The role of migrant communities in the Coast’s rich history and bright future is rarely explored.‘If These Walls Could Talk’ uses visual storytelling to shine a light on the experiences and contributions of four migrant business owners from The Entrance and four from Woy Woy.Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said the project beautifully and powerfully captures a series of important local migrant stories.“Through photographs and written narratives, you will be immersed in the stories of eight local business owners that help to make our region a wonderful place to live, work and play,” Ms Vaughan said.“‘If These Walls Could Talk’ provides insight into the cultural, social and economic perspectives of migrant business owners who have chosen to call the Coast home.“Through this project we are creating an important platform for the culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community to express aspects of their culture in a safe, inclusive and non-invasive manner, and to address misconceptions about multiculturalism.”Council Administrator, Rik Hart said migrant communities make an invaluable contribution to the Central Coast.“I encourage all community members to take the time to engage with the stories of local migrant business owners featured in ‘If These Walls Could Talk,” Mr Hart said.“Cultural diversity helps to make the Coast a dynamic place and will play a crucial role in the region’s bright future.”A demountable storyboard at Memorial Park, The Entrance will showcase elements of the project to compliment the visual storytelling featured online.‘If These Walls Could Talk’ launched on 21 May 2021 to coincide with ‘World Day of Cultural Diversity for Dialogue’, an international day to acknowledge cultural diversity within our communities.Community members can experience ‘‘If These Walls Could Talk’ by visiting ifthesewallscouldtalk.com.au

Importance of Council’s Financial Recovery Plan reaffirmed by Quarter 3 Business ReportCouncil’s Quarter 3 Business Report for the period 1 July 2020 to 31 March 2021 outlines an unsatisfactory projected year-end loss of $103.3M before capital income at 30 June 2021.The Report emphasises the importance of Council’s rigorous Financial Recovery Plan measures including reducing operating expenditure, special rate variation, reducing capital expenditure, securing bank loans, generating additional income and selling underperforming assets.Council Administrator, Rik Hart said it was vital that Council move forward with decisive action to achieve financial sustainability.“Our latest Business Report shows some positive ground has been made but we have a long way to go and must continue to work through all of the objectives outlined in our Financial Recovery Plan,” Mr Hart said.“The necessary bank loans we have secured require us to generate approximately $60M through the sale of Council assets identified as surplus to our needs.“A special variation rates increase is also required – the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Authority (IPART) has approved a 15 percent one-off increase for three years, but we will need a permanent increase to meet our bank loan requirements.”Year-to-date results identified in the Quarter 3 Business Report include:operating result (excluding capital grants and contributions) is showing a favourable variance of $52.8M, consisting of an actual surplus of $34.3M compared to a budgeted deficit of $18.5Moperating result (including capital grants and contributions) is showing a favourable variance of $59.7M, consisting of an actual surplus of $71.1M compared to a budgeted surplus of $11.4Mcapital expenditure is $115.0M compared to a year-to-date budget of $131.7M.Council moves to recover unpaid rates and chargesCentral Coast Council has moved to recover more than $1.7 million in unpaid rates and charges.Council has exhausted all other avenues to recover these rates available under the Local Government Act and will now move to sell 123 properties by public auction.Council Administrator Rik Hart said the sales were the option of last resort.“We understand that some members of our community are suffering from genuine hardship, and for those behind on rates in that circumstance our teams have worked with them to plan repayments,” Mr Hart said.“However, more than half of the properties targeted in this sale have outstanding rates for more than five years, and all other attempts for Council to address this has failed.“It also includes 50 vacant properties that are more than one year in arrears and have not provided an application for genuine hardship or entered into an arrangement that meets Council guidelines for payment.“In such a dire financial situation, we can no longer expect other ratepayers to subsidise these unpaid properties.”Council will not proceed with the sale of any land owned by pensioners.New Strategy will guide development and management of playspaces across the CoastCentral Coast Council has adopted the Central Coast Playspace Strategy, taking on board extensive input provided by the community throughout the public exhibition process.The Central Coast Playspace Strategy provides strategic direction for the development and sustainable management of playspaces across the Central Coast, consolidating and updating the strategies developed by the former Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils.Council Administrator Rik Hart said the vision for the Central Coast is to have a network of high quality, inclusive playspaces which support social engagement, are creative, enjoyable, appropriately sited, equitably distributed and sustainably managed.“Playspaces are the heart of any neighbourhood.

