Council Meeting

 

8 August 2023

 

 

Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 8 August 2023 at Ashfield Service Centre

 

Meeting commenced at 6.32 pm

 

 

Present:

Darcy Byrne

Philippa Scott

Liz Atkins

Marghanita Da Cruz

Jessica D’Arienzo

Mark Drury

Dylan Griffiths

Mathew Howard

Justine Langford

Pauline Lockie

Kobi Shetty

Chloe Smith

John Stamolis

Timothy Stephens

Zoi Tsardoulias
Peter Gainsford

Simone Plummer

Mayor

Deputy Mayor (attended via audio-visual link)

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor (7:10pm)

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

General Manager

Director Planning

Manod Wickramasinghe

Acting Director Infrastructure

Ruth Callaghan

Kelly Loveridge

Beau-Jane De Costa

Matthew Pearce

Daniel East

Scott Mullen

Chris Sleiman

Helen Bradley

Director Community

Director Corporate

Senior Manager Governance and Risk

General Counsel

Acting Senior Manager Strategic Planning

Strategic Investments and Property Manager

Acting Chief Financial Officer

Resource Recovery Planning Manager

Katherine Paixao

Pamela MacIntyre

Business Paper Coordinator

Business Paper Officer

 

APOLOGIES:    

 

Motion: (Howard/Stephens)

 

That apologies for lateness from Councillor Griffiths be accepted.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Motion: (Howard/Stephens)

 

That Council accept Councillor Scott’s request to attend tonight’s Council meeting via audio-visual link due to being interstate.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

DISCLOSURES OF INTERESTS:

 

Councillor Howard declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 2 Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 15 May 2023 as he works in the Ministerial Office of the Minister for Transport, who in her capacity as the Member for Summer Hill has a representative on the Local Traffic Committee. He will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting as the vote of the State Member is exercised through a representative

 

Councillor Howard declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 3 Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 19 June 2023 and 17 July 2023 as he works in the Ministerial Office of the Minister for Transport, who in her capacity as the Member for Summer Hill has a representative on the Local Traffic Committee. He will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting as the vote of the State Member is exercised through a representative

 

Councillor Shetty declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 2 Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 15 May 2023 as she is the State Member for Balmain and has a representative on the Local Traffic Committee. She will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting as the vote of the State Member is exercised through a representative.

 

Councillor Shetty declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 3 Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 19 June 2023 and 17 July 2023 as she is the State Member for Balmain and has a representative on the Local Traffic Committee. She will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting as the vote of the State Member is exercised through a representative.

 

Councillor Lockie declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 35 Notice of Motion: Newtown Festival as she works at the City of Sydney in the Office of the Lord Mayor. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting for this item.

 

Motion: (Stephens/Smith)

 

That Council note the disclosures of interest.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

 

Motion: (Drury/D’Arienzo)

That the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 20 June 2023 be confirmed as a  correct record.

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Byrne, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Drury, 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.

 

Councillor Griffiths entered the Meeting at 7:10 pm.

 

Procedural motion (Byrne/Drury)

 

That Council allow 1 additional public speaker to speak on Item 39.

 

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 Griffiths left the Meeting at 7:14 pm.

 

Councillor Griffiths returned to the Meeting at 7:22 pm.

 

Procedural motion (Byrne/Drury)

 

That Council allow 1 additional public speaker to speak on  item 3.

 

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    

 

C0823(1) Item 61         Mayoral Minute: Inner West Council advocating for the Yes   
         campaign

Motion: (Byrne)

 

1.   That Council advocate for the Yes vote in the upcoming referendum on constitutional recognition of Indigenous people through a Voice to Parliament.

 

2.   That Council cooperate with Yes 23, the Uluru Dialogue and other Indigenous organisations to support their campaigns for Yes.

 

3.   That Council make available in-kind support for local citizens advocating for the Yes campaign including through the free use of Council facilities, existing communications channels and space on Council buildings and flag poles for Yes campaign messages can be displayed.

 

4.   That Council approach Yes 23 and the Uluru Dialogue about convening a “Walking together for Yes” march at a central Inner West location.

 

5.   That Council write to all non-government organisations within the Inner West proposing ways that they can hold an event promoting the Yes campaign.  

 

6.   That Council write to every Mayor and Council across Australia outlining the ways that Council is advocating for the Yes campaign through in-kind support and proposing that they undertake similar actions and advocacy in their communities.

