finishing the service and when the new provider who was successful in the tender will begin operation – this will mean that many parents looking to continue with the new provider will need to find an alternative service for the gap period.

 

Council currently operates OSHC at both Ferncourt Public and Marrickville West. At each school there are between 80-90 children enrolled (IE total 160-180).

 

Departmental policy was recently changed so that OSHC services that have been run by not-for-profits (including local government services) will be put out to tender, irrespective of the wishes of the schools' community and users of the service: cl 5.11.3 of Sharing of School Facilities Procedures. 

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

Comment from Director Community:

The NSW Department of Education policy in relation to re-tendering of Outside School Hours Care services (OSHC) is not limited to not-for-profit organisations (including local government). It is a state-wide policy required by changes to the NSW Government procurement framework across all State Government agencies, including public school premises. It is being applied to all OSHC providers across the State. 

 

Council has been operating 3 OSHC services at local public schools – Wilkins Public, Marrickville West and Ferncourt. When Wilkins Public School OSHC closes on 5th August there will be two services ongoing.  

 

The OSHC at Ferncourt Public School is held under a 5 year contract with an option for a 3 year extension. The Department of Education Asset Management Unit is responsible for any decision to re-tender the service. If there were to be a tender, Council would re-tender. The OSHC service at Marrickville West is currently on an ongoing contract with the Department of Education. Should the service be put to tender, Council would submit a tender. 

 

There is no gap in OSHC service delivery for parents at Wilkins Public School between Council finishing the service and when the new provider who is successful in the tender begins operation. Parents have access to the existing TASK OSHC service on-site at Wilkins throughout the period without any gap. This has been confirmed by the school Principal via the school newsletter and by TASK in its email direct to parents on 26/27th of July 2022. In addition, Council operations staff have been assisting families for several months in relation to providing continuity of services and at the Department of Education’s request throughout the unexpectedly lengthy tender process (which was due to commence in December 2021 and deferred to April 2022). 

 

OSHC staff and Council managers have had positive working relationships in assisting parents to transition their children to TASK, including with enrolment paperwork, CCS applications and ensuring that unused OSHC vouchers can be redeemed with TASK. 

 

OSHC staff have also had positive feedback from children and families in relation to Council’s OSHC service at Wilkins over the years. Families will be able to continue to access Council’s vacation care services at Ferncourt and Marrickville West once Wilkins closes. 

 

The Inner West Local Government Area is well serviced by OSHC providers and OSHC is not usually a service provided by Councils. Continuation of existing services at Ferncourt and Marrickville West is planned going forward. However, it should be noted that the OSHC service model is not considered a financially sustainable model for expansion due to local market competition and the large number of providers who deliver cheaper services. Demographic data and social research indicate that the highest demand will continue to be for long day care services. Council’s strategic financial and social investment continues to be in long day care and family day care which are in demand and will continue to be financially viable in the ten year forward plan. 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 19

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Marrickville Road and Buckley Street, Marrickville           

From:             Councillor Mathew Howard  

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council:

 

1.   Notes the dangerous intersection at Marrickville Road and Buckley Street, Marrickville;

 

2.   Notes pedestrian traffic is likely to increase significantly when the planned upgrade of Sydenham Station is complete;

 

3.   Notes the $2.8 million upgrade of Marrickville Road East planned to commence shortly, which will improve safety at intersections along Marrickville Road East by prioritising pedestrians over traffic by installing ‘threshold treatments’ at crossings and intersections and enlarging kerbs at street intersections with planting areas;

 

4.   As part of the design phase for the upgrades, considers further ways Council can improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists at the intersection; and

 

5.   Urgently writes to the Minister for Metropolitan Roads and Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic Violence asking that Transport for NSW investigate pedestrian and cyclist safety at the intersection and commit funds to improve safety at Buckley Street and Marrickville Road

 

 

Background

 

The intersection of Marrickville Road and Buckley Street has been a site of numerous pedestrian accidents and near-misses over the years, with significantly more pedestrian activity projected once the Sydenham Station upgrade is completed.

 

Inner West Council has committed to a comprehensive $2.8 million upgrade of Marrickville Road East, due to commence design in 2022/23 including:

 

●    Installing new street furniture including pedestrian seats, drink fountains, rubbish bins and bicycle racks

●    Prioritising pedestrians over traffic by installing ‘threshold treatments’ at crossings and intersections

●    Installing an additional north-south pedestrian crossing along Marrickville Road (East)

●    Improving safety by enlarging kerbs at street intersections with planting areas.

