From the CEO

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

I am pleased to present the Draft Operational Plan 2020-2021, which outlines the actions we aim to deliver for our community in the year ahead.

Life in Lake Macquarie City is changing as a result of COVID-19. As events unfold during this pandemic, we will work to ensure our community stays connected and everyone gets the services they need. Within limits and guidance provided by the Federal and NSW governments, we will work to keep Council services operating as normally as possible, adapting the way we deliver them, where needed.

Council has implemented several initiatives to support the Lake Macquarie community during the crisis, and we are particularly mindful of people who are most vulnerable. Our Business and Community Support Package provides measures to support our people and the local economy. It includes rent relief and a Financial Hardship Assistance Policy that will soften the impacts for individuals and sections of our community that are hurting.

As our situation changes, our Operational Plan may also need to change. While this may present a challenge, our organisation is positioned well to deal with uncertain times like these. We have an agile workforce and sound business continuity and resilience plans in place. These strengths will help us deliver services our community relies on and progress important projects over the coming year.

Maintaining essential services and working towards our City vision, while minimising risks to our staff and residents, will be our top priority.

Morven Cameron Chief Executive Officer