Council Meeting

 

14 June 2022

 

 

Minutes of Ordinary Council Meeting held on 14 June 2022 at Ashfield Service Centre

 

Meeting commenced at 6.32pm

 

Present:

Darcy Byrne

Jessica D’Arienzo

Liz Atkins

Marghanita Da Cruz

Mark Drury

Dylan Griffiths

Mathew Howard

Justine Langford

Pauline Lockie

Philippa Scott

Kobi Shetty

Chloe Smith

John Stamolis

Timothy Stephens

Zoi Tsardoulias

Peter Gainsford

Ruth Callaghan

Mayor

Deputy Mayor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

Councillor

General Manager

Director Community

Beau-Jane De Costa

Acting Director Corporate

Simone Plummer

Director Planning

Matthew Pearce

General Counsel

Manod Wickramasinghe

Acting Director Infrastructure

Simon Duck

Senior Manager Sports and Recreation

Daniel East

Strategic Planning Manager

Daryl Jackson

Chief Financial Officer

Gwendolyn Hughes

Governance Coordinator (Minute Taker)

Lanieta Tukana

Governance and Risk Support Officer (Minute Taker)

Grace Gallo

Executive Assistant to Councillors (Minute Taker)

 

APOLOGIES:     Nil

 

DISCLOSURES OF INTERESTS:

 

Clr Lockie declared a non-significant and non-pecuniary interest in Item 24 Tech Central-Camperdown Node Westconnex Dive Site as her employer, the City of Sydney is actively involved in the Tech Central Alliance noted in the motion. This will not affect her ability to consider the matter impartially and she will remain for the debate and vote.

 

Cl Howard declared a non-significant and non-pecuniary interest in Item 12 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – May 16 2022 as he works in the Office of the State Member who has a representative on the Local Traffic Committee. This will not affect his ability to consider the matter impartially and he will remain for the debate and vote.

 

Clr Da Cruz declared a significant and non-pecuniary interest in Item 12 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – May 16 2022 (Item 4 of the Local Traffic Committee Minutes), as she lives adjacent to the proposed works. She will leave the meeting during discussion and voting, as the member participated directly in the meeting.

 

Clr Shetty declared a non-significant and non-pecuniary interest in Item 13 LPAC masterplan update, her children attend swimming lessons there. This will not affect her ability to consider the matter impartially and she will remain for the debate and vote.

 

Motion: (Smith/Stephens)

 

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 (Scott/Stephens)

That the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 10 May 2022 and  Extraordinary Council Meeting held on Tuesday, 10 May 2022 be confirmed.

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.

 

Mayor Byrne left the meeting at 6.57pm and the Deputy Mayor D’Arienzo stood in to Chair the meeting. Mayor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 7.05pm and resumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

Councillor Stephens left the meeting at 7.16pm.

Councillor Stephens returned to the Meeting at 7.22pm.

 

C0622(1) Item 1  Condolence Motion: Bill Hiliard

Motion: (Drury/Byrne)

 

That Council writes a letter of condolence to the family of Bill Hilliard, expressing our sadness at his passing and commending the contribution he made to Rugby League in the Inner West.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C0622(1) Item 33         Mayoral Minute: Condolence Motion Kathleen Hamey

Motion: (Da Cruz/Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Writes a letter of condolence to the family of Kathleen Margaret Hamey, expressing our sadness at her passing and commending the enormous contribution she made to the Balmain community both as a volunteer and local historian; and

 

2.   Write to the Balmain Association proposing the renaming of the Glass House at Balmain in her honour.

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 32         Mayoral Minute: Cathy Edwards-Davis

Motion: (Byrne)

 

That Council thank Cathy Edwards-Davis for her work for Council during the past seven years of service with Inner West Council and Ashfield 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

 

C0622(1) Item 34         Mayoral Minute: Pedestrian Safety Hazards in High Traffic Areas

Motion: (Byrne)

 

That Council receive a report at the August Council meeting identifying the current procedures for monitoring and reporting of pedestrian safety hazards in high traffic pedestrian thoroughfares and making recommendations about inspection, monitoring and repairs.

 

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/Howard)

That Council suspend Standing Orders to bring Items 7 and 17 forward to be dealt with at this time.

