News from Cr Tony Ciccia

11 Nov 2019 9:51 AM -

Hello Everyone

As a Councillor, my first term has been equally rewarding and challenging. Resolving issues around governance, protocol, allocation of finances and tied grants has been challenging. It is not possible to use funds that we have received for specific programs/projects on other items that may be more pressing. Fortunately, on Council we have staff knowledgeable in the mechanics of how local government works.

The next 12-18 months are going to be very exciting with major projects including the Leeton Swimming Pool renovations and Roxy Theatre upgrade, new grandstand at the Leeton Showground and reticulated sewerage for parts of Wamoon. I must acknowledge our former state member Austin Evans who played a pivotal role in obtaining funding for some of these projects. A recent achievement deserving mention is the Yanco Splash Park which was completed through Council and local community consultation and contributions.

Another aspect that I particularly enjoy is the forum of debate at our meetings where concerns can be raised and we are all encouraged to actively participate, sharing our opinions whilst being respectful. Intensely debated topics during my term thus far have included noise from frost fans, road and footpath priorities and even organisational changes in staffing.

We hope that the Murrumbidgee Local Health District is hearing that our community is adamant that we get back to a fully functioning district hospital - we won’t stop advocating until it does.

The impact of the drought is being felt across all businesses which has included job losses at some of our town’s biggest employers. I would like our State and Federal governments to take decisive actions to insulate us from such severe effects.

The diversity of businesses in Leeton Shire was highlighted following visits to the fish farm at Corbie Hill, Freedom Foods (cereal manufacturer), Berri Juices and Pacific Fresh. We have numerous businesses in our main street, Vance Estate and other areas providing not only employment but important services to our community.

Attending a recent citizenship ceremony brought home the challenges faced not only by new arrivals but also early immigrants and settlers and how these people have played an important role in shaping Leeton into the great town that it is today.

A recent highlight for me was the gratitude shown to Council by staff and students of Kurrajong following the financial contribution made by Council to this organisation to assist them in their musical production of Grease. The staff and students were so appreciative and it is great to think that we as a Council were able to brighten the spirits of so many.

I feel privileged to be a representative of the residents of Leeton Shire because of their resilience, generosity and community spirit.

Regards Cr Tony Ciccia