Central Coast Council has welcomed the release of the Tuggerah Lake’s Expert Panel report, labelling it a great resource to support the ongoing management of Tuggerah Lakes.Council’s Director Environment and Planning, Scott Cox said Council was working to integrate the recommendations of the report into the Coastal Management Program underway for the Tuggerah Lakes system.“Council is legislatively required to complete coastal management programs, and the previous Tuggerah Lakes Estuary Management Plan will expire in December,” Mr Cox said.“This report is a great resource for us to integrate into the first stage of this program, the scoping study, and will provide a basis for use to further develop actions, recommendations and community engagement options going forward.“We will consider all 52 recommended actions identified by the Panel and integrate, where appropriate, into the coastal management program. “We will be working with the relevant government agencies, our stakeholders, technical experts and the community to ensure a well-rounded and broadly supported future plan that will see the Tuggerah Lakes estuary well managed into the future.”Council Administrator Rik Hart said the community engagement opportunities for the coastal management programs had been successful so far.“We have more than 770 responses to our survey so far, staff have spoken to over 200 residents and 270 residents have registered for ongoing involvement,” Mr Hart said.“Our staff are heading out to talk to more people over the coming weeks and have extended the closing date of the consultation to give them a chance to cover more areas of the region.“I’d strongly encourage all residents on the Central Coast, regardless of how close to the Coast you live, to take part in the engagement activities – everyone’s voice matters.”To take part visit Council’s Your Voice Our Coast website to learn more about the programs being developed.The first stage of the consultation closes on 15 June 2021.

Week one in the Administrator role has been somewhat challenging and to a degree filled with frustration.

Cleverman’ is a TV series like none other – a dystopian sci-fi exploring Aboriginal origin stories in a contemporary context – and Central Coast locals and visitors can now step behind the scenes.An exciting new exhibition at Central Coast Council's Gosford Regional Gallery immerses visitors in the iconic series through an exploration of the storytelling, language and creativity in production design, costumes and props.Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said the exhibition is both fascinating and thought-provoking.“‘Cleverman’ is a one of a kind TV series and this exhibition takes us deeper into the important themes explored including class, racism and power,” Ms Vaughan said.“We are given an opportunity to reflect on the importance of First Nations storytelling and explore the incredible pieces featured in the show.”The ‘Cleverman’ series was created through a predominantly Indigenous cast and senior crew and premiered on ABC Television in 2016.Council Administrator, Rik Hart said the exhibition provides a unique insight into Aboriginal origin stories.“This exhibition delivers powerful and thought-provoking messages and lets us explore the show’s sets, costumes and props,” Mr Hart said.“Whether you’ve seen the TV series or not, I’d encourage you to head to the Gallery for this unique and important experience.”‘Cleverman’ is an ACMI touring exhibition.

Central Coast Council is reminding the community to have their say on the next stage of the asset sales program (Tranche 3), which closes for consultation 5pm Friday 28 May.The consultation forms part of Council’s business recovery plan, which along with the rate increase, required a review of property assets that could be sold to assist with the current financial situation.Council Administrator Rik Hart said to date there has been more than 800 responses from the community, along with spreading of misinformation.“There has been a lot of concerns raised from the community based on hearsay, which are completely inaccurate and creating unnecessary distress,” Mr Hart said.“It must be stressed that Council is only considering selling one percent of its property portfolio, and of what is listed for potential sale there are only 13 open space areas listed to be rezoned before sale, which are all in close proximity to other open space areas.“I implore the community to get the facts and take the time to read the frequently asked questions and the interactive map, which provides specific details for individual parcels, such conditions of sale to allow for continued public parking.“It is also important to note that only parcels classified as operational land and zoned for the correct purpose of sale, will initially go back to Council for endorsement to sell – these can be identified as the blue pins on the online interactive map.“Other properties that need to be rezoned or reclassified prior to sale require an in-depth, lengthy process that can take up to 18 months and includes further chances for the community to have their say.“I want to emphasise the significant liquidity issue that Council is facing, which needs to be resolved as quickly as possible in order for community infrastructure to be maintained and community services to continue.“The sale of assets, along with the 15 percent rate rise, are crucial components of our business recovery plan, which was adopted by the last sitting Council, and will allow us to deliver much needed capital to improve Council’s financial position and provide assurance to our lenders.“This urgent need for income may override historic strategic direction, with potential for the community better realised by the private sector.“Any parcels sold will not only provide economic return from the sale of land, but also provide opportunity to raise income from future rates as well as realise savings from maintenance costs and loss of depreciation of assets.“Properties are either being sold through a competitive sales and marketing campaign to ensure the best sale price or in the case of direct sales with a proposed buyer that properties are sold at no less than the market value determined by an independent valuer.“I encourage the community to inform themselves and if you are still concerned or any land that is earmarked for potential sale or have ideas about how the land could be better utilised make sure to have your say.”Community members are invited to check the facts and submit feedback via yourvoiceourcoast.com/asp.

Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Rik Hart said whilst IPART’s decision to allow for a special rate increase of 15% for only three years is welcome it doesn’t go far enough to provide long term financial sustainability to Central Coast Council.

Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Dick Persson AM has today made one last call prior to departing his office by writing to the Minister for Local Government proposing the government should prevent dismissed councillors from standing in the next election.

Audited financial reports for 2019-20 adoptedCouncil has adopted the 2019-20 audited financial reports for Central Coast Council and the Central Coast Council Water Supply Authority. Council’s net operating result for the financial year ending 30 June 2020 is a deficit of $88.7M excluding Grants and Contributions for capital purposes.

This is my final column as Interim Administrator of the Central Coast Council.

Central Coast Council has started construction of a new carpark on the existing grassed area in front of Lake Munmorah High School on Carters Road.This project is funded by the Australian Government with $900,000 from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCI Program) and will service four local schools in the area and the growing Lake Munmorah community.Council Director Infrastructure Services, Boris Bolgoff said the 50 space carpark, including two accessible spaces, will be an invaluable resource for the community, particularly those associated with the schools in Carters Road.“Parking can be a challenge in the busy education precinct for the growing Lake Munmorah community and this new carpark will be welcome news,” Mr Bolgoff said.“The carpark and associated traffic management works are expected to help with congestion and parking during the busy school drop-off/pick-up time periods.“Traffic flow, particularly for school buses, is expected to improve when the carpark is completed.“The project includes the construction of new footpaths around the carpark to link to the designated crossing points and a new pedestrian crossing.”Council Administrator, Dick Persson AM said improvements to traffic congestion and additional parking will not only benefit the school community, but also residents and businesses operating from Carters Road.“The community has been calling for works on Carters Road and it is great to be moving forward with projects such as this new carpark in Lake Munmorah,” Mr Persson said.

Foodies, families and fun-seekers will flock to the Central Coast hinterland over the June long weekend for the return of one of Central Coast Council’s most anticipated annual events, Harvest Festival.A celebration of the Central Coast’s spectacular hinterland, Harvest Festival 2021 will offer a wide range of unique events and experiences across thirty event hubs over 12 and 13 June.Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said the festival is an opportunity to recognise our region’s outstanding local produce and producers.“This is a rare chance to take a glimpse behind the farm gate as you explore eight rural farming communities and their picturesque heritage villages right here on the Central Coast,” Ms Vaughan said.“Follow the Harvest Festival event trail to visit local farms, sample local produce, soak up live music and entertainment or join in a range of family-friendly activities designed to show off the unique charm of our region’s hinterland.“From paddock to plate dining experiences and wine tastings to produce picking, hands-on workshops and much more, the two-day program truly offers something for every taste and interest.“This year, a number of event hubs are offering the opportunity to pre-book experiences in advance, so be sure to check out the event program early to ensure you don’t miss out.”As a special treat for music lovers, this year's event will include a special showcase of local musicians from the Wyong Creek, Yarramalong and Jilliby communities as part of Council's 'Harvest Songs' program.Community members can tune in for a live online concert on Sunday 13 June and access a selection of home-grown songs via Spotify, with full details at info.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/harvestsongs.Council Administrator, Dick Persson AM said Central Coast Council is proud to be delivering this much-loved event again in 2021, which attracts visitors from across the Coast and beyond to the region’s hinterland communities.“One of the Coast’s most popular events amongst locals and visitors alike, Harvest Festival builds local pride, celebrates sustainability and boosts the local economy,” Mr Persson said.“The 2019 event attracted over 32,000 visitors, providing the Central Coast economy with an $8million boost and while the event format moved online last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s event is anticipated to deliver similar returns to our community.”Harvest Festival 2021 will run from 12-13 June 2021.

