Agenda of Council Meeting - Wednesday, 16 November 2022

Councillor Contact Details

Granville Ward
Clr Steve Christou	0419 651 187	Steve.Christou@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Ola Hamed	0405 070 007	Ola.Hamed@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Joseph Rahme	0418 995 471	Joseph.Rahme@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Greystanes Ward
Clr Diane Colman	0400 279 200	Diane.Colman@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Greg Cummings	0417 612 717	Greg.Cummings@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Eddy Sarkis	0425 348 000	Eddy.Sarkis@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Regents Park Ward
Clr Kun Huang	0418 911 774	Kun.Huang@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Sabrin Farooqui	0400 322 999	Sabrin.Farooqui@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Helen Hughes	0400 264 534	Helen.Hughes@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
South Granville Ward
Clr Glenn Elmore	0418 459 527	Glenn.Elmore@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Paul Garrard	0414 504 504	Paul.Garrard@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Mohamad Hussein	0400 281 726	Mohamad.Hussein@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Wentworthville Ward
Clr Lisa Lake (Mayor)	0418 669 681	Lisa.Lake@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Suman Saha (Deputy Mayor)	0419 546 950	Suman.Saha@cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Clr Michael Zaiter	0418 432 797	Michael.Zaiter@cumberland.nsw.gov.au

Statement of Ethical Obligations

Oath or Affirmation of Office

In taking the Oath or Affirmation of Office, each Councillor has made a commitment to undertake the duties of the office of councillor in the best interests of the people of Cumberland and Cumberland City Council and that they will faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act 1993 or any other Act to the best of their ability and judgment.

Conflicts of Interest

A councillor who has a conflict of interest in any matter with which the council is concerned, and who is present at a meeting of the council when the matter is being considered, must disclose the interest and the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable. Both the disclosure and the nature of the interest must be recorded in the minutes of the Council meeting where the conflict of interest arises. Councillors should ensure that they are familiar with Parts 4 and 5 of the Code of Conduct in relation to their obligations to declare and manage conflicts of interests.

For information on Council services and facilities please visit www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

ORDER OF BUSINESS

All Council Meetings are livestreamed via Council’s website. An audio/visual recording of the meeting is published following the meeting. Recordings remain on Council's website for a period of 12 months and are archived following this.

1 Opening of Meeting

2 Opening Prayer / Acknowledgement of Country / National Anthem

3 Apologies / Requests for Leave of Absence/ Requests for Attendance by Audio-Visual Link

4 Confirmation of Previous Minutes

C11/22-200 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council - 02 November 2022... 5

5 Disclosures of Interest

6 Mayoral Minutes

Nil

7 Public Forum / Presentation of Petitions

8 Items Resolved by Exception

9 Reports to Council

C11/22-201 Legal Report......................................................................................... 23

C11/22-202 Investment Report - October 2022.................................................... 25

C11/22-203 Quarter 1 - Quarterly Budget Review Statement............................ 49

C11/22-204 Annual Report 2021-2022.................................................................. 75

C11/22-205 Revisions to Media Policy and Social Media Policy..................... 169

C11/22-206 Draft Submission on the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper... 263

C11/22-207 Draft Amendment to Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor Plan of Management 359

10 Reports of Council Committees

C11/22-208 Traffic Commitee - Minutes of Meeting Held 19 October 2022.. 385

11 Motions Pursuant to Notice

Nil

12 Motions to Alter or Rescind Council Resolution

Nil

13 Questions on Notice

Nil

14 Closed Session Reports

C11/22-209 Tender Evaluation Report - Play Space Upgrade Program

Note: Included in Closed Council in accordance with Section 10A(2)(d)(i) of the Local Government Act as the information involves commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it.

C11/22-210 Amendments to the General Manager's Performance Agreement for the 2022 - 2023 Period

Note: Included in Closed Council in accordance with Section 10A(2)(a) of the Local Government Act as the information involves personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than Councillors).

15 Resolutions passed in Closed Session

16 Other / General Matters

17 Close

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

Item No: C11/22-201

Legal Report

Responsible Division: General Manager

Officer: General Counsel

File Number: 2041456

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Providing Local Leadership

Summary

This report provides Council with a summary of legal proceedings in which Council is involved.

Recommendation

That the report be received.

Report

This report provides Council with a summary of the status of litigation for which Council is a party to. It does not include the following types of legal proceedings:

· Proceedings that are managed by Council’s insurers;

· Local Court proceedings involving an appeal against a parking fine; and

· Proceedings for the recovery of debts where those proceedings are being run by Council’s external debt collection agency.

