Sessions to begin planning process

A SERIES of events will be hosted by the Golden Plains Shire council over the next month providing information about the next round of the community planning program.

Residents from Enfield, Smythesdale, Barunah Park, Ross Creek/Smythes Creek and Napoleons are invited to take part in the program, which allows community members to identify and prioritise local projects.

Each township will include their priority projects into a four-year plan following surveys, interviews and public meetings organised by community coordinators.

“These towns are the final five towns to participate in this round of Council’s community planning program,” mayor Cr Sarah Hayden said.

“The planning phase will start in June and will last around four to six months.

“Each town is provided with a mentor who supports the community-led engagement activities.”

The first information and expression of interest session was held at Napoleons earlier this week; the next event will be held at Ross Creek/Smythes Creek on Wednesday 16 April.

Wednesday 30 April will see a session held at Smythesdale before the final information event at Barunah Park on Wednesday 7 May.

“Anyone who has an interest in the future of their community should come along and discover how the program works and get involved in this community-led initiative,” Cr Hayden said. “As a resident, this is your opportunity to have a say about the future vision of your town and learn about how the program supports community while also encouraging locals to volunteer and get involved when the projects move to the implementation phase.

“Council requires a minimum of three residents to participate in each program, but it’s in each town’s best interests to have as many representatives as possible to take part in each community planning program.”

A minimum of five participants are required for each meeting to proceed. To register, visit the Golden Plains Shire website.