This article is based on an interview between Bernie Hems from KCR and Councillor Melinda Lawton on 4 March 2025.

The conversation covered key issues including council transparency, conservation efforts in the Jamberoo Rainforest Wetlands, and the future of Kiama’s housing strategy.

Cr Melinda Lawton believes the Kiama community deserves more than just final voting outcomes on council decisions.

She wants more explanation around confidential items to ensure residents understand the reasoning behind key choices.

"It is difficult to figure out what’s going on in the minutes,” she said, explaining that council’s role isn’t just about cutting costs but also about improving revenue streams while delivering better services.

Cr Lawton is also pushing for stronger protections for the Jamberoo Rainforest and Wetlands.

At a meeting on 14 February, around 40 people gathered to form a new working Landcare group, supported by Landcare Illawarra.

The group will focus on regeneration, conservation, and seeking grants.

Stakeholders including Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association (JVRRA), Landcare Illawarra, WIRES and local wombat rehabilitation representatives attended, highlighting the ecological significance of the area.

“There are 185 recorded bird species in the Jamberoo Rainforest and Westland’s ” Cr Lawton said. “It’s a biodiversity hotspot, and we need to protect it.”

Environmental expert Howard H Jones raised concerns that only 4% of the region’s original wetlands remains due to land clearing and development.

Efforts are now underway to have the wetlands officially registered for greater protection.

Cr Lawton initially pushed for more time before releasing the revised local housing strategy for public consultation.

However, council extended the consultation period to 60 days, giving the community a chance to review the document.

“This is the biggest decision we will make as a council,” she said. “We need proper community consultation, not just written submissions.”

She supports holding panel discussions where experts can explain the strategy and answer public questions.

One key issue is the inclusion of new development sites in the latest version of the plan.

The controversial West Kiama development, previously rejected by council, was later approved by the Southern Regional Planning Panel despite ongoing concerns about infrastructure and environmental impact.

“I still have reservations,” she said. “Growth must be well planned and sustainable.”

Upcoming community sessions will be held at Kiama Farmers’ Market on 26 March and Gerringong IGA on 27 March.

Residents can also review the strategy on the council website and submit feedback through an online questionnaire.

Cr Lawton’s message is clear: the future of Kiama must be shaped with community input, careful planning and environmental responsibility.

With The Bugle and Kiama Community Radio continuing to provide reliable coverage, the community remains informed and engaged in these vital discussions. Tune into Bernie Hems show at 9 am on Tuesdays on KCR.