AGENDA R

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Council Meeting

                            

TUESDAY 11 APRIL 2023

 

6.30pm

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

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

11 April 2023

 

 

PRECIS

 

VOLUME 1 OF 2

 

1          Acknowledgement of Country

 

2          Apologies

 

3          Notice of Webcasting

 

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

 

5          Moment of Quiet Contemplation

 

6          Confirmation of Minutes                                                                                          Page

Minutes of 14 March 2023 Council Meeting                                                                     7

 

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

 

C0423(1) Item 1       Delivery Program 2022-26 (year 2), Operational Plan and Budget 2023-24, and Long Term Financial Plan 2023-33 – Drafts for Public Exhibition         27

C0423(1) Item 2       Marrickville Parklands and Golf Course-Priority Plan of Management Works 349

C0423(1) Item 3       Preparation of a Park Plan of Management-MacKey Park                  353

C0423(1) Item 4       Preparation of a Park Plan of Management-Darrell Jackson Gardens 447

 

VOLUME 2 OF 2

 

C0423(1) Item 5       Revised Public Toilet Strategy                                                             521

C0423(1) Item 6       Land Classification - 203 Northumberland St, Liverpool                     715

C0423(1) Item 7       Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 20 March 2023                              717

C0423(1) Item 8       Major Capital Projects Committee Meetings and Project Summary Report    731

C0423(1) Item 9       Post Exhibition - Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy 772

C0423(1) Item 10     Post Exhibition - Draft Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting Policy 791

C0423(1) Item 11     Conflict of Interest Policy (Including Management of Council-related Development Applications)                                                                  803

C0423(1) Item 12     Draft Risk Management Policy                                                             824

C0423(1) Item 13     Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy                                           843

C0423(1) Item 14     Delegations Framework amendment                                                   856

 

 

11        Reports for Noting

 

ITEM                                                                                                                                    Page

 

C0423(1) Item 15     Inner West Council Anti-Racism Strategy Reference Group              858

C0423(1) Item 16     Reconciliation Action Plan Implementation Update                             860

C0423(1) Item 17     Inner West Council Arts and Music Recovery Plan Final                    863

C0423(1) Item 18     Local Democracy Groups - progress report                                         877

C0423(1) Item 19     Update on Town Halls                                                                          891

C0423(1) Item 20     Tree Management in Pioneer Memorial Park Leichhardt                    894

C0423(1) Item 21     Investment Report at 31 March 2023                                                  960

 

12        Notices of Motion

 

ITEM                                                                                                                                    Page

 

C0423(1) Item 22     Notice of Motion Pedestrian safety at Balmain Road, Lilyfield            984

C0423(1) Item 23     Notice of Motion: Demerging Inner West Council: Notifying NSW Parliament 985

C0423(1) Item 24     Notice of Motion: Woolworths Balmain                                                986

C0423(1) Item 25     Notice of Motion: Marrickville Mosaics                                                 987

C0423(1) Item 26     Notice of Motion: Media Advertising                                                    988

C0423(1) Item 27     Notice of Motion: Transphobic and Homophobic Behaviour               989

 

13        Questions From Councillors

 

ITEM                                                                                                                                    Page

 

C0423(1) Item 28     Question on Notice: Inner West Bushcare Sites                                 991

C0423(1) Item 29     Question on Notice: Reconciliation of Councillor Allowances             996

C0423(1) Item 30     Question on Notice: Mattress Collection                                              998

C0423(1) Item 31     Question on Notice: Sat-Scan information                                         1000

C0423(1) Item 32     Question on Notice: Glyphosate                                                        1002

C0423(1) Item 33     Question on Notice: Staff Turnover                                                    1004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

C0423(1) Item 34     Panel Member Appointment - Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP) 1006

C0423(1) Item 35     Appointment of Expert Representatives for the Inner West Local Planning Panel 1009

C0423(1) Item 36     FOGO Communication Strategy on Rollout                                      1010

C0423(1) Item 37     Update on the acquisition of investment properties                           1012

C0423(1) Item 38     Approval for Lease at 203 Northumberland Street, Liverpool NSW 1013

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

 

Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 14 March 2023 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

Chloe Smith

John Stamolis

Timothy Stephens

Zoi Tsardoulias
Peter Gainsford

Simone Plummer

Mayor

Deputy Mayor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor (attended via audio-visual link)

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

General Manager

Director Planning

Ryann Midei

Director Infrastructure

Ruth Callaghan

Kelly Loveridge

Beau-Jane De Costa

Matthew Pearce

Lisa Murphy

Heidi Webb

Daniel East

Scott Mullen

Daryl Jackson

Director Community

Director Corporate

Senior Manager Governance and Risk

General Counsel

Urban Forest Manager

Tree Contract Supervisor

Acting Senior Manager Strategic Planning

Strategic Investments and Property Manager

Chief Financial Officer

Katherine Paixao

Darcie Huisman

Business Paper Coordinator

Business Paper Officer

 

 

APOLOGIES:    

 

Motion: (Scott/Howard)

 

That Council accept Councillor Drury’s request to attend tonight’s Council meeting via audio-visual link due to family commitments.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISCLOSURES OF INTERESTS:   

 

Councillor Scott declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 4 Draft Development Control Plan - 122-130 Pyrmont Bridge Road and 206 Parramatta Road Annandale, as she is a Council delegate to the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP) which will be asked to provide a final determination on the planning matter. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting for this item.

 

Councillor Byrne declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 4 Draft Development Control Plan - 122-130 Pyrmont Bridge Road and 206 Parramatta Road Annandale, as he is a Council delegate of the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP). He will leave the meeting during discussion and voting for this item.

 

Councillor Howard declared a non-significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 7 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – February 2023 as he works in the Office of the State Member who has a representative on the Local Traffic Committee. He will remain in the meeting during discussion and voting as the vote of the State Member is exercised through a representative.

 

Motion: (Stephens/Smith)

 

That Council note the disclosures of interest.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

 

Motion: (Griffiths/Shetty)

That the Minutes of the Extraordinary Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 29 November 2022 and the Ordinary Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 14 February 2023 be confirmed as a correct record.

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

PUBLIC FORUM

 

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

 

Procedural Motion: (Griffiths/Scott)

 

That Council allow Gisele Mesnage to speak for 1 additional minute in Item 19.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 1  Condolence Motion: Passing of Australian Poet Antigone Kefala

Motion: (Da Cruz/Atkins)

 

1.   That Council note the passing of Antigone Kefala.

 

2.   That Council plant a tree in her memory in Annandale.

 

3.   That Council ensure we have all her books in our library collection.

 

4.   That Council support an exhibition at Leichhardt Library curated by her friend Beth Hatton.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

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

 

  1. Item 7             Local Traffic Committee Meeting - February 2023
  2. Item 12            Pedestrianisation of Main Streets
  3. Item 13           Complying development in Inner West Council under the Low-  
                           Rise Housing Diversity Code
  4. Item 22           Notice of Motion: Motion for the 2023 National General Assembly  
                           of Local Government: Preventing greenwashing and promoting
                           ethical and climate positive investments in Local Government
                           Super Fund

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

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

 

  1. Item 7             Local Traffic Committee Meeting - February 2023
  2. Item 12            Pedestrianisation of Main Streets
  3. Item 13           Complying development in Inner West Council under the Low-  
                           Rise Housing Diversity Code
  4. Item 22           Notice of Motion: Motion for the 2023 National General Assembly 
                           of Local Government: Preventing greenwashing and promoting
                           ethical and climate positive investments in Local Government
                           Super Fund

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 7         Local Traffic Committee Meeting - February 2023

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

1.   That the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 20 February 2023 be received and the recommendations be adopted.

 

2.   That the Minutes of the Extraordinary Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 28 February 2023 be received and the recommendations be adopted.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 12       Pedestrianisation of Main Streets

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 13       Complying development in Inner West Council under the Low- 
           Rise Housing Diversity Code

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C0323(1) Item 22       Notice of Motion: Motion for the 2023 National General
         Assembly of Local Government: Preventing greenwashing and
         promoting ethical and climate positive investments in Local
         Government Super Funds

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council endorses the following motion to be submitted to the 2023 National General Assembly of Local Government:

 

 

This National General Assembly of Local Government calls on the Australian Government to:

1.   Actively encourage local government super funds to divest from companies engaging in the extraction of fossil fuels, native forest logging, gambling, weapons manufacturers, and tobacco;

2.   Take immediate action to ensure the integrity and accountability of carbon offset programs, while supporting and funding councils to directly reduce operational and community emissions through the roll out of local renewable energy infrastructure and other greenhouse gas reducing initiatives;

3.   Ban the practice of ‘greenwashing’ in local government super funds, ensuring that local government super funds that invest in companies engaging in the extraction of fossil fuels, native forest logging, gambling, weapons manufacturers, and tobacco are not able to promote their funds as being environmentally friendly or ethical investors.

 National Objective

This motion addresses the following key questions in the 2023 discussion paper:

1.   Climate Change and Renewable Energy: Noting the Government’s commitment to reducing emissions, are there programs and initiatives that the Commonwealth Government could develop to assist councils in their work to address climate change and reduce emissions?

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Procedural Motion: (Howard/D’Arienzo)

 

That Council allow Councillor Smith to speak for 2 additional minutes on Item 2.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

 

 

C0323(1) Item 2            Tree Management DCP 2023

Motion: (Smith/Atkins)

 

1.    That Council adopt the Development Control Plan (Tree Management DCP 2023) to commence on 1 April 2023.

 

2.    That Council 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), as a part of the 2023/2024 Fees and Charges.

 

3.    That Council note that staff are developing a plan to strengthen compliance activities, including activities to ensure planting of replacement trees, and seek a report back to the June 2023 meeting of Council.

 

4.    That Council ask staff to provide the 2022 tree canopy data to the June 2023 meeting of Council.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment: (Stamolis)

 

That Council prepare a half-yearly report detailing the statistical performance of the Tree Policy.

 

The amendment lapsed for want of a seconder.

 

C0323(1) Item 3              Memorandum of Understanding Greater Sydney Parklands and  
            Inner West Council

Motion: (Shetty/Byrne)

 

1.    That Council endorses the negotiation and future signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Council, the Greater Sydney Parklands and NSW Health (the parties) in recognition of the regional importance of Callan Park and delegate authority to the General Manager to execute the MOU and any associated documentation.

 

2.    That Council request the Terms of Reference of the Callan Park Site Manager’s Working Group be changed so that the proceedings of meetings are not confidential and members of the meetings are not bound by confidentiality, and request that the minutes of all Callan Park Site Manager’s Working Group meetings be made available to the public and are published on both the Greater Sydney Parklands and Inner West Council websites. 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Scott left the meeting at 7:29pm as she is a Council delegate to the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP) which will be asked to provide a final determination on the planning matter.

 

The Mayor, Councillor Byrne left the meeting at 7:30pm and vacated the chair as he is a Council delegate to the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP) which will be asked to provide a final determination on the planning matter.


Election of Chairperson


The General Manager asked for nominations for a chairperson for Item 4 Draft Development Control Plan - 122-130 Pyrmont Bridge Road and 206 Parramatta Road Annandale.

Nominations were received for Councillor Griffiths.

The General Manager declared that Councillor Griffiths to be elected Chairperson for Item 4.

Councillor Griffiths assumed the chair.

C0323(1) Item 4              Draft Development Control Plan - 122-130 Pyrmont Bridge 
            Road and 206 Parramatta Road Annandale

Motion: (Drury/Da Cruz)

 

That Council place the draft site-specific Leichhardt Development Control Plan 2013 amendment for 122-130 Pyrmont Bridge Road and 206 Parramatta Road, Annandale on public exhibition in accordance with requirements of Council’s Community Engagement Framework, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and Assessment Regulation 2021.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

Absent:                        Crs Byrne and Scott

 

Amendment: (Da Cruz/Stamolis)

 

1.    That a 300m radius letter notification of this significant exhibitions.

2.    That a face-to-face forum at Annandale Neighbourhood Centre about the proposal be scheduled and be included in the notification.

3.    That clarity about how to make a submission be included in a notification letter and on Council’s Your Say website.

 

Motion Lost

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

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

Absent:                        Crs Byrne and Scott


The Mayor, Councillor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 7:41pm. Councillor Griffiths vacated the chair and the Mayor, Councillor Byrne assumed the chair.

 

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Scott returned to the Meeting at 7:41pm.



Procedural Motion: (Byrne/Howard)

 

That Council allow Councillor Smith to speak for 2 additional minutes on Item 5.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 5             Planning Proposal - Enmore Road Special Entertainment
           Precinct

Motion: (Smith/Byrne)

 

1.    That Council supports the Planning Proposal to designate Enmore Road as Special Entertainment Precinct on a permanent basis and submit it to the Minister for Planning seeking a Gateway Determination under section 3.33 and 3.34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

 

2.    That Council place the Planning Proposal and draft DCP amendments on community consultation in accordance with Council's Community Engagement Framework to meet the requirements of the Gateway Determination, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, should the Planning Proposal receive a favourable Gateway Determination.

 

3.    That Council request delegation from the Minister for Planning to manage the plan making functions of the Planning Proposal.

 

4.    That Council authorise the General Manager to make minor/technical modifications to the Planning proposal, Development Control Plan, and Special Entertainment Precinct Management Plan, prior to exhibition.

 

5.    That Council commit to bringing forward a parking review for the precinct area from 2026 to 2023, which will consider impacts of the SEP to kerbside and residential parking and mitigation actions Council can take, including encouraging greater use of public and active transport. 

 

6.    That Council increase ranger patrols of the precinct area and surrounding streets in peak times (evenings and weekends) to ensure greater compliance with parking restrictions.

 

7.    That Council engage with businesses within the precinct area to implement a ‘good neighbour’ management strategy, including: 

 

a)    crowd management for major events where queues may impact onto residential streets;

 

b)    a public awareness campaign encouraging visitors to be considerate of noise when arriving at or leaving venues at night;

c)    wayfinding signs and other measures to guide visitors from venues to public transport stops; and

 

d)    an investigation of streetscape accessibility to ensure the precinct area is accessible to all visitors.

8.    That Council reviews the zone in and around Enmore Road for any additional street cleaning required, and informs Councillors on the outcome of this review.

 


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 6            Little Villages Signage

Motion: (Howard/Da Cruz)

 

That Council defer consideration of the Report until the May 2023 Meeting and hold a briefing session in the meantime, with the inclusion of additional information including: 

 

  1. Updated designs of Wayfinding and Gateway signage incorporating community language and recognition of First Nations traditional ownership of land;

  2. Options for and advice around the inclusion of accessibility measures in Wayfinding and Gateway signage, including braille;

  3. Options and budget implications for the development of giant lettering signs in each of the little villages (Little Greece, Little Vietnam, Little Italy and Little Portugal);

  4.  An update on the feasibility of installing a large scale artwork on the Petersham Water Tower following more detailed conversations with Sydney Water; and

  5. Any additional options for large scale signage for Little Villages.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 8          1 - 13 Parramatta Road, Annandale - VPA Approval to notify

Motion: (Scott/D’Arienzo)

 

That the amended Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) for 1-13 Parramatta Road, Annandale be placed on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days and reported back to Council after public exhibition.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment: (Da Cruz/Stamolis)

 

  1. That a 300m radius letter notification of this significant exhibitions.

  2. That a face-to-face forum at Annandale Neighbourhood Centre about the proposal be scheduled and be included in the notification.

  3. That clarity about how to make a submission be included in a notification letter and on Council’s Your Say website.


Motion Lost

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

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

 

C0323(1) Item 9            Internal Ombudsman Renewal of Contract

Motion: (Byrne/Scott)

 

That Council endorse the renewal of the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service arrangement.


Motion Carried

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

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

 

C0323(1) Item 10         Councillor and Staff Interaction Policy

Motion: (Byrne/Scott)

 

1.    That Council place the draft Councillor and Staff Interaction Policy, as attached to the report, be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, subject to the following amendment being made to Clause 5.7:

a)    The General Manager or the staff member authorised to manage a councillor request will provide a response within a maximum of ten business days, or sooner where possible or necessary, or proactively advise if the request will exceed the ten business days. Where a response cannot be provided within that timeframe, the councillor will be advised, and the information will be provided as soon as practicable.

