Mayor states his case

For Councillors it has involved some very tough decisions and, so, has been both demanding and rewarding.

At the beginning of the term in 2012 the widespread Community Consultation process established that the over-ruling aim was to remain a stand-alone Council. Through great discipline and courageous decision-making GISC was rewarded when it was declared “Fit for the Future” through the Office of Local Government/IPART process.

This minimised Council’s chances of being amalgamated.

The Consultation also prioritised establishing a reliable and expanded Water Storage Scheme for Glen Innes, a rejuvenated CBD, increased road funding and an up-grade of the town Swim Centre.

These have been delivered.

The Off-Stream Storage Scheme ( at the Quarry ) was set in-train by the previous 2008 Council but was delivered in this term. Its advantages were demonstrated dramatically this autumn when there were no restrictions despite an extended very dry period.

The CBD upgrade tested everyone’s patience but surely no-one wants to go back to the previous run-down model which seemed to indicate a community with a lack of pride in its presentation.

Roads funding has continued to expand with double-digit percentage increases each year ( 26% this last year due to expanded Federal Government funding ). The huge expansion in bitumen resealing reflects this ( many streets and rural roads have had no reseals for decades despite engineering advice that they should be treated at least every 15 years ).

Council has borrowed funds at 0.82% to improve nearly 100 bridges over 2 years. A few years ago this would have seemed impossible.

The Glen Innes Swim Centre has had a total upgrade and will open the new season with a massive windbreak which effectively encloses the double pool.

Since amalgamation in 2004 this Council has set Glen Innes up for the next 100 years in the fundamental services of water supply, sewerage treatment and waste disposal. Rural and village residents have shared in much greater funding ( eg. treated water scheme in Deepwater ).