New council gauging priorities for four-year plan

THE newly elected Surf Coast Shire council is asking the community what should be at the top of its priorities list as part of its new Council Plan, which will chart the council’s focus over its four-year term.

Shire mayor Mike Bodsworth said residents could take a survey on the Shire’s website to have their say on the municipality’s direction.

“We’re really keen to understand community priorities and how we can balance this with Council maintaining a sustainable financial position.

“Talking to locals, I know many have strong views on Council priorities, so this is your chance to contribute your ideas and help shape where you live.

“We’d love to hear from as many people as possible from all ages, backgrounds and experiences.

“The Council Plan will be our guiding document over the next four years so we want to make sure it directly reflects the views and hopes of our community.”

A series of pop up sessions will be held to provide residents with more information .

Following the survey consultation period, the shire will form a panel of community members to provide strategic advice to the council.

The panel will comprise 45 randomly selected local people, based on the demographic profile of the shire.

Nominated residents will receive a letter in the post inviting them to apply to join the panel.

“Importantly, Council will also need to focus on financial sustainability. We want to better understand community priorities so we can provide the best value and most needed services,” Cr Bodsworth said.

The shire is also giving away eight $100 vouchers for local businesses across the shire who take part in

the survey.

To complete the survey, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/OurFocus  before February 3.