 

2.    That Council consider the results of the public exhibition process when adopting the final Councillor and Staff Interaction Policy.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 


Amendment: (Griffiths/Shetty)


That Clause 5.15 be deleted and re-numbered accordingly.


Motion Lost

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

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

 

C0323(1) Item 11         Rescheduling of June 2023 Council Meeting

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

 

1.    That Council reschedule the Ordinary Council meeting on 13 June 2023 to 20 June 2023 and publish these changes to the Meeting Schedule on Council’s website.

 

2.    That Council reschedule the Ordinary Council meeting on 14 November 2023 to 21 November 2023 and publish these changes to the Meeting Schedule on Council’s website.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 14       Update Report on The Implementation of Public Spaces
         (Unattended Property) Act 2021

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Byrne)

 

1.    That Council receive and note the report and receive a report on the plan for compliance action on the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021 by the June 2023 meeting. 

 

2.    That Council prepares an FAQ for the public about the new Policy, to be viewed by councillors first at a councillor workshop.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 15       Investment Report at 28 February 2023

Motion: (Drury/Scott)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

Procedural Motion: (Byrne/Howard)

 

That the meeting be adjourned for 5 minutes.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

The meeting was adjourned at 8.36pm

 

The meeting recommenced at 8.46pm

C0323(1) Item 16       Notice of Motion: Returning Planning Powers to Local Councils

Motion: (Da Cruz/Atkins)

 

1.    That Council requests the Mayor to write to the Premier, Dominic Perrottet, the Leader of the Opposition, Chris Minns, and the leaders of the Greens NSW, the National Party, the Shooters and Fishers Party as well as all candidates contesting the seats of Balmain, Summer Hill, Heffron, Strathfield and Newtown in the 2023 NSW election, seeking their commitment to:

 

a)    the principle of returning local planning powers to metropolitan local governments; and

 

b)    commits in the next term of NSW Parliament to work towards developing criteria by which the Minister for Planning may exempt metropolitan local governments from the requirements for local planning panels and in turn return DA determination powers to elected councillors.

 

2.    That Council requests the General Manager to publish responses received on Council's website prior to the 2023 NSW State election.


Motion Lost

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

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

 

C0323(1) Item 17       Notice of Motion: Haberfield District Celebrates 93rd Anniversary

Motion: (Da Cruz/Stephens)

 

That Council write to Haberfield Girl Guides congratulating them on their 90th Anniversary and inviting them to curate an exhibition about their history preferably at the Haberfield Library.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

C0323(1) Item 18         Notice of Motion: South Australia: First Nations Voice to  
           Parliament

Motion: (Stamolis/Lockie)

 

1.    That Council note that South Australia will be the first place in Australia to introduce an Aboriginal Voice to Parliament.

2.    That Council utilise any work done in South Australia which can assist Council in providing public information about a Voice to Parliament.

3.    That Council write to the Premier and Opposition leader, after the NSW election, to seek information about a Voice to Parliament for NSW.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 19       Notice of Motion: Pedestrian Safety at Cardinal Freeman Village

Motion: (Drury/Scott)

 

1.    That Council urgently investigate installing pedestrian crossings on Victoria Street and Queen Street, Ashfield, adjacent to Cardinal Freeman to improve pedestrian safety and better facilitate the use of adjoining bus stops.

2.    That Council report to the Local Traffic Committee on these investigations as a matter of priority. 

3.    That Council consult Cardinal Freeman residents to identify further pedestrian safety improvements in the streets surrounding the village. The results of this consultation will be reported to Council.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment: (Da Cruz/Stamolis)


That the visual impairment requirements be looked at and specified in the Motion.


Motion Lost

For Motion:                 Crs Atkins, Da Cruz and Stamolis

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

 

 

 

 

C0323(1) Item 20       Notice of Motion: Town Hall Open Days and Activations

Motion: (Howard/Langford)

 

1.   That Council acknowledge the expertise and hard work of staff working to facilitate open days as part of the plan to activate our town halls for use by artists and creative industries.

 

2.   That Council note the success of the recent open day at Marrickville Town Hall and implement feedback from the Marrickville Town Hall Reference Group in future open days, including: 

 

a)    Hiring performers or buskers to perform in the forecourt;

 

b)    Printing and posting corflutes at the front of town halls, advertising the creative use of venues EOI process and linking to information about the project to activate town halls;

 

c)    Providing printed materials and fliers advertising the creative use of venues EOI process and providing information about the project to activate the use of town halls; and

 

d)    Creating a visual presence at the front of town halls during open days, including banners. 

 

3.    That Council note work to establish three residency spaces at Marrickville Town Hall, including the provision of small risers, a lighting tree, sound mixing desk and other minor works and that funding.

 

4.    That Council note the proposal by the Pride Centre Steering Committee to establish temporary exhibition space in the front windows of the Newtown Town Hall while construction work is underway.

 

5.    That Council note that all Town Hall open days are to be completed by June 2023.

 

6.    That Council investigate permanent activations at the street entrance of Marrickville Town Hall on Marrickville Road to make the entry more inviting and accessible. Activations could include Council signage on the bus shelter and bin and flags and street art. The signage could include a QR code that links to Council’s website where residents can submit an Expression of Interest for an artist residency at the Town Hall.

 

7.    That the funding required, approximately $20,000, to implement the above recommendations be sourced from the Economic Development budget and also underspend in the Community Directorate.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

 

 

C0323(1) Item 21       Notice of Motion: Pride Inner West and Mardi Gras

Motion: (D’Arienzo/Atkins)

 

1.   That Council notes the successful Pride Inner West festival held from 11 February to 5 March 2023, which celebrated our local LGBTQ+ community as part of Sydney WorldPride.

 

2.   That Council commends the work of staff, members of Council’s World Pride Committee and LGBTQ Working Group, in developing and implementing the festival, which included more than 70 inclusive and accessible events across the Inner West.

 

3.   That Council notes Council's longstanding 'Feel the Love' Mardi Gras reception and the success of the inaugural Pride Inner West Festival and prepares a report to detail an annual program of events, including a Mardi Gras Parade screening, in celebration of our LGBTQ+ community.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil


Procedural Motion: (Shetty/Griffiths)

 

That Council allow Councillor Langford to speak for 1 additional minute on Item 23.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 23       Notice of Motion:  Urgent Maintenance and Improvement of   
         Pedestrian Safety on Bayview Avenue Bridge, Tempe

Motion: (Langford/Da Cruz)

1.    That Council notes that the pedestrian pathway on the bridge crossing the Cooks River at Bayview Avenue, Tempe is too narrow, and unsafe for pedestrians, cyclists, prams, wheelchairs and dog walkers.

 

2.    That Council notes that recently a local resident cut her hand on some wire that is protruding from the handrail on the bridge.

3.    That Council writes to the NSW Minister for Transport to request a new bridge to cater for active transport and to request urgent maintenance to address the immediate safety issues of rotten boards and sharp wire.

4.    That Council writes to the NSW Shadow Minister for Transport, asking them to commit to upgrading the bridge if they are elected.

 

 

Motion Lost

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

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


Foreshadowed Motion: (Byrne/D’Arienzo)


That safety issues on the Bayview Avenue bridge be referred to the Local Traffic Committee for investigation.


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Cr Da Cruz

 

C0323(1) Item 24       Notice of Motion: Improving Pedestrian Safety on Wardell Road
         Bridge, Marrickville

Motion: (Langford/Atkins)

1.   That Council notes that the pedestrian pathway on either side of the Wardell Road bridge, crossing the Cooks River in Marrickville, is narrow, unfenced and unsafe for pedestrians, cyclists, prams, dog walkers and wheelchairs.

2.   That Council notes that there is no zebra crossing on Wardell Road, Marrickville before the start of the bridge. This is a popular place for pedestrians and golfers from Marrickville Golf Club to cross. Crossing can be dangerous, especially during peak hour when traffic is heavy.

3.   That Council urgently repairs the damaged pedestrian refuge on Wardell Road, Marrickville to improve pedestrian safety.

4.   That Council investigates installing traffic calming measures within the area to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists and encourage active transport. Measures to be investigated could include:

a)   A zebra crossing on Wardell Road, Marrickville at the start of the bridge;

b)   Reducing speed limits;

c)   Safety fencing on either side of the bridge;

d)   Dedicating one of the paths to pedestrians and the other path to cyclists; and

e) The results of the investigation be referred to the Traffic Committee.

 

Motion Lost

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

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


Procedural Motion:
(Langford/Shetty)


That a motion of dissent be moved in the chairperson’s ruling on the point of order raised by Councillor Shetty that the mayor’s comments were not relevant to the motion.

 


Motion Lost

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

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

 

The Mayor’s ruling was upheld.

 

Foreshadowed Motion: (Byrne/Howard)


That safety issues on Wardell Road bridge be referred to the Local Traffic Committee for investigation.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 25       Notice of Motion: Motion for the 2023 National General Assembly
         of Local Government - Banks to offer more investment products

Motion: (Drury/Smith)

 

That Council endorses the following motion to be submitted to the 2023 National General Assembly of Local Government:

 

This National General Assembly calls on the Australian Government to work with ALGA and the Australian Banker's Association to convince all banks to offer investment products to Local Government that will not contribute to further climate change. Reasons for this include:

 

1.    Local governments across Australia often hold significant funds that have been allocated for future use, but may struggle to identify sustainable and ethical investment options that align with community values and meet permitted forms of investment set by state and territory governments.

2.    Many councils are particularly interested in identifying investment opportunities that will not contribute to climate change.

3.    In NSW, LGNSW has raised this matter with the NSW Minister for Local Government, who encouraged councils to prioritise sustainable investments that are in accordance with the NSW Ministerial Investment Order.

4.    LGNSW has also written to the Australian Banking Association (ABA) seeking to encourage banks to offer more investment products to councils to meet this objective.

5.    The ABA has now sought a meeting with LGNSW which is expected to take place shortly.

6.    Given this is a common issue for councils in all states and territories and that banks operate nationally, ALGA may consider adding their voice to this advocacy.

 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Procedural Motion: (D’Arienzo/Howard)

 

That Council enter into Confidential session.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Confidential Session

 

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

 

C0323(1) Item 33 Update on the 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 (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.

 

C0323(1) Item 34 Panel Member Appointment - Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP) (Section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993) as it contains personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors).

 

C0323(1) Item 35 FOGO Processing Contract Update (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business and (Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.

 

Procedural Motion: (Howard/Scott)

 

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

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

resolutions passed during closed session

 

C0323(1) Item 33       Update on the Acquisition of Investment Properties

Motion: (Drury/Stamolis)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 


Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Amendment: (Da Cruz)


That Council provide the community with the context and progress for these Investments, i.e., $80 million received from Transport for NSW, Investment amount and estimated return and that we are looking for properties to invest in with an estimated return of that which was lost when the Tempe Lands which returned $4 million were compulsorily acquired by Transport for NSW, on our website and in our newsletter.

 

The amendment lapsed for want of a seconder.

 

C0323(1) Item 34       Panel Member Appointment - Sydney Eastern City Planning
         Panel (SECPP)

Motion: (Scott/Byrne)


That Council defer this matter to the April 2023 Ordinary Council meeting.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0323(1) Item 35       FOGO Processing Contract Update

Motion: (Howard/Byrne)

 

1.    That Council receive and note the report.  

 

2.    That Council request that officers provide a further report to the next council meeting detailing the communications strategy for the FOGO roll-out, with specific reference to the progress of Part 2 of Motion C1022(1) Item 33 from the meeting held on October 25 2022, which stated:

 

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.  

 

3.    That as part of this report, Council provide information regarding the Budget for this component of work and the proposed timeline for an expression of interest or tender process, as appropriate. 

 

 

 

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Meeting closed at 10.04pm.

 

 

Public Speakers:

 

 

Item #

 

Speaker                     

Suburb

Item 1:

Pip Griffin

Beth Hatton

Leichhardt

Annandale

Item 2:

Rene Holmes

Robert Mayer

Ashfield

Stanmore

Item 5:

Nick Rippon

Newtown

Item 17:

Kerrin Alamango

Eliza Dawson

Isabella Ramirra

Leichhardt

Ashfield

Haberfield

Item 19:

Gisele Mesnage

Lynn Booth

Crisetta MacLeod

Ashfield

Ashfield

Ashfield

Item 23:

Anne Cooper

Earlwood

Item 24:

Kylie Cochrane

Dulwich Hill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unconfirmed minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting held on 14 March 2023.

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 1

Subject:         Delivery Program 2022-26 (year 2), Operational Plan and Budget 2023-24, and Long Term Financial Plan 2023-33 – Drafts for Public Exhibition           

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

Authorised By:       Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

1.   That Council endorse for public exhibition for a period of 28 days the:

 

a)   Draft Delivery Program 2022-26 (year 2), Operational Plan and Budget 2023-2024 (including fees and charges 2023-2024); and

 

b)   Draft Long-Term Financial Plan 2023-2033

 

2.   That Council endorse the proposed amendment to the adopted Residential and Business - General Rates Harmonisation transition timeline, for 100% transition from 1 July 2023, instead of ending July 2029; and

 

3.   That Council receive a report of the public exhibition outcomes at the June Council meeting.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Integrated Planning and Reporting

 

Under the Local Government Act, councils are required to develop a suite of plans as part of the ‘Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework’ (IP&R). IP&R is a rigorous and consistent system of community planning across all NSW local councils which also takes into consideration state and regional priorities.

 

IP&R assists councils in delivering their community’s vision through long, medium and short-term plans.

In June 2022, Council adopted its:

 

·    Delivery Program 2022-2026 - outlines Council’s commitment to achieving the outcomes and strategies of the Community Strategic Plan during its term of office. Inner West’s Delivery Program is combined with the annual Operational Plan. The one-year Operational Plan contains detailed actions for the year, and the Statement of Revenue Policy (including budget).

 

·    Long Term Financial Plan 2023-33- sets out the ten year budget forecast, underlying assumptions, sensitivity analysis, financial modelling for possible scenarios and methods of monitoring financial performance.

 

The Delivery Program/Operational Plan and Long Term Financial Plan are reviewed and updated annually and the drafts must be publicly exhibited for a minimum of 28 days prior to adoption by Council.

 

Draft 2023/24 plans

 

The draft Delivery Program 2022-26 (year 2) / Operational Plan and Budget 2023/24 (including draft Fees and Charges 2023/24) and Long Term Financial Plan 2023/33 are attached for Council’s consideration.

 

Draft Delivery Program 2022-26 (Year 2) / Operational Plan and Budget 2023/24

 

As this is the second year of the Delivery Program, the document continues the Delivery Program structure and services as adopted in June 2022.

 

The draft Operational Plan 2023/24 has:

·    174 actions including 110 rolling over from 2022/23 and 64 new actions arising from Council resolutions, new projects or to progress adopted strategy or policy

·    138 measures

 

Section three of the plan provides details about the draft budget and rating for 2023/24 to 2026/27. The draft Fees & Charges for 2023/24 is an appendix to the plan. In 2023/24, Council is budgeting total income before capital grants and contributions of $269.4m and expenses of $269.2m resulting in a surplus of $0.2m. Below is a summary of how Council has budgeted to spend rates and other income in 2023/24.

 

 

The key drivers of the budget include:

 

·    IPART setting the 2023/24 Rate PEG at 3.7% in line with the Local Government offering.

·    Continued draw down of the Domestic Waste Management reserve.

·    Fees and Charges for 2023/24 being indexed at 7% unless stated overwise. Over the 10 year LTFP this is forecast to reduce to 2.5%.

·    Increase of salaries and wages by 4.0% in anticipation of the new award commencing 1 July 2023.  Over the 10 year LTFP salaries and wages are forecast to return to 2.5% from 2028/29 financial year.

·    Provision of adequate budget for the maintenance of Council facilities under its control.

