Antonella Celi
Tootgarook Ward, Mornington Peninsula Shire

NO.

The constant challenge of State Government changes that impact our localised planning scheme. The impact of diminished affordable and accessible housing on those who face "at risk" homelessness, housing stress and increased mortgage stress. The statistics that reflect an increase in people facing poverty, marginalisation and demand for emergency food and support from our community support centres, community houses, hubs, as well as, increased need for our children in school and their families. Increase in land tax rates on property owners and business is placing a downward economic burden on our residents and business owners. Financial sustainability of the Shire and the increased burden of cost shifting by State government under rate capping at CPI that does not take into account increased productivity costs, construction costs, EBA increases that the Shire must absorb in the face of no other State government funding. Antiquated buildings and sports pavilions that need upgrading, renovating or replacement. Many of the buildings built last century are no longer fit for purpose to accommodate the growing needs of diverse users. e.g women and girls sport, increased junior teams in sport, access for people with a disability. Community not happy about the condition of our public roads and lack of investment in road infrastructure, road upgrades, pedestrian refuges, sealing of road shoulders, fixing potholes and overall basic maintenance to keep our roads safe for users. The Mornington Peninsula has unacceptable high levels of road trauma.

With 14 years experience on Council as Councillor, former Mayor and Deputy Mayor I have a lot of civic and governance experience to bring to my role if re-elected to Council as outlined in my biography. With the introduction of the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Integrity) Act 2024, the State government will bring into force ongoing mandated training for mayors and councillors, expand on existing induction training requirements for councillors; improve the councillor conduct framework and increase the severity of sanctions available for councillor misconduct, and improve the operation of provisions relating to the councillor conduct framework. reference here: https://www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au/council-governance/local-government-amendment-governance-and-integrity-bill-2024 I take seriously the Governance Rules and the Councillor Code of Conduct framework to ensure that Councillors work in a professional and safe environment. Local Government is not only a public service organisation but also comprises elected Councillors. The Shire is also a political and bureaucratic environment so therefore robust discussions and strategic decisions need to be made in accordance with the legislative requirements under the Act in the best interest of the community. The workplace in which we undertake the Councillor role and function must be maintained to a professional standard by the leadership, the elected Councillors and the organisation.

Yes. I have been supportive of this Advocacy by the Shire to rezone Port of Hastings Land (https://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/About-Us/Advocacy/Port-of-Hastings).

The Mornington Peninsula Shire has just completed the C219Mornpen Housing & Settlement Strategy reforms that took over 7 years to complete and satisfactorily addresses the State Governments housing targets for the Mornington Peninsula. The Mornington Peninsula has not positioned itself to be a high population growth area due to the 70/30 green wedge/residential split we seek to maintain. The amendment C219 will provide for about "1,200 new homes per year to house our growing population which is expected to reach 180,000 - 200,000 residents by 2036." (https://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Building-Planning/Strategic-Planning/Planning-Scheme-Amendments/Amendment-C219morn-Housing-for-the-Peninsula)

Absolutely. The redevelopment of Rosebud Hospital is fundamental to our health care service provision on the southern Peninsula. The Mornington Peninsula Shire has a strong advocacy position to support the redevelopment of Rosebud Hospital. (https://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/About-Us/Advocacy/A-Redeveloped-Rosebud-Hospital).

With over 14 years experience as Councillor, former Mayor, Deputy Mayor, ratepayers of Tootgarook Ward - Rosebud, Capel Sound, Tootgarook and up to Lyons St Rye should feel very confident to vote for me My experience benefits the community because I am very familiar with Shire governance, procedures and processes that will help contribute to the continuity of Council to deliver on strategic decisions, projects and services for our community through the organisation. I am dedicated to the people of the Mornington Peninsula and I am keen to continue to work closely with local residents, community groups, business and organisations on projects of key importance to the Tootgarook ward and the broader Shire community.

Where do I start! That my vision for integrated hubs, performing art centres, upgraded facilities and sport pavilions, redevelopment of Rosebud hospital and a reduction in homelessness numbers and those in poverty are fully realised and accomplished by a community that has come together to help make a difference.

The relationship is one that needs to be maintained as much as possible for the betterment of our municipality. A collaborative and professional approach towards common advocacy goals is vital, encourage networking, build on strategic alliances and keep in regular communication to strengthen the partnership being respectful of each other's roles and responsibilities.

"It's our Mornington Peninsula. Our way of life" - Cr Antonella.