Residents of Dubbo Regional Council (DRC) are being encouraged to have their say on a list of 33 projects that are eligible for a share of $9 million from the Stronger Communities Fund.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Almost $45 million worth of projects are on the shortlist and could be granted a share of the lump sum that was given to council by the state government as part of the merger between the former Dubbo and Wellington councils.
A brief extraordinary meeting was held at the Dubbo Council Chamber on Thursday, where DRC administrator Michael Kneipp approved the public display of major projects and opened submissions to the public.
A broad range of projects have been added to the list, from the smallest application of $65,000 for upgrades to the park in Stuart Town, to $8.5 million for a 25-metre indoor pool at the Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre.
The projects went on public display on Thursday, after the extraordinary meeting, and community consultation will be open until November 11.
An assessment panel including Mr Kneipp, a representative from the office of Dubbo MP Troy Grant and a person from the office of Premier and Cabinet in the city will evaluate and choose the projects by early December.
“There’s about a dollar for every four dollars [of demand]. I really encourage people to go online and give their preferences,” Mr Kneipp said.
“The committee won’t be constrained by that, they will be informed by it but there will be other factors involved in the decision.”
The projects are expected to be signed off at the December meeting of council. Projects can then start in 2017 and the conditions of the grant requires council to have handed all of the money over by the end of 2019.
Mr Kneipp said the funds would have wide reaching benefits, not only improving community facilities but also employing local contractors and helping the economy.
Council has launched a survey where people can choose their priorities. They are offering prizes including family season pass to one of the pools, family tour tickets at Wellington Caves and a double pass to the DRTCC Season Launch for taking part.
Visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/CVVM5JG to have your say.