2020 - not that far away

Dear all,

The Shire of the Yarra Ranges has currently released a discussion paper to discuss its Vision 2020 Review. I think this is an admirable goal, as in Australia we - and the Hills area in particular - are extremely vulnerable to such things as climate change, high petrol prices and the current potential for a global economic downturn. We need to plan for the future

One concern I do have is that in many respects - 2020 is not that far away. We are now nearly at the end of 2008, meaning that it is not a great leap to 2020. The Victorian Government was exploring future options with its 2020 proposals eight years ago in 2000.

Additionally, what is left out of the discussion paper is any discussion on the role of council itself in governance and representation. I feel that many people are alienated from the local political process - to their own but also council's detriment. I think this plays to some people's wishes, as it means they are less accountable.

If local Councils are to improve their relevance to people's lives, their needs to be some in-depth discussion about the role of councils, council officials and elected representatives.

As part of the discussion paper (which can be found if you click the logo above), Council are holding a community forum split over two half days on two weekends on 11 October and 18 October. I urge those members of the community who have an interest in the future of the Shire to attend and have their say.

Regards,

Chris