Wednesday, March 11, 2009

PARRAMATTA STIMULUS PACKAGE

At the Council Meeting set down for the 20th March, Cr Garrard will present a 'Notice of Motion' which seeks to extend Development Approvals for an extra 12 month period, up to a maximum of 5 years, upon application.

Woodville Independents believe that the latest economic indicators reflect a shrinking economy with little growth and only the prospects of a worsening economic picture.

While Parramatta is holding up better then many other areas, promoting the idea of lengthening DA approvals will effectively give more time to applicants to 'weather the economic storm' and at the same time allow more flexibility for millions of dollars of construction work to begin within the next 2 years.

This will result in millions of dollar being injected into the local economy, which would have been other wise lost.

IMPROVED DEVELOPMENT PROCESSES

At the council Meeting held on the 9th March, Council introduced strategies which will assist in improving processing times and customer service for development applications.

Changes that were introduced addressed delegations, site meetings and the fast tracking of certain types of Development Approvals.

The delegations related to the number of objections to be received before the matter goes to council, but council still wishes to oversee the carriage of D.A's which relate to brothels, massage parlour and the sex service industry.

Cr Paul Garard said, "Woodville Independents support the move, as it creates a more competitive environment for people to do business in Parramatta and at the same time ensures that the staff of council is better monitored and their performance more accurately measured".

Sunday, March 8, 2009

HMAS PARRAMATTA RETURNS


HMAS Commander Jonathon Sadlier boldly steamed through rough seas off Sydney and looming thunder clouds to berth at Fleet base, bring to an end her tour of duty in the Middle East.

I'm sure that Woodville Independents speak for everyone when we say that we welcome the ship's company home as hero's after 6 months at sea, protecting the Iraqi oil platforms and training the Iraqi Navy.

The HMAS Parramatta was welcomed by the Defence Minister, Warren Snowdon, the Commander of the Australian Fleet Nigel Coates, Councillor Paul Garrard, City Liaison Officer between the City and the Ship,(also Representing the Lord Mayor of Parramatta) together with other Councillors and community people.

PROMOTING ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

It is important for the economy of the Parramatta Region, for Parramatta City Council to improves its performance in dealing with all matters pertaining to development issues.

In an initial attempt to address the economic stimulus brought forward by the Federal Government last November, Council has committed to the timely determination of development applications for the construction of single dwellings, where the applicant may be eligible for the 'First Home Owners Boost Scheme'.

As a result of the policy position outlined by the Woodville Independents, administrative changes and changes to delegations and the site meeting process, have been made in order to facilitate this.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

NEIGHBOURHOOD AWARDS


Yes, neighbourhoods are important. During 2008 - 2009, Woodville Independents have rewarded residents with a certificate of appreciation for helping to keep their neighbourhoods tidy and also for their efforts in celebrating christmas and the festive season.

We believe, that our local neighbourhoods area vital part of every day life. We should strive to have cleaner, safer and greener communities.

The way that a neighbourhood looks, how clean, green and managed, has many knock-on effects. The better its appearance, the more pride people take. It can also have a direct impact on crime, and just as critically, the perception of safety.

Christmas lights and decorations are also a great look and also help to make our neghbourhood, a more liveable place. Though the custom of christmas began in association with the birth of Christ, it has become an Australia custom that has been supported by christians and non-christians alike.