News from the Mayor- September 2018 edition

27 Sep 2018 10:09 AM -

Hi Everyone,

In early September, the General Manager and I attended the Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (RAMJO) Board Meeting where we participated in a planning session aimed at identifying the major strategic priorities that will see the wider Murray Riverina region get ahead and stay ahead. It was heartening to see many of the same themes coming through as in our recently released Western Riverina Economic Development Strategy.

It was pleasing to receive notification that a $400,000 grant application was successful from the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund to go towards the grandstand and new facilities at the Leeton Showgrounds. Once it is confirmed that the $800,000 that we have earmarked from our share of the Stronger Country Communities Fund is approved, the new grandstand will become a reality. This project is a great example of how we can make things happen by ensuring State Government, local government and the sports sector are working collaboratively to deliver important projects for regional communities.

The Productivity Commission's draft “Murray Darling Basin Plan: Five-year Assessment” report was also released this month. Council will be submitting its position prior to the October deadline to ensure its voice continues to be heard.  We are generally in support of what has been recommended. 

My wife Julie and I attended Gralee School’s 50th Celebration at the MIA Club. It was great to be involved in the celebration and to recognise people such as the late Neville Hunt who convened the public meeting that established a special school catering for students with disabilities. It is heart-warming to see how the community is so willing to help children with disabilities in our region. I would particularly like to acknowledge the work of the teachers and support staff who everyday give care, understanding and opportunity to these students so that they are able to reach their full potential.

I would like to thank the councillors for once again putting their confidence in me to serve as the Mayor of Leeton Shire Council for the next two years. It is a pleasure to lead such an effective Council that is delivering great outcomes for our community. My commitment and passion is as strong as ever and I will be continuing to use my experience and relationships with neighbouring Councils, various agencies and government to ensure our community’s priority aspirations are met. It is becoming increasingly important to stand up and represent the people of Leeton Shire at a regional, state and federal levels and to ensure that our voice is heard in all the right places.

In closing, my congratulations to Cr George Weston who is once again the Deputy Mayor. 

Take care and best wishes until my October Update. Kind Regards, Mayor Paul Maytom