From the Mayor - 28 November 2019

As I write my final column for 2019, I reflect on the many communities in NSW experiencing heartbreaking social, environmental and economic hardship due to drought, fire and scarcity of water, and feel uncomfortable acknowledging Mosman’s stellar year. So, in the spirit of community and giving, I will instead focus on significant activities taking place over the coming month.

But first, at a standing room only November Council meeting a majority of Councillors declared a climate emergency and called on government at all levels to demonstrate leadership and take action. The focus now turns to our December meeting when Council will review our current climate initiatives and consider new actions to implement, including positive ways to engage with our community.

Another hot topic is that Woolworths will imminently lodge a development application for a Metro supermarket in our village. Robust requests were made to Woolworths to increase the number of community drop in sessions but presently only one will take place on Wednesday 4 December at Mosman Art Gallery, 6–9pm.

The Federal Government has commissioned an independent review of the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and is calling for public submissions by 23 December. This landmark review is the first since the Trust was established in 2001 and will include our much loved Headland Park.

For both issues, I strongly encourage residents to have your say.

Council’s 2019 Christmas Gift Appeal will run from 26 November as a partnership project with Mosman resident, Selina Win Pe and her Will of Courage Foundation. Please place new, unwrapped gifts under the tree in the Council foyer for children living in drought affected communities across regional NSW. Weekend drop offs can also be made at Barry O’Keefe Library.

Now in its fourth year, the fantastic community-led Prince Albert Street Christmas Lights Party will take place on December 15 with monies raised going to the Garvan Institute Research Foundation.

In closing, I thank residents for your ongoing support and involvement. I also thank my fellow Councillors, our dedicated Council staff and our wonderful community volunteers and committee members for the assistance they offer our community and I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.