MORE than 300 residents from across the MidCoast region have taken part in MidCoast Council’s latest Community Conversations series, providing an opportunity to discuss local issues directly with councillors and senior staff.
The series recently wrapped up after 14 meetings were held in communities stretching from Johns River in the north to Tea Gardens in the south and Gloucester in the west.
A total of 335 people attended the sessions, which brought together residents, community groups, business owners, councillors and council staff to discuss matters affecting local areas.
This year’s program was designed to encourage greater participation from attendees, with more time allocated for discussion and questions and less time dedicated to formal presentations.
MidCoast Council Mayor Claire Pontin said the conversations play an important role in strengthening communication between council and the community.
“Community Conversations are an important way for us to listen, learn and work together,” Cr Pontin said.
“We heard a wide range of views and ideas from people who care deeply about their communities.”
Mayor Pontin said the feedback provided valuable insights into local priorities and concerns, helping council better understand community expectations.
She acknowledged that while some requests cannot always be delivered immediately, council has already responded to several matters raised during the recent discussions.
“While financial and legal constraints sometimes mean that we can’t do everything the community would like, we have already been able to attend to a number of issues raised at the recent conversations,” she said.
“Thanks to all those who made the effort to attend.
“By working together, we can get better outcomes for our communities.”
Council has confirmed that another round of Community Conversations will be held later this year.
Residents interested in participating can stay informed about future sessions through the Community Conversations section of council’s Have Your Say platform.
The initiative continues to provide an important forum for local voices to be heard and for council to engage directly with communities across the MidCoast region.
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