Council is seeking community feedback about the next steps towards developing a Central Coast Stadium Masterplan. This includes looking at the rezoning options for the Stadium and its current land classification of Community ‘Sportsground.’ These are being reviewed to help facilitate Council’s refreshed plan for the Stadium to ensure it continues to meet community’s and hirer’s needs, and supports the local economy, on a sound financial basis for Council. Council Administrator, Dick Persson AM said having greater flexibility in any adopted Masterplan design was important if Council was serious about having a Stadium Precinct and providing better connectivity to the city centre and waterfront.“We need to ensure that Central Coast Stadium reaches its potential – this is an outstanding facility located in an exceptional spot – directly adjacent to the beautiful Brisbane Water and within a short walk to the Gosford CBD.” “Council is currently constrained in how it can improve the site and allow complementary uses such as new retail activity,” Mr Persson said. Submissions can be provided until 5pm 21 May 2021.

Council is seeking community feedback about the next stage (Tranche 3) of the asset sales program that is part of its financial recovery plan. Council’s financial recovery plan required a review of Council’s property assets which could be disposed of to assist with the financial situation.

Central Coast Council has released the Stage 1 report for the Tuggerah Lakes Entrance Management Study.The report includes a summary of over 20 studies from 1987 to present relevant to entrance management at Tuggerah Lakes and provides key background information for the remainder of the study.Council Director of Environment and Planning, Scott Cox said the conceptual models contained in the report describe the complex nature of the processes and management of the Tuggerah Lakes entrance. “Following the 2020 flooding, we engaged the NSW Government’s professional specialist advisor, Manly Hydraulics Laboratory to undertake the Tuggerah Lakes Entrance Management Study, with the aim of developing an interim management procedure for The Entrance,” said Mr Cox. “Managing the entrance is a complex issue with no simple solution.

A joint Central Coast Council and Transport for NSW initiative is helping parents and supervisors with the important task of teaching learner drivers.Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan said the Transport for NSW funded program sees Council deliver free workshops designed to provide practical and hands-on advice to younger drivers.“The workshops are designed to equip parents and supervisors to better explain and demonstrate the skills needed to be a good driver,” Ms Vaughan said.“We have a series of great tips to help you build an effective teacher-student dynamic and most importantly to help create safe and responsible drivers.“Younger drivers make-up almost one quarter of annual road fatalities despite representing only 15 percent of all licence holders – this is an alarming statistic that we all need to work towards bringing down.”Council Administrator, Dick Persson AM said the workshops are an important part of Council’s commitment to road safety across the region.“When we teach the important skill of driving, we have a responsibility to help create safe and effective drivers,” Mr Persson said.“If you’re teaching a young driver or are about to start, I’d encourage you to register for one of our free workshops and be equipped with the skills and knowledge to create great drivers for the future.”The ‘Helping Learner Drivers Become Safer Drivers’ workshop is a two-hour program that provides practical advice to help supervise learner drivers and covers topics including:new licence conditions for learner and P plate drivershow to use the Learner Driver Logbookthe benefits of on-road driving sessionstips on supervising a learner driverthe importance of giving the learner constructive feedback. Erina WorkshopsDates:

Asset sales became ‘THE STORY’ last week.The full list is now available on yourvoiceourcoast.

Construction has begun on an exciting new redevelopment of the Narara Skate Park, one of the Central Coast’s oldest skate parks.Feedback from local skaters, riders and young people played an important role in the final design of the skate park’s layout.

Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Dick Persson AM has today agreed with community requests for a formal community consultation process around a tranche of proposed property sales and reclassification items listed for consideration at tonight’s Ordinary Council meeting.  “There is still a need for Council to raise funds through the sale of surplus or ‘lazy’ assets if we are to pay down the huge debts run up by the suspended Councillors,” Mr Persson said.

Council’s Operational Plan 2021/22 ensures services continue for the communityCouncil will place its draft Operational Plan 2021-2022 including proposed Fees and Charges on exhibition for community feedback.Council’s Operational Plan provides residents with an overview of essential services, programs and capital works projects for the year ahead and is exhibited annually for community input.As part of Council’s plan towards financial recovery, the 2021/22 Operational Plan forecasts Council’s operating income as $666.8M (if IPART determine a 15% Special Rate Variation) from which Council will spend $659.8M on services and operational costs resulting in a modest surplus of $7.0M.