|
AGENDA R |
Council Meeting
TUESDAY 12 NOVEMBER 2024
6:30 PM
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Live Streaming of Council Meeting
In the spirit of open, accessible and transparent government, this meeting of the Inner West Council is being streamed live on Council’s website. By speaking at a Council meeting, members of the public agree to being recorded and must ensure their speech to the Council is respectful and use appropriate language. A person who uses defamatory, discriminatory or offensive language may be exposed to liability for which Council takes no responsibility. Any part of this meeting that is held in closed session will not be recorded.
Council meetings are streamed live on Council’s website. This allows our community greater access to Council proceedings, decisions and debate.
Pre-Registration to Speak at Council Meetings
Members of the public must register by 2pm of the day of the Meeting to speak at Council Meetings. If you wish to register to speak please fill in a Register to Speak Form, available from the Inner West Council website, including:
Are there any rules for speaking at a Council Meeting?
The following rules apply when addressing a Council meeting:
What happens after I submit the form?
You will be contacted by Governance Staff to confirm your registration. If you indicated that you will speak online, you will be provided with a link to the online meeting. Your request will then be added to a list that is shown to the Chairperson on the night of the meeting.
Where Items are deferred, Council reserves the right to defer speakers until that Item is heard on the next occasion.
Accessibility
Inner West Council is committed to ensuring people with a disability have equal opportunity to take part in Council and Committee Meetings. At the Council Chambers at Ashfield, there is a hearing loop service available to assist persons with a hearing impairment. If you have any other access or disability related participation needs and wish to know more, call 9392 5536.
Persons in the public gallery are advised that under the Local Government Act 1993, a person may NOT record a Council meeting without the permission of Council.
Any persons found recording without authority will be expelled from the meeting.
“Record” includes the use of any form of audio, video and still camera equipment or mobile phone capable of recording speech.
An audio recording of this meeting will be taken for the purpose of verifying the accuracy of the minutes.
Statement of Ethical Obligations
The Mayor and Councillors are bound by the Oath/ Affirmation of Office made at the start of the Council term to undertake their civic duties in the best interests of the people of the Inner West Council and to faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act or any other Act, to the best of their skill and judgement.
It is also a requirement that the Mayor and Councillors disclose conflicts of interest in relation to items listed for consideration on the Agenda or which are considered at this meeting in accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct and Code of Meeting Practice.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
|
AGENDA |
1 Acknowledgement of Country
2 Apologies and Request for Remote Attendance
3 Notice of Webcasting
4 Statement of Ethical Obligations
5 Disclosures of Interest (Part 4 (Pecuniary Interests) and Part 5 (non-pecuniary conflicts of interest) of Council’s Code of Conduct)
6 Moment
of Quiet Contemplation
7 Confirmation of Minutes Page
Minutes
of 22 October 2024
Council
6
8 Public Forum – Hearing from All Registered Speakers
9 Condolence Motions
ITEM Page
C1124(1) Item 1 Condolence Motion: Kenneth Gooding 32
10 Mayoral Minutes
Nil at the time of printing.
11 Reports for Council Decision
ITEM Page
C1124(1) Item 2 Quarter one progress report on the Delivery Program 2022-26 (year three) and Operational Plan 2024/25 and Quarterly Budget Review Statement 33
C1124(1) Item 3 Annual Report 2023/24 including Audited Financial Statements 150
C1124(1) Item 4 Post Exhibition - Draft Sponsorship Policy 153
C1124(1) Item 5 Camperdown Memorial Rest Park - Comedor Hirers Agreement Proposal 167
C1124(1) Item 6 Ballast Point Park, Birchgrove - Notice of Intention - State Heritage Register 226
C1124(1) Item 7 Lewisham Town Centre Upgrade 237
C1124(1) Item 8 Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 21 October 2024 240
C1124(1) Item 9 Submission to Office of Local Government on Councillor Conduct and Meeting Practices 269
12 Reports for Noting
ITEM Page
C1124(1) Item 10 Bi-monthly report – Progress of Inner West Brewers and Distillers Implementation Action Plan 298
C1124(1) Item 11 Update on Planning Proposal for Additional Special Entertainment Precincts 302
C1124(1) Item 12 White Bay Power Station Special Entertainment Precinct Update 337
C1124(1) Item 13 Pathway to a Safer Cooks River 340
C1124(1) Item 14 Leichhardt Oval Public Access - Wayne Pearce Hill 349
C1124(1) Item 15 Update on Creative Use of Town Halls 356
C1124(1) Item 16 Dual Naming of Local Parks and Ovals 363
13 Notices of Motion
ITEM Page
C1124(1) Item 17 Notice of Motion: Despointes Street Flooding 366
C1124(1) Item 18 Notice of Motion: Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 369
C1124(1) Item 19 Notice of Motion: ECEC Pay and Conditions 371
C1124(1) Item 20 Notice of Motion: Parking traffic plan for Henson Park events 373
C1124(1) Item 21 Notice of Motion: WestConnex Dive Site - Reaffirming the need for Public Housing on Public Land 377
C1124(1) Item 22 Notice of Motion: Making use of Leichhardt Oval for live music and performance 379
C1124(1) Item 23 Notice of Motion: Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 380
C1124(1) Item 24 Notice of Motion: More Bins, Cleaner Streets 382
C1124(1) Item 25 Notice of Motion: Harnett Avenue, Marrickville 383
C1124(1) Item 26 Notice of Motion: Flood Management Advisory Committee 385
C1124(1) Item 27 Notice of Motion: Ongoing commitment to Aboriginal justice 386
C1124(1) Item 28 Notice of Motion: Pedestrian crossing at Allen Street, Leichhardt 388
C1124(1) Item 29 Notice of Motion: Expanding Jazz In The Park 389
14 Reports with Confidential Information
Reports appearing in this section of the Business Paper contain confidential information in attachments.
The confidential information has been circulated separately.
ITEM Page
C1124(1) Item 30 Major Capital Projects Committee and Project Summary Report 391
C1124(1) Item 31 Status of negotiations of collection services Garbage, FOGO and Recycling 427
C1124(1) Item 32 RFT 13-24 Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade (Stage 1) 428
C1124(1) Item 33 Quarterly Strategic Investment Property Report 430
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting
held on 22 October 2024 at
Ashfield Service Centre
Meeting commenced at 6:31pm
|
Present: |
|
|
Darcy Byrne Mat Howard Izabella Antoniou Liz Atkins Olivia Barlow Andrew Blake Jo Carlisle Vicki Clay Jessica D’Arienzo Kerrie Fergusson Victor Macri Vittoria Raciti Philippa Scott Chloe Smith Ismet Tastan Simone Plummer |
Mayor Deputy Mayor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor General Manager Director Planning |
|
Ryann Midei |
Director Infrastructure |
|
Ruth Callaghan Beau-Jane De Costa Julian Sakarai Matthew Pearce Chris Sleiman Sajjad Ali Manod Wickramasinghe Daniel East Scott Mullen Rocco Sergi Chariee Bultitude |
Director Community Acting Director Corporate Acting Senior Manager Governance and Risk General Counsel Chief Financial Officer Financial Reporting and Control Manager Traffic and Transport Planning Manager Acting Senior Manager Strategic Planning Strategic Investments and Property Manager Coordinator Strategic Investments and Properties Audit Office NSW |
|
Katherine Paixao Darcie Huisman |
Business Paper Coordinator Business Paper Officer |
APOLOGIES AND REQUEST FOR REMOTE PARTICIPATION:
Nil.
DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST:
Councillor Atkins declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 9 – Minutes of the Flood Risk Management Advisory Committee (FRMAC) held on 24 July 2024 including outcomes of the exhibition of the Alexandra Canal Flood Risk Management Study & Plan and the Johnstons Creek & Whites Creek Flood Risk Management Study & Plan as their primary residence is in the Johnstons Creek and Whites Creek Flood Risk Management catchment area. They will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.
Councillor Howard declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 8 – Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 16 September 2024 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 17 – Tempe Train Station as he works in the Ministerial Office of the Minister for Transport and in that capacity he is directly engaged in work related to the station upgrades. Out of an abundance of caution and to avoid any risk of perception of conflict, he will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.
Councillor Scott declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 8 - Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 16 September 2024 as one of the items to be adopted is on pedestrian upgrades at the Sydney Secondary College, Leichhardt where she is the P&C President and where one of her children attends school. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.
Councillor Scott declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 20 – Rozelle Village as she is Council’s appointee to the Sydney Eastern Planning Panel that will determine the outcome of this project. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting.
Motion: (D’Arienzo/Smith)
That Council note the disclosures of interest.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
|
That the Minutes of the Council held on Tuesday, 3 September 2024 and Tuesday, 8 October 2024 be confirmed as a correct record.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan 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, Councillor Byrne, left the meeting at 6:54pm and vacated the Chair. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Howard, assumed the Chair.
The Mayor, Councillor Byrne, returned to the meeting at 7:13pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Howard, vacated the Chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne, assumed the Chair.
Procedural Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That Council Suspend Standing Orders to bring forward the following items to be dealt with at this time:
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
Procedural Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That the following items be moved in globo and the recommendations contained within the report be adopted:
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
|
That Council endorse an application to the Geographical Names Board to allow for Quong Tart Plaza to be an additional name given to Hercules Street, Ashfield in recognition of the long contribution of people of Chinese backgrounds to Ashfield.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
|
That Council receive and note the report.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
|
That Council endorse the ‘State of the Inner West October 2024’ report which outlines progress of implementation and the effectiveness of the Community Strategic Plan.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
|
1. That Council publicly exhibit the conceptual designs for Stage 2 of the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC) Upgrade and seek community feedback on the design.
2. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the conceptual designs for Stage 2 of the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC) be brought back to Council for adoption.
3. That following the public consultation, Council staff bring back a report to Council each month on progress on this project.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Scott left the meeting at 8:01pm as she declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 8 as one of these items to be adopted is on pedestrian upgrades at the Sydney Secondary College, Leichhardt where she is the P&C President and where one of her children attends school.
Councillor Scott returned to the meeting at 8:05pm
Councillor Atkins left the meeting at 8:06pm as they declared a significant, pecuniary interest in Item 9 as their primary residence is in the Johnstons Creek and Whites Creek Flood Risk Management catchment area.
Councillor Atkins returned to the meeting at 8:08pm
|
That Council determine Councillor representation on Council and External Committees until September 2025 as follows: 1. Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee – Councillor Scott. 2. Flood Management Advisory Committee – Councillor Howard and Councillor Barlow. 3. Local Traffic Committee – Councillor Macri and (Alternate) Councillor Atkins. 4. GM Performance Assessment Panel – The Mayor (Councillor Byrne), Councillor Howard, and Councillor Antoniou. 5. Major Capital Projects Committee – Councillor Scott, Councillor Fergusson, Councillor Atkins, Councillor Blake and Councillor Howard. 6. Callan Park Community Trustee Board – Councillor Byrne. 7. Cooks River Alliance Management Committee – Councillor Howard and (Alternate) Councillor Barlow. 8. NSW Public Libraries Association – Councillor Carlisle and (Alternate) Councillor Antoniou. 9. Parramatta River Catchment Group – Councillor Fergusson and (Alternate) Councillor Blake. 10. Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils – The Mayor (Councillor Byrne) and Councillor Scott and (Alternate) Councillor Atkins. 11. Sydney Airport Community Forum – The Mayor (Councillor Byrne). 12. Sydney Coastal Council Group – Councillor Barlow. 13. Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel – Councillor Scott and John Engeler (community representative), subject to the formal acceptance from John Engeler.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
|
That Council determine the voting delegates for voting on motions at the 2024 Local Government NSW Annual Conference and attendees are: 1. Clr Clay 2. Clr Atkins 3. Clr Antoniou 4. Clr Tastan
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
|
That Council authorise the sale of the Suncorp investments, as detailed in the report, in accordance with Council’s Investment Policy to ensure Council’s investment portfolio consist entirely of socially responsible investments and deposits in non-fossil fuel aligned banks.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Howard left the meeting at 8:14pm as he declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 17 as he works in the Ministerial Office of the Minister for Transport and in that capacity he is directly engaged in work related to the station upgrades.
Councillor Raciti left the meeting at 8:16pm
Councillor Raciti returned to the meeting at 8:20pm
|
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council acknowledges the significant concerns raised by the community about the safety and accessibility of Tempe Train Station.
3. That Council recommits to exploring urgently all options to improve the safety and amenity of Tempe Train Station.
4. That Council Staff investigate a defined cycleway path through the Tempe Station car park, so that people using the car park do not conflict with cyclists for safety reasons.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil Absent: Cr Howard |
Councillor Howard returned to the meeting at 8:21pm
Procedural motion (Smith/Carlisle)
That Council allow Clr D’Arienzo to speak for 2 additional minutes on Item 18.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
|
C1024(2) Item 18 Post Exhibition - Planning Principles for the Inner West |
|
1. That Council receive and note the report.
2. That Council welcomes the 1,221 submissions from the community, providing valuable input and feedback on the proposed planning principles.
3. That Council commits to the timely development and finalisation of a LGA wide Local Environment Plan (LEP) that aligns with the State Government’s housing targets.
4. That Council incorporates all the planning principles we consulted the community on into the development of the LEP.
5. That Council prioritises affordable housing options within the LEP, including for social and public housing.
6. That Council reports back to Council a draft LEP for submission to the NSW State Government.
7. That Council notes the key recommendations in the NSW Productivity and Equality Commission report titled Review of Housing Supply Challenges and Policy Options for New South Wales (September 2024) (the PC Report) regarding the importance of a fast and smooth development process; and a) acknowledges that design excellence is critical to delivering quality, sustainable, affordable housing and that everyone in our community has a right to live in housing that is well-designed, meets minimum standards and has access to sunlight; b) supports protecting and maintaining existing solar access provisions in design guidelines; c) receives a report from Council officers to the November Ordinary Council meeting assessing how the recommendations of the Productivity Commission Report could be applied to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of development assessment in the Inner West.
8. That Council notes that NSW is only one of two states that are yet to sign up to the Silver Livable Housing Design Standards in the National Construction Code – a set of design standards that require new housing developments to offer basic accessibility for all people.
9. That Council note the need for increased standards around sustainability and design to ensure new builds are meeting Council’s goals of energy efficiency and equity, including cooling and heating measures, where possible solar panels being incorporated, and other best practice standards laid out by Council’s own Design Excellence Panel.
10. That Council notes that new residential buildings in the Inner West need to be a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms to accommodate broad types of living arrangements and stages.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Procedural Motion (Byrne/Smith)
That the meeting be adjourned for 5 minutes.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
The meeting was adjourned at 8.31pm
The meeting recommenced at 8.41pm
|
1. That Council receive and note the report regarding the Affordable Housing Roundtable held on 15 August 2024, in partnership with Faith Housing Alliance.
2. That Council acknowledge the valuable insights gained from the roundtable discussions about the potential for delivering social and affordable housing on land owned by faith-based organisations, including the need for genuine changes to the planning system.
3. That Council partner with the Faith Housing Alliance to review and propose planning framework changes that deliver social and affordable housing in the inner west.
4. That Council incorporates the changes into the development of the draft Local Environment Plan.
5. That Council support increased collaboration with faith-based organisations and community housing providers, including the establishment of a concierge service to assist with the development application process.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Scott left the meeting at 8:44pm as she declared significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 20 – Rozelle Village as she is Council’s appointee to the Sydney Eastern Planning Panel that will determine the outcome of this project.
Councillor Scott returned to the meeting at 8:45pm
|
That Council defer consideration of the report until the December 2024 Council meeting and receive a report on progress to realise the ‘Love Your Club’ program that the past Council resolved to develop.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Macri returned to the meeting at 8:51pm
Procedural Motion (Smith/D’Arienzo)
That Council allow Clr Howard to speak for 2 additional minutes on Item 24.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
|
C1024(2) Item 27 Notice of Motion: A fast and smooth development process |
|
The Chairperson ruled this item redundant. |
Procedural Motion (Byrne/Howard)
That Council allow Clr Smith to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 28.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
|
1. That Council commence work on a Sydenham Road Strategy, with the objective of improving walkability, traffic and safety on Sydenham Road between Victoria Road and Sydenham Station.
2. That the Sydenham Road Strategy provide detailed designs, plans and projects to resolve the following issues: a) Resolving parking issues; b) Improving lighting; c) Upgrading footpaths; d) Investigating new active transport links; e) Improving safety at key intersections, including Sydenham Road at Victoria Road, Fitzroy Street and Buckley Street; f) Improving wayfinding to support local businesses; g) Poorly managed street trees; and h) Upgrades to Wicks Park.
3. That a list of priority projects be formed and considered as part of the 2025-2026 Budget planning process, with the Strategy led by a Project Control Group consisting of representatives of the Infrastructure Team, Planning Team, Development Team and Economic Development Team.
4. That Council undertake a comprehensive engagement plan to underpin the Strategy, including: a) Hosting a Roundtable of businesses and organisations on and surrounding Sydenham Road (such Connect Inner West, the Marrickville Bowling Club and Red Rattler), as well as the Inner West Brewers Association; b) Hosting public meetings for residents, both at the initial stage of the project and once detailed plans and designs are finalised; and c) Stakeholder engagement with key agencies including Transport for NSW, Sydney Metro, Ausgrid, Sydney Water, Destination NSW and the Office of the 24 Hour Commissioner.
5. That Council report progress monthly to councillors via councillor briefing note, and to the Local Traffic Committee on a monthly basis.
