Published on 14 December 2023
Lismore locals are being encouraged to come forward and speak up about what our city will look like in the decades ahead. The most extensive community engagement process in Lismore’s history is now underway. There are opportunities for the entire community, both businesses and residents to have their say. Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said having the community lead what Lismore will look like in 30 years, is the key to the success of the Lismore Vision and Blueprint. “Locals not only have a view, but they have key insights about what matters most, and this needs to be a decision everyone has a say in,” he said. “As a community vision and blueprint, it is critical that every local puts their view forward. This will be important to shape future decisions to be made by individuals, organisations, and Council. “For this reason, we are taking a transparent, community-informed approach where the key issues impacting Lismore – now and for generations to come - will be discussed, debated, and decided upon by the people of Lismore. It will be a direction developed in partnership with and owned, by the Lismore community. “Everyone will be given an opportunity to speak, there is a stakeholder reference group which is open to any business or organisation. There will be more than 40 engagement sessions and everyone will be able to take part in sessions where locals consider options and scenarios before forming recommendations on the direction Lismore takes.” Mayor Krieg also said this is a step in the right direction. “After seeing how the community came together at the time of the floods – with locals looking out for locals – I am confident that our community will be united behind a collective vision that delivers the certainty our region needs,” he said. “My message to everyone in the community is to actively get involved. Look out for Our Time is Now engagement events where you can share your views, knowing that it will be people just like you informing the decisions.” The consultation phase of the Lismore Vision and Blueprint runs until July 2024. Locals are being asked to share their hopes, values, priorities, questions, and concerns and can go to www.lismorenow.com.au for more information.