A participatory process, involving extensive input from key stakeholders, is shaping the future for the City of Playford. It will provide long term direction for Council on behalf of the community.
“It is a community driven, holistic approach to strategic planning,” said Darryn Hartnett, General Manager Policy, Strategy and Advocacy. He said that over 600 key players, representing the State Government, community groups and local business people, have been involved in developing Council’s Strategic Plan – Playford 2010.
Consultation has included a number of open forums as well as specifically targeted focus groups, including Aboriginals, older people, youth, people with disabilities, the unemployed and people from non English speaking backgrounds.
This participatory process has helped the new City build a sense of community spirit and identity. Involving all key players has also helped ensure the end result will accurately reflect the community’s aspirations for their City.
Demonstrating Council’s commitment to consultation, it establishes a strong foundation for ongoing interaction with the community.
Strategic Plan – Playford 2010 will be based on the following three broad areas.
- Community Development
- Economic Development and Integrated Planning
- Environmental Sustainability
Three Reference Groups, comprising Elected Members, Council staff and a cross section of other stakeholders, have been formed. Each Reference Group has worked on one of the above areas. The Plan will guide the operations of Council, enabling it to focus efforts on identified priority areas.
“Strategic Plan – Playford 2010 sets down priorities and is the overarching guide for ensuring competitive service provision,” Darryn Hartnett said.
The Draft Plan has been reviewed by the Reference Groups, and is expected to be ratified by Council in early 1998. Following the preparation of the Strategic Plan, the Division will be preparing a Corporate Plan which will be directly linked to Council’s budget and the Strategic Plan.
For further information contact Darryn Hartnett General Manager Policy, Strategy and Advocacy, telephone (08) 8254 0222.
