THIS is my final message for the year right now and it seems that 2020 will end with uncertainty, much as it began.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Our State faces the possibility of new restrictions as the virus that has dominated headlines all year has flared once more. With Sydney the latest hotspot, it raises concerns for residents and visitors alike.
I can only ask that we face this latest test with the strength and sense of community that we have shown all year. We are stronger together and there is nowhere in the world that I would rather be than Kempsey.
Working with our neighbours
We are working better together beyond our borders as well. Our shire is stronger when we work with our neighbours which is why we participate in the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation, a group of local councils.
This year the group has made big steps in making a collaborative application to the Fixing Country Bridges Program to not just mend but upgrade our bridges.
We petitioned the NSW Government to reclassify Kempsey-Armidale Rd and Macleay Valley Way/Plummers Lane/South West Rocks Rd/Gregory St to State Roads.
Crucially, the work done under the banner of Regional Disaster Preparedness has seen the rollout of the Get Ready Program, creation of the Local Government Emergency Management Enhancement Group and the adoption our new online Emergency Management Dashboard.
Holiday hours
A reminder that council offices and libraries will close from 1pm Thursday and resume normal operating hours on Monday, January 4. Our Waste Management Centre is open normal hours except Christmas Day, and our Waste Transfer Stations open as usual except for public holidays.
Have a very merry Christmas
Finally, I truly hope you all have the opportunity to be with your family and friends these holidays and my thoughts are with all those who are unable to do so.
I want to thank you all for your support throughout this trying year. In a year marked with so much separation I have cherished the many conversations I have been able to have with residents.
My fellow councillors and I wish you all a safe and happy festive season. Let the peace, harmony and goodwill of Christmas be shared by all.
As for 2021, well as John Lennon once wrote: "Let's hope it's a good one, without any fear".
