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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At a Glance
• 14 March marks 144 years since the first Campbelltown Progress Committee meeting
• Community leaders gathered at the Arts Centre to shape “Our Shared Future”
• Strong discussion on density, green space, jobs and infrastructure
• Commitment to ongoing civic forums and collaborative city building
A Tradition of Civic Initiative
On 14 March 1879, approximately 70 citizens gathered as the Campbelltown Progress Committee to discuss local issues and advocate for the creation of a Local Government District. They resolved to petition the NSW Government to establish what would become Campbelltown Council.
In reflecting on that meeting, I am reminded that local government in Campbelltown was not imposed from above. It emerged from community initiative. It was shaped by residents who believed that decisions about their future should be guided by those who lived and worked here.
One hundred and forty four years later, we gathered again. This time at the Campbelltown Arts Centre. Different setting, different century, yet the same underlying impulse. A community determined to shape its own future.
Our Shared Future
The forum marked the beginning of what we have called “Our Shared Future”. While Council has articulated an ambitious vision for Campbelltown, we cannot and should not attempt to deliver that vision in isolation.
Local government holds statutory authority, but it does not hold a monopoly on wisdom. I have always believed that the most durable plans are those that reflect lived experience as well as professional expertise.
The forum brought together stakeholders, community leaders and residents prepared to engage seriously with the long term direction of our city. It was the first in what I intend to be an ongoing dialogue.
A Constructive and Optimistic Conversation
The discussion was facilitated by Dr Tim Williams, a respected global cities expert, whose experience helped frame our local conversation within broader urban trends.
Participants engaged robustly across a range of themes. The built environment and the natural landscape featured prominently. There was thoughtful debate about achieving the right balance between density and green space. That balance will define our liveability as growth continues.
Employment and prosperity were equally central. The need for more local jobs, stronger infrastructure and well designed local facilities was emphasised repeatedly. Residents understand that housing growth must be accompanied by economic opportunity and social amenity.
What was clear to me in the room was a shared sense of optimism. There was recognition that Campbelltown is on a positive trajectory. At the same time, there was realism about the challenges ahead.
Balancing Growth and Character
As our city evolves, we must manage competing pressures. Increased density can support vibrant centres, viable public transport and economic activation. Yet our natural assets and open spaces are part of our identity.
The forum highlighted that this is not an either or question. It is a matter of proportion and design. It requires careful strategic planning and community trust.
Local government’s responsibility is to integrate these perspectives into policy and statutory instruments. Community input strengthens that process by grounding strategy in everyday experience.
From Dialogue to Direction
The ideas shared were generous and candid. Participants spoke about aspirations, frustrations and opportunities. Our task now is to distil what we have heard and translate it into practical direction.
This will not be a one off exercise. Just as the Progress Committee of 1879 initiated an ongoing civic journey, this forum is the beginning of a continuing conversation.
Strong cities are built through dialogue sustained over time. Institutions must listen. Communities must participate. Together we refine our collective vision.
Reflection
On this anniversary, I am reminded that Campbelltown’s civic history is defined by engagement. From the petitioners of 1879 to today’s forum participants, our progress has depended on citizens prepared to contribute to the common good.
Our Shared Future will be shaped not by a single plan or a single meeting, but by an enduring partnership between Council and community. I look forward to continuing that dialogue with Councillors, stakeholders and residents as we guide Campbelltown through its next chapter.
Read the original Mayoral Minute here: 2. Our Shared Future Forum