Blue Mountains, Penrith and Hawkesbury Councils have taken the next step in exploring a strategic alliance that aims to support regional cooperation.
In what may prove a historic moment, the Mayors and deputies of the three councils recently met to sign a Regional Strategic Alliance agreement to investigate ways to strengthen the long-term future of each City.
As a first step, all three Councils have written to the relevant local Members of Parliament to inform them of the new governance arrangement and to seek their support in the endeavours of regional cooperation.
“In forming a Regional Strategic Alliance, we are taking a leadership role in planning and governing the western metropolitan region,” the Mayor of Hawkesbury, Councillor Kim Ford said.
“One of our aims is to be a united voice for the region, advocating for the benefit of all three local government areas.”
All three Councils agree that the Regional Strategic Alliance is a new, bold and leading edge approach to the governance of this region.
Blue Mountains Mayor, Councillor Mark Greenhill said the alliance could offer opportunities to jointly take on some of the bigger challenges facing local councils.
“To be successful, this arrangement needs more than good will.
“By entering into a formal Agreement, the three councils have made a commitment to investigate ways of strengthening the long term future of each City.”
Mayor of Penrith City, Councillor Ross Fowler said the Alliance will allow the councils to deliver more to their respective communities.
“We have a greater and more cohesive voice to address our common regional challenges.
“It allows us to work better with the State Government to deliver the things that matter most to our residents.”
The Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury and Penrith City Councils collectively represent a growing region of 334,767 people, and a geographic area of 4,612km2.
The Councils have previously written to the Minister for Local Government, the Hon. Paul Toole requesting consideration of a senior representative of the Office of Local Government contributing to this review.
The Councils have also sought funding to allow the appointment of the necessary expertise required for a far-reaching and independent review.
The Councils have received a response from the Minister nominating a senior officer from his Office to participate in the Working Group, which is appreciated, and there are no doubts this position will provide a valuable contribution.
