In the second half of the Snowy Monaro Regional Councils’ February meeting, councillors debated the Motion 11.14, brought forward by Councillor Davis, regarding inclusion of a plan in councils’ draft for the 2025–2027 delivery and operational phase to seek grant funding for the development of a master plan for beautification efforts in Cooma’s central business district (CBD), its entrances, and the Cooma Back Creek riparian zones.
PHOTO: Cooma CBD – Centennial Park, Sharp Street CREDIT: Snowy Monaro Regional Council
During the discussions, Councillor Davis emphasised the significance of community involvement, citing inputs from the Cooma Chamber of Commerce and concerned residents as crucial elements. However, concerns were voiced by some councillors regarding the potential absence of formal consultation with the council and the possibility for community divisiveness if the proposal appeared to favour Cooma exclusively.
Councillor Rose stated, “I think in broad principle this idea is a good idea, but I think it’s premature… We need much more information on the meetings that have taken place before I could support the motion… it needs to be more inclusive.”
Councillor Hopkins asserted the necessity for a phased approach: “This is probably the first step of many steps that we need to take… it’s something that absolutely needs to be put into our plans for the next four years without question.”
PHOTO: Cooma CBD – Sharp Street near Soho Street CREDIT: Future Generation
There were further concerns regarding inclusivity and prioritisation. Councillor Stewart expressed apprehensions, indicating, “I appreciate the Cooma residents want to enhance their entrance… but I think we should be asking each of the other areas what they want to see in their communities.”
Seeking a more inclusive approach, an amendment was proposed to include seeking grant funding of master plans in all towns beginning with Cooma, which Councillor Davis accepted.
Councillor Thaler highlighted resource allocation issues and the need to prioritise current projects: “We already have a lot of outstanding projects that need to be completed.”
Consequently, the motion faced a notable divide in opinion but ultimately passed with support from Councillors Higgins, Hopkins, Elliott, Davis, and Hanna, while Councillors Stewart, Rose, and Thaler were against.
PHOTO: Cooma CBD – Vale Street at the Crime Through Time Museum.
With the master plans now part of the official agenda, it paves the way for potential funding opportunities aimed at the enhancement of all towns and villages in the Snowy Monaro Regional Council area.
The initiative marks a critical step towards strengthening community infrastructure and aesthetic appeal, but didn’t come without concerns over Councils’ current capacity to take on more projects.