Agenda of Council Meeting

Council Meeting

20 July 2021

Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held remotely and livestreamed on Council’s website on 29 June 2021

Meeting commenced at 6.35pm

Present:
Darcy Byrne Victor Macri Marghanita Da Cruz Mark Drury Lucille McKenna OAM Colin Hesse Sam Iskandar Tom Kiat Pauline Lockie Julie Passas Rochelle Porteous Vittoria Raciti John Stamolis Louise Steer Anna York Peter Gainsford Simon Duck	Mayor Deputy Mayor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor General Manager Acting Director Development and Recreation
Cathy Edwards-Davis	Director Infrastructure
Caroline McLeod Peter Livanes Daryl Jackson Harjeet Atwal Aaron Callaghan	Acting Director City Living Acting Director Corporate Chief Financial Officer Senior Manager Planning Parks & Recreation Planning Manager
Katherine Paixao	Acting Manager Governance
Carmelina Giannini	Acting Governance Coordinator

APOLOGIES: Nil

DISCLOSURES OF INTERESTS:

Councillor Steer declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 28 Appointment of Panel Members for the Inner West Local Planning Panel as she gave advice to one of the candidates some time ago.

Councillor Byrne declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 7 New Arrangements for Mayoral Support as the matter relates to staffing in his office and declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 15 Notice of Motion: Mayor to Stand Down and due to its material impact on him and he will leave the meeting during discussion and voting for both items.

Councillor Macri declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 15 Notice of Motion: Mayor Stand Down and will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.

Motion: (Da Cruz/McKenna OAM)

THAT Council note the disclosures of interest.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

Motion: (Macri/Stamolis)

THAT the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 8 June 2021 and Extraordinary Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 8 June 2021 be confirmed.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

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.

The Mayor issued a warning at 8:09pm to Clr Passas for her repeated interjections.

C0621(3) Item 33 Revised Delivery Program 2018-2022 year 4, Operational Plan, Budget, and Fees and Charges 2021-22 - outcomes of public exhibition

Motion: (Drury/McKenna OAM)

THAT Council:

1. Note the outcomes of the public exhibition of Council’s draft key strategic Documents

2. Adopt a Rating Structure to harmonise rates as required by the NSW Government, over eight (8) years commencing 1 July 2021 including:

a) Reallocation of $600,000 of rate revenue from Business General category, to be evenly levied across the shopping mall subcategories;

b) 100% harmonisation of minimum rates as follows:

i. Residential minimum $850

ii. Business general minimum $820

3. Note that the budget includes a Domestic Waste Management Charge subsidy which will return $5.8M to ratepayers in 2021/22 and help to smooth out changes in rates caused by Rates Harmonisation;

4. Adopt the draft:

a) Revised Delivery Program 2018-22 year 4, and Operational Plan and Budget 2021-22;

b) Fees and Charges 2021-22;

c) Long Term Financial Plan 2021-31; and

d) General Rates Revenue Policy.

5. Increase the COVID Stimulus Package by an additional $1.3m from s.94 (s.11) funds for the purposes of delivering the Iron Cove Creek Masterplan ($100k) and additional footpath renewal ($1.2m);

6. Note that this budget has $3 090 000 for the planting of new trees council commits to an ongoing annual spend of no less $2 million to massively increase the number of trees in the Inner West;

7. Council notes the 30 submissions and the officer’s responses about further action in particular the transition to electric vehicles and “Climate” related proposals;

8. Exhibit a change to the fee for the ‘Pensioner Concession’ (to be renamed 'Social Security Recipient Concession' to apply to social security recipients including JobSeekers, DSP, etc) rate for all aquatic centres to the LPAC rate of $1.20. That Council officers bring a report back to Council on the implication of the fee change when the public exhibition has concluded;

9. Note the demand for increased investment in safe cycling infrastructure and prioritise this for future delivery plans;

10. Note the budget includes funding for traffic/ transport investigations/studies necessary to progress the Bicycle Strategy. Council to communicate with BUGs re relevant studies and investigations planned in their areas;

11. The annual training budget for the traffic and engineering team be increased to allow all relevant staff to develop their expertise in designing for pedestrians and bicycle riders; and

12. Note its previous resolutions that childcare fees should not be seen as a vehicle for budget repair, and it maintain childcare fees at the exhibited rate for the year to 30 June 2022 rather than seeking an increase from 1 Jan 2022.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Crs Macri, Passas and Raciti

Amendment (Hesse/Da Cruz)

THAT point 2 be amended from 4 years to 8 years.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Crs Byrne, Drury, McKenna OAM, Passas, Raciti and York

As the amendment was carried, it was incorporated into the primary motion.

Foreshadowed Motion (Passas)

THAT the rates harmonisation structure be adopted immediately (point 2)

This Foreshadowed motion lapsed.

Foreshadowed Motion (Passas)

THAT Council defer the budget consideration.

The Mayor ruled this out of order as it is not in line with the Local Government Act.

Suspension of Standing Orders

Motion: (Porteous/Byrne)

THAT Council bring forward Items 32, and go into confidential session for confidential items which are Items 28, 29, 30 and 31 to be dealt with at this time.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Cr Passas

C0621(3) Item 32 Greater Sydney Parklands White Paper and Callan Park

Motion: (Porteous/Byrne)

THAT Council make a submission in relation to the NSW Government White Paper-Parklands for the People noting that:

1. The NSW Government recognises the historical, cultural, environmental and recreational importance of Callan Park. It is the jewel of the Inner West;

2. The governance and management of Callan Park should be local and under one body, the Callan Park Trust;

3. Council rejects the carve up of Callan Park into different precincts;

4. Council rejects that a significant part of Callan Park has been handed over to the Greater Sydney Parklands; and

5. Council reiterates its strong and unwavering support for the Callan Park Act 2002 and for the establishment of the Callan Park Trust to manage and govern the whole of Callan Park.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Crs Passas and Raciti

Confidential Session

Motion: (Porteous/Byrne)

THAT Council enter into Confidential session.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Cr Passas

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

C0621(3) Item 28 Appointment of Panel Members for the Inner West Local Planning Panel contains personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors) (Section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993).

C0621(3) Item 29 Tree Management and Maintenance Services Contract (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.

C0621(3) Item 30 Lease to Transport for NSW - Land in Camdenville Park and Campbell Street St Peters (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 (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 (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; AND (Section 10A(2)(d)(iii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed reveal a trade secret.

C0621(3) Item 31 Review of Organisational Structure contains personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors) (Section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993).

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the meeting and vacated the chair at 8:51 pm and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Macri assumed the Chair.

ADJOURNMENT

8.51pm - The Deputy Mayor, Clr Macri adjourned the meeting for a short recess.

