Growing pains see need for local collaboration and leadership

The Central Coast, a region celebrated for its natural beauty and vibrant community, is currently grappling with a series of growing pains that challenge our cherished way of life.

A critical housing crisis looms large, as many residents find themselves squeezed by skyrocketing prices and dwindling availability.

This dire situation is exacerbated by the poor state of local roads, which not only hampers daily commutes but also raises safety concerns.

Compounding these issues are environmental worries at numerous building sites.

The rapid pace of development, while necessary to meet housing demands, often comes at the cost of environmental sustainability.

The region’s natural landscapes and ecosystems, which are integral to its identity, risk being irreparably damaged if not managed with care.

Recent council partnerships with community housing developers offer some hope for high quality developments while maintaining high social and environmental obligations.

Another significant issue facing many is the rising cost of living exemplified by the increasing imposition of parking fees at public hospitals.

This adds a financial burden to families already struggling with the healthcare needs of their loved ones, turning basic access to medical care into a more costly endeavour.

The two new Medicare Urgent Clinics are examples of innovative attempts to reduce the need to travel to hospitals.

Our region’s domestic violence and homelessness services are under severe strain and more people are accessing food banks just to get by,

Financially, Central Coast Council is also walking a tightrope, despite years of forced administration.

Despite implementing substantial rate increases, its own financial strategy predicts a deficit in a couple of years’ time.

This situation underscores the need for more productivity, input from state and federal governments and renewed financial management, ensuring that the community’s hard-earned money is used in the most beneficial ways.

In the face of these challenges, the Central Coast urgently requires a new breed of local councillors.

The region needs leaders who are not only experienced and knowledgeable but also collaborative, inspired and creative.

These future leaders must possess the vision and capability to navigate these complex issues, balancing the needs for growth and sustainability, fiscal responsibility and community wellbeing.

The path ahead for the Central Coast is fraught with challenges, but with the right leadership, these growing pains can be transformed into opportunities for a brighter, more sustainable future.

It is a call to action for prospective local councillors who can provide collaborative solutions and guide the region towards a prosperous and balanced development.

We wish all our readers in print and online, and all our listeners on our partner local radio stations a very merry Christmas and New Year.

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David Abrahams – Managing Editor