AGENDA R

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Council Meeting

                          

TUESDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2022

 

6.30pm


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Live Streaming of Council Meeting

 

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

 

Pre-Registration to Speak at Council Meetings

 

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

 

Are there any rules for speaking at a Council Meeting?

The following rules apply when addressing a Council meeting:

 

What happens after I submit the form?

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

 

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

 

Accessibility

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

               

 

 

 

Statement of Ethical Obligations

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

   


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

 

 

PRECIS

 

 

1          Acknowledgement of Country

 

2          Apologies

 

3          Notice of Webcasting

 

4          Disclosures of Interest  

 

5          Moment of Quiet Contemplation

 

6          Confirmation of Minutes                                                  Page

Minutes of 25 October 2022 Council Meeting                           6

 

7          Public Forum – Hearing from All Registered Speakers

8          Condolence Motions

 

Nil at the time of printing.

9          Mayoral Minutes

 

Nil at the time of printing.

10        Reports for Council Decision

 

ITEM                                                                                 Page

 

C1122(1) Item 1       Tree Management DCP 2022              31

C1122(1) Item 2       September Quarterly Budget Reporting Statement, and Delivery Program 2022-26 and Operational Plan 2022/23 - Quarter One report                               46

C1122(1) Item 3       Aquatics Centre Open Days/events   143

C1122(1) Item 4       Inner West Verge Gardening Policy   146

C1122(1) Item 5       2022 Annual Grants Round                174

C1122(1) Item 6       Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 17 October 2022                                          211

C1122(1) Item 7       Chester Street Carpark, Petersham   220

C1122(1) Item 8       Organisational Structure                    222

C1122(1) Item 9       Councillor Representation on Sydney Coastal Council Group Committee    227

 

11       Reports for Noting

 

ITEM                                                                                 Page

 

C1122(1) Item 10     Investment Report At 30 September 2022                                                        228

C1122(1) Item 11     Major Capital Projects Committee Meetings and Project Summary Report 255

C1122(1) Item 12     Updated Annual Disclosure of Interest Return 2021-22                                       299

 

12       Notices of Motion

 

ITEM                                                                                 Page

 

C1122(1) Item 13     Notice of Motion: Raise the Age        303

C1122(1) Item 14     Notice of Motion: Keeping pets in rental homes                                                      304

C1122(1) Item 15     Notice of Motion: Disability Pride Flag Raising                                                    305

C1122(1) Item 16     Notice of Motion: Local Environmental Plan (LEP)                                               307

C1122(1) Item 17     Notice of Motion: Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Project                                       308

C1122(1) Item 18     Notice of Motion: Balmain Bowling Club     309

 

13       Questions From Councillors

 

ITEM                                                                                 Page

 

C1122(1) Item 19     Question on Notice: Parks, Planning and Recreation and Urban Ecology   310

C1122(1) Item 20     Question on Notice: Affordable Housing Fund                                                        313

 

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

 

C1122(1) Item 21     Council Advertising and Inner West Council News                                          314

C1122(1) Item 22     Procurement of ICT Devices              315

C1122(1) Item 23     Update on acquistion of investment properties                                                316

C1122(1) Item 24     Cahill Street Playground & Lewis Herman Reserve Construction Tender Report                                                 318

C1122(1) Item 25     King George Park - Carpark Upgrade Tender Report                                         320

C1122(1) Item 26     Acquisition by agreement of an easement 4.1m wide at the side boundary of 2 Hay St, Leichhardt.     321

C1122(1) Item 27     Recycling Service Alignment              323


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

 

Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 25 October 2022 at Ashfield Service Centre

 

Meeting commenced at 6.32pm

 

 

 

 

Present:

Darcy Byrne

Philippa Scott

Liz Atkins

Marghanita Da Cruz

Jessica D’Arienzo

Mark Drury

Dylan Griffiths

Mathew Howard

Justine Langford

Pauline Lockie

Kobi Shetty

John Stamolis

Timothy Stephens

Zoi Tsardoulias
Peter Gainsford

Simone Plummer

Mayor

Deputy Mayor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor (Attended remotely)

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

General Manager

Director Planning

Ryann Midei

Director Infrastructure

Ruth Callaghan

Kelly Loveridge

Michele Smith

Daniel East

Manod Wickramasinghe

Scott Mullen

Prue Foreman

Melanie Gurney

Director Community

Director Corporate

Acting Senior Manager Governance and Risk

Acting Senior Manager Planning

Manager Traffic and Transport Planning

Manager Strategic Investments and Property

Corporate Strategy and Engagement Manager

Senior Manager Customer Experience and Service Transformation

Katherine Paixao

Business Paper Coordinator

 

 

APOLOGIES:    

 

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

That apologies from the Councillor Smith be accepted

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

 

DISCLOSURES OF INTERESTS:   

 

 

Clr Scott declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 36 Notice of Motion: Council Support for Waste Education as she her children attend Kegworth Public School and she has been involved with the school P&C and events for 10 years. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting for this item. 

 

Clr Howard declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 12 Review of the Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting Policy as he works in the Office of the Member for Summer Hill. As the item is blanket applied to all elected representatives, and at all levels of Government, it does not present a conflict and he will remain in the Chamber for discussion and voting on the item.

 

Clr Howard declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 13 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – 19 September 2022 as he works in the Office of the Member for Summer Hill who has a representative on the Committee. He also declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in this item because the proposed works at the corner of England Avenue are in close proximity to his primary residential address. He will leave the meeting during discussion and voting for this item.

 

Motion: (Stephens/Tsardoulias)

 

That Council note the disclosures of interest.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

 

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

 

Motion: (Lockie/Scott)

That the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 13 September 2022 and Extraordinary Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 20 September 2022 be confirmed as a correct record subject to the following amendment:

-        In the minutes of the 13 September 2022, Item 19 Notice of Motion:  Fossil Fuel Advertising in the Inner West amending that Clr Lockie seconded the motion and not Clr Scott.

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the Meeting and vacated the chair at 6:42 pm and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Scott assumed the chair.

 

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 6:54 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Scott vacated the chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.

 

PUBLIC FORUM

 

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

 

 

Procedural Motion (Drury/Scott)

 

That Council accept Councillor Howard’s request to attend tonight’s Council Meeting via audio visual link.

 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

 

C1022(1) Item 44       Mayoral Minute: Support for Justice Reform Initiative

Motion: (Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Welcomes the formation of the Justice Reform Initiative, seeking an evidence based criminal justice policy for this country that identifies alternatives to incarceration and enhances community safety. We recognise the harm and cost of over-incarceration, the overrepresentation of vulnerable and disadvantaged populations in the criminal justice system, especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and the need to address the social and health drivers of incarceration. We support the call to all parliamentarians to implement evidence-based policy and the reduction of costly and harmful over-incarceration and further agree to the support of council for this resolution being recognised on the website of the Justice Reform Initiative; and

 

2.   Condemns the NSW Government’s recent decision not to allow United Nations Inspectors to attend and inspect NSW Prisons.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 45       Mayoral Minute: Partnership with Inner West Community Energy

Motion: (Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Partner with Inner West Community Energy and other relevant renewable energy advocacy organisations in the Inner West to progress plans for community batteries to be installed and operated here;

 

2.   Prepare a report outlining what work Council has undertaken on how to facilitate community batteries in the local government area including an audit of Council controlled land that would be suitable for the installation of community batteries; and

 

3.   Invite the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, to attend a public forum in the Inner West to address how Council and our community can take advantage of the Federal Government’s renewable energy policies to establish community batteries and electric vehicle infrastructure in the Inner West.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 46    Mayoral Minute: Free Use of Town Halls and Facilities for Local Not-For-Profit Organisations

Motion: (Byrne)

 

That a report be tabled for the December Ordinary meeting:

 

1.   Detailing amendments to the fee schedule to allow for an automatic full fee waiver for all local not-for-profit organisations when booking Council facilities for meetings and events that are not primarily for fundraising. If adopted the amended fees are to be placed on public exhibition immediately; and

 

2.   Identifying changes to allow the booking of facilities to be made simpler and easier for the community.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/Stephens)

 

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

 

Item 3 Draft Inner West Cycling Strategy - Public exhibition

Item 5 Adoption-Henson Park Plan of Management

Item 7 Part Yeend Street, Birchgrove - Road Closure & Sale

Item 9 Uluru Statement from the Heart Civic Training

Item 14 Council’s Model Code of Conduct

Item 19 2021/22 Annual Disclosures of Interest and New Designated Persons Disclosure of Interest

Item 25 Notice of Motion: Notifications to Councillors

Item 29 Notice of Motion: Cycleways on Victoria Road and Parramatta Road

Item 30 Notice of Motion: Heritage Pubs Protection

Item 32 Notice of Motion: Little Villages signage

Item 33 Notice of Motion: FOGO Community education and external advice

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/Stephens)

 

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

 

Item 3 Draft Inner West Cycling Strategy - Public exhibition

Item 5 Adoption-Henson Park Plan of Management

Item 7 Part Yeend Street, Birchgrove - Road Closure & Sale

Item 9 Uluru Statement from the Heart Civic Training

Item 14 Council’s Model Code of Conduct

Item 19 2021/22 Annual Disclosures of Interest and New Designated Persons Disclosure of Interest

Item 25 Notice of Motion: Notifications to Councillors

Item 29 Notice of Motion: Cycleways on Victoria Road and Parramatta Road

Item 30 Notice of Motion: Heritage Pubs Protection

Item 32 Notice of Motion: Little Villages signage

Item 33 Notice of Motion: FOGO Community education and external advice

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 3         Draft Inner West Cycling Strategy - Public exhibition

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That:

 

1.       Council supports the draft Inner West Cycling Strategy for public exhibition for 28 days; and

 

2.       Following public exhibition, Council receives a report for adoption of the Strategy and an associated Action Plan, outlining community input received and any changes to the Strategy in response to community feedback.      

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 5         Adoption-Henson Park Plan of Management

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council adopt the Plan of Management for Henson Park (Attachment 1) noting the amendments which have been made to the Plan of Management as outlined in this report.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 7        Part Yeend Street, Birchgrove - Road Closure & Sale

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council provides its ‘in principle’ support to consider the partial road closure of Yeend Street, Birchgrove and subsequent sale to the adjoining owner.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

 

 

C1022(1) Item 9         Uluru Statement from the Heart Civic Training

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council approve the allocation of $50,000 for implementation of the civic education program to build awareness of the Uluru Statement of the Heart and the upcoming Referendum.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 14       Council's Model Code of Conduct

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council

 

1.   Place the draft Model Code of Conduct, as attached, on public exhibition for a period of 28 days;

 

2.   Consider the results of the public exhibition process when adopting the final Model Code of Conduct;

 

3.   Note the new Gifts, Benefits and Hospitality Guideline; and

 

4.   Note that no changes are required to the Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 19       2021/22 Annual Disclosures of Interest and New Designated
         Persons Disclosure of Interest

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council note:

 

1.   The Annual Disclosures of Interest Returns for Councillors and Designated Persons for the return period 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022; and

 

2.   The Disclosures of Interest of new Designated Persons.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

 

 

C1022(1) Item 25       Notice of Motion: Notifications to Councillors

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That the General Manager ensure that Councillors are advised of events as soon as they are scheduled so that Councillors can effectively manage and carry out their public duties and public responsibilities. 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 29       Notice of Motion: Cycleways on Victoria Road and Parramatta
         Road

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Note that the NSW Government’s revised Future Transport Strategy released in September 2022 outlines the vision for transport and includes maximising existing networks by reallocating road space to more efficient modes of transport including public transport, walking and cycling;

 

2.   Note the longstanding challenges experienced by Local Government when approaching Transport for NSW seeking the allocation of road space for safer cycling on State roads;

 

3.   Note that the delivery of an extensive motorway network now underway throughout Sydney and the Inner West, including connections with Kingsford Smith Airport and Port Botany, is premised on the improvement of surface streets for public transport, walking and cycling;

 

4.   Writes to the Minister for Metropolitan Roads and the Minister for Active Transport asking that Transport for NSW comprehensively reviews traffic on State roads in the Inner West to implement improvements for walking, cycling and public transport access, consistent with the impact statements for the M4 East, New M5, Western Harbour Tunnel and M4-M5 mainline tunnels; and

 

5.   Commences ongoing meetings and engagement with Transport for NSW to pursue traffic separated cycleways on Parramatta Road between the GreenWay and Broadway, and on Victoria Road Rozelle, before the opening of the next stages of NSW Government’s motorway network.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:                  Nil

 

 

C1022(1) Item 30       Notice of Motion: Heritage Pubs Protection

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Note the Inner West Heritage Study – Pubs report prepared by GML Heritage that responds to the Council resolution dated 3 July 2018;

 

2.   Commence community engagement with landowners and patrons on the proposed heritage listing of the 27 pubs identified in the report; and

 

3.   Prioritise the preparation of a standalone Council-led planning proposal that gives effect to the heritage protections identified in the report.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 32       Notice of Motion: Little villages signage

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Note the success of the official renaming of precincts to honour migrant communities in the Inner West including Little Portugal (Petersham), Little Italy (Leichhardt) Little Greece (Marrickville Road) and Little Vietnam (Illawarra Road); and

 

2.   Prepare a report for the December Ordinary meeting identifying locations and costs for the installation of large scale signage identifying these precincts to make the locations clearly identifiable to local residents, visitors and commuters.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 33       Notice of Motion: FOGO Community education and external
         advice

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Work with a reputable third party to coordinate a comprehensive community engagement and education program on food and organics recycling (FOGO) as council introduces FOGO to every home in this term of Council; and

 

2.   As part of this program, contract trusted local organisations, businesses or notable individuals to develop and deliver targeted programs to engage residents, schools, organisations and clubs to better understand the benefits and processes around FOGO and how households will participate in the FOGO program. 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 1      Bays West precinct - Stage 1 Comprehensive Rezoning Package
    IWC Submission

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

That:

1.     Council endorses the submission for the Bays West Stage 1 Comprehensive Rezoning Package, subject to reversion in the submission to the original proposal that 30% of all housing in the development be not for profit, with the inclusion of the following wording:

a)    Council does not support monetary contribution of 7.5% for affordable housing. Council reiterates its requirement for affordable rental housing be delivered at the rate of 30% on government owned land, owned in perpetuity and managed by a Community Housing Provider, in accordance with the Inner West Affordable Housing Policy.

