SWAN Hill Rural City Council have passed their Community Vision and Council Plan 2021-2025 at an unscheduled meeting on October 26.
The document was prepared after a period of engagement with the community.
Most of the submissions either focused on more walking and cycling trails, or work continuing on a drag strip in Swan Hill.
More walking and cycling trails are part of the Strategic Initiative 1.2.2., and Cr Jade Benham also advocated for more outdoor activity options.
“Biking and running are some of my passions, and I think rail trails and footpaths are absolutely a priority,” Cr Benham said.
In regards to the drag strip, a motion was passed at the May 2021 council meeting to not proceed with the development of a feasibility study, unless funding became available for more works.
“I think in regards to the statements regarding the drag strip, it’s not true we’re not doing anything,” Cr Ann Young said.
“We just need to wait to do a feasbility study, it’s not a dead duck at all.”
Cr Benham said there was an enthusiastic drag club in Swan Hill, and the club could consider raising funds to meet the council “half way”.
In regards to community consultation, Cr McKay said it was impeded by COVID, however council did the best they could in that timeframe.
Cr Stuart King asked if items not currently within the plan could be added after additional public feedback, which was confirmed.
“I think we need to continue to engage the community, and the community needs to challenge us to include things into the agenda,” Cr King said.
“We need the community to keep pushing, to let us know what they want us to do going forward.”
There were 13 submissions in total received for the Community Vision and Council Plan 2021-2025, and the document was passed unanimously by councillors present.
Cr Les McPhee and Cr Chris Jeffery were apologies for the meeting.
The Community Vision and Council Plan is available to view at https://www.swanhill.vic.gov.au/