9.01pm– The Deputy Mayor, Clr Macri resumed the meeting.

Reports with Confidential Information

C0621(3) Item 28 Appointment of Panel Members for the Inner West Local Planning Panel

Motion (Da Cruz/Passas)

1. Appoint Prof. David Lloyd as the primary chair and Gary Shiels and Heather Wharton as the alterative chairs on the Inner West Local Planning Panel as selected by the Minister of Planning and Public Spaces;

2. Extends the term of Ken Hawke and Kath Roach as Community Representatives on the Inner West Local Planning Panel to 30 October 2021 and re-advertises for community representatives through all our communication channels with a view to attracting applicants with a diversity of backgrounds; and

3. Appoint David Johnson, John McInerney, Brian Kirk, Jan Murrell, Kim Crestani, Mary-Lynne Taylor, Lisa Trueman and Lindsey Dey from the Department of Planning Industry and Environment shortlist as independent experts on the Inner West Local Planning Panel.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Crs Drury, McKenna OAM and York

Absent: Cr Byrne

Foreshadowed Motion: (McKenna OAM)

THAT Council:

2. Appoint Ken Hawke, Kath Roach, Narelle Butler and Silvia Correia from the Expression of Interest process as Community Representatives on the Inner West Local Planning Panel; and

This foreshadowed motion lapsed.

Councillor Porteous left the Meeting at 9:31 pm.

Councillor Porteous returned to the Meeting at 9:37 pm.

C0621(3) Item 29 Tree Management and Maintenance Services Contract

Motion: (Stamolis/Passas)

THAT:

1. Given the high priority and policy focus on trees and environment by Inner West Council and its community, as well as the strong desire for improved servicing in this priority area, that Council defer this decision to be fully briefed on the tenders; and

2. Council note that the quote from successful tender is well below the average and the median of the quotes.

Motion Lost

For Motion: Crs Passas, Raciti and Stamolis

Against Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Steer and York

Absent: Cr Byrne

Foreshadowed Motion (Hesse/Drury)

That the tender submitted by Treescape Australasia Pty Ltd for the Tree Management and Maintenance Services Contract alternate Schedule of Rates be accepted.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Steer and York

Against Motion: Crs Passas, Raciti and Stamolis

Absent: Cr Byrne

C0621(3) Item 30 Lease to Transport for NSW - Land in Camdenville Park and Campbell Street St Peters

Motion: (McKenna OAM/Drury)

THAT Council approves the proposed short-term construction leases to Transport for NSW for the rental amounts specified in the report and delegate authority to the General Manager to finalise the terms and execute the section 30 agreement and leases.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Cr Byrne

C0621(3) Item 31 Review of Organisational Structure

Motion: (McKenna OAM/Da Cruz)

THAT:

1. Council proceed with the proposed new organisation structure of four Directors and General Counsel reporting to the General Manager as outlined below:

· Director Planning;

· Director Corporate;

· Director Community;

· Director Infrastructure; and

· General Counsel.

2. That only the General Manager be employed on a senior staff contract; and

3. All other staff be employed in permanent positions.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Cr Passas

Absent: Cr Byrne

Amendment (Hesse/McKenna OAM)

THAT the following amendments be included as additional points:

2. That only the General Manager be employed on a senior staff contract; and

3. All other staff be employed in permanent positions.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Macri and Passas

Absent: Cr Byrne

Amendment (Stamolis/Passas)

THAT a Director of Finance be created.

Motion Lost

For Motion: Crs Passas, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti and York

Absent: Cr Byrne

Motion: (Macri/Passas)

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

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Cr Byrne

Councillor York retired from the Meeting at 10:18 pm.

C0621(3) Item 1 Local Government Remuneration Tribunal Determination 2021

Motion: (Hesse/McKenna OAM)

THAT the Mayor and Councillor Fees for 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022 be set at the maximum level for a Metropolitan Large council.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Byrne and York

C0621(3) Item 2 Companion Animals - Off Leash Park Areas and the Segregation of Larger Dogs from Smaller Dogs in Fenced and Time Shared Areas

Motion: (Macri/Hesse)

THAT:

1. The report be received and noted;

2. Council initiate a 12 month trial at Tempe off leash dog park encouraging dog walkers to use the segregated areas for large and small dogs through self-regulated signage;

3. Appropriate shade trees be provided to all fenced dog off leash areas to ensure improved visual and cooling amenity to people and dogs; and

4. As budget may allow, a fenced off leash dog park be provided at Marrickville Park on the same location as the current unfenced off leash dog walking area following appropriate community consultation.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Hesse, Kiat, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Crs Drury, Iskandar, Lockie and Passas

Absent: Cr Byrne and York

C0621(3) Item 3 Aquatics Centres opening Hours

Motion: (Drury/Da Cruz)

THAT:

1. Council note the additional expenses of estimated $400,000 for increase in opening times for the indoor Aquatic Centres to 10pm Monday to Friday;

2. Council note attendance after 7pm is comparatively low across the indoor Aquatic Centres;

3. The opening hours for the Aquatic Centres remain unchanged however some harmonisation of opening hours for weekends and public holidays to take place for the Aquatic Centres from 2022 onwards.

4. A further report be brought back on extending the Ashfield pool and other pools in the summer season.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Byrne and York

C0621(3) Item 4 Investment Report as at 30 April 2021.

Motion: (McKenna OAM/Macri)

THAT the report be received and noted.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Byrne and York

C0621(3) Item 5 Electricity Procurement

Motion: (Macri/McKenna OAM)

THAT Council receive and note the pre-tender electricity procurement report.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Cr Byrne and York

C0621(3) Item 6 Investment Report as at 31 May 2021

Motion: (Stamolis/McKenna OAM)

THAT the report be received and noted.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Cr Byrne and York

As the Mayor declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 7 New Arrangements for Mayoral Support as the matter relates to staffing in his office, he remained out of the meeting during discussion and voting.

Councillor Raciti retired from the Meeting at 10:40 pm.

Councillor Lockie retired from the Meeting at 10:44 pm.

