At its November Ordinary Council Meeting, the newly-elected Councillors were presented the State of the Shire Report; an important document highlighting general progress against the community aspirations as identified three years ago in the "Liveable Leeton 2035" Community Strategic Plan (CSP).
Under the Local Government Act 1993 (Section 428(2)), Council is required to present this report at the second meeting of the new Council. The report provides an overview of Council's and the community's progress toward achieving the community's 10-year vision for the Shire and its residents.
Leeton Shire Mayor, Cr George Weston, said Leeton has made some excellent progress in many areas and continues to punch above its weight.
"This document is an insightful resource that provides an overview of our collective achievements in the last three years as we strive to deliver the community aspirations outlined in the 2021 Community Strategic Plan. It also gives us all a solid platform for finalising the next CSP in December," he said.
A summary of the key positive highlights is provided below:
- Quality of life in Leeton Shire is rated as "good" to "excellent";
- The Shire's gross regional product has increased;
- The diversity of artistic and cultural opportunities has expanded;
- There has been an increase in childcare placements due to the LELC expansion;
- The community is enjoying the twin slide at the Leeton Pool, the enhancements at Chelmsford Place, and improvements to CBD facades;
- Unemployment has decreased, and job opportunities have expanded;
- Numerous community initiatives have been launched to provide services for all ages and enhance local employment;
- The amount of waste diverted from landfill has increased;
- Improvements in health services including the establishment of a new emergency department at Leeton Hospital and improvements in health outcomes as reflected in the reduction in hospitalisations related to alcohol and diabetes.
The community is still concerned about water buybacks; the delays in the Roxy redevelopment; housing shortages and wait times for social housing.
Those interested in reading the full report are encouraged to visit Council's website.
