Capital works projects across Lake Macquarie are poised to be bolstered by two new Citywide Development Contributions Plans, set for public exhibition following Monday's Ordinary Council Meeting at Sugar Valley Library Museum, kirantakamyari.
The draft plans seek to enable Council to collect contributions from developments to fund facilities and infrastructure listed in the 2025-2029 Delivery Program, and offer flexibility to deliver longer-term projects.
The plans also address key outcomes from the Lake Macquarie Housing Forum held earlier this year, including a lower per person levy for infill development and increasing the discount on contributions for eligible affordable rental housing from 85% to 100%.
The plans will go on public exhibition for 28 days.
Councillors also supported a Mayoral Minute proposing measures to accelerate the delivery of the Cardiff Town Park project.
Council has long held a vision for the delivery of Cardiff Town Park - a shared space for current and future residents.
Councillors requested a report detailing options to accelerate the land acquisition process as well as a review of the scale and scope of the park to ensure it would meet the needs of a growing community.
A second Mayoral Minute, proposing Council make a submission to the Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) regarding the Energy Industry Jobs Plan (EIJP) Review, was also supported.
The minute related to the planned closure of the Eraring Power Station in August 2027.
It proposed Council support the continued operation of the NZEA Act, and its role in facilitating an EIJP for Eraring and supply chain businesses, which are facing material commercial impacts.
Eraring, along with two operational underground coal mines, supports about 1,800 jobs and contributes about 15% of Lake Macquarie's economic output, which equates to about $4.5 billion dollars.
The minute stated the closure of Eraring would have deep and lasting impacts on the local workforce, economy and community unless it was managed appropriately by the Federal and NSW governments.
Council adopted its Child and Family Strategy 2025-2029, including revisions in response to submissions during public exhibition.
This strategy is a four-year strategic direction for the delivery of programs, initiatives and resources to support the diverse needs of children and families across the city.
It also includes Council's Statement of Commitment to Child Safety to provide an integrated approach to protecting and supporting children across the city.
The full agenda and reports are available at meeting agendas and minutes.
The stream of tonight's meeting will be available online at lakemac.com.au within 48 hours.
