We have produced a Delivery Program that has been out for public consultation and incorporates all the changes as a result of IPART’s (Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal) recent decisions to continue the Special Variation for a total of a further 9 years and the regulated water, sewer and stormwater drainage fees and charges for the next 4 years.  Even with these changes, our average rates overall continue to be approximately ten percent less than the neighbouring regions of Lake Macquarie and Newcastle.The Operational Plan for 22-23 reflects expenditure greater than originally forecasted, but this has been able to be accommodated due to the much larger than budgeted, projected surplus for the 21-22 financial year.  This means we are responding to community feedback and have allocated extra resources for planning assessment, local roads and vegetation maintenance.

Council adopts Operational Plan and Budget 2022/23Council has adopted with amendments its Delivery Program 2022-2025, including the Operational Plan and Budget, Fees and Charges for 2022/23, the Resourcing Strategy and revised Community Strategic Plan.Council CEO David Farmer said that the main amendments for the 2022/23 Operational Plan and Budget related to addressing some service areas where Council is not meeting community expectations and necessary updates to reflect IPART’s (Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal) May 2022 determination on the water, sewer and stormwater drainage pricing. “There is increased budget allocation for key service areas of local roads maintenance, vegetation management, for more staff resources in development assessment and to meet our legislative requirements to develop Plans of Management,” Mr Farmer said. “Additionally, we are taking a cautious budgetary approach and have allocated a contingency for increased electricity costs due to current volatility in the electricity market. “Our budget reflects zero increases to the domestic waste management service charges for most of our customers, a one percent increase in rates and commencement of staggered increases to water and sewer service charges.

Council engaged Manly Hydraulics Laboratory to draft the design requirements for terminal protection works at Wamberal Beach to address coastal erosion – which will be placed on public exhibition at yourvoiceourcoast.com from 29 June 2022 to 27 July 2022. The Wamberal Beach Terminal Protection Structure Engineering Design Requirements address key criteria such as engineering, landscaping, environmental and maintenance requirements of property owners.Central Coast Council Director Environment and Planning, Alice Howe said this milestone follows on from the completion of Wamberal Beach Terminal Protection and Sand Nourishment Investigation project, which identified preferred designs for the protection works.“The review of expert technical studies, extensive community consultation and consideration of Council's role in relation to coastal erosion led to the identification of specific criteria for the preferred seawall design,” Dr Howe said.“These criteria state that the infrastructure is to be located as far landward as possible (to reduce interaction with coastal processes and maximise beach width), that the asset is to be located wholly on private property where possible, and constructed, owned and maintained by property owners, the seawall is to have the narrowest footprint (to reduce erosion/beach encroachment), and that the design is to have the least requirement for sand nourishment (both upfront and ongoing).“The draft Design Requirements outline engineering specifications and details such as the minimum footprint, length of construction, material selection, landscaping, and maintenance.“These requirements reflect what the community told us was important in feedback received throughout the three phases of community consultation conducted over the past two years.”Council Administrator, Rik Hart said there are a number properties along Wamberal Beach foreshore that are impacted by beach erosion which need permanent solutions.“Property owners are able to seek development consent to undertake work to protect their assets, however, works must not negatively impact beach access, public amenity, neighbouring properties and the health of our coastlines,” Mr Hart said. “Council is performing its regulatory function as a Local Government to develop planning controls which will enable Wamberal foreshore property owners to undertake approved development to protect their assets whilst the beach public amenity and environment is protected appropriately. “Community consultation has been an integral part of the process to identify long-term solutions to this issue and I encourage ongoing community participation now that the draft requirements are on public exhibition.“The community will continue to have opportunities to provide comment before any work is undertaken.

The consolidated Central Coast Local Environmental Plan and Central Coast Development Control Plan will be implemented and effective from 1 August 2022, providing a consistent planning framework for the region and pathway toward a smoother process for development applications and assessment. The new Central Coast Local Environmental Plan 2022 (CCLEP 2022) has been finalised and was notified on the NSW Legislation website on 24 June 2022.