6. That Council target a portion of the $200,000 Inner West Tourism Strategy to support businesses surrounding Sydenham Station - including microbreweries, cafes and distilleries - to benefit from additional traffic from the Metro.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
|
C1024(2) Item 32 Notice of Motion: Parking in Marrickville |
|
1. That Council urgently undertake parking studies in suburbs around Tempe, St Peters and Sydenham stations with the view to implementing parking controls to better support residents facing additional parking pressures with the opening of the Metro to Sydenham and closure of the T3 Bankstown Line.
2. That Council write to TfNSW making them aware of the impact of the parking of the buses in Railway Parade is having on the businesses and ask that they be relocated to the abundant empty land around Sydenham Station that is not being utilised.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor Raciti left the meeting at 9:13pm
Councillor Raciti returned to the meeting at 9:14pm
|
C1024(2) Item 36 Notice
of Motion: Representation for Renters in Local |
|
The Chairperson ruled this item redundant. |
|
1. That Council allocate up to $2 million in the draft 2025-26 Budget to the upgrade amenities and facilities at Mort Bay Park, including the following improvements: a) A new toilet near the playground and ferry wharf; b) A playground upgrade with a waterplay area and shade sails; c) Fixing drainage and muddy areas; d) Improved lighting throughout the Park to make night-time use safer; e) Progressing water and sediment quality testing to allow a swim site; f) Table tennis tables, picnic tables and BBQ's and seating; and g) Outdoor gym equipment.
2. That Council commence community consultation in 2024 on the priorities of local residents for inclusion in the upgrade.
3. That Council receive a report to the February 2025 Ordinary Council meeting on the outcomes of the community consultation and identifying which of the improvements can be undertaken immediately and which will need to be subject to a procurement process.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Councillor D'Arienzo left the meeting at 9:22pm
Confidential session
Procedural Motion (Howard/Atkins)
That Council enter into Confidential session.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
Absent: Cr D'Arienzo
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:
C1024(2) Item 43 RFT 29-24 - Garbage, FOGO and Recycling Collection 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 commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.
C1024(2) Item 44 Lease of Ashfield Bowling Club, Ashfield Park (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.
C1024(2) Item 45 Short Term Lease The reason for dealing with the report confidentially is that it contains information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.
resolutions passed during closed session
Councillor D'Arienzo returned to the meeting at 9:25pm
|
1. That Council endorse an in-principle agreement for a short-term lease to be negotiated and entered into to allow Tempe lands to be used for but not limited to car parking and storage of cars, trucks, plant, and equipment.
2. That Council authorise the General Manager to make a non-binding offer to lease the Tempe lands with any number of potential lessees under the direction and recommendations of a suitably qualified expert as detailed in this confidential report.
Motion Carried For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan Against Motion: Nil |
Procedural Motion (Carlisle/Howard)
That Council move back into the Open Session of the Council meeting.
Motion Carried
For Motion: Crs Antoniou, Atkins, Barlow, Blake, Byrne, Carlisle, Clay, D'Arienzo, Fergusson, Howard, Macri, Raciti, Scott, Smith and Tastan
Against Motion: Nil
Meeting closed at 9:35pm.
|
Item #
|
Speaker |
Suburb |
|
Item 7: |
Maria Palmer |
Rozelle |
|
Item 8: |
Elvina Weissel |
Lilyfield |
|
Item 18: |
Barbara McKellar Ann King |
Dulwich Hill Lilyfield |
|
Item 19: |
Rob Stokes Amanda Bailey |
Bella Vista Bella Vista |
|
Item 23: |
Antony Restifo Jean Casey |
Ashfield Ashfield |
|
Item 24: |
Daniel Haigh Hall Greenland Cynthia Nadai Paul Power |
Drummoyne Leichhardt Lilyfield Rozelle |
|
Item 27: |
David Reynolds Elayn James |
Summer Hill Summer Hill |
|
Item 41: |
Marco De Angelis |
Cromer |
|
Item 44: |
Steven Dodds |
Ashfield |
Unconfirmed Minutes of Ordinary Council meeting held on 22 October 2024.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Condolence Motion: Kenneth Gooding
From: Councillor Ismet Tastan
|
MOTION
1. That the Inner West Council record our sadness at the passing of Kenneth Gooding and writes to the family expressing our condolences.
2. That Council notes the significant contribution Ken made to the beauty and upkeep of Hannan Reserve, Rozelle over the last decade and plant a tree within the park in his honour, dedicated to his service and memorialising him.
|
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Quarter one progress report on the Delivery Program 2022-26 (year three) and Operational Plan 2024/25 and Quarterly Budget Review Statement
Prepared By: Prue Foreman - Corporate Strategy and Engagement Manager and Chris Sleiman - Chief Financial Officer
Authorised By: Beau-Jane De Costa - Acting Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the Quarter One Progress Report on the Delivery Program 2022-26 (year three) and Operational Plan 2024/25.
2. That Council adopt the Quarterly Budget Review Statement.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As part of Integrated Planning and Reporting, Council has a current Delivery Program 2022-26 (year three) and Operational Plan and Budget 2024/25 which guide Council’s work to 30 June 2025. Council has determined to receive quarterly reports against this plan to monitor progress. This report also includes the Quarterly Budget Review Statement which is provided in quarters 1-3 of each year.
The quarterly progress report outlines achievements against the Delivery Program 2022-26 (year three) and Operational Plan 2024/25. It measures whether actions are on track, completed, behind schedule, on hold or rescheduled and provides commentary against each. It also measures whether key performance indicators (KPIs) are on target, within the tolerance (+/-10% of the target) or below target.
As at 30 September 2024, 96% of Operational Plan actions were completed or on track, while 78% of measures were on target or within tolerance of the target. Measures below target are monitored, and reasons include higher than expected missed bins due to an increase in services and seasonal sporting allocations for summer completed, which impacts the number of parks bookings. All actions and measures which are not on track are monitored by the relevant manager and Director.
The Quarterly Budget Review Statement provides a comprehensive high-level overview of Council’s financial position as at 30 September 2024 which includes the following:
1. Council’s operating deficit forecasted to be $4.6m, a decline of $2.9m from the Original Budget deficit of $1.7m.
2. Council’s capital expenditure forecasted to be $130.8m, an increase of $5.1m from the Original Budget capital expenditure of $125.6m.
The increase in operating deficit before capital revenue will not impact Council’s Long-Term
Financial Plan where surpluses are adopted for future years.
BACKGROUND
Council’s Operational Plan 2024/25 details the actions that will be undertaken in the year to achieve the commitments made in the Delivery Program 2022-26 in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 (s404 and 405). Council receives quarterly progress reports to monitor performance and progress in achieving Council’s commitments to the community as outlined in the plan.
The Quarterly Budget Review Statement is a regular progress report prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993 (s404(5)) and Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (s202), namely that the Responsible Accounting Officer report quarterly (in quarters one-three) on a budget review statement to adequately disclose the Council’s overall financial position.
DISCUSSION
Operational Plan 2024/25 progress
The quarterly progress report outlines progress against the 162 actions in the 2024/25 Operational Plan, and tracks measures (KPIs) achieved against annual targets. Council is tracking well against the Operational Plan 2024/25.
Actions – as at 30 September 2024:
· 96% (156) of actions are ‘Completed’ or ‘On Track’
· 4% (6) of actions are ‘Behind Schedule’, ‘On Hold’ or ‘Rescheduled’
Measures - as at 30 September 2024:
· 78% (50) of measures are ‘On Target’ or ‘Within Tolerance’
· 22% (14) of measures are ‘Below Target’
Highlights for the quarter included:
· celebrated a significant milestone in our FOGO recycling program - received the first batch of processed platinum-grade compost which was used in our National
Tree Day public tree planting event
· launched the Inner West Pride Centre in partnership with respected LGBTQIA+ service provider Twenty10
· officially opened the first inclusive playground at King George Park Rozelle with equipment for all ages and abilities, BBQs, picnic areas and a brand new accessible amenity building
· reopened Balmain Town Hall and Library following a $4 million restoration
· delivered or partnered on community events including the launch of Creative Uses of Town Halls, Culture X Ashfield, Generate – Live Youth Music Festival, Music 2SER in your Hood and the Inner West Chamber Music Festival, Footprints Ecofestival, Dulwich Hill Festival, GreenWay Art Prize and Power Up Festival at White Bay Power Station
· served 1,898 customers at mobile customer service stalls across the Inner West
· launched the Litter Less Roadmap, which aims to reduce plastic litter by 60% by 2030
· achieved ‘Purple Flag’ accreditation which recognises Marrickville as a safe and vibrant night-time destination
· created the Heritage Pub Trail for Balmain and Rozelle pubs as part of our $7.5 million Main Streets Revitalisation program
Quarterly Budget Review Statement
This report provides a comprehensive high-level overview of Council’s financial position as at 30 September 2024. Any forecast results are projections as at 30 June 2025. Council has updated its projected budget result to $40.2 million, this is an increase of $1.4 million from the original Budget. Excluding capital revenue, a deficit of $4.6 million has been projected against the Original Budget Deficit of $1.7 million.
The increase in operating deficit before capital revenue will not impact Council’s Long-Term Financial Plan where surpluses are adopted for future years.
During the quarter, a detailed review of both operating and capital budgets was undertaken, reconfirming the budget projections for the current financial year.
The change in the Full Year Operating Budgeted Result Before Capital Grants and Contributions is primarily due to:
· Interest Income increase of $0.7m due to reserves available for investment yielding better than budgeted interest.
· Capital Grants and Contributions increase of $1.8m to reflect year to date developer contributions received offset by a reduction in grants due to the timing of recognising grants received for capital projects for when the project is to be completed (which is in the 2024/25 Financial Year).
· Other Income increase of $1.6m due to partial legal compensation and payment for 2023/24 ex-gratia payment received in current financial year.
· Employee Costs net increase following the Parramatta River Catchment Group being hosted by Inner West Council.
· Material & Services net increase due to:
o Match operational grants received.
o Expenditure for the Parramatta River Catchment Group.
o Carry over of operational project budget to be completed in current Financial Year.
o Transfer of budget from Other Expenses
· Depreciation increase due to realignment of depreciation expenses from the fair valuation of assessment completed in 2023/24 Financial Year.
Summary of Budget Movements
Operational Budget
The graph in Figure 1 summarises the key operating budget movements, with a brief explanation and the impact on Council’s budget provided below.
Figure 1. Changes in the Full Year Operating Budgeted Result Before Capital Grants and Contributions
· Forecast increase in revenue relating to User Charges & Fees:
- Finance – $0.1m increase due to higher than expected Section 603 certificates in the first quarter.
- Early Learning - $0.1m increase to higher than expected utilisation from early learning centres.
· Forecast increase in Other Income:
- Corporate Support - $0.9m due to late payment received for Ex-Gratia relating to 2023/24.
- Legal Service - $0.5m through partial legal compensation for Council matter.
· Forecast increase in Interest Income $0.7m – higher than expected reserves for Council as of 30 June 2024 resulting in receiving more interest income for the first quarter.
· Employee Costs net increase following the Parramatta River Catchment Group being hosted by Inner West Council.
· Material & Services net increase due to:
- Match operational grants received.
- Expenditure for the Parramatta River Catchment Group.
- Carry over of operational project budget to be completed in current Financial Year.
- Transfer of budget from Other Expenses
· Depreciation increase due to realignment of depreciation expenses from the fair valuation of assessment completed in 2023/24 Financial Year.
Capital Budget
The graph in Figure 2 over the page reflects changes in the timing of projects, with a brief explanation provided below. Details can be found within the September 2024 QBRS Movement (attached).
The increased Capital Expenditure of $5.1m is primarily due to the carryover of unspent budgets from the 2023/24 Financial Year. A significant portion of the carryovers are projects completed early in the first quarter.
Cash Flow forecasts of major projects will be monitored ensuring the expenditure remains in line with the budget. September 2024 year to date capital expenditure totals approximately $14.7m.
The Capital Budget will continue to be reviewed to financial year end on an ongoing basis with the capital works managers.
Figure 2. Changes in the Full Year Capital Budget
Responsible Accounting Officer Budget Review Statement
Section 203(2) of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 requires a report by Council’s responsible accounting officer regarding the Council’s financial position at the end of each quarter. The following statement is made in accordance with this clause.
“It is in my opinion that the Budget Review Statement for Inner West Council for the period ending 30 September 2024 indicates that Council’s projected financial position at 30 June will be satisfactory, having regard to the projected estimates of income and expenditure and the original budgeted income and expenditure.”
Chris Sleiman, Chief Financial Officer (Responsible Accounting Officer) - Inner West Council
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Financial implications for the quarter are listed above and detailed in the attached Quarterly Budget Review Statement.
|
1.⇩ |
Q1 progress report_Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2023/24 |
|
2.⇩ |
September Quarterly Budget Review Statement |
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Annual Report 2023/24 including Audited Financial Statements
Prepared By: Prue Foreman - Corporate Strategy and Engagement Manager and Chris Sleiman - Chief Financial Officer
Authorised By: Beau-Jane De Costa - Acting Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council endorse the Annual Report 2023/24 including financial statements.
2. That Council publish the Annual Report 2023/24 on Council’s website and notify the Office of Local Government.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council’s Annual Report outlines key achievements and performance against service and financial commitments outlined in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan, for the financial year 1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024.
The achievements are aligned to the five strategic directions of the Community Strategic Plan Our Inner West 2036.
The Annual Report includes Council’s audited financial statements and statutory information. It is a key legislative requirement of Integrated Planning and Reporting under the Local Government Act.
Council won a gold award in the Australasian Reporting Awards for the previous year’s Annual Report.
BACKGROUND
Under s428 of the Local Government Act 1993, as part of Integrated Planning and Reporting, Council must prepare and endorse an Annual Report within five months of the end of the calendar year. The report must outline Council’s achievements in implementing its Delivery Program through the year’s Operational Plan, and report on the effectiveness of the principal activities undertaken to achieve the objectives in that year. The report must contain Council’s audited financial statements prepared in accordance with the Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting.
In the year of a Local Government election, the Local Government Act requires that the Annual Report must also contain a report as to the council's achievements in implementing the community strategic plan over the previous 4 years. This report – The State of the Inner West – was endorsed by Council as its October meeting (C1024(2) Item 2) and has been published on Council’s website. Refer to Attachment 1.
DISCUSSION
The Annual report 2023/24 details Council’s achievements in implementing its Operational Plan 2023/24 in line with the commitments of the Delivery Program 2022-26. This report provides extensive detail on Council’s Delivery and Operational Plan, capital works and financial performance. In summary, as at 30 June 2024, 94% of Operational Plan 2023/24 actions were on track or completed, while 6% of actions were rescheduled.
Highlights include:
· Won the prestigious AR Bluett Award for the best performing council in NSW
· Selected as an Employer of Choice in The Australian Business Awards 2023
· Rolled out Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) collection service to all households
· Substantially delivered the $59 million Cooks to Cove GreenWay
· Established the Inner West Sustainability Hub
· Opened seven town halls as creative spaces
· Secured funding to roll out 136 public electric vehicle charging ports
· Adopted the Blue Green Grid Strategy
· Adopted the Anti-Racism Strategy – a NSW council first
· Implemented the Arts and Music Recovery Plan
· Delivered EDGE in partnership with Biennale at White Bay Power Station
· Implemented the Enmore Road Special Entertainment Precinct
· Secured $40 million to upgrade Leichhardt Oval
· Implemented the Reconciliation Action Plan including launch of the first Aboriginal Survival Memorial in Yeo Park, Ashfield
· Delivered the Inner West Pride Centre
· Created NSW’s first dementia-friendly park at Lewis Herman Reserve
· Adopted the Customer Experience Strategy and extensive customer service improvements
· Adopted the Procurement Strategy
· Held 10 Local Matters Forums
Audited Financial Statements
The annual financial statements for the financial year 2023/24 were endorsed by the Council at a meeting held on 22 October 2024. Subsequently, the Audit Office NSW provided the independent auditor's reports and a Report on the Conduct of the Audit.
In accordance with Section 420 (2) of the Local Government Act 1993, the audited financial statements were placed on public exhibition for seven days from 28 October 2024 to 4 November 2024.
During the exhibition period, Council received two submission, and as per the provisions of Section 420(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the submission was referred to the Audit Office. It contained queries about the exhibition period, Council’s performance ratios, investment property income, lease income, use of contractors and consultants, Council’s investment portfolio and audit fees. No subsequent amendments to the financial statements are required.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Attachments 1 and 2 have been published separately in the Attachments Document on Council’s Website https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/about/the-council/council-meetings/current-council-meetings
|
1.⇨ |
State of the Inner West report - Published separately on Council’s website |
|
2.⇨ |
Annual Report 23/24 and Financial Statements - Published separately on Council’s website |
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Post Exhibition - Draft Sponsorship Policy
Prepared By: Michael Daly - Creative Communities Manager
Authorised By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
1. That Council adopt the Sponsorship Policy.
2. That Council update the Policy Register and publish, as applicable, internally, and externally the adopted Sponsorship Policy.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 3: Creative communities and a strong economy 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The current Sponsorship Policy was adopted by Council in 2018 and was due for a review. The draft Sponsorship Policy was approved for public consultation by Council on 21 May 2024. 18 people downloaded the document, and two provided Council with submissions. These are outlined below. This report seeks Council’s adoption of the Sponsorship Policy.
BACKGROUND
The updated Sponsorship Policy report was presented to Council with a request to seek public consultation on the policy. At the Council meeting held on 21 May 2024, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council adopt the draft Terms of Reference for Local Democracy Groups in Attachment 1 in the report.
2. That Council rescind the Community Engagement Policy and the Impounding Policy (Shopping Trolleys) in Attachments 3 and 4 in the report.
