That the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 30 March 2022 be confirmed as a true record of that meeting.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Mayor Mannoun      Seconded: Clr Ammoun

That Council endorses the submission on the Draft Western Parkland City Blueprint and Draft Economic Development Roadmap for submission to the Western Parkland City Authority with the following inclusions to it:

·           Referencing the future Moore Point and Woodward park developments as high priority infrastructure for the region;

·           That the WPCA plays a more effective and active role in service and utility coordination to achieve improved outcomes particularly in growth areas;

·           Given Liverpool City Council’s strategic positioning in the Parkland City, that its inclusion as a key stakeholder during the development of strategic documents and key decisions is non-negotiable;  

·           That the Draft Western Parkland City Blueprint includes the following two future rail corridors;

o    Parramatta- Austral – Badgerys Creek

o    Bankstown- Liverpool- Austral

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Hagarty              Seconded: Clr Hadid

That Council:

1.      Defer the renaming of ‘Squillaciote Crescent’ to ‘Driver Street’ in Austral pending the consultation of the family;

2.      Supports the naming of the bypassed section of Elizabeth Drive to ‘Farrier Place’ in Luddenham, by Penrith City Council;

3.      Supports the naming of Regal Lane, Liverpool;

4.      Supports the naming of Bushmaster Avenue, Moorebank;

5.      Forwards the names to the Geographical Names Board, seeking formal approval;

6.      Publicly exhibits the names in accordance with Council’s Naming Convention Policy, for a period of 28 days, following formal approval from the GNB; and

7.      Authorises the Acting Chief Executive Officer (or delegate) to undertake the process of gazettal if there are no submissions received during public exhibition.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

The Councillors voted unanimously for this item. 

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Rhodes               Seconded: Clr Hadid

That Council:

1.    Notes the Gateway determination for Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 (Map Amendment 3) and the results of the public authority and community consultation; and

2.    Proceeds with Map Amendment 3 and delegates authority to the Acting Chief Executive Officer (or delegate) to liaise with the NSW Parliamentary Counsel’s Office and the Department of Planning and Environment to finalise Map Amendment 3.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

The Councillors voted unanimously for this item.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Hagarty              Seconded:Clr Macnaught

That Council:

1.    Notes the amendments to the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 under the NSW Government’s Employment Zones reform;

2.      Supports the public exhibition of the proposed amendments to the land use tables, additional local provisions, additional permitted uses and Land Zoning Map in the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 by the Department of Planning and Environment, with a request that ‘food and drink premises’ remains permissible with development consent in the stand-alone centre at Orange Grove; and

3.      Receives a further report on the outcomes of public exhibition and community consultation once provided to Council by the Department of Planning and Environment.

4.      Investigate whether local distribution centres in the proposed E1 zone will be allowed under these amendments.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

The Councillors voted unanimously for this item.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Rhodes               Seconded: Clr Hadid

That Council:

1.      Notes the Gateway determination for Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 (Amendment 93) and the results of public authority and community consultation;

2.      Reports back to Council as soon as possible with other potential uses for this site; and

3.      Proceeds with Amendment 93 to the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 including post exhibition amendments; and delegates authority to the Acting Chief Executive Officer (or delegate) to liaise with the NSW Parliamentary Counsel’s Office and the Department of Planning and Environment to finalise Amendment 93; and

4.      Notifies submitters of Council’s decision.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

The Councillors voted unanimously for this item.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Hagarty              Seconded: Clr Green

That Council receives and notes this report.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Hagarty              Seconded: Clr Ammoun

That Council:

1.      Notes the staged improvement solutions as indicated in this report;

2.      Receives an updated report, following confirmation of funding, on the design and delivery of the two proposed short-term improvement works;

3.      Notes the ongoing work necessary to identify funding sources for the medium and long-term improvements, including Federal and State government grants and potential amendments to Local Infrastructure Contributions Plans; and

4.      Hold a briefing for Councillors on the medium and long term works.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

The Councillors voted unanimously for this item.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Mayor Mannoun      Seconded: Clr Hadid

That Council:

1.    Notes the Council resolution of 25 November 2020 and supports the additional amendments to the planning proposal to introduce an ‘Adaptive Management Framework’ to ensure development in this precinct is staged in a manner that is compatible with flood evacuation capacity;

2.    Resubmits the planning proposal to the Department of Planning and Environment, pursuant to Section 3.34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, seeking a Gateway determination with a recommendation that completion of relevant studies be included as a condition of any Gateway determination and that the Department play an active role in the planning process given the strategic significance of this proposal to Liverpool and Greater Sydney;

3.      Receives a further report on the outcomes of public exhibition and community consultation;

4.      A comprehensive infrastructure plan which may include a VPA / works in kind / contributions plan is to cover traffic improvements, banks stabilization, and flood evacuation and mitigation measures;

5.      Subject to proceeding through gateway, create a working group including Councillors to continue work on the project; and

6.      Use a similar process, procedures, regulations and planning controls for other planning proposals that are before Council, where appropriate.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

The Councillors voted unanimously for this item.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Green                 Seconded: Clr Hadid

That the establishment of any additional Council Committees be deferred until a review of all Council Committees is undertaken to determine the effectiveness of the Committee, cost analysis, whether stated aims are being met in accordance with the Community Strategic Plan, and if they meet and are representative of the current and emerging needs of the community and Council’s obligation to community consultation as set in the strategic plan of Council.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Rhodes               Seconded: Clr Green