Creative Spaces on the Central Coast will showcase works from the Coast’s upcoming and established makers and creators at pop-up retail and workshop spaces in Gosford, Woy Woy, and The Entrance throughout 2022 and beyond.Central Coast Council is honoured to be programming three Council-owned spaces across the Coast, where 30 makers and creators will run a range of creative practices such as workshops, exhibitions, and engaging demonstrations.Creative Spaces will be held across ‘Parkhouse @ Kibble Pop Up Space’ in Gosford, ‘The Container Hub @ The Entrance Pop Up Space’ located in Memorial Park, and the ‘Creative Arena @ Woy Woy Pop Up Space’ located under Woy Woy Stadium.Council Acting Director Corporate Affairs, Krystie Bryant said Creative Spaces is a Council initiative that serves the dual purpose of growing the visitor economy and supporting local makers and creators by connecting them in with local communities.“Council is delighted to be presenting Creative Spaces throughout the remainder of 2022 and beyond, particularly as it’s widely known that our Coast boasts a vibrant community of artists,” Ms Bryant said.“Council is honoured to have curated an engaging program that fills the pop-up spaces with creative workshops, exhibitions, and demonstrations until February 2023 to ensure the greatest benefit for local maker and creators, as well as the wider community.“The creative workshops and exhibitions are both diverse and family-friendly, with programming set to include a range of art classes and community art projects, creative mornings for mums and bubs, workshops using recycled and repurposed items, and a wide range of art and lifestyle exhibitions for photography, sculptures, jewellery, vintage items and more.“The full program is now live, and we encourage all community members to explore the schedule and regularly visit the Creative Spaces to immerse themselves in and support the talent and creative ability of those within their community."Council Administrator, Rik Hart said Council is pleased to confirm the Creative Spaces programming will provide opportunities for local communities to come together.“We are excited to see Creative Spaces provide renewed chances for communities to unite across the Coast,” Mr Hart said.“Following a challenging time for artists, we are looking forward to the program providing local community members and visitors new opportunities to connect, imagine and create with talented makers and artists within their community, and enhancing liveability across the region.“Council is honoured to be providing new opportunities for local creatives to shine by showcasing their skills, art and talents whilst positively contributing to the cultural life and increasing visitation to our beloved Central Coast.”To learn more about each of the creatives set to be involved with Creative Spaces, and view a wider program for 2022-23, visit the dedicated Creative Spaces website.To read more, search ‘Creative Spaces’ on the Central Coast Council website.ENDS

Last week I had the pleasure of joining Council staff to talk to the community about Woy Woy at the Let’s talk Woy Woy event at the Peninsula Leisure Centre.

Refugee Week is taking place from 19 to 25 June 2022 and Central Coast Council is celebrating our growing multicultural communities with a range of initiatives that share their stories and contributions.This year’s theme ‘Healing’ acknowledges the importance of connection to place and community, where shared experiences can assist with building human connection and a sense of belonging.Central Coast Council’s Unit Manager Community and Culture, Glenn Cannard said the Central Coast is home to many multicultural communities.“According to the Department of Home Affairs, between 2012-2022, over 4300 migrant families have made the Central Coast their home and speak over 73 different languages[1].

Toukley library will be offering extended hours access from 1 July 2022, as part of a ‘Library@yourtime’ trial program.This has been made possible through grant funding by a State Library of New South Wales Local Priority Grant.The innovative program, which will be trialled for six months, will see technology monitor self-access, self-service loans and returns, internet computers as well as lighting, alarms, public announcements, and public safety.Central Coast Council Unit Manager, Beth Burgess said the aim of the program is to enable users to have access to the library outside regular staffed library hours.“Library@yourtime will enable users to utilise the library during un-staffed hours, meeting the needs of commuters on their way to or from work, as well as students and families wishing to utilise the space and library services on weekends," Mrs Burgess said.“The project aims to remove barriers to people who wish to use the library service, enabling the community to make full use of the service at times that suit them.

Despite the devastating weather experienced across the Central Coast only months ago, the Central Coast Harvest Festival 2022 has successfully delivered a great weekend for all!

The Coast is a hive of activity with Council infrastructure works continuing to upgrade, renew, maintain and improve community facilities, services and open space green areas.Central Coast Council CEO, David Farmer said Council has remained committed to the delivery of essential services and key projects, even as we managed the financial challenges.

