2014 would quite possibly be the busiest year I have experienced since becoming Mayor.
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Clearly Local Government Reform has been the main reason for the increase in time dedicated to the role.
It is fairly clear that the trend will continue into 2015. In the early new year it is expected that we will make public the consultancy report which provides information around four possible options for our Council as we navigate the State Governments 'Fit for the future' benchmarks. We will also provide with that release a response from Council to the consultancy report.
Council will then hold community forums to discuss that information and the options available to us.
After our Community Consultation, Council will then make a submission to the State Government before June 30th detailing how we will become 'Fit for the future'.
I strongly encourage every ratepayer to attend the forums and provide feedback to Council in the New Year.
The Community forums will be widely advertised when the dates, time and places have been confirmed.
As we take a deep breath and enjoy the festive season my mind turns to the year that was and how blessed I feel to be the recipient of such wonderful praise for our communities. Whether it is the magnificent blooms experienced this year from our stunning main street to the constant feedback from visitors alike who take the time to let Council know what a wonderful town we have.
An apt time to commend the Council staff on what a wonderful job they do and the significant work that has been achieved this year through our Local Government Area.
I am sure we have our critics but it is important to understand for a small Council we are most notably punching above our weight.
From an economic perspective our business community has noticed a considerable downtown and it is important that we support whenever we can our local businesses by shopping locally.
Consideration to the benefits of doing so cannot be underestimated in our community, so please carefully consider local businesses during the festive season and throughout the New Year.
As we enjoy the festive season I hope we all take the time to enjoy our families, friends and to give thanks to those that serve our country and those emergency service personnel who are unable to enjoy Christmas as we do.
I give thanks to the many volunteers who give so generously of their time to make our community a better place to live and work, your generosity is what makes the difference between a good community and a great one. It's now time to recharge the batteries and embrace all that 2015 has to offer.
It is important to reflect on those community members that have been challenged with illness or the loss of loved ones during the year.
We have lost a considerable number of well loved community members this year and in particular my thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends during this difficult time.
On behalf of Council and Council Staff I wish everyone a Happy, Holy and Safe Christmas and may the New Year bring good Health and Happiness for all.
Wendy Tuckerman, Mayor, BOOROWA COUNCIL