That Council endorse the proposed model for the Spring Garden Competition, to allow forward planning to commence.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Hagarty              Seconded: Clr Rhodes

That Council:

1.      Receives and notes the report by Warren Green Consultancy;

2.      Adopts the guiding principles contained in the Warren Green Report for the development of future Aquatic Centres;

3.      Direct the Acting CEO, or an authorised officer to develop an implementation plan for Aquatic Centre Development based on the recommendations contained in the Warren Green Report with further reports on the provision of each facility to be brought to Council for further consideration; and

4.      Reiterate Council’s previous resolution about starting the DA process for these projects and for that to be funded from the Carnes Hill Stage 2 Internal Reserve.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Rhodes               Seconded: Clr Hagarty

That Council:

1.    Receives and notes this report of the planned activities program;

2.    Directs the Acting CEO, or an authorised officer to provide a further report at the June Council meeting for the creation of a permanent legacy of the 150th Anniversary of Liverpool as a Municipality in the form of a work of Public Artwork, as part of the detailed design work for Lighthorse Park;

3.      Direct the Acting CEO, or an authorised officer to provide a further report at the July Council on the proposal for a Liverpool’s Future Expo event focused on the Liverpool Innovation Precinct;

4.      In view of clarity about this being a 150th anniversary of the municipality of Liverpool that it be promoted by first acknowledging the 212^th anniversary of the foundation of Liverpool as a town; and

5.      Also acknowledge the traditional owners of the land have been here for 40,000 years.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Hadid                  Seconded: Mayor Mannoun

1.    That Council:

Endorse the funding recommendation of $19,870 (GST exclusive) under the Community Sponsorship Program for the following projects:

Endorses the recommendation of $5,000 (GST exclusive) under the Community Grants Program for the following project:

Endorses the recommendation of $10,000 (GST exclusive) under the Sustainable Environment Grants Program for the following projects:

2.    Sponsor the Liverpool-Greenway Rotary Club fundraiser for Lifeline Macarthur at the cost of $5,000 for a silver sponsor and table; and

3.    Receive a report back to a future Council meeting to consider amendments to the Grants and Sponsorships policy with a view to enabling Councillors to include additional sponsorships outside of the grants program by resolution of Council.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Mayor Mannoun      Seconded: Clr Goodman

That Council:

1.      Resolves to pay superannuation to Councillors; and

2.    Endorse changes to the draft Civic Expenses and Facilities Policy for public exhibition.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

Clr Harle asked that he be recorded as voting against the motion.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Rhodes               Seconded: Clr Green

That Council receives and notes this report.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Harle                   Seconded: Clr Hagarty

That Council:

1.    Receives and notes the minutes of the Liverpool Heritage Advisory Committee meeting held on 21 February 2022; and

2.      Endorse the updated Heritage Advisory Committee Charter.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Harle                   Seconded: Clr Hagarty

That Council adopts the following Committee recommendations:

Item 1 - Governor Macquarie Drive west of Epsom Road, Chipping Norton – TfNSW proposed Heavy Vehicle Inspection Bay

•      Installation of signage for heavy vehicle inspection bay and No Stopping along GMD as shown in the Committee agenda attachment booklet.

•      TfNSW to rehabilitate and fund kerb and guttering to formalise its use as an inspection bay.

•      TfNSW to undertake community consultation prior to installation.

Item 2 - Edmondson Park Town Centre, Edmondson Park – Proposed Directional Signs

•      Installation of four directional signs along sections of Soldiers Parade and Henderson Road, Edmondson Park close to the Edmondson Park Town Centre as indicated in the report.

Item 3 - Fourth, Tenth and Eleventh Avenues, Austral – Proposed Signs and Line Marking Scheme

•      Installation of Children’s Crossing across Tenth Avenue in front of St Anthony of Padua Catholic School.

•      Installation of a combined pedestrian crossing across Tenth Avenue when TfNSW warrant is met.

•      Installation of interim intersection treatments at the Eleventh Avenue/Fourth Avenue and Tenth Avenue/Fourth Avenue intersections with associated splitter islands and signs and line marking scheme as shown in the agenda attachment booklet. 

Item 4 - Hume Highway from Reilly Street to Atkinson Street, Liverpool – Proposed Shared Path

•      Installation of a Shared User Path along the western side of Hume Highway between Reilly Street to Atkinson Street and installation of associated signs and line marking as shown in the agenda attachment booklet.

Item 5 - Liverpool City Centre Special Event - Festival of Chariots

•      Classifies the Festival of Chariots event, scheduled for Saturday, 2 July 2022 through parts of the Liverpool City Centre, as a Class 2 Special Event with the required associated conditions.

Item 6 - Liverpool City Centre Special Event - Moorebank Air League

•      Classifies the Australian Air League parade, scheduled for Sunday, 26 June 2022 through parts of the Liverpool City Centre, as a Class 2 Special Event with the required associated conditions.

Item 7 - Spencer Street, Cecil Hill – Proposed Raised Thresholds

•      Installation of asphalt concrete speed humps across sections of Spencer Street between House Nos. 22 and 24 and in front of House No. 42 as shown in the Committee agenda attachment booklet.

Item 8 - Middleton Grange Town Centre, Middleton Grange

•      Council notes that the developer will submit detailed design of a revised Middleton Grange Town Centre Traffic Management Plan, for approval.

