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MEDIA RELEASE -Strategic Community Plan 2017-2027 out for public comment
May 2017
After an extensive period of community consultation and research, a new Shire of Manjimup Strategic Community Plan for 2017-2027has been developed and is now out for public comment.
The 10-year draft plan has been described by Councillor Paul Omodei, Shire President, as the overarching guide for the future of our region, highlighting the Shire's commitment to achieving the long-term aspirations of our community. "The plan outlines community's goals and prioritises the strategies that will achieve prosperous and sustainable growth over the next ten years, both for our people and our economy," said Cr Omodei.
Consultation took place in the form of surveys, workshops and meetings, whereby more than 730 residents and ratepayer shared their hopes and dreams for the region. Cr Omodei explains that "whilst there was a 'whole of Shire' approach to the consultation, in the results and priorities we have recognised that whilst our four towns and settlements have their similarities, they are all unique and have needs and opportunities that set them apart from one another," added Cr Omodei.
The results reveal that the natural environment is the attribute that the community considers most valuable, with the lowest level of satisfaction being local roads, whether they are managed by the Shire or not. From the feedback it is clear the community wants to see the Shire putting its greatest efforts into diversification of industry and improving the local economy.
This major review is the first since the Plan was developed in 2013 and has resulted in some overarching changes. These include simplification to make it easier to read and an expansion of the Shire's resource profile.
The Shire is now developing a Corporate Business Plan to outline how it will contribute to the achievement of desired community outcomes and community strategies. "The goals detailed within this plan are not just for Shire; they are heavily reliant on continued contribution from the community as well as other State and Federal Government agencies and commercial providers. In fact, we encourage local organisations, business, service providers, community services and Government departments to develop their own action plan to contribute to the achievement of our community's vision," said Cr Omodei.
Members of the public are invited to provide feedback on the new Plan and make a submission to the Shire by Wednesday, 7 June 2017. Copies of the Plan can be accessed via the Shire's Public Libraries, collected from the Shire's Administration Centre or downloaded by clicking here.
"Thank you to our community for being a part of this process which has seen the creation of a shared vision for the whole Shire, and for your continued involvement and support," concluded Cr Omodei.
-ENDS-
Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Manjimup
Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Public Relations Officer, Shire of Manjimup
Contact: 9771 7777
Contact for comment: Paul Omodei, Shire President
Contact: 0448 810 773