On any measure, this year has been challenging: State Government infrastructure projects have taken a toll on our environment and peace of mind, housing affordability and cost of living crises continue to impact us and we all continue to transition from a once in a century pandemic into a “post” COVID world.
These challenging times reinforce the importance of strong community connections and the inestimable value of public open spaces and services. Council has a vital role in supporting our community, especially in difficult times, and ensuring that the character and quality of our neighbourhoods, public spaces and venues are nurtured and accessible to all.
It is, therefore, pleasing to see that despite challenges such as getting the North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment on track, standing up to the State Government on the impacts of the Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway projects and undertaking extensive capital works projects throughout the local government area, Council remains in a strong financial position.
Over the course of the 2022/23 financial year Council:
- opened the first stage of the expanded Hume St Park, Crows Nest
- campaigned on behalf of residents and lobbied the State Government on the impacts of the Western Harbour Tunnel/ Warringah Freeway Upgrade works and other State Government projects and policies
- implemented the St Leonards Park masterplan including the renewal of the playground increasing the play space by 300%
- upgraded and opened Primrose Park Tennis Courts
- partnered with RecycleSmart to offer a new soft plastics recycling service to residents
- undertook a Food Organics trial
- celebrated 50 years of the Precinct system and 30 years of the Bushcare program
- updated the Disability Inclusion Action Plan and established a Disability Inclusion Advisory Committee
- Opened the first stage of the West Street cycleway and commenced planning for Stage 2
These are just some of the works, events and services provided as part of Council’s commitment to sustainability, inclusion, diversity and integrity.
Council’s resources have been stretched and continue to face increasing demand.
Significantly, Council recruited and appointed new General Manager, Therese Manns during the 2022/23 year. This appointment is already transforming Council’s administration of major projects and increasing Council’s capacity to continue to deliver sustainable, inclusive services with integrity and transparency.
Cr Zoë Baker, Mayor of North Sydney