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/Howard)

 

That Items 7 and 17 be moved in globo and the recommendations contained within the report 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

 

C0622(1) Item 7  Updated Partnership Agreement with Service NSW

Motion: (Scott/Howard)

 

That Council:

 

1. Endorses the updated Partnership Agreement with Service NSW and;

 

2. Authorises the General Manager to sign the updated Partnership Agreement with Service 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

 

C0622(1) Item 17         Camdenville Park Upgrade Re-commencement

Motion: (Scott/Howard)

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 2  Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy

Motion: (Howard/Scott)

 

That Council:

 

1. Place the draft Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy, as attached, on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, subject to the following addition to the policy:

 

9. General facilities for all Councillors

Administrative support

9.8 Councillors will be provided with communications support to promote initiatives that have been resolved at council, including the drafting and distribution of media releases and through council's social media channels.

 

2. Note that:

a.    In addition to supporting and representing the community, a core function of councillors is to promote the initiatives and good work of Council, its programs, events and staff. Council has a responsibility to assist councillors to achieve this;

 

b.    The primary purpose of council’s communications channels including the newsletter, email lists and social media channels is to promote the policies and priorities of the elected body, as established by adopted resolutions and in the community strategic plan, and to inform the community about programs and initiatives being undertaken by Council in support of the community;

 

c.    While the Mayor (as spokesperson for the council) is to continue to be consulted on any communications as per existing policy and practice, the author of a successful motion is to be offered the opportunity to lead on media opportunities and to feature in photo, video or communications published by council. They may choose to involve other Councillors;

 

d.    Understanding the variety and volume of events and initiatives at council, it is not a requirement for publication that all Councillors or representatives from all political groupings be included in individual photographs, videos or communications on any policy or initiative; but that every effort should be made to ensure a diversity of elected Councillors and political groupings is included in published communications, where there is mention of the political persuasions that it also mentions ward councillors.

 

3. Officers bring a Media Policy and amended Social Media Policy to the August Council meeting that reflects Council’s endorsement of points a.-d. above; and

 

4. Consider the results of the public exhibition process when adopting the final Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy.

Motion Carried

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

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

 

Amendment (Lockie/Shetty)

 

That clause 2. d is amended to:

 

‘Understanding the variety and volume of events and initiatives at council, it is not a requirement for publication that all Councillors or representatives from all political groupings be included in individual photographs, videos or communications on any policy or initiative; but that every effort should be made to ensure a diversity of elected Councillors and political groupings is included in published communications’.

 

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

 

Amendment (Atkins/Griffiths)

That clause 2 of the motion be deleted.

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

 

Amendment (Da Cruz/Shetty)

 

That clause 2. d is amended to:

 

‘Understanding the variety and volume of events and initiatives at council, it is not a requirement for publication that all Councillors or representatives from all political groupings be included in individual photographs, videos or communications on any policy or initiative; but that every effort should be made to ensure a diversity of elected Councillors and political groupings is included in published communications, where there is mention of the political persuasions that it also mentions ward councillors’.

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 3  Endorsement of Ashfield Park Plan of Management

Motion: (Drury/Griffiths)

 

That the matter be deferred to the August Council Meeting for further consideration to allow for additional in person consultation.

 

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

 

Mayor Byrne left the Meeting at 8.33pm and the Deputy Mayor D’Arienzo assumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

Mayor Byrne returned to the Meeting at 8.35pm and assumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

C0622(1) Item 4  Endorsement of Petersham Park Plan of Management.

Motion: (Smith/Atkins)

 

That Council as land manager of Petersham Park:

 

1.   Endorse the Draft Plan of Management (D500070 & D500430) and refer this to the Minister for Crown Land and Waters for owner’s consent;

 

2.   Note that on receipt of owners consent the Draft Plan of Management will be exhibited for 28 days and reported back to Council for adoption; and

 

3. Note the outcomes of community engagement associated with the renaming proposal for the Petersham Park Grandstand.

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 5  Endorsement King George Park Plan of Management

Motion: (Byrne/Scott)

 

That Council:

 

1. Endorse final plans for the King George Park Upgrade must include new use of the amenities block for female friendly change rooms including showers.

 

2. Endorse plan of management of King George Park incorporate the final design for amenities block, which is still yet to be finalised.

 

3. Staff continue to engage key stakeholders as part of the investigations for a new storage facility within King George Park. As part of these investigations Council officers are to restrict any future building envelope outside of identified and developed bush care areas.

 

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 (Shetty/Byrne)

 

Council staff continue to engage key stakeholders as part of the investigations for a new storage facility within King George Park. As part of these investigations Council officers are to restrict any future building envelope outside of identified and developed bush care areas.

 

As the Amendment was accepted by the Mover of the Motion, it has been incorporated into the Primary motion.