The report is current to 5 October 2022. It does not capture changes that have occurred between that date and the date the report is considered by Council.

Community Engagement

There are no consultation processes for Council associated with this report.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

This is an information report with the legal register of current litigation provided as a confidential attachment.

Attachments

1. Litigation Register (confidential)

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

Item No: C11/22-202

Investment Report - October 2022

Responsible Division: Corporate Performance

Officer: Director Corporate Performance (Deputy GM)

File Number: A-05-01/05

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services

Summary

This report provides an update on the performance and compliance of Council’s investment portfolio for the month of October 2022.

Recommendation

That Council receive the October 2022 Investment Report.

Report

Included in this report are the following items that highlight Council’s investment portfolio performance for October 2022.

Council Investments as at 31 October 2022

Council’s investment portfolio has a current market value of $218,673,549 and has returned 0.53% in the last 12 months.

The following table reflects Council’s holding in various investment categories:

Face Value = capital value to be repaid upon maturity

Purchase Price = capital value +/- premiums or discounts

Current Value = current market value + accrued interest

Investment Portfolio Performance

Council’s investment portfolio returned 3.84%pa (0.32% actual) for the month on a marked-to-market basis versus the bank bill index benchmark’s 2.89%pa return. Council’s managed funds investments will experience monthly volatility as financial markets change their outlook but provide a favourable return as a long term investment. For the past 12 months, the investment portfolio has returned 0.53%pa versus the bank bill index benchmark’s 0.76%pa.

As at 31 October 2022 the cumulative interest earned was $1,779,216. This is $1,306,772 higher than the year-to-date budget of $472,444.

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

Community Engagement

There are no consultation processes for Council associated with this report.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

Preservation of capital is the prime objective of the investment portfolio. Investments are placed in a manner that seeks to ensure security and safeguarding of the investment portfolio. This includes managing credit and interest rate risk within identified thresholds and parameters that is both set in Councils Investment Policy and guided by Council’s investment advisor.

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

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

Council hereby certifies that the investments listed within this report have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and Council’s Investment Policy.

Attachments

1. Investment Report October 2022

2. Investment Commentary October 2022

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

Item No: C11/22-203

Quarter 1 - Quarterly Budget Review Statement

Responsible Division: Corporate Performance

Officer: Director Corporate Performance (Deputy GM)

File Number: SC488

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Providing Local Leadership

Summary

The attached Quarterly Budget Review Statement (QBRS) refers to the period ended 30 September 2022. The QBRS indicates that Council’s overall financial position has remained sound.

Recommendation

That Council approve the revised estimates of income and expenditure for 2022/23 contained in the Quarterly Budget Review Statement.

Report

Clause 203(2) of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (the Regulation) requires that Council’s Responsible Accounting Officer prepare and submit a QBRS that shows, by reference to the estimate of income and expenditure set out in the Operational Plan adopted by Council for the relevant year, a revised estimate of the income and expenditure for that year.

The QBRS, compiled for the information of Council and the community, provides a summary of Council’s financial position at the end of each quarter as to its progress against both the original Operational Plan and the last revised budget, as well as any recommended revisions identified as part of the budget review process.

Quarterly Budget Review Statement

The Operational Plan profit has remained at a $3.5m projected surplus as at Quarter 1, excluding capital income, as per the below table. This forecast assumes that realised efficiency savings measures continue, and that remaining income estimates are met.

There have been some pressures on council expenditure due to the current high inflationary environment, particularly relating to asset maintenance costs. Any additional expenditure amounts identified in this report have been through a business case assessment to ensure accurate calculations and value for money.

Significant material Operational Plan revisions arising in the September 2022 quarter forecast are outlined below.

Major movements in the quarter one operational budget were due to:

· Interest and investment revenues forecast increase of $2.3m due to higher than forecast interest rates.

· Rates and annual charges forecast increase of $1.5m due to additional revenue generated from the additional special rates variation.

· Reduced revenue from council Cherry Blossom event of $250k due to limitations placed on number of attendees across the event.

· Depreciation expense increase of $2.0m attributable to the increased valuations of council infrastructure assets.

· Additional facility maintenance costs of $600k due to deteriorating conditions of council buildings and higher contractor costs.

· Increases to council insurance costs of $300k from council premiums increasing by 15% compared to a budgeted increase of 5%.

· Increases to council fuel expenditure budget of $200k due to increased pricing per litre and increased usage.

· Additional operating cost of $100k (plus $70k in capital) for Wentworthville Swim Centre due to operations coming back under Council staff control.

· Additional consultant expenditure of $430k for Woodville Road Corridor planning.