 

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 Stephens left the Meeting at 8:09 pm.

Councillor Stephens returned to the Meeting at 8:10 pm.

C0823(1) Item 62         Mayoral Minute: Reuse of White Bay Power Station for the arts

Motion: (Byrne)

 

1.   That Council write to the NSW Premier and Planning Minister proposing a partnership between Council and the NSW Government to activate the White Bay Power Station for the arts and creative industries including the possible expansion of Council’s EDGE artistic program into the Power Station precinct.

 

2.   That Council convene a meeting with interested local arts organisations and invite Placemaking NSW to present on the potential artistic uses for the Power Station.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 63         Mayoral Minute: Bringing South by South West to the Inner West

Motion: (Byrne)

 

1.   That Council write to John Graham, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, and Minister for Jobs and Tourism proposing that the Inner West be included as a host location for future South by South West Sydney events.

2.   That Council seek a meeting with Minister Graham and the relevant NSW Government agencies to discuss how this proposal can be progressed.

 

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/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council Suspend Standing Orders to bring forward the following items to be dealt with at this time:

 

1.    Item 1 Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Minutes

2.    Item 24 Councillor Expenses for 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023

3.    Item 25 Updated Annual Disclosure of Interest Return

4.    Item 43 Notice of Motion: Haberfield Association ICOMOS Seminar

5.    Item 44 Notice of Motion: Roads around Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre

6.    Item 45 Notice of Motion: Newtown Town Hall Sub Committee – Pride Centre

7.    Item 46 Notice of Motion: Cooks River Investment

8.    Item 47 Notice of Motion: Pedestrian Safety at Cardinal Freeman Village

9.    Item 60 Notice of Motion: No step access from Esplanades and Escarpments to Elliot Park

 

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/D’Arienzo)

 

That the following items be moved in globo and the recommendations contained within the report be adopted.

 

1.    Item 1 Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Minutes

2.    Item 24 Councillor Expenses for 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023

3.    Item 25 Updated Annual Disclosure of Interest Return

4.    Item 43 Notice of Motion: Haberfield Association ICOMOS Seminar

5.    Item 44 Notice of Motion: Roads around Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre

6.    Item 45 Notice of Motion: Newtown Town Hall Sub Committee – Pride Centre

7.    Item 46 Notice of Motion: Cooks River Investment

8.    Item 47 Notice of Motion: Pedestrian Safety at Cardinal Freeman Village

9.    Item 60 Notice of Motion: No step access from Esplanades and Escarpments to Elliot Park

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 1        Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Minutes

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

1.   That the minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) Meetings held on 5 April and 17 May 2023 be adopted.

 

2.   That Council thank Mr John Gordon, Chair of the ARIC, for his six years of service to 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

 

C0823(1) Item 24         Councillor Expenses for 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

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

C0823(1) Item 25         Updated Annual Disclosure of Interest Return

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 43         Notice of Motion: Haberfield Association ICOMOS Seminar

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council provide catering for the Haberfield Association ICOMOS Seminar to be held at Haberfield Library on 31 August 2023.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 44         Notice of Motion: Roads around Marrickville Metro Shopping
         Centre

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

1.    That Council note the concerns of residents about pedestrian, cyclist and road safety around the upgraded Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre, including:

 

a)    Poor visibility of, lighting and signage for zebra crossings;

 

b)    Uneven footpaths around the Centre, particularly on Victoria Road and Edinburgh Road;

 

c)    Potholes on the roads around the Centre;

 

d)    The need for bus stop upgrades;

 

e)    Plantings around the zebra crossing on the Edgeware Road side of the Centre is inadequate (one side is planted, one is often washed away) and requires attention;

 

f)     The prevalence of shopping trolleys left on local streets around the Centre; and

 

g)    The left hand turn only lane from Edinburgh Road to Smidmore Street continues to cause confusion and concern, with motorists often using the lane to proceed ahead and turn immediately left into the upgraded Centre.

 

 

2.    That Council request Council staff investigate these concerns, engage with residents and relevant stakeholders, and provide a report on these matters to the Local Traffic Committee.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 45         Notice of Motion: Newtown Town Hall Sub Committee – Pride
         Centre

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

1.   That Council thank and acknowledge the community members who participated in the Newtown Town Hall Sub Committee.

 

2.   That Council thank and acknowledge the Council staff who provided their time, expertise and care to support the work of the Sub Committee.

