The Community Engagement Strategy was endorsed by Council in September 2017.
The Strategy outlined the process Council staff would follow to consult the Community prior to developing the Community Strategic Plan 2030 for endorsement by Council.
Engagement included: meetings, workshops, forums, surveys, photographic and drawing competitions, print and online media, newsletters, mailbox drops, and rates notice inserts.
A range of community engagement activities were undertaken throughout October and November 2017 to raise awareness and to maximise consultation and engagement opportunities with individuals and community groups. The activities included:
Overall Demographic breakdown:
The total number of people who engaged with Council throughout the process was 1,302 which equates to approximately seven per cent of the total resident population.
50 percent of the total population engaged were under 18. This is a significant achievement, given that each of the three former Local Government Areas (Boorowa, Harden and Young), struggled to engage with youth.
The community engagement process reiterated and uncovered a range of key themes and commonalties, as well as targeting issues pertinent to specific areas.
Things our community love about living in the Hilltops region include:
• Peace, quiet and open spaces
• Proximity to regional centres and cities
• Strong sense of community and feeling safe
• Productive agricultural sector and local produce
• Affordable housing
• Aesthetics – freedom and space to move, starry nights, clean air, beautiful countryside and great natural resources
Things that concern our community include:
• Development constraints appear to be stifling economic growth and investment
• There are limited opportunities for youth (entertainment, employment, career, education)
• The risk of losing voice/identity/cultural history
• Service inconsistencies across the region
• Lack of affordable accommodation
• Poor communication and lack of transparency
The Community Services Team compiled the data and created objectives to capture the essence of the community feedback provided.
The objectives were reviewed and refined by senior staff and are presented to Council in the Community Strategic Plan 2030 document.
It is expected all remaining IP&R documents, including the Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan, and the Resourcing Strategy will be drafted and available for public exhibition in May/June 2018.