C0621(3) Item 7 New Arrangements for Mayoral Support

Motion: (McKenna OAM/Drury)

THAT Council:

1. Receive and note the report;

2. Notes that the current arrangement for the Office of the Mayor have been abolished;

3. Notes that the 2.6 FTE administrative staff from the Office of the Mayor are now working with the governance team to provide support to all councillors including the Mayor;

4. Notes that the 2 FTE media and communications staff from the Office of the Mayor have been relocated to work with the media and communications team; and

5. Endorse these changes in principle for the upcoming review of the Councillors Expenses and Facilities policy, with a maximum of one FTE administrative support for the Mayor.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Hesse, Kiat, Macri, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Crs Drury, Iskandar, McKenna OAM and Passas

Absent: Crs Byrne, Lockie and York

Amendment (Kiat/Hesse)

THAT Council:

1. Notes that the current arrangement for the Office of the Mayor have been abolished;

2. Notes that the 2.6 FTE administrative staff from the Office of the Mayor are now working with the governance team to provide support to all councillors including the Mayor;

3. Notes that the 2 FTE media and communications staff from the Office of the Mayor have been relocated to work with the media and communications team; and

4. Endorse these changes in principle for the upcoming review of the Councillors Expenses and Facilities policy, with a maximum of one FTE administrative support for the Mayor.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Hesse, Kiat, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Crs Drury, Iskandar, Macri, McKenna OAM and Passas

Absent: Crs Byrne, Lockie, Raciti and York

As the amendments were carried, they were incorporated into the primary motion.

Amendment (Passas)

THAT Council have a complete independent investigation in how this came about.

This amendment lapsed for a want of seconder.

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 10:52 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Macri vacated the Chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the Chair.

C0621(3) Item 8 Development of Rozelle Parklands-Council Update

Motion: (Macri/McKenna OAM)

THAT:

1. Council prior to accepting any future care, control and management of the Rozelle Parklands, Council seek confirmation from the NSW Government on the final costings of the project and that a report is brought back to Council on budget implications associated with future management and maintenance of the parkland;

2. Should a Government assessment of costings identify any shortfalls in funding support for the identified project priorities, Council lobby Government for additional funding to deliver these priorities as part of the “end state” parkland delivery program;

3. Council note the importance of the Rozelle Parkland Project as a legacy open space project which will address long standing community recreational needs in the north of the Inner West Council Local Government area;

4. Council note that a Traffic Study will be undertaken by Transport for NSW;

5. Council requests direct pedestrian access to the parklands from Lilyfield light rail stop and generally prioritises walking, cycling and public transport access to the parklands; and

6. Walking and cycling routes to glebe island bridge be incorporated;

7. Council restate Council’s resolution that a masterplan with transparent costs must be provided;

8. Council continue advocacy for the City West Cycle Link in the relevant Rozelle Parkland forums and with the relevant ministers, for State Government delivery of an at grade connection between the active transport link in the Parklands to the Bay Run, noting this is one of the busiest commuter cycle routes in the city."

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Lockie, Raciti and York

Procedural Motion (Passas/Raciti)

THAT items 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 be deferred to an Ordinary Council meeting on Tuesday, 6 July 2021 at 6.30pm.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Cr Kiat

Absent: Crs Lockie, Raciti and York

Meeting closed at 11.04pm

Public Speakers:

Item #

Speaker

Suburb

Item 22:

Angela Michaelis

Anna Harvey

Rosa Brown

Balmain

Croydon

Lilyfield

Item 33:

Hall Greenland

Balmain

Council Meeting

20 July 2021

Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held remotely and livestreamed on Council’s website on 6 July 2021

Meeting commenced at 6.31pm

Present:
Darcy Byrne Victor Macri Marghanita Da Cruz Mark Drury Lucille McKenna OAM Colin Hesse Sam Iskandar Tom Kiat Pauline Lockie Julie Passas Rochelle Porteous Vittoria Raciti John Stamolis Louise Steer Anna York Peter Gainsford Simon Duck	Mayor Deputy Mayor (6:34pm) Councillor Councillor Councillor (Chairperson for Item 7) Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor General Manager Acting Director Development and Recreation
Cathy Edwards-Davis	Director Infrastructure
Caroline McLeod Peter Livanes Harjeet Atwal Daryl Jackson	Acting Director City Living Acting Director Corporate Senior Manager Planning Chief Financial Officer
Katherine Paixao	Acting Manager Governance
Carmelina Giannini	Acting Governance Coordinator

APOLOGIES: Nil

DISCLOSURES OF INTERESTS:

Councillor Byrne declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 7 Notice of Motion: Mayor to Stand Down and due to its material impact on him and he will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.

Councillor Macri declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 7 Notice of Motion: Mayor Stand Down and will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.

Councillor Lockie declared a non-pecuniary, non-significant interest in item 7 Notice of Motion: Mayor to Stand Down as she was involved in the Code of Conduct complaint in the foreshadowed motion and will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.

Motion: (Hesse/Da Cruz)

THAT Council note the disclosures of interest.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

Councillor Macri entered the Meeting at 6:34 pm.

C0721(1) Item 1 Greenway Engagement Officer

Motion: (Drury/Kiat)

THAT the report be received and noted.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

C0721(1) Item 2 Minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Meeting held on 19 May 2021

Motion: (Drury/Steer)

THAT Council note the unconfirmed minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee meeting held on 19 May 2021.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

C0721(1) Item 3 Notice of Motion: Council Website Weekly Update on Street Maintenance

Motion: (Macri/Drury)

THAT Council update their website every Monday or first day of the week with the street maintenance that has been done on the previous week ie the verge mowing, street cleaning, tree trimming, and garbage tin cleaning and keep a history of works over the previous 12 months.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

C0721(1) Item 4 Notice of Motion: Report on Tree Loss in Ashfield and Leichhardt
Wards

Motion: (Stamolis/Kiat)

THAT Council receive a fully detailed listing of the tree canopy loss in Ashfield Ward and Leichhardt Ward over the past year; with additional emphasis on the two suburbs in Ashfield Ward that accounted for almost 50% of the tree canopy loss in the Inner West (i.e. Dulwich Hill and Ashfield).

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

C0721(1) Item 5 Notice of Motion: Plastics

Motion: (Hesse/Steer)

THAT Council:

1. Write to the operators of shopping centres located in the Inner West Local Government Area asking them to install public drinking facilities that allow centre patrons to drink from a bubbler or fill up their own bottle rather than buying bottled water and contributing to the massive amount of plastic waste in our society; and

2. Report to the October Council meeting on progress Council is making to eliminate the use of single use plastics in Council operations and events in accordance with the Council resolution C0918(1) Item 21 Single Use Plastics Reduction resolved 11 September 2018.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

C0721(1) Item 6 Notice of Motion: Cass Award Win

Motion: (Drury/Byrne)

THAT Council sends a letter of congratulations to CASS on winning 2021 Premier’s Multicultural Community Medal.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis, Steer and York

Against Motion: Nil

Councillor Byrne left the Meeting at 6:57 pm as he declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 7 Notice of Motion: Mayor to Stand Down and due to its material impact on him and he will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.

Councillor Macri left the Meeting at 6:57 pm as he declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 7 Notice of Motion: Mayor Stand Down and will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.

Election of Chairperson

The General Manager advised that the election of Chairperson will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act and Regulations.