3. That Council endorse the review of the:
a) Busking Policy, with no required changes; and
b) Assessment of Proposals for Outdoor Advertising and Signage in Transport Corridors Policy, with minor administrative changes, in Attachment 6 in the report.
4. That Council publicly exhibit the draft Naming Policy and the draft Sponsorship Policy for a period of 28 days and seek community feedback on the proposed Policies, subject to a report at the next Ordinary Council meeting on the effect of deletion of the words “unless the business is based in Council’s Local Government Area and can demonstrate a considerable contribution to the community” after “Involved in gambling products or services” at the fourth dot point on page 7 of the draft Sponsorship Policy.
5. That following the conclusion of the exhibition period, the draft Naming Policy and the draft Sponsorship Policy be brought back to Council for consideration for adoption.
An additional report was presented to the 25 June 2024 Council meeting, providing feedback on Item 4. Council resolved the following:
That Council receive and note the report.
DISCUSSION
The draft Sponsorship Policy was placed on public exhibition from 22 July 2024 to 20 August 2024. There were 95 visits to the Your Say Inner West project page and 18 downloads of the document during public exhibition. There were 2 submissions received during the public exhibition period regarding the draft Policy. These are provided below.
|
Support (Yes or No) |
Public Exhibition Comment/Explanation |
IWC Comment |
|
No |
Businesses that earn millions each year from the misery inflicted by poker machines will be allowed to launder their reputations through a sponsorship with council, under the IWC proposed policy.
The policy would allow Wests and other huge clubs to sponsor the council, under the get-out clause that the club "can demonstrate a considerable contribution to the community."
In fact, clubs suck millions from the community via their poker machines and give only a tiny fraction back to community development programs. The dollar amounts of club grants may seem "considerable" but it they are nothing compared to clubs' poker machine profits, and the harm those profits inflict in this LGA.
The proposed policy would apparently welcome clubs' dirty money - regardless of the many families in our area that have been destroyed by poker machine addiction.
Please take a more principled stance and wholly disallow sponsorship involvement with any businesses connected to gambling. |
Feedback noted and considered. The issues raised can be addressed through application of the principles in the draft Policy in respect of any sponsorship proposal, which must be assessed on its individual merits. No proposed changes to the draft Policy are recommended.
|
|
Yes |
I do not believe that IWC should accept sponsorship from alcohol or gambling interests, even if they do business here. |
Feedback noted and considered. The issues raised can be addressed through application of the principles in the draft Policy in respect of any sponsorship proposal, which must be assessed on its individual merits. No proposed changes to the draft Policy are recommended.
|
After reviewing the feedback provided during the public exhibition period it is proposed to adopt the publicly exhibited Policy, with no changes.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Draft Inner West Council Sponsorship Policy 2024 |
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Camperdown Memorial Rest Park - Comedor Hirers Agreement Proposal
Prepared By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
Authorised By: Peter Gainsford - General Manager
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council approve a hirers agreement and approvals under the Local Government Act 1993 that are in accordance with an amended proposal as outlined in this report.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
BACKGROUND
In August of this year Council officers were in the process of finalising a hirers agreement and the necessary approvals under the Local Government Act 1993 for the installation of a temporary hardstand structure at the rear of the Comedor and approval for outdoor seating and serving of food and beverages from a rear servery window into the Camperdown Rest Memorial Park.
Concerns arose that an expected level of community consultation had not occurred and the remaining approvals were halted to enable a broad community engagement to consider the issues being raised.
At the September meeting of Council, a multi part resolution was passed and this report responds to that resolution;
1. That Council agree that staff work with the owner of 182 Australia Street, Newtown to defer installation of any infrastructure in the park and investigate revoking the short-term lease to allow for community consultation to occur.
2. That community consultation be used to inform a recommendation to be considered at a future Council meeting.
3. That where Council considers licenses, leases, and temporary hire agreements concerning use of public space within Inner West parks, that this is done in accordance with Council's endorsed Community Engagement Strategy, encompassing the Your Say website, letterboxing, notices and stalls, and includes engagement with residents, park users, and local businesses.
4. That Council write to households in streets surrounding the Park informing them of the lease agreement and terms, how to provide feedback through the Your Say page and other Council channels and inviting them to attend an on-site meeting at the Park with senior staff about the agreement - to be held within the next fortnight.
5. That
Council provide an urgent briefing to councillors on the terms of the lease
agreement, including opportunities to defer installation of the temporary
structure
pending further community consultation, how similar agreements have operated
elsewhere, and opportunities for further community consultation as part of the
Park’s Plan of Management.
DISCUSSION
This report outlines the recent history of an agreement with the proprietor of the Comedor to construct a temporary hardstand structure at the rear of 182 Australia Street and serve food and beverages from a rear server window into the park. The expected community engagement had not occurred therefore the process of issuing approvals was halted to gauge community feedback. Council subsequently resolved that following community engagement a report was to be provided to Council to allow them to determine the matter at a future Council meeting. This report outlines the community engagement and feedback, considers the concerns raised and makes recommendations for the consideration of Council following the resolution of the September Ordinary Meeting of Council as below;
Comedor Proposal
The original proposal was for the construction and use of a temporary hardstand structure, approval for the use of a small number of tables and chairs, the serving of food and drinks into the adjacent Camperdown Rest Memorial Park and the sale of takeaway food and beverages from the servery window at the rear of the Comedor Café at 182 Australia Street, Camperdown.
The attached plan (Attachment 1) provides detail regarding the size and location of the hardstand structure which is proposed to link to the nearby path to provide an accessible path to the hardstand and then to the servery window. There is some unevenness to the ground in this location. The platform was proposed of modest size, sufficient to provide circulation space in front of the servery window and 4 or 5 small tables and chairs for the consumption of food and beverage purchased from the café. The proposal does not include the service of alcohol.
The proposed hours of operation of the servery window sit within the approved hours for the café. It was proposed that the servery window would operate from Monday to Wednesday and Sunday 8am-6pm and Thursday to Saturday 8am to 8pm. The café may choose to open later and close earlier within these hours.
Other Café / Park agreements in the LGA
Council has entered into other agreements with café proprietors adjacent to parks as per the table below. These agreements are controlled either by Hirer Agreement, Lease, and/or S68 Approval.
|
Property |
Use |
Form of Agreement |
|
Badu Park, Annandale |
Outdoor seating for cafe |
Hire Agreement |
|
Yeo Park, Ashfield |
Café and outdoor seating |
Lease and License |
|
Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre (AKAC), Enmore Park |
Café and outdoor seating |
Lease |
|
Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre (LPAC), Leichhardt Park |
Café and enclosed seating |
Lease |
|
Fanny Durack Aquatic Centre (FDAC), Petersham Park |
Café and outdoor seating |
Lease |
|
2-8 Weston St, Balmain |
The Fenwick Restaurant |
Lease |
|
131 Smith St, Summer Hill |
Summer Hill Community Centre |
Hire Agreement |
|
Building, Enmore Park |
Deadly Connections Office |
Hire Agreement |
Community Engagement
Following the Council resolution, all further action was suspended in order to comply with its requirements. Some 2,748 letters were hand delivered by a third-party service to properties within 150m of the perimeter of the park, (see Attachment 2 for a copy of the letter and Attachment 3 for a map illustrating the extent of delivery of the letter) and posters were installed in the park advising of the engagement around the Comedor proposal (see Attachment 4). A community meeting was held at the Pride Centre on 3 October 2024 attended by six local residents and a presentation Q&A was held (see Attachment 5). Your Say Inner West invited community members to indicate their support or opposition to the proposal and the complete engagement report is at Attachment 6. In all the following were received;
|
Feedback Type |
In Support |
Opposed |
Total |
|
Online submissions |
29 |
35 |
64 |
|
Emails / letters |
8 |
43 |
51 |
|
|
37 (32%) |
78 (68%) |
115 |
|
Pin Drop Map Data |
Attached Comments in support |
Attached Comments in opposition |
|
Heart Pins - 123 |
49 |
3 |
|
Thumbs Down Pins - 315 |
0 |
143 |
Issues Raised
Online submissions are summarised as follows;
Respondents who agreed indicated the proposal provided an additional facility in the park and supported local business.
Respondents who disagreed thought:
· The land is for public use and shouldn’t be leased to private business
· The proposal removes public space from the community
· The proposal could set a precedent for other spaces within the Inner West.
Pin Submissions (Heart/Thumbs down) indicative comments included:
Oppose:
· "Alienation of public space by private operators.”
· "Public parks are few in this densely populated area and should be free from encroachment."
· "Not a fan of a cafe here. There are plenty of cafes in Australia St and King St - all walkable."
Support:
· "Great to have a cafe there. Friendly and fun"
· "Would love a deck to be able to grab a quick coffee in the park, please allow Comedor to go ahead."
· "Yes, to a deck for dining and no to nimbys."
Emails are summarised as follows – comments have been drawn from the emails i.e. most emails made more than one comment.
|
You said |
Officers Comment |
|
Against commercialisation and privatisation of public park and public space (30 comments) Community members also noted that parks are a vital asset in a densely populated area and there is inadequate provision to be privatising the space. |
The use of Parks by adjacent food and beverage establishments is an established practice in the Inner West. |
|
Community consultation was inadequate (12) Community members commented that inadequate information was provided in order to provide meaningful feedback, such as operating hours and size of deck. Some mentioned not receiving letters and others were concerned there was no community consultation before the approval. |
The process was halted to enable community engagement to occur. |
|
Acoustic amenity impact on neighbouring properties (10) Community members were concerned that there would be noise pollution due to the use of the deck, negatively affecting local residents. |
This is addressed through a modification of the proposal. |
|
Waste management (6)
Community members were concerned that there would be waste management issues with the operation of a café in the park, citing inadequate bins for the existing waste consumption in the park. |
This is addressed through conditions placed on the proprietor through the Hirer Agreement |
|
Suggestions for alternatives (8)
Should the café go ahead, several suggestions were put forward to locate the seating away from the residences, in a location that is less used and can be shared with other park users. Other suggestions included limiting trading hours, ensuring the price point of the café is inclusive and shortening the lease pending compliance. |
This is supported and addressed through a modification of the proposal |
|
Incompatible use with a memorial park (7)
Comments indicated that the park was for quiet contemplation and respect for those buried there. An uplift in vibrancy was not deemed a compatible use. |
The provision of takeaway food and beverage is not incompatible with park use. |
|
Sets a bad precedent (7)
Community members noted that that this would set a bad precedent for other commercial ventures in the park. |
The use of Parks by adjacent food and beverage establishments is an established practice in the Inner West. |
|
Diminish use of space that is well used (19)
Community members expressed that the area proposed for the deck is well used by locals for children’s play, picnics, dog walking and birthday parties. The platform occupying the space would reduce the ability for park users to have private and quiet use of the space. |
This is addressed through a modification of the proposal. |
|
Operation of the business (15)
Community members suggested that to call it a café was misleading as it is a restaurant, and the operational hours reflect that of a restaurant. Comments also drew attention to the fact that the business is in a residential area and should have limitations sensitive to that context. Other concerns raised were that of compliance and whether the business would be required to pay higher rates for the use of the deck. |
Noted - the Comedor is not a café, the proposal was initially as a café style.
Payment for the use of the space is via a Hirers Agreement. |
|
Adequate provision of Café’s nearby (11)
Comments suggested there were enough café’s close to the park already. |
Noted |
|
Antisocial behaviour and alcohol consumption (5)
Comments indicated a concern for the deck leading to an increase in alcohol consumption in the park and associated antisocial behaviour. |
Alcohol will not be served. There is no Liquor License for the service of alcohol in the Park. |
|
Issues of existing compliance and operation (11)
Community members raised concerns about the operation of the business to date. Several people mentioned the damage to the grass behind the café during its construction and how this had not been remediated. Others mentioned non-compliances around hours of operation, waste management, and noise pollution. Some comments indicated that the business had not engaged with the community or developed positive relationships with neighbours. One person mentioned worsening parking. |
Council has been working through issues with the Proprietor including a resolution of the noise from a roof vent. |
Amended Proposal
Having regard to the issues raised above and discussion with the Proprietor the proposal is recommended for approval. The following amendments are made in order to address concerns raised through the community engagement. It is proposed to reflect these changes into an amended Hirers Agreement.
The temporary structure/hard stand
The temporary structure is to be reduced in size at the rear of the 182 Australia St, adjacent to the servery window, sufficient for an accessible path from the pathway to the servery and to allow circulation in front of the window. Acknowledging the potential for impact on the immediate neighbours, no tables and chairs are to be provided. The servery window will operate as a takeaway service.
Hours of Operation
In consideration of the changed business model, the proprietor requested an additional hour in the morning when coffee service is likely to be high. Therefore, Hours of Operation of the servery window are recommended from 7am-6pm Monday to Wednesday and Sunday, and Thursday to Saturday 7am to 8pm. This is within the approved hours of the Land and Environment Court issued consent for the operation of the Comedor.
Waste
A bin with some form of covering to discourage birds is to be provided adjacent to the servery placed on the temporary hardstand and taken in at night.
Menu
The proprietor has indicated his intention to offer a menu that is accessible for families with an affordable price point including take away coffee/tea, fresh fruit juices and frozen drinks and pastries, toasted sandwiches, quesadillas and ice-creams.
CONCLUSION
The proposal for service from the Comedor into the Camperdown Rest Memorial Park has now been the subject of an extensive community engagement. While there has been strong comment in opposition there has also been well articulated support for the proposal. Opposition to the proposal has been themed around concerns about the privatisation of public space. There has been significant precedent and accepted practice within the Inner West in this regard. Amenity impacts to neighbours of the Comedor and for other park users can be overcome through an amendment to the proposal as recommended in this report.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Original Temporary Hardstand Proposal |
|
2.⇩ |
Engagement Letter |
|
3.⇩ |
Map showing extent of letters delivered |
|
4.⇩ |
Engagement Poster |
|
5.⇩ |
Presentation for Comedor Community Meeting |
|
6.⇩ |
Engagement Outcomes Report |
|
7. |
Camperdown Memorial Rest Park - Hire Agreement
|
Attachment 7
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Item No: C1124(1) Item 6
Subject: Ballast Point Park, Birchgrove - Notice of Intention - State Heritage Register
Prepared By: Rachel Josey - Operations and Special Projects Manager
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council endorse this report in support of the nominated listing of Ballast Point Park, Ballast Point, Birchgrove on the State Heritage Register.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On 4 October 2024, the Heritage Council of NSW gave notice (DOC24/773626) to Council of its intention to consider nominating Ballast Point Park on the State Heritage Register. A copy of this correspondence is attached.
The proposed nomination of Ballast Point Park is a part of a landscape study by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (NSW), the Landscape Heritage Conservation Listing Project, dated 11 of June 2018. It examines ten culturally significant landscape spaces that link to create a ‘Green Necklace’ around Sydney Harbour, one of them Ballast Point Park and recommends they are listed on the State Heritage Register. The proposed nomination would also be to better recognise and protect the heritage significance of Ballast Point Park for the people of NSW.
It is recommended that Inner West Council support the listing of Ballast Point Park on the State Heritage Register.
BACKGROUND
The Heritage Council of NSW resolved to give notice of their intention to consider listing Ballast Point Park on the State Heritage Register on 30 of September 2024. The letter prepared by Nicola Roche, Acting Manager, State Heritage Register Listing and dated the 4th.
Ballast Point Park was designed and constructed between the years 2006 and 2009. McGregor Coxall completed the landscape architecture as the leading consultant among an extensive project team.
Since its construction, Ballast Point Park has been a highly valued community and recreational space with a distinct industrial and landscape character.
Ballast Point Park has received numerous awards including the 2010 National Trust Heritage Awards Commendation (Overall Park), and the 2010 Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA), National Awards for Design.
The park is both locally listed as a heritage item in Schedule 5 of the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 and located within the Birchgrove and Ballast Point Road Heritage Conservation Area. Below is an extract from the NSW Planning Portal that shows the Park in proximity to other heritage items with state items shown in blue hatching and local identified in brown for local items and green for landscape items. The subject park is marked with yellow hatching on the perimeter.
The park is zoned RE1 (Public Recreation) under the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 (LEP) whereby the following extract outlines the objectives of the zone as well as development that is permissible and prohibited.
Zone RE1 Public Recreation
1 Objectives of zone
• To enable land to be used for public open space or recreational purposes.
• To provide a range of recreational settings and activities and compatible land uses.
• To protect and enhance the natural environment for recreational purposes.
• To conserve, maintain and enhance biodiversity and the natural environment, including terrestrial, aquatic and riparian habitats and natural land forms.
2 Permitted without consent
Environmental protection works
3 Permitted with consent
Aquaculture; Boat launching ramps; Boat sheds; Building identification signs; Centre-based child care facilities; Community facilities; Electricity generating works; Emergency services facilities; Environmental facilities; Flood mitigation works; Food and drink premises; Information and education facilities; Jetties; Kiosks; Marinas; Markets; Recreation areas; Recreation facilities (indoor); Recreation facilities (major); Recreation facilities (outdoor); Research stations; Respite day care centres; Roads; Water recreation structures; Water recycling facilities; Water supply systems; Wharf or boating facilities
4 Prohibited
Pubs; Any development not specified in item 2 or 3
The parkland is managed by Placemaking NSW (Crown Land and Public Spaces), not Inner West Council.
DISCUSSION
The Heritage Council of NSW resolved to give notice of its intention to consider nominating Ballast Point Park on the State Heritage Register on 30 of September 2024.
State heritage listing is guided by the significance of a built or landscape item.
