Always optimistic and enthusiastic when it comes to talking about Nambucca Shire, Mayor Rhonda Hoban says she is looking forward to this new year.
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"We have had a lot of success with grant applications and now we have a lot of projects that need to be completed," Rhonda said.
"There is the Nambucca Heads library, the Bowra Sports Hub and continued improvements down at the V-Wall, to name a few ... it will take a big effort by staff to reach the required milestones but it will be worth it.
"We will also continue improvements to our public spaces, something we have been working on since I became mayor - it is very satisfying to drive around now and see so many people enjoying them."
Progressing the Valla Growth Area, with a view to creating more local employment opportunities for all ages is something Rhonda is passionate about, as she is about the opening of the new Macksville Hospital.
"The hospital is a huge thing for our community and we are very grateful to the State Government for recognising that need."
The challenges of 2020 are a little more sobering with continued support for the 62 families who lost their homes in the November fires at the top of the list.
"Helping people find normalcy and routine is vital and right now the key to that is the clean-up. Seeing the rubble and debris brings the devastation back - we are happy to help however we can. Navigating the hoops to get the necessary support is one thing we can do.
Helping people find normalcy and routine is vital and right now the key to that is the clean-up.
- Mayor Rhonda Hoban
"Water is still free 24/7 from the council's works depot and water carters will not be charged to fill up there (for now). BlazeAid is still out at the Macksville Showgrounds and we thank the Show Society for their support.
"So many of our farmers have lost their livelihoods and recovery from that will take years. Rebuilding is expensive and not everyone was insured. Everyone else moves on but this does not go away quickly for those affected - we don't want anyone to feel forgotten."
Rhonda said that as always, she is keeping an eye on the council's finances, trying to keep rates in check and save money wherever possible: "We are down to the bare bones of staffing, we have the lowest per capita rate of any council in NSW. Our staff are wonderful, they really step up when they are needed. During the fires nearly everyone was multi-tasking, doing so much more on top of their normal work loads ... we really appreciate that."
And finally there is the big question of the local council elections in September.
"I have been on the council now for 16 years, so I will be considering my options.
"It will be interesting to see who steps forward. I really hope there will be a show of diversity and skills ... local government is not something to be played along party political lines, it is all about community and what is best at that local level."