·    In future years, Council is budgeting an increasing surplus after expenses and revenue are stabilised. Future years surplus are as follows:

2024/25 $0.7m surplus

2025/26 $2.4m surplus

2026/27 $3.2m surplus

 

In 2023/24, Council is budgeting to spend $105.2m on capital expenditure. Whilst continuing to maintain a high renewal of infrastructure of Council assets, other main projects include:

·    Greenway Program

·    Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre Major Project

·    Main Street Revitalisation

·    Inclusive Playgrounds

·    Camdenville Park Remediation and Staged Upgrade

·    Tempe Reserve Amenities Building

·    HJ Mahoney Reserve Sporting Ground Upgrade

 

Future years capital expenditure is:

·    2024/25 $100.6m

·    2025/26 $77.6m

·    2026/27 $73.6m

 

The draft Fees & Charges for 2023/24 are attached and provide for a general increase of 7.0%. Select fees have varied from the standard increase after considering other factors such as community benefits and costs of providing services. Other fees may not have changed, for example statutory fees are as determined. Council’s Fees & Charges have been classified under directorates and service units. Attachment 2 includes a list of Fees & Charges Change Log that are new, deleted, change of wording or have increased/decreased by more than 7.0%.

 

Long Term Financial Plan 2023/33

 

In accordance with the IP&R guidelines, the LTFP is required to include:

·    projected income and expenditure, balance sheet and cash flow statement

·    planning assumptions

·    sensitivity analysis, highlighting factors and assumptions most likely to impact the LTFP

·    financial modelling for different scenarios

·    methods of monitoring financial performance

·    major capital and operational expenditure implications.

 

The draft Long Term Financial Plan for 2023-2033 sets out two scenarios in which each, at the very least, maintain current service levels and establish a balanced budget.  These are:

 

·    Scenario 1 – Business as Usual, maintain existing service levels: In this scenario, Council continues to operate at the existing service levels to the community and maintaining the capital works program to ensure infrastructure is renewed or upgraded over the 10 years. This scenario also ensures that Council is financial sustainable by ensuring there are funds available to deliver infrastructure and services to the community.

 

·    Scenario 2 – Addresses the Infrastructure Asset Renewal Backlog: In this scenario, Council continues to provide its services to the community as per scenario 1 with the addition of a process to reduce the current infrastructure backlog of $20.7m from the 2021/22 financial statements over the course of the LTFP. The majority of the planned infrastructure spend is spread over the 10-year LTFP and results in this scenario show that Council would be in a general funds deficit by 2026/27 financial year, so would require a loan of approximately $10.8M to cover the deficit.

 

Key highlights in the LTFP include Council achieving a surplus for the 10 years, and key performance indicators including the Unrestricted Current Ratio, Debt Service Ratio and Infrastructure Backlog Ratio all exceeding their performance benchmarks for the full ten years.

 

Rates Harmonisation

During the council amalgamation process, section 218CB was inserted into the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act). This essentially was a transitional provision, requiring all amalgamated Councils to continue their existing pre-amalgamated rating structures for a period of four years from 1 July 2016 through until 30 June 2020. The NSW Government then amended the Act again, further extending this deadline until 30 June 2021.

 

When section 218CB expired on 30 June 2021 and lifted the freeze on rates, Council was required to adopt a harmonised rating structure commencing 1 July 2021. 

 

On 13 May 2021, the NSW Parliament passed the Local Government Amendment Act 2021 (Amendment Act). This Amendment Act allowed councils to adopt a transition plan over a maximum of eight years which would enable transition to the final preferred rating structure acting to ‘smooth out’ both positive and negative impacts to ratepayers.

 

The Amendment Act provided greater flexibility for the councils that were formed in 2016 as they prepared to harmonise rates from 1 July 2021.  Specifically, that councils could choose, in consultation with their communities, to harmonise their rating structures gradually over up to eight years. Councils that chose to take up this option must apply no more than 50% of the total increase in rates for each rating category over the period, in any one year.

 

Council commenced harmonising its rating structure on 1 July 2021, with an eight-year transition plan. The community consultation had been based on council staff recommendation of full (100%) transition to the new rating structure on 1 July 2021.  This change caused a number of ratepayers in higher land value areas of the Inner West to contact Council questioning and validating their rates notices received.  In most cases, these ratepayers were expecting a reduction in rates charged but received an increase due to the adopted eight-year transition plan.

 

Home and business owners currently pay different rates depending on where they live in the Inner West LGA. We share the parks, the pools, the libraries and the roads, so it is considered only fair that everyone contributes equally to the cost of the facilities.

 

It is proposed to reduce the transition plan from the current eight-year transition ending in July 2029, to 100% transition from 1 July 2023. The aim of reducing the transition plan is to address the current rates imbalance and bring about fairness and equity for all ratepayers. The rates harmonisation process does not increase the total rates received by Council, rather it is just a redistribution of the existing rates income.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current and Proposed Harmonised Rate Example Using $1m Land Value

 

 

 

Note that new land values were recently issued by the Valuer Generals Office which have been used to calculate the rates income. These new land valuations come into effect from 1 July 2023. Property owners whose land values have increased will see a proportionate increase in their rates.

 


Residential rates comparison: 1 Year (proposed) vs Year 3 of 8 (current transition)

 

 


 

Business rates comparison: 1 Year (proposed) vs Year 3 of 8 (current transition)

 

 

Public exhibition

 

The documents are proposed to be publicly exhibited from 17 April-19 May 2023.

 

The draft documents will be available for the community to view at:

·    Council’s Service Centres – Ashfield, Leichhardt and Petersham

·    Council’s Libraries – Balmain, Haberfield, Marrickville and St Peters

·    Online at Council’s online engagement website (yoursay.innerwest.nsw.gov.au)

 

The community can provide submissions by mail, email, phone, or online, which will be reported to Council when the draft documents are brought back for adoption.

 

 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Council’s commitments in the Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program and Operational Plan are resourced as outlined in the annual budget and Long Term Financial Plan. 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

2023 - 2033 Inner West Council Draft Long Term Financial Plan

2.

2023/24 Fees and Charges Changes Log

3.

2023/24 Fees and Charges

4.

2023/24 Draft DPOP for Public Exhibition

 

 


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Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 2

Subject:         Marrickville Parklands and Golf Course-Priority Plan of Management Works           

Prepared By:      Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Recreation Planning Manager 

Authorised By:  Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

1.    That projects identified as capital development improvements with high community benefit and identified as Council’s responsibility be considered for funding over a seven-year period, and Government grant funding support be sought where  applicable.

 

2.    That Council congratulates the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club on its commitment and action in developing an inclusive and welcoming community sporting club and importantly its hosting of a wide range of sporting and cultural events in 2023.

 

 

DISCUSSION

On 21 August 2021 Council adopted a 10-year Plan of Management and landscape Master Plan for Marrickville Parklands including the 18-hole golf course, Dibble Avenue Waterhole and AB Crofts Playground. On 4 April 2022 Council and the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club signed a 21-year lease for use of the parklands as an 18-hole golf course. The Parkland adjoins the Cooks River and enjoys significant community access for walking, companion animal exercise and biodiversity initiatives, including tree planting and bush care enhancement. The parkland is an integral landscape feature of the Cooks River Walkway and the largest area of open space in the Inner West LGA, next to Callan Park. The Marrickville Parklands has the potential to be a major regional recreational walking trail with long term links to the Greenway.

 

Council staff have been working closely with the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club Executive Committee on prioritising projects identified in the adopted park plan of management which will improve the amenity, public access and safety of the parklands.

 

Key projects which have been identified have been listed in Table 1.0 below.

 

Master Plan Reference

Description/Rational of Proposed Improvement Works

Responsibility

Planning Notes

Master Plan Action 23

Construction of a Veranda for the Clubrooms to enhance the clubrooms and appreciation of the golf course surrounds

Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club.

 

Council to assist with grant funding application support where possible.

Due to planning controls a Development Application is likely to be required for these works.

Master Plan Action 18

Storage Sheds (x2) Current facilities are dilapidated and inefficient Rebuild to accommodate local environment groups and provide public amenities for all-abilities toilets.

Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club.

 

Council to assist with grant funding application support where possible.

Due to planning controls a Development Application is likely to be required for these works.

Not referenced in the Master Plan but noted as an essential utility service.

Sewerage Provision – Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club. The sports club is currently operating with two septic tanks which are proving inadequate for the growing numbers of visitors to the Club and restaurant facility.

                         

Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club,

 

Council to assist with facilitating discussions with Sydney Water.

 

 

Approvals will be required from Sydney Water for this work.

Master Plan Action 5

Perimeter Fencing - the current fencing is old, unsightly and in disrepair.

Council in consultation with the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club

 

Master Plan Actions 1,6&8

Wayfinding and Signage - Public Access and Safety.  The Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club and Council have agreed that ongoing community access to the golf course at all times needs to be maintained.

 

The safety of the community can be enhanced by the provision of signage reminding the community of the importance of sharing the space with golfers and by directing pedestrians into the safest pathways that traverse the environment.

Council in consultation with the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club

Council to consider funding in recognition that the parklands have shared community access.

Master Plan Actions 15,21&22

Water Security -The Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club has carried out extensive research into harvesting storm water runoff for use on the course. The  plan would be to position storage ponds and tanks strategically through the course to maximise the use of storm water.

Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club.

 

Council can assist with the preparation of grant applications where available.

Due to Planning controls a Development Application is likely to be required for this work.

Master Plan Actions 4,7,11,15&17

Environmental Projects -Future Native Tree Planting

Council in consultation with the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club

Council to fund as part of its ongoing commitment to urban forest renewal and ecological enhancement.

Master Plan Action Items 2&6

Car Park and Driveway Lighting Provision. Lighting to improve access safety.

Council in consultation with the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club

Council has allocated $50,000 allocated in the draft 2023/24 budget.  

Master Plan Action 4

Public Safety and Community Access Improvements

Short term construction of a boardwalk connecting the 1st tee box to the Cooks River Bridge Crossing.

 

Longer term raised riverside pathway walkway to address all abilities access along the margins of the Cooks River and provide a safe and accessible recreational trail for the community.

Council in consultation with the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club

Council to consider future funding in recognition that the parklands have shared community access.

 

Development Applications (DA)

A number the projects listed as key priorities for parkland improvements are likely to require a development application and consideration by the Inner West Local Planning panel. Advice sought from Council’s Planner has highlighted that with regards to all existing outbuildings on the site, exempt development is not an option for land in a foreshore area or in an environmentally sensitive area (both of which are applicable to the Marrickville Parklands site).

In terms of the construction of an additional veranda to the club rooms such a facility cannot be constructed on land within a foreshore area or cannot be higher than 1m above ground level (existing) under exempt development. In addition to this requirement any earthworks and associated retaining walls also require development consent as they are situated in a flood control lot and in an environmentally sensitive area. Finally in terms of any DA application the applicant would also need to apply for a flood certificate and a Flood Risk Management report would be required to address the controls in the DCP to the extent that it applies to what works/use they are undertaking.

The costs of the development applications associated with the priority action works are likely to be significant particularly with regard to the drawing of relevant plans, potential investigations and relevant technical studies. The ability of the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club as a voluntary club to meet these costs as well contribute towards capital improvement within the parklands is noted as financially challenging.

 

Community Events

As part of its commitment to enhancing community life in the Inner West, the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club has scheduled a number of Community events for 2023.

·      Hosting of World Pride Golf Day on Friday February 24th

·      Inner West Short Film Festival- March 31st

·      Reconciliation Golf Day- June 2nd

·      Orion’s Big Back Yard - local musicians providing "funk on the fairways”- February 18th

·      Battle of the Brewers - local brewers providing "froth on the fairways” while playing competitive golf.

In addition to the above listed events and as part of their commitment to reconciliation, the Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club, are liaising with Community Services staff to explore opportunities to identify each of the 18 holes on the golf course from an indigenous perspective, geographical, cultural or environmental.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There is $50,000 allocated in the draft 2023/24 budget.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 3

Subject:         Preparation of a Park Plan of Management-MacKey Park           

Prepared By:           Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Recreation Planning Manager 

Authorised By:       Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

1.   That Council as land manager of MacKey Park endorse the Draft Plan of Management (Lot 70, Lot 71 DP 1066013 and Lot 7307 DP 1145332) and refer this to the Minister for Crown Land and Waters for owners’ consent.

 

2.   That Council, upon receipt of owners’ consent, place the Draft Plan of Management on exhibition for 28 days and report back to Council for adoption.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council has now completed the development of a 10 year draft plan of management and master plan for MacKey Park (refer to Attachment 1).

 

A Park Plan of Management [POM] is a guiding framework which directs the future vision, planning, management and use of the park. It will be used to inform the development of the park over the next ten years. The associated Master Plan is a design report outlining the actions required for improvement, intended to guide the physical upgrade of the parkland over the next ten years. It does this by suggesting how the strategies set out in the Plan of Management can be translated into site specific improvement opportunities for use and enjoyment of the park. Council officers have undertaken an extensive review of the draft Plan of Management and are presenting the plan to Council for endorsement for further community engagement with an exhibition period of 28 days.

 

Location, Access and Use

Mackey Park is located in the south of Marrickville, neighbouring Tempe to the east, separated by the railway line. Tempe Station is located adjacent to the park, less than two minutes’ walk away. To the south, the Mackey Park has 280m of foreshore along the Cooks River. Following the river, the park is part of a larger network of green spaces within the Cooks River Parklands Masterplan. The park is within walking distance from Warren Park, Kendrick Park, as well as Gough Whitlam Park and Wentworth Park in Earlwood via a bridge over the river. The surrounding built area is defined as mixed use comprising of low density residential and industrial uses.  Recently, Marrickville has been referred to as the number one emerging “Sydney hipster suburbs ”, due to its youthful population, increasing numbers of liquor licences and numerous “foodie” eateries.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Site Plan and Parkland Features 1.0 MacKey Park

 

Ownership and Management

Mackey Park is in the majority owned by the Crown (State of NSW) and is set aside as Crown Land Reserve which is managed by Council as the land manager on behalf of the NSW Government. Crown Land Reserves managed by Council have been set aside for a particular public purpose. Mackey Park has several categories and core objectives as defined under the Local Government Act 1993. Mackey Park is categorised as a sports ground, a park and for general community use.

 

 

 

 

 

Community Engagement

Council has undertaken extensive community engagement as part of the development of the draft plan of management and master plan. The purpose of the community engagement to date has been to listen to community views and understand the key issues expressed in relation to management and use of the park, including those features of the parkland which are high valued. In addition, the community engagement outcomes have assisted with the preparation of a draft landscape master plan for the park as well as documenting key opportunities which can enhance community recreational use into the future. Throughout the engagement process contributors have been encouraged to include ideas, comments and suggestions to assist in prioritising the focus of key strategies and outcomes for the future.

The full community engagement report on the outcomes of community engagement and exhibition to date can be found in Appendix B of Attachment 1 on Pages 2-17:

 

In summary Council has undertaken the following community engagement:

 

·    Saturday 10 September 2022 11am-1pm

·    Saturday 17 September 2pm-4pm.

 

Both community engagement sessions were well attended with excellent representation from a range of stakeholders. Fig 1.1 illustrates the number of the responses received at the two drop in events.

 

Fig 1.1 Have Your Say Display Boards

 

Key Sporting Partnership Engagement

In addition to the onsite community engagement sessions, a separate workshop event was held key sporting stakeholders who are currently involved with Mackey Park. Stakeholders were invited to submit written responses to Mackey Park planning as well as voicing concerns at a meeting conducted by Council staff on site on 12 October 2022. Representation included:

•     Croquet NSW

•     Cooks River Croquet Club

•     Cooks River Canoe Club

•     Marrickville Cricket Club (MCC)

•     Marrickville Football Club (MFC)

•     Concordia Club

 

Draft Plan of Management and Master Plan Proposals (Developed from Stage 1 Engagement).

The draft master plan for Mackey Park can be viewed on Page 46 of Attachment 1.  In summary based on the community engagement outcomes and site analysis to date, the following opportunities are recommended to be considered by Council and the community in relation to future park upgrades:

 

•     New amenities block and plaza area (removal of shipping containers)

•     New pocket parkland with plantings

•     Expanded play ground with shade structures

•     Wetland improvements and enhanced stormwater investigations

•     Improved park lighting

•     Concordia Club building upgraded or replaced to service the park as a whole.

•     Rationalisation of the car park

•     Upgrades to the sporting ground surface and upgraded sports floodlighting.

•     New Cricket practise nets.

•     Improved accessibility to Cooks River.