The General Manager asked for nominations for chairperson for Item 7. Nominations were received for Councillor Stamolis and Councillor McKenna OAM..

The election was conducted by a show of hands.

The General Manager asked all Councillors who support Councillor Stamolis being the first nomination received, for the position of Chairperson to raise their hands.

Councillor Stamolis received 4 votes from Councillors Da Cruz, Passas, Porteous and Raciti.

The General Manager asked all Councillors who support Councillor McKenna OAM being the second nomination received, for the position of Chairperson to raise their hands.

Councillor McKenna OAM received 8 votes from Councillors Drury, Hesse, Iskandar, Kiat, Lockie, McKenna OAM, Steer and York

Councillor Stamolis abstained from voting.

The General Manager declared that Councillor McKenna OAM to be elected Chairperson for Item 7.

Councillor McKenna OAM assumed the chair.

Councillor Iskandar retired from the Meeting at 8:23 pm.

ADJOURNMENT

7:10pm - The Chairperson, Clr McKenna OAM adjourned the meeting in order for staff to
give advice on meeting procedure and the foreshadowed motion in item 7.

7:39pm– The Chairperson, Clr McKenna OAM resumed the meeting.

Councillor Raciti left the Meeting at 8:14 pm.

Clr Lockie declared a non-pecuniary, non-significant interest in item 7 Notice of Motion: Mayor to Stand Down as she was involved in the Code of Conduct complaint in the foreshadowed motion and will leave the meeting during discussion and voting. Councillor Lockie left the Meeting at 8:15 pm.

Councillor Raciti returned to the Meeting at 8:23 pm.

C0721(1) Item 7 Notice of Motion: Mayor to Stand Down

Councillor Passas withdrew her motion.

Motion: (Stamolis/Passas)

THAT Council:

1. Express a lack of confidence in the Mayor;

2. Note the findings made by the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) on 4 May 2021 in relation to six allegations brought against Clr Byrne relating to his conduct as Mayor, with the Tribunal finding that Clr Byrne failed to comply with the Code of Conduct in relation in a manner that was misconduct as defined in s 440F(1)(b) and 440F(1)(d) of the Local Government Act;

3. Note that NCAT is still in the process of considering what penalty should apply in relation to Clr Byrne’s misconduct, up to and including suspension from Council; and

4. Note that:

a) As recorded in the minutes of the Council Meeting of 10 March 2020, an independent conduct reviewer found that Clr Byrne made a social media post that was in breach of the Code of Conduct in that he made comments about another Councillor which a reasonable person would consider humiliating; and

b) It was recently reported in City Hub on 7 May 2021 that Clr Byrne had not deleted this social media post.

Motion Lost

For Motion: Crs Passas and Stamolis

Against Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Kiat, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti, Steer and York

Absent: Crs Byrne, Iskandar, Lockie and Macri

Foreshadowed Motion (Kiat/Porteous)

THAT Council

1. Note with concern the findings made by the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal on 4 May 2021 in relation to six allegations brought against Clr Byrne relating to his conduct as Mayor, with the Tribunal finding that Clr Byrne failed to comply with the Code of Conduct in relation in a manner that was misconduct as defined in s 440F(1)(b) and 440F(1)(d) of the Local Government Act;

2. Note that NCAT is still in the process of considering what penalty should apply in relation to Clr Byrne’s misconduct, up to and including suspension from Council; and

3. Note with concern that:

b) It was recently reported in City Hub on 7 May 2021 that Clr Byrne had not deleted this social media post.

The chairperson ruled this foreshadowed motion out of order as it could be an act of disorder as it makes personal reflections on a councillor (Clause 15.11(d) of the Code of Meeting Practice).

Procedural Motion: Motion of dissent (Steer/Da Cruz)

THAT motion of dissent be moved in the Chairperson’s ruling on Councillor Kiat’s foreshadowed motion is out of order.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Hesse, Kiat, Lockie, Passas, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Crs Drury, McKenna OAM and York

Absent: Crs Byrne, Iskandar, Macri and Raciti

As the vote of this Motion of Dissent occurred at 8.21pm Clr Lockie was in attendance.

The Chairpersons ruling was overruled.

Foreshadowed Motion (Kiat/Porteous)

THAT Council:

1. Note the findings made by the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) on 4 May 2021 in relation to six allegations brought against Clr Byrne relating to his conduct as Mayor, with the Tribunal finding that Clr Byrne failed to comply with the Code of Conduct in relation in a manner that was misconduct as defined in s 440F(1)(b) and 440F(1)(d) of the Local Government Act;

2. Note that NCAT is still in the process of considering what penalty should apply in relation to Clr Byrne’s misconduct, up to and including suspension from Council; and

3. Note that:

b) It was recently reported in City Hub on 7 May 2021 that Clr Byrne had not deleted this social media post.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Hesse, Kiat, Passas, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Crs Drury, McKenna OAM, Raciti and York

Absent: Crs Byrne, Iskandar, Lockie and Macri

ADJOURNMENT

8:35pm - The Chairperson, Clr McKenna OAM adjourned the meeting for a short recess.

8:39pm– The Chairperson, Clr McKenna OAM resumed the meeting.

Councillor Macri returned to the Meeting at 8:38 pm as assumed the chair.

Councillor Lockie returned to the Meeting at 8:39 pm.

Councillor Kiat left the Meeting at 8:39 pm.

Councillor Passas left the Meeting at 8:40 pm.

Councillor Raciti returned to the meeting at 8:41pm

Councillor York retired from the Meeting at 8:41 pm.

C0721(1) Item 8 Notice of Motion: Canoe Launch Ramps - Mackey Park

Motion: (Hesse/Macri)

THAT Council:

1. Notes the urgent need for repair works (and potential upgrades) along the Cooks River wall at Mackey Park canoe launch steps;

2. Notes the public safety risks and lost opportunities for recreational activities and amenity for the local community due to the current state of the canoe launch space;

3. Priorities the upgrade of the launch steps through an easing of the graded access to the river, and the provision of handrails in consultation with The River Canoe Club of NSW;

4. Works with Sydney Water, Crown Lands and any other relevant body to carry out these works; and

5. Seeks grants funding from relevant sources and considers direct commitment of Council funds to ensure these works are carried out.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Byrne, Iskandar and Kiat, Passas and York

C0721(1) Item 9 Notice of Motion: The Rotunda Pioneer Park: Addressing Ibis Droppings With More Frequent Cleaning

Motion: (Porteous/Stamolis)

THAT:

1. Council increase the current quarterly deep cleans of the Rotunda in Pioneer Park, Leichhardt to monthly deep cleans as soon as possible;

