Lane Cove Council April 2025 Meeting

The Lane Cove Council March 2025 Meeting will be held on Thursday, 22nd May 2025, at 7.00 pm.

Residents can write to councillors about any agenda item or issue. If you use the email address – [email protected], your email will go to all councillors.

Public members can address the councillors for a time limit of three minutes per person (in-person or virtually) during the public forum segment of the Ordinary Council Meeting. Register by using the online form no later than midnight, on the day prior to the Ordinary Council Meeting.

The public forum provides an opportunity to address only. It is not a forum for debate or response from Councillors.

This agenda is a packed agenda and in particular the draft budget papers have been released revealing that a significant rate rise could be coming next year as Lane Cove Council struggles to balance the budget.

Notices of Motion

1 Notice of Motion – Ensuring our community gets best usage of council facilities – explore increasing access to outdoor 50 metre pool and other options Recommendation

Councillors Bryla and Kennedy have tabled a notice of motion asking for a review of 50m pool hours in winter.

During the last month of Autum (May) throughout the first month of Spring (September), the outdoor 50m pool, currently utilising gas heating, is closed during parts of the day, and closes earlier in the evenings. Adjustments for seasonal needs are understandable, and consideration of heating efficiencies needs to be considered.

(Note: Council applied for a grant in 2025 to electrify the pool but were not successful. There are plans to apply for the next round of this grant.)

The current ‘winter’ hours at the Lane Cove Aquatic Leisure Centre’s 50m pool continue to be applied from 28 April 2025 to late September and the times operated is between

Weekday Hours (Monday – Friday):

Open: 5:30 AM – 10:00 AM

Closed: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Open: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Weekend Hours (Saturday and Sunday):

Open: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Closed: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

The indoor pool is open all day 5:30 am until 9 pm.

These opening hour reductions impact those who rely on the facilities for regular exercise.

There is also added pressure on the pool due to neighbouring pools being closed for renovations over an extended period. The Lane Cove Aquatic Centre was never designed to be the sole operating pool on the Lower North Shore. Whilst these pressures may be relieved once the pools in our neighbouring councils come back online, our LGA is also looking at ongoing increases in population due to the St Leonards South area being developed and the recent implementation of the Mid Rise Housing reforms which will ensure higher density in our LGA.

Additionally, our seasons are changing with Autumnal and Spring weather warmer allowing for more outdoor swimming opportunities with less pool heating requirements.

The Lane Cove Pool is under pressure due to the closure of other north shore pools with over 1 million visitors last year – read more here.

Councillors Bryla and Kennedy are asking councillors to vote on the following recommendation:

RECOMMENDATION   That:   1.       staff liaise with Bluefit operation staff to investigate options to increase public recreational access to the outdoor pool for community members. For example, these could be; opening longer during the seasonal shoulder months of May and September, remaining open during daytime hours, and/or ensure conflicting priorities for indoor lanes booked by commercial swim classes are equitably managed to allow adequate public recreational space during periods when the outdoor pool cannot be utilised; and 2.         there be a report back to council on proposal, costs (including gas offset costs in any pricing to mitigate the environmental impacts) and possible implementation timeframes prior to September 2025 Council meeting (to allow earlier pool opening for September 2025 to be implemented, should this be considered a viable option).

 

2 Notice of Motion – Commence process to manage abandoned watercraft and illegal dumping in Dunois Reserve Longueville Recommendation

Councillor Taylor has tabled a notice of motion asking Lane Cove Council to develop a process to manage abandoned watercraft and illegal dumping in Dunois Reserve, Longueville.

Dunois Reserve located in Longueville is a space for locals to enjoy water views, open space and a place for some locals to store their watercraft. Unfortunately, over a period people have abandoned watercraft, illegally dumped rubbish and in some instances held late night meet ups to conduct anti-social behaviour.

I have had many residents reach out to me and bring to my attention there are multiple people/families illegally mooring and living on watercraft in the bay, these people are known to frequent Dunois Reserve and illegally dump rubbish as well as conduct anti-social behaviour and cause concerns for many locals.

