Nillumbik Shire Council is asking the local community to share its views on the Victorian Government's proposed location for the Eltham Area Community Hospital.
Council last night endorsed a consultation plan to canvas community views on the proposed location of the hospital on Council-owned land at Civic Drive, Greensborough.
Council has not yet resolved a position on whether or not to sell the land to the Victorian Government for this purpose and the feedback gained through this community engagement will be used to help it come to a decision.
Nillumbik Mayor Peter Perkins said it was important that the community be given the opportunity to have its say on this critical issue.
"A proposal of this magnitude has the potential for significant impact on the community and it is only right therefore that Council seek the views of the community to help it arrive at an informed position on whether or not to sell the land to the Victorian Government," he said.
"Obtaining a clearer understanding of what the community thinks of this proposal will be critical."
Blue Lake Ward Councillor Richard Stockman said Council's engagement on this matter reflected its commitment to advocating on the community's behalf.
"While the agency responsible for delivering the project, the Victorian Health Building Authority, has sought community feedback during August, it's important for Council to undertake its own consultation to help it advocate for a positive community outcome."
Following the community engagement process, Council anticipates that it will resolve a position at its 26 October Meeting, on whether or not to sell the land to the Victorian Government.
However, should Council resolve to not sell the land in question (sale by agreement), a sale via a compulsory process (compulsory acquisition) would still be an option available to the State Government in accordance with the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986.
The proposal is open for feedback until 11.59pm, Sunday 26 September. To provide feedback, complete the short survey questionnaire at Participate Nillumbik
