Floodplain focus in communication plan

A detailed plan to keep residents informed and updated about flood mitigation in their local communities will be put to Wagga Wagga City Council for its consideration and implementation on Monday night.

The extensive Communications and Engagement Strategy document puts in place various ways to guide the communication outputs of projects related to the floodplain for the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area.

It also supports the work of both Wagga Wagga City Council and the Floodplain Risk Management Advisory Committee, which provides advice to Council on the development, implementation and delivery of actions contained in the Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plans (FRMSP).

Council Director Commercial Operations Caroline Angel said the communications strategy will ensure local residents are kept informed with the most up-to-date information in the planning process.

“Flood management is a complex, emotive and evolving issue that affects everyone in the Wagga Wagga LGA,” Ms Angel said.

“Through this strategy, Wagga Wagga City Council is continuing a long-term conversation with the community regarding all aspects of flood management including the current and future programs of works.”

Chair of the Floodplain Risk Management Advisory Committee Councillor Vanessa Keenan said the communications strategy was an important step in ensuring local communities, such as North Wagga, were consulted and informed with the most current information on floodplain management.

Cr Keenan said Council is keen to continue working closely with local residents to ensure everyone has a clear picture of floodplain management processes and issues.

“I’m conscious there are a number of rumours in North Wagga at the moment around what Council may or may not be doing regarding floodplain management,” Cr Keenan said.

“It’s important that residents know that any work Council is doing, or is planning to do, is outlined in the adopted FRMSP.

“I encourage residents who haven’t seen the plan to take a look through it and see what works are identified for North Wagga.”

Cr Keenan said the FRMSP is the State Government requirement for all Councils to use in guiding their management of floodplains across NSW.

She reinforced the need for residents to seek out factual information relating to management of the floodplain.

“Any rumours about Council diverting funds, having ulterior motives for land in North Wagga or the like are just that, rumours,” Cr Keenan said.

“I understand the importance of Council’s management of the floodplain to all residents who are impacted by riverine flooding and that it is hard not to be emotive about the issue.

“Residents can have confidence though, that Council is managing the floodplain in line with State Government Policy and will continue to encourage residents to be informed and participate in the management process.”

More information on floodplain management and strategies can be viewed at www.waggaview.com.au/floodfutures