SIX months of the new Hilltops Council have realised the complexity of community cultures and interests for the proposed approved projects to come together. Only through mutual understanding between council and community can planned activities be delivered.
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The strength of rural areas has always been the input by volunteer community organisations and personnel whose passion is the backbone of success. I cannot think of a time of when this input by groups is as important as now when the workload on council and staff has intensified in enormity between "business as normal", cultural change and grant funding appraisals and delivery to have schedules realised.
Some sectors may feel ignored, but in reality never before has council been more focused on the task of service and meeting infrastructure delivery targets. To this end organisations who have clearly planned pathways with enthusiastic committees working with council could realistically gain an advantage.
Council is yet to do its own review to assure maximum benefit to the community of the merger. To me I think it will take more than this term to adjust to the changes.
My message through this opportunity is for all of us to acknowledge the huge range of tasks and community expectations that are being coordinated by our committed staff members who have a narrow window of opportunity to deliver. As Councillors we thank each one and all community members who have supported and assisted with this challenge.
Together we are shaping and building the future Hilltops through Community Strategic Planning. Individuals cannot do that, instead we each have a role. Only together can we build.