 

C0622(1) Item 6  Lewis Herman Reserve - Endorsement of Park Plan of Management and Master Plan

Motion: (Drury/Griffiths)

 

That Council as land manager of Lewis Herman Reserve;

 

1.   Endorse the Plan of Management (Lot 12 DP 11457261) and refer this to Transport for NSW for formal sign off and consent;

 

2.   Note that subject to formal sign off on the Plan of Management development of the reserve will commence in Quarter 3 of the 2022 financial year;

 

3.   Note that due to the size restrictions of Lewis Herman reserve, limitations on landscape design and the proximity of the aged care home, that Lewis Herman Reserve be dedicated as an on leash park. An off-leash dog exercise area is currently being proposed for Ashfield Park; and

 

4.   Investigate and report back to Council’s Traffic Committee on community feedback in relation to expressed community needs for a pedestrian crossing to the new reserve in Holden Street, Ashfield.

 

5. Note the following brief biography of Lewis Hermann AO:

 

·         Lewis (Lew) Herman AO was Ashfield’s longest serving Mayor from 1976-1991 and a proud advocate for Ashfield and the community he lived and served.

 

·         After leaving school at 15, Lew worked in the family business, eventually taking over from his father. It was as a cap maker that Lew became involved in the Hatters Union, though which he join the ALP and subsequently embarked on his 35 years as an Ashfield Councillor, beginning in 1971.

 

·         Lew was a compassionate community leader and took up many key fights, including against the expansion of Kingsford Smith Airport in the 1980s. Lew worked tirelessly for his local community and took great pride in his work. He has a keen sense of humour and a twinkle in his eye.

 

·         Also a great advocate of multiculturalism, Lew was actively involved in several ethnic associations, also ensuring that the Ethnic Community Council held its annual meeting at the Ashfield Town Hall every year, from 1974 to 2003.In 1982, he was awarded an Order of Australia

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 8  De-amalgamation Business Case for Inner West Council

Motion: (Scott/Drury)

That Council

1.    Resolve to place the draft De-amalgamation Business Case for Inner West Council on public exhibition for 28 days;

 

2.    Endorse the public engagement activities, as outlined in the report, being undertaken, including:

a.    that the flyer referenced in the report be letterboxed to all households and include the known tangible, financial costs, including the costs of senior staff salary and politician costs; and non-financial risks, such as a period of anti-democratic administration; and any benefits as identified by the report and by the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee;

 

b.    that this information also be prepared as a summary introduction to the Morrison Low business case when it appears on exhibition, where it is promoted through Council’s communication channels, and as an introduction to the survey activity; and

 

c.    that an additional online public forum be held to be Chaired by the General Manager and that Morrison Low attend the forum;

 

3.    Notes that the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee:

a.    resolved that if Council does de-amalgamate that the risks associated with staff retention and engagement, loss of corporate/local knowledge, service disruption and inconsistency during the transition and IT security and controls risk in demerging systems will require significant management throughout the process and an agreed transition approach will also be critical

 

b.    requested that a comprehensive risk analysis of the de-amalgamation process and its subsequent impacts is undertaken and reported back to ARIC

 

c.    recommended that the communication to the community in relation to the de-amalgamation process clearly identifies the known non-financial risk and benefits to the community;  and

 

d.    endorsed the recommendations of the ARIC meeting of 8 June 2022, in relation to the item ‘Draft de-amalgamation business case for Inner West Council’ being provided to the Council meeting on 14 June 2022, as part of the item considering the de-amalgamation business case in the Ordinary Council agenda;

 

4.    Approve the Mayor to write to the Minister for Local Government asking for a commitment that the state government pay the full costs of de-amalgamation should it occur, and that they commit to not sacking the Council and installing an administrator; and

 

5.    Officers prepare a further report to the August Council meeting, outlining the outcomes of the community engagement process along with the final business case for Council's consideration

 

Motion Carried

For Motion:                 Crs Byrne, Drury, Howard, Langford, Scott, Smith, Stephens and Tsardoulias

Against Motion:          Crs Atkins, Da Cruz, D'Arienzo, Griffiths, Lockie, Shetty and Stamolis

 

 

 

Amendment (Atkins/Shetty)

 

That Council:

1.    Note that, as noted by Morrison Low, a significant piece of work is missing from the draft Business Case, being the qualitative work with residents who voted to demerge.

 

2.    Approve this critical work to complete the demerger business case, be undertaken and included in a revised draft Business Case prior to public exhibition.

