There was a community meeting with Yass Valley Council on May 26 at the Murrumbateman Public School attended by Council staff and Councillors who came to hear directly from Murrumbateman. Murrumbateman Community Association, who held the meeting, said it was a strong turnout and a clear sign that the community cares deeply about the future of Murrumbateman.
Locals braved the storm on the night to attend and made sure Council heard their voices. Murrumbateman Community Association said, “The focus of the night was financial sustainability, with tough decisions ahead for Council — including a possible special rate variation, fee increases, and service cuts. Some previously funded items are now missing from the Delivery Program, so now is the time to speak up.
“A key win on the night: Council confirmed it will develop a Masterplan for the entire town — not just North Murrumbateman. We’re pleased to see this long-standing community request moving forward and relieved to finally take it off our campaigning list after many years.
“Other concerns raised included road safety and maintenance, weed and roadside vegetation management, up-keep of heritage sites, mowing services, landfill closure and rehabilitation, and emergency preparedness — with Council still managing costs from the 2022 flooding event.
“Residents also questioned how Council services and facilities will keep pace with rapid growth in our area – Murrumbateman has not gotten its fair share in the past and it looks unlikely that this will improve given the state of the budget.
“There was strong concern about the pace and nature of development in North Murrumbateman and a lack of overall vision for our town and the broader Yass Valley. The message was clear: the community wants real consultation and strategic planning — not a tick-box approach.
“Council has extended the submission period on the draft plans until 15 June. In a tight fiscal environment, your feedback to Council matters more than ever.
“We will be sending out more detailed info, about the night and our concerns with the documents, in our member newsletter shortly. If you’re not already a member please join on our website – Murrumbateman.org.au.”
-Jack Murray
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