The notice (DOC24/773626), signed by Nicola Roche, Acting Manager for the State Heritage Register Listing and dated 4 of October 2024, included a proposed Statement of Significance for Ballast Point Park.
The proposed Statement of Significance by the Heritage Council of NSW is as follows:
“Ballast Point Park may be of State significance for historical, associative, social, and representative values. It may be historically significant at a State level for its ability to demonstrate all phases of the development of the site from the early 1800s, representative of the shared history of many places within Sydney harbour across residential, industrial, and public uses. The return of Ballast Point to public ownership at the turn of the 21st century demonstrates the successes of the Green Ban movement and community activism by the Ballast Point Campaign Committee. These efforts were assisted by former Federal politicians, the Hon. Paul Keating, and the Hon. Tom Uren AC, attesting to community esteem for the place which continues to the present day. Ballast Point Park contributes to the Sydney Harbour cultural landscape through its history, which is representative of many working harbour sites, but also due to is current use as a landscaped park, contributing to the visual character and ‘Green Necklace’ of the harbour. This is reinforced by its prominent position on the Balmain Peninsula and the views throughout the harbour to similar places which together tell this shared history.
Ballast Point Park is an acclaimed park designed by the prominent landscape architects McGregor Coxall. It demonstrates the key characteristics of post-industrial landscapes, notably the retention and celebration of former industrial features, including the remains of Caltex oil tanks and the archaeological relics of the marine villa Menevia. These elements are sited within a landscaped setting which has replanted native species however does not intend to remediate or renature, instead referencing all layers of the history of the place. The plantings are self-seeding and endemic to the Balmain peninsula, drawing on the bush school of landscape architecture interspersed with imposing introduced species. Ballast Point Park was at the forefront of sustainable urban design in the early 21st century, reusing materials from Caltex operations and implementing sustainable water and energy apparatus. The creative and technical achievement of Ballast Point Park has been recognised by several national and international awards, and recognition by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects as one of the most ‘transformative’ parks in Australia.”
An aerial map denoting the proposed curtilage for listing was also included. This map of the proposed curtilage is provided below:
The Heritage Council of NSW have requested a submission from Inner West Council on the proposed nomination of this item for the State Heritage register via the NSW Government Have Your Say page: https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/ballast-reserve. A submission from Placemaking NSW has also been requested.
After the forty-five-day consultation period, which will conclude on 17 of November 2024, the submissions from both Inner West Council, and Placemaking NSW coupled with those from members of the public will be closely considered by the Heritage Committee. Following this consultation period, a recommendation will then be made to the minister and a possible gazettal issued.
The notice for the proposed listing of Ballast Point Park follows consultation with Inner West Council’s Heritage Team. It is also noted that site specific exemption works are supported by the Heritage Council for ease of maintenance and upkeep for Ballast Point Park.
This listing is proposed to recognise the parklands state heritage significance for historical, associative, aesthetic, social and representative significance to the people of NSW. The proposed nomination would also be to better recognise and protect the heritage significance of Ballast Point Park for the people of NSW. The proposed statement of significance will provide clarification to those responsible for the management of the parkland as to the importance and significance of the place and enable the management of the parkland to protect the significance.
Located on the former Caltex lubricant production facility site, Ballast Point Park occupies 2.5ha of open space of the Birchgrove Peninsula in Balmain. The park has a layered and culturally diverse history of use, having been the site of the privately owned residence ’Menevia’ of the 1860’s, to a quarry site for ship ballast, through to its use by Caltex from the 1920’s until 2002. The Park has a layered and culturally diverse history. The site was transformed from an industrial waterfront in 2009 to community open space bringing with it a transformation in which the site became a public asset for recreational health and wellbeing. The parkland and its layered design is reflective of its historical context and as such the proposal to list Ballast Point Park, Ballast Point Road, Birchgrove on the State Heritage Register.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Letter from Department of Climate Chane, Energy, the Environment and Water - Notice of Intention to consider listing on the State Heritage Register - Ballast Point Park |
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Lewisham Town Centre Upgrade
Prepared By: Daniel East - Acting Senior Manager Strategic Planning
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council endorse preparation of a master plan that outlines streetscape improvement works and prioritises those works that complement the Transport for NSW Lewisham Station Upgrade project including undertaking community engagement.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In response to the Council resolution of September 2024, this report outlines a strategy to engage with the Lewisham community to develop a public domain design plan that will identify streetscape improvements to complement the Transport for NSW Lewisham Station Upgrade project.
It is recommended that community engagement is undertaken in early 2025 aimed at exploring options to be included in a draft master plan, with the master plan recommending high priority works to be funded by Council.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 3 September 2024, Council resolved:
1. That Council note the long-awaited commitment by the NSW Government and Transport Minister Jo Haylen to upgrade Lewisham Station to improve accessibility, safety, and prevent flooding in the underpass, and that this commitment is fully budgeted for delivery in this term of government.
2. That Council note that, as part of the planned upgrade, Transport for NSW is undertaking community engagement on design and placemaking enhancements for surrounding streets.
3. That Council investigate opportunities with Transport for NSW to align or coordinate these works with Council works to upgrade Lewisham Town Centre (on Victoria Street and Railway Terrace) as part of Council's Main Streets Revitalisation Project, including but not limited to:
a. footpath upgrades, traffic calming measures, and opportunities for increased pedestrianisation of the station precinct;
b. installation of planter boxes and kerbside gardens;
c. a public art program including engagement with local artists on placemaking and a mural for the station wall along Railway Terrace;
d. street furniture;
e. active transport upgrades to regional route 7 in Lewisham to enhance safety and encourage cycling,
f. other beautification, public amenity, and placemaking works.
4. That Council develop a master plan to achieve a coordinated approach to improving community amenity and economic development for Lewisham Town Centre, and in line with Council’s Community Engagement Strategy.
5. That Council receive a report on the opportunity to undertake these upgrades in coordination with those planned by Transport for NSW as part of the station upgrade, the timeline for this, and associated costs.
Transport for NSW (TfNSW) exhibited their concept design plans between 30 July and 18 August 2024 and subsequently consulted directly with Council in early September 2024, advising on the findings of the early engagement, including key sentiments and feedback relating to Council assets. In summary the exhibited concept design includes the following features:
· Lift access to platforms from nearby streets to the north and south with a range of other access improvements including accessible parking, kiss and ride facilities on Thomas Street and Victoria Road; new lighting upgrades; step free path of travel from nearby bus stops and accessible parking spaces.
· Covered area, new paving, accessible parking and bicycle parking associated with upgrades on Thomas Street.
· Expanded footpath areas at the Victoria Street station entry including improved kiss and ride space and changes to make Victoria Street a one way exit onto Railway Terrace.
Council has provided feedback and comments and TfNSW have advised they are currently finalising their concept design. Updated design plans and a TfNSW Review of Environmental Factors are expected to be placed public display in mid-2025 with construction commencement expected from early 2026.
DISCUSSION
TfNSW have shared details of the findings of their exhibition and Council is aware of the range of requests from community members including the Lewisham Better Streets group, focused on improving walkability, streetscapes, green infrastructure and public art.
As indicated in Council’s resolution and the material received by Council from community groups and TfNSW, there are a wide range of potential improvements that Council could consider incorporating into a design plan.
Community engagement
It is proposed that Council undertake community consultation in early 2025 to gauge community support and sensitivity towards the various options being considered. The engagement shall include a Your Say Inner West web page with opportunity to input ideas and complete an online survey. The engagement shall also include provision for community popup events and direct engagements in the local area and letterbox drops.
Design plan strategy
It is expected that the community engagement will confirm the level of support for ideas already identified. Design investigations will test the feasibility of expanding pedestrian space, potential changes to traffic management and measures to improve active transport in the area, ahead of seeking TfNSW and Local Traffic Committee support. Design concepts will need to be developed sufficient to enable prioritising within the plan and accurate costings to be developed.
The plan will consider the relative merits of various options and recommend short term high priority works that, subject to funding availability, may be developed concurrently alongside the TfNSW proposals for Lewisham Station.
The findings of the engagement will be reported to Council with a draft plan. Endorsement will be sought for placing the draft plan on community exhibition.
Funding is available in the Strategic Planning program due to savings on other projects to support engaging with our community and preparing a draft plan that identifies improvements in the Lewisham area.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 21 October 2024
Prepared By: Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Planning Manager
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and adopt the recommendations of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 21 October 2024. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The October 2024 meeting of the Local Traffic Committee was held at the Ashfield Service Centre and have made recommendations for Council consideration and adoption.
DISCUSSION
The October 2024 meeting of the Local Traffic Committee was held at the Ashfield Service Centre. The minutes of the meeting are shown in Attachment 1.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Projects proposed for implementation are funded within existing budget allocations.
ITEMS BY WARD – October 2024
|
Ward |
Item |
|
Baludarri (Balmain)
|
Intersection of Evans Street and Nelson Street, Rozelle - Proposed kerb extension |
|
Traffic Management Plan for the 2024 New Year's Eve Event |
|
|
Intersection of Glassop Street and White Street, Balmain - Proposed Treatment of Intersection for Improved Sight Lines |
|
|
Lilyfield Road, Lilyfield - Proposed Raised Pedestrian and Bicycle Crossings |
|
|
Gulgadya (Leichhardt)
|
Church Street, Ashfield, between Knocklayde Street and Alt Street-Proposed Raised Thresholds & Kerb Blister Islands (Traffic Calming) |
|
Ramsay Street & Dalhousie Street, Haberfield - 40km/h High Pedestrian Activity Area (HPAA) |
|
|
Midjuburi (Marrickville)
|
Moyes Street, Marrickville - Proposed 'No Stopping' relocation |
|
Pilgrim Avenue, Marrickville - Proposed ‘No Parking’ restrictions on the inner bend to improve access |
|
|
Meeks Lane, Marrickville - Proposed 'No Stopping' and 'No Parking' restrictions |
|
|
Hutchinson Street, St Peters - Proposed 15-minute timed parking restrictions |
|
|
Temporary speed reductions to 40 km/h for Southwest Link |
|
|
Djarrawunang (Ashfield)
|
Clissold Street, between Queen Street and Victoria Street, Ashfield-Proposed removal of existing at-grade crossing and provide a new raised pedestrian(zebra) crossing- Deferred Item for additional information. |
|
Victoria Street, Ashfield - Installation of a ‘Keep Clear’ zone at the front of Ashfield Police Station |
|
|
Damun (Stanmore) |
Metropolitan Road, Enmore - Proposed changes to mobility parking |
|
All Wards |
Proposed EV Kerbside Charging Locations |
|
1.⇩ |
Local Traffic Committee minutes- 21 October 2024 |
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Submission to Office of Local Government on Councillor Conduct and Meeting Practices
Prepared By: Julian Sakarai - Acting Senior Manager Governance and Risk
Authorised By: Beau-Jane De Costa - Acting Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council approve the draft submission to the Office of Local Government on Councillor Conduct and Meeting Practices, as detailed in Attachment 1.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Office of Local Government (OLG) has released a discussion paper proposing reforms of councillor conduct and meeting practices. Feedback on the proposals is sought in writing by 15 November 2024.
A draft submission, at Attachment 1, considers the proposed reforms of the councillor conduct and meeting practices.
The draft submission discusses concerns regarding the banning of pre-meeting briefings/workshops without the public in attendance.
In addition, the draft submission suggests extending the proposed reforms to assist with the management of health and safety risks by empowering councils to close meetings to ensure public and workplace safety, if there is an alternative arrangement for the community to view the proceedings.
It also expresses support for the establishment of an entity that can consider Code of Conduct complaints about Councillors, to remove General Managers from the complaints process. However, the submission highlights issues with the proposed composition of the entity and the limited details available regarding its proposed operations and about the timing of the consultation period in respect of the proposed reforms.
The draft submission in Attachment 1 is proposed to be provided to the OLG following Council’s decision.
BACKGROUND
In September 2024, the OLG released the discussion paper Councillor conduct and meeting practices: A new framework (Discussion Paper) in Attachment 2. The Discussion Paper outlines the following proposed reforms for councillor conduct and meeting practices across the local government sector:
· Make the OLG directly responsible for dealing with pecuniary interest and significant non-pecuniary conflicts of interest, with sanctions (suspensions and loss of pay) being determined by an appropriate tribunal or body.
· Refer behavioural based concerns about councillor conduct to a State-wide panel of experienced councillors to judge their peers.
· Reset the Code of Conduct to be similar to Parliamentary Codes, to clarify the expected standards of councillor behaviour.
· Ensure the community can observe local democracy processes by banning briefing sessions/workshops that are closed to the public.
· Measures to restore the dignity and prestige of council meetings and the council chamber.
OLG is seeking feedback on the proposed reforms by 15 November 2024.
DISCUSSION
The Discussion Paper identifies that the local government sector continues to face challenges with appropriate councillor conduct and effective meeting practices despite standardised codes for the sector. In response to these ongoing challenges, the OLG has identified a need to review sectoral standards and establish practices that promote appropriate behaviour and transparent decision-making.
The draft submission to the OLG Councillor Conduct Framework Review, at Attachment 1, focuses on concerns with the proposals relating to the Code of Meeting Practice and establishing a Local Government Privileges Committee, but does not comment on the remainder of the matters discussed in the Discussion Paper. It explicitly notes that the focused nature of the draft submission should not be interpreted as support for reforms proposed in the discussion paper but not addressed in the draft submission. An overview of the matters raised in the draft submission is provided below.
Meeting practices
The Model Code of Meeting Practice is the mechanism for ensuring effective decision-making and ensuring meetings are conducted with dignity. The Discussion Paper proposes to amend the Model Code of Meeting Practice to ban pre-meeting briefing sessions/workshops in the absence of the public.
The draft submission notes that pre-meeting briefing sessions/workshops that are closed to the public are an important tool for councillors and council officers to ensure informed decision-making. Additionally, these are a feature of all levels of government across Australia. The draft submission notes that opening briefing sessions/workshops to the public may prevent councillors from seeking information about decisions they are expected to make. In addition, it may lead to more information being provided to councillors via briefing/workshops notes, which will add to the already significant workload of councillors, and potentially disadvantage councillors who do not speak English as a first language and/ or who may have learning disorders.
The draft submission suggests that, instead of banning pre-briefings/workshops that are closed to the public, a report could be provided to each council meeting outlining the nature of information provided to councillors at all council-organised forums held between each council meeting. The report could include details of councillor and staff attendance, agenda items, and any conflicts of interest raised. Council suggests that preparing a report on matters discussed at council organised forums between council meetings, including councillor briefing sessions/workshops, should be considered as an alternative to banning councillor briefing sessions/workshops in the absence of the public.
Additionally, the Discussion Paper proposes reforms to manage public disorder in the chamber for the safety of the community, councillors and council officers. The draft submission suggests that these reforms should be extended to enable the General Manager to decide to close a council meeting to the public to manage community and workplace safety, where there is a workplace health and safety risk that necessitates the closure. The Local Government Act 2020 in Victoria provides that council meetings can be closed to the public for security reasons or to enable the meeting to proceed in an orderly manner. Meetings closed in this manner can proceed if alternative arrangements are in place for the public to watch the proceedings, such as livestreaming and/or viewing on screens at the council.
The draft submission suggests that OLG considers empowering General Managers to manage public and workplace safety by proactively closing council meetings and not allowing public attendance in the gallery when there are concerns for public and workplace safety. Following the Victorian example, the need to make council meetings more accessible and transparent could be met by providing alternative accessibility to the meeting (for example, livestreaming online or viewing on screen outside the council chambers).
As an additional accountability and transparency safeguard in respect of this suggestion, a requirement could be imposed on the General Manager of each council who uses these powers to provide a report to the next council meeting outlining the health and safety grounds for closing the meeting to public attendance.
The draft submission expresses support for the establishment of an entity that can consider Code of Conduct complaints about Councillors, to remove General Managers from the complaints process. However, the draft submission outlines issues with the composition of the proposed Local Government Privileges Committee (Committee) being current and former mayors without appropriate checks and balances the proposed composition lends itself to structural conflicts and biases, if the Committee is not representative of the full spectrum of registered political parties.
Lastly, the draft submission notes the timing of the release of the Discussion paper and close of submissions has not afforded the newly elected Council sufficient time to consider and provide informed comments on the proposed reforms outlined in the discussion paper. The draft submission acknowledges the need for reform to provide for effective decision-making and dignity in council meetings but notes the lack of detail that needs further, and more meaningful, consultation with the local government sector in respect of the proposals in the Discussion Paper prior to implementation.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Draft Submission on the Councillor Conduct Framework Review |
|
2.⇩ |
Councillor Conduct and Meeting Practices Discussion Paper |
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Bi-monthly report – Progress of Inner West Brewers and Distillers Implementation Action Plan
Prepared By: Daniel East - Acting Senior Manager Strategic Planning
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Highlights from the update on the Inner West Brewery and Distillers Implementation Action Plan include:
· Breweries and Distillers have been invited to be part of Inner West Brewers Area for Marrickville Music Festival.
· A meeting was held with Destination NSW about the development of tourism plan
· Letters have been sent to heads of agencies to advocate for change to support the sector.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 25 June 2024, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council adopt the Inner West Brewers and Distillers Implementation Action Plan.
2. That Council commence development of an Inner West Tourism Action Plan to help guide and support local economic growth and enhanced vibrancy and amenity, with a draft Plan to be presented to Council at or by the December 2024 meeting.
3. That the Plan is to be developed through engagement with local residents, business chambers and industry associations, and the Inner West Creative Network.
4. That the Plan include a specific focus on the Inner West Ale Trail, existing and proposed Special Entertainment Precincts, opportunities to identify breweries as standalone venues under the SEPs, and opportunities to support more live music and cultural events.
