It aimed to find out the key skills and attributes that Benalla was looking for in a councillor.
The survey also focused on identifying local issues that were important to residents and gathered positive suggestions for improving prospects for Benalla.
Benalla’s Sabine Smyth was a member of the team that put the survey together.
“After several poor community satisfaction surveys, it was time to seek community feedback about the changes residents want to see in local government,” Ms Smyth said.
The survey was answered by 118 local people.
“The greatest number of comments were about the characteristics of a good councillor,” Ms Smyth said.
“(A total of) 103 comments emphasised the need to be approachable, empathetic, and having clear communication skills, (and) 57 per cent valued councillors with a bold vision and strategic foresight.
“(There was) 50 per cent (that) stressed transparency, accountability, and working for the community’s best interest, (and) 32 per cent emphasised the importance of councillors being in touch with community needs through active participation in events and public discussions.
“(Another) 36 per cent called for experience and qualifications to ensure proper governance, financial acumen, and strategic planning.
“In response to what local issues residents most cared about, social services were by far the greatest concern with homelessness, employment opportunities, housing, community safety, mental health and disability services specified.
“Community spirit, caring and cohesion were identified by 35 per cent of respondents.
“Council performance was of concern for 94 per cent of respondents with accountability, transparency, decision-making and communication specified.
“(And) 12 per cent were concerned about how funds are used, noting unnecessary expenditures and a lack of community input.”
Ms Smyth said 47 per cent of respondents mentioned concerns about a range of council services and infrastructure including waste management, suggesting improved recycling and reuse.
“(And) 40 per cent were concerned about future urban development, including new housing, more green spaces and required infrastructure.
“(Another) 17 per cent expressed concern about the poor appearance of Bridge St and the general cleanliness of public spaces, (and) 49 per cent noted concerns about road safety and maintenance especially for elderly pedestrians.
“The viability of local businesses was of great concern for 29 per cent of respondents, with specific mention of empty shopfronts.”
The survey also asked what could be improved and 61 per cent of comments were about good governance, (and) 39 per cent about addressing social disadvantage, 39 per cent business development, (and) 31 per cent called for better asset management and 30 per cent for improved council services.
“The full survey results have been sent to the council candidates in the hope that they take into account what residents have shared,” Ms Smyth said.
The full report is available for interested residents @The Benalla Forum on Facebook.
Please note this was an independent survey conducted by community members.
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