The state government says now is the time for residents across the region to consider which projects will provide the most benefit to their local area and choose what they would like funded as part of the NSW Government's My Community Project program paid for by the NSW Generations Fund.
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On Monday Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said voting had opened, giving local residents the green light to cast an online vote for between three and five of 22 nominated projects - seven of which are in Walcha.
"This is an innovative and exciting program that is putting decision making back in the hands of community members to weigh in on their top picks for projects in the region," Mr Anderson said.
"It's very easy to vote, all you need is your Medicare card and a free MyServiceNSW account, which also provides quick access to a wide range of NSW Government services, such as the CTP Green Slip refund for eligible policyholders.
"You can also pop down to your local Service NSW centre in Armidale or Tamworth where friendly staff can help residents cast their vote."
While the campaign could be seen as a drive to increase MyGov registration numbers Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said it was an opportunity for residents to have a direct say about which projects should be delivered in their local community.
a great example of real grassroots democracy in action
- Dominic Perrottet
"My Community Project is a great example of real grassroots democracy in action, it asked people to think about things their community needs, develop those ideas with a sponsor and tell us how funding could turn that concept into reality," Mr Perrottet said.
In Walcha the following projects are seeking funding:
- the Walcha & District Historical Society Inc wants $195,509 to rebuild the Pioneer Cottage Museum machinery shed to protect the artefacts stored within;
- the Walcha Central School wants $200,000 for an alternative learning space 'The Shed', to reengage students who find traditional schooling challenging;
- Walcha Council wants $100,000 to install and upgrade the heating at the Walcha Ex-Services Memorial Club, $159, 850 to do a makeover on the Golf Club kitchen, amenities, entry and function room and $200,000 to replace the Walcha Bowling Club synthetic green;
- the Walcha Showground and Recreation Reserve Land Managers are seeking $60,301 to renovate the show pavilion roof and hockey playing surface;
- and the Walcha Central School P&C Association wants $104,500 to create a sensory garden and outdoor classroom in the primary school playground.
Voting concludes on August 15, with successful projects to be announced from September 2019.