 

Plan of Management Next Steps

The Draft Plan of Management must be referred to the Minister for Lands and Water for formal endorsement of owner’s consent. On receipt of owners’ consent, the plan of management will be exhibited for a further 28 days and then brought back to Council for adoption. The Crown Land Management Act also requires that as part of the park plan of management planning process that Council seek and provide a copy of Native Title Managers Advice as per Section 8.7. A copy of the Native Title Managers Advice will be reported back to Council on receipt of the final plan of management. 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The final plan of management for Blackmore Park will include an analysis of all future costings associated with proposed park upgrades and capital work improvements.

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft Plan of Management Mackey Park

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 




























































































Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 4

Subject:         Preparation of a Park Plan of Management-Darrell Jackson Gardens           

Prepared By:          Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Recreation Planning Manager 

Authorised By:       Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

1.   That Council as land manager of Darrell Jackson Gardens endorse the Draft Plan of Management and publicly exhibit this for a period of 42 days for further community engagement.

 

2.   That on the completion of the public exhibition period, the Plan of Management is brought back to Council for further consideration and adoption.

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council has now completed the development of a 10 year draft plan of management and master plan for Darrell Jackson Gardens (DJ Gardens) (refer to Attachment 1).

 

A Park Plan of Management [POM] is a guiding framework which directs the future vision, planning, management and use of the park. It will be used to inform the development of the park over the next ten years. The associated Master Plan is a design report outlining the actions required for improvement, intended to guide the physical upgrade of the parkland over the next ten years. It does this by suggesting how the strategies set out in the Plan of Management can be translated into site specific improvement opportunities for use and enjoyment of the park.

 

Location, Access and Use

Darrell Jackson Gardens is located in the centre of Summer Hill. The park sits directly west of Summer Hill CBD, within 5 minutes walking distance of businesses along Lackey Street. There are entry points on three sides of the park, to the north, south and east. The park has street frontage on Smith Street and Carlton Cres, which separates the park from the train line. The third point of entry, and the most traversed, is a pedestrian walkway linking to the CBD via Hardie Ave. To the south of the site, medium density housing, comprised of detached and semi-detached houses dominate the streetscape. These houses are predominately pre-war federation style houses. To the west of the park, 3/4 level apartment buildings dominate the residential landscape. There are over 30 existing high density living buildings within the block before Prospect Road. Residents of this high density living environment place great significance on their access to nearby outdoor public spaces and the park is many ways the backyard of those living in these apartments.

 

Ownership and Management

DJ Gardens is owned by Inner West Council and managed as community land. The Parkland is managed as a Sporting ground, park and for general community recreational use.

 

 

 

Fig1.0 Site Plan and Key Park Features-DJ Gardens

 

 

Community Engagement

Council has undertaken extensive community engagement as part of the development of the draft plan of management and master plan. The purpose of the community engagement to date has been to listen to community views and understand the key issues expressed in relation to management and use of the park, including those features of the parkland which are high valued. In addition, the community engagement outcomes have assisted with the preparation of a draft landscape master plan for the park as well as documenting key opportunities which can enhance community recreational use into the future. Throughout the engagement process contributors have been encouraged to include ideas, comments and suggestions to assist in prioritising the focus of key strategies and outcomes for the future.

 

The full community engagement report on the outcomes of community engagement and exhibition to date can be found in Appendix B of Attachment 1 on Pages 2013.

 

In summary Council has undertaken the following community engagement:

 

·    Saturday 10 September 2022 11am-1pm

·    Saturday 17 September 2pm-4pm.

 

Draft Plan of Management and Master Plan Proposals (Developed from Stage 1 Engagement).

 

The draft master plan for DJ Gardens can be viewed on Page 38 of Attachment 1.  In summary based on the community engagement outcomes and site analysis to date, the following opportunities are recommended to be considered by Council and the community in relation to future park upgrades:

 

·     Remove contradictory, confusing and low-quality signage.

·     Provide safe and accessible toilet facilities which are inclusive of all park users.

·     Establish a design for new signage that communicates the civic and historic character of the park.

·     Install a park map at well selected locations. The Park map should include a tactile section. Clearly identify park assets and public toilet locations. The map should communicate the civic and historic character of the park.

·     Maintain existing sporting facilities + upgrade court floodlighting to maximise use for future users

·     Investigate expansion of basketball precinct to meet growing needs of the community.

·     Improve lighting along pathways for safety of users travelling through the park outside of daylight hours.

·     Rejuvenate the existing memorial gardens to expand biodiversity + improve historic celebration within the park.

·     Increase public art within the park

 

Plan of Management Next Steps

Subject to Council endorsement, it is proposed that the Draft Plan of Management will be exhibited for 42 days and then brought back to Council for consideration for adoption.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The final plan of management for DJ Gardens will include an analysis of all future costings associated with proposed park upgrades and capital work improvements.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft Plan of Management Darrell Jackson Gardens

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 









































































Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 5

Subject:         Revised Public Toilet Strategy           

Prepared By:      Aaron Callaghan - Parks and Recreation Planning Manager 

Authorised By:  Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the revised Inner West Public Toilet Strategy (Attachment 1) and note the priority work program for public toilet upgrades. 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council adopted the Inner West Council Public Toilet strategy on 11 October 2021. The Public Toilet Strategy has the overarching aim of providing the community with the strategic framework for the management and provision of public toilets within the Inner West over the next ten years. Specifically, the plan provides Council with a strategic framework to improve our existing standard of facilities especially in the key areas of accessibility and safety as well as benchmarking tools for future new public toilet facilities. The strategy aims to deliver best practice in public toilet design, hygiene, safety and maintenance. Objectives of the Inner West Council Public Toilet Strategy include:

 

• Ensuring facilities are safe;

• Ensuring facilities are accessible;

• Ensuring the needs of the public are met;

• Ensuring facilities are environmentally sustainable;

• Addressing community needs (current and future);

• Providing a clear framework to guide decision making to ensure public toilets are well located and equally distributed; and

• Ensuring facilities are inclusive and welcoming.

 

Page 172 of the revised Public Toilet Strategy (Attachment 1) highlights the following public toilet facilities as key priorities for refurbishment and/or replacement over the next five to ten years (refer to Table 1.0). As part of best practice in public domain planning, forward planning will be undertaken to combine public toilet upgrades with capital works programs which also involve park and open space upgrades, including playgrounds upgrades and sporting ground refurbishment programs. 

 

The future capital works program includes consideration of inclusive facilities and adult change facilities at proposed inclusive playground sites at King George Park and Richard Murden Reserve. Programming of further facilities for proposed inclusive playgrounds will form part of the inclusive playground program development.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Priority

Refurbishments of Existing Public Toilets

Refurbishment/Replacement

Proposed Financial Year

Council Officer Comments

1.

Pioneers Memorial Park

New facility

2023/24

Currently subject to procurement and tender process.

2.

HJ Mahoney Park

Refurbishment

2023/24

Works are being finalised following key stakeholder engagement.

3

King George Park

Addition

2024/25

Investigate facility with proposed inclusive playground concurrent with amenities building design

4.

Richard Murden Reserve

Refurbishment

2024/25

Refurbishment of existing facility to support the Inclusive children’s playground development. 

5.

Easton Park

Refurbishment

2022/23

Refurbishment of existing facility following sporting ground upgrade 

6.

Camdenville Park

Camdenville Park

2024/25

Refurbishment of facilities concurrently with the implementation of the master plan for the park.

7.

Henson Park (toilets on the hill)

Refurbishment

2025/26

 

Poor accessibility- prioritise with stage two upgrades following grandstand facility improvements.

8.

Tempe Reserve-Alexandra Canal

Replacement*

2023/24

Amenities to support facilities for the sporting grounds. Engagement required with key stakeholders. Tempe Blue facilities to be refurbished concurrently.

9.

Leichhardt Number 2

Demolish and Replacement

2024/25

Stakeholder engagement required

10.

Gladstone Park

Replacement*

2024/25

*At grade location within the park to be determined-community engagement will be required.

11.

Birchgrove Park Amenities Block

Refurbishment

2024/25

Sporting Ground Facility Upgrade to support sporting use.

12.

Pratten Park

Refurbishment

2025/26

Coordinated with other park building upgrades

13.

Mackey Park

Refurbishment

2024/25

Coordinate with sporting ground upgrade

14.

Arlington Reserve

Refurbishment

2024/25

Sporting Facility

15.

Victoria Road

Replacement

2025/26

RMS Facility owned but maintained by IWC.

16.

Stanmore Village

New Facility

2025/26

Consider development of new facility adjacent to Stanmore Library to service/support the Stanmore village and shopping precinct.

17.

Mort Bay Park

Refurbishment

2025/26

 

18.

Elkington Park

Refurbishment or replacement.

2025/26

Replacement option is subject to outcomes of the Plan of Management process for Elkington Park which is currently underway.

19.

McNeilly Park

Refurbishment

2025/26

 

20.

Simpson Park

Replacement*

2025/26

Demolish and rebuild

21.

Tillman Park

Refurbishment

2026/27

 

22.

Johnson Park

Refurbishment

2023/24

Works to be undertaken concurrently with Greenway Improvements.

23.

Mallam Reserve

Refurbishment*

2026/27

Engineering assessment required on asset life span of facility

24.

Kendrick Park

Refurbishment

2026/27

 

Table 1.0 Priority Work Program

 

 

The updated public toilet strategy is attached as Attachment 1.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Short-medium term upgrades on existing public toilets will continue to be a feature of Council’s ongoing financial and asset management strategy for facility maintenance. The development of new public toilets in parks and at strategic locations will be subject to the adopted public toilet strategy with recommended new facilities also subject to future consideration by Council as part of the forward Operational Plan.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Revised Public Toilet Strategy

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

































































































































































































Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 6

Subject:         Land Classification - 203 Northumberland St, Liverpool           

Prepared By:          Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager 

Authorised By:       Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council resolves to classify the land being Lot 2 in Deposited Plan 1277704, also known as 203 Northumberland Street, Liverpool NSW 2170, as Operational Land for the purposes of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Background

Council recently finalised the purchase of Lot 2 in Deposited Plan 1277704, also known as 203 Northumberland Street, Liverpool NSW and the property is now formally in the ownership of the Inner West Council.

 

The property was purchased (by agreement) using the 2019 Contract for Sale of Land published by the Law Society of NSW.

 

Land Classification

Under Chapter 6, Part 2, Division 1 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act), any land owned by Council, irrespective of whether it is located within the Local Government Area (LGA), must be classified as either Community or Operational land.

 

A Council resolution to classify the newly acquired land as Operational is required within three months of transfer (no later than 19 April 2023).

 

Should Council choose not to resolve the classification of the land within three months of transfer, the land would, by default, become classified as community land. This would cause difficulty in the ongoing management of the land for the purposes of retaining it as an investment, for which it was purchased, and a Plan of Management (POM) would also be required. It is not considered appropriate for 203 Northumberland Street, Liverpool to be classified as community land.

 

Public Notice

In accordance with Section 34 of the Act, a Council must give public notice of a proposal to classify public land. The notice must provide for a period of not less than 28 days during which submissions can be made to Council. The notification was published on Council’s website at the Have Your Say page as well as on the Public Notices page from 13 March 2023 with the 28 days expiring on 10 April 2023.

 

At the time of publication, no submissions had been made in relation to this public notice.

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with classifying the acquired land as operational.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 7

Subject:         Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 20 March 2023           

Prepared By:      Manod Wickramasinghe - Traffic and Transport Planning Manager  

Authorised By:  Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 20 March 2023 be received and the recommendations be adopted.

 

 

ITEMS BY WARD

 

Ward

Item

Baludarri

(Balmain)

Balmain LATM Study

Maney Street, Rozelle - drop off and pick up zone

Traffic speeding on Grove Street, Lilyfield

Gulgadya

(Leichhardt)

Alfred Street, Annandale - Angled Parking Conversion

Leichhardt West Precinct – Stage 1 (Allen Street) Resident Parking Scheme

Myrtle Street, Leichhardt - 10km/h Shared Zone and Line-Marked Parking Bays

Update on improvements to the Frederick Street, Ashfield crossing

Signage on the M4

Midjuburi

(Marrickville)

Stevens Lane, Marrickville - Proposed installation of 'No Parking'    restrictions along both sides of the laneway

Edgeware Road, Enmore (at the Intersection of Alice Street and     Llewellyn Street) - Proposed Traffic Signal Upgrade (Plan No. 10227) – Project 303097

Dudley Street, Dulwich Hill; Burrows Avenue, Railway Road, Gleeson Avenue and (Lower) Railway Parade, Sydenham - Temporary parking changes during major rail shutdown of T3 Line for Sydney Metro Upgrade Works – Bus replacements for 4 days between Thursday 20 April to Sunday 23 April 2023

Henry Street, St Peters – Sydenham Precinct (Area M4) Resident Parking Scheme Extension

Safety around Marrickville West Public School

Signage on the M4

Djarrawunang

(Ashfield)

Nil.

Damun (Stanmore)

Nil.

All Wards

Excepting cyclists when two-way streets are converted to one-way


DISCUSSION

The March 2023 meeting of the Local Traffic Committee was at Ashfield Service Centre. The minutes of the meeting are shown in Attachment 1.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Projects proposed for implementation are funded within existing budget allocations.

 

PUBLIC CONSULTATION

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

the Traffic Committee.

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Local Traffic Committee Meeting Minutes - 20 March 2023

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 














Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 8

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 October 2022, November 2022 and February 2023 be received and the project summary report is noted.

 

 

DISCUSSION

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

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 and representatives from NSW Public Works Advisory (GreenWay assurance) with additional internal or external attendees as required e.g. General Counsel.

 

There are currently thirty two (32) 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.

Detailed meeting minutes are not issued 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 October 2022 through February 2023 (held 31 October 2022, 28 November 2022 and 27 February 2023) 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 report are being developed this year.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Nil

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 31 October 2022

2.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 28 November 2022

3.

Minutes of the Major Capital Projects Committee Meeting held on 27 February 2023

4.

Major Capital Projects Committee Project Summary Report as at March 2023

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 



Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 




Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 




Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 



































Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 9

Subject:         Post Exhibition - Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy           

Prepared By:          Caroline McLeod - Senior Manager Libraries 

Authorised By:       Ruth Callaghan - Director Community

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the draft Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy as outlined in Attachment 1.

 

 

BACKGROUND

At the Council meeting held on 13 December 2022 Council resolved the following:

 

That Council:

 

1.    Endorse the proposed changes to the Grants and Fee Scale Policy and place on public exhibition for a period of 28 days;

 

2.    Consider the results of the public exhibition process when adopting the final Grants and Fee Scale Policy;

 

3.    Develop wording and branding protocol to acknowledge Council grants or subsidies of 50% and 100% of booking fees on our venues.

 

The Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy was updated to reflect the above Council resolution and subsequently placed on public exhibition from 1 February 2023 – 8 March 2023.

 

DISCUSSION

A summary of changes to the Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy include:

 

1.   Council widens its support to local not for profit organisations by reaffirming that all incorporated local and non-local organisations are provided with the 100% subsidy.

 

2.   The amount to be eligible for a scaled fee of 50% will change from $2 to $5 for groups that charge an attendance fee for participation and the clause “or for membership” be removed.

 

3.   Organisations that receive a subsidy of 50% or 100% will be required to include the Council logo on relevant marketing material. This is in keeping with the same protocol for grant recipients. 

 

4.   The information relating to the Inner West Council Grants program (5.4) has been updated to reflect the categories available in 2023.

 

Notification of the change was emailed to 142 regular hirers of Council facilities and promoted on social media and the Your Say site. Council received 86 visitors to the Your Say page and received one comment which was in support of the proposed change. The comment was “$5 is more reasonable than $2”.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The enhanced subsidies are not expected to impact the budget. Actual Income from fees and charges for Community venues was higher than expected in 2022-2023, and the 2023-2024 draft budget has been prepared based on 2022-2023 actuals.  The loss of potential revenue of approximately $30,000 per annum as a result of the policy has also been accounted for.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Updated Community Venue Hire Grants and Fee Scale Policy 2023

2.