Earlier this week Council was pleased to announce the Central Coast has officially achieved ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia.

Central Coast Council has engaged start-up company RecycleSmart, for a three-month trial program to collect tricky recyclables from the doorsteps of local residents’ homes for free.This program aims to help Council collect data and feedback from residents, to determine what type of recycling service might be of interest and benefit to the wider community. Council Unit Manager Waste and Resource Recovery, Andrew Pearce said the trial also aims to reduce the number of recyclable materials that end up in landfill. “There is often confusion among residents over how to correctly dispose of tricky recyclables such as soft plastics, clothes, e-waste and problem waste like polystyrene, batteries and smoke alarms," Mr Pearce said.“Also, having to visit different drop off locations is often an inconvenience and disincentive.

Central Coast Council is welcoming expressions of interest from prospective event management organisations, local businesses and qualified individuals interested in delivering funded community events aimed at creating vibrant, engaging spaces in Toukley and The Entrance.Open from today until Monday 27 June, Council’s Request for Quotation (RFQ) will allow local event organisers the opportunity to receive funding to deliver a Christmas event and a one-day event in the Toukley Village Green, and pop-up market in the Waterfront Plaza at The Entrance.Council's Community and Culture Unit Manager, Glenn Cannard said Council is pleased to continue offering opportunities for local businesses to be reconnected to their communities and help enhance the Coast’s event calendar.“Council is honoured to offer local event organisers and qualified individuals two opportunities to receive funding to manage and deliver engaging events in Toukley and The Entrance,” Mr Cannard said.“Interested local businesses can submit an application to receive $18,000 in funding for the delivery of a one-day event and Christmas event in the Toukley Village Green, and a separate application to receive $20,000 in funding for the delivery of pop-up markets in the Waterfront Plaza at The Entrance.“Council is thrilled at the prospect of local businesses playing an integral role in helping enhance the Coast’s calendar of events, and is excited to see how new, engaging spaces can enhance visitation to these areas and have a positive impact on the local economy.”Council Administrator, Rik Hart said local businesses can have confidence that Council is working toward further renewing opportunities that connect them to their community.“Following a number of challenging years for local businesses and event organisers, we are hopeful that new opportunities and funding can continue to help bring their big ideas for the community to life," Mr Hart said.“We encourage all interested businesses or local event organisers to submit an application to get involved and help deliver engaging events that boost local economies, and further contribute to the overall ambiance of our Central Coast community."Event funding opportunities open from Monday 6 June – Monday 27 June are as follows:Toukley$10,000 in funding available for a family-oriented Christmas event to be delivered during December 2022.

Central Coast Council’s 2022-23 Community Grants Program is now open, with $900,000 in annual funding available to support local community groups and organisations to deliver worthwhile projects, programs and events that strengthen our community.Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said local community groups and organisations have until 30 June to apply for funding under the program to help bring their big ideas to life. “This year, community groups and organisations will be able to apply for funding under three programs - the Community Development Grant Program, the Community Events and Place Activation Program and the Community Support Program,” Ms Smith said.“Council’s Community Grants Program supports local groups and organisations to develop initiatives aimed at enhancing community connection, activating places and spaces and improving quality of life on the Coast."Grant writing sessions, information sessions and drop-in sessions have been running in May and are continuing during June and are designed to support community members through the application process.“Funding of up to $20,000 per project is available under the Community Development Grant Program and the Community Events and Place Activation Program, with applications closing at the end of the month.“Community groups and organisations can also apply for funding of up to $5,000 per project as part of the Community Support Program, which will remain open throughout the year.”Council Administrator, Rik Hart said Council’s Community Grants Program provides community organisations with the support to deliver activities, events, programs and projects which build the community’s capacity and create stronger local connections.“With $900,000 in annual funding on offer, this is an opportunity for community groups and organisations to put ideas into action, making a difference to our community and creating a stronger Central Coast,” Mr Hart said.“If you are looking to deliver a worthwhile project or event over the next 18 months, I highly encourage you to read the guidelines and apply now.”Council’s 2022-23 Community Grants Program includes:Community Development Grant Program – one round only, opened 1 June 2022, closes 30 June 2022.

