How can you change, and influence decisions being made in your local community?
By becoming involved!
And when I say, "becoming involved," I'm not referring to offering solutions and criticisms of individuals (whether they be in sports, the arts, charitable organisations, or local government) on social media but getting in the thick of the action and contributing to the community through effort and involvement.
Change is all around us.
We can either ignore it, accept it and work with it, or become increasingly frustrated by what it means and how it will affect our lives.
The worst kind of change is the one forced upon us, usually by government entities, led by the Federal, State, and Local Governments.
Unfortunately, as individuals, there is little we can do (other than changing our vote) to influence decisions made by the Federal and State Governments.
However, when it comes to Local Government, you do have a voice - and that voice is supported by the eleven local councillors you elected to represent you.
For us to bring about change at the local level, your support is crucial in achieving the results necessary to drive progress that is vital for the survival of rural and regional communities like ours.
Your vote should not be seen as the end of your contribution to the community but rather the beginning of a continuous process.
Over the next four years, we can work together to reshape the Hilltops into a vibrant, proactive, and progressive region, despite the challenges that may arise from external forces.
With only eleven councillors representing over 20,000 residents, our success in achieving positive change depends on our partnership with our community.
There is a process, and an opportunity to continue contributing after casting your vote, and that is through communication with your elected representatives.
To quote former American President John F. Kennedy: “There can be no progress if people have no faith.” To achieve progress, we need to look to the future, not the past.
Councillor Neil Langford