Annual Grants Program Guidelines

 

 



 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 











Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 










Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 10

Subject:         Post Exhibition - Draft Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting Policy           

Prepared By:      Prue Foreman - Corporate Strategy and Engagement Manager 

Authorised By:  Ruth Callaghan - Director Community

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council adopt the Draft Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting Policy.

 

 

 

BACKGROUND

At the Council meeting held on 25 October 2022, Council received a report on the review of the Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting Policy and resolved:

 

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.

 

 

Public exhibition

In accordance with the above resolution, the Draft Policy was referred to Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee. The Committee considered the request and endorsed the language of the draft Policy as reported to Council at the October 2022 meeting.

 

An example of an appropriate Acknowledgement of Country was included in the Policy as follows:

 

I acknowledge that we are meeting on the land of the Gadigal and Wangal peoples. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

 

 

The draft policy was placed on public exhibition from 23 January–20 February 2023. There were 330 visits to the Your Say Inner West project page during public exhibition. There were

no responses by mail or phone.

 

One comment was received online in relation to improving the accessibility and inclusivity of public meetings particularly in relation to time of day (evenings).  Council staff are continuing to make improvements. 

 

 

Comment

Officer response

Please include guidelines for accessibility and inclusivity for public meetings. It has often been difficult to attend public meetings as they are all held in person at the same time (which usually happens to be dinner time).

 

Council holds public meetings on a range of topics. While no day or time will suit everyone, Council aims to schedule meetings at times convenient for most of the community. Council also ensures meetings are held in accessible venues. Significant public meetings are usually recorded and/or live streamed where appropriate, and presentations or records of discussion are published.

 

There are no changes to the Draft Policy recommended arising from the public exhibition.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft Event Invitation, Speaking and Public Meeting Policy

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 












Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 11

Subject:         Conflict of Interest Policy (Including Management of Council-related Development Applications)           

Prepared By:           Beau-Jane De Costa - Senior Manager Governance and Risk and Rachel     
     Josey - Operations and Special Projects Manager 

Authorised By:       Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

1.   That Council adopt the draft Conflict of Interest Policy, as attached to the report.

 

2.   That Council place the adopted Conflict of Interest Policy, on public exhibition, for a period of 28 days, and provide a report back to Council if Council receives any feedback that requires an amendment to the Conflict of Interest Policy.

 

 

BACKGROUND

Our community rightly expects that public officials, or their close connections and associates, should never be in a position to obtain an undue personal benefit as a result of the public official doing their job. This reflects the view that public office is held for the public good, not the purposes or benefits of the officeholder.

A conflict of interest exists when a reasonable person might perceive that a public official’s personal interest(s) could be favoured over their public duties.

Additionally, amendments to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, now require all councils in New South Wales to adopt a policy that specifically deals with council‑related development applications and associated conflicts of interest.

DISCUSSION

The attached Conflict of Interest Policy (Policy) has been developed to further strengthen Council’s Governance landscape and assist in the reduction of risks associated with the management of Conflicts of Interests. The new Policy also ensures Council’s compliance with the new amendments to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021.

The Policy:

a.   details the system for identifying, disclosing, and actively managing conflicts of interest arising from Councillors and Council Officers in the course of carrying out their Council functions to maintain a high standard of integrity within Council and to encourage stakeholder confidence; and

b.   details the requirements for the management of conflicts of interest in connection with Council-related development applications.

Conflicts of Interest

Conflicts of interest do not, in themselves, usually constitute corrupt conduct. Corrupt conduct can, however, arise when a conflict of interest is concealed, understated, mismanaged or abused.

Experience also shows that many, if not most, forms of corrupt conduct involve a conflict of interest and usually include:

·    concealing or failing to disclose a conflict of interest

·    making false or understated declarations about a conflict of interest

·    favouring a personal interest over public duty

·    improperly influencing others to favour a personal interest

·    misusing resources in order to favour a personal interest

·    The conduct of Council related development applications

Simply put, a conflict of interest arises where there is a connection between personal interests and public duty

It is essential that public officials understand what constitutes a conflict of interest and what is required if a conflict of interest arises. As outlined by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), organisations should have a Conflict of Interest policy that clearly explains the principles and procedures for identifying, disclosing, managing and monitoring a conflict of interest and that these requirements are clear for all relevant groups of people and other entities, including staff, contractors, consultants, people and entities providing services on behalf of an agency or otherwise acting for, or on behalf of, a public sector agency.

This Policy has been developed having regard to, and to align with, ICAC’s Managing COI in the NSW Public Sector and to be read in conjunction with Council’s Model Code of Conduct, the Procedures for the Administration of the Model Code of Conduct and the Code of Meeting Practice, to ensure best practice.

COI - Council related development applications

The Policy ensures compliance with the legislative changes in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021 which are intended to address the situations where the Council is both the applicant and decision maker for particular development applications. This situation might arise when a Council is undertaking property renewal or replacement activities and it is intended to ensure that any conflicts of interests are appropriately identified and managed. For example, this might arise when Council is required to a lodge development application to construct a community facility such as a public swimming pool, community centre or similar project.

Specifically, the legislative amendments have introduced the following requirements:

1.   Councils must adopt and have a policy that specifies how conflicts of interest in connection with council-related development applications will be handled. The policy must comply with the requirements of the NSW Government issued Guidelines;

 

2.   Council-related development applications must now be accompanied by either a management strategy statement, which explains how the council will manage potential conflicts of interest, or a statement that the council has no management strategy for the application;

 

3.   Councils must record conflicts of interest in connection with each council-related development application, and the measures taken to manage the conflicts, in their existing DA register; and

 

4.   Council-related development applications must be exhibited for a minimum of 28 days to ensure transparency during the assessment process.

Council’s newly developed Policy addresses all requirements of the new Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021, setting out how Council will determine applications for Council related development applications in a fair and consistent manner, and requires that a statement be prepared to accompany the application which clearly articulates the management measures that will be used to ensure that any conflict of interest is appropriately managed.

CONCLUSION

The implementation of this Policy not only ensures Council complies with the new Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021 it is also a risk mitigation for Council that further strengthens Council’s processes and controls in place for the identification, disclosure and management of Conflicts of Interests demonstrating Council’s commitment to best practice governance.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Council’s endorsement to place the Policy on public exhibition has no financial implications for Council.

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft - Conflict of Interest Policy

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 




















Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 12

Subject:         Draft Risk Management Policy           

Prepared By:          Justin Lucas - Risk and Audit Manager and Beau-Jane De Costa - Senior   
    Manager Governance and Risk 

Authorised By:       Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

1.    That Council adopt the draft Risk Management Policy, with any agreed changes outlined by the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee, at the meeting of 5 April 2023.

 

2.    That Council place the adopted Risk Management Policy, on public exhibition, for a period of 28 days, and provide a report back to Council if Council receives any feedback that requires an amendment to the Risk Management Policy.

 

 

BACKGROUND

The attached draft Risk Management policy is part of the new Risk Management Framework developed for Council to ensure that Risks are being appropriately identified and managed across the organisation.

The new Policy also meets the revised Office of Local Government (OLG) requirements which will be legislated in the coming year and require implementation from 1 July 2024.

 

DISCUSSION

Statutory basis of the Risk Management Policy

Amendments are being made to the Local Government (General Regulation) 2021 to require all councils to have implemented by 1 July 2024:

·    a risk management framework;

·    an internal audit function and

·    audit risk and improvement committees.

 

The regulation amendments are proposed to be made in early 2023 and Councils must be able to attest to their compliance with the new legislative requirements in their annual report from 2024 onwards.

 

It is therefore important to ratify the Risk Management Policy, to enable Council to mature and manage its operations in accordance with the new requirements before the requirements have statutory force.

 

Development of the draft Risk Management Policy

Significant work has been undertaken in relation to the development of the ‘Risk Management’ Policy, by Governance and Risk with feedback also being provided by the Audit, Risk and Improvement  Committee (ARIC).

 

The Risk Management policy is a complete rewrite of Council’s current Risk Management Framework, to bring this document up to best practice standards, align the framework with the Australian Standards and to enable Council to meet the OLG draft Guidelines.

 

A core requirement of the OLG draft Guidelines is that the Governing Body (i.e. Council) is now required to establish the foundational elements of the Council’s risk management framework and set the ‘tone at the top’, including by approving by resolution the Council’s ‘risk appetite’. The risk appetite is a statement that conveys how much risk will be tolerated by the governing body in the pursuit of the strategic objectives for the council, and how risk is to be managed and decisions made within this context. The risk appetite must also be approved in consultation with Council’s ARIC.

 

The new Risk Management Policy proposed for adoption includes a Risk Appetite statement consistent with the requirements in the draft Guidelines, that has also been reviewed by its ARIC, with ARIC feedback incorporated into the draft tabled herein.     

 

The policy is supported by a Risk Management procedure which provides a systematic and easily understood pathway for the operational implementation of matured risk management practices at Council. The Risk Management framework is supplemented by a Business Continuity Procedure and an Incident Management Procedure, to enable Council to respond to critical risks to its operations and to the public (both longer term and immediate).

 

Work to implement the requirements and mature and refresh Council’s existing risk management practices, including an update to the Strategic Risk Register and redevelopment of the Council wide operational risk registers will formally commence post the adoption of the Risk Management Policy.

 

Council Officers undertaking the risk management process must consider Council’s risk appetites.

CONCLUSION

The implementation of this Policy not only ensures Council complies with the new OLG draft guidelines it is also Council’s strongest risk mitigation tool in relation to the identification, disclosure and management of Risks across Council.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no additional financial implications regarding the adoption of the Policy outside the adopted Council budget.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft Risk Management Policy

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 



















Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 13

Subject:         Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy           

Prepared By:          Beau-Jane De Costa - Senior Manager Governance and Risk 

Authorised By:       Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

1.       That Council adopt the draft Fraud and Corruption Control policy, with any agreed changes outlined by the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee, at the meeting of 5 April 2023.

 

2.       That Council place the adopted Fraud and Corruption Control Policy on public exhibition for a period of 28 days and provide a report back to Council, if Council receives any feedback that requires an amendment to the Fraud and Corruption Control Policy.

 

 

BACKGROUND

The attached draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy (Policy) is part of the new Framework developed for Council regarding the management of fraud and corruption at Council. This framework including the Policy and operational procedure has been developed in consultation with the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), the Internal Ombudsman and the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC).

The immediate implementation of the proposed Policy is a crucial step in Council ensuring that the appropriate mechanisms are in place to prevent, as far as practicable, the occurrence of fraud and corruption taking place.

 

DISCUSSION

The Policy outlines how Council will prevent, detect, and respond to fraudulent and corrupt conduct, emphasising Council’s zero tolerance for such conduct. Council’s Fraud and Corruption Control Policy sets out a four-pronged approach to Fraud and Corruption management, namely:

1.   Prevention: Council implements appropriate prevention strategies to minimise the risk of Fraud and Corruption.

2.   Detection: Council commissions internal and external audits, implements continuous monitoring, and encourages reporting of any suspected or actual Fraud or Corruption by internal and external personnel, to identify and detect any fraudulent or corrupt conduct.

3.   Response: Council implements the below to respond to any allegations of Fraud or Corruption:

a.   Immediate response procedures are implemented to mitigate any loss to Council.

b.   Internal and external assessment and investigation procedures are followed.

c.   Disciplinary measures are taken as necessary.

 

4.   Record keeping: Council complies with clear record keeping procedures.

 

The Policy also aligns the Fraud and Corruption Control Framework with the Model Code of Conduct and articulates the key roles and subsequent responsibilities required across Council regarding fraud and corruption control. Additionally, the policy also sets the appropriate ‘tone from the top’ and outlines the prevention strategies Council implements across the organisation.

 

The policy is supported by the operational Fraud and Corruption Control procedure which provides a systematic and easily understood pathway for the operational implementation of fraud and corruption control activities at Council. The Fraud and Corruption Control Framework is supplemented by the Code of Conduct, Procedures for the Administration of the Code of Conduct and the Risk Management Framework, ultimately enabling Council to respond to critical fraud and corruption risks (both longer term and immediate).

 

Work to implement the requirements and mature and refresh Council’s existing fraud and corruption control practices, including the implementation of the subsequent Fraud and Corruption Control Procedure, and additional education and training across Council will formally commence post the adoption of the Policy.

 

Adoption and implementation of the framework will result in a comprehensive, rigorous and systematic approach to fulfilling Council’s commitment to ‘no tolerance’ of fraudulent and corrupt conduct being demonstrably implemented by Council.

 

This Policy is also a key risk mitigation tool for Council in addressing fraud and corruption control across the organisation.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no additional financial implications regarding the adoption of the Policy outside the adopted Council budget.

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Draft Fraud and Corruption Control Policy

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 













Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 14

Subject:         Delegations Framework amendment           

Prepared By:          Beau-Jane De Costa - Senior Manager Governance and Risk 

Authorised By:       Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That the change to Council’s current Delegations framework wording, as outlined in the report, be adopted.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Delegations allow the General Manager and subsequently Council staff to exercise Council functions to ensure that council is able to operate efficiently and effectively, in accordance with the requirements and limitations of the Act.

 

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

 

(a) The appointment of a general manager.

(b) The making of a rate.

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

(d) The making of a charge.

(e) The fixing of a fee.

(f) The borrowing of money.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(t) This power of delegation.

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

 

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

 

Existing Council delegations

Council’s existing delegations framework has a specific delegation called ‘FIN011’ which outlines the financial delegations of all employees with financial delegations. A minor amendment is required to remove any ambiguity and reflect the intent of a Council resolution always being required in relation to the actual purchase or sale of real property (Council property or private property) or Council entering into a lease with another property owner; whereas the execution of licensing, hiring and leasing agreements for Council property is aligned to the established financial delegations (limits).

 

The following amendment is proposed for Councils delegation framework to clearly reflect this:

 

To enter into a contract agreement, memorandum of understanding etc. (“Contract”) up to $ (dependent on position) subject to the following:

 

1.   The commitment to expenditure under the Contract is covered by a budget adopted in the Operational Plan or by a resolution of Council;

2.   The contract does not involve the disposal of a Council asset (excluding assets that have been identified for disposal as part of the Council approved capital works program);

3.   Where the Contract involves the licensing, hiring and leasing of Council property, it conforms to any applicable policies;

4.   The Contract does not involve the purchase or sale or leasing of real property, or entering into a lease for a property not owned by Council;

5.   Where the Contract involves a variation of the terms of another existing contract, the commitment to expenditure in the Contract as varied must conform with paragraph 1 above;

6.   The Contract does not involve the provision of legal services; and

7.   The Contract does not constitute a Planning Agreement under section 93F of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONSThere are no financial implications resulting from this report and the recommendations are intended to assist Council in continuing normal day-to-day operations efficiently and effectively.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 15

Subject:         Inner West Council Anti-Racism Strategy Reference Group           

Prepared By:          Simon Watts - Social and Cultural Planning Manager 

Authorised By:       Ruth Callaghan - Director Community

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

BACKGROUND

At the Council meeting held on 6 December 2022 Council endorsed the formation of an Anti-Racism Strategy Reference Group to support development of the Strategy and ensure that lived experience of the people of the Inner West is reflected in its development.

That Council:

 

1.   Work with the Inner West Council Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, Multicultural Advisory Committee, Inner West Multicultural Network and other Aboriginal and multicultural organisations within the LGA to develop the local Inner West Anti-Racism Strategy;

 

2.   Convene a reference group to support development of the Strategy and ensure that lived experience of the people of the Inner West is reflected in its development. The Reference Group should include representatives from the following: 

 

·     Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee;

·     Multicultural Advisory Committee;

·     Inner West Multicultural Network;

·     Greek Welfare Centre Community Services;

·     Vietnamese Seniors Association;

·     Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council;

·     Chinese Australian Services Society (CASS); and 

·     Italian Association of Assistance (Co.As.It).

 

3.  Report back to Council in April 2023 on establishment of the Reference Group, it’s membership and progress on developing the Anti-Racism Strategy. 

