Port Stephens Council, together with Karuah and Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Councils, has kicked off NAIDOC Week celebrations with the signing of an historic agreement. The Road to Tomorrow Agreement, or Yabang-Gu-Butunga in the Worimi language of Gatung, is a first for the region and sets out the shared objectives and projects that have been identified as priorities for Port Stephens.
Over the past few years, Council has proven beyond doubt that it is financially sustainable and fit for the future. We’re continuing to work hard to ensure that our community is getting value for money, and that we are delivering the right services in the best possible way.
But as Port Stephens continues to grow, so too does our community’s desire for new and improved infrastructure, facilities and services.
Whether it’s better roads, more footpaths and cycleways, or revitalised town centres, Council has received strong community feedback that we all need to be investing more in the future of Port Stephens.
We take our responsibility to our residents and ratepayers very seriously, which is why we’re exploring all avenues for funding these improvements.
We have one of the lowest residential rates in the Hunter region, which means that while we can maintain the vast array of services we currently provide, our capacity to deliver extra infrastructure and services is limited.
In addition to conducting internal service reviews and applying for grant funding from all tiers of government, Council is also lobbying the NSW Government and Opposition. On behalf of our residents, we are advocating for funding for key roads, major infrastructure, critical drainage works, sporting facilities, smart region partnerships and urgent coastal management works.
Last night, Council also voted to apply to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal for a Special Rate Variation to fund key projects across our region over the next few years.
Everyone will be given an opportunity to participate in discussions and have their say on the proposal, which will be unveiled in the coming weeks. While Council understands that raising rates is rarely a popular decision, we believe this to be a very sound option to deliver what our community has asked for in the shortest time possible.
Investing in our community is a priority for this Council, and a Special Rate Variation is one way that we can create a better Port Stephens for all.
Wayne
Council to invest in Port Stephens community
Port Stephens Council will begin an exhaustive community consultation process in July, seeking the views of residents regarding a Special Rate Variation (SRV). The SRV would seek to raise significant funds to be used to invest heavily in local communities, delivering rejuvenated town centres, major new infrastructure, increased services and new facilities.
Mayor Ryan Palmer says Council has been listening closely to what the community wants and is now exploring a number of funding options to deliver vital infrastructure for all to enjoy.
Port Stephens Council has awarded more than $165,000 to local community organisations to help them their valuable projects and services, as part of its annual grant programs. "This year, some of the successful projects include a film on the Mambo-Wanda Wetlands, an Aboriginal cultural garden at Karuah Public School, and a historical book about Fingal Island, as well as contributions towards many community groups across the entire local government area," Mayor Palmer said.
With the theme - Because of Her, We Can! - this NAIDOC week, we're celebrating the significant roles Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have played and continue to play at community, local, state and national levels. There are so many events happening right across Port Stephens, so make sure to check out the full list and get involved!
If you live at Fingal Bay, we want to hear your thoughts on a proposal to change a short segment of Marine Drive and Pacific Drive near Barry Park to one way traffic only. The works are designed to improve pedestrian safety near to Barry Park by allowing the necessary space for the marking of a pedestrian path and car parking spaces.
There's a great range of activities for children of all ages during the July school holidays. From vacation care to library programs and art exhibitions - it's all happening in Port Stephens!
Council meeting - Tuesday 10 July The following is a brief overview of last night's Council meeting.
For full details, you can view the agenda and minutes on Council's website.
Council endorsed the draft Port Stephens Development Control Plan (Amendment No. 7) and placed it on public exhibition
Council approved the development of a Special Rate Variation application to fund new town centres, infrastructure, service delivery and maintenance - and endorsed the Communications and Engagement Plan for the application process
Council endorsed the Birubi Point Aboriginal Place Management Plan which aims to ensure the protection of Worimi cultural and spiritual values and the enhancement of the environment
Council authorised the General Manager to proceed and finalise the acquisition for road widening over 828 Paterson Road Woodville
Council authorised the General Manager to proceed with the approved Medowie Community Preschool subdivision and enter into negotiations with Medowie Community Preschool Incorporated to establish a ground only lease
Council endorsed the revised Development Applications to be reported to Council Policy and places it on public exhibition
Council adopted the Acquisition and Divestment of Land Policy
Council endorsed the revised Workplace Surveillance Policy and placed it on public exhibition
Council approved the revised Parks and Roadside Memorials Policy after the public exhibition period
Council approved applications for financial assistance across its five grant programs, which cover community, environmental, heritage, cultural and Aboriginal projects for a total of $165,545 with an additional $6,000 allocated for more heritage grants
Council endorsed the General Manager’s Office service package as outlined, to deliver the required level of service to meet the organisation’s future needs
Council upheld Mayor Palmer’s NOM to support the allocation of a maximum of 250 room nights per annum for Port Stephens Holiday Parks to support major event sponsorship
Council rejected all tenders received for the Shoal Bay Holiday Park Amenities Building due to the submissions exceeding the budget allocated for this project