2.     The Inner West Council submission be forwarded to the Department of Planning and Environment for consideration including amendments to the submission to include:

a)    an ambitious commitment to the provision of onsite public housing; and

b)    concerns that the proposed structure of the precinct would severely compromise the ability to connect the area through council’s blue green grid which would enrich the local environment and improve biodiversity.  

3.   Council advocates to the NSW Government to enter into a Planning Agreement, in lieu of section 7.11 and 7.12 contributions being applied on future development consents in Stage 1 – Bays West, that ensures that:

 

a)    The NSW State Government is legally committed to delivering the specified infrastructure assets stated in the Department’s Draft Infrastructure Delivery Plan, at full cost to either the NSW Government or future developers. This includes a new multipurpose community and library hub, district cultural spaces, indoor recreational facilities, new childcare facilities, and new open space; and

 

b)    As part of the above agreement, Council determines which infrastructure assets in Bays West Stage 1 are desirable to be dedicated into Council ownership, at no cost to Council, once the assets are constructed and embellished to a level suitable for its desired end-use.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

 

C1022(1) Item 2  Main Streets Strategy

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

That Council:

1.     Endorse the development of a Main Street Strategy including a Public Domain Design Guide, progressing Public Domain Master Plans and an Activation Strategy as set out in this report;

2.     Acknowledge the list provided in Attachment 1 of the report which will determine the sites selected for delivery, providing the community with projects and activations across the Inner West Council area;

3.     Proceed on the delivery of stage 1 short term projects (this financial year) utilising the main street strategy funds towards:

a)    Installing fairy lights / tree wrapping and banners, where possible, and bin art in all main streets in the LGA by March 2023 ($150,000);

b)    A beautification and investment outdoor dining program made possible by engaging with businesses that have existing outdoor dining and offering the space on an ongoing basis, to be furnished by the business, and readvertising the opportunities to other businesses ($0);

c)    Development of an engagement and Expressions of Interest process with local Chambers of Commerce, business owners, land owners and the general public taking community ideas for main street upgrades (may include a grant program or Council-led work from community suggestions). Report back to Council on the EOI proposal and budget; and

d)    Improving streetscapes and civic spaces ($600,000).

4.     Proceed on delivery of Stage 2 longer term projects (Financial Year 2023/24) from the attached schedule with the balance of Main Street Strategy funds for street and carpark beautification and pedestrianisation, to include Caves Lane, Dulwich Hill  ($850,000).

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

Councillor Griffiths left the Meeting at 7:37 pm.

Councillor Griffiths returned to the Meeting at 7:39 pm.

C1022(1) Item 4      Callan Park-Greater Sydney Parklands Consultation and  
    Engagement Framework and the Creation of Community Trust
    Boards

Motion: (Scott/Drury)

That:

1.     Council nominates Councillor Darcy Byrne to represent the Inner West community on a future Trust Board for Callan Park, and to be the Chair until October 2024, in accordance with the Terms of the Reference;

2.   In selecting a nominee Council has regard to the Greater Sydney Parklands Draft Consultation and Engagement Framework that sets out the selection criteria, expectations of members and code of conduct;

 

3.   Details of the successful nominee be provided to Greater Sydney Parklands prior to 31 October 2022 at which time the opportunity for Council nominees closes; and

 

4.   The Callan Park Community Trustee Board Committee be included as one of Council’s standing Committees and included in the Standing Committee Representation report going forward.

 

Motion Tied

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

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

 

The Chairperson used his Casting Vote for the MOTION and the MOTION was carried.

 

C1022(1) Item 6       469R Princes Highway Sydenham - Voluntary Planning Agreement

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

That:

 

1.   The Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) for 469R Princes Highway, Sydenham be:

 

a)   Placed on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days; and

 

b)   Reported back to Council after public exhibition.

 

 

2.   The General Manager be authorised to approve any amendments to the VPA prior to public exhibition.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the Meeting and vacated the chair at 7:53 pm and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Scott assumed the chair.

 

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 7:54 pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C1022(1) Item 8      Mandatory Reporting of Fire Safety Reports referred To Council   
    From Fire And Rescue NSW

Motion: (Atkins/Lockie)

 

That Council:

 

1.       Receive and note the correspondence from Fire and Rescue NSW in relation to the following properties:

 

8 Liberty St Enmore (Attachment 1),

25-27 Cavendish St Enmore (Attachment 2),

2 Trafalgar St Petersham (Attachment 3),

3 Fisher St Petersham (Attachment 4),

31 Fisher St Petersham (Attachment 5),

34 Stanmore Rd Enmore (Attachment 6),

117 Probert St Newtown (Attachment 7),

115 Denison Rd Dulwich Hill (Attachment 8); and

 

2.       For the purposes of Schedule 5, clause 17(2)(b) of the Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Council determines that Council officers exercise their statutory powers (and discretion as appropriate) under the Act to require upgrades to the buildings to the satisfaction of Council’s Fire Safety Team in order to:

a)    improve the provisions for fire safety at the premises;

b)    improve the provisions of fire safety awareness;

c)    improve the adequacy of the premises to prevent fire;

d)    improve the adequacy of the premises to suppress fire or prevent the spread of fire, and

e)    improve the safety of persons in the event of fire.

3.     Ensure that future Fire Safety Reports from Fire and Rescue NSW are tabled at the next meeting of Council following their receipt;

4.     Ask the Mayor to write again to the NSW Premier and NSW Minister for Housing, as well as the NSW Leader of the Opposition and the NSW Shadow Minister for Housing, to:

a)    Urgently request a joint State and local government review of the management and regulation of boarding houses in NSW; and

b)    Reiterate the urgent need for more investment in social and affordable housing in NSW, including here in the Inner West.

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the Meeting at 7:54 pm.

 

 

C1022(1) Item 10       Inner West World Pride

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Lockie)

 

That Council:

 

1.     Allocate $155,000 to fund activities, creative events, marketing and promotion for World Pride; and

 

2.     Thank Josie Leeson for her tremendous work with the LGBTQ working group.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

Absent:                         Cr Byrne

 

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 7:57 pm. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Scott vacated the chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.

 

C1022(1) Item 11       Local Democracy Groups - update on new term of groups and  
         proposed policy challenges for deliberation

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Scott)

That Council:

 

1.     Determine the policy challenges on which the Local Democracy Groups will deliberate and problem solve with the following additions:

 

a)    Access - How do we give life to the Disability Inclusion Action Plan?

 

b)    Arts - How do we cut red tape from the Arts Sector to better enable creativity in the Inner West including Town Hall activities and creative spaces?

 

c)    Environment - How do we support a network of green habitat for plants, micro forests, trees and animals when we have limited open space?

 

d)    Environment - How do we implement actions arising from the Electric Vehicle Encouragement Strategy?

 

e)    Housing and Affordability - How do we deliver housing for key workers in the Inner West?

 

f)      Multicultural - How do we encourage more members from our multicultural community to volunteer for our local education program to build awareness about the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the upcoming Referendum on the Voice to Parliament?

 

g)    Transport -  How do we help to improve air quality and reduce road noise in the LGA by facilitating the uptake of electric vehicles and by other measures, including providing electric vehicle charging for residents who do not have off-street parking?

 

h)    Transport- Should IWC adopt targets for the percentage of trips by active and public transport, and if so what should these be?

 

i)      Bicycle - How do we make the Inner West the best LGA in NSW for people who want to ride and walk?

 

j)      Bicycle - How can IWC integrate its commitment to enhancing active transport in relevant infrastructure decisions?

 

2.     Update the Terms of Reference with these relevant policy challenges. Note this does not exclude Local Democracy Groups from considering other issues relevant to their subject areas, including when requested to do so by Council.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Crs Atkins, Griffiths, Langford, Shetty and Stamolis

 

Amendment (Shetty/Da Cruz)

 

That the Terms of Reference are updated to change point 12, the third paragraph to say: 

 

Should recommendations require referral to Council outside the quarterly progress report timeline, Conveners will prepare a separate report to be tabled at a Council meeting. 

 

Motion Tied

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

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

 

The Chairperson used his Casting Vote against the MOTION and the MOTION was lost.

 

C1022(1) Item 12       Review of the Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting
         Policy

Motion: (Scott/Atkins)

 

That Council:

 

1.     Places the Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting Policy, as attached, on public exhibition for a period of 28 days;

2.     Considers the results of the public exhibition process when adopting the final Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting Policy;

3.     Request advice from the Aboriginal Advisory Committee to review wording and clarity of section 4.4 prior to putting on exhibition. In particular to provide more clarity on whether:

 

a)    "people" or "clan" should be used;

b)    adopt policy to Acknowledge the Gadigal People if east of Crystal St Petersham and the Wangal People if west of Crystal St Petersham;

c)    Clarify how it is determined when an Elder is to be invited to perform the Welcome or Acknowledgement of Country and how this is arranged; and

d)    Provide guidance to others Acknowledging Country.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

Amendment (Atkins/Stamolis)

 

That Council amend paragraph 4.2 to retain wording from current policy: ‘Depending on the nature and size of the event,  the relevant State and Federal Members of Parliament of the electorate in which the event is being held should be invited to attend.’

 

Motion Tied

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

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

 

The Chairperson used his Casting Vote against the MOTION and the MOTION was lost.

 

Councillor Howard left the Meeting at 8:18 pm as he declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 13 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – 19 September 2022 because the proposed works at the corner of England Avenue are in close proximity to his primary residential address. 

 

C1022(1) Item 13       Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 19 September 2022

Motion: (Scott/Drury)

 

That the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 19 September 2022 be received and the recommendations be adopted.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

Absent:                         Cr Howard

 

Councillor Howard returned to the Meeting at 8:19 pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C1022(1) Item 15       Inner West Council Food and Garden Organics Service

Motion: (Byrne/Drury)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Note the FOGO service to all Inner West households is to commence in March 2024;

 

2.   Receive a briefing on the Community Engagement Plan for FOGO; and

 

3.   Receive a further report to the December Council meeting identifying:

 

a)    Options for bringing forward the commencement of the service to all homes to the 2023 calendar year;

b)    Procure independent advice from industry experts about the tender process about to commence; and

c)    Convene a briefing session for Councillors on the service.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 16       Customer Service Update

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

That Council:

1.     Receive and note the report.

2.     Receive a report back in December on:

a)    the process for developing the Customer Service Charter, which includes community consultation on the elements to be included in the draft Charter, and allocation of a budget for that community consultation which should be proactive, robust and meaningful, and occur in addition to the normal public exhibition process;

b)    The provision of increased Customer Services Stalls to once per fortnight; and

c)    The external review, currently underway of the development assessment process, system and administration.

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

Amendment (Langford)

 

That Council staff investigate holding Customer Service stalls in a range of suburbs and locations across each ward to ensure that this service is accessible to as many residents as possible across the Local Government Area.

 

The Mayor ruled this amendment out of order as it is already happening in practice.

 

C1022(1) Item 17       Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan For Exhibition

Motion: (Drury/Tsardoulias)

 

That Council:

 

1.     Approve the Draft Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2022-2025 for public exhibition;
 

2.     Note the Community Roundtable to be held in late November 2022;

3.     Undertake an accessibility audit of Council's websites; and

4.     Include Seniors in consultation.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 18       Investment Report at 31 August 2022

Motion: (Drury/Scott)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Byrne/Lockie)

 

That the meeting be adjourned for 10 minutes.

 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

The meeting was adjourned at 8.38pm

 

The meeting recommenced at 8.52pm

 

C1022(1) Item 20       Notice of Motion: Boat and Trailer Parking in the Inner West

Motion: (Shetty/Drury)

 

That Council include in the report agreed at the September meeting of Council on illegal and dangerous parking a report detailing the options to limit or reduce the number of boats and trailers parked on council owned or managed roads and land in the Inner West Local Government Area.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/Byrne)

 

That an extension of time of 1 minute for Clr Stephens to speak on item 21 be granted.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Lockie/Stamolis)

 

That the 2 points in Item 21 be voted on in seriatim.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 21       Notice of Motion: Selecting Locations for Mobile Phone Base
         Stations

Motion: (Stamolis/Shetty)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Request data on the number of mobile phone base stations in the Inner West by suburb, including disaggregation by size of these installations;

 

Motion Lost

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

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

2.     Request information on standards for the selection of locations for mobile phone base stations, in particular, those standards which minimise exposure and risk to persons; and

Motion Lost

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

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

3.     Council write to the telecommunications providers and the Telecommunications Ombudsman about the concerns of our residents.

