THE greatest challenge facing council over the next 16 months is to make sure that the Stronger Communities funding is spent as efficiently and effectively as possible. The total figure is in excess of $14,128,000 and is a once in a generation chance to see infrastructure constructed that will benefit residents of the area for decades to come.
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The money was provided as a sweetener by the State Government for Hilltops residents during the forced merger process. The former administration, predemocratically elected councillors, decided on where the money would be spent. It is now crucial that councillors and staff continue to consult the communities and make sure that the allocations are in line with what the community expectation now is.
I have been contacted by a large number of residents who have issues with the way council currently maintains infrastructure such as roads, kerb and guttering, water main replacement and water issues.
It will be a further challenge for council to make sure that these expectations are met whilst also implementing the Stronger Regions Funding. The State Government need to fund the transition costs fully and by the end of this year – $2.45 million is still needed. The government forced the merger upon us and need to stump up the funds needed to make sure that what they have created will work.
The second priority is a functional Local Environment Plan (LEP). Residents aren't concerned with airy fairy statements. They want to know where and when they can build a house or locate a business. Only an LEP can do this. The future of the area is at stake and residential, industrial and commercial areas need to be opened up in all of the towns and villages.