●    Paving footpaths

●    Providing a separated bicycle lane along Marrickville Road, connecting with the regional routes to the west (Meeks Road), and north (along Sydney Street and Railway Parade)

●    Retaining existing trees

●    Replacing low quality trees with new mature trees appropriate for their location

●    Installing new pedestrian lighting along the street

●    Retaining existing bus stop locations

●    Retaining existing car parking and business driveway accesses

●    Retaining the existing heritage walls along Marrickville Road and Railway Parade

●    Using the existing wall along Marrickville Road for public art

 

 

The intersection itself is the responsibility of Transport for NSW and the NSW State Government. In July 2017, funds were expended to install 30 metres of pedestrian fencing along the northern and southern sides of Buckley Street, starting from Marrickville Road, line marking renewal, additional signage and the introduction of advanced warning sides.

 

It is clear additional work is required.

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 20

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Defibrillators in the Inner West Local Government Area           

From:             Councillor Zoi Tsardoulias   

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council receive a report on public access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across the Inner West Local Government Area no later than the December Council 2022 meeting including:

 

1.   An audit of access, use, storage, and maintenance of AEDs at Council facilities, venues and sportsgrounds;

 

2.   A register and map of publicly accessible AEDs across the Inner West Local Government Area, including at council facilities, venues and sportsgrounds as well as identifying optimal locations for placement of additional AEDs in the community;

 

3.   Opportunities to expand public access to AEDs, including at Council owned venues and areas of intensive sports participation with recommendations and costings to do so; and

 

4.   Opportunities to expand training of how to use AEDs at Council-owned venues.

 

 

Background

 

An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable electronic device that is used to control heart fibrillation.

 

During a cardiac arrest, the heart stops. Symptoms include sudden collapse and loss of consciousness and no, or abnormal, breathing.

 

A defibrillator can help restore a normal heartbeat by applying an electric current and sending an electric shock to the heart, allowing the heart to re-establish an effective rhythm.

 

AEDs are designed to be easy to use and should be available to any members of the public in the event of an emergency.

 

It is quite shocking to believe that there is a lack of awareness about AEDs. Nearly one in three people have never heard of the lifesaving device which is often found in public places such as sporting grounds, shopping centres, supermarkets, schools, and gyms.

 

There are up to 15,000 cardiac arrests each year in Australia, and around 10,000 people die from sudden cardiac arrest. Surprisingly, where there is a defibrillator, up to 75% will either not be working due to battery and pad issues, not in its correct location, are out of warranty, have been misplaced, locked away outside of business hours and with no clear process to alert first responders positioned to assist until an ambulance arrives.

 

The Heart Foundation’s former Group CEO, Adjunct Professor, John Kelly has said; “We know that for every minute without CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) or treatment with an AED to restart the heart, your chances of surviving a cardiac arrest go down by 10 percent.

 

 

“After 10 minutes without it, there is little chance of survival at all. For people who have a cardiac arrest outside hospital, the survival rate is only 10%.”

 

Bystander use of an AED is one of the key opportunities for increasing survival from a cardiac arrest. Time-critical, AEDs must be retrievable within minutes of an arrest. For most cardiac arrest cases, the current distribution of AEDs in the community is just too sparse, and rates of AED-use by bystanders occurring in public locations remain quite low.

 

Using a defibrillator can mean the difference between life and death if someone is in cardiac arrest. The best medical advice warns us that access to an AED early on can significantly increase the chance of survival.

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 21

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Enhancing Active Transport Infrastructure           

From:             Councillor Timothy Stephens   

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council

 

1.   Notes that active transport, including walking and cycling, reduces congestion on our roads, improves public health, reduces carbon emissions and provides a cost-effective and safe way for people to travel;

 

2.   Notes that to support greater uptake in active transport participation, cycling infrastructure needs to be connected, direct, attractive and comfortable, for the safety of people who cycle and walk in the inner west;

 

3.   Acknowledges and thanks Council officers for developing the draft Inner West Cycling Strategy and Action Plan (IWCSAP) which has been informed by community feedback and will be released for community feedback later in 2022 and for adoption by Council in early 2023;

 

4.   Undertakes, to complement the IWCSAP:

 

a)   an audit of shovel-ready projects currently in development by Council to ensure there is an active pipeline of projects available for State and Federal Government funding rounds;

 

b)   an audit of existing cycling infrastructure, and planning of a program of works, to bringing existing cycling infrastructure up to standard;

 

c)   to enrol additional Council engineers in the Transport for NSW Designing for Pedestrians and Bicycle Riders;

 

d)   to reinstate quarterly meetings between Council engineers and representatives of the Inner West Bicycle Coalition to allow for vital cycling safety issues to be identified and addressed in a timely manner; and

 

e)   the preparation of a communications campaign to encourage greater cycling participation across our communities.