2. Council brings a report to the August council meeting outlining options for ecologically addressing this problem. Included in that report are options for a shade sail or other structure to protect the flooring of the Rotunda. Costings to be included in the report; and

3. Funding for the additional deep cleans of the Rotunda to be included in the final 21/22 Budget when adopted by Council in June 2021.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Raciti, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Byrne, Iskandar, Kiat, Passas and York

C0721(1) Item 10 Notice of Motion: Gladstone Park: Toilets, Footpaths and Waste Bins

Motion: (Porteous/Stamolis)

THAT:

1. An audit be undertaken as soon as possible of the Gladstone Park toilets and a report be brought to council in July with recommendations on the implementation of a short-term solution with the upgrade of the toilets to address the safety, poor maintenance and smell issues. Funding to be identified or brought forward to 21/22 budget from the 22/23 budget;

2. Further advice to be sought on the heritage status of the toilets re the longer-term proposal to demolish them. That council commits to be building of at least one accessible toilet in Gladstone Park as a high priority;

3. The waste bins in Gladstone Park be emptied at least five times a week, including Friday, Saturday and Sunday and their usage monitored on an in-going basis; and

4. An audit be undertaken on the condition, safety and accessibility of the footpaths in and around Gladstone Park and a report brought to the July council meeting with recommendations on upgrading and repairing the footpaths, a timeline for implementing these works, costings and identified funding.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Byrne, Iskandar, Kiat, Passas, and York

C0721(1) Item 11 Notice of Motion: Summer Hill Residents Must Be Heard. Smith St Development

Motion: (Drury/Hesse)

THAT Council:

1. Note that:

a) amended plans were submitted by the Applicant on 13 May 2021 in relation to the development at 55-63 Smith Street Summer Hill;

b) the notice to be sent from Council (as resolved by C0321(2) Item 25 Mayoral Minute: 55 Smith Street, Summer Hill), to residents informing them of how to make submissions on this application has not yet been distributed; and

c) the Inner West Planning Panel Chair has now declined to meet with residents as requested by council, citing Departmental advice.

2. Require that the General Manager re-notify affected local residents of the amended plans;

3. Note that there is a strong community concern that in this process sufficient weight will not be given to:

a) the provisions of draft instruments (namely the proposed Housing Diversity SEPP);

b) likely impacts on the environment including social and economic impacts in the locality;

c) the suitability of the site for the development;

d) submissions by local residents;

e) the public interest; and

f) as required by Section 4.15 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.

4. Requests that the Planning Panel have a meeting arranged to allow representatives of local residents to provide feedback to the Panel regarding their views on the proposed development, prior to the Panels final deliberative meeting for the proposal.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Byrne, Iskandar, Kiat, Passas, and York

Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 9:10 pm and assumed the chair.

C0721(1) Item 12 Notice of Motion: Rozelle School of Visual Arts

Motion: (Byrne/McKenna OAM)

THAT Council sends a letter of congratulations to Rozelle School of Visual Arts, which is celebrating 50 years of teaching dance and arts in the Rozelle community.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Iskandar, Kiat, Passas, and York

Councillor Kiat returned to the Meeting at 9:12 pm.

C0721(1) Item 13 Notice of Motion: Opposition to Changes to 370 Bus Service

Motion: (Byrne/Da Cruz)

THAT Council:

1. Notes Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is undertaking community engagement into proposed changes to Sydney’s South East transport network. This engagement finishes on 18 June 2021;

2. Notes that these proposed changes include modifications to the 370 bus route. This would see the existing 370 bus service now only run between The University of Sydney and Coogee. An additional bus route, the 469 bus service, would operate from Leichhardt to The University of Sydney (via Annandale and Glebe); and

3. Makes a submission to TfNSW’s community consultation raising the concerns of Council to these changes. This should include reference to the significant dislocation that would occur to the Inner West if this important direct link from Leichhardt and Annandale to St Peters was to be removed.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Iskandar, Passas, and York

Councillor Passas returned to the Meeting at 9:13 pm.

C0721(1) Item 14 Notice of Motion: Transition to Electric Vehicles

Motion: (Byrne/Stamolis)

THAT Council:

1. Notes the update on Council’s Sustainable Fleet Transition sent to Councillors on 25 August 2020;

2. Receive a report back to an Ordinary Council meeting in October or November 2021 on the following:

a) Explores funding opportunities from the NSW and Federal governments for installing charging infrastructure in the Inner West and reports back its findings to the October Ordinary Council meeting;

b) Resolves to ensure that planning processes for installing chargers is streamlined and simplified for businesses and residents;

c) Provides information through all of its communication channels of how Inner West businesses can install charging infrastructure;

d) Works with the local taxi and rideshare industry to facilitate charging facilities where the Council can provide suitable parking or assistance; and

e) Works with the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC) and Re:Mobilise to:

                    i.    Prepare of a comprehensive fleet transition plan including light and heavy
    vehicle fleet with a goal of adopting zero-emissions transport where a fit
    for purpose and cost-effective alternative exists on a whole of life costing
    basis; and

                  ii.    Explore entering into memorandum of understandings to collaborate with
    other councils to aggregate buying power, and develop competencies
    required for the transition.

f) Council to plan for complete transition to EVs by 2025 starting in the 2021-22 financial year; and

g) Council notes the Community Strategic Plan states: "Government makes responsible decisions to manage finite resources in the best interest of current and future communities". In light of this, and the climate emergency that Council declared in May 2019, the fleet should be electrified as soon as possible. As such, all newly leased or purchased IWC passenger and utility fleet vehicles will be zero emissions vehicles (where fit for purpose) beginning no later than EOFY 2021-22.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Kiat, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Cr Passas

Absent: Crs Iskandar and York

Councillor Kiat left the Meeting at 9:25 pm.

C0721(1) Item 15 Notice of Motion: Hammond Park

Motion: (Passas/Da Cruz)

THAT Council provide a full report regarding the sporting clubs use of Hammond Park including:

a) How the present use of Hammond park for different clubs comply with Councils Plan of Management;

b) How many clubs are frequently using the park;

c) Was approval given for the Food Truck and does this comply with regulations; and

d) When and why was the gate to the park removed from the lane way off church Street.

Motion Carried

For Motion: Crs Byrne, Da Cruz, Drury, Hesse, Lockie, Macri, McKenna OAM, Passas, Porteous, Stamolis and Steer

Against Motion: Nil

Absent: Crs Iskandar, Kiat and York

C0721(1) Item 16 Notice of Motion: Request for Mobility Parking Space - 60 Smith Street Summer Hill

Clr Passas withdrew this motion.

Meeting closed at 9.32pm.