 

3.   That Council note that with the Expression of Interest process being tabled to Council for consideration, the work of the Sub Committee is completed.

 

4.   That Council endorses the report of the Sub Committee tabled as the background to this notice of motion.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 46         Notice of Motion: Cooks River Investment

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

1.   That Council welcomes the Albanese Labor Government’s $10 million investment in the Cooks River and thanks Minister Tony Burke and Minister Tanya Plibersek for allocating $500,000 of the funding to Camdenville Park Wetlands in St Peters. 

 

2.   That Council as a Member Council of the Cooks River Alliance commits to submitting an application for the Federal Government's Urban Rivers and Catchments Program when the second round of funding opens.

 

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

 

 

C0823(1) Item 47         Notice of Motion: Pedestrian Safety at Cardinal Freeman Village

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

1.    That Council notes the notice of motion carried at the March 2023 Council meeting and progress to date.

 

2.    That Council prioritises work to investigate and install pedestrian crossings that will improve pedestrian safety for residents at Cardinal Freeman Village.

 

3.    That Council continues engagement with the residents of Cardinal Freeman Village to identify and implement pedestrian safety improvements.

 

4.    That Council supports a reduced warrant approach in line with Inner West Council policy for pedestrian crossings at or near Cardinal Freeman Retirement Village.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 60         Notice of Motion: No step access from Esplanades and
         Escarpments to Elliot Park

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

1.   That Council confirm the legal advice that was issued by the Inner West Council General Counsel in 2018 that the construction of a ramp from Elliot Park to the Balmain Cove Esplanades and Escarpments is allowable.

 

2.   That pending confirmation of the 2018 advice Council provide landowners consent for the Owners Corporation to submit a DA to construct the ramp. 

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 2       Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 15 May 2023

Motion: (Lockie/Griffiths)

 

That the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 15 May 2023 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

 

C0823(1) Item 3       Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 19 June 2023 and 17 July 2023

Motion: (Griffiths/Byrne)

 

That the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 19 June 2023 and 17 July 2023 be received and the recommendations be adopted subject to the following amendment:

 

a)    19 June 2023 LTC0623 (1) Item 12 be deferred pending an onsite meeting to identify alternative solutions.

 

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 (Byrne/Drury)

 

That Council allow Clr Smith to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 4. 

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 4       Tree Canopy Report

Motion: (Smith/Howard)

 

1.   That Council adopt an inspection process for development sites that certifies tree, landscape works and deep soil provisions – this would apply to new dwellings, multiunit residential accommodation, commercial, industrial and mixed-use developments.

 

2.   That Council exhibit a new inspection and reinspection fee structure for new dwellings, residential accommodation, commercial, industrial and mixed-use developments based on development size and type, as part of the fees and charges.

 

3. That Council write to the NSW Premier and relevant Minister/s to: 

 

a)    Outline the extensive tree losses that have occurred throughout the Inner West as a result of NSW State Government infrastructure projects; 

 

b)    Request an audit of replacement tree plantings that have taken place on these infrastructure projects to confirm that they have been carried out as required, and that the trees have survived; and

 

c)    Request confirmation of plans for upcoming replacement tree plantings, including tree sizes and timelines for planting.

 

 

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)

 

1.    That Council to implement in road Shoulder plantings of trees where appropriate.

 

2.    That Council review the basis of the  public tree planting fee, in the light of the expenditure of tree planting budget.

 

The Mayor ruled the amendments out of order as they are not relevant to the primary motion.

 

Procedural Motion (Howard/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council allow Clr Drury to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 5. 

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 5       Re-Establishment of Alcohol Free Zones and Alcohol Prohibited         
     Areas for Balmain New Year's Eve 2023 - 2026

Motion: (Drury/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council not proceed with the re-establishment of Alcohol free zones and Alcohol Prohibited Areas for Balmain New Year’s Eve 2023-2026.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Crs Da Cruz and Stamolis

 

C0823(1) Item 6       Draft Plan of Management-Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks

Motion: (Howard/Lockie)

 

1.    That Council publicly exhibit the Draft Plan of Management for Neighbourhood and Pocket Parks for a period of 42 days and seek public feedback on the proposed plan of management and master plan for the parks.

