The outgoing Council has delivered its End of Term Report 2016-2021, highlighting achievements over the last five years and the delivery of improved core services to the community.
The report is a legally required document by the outgoing Council to provide an update on progress of the City towards achieving its social, environmental, economic and civic objectives in line with the Blue Mountains Community Strategic Plan.
The report was presented at the last meeting of the outgoing Council, on 30 November. Mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill, said: “Itʼs important that we recognise the achievements of this Council term. These achievements were realized despite many unforeseen challenges.
“Throughout investigations, bushfires, floods and the pandemic, the Council has continued to deliver core services. We have had the largest ever expenditure on capital works in the City.
“We have also been recognised both nationally and internationally, especially for progress towards our ambitious sustainability goals.”
Highlights of the End of Term Report 2016-2021 include:
• Cooperating fully, over a period of three years, with the Public Inquiry into Blue Mountains City Council, which ultimately found that we are on the path to being an exemplar in the management of asbestos.
• Realizing an improved financial position and reducing debt by more than $20 million.
• Declaring a climate emergency, reducing Councilʼs carbon footprint by 25% over four years, and joining the Cities Power Partnership.
• Celebrating our 20th year as a City within a World Heritage Area.
• Adopting a Statement of Recognition and Commitment, acknowledging the strong partnership between Council and Gundungurra and Dharug Traditional Owners.
• Resolving to integrate Rights of Nature principles into Council operations
• Supporting our community through the devastating Black Summer bushfires of 2019- 2020 and the subsequent recovery
• Responding to extreme flood events in February 2020 and March 2021 that caused multiple landslides across the City
• Committing to establishing a Planetary Health Leadership Center in Katoomba
• Completing significant upgrades to sporting facilities, district parks, emergency management capabilities and visitor facilities across the City.
