Justin Cooper

Attracting economic development and business and industry growth is important for securing jobs, according to central ward candidate Justin Cooper.

Whether it be attracting government departments, purpose built retail developments or industry, Mr Cooper said it was important council worked with and supported stakeholders to increase opportunities in the shire.

“I would like to see greater economic investment in this shire from both public and private organisations.

“It’s about council advocating and acting as a lobbyist to promote what the shire has to offer.

“I want to create a community and a place where my children have an opportunity to live where there is a realistic opportunity for them to access employment, career and training opportunities.

Mr Cooper has lived in Warragul for 13 years. He is an accountant and runs his own firm.

He has been involved in many local sports clubs and youth theatre with his children and has played cricket at Ellinbank and Buln Buln.

Mr Cooper said he was not standing with a specific agenda or platform but believes he can bring to the council table skills that will provide leadership and direction to the community.

While not knowing the fine detail of council’s finances, Mr Cooper said it did not appear on the surface that there were any issues with the shire’s financial position.

But, as an accountant, Mr Cooper said he had financial skills that would assist in management of council’s $80 million budget.

“Financial management is part of my day to day activity, as well as audit and compliance matters.

Mr Cooper said he supported council investing in redevelopment of the West Gippsland Arts Centre.

He said it was a fantastic community facility. “To enhance that is an investment, not a cost.”

He said with $4 million during record low interest rates, and the community benefit the arts centre brings to local business, the redevelopment was a “no brainer.”

Mr Cooper said council’s communication strategy needed addressing.

“Residents want to know whether the value of their rates are being spent on key infrastructure such as footpaths, roads and drainage as well as community services, recreation, arts and support services.

“These things have a significant impact on the community.

Mr Cooper said people judged council performance by their rate notices and it was about perceptions.

He said people looked at the fact there were no parking inspectors on the streets, potholes weren’t being filled and footpaths weren’t being repaired – “and then they ask why am I paying more?”

“So it’s about getting the message out to the community about what is being done.”