 

3.    Refer the revised draft Business Case and the proposed public engagement activities for review by a panel comprised of 3 local government experts and 3 independent community representatives from local community organisations such as Friends of Callan Park.

 

4.    Notes that the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee:

a.    resolved that if Council does de-amalgamate that the risks associated with staff retention and engagement, loss of corporate/local knowledge, service disruption and inconsistency during the transition and IT security and controls risk in demerging systems will require significant management throughout the process and an agreed transition approach will also be critical

b.    requested that a comprehensive risk analysis of the de-amalgamation process and its subsequent impacts is undertaken and reported back to ARIC

c.    recommended that the communication to the community in relation to the de-amalgamation process clearly identifies the known non-financial risk and benefits to the community;  and

d.    endorsed the recommendations of the ARIC meeting of 8 June 2022, in relation to the item ‘Draft de-amalgamation business case for Inner West Council’ being provided to the Council meeting on 14 June 2022, as part of the item considering the de-amalgamation business case in the Ordinary Council agenda;

 

5.    That the Mayor write to the Minister for Local Government asking for a commitment that the state government pay the full costs of de-amalgamation should it occur, and that they commit to not sacking the Council and installing an administrator

 

6.    Officers prepare a further report to the September Council meeting, outlining the outcomes of the panel consideration along with a further draft business case for Council’s consideration for public engagement, including public exhibition for 28 days.

Motion lost

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

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

 

The Chairperson used his Casting Vote and the Motion was lost.

 

Councillor Smith left the meeting at 8.57pm and did not vote when the Amendment was put.

 

Councillor Smith returned to the meeting at 8.59pm.

 

 

 

 

Procedural Motion (Scott/Stephens)

 

That the meeting be adjourned for 10 minutes.

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

The meeting was adjourned at 9.00pm

The meeting recommenced at 9.20pm

 

C0622(1) Item 9  Rescheduling of October 2022 Meetings

Motion: (Scott/Drury)

 

That Council:

 

1.    Reschedule the Ordinary Council Meeting on 11 October 2022 to 25 October 2022;

 

2.    Reschedule the Local Forum Matters Public Forum Meeting on 25 October 2022 to 11 October 2022; and

 

3.    Publish these changes to the Meeting Schedules on Council’s website.

 

Motion Carried

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

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

 

C0622(1) Item 10         Options on Accessibility improvement for small business

Motion: (Howard/Scott)

 

That Council defer the Item to a future Ordinary Council meeting, noting that Council is undertaking a comprehensive engagement on the Disability Inclusion Access Plan, and ask that further consideration be given to a proposed grants program as part of that process.

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 11         2022 Inner West Council Annual Grants

Motion: (Smith/Scott)

That Council:

1.    Endorses the 2022 Annual Grant Guidelines for public exhibition, subject to the Guidelines including;

 

a.    practical support for applicants, particularly to support applicants from diverse backgrounds; and

 

b.    the Diversity Council in selecting the panellists for grant rounds; and

 

2.    Acquittal of any grant include the opportunity for Councillors to attend events and support community groups through the use of Council’s media and social media.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

Councillor Da Cruz left the Meeting at 9.25pm as she declared a significant, non-pecuniary interest in Item 12 Local Traffic Committee Meeting – 16 May 2022 (Item 4 of the Local Traffic Committee Minutes) as she lives adjacent to the proposed works.

 

C0622(1) Item 12         Local Traffic Committee Meeting - 16 May 2022

Motion: (Scott/Stephens)

That the Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee meeting held on 16 May 2022 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

 

Councillor Da Cruz returned to the meeting at 9.26pm.

 

C0622(1) Item 13         LPAC masterplan update

Motion: (Drury/Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.  Endorses the depth of the proposed 25 metre Outdoor Program Pool at Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre to be 2.1 metres with a movable floor and

 

2. Endorses the funding outline for the outdoor elements of the Leichhardt Park Aquatic Centre masterplan.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

 

 

 

Amendment (Da Cruz/Shetty)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Provide a Corflute display highlighting what is happening at the Aquatic Centre;

 

2.   Feature the Aquatic Centres in the Council Newsletters twice a year; and

 

3.   Run two Forums/Workshops/Open Days a year at each Aquatic Centre.

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 14         Bays West - Stage 1 White Bay Power Station and Roberts Street
         Sub-Precincts Draft Master Plan - Inner West Council
         Submission

Motion: (Smith/Byrne)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Commence public advocacy to have the establishment of the Bays Precinct Walk, a continuous pedestrian path around the harbourside land incorporating White Bay, Rozelle Bay, Black Wattle Bay and the Fish Markets.