 

DISCUSSION

The first meeting of the reference group is on Wednesday 5 April 2023 with representatives of the following networks/organisations:

 

Contact

Organisation/Network

Janelle Scott & Uncle Allan Barnes

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee

Osmond Chiu

Multicultural Advisory Committee

Rosanna Barbaro

Inner West Multicultural Network

Vi Pham

Vietnamese Seniors Association

Allan Murray

Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council

Jane Lu

Chinese Australian Services Society (CASS);

Thomas Camporeale

Italian Association of Assistance (Co.As.It)

 

The role of the reference group is to provide feedback and input in the development of the Anti-Racism Strategy and ensure it is developed in line with Council resources. The group will aim to meet on a bi-monthly basis and a Council officer has since been appointed to lead in the development of the strategy.

 

Some preliminary engagement has been established with the Multicultural Advisory Committee (MAC) and the Inner West Multicultural Network, with other relevant networks to follow, to update them on the progress of the strategy. Council officers provided an update on the development of the Anti-Racism Strategy to the MAC at its meeting on 22 February 2023.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 16

Subject:         Reconciliation Action Plan Implementation Update           

Prepared By:          Simon Watts - Social and Cultural Planning Manager 

Authorised By:       Ruth Callaghan - Director Community

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

BACKGROUND

At the Council meeting held on 13 September 2022 Council resolved:-

 

1.   Council adopt the Reconciliation Action Plan;

 

2.   During the life of this plan consideration will be given to establishing a Voice to the Inner West Council. Consideration should include but not be limited to the following issues:

 

a)   Consider whether and how the role of the Inner West Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee could expanded to form a Voice to the Inner West Council

b)   Establishing  a simple and timely payment process so Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are compensated for their time and knowledge.

c)   Creating  guidelines, in collaboration with your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples community and the Metropolitan Land Council about what matters the Voice to Council should deal with.

 

3.   Council officers prepare a budget and recurrent investment for adoption by Council that supports the Voice to Council and the implementation of the major initiatives over the life of the RAP, being:

 

a)   Creation of Survival Memorials in three locations, the first in Yeo Park, Ashfield will be installed in 2022/23;

 

b)   Knowledge and culture playing a visible and integral role in placemaking and connecting to Country, including for example new walking trails and wayfinding across the Inner West;

 

c)   All Council tenders over $150,000 advertised on Supply Nation, and smaller scale positive procurement in favour of local Aboriginal businesses;

 

d)   Nurturing connection to Country, including tours, stories, dance, and services;

 

e)   New large scale Council research on archaeology in collaboration with local residents; and

 

f)    Identifying appropriate Council owned property for an Aboriginal Community Hub and scoping costs and logistics to implement.

 

4.   Council receive quarterly progress reports of progress toward establishing the 
community hub; and

 

5.   Council receive quarterly progress reports on the development of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Procurement Strategy including KPIs for awarding of contracts and the total value.

 

Also at its Council meeting on 13 September 2022 Council further resolved in part:-

 

That Council:

 

1.   Support a civic education program to build awareness of the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the upcoming Referendum on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament. This is to include the training of 1000 local citizens to assist in civic education about the Referendum within the Inner West and in other communities;

 

2.   Seek the advice and endorsement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations in the development of the program;

 

3.   Seek the collaboration of the Sydney Alliance and other civic society organisations that have been undertaking similar education already;

 

4.   Make Council's town halls and facilities available for use for this program free of charge;

 

5.   Immediately commence recruitment of local citizens for the civic education program with an initial allocation of $10,000 to fund the community engagement and outreach needed to get local citizens involved. Funding for this is to be identified in the next quarterly budget review.

 

DISCUSSION


Reconciliation Action Plan

 

Council has identified a potential location for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Hub: the former Tempe Bowling Club building in Tempe Reserve. Council’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee supports this choice, noting the location has positives including the size of the building and the location in a parkland setting. Locating the Community Hub in Tempe Reserve would mean that it would be very close to the site of the third Survival Memorial to be created adjacent to the river in Kendrick Park, Tempe, creating a resonant relationship and anchoring both strongly in Country.

 

Council will now undertake due diligence on building condition and any planning issues. A Plan of Management for Tempe Reserve was adopted in October 2020. If the Tempe Bowling Club were selected for the Community Hub, an amendment to the Plan of Management would be required to allow the proposed redevelopment of the site as a cultural hub. Tempe Reserve is Crown land and any amendment to the Plan would require owner’s consent from the NSW Government. Any changes to the Plan would also require public exhibition.

 

After the end of the public exhibition period the plan of management would need to be brought back to Council for consideration for adoption. Should Council make any substantial changes at this point then the Plan of management would again have to be referred to the Minister.

 

 

 

 

 

Uluru Statement

 

More than 1,400 people have volunteered for the training and more than 1,100 people have been trained by 23 March 2023.

 

This exhausts the capacity of the initial allocation of Council funds and the current contract which saw training delivered over 18 sessions from December 2022 to March 2023. Evaluation of the training demonstrated very high levels of satisfaction:

 

·    90% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed: The Walking Together training has reinforced my intention to volunteer to speak with people about the Uluru Statement from the Heart

·    90% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed: The Walking Together training has been a positive experience and I’d recommend it to anyone else considering taking part.

 

The Aboriginal Procurement Strategy

 

A draft Aboriginal Procurement Strategy has been developed and engagement is underway with Supply Nation and Council’s Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee for discussion at their 18 April meeting.

 

Council is working with VendorPanel to identify Indigenous suppliers on the VendorPanel database and make this readily available to all staff undertaking procurement. Procurement has identified an estimated baseline and target, 1% of total contracts with Aboriginal businesses, subject to further engagement.

 

In addition to the existing subscription with Supply Nation, Council has also engaged with the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, with the intention of subscribing to this group also, which will increase Inner West Council's projects' visibility to Indigenous businesses.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Council’s infrastructure budget contains $500,000 in 2023/24 and $800,000 in 2024/25 for remediation work at the Tempe Bowling Club.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 17

Subject:         Inner West Council Arts and Music Recovery Plan Final           

Prepared By:          Vikki Woods - Senior Events Specialist  

Authorised By:       Ruth Callaghan - Director Community

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

BACKGROUND

At the Council meeting held on 14 February 2023 Council resolved:-

 

That Council:

 

1.   receive and note the report; and

 

2.   amend point 3 in the Draft Inner West Council Arts and Music Recovery Plan to reflect that open days for all 8 Town Halls will be held by June 2023.

 

DISCUSSION

Following the February meeting and endorsement of the Draft Inner West Arts and Music Recovery Plan, Council officers have undertaken further work to refine the initiatives and amended point 3 in the Draft Plan to reflect that open days for all 8 Town Halls will be held by June 2023. The final Plan is attached for noting.

The Plan has been updated to include:

·    A new column that directly links each initiative with the Inner West Council Cultural Strategy 2022 – 2025 to ensure strategic alignment between Council’s creative strategy and implementation on the ground

·    Some additional initiatives such as undertaking audio descriptions of 20 Perfect Match artworks across the LGA to ensure greater accessibility for residents; a new category of “Film” in the annual Young Creatives program, and the preparation of guidelines on the inclusion of public art and creative spaces in new developments into the draft DCP.

Next Steps

Once endorsed, the Plan will be professionally formatted and designed so it can be published on Council’s website and sent to all the participants who attended the Arts Summit on 2 June 2022. It will also be provided to other key external stakeholders such as Create NSW.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The initiatives set out in the Plan have been costed at approximately $130,000 and funding included in the draft 2023/2024 budget for Community Directorate. Implementation will be overseen by the Director to ensure budget compliance.

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Arts and Music Recovery Plan - April 2023


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 















Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 18

Subject:         Local Democracy Groups - progress report             

Prepared By:          Prue Foreman - Corporate Strategy and Engagement Manager 

Authorised By:       Ruth Callaghan - Director Community

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

DISCUSSION

Background

 

In August 2022, Council recruited a new cohort of 157 community members to serve in its 13 Local Democracy Groups (LDGs). Councillors and senior staff reviewed applications and conducted the selection process. The term of the groups was launched at a welcome event on 21 September 2022 and will conclude in September 2024. 

 

The 13 LDGs are:

·    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee

·    Access Advisory Committee

·    Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

·    Bicycle Working Group

·    Environment Advisory Committee

·    Housing and Affordability Advisory Committee

·    LGBTQ Working Group

·    Multicultural Advisory Committee

·    Planning and Heritage Advisory Committee

·    Seniors Working Group

·    Social Strategy Advisory Committee

·    Transport Advisory Committee

·    Young Leaders Working Group

 

Progress reporting

 

At the Council meeting held on 10 May 2022, Council resolved in part the following:

 

That Council:

 

6. In consultation with staff, determine 1-2 appropriate policy challenges to allocate to the
    newly constituted Local Democracy Groups for deliberation. Quarterly progress reports  
   on deliberations to be submitted to Council.

 

This first progress report (attached) provides an overview of discussions and work completed by the LDGs from the commencement of meetings in mid-October 2022 to 16 March 2023.  

 

During the reporting period, groups were briefed on Inner West’s Community Strategic Plan - Our Inner West 2036, finalised their Terms of Reference and were allocated (through Council resolution) one or two policy challenges to deliberate on. 

In total, 39 meetings were held during the reporting period, three for each of the 13 groups.

 

Website page improvements

 

A calendar of meetings, agendas, minutes, terms of reference and membership lists are published on Council’s website at https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/contribute/community-engagement/local-democracy-groups. 

 

The website pages were reviewed and formatted consistently for ease of viewing by the community in February 2023. 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report. 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Local Democracy Group Progress October 2022-March 2023

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 














Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 19

Subject:         Update on Town Halls           

Prepared By:      Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager and Ruth Callaghan - Director Community 

Authorised By:  Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

DISCUSSION

This report provides an update on the activities that are currently being undertaken to activate Council’s town halls.

Background

There have been a number of resolutions of Council in relation to the use of town halls.

 

At the Council meeting held on 14 March 2023, the following resolutions were made:

 

2.   That Council note the success of the recent open day at Marrickville Town Hall and implement feedback from the Marrickville Town Hall Reference Group in future open days, including: 

 

a)   Hiring performers or buskers to perform in the forecourt;

 

b)   Printing and posting corflutes at the front of town halls, advertising the creative use of venues EOI process and linking to information about the project to activate town halls;

 

c)   Providing printed materials and fliers advertising the creative use of venues EOI process and providing information about the project to activate the use of town halls; and

 

d)   Creating a visual presence at the front of town halls during open days, including banners. 

 

3.   That Council note work to establish three residency spaces at Marrickville Town Hall, including the provision of small risers, a lighting tree, sound mixing desk and other minor works and that funding.

 

4.   That Council note the proposal by the Pride Centre Steering Committee to establish temporary exhibition space in the front windows of the Newtown Town Hall while construction work is underway.

 

5.   That Council note that all Town Hall open days are to be completed by June 2023.

 

6.   That Council investigate permanent activations at the street entrance of Marrickville Town Hall on Marrickville Road to make the entry more inviting and accessible. Activations could include Council signage on the bus shelter and bin and flags and street art. The signage could include a QR code that links to Council’s website where residents can submit an Expression of Interest for an artist residency at the Town Hall.

 

7.   That the funding required, approximately $20,000, to implement the above recommendations be sourced from the Economic Development budget and also underspend in the Community Directorate.

 

TOWN HALL OPEN DAYS

Council has programmed the following open days for the remaining Town Halls, with feedback from the Marrickville town hall open day incorporated into the planning of communications, presence and activities at each site.

 

·    Pride Centre (Newtown Town Hall) – Saturday 29 April

·    St Peters – Saturday May 6

·    Petersham Town Hall – Saturday May 20

·    Balmain Town Hall – Saturday June 3

·    Annandale Town Hall – Saturday June 10

·    Leichhardt Town Hall – Saturday June 17

·    Ashfield Town Hall - Saturday June 24

 

 

MARRICKVILLE TOWN HALL

 

Residencies

The submissions received to date from the Expression of Interest (EOI) campaign for the Creative Use of Town Halls have been reviewed and shortlisted. Once the successful applicants have been confirmed, they will each be contacted and Council will enter into twelve agreements with the individual or entity. It is expected that two of the rooms will be activated by the end of April. The third room will be put up on Council’s Venues for Hire for use by creatives as a rehearsal space.

 

INNER WEST PRIDE CENTRE (Newtown Town Hall)

 

Open Day

An Open Day is proposed for Saturday 29 April and will include an information session for LGBTQ+ organisations. Whilst it was initially scheduled to be held during World Pride, it was subsequently rescheduled to after that program, to ensure it did not create a conflict for people wanting to attend, and to allow a higher level of focus from interested parties.

 

Exhibition Windows

Work has begun on converting the two windows facing into Pride Square as exhibition spaces, with activities including scope, design, cost, and programme. Once completed the displays will be activated to promote the Pride Centre. The project will be managed by the Pride Centre PCG within the current remediation works package.

 

PETERSHAM TOWN HALL

 

Relocation of Council staff

Most staff who have occupied offices predominantly within the first floor of the Petersham town hall will have vacated the building by the end of April. This will allow for the commencement of interested parties from the ‘Creative Use of Council Venues’ pilot program to activate Petersham Town Hall.

 

Council’s records team who are based in offices on the Ground level will remain in place for now and continue to administer the Records Archive within the basement, noting that it is not intended to activate any of the basement level at this time.

 

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST - CREATIVE USE OF COUNCIL VENUES

 

As part of the program to activate council’s Town Halls Council a pilot program was established for individuals or organisations wishing to use Council venues for cultural activities.

 

The community has been encouraged to visit Council’s website and fill out the Expression of Interest (EOI) form with details of their proposal.

 

Submissions received

 

·    As of 27 March 2023, Council has received 53 responses (Attachment 1)

 

It is proposed that the information collected from the EOI and the pilot program will be used to develop a long-term strategy that will provide ongoing use of council’s venues that is inclusive, accessible, and equitable.

 

All respondents who put in for the EOI have received an email from Council staff thanking them for their participation and noting that further information will be provided about the pilot program soon. 

 

VENUES FOR HIRE

 

All the Town Halls are currently available for hire as part of Councils ‘Venues for Hire’ program through the website at Venues for hire - Inner West Council

 

Submissions received that do not fit the criteria for the Creative Use of Town Halls will be directed to Council’s Venues team for further assistance.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

A budget of $20,000 has been allocated through the Third Quarter Budget Review process, in accordance with the resolution made in March, to host the open days including entertainment, printing, and banner collateral.

 

A separate budget will be established for the activation of the Pride Centre exhibition displays once the project has been scoped and agreed.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 20

Subject:         Tree Management in Pioneer Memorial Park Leichhardt           

Prepared By:          Lisa Murphy - Urban Forest Manager 

Authorised By:       Ryann Midei - Director Infrastructure

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

DISCUSSION

At the Council meeting held on 14 February 2023 Council resolved to:

 

Receive a report on tree health and tree management at Pioneer Park to the April 2023 Council meeting.  This will include a general assessment and report on tree health as well as plans for the replacement of any trees which have been removed.

 

Pioneer Park trees were last assessed in 2019 with the capture of tree assets in all the former Leichhardt Council areas Parks. The data inventory recorded 315 action items classified high, moderate and low risk. High risk actions were addressed in August 2019 and moderate risks in July 2022. There are 81 low risk actions programmed for completion in FY 2023/2024.

 

With reference to the Olive grove, 6 Olive trees were identified with high and moderate action items. These were due to conflicts with pedestrians and the trees were subsequently pruned. Of the remaining works, 4 Olive trees require formative pruning. There are no identified removals in the remaining programmed work packages.

 

The ongoing management of the grove is addressed in the Plan of Management for Pioneer Park (2015). The preferred option was to maintain the grove. Community feedback at the time regarding the grove suggests mixed views and offered options to replace the missing Olives, maintaining the grove status quo or removing and replacing the grove with an alternative species. This Plan of Management is scheduled for review in 2026 as adopted in the priority list for park Plans of Management. The options for the olive grove will be explored further during this process. It should be noted that a development application may be required for removal of any trees within the park, with further planning advice required.

 

During a site inspection on 17 March 2023, it was noted that there are about 200 trees in the park which generally are of average to good health and condition, some require pruning and there is one tree which needs to be replaced.

 

It was evident from the inspection that the olive grove trees are displaying signs of stress as they are waterlogged from ongoing wet weather. A general assessment of the grove considers the grove trees as low risk though would require further in-depth assessment. At this stage, there are no prescribed works that would provide substantial benefit to the trees.

