Over the past year, Kiama has taken some big steps forward, often in difficult circumstances.

As Mayor, I’ve seen first-hand the resilience and determination of our councillors, staff and community in navigating these challenges together.

Perhaps the toughest decision was the sale of Blue Haven, a decision which was made in the term of the previous council.

We simply had to follow it through to its completion.

It was deeply personal for many in our community, and it was not taken lightly.

But it was the decision required to safeguard Council’s financial future.

I want to acknowledge the courage of all those involved in reaching that outcome. Importantly, that decision did not define our year.

In just 12 months, we’ve opened our Planning Hub to speed up approvals, delivered the lowest budget deficit in five years, and celebrated Kiama being named NSW’s Top Tourism Town for the second year running.

As well as being recognised with a bronze on the national stage.

We’ve adopted our first Local Housing Strategy, survived a by-election, and secured key land acquisitions and covenant changes that strengthen our financial position.

All of this has been achieved in just 250 working days.

But the year ahead may be even more important.

Our priorities are clear:

• ensuring enough housing and employment land to support local families and businesses, including advocating for the removal of a covenant over Council land that will ensure our financial sustainability for years to come,
• securing urgent upgrades to the Bombo Water Resource Recovery Facility,
• redeveloping the Kiama Sports Complex,
• pursuing fairer arrangements for essential infrastructure like Jamberoo Mountain Road, and
• working with the State Government in removing our Performance Improvement Order.

These are essentials that will determine whether Kiama thrives or falls behind.

And while Council will continue to advocate strongly with state and federal governments, we cannot do this alone.

Real change happens when the whole community speaks with one voice. Together, we can make sure Kiama and our community are thriving.

The past year has proven what’s possible when we work together.

Now, let’s make the next 12 months about securing the future we want for Kiama.

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