Item 9 - Kurrajong Road – Concept Designs for Staged Upgrades Including Two

Proposed Traffic Signals at its intersection with Lyn Parade/Beech Road and Mowbray Road

•      Council notes short, medium, and long term staged improvement works identified to improve traffic flow and road safety along sections of Kurrajong Road.

Item 10 - Hartlepool Road and Foskett Street, Edmondson Park – Change to Existing Give-Way Control

•      Changes to priority movements at the Hartlepool Road/Foskett Road/Freitas Road intersection, Edmondson Park, as shown in the Committee agenda attachment booklet.

Item 11 - Liverpool City Centre Special Event - Stary Sari Night Festival

•      Classifies the Stary Sari Night Festival, scheduled for Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd May 2022 in George Street, Railway Street, Crawford Lane and Scott Street, as a Class 2 Special Event with the required associated conditions.

Item 12 - Items Approved Under Delegated Authority

•      Council notes the traffic facilities approved under delegated authority.

Special Item - Pedestrian, Active Transport and Traffic Committee - Proposed Name Change

•      Council approves a name change to Liverpool Local Traffic Committee as indicated in the report.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Harle                   Seconded: Clr Hagarty

That Council:

1.    Receives and notes the minutes of the Intermodal Precinct Committee meeting held on 7 March 2022; and

2.    Endorses the change to conduct meetings of the Committee on a bi-monthly basis (every second month).

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

Please address the following:

1.    How are milestones and progress on identified RAP goals reported?

2.    What RAP goals are applicable to councillors?

3.    How are training needs within Council identified and filled?

4.    Has there been consideration to the application of other mechanisms or frameworks for improving Council’s engagement with, and support for our First Nations community, as well as improving our inclusivity and diversity within the organisations?

5.    If so, what mechanisms or frameworks have been considered and how?

Response (provided by Community & Culture)

1.    How are milestones and progress on identified RAP goals reported?

Council’s RAP Status Updates

The review of Council’s RAP is currently underway with Council engaging Ngurra Advisory, a wholly-First Nations owned and operated consultancy firm. Ngurra is working closely with Council’s Community Development team to develop a revised RAP, reflective of Council’s commitment to the advancement of First Nations people. The review will ensure the updated RAP is aligned with the Reconciliation Australia Framework and is reflective of the current needs and goals of the First Nations community.

Reconciliation Australia has developed a RAP Framework to guide organisations for its development. This Framework provides organisations with a structured approach to advance reconciliation. Within this Framework, there are four different levels of RAP which organisations can develop. Each level is designed to suit organisations at different stages of their reconciliation journey. The four levels include:

·     Reflect – designed to prepare an organisation for future RAPs and reconciliation initiatives;

·     Innovate – designed to establish the best approach for advancing reconciliation within the organisation and implementing reconciliation strategies and initiatives;

·     Stretch – embed reconciliation initiatives into the organisation and utilise the “sphere of influence” to drive reconciliation; and

·     Elevate – leadership in reconciliation. There are unique requirements, expectations and processes in order to qualify as an organisation eligible to achieve an “Elevate” RAP.

Council, together with Ngurra Advisory, is working to achieve a ‘Innovate’ RAP for the next iteration of the plan. A ‘Innovate’ RAP runs for two years aiming to implement reconciliation initiatives.  This phase will allow Council to gain a deeper understanding of the internal and external resources and influences and establish the best approach to advance reconciliation. This will include strengthening and expanding relationship with our First Nation community for reconciliation and development of innovative strategies to be embedded into business strategies at the next phase of the RAP, the ‘Stretch’ RAP. A comprehensive consultation program for the development of the RAP will be rolled out soon, including consultation with Councillors, staff and external stakeholders.

Reporting of RAP Milestones

Milestones and progress on the goals of the current Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) are reported through Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan (DPOP) bi-annual reporting framework. These reports form the basis of Council’s Annual Report, which highlights key outcomes from a number of areas, including the RAP. RAP goals are also reflected in the individual Business Plans of relevant Council departments.

As part of the development of the new RAP, Ngurra Advisory is compiling a benchmark report, which will measure Council’s progress on the existing RAP against that of similar organisations. This report will outline how Council is currently performing against current delivery measures.

On completion of the new RAP, Council will be submitting it to Reconciliation Australia for official endorsement. In doing so, in addition to DPOP reporting, Council will be committing to annual reporting requirements on milestones and progress to Reconciliation Australia. This is the first time Council has undertaken this process to receive official endorsement of its RAP.

2.    What RAP goals are applicable to councillors?

Under the current RAP Councillors have a responsibility to ensure all decisions and actions concerning heritage issues, community planning, environmental planning, cultural development, community programs and governance are underpinned by an understanding of and respect for First Nations culture and heritage.

Most of the goals within Council’s existing RAP are operational in nature. However, there are a number of targets which are applicable to Councillors, including:

·     Conducting an Acknowledgement of Country at formal events and meetings (including Council meetings) and encouraging the use of Darug or Dharawal language where possible;

·     Conducting two annual internal workshops on local Aboriginal history to educate staff and Councillors;

·     Encouraging Council staff to utilise the Aboriginal Consultative Committee (ACC) as a consultative mechanism; and

·     Host events and programs which acknowledge and commemorate significant dates including Sorry Day, Memories in the Mall and NAIDOC Week.

For Councillors, these goals are mostly related to participation and promotion of these activities.