 

2.    That prior to placing on public exhibition, staff incorporate the establishment of sensory gardens in suitable pocket parks as part of table 6.1:3 An Inclusive and Collective Design, in accordance with the councillor priority listed in the Community Strategic Plan adopted in June 2022 (4.3.2)

 

 

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 7       Crown Lands Procedural Requirement: Adoption of Park Plans of
     Management for Pratten Park, Petersham Park and Ashfield Park

Motion: (Drury/Griffiths)

 

1.    That Council as land manager of Ashfield Park (Lot 2 DP607316) adopt the Plan of Management for Ashfield Park.

 

2.    That Council as land manager of Petersham Park (D500070 & D500430) adopt the Plan of Management for Petersham Park.

 

3.    That Council as land manager of Pratten Park (Lot 1 DP64579, Lot 1 DP1169472, Lot 1 DP1169473, Lot 585 DP752049 & Lot 7041 DP93370) adopt the Plan of Management for Pratten Park.

 

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 (Drury/Stephens)

 

That Council allow the Mayor, Clr Byrne to speak for 3 additional minutes on Item 8.

 

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 Griffiths left the Meeting at 8:56 pm.

 

Councillor Griffiths returned to the Meeting at 9:04 pm.

 

Councillor Drury left the Meeting at 9:04 pm.

 

Councillor Drury returned to the Meeting at 9:05 pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Procedural motion (Griffiths/Byrne)

 

That Council allow the Clr Shetty to speak for 2 additional minutes on Item 8.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 8       Draft Rozelle Public Domain Masterplan - Community Consultation
     Commencement

Motion: (Byrne/Scott)

 

1.    That Council note the comprehensive preparation of the draft Rozelle Town Centre Masterplan and thank the staff involved for their diligence.

 

2.    That Council note that the Masterplan is predicated on assertions from the previous NSW Liberal / National Government that Traffic volumes on Victoria Road would be reduced by 50% when Westconnex stage 3 was completed, and that no data has as yet made publicly available to demonstrate that this will be the case.

 

3.    That Council express frustration and disappointment at the revelation that no funding was budgeted by the former NSW Government for public domain improvements for Victoria Road.

 

4.    That Council write to the NSW Minister for Roads seeking:

 

a)    The urgent release of data about what the traffic will be on Victoria Road, the ANZAC Bridge and our local traffic network when Westconnex Stage 3 opens.

 

b)    Clarification about why no funding was budgeted by the former Government for public domain improvements on Victoria Road.

 

5.    That Council write  to the Minister for Roads restating the Council’s long standing request (to the former Government) for a transparent Masterplan to be undertake for the Rozelle Parklands jointly between Transport for NSW and Council and requesting that this be committed to urgently.

 

6.    That Council publicly exhibit the draft Rozelle Public Domain Masterplan pending the disclosure by the NSW Government of the traffic data and modelling for our local traffic network when Westconnex Stage 3 opens.

 

7.    That Council notify residents in Rozelle, Lilyfield and Annandale of the Masterplan that has been prepared and the ongoing concerns that Council has about the lack of transparency about traffic impacts and the deficiencies in the Rozelle Parklands.

 

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 Stamoli

 

Procedural Motion (Byrne/D’Arienzo)

 

That the meeting be adjourned for 10 minutes.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 9.21pm

 

The meeting recommenced at 9.30pm

 

C0823(1) Item 9       Post Exhibition - Enmore Road Special Entertainment Precinct
     Planning Proposal and Development Control Plan

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Atkins)

 

1.   That Council note the engagement outcomes and government agency referrals from the public exhibition of the Planning Proposal and the associated site-specific Marrickville Development Control Plan 2011 as detailed in Attachment 1.

 

2.   That Council endorse the amendments to the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022, Marrickville Development Control Plan 2011 and Sound Management Plan as detailed in Attachment 2, 3 and 4.

 

3.   That Council submit the Planning Proposal to the Department of Planning and Environment, to make the amendment under Section 3.36 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

 

4.   That Council adopt the site-specific chapter to the Marrickville Development Control Plan 2011 and for it to come into effect on the same date as the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 amendment is published on the NSW legislation website.

 

5.   That Council authorise the General Manager to make minor/technical modifications to the Planning Proposal, Development Control Plan, and Special Entertainment Precinct Management Plan, during finalisation.

