Today I attended the "Lismore at 60,000" industry briefing to hear about the strategic plan for the LGA.
The resounding message: a positive attitude towards business, investment and population growth.
It's interesting to see just how differently various Councils operate under the same underlying framework. Some choose to use the system to stymie growth and development; others, like Lismore, choose to embrace and encourage it.
So much comes down to mindset and organisational culture. Lismore has had an 18 month journey to bring the whole Council around towards a culture of getting things done. Saying yes sooner, and finding ways to get there in the first place
It's refreshing to hear and more Councils should heed the message. Partnership and accountability are a must to start addressing our housing challenges.
(It was the launch of the new UDIA NSW Northern Rivers chapter. If you operate in the area, make sure you join up).