3.    How are training needs within Council identified and filled?

Training needs for staff are integrated in Council’s staff training programs and processes  or as identified through plans such as the RAP. Cultural Awareness and information sessions around First Nations heritage and history for all staff are both identified within the existing RAP. Additionally, information and training needs are discussed at the internal First Nations Working Group, and through the newly established Diversity and Inclusion Working Group.

In addition to opportunities to seek and attend formal training in any area through Council’s Learning and Development program, a great deal of training and education occurs through Council’s events and programs which acknowledge and celebrate First Nations culture. Occasions like NAIDOC Week, Sorry Day and Memories in the Mall provide a unique opportunity to educate and inspire greater understanding of First Nations culture for staff and the wider community.

As part of its work with Council on developing a new RAP, Ngurra Advisory will be offering cultural awareness training to 15 senior staff to support the embedding of cultural awareness in the organisation. Further opportunities for training will be identified as part of the consultation process for the development of the new RAP. The consultation process aims to gather insight into the community and Council’s understanding and knowledge of First Nations heritage and culture, identify opportunities for development, and gather information on the needs and goals of Council and the community in the First Nations space.

4.    Has there been consideration to the application of other mechanisms or frameworks for improving Council’s engagement with, and support for our First Nations community, as well as improving our inclusivity and diversity within the organisations?

5.    If so, what mechanisms or frameworks have been considered and how?

Through its work, Council has driven and built strong relationships with key agencies, local Aboriginal groups and broader community. This has led to an increase in awareness of the importance of First Nations considerations in Council’s day-to-day work. 

Council’s revised RAP will be developed based on the Reconciliation Australia Framework. The RAP will be submitted to Reconciliation Australia for endorsement. In doing so, Council is committing to annual reporting requirements on the milestones and achievements included in this plan. This process will provide a new level of accountability for Council in its actions to ensure positive outcomes for First Nations people in Liverpool.

Council has already taken steps to strengthen its ongoing commitment to the advancement of First Nations people in Liverpool. This includes:

·     The establishment of an internal First Nations Working Group. This group is working towards embedding First Nations considerations into key Council processes such as procurement, strategic projects, employment and communication;

·     Development of a Diversity and Inclusion Framework. This framework focusses on attracting and retaining staff of diverse backgrounds – including First Nations people – at Council by ensuring processes and opportunities are inclusive of the varying needs of the Liverpool community; and

·     Working with Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council on an historic, first-of-its-kind agreement to work collaboratively across organisations to support the advancement of First Nations people in Liverpool and ensure greater awareness of First Nations considerations across all areas of Council’s work.

Please address the following:

1.    Did Council pay for the Sydney Weekender episode which aired Sunday 13 March, 2022? If so, what was the total cost of this engagement?

2.    Was a business case, cost benefit analysis or similar undertaken prior to formalising the engagement? If so, can this be made available to Councillors?

Response (provided by Communications)

1.    Did Council pay for the Sydney Weekender episode which aired Sunday 13 March 2022? If so, what was the total cost of this engagement?

Liverpool City Council entered into an MOU agreement representing a negotiated discounted total of $23,000 excluding GST for the full engagement.

Following the airing of the special Liverpool-focussed episode of Sydney Weekender on Sunday 13 March 2022, based on the ratings and social media analysis provided from Channel 7 to Council. In addition, Sydney Weekender provided written feedback to Council that said:

“This is a great result and one of the highest rating episodes we have had this year.”

152,452 (88,468 metro Sydney, 60,469 regional) people watched the episode when it aired on Channel 7. A further 27,262 (15,452 metro Sydney, 11,810 regional) people watched the repeat of the episode on 7Two on 19 March.

Sydney Weekender’s social media reach for their posts on Instagram and Facebook to promote the episode, attracted a combined reach of 87,366.

2.    Was a business case, cost benefit analysis or similar undertaken prior to formalising the engagement? If so, can this be made available to Councillors?

Prior to the approval of the Sydney Weekender arrangement,  a marketing campaign proposal shared by the State Government-run Destination NSW (DNSW) provides a costing benchmark. DNSW reached out to Council with a proposal in November 2021 for a campaign to promote Liverpool through their channels, totalling $40,000.

With approval from the former CEO outlining the opportunity costings, various stakeholders within Council opted to work with Sydney Weekender in lieu of DNSW to reach a more mainstream audience, thus leveraging the more cost-effective option which was achieved through a discounted rate.

Liverpool City Council’s Destination Management Plan (DMP) seeks to promote Liverpool as a core visitor destination, support local businesses, groups and organisations, whilst celebrating Liverpool’s diversity. The Sydney Weekender episode aligned with multiple strategic actions and aspirations contained within the DMP, aimed at growing Liverpool’s visitor economy. This includes, but not limited to the following:

·       Positioning Liverpool as a multicultural hub;

·       Growing the local recreational tourism market;

·       Establishing Liverpool as a culinary tourism destination;

·       Growing event-based visitation; and

·       Positioning Liverpool as a shopping destination 

The timing of the package was also an important consideration with many local businesses in the CBD needing extra promotional support following COVID-19 pandemic-related shutdowns.

The Sydney Weekender episode has received a positive response from the community, as evident on Council’s social media channels and via Channel 7-owned channels. The combined engagement on Sydney Weekender’s Facebook posts (a total of five) was 768 likes, 506 comments and 68 shares.

Comments on Sydney Weekender’s Facebook page include people highlighting the discovery of new locations, how they perceive Liverpool in a new way, and their surprise at offerings such as Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre so close to home. Facebook posts by Council also received high engagement rates and predominately positive comments including local pride, congratulating Council on showcasing Liverpool to a broad audience and discovering new things in their own local area.