Given the amount of abandoned watercraft and illegally dumped rubbish this sets a bad look for our local neighbourhood and encourages anti-social behaviour. I note Council was awarded a grant to install racks for watercraft in the Reserve, I ask council to fast track community consultation on this as it would allow a transition for watercraft owners who do the right thing to store their watercraft safely making them more accessible and in turn clearing the foreshore and surrounds making it safer for the public and community.

Councillor Taylor is asking councillors to vote on the following resolution:

RECOMMENDATION   That Council:- 1.       Endorses the existing abandoned watercraft program and the next stage to focus on the Woodford Bay area; 2.       Writes to the appropriate NSW Minister raising the issue of people living on boats and illegal moorings in the Bay; 3.       Compliance staff carry out a blitz of the illegal dumping of rubbish in the area particularly the Dunois Street location; 4.       Staff fast track community consultation for the use of the grant received to install storage racks for watercraft; and 5.       Provides a monthly update on the abandoned watercraft program in the Council snapshot.

 

3 Notice of Motion – Maintenance of Common Property – Market Square Complex Recommendation    

Councillor Bennison has tabled a notice of motion asking Lane Cove Council to ensure that Lane Cove Market Square is properly maintained and cleaned.

Market Square is a central hub in the Lane Cove village precinct, and the functionality and presentation of its shared facilities are critical to the public’s experience and access.

Despite formal maintenance agreements being in place, there has been a consistent level of community dissatisfaction in recent times due to ongoing issues with the lifts, escalators, and amenities.

This matter requires detailed briefing and consideration by Councillors in a Councillor Workshop setting to identify practical steps that can lead to improved outcomes for residents and visitors alike.

Lane Cove Council is limited to what it can do in relation to maintenance and cleaning due to the complex legal arrangements.  However at the end of the day Lane Cove Council is the lessor and can exert pressure on the owner.  Steps were taken to upgrade the lifts and escalators after ITC met with the building owners and managers and explained the issues that locals had with the facility.  Read more here.

Councillor Bennsion is asking councillors to vote on the following resolution:

RECOMMENDATION   That Council:   1.       notes that there is a long term lease between Lane Cove Council and Region Group (on behalf of Woolworths and other commercial tenants) that includes maintenance of certain common property areas within the Market Square complex, including but not limited to lifts, escalators and toilet facilities; 2.       acknowledges that the structure of ownership, management, and maintenance responsibilities within the complex is further governed by the Building Management Committee for the “Shared Facilities”; 3.       notes that Council continues to receive regular complaints from the community regarding: a)    Lifts and escalators being out of service for extended periods, b)    Poor cleanliness and upkeep of the toilet facilities and other common areas; and c)    General amenity and safety concerns, particularly impacting elderly residents and people with disabilities; and 4.       requests the General Manager to schedule a Councillor Workshop at the earliest opportunity to: a)    provide an overview of the current legal and operational arrangements relating to the complex; b)    outline any challenges or limitations in enforcing maintenance obligations under the current agreements; and c)    facilitate a discussion with Councillors with a view to identifying options to improve service standards and outcomes for the community.

Officers’ Report for Determination

4 Response to the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into the Early Childhood Education and Care Sector Recommendation

This report presents Lane Cove Council’s draft submission to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Early Childhood Education and Care, launched in response to growing national concern about standards, safety, and access within the sector. Council has a long-standing role in the delivery of early childhood education and care (ECEC), both as a direct provider and as a supporter of the wider network of services in the local government area (LGA).

The submission draws on insights from Council staff, local early childhood educators, community feedback, and long-term experience in service delivery. It highlights key priorities such as child safety and wellbeing, quality of educational outcomes, educator workforce sustainability, and the importance of recognising the sector as a critical component of Australia’s education system.

The report recommends that Council endorses the submission and forwards it to the Inquiry.