Motion Lost

For Motion:                  Crs Atkins, Da Cruz and Stamolis

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

 

C1022(1) Item 22       Notice of Motion: Risk of Not Demerging Council

Motion: (Stamolis/Langford)

 

That Council:

 

1.     Include in its business case those risks that the Inner West community will face should Inner West Council remain merged;

2.     Note that it is rare for any level of Australian Government to conduct studies and analyses in an attempt to refute the voice of the Australian people AFTER a poll has been conducted;

3.     Note that the demerger poll was highly successful in the context of polls conducted by Australian Governments (where polls normally fail);

4.     Note that NSW Government abandoned its merger policy within 10 months of introducing it and has not raised it at any time since;

5.     Note that NSW has agreed to pay the costs of a demerger; and

6.     Note that the vast majority of NSW Councils were not merged under the 2016 merger policy.

 

Motion Tied

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

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

 

The Chairperson used his Casting Vote against the MOTION and the MOTION was lost.

 

C1022(1) Item 23       Notice of Motion: Norton Street Study

Motion: (Stamolis/Griffiths)

 

That Council initiate a study into Norton Street with the aim of identifying factors which will improve the business environment, night life and public amenity of the street.  

 

Motion Tied

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

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

 

The Chairperson used his Casting Vote against the MOTION and the MOTION was lost.

 

Foreshadowed Motion (Scott/Byrne)

 

That Council note the formation of a Norton St Taskforce has been convened with Inner West Council staff, the Leichhardt Annandale Business Chamber, the Deputy Mayor and Leichhardt Councillor Philippa Scott and other key stakeholders in business, media and community. The outcomes of the Taskforce will be reported to the Economic Summit to be held in February 2023.

 

 

 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 24       Notice of Motion: Pedestrian safety at Victoria Road and Darling
         Street, Rozelle

Motion: (Shetty/Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Acknowledges that the intersection of Victoria Road and Darling Street in Rozelle is dangerous for pedestrians; 

 

2.   Notes that an audit of the intersection undertaken for Transport for NSW in September 2020 identified two issues deemed intolerable risks and two high risk issues that could result in serious injury or death to pedestrians and that, despite representations made by the local State MP, no action has been taken by Transport for NSW to improve pedestrian safety; 

 

3.   Notes that while vehicular traffic is forecast to decrease in late 2023 when Westconnex opens the tunnel bypass between Iron Cove Bridge and Rozelle interchange, there is an urgent need to improve safety for pedestrians now;

 

4.   Writes to Transport for NSW to request the following improvements: 

 

a)   Reiterate the need to investigate implementing a 40km/h School Zone between Wellington Street and Withcombe Street on Victoria Road;

b)   Investigate changing the light filtering pattern to remove competition between pedestrians and motorists turning left onto Victoria Road;

c)   Install a Red Light Speed Safety Camera at the intersection of Victoria Road and Darling Street; and

d)   Investigates where bollards or barriers may be installed on corner kerbs of the intersection to protect pedestrians 

 

5.     Thank the Victoria Road Parents & Residents Safety Working Group, Rozelle Public School P&C and the Member for Balmain for their advocacy on this issue; and

6.     Request the member of Balmain to arrange a meeting between Council and Councillors to discuss the matter.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

 

 

 

C1022(1) Item 26       Notice of Motion: Airbnb

Motion: (Griffiths/Atkins)

 

That:

 

1.   Council prepare a report investigating the impact of Airbnb and similar operations on the housing supply, affordability and the local community. The report is to consider options for properties primarily used for short-term letting including options for rate variations or other appropriate responses; and

 

2.   The report consider best practice across NSW particularly in areas where short term letting is exacerbating housing shortages and affordability.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 27       Notice of Motion:  Old Canterbury Road Tunnel

Motion: (Griffiths/Drury)

 

That Council:

1.     Recognise the prospective tunnel under Old Canterbury Rd as a key feature of the Greenway which is vital to the project being a continuous and undisrupted active transport corridor;

2.     Note that not delivering the tunnel will slow down pedestrians and cyclists looking to use the Greenway as a comparable travel time alternative to car use;

3.     Note that the tunnel is not in scope for Stage 1 or 2 construction works but can be considered as a separate stage once funding sources are identified; and

4.     Will continue to apply for grant funding for the prospective Old Canterbury Rd tunnel.

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 28       Notice of Motion:  Local Environment Plan (LEP) Consultation

Councillor Langford withdrew this item.

 

 

 

 

 

 

C1022(1) Item 31       Notice of Motion: Frederick Street

Motion: (Scott/Drury)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Note the notoriously dangerous pedestrian crossing in Frederick St at John St Ashfield where too many people have been killed or injured, most recently Arthur, a grandfather and local resident who was killed in March this year;

2.   Note the current Transport for NSW proposal for traffic lights or a signalised pedestrian crossing to be installed for which it now seeks community input; and

3.   Council officers investigate including in Council’s submission on the Fredrick St intersection, calling upon Transport for NSW to carry out works at John Street and Frederick Street to reduce rat-running as identified in the Inner West Council WestConnex Local Area Improvement Strategy, April 2018, which reviewed the potential impacts of WestConnex on the amenity and safety of local neighbourhoods.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 34       Notice of Motion: Alternate panellists for Regional Planning
        Panel

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council expand its list of alternate members listed for the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel by four members who are independent planning experts to ensure adequate representation when determining regionally significant development.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 35       Notice of Motion: Amendment to Code of Meeting Practice

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

That Council:

1.   Amend the Code of Meeting Practice to include an additional Clause as follows:

4.25: Where an item has been listed on a Council Meeting agenda, including Extraordinary Meetings and formed part of the public forum for that meeting, should those items be held over to a future meeting of Council, those items will not form part of another public forum at a future meeting.

 

2.   Place the amended Code of Meeting Practice, as detailed above, on public exhibition for a period of 28 days;

 

3.   Consider the results of the public exhibition process when adopting the final Code of Meeting Practice.

 

Motion Tied

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

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

 

The Chairperson used his Casting Vote for the MOTION and the MOTION was carried.

Councillor Scott left the Meeting at 9:49 pm as she had declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 36 Notice of Motion: Council Support for Waste Education as she her children attend Kegworth Public School and she has been involved with the school P&C and events for 10 years.

C1022(1) Item 36       Notice of Motion: Council Support for Waste Education

Motion: (Da Cruz/Byrne)

 

That Council:

1.     Notes Kegworth Primary School Sustainability initiatives and provide $1500 grant or compostable bags and food waste bins to their Festive Market and incorporate this as a pilot case study in our community education; and

2.     Receive a report on standardising support for P&Cs and P&Fs associations for school fetes and festivals.

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

Absent:                         Cr Scott

 

Councillor Scott returned to the Meeting at 9:58 pm.

 

Procedural Motion: (Scott/Lockie)

 

That Council enter into Confidential session.

 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

Confidential Session

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

 

C1022(1) Item 40 Notice of Motion: Deamalagamation Risks (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.

 

C1022(1) Item 41 Update on acquisition of investment properties (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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

 

C1022(1) Item 42 Regional Road Asphalt Mill And Fill Contract FY22-23 (RFQ 170-22) (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.

 

C1022(1) Item 43 RFT 04-22-1 Builders Contractor Panel (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.

 

Procedural Motion: (Byrne/Drury)

 

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

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

resolutions passed during closed session

 

C1022(1) Item 40       Notice of Motion: Deamalagamation Risks

Councillor Scott withdrew this item.

 

C1022(1) Item 41       Update on acquisition of investment properties

Motion: (Drury/Scott)

 

That the General Manager be authorised to make a non-binding offer for the purchase of any property.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 42       Regional Road Asphalt Mill And Fill Contract FY22-23 (RFQ 170-
         22)

Motion: (Drury/Scott)

 

That:

 

1.     The submission submitted by Ozpave (AUST) Pty Ltd for $2,238,194 excluding GST be accepted for the Regional Road Asphalt Mill and Fill Contract FY22-23 for Inner West Council; and

 

 

 

 

2.     The contingency sum included in the confidential report be included in the project budget for expenditure on aspects of the project that were unforeseeable when the RFQ documents were prepared.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

C1022(1) Item 43       RFT 04-22-1 Builders Contractor Panel

Motion: (Drury/Scott)

 

That Council enter into a Contract with the selected building contractors below for description of works for a period of 3+1+1 years, for the collective lump sum amount of $1,000,000 per annum.

 

  1. Andrik Construction Group Pty Ltd
  2. Maico Property Services Pty Ltd
  3. Bayot Building Services Pty Ltd
  4. Forefront Commercial Pty Ltd
  5. Ultra Building Works Pty Ltd

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:           Nil

 

 

Meeting closed at 10.03pm.

 

 

Public Speakers:

 

 

Item #

 

Speaker                     

Suburb

Item 2

Anna Corkhill

Petersham

Item 3

Neil Tonkin

Lilyfield

Item 9

Maire Sheehan

Annandale

Item 21

Marg Oshaughnessy

Lilyfield

Item 24

John Freeman

Rozelle

Item 28

 

Andrew Chalk

Gareth Thomas

Ashfield

Ashfield

Item 29

John McNeil

Annandale

Item 36

Ligita Mikutaite

Haberfield

Item 40

Brian Halsted

Spit Junction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unconfirmed minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting held on 25 October 2022.

 

 


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 1

Subject:          Tree Management DCP 2022           

Prepared By:      Lisa Murphy - Urban Forest Manager 

Authorised By:  Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council:

1.   Adopt the Development Control Plan (TREE DCP 2022) to commence on 1 January 2023; and

2.   Exhibit a new tree application fee structure based on the cost of works ($154 for works proposed less than $5000 and $243.20 for works proposed greater than $5000) and report back to Council in February 2023 for adoption.  

 

 

 

 

Background

 

At the Council meeting on the 26 October 2021, Council noted that the Tree DCP 2020 was inconsistent with the NSW Vegetation SEPP and the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act. Council resolved to review the DCP and report back to Council.

 

Feedback from the community over the past 24 months has identified a range of issues in regard to the workability of the DCP application processes. These comments were regarding the complexity around categories for application types at lodgment, high application costs and property damage claims.

 

Council received an increase in applications after the adoption of the DCP 2020 of 148%. This

slowed the turnaround time on applications to a minimum of 12 weeks as additional staffing was not available.

 

This version of the policy aims to address:

·    Standardisation of key definitions with other legislation and neighbouring Councils to

limit confusion for industry practitioners,

·    provide distance exemptions to limit risk and claims to dwelling houses,

·    provide further exemptions to allow property owners to manage minor vegetation works

on their property without Council consent (where other legislation does not prohibit),

·    provide simplification of the application system for users (reduce application types and simplify criteria,

·    lower permit fees by introducing a consistent fee structure to match the existing development application fee structure,

·    speed up application processing times as there will be less applications regarding the above exemptions and less insurance claims for property damage,

·    free up staff time to allow compliance investigations for conditions of consent for replanting to meet Council’s current and future canopy targets,

·    have trees sustainably growing in optimum locations, providing maximum canopy cover on properties to meet Council canopy targets, mitigating the effects of global heating and creating more liveable, cool spaces around dwellings.

 

At Council’s meeting on 10th May 2022, Council resolved to:

1. Place the attached draft Tree Management component of the Development Control Plan (TREE DCP 2022) on public exhibition and;

2. That the draft Tree DCP 2022 be reported back to Council with the community feedback results.

 

Minor amendments regarding the definition of a ‘dwelling’ were discussed during the meeting and changes were requested to be made to include multi-unit dwellings. These were added and standardised to match the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 prior to exhibition. The draft document was placed on exhibition for the period 3 June - 7 July 2022 via Your Say Inner West (YSIW) engagement platform.

 

Discussion

 

The engagement was promoted by Inner West Council using a number of means, including:

 

·    Social media

·    Media release

·    Your Say Inner West monthly e-news

·    Council website

 

Engagement outcomes

 

Outcomes of community engagement received through the online survey and written feedback forms have been collated. Respondents were asked to answer one mandatory question ‘Do you support the draft Tree Development Control Plan (Tree DCP 2022)?’. Council received 200 responses.

 

 

With the initial question, the majority of respondents did not support the draft Tree DCP 2022. Following this question, Council asked for clarifying statements so we could understand the in-depth nuances of responses. Council undertook an analysis of the ‘No’ and ‘Not sure/neutral’ responses, reviewing the 151 accompanying submission statements. Most submissions covered a range of issues.

 

From these, 263 individual issues were identified and grouped into themes as follows:

 

 

Of note was the number of ‘No’ respondents that did not supply a clarifying statement and the reoccurring theme of respondents directly quoting the same issues.

 

Councils’ responses to themes

 

Issues raised throughout the community issues submission and reflected in the wider themes outlined by respondents are addressed below.

 

No comment

 

·    30% of ‘No, Not sure/neutral’ responses did not provide further clarification.

 

Stronger provisions

 

·    30% of ‘No, Not sure/neutral’ respondents wanted stronger provisions. Proposed Tree DCP 2022 has proposed stricter controls on plant dimensions, including more trees and allowing Council to include them in its canopy mapping (as they are currently excluded). This will help Council monitor more accurately canopy planting and changes over time.