 

6.    That Council continue to work with key stakeholders to give full effect to the Enmore Road Special Entertainment Precinct and explore future developments.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 10         Draft Leichhardt Oval Masterplan for Public Exhibition

Motion: (Byrne/Scott)

 

That Council endorse the public exhibition of the Draft Leichhardt Oval 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

C0823(1) Item 11         387-389 Illawarra Rd Marrickville Works in Kind Agreement

Motion: (Smith/Howard)

 

1.    That Council endorse entering into a Works in Kind Agreement (WIK) with Fresh Hope Housing incorporated for 387-391 Illawarra Road, Marrickville in lieu of payment of S7.11 contribution required as a condition of development consent.

 

2.    That Council delegate the General Manager to finalise negotiations for the WIK Agreement and the final design of the works with Fresh Hope Housing
Incorporated.

 

3.    That Council investigate opportunities to work with churches and other religious organisations and charities that own land in the Inner West Local Government Area on how this land could be utilised to deliver affordable and community-based housing.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Cr Da Cruz*

 

*Cr Da Cruz did not vote for or against the motion. Therefore, in accordance with Clause 11.4 of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice (as shown below), she is recorded as voting against the motion:

 

A Councillor who is present at a meeting of Council but who fails to vote on a motion put to the meeting is taken to have voted against the motion.

 

C0823(1) Item 12         Additional Ordinary Council meeting date for Mayoral Election

Motion: (Byrne/D’Arienzo)

 

That an additional Ordinary Council meeting be held on 19 September 2023 to hold the Mayor and Deputy Mayor Election, with the Meeting Schedule on Council’s website to be updated accordingly.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 13         Local Government NSW Board Election and Annual Conference
         2023

Motion: (Scott/Atkins)

 

1.    That Council nominate the following Councillors to attend the 2023 Local Government NSW Conference.

 

a)    Clr Byrne;

b)    Clr D’Arienzo;

c)    Clr Drury;

d)    Clr Howard;

e)    Clr Scott;

f)     Clr Smith;

g)    Clr Da Cruz;

h)    Clr Langford; and

i)     Clr Atkins

 

2.    That Council determine those Councillors are the 9 voting delegates for the LGNSW Board Election.

 

  1. That Council determine those Councillors are the 9 voting delegates for voting on motions at the 2023 Local Government NSW Conference

 

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/Stephens)

 

That Council Suspend Standing Orders to bring forward the following items to be dealt with at this time:

 

1.    Item 18 Update on Reconciliation Action Plan

2.    Item 22 Mandatory Reporting of Fire Safety Reports referred to Council from Fire and Rescue NSW

3.    Item 27 Notice of Motion: Leading a Reform Agenda on Waste

4.    Item 41 Notice of Motion: Affordable Housing Fund and Land Audit

 

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/Stephens)

 

That the following items be moved in globo and the recommendations contained within the report be adopted.

 

1.    Item 18 Update on Reconciliation Action Plan

2.    Item 22 Mandatory Reporting of Fire Safety Reports referred to Council from Fire and Rescue NSW

3.    Item 27 Notice of Motion: Leading a Reform Agenda on Waste

4.    Item 41 Notice of Motion: Affordable Housing Fund and Land Audit

 

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

 

 

 

C0823(1) Item 18         Update on Reconciliation Action Plan

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 22         Mandatory Reporting of Fire Safety Reports referred to Council
         from Fire and Rescue NSW

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council receive and note the correspondence from Fire and Rescue NSW in relation to 161 Princes Highway St Peters

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 27         Notice of Motion: Leading a Reform Agenda on Waste

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

1.    That Council notes councils have a key role to play in reducing waste and its impact on the environment.

 

2.    That Council notes across the Sydney metropolitan area, 55 per cent of household and commercial waste goes to landfill each year, resulting in loss of valuable resources, costing businesses and households more than $750 million in waste levies each year.

 

3.    That Council will work with other Sydney councils to:

 

a)    reduce waste;

 

b)    improve environmental outcomes where waste has to be processed;

 

c)    find solutions for the residue that is left; and

 

d)   coordinate our advocacy, communications and collective buying power to bring the benefits of scale, efficiency and industry confidence.

 

4.    That Council write to the NSW Government to invest the revenue from its waste levy for council and industry initiatives that:

 

a)    accelerate the transition to a circular economy;

 

b)    build the waste infrastructure needed to meet the growing pressures of population growth, loss of landfill capacity and a lack of competition in the sector;

 

c)    educate and support communities to reduce waste; and

 

d)   set the waste levy at an appropriate level with realistic hypothecation allocation, to streamline planning approvals for infrastructure, and to increase clarity and efficiency of licensing procedures.