Lane Cove Council’s submission addresses the following:

The submission addresses several key themes raised by the Inquiry, including:

1. Safety, Supervision, and Wellbeing
   Council emphasises that effective supervision is the cornerstone of safety in ECEC settings. It urges the Inquiry to prioritise staff empowerment, responsive supervision practices, and improved parent partnerships to support child wellbeing.
2. Quality of Education and Workforce Conditions
   The submission advocates for greater support for off-floor planning, particularly in small centres, and highlights the need to shift quality assessments toward actual educational experiences rather than documentation volume. Workforce retention, recognition, and parity with school-based educators are identified as urgent priorities.
3. Regulatory Transparency and Smarter Assessment
   Council recommends smarter technologies and longitudinal data collection to improve quality assessment over time. Concerns are raised regarding inconsistency in the partial rating process, and a call is made for greater transparency and equity across assessments.
4. Traineeships and Workforce Development
   Council supports expanded access to programs such as the Y Careers initiative and calls for wraparound support for trainees, better regulation of training providers, and improved mentoring and peer support opportunities.
5. Funding and Scale of Centres
   The submission supports differentiated funding that recognises the unique value of smaller, community-based services and notes that while fee relief has improved affordability, system complexity remains a burden.
6. Inclusion and Disability Support
   Council raises concerns about the disconnection between NDIS

5 Review of Leasing of Council Property Policy and the introduction of a Rental Assistance Policy Recommendation   

Draft Rental Assistance Policy

Draft Leasing of Council Property Policy

This report presents a review of the Leasing of Council Property Policy and proposes a revised framework for rental subsidies and access arrangements for community use of Council facilities. The updated framework aims to ensure a more transparent, equitable, and sustainable allocation of Council assets, aligned with community priorities and Council’s strategic objectives.

It is recommended that two draft policies—the revised Leasing of Council Property Policy and a new Rental Assistance Policy—be placed on public exhibition to inform the development of final policies that support improved, consistent, and transparent approaches to the leasing and management of Council facilities.

The officer’s report notes:

“The purpose of Council’s Leasing of Council Property Policy is to provide a consistent framework for establishing leases, licenses, and occupancy agreements over Council-owned property, including those with commercial businesses, community organisation, and not-for-profit (NFP) groups. The policy also informs the fee structure for short-term or casual bookings and hire agreements. Currently, all community and NFP organisations receive an 80% discount on market rent, with additional discounts of up to 50% off rates have been applied to Bowling Clubs. Some groups also receive free waste services. Some organisations pay only nominal annual rents based on historical practices. Sub-letting is permitted with Council approval. Lease terms for community organisations are generally limited to five years unless significant capital contributions are made.

The current rental assistance scheme, under which most community groups automatically receive an 80% subsidy, is no longer financially sustainable. As Council’s facility stock ages, the cost of ongoing maintenance, compliance, and necessary upgrades continues to rise. To ensure these assets remain safe, accessible, and fit for purpose, Council requires a fairer contribution from user groups, particularly those with the capacity to assist. Some community organisations generate significant income and hold substantial financial reserves, which could be reinvested into the facilities they use rather than relying solely on Council to carry the full burden. The existing model fails to recognise the diverse operational models, financial capacities, and levels of community benefit across different groups. A more nuanced, tiered approach is required—one that continues to support those who need it most while encouraging more equitable contributions from those who can afford to contribute. This future-focused model will ensure affordability for grassroots and welfare services, while fostering shared responsibility for the long-term sustainability of community infrastructure.”

The tiered approach has been proposed with the following in mind:

• Commercial Enterprises receive no subsidy and are charged full market rent, as they operate for profit.
• Social Not-for-Profit Clubs, which primarily offer social opportunities and generate revenue, are eligible for a 20% subsidy.
• Service-Based Not-for-Profit Organisations, such as sport, recreation, or education providers offering fee-based services, receive a 40% subsidy.
• Community Interest Groups, which are volunteer-run and focus on cultural, musical, youth or recreational engagement, are eligible for a 60% subsidy.
• Local Welfare and Support Services that assist disadvantaged or vulnerable groups receive an 80% subsidy.
• Council-Partnered Service Providers that deliver services aligned with Council’s strategic plans may be eligible for a 100% subsidy.