 

·    IWC DCP 2020 is currently giving a guaranteed approval by distance. This is perceived as a 2m exemption distance with conditions applied. Tree DCP 2022 is proposing strong and in-line provisions with neighbouring Councils. A comparison with neighbouring local government areas is below.

 

Other than the condition free exemption by distance of 1m, which Council includes to reduce Council’s exposure liability for property damage claims, Tree DCP 2022 has the strongest definition provisions. 

 

 

·    Proposed DCP 2022 has a stricter exempt list than DCP 2020 as it only includes species contained within the NSW Biosecurity Act.

 

Stronger compliance of replanting conditions

 

·    A point of concern with Tree DCP 2020 is that there is little compliance with replanting requirements from approvals. There are provisions within the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (EPAA 1979) that can compel approval holders to seek a compliance certificate for replanting from the private market. This follows existing compliance processes for other Council approvals and provide standardisation across Council processes. Council should adopt a compliance certificate system to regulate tree planting as part of approval conditions. This will ensure conditions are adhered to through education and compliance, as well as meeting canopy targets met into the future.

 

Legally required change, exemption distance and reduced liability

 

·    Determinations provided under Tree DCP 2020 was deemed non-binding with the minor works permit and the ‘guaranteed approval’ if the tree is located within 2m if a replacement tree is replanted. Having this mandatory application with a guaranteed approval does not increase management over tree loss in the IWC area as there is no compliance capacity under Tree DCP 2020.

 

Legally, Council cannot apply a distance exemption across property boundaries due to complications with ownership and trespass under common law. Council has deleted the minor works permit as part of this policy to not only ensure legality but to allow a homeowners have discretionary powers to protect dwelling foundations.

 

There is no requirement to replant trees that qualify as exempt by distance in Tree DCP 2022. The removal of this provision would be inhibitive to homeowners if Council removed the exemption distance all together and will expose Council to greater liability for property damage claims.

 

Customer personal experience and improvements for a customer focussed, legally compliant application process

 

·    Proposed DCP 2022 has a simplified list of application types. Tree applications and development applications.

Development applications are required for heritage items and heritage conservation areas as per the SEPP. Council has received legal advice regarding this issue. This requirement cannot be deleted for the DCP to be compliant.

Tree applications will be the primary application type unless you live in a heritage conservation area or own a heritage item. It allows Council to undertake its assessment requirements under the federal Biodiversity and Conservation Act and NSW Biodiversity SEPP for habitat assessment. Council has received legal advice regarding applications and determinations. Biodiversity assessments must be undertaken through the form of an application or development application for the DCP to be compliant.

 

·    Council has analysed the specific personal experience themed responses relating to the process and experience of application lodgement to determination. Council will address this through tree process improvement initiatives and the tree website overhaul that will include simplified messaging and ease of lodgement with the adoption of Tree DCP 2022. This is incredible detailed and complex improvement to customer service will take a significant amount of time to test and implement. Council fees and charges will need to be brought into line following the proposed application fee structure change.

 

Outside of scope

 

·    Comments outside of the scope and intention of this policy include the Tree DCP’s link to urban forest policy and climate change, heritage and planning control conflicts and Aerial Bundled Cables (ABC). These topics are listed for discussion and inclusion in future urban forest policy, strategy, and operational plan harmonisation projects due for completion in 2023/24.

 

Timing

 

Tree DCP 2022 is proposed to come into effect 1 January 2023.

 

This will allow time for Council staff to update/upgrade the website to help customers get the correct information that pertains to their individual circumstance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fees and Charges

 

 

At the moment 40% of trees are assessed for free under a minor works application. The remainder of trees are assessed under an application fee for 1-3 trees at a cost of $243.20 with an additional fee per tree after of $48.80.

 

 

The new Tree DCP will have all applications assessed through the application fee process. The current fee of $243.20 is higher than a number of neighbouring Council’s and it is recommended that the new cost is based on the costs of works proposed via the application and align with other Council development applications.  In this regard, a new tree application fee structure based on the cost of works ($154 for works proposed less than $5000 and $243.20 for works proposed greater than $5000) is proposed which would need to be exhibited on endorsement of the new DCP.

 

Whilst the DCP can be commenced from January 1 2023 using the old fee, it is recommended that Council exhibit a new fee for 28 days and bring a report back to the February Ordinary Meeting when the new fee will be applicable.

 

Conclusion

 

Whilst Council acknowledges that a portion of the community that initially responded ‘No’ in not supporting this policy. Through the review and analysis during the consultation process, Council is confident that the community concerns have been addressed.

 

Respondents through the remaining themes analysis are in favour of a policy that protects more trees, provides increased canopy and biodiversity outcomes and provides accountability to the community through compliance activities. Tree DCP 2022 demonstrates that it can provide all those outcomes as well as provide a less complex application process. Tree DCP 2022 has been updated to reflect the changes in the current State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) Biodiversity and Conservation 2021 and all previous legal issues have been resolved in full.

 

As such it is recommended that draft Tree DCP 2022 be adopted.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft DCP April 2022

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 











Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 2

Subject:          September Quarterly Budget Reporting Statement, and Delivery Program 2022-26 and Operational Plan 2022/23 - Quarter One report           

Prepared By:      Chris Sleiman - Financial Partnering & Analytics Manager and Prue Foreman - Corporate Strategy and Engagement Manager 

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council:

 

1.   Adopt the First Quarter Budget Review for 2022/23 and;

 

2.   Note the Delivery Program 2022-26 and Operational Plan 2022/23 – Quarter One report.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

This report contains the Quarterly Budget Review Statement and first quarter report against the Delivery Program 2022-26 and Operational Plan 2022/23.

 

Quarterly Budget Review Statement

 

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 Regulation 2004 (Cl203(2)), namely that the Responsible Accounting Officer report quarterly on a budget review statement to adequately disclose the Council’s overall financial position.

 

This report provides a comprehensive high-level overview of Council’s financial position as at 30 September 2022. Any forecast results are projections as at 30 June 2023. Council has updated its projected budget result to $23.0 million, a decrease of $4.2 million from the 2022-23 Adopted Budget.  Excluding capital revenue, a deficit of $1.3 million has been projected against the Adopted Budget Deficit of $0.7 million.

 

During the quarter, a detailed review of both operating and capital budgets has been 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 predominantly due to:

 

·    Increases in Materials and Services with cost and supply challenges across many industries at this time, and rollover of some operational projects and programs from 2021-22 financial year; and

 

·    Increases in Employee costs in line with council’s continued work to improve customer service and the resulting customer experience, with some additional FTE in support and operations, and grade and position reviews.

 

 

 

 

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:

Engineering Services – $0.2m as a result of increase in hoarding rental, road opening permits and construction zone charges.

·    Forecast increase in Domestic Waste Charge $0.2m – reflect households utilising Council waste services for 2022-23 financial year.

·    Forecast Increase in Other Income:

Corporate Support Services - $0.4m to reflect year to date results in the first quarter.

Property & Strategic Investments - $0.2m recognition of lease income from 2021-22 financial year in 2022-23 financial year.

Environmental Health & Building Regulation - $0.1m to reflect year to dates results for Certificate of Outstanding Notices.

·    Forecast increase in Interest Income $1.3m – reflect RBA increasing interest rates resulting in higher returns on investments.

·    Forecast decrease in Operating Grants and Contributions:

Corporate Support Services - $0.9m due to Council receiving 75% of the Financial Assistance Grant previously in the 2021/22 financial year.

·    Forecast decrease in Capital Grants $3.6m - Item 4 in Attachment 1.

·    Forecast increase in Employment Costs:

net increase is primarily a result of additional FTE to improve customer service and responsiveness

·    Forecast increase in Materials and Services:

Rollover of program works, ICT operational projects and grant funded projects from 2021-22 financial year to 2022-23 financial year and increase in cleaning budget for Fanny Durack Aquatic Centre and Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre to reflect contract pricing.

 

Capital Budget

The graph in Figure 2 reflects changes in the timing of projects, with a brief explanation provided below. Details can be found within the September 2022 QBRS Movement (attached).

 

Figure 2. Changes in the Full Year Capital Budget including Capital Grants and Contributions

 

·    Decreased Capital Expenditure of $3.2m is primarily due to rephasing the following projects to next financial year, offset by carry overs from 2021-22 brought over to the 2022-23 capital works program:

Greenway Central Links

LPAC Major Project

FDAC Refurbishment

AKAC Upgrade Works

 

Cash Flow forecasts for all major projects will be monitored ensuring the expenditure remains in line with the budget.  It is noted that September 2022 year-to-date capital expenditure totals approximately $6.1m.

 

The Capital Budget will be reviewed throughout the financial year on an ongoing basis with the capital works managers.  Changes to the Capital Works will be brought to Council through future Quarterly Budget Reporting Statements. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 2022 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.”

 

            Daryl Jackson, Chief Financial Officer (Responsible Accounting Officer)

- Inner West Council

 

Delivery Program 2022-26 and Operational Plan 2022/23 - Quarter One Report

 

In June 2022, Inner West Council adopted its new Delivery Program 2022-26 and Operational Plan 2022/23. The plan outlines how Council will deliver services and infrastructure for the benefit of the Inner West community, as guided by the Community Strategic Plan – Our Inner West 2036.

 

The attached report show progress against the plan during the quarter 1 July – 30 September 2022.

 

Of the 174 actions in the plan:

·    93% are completed or on track (162 actions)

·    5% are rescheduled (8 actions)

·    3% are behind schedule or on hold (4 actions)

 

 

[Note that a rounding error results in actions totalling 101% in the report].

 

The report contains commentary about progress on each of the actions and key measures against performance targets.

 

Highlights from the quarter include:

 

·    The draft Electric Vehicle Encouragement Strategy was placed on public exhibition

·    A low carbon precinct study was completed

·    A draft Inner West Development Contributions Plan was placed on public exhibition

·    Scoping of the Main Street Strategy was completed

·    Draft Cycling and Disability Inclusion Action Plans were completed

·    Events included History week EDGE Sydenham, Celebrate 2044 and Footprints Ecofestival

·    Forty Pop-up Music Marathon activations were held

·    The Inner West World Pride Committee established the Pride Inner West Program of initiatives

·    Customer service improvements included commencement of development of a Service Charter

·    New members were recruited for the new term of Council's 13 Local Democracy Groups

·    Customer service stalls and Local Matters Forums were held across the Inner West

 

The report also contains detailed progress of measures against performance targets.

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

September 2022 QBRS Financial Statements

2.

Delivery Program 2022-26 and Operational Plan 2022-23 - Quarter One Report

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 


















Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Attachment 2












































































Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 3

Subject:          Aquatics Centre Open Days/events           

Prepared By:      Simon Duck - Senior Manager Aquatics 

Authorised By:  Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That in addition to the previously endorsed One (1) open day per Centre per year, totalling five (5) community open days, Council confirms:

 

1.   Two free ‘Trans and Gender diverse swimming events per year rotated between facilities. That will require pool closures to other users of no more than 4 hours.

 

2.   Two free ‘Abilities’ swimming events per year rotated between Centres based on centre availability.

 

3.   Additional ad-hoc opportunities to be considered on a case-by-case basis such as ‘World Pride’ events that will be held in March 2023. Fees and charges to be applied.

 

4.   Council officers make contact with local refugee support service providers with the aim to re-establish refugee swimming program where possible.

 

5.   Council officers engage in further discussions with Sydney Local Area Health and /or other program providers during business as usual and provide access to Aquatics facilities based on availability and referencing fees and charges.

 

6.   Aquatics staff to continue to engage with Council's Access Committee for support and insights into ongoing program opportunities where applicable.

 

 

 

 

 

BACKGROUND

At the 13 September 2022 Council Meeting it was resolved that Council;

Item: C0922(1) Item 6 Aquatics Inclusion Swim Program

 

1.    Endorses an aquatics inclusion program, including:

a)    Trans and Gender Diverse Swim Events;

b)    Abilities Open Day; and

c)    The ongoing provision of Refugee Learn to Swim and Swimming Awareness.

 

2.    Officers bring a report to the October Council meeting that includes options for increasing
     the number and type of events, varying the locations and providing an estimate of costs
     with no-charge and concession rate options;

 

3.    An investigation into a prospective partnership with the Sydney Local Health District for
     Community Mental Health's 'Living Well, Living Longer' program to offer a 'Gym and
     Swim' to its participants. The results of the investigation are to be reported to council. This
     was a service previously offered by Belgravia at AKAC; and

 

4.    Consultation with the disability community and Council's Access Committee about the
     Abilities Open Day and ongoing ways to make our pools more accessible. 

 

In relation to the above, this report provides additional information around the provision of various programs and services and seeks endorsement for the recommendations outlined pertaining to various programs within the Centres.

 

Inner West Aquatics has previously held open days such as “Make a Splash” open days and Trans and Gender Diverse events with great success.

 

These events provide a fun and engaging environment for a range of user groups and for all members of the community. The events are affordable, inclusive, and provide Recreation opportunities all members of the community.

 

Council previously endorsed one (1) free community open day per year at each of Inner West Councils five (5) Aquatic Centre’s. Planning for community open days is already underway.

