Council taps into community expertise

At the recent Orange City Council meeting, Councillors voted to establish community committees covering matters including health, law and order, environmental and economic issues and cultural and recreational activities.

Mayor Reg Kidd is calling on Orange residents who are passionate about their community to put their hand up. He said community committees were vital in providing recommendations for change to Council to consider as well as organising key events.

“The community committees involve a Councillor, usually a council staff member and several community members who have a particular interest in the broad topic area,” Cr Kidd said.

“For example if you have a strong interest in cycling then you can put your hand up to join the Sport and Recreation Community Committee and help provide feedback and suggestions on how to make Orange more bike friendly.”

“Or if you have ideas on how to make Orange more accessible for people with a disability then you should put your hand up for the Ageing and Access Community Committee.

“These committees get together once a month or once every quarter, and come up with recommendations which then go to the full Council to debate. Members of the community committee act as a bridge between residents and the council. It’s a great way to be part of the decision making process.”

“Council will write to past community committee members inviting them to nominate again and some new blood would be great as well.”

People can nominate to be on one of 28 committees, which can be found on the Orange City Council website. Nominations forms can be found on the council website and need to be returned to council by 5pm December 20.