Bankstown Council is currently undergoing a consultation process with the community to develop long term plans for our city.
Last Thursday, 120 young people came together at a youth summit to discuss issues that affect them and the wider city. I was pleased to officially open proceedings. The summit gave our local youth an opportunity to directly shape their future.
As part of the development of the Bankstown Community Plan, Council also held two forums over the weekend regarding the future social and environmental needs of the city.
In upcoming forums, the local economy will be discussed from 10am on Saturday 19 June at the Bankstown Senior Citizen’s Centre, while the final forum on civic leadership will commence at 10am on Saturday, 3 July, again at the Senior Citizen’s Centre. To find out more, visit www.bankstowncommunityplan.com.au or contact the project team on 9707 9484.
Last Wednesday night, Deputy Mayor Khal Asfour and I attended Bankstown Legacy's Annual Changeover Dinner. Bankstown Legacy has been caring for the families of veterans since 1964. The evening was an opportunity to welcome the incoming Chairman and to thank those who had contributed to Legacy throughout the year.
In recent times the prevalence of homelessness has come to my attention, particularly among young families and individuals with mental health disorders. It has also become clear that we need to have a coordinated response. As such, Council convened a forum last week and invited relevant agencies to participate in a roundtable discussion. I was most pleased to host the forum.
On Friday Council's General Manager Luke Nicholls and I attended a luncheon at the BreakFree Bankstown International to celebrate the opening of their 4 star apartments. The event was hosted by Paula Duncan. Congratulations to Bev McLaughlin and the team at the hotel on the expansion of their facilities.
Council's 'Sport A Month' is designed to encourage residents to try out a different sport every month. During June, Council has partnered with a number of indoor sports providers for a month of Indoor Sports. For more information on the free activities available throughout the month, contact Council on 9707 9999 or visit www.bankstown.nsw.gov.au
The Lions Club of Bankstown held their 54th Changeover Dinner on Saturday night. During the evening I provided the toast to Lions International and acknowledged the continued efforts of Lions volunteers in our community. Congratulations to Les Osmond who was re-elected as President of Club for the coming 12 months.