The projected total capital expenditure has been increased to $66.7m.

Major movements in the quarter one capital budget were due to:

· Allocation of infrastructure reserve funds towards road renewal works - $6.5m

· Allocation of grant and s7.11 funds towards Merrylands City Centre Revitalisation- $3.5m

· Allocation of grant funds additional Local Roads & Community Infrastructure projects - $2.5m

· Allocation of grant and general funds towards field renewal works at Granville Park - $1.7m

· Allocation of storm disaster grant funding towards road renewal works - $700k

· Allocation of reserve funds towards s355 projects - $440k

· Allocation of Woodville reserve funds towards new footpaths in the former Woodville ward - $440k

· Allocation of SRV funds towards Wentworthville Amenities block - $405k

· Allocation of property reserve budgeted funds towards Guildford Supermarket roof repairs - $830k

· Deferral of works on the Parramatta Rd Urban Amenity Improvement - $3.9m

Cash Forecast

The projected Cash and Investments position of Council is forecast to increase to $175.7m. Council’s estimated unallocated cash balance is forecast to finish at $10.5m, which is steady with the forecast from the first quarterly budget review. The final unrestricted cash amount will be dependent on the movements in Council’s payables and receivables balances at 30 June 2023. Any amount above $10m in unrestricted funds will be allocated to the community and infrastructure reserves per Council’s policy.

Community Engagement

There are no consultation processes for Council associated with this report.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

The current budget maintains Council’s original surplus of $3.5m, and unrestricted cash balances of above $10m. It should be noted that operational surplus will be distributed to the external waste and stormwater reserves as required under local government regulations.

Whilst the original budget and cash surpluses have been maintained, external pressures may continue to have ramifications for council income and expenditure. This will continue to be monitored and any changes to forecast will be reported to council. Further to this, the quarter 2 QBRS will show an additional $700k required for on ground maintenance services funded from the infrastructure reserve.

In view of this, it is critical that Council maintain the financial discipline and rigour which has been implemented over the last few years. These measures will need to be continually reviewed as Council needs to invest more general funds to address the infrastructure backlog and into frontline services.

CONCLUSION

As at the end of the third quarter, Council’s net operating result before capital is projected to finish the year at a surplus of $3.5m. Close monitoring of Councils income is required to ensure that Council’s financial positioning in the medium to longer term remains on course to be achieved.

Attachments

1. Q1 Quarterly Business Review Statement

2. Q1 2022-23 Budget Review for Merrylands CBD Drainage

3. Q1 2022-23 Budget Review for Merrylands Civic Square

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

Item No: C11/22-204

Annual Report 2021-2022

Responsible Division: Corporate Performance

Officer: Director Corporate Performance (Deputy GM)

File Number: S-57-50

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Providing Local Leadership

Summary

The purpose of this report is to present Council with the Annual Report 2021-22, which under the NSW Local Government Act, is required to be completed within six months of the end of the financial year. The Annual Report must report progress against the principal activities set out in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan for that year, include statutory reports required under the Local Government Act, and the audited financial statements for the same period. This year, the audited financial statements are presented in a separate report, however the two documents will be available together following Council endorsement.

As well as being an important statutory document, the Annual Report is a key point of accountability between Council and the community, giving an in-depth report on how Council did, or did not deliver on the commitments made in the Operational plan 2020-21.

Accordingly, Cumberland City Council’s Annual Report for 2021-22 is attached.

Recommendation

That Council receive the Annual Report 2021-22.

Report

The Operational Plan 2021-22 which commenced on 1 July 2021 set out how Council planned to deliver its activities through 44 services and 154 sub-services. Throughout the year, Council made some changes to its organisational structure which required the consolidation of some services and sub-services.

This only had an impact on the number of separate services Council delivered, and not the activities within the services. From the Quarter 2 period onwards, Council has reported against 40 services and 142 sub-services.

Performance Reports were produced regularly though the year, and the Annual Report is a summary of these results and the effectiveness of Council in the delivery of services and meeting the community’s goals as outlined in the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027.

When reading the report at Attachment 1, it should be noted that all internal services are charged on a full cost recovery basis to allow for accurate measurement of the subsidy provided for each service.