The new policies will now be put on display for public exhibition.  If you are involved in a community group that licences property from Lane Cove Council, you should read and respond to the policies.

6 Council Policies Review – Pedestrian Plaza and Public Space Policy Recommendation    Minute

• • Draft Pedestrian Plaza and Public Space Policy

This report presents a revised draft policy (‘the policy’) governing the use of public pedestrian thoroughfares, including footpaths and plazas, for stalls, street performances, displays, and outdoor dining.

The policy consolidates existing procedures and introduces new provisions relating to child safety, street performances, equitable access, and clarity around rules for the spaces.

It also includes a prohibition on political advertising during council events and regulates the use of A frames on council land.

Lane Cove Council is being asked to resolve to put the redrafted policy on exhibition.

7 2024/25 Budget – Third Quarter Review Recommendation   

The Officer’s report notes the following:

Taking into consideration the proposed variations in this Review, the projected 2024/25 operating result before capital grants and contributions has been revised to a deficit of ($229K) from the original budget surplus of $109K. The overall operating result (including capital grants and contributions) is forecast to be a surplus of $20,802K compared to the original budget surplus of $12,569K due mainly to the forecast increase in developer contributions.

The forecast ($229K) deficit before capital grants and contributions is a reflection of the same challenges faced in preparing the 2025/26 Draft Budget which forecasts a deficit of $598K.  Increasing costs of service delivery and depreciation outstrip any growth in income leading to an operating deficit.

It is recommended that the 2024/25 Budget be varied in accordance with this report.”

This is also another indication of a possible rates rise in 2026/2027 rates year.  Read more here.

8 2025 National General Assembly of Local Government 24-27 June 2025 Recommendation   

The proposed resolution is:

That Council authorise all interested Councillors to attend the National General Assembly Conference in Canberra between 24 and 27 June 2025 with funding sourced from  2024/25 Councillor Training Expenses Budget.

9 Local Government Remuneration Tribunal Annual Report and Determination – Councillor Fees Recommendation    

The Local Government Remuneration Tribunal is responsible for categorising councils and determining the minimum and maximum fees paid to Mayors and Councillors in each category. For the financial year 2024/25, an increase of 3.75% was determined by the Tribunal and was accepted by Council at the Ordinary Council Meeting 20 June 2024.

Last year the Mayor was paid $49 170 and Councillors paid $22 540.

RECOMMENDATION That Council determine the following annual fees to be paid for the 2025/26 financial year, commencing 1 July 2025:- 1.    Mayor: $50,650 (in addition to the Councillor fee); and 2.    Councillors: $23,220.

 

10 Policy on Payment of Expenses and Facilities to Councillors Recommendation    Minute   

• • Draft – Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities to Councillors (Policy CS-15)

This policy was last reviewed, amended, and adopted at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 27 October 2022, Council Resolution 120. That review incorporated the NSW Office of Local Government (OLG), Better Practice template as reference in the NSW OLG Circular 17-17 Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy – Better Practice Template.

Section 252 of the Local Government Act 1993 requires a Council within the first twelve (12) months of each Council term to adopt a policy concerning the payment of expenses and provision of facilities to Councillors. Council must give public notice for 28 days of the intention to adopt the policy and consider any submissions made before adopting the policy.

11 Greenwich Village Games 2025 Recommendation 

The Greenwich Village Games (‘the Games’) are conducted approximately every four years by the Greenwich Village Games Organising Committee (‘the Committee’). This report recommends that Council support the conduct of the 2025 Games and recommends the appointment of nominated community representatives and the three (3) East Ward Councillors to the Organising Committee.

The Games are a community run event which have occurred approximately every four years since 1988. The Games involve about 25 events held over a three-day weekend, which are conducted on a cost neutral basis.

The Games are conducted by a Council Committee – the Greenwich Village Games Organising Committee.  The most recent games occurred in 2012, 2016 and 2022, noting that the 2020 games were delayed until 2022 due to the Covid pandemic.