 

DISCUSSION

Open Days Additional- Trans and Gender Diverse and ‘Abilities’ open day or ad hoc events

 

In addition to Council’s previously endorsed Community open days, it is proposed that confirmation of special events is further detailed as;

 

Two Trans and Gender Diverse swim events per year which ensures a bi-annual approach. These can be provided at two of the three main Aquatic Centre’s and can be rotated or varied based on facility availability. The winter event should be held at the Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre to ensure good attendance during colder weather and to ensure the event is not affected by rain. Alternative options are for the Ashfield Aquatic Centre and the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre to rotate the event each year at that site or based on Centre availability.

 

It is also proposed that two ‘Abilities’ swimming events are undertaken each year celebrating those with accessible or special needs, their careers, family and friends. This will be rotated between the Ashfield Aquatic Centre and the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre with both locations being able to provide suitable facilities including movable floor program pool at Ashfield Aquatic Centre, warm water program pool at the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre, accessible lifts, toilets, hoists outdoor and indoor spaces. This event will not require full closure of the facilities to operate and can be undertaken in designated pools, locations alongside other Centre programs. Engagement with Council’s Access Committee will take place as part of planning and development for this event.

 

Additional ad-hoc opportunities to be considered on a case-by-case basis such as ‘World Pride’ events that will be held in March 2023 and fees and charges will apply. This is an additional three events in 2023 and will take place in conjunction with other programs already in place at the Centre.

 

External Hirers- Allied Health Service providers

 

Requests have been received and discussions have previously taken place between several allied health service providers including the Sydney Local Health District regarding access to the Aquatics facilities to deliver various community programs. Information has been provided previously and all requests for access are subject to fees and charges, availability of space and completing the appropriate hire agreements.

Council staff will continue to review hire requests as per current process however will make further contact and discuss requirements with Sydney Local Health to review and re-consider their needs. It should be noted that the IWC Aquatic Centres will soon become approved NDIS service providers with the application currently awaiting endorsement by the NDIS, after which time, Aquatics staff will commence offering programs and access to this group across both Health and Fitness and Aquatics areas.

           

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The provision of open days and various programs and events does have an impact on both expenses and operational resources including staffing. The Aquatic Centres currently operate to a significant deficit once all inclusions are considered, and additional unbudgeted expenses will further impact this result.

 

To this end, planning of open days requires consideration. The below provides a summary of items relating to expenses incurred through large open days;

·    Labour costs of approximately $5000 for Aquatics staff covering regular and additional staffing for an event.

·    Loss of income and disruption to regular programs for free events (where closure is required such as Trans and Gender Diverse/Open Day events) incurs estimated lost income opportunity cost of $1,000 assuming 200 attendees at an average of $5 per entry. (inclusive of assumption for concession and children’s entry.

·    Additional costs that could potentially be incurred are entertainers/DJ, catering etc. which would be an estimate of $1,000

·    Additional Staffing costs for planning and collaboration absorbed by Council for Community Service and other teams during event preparation estimate:  $1,000

·    Management and planning costs for Aquatics team in lead up to event estimate; $1,000

 

Total cost is therefore in the vicinity of $9,000- $10,000 per event. These costs are generally absorbed through Centre operations budgets. Council currently invests in community events through Trans and Gender diverse swim events, Senior’s week, Youth week, Community open days and the proposed events as listed above. Whilst the suggested events outlined above can be accommodated, any additional large events requiring Centre closure will generate additional unbudgeted expenses and a source of funding will need to be identified.

 

In addition to the above, it should be noted that the Centres also currently operate up to 40 School Swimming Carnivals per year, significant numbers of Water Polo events and Swim Club events as well as other School based Learn to Swim programs. Operational capacity to deliver the listed events as above including general operations for ‘business as usual’ services is also a major consideration.

 

SUMMARY

 

Council providing community Open days, additional ‘Abilities’ open days and continuing the Trans and Gender Diverse events provide opportunities for participation and ensure community connection to Council’s Health and Aquatics facilities. The above proposed events will operate alongside current programs and services and wherever possible will not disrupt these regular programs and services apart from two Trans and Gender Diverse Swim events which require Centre closure. They will however create additional opportunities for targeted Recreation and will complement the current five Free Community open days. Other events and programs can be well-thought-out on an as needs basis where considerations for Centre availability, staffing resources and application of regular fees and charges are applied. 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 4

Subject:          Inner West Verge Gardening Policy           

Prepared By:      Luke Murtas - Senior Manager Environment and Sustainability  

Authorised By:  Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council:

 

1.       Endorse the draft Verge Gardening Policy and Guideline for public exhibition stage; and

 

2.       Provide feedback to the Director Planning and Environment on the Policy and Guideline as well as the operation of the program to date.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

In 2019, Council previously resolved the following in part:

 

5. Develop an Inner West Street Verge Gardening Policy, allowing residents to plant and maintain the verge in front of their property;

 

On 10 May 2022 Council further resolved to encourage verge gardening as follows;

 

That:

 1.   The draft Verge Gardening Policy will encourage residents to garden on the verge; and

2. Upon finalisation of the Verge Gardening Policy Council will initiate a verge gardening
     competition across the Local Government Area, the competition will:

 

a)   be detailed in a future report to Council;

b)   offer interested residents with a limited number of free native and appropriate plants
       to be planted on the verge and used in the competition;

c)   offer prizes; and

d)   advertise winning verges through the council newsletter and on the Council website

 

DISCUSSION

This report seeks Council’s endorsement of the draft Verge Gardening Policy and accompanying explanatory Guideline to be put out for community consultation.  Following the adoption and implementation of the Verge Gardening Policy a further report to satisfy the remainder of the resolution will follow.

 

The adoption of the Verge Gardening Policy aligns with many of the strategies set out in Council’s adopted Community Strategic Plan, including:

·    Manage and improve Inner West’s mid and understorey vegetation and Protect, connect and enhance natural areas, biodiversity corridors and sensitive habitat (from Strategic Direction 1: An ecologically sustainable Inner West)

·    Pursue integrated planning and urban design across public and private spaces to benefit community and local environment needs (from Strategic Direction 2: Liveable, connected neighbourhoods and transport)

·    Provide facilities, spaces and programs that support community health and wellbeing (from Strategic Direction 4: Healthy, resilient and caring communities)

An existing “Sustainable Streets” program was conducted in the former Marrickville Council area and has informed the draft Inner West policy, as many residents are current participants in that legacy scheme.

 

At present, there are 418 registered Verge Gardening and more than 160 Expressions of Interest from residents wanting to be involved in the scheme.

 

The draft Inner West Verge Gardening Policy

 

Inviting our residents to cultivate native plants on the public street verge in front of their property has broad appeal, with some residents attracted to the ability to interact with their community through gardening and beautify their street. Others are interested in making connections with nature or a meaningful contribution to our emerging network of wildlife corridors by planting vegetation where the opportunity to do so on their own land is limited.

 

For Council, the program will make a significant contribution to environmental and social objectives from its CSP and LSPS and has the potential to reduce the costs of upkeep associated with maintaining street verges.

 

A copy of the draft policy is included for Councillor’s review at Attachment 1. The draft policy has been written having regard to the technical advice provided by Engineers, traffic and public place managers at Council, insurance and risk specialists, planning and environment staff, and senior staff in our customer service team. The draft was also reviewed in detail by the relevant Local Democracy Group, Council’s Environment Advisory Committee, on 31 March 2022.

 

In response to commentary and advice from the Environment Advisory Committee, several changes have been made to the Policy, including principally:

·    Changes to the language and layout of the policy to make it more accessible and more easily understood in “plain English”

·    An amendment to the clause in the policy which precluded residents living in residential apartment buildings from participating in the program – this has now been deleted and replaced with a clause which allows residents living in residential apartment buildings to participate subject to evidence of strata agreement

The guideline document which accompanies the Policy (and is attached for Councillor’s review at Attachment 2) has also been significantly redeveloped from a text-based document into a more readily accessible brochure style manual which incorporates substantial use of graphics and images to show residents what Council’s optimal outcomes in the verge look like.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

 

The Sustainable Streets Program has an annual budget of $55,000 which covers policy and planning work, community engagement, and provision of plants and other material support to residents.

 

The “Verge Gardening Competition” required by Council resolution C0522(1) Item 22 includes a competition, a further report to Council, free native plants to residents, prizes and advertising of the competition, but is currently unfunded.  In the 2023-24 Financial Year, Urban Ecology staff will need to seek additional budget for these items.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft Verge Gardening Policy

2.

Verge Gardening Guidelines

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 













Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 














Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 5

Subject:          2022 Annual Grants Round           

Prepared By:      Simon Watts - Social and Cultural Planning Manager  

Authorised By:  Ruth Callaghan - Director Community

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council approves the funding recommendations for the Annual Grant Round contained in Attachments 1-8.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

On 14 June 2022, Council approved the public exhibition of the Annual Grant Program Guidelines. Exhibition occurred between Thursday 16 June until Thursday 14 July 2022. The exhibited Guidelines were used for the grant round.

In 2022, Council offered the following grants:

·    Arts grants: Professional Creative Development grants up to $5,000 and Arts Projects

·    grants up to $10,000

·    Community History grants up to $5,000

·    Community Wellbeing grants up to $5,000

·    Community Wellbeing grants up to $20,000 (over two years)

·    Environment grants up to $10,000 (over two years)

·    Recreation grants up to $10,000 (over two years)

·    Wellbeing and Resilience for Multicultural Communities grants up to $5,000.

 

The grants round was offered between 18 August and 16 September. Prospective applicants were offered one-on-one support to develop their applications in the stream in which they were applying. This service provided the opportunity to clarify their ideas and develop their proposals.

 

The Grant Program was publicised via Council’s networks, website, social media channels and newsletters and on FBi radio.

 

In 2022, Council allocated $458,000 to support the annual grants. A total of 166 applications were received across the eight grant streams. In summary, funding of $531,596 is recommended for 69 projects. The difference of $73,596 represents those two year projects which will run over 2023 and 2024. A summary of the 2022 Annual Grants round is at Attachment 9.

 

Where there is variation between the amount recommended and the amount requested, this arises through applicants seeking support for ineligible items. These issues have been discussed with applicants.

 

THE PROPOSAL EVALUATION AND RECOMMENDATION PROCESS

All applications underwent a three-stage evaluation to arrive at the funding recommendations being presented to Council. Each assessment panel included at least one external representative. These panelists were largely drawn from the relevant Local Democracy Groups.

 

First, applications were evaluated against the published criteria by Council staff with subject matter expertise. Secondly, an assessment panel comprised of external representative/s and Council officers reviewed all applications and the initial evaluations. The panel confirmed final rankings and developed funding recommendations. Thirdly, recommended applications were screened through an eligibility check to confirm legal eligibility requirements including administrative compliance detail and acquittal of any previous applications.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Grants are funded from within existing budget allocations.

 

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Arts Grants Category 1: Professional Creative Development Grants 2022

2.

Arts Projects Grants

3.

Community History Grants 2022

4.

Community Wellbeing One-Year Grants 2022

5.

Community Wellbeing Two-Year Grants 2022

6.

Environment Grants 2022

7.

Recreation Grants 2022

8.

Wellbeing and Resilience for Multicultural Communities Grants 2022

9.

2022 Inner West Council Annual Grants

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 




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8 November 2022

 















Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 




Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 




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8 November 2022

 



Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 





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8 November 2022

 




Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 



Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 6

Subject:          Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 17 October 2022           

Prepared By:      Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Manager  

Authorised By:  Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 17 October 2022 be received and the recommendations be adopted.

 

 

 

ITEMS BY WARD

 

Ward

Item

Baludarri

(Balmain)

27-29 Percy Street Rozelle - Temporary Full Road Closure

King George Car Park, Rozelle - Signage and Line-marking Plan

Gulgadya

(Leichhardt)

Update on improvements to the Frederick Street, Ashfield crossing

Updates on Waratah Street and City West Link, Haberfield

Midjuburi

(Marrickville)

Chapel Street, Marrickville - Request for an extension to the existing drop-off and pick-up zone outside Marrickville Public School

Request for ‘No Parking’ zone in Park Lane, Sydenham

Djarrawunang

(Ashfield)

Request for pedestrian crossing on Smith Street, Summer Hill

Damun (Stanmore)

Audley Street, Audley Lane, Sadlier Crescent, Fisher Street, and eastbound parking lanes on New Canterbury Road Petersham – Temporary Full Road Closures for Special Event on Sunday 19 March 2023 – Petersham Festival - Bairro Portuguese – ENRC/2022/0041

Trafalgar Street, Stanmore – TfNSW Stanmore Station Upgrade Project – Temporary Signs and Line Markings Plan during construction

All Wards

Update on 30km/h speed zones

 

DISCUSSION

The October 2022 meeting of the Local Traffic Committee was at Ashfield Service Centre. The minutes of the meeting are shown at Attachment 1.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Projects proposed for implementation are funded within existing budget allocations.

 

PUBLIC CONSULTATION

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

the Traffic Committee.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Local Traffic Committee minutes 17 October 2022

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 









Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 7

Subject:          Chester Street Carpark, Petersham           

Prepared By:      Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager 

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council:

 

1.   Notes the EOI for the sale of the Chester Street Car Park will be closed;

 

2.   Notes the sale and redevelopment opportunities for the Chester Street Car Park will be considered through the audit of Council land as outlined in Council resolution C0322(1); and

 

3.   Requires that any future development of the Chester Street Car Park has net positive benefits to local traffic and parking conditions, and has sympathetic design and architectural quality with the character and heritage of the surrounding area, including the adjacent Beynon and Hayward building.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council owns the Chester Street Car Park (Car Park) located at 5-7 Chester St, Petersham which comprises of Lots A & B in DP 438174 and Lots 1, 2 & 3 in DP 598422. The Car Park has an area of 704 square metres and currently provides 18 public car parking spaces.