During the year Council undertook 26 key operational projects in line with strategic goals. As at 30 June 2022, 11 projects were fully completed, and 13 projects were multi-year projects still in progress and on-track for completion. There were only two projects experiencing delays. The summary is shown as percentages of total key projects in the chart below:

In addition to delivering operational projects, Council also invested heavily in capital projects to improve the infrastructure in Cumberland City. This included spending $29.5 million on renewal of assets and $10.8 million on new assets. Council’s notable capital works expenditure during the year included:

· $6.4 million for Merrylands CBD Drainage Works

· $4.7 million for Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Projects

· $3.5 million for Parramatta Road Urban Amenity Improvement Program

· $2.8 million for Granville Park Stadium, carpark, and landscaping upgrades

· $1.6 million for Merrylands Civic Square Project

Other notable highlights from the year included:

· Granville Park irrigation and lighting upgrades

· Council sponsorship of a new police engagement vehicle

· Return of Council events including the Good Vibes Granville, Lidcombe@Night, and the Ramadan Street Food Festival

· Opening of the new Eric Tweedale Stadium

· Delivery of food hampers and essential items to families in need

· Introduction of smart parking sensors

· Adoption of the new Cumberland City Children and Youth Strategy

Council’s Service Delivery won several awards through the year including:

· Australian Sport, Recreation, and Innovation Award – Healthy Kids Initiative

· LGNSW Planning Award - Culture Change Innovation/Excellence – NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program

· National Award for Local Government – Cumberland Domestic and Family Violence Action Plan

· Annual Australian Timber Design Award – First Prize – Eric Tweedale Stadium

· NSW Local Government Awards – Community Support Hubs project during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Community Engagement

The Annual Report will be available on Council’s website and links will be sent to the Office of Local Government and the NSW Ombudsman as required under the Local Government Act 1993. The Audited Financial Statements, which are published as a separate document, will also be available with the Annual Report.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

Council would be in breach of the Local Government Act 1993 if it did not complete and forward the Annual Report 2021-22 to the Office of Local Government by 30 November 2022.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

Cumberland City Council’s Annual Report 2021-22 has been prepared in accordance with the Integrated Planning and Reporting requirements. It presents Council’s performance over the 2021-22 financial year against the financial and service delivery commitments made in the Operational Plan 2021-22.

Attachments

1. Annual Report 2021-2022

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

PDF Creator

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

Item No: C11/22-205

Revisions to Media Policy and Social Media Policy

Responsible Division: Corporate Performance

Officer: Director Corporate Performance (Deputy GM)

File Number: SC4879

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Transparent and accountable leadership

Summary

This report recommends that the Draft Social Media Policy and Draft Media Policy be placed on public exhibition for consultation with the community, following a policy review process undertaken.

Recommendation

That Council place the Draft Social Media Policy and Draft Media Policy on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, with a report to be provided back to Council following the conclusion of the exhibition period.

Report

Draft Social Media Policy

Social media has become an important tool in local government as it allows Council to interact and share information with the community and provides Councillors another avenue to promote their achievements and address their constituents directly in relation to community issues.

The Office of Local Government, in consultation with councils has released a Model Social Media Policy that provides a robust framework for the administration and management of social media platforms (Attachment 1).

Council has used this Model Policy to develop the Social Media Policy (Attachment 2) with some notable changes, which are as follows:

Identifying as a Councillor

· Councillors will need to identify themselves as a Councillor with correct title, Councillor “First Name and Last Name”.

· Title change will need to be made within 2 days of a change in circumstance to title or position.

· Councillor social media will need to include a disclaimer to the effect of ‘The views expressed and comments made on this social media platform are my own and not that of the Cumberland City Council’.

· Councillors must advise Council of any other social media platforms that they administer within 3 days of becoming an administrator.

Standards of Conduct on Social Media

· Council officials must not use social media to post or share comments, photos, videos, electronic recordings or other information that divulges confidential Council information, advertises, endorses or solicits commercial products or business.

· Council officials must obtain permission from a minor’s parent or legal guardian before uploading content in which the minor can be identified.

· Council officials must exercise caution when sharing, liking, retweeting content as this can be regarded as an endorsement and/or publication of the content.

Moderation of Social Media Platforms

· Social media platforms must state or provide an accessible link to the ‘House Rules’ for engaging on the platform and specify the behaviour and content that will result in content being removed or a person being blocked.

· Where a post is removed or a person is blocked, a request may be made by the individual to review the decision by a moderator to remove or ‘hide’ the content. The request must be made in writing to the General Manager and state the grounds on which the request is being made.

Records Management and Privacy Requirements

· Content must not be destroyed, altered, or removed unless authorised. If content needs to be removed, it must comply with the requirements of the State Records Act 1998.

· When and if a Councillor’s term of office concludes, the councillor must contact the Council’s records manager and General Manager/Social Media Coordinator (SMC) to manage/transfer records of social media content created during their term of office and comply with the requirements of the State Records Act 1998.

