Councillor Update

Note that these comments are the opinion of the councillor and not necessarily those of the council.

Boundary Reform

There has been no progress in relation to the matter of boundary reform since the City of Marion decided not to proceed with their initiative. A community is able to seek a review of local boundaries, but this requires a petition to be prepared by the community as their own initiative.

Council Rates

Unfortunately due to the increase in the state government waste levee council rates were increased from 1.6% to 2.28%. This is still less than the planned 3.2% proposed under the City of Onkaparinga Financial Plan.

City of Onkaparinga Tourism Plan

This plan was put to Council in June. I raised concerns that it focused on the McLaren Vale and coastal regions with no mention of Cherry Gardens, Coromandel Valley and the historical parts of Clarendon. I suggested that areas are part of the gateway (particularly to the McLaren Vale area these and should be included as they have much to offer by way of walking trails, conservation parks, some great hotels and bakeries, along with some significant historical buildings and a few wineries. This was taken onboard, so I am waiting to see the final outcome.

Community Grants

The Cherry Gardens and Ironbank Recreation Ground was successful in being awarded two grants of $5,000 each to assist in provision of goal netting for the football oval and provision of solar panels for the clubrooms. The application for funding to support the Cherry Chatter newsletter was not successful but I will undertake to see whether support can be provided from Council.

Economic Development Forum

I have attended a number of the City of Onkaparinga Economic Development Forum meetings and was concerned that there was no representation of businesses north of Reynella. As a consequence I have had discussions with Jane Silbereisen, president of the Blackwood Business Network (BBN) and council staff. The BBN includes business in the Coromandel Valley area in its network and is prepared to extend its membership to businesses in the Cherry Gardens, Flagstaff Hill, Aberfoyle Park and Clarendon areas, representing them on the Economic Development Forum. Ms Silbereisen attended the Forum’s most recent meeting on Wednesday 26 June. The BBN can be contacted through their Website at www.blackwoodbiz.com.au.

Southern Sports, Recreation and Surf Life Saving Clubs Forum, City of Onkaparinga

I am one of the two elected members appointed to this forum. I have taken on this role to ensure that sporting and recreation clubs in the northern districts of the City of Onkaparinga represented. Following a deputation to Council in June by this forum I have asked that consideration is given to changing its name to better demonstrate that it includes all areas of our city and that it could be called “The City of Onkaparinga, Sports, Recreation and Surf Life Saving Clubs Forum”, as the current name gives the impression that it is only representing southern clubs in the City. Although meetings are currently held at the Christies Beach Sports and Social Club, Christie Avenue, Christies Beach I encourage our sporting clubs to attend its meeting. I am hoping that it may be possible to have the Forum meet at different locations so that attendees achieve a broader understanding of each club’s facilities. I will keep the community informed on the next meeting date.

Geoff Eaton
Councillor - Thalassa Ward - City of Onkaparinga
Email: geoff.eaton@onkaparinga.sa.gov.au
Mobile: 0416 637 351