Council’s Community Strategic Plan team was kept busy at the Nethercote Markets on Saturday, April 23 as visitors gave their views about the long-term future of the shire at a council listening post using sticky notes and answering a survey.
Team member Sophie Thomson said it was about looking at the big picture, rather than roads and potholes.
“It’s about describing the community you want to be part of in 20 years time,” Ms Thomson said. “We’re looking at various towns and villages and how they might work in the future.”
As well as the listening posts, the team will also be talking with specific groups. The consultation is the biggest that council has held, council said.
The information will be used to develop two community documents: Understanding our Place 2040, and the updated Community Strategic Plan.
Understanding our Place 2040 will collect the opinions of everyone who participates, and allows the community to discover more about the shire’s collective thoughts and aspirations.
From that document the Community Strategic Plan will be developed which will identify long term community goals stemming from the community values and visions.
“Communities haven’t realised how strong this tool is. The idea is to make council more accountable and forward thinking,” Ms Thomson said.
The online survey is available at www.begavalley.nsw.gov.au/haveyoursay. Hard copies are available at shire libraries.
For a full list of listening posts go to the Have Your Say page or call Bega Valley Shire Council on 6499 2222.
