As the Melton City Council gears up for its 2024 election, residents are witnessing a significant shift in local governance. This year marks a transition from three wards with nine councillors to a new structure of ten wards, each represented by a single councillor. Is this change a step toward better representation, or are we setting the stage for more political maneuvering? With the stakes high for both the community and the local real estate market, it’s time to delve into what this election could mean for Melton.
The New Political Landscape: One Ward, One Councillor – More Accountability or Just More Chaos? 
The restructuring of Melton City Council seems like an effort to bring councillors closer to their constituents. On paper, having one councillor per ward sounds like a move towards more direct and personalized representation. However, there's concern that this could lead to fragmented decision-making, with councillors prioritizing their own wards over the collective good of Melton.
This decentralization might impact how effectively the council addresses broader issues like infrastructure development, zoning regulations, and community services. Take, for instance, the recent approval of the Melton CBD revitalization project. Despite the potential to punish small businesses and exacerbate traffic chaos, the council voted in favor of it. One has to wonder if councillors are out of touch with the everyday realities of local business owners and commuters. It seems having commercial and residential areas lumped together in a boundary serves no one. Most of the councillors don't have to live and work in the thick of it, so do they really understand the impact of their decisions?
For those in the real estate sector, this election is crucial. The council’s approach to managing growth, housing availability, and community development will directly affect property values and market trends in the area.
Voting by Post: Democracy at Your Doorstep or a Potential Paperwork Nightmare?
Melton is adopting a postal voting system for this election, with ballot packs sent out starting October 7. The process is designed to be convenient, allowing residents to participate in the democratic process from the comfort of their homes. But let’s face it: in an era where snail mail often gets overlooked, there's always a risk of ballots ending up in the "I'll get to it later" pile—or worse, the recycling bin.
There’s also the potential for confusion. The packs include candidate statements and instructions in various languages, but will voters take the time to thoroughly read through these materials? The deadline for returning ballots is October 25 at 6 pm, and the results will be declared on November 15. The postal voting system could be a double-edged sword: it might increase participation among those who wouldn’t otherwise make it to the polls, but it could also result in lower engagement if voters aren't motivated to act.
Bullum Bullum Ward: Infrastructure Dreams or Development Nightmares?
Bullum Bullum Ward, featuring candidates like Keegan Hand-Howden, Steve Abboushi, and Steve Galevski, is an area that has seen substantial suburban growth. Infrastructure and community services are high on the agenda, but there's always the risk that development could outpace the council's ability to manage it effectively.
For real estate agents and property owners, this is a critical point. Properly managed infrastructure can make or break a neighborhood's desirability. If the new councillor can balance the needs of a growing community with smart, sustainable development, it could bode well for property values in the area. But if we end up with more traffic, overcrowded schools, and stretched services, those dreams of suburban bliss might turn into development nightmares.
Cambrian Ward: The Balancing Act Between Growth and Livability
Cambrian Ward is home to a mix of residential and commercial areas, making it a microcosm of the broader challenges facing Melton. Candidates like Aamer Kiani, Kubir Khanal, Ken Hardy, and others are focusing on infrastructure and social services, promising to enhance the ward's livability while managing growth.
The key issue here is whether these candidates can deliver on their promises without tipping the balance too far in one direction. Too much emphasis on commercial growth could strain residential areas, while an overly cautious approach might stifle economic opportunities. For those of us in real estate, the hope is that the elected councillor will strike the right balance, ensuring that Cambrian Ward remains an attractive place to live and do business.
Coolibah Ward: The Boundary Change Dilemma and Green Aspirations
Coolibah Ward is facing a unique challenge this election due to boundary changes that have grouped areas like Eynesbury with Weir Views. These areas have different demographics and needs, making it challenging for candidates to address their distinct requirements. Eynesbury, known for its rural charm and focus on community, contrasts with the more urban and developing Weir Views. Candidates will need to recognize the diversity within this ward and not adopt a one-size-fits-all approach.
Veronika Levchenkova, who has the backing of the Victorian Greens. Her endorsement suggests a focus on sustainability and progressive policies, but it also raises a question about the role of local councils as a stepping stone for larger political aspirations and State and Federal political agendas?