 

2.   Endorses the Inner West Council Submission which outlines its concerns and suggestions for improvement, and overall position not to support the plans in their current form to the exhibited Bays West Stage 1 – Draft Master Plan: White Bay Power Station (and Metro) and Robert Street Sub Precincts,  subject to the inclusion of minimum 15% affordable housing levy be required on all residential, commercial and retail gross floor areas (GFA) within the Bays West Master Plan precinct within the precinct as recommended by Shelter NSW, noting that the Council does support the public amenities contained within the plan and supports bringing them forward.

 

3.   Submission be forwarded to the Department of Planning and Environment for consideration.

 

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 (Shetty/Stamolis)

1. Council endorses the Inner West Council Submission to the exhibited Bays West Stage 1 – Draft Master Plan: White Bay Power Station (and Metro) and Robert Street Sub Precincts, subject to the following inclusions:

 

Additional points as an introduction (can possibly be added to point 16).

 

·         Inner West Council does not support this draft master plan in its current form.

 

·         Council sees the piecemeal approach of releasing each stage of the Masterplan separately as problematic, as it does not take into account the cumulative impacts of the project beyond Stage 1. This increases the risk of enabling inappropriate levels of development favouring developers over local residents, that would otherwise be rejected if considered in conjunction with neighbouring aspects of the same development.

 

·         Each stage of the Masterplan that is released should have more accessible and inclusive consultation, including face to face consultation and public meetings. Current community consultation has relied heavily upon online engagement, excluding wide sections of the local community.

 

2. Page 3 – point 4 – Affordable housing

 

·         Change to 4. A minimum 30% of residential development for affordable and social housing

 

3. Page 10, point 11 – Traffic and transport

 

·         Add information about problematic aspect of the 5% mode share target (unrealistic)

 

·         Council supports the draft masterplan’s aim to be a 5% ‘ultra-low’ private vehicle environment, and a modal hierarchy that prioritises walking, riding, public transport, freight logistics, port traffic, taxis  and pool cars over private cars. Council, however, notes that a 5% private vehicle mode share is unrealistic and unprecedented. Council’s 2020 Integrated Transport Strategy shows that 46% of people in the Inner West travel by private car, and that approximately 70% of trips with a destination within the Balmain Peninsula are as a driver or passenger in a private vehicle. Modelling needs to be undertaken to show the impact of realistic traffic projections, noting that even with the ultra-ambitious targets of both 5% and 15%, Transport for NSW 2040 traffic modelling shows unacceptable levels of congestion at intersections on Robert Street/Victoria Road, Robert Street/Mullins Street and The Crescent/James Craig Road. This impact will not only affect car users, but also public transport users, with buses travelling to and from the new Metro Station along Robert Street and Victoria Road as the only means of dispersement with no light rail or heavy rail nearby.

 

4. Page 17 – Port Road duplication

 

·         Strengthen wording around council not supporting access to cruise terminal via Robert St.

 

·         Replace comments section with below:

 

·         Council does not support access to the cruise terminal via Robert Street, or any other residential streets in Rozelle or Balmain. Not only is it necessary to maintain the two roads, as required by the cruise terminal’s existing conditions of approval, congestion at the Victoria Road and Robert Street intersection on cruise days or when the Cruise Terminal is open for events will have an unacceptable impact on the local traffic network.

 

 

 

5. Page 22 – Built form

 

·         Add first point to comments:

 

·         Based on the high-level built form information provided, Council:

 

·         Does not support the proposed height of 22 storeys, which is excessive. The scale will obscure the heritage Power Station and impact sight lines of the Power Station from Blackwattle Bay. Additionally, traffic modelling has identified unacceptable traffic impacts that can be ameliorated by a reduction in density.

 

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 (Byrne/Griffiths)

 

That an extension of time of one (1) minute for Councillor Shetty to speak on the motion in Item 16 be granted.

 

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

 

 

Mayor Byrne left the Chair at 9.44pm and the Deputy Mayor D’Arienzo assumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

Mayor Byrne returned to Chair the Meeting at 9.45pm and assumed the role of the Chair at this time.