5. That, as part of the Plan, $200,000 be allocated to an Inner West Tourism Fund out of the 2024-25 budget to fund implementation of action items developed through the Plan.
6. That Council receive a bi-monthly report on progress of the Inner West Brewers and Distillers Implementation Action Plan.
DISCUSSION
To date work on the Inner West Brewers and Distillers Implementation Action Plan has included:
· Support for events
· Early investigations around developing an Inner West Tourism ActionPlan
· Special Entertainment Precincts
· Advocacy to other Government Agencies
· Consideration of how the Special Entertainment Precinct protections can be extended to standalone venues
Support for events
Council re-launched the Inner West Brewers Area for Marrickville Music Festival and staff have invited local brewers and distillers to be part this signature event. The Inner West Brewers Area will be a showcase of local breweries within a designated licensed.
Council also provided $3,000 to Young Henry’s Brewery to support the annual Newtown Street Party on 7 December 2024.
Inner West Tourism Action Plan
Economic Development Team have meet with Destination NSW to gain guidance on development of the plan and to gather information on what tourists are seeking when they visit NSW. Staff are undertaking an audit on key focus areas that may be of interest to tourists as the first part of the development of this plan.
Special Entertainment Precincts
A review of strategies is underway to determine how best to provide the protections of a Special Entertainment Precinct to isolated venues that are appropriately located.
Advocate to Other Levels of Government on Key Issues
Council staff have sent letters to agency heads including:
· Steve Cox, CEO Destination NSW – Tourism Campaign
· Gina Cass-Gottlieb, Chair ACCC - Anticompetitive Marketing
· Tony Chappel, CEO, NSW EPA - Container Deposit Scheme
· Steven Kennedy, CEO, The Treasury - Beer excise tax
At this stage Council has received an acknowledgment that the letter to The Treasury has been received.
The table provides update on the Inner West Brewers and Distillers Implementation Plan.
|
Inner West Brewers and Distillers Implementation Action Plan
|
|
|
Action |
Update |
|
Support for events |
Breweries and Distillers have been invited to be part of Inner West Brewers Area for Marrickville Music Festival.
|
|
Inner West Tourism Action Plan |
Staff from Economic Development Team have meet with Destination NSW to gain guidance on development of the plan. Audit of tourism opportunities in the LGA |
|
Market the sector |
No update on this action for this reporting period. |
|
More lighting in industrial areas |
The Infrastructure Team are undertaking a main road LED streetlighting replacement. An audit of street lighting can occur after this project has been completed for any specific street. |
|
Support to implement actions from State Government grants |
Staff from Economic Development Team are supporting the Association to implement actions that require Council’s support. This has included, arranging for potholes to be fixed, on road dining and ideas for wayfinding. |
|
Examine how to treat breweries/distillers as cultural institutions |
Recent changes to NSW law through the Vibrancy Reforms enable live music in most premises. From a planning perspective breweries are a light industry and therefore a form of manufacturing and not necessarily recognised within the planning framework as cultural venues. Nevertheless there are other strategies that can be developed that consider this element of brewers / distillers. |
|
Review of SEP protections for individual or isolated Brewery or Distillers |
Investigations are underway to determine the most appropriate planning framework to protect isolated breweries and distilleries.
|
|
Advocate to Other Levels of Government |
|
|
Advocate to agency that administers the CDS to examine ways to reduce the cost for all the breweries and distillers in NSW |
Letter has been sent to NSW EPA
|
|
Advocate to the State Government to develop a brewery and distillery tourism campaign.
|
Letter has been sent to CEO Destination NSW
|
|
Write to the State Government to request for a signal crossing to be installed at corner Fitzroy Street and Sydenham Road Sydenham |
No update on this action for this reporting period
|
|
Write to the Ausgrid about Sydenham Road lighting issues.
|
No update on this action for this reporting period
|
|
Advocate to Commonwealth Government to reduce the excise for the micro breweries and small distilleries as the sector does not have the economy of scare.
|
Letter has been sent to CEO, The Treasury |
|
Advocate to Commonwealth Government to examine competition laws and the current practices of multi nationals around anti-competitive marketing |
Letter sent to Chair ACCC |
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Update on Planning Proposal for Additional Special Entertainment Precincts
Prepared By: Daniel East - Acting Senior Manager Strategic Planning
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Planning Proposal to designate six new Special Entertainment Precincts (SEPs) in Balmain, Dulwich Hill, Leichhardt, Rozelle and two areas in Marrickville received Gateway Determination on 13 September 2024 from the Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure. Consultation with state government authorities has begun, and public engagement will occur in February 2025. The engagement outcomes report is scheduled to be reported to Council in May 2025.
BACKGROUND
The Planning Proposal was endorsed at the Council meeting held on 25 June 2024 (see Attachment 1):
1. That Council endorse the Planning Proposal to amend the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 to designate six new Special Entertainment Precincts (SEPs) and make a minor extension to the Enmore Road SEP to be submitted to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces seeking a Gateway Determination under Section 3.33 and 3.34 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979.
2. That Council place the Planning Proposal and draft DCP amendments on community consultation in accordance with Council's Community Engagement Framework to meet the requirements of the Gateway Determination, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, should the Planning Proposal receive a favourable Gateway Determination.
3. That Council develops an expression of interest process to add to the SEP isolated venues that are appropriately located.
4. That Council request delegation from the Minister for Planning to manage the plan making functions of the Planning Proposal.
5. That Council authorise the General Manager to make technical modifications to the Planning Proposal, Development Control Plan, and Special Entertainment Precinct Management Plan prior to exhibition.
The planning proposal received Gateway Determination on 13 September 2024. An amendment to the Inner West Local Environmental Plan 2022 is proposed to designate six new Special Entertainment Precincts (SEPs) in Balmain, Dulwich Hill, Leichhardt, Rozelle and two in Marrickville. A minor extension of the Enmore Road SEP to include the Warren View Hotel and another commercial property is also proposed.
The purpose of a SEP is to take a balanced approach to entertainment sound compliance, considering the needs of businesses and residents. This is aimed at encouraging new and existing businesses to host live entertainment, supporting the arts and live music sector and adding to the vibrancy of local centres.
They achieve this by:
· Setting specific sound limits that apply to entertainment venues in a precinct
· Businesses will get an extra hour of trade
· Outdoor dining is permitted until 11pm
· New developments such as residential flat buildings must sound-proof against entertainment sound
DISCUSSION
The Gateway Determination advises (Attachment 2):
· Public exhibition of the planning proposal is required for at least 20 working days
· Consultation is required with the following public authorities:
o NSW Police
o Sound NSW (formerly the NSW Live Music Office)
o Liquor and Gaming NSW
o Transport for NSW
o Office of the 24-hour Commissioner
o Office of Local Government
o Department of Customer Service
· Inner West Council may exercise local plan-making authority functions in relation to the planning proposal
· The LEP needs to be submitted for GIS and legal drafting by 22 May 2024 and finalised by 4 July 2025
Next steps
The planning proposal has been referred to the relevant public authorities who have until 22 November 2024 to provide comments. Council officers will meet to discuss any comments received with the authorities in early December.
Public Engagement is scheduled for February 2025 comprising:
· face-to-face pop ups co-located with customer service stalls
· letters to affected residents, businesses, and property owners
· Information about the proposed SEPs and surveys on Council’s Your Say Inner West (YSIW) page
· targeted engagement with small businesses and key venues in each precinct
The engagement outcomes report is scheduled to be reported to the May 2025 Council meeting.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Planning Proposal - Additional Special Entertainment Precincts |
|
2.⇩ |
Gateway Determination |
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: White Bay Power Station Special Entertainment Precinct Update
Prepared By: Daniel East - Acting Senior Manager Strategic Planning
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
At the Council meeting held on 25 June 2024, Council resolved the following:
That Council write to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, and the Minister for the Night Time Economy and Music, stating Council’s support for the use of White Bay Power Station as a cultural venue / live performance and concert venue, and request that the site also be designated as a Special Entertainment Precinct by the Minister Planning and Public Spaces.
Council’s letter to the State Government is Attachment 1.
In response to Inner West’s request for the use of White Bay Power Station as an arts and cultural venue the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces has confirmed a 12-month approval is now in place for such activities on site. The 12-month trial is an opportunity to understand the venues limits and opportunities. Please see the letter received in Attachment 2.
Inner West Council will continue to work closely with Placemaking NSW, advocating for the continued cultural use of the venue and its future designation as a Special Entertainment Precinct.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
1.⇩ |
Council Letter to Minister Scully Live entertainment at White Bay Power Station |
|
2.⇩ |
Letter from the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces |
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Pathway to a Safer Cooks River
Prepared By: Aaron Callaghan - Parks Planning and Ecology Manager
Authorised By: Simone Plummer - Director Planning
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council has previously considered two Council officer reports on improving walking and cycling safety along the Cooks River shared pathway after dark. At both the June 2024 and the October 2024 Ordinary Council meetings, key safety issues associated with the pathway and its use after dark were highlighted. This report responds to the most recent Council resolutions and the outcomes of an additional safety inspection which was undertaken by the NSW Police and Council officers on 10 October 2024.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 3 September 2024, Council resolved the following in part:
2. That Council commits to urgently implement all the key priorities and observations from the Cooks River Walking and Commuter Safety Audit and NSW Police Security Assessment of Mackey Park to Steel Park, including essential lighting, signage through the park and pathways, space activation, regular trimming of trees and shrubs along the pathways and installation of handrails at Thornley Street access.
3. That Council officers review the budget at the next opportunity to identify funding for the key priorities and observations.
4. That Council requests NSW Police to conduct a further security assessment of the pathway along the Cooks River, from Kendrick Park to Tempe Train Station, and to bring this report back to Council to the November 2024 Council meeting.
6. That Council seeks State government support for the lighting upgrades, specifically, to negotiate with Jemena, owner of the utility pipeline which runs along the pathway, given Jemena’s past objections to lighting upgrades by Council.
DISCUSSION
Council has formally written to the NSW Government requesting support and funding to address urgent upgrades to lighting improvements along the Cooks River from Kendrick Park through to Steel Park in Marrickville. An initial safety inspection was conducted with Council officers and the NSW Police on 19 June 2024. To date there has been no substantial response from Government on this issue.
Cooks River Walking and Commuter Trail.
The Cooks River Walking and Commuter trail covers an area of approximately 1.8km and runs from Kendrick Park through to Steel Park, Marrickville. The trail is important as an outdoor recreation trial and is also heavily utilised by working commuters for access to Tempe Station. In recent times there has been a significant increase in the number of Uber Eats delivery cyclists who use the trail as a through-way to support their business trade.
Lighting improvements from Kendrick Park through to Steel Park are urgently needed and NSW State Government assistance to address approvals for this work has been advocated by Council through previous Council resolutions and through formal correspondence. The need for improved lighting is heightened due to the expected increased patronage of Tempe Train Station due to the temporary closure of the T3 Line from Sydenham to Bankstown Stations, a closure which it is anticipated will last until October 2025.
Additional Safety Audit 10 October 2024.
An additional safety audit was undertaken by Council officers and the NSW Police on 10 October 20024. A full summary of the observations of the safety report have been provided by the NSW Police in Attachment 1. In summary key observations from the safety inspections are listed in Table 1.0 below as follows:
Table 1.0 Initial Council Officer Observations
Safety Audit Kendrick Park to Tempe Station 10 October 2024
|
Issue |
Observation |
|
Cycle Park Maintenance |
Existing cycle Path is well used by both commuter and commercial users (Uber bikes) and has good surface markings. The cycle way requires improved maintenance (sweeping as Casuarina needles are prevalent) |
|
Public Access Stairs- User safety after dark |
Nicholson Street Stairs- substandard lighting is present and a review is required to upgrade lighting in this area. |
|
Public Access Stairs- User safety after dark |
Griffiths Street Stairs- substandard lighting is present and a review is required to upgrade lighting in this area. |
|
Overgrown vegetation and poor fence line maintenance |
The area below the Griffiths Street stairs in the parkland is generally overgrown and poorly maintained. Fencing is not maintained to the rail corridor and illegal dumping of vegetation is prevalent. A dedicated cleanup is required. |
|
Tempe Rail Bridge Safety Concerns |
The low security cage which is fitted on the base of the bridge is not very safe for cyclists. Site lines are also hazardous making the approach to this low structure after dark dangerous. A review by Transport for NSW is required. There is nil lighting and nil signage in this area. “Watch your Head” signage would be helpful at each end of the bridge approach. It is noted that the rail bridge is owned by Transport for NSW, not Council. |
|
Entrapment Zone South of Rail Bridge |
The Pathway south of bridge has rumble strips to slow cyclists. This area is however an entrapment zone due to the rial yard fencing and the edge of the Cooks River. Poor lighting for pedestrians and cyclists adds to the safety risks. Graffiti removal also needs to be actioned. Existing signage is in poor condition and has not been maintained |
|
Pathway Overall |
The shared pathway generally has poor lighting which is consistent with the rest of the Cooks River pathway from Mackey Park to Steel Park. Lighting improvements should be considered a priority.
|
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Prioritised maintenance, cleaning, sign repairs and graffiti removal is underway and funded through the existing operational budget.
Presently there is no funding allocation for lighting improvements along the Cooks River Pathway in Council’s 2024/25 Delivery Program. There have been previous plans to review lighting which were unsuccessful as permissions / concurrences from state agencies were not forthcoming. These plans are being reviewed to understand current cost implications of an improved lighting plan. Funding support for a lighting improvement projects has been sought from the NSW Government given the significant community safety issues co-identified by the NSW Police.
|
1.⇩ |
NSW Police Security and Safety Assessment Report - Cooks River Walk Kendrick Park to Tempe Station |
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Leichhardt Oval Public Access - Wayne Pearce Hill
Prepared By: Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager
Authorised By: Beau-Jane De Costa - Acting Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
4: Healthy, resilient, and caring communities |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides an update on the extension of the public access to the Wayne Pearce Hill at Leichhardt Oval for passive recreation providing weekday access from dawn to dusk that was previously permitted between December 2023 and April 2024.
The public access supported unstructured recreation activities, principally for dog walking on the hill areas which lie outside of the main fenced sporting oval.
During this further trial period, May 2024 to October 2024 the toilets were kept closed, reducing the significant costs of daily cleaning that were incurred during the first trial period.
During the first trial period additional costs were incurred also with the use of contract security to open and close the main gates at Mary Street and Clover Street. During this second period, Council’s Rangers were tasked with this action.
Due to the low impact of providing public access as currently structured, Council will continue to allow the use of the Wayne Pearce Hill at Leichhardt Oval for passive recreation providing weekday access from dawn until approximately 6-6.15pm each weekday to coincide with Council staff’s rostered shifts.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on the 10 October 2023, Council resolved the following in part:
2. That Council incorporate provision for public access to the Wayne Pearce Hill for passive recreation based on the same principles as the existing, successful use of Henson Park. This to commence with a trial of weekday access, including evenings, to be undertaken from December 2023 to February 2024.
Wayne Pearce Hill was made publicly accessible between Monday to Friday dawn to dusk, and on match days, access was not available after 9am. Access onto the sporting field was not permitted at any time.
The purpose of the trial was principally to allow the community safe access and use of the hill areas of the oval for exercise and socialisation.
A Report was submitted to the April 2024 Council meeting (Attachment 1) that details the community engagement outcomes associated with a trial of public access to the Wayne Pearce Hill at Leichhardt Oval for passive recreation providing weekday access, from dawn to dusk, which was undertaken between December 2023 and April 2024.
The public exhibition took place between 8 March and 7 April 2024. At the time of publication, council has received feedback from 10 participants with 90% of respondents in support of the proposal.
As the trial occurred over the 2023/2024 summer holiday period, Council staff recommended that a review be undertaken in six months to consider the community utilisation and any associated impacts through the winter season also.
At the Council meeting held on 9 April 2024, resolved the following:
1. That Council endorse to continue public access to the Wayne Pearce Hill for passive recreation providing weekday access, from dawn to dusk.
2. That a review be undertaken in six months’ time on the utilisation of the Wayne Pearce Hill and a report brough back to Council.
DISCUSSION
Over the last 6 months The Wayne Pearce Hill (the Hill) has been made publicly accessible Monday to Friday, from dawn to dusk. Council officers have observed and spoken to the users attending the Hill and anecdotally report that they have been happy their current access to the Hill for recreation particularly for exercising their dogs.
There is approximately 3 regular off leash dog walkers, 1 group of 2 who regularly attend with gym equipment to complete a fitness work out and other irregular groups of walkers who take advantage of the short cut between Glover Street and Mary Street. On average there is a total of approximately 6 users of the Hill each weekday morning.
Each afternoon there are regulars who pass through the Hill for exercise and dog walking of their dogs off-leash. On average there is a total of approximately 6 users of the Hill each weekday afternoon.
Associated Impacts
Despite no access to the sporting field being communicated through Councils website, signage and locked gates and fences some users have chosen to enter the field, some have allowed their dogs on field. This has taken place at times when Council staff have not been present.
On match days access was not available after 9am. Following the NRL match held at Leichhardt Oval in July and heavy rain the Hill was required to close for 1 week for safety concerns and to allow the Hill to recover from the damage caused by the large crowd. Council has not received any negative feedback from users regarding these arrangements.
Over the last 6-month period the Hills toilets have remained closed during the Hill opening times, reducing the additional costs of daily cleaning.
Unlocking and Locking of the Hill gates has been managed by Council’s Rangers and has worked well over the winter months.
