Leeton has joined more than 70 councils from around NSW in an effort to spearhead growth across the state. The move will see neighbouring councils team up to drive better development and economic outcomes.
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In conjunction, Deputy Premier John Barilaro announced the state government would award $300,00 to the 11 organisations and participating councils.
Despite earlier reports Griffith and Leeton might not join the same JO, it was confirmed earlier this week they would form part of the Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation (JO) along with Albury, Hay and Murrumbidgee Councils.
The Riverina Joint Organisation has been formed by Bland, Coolamon, Junee, Greater Hume, Lockhart, Temora and Cootamundra – Gundagai shires.
Leeton Shire Council General Manager Jackie Kruger said the organisations promoted regional growth.
“From my perspective, JOs afford councils the opportunity to work collaboratively and with each other and state governments to do strategic planning and priority setting. They let us grow the voice for regional advocacy,” she said.
“It's a commitment from the NSW state government to local governments about regional planning. We're hoping that by making sure we work collaboratively with the state government, investment in the area is targeted and prioritised for the greater good.”
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Carrathool, Wagga and Narrandera councils are yet to join an organisation, despite government incentives.
Narrandera Shire General Manager George Cowan said Narrandera had foregone the first round of joint organisations as its first two preferences hadn’t been met.
The Shire had expressed an interest in forming a single, Riverina-wide JO, or to join the same area as Wagga and Leeton. He confirmed Narrandera would be examining its options.
“Over the next couple of council meetings council will now decide which organisation it would prefer to join. We’ll be considering it at our next meeting.”
Member for Murray Austin Evans said JOs allow for projects councils might struggle to combat on their own.
“This bucket of money will give members of Joint Organisations in the Far West grounds to start collaborating and making decisions that make life better for families, local business owners and communities in the region.”