Last week, a critical decision regarding the subdivision of land at Cooroy was made during a confidential council meeting. In a narrow 4:3 vote (For: Crs Wilkie, Stockwell, Wegener, and Finzel; Against: Crs Lorentson, Phillips, and Wilson), Council resolved to:
Note the report by the Principal Strategic Planner to the General Committee dated 20 January 2025 regarding Cooroy Affordable Housing Project at 62 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy; and
– Approve the revised subdivision plan and proceed with all necessary remediation and subdivision works, aligning with the May 16, 2024, resolution, including Lot 1 for social housing.
– Advance the subdivision and remediation works, contingent upon securing a loan facility, while actively pursuing grant funding opportunities.
– Endorse a process for determining future site uses of the remaining two sites, investigating options such as open space, cultural heritage, housing, community facilities, landscaping, and amenity—committing to community consultation as part of this process.
This decision followed hours of intense, closed-door discussions due to the report’s commercial sensitivity. The narrow vote highlights the issue’s complexity and divisiveness.
While I cannot comment on the specifics of the debate, the resolution highlights broader questions about the role of local government in addressing social housing shortages. When Council steps into a role traditionally seen as a state or federal responsibility, what costs, risks, and trade-offs are acceptable to the community in taking on this challenge?
While all councillors agreed unanimously on the importance of supporting those in need, divisions emerged over other matters, which led to dissent from myself, Cllrs Wilson, and Phillips.
Unfortunately, the closed session has left the community without insight into the arguments that shaped the decision. For some, the Council’s majority decision may be viewed as a bold move toward tackling the housing crisis, while for others, it may raise significant concerns.
From my perspective, decisions like this extend beyond immediate outcomes—they set a precedent for how Council approaches housing challenges and manages risks.
As the Cooroy subdivision and remediation project progresses, it will (imo) remain a topic of public scrutiny and discussion. The Cooroy community, known for its compassion and resilience, will no doubt continue to ask questions, demand transparency, and hold Council accountable for its promise to consult.
I will be there to support the community throughout this process.
(Please note this is my personal opinion and does not represent the position of Noosa Council.)
