LABOR PUSHES FOR "PEOPLE'S COUNCIL" LOCAL MEETINGS

Councillor Gillian Boyd Ward 3, Ward 2 Lead Candidate Ben Krikstolaitis & Deputy Mayor Matthew Norris Ward 1

In a bid to promote open dialogue and transparency, Shoalhaven Labor council candidates have announced their commitment to introducing "People's Council" meetings in each ward. This initiative will provide residents with opportunities to engage directly with their local councillors and senior council managers at least once a year, ensuring community voices are heard.

Labor's Ward 2 candidate, Ben Krikstolaitis, highlighted the importance of accessible and open communication. “Labor councillors will insist that council hold 'People’s Council' days in each ward, where senior council managers and local ward councillors will meet face-to-face with residents to discuss important issues and answer questions. Labor won’t let council remain hidden behind closed doors in the Nowra Head Office,” he said.

The initiative is designed to bring council decisions and discussions into the public arena, making it easier for residents to understand and engage with council processes. Deputy Mayor Matthew Norris, Labor's candidate for Ward 1, reinforced the party’s commitment to community accessibility. “Labor understands that it can sometimes be difficult to navigate council processes and get the information you need. That’s why we’re focused on bringing council closer to the community by holding these open forums. By meeting face-to-face in local halls, Labor will create a space where residents can directly engage with their councillors and council management,” he said.

Ward 3 Labor candidate, Councillor Gillian Boyd, stressed the challenges faced by residents living further from council offices. “My constituents have to drive 70 kilometres to the council chamber, but Labor knows that people want answers to their questions and to have their say. This isn’t about rehashing press releases from the Nowra Head Office. Labor will get the mayor and managers out of their offices to consult with residents in our local towns and villages.”

The "People’s Council" meetings will be kept cost-effective by using council-owned halls and facilities. These meetings will also be scheduled at family-friendly times to encourage participation from all age groups and demographics.

Krikstolaitis added that transparency is key to good governance. “The mayor shouldn’t be meeting people behind closed doors in their office. That lacks probity and transparency. Let’s get the managers, councillors, and the next mayor out where they belong – talking to the people where they live.”

By prioritising these annual gatherings, Shoalhaven Labor aims to foster a more engaged and informed community, bringing council matters closer to the people and ensuring that everyone has a chance to participate in the decisions that shape their lives.