Council Meeting

20 July 2021

Item No: C0721(2) Item 4

Subject: Henson Park Plan of Management

Prepared By: Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Recreation Planning Manager

Authorised By: Simon Duck - Acting Director Development and Recreation

RECOMMENDATION

THAT:

1. That Council adopt the Henson Park Plan of Management as attached in Attachment 1, Appendix A, B,C,D and E.

2. Council note the ongoing support and sporting pathways which are being invested in and advocated for the growth and development of girls and women’s sport at Henson Park.

DISCUSSION

Council has developed a Plan of Management and Master Plan for Henson Park, Marrickville (Attachment 1).

The Plan of Management (Attachment 1) outlines the legislative requirements and the long term management (including leases/licenses) and master plan for the park, along with key objectives and recommendations which will guide the strategic management of Henson Park over the next 10 years. Henson Park is community parkland.

Community Engagement Outcomes

Council originally commenced community engagement on the preparation of a draft Plan of Management in June 2019. Community engagement was carried out via the online platform Your Say Inner West (YSIW), an interactive engagement session at the Marrickville Festival and two drop-in sessions were also held at Henson Park to capture direct community input.

Online engagement was carried out from the 21 October 2019 to the 17 November 2019. The project page received close to 730 visits. Of those visitors, close to 190 visitors left feedback.

This work culminated in the development of a draft plan of management and master plan for Henson Park. In March 2021 a Draft Plan of Management was exhibited for community engagement and feedback for a period of two months with feedback closing on the 3^rd May 2021. Appendix B provides a full summary of the community engagement process associated with the development of the Plan of Management.

Summary of Key Community Engagement Issues

Community feedback on the Draft Plan of Management was largely positive. Key issues and feedback highlighted from the exhibition of the Draft Plan of Management include the following:

- Overall the proposed Plan of Management and Master Plan are welcomed by the community.

- General support for maintaining existing dog off leash arrangements. Safety is a key concern for those who do not support existing dog off leash arrangements.

- Improvements to the grandstand are generally supported. Concerns raised over bulk and scale of building.

- Pathway, access and parking improvements generally supported.

- Upgrades to park entrances generally supported.

- Upgrades to park furniture and facilities generally supported.

- Waste management (of dogs and during organised sport) was noted as a key issue. This has been addressed in the PoM and MP.

- Concerns additional organised sport will limit weekend use for other user groups.

- Support for maintaining Henson Park’s unique character.

- Additional planting generally supported.

- Tennis club proposals generally supported with many responses noting it is a valued and well used community asset.

Sporting Club Feedback:

- Overall support for the Plan of Management and Master Plan proposals.

- Support for maintaining existing dog off leash arrangements with dogs on leash permitted during organised sport.

- Support for maintaining Henson Park’s unique character.

- Support for Henson Park remaining an enclosed venue to continue hosting ticketed events.

- Support for keeping venue locked at night.

- Support for fence replacement and pathway upgrades (particularly between Amy Street and Centennial Street).

- Additional planting supported provided it does not interfere with spectator experience.

- Future parking strategy supported.

- Upgrades to park entrances supported.

- Grandstand upgrades generally supported. Newtown RLFC do not support reinstating the commentary box, instead request the area continues being used as a service area.

- AFL requested 1000 lux broadcast level lighting is considered. This has been captured in the updated Plan of Management and Master Plan.

NSW/AFL Proposals

During the planning stages of the Draft Plan of Management the NSW/AFL presented detailed concept plans involving significant upgrades to the grandstand, amenities and broadcast facility at Henson Park. A full set of these plans is attached as Appendix C.

The plans are aimed at improving the quality and presentation of the existing amenities and sporting facilities within the park. Facilities which are well below community standards for sporting use. Currently the grandstand facility has open showers, non-discrete urinals, outdated interiors and not fit for purpose ancillary amenities. These plans have been supported by the Newtown Jets.

The concept designs submitted by the NSW/AFL, include the provision of multiple change rooms all with self-contained shower and toilet cubicles. Critically, there is dedicated scope to redevelop the amenity facilities to ensure that they female friendly’ and that such development is to a standard fit for regional sporting competition for girls and women’s sport.

In addition to the above, major improvements are also planned for the spectator environments which will include improved and safer circulation and accessibility, canteen and toilet facility upgrades. The value of works for the grandstand and amenity improvements are valued at approximately $4.2 million. A future partnership investment of this nature will allow Council and the sporting community to hold more elite Rugby League and AFL content at Henson Park. Content which will be focused on the promotion of girls and women’s sport. In July 2021, Council wrote to the AFL supporting the Sydney Swans bid for a license for the NAB AFLW competition. If successful in its license application the opportunities will be significant in that such a license will support the ongoing development of AFL in Sydney and also promote further pathways of success for the current youth and girls academy. Pathways which will support the Sydney Swans being able to field a Women’s AFL team in the National competition in 2023.

The architectural plans submitted by the NSW/AFL are subject to a formal Development Application which will be submitted to Council on the adoption of a Plan of Management for Henson Park. To date, Council has provided in principal support for the architectural plans. In February 2021, with support from the NSW AFL and the Newtown Jets, Council submitted an application to the Greater Cities Sport Facility Fund 2020/21 to support the redevelopment of the amenities at Henson Park. Council was however unsuccessful in this round of funding applications. The adoption of a Park Plan of Management and long-term master plan for Henson Park will allow Council and its community sporting partners greater opportunities for success in grant applications.

Plan of Management-Key Master Plan Proposals

A proposed ten-year master plan has been developed for Henson Park and can be viewed in Appendix D of the Plan of Management. Key features of the Plan of Management include:

Key Master Plan Features:

- Grandstand and scoreboard upgrades (as per the NSW/AFL Plans)

- Upgrades to tennis club

- Improved pedestrian access

- Park entry upgrades

- Parking rationalisation improvements

- Additional planting and trees

- New recreation spaces

- Existing dog off leash arrangements to be maintained unless Council approved organised sport is being played. During Council approved organised sport dogs are permitted on leash.

- Amy Street entry upgraded with fencing and pathways removed and replaced.

- Grandstand commentary box to continue being used as a service area.

- Additional planting to not interfere with spectator experience during sporting events.

- Community events must consider Councils existing surface restoration program.

- Additional Master Plan Strategy: Access - Develop a Parking Strategy including event day parking solutions to successfully host events and minimise impacts on surrounding streets and community.

- Additional Master Plan Strategy: Sports + Recreation - Investigate opportunities to upgrade lighting to 1000 lux broadcast level lighting.

Sporting Ground Allocations

No changes are currently proposed to existing sporting allocation access in terms of ongoing sporting use of Henson Park by both the AFL and the Newtown Jets. Any major deviations from current allocations which impact on historical users would be subject to future reporting and agreement by Council.