The next Games are scheduled to be held from 5 – 7 December 2025, with events mostly occurring around Bob Campbell Oval. Historically Council has assisted the Committee through the booking of facilities and logistical support for the preparation and use of the Council maintained venues.  Support is also provided though the payment of expenses incurred by the Committee based on a full cost recovery arrangement to be recovered from participant fees.

The Charter of the Greenwich Village Games Organising Committee (AT-1) requires Council to make the appointments to the Committee, and includes that Council is represented on the Committee by the three East Ward Councillors. This report recommends the appointment of the following community representatives to the Committee:

Jon Tindall – Chair	Lynne Spencer – Secretary
Alex Crossing	Adam Benjafield
Eloise Oliver	David Johnson
Anthony Foley	Bruce Spencer
Penny Williams	Peter Walton
Rich Sicobo	Natalie Speer
Mareena Von Behr	Jo Cooke
Sarah Tilley	Barbara Sallway
Craig Stafford

 

Read about the last Greenwich Village Games here.

12 Delivery Program and Operational Plan – 2024/25 Third Quarter Review Recommendation  

The 2024/25 Delivery Program and Operational Plan was adopted by Council on 20 June 2024.

Council’s 2024/25 Delivery Program and Operational Plan outlines the strategies, actions and new initiatives proposed to be undertaken during the financial year in order to advance the goals and objectives of the Community Strategic Plan: Liveable Lane Cove: 2035. The Third Quarter Review of the 2024/25 Delivery Program and Operational Plan is attached at AT-1. The report indicates the responsible work area and includes a short progress report and action status.