 

Councillor Shetty left the Meeting at 9.51pm

Councillor Shetty returned to the Meeting at 9.52pm

 

C0622(1) Item 15     Community Strategic Plan 2036, Delivery Program 2022-26,   
             Operational Plan and Budget 2022-23, Long Term Financial
             Plan 2022-32, Workforce Management Strategy 2022-26 and
             Asset Management Strategy 2022-32

Motion: (Drury/D'Arienzo)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Note the community submissions for the following documents which were publicly exhibited as required by the Local Government Act 1993:

·         Draft Community Strategic Plan – Our Inner West 2036

·         Draft Delivery Program 2022-26, Operational Plan and Budget 2022-2023 (including Fees and Charges 2022-2023)

·         Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2022-2032

 

2. Endorse the Community Strategic Plan with the proposed changes arising from the public exhibition as outlined in the report.

 

3.   Adopt the following documents with the proposed changes arising from the public exhibition as outlined in the report;

·         Draft Delivery Program 2022-26, Operational Plan and Budget 2022-2023 (including Fees and Charges 2022-2023)

·         Draft Long Term Financial Plan 2022-2032 (Scenario 1 – Business as Usual)

 

4.    Adopt the following elements of the Resourcing Strategy (no public exhibition required):

 

·         Draft Workforce Management Strategy 2022-26; and

o   That Council consult with staff and develop an LGBTIQ+ Pride Staff Network and report back to council by way of a councillor briefing and supports other measures being taken by council to foster diversity and inclusion within council’s workforce.

 

·         Draft Asset Management Strategy and Policy, and Draft Asset Management Plans for asset classes:

§  Parks

§  Buildings

o   Stormwater and Drainage

o   Transport

 

5.    Publish the final documents on Council’s corporate website by 30 June 2022 and notify Office of Local Government of a link to the web page.

 

6.    Note that every action in the Operational Plan needs to take account of the diverse nature and ability of all Inner West residents.

 

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 (Tsardoulias/Stephens)

 

That an extension of time of one (1) minute for Councillor Drury to speak on the motion in Item 15 be granted.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Crs Da Cruz, Atkins and Langford

 

Amendment (Atkins/Scott)

 

That Council note that every action in the Operational Plan needs to take account of the diverse nature and ability of all Inner West residents.

 

 

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

 

As the Amendment was carried, it has been incorporated into the Primary motion.

 

C0622(1) Item 16         Investment Report At 30 April 2022

Motion: (Scott/Lockie)

 

That Council receive and note the report.

 

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 18         King George Park - Priority Community Improvement Project

Motion: (Byrne/Drury)

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 19         Notice of Motion: 40zM/H Speed Limits on Local Streets

Motion: (Lockie/Da Cruz)

 

That Council:

 

1. Notes that Inner West @ 40, one of the key projects identified in the Integrated Transport Policy adopted by Council in March 2020, seeks to establish an area-wide 40km/h zone on all local streets across the Inner West, with investigative areas of 30km/h in areas of demonstrated high pedestrian flow or pedestrian/cyclist crash clusters;

 

2. Notes that any changes to speed limits must be approved and implemented by Transport for NSW, which has provided in-principle support for safer speed limits of 40km/h on all local roads in the Inner West;

 

3. Notes that, since providing this in-principle support, Transport for NSW has yet to amend the speed limit on any local road in the Inner West LGA to 40km/h, despite repeated requests from Council staff;

 

4. Writes to the Minister for Metropolitan Roads to request that she ensures Transport for NSW works with Council to:

 

a. Identify priority streets for 40km/h speed limits and implement these changes by the end of this year;

 

b. Implement 40km/h speed limits on all remaining local roads in the Inner West LGA as soon as possible, and ensure State funding is allocated to allow this to happen to an agreed timeline;

 

c. Investigate and prioritise streets and/or areas for the implementation of 30km/h speed limits, particularly around schools, and areas of high pedestrian activity or pedestrian/cyclist crash clusters.

 

d) requests urgent implementation of the Haberfield High Pedestrian Activity area as was promised in 2019.

 

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/Lockie)

 

That Council amend clause 4 and include a new subclause d) ‘requests urgent implementation of the Haberfield High Pedestrian Activity area as was promised in 2019.’

 

As the Amendment was accepted by the Mover of the Motion, it has been incorporated into the Primary motion.