 

At its 13 August 2019 Meeting Council resolved:

 

That:

 

1.   Council endorse the sale of the Chester Street Petersham carpark by public tender including provision of increased car spaces, cash and/or affordable housing and report back to Council on the outcomes of the tender process; and

 

2.   The EOI includes:

 

a)   a requirement that any future development has net positive benefits to local traffic and parking conditions; and

 

b)   sympathetic design and architectural quality with the character and heritage of the surrounding area, including the adjacent Beynon and Hayward building, in order to enact the sale.

 

An Expression of Interest - EOI 4-20 (EOI) was conducted by officers in 2020. The EOI closed 9 December 2020. The EOI included the following:

 

“Council invites expressions of interest for the purchase of Chester Street Carpark from Council with the added development of the current 18-car parking space to be upgraded to a 36 public car space for Council with no fees in perpetuity to Council. Council is seeking a property developer/s who best meets Council’s requirements for the surrounding area”

 

 

“The requirements from Council include:

 

•     that any future development has net positive benefits to local traffic and parking conditions; and

 

•     sympathetic design and architectural quality with the character and heritage of the surrounding area, including the adjacent Beynon and Hayward building, in order to enact the sale.”

 

Five (5) submissions were received and assessed by a panel against the EOI criteria and independent valuation advice. Whilst the submissions addressed the public parking requirements the financial return to Council was below valuation advice.

 

On 25 March 2021 all respondents were advised Council had valuation advice and were invited to submit their best offer by 12 April 2021. The highest financial remained unfavourable in comparison to the independent valuation advice.

 

The Officer responsible for the EOI and the Manager left Council in the second half of 2021 and this matter did not progress further.

 

It is necessary for the EOI process to be formally closed, with the validity period having expired and no appropriate outcome achieved.

 

Audit of Council land for affordable housing

 

At the council meeting held on 8 March 2022 the following resolution was made in regard to opportunities for affordable housing:

That Council:

1.  Audit public Council land that could be used by Council, in partnership with community housing providers, to develop new Affordable Housing units;

2.  Pursue the development and approval of an Affordable Housing Contribution Scheme in this term of Council; and

3.  Receive a briefing on the results of point 1, potential sites where an Affordable Housing Contribution Scheme could be implemented, and any prospective updates to Council's Affordable Housing policy.

 

Given the actions being undertaken as a result of this resolution, it is recommended that the sale and redevelopment of the Car Park is reviewed through the audit of Council land as outlined above and that EOI 4-20 is closed.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil.

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 8

Subject:          Organisational Structure           

Prepared By:      Joan Murphy - Senior HR Business Partner 

Authorised By:  Peter Gainsford - General Manager

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council  maintain the current organisation structure consisting of four Directors and General Counsel as Senior Staff reporting to the General Manager as outlined below:

 

·    Director Planning;

·    Director Corporate;

·    Director Community;

·    Director Infrastructure; and

·    General Counsel.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

In accordance with the Local Government Act, Council is required to review the organisation structure within 12 months after the election of the Council. Council must also after consulting with the General Manager determine the senior staff positions within the organisational structure:

 

Section 332 Determination of structure

(1) A council must, after consulting the general manager, determine the following—

(a) the senior staff positions within the organisation structure of the council,

 

(b) the roles and reporting lines (for other senior staff) of holders of senior staff positions,

 

Section 333 Re-determination and review of structure

The organisation structure may be re-determined under this Part from time to time. The council must review, and may re-determine, the organisation structure within 12 months after any ordinary election of the council.

 

CURRENT STRUCTURE

 

The organisational structure was last agreed by Council on 29 June 2021. Council agreed in addition to the General Manager of, four Director-level senior staff and a General Counsel.

 

Council also resolved that the Senior Staff, other than the General Manager, be appointed under the Local Government Award.

 

 

The Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) endorsed the organisational structure on 24 June 2021 and considers proposed changes to the organisation of non-senior staff positions, as they arise from time to time. 

 

In addition to the General Manager, the current structure of senior staff is as follows;

 

·    Director Community – Ruth Callaghan – joined 6 Dec 2021

·    Director Planning – Simone Plummer – joined 24 Jan 2022 

·    Director Infrastructure – Ryann Midei – joined 4 Oct 2022

·    Director Corporate – Kelly Loveridge – joined 18 Jul 2022

·    General Counsel – Matthew Pearce - joined 15 Nov 2021

 

 

The current structure is working well and is aligned to Council’s Community Strategic Plan and Delivery Plan objectives. It is therefore recommended that the existing structure remains in the current format.

 

The areas that fall within each Directorate are shown in attachment 1 and are briefly explained below.

 

       DIRECTOR COMMUNITY

    

This Directorate facilitates and provides high quality community support and services,      activities and events to residents; and provide timely and strategic social policy and     planning advice to Council.

 

The purpose of the Community Directorate is to:

·    connect people to each other and to place

·    build community capacity

·    enliven community and cultural life

·    foster community health and wellbeing

·    build relationships between Council and the community.

 

The Director provides senior leadership to the organisation and is responsible for the following areas – Children’s Services, Community Wellbeing, Communications, Engagement and Corporate Strategy, Events, Libraries and Community Venues, Living Arts and Social and Cultural Planning.

 

The Director delivers operational excellence in the provision of Children’s and Library Service and strategic thinking for leading edge community initiatives such as the Healthy Aging Strategy and Creative Inner West: Cultural Strategy

 

The Community area also works collaboratively with the creative sector to develop initiatives, curate programs and produce lasting benefits for the Inner West. A great example is the EDGE festival has a distinct theme and location with a signature site specific activation plus a range of other events in artist’s studios, music venues, on the streets and in community spaces.

 

DIRECTOR PLANNING

 

This Directorate provides high functioning planning by ensuring statutory obligations are achieved and the delivery of services are consistent with Council’s goals and visions outlined in the Community Strategic Plan & LEP.

 

The purpose of the Planning Directorate is to:

·   plan for unique, live able and connected neighborhoods and a thriving and diverse local economy;

·   implement Council’s statutory responsibilities to effectively manage change within the built environment;

·   develop sector leading environmental policy and leadership;

·   manage the urban environment to protect life, property, amenities and the environment (natural, ​​​ built and cultural) through education and regulatory tools; and

·   provide strategic oversight, master planning and management of Council’s open space, recreation projects ​​and aquatic facilities.

 

The Director provides senior leadership to the organisation and is responsible for the following areas - Planning and Economic Development, Regulatory Services, Sports and Recreation and Environment and Sustainability, which includes Resource Recovery Planning, Urban Sustainability and Urban Ecology.

 

DIRECTOR CORPORATE

 

This Directorate is tasked with optimising internal business services to support all of Council in the delivery of high-quality services to the community. It provides a crucial service, supporting all other directorates to achieve their goals. The Director has an extensive breadth of responsibilities in numerous specialised disciplines, leading management team of industry experts.

 

This role is an essential leadership role vital in ensuring Council’s long-term financial sustainability and leading Council through the acquisition of an expanded commercial property portfolio to generate an additional $4.2M revenue per annum. This directorate steers the organisation to achieve more.

 

The Director provides senior leadership to the organisation and is responsible for the following areas; - Customer Experience and Service Transformation, Finance, Information & Communication Technology (ICT); Governance and Risk, Property and Strategic Investments and Procurement.

 

DIRECTOR INFRASTRUCTURE

 

This Directorate marries tertiary educated technical experts with operational teams who ensure essential services to the community. The Inner West Council’s vast size and organisational complexity requires strong, high performing leadership to ensure the multitude of maintenance tasks and improvement projects are delivered to the highest quality balanced, with maximum efficiency.

 

The purpose of the Infrastructure Directorate is to:

·    deliver essential services to the community;

·    deliver Council’s annual $87.6 million capital renewal and upgrade program;

·    deliver Council’s $24.8 million major projects program;

·    manage Council’s infrastructure assets;

·    maintain Council’s properties and facilities; and

·    manage transport, traffic and parking within the Inner West

 

 

The Directorate utilises both expert people leadership and an ongoing principle of acquiring, organising and acting upon accurate data to continuously improve the quality and speed of services delivered to our residents.

 

This Directorate supplies services to general public most commonly associate as some of the core responsibilities of council. The Director must manage Councils exposure to reputational risk by balancing delivery and service levels.

 

The Director provides senior leadership to the organisation and is responsible for the following areas – Capital Works, Engineering Services, Facilities Management, Operations, Traffic and Transport Planning and Urban Forest.

 

GENERAL COUNSEL

 

Inner West Council has a continuous flow of legal matters requiring legal expert analysis and advice. These range from regular planning legalities to a plethora of unique and unpredictable legal issues experienced throughout Council.  The General Counsel leads a small team of legal professionals to provide accurate and expert advice.

 

 

The purpose of the General Counsel Directorate is to reduce legal and governance risk and enable the achievement of Council’s objectives through:

·    facilitating sound legal decisions;

·    developing and delivering legal knowledge training; and

·    representing Council’s interest in courts

 

 

The General Counsel leads a very busy environment with numerous tight court deadlines and ad hoc legal issues which demand comprehensive analysis and research. The General Council reports directly to the General Manager and provides frank and fearless legal advice in the interests of the Council.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

All positions have been budgeted for in the 22/23 financial year.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Organisational Structure

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 9

Subject:          Councillor Representation on Sydney Coastal Council Group Committee           

Prepared By:      Michele Smith - Governance Coordinator  

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council elect an additional member and an alternative for the Sydney Coastal Council Group

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

The Sydney Coastal Council Group (SCCG) was established in 1989 to promote and facilitate coordination between member Councils on environmental issues for the sustainable management of the urban coastal and estuarine environment. The Group consists of nine Councils adjacent to Sydney marine and estuarine environments and associated waterways. Meetings are held quarterly on a Saturday and are hosted on rotation by member Councils.

 

The Annual General Meeting of SCCG is to be held on 8 December. Inner West Council have been asked to nominate a delegate to attend and vote on matters.

 

Currently Council has only one member on the SCCG being Clr Dylan Griffiths. He is a member of the Executive of the SCCG and has no power to vote at the Annual General Meeting.

 

Council is entitled to a second member who will have voting power for the Annual General Meeting plus an alternative.

 

It is recommended that an additional member and an alternative be elected to participate on the committee.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 10

Subject:          Investment Report At 30 September 2022           

Prepared By:      Daryl Jackson - Chief Financial Officer 

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

 

BACKGROUND

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Legislative Requirements

All investments are to comply with the following:

 

§ Local Government Act 1993;

§ Local Government (General) Regulation 2021;

§ Ministerial Investment Order dated 17 February 2011;

§ Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting;

§ Australian Accounting Standards; and

§ Division of Local Government Investment Policy Guidelines May 2010

 

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

 

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

 

Certification

 

The Chief Financial Officer Daryl Jackson as the Responsible Accounting Officer has certified that the investments listed in the attached report have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Section 212 of the Local Government General Regulation 2021 and Council’s Investment Policy.

 

DISCUSSION

Council’s investments are held in various investment categories which are listed in the table below. Council’s investment portfolio size is $243.2m.  All Socially Responsible Investments (SRI’s) are investments that comply with the Non-Fossil Fuel standards. Council’s portfolio had a return 1.73%, against the UBSWA Bank Bill Index Benchmark (1.79%) on a marked-to-market basis. For the past 12 months, the portfolio has returned -0.36% on a marked-to-market basis

 

Without marked-to-market influences, Council’s investment portfolio yielded 2.06%pa for the month, up from 1.98%pa in August. This is based on the actual interest rates being received on existing investments and excludes market value changes of the securities/deposits.

 

Another rise in interest rates during the month had a modestly detrimental impact on the valuations of Council’s fixed rate bonds, but Council’s floating rate notes are weathering the rise in market rates better as higher market interest rates are filtering through to higher quarterly interest accruing and being paid on these holdings.

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

The upside to the rising trend in interest rates is that new TDs and bonds that Council invests in will be paying a much higher rate of interest than what has been available over the past couple of years.  This is evident in the rising yield on the portfolio noted above.

 

Change in the value of our portfolio

During September, Council had $25.5m across a range of 3, 5 and 6 month term deposits mature which had an average weighted yield of 1.56%pa. New investments totalling $23m were invested in two 12 month term deposits paying an average of 4.23%pa. 

 

·    Investments

CBA (Green) $10.0m

Bendigo & Adelaide Bank $13.0m

 

·    Matured

Suncorp $15.5m

Westpac Group (Green TD) $10.0m

 

The investment market had limited non-fossil fuel products available in the month.  Those available were offered with low interest rates. 

 

Council’s entire investment portfolio remains invested in non-fossil fuel lending ADIs (49% of portfolio) and socially responsible investments (51% of portfolio).

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

Council’s investment performance has reflected the downward trend in interest rate markets over recent years accelerated by pandemic related interest rate cuts. With inflation pressures building, interest rates have increased sharply over the first half of 2022 causing negative marked-to-market returns on existing bonds and FRNs over that period. Market rates are largely stabilising and higher rates being received on new investments and FRN rate resets are flowing through to the rolling 12 month figure.