Some highlights for the Third Quarter include:-

• A review of the Community Strategic Plan was initiated, following an exhaustive community consultation program that involved over 850 local people participating during a six week period
• More than 100 community members, Councillors and staff came together to mark Lane Cove Library’s 70th anniversary. NSW State Librarian Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon joined Mayor Merri Southwood to launch new Library cards, unveil a new art exhibition by Mark Gowing, and celebrate with speeches, a staff-produced film, and birthday cake. Artist Carla Gottgens also created a vibrant multilayered cardboard artwork honouring the Library’s role in Lane Cove, which will remain on display in the foyer all year
• Public art by local Northwood artist Francoise Coquelin was installed, The Dreamer & The Bird sculpture at Greenwich and Mystery Key at Riverview, and Neighbours a sculpture by Mark Cuthbertson & Jonathan Thompson, an artist with lived experience of disability, was installed at Lane Cove West continuing the Lane Cove Villages Public Art Program
• The newly opened Pottery Lane Performance Space was officially launched, with over 100 people in attendance, and there was a smoking ceremony and musical performances. The space was also programmed with film screenings, the first productions from Lane Cove Theatre Company, Jazz events, a Lane Cove Choristers Performance, and public speaking workshops—creating a dynamic new creative hub for the community
• This quarter featured a strong focus on cultural diversity and inclusion – Lunar New Year and Holi celebrations (500 people in attendance) as part of the Kaleidoscope of Lane Cove, Mardi Gras celebrations in the village, grant-funded Art exhibition featuring LGBQTIA+ Artists and a Small Business Soirée during Women’s Week. First Fridays, Saturday Sounds, citizenship ceremonies and the Weaving Stories Film Festival also added vibrancy to the local calendar
• Programs for children and families continue to grow. Council launched a new Children and Families eNewsletter and hosted a Maggie Dent talk to support early learning. In contrast, the Love Where You Play program delivered new play kits and a pop-up play gym in Lane Cove Plaza
• Libraries introduced a new LEGO Club
• The Love Where You Live brand continues to gain visibility, with stickers shared across teams and regular use of the marquee at events. New branding was also developed for the Seed Library (Grow), Maker Space (Make) and play-based initiatives (Play). These small activations help build local pride and identity and support ongoing community engagement efforts
• Seniors Week was a sell-out success, with celebrations across the community. Seniors Week events reached capacity, including the highlight Time to Shine event held in Blackman Park. Activities promoted connection, wellness, and celebration among older residents
• New digital tools and communications boost our community reach. Issuu was introduced to make Council publications more accessible online. Digital engagement continues to grow, with a 20% increase in Facebook views, 15% on Instagram, and over 160,000 people reached. Click-through engagement rose by 90% on Facebook and 254% on Instagram, reflecting stronger engagement with Council information and events
• Sunset in the Village programming in January and February included Australia Day citizenship ceremony with over 400 people. The ceremony welcomed 89 new citizens and included meaningful cultural elements to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Owners
• The Home Library Service made 426 deliveries to 119 individual clients and 11 institutions in the Lane Cove and Hunters Hill local government areas
• Council launched a digital engagement program with 13 Instagram reels posted, reaching 13,897 people and receiving 6,236 views, sharing dynamic content about Council news and programs
• The final component of the Weaving Climate Stories Project was delivered in March, with a film festival at The Canopy to showcase the 10 short films created by local community members and an art piece constructed by indigenous artist Dr Virginia Keft using components woven by community member who had participated in her weaving and yarning workshops.  The film festival was well attended, with close to 350 audience members enjoying films on topics ranging from water conservation, the importance of plants, community action, low waste entertaining, and the impacts of a changing climate. Funded through the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government, the broader Weaving Climate Stories Program had over 300 participants in weaving and yarning workshops with Indigenous artist Dr Virginia Keft, Climate Fresk workshops, and the filmmaking workshops led by Digital Storytellers,
• Council launched the resident-run Meet Your Neighbours program in January, offering support for residents to organise local events designed to build connection and strengthen community. Several events have been held this quarter, with further events scheduled through April and May,
• Council delivered a Recycle Rehome Reuse Day at Blackman Park in February where residents could drop off used bicycles to repair or donate, bric-brac, clothing and soft plastics for reuse or recycling. Delivered with Revolve Recycling and Southern Cross Recycling the event attracted over 180 attendees and diverted over 2 tonnes of material from landfill, which was made up of 102 bikes and scooters, 1,356 kg of clothing, 440 kg of bric-a-brac, and 122 kg of soft plastics,
• Council received funding of $140,000 from the NSW EPA through their Joint Procurement Funding Program to work with Hunters Hill Council to undertake a review of existing collections and processing contracts to understand the feasibility of contract variations and conduct a bin reconciliation to provide accurate bin numbers for modelling and the establishment of a food organics collection service,
• A new Waste Services Guide was developed to provide residents with an overview of the range of waste services provided by Lane Cove Council. The guide is available on our website, and will be distributed to local real estate agents, building managers, and stratas to be shared with new residents,
• Six new kerbside electric vehicle (EV) chargers have been installed across Lane Cove by Plus ES with support from the NSW Government’s EV Charging Grant Program. Utilising existing power poles, the chargers are conveniently located on Little St Lane Cove, Mowbray Rd West Lane Cove North, and Bellevue Avenue Greenwich. These latest installations bring the total number of kerbside charging points in Lane Cove to 15, complemented by an additional 22 charging stations located in Council carparks. Residents can access details of the various locations and charging specifications by visiting Council’s Parking webpage,
• On The Verge provided 306 plants for nature strips and pocket parks; and
• The Lane Cove Community Nursery requisitioned a total of 1,296 free native plants for various Council programs such as Bush Friends, Backyard Habitat, Bushcare, On the Verge, citizenship ceremonies, bush regeneration contractors, sustainability events and workshop giveaways.

 

13 NSW Public Library Statistics 2023/24 – Lane Cove Library Recommendation

The resolution proposed is as follows:

RECOMMENDATION That Council: 1.         Receive and note the report on the NSW Public Library Statistics 2023/24 – where Lane Cove Library was acknowledged for the highest number of loans per capita; and 2.         Formally acknowledge and thank the Library Services staff for their dedication, innovation, and ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional library services to the Lane Cove community.

 

Read more about the Lane Cove Library here.

Officers Report for Information

 Council Snapshot March 2025 Recommendation    

Lane Cove Council publishes a monthly snapshot, which sets out what has been happening over the month, from development applications, parking fines, waste and landfill reduction reports, and reports on upcoming footpath maintenance.