 

C0622(1) Item 20         Notice of Motion: DA Info Sessions

Motion: (D'Arienzo/Howard)

That Council:

1.   Implements DA Information Sessions for all development application types that are to be determined by the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel (SECPP).  Advice to the community is to be included in the initial neighbour notification letter;

2.   Acknowledges the complexity of the planning legislation and process and the significance of its impact upon the community and accordingly implements a series of monthly workshops alternating between sessions on the DA process for applicants and the DA process for submissions by community members;

3.   Recognises the possibility that non-SECPP applications with widespread impacts may be lodged, and in such an event supports the holding of DA Information Sessions at the discretion of the Director of Planning;

4.   Endorses that a range of options be explored for how the information session is to be held, with a report on these to be provided after a 12-month trial; and

5. Reviews a report provided by way of briefing note on all relevant or significant applications.

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

 

C0622(1) Item 21         Notice of Motion: Westconnex St Peters Interchange

Motion: (Lockie/Howard)

 

That Council:

 

1.  Requests an urgent briefing from Transport for NSW about the reports ordered by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) about the WestConnex St Peters Interchange, and the remediation works being carried out at the site;

 

2.  Writes to the Premier and relevant Ministers to:

 

a.  Request that Transport for NSW shares the reports ordered by the EPA with Council, along with any other relevant reports and information about investigations into ongoing contamination the WestConnex St Peters Interchange site;

 

b.  Request that the EPA takes enforcement action on any non-compliance issues and licence breaches at the site in order to protect our local community;

 

c.  Seek confirmation that the NSW Government will take responsibility for the care, control and management of the St Peters Interchange parkland, and work with Council to identify an alternative site to provide genuine open space and parkland as compensation for the impact of WestConnex.

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 22         Notice of Motion: Lighting up Dulwich Hill Skate Park

Motion: (Griffiths/D'Arienzo)

 

That Council:

 

1. Investigate the lighting along the pedestrian path between the Dulwich Hill Light Rail to Terrace Road and;

a. undertake a lighting test to measure the existing lighting level and performance and ensure compliance with Australian Standards;

 

b. work in consultation with the NSW Police to conduct a Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment which includes reviewing current lighting lux levels within the park.

 

  2. Bring forward up to $200,000 from the 2023/24 Parks Upgrades capital works budget and allocate funding to light the Dulwich Hill skate park, subject to community engagement support and report it to Council.

3.  Convene a community meeting with ward councillors at the skate park to identify ‘quick wins’ to improve the facility.

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

 

C0622(1) Item 23         Notice of Motion: Inner West Pride Centre

Motion: (Howard/Atkins)

                                                                                                     

That Council:

 

1.  Reaffirm its commitment to establishing an Inner West Pride Centre at Newtown Town Hall following the relocation of the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre to the Tom Foster Centre;

 

2.  Establish a sub-committee to advise the establishment of the Centre, chaired by Clr Howard, and consisting of Clr Atkins (Alternate Chair), Deputy Mayor Jess D’Arienzo, three representatives of the LGBTIQ Working Group and relevant staff, to work with the Staff Reference Group for the Inner West Pride Centre to:

 

a.  Review the former Expression of Interest process;

 

b.  Conduct a scoping study to determine a sustainable operating model that advances the vision of the Pride Centre whilst ensuring ongoing community access to Newtown Town Hall;

 

c.  Establish principles, objectives and activities for the Inner West Pride Centre;

 

d.  Prepare for a renewed Expression of Interest process for the second half of 2022;

 

3.  Ensure adequate staffing and resources to enhance Council’s collaboration with Local LGBTQ+ organisations, deliver LGBTQ+ programs and manage the Inner West Pride Centre; and

 

4. Work with the World Pride Sub-Committee to incorporate Newtown Town Hall in World Pride activities.

Motion Carried

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

Against Motion:          Nil

 

C0622(1) Item 24    Notice of Motion: Tech Central-Camperdown Node Westconnex   Dive Site

Motion: (Smith/D’Arienzo)

That Council:

1.  Note the current and upcoming work of Inner West Council in the Tech Central innovation precinct;

 

2.  Actively collaborate with the Tech Central Alliance in recognition of Tech Central innovation precinct’s critical role in Sydney's economic recovery, jobs growth and productivity rise; and

 

3.  Advocate to the State Government that the Transport for NSW owned WestConnex dive site in Annandale be:

a.  retained in public ownership; and

b.  secured for biotechnology and advanced manufacturing uses in the innovation sector to contribute to the economic outputs of the Camperdown health and education innovation precinct of Tech Central.

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/Smith)

 

That Council amend the word ‘Camperdown’ in the first part of clause 3 and insert the word ‘Annandale’.

 

As the Amendment was accepted by the Mover of the Motion, it has been incorporated into the Primary motion.