 

 

 

Background

 

A key goal of Council’s Community Strategic Plan (CSP) is to create liveable, connected neighbourhoods that allow people to walk, cycle and move around the Inner West with ease.

 

Council is currently developing the Inner West Cycling Strategy and Action Plan (IWCSAP) which aligns with the following intended outcomes in the CSP:

 

1.1 The people and infrastructure of Inner West contribute positively to the environment and tackling climate change

 

1.4 Inner West is a zero waste emissions community that generates and owns clean energy

 

2.6 People are walking, cycling and moving around Inner West with ease

 

3.5 Urban hubs and main streets are distinct and enjoyable places to shop, eat, socialise and be entertained

 

4.3 The community is healthy and people have a sense of wellbeing

 

 

Work on the IWSCAP has been informed by public feedback that has provided information on a wide range of issues relating to cycling in the Inner West, from safety concerns in specific streets through to broader concerns relating to enhancing cycling infrastructure generally.

 

The IWSCAP will be placed on public exhibition later in 2022 and will be presented to Council in early 2023 for adoption.

 

To ensure that Council is best placed to deliver the IWSCAP, there is merit in moving now to undertake practical and complementary measures to enhance active transport infrastructure.

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 22

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Deliberative Democracy           

From:             Deputy Mayor Jessica D'Arienzo  

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council:

 

1.   Is committed to community engagement giving the community an opportunity to participate in and influence Council’s decision-making. 

 

2.   In revising our draft community engagement policy and framework, will incorporate deliberative engagement practices to undertake quality community engagement based on a set of key democratic principles aimed at placing our community closer to our decision-making.

 

3.   Notes the principles of deliberative democracy can be applied to a range of contexts and formats and can include People’s Panels, Citizens’ Juries, participatory budgeting, deliberative panels and forums and Citizens’ Assemblies. 

 

 

Background

 

We continue to broaden our community engagement program, looking for new and innovative opportunities to facilitate communication and active engagement with our local community. Building on the success of our Local Matters Forums, Customer Service Stalls, reinvigorating our Local Democracy Groups and improving our YourSay website,  deliberative democracy is yet another innovative way to engage with our community on important decisions. We have the opportunity to make use of deliberative democracy in resolving public policy challenges in the inner west by convening citizens’ groups to inform Council. 

What is deliberative democracy? 

MosaicLab describes it as:

Deliberative democracy (or deliberative engagement) is all about placing people closer to the affairs of government - at the centre of the issue or decision that affects them.

 

Deliberation done right is powerful.  It can lead to new solutions for the most challenging problems we face (sometimes known as 'wicked' problems), improve policy outcomes and engender trust between citizens and government.

 

These processes build shared responsibility, meaning outcomes are more likely to 'stick'.  They are less adversarial than many traditional engagement approaches, and can result in a number of long-term, transformative benefits for both organisations and participants.

 

NewDemocracy Foundation say:

 

When given the authority, time, and information, everyday people take the tough questions, side-step party lines, and deliver sensible answers.

 

 

 

 

And Democracy Co state:

 

Deliberative democracy is concerned with improving collective decision-making. It emphasises the right, opportunity, and capacity of anyone who is subject to a collective decision to participate (or have their representatives participate) in consequential deliberation about that decision.

 

It creates sustainable solutions to complex problems; solutions that empower the community, connect the diverse interests of individuals and organisations, and give the government real, evidence-based solutions that improve peoples’ lives.

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Deliberation and Democratic Trust Measuring participant change across 10 Victorian councils, November 2021, Mosaic Lab

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 































Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 23

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Supporting Responsible Dog Ownership           

From:             Councillor Chloe Smith  

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council:

 

1.   Notes the rise in dog ownership across the Inner West LGA, Council’s significant investment in local dog parks and infrastructure, and the role of local government in facilitating responsible dog ownership;

 

2.   Acknowledges the risk that untrained or poorly socialised dogs can present to the community, including attacks on other dogs or people, and that cost can be a barrier to accessing dog training;

 

3.   Agrees to implement a trial of free puppy classes for dog owners in this Council term to encourage responsible dog ownership and activate our local dog parks;

 

4.   Investigates the feasibility, including cost, of providing this service in partnership with authorised local dog training providers;

 

5.   Undertakes an audit of:

a)   signage that provides information on designated on and off leash zones, dog prohibited zones, and instructions on off leash dog etiquette and dog safety including their location and condition; and

b)   patrolling for education and enforcement purposes, at all parks and dog parks across the LGA.

