Toongabbie residents applaud Council at community forum

Published on 16 August 2018

Blacktown City Council’s commitment to respond to residents’ concerns was ratified at the Toongabbie forum on Monday night.

The construction of a section of footpath on Metella Road was met with clear delight by Prospect resident of over 50 years, Joseph Gauci.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said: “We can see the value of engaging with our community when we see results like this.”

Ward 3 residents, including some from Toongabbie, Seven Hills and Blacktown attended Council’s most recent Have Your Say forum on Monday night at Metella Road Public School in Toongabbie.

Mr Gauci attended Council’s community forum in May 2017,where he raised concerns about the lack of a footpath on his street.

At the time he challenged Council about the allocation of funding for road improvements over the five decades that he lived in the area. “All I want is a footpath outside my house. I hope I get to see one before I die,” he said.

In response, Council allocated funds for the footpath on Metella Road in the 2018/2019 budget in and construction commenced two weeks ago (work is expected to be completed this week).

“I thank Council so much for my footpath. It makes me happy to see that Council listens to us,” an elated Mr Gauci said.

Mayor Bali said: “This is the purpose of our community forums, closing the loop and coming back to the community with an answer.

“As Mayor, I am very proud that we were able to deliver the footpath in just over one year, making a loyal resident very happy.”

Other issues raised at the meeting related to street lighting, community services for the elderly and maintenance of parklands.

Council’s next community forum is in Ward 5 on Monday, 29 October, 7pm at Willmot Public School, Discovery Avenue, Willmot.

“These forums are great opportunities for people to come and meet Councillors and Council staff face-to-face, and I encourage more people to attend,” Mayor Bali said.

“Council wants to hear from you about issues in your neighbourhood.” 

Next forum details:  Monday, 29 October, 7pm at Willmot Public School, Discovery Avenue, Willmot. Email: [email protected]

Media contact: Communications Unit, Blacktown City Council Martha Azzi – (02) 9839 5926 Keiasha Naidoo – (02) 9839 6914 (phones divert to mobiles after hours) email:  [email protected]