 

5.    That Council write to the Commonwealth Government to expedite bans on materials that cannot be recycled or recovered, and to increase extended producer responsibilities including labelling to specify recycled content in product and packaging.

 

6.    That Council work with the other tiers of government to ensure the delivery of infrastructure solutions locally to reduce waste hauled long distances or to landfill.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 41         Notice of Motion: Affordable Housing Fund and Land Audit

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

1.   That Council note that an audit of Council land for affordable housing was commissioned in March 2022 by Notice of Motion C0322(1) Item 13.

 

2.   That Council will receive a report that features the completed audit of Council land for affordable housing by the November 2023 Council meeting.

 

3.   That in consultation with the Housing and Affordability Action Committee (HAAC), will develop a webpage about the Council’s affordable housing fund. The webpage will be updated quarterly and feature the amount of money in the fund, expenditure from the fund, revenue into the fund including funds from VPAs.

 

4.   That Council investigate moving the affordable housing fund into a high-interest account. The investigation is to be reported to the November Council meeting alongside the land audit.

 

5.   That Council consider direct investment into the affordable housing fund in each annual budget cycle.

 

6.   That Council investigate partnerships with neighbouring councils and Resilient Sydney to share resources including Council land and funds with the aim to boost Sydney's affordable housing stock.

 

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

C0823(1) Item 14         Planning Industry Professional Workshop Summary

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

1.   That Council receive and note the report.

 

2.   That Council undertake an external review of planning and compliance customer service, with the General Manager to bring Terms of Reference for a review in a report to the September 2023 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

 

C0823(1) Item 15         Investment Report at 31 May 2023

Motion: (Smith/Drury)

 

1.    That Council receive and note the report.

 

2.    That Council call upon the major banks to review their current investments on offer and provide real green investment options.

 

3.    That given there appears to be a market failure, Council write to the Federal Treasurer, the Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP, to consider what powers are available to ensure green investment options are provided by financial institutions, for Local Governments and other organisations who want green investments.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 16         Investment Report at 30 June 2023

Motion: (Drury/Scott)

 

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, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Cr Stamolis

 

C0823(1) Item 17         Delivery Program 22-26 & Operational Plan 22-23 Quarter 4
         Report

Motion: (Griffiths/Scott)

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 19         Arts and Music Recovery Plan Update (including Town Hall
         Activations)

Motion: (Smith/Howard)

 

1.    That Council receive and note the report.

 

2.    That Council continue to report bi-monthly on the activation of town halls for artistic purposes.

 

3.    That Council consult the Marrickville Town Hall Steering Committee to present a list of items Council could purchase to activate our town halls and provide a consistent, professional experience for hirers and audiences.

 

4.    That Council include this information in its next report to Council on the activation of town halls, as well as costs and funding options.

 

5.    That Council also include in its next report to Council on the activation of town halls options to designate specific town halls for particular art forms or 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

 

C0823(1) Item 20         FOGO - Food Recycling Update

Motion: (Howard/Byrne)

 

1.    That Council receive and note the report.

 

2.    That Council engage Craig Reucassel, Costa Georgiadis or other high profile individual to assist with promoting the Councils roll out of FOGO-food Recycling.

 

3.    That Council report monthly on the FOGO-Food Recycling roll out commence immediately.

 

4.    That Council prior to the sunset of the existing supply of compostable bags, report back to Council with accurate costings, budget options and an operational plan to provide compostable bags for free to every household beyond the planned 4-6 months.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 21         Department of Planning and Environment advice regarding a
         Local Government Area wide Local Environmental Plan
         approach

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Scott)

 

1.    That Council receive and note the report.

 

2.    That Council write to the Minister for NSW Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully advocating for a local government wide LEP process. 

 

3.    That Council bring a report to the next meeting outlining the phases for the Council led planning proposed to amend the Inner West LEP. That the report outlines our progress on the 0 - 5 year state government dwelling target (2016 - 2021) from the Local Housing Strategy, broken down by dwelling types: including secondary dwellings, boarding houses, student accommodation, infill affordable housing, senior living and residential care bed facilities and market dwellings.

 

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/Griffiths)

 

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

 

Confidential Session

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:

 

C0823(1) Item 57 Expression of Interest - Newtown Town Hall Pride Centre (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.