Anecdotally, SBS advised that the episode stimulated their interest to consider onboarding as a media partner for Council’s Starry Sari Night in May – discussions are still ongoing.

In recent years, extended periods of hot and wet weather have led to an outbreak of mosquitoes in the Liverpool LGA and along the Georges River. This year is no different.

With reports of Japanese Encephalitis and Ross River Virus, this has the potential to become an increasingly serious public health issue as these mosquito breeding events become more intense, longer and frequent due to climate change.

The Federal Government recently announced a Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) Response and established a national working group.

Please address the following:

1.    Will Council be applying for funding under the Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) Response?

2.    To date, what lessons have been learned from Council’s Mosquito Management Plan?

Response (provided by City Presentation)

With respect to Council applying for funding under the Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) Response, the relevant council teams will work with councils Strategic Grants and Funds Officer, once funding is available.  However, this depends on if council is eligible to apply for funding.  If we can, we will apply, to assist in the management of JEV.

In relation to Councils Mosquito Management Plan, council has been managing the health issue since 2019. Council has successfully managed and treated the identified areas of disease carrying mosquito. Target mosquito numbers have been low for the 2021-2022 season.  Whilst we have seen large numbers of mosquitos around in 2022, majority of them have been the annoyance mosquito and this is due to the very wet seasonal weather conditions we have been experiencing.

Council releases council education videos to the community which are uploaded onto social media platforms at the start of the season and again mid-season to help educate the community. A brochure is also released in areas that we identify may be heavily impacted by mosquitos.  This brochure is published in multiple languages. Possibly more education to the public is needed to highlight that council target the health issues, not the annoyance along with how council target identified breeding areas on public land. Educational videos and material will need to be updated and plan of management updated to reflect actions for JEV.

City Works-Parks has funded the delivery of management actions since 2020.  Ongoing budget for mosquito management needs to be allocated.

The Report of Public Inquiry into Central Coast Council recommends:

The Local Government Act 1993 be amended to eliminate any asserted ambiguity in section 409(3) of that Act to make it clear that money received as a result of levying rate or charges under any other Act may not be used otherwise than for the purpose for which the rate or charge was levied.

Section 409(3) of The Local Government Act 1993 states:

(3) However—

(a)   money that has been received as a result of the levying of a special rate or charge may not be used otherwise than for the purpose for which the rate or charge was levied, and

(b)   money that is subject to the provisions of this or any other Act (being provisions that state that the money may be used only for a specific purpose) may be used only for that purpose, and

(c)   money that has been received from the Government or from a public authority by way of a specific purpose advance or grant may not, except with the consent of the Government or public authority, be used otherwise than for that specific purpose.

Please address the following (response provided by Corporate Services):

1.    Does Liverpool Council receive any money from special rates or charges?

Yes.

2.    If so, what are these rates or charges?

Council levies the following special purpose annual charges and contributions:

·      S7.11 Contributions

·      City Development Fund

·      Domestic Waste Reserve

·      Environment Levy

·      Stormwater Levy

3.    What measures does Council have in place to ensure the money raised from any special rates or charges are used for the purpose for which they are levied?

These levies are collected and classified as externally restricted funds. All funds collected and spent from these levies are accounted for and balances at end of each quarter is reported to Council. The project managers are primarily responsible to ensure the costs are correctly charged. Finance conducts high level reviews to identify and correct anomalies. The transactions are subject to audit and balance of unspent funds are reported in Council’s annual financial statements.

SIMTA has notified residents along the north side of Junction Road from Anzac Road to Nuwarra Road Moorebank their intention to run 33kv overhead transmission lines along existing transmission lines.

The transmission lines are also planned to be running underground along Anzac Road.

SIMTA also advised residents they would visit properties in the work area early in 2022 to discuss specific impacts and to understand if anyone whether anyone at the addresses has any individual circumstances or requirements that would like us to consider in development of their specific workplans.

It is noted that the communication to constituents to the norther side of Junction Road was only to inform them of the decision already made by SIMTA.

Residents in the area have since provided feedback to SIMTA regarding their EMF concerns noting:

a)    The recommendation from former Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia Sir Harry Gibbs (Ausgrid state they apply prudent avoidance.

b)    Underground cables especially multicore as used for 33kV produce a much lower values of EMF.

c)    The proposed 33kV in Junction Rd would be installed above existing 11kV which is above existing 415v. Having three different voltages on the same pole reduces reliability, increases ongoing operational costs and poses additional safety risks to the local community.

d)    The proposed 33kV overhead would place additional restrictions on future development of the properties in Junction Road due to the larger safety clearances required for 33kV.

e)    Government projects should not save money at the expense of the public health, safety and value of properties.

f)     Restriction to tree canopy that line the road, that would otherwise serve the purpose of heat minimisation whist at a time when the State Government is advocating for heat minimisation particularly in western Sydney.

g)    All new developments in the Sydney basin have underground power.

h)    The advice from SMITA states the works is an upgrade when in fact it is new work made necessary to service the Intermodal Development.

Please address the following:

1.    What can Council do, or what is going to do to stop the proposed overhead transmission lines in order to protect the health, safety, and property values of our Liverpool residents?

Response (provided by Planning and Compliance)

Council resolved the following at the 30 March 2022 Council meeting:

“That Council write to all government departments involved in the intermodal as well as Endeavour Energy asking them not to discriminate against the residents / property owners of Junction Road, Moorebank by installing the proposed new 33kV powerlines above ground and place them underground like they are doing in Anzac Road close to the intermodal”.

