Mayoral Column- 23 April 2021
Published on 29 April 2021
It was fantastic to attend Kearsley Public School for Kearsley Conquers Canberra. It was great opportunity to talk to students about the levels of government ahead of their trip to Canberra in August. It is important that all of our youngest residents understand how they can engage with each level of government and what each level are responsible for.
What a pleasure it has been to attend Seniors Festival events. From the interesting morning learning about local history at the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre for a Morning of Brass to visiting Calvary seeing residents undertaking craft projects. It is clear how much joy social connection is bringing everyone after a year of limited contact. As a community we all have a role to play in supporting and connecting with our senior residents. If you are a senior resident be encouraged to reach out to groups and get involved on a more permanent basis. There are so many benefits to staying connected to your community. Congratulations to everyone involved in putting on another exceptional Festival.
Youth Week 2021 was great from Youthfest Reimagined, My School Rules Sports Competition and PCYC Skate Jam. Well done to the young people and groups involved in organising the program. It was a vibrant week with fun for all ages.
The draft 2021-22 Operational Plan and draft Budget for the next year are now on public exhibition. Council has managed an impressive $35 million Capital Works Program and remains in surplus. This is an achievement to be proud of in consideration of the financial uncertainty faced due to COVID-19. Council’s solid financial position is a direct result of sound financial management.
The significant infrastructure program planned is as a result of Council’s success in securing grant funding with over $20 million in funding secured. This is a credit to staff and their work in applications. A highlight of the budget is that $12 million will be invested into local and regional roads. To view the Plan and budget visit Council’s Have your say page on the website.
Council is pleased to announce grants of up to $10,000 are now up for grabs to assist with disaster recovery and building resilience. The Cessnock Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Grant will be open until 14 May 2021. Contact Council’s Community Recovery Officer, Melissa Boucher on 4993 4100 or email council@cessnock.nsw.gov.au for additional information on the program. These grants are made available via funding from the Bushfire Community Resilience and Recovery Fund.