 

C0823(1) Item 58 Update on the Audit of Council Land for Affordable Housing (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.

 

C0823(1) Item 59 Tender Recommendation Report for RFT 09-23 Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade Architect Services (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.

 

Procedural Motion (Griffiths/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council move back into the 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

 

resolutions passed during closed session

 

C0823(1) Item 57         Expression of Interest - Newtown Town Hall Pride Centre

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

 

1.    That Council approves the issue of the Expression of Interest from LGBTQ+ or LGBTQ+ friendly organisations to manage and operate the Newtown Town Hall as the Inner West Pride Centre.

 

2.    That Council amends clause 6.4 of the EOI to stipulate that Council will pay for utilities.

 

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

 

C0823(1) Item 58         Update on the Audit of Council Land for Affordable Housing

Motion: (Smith/Griffiths)

 

1.    That Council receive and note the report.

 

2.    That Council write to the NSW Minister for Housing and Federal Minister for Housing to invite the State and Federal Government to work with Council and housing providers to investigate opportunities for development of public housing at the 10 sites identified as “high value” in the preliminary audit.

 

3.    That Council brief the Housing Affordability and Action Committee on the outcomes of the preliminary audit at the next Committee meeting.

 

4.    That Council recommit to delivery of the final report by the November 2023 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

 

C0823(1) Item 59         Tender Recommendation Report for RFT 09-23 Leichhardt Park
          Aquatic Centre Upgrade Architect Services

Motion: (Drury/Lockie)

 

1.    That Council accepts the tender submitted by C.STUDIO (NSW) Pty Ltd (or CO.OP Studio Pty Ltd) Suite 406, 46-56 Kippax Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010, for the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade Architect Services for the lump sum amount of $2,647,343 including GST.

 

2.    That Council approves the contingency noted in the confidential 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

 

C0823(1) Item 23         Major Capital Projects Committee and Project Summary Report

Motion: (Drury/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    

 

Procedural Motion (Howard/Stephens)

 

That Council Suspend standing orders to bring forward item 51

 

Motion Carried

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

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

Abstained:                   Cr Griffiths

Councillor Griffiths retired from the Meeting at 10:39 pm.

 

 

 

 

 

C0823(1) Item 51        Question On Notice: Council Flyer “We Are About Respect”

 

This item was discussed at the meeting.

 

C0823(1) Item 26         Notice of Motion: Cycling Infrastructure Signage, Designation
         and Enforcement

Motion: (Da Cruz/Shetty)

 

1.    That Council provide information on the website clarifying enforcement of moving bikes and cars on footpaths and roads is with NSW Police and parked bikes and cars, trailers etc is with Council.

 

2.    That Council provide more training to front line service request staff and the online systems to refer calls about moving bikes and cars to police.

 

3.    That Council receive a report at the November 2023 meeting on:

a)    Regulatory cycling signage and markings for Roads and Paths [requires investigation by officers; and

 

b)    cost and scope to undertake an audit of Cycling Infrastructure and Routes including safety, signage, road markings, shade and crash barriers etc. 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

Absent:                        Cr Griffiths

 

C0823(1) Item 28         Notice of Motion: Council to Display First Nations Map, State
         from the Heart and Torres Strait Flag in Council Chambers

Motion: (Da Cruz/Drury)

 

1.    That Council display the Map of Indigenous Australia in the Council Chamber and at local libraries.

 

2.    That Council display the image of the Uluru Statement from the Heart in the Council Chamber.

 

3.    That Council fly the Torres Strait Islander Flag in the chamber alongside the Aboriginal Flag.

 

4.    That Council bring back a report on adopting traditional place names in our correspondence.

 

5.    That Council fly the Aboriginal flag along Marrickville Road and on other mainstreets where possible, during Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week each year.

 

 

 

 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

Absent:                        Cr Griffiths

 

C0823(1) Item 29         Notice of Motion: Customer Service

Motion: (Scott/Byrne)

 

1.   That Council note that further to the Customer Service Charter on this agenda, the Customer Experience Strategy, will be provided to Council in September 2023 for endorsement to go on public exhibition.

