Central Coast Council is urging the community to have a direct say on how to spend $9 million allocated under the NSW State Government’s Stronger Communities Fund for local community infrastructure projects.

The Stronger Communities Fund was a key funding commitment by the NSW State Government to merging Councils.  The Fund is designed to fast track the delivery of priority infrastructure and services for local communities such as upgraded community facilities, improved roads and car parks or new sporting or learning facilities.

Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said this funding has been provided due to the amalgamation and Council wants the community to have a direct say in where the money should be spent.

“This is a real win for the entire Central Coast community,” Mr Reynolds said.

“These funds are additional to Council’s existing operational budget – so it means we can get on with some projects that we know the community want.

Council have identified 30 new projects that could be considered under the Fund. The community will be asked to cast their vote for which projects they want to see get the green light.

The projects fall into three main categories – roads and transport, community services and sport and recreation.

“The value of the proposed package of projects comes to over $39 million, so we are interested in the community’s views,” said Mr Reynolds.

“These projects have already been identified as a priority by the community and are spread right across the Coast so the long term social and economic benefits are huge.”

“This is a real and unique opportunity for residents of the Coast to have a direct say in which projects get the green light in their local area.

“Your vote is important and I urge everyone to be a part of the process.”

Council will be running information stalls across the Central Coast where staff will be available to talk to the community about the projects and answer any questions.

Sessions will be held on Saturday 3 December 2016 at:

• Westfield Tuggerah  10am-2pm
• Deepwater Plaza, Woy Woy  10am-2pm
• Tuggerah Super Centre  10am-2pm
• Lighting of the Christmas Tree, Memorial Park, The Entrance  4.30pm - 8.30pm
• Central Coast Mariners - Central Coast Stadium from 5.30pm.

There will also be a stall at the Central Coast Christmas Fair at Mount Penang Gardens on Sunday 4 December 2016 and one at Erina Fair on Saturday 10 December from 10am.

A full list of projects can be found at haveyoursaycentralcoast.com.au/stronger-communities

Voting is open until Sunday 11 December 2016.