Community members raise pressing issues with council

A group of community members were given the chance to raise their issues and concerns directly with council thanks to a new initiative. HERE’S WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY

In a bid to ensure that regional and rural residents are having their voices heard, the Southern Downs Regional Council have launched a new initiative inviting locals from remote towns to put pressing issues and concerns on the table with council face-to-face.

A group of Allora residents met with their council last week to share their take on pressing community issues, and to collaborate with them on a solution.

Discussions around reticulated sewerage for the township and the possible relocation of the local library were had at the very first Connecting with Council session.

Other topics of interest that were expressed included the broader regional water supply, local water supply, and road and street concerns.

Mayor Vic Pennisi thanked the community for their willingness to communicate openly with council, and said it was the first step forward in building back the Southern Downs.

“It was very rewarding to see our community keen to engage in discussion in relation to the future direction of Allora,” he said.

“The Allora community is passionate, committed, supportive and united in its vision for the township and the discussions were very constructive.

“If this is any indication of what we can expect across the region from our local townships, these connecting with community sessions will be very informative for us and the community.

“It has been challenging to get this initiative off the ground with COVID-19 social distancing guidelines but Council continues to be committed to connecting with community while keeping people safe.”

The next Connecting with Council session is scheduled in Wallangarra on Wednesday, December 2. This will be a COVID-19 safe event and bookings will be essential.