Residents’ apathy slammed

By Tania Martin
A LACK of input from Emerald residents on the future of Pepi’s Paddock and the town strategy has been labelled as pitiful.
The Emerald Village Committee (EVC) has been considering these two issues and has called on local residents to have their say.
However, so far the EVC has received no input from residents.
EVC chairman, Ed Chatwin said the committee required input on the future direction of the landscaping of the remaining part of Pepi’s Paddock.
Mr Chatwin said the Shire of Cardinia had allocated $900,000 for the project in the next few years.
“It would seem that unless a council decision hits the hip pocket then we have little interest in the events and direction that the council and its officers intend for the shire or in particular Emerald and district,” Mr Chatwin said.
Mr Chatwin said local residents had also been asked to have input into the Emerald strategy.
He said council officers would commence preparation for a new strategy next year and asked for input to help with the review process.
Mr Chatwin said that people need to make an input on the two key areas otherwise the council will make a decision on what is thought to be in Emerald’s best interests.
Emerald Ward councillor Graeme Legge said he understands the EVC’s disappointment over the lack of interest in the future of the town.
Cr Legge encouraged residents to consider what they would like to see in the future development of the town.
He also urged people to walk around the town to familiarise themselves with the area so the comments they do make are relevant.
Mr Chatwin said the State Government is moving local government away from public consultation to some yet unspecified process.
He said this new process would debase local elected representation in favour of more power in the hands of the paid council employees.
“Your perceived lack of interest in this district is a prime cause that the State Government believes that public consultation does not work,” Mr Chatwin said.