Introduction

The "Back to Basics" policy proposal aims to enhance the quality of life for Ipswich residents by prioritizing the maintenance and improvement of our city's fundamental infrastructures.

This policy focuses on ensuring our public parks and spaces are well-maintained, roads and footpaths are safe and accessible, and that our city's flood infrastructure is up to the challenge of protecting our community.

By addressing these core issues, we aim to foster a safer, more beautiful, and resilient Ipswich.

Key Policy Areas

1. Mowing and Maintenance of Public Parks and Spaces
   
   • Review of Outsourced Contracts: Initiate a comprehensive review of current outsourcing contracts related to the maintenance of public parks and spaces to ensure quality, efficiency, and value for money. This review will focus on the performance of contractors, adherence to environmental standards, and the integration of local flora to encourage biodiversity.
   • Local Custodians: Explore the feasibility of appointing local custodians for public parks and spaces. These custodians would be responsible for regular inspections, minor maintenance tasks, and serving as a point of contact for community feedback, ensuring that our green spaces meet the community's needs and standards.
2. Repairing and Upgrading Roads and Footpaths
   
   • Increased Budget for Curbing and Channeling: Allocate additional funds specifically for the curbing and channeling in older suburbs. This will address longstanding drainage issues and improve the safety and aesthetics of our neighborhood streets.
   • Infrastructure Improvement Plan: Develop a detailed, multi-year plan for repairing and upgrading roads and footpaths across Ipswich. This plan will prioritize areas with the greatest need, including high-traffic routes and regions prone to flooding, to ensure that all residents have access to safe and reliable infrastructure.
3. Bus Shelters
   
   • Upgrade and Expansion: Commit to upgrading existing bus shelters and constructing new ones in underserved areas. This initiative aims to improve the public transport experience by providing safe, comfortable waiting areas for commuters, encouraging the use of public transport and reducing congestion and pollution.
4. Review of Previous Developments and Flood Infrastructure
   
   • Development Review: Conduct a thorough review of previous urban developments to identify and rectify any planning oversights that have negatively impacted the community or the environment. This review will help in refining future development guidelines and practices.
   • Flood Infrastructure Assessment: Undertake a comprehensive assessment of the current flood infrastructure to identify weaknesses and areas for improvement. Based on this assessment, develop a robust plan to enhance flood defenses, including natural solutions like wetland restoration and man-made barriers, and monitoring stations to protect vulnerable neighborhoods and reduce the impact of extreme weather events.

Implementation Strategy

• Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with local residents, businesses, and environmental groups to gather input and build consensus on the proposed improvements.
• Phased Implementation: Implement the policy in phases, prioritizing projects based on urgency, impact, and available budget.
• Transparency and Accountability: Ensure transparency in the decision-making process and establish clear metrics for evaluating the success of the policy initiatives.
• Funding and Budget Allocation: Secure funding through a combination of municipal budget adjustments, grants, and potential public-private partnerships.

Conclusion

"Back to Basics" is a comprehensive approach to improving the foundational aspects of our city. By focusing on the maintenance and enhancement of public parks, roads, footpaths, and flood infrastructure, we can create a more livable, attractive, and resilient Ipswich. This policy represents a commitment to our community's well-being and a step towards a sustainable future for all residents.