Since Australian Eastern daylight savings time has commenced, and to accommodate their shifts, Councils Rangers will lock the Mary Street and Glover Street gate at approximately 6-6.15pm each weekday.
Other impacts of opening the Hill to the public has been:
· Owners not picking up after their dogs, requiring Council staff and cleaning contractors to occasionally action this; and
· Dogs digging up the grass / worn out areas which creates divots requiring Council grounds staff to repair the damage.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial impacts related to the recommendations in this report.
|
1.⇩ |
Council Report April 2024 Leichhardt Oval Public Access and Community Engagement Outcomes |
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Update on Creative Use of Town Halls
Prepared By: Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager
Authorised By: Beau-Jane De Costa - Acting Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides an update on the continued activation of Inner West Council’s Creative Use of Town Halls program.
BACKGROUND
The implementation of the Creative Use of Council Venues Pilot Program (Pilot Program) is part of the initiatives set out in the Arts and Music Recovery Plan, endorsed by Council in May 2023.
Pilot Program of Town Hall Activations/Creative Space
The Pilot Program was implemented in the second half of 2023 and recommended for the immediate procurement of audio, lighting, and other necessary technical equipment to support the ongoing activation of creative spaces within the town halls.
The Pilot Program provided critical learning as to how Council spaces can best serve the creative community. Preliminary costings to estimate the infrastructure needed for each town hall to be functional were identified and provided previously in a Council Report.
Council staff also worked with the Marrickville Town Hall Steering Committee to design recommendations for a more substantial fit out of Marrickville Town Hall. Including the basement (previously used for Council’s Marrickville Library). The ground floor rooms have been developed as studio and micro presentation spaces.
At the council meeting held on 5 December 2023, Council considered a report discussing design recommendations for the fit out of the town halls generally, and in particular the Marrickville Town Hall basement space and ground floor rooms.
At that meeting Council resolved in part:
That Council consider expenditure for the fit-out of town halls for artistic purposes, including Marrickville Town Hall, as part of the budget workshop process in early 2024, considering a baseline of equipment that can activate spaces and harmonise the experience of hirers and patrons in our town halls.
At the Council meeting held on 5 March 2024, Council resolved the following in part:
8. That Council endorse the Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy being amended as below and placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days to seek community feedback on the proposed amendment:
That Table 1: Schedule of Scaled Fees and Categories of Organisation be amended to include all creative individuals or groups requesting use of Town Halls or their associated spaces in the 100% scaled fee waiver category, where the activity or event to be held is not primarily a fundraising event.
The draft Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy was subsequently placed on public exhibition.
At the council meeting held on 9 April 2024, following its public exhibition, Council resolved to adopt the updated Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy and allow creative individuals or groups the use of Town Halls or their associated spaces with a 100% fee waiver in accordance with the conditions contained within the policy.
DISCUSSION
Micro Studios (Completed)
As part of the first stage of the activation, during the month of June 2024, Micro Studios (Studio) were procured and installed at the following town halls:
1. Petersham Town Hall
2. Leichhardt Town Hall
3. St Peter’s Town Hall
4. Marrickville Town Hall
5. Annandale Community Centre
Each studio includes a sound mixing system, speakers, microphones, lighting rig and controller, a portable stage will be included to enable some of the largest spaces in our town halls (or venues if required) to be used for presentations.
Each Studio also contains a lockable container to store the mixer, microphones, cabling, and control mechanism for the lighting.
An Instruction Guide was drafted and is being provided to hirers for the management of the hire of the equipment.
Table 1: Schedule of equipment in each Micro Studio
|
No |
Item |
|
1 |
Portable stage comprising 4 off 2m x 1m |
|
1 |
8 Channel Analogue Mixer and table |
|
1 |
Portable Lighting rig with multi coloured lights |
|
2 |
Speakers (Audience) |
|
2 |
Speakers (Monitor) |
|
3 |
Microphones and stands |
|
2 |
Boom Microphones and stands |
Fig.1 – Micro Studio @ Winged Victory Room – Marrickville Town Hall
Promoting the availability of town halls
Council staff will continue to engage with the Inner West creative sector including Pilot Program participants to ensure continued access to the town halls. Recently a social media campaign was launched through June and July 2024 to build further on community awareness on the availability of the town halls.
Advertising banners were designed and procured to help promote this around each of the town hall sites and were installed by 20 June 2024.
Creative Concierge Service
Based on learnings and experience from creative enquiries and bookings since the July 2024 announcement, the Creative Communities team are currently updating the application form for creatives to streamline their experience and strengthen the concierge support provided to the creative sector.
Bookings for creative use
The spaces across all of the town halls (excluding Marrickville Town Hall basement) were made available to be booked by the community via the existing venue hire booking system on Council’s website here https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/explore/venues-for-hire/creative-town-halls
The webpages were updated with the new spaces that have been made available and contains information about each space including:
· Size and capacity
· Bookable Hours
· Facilities within each room, including AV and digital capability
· Accessibility
· Location and transport options
· Conditions of hire
· Plan of the room within the Town Hall
· An image gallery to visually describe what is available for the hirer
Council is tracking the use of its venues by hirers by type, and Since 1 July 2023 has been able to report on the use of each Town Hall for creative purposes.
The results do not include the use of town halls for other purposes, and a report will be brought to the February Council meeting with information of all uses of Councils town halls, as well as all of its other community venues.
The following table provides a breakdown of creative use of each town hall, with the last three months highlighted from the official announcement from 1 July 2024.
Table 2: Creative Use of town halls by venue
|
VENUE |
Jul to Dec 2023 (six months) |
Jan to Jun 2024 (six months) |
Jul-24 |
Aug-24 |
Sep-24 |
|
Annandale Community Centre |
49 |
273 |
65 |
62 |
60 |
|
Ashfield Town Hall |
34 |
159 |
54 |
37 |
27 |
|
Balmain Town Hall * |
43 |
0* |
0* |
0* |
9 |
|
Leichhardt Town Hall |
9 |
71 |
25 |
54 |
56 |
|
Marrickville Town Hall |
105 |
138 |
41 |
25 |
30 |
|
Petersham Town Hall |
21 |
81 |
12 |
35 |
14 |
|
St Peters Town Hall |
46 |
148 |
64 |
56 |
64 |
|
Others (non-Town Hall venue) |
180 |
234 |
108 |
132 |
159 |
|
TOTALS |
487 |
1104 |
369 |
401 |
419 |
NOTE: Balmain Town Hall was closed for renovations during part of 2023/24 and was unable to take any bookings.
Table 3: Breakdown of creative use by type
Table 4: Breakdown of creative use by type
|
Month/Year |
Concert / Musical |
Exhibition |
Filming |
Performance |
Rehearsal |
|
Jan-23 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
17 |
|
Feb-23 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
29 |
|
Mar-23 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
28 |
|
Apr-23 |
0 |
0 |
11 |
0 |
31 |
|
May-23 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
75 |
|
Jun-23 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
113 |
|
Jul-23 |
0 |
0 |
9 |
1 |
76 |
|
Aug-23 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
6 |
55 |
|
Sep-23 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
70 |
|
Oct-23 |
2 |
0 |
5 |
4 |
53 |
|
Nov-23 |
31 |
12 |
0 |
0 |
50 |
|
Dec-23 |
58 |
0 |
6 |
1 |
41 |
|
Jan-24 |
6 |
0 |
5 |
9 |
58 |
|
Feb-24 |
17 |
0 |
29 |
10 |
105 |
|
Mar-24 |
30 |
0 |
40 |
15 |
102 |
|
Apr-24 |
16 |
3 |
1 |
24 |
165 |
|
May-24 |
24 |
4 |
0 |
43 |
175 |
|
Jun-24 |
25 |
2 |
2 |
43 |
189 |
|
Jul-24 |
16 |
7 |
5 |
20 |
264 |
|
Aug-24 |
32 |
0 |
26 |
21 |
325 |
|
Sep-24 |
23 |
0 |
4 |
20 |
372 |
It is noted that Rehearsals have been the dominant type of Creative Use since the announcement, reinforcing the main need of these spaces for the creative community.
NEXT STEPS
AV Equipment including Projection
Work is currently being planned on a Marrickville, Petersham and Balmain Town Halls to upgrade the main halls with Audio Visual equipment including speakers, mixing desks, lighting and a projector, similar to what has been installed at Leichhardt Town Hall. The equipment is planned to be installed by the end of 2024.
Acoustic Treatment
In addition, as part of the proposed capital works to be undertaken on Marrickville, Petersham, St Peters Town Hall during 24/25 an acoustic consultant has been engaged to provide recommendations on improving the acoustic performance of the spaces with the introduction of the EV equipment. The acoustic treatments recommended by the consultant will be included in the capital works program for the respective sites.
Marrickville Town Hall Basement
The opportunities identified as part of the Pilot Program for the basement include being able to set it up as a multi-functional black box, that can be arranged to suit a variety of performance modes.
Attached to the main space in the basement are two rooms with separate access from carpark. These rooms are intended to be soundproofed and could be used as music rehearsal / recording studios which can be independently accessed alongside the main space.
When there are presentation outcomes in the main space, these rehearsal / recording spaces can be used as dressing rooms given their proximity to the main space.
There is a third room with separate access from Petersham Road, that is also intended to be soundproofed and could also be used as a music rehearsal / recording.
Now that the Electoral Commission has vacated the basement and the site is accessible, procurement can be progressed to consider different options that might be considered for the design, construction, and costs to establish each of the soundproofed rooms that could be used for music rehearsal / recording studios.
Ashfield Town Hall
Ashfield Town Hall was designed with a control room that had previously been fitted out with sound and lighting desk, with speakers and a projector mounted at the stage. In lieu of providing a micro studio an audit was undertaken of the existing equipment.
The equipment was found to either be non-operational or beyond its useful life and the lighting desk is being repaired, a new audio channel mixer is being purchased, and projection facilities are being upgraded and will be ready for use by the end of October 24.
Balmain Town Hall
The Balmain Town Hall's meeting room, Uncle Bob Webb Chambers is also being upgraded with new audio visual and projection capabilities as part of the procurement of AV Equipment currently being undertaken.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
A budget of $800,000 was approved for the development and fit out of the town halls for creative use.
$145,559.39 has been spent to date on the installation of the micro studios and the upgrade to the Ashfield Town Hall
The remaining budget will be used for the proposed fit out program of capital works, including key refurbishment works at Marrickville Town Hall basement.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Dual Naming of Local Parks and Ovals
Prepared By: Simon Watts - Social and Cultural Planning Manager
Authorised By: Ruth Callaghan - Director Community
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Council has made several resolutions in relation to dual naming and acknowledgement of local Aboriginal culture. In addition, the Naming Policy endorsed by Council on 3 September 2024 provides clear guidance on dual naming with Aboriginal language names where “such a name is both dignified and appropriate, particularly thematic names such as language for flora or fauna”.
In 2024, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee was consulted on this issue and advised that dual naming of inclusive playgrounds is appropriate.
BACKGROUND
In the previous term of Council, there were several resolutions made to consult the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee on dual naming of local parks and reserves.
At the Council meeting held on 5 December 2023, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council consider dual naming of major Inner West parks and ovals that may have particular significance for local Aboriginal people with Aboriginal place names.
2. That Council consult with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee on the initiative.
3. That if the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee supports dual naming of major Inner West parks and ovals, report back by March 2024 on a plan to consult the community on the proposal, beginning with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council and concluding with a completed consultation report coming to Council by July 2024.
Subsequently, at the Council meeting held on 26 June 2024, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council note resolution C1123(1) - Consultation on Dual Naming of Major Inner West Parks and Ovals, requesting that officers consult the Inner West Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee on the proposal and report back to the Council by May 2024 with a full consultation plan to engage the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council and local residents.
2. That within that framework, Council consult with the Inner West Council Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, seeking ideas and recommendations for the dual naming of the area known as “Marrickville Park'' in the Marrickville-Midjuburi Ward. Dual naming would encourage Connection to Country and recognise Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Additionally, at the Council meeting held on 22 October 2024, Council resolved the following:
1. That Council reports on the progress of the development of a Dual Naming Policy.
2. That Council reports on the consultation with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee and the broader Community on the initiative to have dual names for parks and ovals that may have particular significance for local Aboriginal people with Aboriginal place names.
3. That Council consult with Community of dual naming of one major park in each Inner West Council ward with an Aboriginal name.
DISCUSSION
Through 2023/24 Council developed, exhibited, and adopted a new Naming Policy. Council’s Naming Policy provides guidance and direction for the naming of parks and ovals that are either owned or under the care and control of Inner West Council. Connection to Country through language, cultural practice and long held relationships are intrinsically connected to identity for Aboriginal peoples and are allowed for in the Naming Policy.
The Naming Policy encourages Aboriginal language names where such a name is both dignified and appropriate, particularly thematic names such as language for flora or fauna. The use of Aboriginal place names through the dual naming process is also a commitment in Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan to recognise Aboriginal cultural heritage.
The Naming Policy states that “a dual naming system may be used when a non-Aboriginal assigned geographical name already exists for a place of physical and environmental significance to the local Aboriginal community or the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council. The use of Aboriginal naming for Council’s wards is such an example”.
With the Council Naming Policy guidance in mind, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee was consulted on dual naming in 2024 and considered Council’s direction to reflect on ovals and parks with significance to Aboriginal peoples. The Committee also considered how best to balance the Naming Policy principles of “uniqueness, dignity, and appropriateness”.
The Committee noted that a variety of Aboriginal names are in use for local parks and reserves in the Inner West, but that there are no major parks or ovals with physical and environmental significance for local Aboriginal people or that suggest an obvious Aboriginal name. There are already a number of Council parks and reserves that already have Aboriginal or dual names, or are named for Aboriginal people:
· Badu Reserve (Annandale)
· Birrung Park/Whites Bay Reserve (Balmain)
· Cadigal Reserve (Summer Hill)
· Douglas Grant Memorial Reserve (Annandale): named for a prominent Aboriginal resident, WWI veteran and designer of the Sydney Harbour Bridge WW1 Memorial in Callan Park
· Illoura Reserve (East Balmain)
· Paringa Reserve (Balmain)
· Wangal Nura Park (Leichhardt)
· Yurulbin Park (Birchgrove).
The Committee advises Council that one approach to dual naming would be to use the Aboriginal ward names which have been in place since 2018. This has the advantage of building on the now widespread use of these Aboriginal names and the connection to Country that this has engendered.
The Committee suggests that Council consider dual naming of the five new inclusive playgrounds for the ward they are located in. This approach would enable local children in the Inner West to interact with Aboriginal culture and language and develop a connection to Country through their physical play spaces in local parks.
The Committee suggested renaming or dual naming the new inclusive playgrounds using the name of the ward in which they are located as a way to acknowledge authentic cultural connection. The use of the Baludarri (Leather Jacket) motif in the redevelopment of the first of these playgrounds at King George Oval illustrates how this might work. The playground itself could be named Baludarri Playground, located within King George Park. Children and families using the playground might experience the new cultural identity and connection to Country. The Committee appreciates the opportunity that this might present for young people to develop this cultural connection and build on throughout their lives.
For the other four inclusive playgrounds, the naming or dual naming might proceed as follows:
· Gulgadya Playground at Richard Murden Reserve, Haberfield
· Djarrawunang Playground at Yeo Park, Ashfield
· Damun Playground at Camperdown Memorial Rest Park, Camperdown
· Midjuburi Playground at Steel Park, South Marrickville.
The Committee did not propose any parks or ovals for consideration. As an alternative, the Committee suggests that Council might name a major park or oval in each ward with the Aboriginal name for that ward. Council officers could provide advice on which ovals or parks were suitable for dual naming, bearing in mind the Naming Policy.
Once this issue is resolved, public engagement can be undertaken, including with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no additional financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report. Any signage costs associated with dual naming of playgrounds can be met within existing infrastructure budgets.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Despointes Street Flooding
From: Councillor Victor Macri
|
MOTION
1. That Council notes there is an existing flooding issue at the low end of the street. On the side where the 90-degree parking takes place this aggravated by the vehicles that park hard up against the kerb not allowing the rain water to flow directly into the drain forcing it on to the footpath making it difficult for the elderly residents to access their property.
2. That Council investigate placing stoppers to maintain the ability for the rainwater to enter the drain without being diverted onto the footpath and ponding creating a safety issue.
|
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Anti-Discrimination Act 1977
From: Councillor Liz Atkins
|
MOTION
1. That Council strongly supports the calls of trade unions, community legal centres, LGBTIQ+ organisations, and sex worker organisations for an intersectional Anti-Discrimination Act that: a) Has an expanded list of protected attributes, including but not restricted to sex workers, survivors of domestic and family violence, migration or visa status, homelessness/accommodation status, and irrelevant criminal record; b) Replaces the comparator test and puts a positive obligation on to employers and service providers to be inclusive; c) Increases the resources provided to the Anti-Discrimination Board NSW, and extends the right to hear ADA cases to the Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) where workers can be represented by their union; and d) Removes the right of private educational institutions, faith based organisations, small businesses, sporting groups, and superannuation funds to unjustly discriminate.
2. That Council urges the NSW government to commit to the increased funding of community legal centres, and making LGBTIQ+ and sex worker representation a priority funding area, so that people are best able to make use of these protections.
3. That Council strongly supports the full decriminalisation of sex work, and the removal of penalties targeting sex workers in the Summary Offences Act.
4. That Council notes with concern the issues of policing which were removed from the Equality Bill, and urges a review of the Mandatory Disease Testing process.
5. That Council calls upon the NSW government to address these issues in a timely manner, and to make clear its public position on these reforms before the next Mardi Gras.
