Mayor to lobby PM for city

By Lia Bichel
THE City of Casey’s mayor said she will try to advocate for municipal needs at a national assembly in Canberra next month.
Mayor Shar Balmes will attend the National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra from 19 to 22 June.
The theme for the assembly is Growing with our Community – Partnership, Place and Position.
Cr Balmes said she looked forward to attending seminars, meeting other members of government and listening to Opposition Leader Tony Abbott and Prime Minister Julia Gillard speak.
“These are the people who are at the top end of decision making so it’s a great opportunity to advocate for community needs.
“ I will look for every opportunity possible to advocate for Casey,” she said.
“If there is a seminar for transport I will be begging for improved public transport in Casey – it’s vital.
“If I am in a housing seminar I will be talking about Casey’s needs and if I am in an environmental seminar I will talk about the urban growth boundary and how vital it is that we maintain our agricultural areas.”
Cr Balmes said the seminar was also a wonderful opportunity to speak about Casey’s achievements.
Cr Balmes will be joined by councillors Amanda Stapledon, Beverley Hastie and Judy Owen.