 

2.   That Council note that further to the recent training opportunities for staff, a key item in the Customer Experience Strategy will need to be an organisational-wide culture uplift to be highly responsive, highly flexible, and highly empathetic, with metrics that include:

 

a)   Quick responses to emails, phone calls, and online service requests, with information provided in clear, plain English;

 

b)   Making proactive phone calls when residents reach out in other ways, both to understand and to follow up on issues raised;

 

c)   Requests assigned to a single case manager who is responsible for gathering and assessing information, following up interim information, keeping residents informed at regular intervals, and finding and confirming solutions; and

 

d)   Qualitative review of customer interactions for their consistency with our stated values of being here to serve the community, with an emphasis on responsiveness, flexibility and empathy.

 

3.   That Council establish a Facebook Online Customer Service page to exist separately from the Inner West Council’s organisational Facebook page. The purpose of the Online Customer Service page is to:

 

a)   Respond to resident requests on Facebook when “tagged”;

 

b)   Join local resident groups and respond to issues; and

 

c)   Note the Customer Advocate page is not a communications and promotions tool, but a customer service tool.

       

           A report is to be brought back to Council in August on how this will operate in   
           considering points a, b and c above.         

 

4.    That Council establish a mobile customer service outreach team: a team of staff and a branded van to bring Council administration directly to ratepayers, with a roving schedule for Council staff to be accessible in locations such as shopping centres, Council recreation facilities such as libraries, aquatic centres, sporting grounds, festivals, and major transport stops such as train stations and ferries during peak travel time. The outreach team will cover not only 9am-5pm Monday to Friday but also after hours and weekends.

 

5.   That Council increase the customer service stalls from 26 to 48 per year, and rotate them into new locations including shopping precincts and transport stops as well as the town squares and parks:

 

a)   Note that with more regularised activity, and providing the forward schedule in our monthly newsletters, letterboxing promotion may not be needed which would decrease the cost per annum; and

 

b)   Note that reporting on the engagement with the stalls is to continue through the Customer Service Committee, and if changes to the schedule are recommended, they will come to Council.

 

6.   That Council note that further investment $350,000 will be necessary to cover the increased activity in points 4 and 5, which will be moved as an amendment to the budget.

 

7.   That staff report in September 2023 with the Customer Experience Strategy, on the adoption of new technologies to improve transparency around maintenance schedules so residents can know when and where maintenance is due to occur in their neighbourhood, beginning with an immediate update to the way that mowing and street sweeping schedules are made public.

 

8.   That in 2024, request the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service (IOSS) conduct a 12-month review of customer service to determine what improvements have been made and where there are further opportunities.

 

Motion Carried

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

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

Absent:                        Cr Griffiths

 

C0823(1) Item 30         Notice of Motion: Emergency Services Levy increase

Councillor Lockie withdrew this Notice of Motion.

 

C0823(1) Item 31         Notice of Motion: Webcasts

Motion: (Stamolis/Da Cruz)

 

That Council look at ways to increase public accessibility and use of its webcasts for its Ordinary Council meetings and report back in September 2023.  

 

Motion Lost

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

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

Absent:                        Cr Griffiths

 

 

 

 

C0823(1) Item 32         Notice of Motion: Unoccupied Dwellings Rise by 35%

Motion: (Stamolis/Da Cruz)

 

That Council investigate the stock of unoccupied dwellings in the Inner West and report initial data back by November 2023.

 

Motion Lost

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

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

Absent:                        Cr Griffiths

 

Procedural Motion (Byrne/Stephens)

 

That Items 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40 and 42 be deferred to the 12 September 2023 Ordinary Council meeting.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

Absent:                        Cr Griffiths

 

Meeting closed at 11.01pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Public Speakers:

 

 

Item #

 

Speaker             

Suburb

Item 3:

Firdous Majeed

Joseph Atailah

Lilyfield

Summer Hill

Item 6:

Jurate Janavicius

Haberfield

Item 7:

Rick Wayde

Croydon

Item 8:

Francis O’Neill

Neil Tonkin

Ben Prag

Sydney

Lilyfield

Balmain

Item 11:

Daniel Dwyer

Dan Mckenna

John Engeler

Rhodes

Brunswick

Darlinghurst

Item 39:

Michele Hacking

Les Johnston

Kevin Crawshaw

Stephen Young

Rozelle

Balmain

Birchgrove

Balmain

Item 41:

David Collins-White

Croydon

Item 52:

Elizabeth Birch

Camperdown

Item 60:

Doctor Rob Gillespie

Professor William McCarthy

Desmond Kennedy

Rozelle

Rozelle

Rozelle

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unconfirmed Minutes of Ordinary Council meeting held 8 August 2023.