Brandi Morris, Roderick Borg and Jasmeen Kaur Grawal offer no political affiliation and boast residency in the Coolibah Ward with an obvious understanding and passion for their communities. Highlighting specific local issues and solutions to the rapidly growing area.
It may be time to question if local governance should be about addressing immediate community needs, or is it becoming a training ground for future state and federal politicians?
Hilltop Ward: To Build or Not to Build – That’s the Question
Hilltop Ward presents a classic dilemma: how to manage development while preserving the natural landscapes that make the area unique. Candidates John Verdon, Andrew Deeming, and Julian Cugliari have been vocal about finding this balance, but the devil is in the details.
For prospective homeowners and investors, the outcome of this election could significantly impact property values. Development can bring much-needed amenities and infrastructure, but it can also threaten the very qualities that make Hilltop an attractive place to live. The new councillor will need to navigate these competing interests carefully to ensure that Hilltop remains a desirable destination for residents.
Jackwood Ward: A Little Controversy Never Hurt Anyone
Jackwood Ward is no stranger to drama. With a diverse slate of candidates like Jasmeet Singh Pannu, Mandip Singh, and Ashleigh Vandenberg, the ward is a melting pot of established neighborhoods and new developments. The campaign has had its fair share of twists, with certain candidates making headlines for less-than-flattering reasons—details of which are, of course, a matter of public record.
This kind of intrigue can have a ripple effect on public perception and voter trust. For residents, a ward marred by political infighting could signal instability, which might affect buyer confidence. However, it also brings attention to the need for strong leadership that can rise above petty squabbles to focus on community development.
Lake Caroline Ward: Scenic Beauty at Risk?
Lake Caroline Ward is known for its scenic beauty, with a strong emphasis on maintaining community facilities and preserving green spaces. Candidates like Sarah O'Neill, Mimmie Watts, and Kathy Majdlik are campaigning on promises to balance development with the ward’s natural charm.
The challenge here is clear: how to accommodate growth without compromising what makes Lake Caroline special. If the elected councillor can successfully navigate this challenge, it could mean a boost in property values and a stronger sense of community. On the flip side, unchecked development could lead to a loss of the very characteristics that make this ward so desirable.
Mount Atkinson Ward: Where Promises and Reality Diverge
Mount Atkinson Ward is one of the fastest-growing areas in the municipality, and with that growth comes the glaring issue of inadequate services and infrastructure. Candidates like Matt Pearse, a well-known advocate for the community, have their work cut out for them. However, there's a twist in this tale: an endorsement from State government MP Luba Grigorovitch from Kororoit Ward for another candidate. This raises questions about outside influence on local issues and whether the community's best interests are really at the forefront.
The primary concern here isn’t overdevelopment; it's the lack of essential services that were promised when land was being purchased. No direct freeway access to the CBD remains an embarrassment for a ward experiencing rapid expansion. The new councillor will need to push for tangible infrastructure improvements, not just empty promises, to ensure that the community can thrive alongside its growth.
Stringybark Ward: Community Safety and Small Business – The Usual Promises
Stringybark Ward, represented by candidates like Chander Sharma, Julie Shannon, and Sushma Nagaraj, is a mix of neighborhoods that requires careful attention to local amenities, community safety, and support for small businesses. Julie Shannon has been a long-term advocate in this ward, bringing experience and a track record of engagement.
For real estate agents, the focus on community safety and local businesses is a promising sign. A ward that fosters a strong sense of community and supports its small businesses tends to attract residents and business owners who value these qualities, which can drive up demand and property values and boost economic growth for our area.
Sugar Gum Ward: Urbanization vs. Local Character – Finding the Sweet Spot
Sugar Gum Ward, home to candidates like Daniel Toncic, Lara Carli, and Bill Au, is a blend of residential and commercial activities. Lara Carli has been a wonderful advocate for the ward, striking a balance between urbanization and maintaining the area's unique character.
The question here is whether the next councillor can continue this balancing act. Urbanization brings economic growth, but it can also threaten the charm that defines a community. For the real estate market, a successful balance could mean increased property values and a more vibrant local economy.
Watts Ward: Public Transport Promises – A Ticket to Nowhere?