6. That Council requests staff compose a letter reflecting this position, which will then be sent by the Inner West Mayor to all members of NSW Parliament.
|
Background
The Anti-Discrimination Act is no longer fit for purpose. It was first reviewed by the NSW Law Reform Commission in 1991, and after almost a decade of review the LRC finally brought 161 recommendations to parliament on the 4th of April, 2000. The vast majority of these recommendations, which included amending religious exceptions that target queer people, have not been acted upon in the 24 years of government since.
In the lead up to World Pride in 2022, Alex Greenwich proposed an ‘Equality Bill’ to begin eliminating discrimination in NSW which had and continues to have the most regressive laws in the country for queer people. This bill would have resolved many of those outstanding issues. A heavily amended version of this bill received the support of NSW Parliament in October, which saw a significant win in the form of birth certificate reform for adults. The process of these amendments saw many other issues left to further reviews, including reform of the Anti-Discrimination Act and full decriminalisation of sex work, but with no commitment to action.
The Anti-Discrimination Act has been referred to the NSW LRC, yet again, and the LRC received over 90 submissions in its preliminary consultations. These submissions argued for:
· Expanding jurisdiction for handling complaints to the IRC and more resourcing of the Anti-Discrimination Board NSW for handling complaints in a timely manner;
· A legal framework that addressed intersectionality, removes the comparator test, and places a positive responsibility upon employers and service providers;
· An expanded list of protected attributes which included sex workers, survivors of domestic and family violence, migration or visa status, homelessness/accommodation status, and irrelevant criminal record; and
· Removing exemptions to discrimination law such by independent educational providers, faith-based employers, superannuation, and small businesses.
The preliminary report is expected to be tabled in coming months, but the full report is expected to take several more years. This report will not be binding, and the government has as yet made no public commitments to action.
This Motion supports outcome 4.1.3 of our Community Strategic Plan: Address social inequity, obstacles to participation and social exclusion.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: ECEC Pay and Conditions
From: Councillor Liz Atkins and Councillor Olivia Barlow
|
MOTION
1. That Council in principle supports applying for newly announced federal funding to increase the pay for educators by 15%, and asks that Council be provided with a briefing note by the end of 2024 on how this can be actioned.
2. That Council in principle supports the United Services Union log of claims for the Early Childhood Education & Care splinter award, and writes to the CEO, board, and bargaining representatives of Local Government NSW to: a) express our full support for these claims; and, b) recommend that LGNSW affirm its support of the splinter award as quickly as possible to give councils and their employees clarity on the year ahead.
3. That Council prepare a report on possible avenues to reduce labour hire in our early learning centres, and that this report address potential options of partnerships with TAFE NSW for a blended Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care delivery with the purpose of expanding our in-house workforce.
|
Background
The early learning sector is experiencing an ongoing labour crisis with 62% of educators stating that they will leave the sector in the next few years due to low wages and high workloads, according to a United Workers’ Union poll conducted over a 10-day period from July 19 to July 29, 2024 and included responses from 1,110 early childhood educators and 189 parents with children in early education, and many younger educators living in sever financial stress, leading to quick burn out. Anglicare’s reports have also revealed that 99.1% of rentals in Australia are unaffordable on an educator’s wage. This labour crisis will inevitably cause a decline in quality of care and education, and is already seeing a rise in breaches of quality standards around NSW.
Federally, the Albanese government has attempted to intervene by offering a grant to employers that will allow them to pass on a 15% pay rise over the next two years for educators. The application for the grant is here and councils have been confirmed as eligible. The United Services Union is also proposing a splinter award for educators in local government, which would sit alongside the local government award. They have released their log of claims, which raises important issues around leave, allowances, and placements, and in September contacted Mayors seeking their support.
This is important for the local government sector which is one of the largest providers of early learning in NSW with approximately 300 centres collectively. Inner West Council operates 11 Early Learning Centres, 2 Out of School Hours Care, Vacation Care, an Occasional Care service, a Pre-School, the Magic Yellow Bus mobile playgroup and a Family Day Care network and is a stakeholder both as an employer and a member body of Local Government NSW (LGNSW) which bargains with the union on pay and conditions. LGNSW’s bargaining with the USU on the educator splinter award has been protracted and will soon approach its second year.
Ensuring educators in the local government sector receive fair pay and conditions is important in order to deliver care & education in our services that exceeds the National Quality Standards. It is also a key way we can implement outcome 4.4.2 of our Community Strategic Plan: Provide quality children’s education and care services to ensure a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Links:
UWU Poll Results:
https://bigsteps.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/the-crisis-in-early-education-uwu-report.pdf
Anglicare Reports:
https://www.anglicare.asn.au/publications/2024-rental-affordability-snapshot/
USU log of claims:
https://usu.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MISC-ECEC-Schedule-2-240305.pdf
Officer’s Comments:
Comment from Director Community:
The Government is currently finalising the policy detail for applications and there will be one opportunity only to apply. Council staff are committed to understanding the final detail so that a successful application can be made.
In relation to the proposed splinter award, this is not a matter for Inner West Council or any individual Council. LGNSW represents all Councils in NSW in these negotiations and is the appropriate body to do so on behalf of Councils as employers.Council’s early learning team and services have strong, long-term working relationships with TAFE NSW, particularly Petersham TAFE (one of the few that focus on ELC qualifications and placements). Student placements are regularly hosted across Council’s ELC’s and recent students have been successful in ongoing employment.
There is a documented national shortage of qualified ELC staff. Council remains committed to reducing the need for agency staff. Council’s own casual pool has reduced reliance on agency costs and provided career pathways to permanent roles better educational continuity for children. However, agency staff are always required to “top up” the availability of casual staff and ensure that legislative ratios of staff to children are always maintained in every service. This varies on a day to day basis and is an operational matter for Council staff. A report back to Council is not required.
ATTACHMENTS
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Parking traffic plan for Henson Park events
From: Councillor Victor Macri
|
MOTION
1. That Council engage the Sydney Swans W and work with them to close Centennial Street north to residents and Tennis Court & Restaurant users only on game day.
2. That Council consult the residents of Sydenham Road (Warham Lane) that are impacted by the parking in the rear lane impeding access to their garages by signposting no parking signs on weekends.
3. That Council facilitate discussion with Marrickville High to open the school grounds to allow parking for a fee to the spectators on game days.
|
Background
That Council notes the great outcomes with Henson Park with the upgraded works that are currently underway creating a tremendous truly community facility that is being enjoyed by many in the local community from walkers, dog walkers, joggers ,even people that just sit on them hill to enjoy the sun they are generally local people majority would just walk to the park.
With the popularity of the Sydney Swans Women’s AFL at Henson Park they are attracting fans from all over Sydney of which many are choosing to drive which is having an impact to the surrounding residents due to a lack of parking or a plan to deal with this issue. The day starts at 10 am and goes through to 6pm before the area starts to clear.
There are 3 main issues;
1. Centennial Street north is a short street and a no through road, which on game day leads to a safety issue with pedestrians converging on the ground and vehicles trying to make 3 point turns once they realise there is no parking as the majority of properties have no off street parking therefore at any given time there is no on street parking available. As what has recently been done for Holmesdale Street for the past 2 games.
2. The operation of the Tennis Courts and Restaurant is also hindered as their car park has a reduced number of parking spots which due to the large Foxtel trucks in the car park and spectators vying for the limited parking spaces.
3. The houses opposite Henson Park on Sydenham Road have rear lane access but can’t leave or enter their properties because spectators are parking opposite their garages in the lane.
I believe there needs to be a parking strategy that assists the residents and the spectators.
The Newtown Jets is an example of a club that works well with the residents who live around Henson Park, on their large game days they implement a traffic management plan to minimise the impact to residents.
Holmesdale Street on game day
Issues residents face on Centennial Street on game day
Email from resident:
I write this email on behalf of my parents who have lived on Sydenham Rd Marrickville for the past 40 years and previously at Malakoff Street Marrickville for the previous 13 years.
There is great concern that they cannot enter or leave their home by car when there is a game or an event at Henson Park.
My mother assisted in looking after our disabled child from day to day and now our other little boy. To do this she needs to drive. On an event day cars are always parked opposite all of the Driveways and garages that face the Lane for the homes fronting Sydenham Road in Warham Lane Marrickville between
Northcote St and Malakoff St. There is no way to enter or exit any of the garages or driveways when this happens.
A no parking sign along the Southern side of the laneway would eliminate the problem as this has been going on for too long.
Please refer to attached images:
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: WestConnex Dive Site - Reaffirming the need for Public Housing on Public Land
From: Councillor Izabella Antoniou
|
MOTION
1. That the Council notes its disappointment at the lack of public, social or affordable housing proposed on the Parramatta Road WestConnex site - a piece of state owned land that is proposed to be given over to a private developer - missing an opportunity for the government to directly deliver genuinely affordable public homes.
2. That Council notes the proximity of the site to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and the need to provide genuinely affordable and public homes for essential workers and people on the public housing waiting list.
3. That Council notes the limited number of dwellings proposed for the 1.2ha site despite proximity to the city, key services, and bus services along Parramatta Road, and that Council would like to see an appropriate number of publicly owned dwellings in this location, subject to a proper master planning process.
4. That the Council write to the NSW Minister for Housing the Hon. Rose Jackson, the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, the Hon. Paul Scully, and the Minister for Lands and Property, and the Hon. Stephen Kamper expressing its disappointment in the decision - and to urge them to build public housing on this site.
|
Background
In June 2022, [(C0622 (1) Item 24] Council resolved to advocate to the State Government that the Transport for NSW owned WestConnex dive site in Annandale be retained in public ownership.
Council also underwent significant work in the planning of a biotechnology hub
at the site to contribute to the economic outputs of the Camperdown health and
education innovation precinct. Both these outcomes were submitted to and laid
out in the WestConnex M4-M5 Link:
Mainline Tunnels Residual Land
Management Plan (2022).
State government has since proposed this well located site be sold to private development.
The proposed development is slated to deliver 100 dwellings, way below what could be delivered on a 12,000 sqm parcel of land, which has been called a “huge waste” by advocacy group Sydney YIMBY.
Currently there are 57,904 households on the social housing waitlist - the longest in the country - with the wait time in the Inner West [CS07] being 10+ years according to the NSW Department of Communities and Justice. The need to clear the waitlist should be top priority to ensure equity within the Inner West, and it is Council’s duty to advocate for such.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Making use of Leichhardt Oval for live music and performance
From: The Mayor, Councillor Darcy Byrne
|
MOTION
1. That Council open an expression of interest process inviting proposals for the use of Leichhardt Oval for live music and performance for up to 4 events in 2025. The draft of the EOI is to be tabled for endorsement at the December Ordinary Council meeting. a) Preference is to be given proposals that promote local community engagement and showcase Inner West artists.
2. That Council include in the primary specifications for the design of the renovation of Leichhardt Oval options for the equipment and other elements that would enable the ground to be used for live music and live performance.
3. That following receipt of expressions of interest, consider consultation with the community about amending the Leichhardt Park Plan of Management to allow for the trial of music events to take place.
|
Background
The joint funding commitment of $40 million from the Inner West Council as well as the State and Federal Governments has secured the future of Leichhardt Oval as a sporting venue. The pending renovation also presents an opportunity to use this famous venue for the arts and culture as well.
A trial of a small number of concerts and performances there throughout 2025, prior to the commencement of construction, can help to gauge if our local community are enthusiastic about attending arts events at the ground.
By opening an expression of interest process, Council can receive submissions from artists and promoters about performances and events that they would like to hold and audiences they could attract at the eighth wonder of the world.
This can enable Council to learn from the local community and the arts sector about whether they would like to see ongoing cultural activity at the renovated Leichhardt Oval.
This pilot could also inform which elements would best be incorporated into the design of the renovation to ensure the venue can be used for arts and cultural events, as well as sport, into the future.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
From: Deputy Mayor Mat Howard and Councillor Jessica D'Arienzo
|
MOTION
1. That Council writes to the CEO of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras offering Inner West parks and ovals as a location for the 2025 and future Mardi Gras Fair Days.
2. That Council notes Inner West Council was successful in applying for a stall at the 2025 Mardi Gras Fair Day and allocates funding from the existing communications or communities budget to provide for information regarding council’s successful work and programs to support and foster LGBTQIA+ community in the Inner West and for other appropriate giveaways.
3. That Council working with Twenty10 and the LGBTQIA+ Working Group, relocate the Feel the Love Celebration 2025 to the Inner West Pride Centre / Pride Square.
4. That Council as part of the 2025 Feel the Love the program, include an unveiling of a permanent plaque acknowledging the community members who helped with the development and establishment of the Inner West Pride Centre, to be permanently displayed at location in the Pride Centre, to be agreed with Twenty10, with funding sourced from the next Budget Quarterly Review.
5. That Council as part of deliberations for the 2025-2026 Budget, propose increasing funding for the Feel the Love celebration.
6. That Council as part of the 2025 Mardi Gras season, reaffirm its commitment to hosting a screening of the 2025 Mardi Gras Parade in Camperdown Memorial Rest Park, and for future years.
|
Background
The Inner West is home to one of the largest populations of LGBTQIA+ people in Australia and our suburbs have always been home to powerful activism and community. The Inner West is also home to many LGBTQIA+ service and community organisations.
The last term of council saw the establishment of the Inner West Pride Centre - the first Pride Centre established by a local council in Australia - the renaming of Pride Square and the installation of progress flag lighting in Camperdown Memorial Rest Park, the hosting of regular Trans and Gender Diverse swim nights, regular screenings of Mardi Gras at Camperdown Memorial Rest Park and the commencement of regular drag story time events in our public libraries. This on top of sustained advocacy on issues important to LGBTQIA+ people, regular programming including the Feel the Love celebration and the exceptional work of the LGBTQIA+ Working Group.
With increased representation of LGBTQIA+ identified councillors on this term of council, we have more opportunities to lead and foster LGBTQIA+ inclusion in our community.
A resolution in the last term of council called on council to apply to hold a stall at the Mardi Gras Fair Day in 2025 and council’s application has been successful.
The opening of the Inner West Pride Centre provides the opportunity to centre celebrations and programming at Newtown Town Hall to further embed the centre as a hub for progress and support.
At the opening of the Pride Centre, a temporary honour board was created acknowledging the many community organisations and individuals who contributed to the development of the Centre. The 2025 Feel the Love celebration is an opportunity to make the honour board a permanent feature at the Centre.
A powerful commitment to fostering LGBTQIA+ communities would be a commitment to increase funding for the Feel the Love program in the 2025-2026 Budget.
Following the disappointing cancellation of the 2024 Mardi Gras Fair Day, Inner West Council should continue to advocate to bring this landmark event to a major inner west park or oval.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: More Bins, Cleaner Streets
From: Deputy Mayor Mat Howard
|
MOTION
1. That Council note growing concerns from residents about the incidence of illegal dumping in local parks and streets, including household rubbish being disposed of in street bins.
2. That Council as part of deliberations for the 2025-2026 Budget, propose increasing the number of street bins and bins in local parks, as well as the frequency at which street bins and bins in local parks are serviced, and trialling FOGO in key local parks.
3. That Council request officers report back in March 2025 with: a) The existing schedule of bin emptying/servicing for local parks; b) The existing schedule of bin emptying/servicing for street bins; c) The existing schedule for spray cleaning streets; d) The indicative costs of spray cleaning streets at current levels; e) The indicative costs of bin servicing in local parks at current levels; f) The indicative costs of street bin servicing at current levels; g) The outline of a communications plan to educate residents and deter illegal dumping in local parks and street bins; h) A plan to enable residents to nominate locations for additional street bins or bins in local parks; i) A plan to trial FOGO in major parks, including a list of major parks where a trial may be suitable, with at least one park in each ward nominated, as well as to expand recycling in parks; and j) The intended use of the $400,000 litter prevention grant received from the NSW Government.
|
Background
A key responsibility of the council is to adequately manage waste collection and to reduce litter on local streets.
Increasing the number of street bins and bins in local parks and the frequency with which they are services, coupled with a comprehensive education campaign, is the best approach to reducing the incidence of illegal dumping and littering.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Harnett Avenue, Marrickville
From: Deputy Mayor Mat Howard
|
MOTION
1. That Council acknowledges that the northern footpath on Harnett Avenue, Marrickville, requires work.
2. That Council notes that thanks to the advocacy of local residents, funding for footpath improvements is included in the 2026/2027 Capital works plan.
3. That Council investigates options to prioritise funding for these works in the 2025/2026 Budget, reporting back to council via councillor briefing note.
|
Background
The footpaths on Harnett Avenue, Marrickville, are uneven, damaged and pose a significant risk to pedestrians and residents.
Harnett Avenue connects the south Illawarra Road shopping strip with Marrickville West primary School, Luisa Lawson Reserve, and services the highly dense community of South Marrickville.
Thanks to the advocacy of local residents, upgrades to the footpaths are scheduled for 2026-2027, including the incorporation of water sensitive urban design principles and the proper management of street trees.
However, given the significant deterioration of the footpaths, particularly on the northern side, there is a strong argument to bring forward and prioritise at least some of the works.
Pictures included below for reference.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Flood Management Advisory Committee
From: Deputy Mayor Mat Howard
|
MOTION
1. That Council notes and reaffirms the changed terms of reference for the Flood Committee adopted in the last term of Council.
2. That Council requires the Flood Management Advisory Committee agendas and minutes to be published on the Council website.
3. That Council requires the Committee to meet at least four times a year.
4. That Council elects Clr Howard to be the Chair and Clr Barlow to be the Alternate Chair of the Flood Management and Risk Committee until September 2026, a schedule in line with appointments to other Council committees.