 

6.   Where signs are not in place in areas frequented by dogs, or are in places of low visibility or poor condition, Council agrees to resource their implementation or replacement; and

 

7.   Where patrolling is not in place at parks where dog owners could benefit from education or ranger visibility, that patrolling is considered.

 

 

 

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 24

Subject:         Notice of Motion: BayRun Event Funding 21 August 2022              

From:             Councillor Philippa Scott   

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council donate $2,000 to the BayRun event to be held on 21 August 2022 to ensure a successful event.

 

 

Background

 

The BayRun fun run is on Sunday 21 August 2022 and is one of Sydney's favorite community fun runs with a scenic 7km loop and 2km kids run.

 

This event has been a yearly event but due to Covid, the last event was held in 2019 where there were over 1000 local community members participating. The BayRun attracts families from the Annandale, Leichhardt, Haberfield, Rozelle, Lilyfield, Balmain, Drummoyne and Five Dock communities

 

The event organisers have reached out to WestConnex to support the community with funding for the event as the community has experienced incredible and ongoing disruption over the past few years from the WestConnex construction. with funding for the event but have not been successful.

 

The event organisers have reached out to Council as they are finding it difficult to secure enough funding to make the event a success. Small businesses are facing many challenges from Covid and the number of sponsors are down. The BayRun requires an additional $4,000 to fund the event.

 

Council has sent a letter to WestConnex asking them to consider funding $2,000 for the event.

 

This notice of motion seeks Council provide $2,000 funding to the BayRun to ensure a successful event.

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

Comment from Director Community and Director Planning:

 

As the recreation event benefits many residents and supports the local school, if the motion is carried, the $2,000 can be funded equally between the Community and Recreation budgets.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 25

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Inner West Council Procurement to one of the Leading Councils in NSW           

From:             Councillor Mark Drury   

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council acknowledge and thank staff for the significant work and progress made in making Inner West Council one of the Leading NSW councils in Procurement.

 

 

Background

 

In March 2022, Council engaged ArcBlue to conduct an independent review to test and validate improvements made to the procurement framework, good practice and to benchmark Council’s Procurement Services unit against other Councils. 

 

ArcBlue were originally engaged by Council in 2017 and worked with Council until 2019 to improve Procurement capability.

 

In 2017 Council’s Procurement Services were ranked as “emergent” which is the first step on the ladder to becoming a leading Council in Procurement. At the end of the LEAP Program in 2019 Council had improved to “developing” which is a step up from “emergent.” 

 

The Procurement Services unit worked to implement the recommendations from the 2019 report and implement a framework to improve governance, compliance and operations to address both Legislative and audit requirements.

 

ArcBlue have completed their review and benchmarking of IWC’s Procurement Services and provided a comprehensive report. ArcBlue benchmarked IWC against 37 other Councils for the following dimensions: systems, number of full time equivalents working in Procurement, number of tenders per year, spend benchmarks, roles and responsibilities, leadership and the Procurement Framework. 

 

Inner West Council is now ranked fifth out of 37 in overall maturity moving them from “developing” in 2019 to a “leading” Council in 2022. 

 

Some of the progress noted in the report are as follows: 

“The Procurement function at Inner West Council has shown significant improvement over the years from 2017-2022 as reflected in LEAP Data, Review of intranet Resources and Governance Framework” 

 

“In ArcBlue’s assessment Inner West Council’s procurement function is advanced in comparison to other Councils in many key dimensions and have made significant gains since the merger which presented a challenging starting point.”

 

The report goes on to recognise that Council’s Procurement Services has a culture of continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement. They provide easy access for staff to training and resources and has a strong commitment to sustainable procurement. 

 

This outcome evidences the significant work and progress made by the Corporate Services Procurement Team to lift Council’s Procurement to one of the leading Councils in NSW.

 

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 26

Subject:         Question on Notice: Amalgamation           

From:             Councillor Marghanita Da Cruz   

 

Question

 

What funds have been paid to Morrison&Lowe since amalgamation (proclamation of the Inner West Council) and for what purpose?

 

Answer

 

 

 

Details on the above below:

 

·    Council General – review of Parks reporting line

·    De-amalgamation - this is the work completed for the cost benefit analysis undertaken and the current business case process currently being undertaken inclusive of attendance at meetings and presentations provided.

·    Finance General – work completed covering the budget and QBRS process with senior staff to understand any problems with the process and develop a formal budget and forecasting user manual to be shared with all staff who participate in these processes and the complete review of the Budget, the LTFP and the annual Depreciation expense.