Candidates in Watts Ward, including Merrick Price and Kulwant Bhambra, are advocating on improving public transport, local services and the growing concern from residents regarding rubbish dumping and waste collections in our municipality. Merrick Price seems to have fresh ideas to improve the way we dispose of rubbish and its refreshing to hear candidates thinking outside of the box to solve problems that continue to be exacerbate with our growing population. We are pleased to see that Kulwant Bhambra has highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses during his campaign; which many have failed to address . Whilst improvements in the transport space sound appealing, it's important to note that public transport is largely a state government issue, not something the local council can directly implement. Its clear that advocacy in this space amongst others is important - one has to question how long the State Government can continue to ignore the important calls.
Grame Watt has put his hand up after running at the last State Election as opposition to Steve McGhie, for the Victorian Liberal Party. He too highlights the need for better roads and public transport but also highlights important points regarding our rates increasing by the maximum amount allowable, yet more than $100m in our infrastructure contributions remain unspent. Sophie Ramsay one of our current councillors and will throw her hat in the ring once again.
Improved public transport and local services can significantly enhance a neighborhood's attractiveness to potential buyers. However, if these promises are outside the council’s remit, they could lead to voter frustration and a potential dip in confidence, which could indirectly impact property values and livability in the area.
The Airbnb Tax: A Bold Move or a Market Blunder?
The introduction of the Airbnb tax has caused quite a stir, but its impact on Melton might be minimal. This isn't exactly a tourist hotspot teeming with short-term rentals, so the tax might not change much locally. However, as a solution to the housing crisis, the tax seems like a weak attempt at addressing a much larger issue. It's hard not to detest this approach when the real problems lie elsewhere.
For real estate professionals, this policy’s direct impact on property values in Melton is expected to be negligible. However, the broader implications of such a tax on investor sentiment and market dynamics are worth keeping an eye on, even if the local effect is minimal.
The Real Estate Angle: How This Election Could Change the Game
The outcome of the Melton City Council election will have far-reaching implications for the local real estate market. From infrastructure development to community services and housing policies, the elected councillors will shape the future of the area in ways that directly impact property values and investment opportunities.
For real estate agents, property owners, and potential buyers, this election is not just a political event—it's a pivotal moment that will influence Melton's growth and desirability for years to come. Staying informed and engaged in this process is crucial for anyone with a stake in the local property market.
Melton's Growing Pains and the Road Ahead
As we head into this election, the question remains: will the new Melton City Council bring the progress and change that the community needs, or are we in for more of the same political posturing? With so many wards and candidates, each bringing their own set of priorities and controversies, the stakes are high.
One thing is certain: the new council needs to recognize the dire state of our roads and how heavily our residents rely on cars to access employment opportunities. It’s high time the council rebalances its spending, moving away from green, woke agendas, and instead investing in health, community services, and crucial infrastructure upgrades.
A sprawling, fast-growing municipality like Melton deserves more—more from our councillors, more from our local government. Let's hope this election brings us representatives who are willing to fight for the services and improvements that truly matter to our community, rather than using council as a stepping stone for larger political ambitions.
FAQs
1. How does the ward restructuring impact local governance?
- The shift to ten wards with one councillor each aims to provide more direct representation, but it could also lead to more isolated decision-making and a lack of coordinated policy-making.
2. What role does the council play in local real estate development?
- The council's decisions on zoning, infrastructure, and community services directly affect property values and market trends.
3. How will the Airbnb tax affect property investors?
- While its impact on Melton may be minimal due to the lack of Airbnb properties, it raises broader concerns about its effectiveness as a solution to the housing crisis especially in tourist precincts.
4. What should residents look for in a candidate to best support community growth?
- Residents should consider candidates' track records, their plans for infrastructure, community services, and how they balance growth with sustainability.
5. How can voters make an informed decision in this election?
- Voters can make an informed decision by reviewing candidate statements, attending local forums, and considering how each candidate's platform aligns with their community’s needs.
Learn more about the candidates running for City of Melton here: Victorian Electoral Commission - City of Melton Candidates
If you want local and trusted real estate advice choose First National Melton because we will always Put You First.
Important: This article should not be read as advice and is not intended to influence your personal voting preferences. We encourage all voters in the City of Melton to do their own due diligence before making a decision on how to vote at any local election. Remember for your vote to be valid you must number every box on the ballot sheet.