 

Domestic issues

 

Retail sales surprised on the upside, but a slowdown is expected as rate hikes increase mortgage payments and inflation impacts the prices of more consumer goods.

The jobs market is starting to slow but right now it is still very tight. Job vacancies fell 2% over the three months to August with the number of job vacancies per unemployed worker falling slightly but still nearly 1 to 1. 

Australian household wealth fell 3.3%.  The ABS noted that this was the first decline in household wealth since the start of the pandemic in March 2020 and reflected a combination of housing market weakness and revaluation losses in superannuation assets.

Consumer confidence indicators for the week ending 25 September rose over 2%, taking the index up to its highest level in four months, albeit with the index still deep in pessimistic territory.

 

Interest Rates

 

The RBA increased the official cash rate another 50 basis points, from 1.85% to 2.35% at its September and there is strong indication that another interest rate increase of 50 basis points will be made at the October meeting.

 

The market increased its cash rate expectation over the past month, pricing in a 4% cash rate by the end of the 2022/23 Financial Year, up from an expected 3.85% in August:

 

In September, term deposit rates rose an average of 50 basis points across the 1-12 month range and 35 basis points across the 2-5 year area versus last month:

 

 

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

IWC Investment Report - September 2022

2.

IWC Economic & Investment Portfolio Commentary - September 2022

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Attachment 1



















Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Attachment 2





Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 11

Subject:          Major Capital Projects Committee Meetings and Project Summary Report           

Prepared By:      Stuart Hull - Senior Manager Capital Works  

Authorised By:  Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That the Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee held in April 2022, May 2022, June 2022, July 2022, August 2022 and September 2022 be received and the project summary report is noted.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

At the 8 March 2022 Meeting Council resolved to establish a Major Capital Projects Committee to oversee the larger Capital Projects being delivered by Council.

 

The members of the Major Capital Projects Committee are as follows:

·    Councillor Darcy Byrne (chair);

·    Councillor Mark Drury;

·    Councillor Jess D’Arienzo;

·    Councillor Pauline Lockie;

·    Councillor Kobi Shetty.

 

The meetings are also attended by the Director of Infrastructure and the Senior Manager Capital Works, with additional internal or external attendees as required (e.g. General Counsel)

 

There are currently thirty three (33) projects, as listed below, tabled for status reporting to the committee. It should be noted that a project is listed for individual status updates by its project budget exceeding $1.5M, and has expenditure forecasted for the FY22/23 and FY23/24. There are also some additional lower value projects which have been listed on request of the committee.

 

 

Project Name

Project Budget

1

ROA - Leichhardt Parking Meter

$1,800,000

2

ROA - Newtown - Lord St Trunk drainage duplication

$1,775,000

3

ROA - Lilyfield Road Cycleway

$4,115,000

4

ROA - Bike Route LR03 (Livingstone Rd to Frazer St) Construction

$2,000,000

5

PRO - Marrickville & St Peters Town Hall external works

$1,900,000

6

ROA - St Peters, Mary St to Sydenham Cycleway WestConnex

$1,395,000

7

ROA - Marrickville Rd (EAST) Design and Implementation

$3,515,000

8

ROA - Dulwich Hill Station Centre Upgrade

$3,180,000

9

ROA - Urban Amenity Improvement Program (Various Projects)

$4,739,775

10

TRE - Greenway capital budget

$20,720,000

11

TRE - Skate Park in Leichhardt Park - Construction

$1,460,000

12

TRE - Greenway Central Links Construction

$19,180,000

13

TRE - Tempe Reserve Sports field Lighting Upgrade

$1,900,000

14

TRE - King George Park Upgrade

$2,930,000

15

TRE - Greenway Bay Run Widening and Upgrade

$3,820,500

16

TRE - Marrickville Park Sports field upgrade

$1,879,100

17

TRE - Camdenville Pk remediation and staged upgrade

$4,615,000

18

TRE - 3 Cahill St & Lewis Herman Reserve

$2,450,000

19

PRO - Petersham Town Hall upgrade works

$2,129,747

20

PRO - Newtown Town Hall renewal works

$1,818,900

21

PRO - Tom Foster Community Centre renewal works

$1,542,736

22

PRO - Marrickville Town Hall internal refurbishment

$2,574,610

23

PRO - Annandale Town Hall Community Centre refurbishment

$1,508,000

24

PRO - AKAC Upgrade Works

$5,550,000

25

PRO - LPAC Major Project

$8,823,000

26

PRO - Birchgrove Park Amenities

$1,729,000

27

TRE - Henson Park Master Plan Building Upgrades

$1,400,000

28

PRO - Tempe Reserve Amenities Building

$2,500,000

29

PRO - Balmain Town Hall Site renewal works

$1,442,310

30

PRO – Camperdown Memorial Rest Park Toilets

$710,000

31

PRO – Henson Park Grandstand Upgrade – AFL PPP

$500,000

32

PR0 - Dawn Fraser Baths Northern Pavilion & Accessibility upgrades

$575,000

33

TRE - Inclusive Playgrounds

$2,050,000

 

Detailed meeting minutes are not released 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. Minutes for the meetings held from April through to and including September 2022 are attached though only show non confidential information. With this in mind, a project summary report is provided to record each projects progression/position for public reference. Enhancements to the summary are being considered for future versions.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 27 April 2022

2.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 30 May 2022

3.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 27 June 2022

4.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 25 July 2022

5.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 29 August 2022

6.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 26 September 2022

7.

Major Capital Projects Committee Project Summary Report as at October 2022

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 



Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 



Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 


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8 November 2022

 



































Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 12

Subject:          Updated Annual Disclosure of Interest Return 2021-22           

Prepared By:      Michele Smith - Governance Coordinator  

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council note the amended Annual Disclosure of Interest Return for the return period 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022 for Councillor Zoi Tsardoulias

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council’s Code of Conduct requires Councillors and Designated Persons who are in positions identified by the General Manager as at 30 June to disclose any pecuniary interests in an annual return within three months of 30 June each year. These returns were tabled at the first Council meeting following the last day of lodgment, being 25 October 2022.

 

Councillor Tsardoulias has subsequently submitted an amended Disclosure which is now tabled. In addition to being publicly available on request, this return will be published on Council’s website as soon as practicable. A general redaction of all private details such as addresses has been applied to this form.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil.

 

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Disclosures by councillors and designated persons form -  Councillor Zoi Tsardoulias - 2021-22

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 




Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 13

Subject:          Notice of Motion: Raise the Age           

From:             Councillors Dylan Griffiths and Mark Drury  

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council:

 

1.   Note that Australia is one of the few countries in the world that still locks away children as young as 10 years old; 

 

2.   Supports the Raise the Age campaign; 

 

3.   Calls upon the Federal and NSW state parliaments to raise the age of criminal responsibility to at least 14 years old and instead invest in community led solutions;

 

4.   Notify the Raise the Age campaign of our support;

 

5.   Write to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the NSW Premier, NSW opposition leader Chris Minns, the Federal and NSW Attorney-Generals and local state and federal members in support of the Raise the Age campaign; and

 

6.   Include a small blurb about this motion and a link to the Raise the Age petition in a future council newsletter.

 

 

Background

 

Children belong in school yards, not in prison cells. Across Australia, children as young as 10 can be arrested by police, charged with an offence, hauled before a court and locked away in a prison.

 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, organisations and activists have been pushing for the age of criminal responsibility to be changed for decades. In 2020 a coalition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and legal, medical and human rights groups came together to form a national campaign to push every single state, territory and federal government to change the laws so that children under 14 cannot be sent to prison. These organisations included the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Services, Change the Record, Human Rights Law Centre, Law Council of Australia, Amnesty International Australia, Australian Medical Association, Australian Indigenous Doctors' Association, Public Health Association of Australia and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

 

The official Raise the Age petition is here: https://raisetheage.org.au/changetherecord

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 14

Subject:          Notice of Motion: Keeping pets in rental homes           

From:             Councillor Dylan Griffiths  

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council:

1.   Note that in NSW, landlords can refuse to allow a tenant to keep a pet without providing a reason - unless it’s an assistance animal, and that the NSW government is currently consulting about changing these rules;

 

2.   Note that in other States and Territories, regulations have recently changed to make it easier for tenants to keep pets in rental home;

 

3.   Support a change to NSW Tenancy law to remove blanket 'no pets' clauses;

 

4.   Make a submission to the Minister for Fair Trading Victor Dominello in response to the consultation Keeping pets in Rental Homes, in support of reform; and

 

5.   Send a copy of this Motion and the Inner West Council submission to the Minister for Fair Trading Victor Dominello, the relevant opposition Shadow Minister, and the NSW Tenants Union.

 

 

Background

 

NSW tenancy law still allows for blanket ‘no pets’ clauses, so landlords can continue to refuse requests to get a pet for any reason, or no reason at all. Renters in NSW can negotiate with the landlord to get permission to get a pet. However, the final decision is up to the landlord (unless it is an assistance animal, for example, a guide dog).

 

The rules around keeping pets have recently changed in some other Australian States and Territories to make it easier for tenants to keep pets. For example, the landlord may be required to go to the Tribunal to refuse a pet, or may only be allowed to refuse a pet for certain reasons.

The NSW Government is holding public consultation on the topic of keeping pets in rental homes. The consultation is open until 5 pm Friday, 2 December 2022.
https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/pets-in-rental-homes

 

The Tenants Union will be campaigning in Camperdown Memorial Rest Park between 2pm and 4pm on Saturday 19 November to collect opinions and experiences from renters in the community about pets & renting.

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 15

Subject:          Notice of Motion: Disability Pride Flag Raising            

From:             Councillors Mathew Howard and Dylan Griffiths  

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council:

 

1.   Work closely with the organisers of Inner West Disability Pride to hold an event on or close to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December to raise the Disability Pride Flag;

 

2.   Collaborate with Inner West Disability Pride to provide a quote in any media release associated with the prospective Disability Pride flag raising event; and

 

3.   Ask Council officers to provide a briefing note on support provided by Inner West Council to Inner West Disability Pride. 

 

 

Background

 

For two years, the organisers of Inner West Disability Pride have held the Inner West Disability Pride Fest, the only disability pride festival held in Australia. 

 

As noted on their website (www.disabilitypridesydney.com), the values and objectives of Inner West Disability Pride are to: 

 

Fight against:

 

·    A purely “medical” or “charity” model of disability. These models say that people with disability have a sad life because they are defective and that is the sole cause of their problems. They say the rest of the world should pity us, not empower us. In reality, the problem is more the stairs than the wheelchair

·    Shame, pity, stigma and self-hate

·    Any ableism, or idea that ability or disability makes a person less valuable. 

Believe in:

·    A duty for society to respect and include us.

·    A right to be proud, celebrated and valued

·    Disability as a part of human diversity, that should be considered and included at all times.

·    In reclaiming disability identity. People with disabilities are the world’s largest and most diverse minority. We have our own history, culture, languages and community. 

 

Sources of pride vary but include:

·    Many of us see our disability as a positive part of our identity. 

·    We are also proud of our community, identity and culture.

·    We are an oppressed and marginalised minority and are proud of our solidarity. 

·    We are proud to be part of the beautiful variations that enrich humankind.

·    Disabilities are part of us and has helped shape us into who we are, and we are proud of our whole selves. We are proud of who we are as a whole, not proud of ourselves “despite our defects” 

·    We are in no way “less than” those whose bodies are minds are considered normal.

 

The Disability Pride Flag was designed in 2019 by Ann Magill, a woman living in the United States with Cerebral Palsy. In 2021, the flag evolved to be more accessible and inclusive for people with certain visual and neurological disabilities

 

More information on the symbolism and significance of the flag can be found at https://disabilitypridesydney.com/about-the-disability-pride-flag/ 

 

 

 

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 16

Subject:          Notice of Motion: Local Environmental Plan (LEP)           

From:             Councillor Jessica D'Arienzo   

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council:

1.   Notes at the Ordinary Council meeting held on 13 September 2022 Council unanimously resolved the following:

That Council:

1. Defer all further consideration of and consultation on the LEP in order to obtain written advice from the Office of Local Government as well as independent legal advice, explaining how Councillors should manage potential conflicts of interest relating to the process. This should include advice about if and how a local government area wide LEP process could allow all councillors to participate in the LEP process; and

 

2. Note that the LEP studies that have been released were prepared by consultants and that Councillors had no role in the preparation of the studies and were not briefed on these studies prior to their publication and that no further work will be undertaken on these studies or the related consultation while Council is awaiting advice from the Office of Local Government.

 

2.   Notes the Briefing Note to all Councillors dated 25 October 2022 summarising the legal advice on conflicts of interest, their management and in relation to the current LEP amendments being considered, their inability to be considered as ‘significant or whole of LGA’;

3.   Receive a report on the NSW Department of Planning and Environment advice regarding a local government wide LEP approach. Noting further discussions and negotiations with the Department are required to identify and document a whole of local government approach to achieving the planning priorities of the Local Strategic Planning Statement and the housing targets set out in the Local Housing Strategy;

 

4.   Report to Council outlining all the options available moving forward with an expanded LEP process including a comprehensive community consultation plan.

