While I like this weekly Mayor’s Message to focus on sharing positive news, unfortunately this week I need to discuss an issue which is escalating across the Shire, and that is senseless acts of vandalism.
Over recent months, we’ve seen a spike in the number of attacks on public property, in particular our toilets.
A number of facilities have been targeted, including those that have just been refurbished, with damage ranging from smashed toilet seats and door, broken mirrors, paper and soap dispensers as well as graffiti.
Last weekend, there was an arson attack on the Lions Park toilets in Rutherglen, resulting in around $4,000 damage and the loss of a disabled toilet.
In addition to the vandalised toilets, the shade sail over the playground at Lake Sambell has been ripped, possibly beyond repair, through it being climbed on last weekend.
Not only are these senseless attacks costing council significant funds that could be better spent on service delivery, they impact on amenity and create a major inconvenience for users, especially visitors to our town.
We’ve reported all incidents to local police who’re investigating and we’re also asking you, our community, to report any suspicious activity.
On a more positive note, we were pleased to see a statement released this week by State Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell, saying that she’s received confirmation from Roads Minister Melissa Horne that the government is promising to work with Indigo Shire on finding solutions to improve safety in Main Street Rutherglen.
However, Ms Lovell acknowledges that questions remain over the Government’s commitment to starting works and its use of funds previously set aside for the Rutherglen traffic study.
We have also been advocating to the Victorian Government for a commitment that the remaining funds, put aside to address heavy vehicles using Main Street, be used to implement safety improvements. We estimate that around $1.4M remains.
We are yet to receive any formal correspondence from the Department of Transport on when works will start or exactly what the safety measures will entail, however we look forward to working together to maximise safety outcomes for the Rutherglen community.
Take care everyone and have a great weekend.
Cr Sophie Price.