My Internet Journal is designed to provide details on my role as a Councillor for the City of Maroondah and my involvement within a variety of community organizations.
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The vacant shop windows of central Ringwood are now home to a new exhibition of artworks as part of the Moving project.
The project aims to transform these vacant shop windows into works of art as Ringwood makes the transition into a vibrant Central Activities District (CAD).
Mayor of Maroondah, Councillor Alex Makin, said the success of the first round of artworks – displayed from November 2009 to March 2010 – had given Council confidence of receiving an equally enthusiastic response to the second phase of the Moving project.
“The show of community interest in the first round of works was staggering so we’re hopeful even more people will take time out to appreciate the newest art installations on show,” Cr Makin said.
“This second exhibition can now be seen in central Ringwood’s vacant shop windows and features the works of 12 artists and art groups,” Cr Makin said.
“If this exhibition is as popular as its predecessor Council may consider facilitating a third instalment of the Moving project. Artist interest is already high,” Cr Makin said.
The project aims to improve the amenity of the area in the lead-up to major works in central Ringwood. Exhibition space in the shop windows has been provided by QIC.
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Category: Community Engagement,Maroondah,Media Releases
The Eastern Football League (EFL) is based in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, stretching from Balwyn through to Noble Park. The League consists of 43 teams total across four divisions.
This evening I attended the launch of the EFL’s 2010 season launch, which provided an overview of the League and the Clubs within the competition. The EFL consists of 12 First Division Clubs, 10 in Second Division, 10 in Third Division and 11 in Fourth Division, with the season commencing from the 10th of April.
Maroondah has several clubs competing within the Eastern Football League, including four in Division One; Norwood, East Ringwood, Croydon and South Croydon. Ringwood Football Club competes in Division Two, while North Ringwood and Heathmont are in Divisions Three and Four respectively.
Category: Community Engagement,Maroondah,Urban Sustainability
The Eastern Region Mayors Group (ERMG) has written to Premier John Brumby urging the state government to reconsider the magnitude and timing of their recent announcement increasing landfill levies from 2010 and beyond.
Knox Mayor Councillor Joe Cossari said the Mayors of the eastern metropolitan region are deeply concerned about this announcement as it could have significant impact on Councils’ 2010/2011 budgets.
“Councils put a great deal of effort into preparing long-term financial plans to assist responsible planning and management. Significant financial burdens imposed at such short notice greatly impact the ability of Councils to deliver prudent and responsible financial management,” Cr Cossari said.
Councils are in the process of finalising draft budgets for 2010/2011 and are about to take them out to the community for consultation as required by the Local Government Act (1989).
Mayor of Maroondah, Cr Alex Makin, said an increase in landfill levies will impact on rates and charges in 2010/2011.
“Council can confirm that the any increase to landfill levies would need to be accounted for in Maroondah’s 2010/2011 Budget,” Cr Makin said.
“This would likely be covered by a rise in overall municipal rates and charges,” Cr Makin said.
“The exact rise has not yet been determined because of the number of variables coming into play when forming the Budget. However, we should be prepared for an additional rate rise if the State Government is successful in increasing landfill levies,” Cr Makin said.
Cr Cossari said the ERMG supported the increased recycling opportunities that would be created by the levy increase.
“However, we have advised Mr Brumby that there has been no consultation with Councils about this decision, which is most disappointing given that Councils are expected to collect the increased levies as well as implement various components of the program,” Cr Cossari said.
The magnitude and timing of the increase in landfill levies is expected to have a major and critical impact on 2010/2011 Council budgets resulting in significant last minute increases in Council rates and gate fees at Council transfer stations.
“Initial assessments indicate that in some municipalities there will be a need to increase rates by more than one per cent in 2010/2011 to offset the increase, together with significant increases in gate charges at transfer stations,” Cr Cossari said.
The increase in landfill levies for 2010/2011 from $9 per tonne to $30 tonne represents a massive increase of 233% in one year alone.
“The Mayors feel that Councils are being used as a state collection agency and are fearful that they will face the brunt of community backlash for the costs to comply with state decisions,” Cr Cossari said.
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Category: Maroondah,Media Releases
Alex Makin is a councillor for the Mullum Ward in the City of Maroondah. Alex has been a councillor since 2005, representing ratepayers, businesses, community groups and residents.
I aim to continue making a difference and welcome any thoughts you may have in regard to life, community and business in Maroondah.
Phone: (03) 9870 8202 or 0408 311 645
Email: alex@alexmakin.com.au
