My objective as Mayor is to position this wonderful city for a successful future.   Because I know of the broad range of services that the Council delivers, every day, I appreciate that this will require a strong, resilient and future focused Council.   The Council will need the capacity to manage today, while planning for tomorrow.

This is why Council endorsed to go out to the community and present two options about the future sustainability of Lithgow City Council.  The options include either an increase to rates or a reduction in services.

I wish to emphasise that we are just starting consultation. Before we take any decision we want to explain the facts behind these two options and we want to hear the community’s views. The consultation will be extensive and I urge you to attend community information sessions and ask questions, get all the facts and make an informed decision.

I also clarify that we are only referring to a potential increase in land rates, which does not include water, sewer or waste charges.

Our goal is to ensure we continue to meet community expectations of maintaining assets and providing local services. We must also expand and grow the local employment opportunities for a period of reduced levels of coal mining and power generation in this city.

I conclude by confirming, very clearly, that the Council is very alert to the cost of living challenges facing people. The manner in which any proposed increase would be distributed has had regard for this challenge for the ordinary person.

If you would like to know more visit www.ourplaceourfuture.lithgow.com