6 November 2020
The Allora community showed they are keen to engage and connect with their local representatives at an open forum this week.
More than 20 local residents attended the “Connecting with Council” session at the Allora Senior Citizen Centre to meet with Southern Downs Regional Councillors – the first of monthly meetings scheduled across the region aimed at reaching out to rural and remote communities.
Council was keen to hear the community’s thoughts on reticulated sewerage for the township and the possible relocation of the local library. Other topics of interest that were mooted at the meeting included the broader regional water supply, local water supply, and road and street concerns.
Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi was thrilled with the turnout at the first forum and thanked the residents who took the time to attend and share their thoughts, ideas and concerns.
“It was very rewarding to see our community keen to engage in discussion in relation to the future direction of Allora,” Mayor Pennisi said.
“The Allora community is passionate, committed, supportive and united in its vision for the township and the discussions were very constructive.
“If this is any indication of what we can expect across the region from our local townships, these connecting with community sessions will be very informative for us and the community.
“It has been challenging to get this initiative off the ground with COVID-19 social distancing guidelines but Council continues to be committed to connecting with community while keeping people safe.
“Thank you to everyone who attended and participated. I feel it has been very productive for Council to engage with the community in this way and I look forward to the next time we meet.”
The next “Connecting with Council” session is scheduled in Wallangarra on Wednesday 2 December. This will be a COVID-19 safe event and bookings will be essential.