The State government has proposed that adjoining shires should amalgamate to spread the cost of administration over a larger base. The Council must start serious negotiations to ensure the most favourable outcome for its ratepayers and employees.

All candidates agree that this is a real issue. Both Jil Chapman and Libby Collard raised the issue of fighting for the jobs and services of outdoor staff and community services. Jill Chapman is keep to see that the new RTC and library are strong and able to stand alone into the future.

Consultation with community

Issues should be examined openly and from all angles before any decisions are made. Ratepayers opinions should be sought from the outset and not after thousands of dollars have been spent on expert opinions.

Libby Collard raises the need for focused consultation with key

Stakeholders, and clear communications committed to a common goal. Roger Hosking agreed and Jill Chapman felt it would help the process if Council itself was more representative of the wide range of opinions within the Shire.

Regional planning

The Federal and State governments are encouraging local government to consider many planning issues on a regional not local basis. The council must start to consult more widely on planning matters and not take an “our way or nothing” stance.

Roger Hosking agrees and Jil Chapman sees MR92 as a case in point. Libby Collard raises the issue of accessing to funds available on regional programs.

Main Street plan

The council must quickly resolve the issues which includes appropriate heritage controls, proposing for traffic calming, pedestrian crossings and street trees and improvements to footpaths and lighting.

Libby Collard agrees but is worried about council making a ‘half hearted’ ineffectual effort at the Braidwood ‘Image’. Jil Chapman sees that Council must pick up where it left off on public consultation.

Industrial zones