When I stepped back from Council, I did so with clarity and optimism — not just about where our cities were headed, but about the role planning could play in shaping our future. For over two decades, I’ve worked at the intersection of planning, politics, and community, as a mayor, consultant, and researcher. I’ve seen the power of good planning to create liveable, inclusive, future-ready places. I’ve also seen how easily it can be derailed by short-term thinking — and how costly that can be for clients, communities, and councils alike. Greiss Planning exists to bring clarity, rigour, and steady leadership to the approvals process, so good projects can move forward with confidence.
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This piece is an early editorial-style reflection on George Greiss’ rise to the mayoralty, written from the perspective of a long-time local council observer. It traces Greiss’ time on council from 2008 through changing political eras and mayoral leadership, positioning him as someone who learned the craft respectfully before growing into a councillor known for stepping back and focusing on the “big picture.” The article emphasises his visible passion for Campbelltown, a collaborative style in the chamber, and a practical willingness to help refine motions — even those put forward by political opponents.
It also acknowledges early online criticism following his first interview, but frames that as normal territory for a mayor — suggesting Greiss has the temperament and resilience to handle it. Overall, it reads as a “watch this space” endorsement: optimistic about his leadership style, while noting he should be given time to prove himself in the role.
Read more → Campbelltown Council mowers are out and about once again