·    Rates Harmonisation – Council requested an external consultancy be contracted to perform the modelling and councillor briefings for the rates harmonisation process

·    Service Reviews – Workforce Strategy, Property and Parks AMPs, Urban Ecology

 

Question

 

What funds have been paid to Micromex since amalgamation and for what purpose?

 

Answer

 

 

 

 

 

Question

 

 

What funds and for what purpose have been paid to Tech One before and since they were awarded an expanded contract by the administrator in 2017?

 

Answer

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 27

Subject:         Question on Notice: Council Investments           

From:             Councillor John Stamolis  

 

Council currently has one quarter of a billion dollars of investments.  At March 2022 this was $253.2 million.

 

 

Investments

Change

Interest received ($)

Other change ($)

Portfolio return

Jun-20

$223,460,607

 

 

 

2.22%

Jul-20

$223,455,614

-$4,993

 

 

2.31%

Aug-20

$223,460,179

$4,565

 

 

1.30%

Sep-20

$223,464,595

$4,416

 

 

1.62%

Oct-20

$216,467,512

-$6,997,083

 

 

1.85%

Nov-20

$223,570,419

$7,102,907

 

 

1.80%

Dec-20

$223,573,327

$2,908

 

 

1.83%

Jan-21

$219,475,955

-$4,097,372

 

 

1.57%

Feb-21

$230,178,865

$10,702,910

 

 

1.25%

Mar-21

$230,181,682

$2,817

 

 

1.30%

Apr-21

$230,184,594

$2,912

 

 

1.13%

May-21

$227,187,412

-$2,997,182

 

 

1.02%

Jun-21

$227,187,412

$0

 

 

0.91%

Jul-21

$230,190,326

$3,002,914

 

 

0.90%

Aug-21

$230,177,691

-$12,635

 

 

0.90%

Sep-21

$238,929,760

$8,752,069

 

 

0.67%

Oct-21

$242,931,219

$4,001,459

 

 

0.25%

Nov-21

$248,917,111

$5,985,892

 

 

0.24%

Dec-21

$248,918,570

$1,459

 

 

0.23%

Jan-22

$252,670,029

$3,751,459

 

 

0.12%

Feb-22

$257,416,660

$4,746,631

 

 

0.18%

Mar-22

$253,180,765

-$4,235,895

 

 

-0.38%

 

 

Questions

 

-     Show the amount of monthly interest received?

-     Show any other change(s) and explain what this includes?

-     Detail how the monthly portfolio return is calculated?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Answer

 

 

EOM Current Value of Investments

Change

Interest accrued ($)

Capital Gains/Loss

Portfolio return (% per annum)

Jun-20

$225,901,662

 

 

 

 

Jul-20

$226,205,222

$303,560

$274,724

$160,985

2.31%

Aug-20

$226,201,161

-$4,061

$262,700

-$27,640

1.30%

Sep-20

$225,966,630

-$234,531

$252,847

$44,350

1.62%

Oct-20

$226,152,581

$185,951

$251,534

$97,012

1.85%

Nov-20

$219,160,336

-$6,992,245

$233,248

-$29,656

1.13%

Dec-20

$226,236,245

$7,075,909

$233,471

-$113,617

0.65%

Jan-21

$226,180,459

-$55,786

$231,014

-$99,320

0.70%

Feb-21

$221,638,852

-$4,541,607

$202,998

-$506,503

-1.79%

Mar-21

$231,991,643

$10,352,791

$225,927

-$61,518

0.85%

Apr-21

$231,940,115

-$51,528

$213,829

-$13,094

1.07%

May-21

$231,957,643

$17,528

$212,205

-$43,437

0.87%

Jun-21

$228,904,660

-$3,052,983

$195,243

-$43,697

0.84%

Jul-21

$232,223,908

$3,319,248

$201,199

$209,064

2.14%

Aug-21

$232,264,961

$41,053

$199,120

-$62,873

0.70%

Sep-21

$240,196,219

$7,931,258

$190,766

-$408,669

-1.12%

Oct-21

$243,468,292

$3,272,073

$196,820

-$814,187

-3.04%

Nov-21

$249,463,267

$5,994,975

$193,884

-$5,543

0.92%

Dec-21

$249,448,367

-$14,900

$202,594

-$89,900

0.53%

Jan-22

$252,916,041

$3,467,674

$203,547

-$316,535

-0.53%

Feb-22

$257,256,912

$4,340,871

$190,037

-$406,617

-1.10%

Mar-22

$251,093,893

-$6,163,019

$213,054

-$1,426,390

-5.46%

Apr-22

$240,764,555

-$10,329,338

$166,430

-$340,904

-0.85%

May-22

$248,273,478

$7,508,923

$203,150

-$550,733

-1.65%

 

