The main topic for this week's meeting was the review of the Hastings Urban Growth Management Strategy, which is open for public comment until 12 December.

The Strategy lays the framework for local growth from now until 2036, identifying areas where growth is planned for and can take place.

Those attending the meeting were from a wide range of interests and there was some vigorous debate over issues.

Quickly apparent was the division of opinion over whether or not 'growth for its own sake' is actually good for council or our area.

The question was rightly asked whether council could afford new growth - in view of council being $100 million in debt and with a $180 million infrastructure backlog, especially in transport infrastructure.

Although development industry representatives were certain that new growth pays for itself, some community representatives doubted that, and it appeared from questions to staff that perhaps council doesn't have a clear handle either.

What are the full costs and benefits of adding about 1000 new people to the area each year?

Council's involvement with tourism was also raised, with some people questioning whether it's rightly council's role to fund tourism and major event promotion, when the benefits from those activities flow not to council but to private local businesses.

What role should council play in economic development?

The oyster and fishing industries were represented, and expressed particular concern about the need to protect natural assets and prevent pollution into the river - and I think we can all agree with that.

There were questions about the airport, water supply and reuse, biodiversity and vegetation mapping, the need for more local manufacturing, the university presence, loss of young people from the area, and more.

If you're interested in big picture issues, then please get involved in the Strategy discussion.

Ask for the 'Our Place Our Future' fact sheet from council or email leanne.fuller@pmhc.nsw.gov.au.