Dear CEO, Mayor and Councillors, Submission regarding local laws #2
Over time the community membership of Sustainable Hepburn Association (SHARE) has initiated many activities and projects that have contributed to the social, ecological and economic health of this Shire: Hepburn Wind, Hepburn Z-Net, energy efficient street lighting, sustainability festivals and education projects. Most are now ongoing as part of mainstream community activities within Hepburn Shire.
The association still operates in the background to provide ongoing support to numerous small groups that contribute to our community sustainability, enabling funding and insurance for which they would otherwise be ineligible. Community members have a strong history of catalysing and undertaking projects that empower our community spirit. It is a sign of a healthy cohesive community.
As we witness signs of social, economic and environmental challenges both local and globally it is important that individual and community initiatives are underpinned by local laws that support the residents they are intended to serve, without being hampered by overlays of bureaucratic complexity that impede genuine community participation.
SHARE endorses the submissions of individual, community and groups, particularly Jones, Holmgren, Hepburn Z-Net, AFSA, Bray, O’Mara, Marshall and others. In additions wishes to point out:
Given a 10 year By-laws enactment period, Council must be clear about the likely trajectory the laws will create. Will they foster community health and wellbeing? Will they foster cooperation, collaboration and innovation? Are they in alignment with the Council Plan; and each Wards Community Plans? Are they integrated with other Council policies and activities? Are they aligned with Council declaring a Climate Emergency and what that means in terms of food and water security, soil health, land use and community activities? Do they contribute to social and economic health and connectivity? Do they contribute to a healthy environment?
SHARE would like to be assured that By-laws empower the kind of life enhancing community values and actions that we wish to live by; and meet the social-ecological challenges the community will face in the coming 10 year period.
0 Comments