Notes:

 

1.   The original table had the portfolio's Face Value in the Investments column, this has been updated to Current Value.  The Current Value takes into account the changes in market valuations;

 

2.   The calculation for the overall performance is more complicated than just taking the net change in value versus the prior month's Current Value;

 

3.   The Calculation is ((Total Accrued Interest for the month + Total Capital Gain/Loss of Market traded securities)/Weighted Days)*365;

 

4.   Weighted Days (not shown) is the summation of all individual securities' returns for the month weighted by their $ amount and time held during the month; and

 

5.   It is the Weighted Days calculation which brings into account the change in Current Value of the portfolio on an individual security basis, including new purchases/maturities/sales, and for which a complex system is required

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 28

Subject:         Question on Notice: Outdoor Synthetic Sports Surfaces           

From:             Councillor Marghanita Da Cruz  

 

Comment by the General Manager:

 

Answer to questions will be provided at an Ordinary Council meeting in September 2022.

 

 

 

With regard to Tempe Synthetic Turf Field and noting: 

(a)   Football NSW Limited report, which says in 2017: "The process of planning and construction of synthetic fields can be complicated and while this is not a “howto” Guide it is designed to streamline the procedure and help clubs engage with councils to choose the most appropriate synthetic surface for their particular needs and appoint the most suitable contractor for construction and ongoing maintenance.
This Guide was compiled by Football NSW and Northern NSW Football in association with Synthetic Field expert Martin Sheppard, Managing Director of Smart Connection Consultancy." SYNTHETIC FIELDS A guide to synthetic surfaces for Football(2017) Football NSW Limited
https://footballfacilities.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2018/10/SyntheticFields-v2-2017.pdf

(b)   Smart Connection Consultancy has produced a number of volumes of the Smart Guide to Synthetic Sports Surfaces available via www.smartconnection.net.au

(c)   Smart Guide 1.Synthetic Sports Surfaces, Surfaces and Standards.
Martin Sheppard, Managing Director, Smart Connection Consultancy
ISBN: 978-0-9942880-2-8

The volumes of the Smart Guides to Synthetic Sports Surfaces are:
• Volume 1: Surfaces and Standards (2021)
• Volume 2: Football Turf – Synthetic and Hybrid Technology (2021)
• Volume 3: Environmental and Sustainability Considerations (2021)
• Volume 4: Challenges, Perceptions and Reality (2021)
• Volume 5: Maintenance of Synthetic Long Pile Turf (2021)
• Volume 6: Multi-Sports Areas for Schools and Local Communities (2021)
• Volume 7: Minimising the Impact of Microplastics on the Environment (2021)

 

 

Question

 

What is it a mixture of cork and organic materials installed in the infill at Tempe

Question

 

Where does the cork originate and who supplies it?

Question

 

How often does the cork have to be replaced?

 

 

 

Question

 

How much is budgeted to maintain the cork infill cost per annum?

Question

 

Has the cork been pre-treated to stop mould and other vegetation growing on it?

Question

 

If the cork has not been pre-treated what products are used to stop weed growth on the oval?

 

Question

 

What anti - static or surfactant products used on your cork infill fields as advised by the manufacturer?

Question

 

What is the composition of cleaning products are specified by the manufacture

Question

 

Did cork infill have to be topped up after the recent heavy rains in Sydney?

Question

 

Industry expert Martin Sheppard in November 2019, found organic infills “are light and with heavy rain, cause floating effects.”  Given this why was organic infill subsequently installed at Tempe Reserve, in an area known to be flood affected

Question

 

What investigations did Council undertake as to the need for water cannons to keep the infill moist?

Question

 

As Martin Sheppard report advised against the use of organic infill (cork/coconut and cork combined) in ‘open fields’ or outdoor fields "will not be appropriate.", why  did Council proceed with the installation of the material?

Question

 

Martin Sheppard states “The breakdown of organic fibres, increased likelihood of weeds and need for substantial watering means a big question mark remains over this option for Australian Local governments.” how will this be managed at Tempe.

Question

 

What whole of life costings have been undertaken by IWC re the cost implications of cork infill given that these synthetic turf fields require greater maintenance, earlier renewal of infill (3-7 years) and an inability for cork infilled fields to be recycled due to organic material contamination with inorganic materials.

