Decision details

Moved by Councillor Chung, seconded by Councillor Forster –

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council note:

(i)          Council has held meetings via Zoom in line with the Covid rules since 30 March 2020;

(ii)         on 30 June 2020, a change to the Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order (No 4) 2020 allowed Councillors and council staff to attend council and committee meetings in person;

(iii)        although the use of Zoom has been an appropriate temporary alternative, face to face meetings are more effective for communication between Councillors and for the public to witness;

(iv)       there has been feedback that Council and Committee meetings held via Zoom have been difficult for the public to follow due to audio only being provided;

(v)         from October 2020, the NSW Government has encouraged public servants to physically return to work in their offices in a Covid safe way. City staff have also been encouraged to do this;

(vi)       local businesses have been strongly encouraged by the City to explore ways to re-activate the CBD after a long and difficult period; and

(vii)      Sydney should lead by example and demonstrate to the community that it is safe to return to the office; and

(B)        the Chief Executive Officer be requested to consult with the Lord Mayor and Councillors in the week beginning 25 January 2021, about returning to the Council Chambers in the week beginning 15 February 2021.

The motion, as varied by consent, was carried unanimously.

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