Councillor Maytom, like many in Leeton shire, was looking forward to exploring new opportunities for growth and development. 

One of the main focuses this year will be to secure grant funding to get some of Leeton Shire Council’s major projects underway. 

“Never before have we seen investment in regional NSW like we are now seeing from the state government, so it is important we as a council advocate for the projects our community sees as a high priority,” Cr Maytom said.

In his sights is the Leeton Showground sporting precinct, which he said was “in desperate need of a major upgrade”.

“The Leeton Showground is a highly-used sporting facility,” he said. 

“Our local AFL and netball club, as well as the harness racing community, are all heavily invested user groups that call this precinct their sporting home.

“Council sees itself as a partner that can facilitate grant funding opportunities that will help the showground facility receive the upgrade that it deserves.”

There is a substantial amount of money available through the Crown Lands Public Reserves Management Fund Program, which council will be looking into early this year.

Council is also keen to see the LINX Freight and Logistics go ahead at the Western Riverina Intermodal Freight Terminal at Wumbulgal.

Cr Maytom said this would help deliver freight certainty in the western Riverina region by tripling current rail freight capacity in the region.

It will also take more trucks off the roads, improving safety.

“Council is pleased to be working with LINX Logistics and submitting a funding application for $7.5 million towards the construction of a $30.5 million freight and logistics hub at Wumbulgal,” Cr Maytom said.

“We will also be assisting to source grant funding to undertake master planning at the WRIFT site to assist with the development of core infrastructure, including drainage, roads, water and power.”

The upgrade of the Leeton pool, enhancement of the main street area and the sourcing of funding for the detailed design of the Roxy Theatre upgrade all remain key focuses for council staff in 2018.

“These key pieces of community infrastructure will contribute to increased community wellbeing and will enhance Leeton’s reputation as a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family,” Cr Maytom said. 

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