MESSAGE FROM OUR MAYOR

Welcome to the second year of our Delivery Program 2022-2026 and Operational Plan 2023-24. This is our commitment to the community about what we will deliver during the term in office and our response to the priorities identified by you in Maitland +10.

I’m proud to present a strongly aligned plan with our shared vision for Maitland, as captured in Maitland +10. The plan guides the projects, actions and services Council will provide in 2023-24, as we work together to make Maitland an even greater place to live.

Council’s operations are diverse from events and activations, development assessment and compliance to facilities and sport and recreation - the work of Council impacts our residents daily, often without anyone realising.

This Operational Plan will see a range of new projects underway, from new and upgraded sports facilities, improved parks and playgrounds to an expanded shared pathway network. Our focus on renewing and replacing ageing facilities, roads and drainage will continue, as well as construction of new assets in our growing new suburbs.

Investment will occur right across our city with key highlights including:

• Commencement of construction for new multipurpose centres at Tenambit and Chisholm

• Delivery of an on demand bulky waste management service

• Improvements at Harold Gregson Park, Central Maitland

• Lighting and park amenities at Maitland Park, South Maitland

• Delivery of upgrades to Max McMahon Oval, Rutherford

• Upgrade works at Maitland Gaol, East Maitland

• Guided tours and interpretation of the new tower experience at Maitland Gaol, East Maitland

• Replacement of Melville Ford Bridge, Melville

• Progressing Stage 1 of the reopening and activation of Walka Water Works, Oakhampton

• Roy Jordan playground and skate park, Gillieston Heights.

The Thornton Road network continues to be a key focus, with more investments occurring in 2023-24. We will continue to advocate for broader State funded solutions, a range of new intersections, road upgrades.

Beyond our investment in capital works across the city, we are introducing a stronger focus on environmental programs, including Landcare programs, increased public tree plantings and community education and collaboration to improve the health of the Hunter River.

Furthermore, we are making changes to the way we manage waste. We are preparing for the food and garden organics waste collection services in 2025, finalising the construction of a Waste Transfer Station and implementing an on demand bulky waste management service all to meet our goal of waste minimisation into the future.

As the city continues to grow, over this term we will continue consultation with our community on our expenditure, and the services you expect from Council. This feedback will inform us as we work to ensure Council remains financially sustainable into the future.

Our Delivery Program and Operational Plan is our commitment to you, people of Maitland, by demonstrating a clear plan to deliver projects to make our city an even better place to live.