Like many in our community, I'm concerned about the state of politics in our country. I don't think the shift needed to prioritise integrity and transparency will start in Canberra. I think it will grow locally.
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Some of the changes will come from different people (like me, Greg, Linda and Ethan) putting our hands up to be elected this December, but I also believe that real, sustained change in leadership will come from a more engaged community.
A community who are consulted regularly and who participate in governance, regardless of who is elected. An engaged and informed community who 'know what's going on' and who can hold leaders accountable.
If we want governments that serve our whole community including future generations, we need to grow engagement beyond the current group of veterans who have been giving council and other government feedback for decades.
We need to encourage more youth, families, singles and empty-nesters to be involved and upskilled in shaping our future.
Good news! Right now, council staff are seeking community feedback on a range of critical policies and strategies that will shape our local future. These include a housing strategy, a sustainability policy, a climate change policy, and the community strategic plan which is a foundational plan for councils next decade of operations!
I strongly encourage community members to go to POrt Macquarie-Hastings Council's Have Your Say portal haveyoursay.pmhc.nsw.gov.au, and pick an issue that feels important to you and that you can make time for.
Then either fill out a survey, attend an information session, and/or make a personal submission.
We don't have to wait until the December election, we can shape our local future right now.
Rachel Sheppard,
PMHC Mayoral and Councillor Candidate
Bonny Hills