Council staff are aware of the proposal by the Sydney Intermodal Terminal Alliance (SIMTA) and has previously met with the consultants engaged by SIMTA to discuss the proposal. These discussions were primarily related to potential traffic impacts during construction and the need for appropriate traffic management. 

The consultants outlined the three options that were considered, being:

1.    Above ground line on the same side of the road as the existing power lines (preferred)

2.    Above ground line on the other side of the road from the existing power lines

3.    Underground line.

Council staff discussed the option of undergrounding the wires. The response was that a separate corridor would be required, and Endeavor Energy would be unlikely to support this option. In addition, it was advised that there are existing poles and wires along this road section.

It is understood that SIMTA are now finalising the Review of Environmental Factors for the project which Endeavour Energy will consider as the public authority responsible for approving these types of works under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and Section 2.44 of SEPP (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021.

Council is not the consent authority for these works and a formal development application is not required. Council will write to SIMTA and Endeavour Energy requesting that they install the power lines underground. Ultimately thought, that decision will be Endeavour Energy’s.

A Town Hall is a distinguishing feature of many towns, shires and cities. 

Usually accessible and centrally located a Town Hall is not merely a building used for the administration of local government but serves a focal point for the community, especially during times of crisis.

In southwest Sydney- Bankstown, Fairfield, Campbelltown and Camden all have identified, centralized Town Halls accessible to their communities providing council administrative services and useable space for community events.

Liverpool’s lack of a Town Hall was keenly felt during the recent floods. Authorities established an evacuation centre outside the LGA while response teams and recovery efforts were coordinated at disparate locations.

With Liverpool Council looking to formalise and resource its emergency response capacity, a Town Hall could act as a formal emergency management office during times of crisis.

1.    What research has Council undertaken in relation to the context why there is an absence of a Town Hall in Liverpool

2.    Provide advice as to the broad range of contemporary uses of Town Halls in comparable LGAs; and

3.    Investigate the economic, social and cultural benefits of a Town Hall.

Response

Council’s Townhall was built on the corner of George and Moore Streets in 1881 and was replaced in the same spot in 1939. A second Town Hall was opened in 1939 that housed Councils administrative functions until 1956 when a dedicated building was constructed at Hoxton Park.  Council administrative functions have been accommodated in several sites since, with today Council’s administrative services operating out 33 Moore St.

In 1986 Council had planned to construct a new Townhall building on the current Library Plaza site however opted with the construction of a Library, and new entrance to the Francis Greenway Centre included in the designs.

Council currently has multiple sites that support the civic and public functions performed in a traditional townhall. Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre hosts Council’s many civic functions which includes Citizenship and other ceremonial events. It acts as a focal point for community engagement that includes focus groups and public events. In addition, Council’s community centres support public forum and functions, such as Liverpool District Forums and other engagement at a localised level.

In terms of crisis and emergency hub, Council’s Leisure Centres have substantial capability to act in capacity of Emergency evacuation hubs.  In 2021 and 2022 the Leisure Centre have been activated to provide crisis flood evacuation hub with the community centres further accommodating crisis welfare support provision by community groups.  To date there have been few instances where the functions performed by a traditional townhall could not be accommodated. 

Campbelltown City Council has a dedicated town hall that is currently permanently leased to the Campbelltown Theatre Group. Other comparable LGA’s have a range of community venues available for hire, similar to Liverpool City Council. City of Sydney has an historic town hall, with a number of spaces available for hire and is often used for commercial ticketed events.

Additionally, Council’s Liverpool Civic Place project, due to open in 2023 will provide spaces for community hire in both the new Council Chambers and the new Library, satisfying much of the traditional functions of a centralised community town hall.

Please address the following:

1.    How many times this term has the City Deal Mayoral Forum met?

2.    Will Councillors still receive briefings and minutes from these forums as per a previous resolution of Council?

3.    Will Councillors still be afforded the opportunity to have input and influence in deliberations and decision making regarding the City Deal?

Response (provided by Office of the CEO)

1.      How many times this term has the City Deal Mayoral Forum met?

This term, the City Deal Mayoral Forum has been held once on the 23rd March. The April meeting was cancelled due to the Leadership Group being held. The next one is scheduled in May. The minutes are distributed in the following meeting agenda and confirmed at that meeting (i.e. the Minutes will be available in May). As a matter of practice, Council will circulate the Mayoral Forum minutes through the CEO update.

2.      Will Councillors still receive briefings and minutes from these forums as per a previous resolution of Council?

Council will continue to receive briefings and updates through a number of avenues.

·           Mayoral forum minutes will be circulated through the CEO update when they are received.

·           Any relevant update or feedback sought on key matters will be tabled to Council in the relevant forum. E.g. Council’s submission response to the Economic Development Roadmap and Blueprint is tabled at the April 22 Council meeting for Council endorsement.

·           Summary updates through the Strategic Panel meeting sessions will continue.

·           A newsletter (from the WPC) will be circulated on a bi-monthly basis. This will assist Councillors continue to be updated on all things related to the Western Parkland Councils. As per the first addition of the newsletter the intent of a periodic newsletter is to provide updates on;

o    Who's Who in the Zoo

o    Western Sydney City Deal Commitment Updates

o    Western Parkland Councils' Initiatives

o    Western Parkland City Authority Activities

o    WSHA/WSPP/WSIAO News

·           Any other information of relevance will be circulated/briefed to all Councillors

3.      Will Councillors still be afforded the opportunity to have input and influence in deliberations and decision making regarding the City Deal?