 

 

 

Question

 

Given the initial costings for Tempe Recreation Reserve involved the use of crumb rubber infill how was the budget revised to install and maintain cork instead.

Question

 

Martin Sheppard advises that cork infill in the fields may become very dry and show harsh effects such as being rough on the skin and become dusty as the cork dries out and breaks down. What actions do Council intend to undertake to mitigate this?

Question

 

Martin Sheppard also advised "the cork also needs additional maintenance and replacement will be a higher cost and more frequent than rubber. Add $10,000 p.a." Has the additional cost been reflected in increased usage and fees charged for use of the field?

Question

 

Given that the cork infill has been rearranged when the fields were flooded, leaving the cork unevenly distributed, what testing has been undertaken to ensure that risk of injury and damage to the surface have been mitigated?

Question

 

What is council's operating and capital budget for synthetic turf over the next 10 years

Question

 

What does the operating budget include in the short(4yr) and long-term(10yr)?

Question

 

What does the capital budget include in the short(4yr) and long-term(10yr)?

Question

 

What happened at Tempe, in February 2022, with the newly installed synthetic turf which caused the spillage of the underlay into nearby vegetation and waterway

Question

 

What is the operating and capital budget for grass playing fields?

Question

 

What are the specifications for materials and installation in our existing synthetic fields?

Question

 

What are the specifications for the materials and installation of the planned synthetic fields.

Question

 

What is the contribution to synthetic fields in terms of fees and co-contributions by sporting clubs

 

 

 

Question

 

What grants have been received from State and Federal Government for synthetic fields and natural turf fields.

Question

 

How is the Heat effect of Synthetic fields to be reduced in summer?

Question

 

What are the disposal costs of our synthetic fields material?

 

Question

How many hours are our each of our synthetic fields used?

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 29

Subject:         Question on Notice: Disclosure of Councillor Information           

From:             Councillor Liz Atkins   

 

 

It has been reported in the media that councillor declarations of interests were removed from the Inner West Council website because personal information (residential addresses) of councillors had been disclosed.

 

Question

 

Did such disclosure of personal information occur, when and for how long?

Answer

 

No. The 2020/2021 (previous term Councillors) Annual Returns (Returns) were first published in October 2021 with residential addresses redacted. Other property addresses like investment properties were not redacted.

 

In April 2022, the Returns for the new Councillors were published with residential and other properties redacted. While publishing the new Councillor Returns, it was identified that the 2020/2021 Returns published online included other property addresses which were not residential. The 2020/2021 Returns were then removed from the website to further redact all properties listed on Part A of the Annual Returns Form (Form). The 2020/2021 Returns were republished online in June 2022.

 

Some Councils have not redacted the information for other properties, but Inner West Council have treated this information as personal information and have redacted it.

 

Returns that are currently online are for the 2020/21 Returns and Returns for new Councillors.  However, members of the public can inspect previous Returns noting that personal information will be redacted.

 

Designated persons identified by the General Manager are also required to complete the Form. Designated persons include all Councillors and the Executive team. All Returns are treated the same.

 

Question

 

Did it affect all Councillors?

Answer

 

No, and Inner West Council do not publish the residential address of a designated person. However, Returns for the 2020/21 Councillors were removed from the website to further redact information relating to other properties listed in Part A of the Form. 

 

Question

 

What personal information is redacted from the declarations of interest before they are published on the website?

Answer

 

Council redacts information in accordance with the Information and Privacy Commission (IPC) guideline which includes signatures, residential address and any information that pertains to the day-to-day life of the designated person.

 

Some Councils publish the Returns online and others do not publish the Returns online, but members of the public can inspect the Returns.

 

Inner West Council has followed the IPC’s recommendation to publish the Returns online. Each council applies the Government Information (Public Access) Information Act 2009 differently in terms of the information redacted.

 

Question

 

Who is responsible for redaction of residential addresses of councillors?

Answer

 

Governance staff.

 

Question

 

What checks are done to ensure that the addresses redacted are in fact the residential addresses of the Councillors in question?

Answer

 

Part A of the Form requires the designated person to identify the nature of their property interest which includes residential address, joint tenancy, lease or other interests. Council staff will only confirm with the designated person if the properties listed on the Form does not identify a residential address. 

 

As outlined above, Inner West Council treats all addresses listed in Part A of the Form as personal information and redacts them.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 30

Subject:         Question on Notice: Inner West Council Rates Recovery Policy           

From:             Councillor Liz Atkins   

 

 

Section 564 of the Local Government Act 1993 provides that:

 

1)   A council may accept payment of rates and charges due and payable by a person in accordance with an agreement made with the person. 

