This year is certainly shaping up to be a big one for the Hilltops region, and as always, we’re asking the community to be a big part of the work that we’re doing.

From the outset, a key focus will be finalising our community strategic plan.

As many would recall, council undertook a range of outreach activities towards the end of 2017 to gather as much information as possible from residents and ratepayers about their vision for the future of the region. This has now been collated and put into a draft CSP which is available for people to read and provide feedback on. This is an important piece of work, as it sets out our long-term vision for the area and will guide further delivery programs and their subsequent operational plans; turning our community visions into achievable blueprints that deliver an integrated, resilient, and interconnected region.

The development of a new local environmental plan is high on council’s agenda for 2018, as is the economic action plan, also available in draft form. In addition to strategic planning, a number of infrastructure projects will continue to take shape this year, thanks to the Stronger Communities Fund, the Stronger Country Communities Fund and the Fixing Country Roads program.

This year will also see planning for Young’s new cultural, community and education precinct continue apace. I’m looking forward to a big year of growth and achievement.

Let’s continue building on the strengths of this region to ensure we capitalise on our potential and secure our reputation as a thriving and productive place to live, do business and invest.