Current Investment

Critically, Council has already committed to an improved Henson Park through the recently completed new turf playing surface and critical turf sporting ground infrastructure upgrades. A project which has been undertaken at a cost of $2.5 million. The new surface and its supporting infrastructure will also enable more community sporting content to be played at Henson Park.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Long term capital improvement projects associated with the Park Master Plan will be reported to Council as developed.

ATTACHMENTS

1.⇩	Attached 1 Henson Park Plan of Management
2.⇩	Appendix B Henson Park Community Engagement Outcomes
3.⇩	Appendix C Grandstand Proposal
4.⇩	Appendix D Henson Park Master Plan
5.⇩	Appendix E Planting and Materials Palette
6.⇩	Appendix A Henson Park Site Analysis

Council Meeting

20 July 2021

Item No: C0721(2) Item 5

Subject: Review of Inner West Council Complaints Handling and Draft Complaints Handling Policy

Prepared By: Katherine Paixao - Acting Governance Manager

Authorised By: Peter Livanes - Acting Director Corporate

RECOMMENDATION

THAT Council:

1. Endorse the draft Policy shown as Attachment 1 to be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days; and

2. Consider the results of the public exhibition process when adopting a final policy.

BACKGROUND

On 24 May 2021 Council resolved:

THAT Council:

1. Review the Management of Complaints including accessibility of information on website, reporting, performance, the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service and alignment with the NSW Ombudsman's best practice guidelines and the Procedures for Handling Code of Conduct Complaints;

2. Report the outcome of the review to Councillors at the July Ordinary Council meeting.

DISCUSSION

Inner West Council is committed to delivering quality customer service and communicating effectively with our community. Council encourages and values all customer feedback as it assists with the ongoing review and improvement of Council’s systems and processes.

It is imperative to maintain an effective complaint management system which enables Council to correct errors, identify system improvements and promote fairness and integrity in its decision-making processes. Appropriate complaint management will also protect Council’s reputation and promote general trust in Council.

Community feedback and complaints are actioned in accordance with the complaint handling process as outlined in Council’s Complaints Handling Policy which became due for review on 27 November 2020.

Complaints Review

1. Accessibility and information provided on Council’s Website

In accordance with the draft Complaints Handling Policy (Section 5.1), Council will ensure that information about how complaints can be made is well publicised.

Council has a dedicated complaints webpage that outlines Council’s three-tiered approach to complaints handling and provides the community with options on how to lodge a complaint with Council. These are:

i. the online complaint form

ii. calling Council’s contact centre

iii. attending a service centre in person; or

iv. sending a written complaint via post.

The complaints webpage received 4221 views between 1 July 2020 and 15 June 2021. While the top five webpages combined received over one million views for the same period, the quantity of views demonstrate the ease in locating Council’s complaints webpage. It should be noted that it takes one (1) ‘click’ to navigate to the feedback and complaints page of the Council website and this option is found within the same menu as other information including Council Meetings, Mayor and Councillors, News, Fees and Charges and other Council Policies.

Accessibility tools that are available on Council’s complaints webpage allows information to be translated into a variety of languages, presented via audio and the text size to be adjusted to suit the reader.

Council will continue to review complaint information available to the community and consider further enhancements for accessibility.

Similarly, the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service (IOSS) webpage had received 1000 views in the same period. The IOSS web page can also be located within one (1) ‘click’. The information on IOSS’s webpage is regularly reviewed and updated, most recently in May 2021 to ensure that information is presented in easily understandable language and provides option for complaints to be submitted via the IOSS online form, email, phone or in person.

2. Complaint Statistics (Profile, Channel, Response)

Council received 3087 complaints for the 2020/21 year. This volume represents an increase of 6% on the 2019/20 year when Council received 2919 complaints.

Regular reporting details complaint drivers which are consistent on a month to month basis and are shown in the graph below titled ‘Complants by Driver 2020-21’.

The top five (5) categories are:

1. No resolution to previously reported issue i.e. service request marked as completed by Council, despite issue remaining unresolved

2. Repeat service failure e.g. repeat missed collections over a short period of time

3. No response within deadline i.e. no response to original service request within the agreed service standard

4. Decision / action of council e.g. customer dissatisfied with a policy decision or specific action taken by council e.g. new residential parking scheme, change to waste service etc.

5. Dissatisfaction with Service i.e. customer unsatisfied with quality of service provision e.g. verge mowing, infrequent parking patrols, quality of footpath or roadworks etc.

The top 5 service areas that drive the bulk of complaints are also consistent (subject to small seasonal fluctuations) on a month in month basis. The following graph titled ‘Complaints by Service July 2021-21’ details complaints by service area (percentage).

To demonstrate the accessiblity of making complaints, the following graph displays how complaints have been received by Council for the 2020-21 year. The most utilised channel is to lodge complaints by telephone (37%), followed by email (35%), online (25%) and at customer service counters (3%).

These figures also demonstrate the importance of resourcing, training and supporting our frontline staff with the skills and knowledge to respond and appropriately deal with complaints received by Council. This also extends to having adequate materials and equipment including the system to record complaint data and the ability to track the progress of complaints.

3. Recording and Reporting

All complaints are recorded in Council’s systems.

When a complaint is received, it is referred to the relevant line manager for action including investigation and resolution within 10 business days in accordance with Council’s Complaint Handling Policy and service standards.

A summary of complaints is reported to Council’s Executive Team on a quarterly basis to provide visibility and oversight of Council’s complaints.

This process also ensures that Council’s Executive Team is leading by example in creating a culture that values information from complaints and how Council’s systems, processes and procedures can continuously improve demonstrating Inner West Council as a learning organisation.

4. Response

For the 2020/21 year 95% of complaints have been resolved.

The average resolution time for all resolved complaints is 14 days.

All unresolved complaints remain in progress and will remain open until resolved.

5. Improvement

The review of Council’s complaints process and Complaints Handling Policy has identified opportunities for improvement.

Opportunities for improvement for Council to action include:

1. Enhanced awareness, education and training for all staff in Council’s Complaints Handling Policy;

2. Improved education and training for staff managing complaints. This training will support staff including frontline officers in complaint handling as well as administrative staff who receive, record, process and respond to complaints;

3. Enhanced reporting to Council leadership to provide increased visibility, accountability, collaboration and improvement;

4. Strengthening the alignment between Council’s Code of Conduct and Fraud and Corruption Prevention;

5. Enhanced visibility and understanding of the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service to ensure all staff internal and external are aware of the IOSS and its role;

6. Increased focus on Council’s request management to ensure the greatest complaint driver (no resolution) and service area is analysed and root causes are identified and addressed; and

7. Opportunity to focus on complaint service standards and how complaints can be better managed within Council’s service standard timeframes.

