1 September 2017 – Media Release
Residents of the former Auburn and Holroyd councils, as well as the former Woodville Ward of the City of Parramatta, will vote for the first time as constituents of Cumberland Council when they head to the polls on Saturday 9 September 2017.
This milestone moment for Cumberland Council brings to an end the Administration period of Viv May who was appointed by the NSW Government approximately 16 months ago to oversee the transition, in place of a Mayor and Councillors.
“When I was appointed Administrator, the aim was clear; guide the transition of this budding organisation by uniting the staff and the community, while enhancing service delivery and improving community engagement,” Mr May said.
“Over the past 16 months, Council has set new standards and made significant strides in building a best practice, forward thinking organisation. At times, we’ve turned business as usual on its head; refunding $210 to former Holroyd ratepayers following the outsourcing of our waste services, for example. It’s all been in the best interests of the community.
“Public confidence in the planning system has been restored through increased opportunities for community comment and the introduction of an Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel. Improved handling of developer (Section 94) contributions will also support planned, informed and funded approval of new facilities into the future.
“To build on this we wanted to ensure the future vision for Cumberland was an accurate representation of the community’s opinions, which is why more than 2,500 locals were involved in the development of the Community Strategic Plan.
“Council delivered a responsible budget that returns $184.5m to the community and a net surplus of $2.1m for 2017-18 after paying off $4.4m in inherited debt. Investing in community infrastructure is a top priority, including funding the Granville Multi-Purpose Community Centre.
“The new centre is a $20m investment in the community, with $10m committed by the NSW Government through the Stronger Communities Fund. Council will fund the remaining $10m.
“Importantly, I wanted to leave a strong foundation and culture for Councillors to move forward with. Compulsory training for Councillors has been instituted, which will help them understand new Council processes, interpret legislation, make strategic policy decisions and represent the community.
“Last but certainly not least, I would like to acknowledge the champion efforts of the General Manager Malcolm Ryan and all Cumberland staff who were brilliant throughout the transition. I wish them the best of luck with the future.”
The full Administrator’s Report is available within the draft agenda for the 6 September Council Meeting found here http://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/council-meetings
