Council looks to future proof

The District Council of Grant has locked in its long-term strategic direction with the approval of a blueprint for the next decade in the region.

At this week’s council meeting, the final Strategic Plan for 2024 to 2034 was presented incorporating revisions based off community feedback received during community consultation in June and July this year.

The final plan was formally endorsed as the primary planning document setting out the aspirations, goals and plans to guide council in the coming years.

District Council of Grant Mayor Kylie Boston was excited to present the completed plan demonstrating council’s commitment to deliver quality services while working together with our communities.

“This plan recognises the current strengths and challenges of our community but looks to the future so we can strive to achieve community aspirations,” Mayor Boston said.

“Feedback received during our community consultation period indicated that a majority of the survey participants expressed support for our goals meaning we are on the right track to achieving an environment where we can all live, work and play.

“I would like to thank all those in our community who contributed through the engagement process which supported us in the creation of our shared goals and aims.”

Across multiple workshops over the past 12 months, council worked closely with a Citizen’s Jury, elected members and council staff to shape the Strategic Plan.

The Citizen’s Jury included community members with a passion and diversity of lived experiences in the district from a variety of community groups, local business and key industries.

Five goals were developed through the workshops and refined during further community consultation which represent the district’s collective vision for the next 4-10 years:

• Community – A connected, inclusive, resilient and engaged community;

• Economy – A growing and vibrant economy, optimising our diverse primary industries and unique natural assets’

• Environment – A sustainable district that values the natural qualities and heritage that underpin our health, livability and economy;

• Infrastructure – Reliable and contemporary infrastructure that meets the needs of our community, industry and visitors; and

• Council – A strategic and financially sustainable Council that values its people and delivers quality services.

District Council of Grant chief executive officer Darryl Whicker said each goal also incorporated specific short-term and long-term projects and advocacy focus areas.

“Strategic planning provides council with an opportunity to fulfil our purpose to deliver on the aspirations and expectations of each community,” Mr Whicker said.

“This plan, endorsed by council, provides measurable outcomes for staff to pursue for the betterment of our community,”

Key projects for Council to achieve in the coming years include, but are not limited to:

• developing a contemporary Community Development Plan to support the community to thrive;

• delivering a camping initiative that provides infrastructure and systems for camping on Council land to boost tourism while protecting our natural assets;

• investigating the feasibility of providing additional green waste services;

• developing a plan that identifies cycling and walking network improvements to support community and tourist use; and

• delivering an update to Council’s website and exploring digital transactions or applications to improve communication and customer service.

“I am confident that the activities, programs, projects and service standards to be delivered during the Strategic Plan period are achievable and will contribute positively to our vision to help people live their best lives.”

The District Council of Grant will now commence undertaking, facilitating and advocating for projects for the community, and report progress each year in the Annual Business Plan and Budget.

Community members are encouraged to read the complete Strategic Plan 2024-2034, or the accessible version, on Council’s website at www.dcgrant.sa.gov.au/council/policies-by-laws-and-documents/strategiesplans.