Cr Di Bell: Everyone affected, some more than others

Published on 12 August 2021

At a time when many of us have been challenged with yet another lockdown, please remember what a resilient and strong community we are. 

Now that we are out, let’s celebrate by cheerily greeting all who we pass on the street, and let’s look forward.  We will get through by supporting and caring for each other.

Please pause and think who you know, that may need a call or some assistance. Remember to stay in touch with others and ask for help if needed.  Everyone has been affected, some more than others.

Right now, Council is planning how to meet the needs and services required by our municipal community, through the Council, Asset and Financial Plans. 

The Community Panel have completed the Vision and recommendations on behalf of the Community, and we, as your elected Councillors, have endorsed that Vision. 

Now the plans aiming to achieve that vision need to be developed.

I believe the challenge, is to bring together recommendations from strategies and plans previously completed, to check they are in line with the vision, whilst also meeting the

What does the community think are the most important things?

Responsible financial management is also important to balance any new infrastructure with maintenance and improvement of roads, facilities, and services, and to keep rates affordable.

As we all work to live with COVID, we are wanting some normality back, and the community identified the most important aspects to them are “social connection” and keeping the “country feel” of our city, while improving our regional services, businesses, shopping, employment, sport, arts and culture, etc.

The draft plans now being developed will shortly be presented to the community for feedback and input, prior to finally going to Council for endorsement.  I encourage the whole community to really be involved in this process to follow the lead of the Community Panel, and the let’s talk and chat in your groups and families and submit your thoughts.

I personally would also like to hear what community members believe are the priorities so please share your thoughts with me, via email di.bell@hrcc.vic.gov.au or phone 0437 949 186 (please leave a msg if I am unavailable and I will call when free)

I believe it’s important that the priorities set in the Council Plan, meet the expectations, and needs of our broader community inclusively.