MAYOR Karen Williams wants to turn Redlands’ dreams into reality.
With the federal budget being delivered on May 9, she has called on the federal government to recognise the infrastructure and economic needs of the Redlands and kick start major projects like the Eastern Busway, rail duplication between Manly and Cleveland and access to the Port of Brisbane
She said there had been an urgent need for years for transport and roads infrastructure and she wanted these projects started with a solid investment from the Commonwealth and state governments.
“These projects need a major funding injection from the federal and state governments to turn these dream projects into reality and I will be watching both federal and state budgets for a long overdue commitment,’’ she said.
“I have strongly urged the federal government to deliver a structural adjustment package to boost the state response and carry North Stradbroke Island through its economic transition phase.
“I have asked the government to give the same priority and funding package support to Straddie after its loss of sand mining as we have seen in the past with support for communities that have lost lifeblood industries.
“Small business is the backbone of our local economy and a continued focus on support of this sector would go a long way to providing the incentive for this vitally important sector to prosper and provide new jobs for Redlanders.’’
Cr Williams said the federal government was a champion for innovation and she would like to see Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull take up her invitation for the Redlands to be the pilot for an innovation hub.
“We are perfectly situated and have the ideal lifestyle to attract innovators and council is ready, willing and able to assist in this regard,” she said.
“I cannot think of an economic sector more compatible to the Redlands.
“Because Redland City is only 35 minutes from the state’s capital and the third largest city in Australia, we would also be perfect to be part of the federal government’s decentralisation strategy.
“Of significance ... has been the work of the Redlands/Logan Regional Development Association. It is essential for continued funding for this work as the Redlands is unique in that as a city of islands it warrants special attention from all levels of government.
“While outside the budget sphere, I would dearly love to see the $1.4 billion Toondah Harbour redevelopment given the green light to proceed to the environmental impact statement stage of the approval process for this milestone project.’’