Use of Social Media During Emergencies

· To ensure consistent messaging both during and after an emergency, authorised users and Council officials must not upload content onto the Council’s or their own social media platforms which contradicts advice issued by the agency coordinating the emergency response, or agencies supporting recovery efforts.

Draft Media Policy

The Office of Local Government has released a Draft Model Media Policy that provides a robust framework for the administration and management of media platforms (Attachment 4).

Council has used this Model Policy to develop the Draft Media Policy (Attachment 5) with changes to the following sections of the policy:

General Manager

· Identifying and assigning Council’s authorised spokesperson in the Policy Statement.

Definitions

· Updates to the definitions of a Council Official and Media Release and an update to the gender of the Mayor.

· Defining responsibilities of key messages in a media release.

Responsibilities

· Additional responsibilities section for both the Director Corporate Performance and General Manager relating to approval process.

· Addition of two points relating to the responsibilities of Councillors.

The following two new sections have also been added to the Policy:

· Addition of Administrative Tone section.

· Addition of Councillors Questions About Media Engagement section.

The former policies are provided under Attachments 3 and 6 to this report for reference.

Community Engagement

The Draft Social Media Policy and Draft Media Policy will be placed on public exhibition for consultation with the community, following a policy review process undertaken.

It should be noted that both policies were shared with the Internal Ombudsman Shared Service for review and feedback and Councillors were provided with a briefing.

Policy Implications

If adopted, the Draft Media Policy and Draft Social Media Policy will rescind and supersede the currently adopted versions of these Policies.

Risk Implications

Should Council choose not adopt the recommendation, it would present considerable media and reputational risk to the organisation. All Council officials would not be aware of their present day obligations with respect to Media and Social Media management as outlined in the Draft Policies, which are based off Model OLG best practice templates. Council does however have adopted Policies in place for Media and Social Media, which would remain in force if the recommendation is not supported.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

Council is responsible for regularly promoting and informing the community and key stakeholders about activities, decisions, events, and achievements relevant to the community and the organisation’s stakeholders.

Inconsistent messaging, inaccurate statements, and non-compliant processes present a high-risk to the Council’s ability to effectively manage its media function and internal and external stakeholder relationships.

The Draft Social Media Policy and Draft Media Policy deliver clearly defined roles and responsibilities as a basis for accountable, ethical and transparent behaviour and decision-making associated with all media engagement either received or instigated by Council.

The draft policies have been reviewed and updated with amendments and it is now recommended that the policies be placed on public exhibition to consult with the community and receive feedback.

Attachments

1. Draft Model Social Media Policy

2. Draft Social Media Policy

3. Currently adopted Social Media Policy

4. Draft Model Media Policy

5. Draft Media Policy

6. Currently Adopted Media Policy

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

Item No: C11/22-206

Draft Submission on the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper

Responsible Division: Environment & Planning

Officer: Director Environment & Planning

File Number: SC487

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

Summary

In September 2022, The Greater Cities Commission released the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper for Stakeholder feedback.

This report provides an overview of the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper and key considerations for the Commission in drafting The Six Cities Region Plan, in order to provide a robust framework for its effective implementation at the local planning level in the Cumberland Local Government Area.

It is recommended that Council provide a submission on the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper, as attached. The submission is required to be provided to the Greater Cities Commission in November 2022.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Endorse the draft submission in Attachment 2 and submit it to the Greater Cities Commission; and

2. Delegate authority to the General Manager to finalise the draft submission, including any minor typographical or editorial changes.

Report

Introduction

The Greater Cities Commission Bill was passed in April 2022 which changed the Greater Sydney Commission to the Greater Cities Commission, and which set out the Commission’s function across the new boundaries of the Six Cities Region. The new Six Cities Region comprises the Lower Hunter and Greater Newcastle City, the Central Coast City, the Illawarra-Shoalhaven City, the Western Parkland City, the Central River City (where Cumberland City is located), and the Eastern Harbour City, and encompasses 43 local government areas.

The Six Cities Region Discussion Paper seeks stakeholder input as to how to best develop the Six Cities Region with regard to employment, housing, education, and leisure. This is discussed across six Region-Shapers which are a set of priorities that will frame the 2023 Region Plan. These Region Shapers reflect the priority outcomes that the region must deliver to create economic, environmental and lifestyle benefits for the residents of the Six Cities Region.

Draft Submission

Council officers have reviewed the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper and have identified some aspects that require further consideration. These are summarised in the table below. It is recommended that Council provide a submission as part of the exhibition period for the document, as provided in Attachment 2.

