MOONEE Valley mayor Narelle Sharpe is following the lead of her predecessor Cr Jim Cusack and heading out into the local community to chat with residents about issues important to them.

Until October, Cr Sharpe will hold monthly sessions at locations across the municipality, including Niddrie library, Avondale Heights Library and Learning Centre, Flemington library, the Sam Merrifield Library, Flemington Community Centre and Ascot Vale Neighbourhood Centre.

The sessions will adopt an informal, drop-in style approach, being open to all residents, business owners and members of the general public who would like to ask questions or discuss issues with the mayor.

The face-to-face meetings were instigated by Cr Cusack when he was mayor in 2012, saying he had been inspired by observing local government at work in Ireland.

Cr Sharpe said she was a believer in community engagement and hearing from residents first-hand.

“As an elected representative, it’s important for me to have a clear understanding of the issues that are impacting our residents.

“These sessions are a great opportunity for residents to provide me their feedback on the council’s services and broader strategic direction — what we’re doing right, areas we can improve, and ideas for the future.

“I very much look forward to meeting new faces and hearing people’s thoughts.”

The first session will take place on February 7, from 11am to 1pm at Niddrie Library, 483 Keilor Road, Niddrie.

For a full list of dates and locations, visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/conversations or call the Moonee Valley Council on 9243 8888.