DEAR News Of The Area,

WELL done to the City of Coffs Harbour GM Natalia Cowley for her financial accountability.

I would have thought it was her job to lead us through financial issues but if accolades are handed out for doing your job – well done.

However my issue is why are we not spending some of this $330 million of our ratepayers money.

Recently a friend stayed and mentioned they were looking at getting out of Sydney and thinking of buying on the Coffs Coast but conceded that it all looks so tired.

I had to agree.

Our council rates are four times higher than their council rates and they can see the Sydney Harbour and the Bridge from their home.

Recently I was in Grafton and it looks fantastic – shops are full, people out and about.

Nambucca is also going ahead and looks lovely.

Sadly Sawtell looks very tired and this is not just me grumbling, I hear this all the time, which has prompted my letter.

I spoke to Cr Amos when he was Mayor who called the streets of Sawtell eclectic while older folk are falling over because they are so uneven.

Why can we not spend some of this money to fix them?

The Sawtell Swimming Pool has had a bit of a make over but closes at 1pm.

Why can we not spend some of this $330 million to extend the hours of the pool?

The footpath and lighting to the Sawtell Headland is shocking.

Again, why can we not spend some of this money to fix this?

I am sure Woolgoolga needs work done also.

It might be hard for those so focused on the Jetty that there are a lot of other ratepayers on the Coffs Coast who would like some money spent wisely in their area.

Regards,
Julia ATKINSON,
Sawtell.