Coorong residents envision a connected, thriving district

The Coorong district remains a great place to live, work and play, and the local council needs to keep it that way.

That’s the over-arching message from hundreds of residents who contributed to a vision plan for the district, published this week.

The council is currently seeking feedback on the draft plan, which will guide councillors and staff throughout their next four-year term.

The document was based on more than 5000 individual comments made by 575 residents and ratepayers during a previous consultation period last year.

Acting Mayor Jonathan Pietzsch thanked everyone who had contributed to the plan so far.

“(Your) comments have been vital in building a genuine, community-led vision for the Coorong district,” he said.

The draft plan organises the community’s priorities into five themes:

• Connected communities where health and wellbeing was supported, all were welcome, community groups were active and nobody needed to be lonely
• Thriving economies driven by population growth, diversity and resilience, with increasing tourist numbers and affordable living
• Environmental care: sustainable agriculture, healthy ecosystems, preparedness for climate change and better waste management
• Supporting infrastructure which was accessible, well maintained and ready for growth
• Leadership by a council which was transparent, accountable, efficient, financially sustainable and prepared for emergencies, with a positive culture, and one which communicated with and advocated for its residents

Locals are invited to have their say about the draft, and whether it reflects their feelings about the district’s short-term future, between now and March 13.

Council elections will be held in the Coorong and other local government areas across South Australia this October and November.

• More information: Visit www.coorong.sa.gov.au or attend a community workshop at the Tailem Bend council office at 5pm on March 10. A workshop will also be held at Coonalpyn on March 3.
• Have your say:Fill in the survey at www.surveymonkey.com, email council@coorong.sa.gov.au or visit your local Coorong council office before 5pm on March 13.