In a recent edition of an on-line newsletter, Government News, there was an article on how empathy is essential if you want to create policy that puts people first.
I found this interesting because it referred to a growing trend of participatory democracy initiatives, which take complex ideas out for debate. In particular, participatory budgeting, where you go out to the public with a finite bucket of money and ask how this should be spent.
Central Coast Council is currently preparing the next Operational Plan and Budget. Staff have indicated that there is still an amount of funds that have not yet been allocated.
I was pleased to put out a survey to get your ideas about how you would like to see those funds allocated. Thank you to everybody that responded.
Of course, I am only 1 of 15 Councillors. I will be working to prioritise some of the important ideas that you put forward - but will need your help.
I look forward to having more conversations with local communities about your priorities.
~ 24 February 2026
