Margaret Richards to run for Council

Hearn to re-run for Council

The Ensign spoke with her last week:

Why have you decided to run for council?

My husband and I chose to live in Benalla for the lifestyle, sporting facilities, beautiful botanical gardens, the natural bush land, art gallery and medical services. I am nominating for Council because I love living in Benalla and wish to ensure that Benalla Rural City explores every opportunity for the future prosperity of the district.I understand you have been on council before. What was the biggest lesson you learnt in that time? And what was the biggest challenge you faced?

The first lesson was that the wheels of local government turn slowly; there are so many other agencies that need to be consulted, which slows down decision-making. Amalgamation with other councils, followed by de-amalgamation, disadvantaged the Benalla Rural City financially and the recovery has been long.

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What policies/programs/initiatives would you like to work towards in the next four years if you are elected?

I will listen to and represent all residents.

● Save Our Station group are doing a great job working for the best outcome for the Benalla Station and rail track. A reliable train service is vital for the convenience of our community;

● Benalla Sustainable Future Group and renewable energy;

● Drainage and clearance of undergrowth to flood ways;

● Benalla Costume and Kelly Museum;

● Benalla Regional Art Gallery;

● Sporting bodies;

● Extend and upgrade the existing walking and cycle tracks; and

● Protect the natural environment.

Community lead actions have shaped the rural city and need to be encouraged in the future.

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What has been your opinion of the current councillors during their time on council?

It is pleasing to see projects planned for by the 2012-16 Council come to fruition.Airport improvements, cycle path to Winton Wetlands, the splash park, transfer station at the landfill and the Winton solar power farm. The maintenance of the botanical gardens is a credit to staff and an important tourist destination and the enjoyment of residents.The Council has supported community-driven projects, the equestrian indoor arena and the junior football club rooms.

Do you have anything you would like to add?

The welfare of the community is a major concern, I will advocate for the disadvantaged, young, elderly and newcomers. Happy residents ensure a happy, productive future.During my time on Council the new library was completed, also the Customer Service Centre and the former shire offices became the current council offices. This redevelopment was achieved with a relatively small cost to council, due to government grants.

I served on the NevRwaste committee and was pleased that Benalla was the first municipality to introduce organic waste collection, saving 40 per cent waste to landfill.The Benalla Regional Art Gallery is recognised as the “jewel in the crown” for tourism. This valuable asset achieves much with minimal staff and funding. The exhibitions are varied to suit all artistic tastes and the well-attended workshops cater for participants from a young age to adults. The redevelopment of the gallery was listed as a major project in 2013 after community consultation and deemed to be shovel-ready a few years ago. I hope with government and philanthropic funding, and supporters’ donations this project will proceed.

I am concerned that over the years, many heritage buildings have been lost, I will encourage preservation of these remaining assets. It is pleasing that new industries have come to the rural city employing many locals and people from away, some employees arriving by bus daily to work. I would support a campaign to attract those employees to relocate to the rural city.

Benalla Rural City has a small rate base and many wonderful facilities that require funding, leaving little opportunity for rate reduction. Increasing the rate base is one way to ensure the current lifestyle and amenity is maintained.

It is important to be prepared for the projected 5 per cent plus growth rate in the near future for the rural city. I will strive for sensitive subdivisions and sustainable housing with open space for the wellbeing of the residents. A community without culture is like a park without trees.

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