Region Shaper	Issue	Council’s Comment
An Embedded First Nations Voice	First Nations Voice Integration	Council strongly supports and is committed to the aspirations listed in the First Nations Voice region shaper, however, clarification is needed on the mechanisms and the governance structure that will be used to recognise and facilitate these aspirations and how they will be implemented in the strategic planning framework.
A Connected Six Cities Region	Fast Rail in Cumberland	Council supports the delivery of Fast Rail to connect the Six Cities Megaregion, especially the location of the central hub at Parramatta, however, the public and active transport networks within 10 kilometres of the Parramatta CBD need to be further refined to support fast, regular movements to the Central City for work and fast transport movements across the new Megaregion.
	Public Transport Delivery	Council advocates for the following public transport infrastructure in our LGA to help address the lack of public transport: · Development of the missing link between Lidcombe Train Station and Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2. · Delivery of either a T-way link or extension of the light rail down Hawkesbury Road in Westmead. · Provision of additional stops in the Cumberland LGA associated with the proposed Parramatta to Miranda Metro line and rail to Western Sydney Airport.
	Active Transport	Council advocates for the continued grant funding of identified active transport corridors in the Cumberland LGA including Duck River and Prospect Pipeline Corridors.
	Freight	Council advocates for freight infrastructure in the area: · Supports that Yennora Intermodal Terminal, Clyde Intermodal Terminal and Clyde Transfer Terminal be recognised as key parts of NSW freight infrastructure and included in the Region Plan and City Plans. · Seeks investment in a freight rail corridor linking the Yennora Intermodal Terminal to the new Western Sydney Airport and proposed Western Sydney Intermodal Terminal.
	Universal Digital Access	Council support Universal Digital Access, and identifies areas close to Parramatta, Merrylands and Westmead to as a ‘high priority precinct’ for early delivery of this access.
Housing Supply, Diversity and Affordability	Affordable Housing	Council has already undertaken significant work in this space. A number of proposals are advocated to reflect current Council policy settings, learning in the provision of affordable housing and future opportunities. These include: · Retain an affordable housing target of 5%-10%, with the potential to increase to 15% where feasible. · Develop mechanisms to support the feasibility of affordable housing to achieve identified targets. · Align affordable housing feasibility testing requirements to consider the 5, 10 and 20 year horizon and desired future character of an area. · Recognise the need for collaboration between Land and Housing Corporation and Council at the master planning stage to support the development of urban renewal areas, such as Westmead South. · Increase the minimum requirement for social and affordable housing delivery on state-owned land from the proposed 30% to 50%. · Review the affordable housing target of 25% for areas close to transport hub to ensure it is flexible and reflect local character.
	Housing Targets	Council supports the intention of increasing access to housing across the Six Cities Region, however, does not support the implementation of housing targets for the Cumberland LGA. Should housing targets be maintained, they need to be flexible and reflect local character.
	Heritage and Character	Council identifies potential items to be investigated as State Significant Heritage Items, in line with the recommendations from the Cumberland LGA Comprehensive Heritage Study. Council also requests that any housing targets are flexible and allow for the retention of existing or potential heritage items and conservation areas.
Inclusive Places Linked to Infrastructure	Masterplans, Supporting Infrastructure and Regional Open Space	Council identifies a number of considerations to ensure that places are linked to infrastructure: · Review and reform the Land Acquisition System in NSW to allow Councils more scope in providing the land needed for open space and critical infrastructure. · Provide grants in the short to medium term to deliver open space and infrastructure requirements. · Consider an alternative approach that would front load critical infrastructure, but then stage other works through the existing contributions and/or works-in-kind approach. · Advocate for the recognition of Wyatt Park, Duck River Corridor, Prospect Pipeline Corridor, Granville Park and the proposed Pippita Rail Trail as regional open space areas to ensure the appropriate level of funding can be sourced to support their future form and function for our growing community.
Powering Local Jobs and Economies	Strong Economies in the Cumberland Area	Council identifies a range of initiatives to support this issue: · Remove any requirements for Council to achieve specific job targets from the Six Cities Region Plan and Central City Plan, with a focus on ensuring that sufficient employment land is available in the short, medium and long term. · The same level of consideration is given to ‘review and manage’ lands as was given to ‘retain and manage’ lands, in the Greater Cities Commission upcoming review of ‘review and manage’ Industrial Lands. · Consider the development of a framework for the review of industrial lands in close proximity to town centres to confirm their long term suitability for this use. · Consider opportunities for services and facilities, such as supermarkets, to be provided in industrial and employment areas to support the needs of workers and visitors.
	Merrylands as a Strategic Centre	Council advocates for recognition of Merrylands as a Strategic Centre in the upcoming Six Cities Region Plan and Central City District Plan. Merrylands is centrally located and benefits from significant transport infrastructure, civic facilities and retail. It is also strategically located in close proximity to Parramatta, akin to the relationship between Sydney CBD and North Sydney.
	Westmead	The Westmead South area is located within the Cumberland LGA, with this area being ideally suited to support the health and education activities in Westmead North. In this regard, Council advocates for state recognition and support in revitalising Westmead South, including Hawkesbury Road, to become a civic, transport, commercial and community centre for Westmead, and for increased employment hubs in and around the Westmead Innovation District to support the growth and operation of the Innovation District.
Climate Resilient Green Cities	Energy, Urban Heat and Greener Places	Council identifies the following opportunities in this space: · Provide thought leadership, planning controls, funding programs and/or implementation mechanisms in support climate resilient green cities. · Advocate for broader implementation of LEP and DCP controls to minimise urban heat island effects (refer clause 6.12 of the Cumberland LEP), or a similar requirement be implemented across the relevant City Plans.