There will be a City Deal summit which will extend the invite to all Councillors in June this year. A date for this has not yet been confirmed. Broadly speaking the intent of the summit is to give a voice to all Elected Representatives on City Deal related matters. Council will advise as soon as the date and agenda is confirmed.

As mentioned above, any Council submission on key topic areas will be submitted and briefed to Council through the most appropriate forum.

Please address the following:

Broken down by year since 2012:

1.    How many applications has Council received for road closures or closures of other public space for protests?

2.    How many were approved or refused?

Response (provided by Planning and Compliance)

There have been no applications for road closures for protests since 2012.

The Police have provided Council officers with information about Protests, usually following the event, when requested.

On 26 February 2022 the working commuter carpark adjacent to Edmondson Park train station was permanently closed. 

Please address the following:

1.    What is the reason for closure and who authorised the closure?

2.    What are the future plans for the site?

3.    If there are no immediate future plans for the site, why is the carpark closed to the general public? 

Response (provided by Planning and Compliance)

1.    What is the reason for closure and who authorised the closure?

The carpark was a temporary carpark with 180 parking spaces and was constructed by Transport for NSW (TfNSW) to minimise the loss of carparking spaces during the construction of the new multi deck carpark to the south of the train station. With the opening of the southern multi deck carpark, carparking provision has increased by 1,070 spaces and the temporary car park has been closed by TfNSW.

2.   What are the future plans for the site?

The site is part of the planned Edmondson Park Town Centre North development.

3.   If there are no immediate future plans for the site, why is the carpark closed to the general public? 

The temporary carpark was closed as TfNSW has provided 1070 car parking spaces south of the station and as the site is part of the planned Edmondson Park Town Centre North development.

Notes that since 1990, NSW koala populations have declined by between 20% and 50%, to be in the range of 15,000 to 25,000 remaining. Local extinctions have already occurred and the species is projected to become extinct in the wild in NSW within 30 years. Urgent action is needed to ensure future generations can see these iconic species in the wild.

Please address the following:

1.    What is the status of identification of koalas and koala habitat and or transition corridors in the Liverpool LGA;

2.    What planning measures are currently in place to protect them; and

3.    What further could be done by council to ensure enhanced protection of koalas and koala habitat in the Liverpool LGA.

Response (provided by Infrastructure and Environment)

1.   What is the status of identification of koalas and koala habitat and or transition corridors in the Liverpool LGA?

The koala population within Liverpool LGA predominantly occurs within Commonwealth and privately managed land. The biggest barriers to koala movements through the LGA are state managed roads, developed lands and security fencing around Defence land.

Council is committed to the ongoing protection of land under its care, control, and management and the enhancement of areas of the greatest biodiversity value. As presented in the reports to the March 2019 and December 2019 Council meetings, it is not feasible to provide a Georges River Koala Corridor or crossing bridges as there is no suitable habitat to provide connection to. Extending koala habitat connections beyond their current range within the LGA would pose a threat to dispersing individual koalas due to impacts such as predation, vehicle strikes, starvation, unsuitable habitat and stress.

2.   What planning measures are currently in place to protect them?

The protection of koalas and their habitat is led by the following:

·       NSW Koala Strategy (available from https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/research-and-publications/publications-search/nsw-koala-strategy-2022);

·       State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021; and

·       Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Council critically evaluates proposed developments that may impact upon koala habitat. Koala related provisions within State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021, which were previously included in SEPP (Koala Habitat Protection) 2021, are consistently applied by Council when assessing pertinent development applications.

As koalas are a threatened species, potential impacts are also considered within the context of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 to ensure that any potential impacts are minimised and appropriately assessed.

The protection of koalas, including their habitat and movement corridors, will also be a focal consideration of the Cumberland Plain Conservation Plan currently being developed by the NSW Government. The Plan is being revised in response to recommendations made by the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer regarding the protection of koalas. It is anticipated that this Plan will be finalised later this year.

3.   What further could be done by council to ensure enhanced protection of koalas and koala habitat in the Liverpool LGA?

Council is committed to the management of koalas, as demonstrated by the following actions taken over the last three years.

The factors raised in response 1 limit the degree of influence that Council has on the management of koala habitat and movement corridors. However, Council will continue to actively influence outcomes by advocating to, and engaging with, stakeholders such as DPE, TfNSW, Department of Defence, and adjacent Councils to seek improved habitat management practices.

Please address the following:

1.    Could Council please provide an update on the status of the 2012 VPA - Moorebank (New Brighton Golf Club): Brickmakers Drive?

Response (provided by Planning and Compliance)

Council executed a planning agreement with Mirvac Homes (NSW) Pty Ltd (the developer) and New Brighton Golf Club Limited (the landowner) on 21 September 2012 in response to a change to the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 that rezoned part of the New Brighton Golf Course land at Moorebank from RE2 Private Recreation to R1 General Residential. The rezoning facilitated the development of residential dwellings by Mirvac Homes NSW as well as the reconfiguration of the golf course on land located south of the M5 Motorway, part of which is Council owned land.

