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Residents respond positively to planning initiative

In a unique consultation process, the City of Port Phillip in Melbourne's inner bayside recently held a Community Summit. All those who work, live or have other interests in the City were invited to attend and give their point of view on the direction the Municipality should take in the future.

Under the title 'The Way Forward', the Summit aimed to bring together aspirations Councillors and Council staff have for the City with the aspirations of the people they serve.

The Summit focused on the big picture issues for the future rather than the day to day business of Council. The environment, urban planning and heritage, recreation, open space, traffic services and retail and tourist facilities were all on the agenda.

Originally anticipating some 250 people, organisers were overwhelmed by the community response. When over 800 people expressed interest in attending, Council staff acted swiftly. With help from its neighbouring Cities of Melbourne and Yarra 500 participants were able to be accommodated. Those unable to be included have been invited to further evening sessions to be held over the next month.

Those attending the Summit were organised into small groups. Discussion was coordinated by facilitators, most of whom were drawn from Council staff. The aim was for everyone to have a real chance to voice their opinions.

"The Summit proved to be a really exciting way of developing a partnership among Councillors, staff and residents," said Karen Mitchell, Port Phillip's Manager Marketing and Contracts.

"One of the most interesting aspects of the discussion was the number of positive comments made about staff and the work they do. People have a great deal of respect for the role of Local Government."

Convenor of the Summit was ABC Radio's Pru Goward. Attendees included a number of local personalities, among them former Mayor and prominent social commentator, Tim Costello, and Environmental Planning advisor, David Yencken. The oldest participant was aged 90 years, while young people were also well represented.

Karen Mitchell emphasised that participants included representatives across the diverse socio economic make up of the Port Phillip community.

Mayor Cr Liana Thompson said that the Summit had achieved its goal of bringing together different groups in the City to plan for the future. "As a result of the Summit, a vision for the City has been developed, major issues identified and a commitment has been given by Council to address the issues raised," the Mayor said.

For further information contact Karen Mitchell, telephone (03) 9209 6209.

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