 

All the trees in the park will be assessed individually as part of the tree data inventory capture in late 2023. This assessment will inform the future work proposals for the continuing maintenance of the park including pruning, removals and replacements as per the Plan of Management.

 

 

 

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report.

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Pioneer Park Plan of Management 2015

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 


































































Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 21

Subject:         Investment Report at 31 March 2023           

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.

 

 

 

 

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 $222.4m.  All Socially Responsible Investments (SRI’s) are investments that comply with the Non-Fossil Fuel standards. Council’s portfolio had a return 4.73%, against the UBSWA Bank Bill Index Benchmark (3.39%) on a marked-to-market basis. For the past 12 months, the portfolio has returned 2.45% on a marked-to-market basis.

 

Without marked-to-market influences, Council’s investment portfolio yielded 3.84%pa for the month, up from 3.66%pa in February. This is based on the actual interest rates being received on existing investments and excludes market value changes of the securities/deposits.

 

The valuations on Council’s long dated fixed rate bonds increased during the month as long term market rates fell. 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.

 

Change in the value of our portfolio

During March, Council had no maturities, but made new investments of $35m among three 6 month term deposits with Westpac Green and Suncorp paying an average rate of 4.45%pa.

The temporary breach previously reported of the investment policy for one individual bank (Bendigo & Adelaide Bank) is no longer.  This breach was resolved with the reinvestment of funds.

Emerald Reserve Mortgage (purchased by the legacy Marrickville Council) maturing in August 2051 and August 2056 is categorised as greater than 1 year term to maturity category continues to be outside policy.

Investment -

Suncorp Bank $7.0m

Westpac Group (Green TD) $28.0m

 

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 (51% of portfolio) and socially responsible investments (49% of portfolio).

 

The attachments to this report summarise all investments held by Council and interest returns for periods ending 31 March 2023.

 

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 of February have been made in accordance with the Local Government Act, Local Government Regulations and the Inner West Council Investment Policy.

 

 

 

All funds have been allocated as laid out in the adopted 2021/22 Operating Budget and Long-Term Financial Plan.

 

The performance chart over the page 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 had reflected the downward trend in interest rate markets over recent years accelerated by pandemic related interest rate cuts. With inflation pressures building, interest rates increased sharply over much of 2022, causing negative marked-to-market returns on existing bonds and FRNs over that period, however market rates have largely stabilised and the higher rates being received on new investments and FRN rate resets are flowing through to the rolling 12mo figure which is exceeding the benchmark’s performance again.

 

Domestic issues

 

§ Retail sales are down by 1.5% on a three-month average, signalling that consumers are pulling back on spending, just as the RBA would want in its fight against inflation.

§ In another positive sign, the latest monthly consumer price index release was lower than expected and looks to be declining slightly faster than the RBA was forecasting.

§ Overall, inflation is still well above the central bank’s 2-3% target range, but is expected to slow further over the course of 2023 because:

commodity prices are falling.

Covid-related supply chain constraints have eased, and

inflation is a lagging indicator of economic activity so will slow further as economic momentum has weakened and consumers are cutting back spending.

Interest Rates

 

§ At its March meeting the RBA raised the cash target by 25 basis points to 3.60%. The RBA projects inflation will not be in the 2-3% target range until mid-2025, but they expect to pause raising rates soon in order to assess the effect of the rate hikes to date. 

§ The market is now pricing in the current 3.60% cash rate as the peak rate in this cycle, down from 4.35% last month, with the next move being a rate cut, but the market’s sentiment is not shared by the RBA.  The sharp drop occurred in the wake of the global banking scares during March.

 

In March, the term deposit yield curve continued to flatten with short term rates rising and long dated rates coming down. Average TD rates are now between 4.50% - 4.70% for terms of 6 months out to 5 years:

 

 

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

IWC Investment Report - March 2023

2.

IWC Economic & Investment Portfolio Commentary - March 2023

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

















Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 





 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 22

Subject:         Notice of Motion Pedestrian safety at Balmain Road, Lilyfield           

From:             Councillor Kobi Shetty   

 

 

MOTION

 

That Council write to TfNSW to:

 

a)   advocate for the installation of an additional safe place to cross on Balmain Rd, Lilyfield between the existing refuge islands; and

 

b)   Upgrade existing refuge islands to pedestrian crossings including investigating additional safety measures such as signage and traffic calming measures.

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 23

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Demerging Inner West Council: Notifying NSW Parliament            

From:             Councillor John Stamolis   

 

 

MOTION

 

1.    That Council to write to the NSW Premier Chris Minns MP to advise him of the highly successful poll of the Inner West community to demerge Inner West Council. 

 

2.    That Council to also write to the Opposition Leader (when announced). 

3.    That Council to also write to the State members of Parliament who represent the Inner West: 

a)   Ms Kobi Shetty MP for Balmain;

b)   Ms Jo Haylen MP for Summer Hill;

c)   Ms Jenny Leong MP for Newtown; and

d)   Mr Ron Hoenig MP for Heffron.

 

Background

 

Given the election of the 58th Parliament of NSW, it is important to advise key members of parliament about the successful poll of the Inner West community to demerge Inner West Council and to re-establish the 3 former Councils: Ashfield, Leichhardt and Marrickville. 

The Inner West demerger result was successful across ALL 5 wards of Inner West Council, ALL 3 previous Councils of the Inner West and ALL 21 suburbs of the Inner West.    

The demerger policy was abandoned (in early 2017) only 10 months after it was implemented in 2016.  Over 100 Councils in NSW were not affected by this poor policy.  Inner West Council was amongst those which were merged - against the wishes of the communities of Ashfield, Leichhardt and Marrickville.   

The demerger poll conducted in 2021 allowed the Inner West community to express their voice about the merger and to reflect their opinion of the merger after 5.5 years of experience with it.  The Inner West community clearly stated that they want their former Councils back.  

With the change of NSW Government last week, it is hoped that the disrespect toward communities caused by the Council mergers, and which continues today, will cease. Inner West residents now ask that their voice is respected and that the new government will listen and take action on the demerger.   

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 24

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Woolworths Balmain           

From:             The Mayor, Councillor Darcy Byrne and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Philippa Scott  

 

MOTION

 

1.   That Council convene a meeting between Woolworths and the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce so that local businesses and the community can be briefed about any proposed changes at the Woolworths Balmain store;

 

2.   That Council write to Woolworths articulating the concerns of Council and the community about the detrimental impact on the local economy that would be engendered through any reduction in product range at Woolworths Balmain store.  This should include provision of all Council’s investigations and studies into spending patterns in Balmain.

 

 

Background

 

In 2015 the former Leichhardt Council undertook a study of credit card spending patterns in Darling Street Balmain and Norton Street Leichhardt.  The study demonstrated that due to the limited product range at Woolworths Balmain a high percentage of local residents were leaving Balmain for their regular grocery shop.  This trend was identified as having a negative impact on the local economy and main street businesses along Darling Street who miss out on pedestrian traffic and ancillary visitation that comes from a successful supermarket being located on the main street.

 

Since then Council has engaged with Woolworths State office seeking to understand their future plans for the store.  The site is not owned by Woolworths and the property owners have previously indicated their unwillingness to upgrade the store to allow for a larger footprint and better product range and public carparking.  Recently Woolworths have indicated their intention to convert the existing store into a Woolworths Metro.  The Woolworths State office have indicated to Council that they will soon begin community engagement and consultation about their proposed plans.   A development application may need to be submitted to Council for assessment.

 

Any further reduction in a product range at a Woolworths Metro will have a further negative impact on the local Balmain/Rozelle local economy and local businesses.

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 25

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Marrickville Mosaics           

From:             The Mayor, Councillor Darcy Byrne and Councillor Mathew Howard   

 

 

MOTION

 

That Council prepare a report on the cost of restoring and repairing all of the footpath mosaic artworks in Marrickville to allow for funding to be allocated to the works when the Budget is adopted in June.

 

 

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 26

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Media Advertising           

From:             Councillor Mark Drury   

 

 

MOTION

 

That Council authorises the General Manager to approve the occasional use of newspaper advertising, where appropriate, in accordance with Councils Procurement Policy.

 

Background

 

From time to time council may wish to advertise. For example, Council may wish to advertise an event or policy. This resolution would permit the General Manager  to use some of the media budget to advertise  

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 27

Subject:         Notice of Motion: Transphobic and Homophobic Behaviour           

From:             Councillor Liz Atkins   

 

 

MOTION

 

1.   That Council condemn recent transphobic and homophobic behaviour and physical violence against LGBTIQA+ people in the Inner West and beyond.

2.   That Council call on the new NSW Government to reinstate the Safe Schools program in all NSW schools.

3.   That Council call on the NSW Government to reinstate accredited educator training delivered by unions and not-for-profit groups.

4.   That Council supports the right of all trans people, including trans women, trans men and non-binary people aged 16 and above, to update the gender marker on their birth certificate through a simple administrative process to be legally recognised as female, male, non-binary or a gender marker descriptor of their choice, including that gender markers be optional.

5.   That Council distribute the ePetition entitled Allow transgender people to self-ID their legal gender  via council communication channels including the Inner West News, social media and the council website.

6.   That Council inform the Inner West LGBTQ Working Group, Sydney Mardi Gras and World Pride partners of our support for self-ID and Safe Schools.

7.   That Council write to the Premier, the Attorney-General, the Leader of the Opposition, and local Legislative Assembly members to inform them of this resolution and seek their support for amendments to  the Birth, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1995 to enable legal gender recognition without the requirement of surgical intervention.

 

Background

 

During and since World Pride, there has been an increase in transphobic and homophobic behaviour, both in the Inner West and elsewhere. There has also been a change of government.

An inclusive and affirming education system

75% of LGBTIQA+ young people experience bullying at school. The Safe Schools program was an initiative to help schools foster a safe environment that is supportive and inclusive of LGBTIQ+ students. It recognised that creating a safe and inclusive environment is key to tackling bullying and harassment and preventing suicide and self-harm. The initiative was defunded at the Federal level in 2017 and axed in NSW in the same year, being replaced by a broader anti-bullying program.

These attacks then continued into the accredited training of educators in the final term of the NSW Liberal government. All educators are required to do accredited courses as part of retaining their ability to teach, but at the request of Mark Latham, the Liberals de-registered hundreds of courses out of fear of 'gender ideology'. This means that union run and designed courses were slashed instantly, and educators were unable to officially use union resources to develop skills and knowledge about delivering inclusive education.

Gender Self Identification

At the March 2022 meeting of Council, Council unanimously passed motion 0322(1) Item 12 which, amongst other things, called on the then NSW Coalition government to amend the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1995 to enable legal gender recognition without the need for surgical intervention.

There is a petition before the NSW parliament to allow transgender people to self-nominate their legal gender: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/la/Pages/ePetition-details.aspx?q=wuS5UhSQPDtGV4tPGmFp6g

The petition asks the Legislative Assembly to call on the Government to introduce an Act and/or amendment equivalent to the Victorian Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Amendment of 2019 to remove the current requirement for transgender people to undergo sex reassignment surgery before updating their birth certificate.

Part 5A of the New South Wales Births Deaths & Marriages Act 1995 currently requires that transgender people must have "undergone a sex affirmation procedure" and have statutory declarations from two different medical practitioners verifying that they have undergone a sex affirmation procedure (surgery) in order to change their birth certificate. The current Act unnecessarily medicalises the recognition of a person’s lived identity. In addition, surgery is not always appropriate and can be inaccessible and unaffordable as Medicare does not cover it.

Neither the ACT nor the Northern Territory require surgery for a change of sex on a birth certificate. South Australia amended its law to implement self-declaration in 2016 and Tasmania did so  in 2019. Later that year, the Parliament of Victoria introduced a law that abolished the sex reassignment surgery requirement for legal gender change and allows applicants to self-nominate the sex listed on their birth registration as male, female, or any other gender diverse or non-binary descriptor of their choice. Queensland introduced legislation in December 2022 which will allow self-nomination of gender without surgery. Once Queensland’s legislation passes, NSW and WA will be the only States/Territories which require surgery before sex can be changed on a birth certificate.

 

Officer’s Comments:

 

No further comments were required for this Notice of Motion.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 28

Subject:         Question on Notice: Inner West Bushcare Sites           

From:             Councillor John Stamolis  

 

This Question on Notice seeks to provide Councillors with a list of bushcare sites located in the Inner West as well as who looks after these and the frequency or works.

 

 

Question

 

Please supply the data a detailed in the table:

 

a)   Bushcare site - the name of the bushcare site

b)   Suburb

c)   Contractor? - Is the bushcare activity conducted by Council staff, External contactor, Community group, other volunteers or a mix (Council staff/Volunteers)

d)   Contract commenced - details when an external contractor commenced work

e)   Frequency - details the frequency of bushcare activity (1 day per week, 3 days per month etc)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Answer

 

*Bushcare site

Suburb

Supervision

Contract commenced

Frequency

Gadigal Reserve

Summer Hill

Council staff

 

Once a month

Richard Murden Reserve

Haberfield

Council staff

 

 

Once a month

Hoskins Park

Dulwich Hill

Council staff + external contractor

2020 - present

Once a month

Johnson Park

Dulwich Hill

Council staff + external contractor

2020 - present

Once a month

Waratah Mills

Dulwich Hill

Council staff + external contractor

2020 - 2023 (decommissioned site due to Greenway)

Once a month

Camperdown Cemetry

Newtown

Council staff + external contractor

Feb. 2023

Once a month

Clubhouse Landcare

Marrickville

Council staff

 

Once a month

Wave Rock

Marrickville

Council staff

 

Once a month

Mort Bay

Birchgrove

Council staff + external contractor

Feb. 2023

Once a fortnight

Grafton Street

Balmain

Council staff

Once a week – local resident attendance

Council on site every 3 months

*Natural Area

Suburb

Contract managed

Contract commenced

Frequency

Group 1

Annandale

Yes

2019

- Piper Street
Once a month
- Spindlers Reserve
1 day/3-4 weeks
- Whites Creek Valley
Once a fortnight
- Hudson Lane
Once a month

Group 2

Annandale

Yes

2019

- Whites Creek Wetland
Once a week
- Surrounds x 3 sites

Once a week

Group 3

Balmain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Birchgrove

Yes
- area includes x 1 bushcare site

2019

- Camerons Cove
1 day/2-3 weeks
- Elkington Park
Once a month
- Birrung Park
Once a month
- Vinardi Reserve
Once a month
- Waterdale Park

Once a month

- Birchgrove Oval

1 day/3-4 weeks
- Mort Bay Park
1 day/2-3 weeks

Group 4

Summer Hill

Lilyfield

Haberfield

Leichhardt

Yes

- area includes x 2 bushcare sites

2019

- Gadigal Reserve
1 day/4-6 weeks

- Peace Park
1 day/4-6 weeks

- Richard Murden Res.
1 day/4-6 weeks
- Lords Road
1 day/4-6 weeks

Group 5

Lilyfield

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rozelle

Yes

2019

- Leichhardt Park North
Once a fortnight
- Leichhardt Park East
Once a month
- Leichhardt Park Embankment
1 day/3-4 weeks
- Glover Oval
1 day/2-3 weeks

- King George Park
Once a month

Group 6

Tempe

 

Marrickville

Yes

- area includes x 1 bushcare site

2019

- Cooks River Bridge
bi-monthly

- Dibble Waterhole
Once a month

- Cooks River Corridor Once a week
- Warren Park
Once a fortnight
- River Cycleway
Once a week
- Steel Park WSUD 
Once a fortnight
- Mahoney Reserve 
Once a fortnight
- Wave Rock
Once a month
- Beauchamp Street
Once a month
- Princes Street
Once a month

Group 7

Tempe

 

2019

- Tempe Lands
 1 day/3-4 weeks
- Tempe Reserve
1 day/2-3 weeks
- Kendrick Park
Once a month

TfNSW Biodiversity Offset sites x 6

Protected and managed as Biodiversity Offset sites. This is a legally binding condition of planning approval for the *TfNSW light Rail project.

Yes

- Council managed areas on behalf of TfNSW.

