The environment in Kempsey is in safe hands, and those hands are developing award-winning tech, with another achievement in our Shire being celebrated this week.
On Wednesday it was announced that Kempsey Shire Council has won a Local Government NSW Excellence in the Environment Awards.
These awards recognise the outstanding efforts of NSW Councils in managing and protecting the environment.
The dedication and hard work of Environmental Planning Officers Megan Jones and Mackenzie Johnston as well as GIS Officer Anna Bartlett, was recognised through a nomination in the Innovation in Planning, Policies, and Decision Making category for their development of data integration tools for improved environmental assessment.
They won the award in their category and were pipped by Blacktown City Council for overall winner.
In the past, completing an environmental assessment was a complex and confusing process.
Taking on the challenge these staff members developed new Geospatial Information Services (GIS) tools as resources to help environmental assessors and project managers.
In close cooperation with the Environmental Team, the Geospatial Information Services team developed resources to streamline and simplify the process. This collaboration has resulted in a much easier and more efficient environmental assessment process.
This is a fantastic achievement and great recognition for the Geospatial Information Services team involved and Council.
Kempsey Shire Council is committed to supporting and protecting our unique environment and we couldn't be prouder of this accomplishment.