The developer, landowner and Council acknowledged that the amendments to the Liverpool Local Environmental Plan 2008 would result in the need for infrastructure upgrades and improvements to the environment including an expanded road network, shared pedestrian and cycle pathways, provision of additional open space and regeneration of valuable vegetation. Through the planning agreement, the developer and landowner are required to dedicate land to Council free of cost to ensure infrastructure and environmentally valuable areas are in the care and control of Council and used or applied towards a public purpose.

Most of the development enabled by the rezoning has been completed. It is noted that a contributing factor for the delay in completing some of the planning agreement items was that the landowner was affected by the previous COVID restrictions and closures which impacted them financially, resulting in the inability to commit to construction projects. Council is continuing to liaise with the developer and landowner to progress the delivery of the outstanding planning agreement items in a timely manner.

An overview of the status of each item is provided below:

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Mayor Mannoun      Seconded: Clr Rhodes

That Council:

1.    Notes the written returns of interests of Councillors, are now tabled before the Council in accordance with clause 4.25 of Council’s Code of Conduct;

2.    Notes that Governance will only make redacted copies available to the public, if requested; and

3.    Notes that Governance will update the register on the Council website to include the new returns.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Mayor Mannoun      Seconded: Clr Harle

That Council approves the Draft Community Strategic Plan 2022-2032 to go on public exhibition for 28 days.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

NOTICE OF MOTION (submitted by Clr Kaliyanda)

That Council

1.    Write to the NSW Minister for Planning and Homes Anthony Roberts and NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet to express Council’s concern over the impact that scrapping the draft Design and Place SEPP will have on the quality and resilience of urban design and planning in Western Sydney.

2.    Publicly advocate for changes to the NSW Planning system to:

·        New housing is designed for future climates and can maintain survivable temperatures without air-conditioning; 

·        The heat-resilience of existing housing stock and critical infrastructure is improved; and

·        Adequate green space is provided for not only greenfield housing developments, but also for medium and high-density developments.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Green                 Seconded: Clr Macnaught

That Council:

1.      Publicly advocate for changes to the NSW Planning system:

·        New housing is designed for future climates and can maintain survivable temperatures without air-conditioning; 

·        The heat-resilience of existing housing stock and critical infrastructure is improved; and

·        Adequate green space is provided for not only greenfield housing developments, but also for medium and high-density developments.

2.      Consider other applicable changes from the Design and Place State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) to be included in the DCP and LEP Review, where there is the ability of Council to do that.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

The Councillors voted unanimously for this item.

NOTICE OF MOTION (submitted by Clr Kaliyanda)

That Council:

1.      Investigate the development of a Status of Women Committee;

2.      Develop a Charter or Terms of Reference for such a Committee;

3.      Identify desired criteria for local participation in a Status of Women Committee; and

4.    Bring back a report to the July 2022 meeting of Council in relation to this.

COUNCIL DECISION

In accordance with the resolution for item COM 01 Report back to Council: establishment of a Multicultural Advisory Committee, shown on previous pages of these minutes (and copied below), this item was deferred and not dealt with at this meeting:

“That the establishment of any additional Council Committees be deferred until a review of all Council Committees is undertaken to determine the effectiveness of the Committee, cost analysis, whether stated aims are being met in accordance with the Community Strategic Plan, and if they meet and are representative of the current and emerging needs of the community and Council’s obligation to community consultation as set in the strategic plan of Council.”

The questions and answers for this item were provided to Councillors in a confidential report.

No resolutions were made in relation to this item.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Harle                   Seconded: Clr Hadid

That Council:

1.    Approves the grant of an easement to drain water, which is to be constructed within Council’s land identified as Lot 4 DP 1249397, Lot 4 Croatia Avenue, Edmondson Park on the terms outlined in this Confidential Report;

2.    Keeps this report confidential pursuant to the provisions of Section 10A(2)(c) of the Local Government Act 1993 as this information would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business;

3.    Approves the transfer of the compensation amount into the General Property Reserve; and

4.    Authorises its Delegated Officer to execute any document, under Power of Attorney, necessary to give effect to this decision.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Hadid                  Seconded: Clr Macnaught

That Council:

1.    Accepts the Tenders presented in Attachment 1, for RCL 3071 – Road Rehabilitation and Asphalt Services for an initial three (3) year contract term with the optional extension of two (2) twelve-month terms, in accordance with each successful applicant’s tendered rates.

2.    Makes public its decision regarding Tender RCL 3071 – Road Rehabilitation and Asphalt Services.

3.    Notes that:

a)    The Chief Executive Officer will finalise all details and sign the Letters of Acceptance, following publication of draft Minutes on Council’s website for the tender, giving it contractual effect, in accordance with delegated authority.

b)    This report has been brought to Council because the Chief Executive Officer’s instrument of delegation, approved by Council in accordance with the current provisions of section 377 of the Local Government Act 1993, only permits the Chief Executive Officer to approve (and not to reject) tenders up to a value of $2 million.

c)    Whilst individual contract allocations under the terms of the Recognised Contractor Listing will generally be less than the CEO’s $2 million threshold, the annual cumulative value of panel allocations will exceed this value and hence the overall tender is referred to Council for approval, in the first instance.

4.    Keeps confidential the details supplied in this report containing information on the submissions received, pursuant to the provisions of Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act 1993 as it contains commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

COUNCIL DECISION

Motion:                                  Moved: Clr Hadid                  Seconded: Clr Ammoun

That Council receive and note the report concerning the legal affairs of Liverpool City Council.

On being put to the meeting the motion was declared CARRIED.

Mayor Mannoun and Clr Goodman returned to the Chambers at 7.36pm.