 

C0622(1) Item 25         Notice of Motion: Beautification of Railway Parade, Annandale

Motion: (Shetty/Byrne)

 

That council:

 

1. Prepare a report back to the August Council meeting about the management of

Railway Parade, Annandale, including:

a. The current cleaning and maintenance cycle for the area

b. Information about when the road surface along Railway Parade is due to be upgraded.

 

2. Create a native planting schedule for the site, in consultation with Sydney Water, that connects the planting by Transport for NSW (TfNSW) surrounding    the new overpass bridge, along Railway Parade to the Rozelle Bay light railstop for beautification, provision of habitat and to make a contribution to Council’s development of the Blue-Green grid.

 

3. Write to TfNSW to advocate for better masking of the visual impact of the overpass bridge for residents on Railway Parade and Pritchard St, Annandale, including planting and public art.

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 26         Notice of Motion: Audit of Council venues

Motion: (Shetty/Stamolis)

 

That Council:

 

1. Prepare a report for the September council meeting on council operated venues and current levels of use. The purpose of this report is to identify any under-utilised council properties that may be offered to artists as workspaces, rehearsal spaces or performance spaces at an affordable rate.

2.   Prepare a report for the September council meeting on council operated venues and current levels of use. The purpose of this report is to identify any under-utilised council properties that may be offered to artists as workspaces, rehearsal spaces or performance spaces at an affordable rate.

 

3.   Share a 2019 audit of council venues with councillors comparing current levels of use to pre-Covid levels, to understand the impact that Covid has had on the use of council properties. 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 27         Notice of Motion: Artist's Wage

Motion: (Atkins/Griffiths)

 

That Council:

1.   Congratulate staff on the success of the Inner West Arts Summit;

 

2.   Notes that the concept of an artist’s wage provided by government was raised by many tables of participants at the Summit; and 

 

3.   Immediately commences advocacy at the Federal government level for the introduction of a fixed income support scheme for artists, with the Mayor to write to the Minister for the Arts and the Special Envoy for the Arts as a first step.

 

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

 

Amendment (Stamolis)

 

Immediately commences advocacy at the Federal Government level for the investigation of a fixed income support scheme for artists, with the Mayor to write to the Minister for the Arts and the Special Envoy for the Arts as a first step.

 

The Amendment lapsed as it was not supported by the Mover of the Motion and the Amender elected not to put the Amendment to vote.

 

Procedural Motion (Smith/Stephens)

 

That the meeting be extended until 11.10pm

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 28         Notice of Motion: Senior Staff Changes

Motion: (Stamolis/Atkins)

 

That the General Manager brief Councillors about why turnover at senior manager level and above remains at a high level.

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

 

Confidential Session

 

Motion: (Griffiths/Scott)

 

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

 

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

 

C0622(1) Item 31 Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Public Domain Improvements Project – Construction Tender (T05-22)

(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.

 

Motion: (Griffiths/Scott)

 

That Council  of move back into 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

 

Reports with Confidential Information

C0622(1) Item 31         Tender (T05-22) Dulwich Hill Station Precinct Public Domain Improvements Project - Construction

Motion: (Scott/Smith)

 

That Council:

 

1.   Accept tender submission from CA&I Pty Ltd for $4,197,861. (excl. GST);

 

2.   Include a 10% contingency sum of $419,786 (excl. GST) due to the unknown extent of the works;

 

3.   Adopt the total budget of $5,232,647 (excl. GST) to deliver this project which includes design, project management costs, contingency and construction.

 

4. Provide the General Manager with delegated authority to execute any associated documents.

 

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 10.58 pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Public Speakers:

 

 

Item #

 

Speaker

Suburb

Item 3:

 Jo Alley

Ashfield

Item 5:

Trent Miller

Cheyne Harrison

Bronson Harrison

Leichhardt

North Rocks

Breakfast Point

Item 6:

Alyce Lythall

Ashfield

Item 8:

Pip Hinman

Michele Hacking

Louise Steer

Newtown

Rozelle

Stanmore

Item 10:

Rochelle Porteous

Jane Scott

East Balmain

St Peters

Item 14:

Rochelle Porteous

East Balmain

Item 15:

Hannah Solomons

Ashfield

Item 18:

Bronson Harrison

Breakfast Point

Item 19:

Bridget Foley

Breakfast Point

Item 25:

Pieter Lindhout

Annandale

Item 26:

Jonathan Biggins

Lisa Tatman

Balmain

Balmain

Item 27:

Rachael Jacobs

Stanmore

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on the 14th day of June, 2022 were confirmed as a correct record on this 9th day of August, 2022.

 

 

 

 

 

..............................................

CHAIRPERSON