Wyndham City Council Mayor Cr Mia Shaw says while Council is delivering a multi-million-dollar upgrade to Wyndham Vale North Reserve, John Lister MP is playing politics.
Responding to a petition started by Mr Lister in relation to surface upgrades at Wyndham Vale North Reserve, Cr Shaw said: "This petition is nothing short of political interference."
"The fact is, I met with Mr Lister asking for his support to repurpose the $400,000 grant to align better with the club's priority of a new pavilion. He failed in that advocacy."
"While Mr Lister focuses on grass, key issues like the Werribee Station, empty law courts, rising crime, and a failing health system remain ignored".
"Ballan Road desperately needs to be duplicated, the Werribee Train Station needs an urgent upgrade, and our bus and public transport systems are failing. The $5 million transport study promised at the 2022 state election by the former Treasurer has not been delivered."
"Our residents deserve more from their state member of Parliament. If John Lister wants to be a Councillor, he should have run in the last election."
"Meanwhile, Wyndham City is investing millions of dollars into the Wyndham Vale North Reserve precinct, providing new lighting, a new pavilion, improved irrigation and new cricket nets."
"Council has already delivered a $500,000 sports ground lighting project."
"A further $250,000 has been spent upgrading the cricket nets, and planning is underway for a multi-million-dollar pavilion, and irrigation works."
"Mr Lister's interference has the potential to damage the good relationships Council has with user groups at Wyndham Vale North Reserve."
"Mr Lister is trying to tell Council how to spend its Budget. That is political interference. Section 74A (1) of the Constitution provides that local government is a distinct and essential tier of government, who have a statutory responsibility to provide services in the best interests of their communities. And we are doing just that."
"The Wyndham Vale North Reserve is designated a Level B reserve under Council's planning and landscape framework - yet we are still delivering a multi-million-dollar upgrade."
"If the State Government wants to commit to fully funding this project for the community, we would be happy to discuss what that could look like with Council as the delivery partner."
Iramoo Ward Councillor, Maria King, said: "We're proud to be investing in the future of local sport with a major upgrade to facilities that support thousands of players, families and volunteers."
"Council will be investing millions of dollars for a full pavilion redevelopment, delivering modern, inclusive spaces for all users."
"This is a significant investment in grassroots sport, creating opportunities for participation, pride and connection in our growing community."
"I am looking forward to chairing a new Wyndham Vale North Steering Committee, along with key stakeholders, as we further develop this important project."
