THE community has the opportunity to have a close look at council’s plans and vision for the short to medium term, with the draft 2013-’17 delivery program and the draft 2013-14 operational plan placed on public exhibition for 28 days following last week’s council meeting.
The delivery program highlights the objectives that the councillors have committed to undertaking in their four year term. The operational plan is the specific actions of the council in next financial year to meet these overall objectives.
The draft operational plan is divided into the five focus areas of council and includes financial summaries and works programs for each area.
Mayor Peter Besseling believes the opportunity for the public to have a say on the documents is an important part of the development process.
“A significant amount of community engagement was conducted in the development of these plans which really confirmed what the councillors were aware of. That being, roads and the provision of improved infrastructure is a priority for many in the community as well as the expectation for the councillors to be strong community leaders who seek input on decision making.
“This draft delivery program sets out our objectives for meeting that community expectation, within the context of the challenges facing local government such as cost shifting, restricted income opportunities and the infrastructure demands that come with population growth.
“We have a vision of becoming the best regional council in NSW and this four-year delivery program is a vital part of achieving that,” said Mayor Besseling.
In addition to the roads priority projects tabled at the March council meeting some of the largest projects on the works programs for next financial year include, $3.5 million investment in continuing the small towns sewerage program, upgrades and equipment replacement at parks and reserves, expansion of the Cairncross waste depot and the Port Macquarie Airport expansion.
The draft documents are on public exhibition until 25 May and are available to download from council’s community engagement website www.pmhclistening.com.au. Hard copies are also available in council offices and libraries.
Council will be conducting a series of community engagement activities during the public exhibition period including presentations to the Chambers of Commerce in Port Macquarie, Laurieton and Wauchope and attending various markets.
A series of community meetings will also allow the public to review the documents, ask questions and make a formal submission.
Community meeting times
Port Macquarie Community Meeting
Tuesday 30 April, 2013
6:00pm – 7:30pm
Function Room, Burrawan Street Council OfficesLaurieton Community Meeting
Thursday 2 May
6:00pm – 7:30pm
School of Arts Hall, Bold Street LaurietonWauchope Community Meeting
Tuesday 7 May
6:00pm – 7:30pm
Senior Citizens Centre