Community Engagement

The exhibition of the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper commenced on 8 September and was originally scheduled to close 30 October 2022; however, Council officers requested and were granted an extension until November 2022 to submit a Council endorsed submission.

There are no further community engagement requirements for Council associated with this report.

Policy Implications

The contents of the submission are aligned with directions and actions outlined in the Community Strategic Plan, Cumberland 2030: Our Local Strategic Planning Statement and other strategies, policies and plans prepared by Council.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

This report provides an overview of the Six Cities Region Discussion Paper and the attached submission outlines key issues identified by Council officers. It is recommended that Council endorse and forward the submission to the Greater Cities Commission for consideration.

Attachments

1. Six Cities Region Discussion Paper

2. Council Submission

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

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Council Meeting

16 November 2022

Item No: C11/22-207

Draft Amendment to Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor Plan of Management

Responsible Division: Environment & Planning

Officer: Director Environment & Planning

File Number: SC487

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Enhancing the Natural and Built Environment

Summary

The Draft Amendment to Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor Plan of Management has been developed to allow for the establishment of a new community garden.

As required by the Local Government Act (1993), the draft Plan of Management Amendment is to be advertised for public exhibition for a period of not less than twenty-eight (28) days and to allow for public submissions for a period of not less than forty-two (42) days. Council is also required to hold a public hearing in regard to the Plan of Management amendment as altering of the categorisation of community land has occurred under Section 36(4) of the Act.

This report recommends that the Draft Amendment to Lakewood Estate Plan of Management be placed on public exhibition for consultation with the community.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Place the Draft Amendment to Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor Plan of Management on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, with an additional 14 days for public submissions.

2. Provide a report back to Council following the conclusion of the exhibition period.

Report

The Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor is a 13.34 hectare regional open space within Cumberland City Council, which includes a lake, walking loop, viewing decks and picnic area. The park is located within the suburb of Pemulwuy with Driftway Drive and Miles Crescent along its eastern edge, Nijong Drive and Baraba Crescent along its western edge, Butu Wargun Drive to the south and the M4 Motorway to the north.

The Pemulwuy Community Group has put forward a proposal to Council to consider the establishment of a community garden within Pemulwuy to provide a space for the community to plant produce and to attain physical and mental benefits from community gardening.

Multiple sites were considered across Pemulwuy and it was determined that the gateway park area within the Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor would be most suited. The site is located below street level along Butu Wargun Drive and has a more isolated feel, which may benefit from activation through a community garden. It is also located within close proximity to the higher density development and aged care facilities within Pemulwuy.

A grant application was submitted to the NSW Government to request funding through the Places to Roam open space funding program. Council was successful in receiving grant funding and will use these funds to implement the first stages of the new community garden. The funding requires works to commence in the first half of 2023. Detailed construction plans are being completed and the construction process will be able to start after the amendment to the Plan of Management (PoM) is completed.

The Local Government Act (1993) (the Act) requires PoMs for all areas of Council community land to guide the future management and development of these areas. Community land as defined by the Act includes Parks, Sportsgrounds, Natural Areas (including subcategories), Areas of Cultural Significance and General Community Use, and may be developed on a generic, site specific or geographical basis.

