The article below was my Mitcham Community News Segment for December 2023
Remarkably, it is just over one year since the residents of The Park Ward elected me to this position. Starting off with one of the most devastating storms to hit Mitcham in living memory, it has been an interesting and busy first year. As much as the Councillor position isn’t a full-time job, it very nearly could be. Either way, I like to think that I have been able to make a difference so far. Here are some reflections on the first year.
What have been the positives?
The chamber is genuinely interested in delivering projects.
There is very little politics played between Councillors that is of a petty or personal nature.
The elected chamber has a good diversity of age, experience and backgrounds.
Mitcham residents are very engaged with their local area.
What has surprised me so far?
The length of time it takes for projects to happen and the lack of additional capacity to take on new ideas – There is a significant backlog of work to get through from past Councils.
How many projects / ideas should have been funded years ago but weren’t (even if they save Council money in the long run).
How much State Government red tape adds to your Council rates with little value provided.
The chamber debate has a surprisingly large impact on how you vote.
For many staff, their role is much more than a job for them, they have a genuine passion for it.
What has frustrated me so far?
The rules of the Chamber (set in the Local Government Act) are designed to create a more combative atmosphere and do not facilitate getting ‘good outcomes’ easily.
Responding to resident requests or enquiries often involves bothering someone doing more important things – It would be good for a lot more information to be publicly available, so that residents and Councillors can be more self-sufficient!
Lack of responses to Council consultations.
An assumption from residents that new services / facilities will not increase your Council rates.
Highlights of the past year:
Getting funding for a Bike Strategy and Trial Tree Assistance Fund in the budget.
The opening of Tiwu Kumangka and extremely positive reaction from the community.
Working with Council staff to deliver projects / answer enquiries.
Being Council’s representative on the Development Assessment Panel.
Continuing to meet / talk with residents and being able to provide them with much greater knowledge on topics that they raise.
Saved some trees!
Few Councils are as lucky as Mitcham when it comes to just how engaged our residents are. This engagement does make a genuine difference so don’t hesitate to reach out.
If you haven’t already, make sure you get a chance to visit Tiwu Kumangka – the new Blackwood Library and Community Centre. The use of this facility has surpassed expectations already.
Have a wonderful Christmas and holiday period.
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