Councillor Stephen Hart
An honest voice representing the diverse communities within Colac Otway Shire, Stephen Hart is committed to initiating a cultural shift within the Council organisation. Council needs to listen to the community and implement some important changes.
"Changes must be carried out with integrity and transparency, finances must be scrutinised and all council /shire processes must be easily accountable," Stephen says.
"Saving Colac Public Library is one of Stephen's top priorities. Colac and district should retain a centrally located public library under the control of local people. A public library area in a school, costing millions of ratepayer funds, and under the control of the Education Department in Geelong or Melbourne, is a second-rate compromise. Colac Otway residents deserve better."
At the forefront of his vision is building a harmonious, sustainable community through Council listening to the wishes of the different communities and groups within the Shire and representing those needs.
"I want to focus on what communities do want," Stephen says. This includes a fairer, more affordable rate system, better services and better use of public land, responsible financial planning, a proactive approach to climate change and sensible reform of planning in the municipality.