Internal Ombudsman Shared Service

The IOSS was established by the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service Agreement between City of Parramatta, Cumberland City and Inner West Councils, signed on 31 July 2017. Each Council financially contributes equally to the IOSS, with Cumberland City Council designated the host Council for the purposes of administrative and financial arrangements.

The Internal Ombudsman Shared Service Management Committee governs the work of the IOSS and is comprised of the Internal Ombudsman, the General Manager of Cumberland City Council, the Chief Executive Officer of the City of Parramatta and the General Manager of Inner West Council. The Management Committee has a Terms of Reference and an Agreement. The IOSS operates according to the IOSS Governance Charter which provides for the IOSS’ jurisdiction and how it undertakes its role and work.

The operation of the IOSS reflects the commitment of each member Council in operating to a high standard of ethical conduct and decision-making; administrative conduct; corporate governance; and being corruption free.

The IOSS is an independent review body available to complainants and the Internal Ombudsman is delegated as the Code of Conduct Complaints Coordinator and Public Interest Disclosure Coordinator, pursuant to Council’s respective policies.

In respect of review and improving complaints handling at Inner West Council, the IOSS has reviewed and made suggested amendments to Council’s Complaints Handling Policy. These suggestions are intended to improve Council’s management of complaints, quality of reporting and record keeping, and to enhance the accessibility of complaints resources. The suggestions have also provided more information for complainants to external agencies including the NSW Ombudsman and the Independent Commission Against Corruption.

The Internal Ombudsman Shared Service (IOSS) issues an Annual Report providing a comprehensive account of the IOSS’s performance throughout the year as well as outlining the plan for the year ahead. The most recent Annual Report is for the year 2019-2020 financial year and is the third annual report from the IOSS.

The Annual Report 2020-21 clearly communicates the performance of duties under the IOSS Governance Charter and is a source of information for all Member Councils including ratepayers, residents, businesses, community and interest groups, news media, Council staff, Councillors and the wider general community.

This Council report does not intent to replicate the performance of duties detailed in the IOSS Annual report which can be found on the Inner West Council website.

The IOSS also reports quarterly to Council’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee and monthly to Council’s Executive Team meeting.

Alignment with the NSW Ombudsman’s best practice guidelines

Council’s Complaints Handling Policy is modelled on the NSW Ombudsman’s Effective complaint handing guidelines 2017 and has been considered as part of this review to Council’s policy.

Procedures for Handling Code of Conduct Complaints

In relation to Code of Conduct complaints, the Internal Ombudsman is delegated as Council’s Complaints Coordinator pursuant to Council’s adopted Code of Conduct and The Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct.

The Internal Ombudsman must also be (and is) a nominated disclosures coordinator appointed for the purpose of receiving and managing reports of wrongdoing under the Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994.

Code of Conduct complaints are managed pursuant to The Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct which is also found on Inner West Council’s website. There are review mechanisms available under the Procedures if there are identified concerns with this process.

Draft Complaints Handling Policy

Council staff and the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service have reviewed the Complaints Handling Policy and proposed amendments to the current policy. The Draft Complaints Handling Policy is available in Attachment 1.

Proposed changes include:

· Ensuring alignment between the draft Complaints Handling Policy and the guiding principles set out in Australian and New Zealand Standard (Guidelines for Complaint Management in Organisations) AS/NZS 10002:2014

· Ensuring alignment between the draft Complaints Handling Policy and the NSW Ombudsman’s Effective Complaints Handling Guidelines 2017

· Defining what is a complaint and what is not a complaint

· Adding a description of the methods to lodge a complaint

· Defining what is unreasonable complainant conduct

· Clarifying information regarding child protection complaints

· Strengthening confidentiality and privacy measures

· Amending terminology particularly regarding officer titles and responsibilities

· Clarifying timelines for complaint handling procedures.

It is recommended that Council endorse this policy for the purpose of public exhibition and Councillors consider any submissions when adopting a final policy.

The policy is predicated on Inner West Council’s commitment to providing outstanding customer service and the value that an effective complaints management framework plays in helping to identify service issues and improvements to the customer experience.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no additional financial implications arising from adoption of this Policy. It will be implemented within existing Council resources and operational activities.

ATTACHMENTS

1.⇩

Draft Complaints Handling Policy

Ward	Item
Baludarri (Balmain)	Moodie Street, Rozelle - Proposed No Left Turn Restrictions
Baludarri (Balmain)	Trafalgar Lane, Annandale - Proposed 'No Parking' Restrictions
Gulgadya (Leichhardt)	Ferris Lane, Annandale - Proposed Permanent Road Closure
	Dalhousie Street, Haberfield - Bus Zone Permanent Relocation
	Ramsay Street, Haberfield - New Pedestrian Refuge Island
	168 Norton Street (Between Carlisle Street and Maccauley Street), Leichhardt - Road Occupancy
	Maintenance request for footpath between City West Link and Iron Cove Creek, Haberfield
Midjuburi (Marrickville)	Henry Street, Sydenham from Railway Road to George Street – Road and Footpath Improvement Works – Design Plan 10161
	Council Resolution for Local Traffic Committee March 2021 Item 7 - Unwins Bridge Road, Way Street, Toyer Street & Collins Street, St Peters - Formalising Parking Restrictions Around Tempe High School
	Campbell Street ST PETERS – C0621(1) Item 30 Mayoral Minute and C0621(1) Item 17 Notice of Motion - Pedestrian safety on Campbell Street, St Peters
	Request for angle parking in School Parade, Marrickville
	Update on the one way proposal for Warren Road, Marrickville
	Works at the intersection of Livingstone Road and Hastings Street, Marrickville
Djarrawunang (Ashfield)	Smith Street, Summer Hill- Appeal on Refused Application of a Mobility (Disabled) Parking Space Outside No.60 Smith Street
	Arthur Street, Ashfield (at Joseph Street) - Proposed New Speed Cushion and Kerb Blister
	Spencer Street and Carrington Street, Summer Hill-Proposed Extension of Resident Parking Scheme (AREA 13)
	Carrington Street, Summer Hill- Request for 1/2 Hour Period Parking Adjacent to No. 162 Old Canterbury Road, Summer Hill
Damun (Stanmore)	Request for more parking in The Boulevarde, Lewisham
All Wards	Increase in parking issues in the LGA

1.⇩	Draft Gender Equity Strategy 2021 - 2025 - amendments.
2.⇩	Draft Gender Equity Strategy - Action Plan - 2021 - 2022 - amendments
3.⇩	Gender Equity Strategy - Engagement Outcomes Report

1.⇩	IWC Investment Report - June 2021
2.⇩	IWC Economic & Investment Portfolio Commentary June 2021