2015

Each site once every 5-8 weeks

 

 

*Bushcare is a volunteer-based, environmental conservation program coordinated and supported by the council
https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/live/environment-and-sustainability/in-your-neighbourhood/bushland-parks-and-verges/bushcare-programs

 

*Natural Area – possesses a significant geological feature, geomorphological feature, landform, representative system, cultural significance or other natural feature. Managed under recovery plan for biodiversity conservation, critical habitat restoration and regeneration of ecosystem function. To provide for community use of the land in a manner as will minimise and mitigate any disturbance caused by human intrusion.

https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/live/environment-and-sustainability/in-your-neighbourhood/bushland-parks-and-verges/natural-areas

* The TfNSW light rail project cleared significant areas of vegetation that provided habitat for the Long-nosed Bandicoot and other native wildlife. Before this the light rail corridor was used by wildlife to move safely through urban areas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Question

 

What has been the total expenditure on these bushcare sites, by Council, for each of the past 5 financial years?

 

 

Answer

 

 

Natural Area

2018-19 –
2019 Tender - Group 1-7

2019-20 Actual

2020-21 Actual

2021-22 Actual

2022-23 Budget

Group 1

 

27,100

46,744

38,846

40,552

Group 2

 

40,768

42,330

39,719

39,696

Group 3

 

113,257

115,541

130,367

132,769

Group 4

 

12,425

51,765

50,148

56,699

Group 5

 

81,805

52,173

56,314

58,792

Group 6

 

73,920

94,875

169,994

170,478

Group 7

 

101,150

117,625

128,655

128,021

Other Natural areas Ecological Restoration

 

53,043

22,659

4,583

0

TfNSW Biodivsersity Offset Sites

 

53,043

0

52,155

52,317

Bushcare Site

2018-19

2019-20

2020-21

2021-22

2022-23 Budget

Johnson Park

 

1,620

2,970

2,970

2,970

Piggot St

 

1,350

2,970

2,970

2,970

Waratah Mills

 

1,980

3,960

3,600

3,600

Camperdown Cemetry

 

 

 

 

1,800

Mort Bay

 

 

 

 

3,600

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 29

Subject:         Question on Notice: Reconciliation of Councillor Allowances           

From:             Councillor John Stamolis   

 

Comment by the General Manager:

 

Answers to all questions will be provided at an Ordinary Council meeting in May 2023.

 

 

The table below compares Councillor allowances as paid by Inner West Council with the

schedule of allowances as approved by IPART. 

 

This financial year, 2022-23, Council is expected to pay a total of $575,880 to the Mayor and Councillors based on the IPART schedule.  This total does not include other expenses claimed by Councillors such as IT, phone, equipment, conferences, travel etc.

 

For 4 of the 5 financial years, the total amount paid by Council for Councillor allowances generally aligns with the total as calculated using the IPART schedule. 

 

In YE21 (financial year 2020-21), however, there is a $70,181 variation.  That is, Council paid $483,319 to the Mayor and Councillors whereas the calculation using IPART was $553,500.

 

Notes:

·    The calculation for YE18 is based on 41 weeks given the election was held in September 2017.

·    The calculation of the Deputy allowance varies across the table. In most cases it is split into two components and reported in two separate rows - the Councillor allowance plus a small Deputy allowance.

 

Question

 

Could Council check/validate the data below and explain any major variations (such as YE21)?

 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 30

Subject:         Question on Notice: Mattress Collection           

From:             Councillor John Stamolis   

 

It would be appreciated if the following questions could be answered:

 

Question

 

How often does Inner West Council conduct mattress collection (i.e. frequency)?

Answer

 

Mattress collections are undertaken 5 days a week.  They are collected as per booking in the Optimo system on a zonal basis.

Question

 

Which organisations does Council contract for these services?

Answer

 

There are two contractors, Soft Landing and EnviroBeds. 

 

Question

 

How often can a household access these services? 

Answer

 

Once per week a mattress booking can be made.  

 

Question

 

Where do the mattresses go to?

Answer

 

Soft Landings go to a Smithfield plant where they are disassembled, and components recycled. 

 

Envirobeds have a site in Lakemba. Same process as Soft Landing. 

 

Question

 

What is the average cost to Council per collection of a mattress?

Answer

 

Average $45 per mattress. 

 

Question

 

Please provide the following data on the number of mattresses collected per calendar year:

Answer

 

2017     6856

2018     11040

2019      12244

2020     14037

2021      14917

2022      11624   (until March this year)

 

Question

 

What is the average time of collection of a mattress?  There are examples where mattresses have been on the footpath for significant times. 

Answer

 

Bookings occur weekly. 

 

Reported dumped mattresses are collected within approx. 5 days.   

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 31

Subject:         Question on Notice: Sat-Scan information           

From:             Councillor Kobi Shetty   

 

Due to WestConnex tunnelling work, Inner West Council offered to provide ground movement

data to residents from company Sat-Scan. Many inner west residents with homes in the

tunnelling zone of influence registered to receive this data, and were to rely on it to inform

future damage claims. Council has recently informed residents that Sat-Scan have failed to

provide any ground movement data initially promised.

 

Question

Was there money paid to company Sat-Scan by the Inner West Council?

Answer

 

No - Sat-Scan’s offer was to make the information available free of charge to both Council and the community

 

Question

What services were to be provided by Sat-Scan to Inner West Council?

Answer

 

Sat-Scan was to make its satellite-generated ground movement maps and associated data available to residents via Council’s website.

 

Question

Was there further money budgeted by council for providing this service?

Answer

 

No - Council had not budgeted any money for this service.

 

Question

Has the total of any allocated funding for ground movement data been spent?

Answer

 

There has been no funding allocated and no money spent by Council.

 

Question

Could council use other sources to provide residents with ground movement data?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Answer

 

No. Council has advised property owners to take up the project contractor’s offer of free pre and post property condition reports and to appeal to TfNSW’s Independent Property Impact Assessment Panel over disputed property damage claims. Council can provide an advocacy function to this.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 32

Subject:         Question on Notice: Glyphosate           

From:             Councillor Kobi Shetty  

 

Comment by the General Manager:

 

Answers to all questions will be provided at an Ordinary Council meeting in May 2023.

 

Question

 

In what form are records kept on the use of glyphosate to control weeks on Inner West Council (IWC) lands? 

 

Question

 

Who is responsible for checking these records and how often are they checked? 

 

Question

 

What oversight occurs to ensure the accuracy of these records? 

 

Question

 

What is the procedure where a breach of relevant policies occurs? 

 

Question

 

From the records kept by IWC, how often has glyphosate been used on IWC lands in the last 6 months? 

 

Question

 

Please provide details of each use of glyphosate for February and March 2023 by IWC. 

 

Question

 

Which notification method is most commonly used to notify the use of glyphosate? 

 

Question

 

As part of the record keeping procedures, are records kept on the notification methods used for each use of glyphosate? 

 

Question

 

According to the IWC Pesticide Notification Plan council staff are not required to inform the public that they are spraying glyphosate locally if the application is spraying of glyphosate using a hand spray bottle, wand, or spray lance. As part of the record keeping procedures, are records kept where glyphosate has been used and the public has not been informed? 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Question

 

On the 28 May 2019 Council meeting, as part of the adoption of the Weed Management Policy, the following was adopted: Only use glyphosate as a matter of last resort where other methods cannot be applied and spot control of persistent weeds that resist other treatments occur. What decision-making process do council staff undertake to ensure Glyphosate is only used as a last resort? 

 

Question

 

On 28 May 2019, Council also adopted the following: Any use of glyphosate must be done in a way that avoids it running off into stormwater drains and our waterways. 

 

a)   What steps are council staff taking to ensure that when glyphosate is used, it is not running off into stormwater, drains and our waterways? 

b)   Have there been any breaches regarding this directive from council in the last 6 months? 

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 33

Subject:         Question on Notice: Staff Turnover            

From:             Councillor John Stamolis   

 

 

Question

 

Why was the average cost of termination per employee so low in 2022 ($973)?

Answer

 

We had a constructive culture and stable executive. People left as resignation, dismissals and retirements. Voluntary redundancies were not on offer.

 

Question

 

What caused the increasing rate of termination over the past two years? (10.7% to 12.0% to 17.3%)

Answer

 

2020 was the year that the Covid-19 pandemic started. There were successive lockdowns during that period. NSW Health mandates occurred, and Council initiated double vaccination requirements as part of employment conditions. Council had to terminate staff who chose not to be vaccinated.

 

Employees revaluated their personal circumstances and made varying decisions to move from council.

Question

 

Given the approved 5 year moratorium to protect staff positions after the merger, what has been the reason for staff termination rates at such high levels, with half of the years since the merger at or above 17%?

Answer

All employees who wanted to remain at Inner West Council for the duration of the 5- year protection period post amalgamation were able to do so. This arrangement (5years) was more generous than the standard 3-year period prescribed by the NSW Government requirement of 3 years under clause 354 of the Local Government Act.

 

 

 

 

Question

 

Given the termination levels seen over the 6 years, it might appear that the 5 year moratorium approved by Council was not enforced?  Note that Council maintained strong levels of recruitment with relatively unchanged staff levels.

 

Answer

 

The 5 year protection was maintained, as indicated by the number of employees who remained on the payroll and were not assigned to a position in the new amalgamated council.

Employees who did not apply to any new position in the new amalgamated council were considered Talent pool employees.  Talent pool employees were assigned meaningful duties during the 5 year protection period.

 

By the end of 2021 all talent pool employees have either voluntarily resigned or chose a voluntary redundancy.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

Nil.

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 34

Subject:         Panel Member Appointment - Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP)       

Prepared By:      Rachel Josey - Operations and Special Projects Manager and Harjeet Atwal - Senior Manager Planning  

Authorised By:   Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council appoint the recommended applicants, as outlined in the Confidential report, selected through the Expression of Interest Process, as additional Council representatives on the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP).

 

 

 

 

BACKGROUND

At the Council meeting held on 25 October 2022, Council resolved:

 

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

 

The Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP) is a part of the Sydney District Planning Panels (SPP) which were established in November 2016 along with Regional Planning Panels to replace Joint Regional Planning Panel’s (JRPP) operating throughout NSW. The SPP operations are overseen by the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE).  There are five Sydney District Planning Panels.  Inner West lies within the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP) area. 

 

Panels comprise of five members: 

·              Chair appointed by the Minister of Planning    

·              2 alternate expert representatives appointed by the Minister of Planning

·              2 council appointed representatives  

 

Property developers and real estate agents are not eligible to be members of a Panel. 

 

All Panel members appointed by the Minister, including alternates, must have expertise in one or more of the following areas: planning, architecture, heritage, the environment, urban design, land economics, traffic and transport, law, engineering, tourism or government and public administration. 

 

At least one council member must have expertise in one or more of the following areas: planning, architecture, heritage, the environment, urban design, land economics, traffic and transport, law, engineering, or tourism. In accordance with DPE’s Operational Procedures a minimum pool of four council representatives are required to be appointed for the SECPP.

 

Council’s current panel members are as follows:

 

Chair 

Carl Scully  

Alternate expert representatives 

Jan Murrell  

Roberta Ryan 

 

Council appointed representatives 

Mayor Darcy Byrne 

Deputy Mayor Phillipa Scott

 

Brian McDonald 

 

Deborah Laidlaw 

 

The SECPP makes decisions on Regionally Significant development and provides advice on planning proposals. Generally, these projects have a capital investment value greater than $30 million. Other categories of Regionally Significant Development include Council or Crown development applications, with a capital investment value greater than $5 million.

DISCUSSION

On 14 March 2021, Council considered a report seeking the formal endorsement to appoint an additional four Council representatives on the SECPP in accordance with the 25 October 2022 Council resolution. However, upon consideration in March 2023, Council resolved that the matter be deferred to the 11 April 2023 meeting following further background checks undertaken on candidates. It is noted that the SECPP operations are overseen by DPE who are also responsible for undertaking necessary background/police checks. Council undertook further background checks on the recommended four candidates and subsequently are recommending three candidates to be appointed.

 

Whilst this does not satisfy the four additional members required as per the October 2022 Council resolution, the appointment of three candidates brings to a total of seven council representatives within the pool and as such meets the minimum requirement of four members under DPE’s Operational Procedures.  This is expected to provide pool of sufficient pool to ensure availability of Council representatives for future SECPP meetings.

 

Council may move into closed session to deal with the Panel Member Appointment - Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP), which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993. The matter is deemed confidential, as it contains personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors).

 

Pursuant to section 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)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Development that is subject to review by the SECPP are funded within existing budget allocations. Additional panel members will not have financial implications.

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Confidential Report - Appointment of Council Representatives for SECPP - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors) (Section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993).

2.

Confidential Report - Outcomes of the EOI process - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors) (Section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993).

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 35

Subject:         Appointment of Expert Representatives for the Inner West Local Planning Panel           

Prepared By:      Harjeet Atwal - Senior Manager Planning  

Authorised By:  Simone Plummer - Director Planning

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

 

DISCUSSION

Council will move into closed session to deal with the Appointment of Expert Representatives for the Inner West Local Planning Panel, which is classified as confidential under section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993. The matter is deemed confidential, as it contains personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors).

 

Pursuant to section 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)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993.

 

 

ATTACHMENTS

1.

Confidential Report - Appointment of Expert Representatives for the Inner West Local Planning Panel - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors) (Section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 1993).

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 36

Subject:         FOGO Communication Strategy on Rollout           

Prepared By:          Luke Murtas - Senior Manager Environment and Sustainability 

Authorised By:       Peter Gainsford - General Manager

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

BACKGROUND

At the Council meeting held on Tuesday 14 March 2023, Council resolved:

 

That Council request that officers provide a further report to the next council meeting detailing the communications strategy for the FOGO roll-out, with specific reference to the progress of Part 2 of Motion C1022(1) Item 33 from the meeting held on October 25 2022, which stated:

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.

 

Inner West engaged external communications experts in FOGO, Icon Agency to develop a communications and engagement plan. The process for this work involves discovery, definition, development and delivery phases.

 

Icon undertook workshops in early March with key stakeholders including the FOGO Project control group, staff and Councillors to understand the Inner West community and our local challenges.

 

From this discovery phase a Draft Behavior Change Strategy was prepared which informs the creative aspects and campaign which will commence at the beginning of April and is attached to this report.

 

Behavior change is critical in tapping into the key motivators for our unique community, increasing the likelihood of them embracing the FOGO service.

 

Next Steps

The next phase is the creative development phase which commences at the beginning of April. The creative concepts will be shared with Councillors and key stakeholders for input, prior to the final designs being developed.

Once the concepts have been determined and approved this will progress into the delivery phase (designs and detailed comms plan) by the end of June ready for implementation (printing and distribution) as part of the FOGO roll out.

In the meantime, Council will seek an Expression of Interest which will include finding trusted local champions (organisations, businesses or notable individuals) who have expertise in sustainability education and recycling with established networks and audiences in the Inner West. This will support Council in the delivery of key messages to our community around FOGO. As part of the discovery phase local identities and notable individuals were identified who align with the values of the Behavior Change Strategy developed (attached) and the next report in June 2023 will include recommendations.

 

Timeline:

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with the implementation of the proposed recommendations outlined in the report as budget previously allocated for FOGO communications and engagement.

 

Council may move into closed session to deal with the FOGO Processing Contract Update, which is classified as confidential under Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993. This matter is deemed confidential, as the matter is commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, 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.

Icon Behaviour Change Strategy - 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

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 37

Subject:         Update on the acquisition of investment properties           

Prepared By:          Scott Mullen - Strategic Investments and Property Manager  

Authorised By:       Kelly Loveridge - Director Corporate

 

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

 

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 the Acquisition of Investment properties - Confidential

This attachment is confidential in accordance to information (Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business; AND commercial information of a confidential nature (Section 10A(2)(d)(ii) of the Local Government Act 1993) that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the council.

 

 


Council Meeting

11 April 2023

 

Item No:         C0423(1) Item 38

Subject:         Approval for Lease at 203 Northumberland Street, Liverpool NSW           

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 Approval for Lease at 203 Northumberland Street, Liverpool NSW, 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.

Approval for Lease at 203 Northumberland Street, Liverpool NSW - 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.