Not so long ago, the common thinking was that councils looked after ‘roads, rates and rubbish’ and the big-picture stuff was left to other governments.

That is not the case anymore. Councils are deeply invested in their communities and residents expect their councils to take a leading role in facilitating a thriving, diverse economy, protecting the natural environment, creating connected, inclusive communities and developing services and facilities that enhance lifestyle and wellbeing.

This is the feedback Lake Macquarie received when we asked residents for their opinions through the Shape Your Future campaign, one of the most comprehensive community engagement projects council has undertaken. Those ideas have been shaped into a new City Vision and set of Community Values that will guide future planning.

The new vision and values statements, adopted by council this week, were developed by a Community Reference Group of 20 residents.   The vision and values have a strong emphasis on the priorities mentioned earlier in this column, giving council a clear mandate to go beyond traditional service delivery to create a prosperous and community-focused city. 

Visit lakemac.com.au for more information.