5. That Council invite a representative of the Cooks River Alliance to participate in the Committee as a non-voting member.
6. That Council provide for members of the public to present to the Flood Risk and Management Committee on flood related matters by establishing a public forum, as is the case with the Inner West Council Traffic Committee.
|
Background
The Flood Risk and Management Committee is a key committee of council and is responsible for shepherding the critical prioritisation and investment of flood related infrastructure.
Over the last term of council, reforms were enacted to formalise much of the activity of the Committee, including reviewing the terms of reference for the committee and advocating for agendas and minutes be made available to the public.
The motion seeks to further embed transparency and civic participation by establishing a public forum, including the Cooks River Alliance in the membership of the Committee, increasing the number of meetings required to be held each year and requiring agendas and minutes to be published on the website along those of other committees.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Ongoing commitment to Aboriginal justice
From: Councillor Jo Carlisle
|
MOTION
1. That Council recommits support of the Uluru Statement from the Heart and its principals of Voice, Treaty and Truth.
2. That Council notes the 2023 – 25 Reconciliation Action Plan initiatives that have been implemented including: a) The creation of the Aboriginal Survival Memorial at Yeo Park; b) the development and implementation of an Anti-Racism strategy; c) the implementation of an Aboriginal Procurement Strategy; d) commissioning new public art from local Aboriginal artists, including for the Greenway and Perfect Match sites; and e) funding and support for community projects and partnerships.
3. That Council welcomes the delivery of the second Survival Memorial at Illoura Reserve in Balmain in early 2025 and notes the plans for the third memorial in Tempe in 2026.
4. That Council requests a report from officers on progress of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub in Tempe which will be a focal point for Council’s programming and Aboriginal cultural life to the December Council meeting.
5. That Council reconvene the roundtable forum of Aboriginal Elders and community representatives who last met in August 2024 in November or early December 2024 to discuss the following: a) Voice to Council; b) Establishment and priorities for the next Aboriginal Advisory Committee; and c) Priorities for the next Reconciliation Action Plan. |
Background
The Mayor, in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, met with Aboriginal Elders and community representatives in August this year to discuss how the Inner West community can continue to contribute to the movement for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander justice following the outcome of the Voice Referendum.
The forum discussed Council’s progress on implementing the Reconciliation Action plan and about future commitments.
Discussion at the forum discussed
● The need to strengthen Elder groups – work at the foundation level
● Opportunities for Council to offer training and development for professional development for Aboriginal NGOs
● For our libraries to continue to promote the Truth
● To upskill Leaders in Council and build strong links with Community because Aboriginal people are only 3% of the Australian population (2% in our council), we need all Australians to be working on this together.
● Sharing information about community groups - who they are and what they are doing.
● Consider having dedicated Aboriginal Grants
● Caring for Aboriginal tenants in Council premises.
In relation to the Voice to Council proposal they recommended that it be
● More formal than an Advisory Committee.
● Legitimate
● Must have significance and be autonomous
● Need to be more proactive especially during weeks of significance
They started discussion on how it could be established and how to share information and consult with all Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The actions arising from the meeting were for Council to reconvene a further meeting after the Council elections to discuss the Voice to Council and the establishment of the next Aboriginal Advisory Committee.
The message from the forum was that Council needed to start the new term on the right foot with Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Pedestrian crossing at Allen Street, Leichhardt
From: Councillor Philippa Scott
|
MOTION
That Council officers prepare a report, including identification of budget, at the next opportunity for the Traffic Committee to investigate a pedestrian crossing across Allen Street at the intersection of Allen Street and Norton Street, Leichhardt. |
Background
Allen Street, Leichhardt, at the intersection of Norton Street is a roadway in an area of high pedestrian activity and a 50km/h speed limit. It is a popular crossing from residences in Leichhardt to the Norton Street restaurants and businesses, Pioneers Park, and Sydney Secondary College, Leichhardt. It is opposite the SSC Leichhardt school bus stop. The adjoining crossing across Norton Street has a pedestrian crossing and other traffic calming measures, including curb extensions and high-visibility signage that are absent from the Allen Street crossing.
Council should investigate matching the Norton Street crossing with one across Allen Street. This would add to a pedestrian friendly environment in the Norton Street precinct and surrounds. A picture below shows the crossing across Norton Street and the absence of similarly pedestrian-friendly infrastructure across Allen Street.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Notice of Motion: Expanding Jazz In The Park
From: Councillor Kerrie Fergusson and The Mayor, Councillor Darcy Byrne
|
MOTION 1. That Council consult with the community and relevant organisations such as Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce about expanding Jazz In The Park and relocating the Festival to Darling Street in late 2025 so that it celebrates the unique character of Balmain and involves more locals and businesses. 2. That staff provide initial costings in relation to expanding and moving the festival, including the possibility of reallocating funds from under patronised local events in the Baludarri (Balmain) ward and exploring State Government funding opportunities including programs in the NSW Vibrant Streets Package. 3. That Council report to the March 2025 Ordinary Council meeting on the outcomes of the community consultation and potential budget cost and funding opportunities so they can be considered in preparation of the 2025/2026 budget. |
Background
This year Inner West Council and the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce have united to look at ways to increase local participation in Balmain’s annual music event, Jazz in the Park by implementing the following initiatives;
· Changing the event date to a Saturday
· Council funded signage with a QR code to the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce dining directory
· Council funded Kids Corner hosted by Paper Rock Scissors (Rozelle)
· Local high school jazz orchestras performing prior to professional acts
These are welcome initiatives, but we can do more.
With our unique harbour setting, rich history and plethora of pubs and restaurants, Balmain is a ‘destination.' It’s important that we have a local event that embodies our culture.
From industrialisation to gentrification, there are many great stories in our pub walls, but one thing that remains the same is that small town feel and that strong community spirit. We need an event that celebrates this, that intertwines our local economy, embraces our creatives and unearths the unique character and history of Balmain.
How do we do that? We bring Jazz in the Park out of Gladstone Park and onto Darling Street.
Like the Norton Street Festa and the Marrickville Music Festival we close Darling Street to create a larger event. We include a wider genre of artists/performers, stalls for our local businesses, family activities and engage with the residents to find out what they love about this great suburb and how we can incorporate that into a celebration that can be enjoyed by all members of the community.
Growing Jazz in the Park into an annual street festival will put a laser focus on our local economy, strengthen our identity and bring our community together to celebrate all things Balmain has to offer.
Officer’s Comments:
No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.
Nil.
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Major Capital Projects Committee and Project Summary Report
Prepared By: Stuart Hull - Senior Manager Capital Works
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure
|
RECOMMENDATION That Council receive the minutes and adopt the recommendations of the Major Capital Projects Committee meeting held on 26 August 2024.
|
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report outlines the Major Capital Projects Quarterly update including the minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee held on the 26 August 2024 and the current project summary report. Please note that there was no meeting in September 2024 due to the Local Government elections.
The Terms of Reference for the Major Capital Projects Committee (Committee) has been updated to align with the number of councillors appointed to the Committee at the Council meeting on 22 October 2024. The Committee will have five Councillors and membership will be determined annually.
BACKGROUND
At the Council meeting held on 8 March 2022, Council resolved to establish a Major Capital Projects Committee to oversee the larger Capital Projects being delivered by Council.
DISCUSSION
Major Capital Projects Committee meetings are attended by the Director of Infrastructure and the Senior Manager Capital Works, and representatives from NSW Public Works Advisory (GreenWay assurance) and Turner and Townsend (LPAC assurance) with additional internal or external attendees as required e.g. General Counsel.
Detailed meeting minutes are produced however are not made public due to the nature of the discussions at the meetings to protect both the commercial position and confidentiality of commercial information of Council, along with that of the consultants, suppliers and contractors that are engaged to deliver these projects. As such a project summary report is provided to record each projects progression/position for public reference.
As a part of the governance structure for the committee, it is a requirement to table minutes of the meetings quarterly to Council. Minutes for the meeting held for August 2024 are confidentially attached, there was no meeting held in September 2024.
The Terms of Reference for the Committee has been updated to align with the Council decision on 22 October 2024 to appoint five Councillors annually.
The summary report is current to the last meeting.
|
No |
Description |
Budget |
Status |
|
|
Budget |
Schedule |
|||
|
1 |
Callan Park Swim site |
$4,200,000 |
|
|
|
2 |
Elkington Park Cottage restoration |
$1,216,170 |
|
|
|
3 |
Richard Murden Reserve Inclusive Playground |
$2,000,000 |
|
|
|
4 |
King George Park Amenities |
$1,700,000 |
|
|
|
5 |
Marrickville Rd East Cycleway |
$3,475,000 |
|
|
|
6 |
St Peters, Mary St to Sydenham Cycleway |
$1,689,386 |
|
|
|
7 |
Greenway capital budget |
$18,062,279 |
|
|
|
8 |
Greenway Central Links Construction |
$24,442,721 |
|
|
|
9 |
Mackey Park Sporting Ground upgrade |
$2,400,000 |
|
|
|
10 |
Mackey Park Amenities |
$2,500,000 |
|
|
|
11 |
Mackey Park Canoe Ramp |
$1,450,000 |
|
|
|
12 |
Leichhardt Oval Master Plan |
$40,000,000 |
|
|
|
13 |
Main Street Local Placemaking |
$1,750,000 |
|
|
|
14 |
Camdenville Park Upgrade |
$6,580,000 |
|
|
|
15 |
Cardinal Freeman Village |
$595,000 |
|
|
|
16 |
Petersham Town Hall upgrade works |
$2,120,000 |
|
|
|
17 |
Pedestrian Access & Mobility Plan PAMP |
$8,000,000 |
|
|
|
18 |
Marrickville Town hall internal refurbishment |
$2,600,000 |
|
|
|
19 |
Annandale Town Hall Community Centre |
$1,508,000 |
|
|
|
20 |
AKAC Upgrade Works |
$3,427,510 |
|
|
|
21 |
LPAC Major Project |
$40,454,000 |
|
|
|
22 |
Birchgrove Park renewal works |
$1,590,000 |
|
|
|
23 |
Ashfield Service Centre upgrade |
$897,947 |
|
|
|
24 |
Tempe Reserve Amenities Buildings |
$2,750,000 |
|
|
|
25 |
Henson Park Grandstand Upgrade |
$1,000,000 |
|
|
|
26 |
Dawn Fraser Bath Northern Pavilion Upgrade |
$2,000,000 |
|
|
|
27 |
Pyrmont Bridge Road (PRUAIP) |
$2,250,000 |
|
|
|
28 |
Main Street Revitalisation |
$7,500,000 |
|
|
|
29 |
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Community Hub |
$1,150,000 |
|
|
|
30 |
EV Charging Stations |
$740,000 |
|
|
|
31 |
Steel Park Sports field upgrade |
$2,250,000 |
|
|
|
32 |
Yeo Park Inclusive Playground |
$2,000,000 |
|
|
|
33 |
Lilyfield Road cycleway |
$2,398,000 |
|
|
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
|
Major Capital Projects Committee - Minutes 26th August 2024 - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it. |
|
|
2.⇩ |
Major Capital Projects Committee Project Summary Report as at October 2024 |
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Status of negotiations of collection services Garbage, FOGO and Recycling
Prepared By: Erin White - Manager Resource Recovery and Fleet Services
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 5: Progressive, responsive and effective civic leadership |
|
|
DISCUSSION
Council will move into closed session to deal with the Status of negotiations of collection services Garbage, FOGO and Recycling, for information which is classified as confidential under 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.
Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.
|
Confidential Report - Status of negotiations of collection services Garbage FOGO and Recycling - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council. |
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: RFT 13-24 Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade (Stage 1)
Prepared By: Stuart Hull - Senior Manager Capital Works
Authorised By: Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council adopt the recommendations contained in Confidential Attachment 1. |
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West 2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities |
DISCUSSION
Council is planning to undertake Stage 1 of the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade as part of a wider initiative to renew the centre’s outdoor facilities. The works will include the refurbishment of the outdoor children's pool (known as the mushroom pool), installation of a new heating and HVAC system, construction of a splash play area, and the addition of shade structures and enhanced seating opportunities.
Council will move into closed session to deal with the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Upgrade (Stage 1) Construction Tender, for information which is classified as confidential under 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.
Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.
|
Confidential Report - RFT 13-24 LPAC Upgrade Stage 1 Tender Report (Memo) - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it. |
|
|
RFT 13-24 LPAC Upgrade Stage 1 Tender Evaluation Report - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it. |
|
|
Council Meeting 12 November 2024 |
Subject: Quarterly Strategic Investment Property Report
Prepared By: Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager
Authorised By: Beau-Jane De Costa - Acting Director Corporate
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council receive and note the report.
|
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
This report supports the following strategic directions contained within Council’s Community Strategic Plan:
|
3: Creative communities and a strong economy |
|
|
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This quarterly Strategic Investment Property report provides Council with updates on the performance of the Commercial Property Investment Portfolio for Council’s property at Liverpool and at Warrawong.
A summary of financial performance is provided below for each of the two properties. Further information of a confidential nature is provided in the confidential report.
The combined net income from investment properties for this quarter is $1,093,286.27.
The data provided is to the end of quarter three of FY2023/24 (30 Sept 2024).
DISCUSSION
203 NORTHUMBERLAND STREET LIVERPOOL
A summary of the financial performance of the property is provided below:
|
|
Year to Date |
Full Year |
||||
|
Account |
Actual |
Budget |
$ Var |
Forecast |
Budget |
$Var |
|
Revenue |
933,913.77 |
882,988.00 |
50,925.77 |
3,554,216.77 |
3,503,291.00 |
50,925.77 |
|
Operating Expenditure |
151,047.87 |
160,596.93 |
9,549.06 |
616,347.87 |
625,896.93 |
9,549.06 |
|
Direct Recoveries |
9,870.61 |
- |
- 9,870.61 |
9,870.61 |
- |
- 9,870.61 |
|
Net Operating Profit (Loss) |
772,995.29 |
722,391.07 |
50,604.22 |
2,927,998.29 |
2,877,394.07 |
50,604.22 |
|
Owner Expenditure |
3,395.35 |
- |
- 3,395.35 |
3,395.35 |
- |
- 3,395.35 |
|
Net Profit / (Loss) |
769,599.94 |
722,391.07 |
47,208.87 |
2,924,602.94 |
2,877,394.07 |
47,208.87 |
Revenue
· Year to Date – Revenue is shown on an Accrual Basis (From 1 July to 30 Sept 2024).
· Total Income $933,913.77 vs Budget $882,988 which is over budget (favourable) by $50.925.77 (5.77%).
The additional revenue is predominantly related to office space (Suite 501) budgeted to be vacant and now leased to Neami and recovery of electricity for level 5.
Expenses
· Total Building Expenses* $164,313.83 vs Budget $160,596.93 is over budget (unfavourable) by $3,716.90 (2.31%).
*Note Total Building Expenses includes Operating Expenditure, Direct Recoveries and Owner Expenditure
Capital Works
The planned capital budget for FY 2024/25 is $377K with the main items including mechanical, some works to the façade and waterproofing. Minor works commenced. Major works to commence Q3.
The overall ten-year capital budget for the property was incorporated into Council’s Long Term Financial Plan at the time of purchase.
67 KING STREET WARRAWONG
A summary of the financial performance of the property is provided below:
|
|
Year to Date |
Full Year |
||||||
|
Account |
Actual |
Budget |
$ Var |
Forecast |
Budget |
$Var |
||
|
Revenue |
504,278.12 |
493,477.20 |
10,800.92 |
2,001,001.98 |
1,990,201.06 |
- 10,800.92 |
||
|
Operating Expenditure |
136,261.33 |
122,582.00 |
- 13,679.33 |
504,001.33 |
490,322.00 |
- 13,679.33 |
||
|
Direct Recoveries |
2,391.00 |
- |
- 2,391.00 |
2,391.00 |
- |
- 2,391.00 |
||
|
Net Operating Profit (Loss) |
365,625.79 |
370,895.20 |
- 5,269.41 |
1,494,609.65 |
1,499,879.06 |
- 5,269.41 |
||
|
Owner Expenditure |
630.00 |
- |
- 630.00 |
630.00 |
- |
- 630.00 |
||
|
Net Profit / (Loss) |
364,995.79 |
370,895.20 |
- 5,899.41 |
1,493,979.65 |
1,499,879.06 |
- 5,899.41 |
||
Revenue
· Year to Date - Accrual Basis (From 1 July to 30 Sept 2024).
· Total Income $504,278.12 vs Budget $493,477.20 which is over budget (favourable) by $10,800.92 (2.19%).
The increased revenue is due to a CPI increase above budget for ISLHD.
Expenses
· Total Building Expenses* $139,282.33 vs Budget $122,582 which is over budget (unfavourable) by $16,700.33 (13.62%).
*Note Total Building Expenses includes Operating Expenditure, Direct Recoveries and Owner Expenditure
The increased expenditure is due to the payment of electricity accounts for previous periods and timing of repair and maintenance payments (whilst a budget allowance has been made for repair and maintenance items, an even phasing of the spend over the year had been assumed, however the cost will only be incurred when works are carried out).
Capital Works
The planned capital budget for FY 2024/25 is $628K with the main items including carpark resurfacing, some works to structural elements and roof finishes.
The overall ten-year capital budget for the property was incorporated into Council’s Long Term Financial Plan at the time of purchase.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.
Council will move into closed session to deal with the Quarterly Strategic Investment Property Report – for additional information which is classified as confidential under Section 10A(2)(d)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993. The matter is deemed confidential, as the matter is commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.
Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993.
|
Quarterly Strategic Investment Property Report – September 2024 - Confidential This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business. |