2)   The council may write off or reduce interest accrued on rates or charges if the person complies with the agreement. 

 

Question

 

For what reasons would Council enter into an agreement for rates deferrals which are outside its hardship policy?

 

Answer

 

If a ratepayer cannot afford to pay the total outstanding balance in a single transaction, a payment arrangement is available at any time under Section 564 of the Local Government Act - Arrangements to pay Rates Payment Arrangements. In accordance with Section 564 of the Act, Council may enter into a formal agreement with a ratepayer eligible for alternative periodical payment arrangements for due and payable rates, and charges. Council or the ratepayer may initiate a proposal for a periodical payment agreement.

 

Question

 

How does Council recover unpaid rates from a deceased estate?

 

Answer

 

When a property is sold, Council is first in line for the recovery of any outstanding rates. Rates are a secured debt and are linked to the property not the owner.

 

Question

 

How much is owed to Council in unpaid rates from deceased estates?

 

Answer

 

Council receives no information to identify deceased estates from other property.

 

Question

 

How many actions is Council currently taking to recover unpaid rates, whether or not from deceased estates, and what is the cost of such recovery?

 

Answer

 

Council currently has 165 payment arrangements with property owners and a further 65 accounts with Council’s external debt recovery agent with pending legal action.

 

Legal costs for the external debt recovery agent vary as they relate to the balance outstanding at the time the debt recovery process is taking place; whilst it is not a flat rate a minimum estimate would be approximately $550 per case and court fees.

 

Question

 

Does Council recover the costs from ratepayers?

 

Answer

 

Yes – all associated costs of recovery is recovered from the ratepayer. All legal costs where required are added to the specific rates account and are linked to the property and the current owner.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 31

Subject:         Question on Notice: Civic Ceremony Hosting and Funding            

From:             Councillor Justine Langford   

 

 

It is noted that a Civic Ceremony was recently hosted at Marrickville Town Hall for newly elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

 

Question

 

Did Council host this ceremony?

 

Answer

 

Yes

 

Question

 

Did Council pay for this ceremony?

 

Answer

 

Yes

 

Question

 

Who was invited?

 

Answer

 

600 community members were invited including all Councilors.

 

Question

 

What was the cost? (both in $ terms and staff resources)

 

Answer

 

$10,735 cost for food, drinks, audio equipment etc

 

$617 for 3 staff who worked on the evening.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 32

Subject:         King George Park & Easton Park Upgrades Tender Report           

Prepared By:      Tim Brown - Coordinator Parks Project Delivery  

Authorised By:  Manod Wickramasinghe - Acting Director Infrastructure

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council allocated a budget in the 22/23 Capital Works program to upgrade the King George Park and Easton Park sporting fields. These upgrades works are consistent with the recommendations in the IWC Sporting Grounds Condition Report (January 2022).

 

The scope of works includes the laser grading of the playing surface, installation of sub-surface field drainage, field irrigation upgrade, change of turf grass species and sports field lighting upgrade at King George Park.

 

On the 8 June 2022, Council went out to public tender through Vendor Panel for the upgrade the King George Park and Easton Park sporting fields works. Tenders closed on 1 July 2022.

 

Subject to the adoption of the tender, construction works are scheduled to commence at King George Park and Easton Park in late August 2022 with completion in March 2023. Existing sport at the grounds have been rescheduled with Balmain Little Athletics and Women’s 6 a Side soccer being relocated from King George Park to Waterfront Drive Sporting Ground. Balmain South Sydney Cricket are being relocated to other IWC sporting Grounds.

 

Tenders were evaluated in accordance with Council’s Purchasing Policy and Procedures and the Local Government Act 1993 and General Regulations 2005.

 

The Tender Report including the Evaluation Committee’s report and discussion is attached as Confidential Attachment 1.

 

Council may move into closed session to deal with the King George Park & Easton Park Upgrades Tender Report, for information which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993. The matter is deemed confidential, as the matter is commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.

 

Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Tender Report King George Park & Easton Park Upgrade - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.

  


Council Meeting

9 August 2022

 

Item No:         C0822(1) Item 33

Subject:         Update on Acquisition of Investment Properties           

Prepared By:      Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager  

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

 

Council will move into closed session to deal with the Update on Acquisition of Investment Properties, which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(c), 10A(2)(d)(i) and 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993. This matter is deemed confidential, as the matter is commercial information of a confidential nature that would if disclosed, would confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct), prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it and confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

 

Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(c), 10A(2)(d)(i) and 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Update on acquisition of Investment Properties - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.