Mayor Springborg hits the ground running for his second Council term

The Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM, has been duly elected as the Goondiwindi Regional Council Mayor for the 2024 to 2028 term.

Mayor Springborg said, "As I step back into the role of Mayor for a second Council term, I remain committed to serving the Goondiwindi Region with integrity, transparency, honesty and diligence. Over the past term, we have accomplished much, and I thank the previous Councillors for their contribution and collaboration. Each of them has brought their own experience and expertise to the table; they have served the community with effort, dignity and collegiality and have always shown a willingness to share their perspective and raise the concerns of our residents. 

“I am also looking forward to this upcoming term and the confirmation of the incoming Councillor team, which is expected to be finalised before the end of the month, once all votes have been returned. There will be challenges along the way, particularly with the increasing cost of living pressures impacting every facet of our lives. This includes managing a balanced budget for our ratepayers whilst maintaining a high standard of service delivery. The first few Councillor meetings will focus heavily on confirming the upcoming 2024-25 budget.

“Throughout the four-year term, there will also be numerous multi-million dollar projects within the community, for example: 

“The Casa Mia project has now secured a combination of State and local government funding to undertake the necessary refurbishments to create five independent living units in Inglewood, with tenders expected to be called in April. 

“The Goondiwindi Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) Hydrogen project remains on track to be the largest producer of green hydrogen in Australia before the end of the year. This innovative technology solution is a national first. It will not only extend the life of the WWTP and increase its capacity but also delay or possibly save ratepayers up to $15 million in future upgrades.

“The Goondiwindi Streetscape project will also be an opportunity for residents to provide further input into the future of their main street. Goondiwindi’s CBD is a service centre for thousands of residents, tourists, and visitors. This is likely a 10-year project with numerous stages. I am eager to progress with further consultation to finalise the design with costings. 

"Council has also recently moved one step closer to resolving a major effluent disposal issue in Texas, with the March Ordinary Council Meeting, confirming the land purchase for the project. Something no one really thinks of until it doesn't work, Council manages a network of over $60 million worth of water and sewerage infrastructure. To meet environmental health standards, this multi-million dollar project in Texas is critical infrastructure for the local community.

“I am committed to our Councillors and staff continuing to be strongly connected to our community, with members of the public having direct access to Councillors to discuss their issues, concerns, and the opportunities for the region. Personally, I will continue my regularly scheduled visits to our smaller towns to ensure that I am listening and addressing their ideas and concerns and where we need to, advocating for effective solutions with other levels of Government.

“There are also important issues of State and Federal Government Policy which Council will continue to lobby on behalf of the community, such as changing water policy and its threat to our community. Council will also continue to pursue the need for a Cross Border Commissioner to assist with different cross border rules, including regulations and cross border crime.

The Mayor said, "I appreciate the trust and confidence the community has shown me in this role. It is a privilege to represent this remarkable community and to work with its people.”