 

5.   Convene a roundtable discussion inviting renters, owners, businesses, community groups, advocacy groups and planners to discuss shared objectives with a local government wide LEP approach.

 

 

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 17

Subject:          Notice of Motion: Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Project           

From:             Councillor Jessica D'Arienzo  

 

 

Motion:

 

That Council:

1.   Note the construction underway for the Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Public Domain Improvements Project. These works aim to reverse the current urban decay and deliver liveable communities and neighbourhoods by providing a cohesive design surrounding the Dulwich Hill Station. The project will deliver a high quality multi-use corridor that will maximise connections to public transportation and improve the amenities available for use to the public;

 

2.   Acknowledge the disruption and impact of construction on the local business trade;

 

3.   Investigate options to reduce the permanent removal of parking spaces along Wardell Road, Ewart Street, Dudley Street and Bedford Crescent to reduce the negative impact on local businesses; and

 

4.   Update the Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Public Domain Improvements Project to give effect to the project changes and notify local businesses and community by letter.

 

 

Background

 

Our Dulwich Hill Station precinct improvements project will improve the liveability of this vital local business and transport hub.  Some of the planned works include: 

 

·     New tree planting, pavements, and multi-purpose LED lighting  

·     Creating a of new plaza to connect to the Greenway 

·     Creating new walking and cycling links to key transportation routes 

·     Adding traffic calming measures and a 40Km/hr high pedestrian zone. 

 

We are working with the State Government to improve safety for pedestrians and reduce road traffic accidents in the area, whilst making sure that Transport for NSW works on the new Sydney Metro station are delivered in line with community needs. 

 

During a recent visit to the site, local business owners on Wardell Road expressed their concerns with the economic impact of reduced parking during construction works of the metro and the public domain precinct project. 

 

Local businesses hold grave concerns for the proposal to permanently reduce parking spaces for tree plantings on the road and commenced a petition calling on the Inner West Council to re-evaluate the options available to balance the local economy and urban amenity. 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 18

Subject:          Notice of Motion: Balmain Bowling Club           

From:             The Mayor, Councillor Darcy Byrne   

 

 

Motion:

 

 

That Council:

1.   Note that the Balmain Bowling Club has been amalgamated into St John’s Park Bowling Club and has remained closed for many months despite public assurances from the management that the Club would reopen before now;

 

2.   Write to the Management of the Club, Clubs NSW and any relevant regulatory authorities expressing concern that the Club remains closed and seeking assurances about when it will be reopened;

 

3.   Notify local residents of Council’s concerns and provide them information about how they can advocate to the Club and the aforementioned authorities for the Club to be reopened; and

 

4.   Receive a report about the zoning status of the Club. 

 

 

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 19

Subject:          Question on Notice: Parks, Planning and Recreation and Urban Ecology           

From:             Councillor Justine Langford   

 

 

Comment by the General Manager:

 

A realignment of the Urban Ecology and Parks, Planning & Recreation area is currently being undertaken to ensure Council is positioned and structured appropriately to achieve the objectives of the Community Strategic Plan. This is expected to be finalised in the last quarter of 2022 at which time the Answers to the outlined question will be provided to the Ordinary Council meeting.

 

 

 

At the September Ordinary Council Meeting, I put a question to Council staff regarding the performance of the Urban Ecology and Parks, Planning & Recreation areas, as outlined in the Six Monthly Report (Item 15 – Six Monthly Progress Report). Noting the importance of these two areas and these two areas having a large proportion of actions ‘On Hold’ (pg 15). The General Manager responded that underperformance was due to difficulty with recruiting qualified staff. Further to this: Questions

 

Question

 

How many positions are currently in the Urban Ecology team & Parks, Planning & Recreation?

 

Question

 

What are those positions?

 

Question

 

How many positions are currently filled and / or vacant in the teams?

 

Question

 

How long have the roles been vacant?

 

 

 

Question

 

When will Council recruit for the vacant roles?

 

Question

 

What actions are ‘On hold’ for each team and why?

 

Question

 

How is the staff shortage impacting on the work of the Parks, Planning & Recreation and Urban Ecology teams?

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 20

Subject:          Question on Notice: Affordable Housing Fund           

From:             Councillor Dylan Griffiths   

 

 

Comment by the General Manager:

 

Answer to the question will be provided at an Ordinary Council meeting in December 2022.

 

 

 

Question

 

How much is in the Affordable Housing Fund?

 

Question

 

What expenditure has there been from the fund?

 

Question

 

What have been the income sources to the fund? 

 

Question

 

Please provide a complete list of transactions, with descriptions, into and out of the fund.

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 21

Subject:          Council Advertising and Inner West Council News           

Prepared By:      Michael Gleeson - Acting Strategic and Corporate Communications Manager  

Authorised By:  Peter Gainsford - General Manager

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.

 

 

 

Council will move into closed session to deal with the Council advertising and Inner West Council News Report, for information which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(i) 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 prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.

 

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)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Council Advertising and Inner West Council News - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to 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

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 22

Subject:          Procurement of ICT Devices           

Prepared By:      Nathan Hillery - Chief Technology Officer  

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

On the 24 June 2022, Inner West Council went to market for RFQ 104-22 ICT End User Devices. Following an evaluation of the three submissions received the panel seeks approval to form contracts with the vendor recommended in Confidential Attachments.

 

Council will move into closed session to deal with the Procurement of ICT Devices, for information which is classified as confidential under 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. 

 

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)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Confidential Report - Procurement of ICT Devices - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to 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.

Confidential - RFQ Selection Report - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to 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.

3.

Confidential - RFQ 104-22 - Evaluation Summary - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to 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

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 23

Subject:          Update on acquistion of investment properties           

Prepared By:      Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager  

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council will move into closed session to deal with the Update on Acquisition of Investment Properties, for information which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) and  (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) 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 and if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council. 

 

Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) and (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii)  of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Update on acquistion of investment properties November 2022 - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

2.

Ernst and Young Report - Shortlisted Property
Initial Due Diligence - Version Nine (9) - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

3.

Memorandum to the General Manager seeking approval to make a non-binding offer of purchase of Shortlisted Property - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

4.

Sales Brochure of Property - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 24

Subject:          Cahill Street Playground & Lewis Herman Reserve Construction Tender Report           

Prepared By:      Tim Brown - Coordinator Parks Project Delivery  

Authorised By:  Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

The 2022/23 Capital Works program includes the expansion and upgrade of Cahill St Playground and the construction of a new park at Lewis Herman Reserve. The projects provide new public open spaces and are funded through the NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program and by Inner West Council.

 

The works are consistent with the Lewis Herman Reserve Plan of Management adopted 2022 and the Neighborhood Parks Plan of Management (Cahill Playground).

 

On 20 September 2022, Council went out to public tender through Vendor Panel for a combined tender for construction of both parks.  Tenders closed on 11 October 2022.

 

Tenders were evaluated in accordance with Council’s Purchasing Policy and Procedures and the Local Government Act 1993 and Local Government (General) Regulations 2021.

 

The Tender Report including the Evaluation Committee’s report and discussion is attached as Confidential Attachment 1.

 

Council will move into closed session to deal with the Cahill St Playground & Lewis Herman Reserve Tender Report, for information which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) and (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) 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 and that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it

 

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) and (Section 10A(2)(d)(i)  of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The total project cost (including the recommended tender) exceeds the existing allocated Public Spaces Legacy budgets. This will be managed through a Quarter 2 budget review and transfer of funds from the 2027 forward budgets for both Lewis Herman Reserve and Cahill Street projects to cover the shortfall.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Cahill Street and Lewis Herman Tender report and Councillors memo FINAL - 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

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 25

Subject:          King George Park - Carpark Upgrade Tender Report           

Prepared By:      Tim Brown - Coordinator Parks Project Delivery  

Authorised By:  Stuart Hull - Senior Manager Capital Works

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.

 

 

DISCUSSION

The 2022/23 Capital Works program includes the King George Park Upgrade. The overall project comprises sports field upgrade, currently under construction, and upgrade of the car park, which is the subject of this report. The car park upgrade involves reconstruction of the car park to provide formalised parking spaces and pedestrian access and landscaping works.

 

On 16 September 2022, Council went out to public tender through Vendor Panel for the upgrade King George Park Carpark. Tenders closed on 7 October 2022.

 

Tenders were evaluated in accordance with Council’s Purchasing Policy and Procedures and the Local Government Act 1993 and General Regulations 2005.

 

The Tender Report including the Evaluation Committee’s report, discussion and recommendation is attached as Confidential Attachment 1.

 

Council will move into closed session to deal with the King George Park – carpark Upgrade Tender Report, for information which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) and (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) 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 and that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it

 

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) and (Section 10A(2)(d)(i)  of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The total project cost (including the recommended tender) is above the existing allocated budget. This will be managed through a Quarter 2 budget review transfer of Easton Park Sports field Upgrade surplus funds.

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

King George Park Upgrade Carpark - Confidential Tender 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

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 26

Subject:          Acquisition by agreement of an easement 4.1m wide at the side boundary of 2 Hay St, Leichhardt.           

Prepared By:      Stephen Joannidis - Urban Amenity Improvement - Delivery Manager  

Authorised By:  Stuart Hull - Senior Manager Capital Works

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council will move into closed session to deal with the Acquisition by agreement of an easement 4.1m wide at the side boundary of 2 Hay St, Leichhardt, for information which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) and  (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) 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 and if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council. 

 

Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(c) and (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii)  of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Confidential 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

2.

Valuatioin Report prepared by Geoff McGuirk of McGuirk Valuations Pty Ltd - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

3.

Valuatioin Report prepared by Geoff McGuirk of McGuirk Valuations Pty Ltd - Supplementary - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

4.

Valuatioin Report prepared by Geoff McGuirk of McGuirk Valuations Pty Ltd - Annexures - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

5.

Valuatioin Report prepared by Preston Rowe Paterson Sydney P/L for TfNSW - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

6.

Instrument Setting Out Terms Of Easements Or Profits À Prendre Intended To Be Created Or Released And Of Restrictions On The Use Of Land Or Positive Covenants Intended To Be Created Pursuant To Section 88b Conveyancing Act, 1919 - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

7.

Deposited Plan Administration Sheet - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

8.

Deposited Plan - 2 Hay St - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

9.

TfNSW Letter of Offer - 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)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

  


Council Meeting

8 November 2022

 

Item No:         C1122(1) Item 27

Subject:          Recycling Service Alignment            

Prepared By:      Erin White - Manager Resource Recovery and Fleet Services  

Authorised By:  Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the recommendation contained in the Confidential Attachment 1.

 

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Inner West Council has two different recycling collection services currently in operation across the council area. This presents to the community differing service arrangements and bin types including separate contractual arrangements for servicing and processing. The purpose of this report is to update on the harmonisation of Council’s recycling collection contracts, servicing arrangements and the standardisation of recycling bins to the NSW State Government’s best practice model of a 240 litre commingled recycling service.  

 

Existing Recycling Collection Services - Houses 

 

·     North Service Area (Leichhardt) - 2 x 120 litre bins (blue lid for paper & cardboard & yellow lid for containers) collected on alternate weeks. Collection services are contracted to United Resource Management (URM). The contract expires on 30 June 2023. 

·     West Service Area (Ashfield) – 1 x 240 litre bin for fully commingled recycling collected fortnightly. Collection services are contracted to Cleanaway. This contract expires on 16 December 2023. 

·     South Service Area (Marrickville) – 1 x 240 litre bin for fully commingled recycling collected fortnightly. Collection services are undertaken by council staff. 

Proposed alignment of services  

 

It is proposed to introduce a fully commingled service via a 1 x 240 litre bin, collected fortnightly in the North Service Area to align with the existing service provisions in the South and West Service Areas. This proposed service change will result in a three-bin system (instead of the existing 4 bin system in the North Service Area) and a harmonised recycling collection service for the entire LGA. 

Additional processing costs will be offset by savings in kerbside collection costs as the proposed fully commingled service will be collected fortnightly instead of the existing alternate weekly collection.

 

Environmental Benefits

 

Under the recycling alignment residents will present their recycling bin fortnightly decreasing collection truck movements (currently 2 bins collected alternate weeks) and reduce environmental impacts of associated fuel emissions.  

The paper and cardboard collected in the commingled bin will be separated from the other recyclables at Visy’s Material Recovery Facility (MRF) and will continue to be utilised to produce new cardboard boxes. The improved technologies at Visy’s MRF (blowers, optical sorters and eddy current separators) and the reduction of glass containers in the bin due to the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS), noting that glass fines are the major paper contaminant in commingled collections, results in minimal, if any, loss to the quality or quantity of paper recovered.  

 

Community Engagement 

 

A community engagement plan was developed to support the recycling service alignment. Information will be provided to residents explaining what, why, when and how recycling is being aligned via flyers, letters, Council’s website and social media. Councils front line staff will be made aware of the changes so that they can assist residents with any queries. Messaging will focus on the benefits of the one bin recycling system, the decrease in truck movements with the fortnightly collection and benefits of recycling and outputs. The targeted community engagement is scheduled to commence in early February 2023. 

 

 

Council will move into closed session to deal with the Recycling Service Alignment, for information which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(ii) 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 competitor of the council..

 

Pursuant to section 10A(2), 10(2) and 10A(3) of the Local Government Act 1993, the media and public will be excluded from the meeting on the basis that the business to be considered is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Recycling Service Alignment - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to 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.