Two years on from its major community consultation project Let’s Talk Woy Woy, Central Coast Council has completed a range of major works, upgrades and improvements throughout the Woy Woy town centre, with more projects currently underway.Council Chief Executive Officer David Farmer said the community has played an integral role in shaping many exciting projects, plans and strategies to benefit and enhance Woy Woy that are now coming to life.

We are excited to announce that following a 20-month journey, the Central Coast has officially achieved ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia, making it one of the first regions in the country to be recognised for its strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices and high-quality, nature-based tourism experiences.Achieving ECO Destination Certification recognises the Central Coast as a world-class location for sustainable and nature-based tourism, which will provide a substantial and ongoing boost to the local economy. The announcement comes just before World Environment Day’s 50th anniversary year, which encourages countries around the globe to celebrate #OnlyOneEarth through collective environmental action.Council Director Corporate Affairs and Chief Financial Officer, Natalia Cowley said it was exciting to see the region receiving formal recognition on an international level as an ecotourism destination of choice.“We are thrilled in our role in achieving this recognition and to announce our successful official ECO Destination Certification for the Central Coast, and what this means for our local community.“Statistically, we know that ecotourists stay longer, are more conscious travellers and are more interested in a region’s local community, nature, and culture. “Council is excited at the prospective boost in ecotourism that being an ECO Destination will bring, such as providing sustainable, local employment and training opportunities to the Central Coast community”.To achieve ECO Destination Certification, an independent Auditor assigned by Ecotourism Australia reviewed Council’s submission and conducted interviews with staff, stakeholders and tourism operators on the Central Coast. The Auditor said “Central Coast Council is to be commended for their sustainability planning including being only the second region in NSW, and the third in the whole of Australia to apply for Destination Certification through Ecotourism Australia.

I have today welcomed the Minister for Local Government, The Hon Wendy Tuckerman’s announcement of Central Coast’s local government election to be held on 14 September 2024.The Proclamation also outlines the continuation of my term of appointment as Council’s Administrator up until the election date set.

Minister for Local Government, The Hon Wendy Tuckerman MP has announced the local government election for Central Coast Council will be held on 14 September 2024.Central Coast Council Administrator, Rik Hart welcomed the Minister's announcement and date set for Central Coast's local government election, saying it now provides Council with a date to work towards and time to implement the Commissioner's recommendations. “Council has made significant progress in stabilising the organisation, holding local government elections in 2024 allows Council to ensure a solid foundation for a newly elected body,” Mr Hart said.“At this stage, I plan to continue as Administrator and look forward to continuing to work with the Central Coast community to deliver the best outcome for the region.“While I've always been in favour of democracy, I am firmly of the opinion that sacked Councillors should not be allowed to run for Council in a subsequent election, and I will continue to push this view. “Experience has shown that when previous Councillors return from a period of administration, the risk of deterioration increases dramatically.

Since February, Council has filled over 32,000 potholes that were a result of intense and continued rainfall which created an unprecedented number of potholes.Only temporary repair works can be undertaken during wet weather, which is why potholes can reappear within only weeks of repair. Despite the high level of repairs undertaken to date, as of the end of May approximately 8,108¹ outstanding potholes are identified for repair across the region’s 2,000km road network.

Central Coast Council was named a winner in one category and highly commended in another at the NSW Local Government Excellence Awards, held late last week in Sydney. Plant and Fleet for its Fleet and Driver Management Transformation project in the Innovative Leadership category (category winner)Marketing and Tourism for its Love Central Coast project in the Special Project Initiative category (highly commended) The NSW Local Government Excellence Awards celebrate outstanding achievements across Local Government that promote innovation and improvement within the community. Council Chief Executive Officer, David Farmer has congratulated the winning staff and team on this fantastic achievement.“Council was recognised and named finalists in eight categories in this year’s awards, so I’d like to congratulate not only the winning team and staff members who were highly commended, but also those who were nominated this year,” Mr Farmer said. “We have built a new Corporate Affairs Directorate focused on improving systems and processes to deliver better services for our ratepayers and residents, whilst driving economic initiatives to enable regional growth.