The purpose of this PoM Amendment is to change the category of the gateway park area from Park to General Community Use to support the provision of a community garden in line with the categorisation of Council’s other community gardens. The PoM Amendment is accompanied by a landscape masterplan for the community garden. Other sections of the PoM will be altered to update the permissible uses and management of the community garden and acknowledgement of the shared path completion. Amendments have been made to the following sections:

· Categorisation

· Fig 2.8 Uses including access and circulation

· Fig 2.9 Categorisation

· 2.7.3 Core objectives for community land management

· 3.5.1 Recreation areas

· 3.6 Grassed recreation areas

· 3.7 Provision of Facilities – 3.7.4 Community Garden

· 3.8 Health & Safety Issues - Use of Gateway Park

· 3.12 Maintenance - 3.12.4 Community Garden

· Fig 4.1 Masterplan

· Fig 4.3 Community Garden Concept

· 4.2 Management Structure

· 4.4 Priorities - 4.4.1 High priority (short-term)

· 4.6 Action List

· 4.7 Staffing

· 4.9.2 Existing and proposed usage agreements (leases, licences and other estates)

The PoM will continue to provide a five to ten year strategic framework for the future use and sustainable management of the Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor.

Land Categorisation

In accordance with Section 36 of the Local Government Act (1993) and the outcome of the preparation process and public hearing, the community land within the gateway park area has been identified and re-categorised from Park in current PoM to General Community Use in the PoM Amendment.

Community Engagement

The Draft Amendment to Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor Plan of Management will be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, with an additional 14 days for public submissions to enable the community to have an opportunity for input.

The Local Government Act (1993) requires public exhibition of draft plans of management and a public hearing to confirm the re-categorisation of community land, prior to its adoption by Council.

It is proposed that the Draft Plan of Management and Landscape Masterplan be placed on public exhibition for a minimum of 28 days with an additional 14 days to receive public submissions.

Details of the public exhibition and public hearing will be notified to the local community and stakeholders via a ‘Have Your Say’ page, flyers, newspaper advertisements and the like.

Additionally, the Pemulwuy Community Group have completed community surveys through their Pemulwuy Community Group Facebook page and completed a letter box drop of the paper survey to 700 residences closest to the park during 2021. The results of this consultation found that most respondents were in favour of a community garden, with only 2 of 32 respondents not in favour of the proposal.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

Issues may arise as a result of non-compliance with the requirements of the Local Government Act (1993). Should Council not comply with the requirements outlined above regarding the categorisation of Community Land consequences could be legal action (and resulting costs and consequences) and poor public image. This risk is mitigated through the actions outlined in this report.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for Council associated with this report.

CONCLUSION

The Draft Plan of Management amendment has been prepared as a legislative instrument to guide the ongoing management and development of the Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor in compliance with the requirements of the Local Government Act (1993).

This report recommends that the Draft Amendment to Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor Plan of Management be placed on public exhibition for further consultation with the community.

Attachments

1. Lakewood Estate Riparian Corridor Plan of Management Draft Amendment

Council Meeting

16 November 2022

Item No: C11/22-208

Traffic Commitee - Minutes of Meeting Held 19 October 2022

Responsible Division: Environment & Planning

Officer: Director Environment & Planning

File Number: T-28-02/08

Community Strategic Plan Goal: Delivering Sustainable Infrastructure and Services

Summary

This report presents the minutes of the Cumberland Traffic Committee meeting held on 19 October 2022, and items for endorsement by Council.

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Receive and note the minutes of Cumberland Local Traffic Committee of 19 October 2022, as provided in Attachment 1.

2. Note the decisions made for items under delegation in accordance with Part 1 of the Terms of Reference for the Cumberland Local Traffic Committee, as provided in Attachment 2.

3. Endorse the recommendations for items in accordance with Part 2 of the Terms of Reference for the Cumberland Local Traffic Committee, as provided in Attachment.

Report

An extraordinary meeting of the Cumberland Traffic Committee was held, and the minutes of the meeting are provided in Attachment 1.

In accordance with the Cumberland Local Traffic Committee Terms of Reference, approved by Council on 20 May 2020 (Min. 694 - C05/20-443), the Part 1 items have been approved under delegated authority, and are provided in Attachment 2.

Part 2 items considered by the Cumberland Local Traffic Committee are provided as a recommendation for endorsement by Council. The reports associated with these items are provided in Attachment 3.

Community Engagement

Community consultation has been undertaken and has been addressed under each report that was presented to the Traffic Committee.

Policy Implications

There are no policy implications for Council associated with this report.

Risk Implications

There are no risk implications for Council associated with this report.

Financial Implications

The expenditure of funds associated with implementing the recommendations not approved under delegated authority will be included in the Council’s traffic facility construction program.

Attachments

1. Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Cumberland Local Traffic Committee on 19 October 2022

2. Part 1 items approved under Delegated Authority

3. Part 2 items for Council endorsement